2016 Anthem Cabernet Sauvignon Mount Veeder

2016 Anthem Cabernet Sauvignon Mount Veeder

with No Comment $60-$70Cabernet SauvignonKevin VogtMt VeederNapaUSA

ANTHEM 

CABERNET SAUVIGNON 
2016 MOUNT VEEDER

2016 Anthem Cabernet Sauvignon Mount Veeder
Steadfast on creating superior quality Cabernets from distinctive Mountain AVA’s in Napa Valley, Anthem winery assembled a powerful team led by highly-respected viticulturist John Truchard and winemaker Jeff Ames. The winery’s production team is free to vinify without regard for cost, making every decision solely on its impact on the quality of their wine. All of this is present in their wines, and the 2016 release is their best yet. 
 
Mount Veeder arose from an ancient seabed, and the soils at Anthem Estate are excessively well-drained and derived from sedimentary rock. Their vines yield just 1.9 tons per acre of super-concentrated berries that powerfully reflect their site-specific terroir.
 
Jeff crafts Anthem’s Cabernet Sauvignon to showcase the power and restraint, as well as a stunning level of depth and persistent intensity. The 2016 vintage produced an even richer version, and after 18 months in barrel and three years in the bottle, this wine rocks.
 
ANTHEM 
CABERNET SAUVIGNON 
2016 MOUNT VEEDER
Retails at: $125
 
 
 
“Made by Winemaker Jeff Ames, this Cabernet Sauvignon includes 7% Cabernet Franc and 7% Petit Verdot. Aged in 100% new French oak, it offers a seamless core of cassis, raspberry and dark cherry, with velvety richness forming a concentrated bond on the palate.”
94 Points
 
“…Deep garnet-purple in color, is offers up scents of crème de cassis, blueberry compote and Christmas cake with an undercurrent of plum preserves, camphor and cigar box. Big, rich and full-bodied on the palate, it delivers impactful, maturing black fruit and spicy flavors, supported by firm, grainy tannins and just enough freshness, finishing with great length.”
93 Points
 
“Lush and well-fruited, with lots of boysenberry, blackberry and plum flavors rolling through, laced with apple wood, anise, violet and sweet tobacco notes. Shows a tarry edge on the finish but the fruit keeps pace easily. Solidly built. Best from 2021 through 2032.”
93 Points
2016 Beringer Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon

2016 Beringer Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon

with No Comment $100 and overCabernet SauvignonKevin VogtMt VeederNapaOakvilleSaint HelenaUSA

BERINGER

2016 PRIVATE RESERVE
CABERNET SAUVIGNON 

2016 Beringer Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon
The remarkable vineyards combined to form Beringer’s flagship Private Reserve Cabernet are so expressive and profound that the winemaking team can take a minimalist approach to production, allowing these incredible vines to shine. The wine is, at its core, a blend of Pauli, Steinhauer, and Bancroft Ranch vineyards atop Howell Mountain, providing the unmatched power, enormous structure, and richness of the wine. They completed it with fruit from Oakville, St Helena, Spring Mountain, and Mount Veeder, which round out the stunningly complex blend. 
 
Mark Beringer not only vinifies each renowned site individually, but he also ages them separately for a full 20 months before making the barrel selection. He does this to allow each vineyard to express the depth of its unique terroir fully.
 
Beringer is California’s oldest continually operating winery, and they’re the only winery in history to have both a red and white wine honored as the #1 wine on the Wine Spectator Top 100. The 2016 release is as James Suckling writes, “Breathtaking” and worthy of the 99 point score.
 
BERINGER
2016 PRIVATE RESERVE
CABERNET SAUVIGNON
Retails at: $170
 
Your Price: $150
 
 
“Breathtaking. Exceptional integration of super ripe blackberries and the very finest oak. The tannins build up beautifully, forming wave upon wave as the wine flows across the palate. Then the wave breaks on your palate and shoots way out at the finish, so that you wonder where it will end and normal life begin again. Needs time to soften, but this is so, so good…”
99 Points
 
“… the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Private Reserve shows the vintage beautifully and is more pure, classic, and elegant. Notes of crème de cassis, graphite, lead pencil shavings, and freshly crushed rocks give way to a medium to full-bodied, seamless Cabernet that has remarkable purity of fruit and impeccable balance…”
97+ Points
 
“… the deep garnet-purple colored 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Private Reserve sings of crème de cassis, kirsch, blackberry preserves and blueberry pie, with loads of chocolate box, floral and baking spices hints. Full-bodied with a firm, chewy frame and loads of savory accents, it delivers a long, multilayered finish…”
95 Points
2016 Peter Franus Zinfandel Brandlin Vineyard Mount Veeder

2016 Peter Franus Zinfandel Brandlin Vineyard Mount Veeder

with No Comment $30 and underKevin VogtMt VeederNapaUSAZinfandel

PETER FRANUS

2016 ZINFANDEL
BRANDLIN VINEYARD
MOUNT VEEDER

2016 Peter Franus Zinfandel Brandlin Vineyard Mount Veeder
Zinfandels’ most distinct characteristics shine at high elevations. The altitude contributes to the vine’s ability to produce more concentrated fruit with amplified structure, savory intensity, and richness. Peter Franus, whom Robert Parker wrote has “the Midas touch when it comes to Zinfandel,” has sourced his Zin from the Brandlin Vineyard at 1200 feet elevation on Mount Veeder since the early ’90s. The 2016 release is a stunning example of Mountain grown Zinfandel, and at our price, the value is abundant.
 
Brandlin was planted in the 1920s and is one of the oldest vineyards on Mountain Veeder. The family planted the hillside vineyard to a field blend with multiple varietals, and the head-trained vines rely on winter rains as their sole source of irrigation. This dry-farming practice creates a deep root system that perfectly articulates the terroir of the Mountain. 
 
Peter ferments his Zinfandel at a cooler temperature to accentuate the zesty and forward fruit. He also ages exclusively in Burgundian French oak barrels, which adds complexity and increases refinement. 
 
PETER FRANUS
2016 ZINFANDEL
BRANDLIN VINEYARD
MOUNT VEEDER
Retails at: $40
 
 
 
“My immediate impression of the 2016 vintage—classic Brandlin! Brilliant medium ruby with an array of aromatic notes—bramble fruits, white pepper, basil, rose petal, and a touch of sweet oak. The palate entry is gentle, leading to flavors of anise and strawberry. The wine embraces that PF goal of a structure that is elegant, balanced, lively and refreshing. The lengthy finish will return to remind you how much you are enjoying this wine.”

2014 Korbin Kameron Cabernet Sauvignon Moon Mountain District

with No Comment $30-$40Cabernet SauvignonKevin VogtMoon MountainMt VeederNapaUSA

KORBIN KAMERON 

2014 CABERNET SAUVIGNON
MOON MOUNTAIN DISTRICT

When scrutinizing the final contenders for our top 5 list this year, we re-tasted Korbin Kameron’s 2014 Estate Cabernet side-by-side a $135 bottle of Napa Cab was clear that Korbin deserved a top spot on our list. They produce their Estate Cabernet in a powerfully compelling style that’s resonated deeply with fans of concentrated, inky Mountain wines. The wines are made by Tim Milos, who crafted stellar vintages of Opus One, Stag’s Leap, and Cliff Lede. At just $40, this is one of the best wine bottles in the shop, period. 
 
The Cabernet includes the iconic clones 337 and 7, which thrive in the well-drained gravelly loam soils. The area’s ample daytime sunshine and cooling maritime influence at night are perfect for ripening Bordeaux varietals to the peak of perfection.
 
Korbin Kameron’s vineyard is perched on a ridge near the top of Mt Veeder and straddles the Mayacamas Mountain Range at 2,300 feet elevation. Phil Coturri farms the vineyard organically, biodynamically, and sustainably, resulting in a pure and natural expression of fruit. 
 
KORBIN KAMERON 
2014 CABERNET SAUVIGNON
MOON MOUNTAIN DISTRICT
Retails at: $60
 
 
“The Korbin Kameron Moon Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon 2014 begins with a deep, concentrated nose composed of tart red fruits, combined with blue and black fruits, violets and hints of spice. The color is a dark purple that perfectly frames the focused, concentrated palate, showcasing pomegranate, crushed blackberries, dried cherries, and red currants. This is a flashy wine with supple tannins that lead to a very long, intense finish. KorbinKameron 2014 is a wine that’s beautiful now, but will age for 12 years or more.”
95 Points
2017 Ty Caton Estate Knoll Cabernet Sauvignon Moon Mountain District

2017 Ty Caton Estate Knoll Cabernet Sauvignon Moon Mountain District

with No Comment $30-$40Cabernet SauvignonKevin VogtMoon MountainMt VeederSonomaUSA

TY CATON

2017 ESTATE KNOLL
CABERNET SAUVIGNON 
MOON MOUNTAIN DISTRICT

2017 Ty Caton Estate Knoll Cabernet Sauvignon Moon Mountain District
Ty Caton created his Cabernet Collection to highlight the very best blocks within his Estate Vineyard on Moon Mountain. Ty’s Estate Knoll Cabernet is from a tiny half-acre block, which took over 80 jackhammer bits to plant the 559 vines. The resulting wine has penetrating dark fruits, remarkable depth, and character, and at 40% below retail, I recommend you grab some while you can.
 
Ty’s Vineyard is on the Sonoma side of Mount Veeder, where the well-drained red volcanic soils are also home to icons like the Monte Rosso, which was made famous by Louis Martini, and Frederick’s Vineyard used by Turley. 
 
Moon Mountain AVA Cabernets can combine the robust, hedonistic qualities found on Mount Veeder with the elegance and savory characteristics common on Spring Mountain. Ty’s 70 case production Estate Knoll Cabernet is a stunning example of just how great they can be, and at just $36/btl, you’ll savor every drop.
 
TY CATON
2017 ESTATE KNOLL
CABERNET SAUVIGNON 
MOON MOUNTAIN DISTRICT
Retails at: $60
 
 
“The Caton Estate “Knoll” Moon Mountain District Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 seduces you with a nose including red currants, cherry cola, spearmint, light florals, and Christmas spices. The concentrated palate is captivating with beautiful red and black cherries, sweet & tart black plums, dried mushrooms, and vanilla hints. The finish is balanced, with integrated flavors and slightly dusty tannins. It drinks beautifully now and will improve for another decade or so.”
94 Points
2015 Anthem Cabernet Sauvignon Mount Veeder Estate

2015 Anthem Cabernet Sauvignon Mount Veeder Estate

with No Comment $60-$70Cabernet SauvignonKevin VogtMt VeederNapaUncategorizedUSA

ANTHEM

2015 CABERNET SAUVIGNON 
MOUNT VEEDER ESTATE

2015 Anthem Cabernet Sauvignon Mount Veeder Estate
Every decision making Anthem impacts the quality of wine that they produce, and their production team is free to vinify without regard to cost or other extraneous factors. You can taste their relentless drive for creating the highest quality wine possible from their Estate in every glass. The wines are crafted by Jeff Ames, who mentored under Thomas Rivers Brown at Schrader, Maybach, Outpost, and TOR before becoming head winemaker at TOR in 2005. Jeff is also the owner/winemaker at Rudius, which was my #1 wine in 2019.
 
Mount Veeder arose from an ancient seabed, and it’s the coolest Mountain AVA in Napa, known for producing complex, savory and age-worthy Cabernets. Jeff accentuates those flavors in an elegantly balanced way and doesn’t lose the sense of place.
 
Anthem’s Cabernet is all about balance, length, and escalating intensity, and the 2015 vintage is stunningly rich with penetrating red fruits laced with savory characteristics. The vines yielded just 1.9 tons per acre of super-concentrated berries, and after 18 months in barrel and three years in the bottle, this wine rocks.
 
ANTHEM
2015 CABERNET SAUVIGNON 
MOUNT VEEDER ESTATE
Retails at: $135
 
 
“A juicy and fruity red with chocolate, red peppers and hints of herbs. Full body, round and succulent tannins and a flavorful finish. Lovely mountain wine. Drink or hold.” 93 Points
 
“A polished and lush version, with boysenberry and blueberry reduction notes forming the core of flavors, while licorice snap and fruitcake hints fill in. Features a roasted apple wood backdrop, though the fruit easily takes center stage through the rich finish. Best from 2020 through 2035…” 92 Points
 
“… Deep garnet-purple in color, it opens with notes of prunes, raisin cake and spice box with hints of fresh figs, tobacco and new leather. Full-bodied with a plush frame and loads of evolving baked berries layers, it has tons of spices coming through on the finish.” 91 Points
 
“Our 2015 Mt. Veeder Estate Cabernet is a blockbuster mountain Cabernet from Anthem’s own vineyards located at 400 feet in Napa Valley’s Western hillsides. The lower yields in 2015 produced fruit with intense, plush dark berry flavors that Winemaker Jeff Ames crafted into an exquisitely rich Mt. Veeder Cabernet.”
2017 O'Shaughnessy Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

2017 O’Shaughnessy Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

with No Comment $70-$80Cabernet SauvignonHowell MountainKevin VogtMt VeederNapaOakvilleUSA

O’SHAUGHNESSY

CABERNET SAUVIGNON
2017 NAPA VALLEY

2017 O'Shaughnessy Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley
O’Shaughnessy is one of Napa Valley’s top Cabernet producers, and it’s rare for us to feature their wines because of their scarcity. They have machine-like consistency for producing focused, intensely flavored Cabernets with perfect balance. At $75, their Napa Valley Cabernet perfectly represents their powerful style, and as Jeb Dunnuck says, “It’s a terrific 2017 as well as a good value.”
 
O’Shaughnessy’s Napa Valley Cabernet is composed using all Estate fruit from the winery’s properties on Howell Mountain, Mount Veeder, and Oakville. The wine perfectly expresses Mountain terroir with Oakville elegance in a way that brings me back for more. 
 
Since their inception, O’Shaughnessy’s winemaker has been Sean Capiaux, whom you might know from his work at Peter Michael or his own brand Capiaux. He did a terrific job on the 2017 which has concentrated, supple dark fruits, fresh violets, and complex savory notes.
 
O’SHAUGHNESSY
CABERNET SAUVIGNON
2017 NAPA VALLEY
 
Your Price: $75
 
 
 
“Moving to the reds, the 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley checks in as 89% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Merlot, and 5% Malbec that spent 20 months in 75% new French oak. Deep purple-colored with notes of blackcurrants, blueberries, smoked earth, white chocolate, and crushed violets, it’s medium to full-bodied, ripe, and sexy, with a core of sweet fruit. It’s a terrific 2017 as well as a good value.”  93 Points
 
“A very reserved and structured cabernet with red and dark berries, as well as cedary notes and a savory, iodine-like edge. The palate has a very balanced and composed feel with a sleek, focused edge to the fresh blackcurrant flavors. Drink or hold.” 93 Points
 
“O’Shaughnessy’s 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley) is a terrific choice for drinking now and over the next few years. Bright aromatics, plush fruit and silky tannins give the 2017 much of its immediate appeal. Sweet red cherry, plum, mint, spice, blood orange, and rose petal all meld together in this very pretty and engaging Cabernet; there is certainly plenty to like here. As always, the Napa Valley Cabernet is a blend of fruit from O’Shaughnessy’s Oakville, Howell Mountain and Mt. Veeder ranches.” 91 Points
2015 Leto Cellars Mt Veeder Cabernet Franc

2015 Leto Mt Veeder Cabernet Franc

with No Comment $30-$40Cabernet FrancKevin VogtMt VeederNapaUSA

LETO

CABERNET FRANC
2015 MT VEEDER

2015 Leto Cellars Mt Veeder Cabernet Franc
If Napa Valley Cabernet is gold, then Cabernet Franc is platinum, due to its scarcity and cult following. There’s around twenty times as much Cabernet Sauvignon planted in Napa Valley, and on average, Cabernet Sauvignon grapes sell for less than Cabernet Franc. The coveted grape is revered for its stunning power, concentration, delineation, and mouthwatering acidity. Leto’s 2015 Mt Veeder Cabernet Franc, which retails at $78, is simply brilliant. What’s left of this 50 case production is going to fly.
 
Leto sourced their 2015 Cabernet Franc from a single-vineyard perched at 1,100 feet elevation on Mount Veeder. They chose this site for the incredible volcanic soils and vines that yield small, powerful berries with intense flavor. 
 
Mt Veeder is the coolest Mountain in Napa, which allows the grapes to have a longer hang-time so they can develop into something majestic. With a production of only 50 cases, you might want to keep this one secret, at least until you get your case.
 
LETO
CABERNET FRANC
2015 MT VEEDER
Retails at: $78
 
 
 
“The Leto Cellars Mount Veeder Cabernet Franc 2015 begins with a beautiful nose of red cherries, fresh sage leaf, Spring lavender, and Italian glove leather. On the palate, it is vibrant, with penetrating red cherries, black licorice, nutrient-rich earth, with sweet vanilla oak and spice box, and a gorgeous, lingering finish. Drink now through 2028.” 93 Points
2013 Mayacamas Mt Veeder Cabernet Sauvignon

2013 Mayacamas Mt Veeder Cabernet Sauvignon

with No Comment $100 and overCabernet SauvignonKevin VogtMt VeederNapaUSA

MAYACAMAS 

2013 CABERNET SAUVIGNON 
MOUNT VEEDER, NAPA VALLEY

2013 Mayacamas Mt Veeder Cabernet Sauvignon
Mayacamas has been producing hits since the 1950’s, and it would take a pivotal move to stand-out above their incredible past accomplishments.  Mayacamas Estate made that move in 2013 when they hired Andy Erickson as winemaker.  Andy made Screaming Eagle from 2005-2010 producing two perfect 100 Point Wines.  Beyond that, he also assisted in making wine at Harlan Estate as well as crafting wines for Ovid, Arietta, Staglin, Dalla Valle and his own label Favia.  Commemorating his first vintage with twin 97 Point Scores, if you collect Napa Valley’s finest examples of Cabernet Sauvignon, don’t miss this release…
 
Created from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon  grown near the top of Mount Veeder, Mayacamas stands out among other top Cabernets for their unique use of neutral oak barrels.  This wine spends a total of 32 months in neutral oak, which helps to preserve the wines natural favors and expressive terroir without taking a back seat to the oak itself.  They produce some of the most classically-styled, age-worthy Cabernet Sauvignons from Napa Valley and this vintage marks a rebirth that any serious collector must have…   
 
MAYACAMAS 
2013 CABERNET SAUVIGNON 
MOUNT VEEDER, NAPA VALLEY
Retails at:  $150.00/btl
 
Your Price: $119.99/btl 
YOU SAVE 20% 
 
“This is slightly more opulent than other vintages of Mayacamas with tile, slate, dark fruits and flowers such as roses. Full body, firm and luscious tannins. Lots of sage and lavender undertones. Best ever from here? First wine from new owners. Reserved extravagance.“
 97 Points
“… Virile, imposing and massively structured in the glass… The flavors are dark, bold and incisive, with potent tannins and a real feeling of gravitas to back things up. Black cherry, game, smoke, gravel and licorice add to an impression of brooding intensity….” 
 
97 Points

 

Customers that enjoy Mayacamas Cabernet Sauvignon may also enjoy these two terrific Cabs…
 
2015 Nickel & Nickel CC Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon 2014 Eisele AltaGracia Cabernet Sauvignon
NICKEL & NICKEL
2015 CABERNET SAUVIGNON 
CC RANCH, RUTHERFORD
Retails at: $120.00/btl
 
Your Price: $99.99/btl 
 
From Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate: “The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon C C Ranch Vineyard is deep garnet-purple in color with a nose of warm blackberries and blueberry compote with hints of cedar chest, mocha and baking spices. Medium to full-bodied, it is velvety and elegant with lovely perfume and great persistence.”  95+ Points
EISELE
2014 ALTAGRACIA
CABERNET SAUVIGNON
Retails at:  $135.00/btl
 
 
From James Suckling: “Lots of sweet-tobacco, currant and coffee character, yet this remains refined and subtle. Mushroom undertones. Medium to full body, ultra-fine tannins and a velvety texture. Complex and fascinating. Spanish cedar all the way. Better in 2019.”  96 Points
2016 James Joseph Kathryn's Reserve Mt Veeder Proprietary Red

2016 James Joseph Kathryn’s Reserve Mt Veeder Proprietary Red

with No Comment $40-$50Kevin VogtMt VeederNapaProprietary RedUSA

JAMES JOSEPH 2016 James Joseph Kathryn's Reserve Mt Veeder Proprietary Red

KATHRYN’S RESERVE
PROPRIETARY RED
2016 MOUNT VEEDER

In wine, greatness can come from a steadfast focus on your core strengths.  With James Joseph, we’ve scaled back production by 75% in 2016, producing just four barrels of the absolute best wine fathomable.  Born from a single vineyard located at 1,100 feet elevation on Mount Veeder, the 2016 is riveting, profound and deeply hedonistic. This Cabernet blend combines Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon in a way that perfectly expresses Mount Veeder terroir with a vivid display of fine-grained tannins, focused berries, dried flowers, chocolate and stony minerality.  With rising costs to produce this truly top level Cuvee, the wine will only be available at $45/btl through October 1st. 
 
In the glass the 2016 draws you in with a dramatic, alluring perfume, laced in violets, mountainy berries, shaved chocolates and graphite.  The 2016 was authored by Grant Long Jr., winemaker at Witchery, Steps and Aonair and it was kept for 21 months in oak.  Those of you who tasted any of the previous vintages of James Joseph, know exactly what to expect… $100/btl quality at a price that’s an epic value… 
Orders are ready to ship After October 1st.
 
JAMES JOSEPH
KATHRYN’S RESERVE
PROPRIETARY RED
2016 MOUNT VEEDER
Retails at:  $50/btl
 
Your Price: $45/btl 
YOU SAVE 10%
 
Tasting Notes: “Deeply rich aromas of black raspberries, Bing cherries, black currants, cocoa powder, pipe tobacco and a hint of sweet vanilla.  On the palate, layers of crushed blackberries, liquid mineral, sweet blue fruits, freshly ground coffee and oak spice all in perfect balance.  The tannins support a long, opulent finish.  Drink now or over the next 12 years.” 100 Cases Produced
2014 Steps Winemaker's Reserve Proprietary Blend 2015 James Joseph Napa Valley Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon
STEPS 
WINEMAKER’S RESERVE 
2014 PROPRIETARY BLEND
 
Your Price: $49.99/btl

Click to Order

The 6 barrel production  Winemaker’s  Reserve is heavily based in Atlas Peak, and made transparent by its striking crushed rock minerality and dusty tannins that make the area so desired.  The final blend has a solid core of 72% Cabernet Sauvignon from Atlas Peak, magnified by 14% Cabernet Franc from Kenefick Palisades Vineyard, 9% Malbec from Oakville and 5% Petit Verdot from Coombsville.
JAMES JOSEPH
NAPA VALLEY RESERVE
2015 CABERNET SAUVIGNON
 
Your Price: $49.99/btl 

Click to Order

Tasting Notes: “An enchanting bouquet of ripe bing cherry, black plum, raspberry liqueur, mocha, violets and hints of sweet vanilla spice.  On the palate the wine is remarkably rich and densely concentrated.  Lavish layers of ripe blackberries, bittersweet chocolate, espresso and sweet black cherry are intertwined and compel you to another sip.  This wine can be enjoyed upon release or cellared for 10-15 years.”  150 Cases Produced
 
91% Cabernet Sauvignon | 6% Merlot | 3% Cabernet Franc