Selected for having unparalleled concentration, remarkable depth and laser focus, CRU9’s 2016 Cabernet was the obvious choice for our #2 pick this year.  The wine could be the poster child for classic Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, and throughout the year, it became increasingly clear that this wine was truly special as it generated an open tap of enthusiastic comments and large re-orders.  Resonating from secret vineyard sources in Oakville, St. Helena, and Rutherford, the 2016 exhibits all the best traits of the vintage.  On the palate, waves of concentrated blackberry, sandalwood, black currants, white flowers and earthy minerals circulate and add new dimensions as the wine opens up… At the winery retail of $60/btl it’s amazing, and it’s simply one of the best Cabernets in the shop.

 

Emerging from a Blockbuster vintage, which the Wine Spectator rated the 2016 vintage from Napa Valley as the best since 1997 for Napa Cabs, the 2016 is confident and authoritative, yet finely detailed and effortlessly balanced.  Notably, CRU9 also gives back and helps support two nonprofit women shelters, Ruby’s Place in CA and House of Hope in IA.  Every time you buy a bottle of CRU9, you also help level the playing field for survivors of human trafficking, domestic abuse, and homelessness.

 

Retails at:  $60.00/btl

 

 

Tasting Notes: “Cru 9 Stop Talking Cabernet 2016 has an intense purple color offering a powerful nose of ripe blackberries, black cherry, dried currants, crushed rocks, cigar box and hints of cinnamon.  On the palate, it is intensely penetrating and focused with concentrated wild mountain blackberries, cassis and velvety tannins. It finishes in a linear style that’s so focused and penetrating, it brings an immediate smile to your face and is exceptionally satisfying.  In a world where hundred plus dollar Napa Cabs are the norm, this is the ultimate ‘Bang for your Buck’ wine. Superb! Drink now through 2029.” 97 Points