2007 CADE Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Cuvée

The 2007 Napa Cuvee is a blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Merlot, and 7% Cabernet Franc from the above mentioned vineyard sites with the addition of Cabernet Sauvignon from the Kenefick Ranch. This 3,000-case offering displays a dense opaque ruby/purple color as well as a sweet bouquet of blue and blackberries, crushed rocks, acacia flowers, and a hint of oak in the background. Medium to full-bodied with good ripeness, sweet, melted tannins, and a long finish, it should drink well for 12-15+ years. This is the new vineyard and winery of the Getty family and San Francisco’s mayor, Gavin Newsom, the partnership that also owns Plumpjack. Cade has the same winemaking crew as that estate, led by the talented Tony Biagi, who is backed up by consulting winemaker, Nils Venge. In addition to these red wines, a Sauvignon Blanc is also made, but I did not have an opportunity to taste it. The Napa Cuvees are made from purchased vineyard sources, the Cabernet Sauvignon from Howell Mountain is also a product of purchased fruit, and the debut estate wine, the Cade Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, is a 100% estate bottled offering. As one might expect, given the quality of the Plumpjack wines, the Cade offerings are serious. Tel. (707) 945-1220; Fax (707) 944-0744