Ehlers
Portrait Red Blend
Saint Helena 2022
Ehlers Estate’s 2022 Portrait marks a new era in winemaking, guided by the vision of Adam Casto. His experience spans the diverse vineyards of New Zealand, Chile, Australia, and France, bringing a global perspective to his craft. Eleven years with the renowned Philippe Melka at DANA and Gandona Estates further shaped his approach, one that unites meticulous technique with a deep passion for the vine. The 2022 Portrait is the first wine to fully express this vision—a remarkable example of his dedication to crafting site-specific, terroir-driven wines.
Located on the northwestern edge of Saint Helena, Ehlers Estate boasts a rich history, its viticultural origins dating back to the mid-19th century. The estate’s organic farming practices are more than just a method; they reflect a commitment to nurturing the land and cultivating fruit of exceptional purity and complexity.
A harmonious blend of 66% Cabernet Sauvignon, interwoven with Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Petit Verdot, the 2022 Portrait embodies Adam’s aim: to capture the distinct character of Ehlers’ terroir while achieving a balance of elegance and strength. The result is a refined, velvety wine where structure and suppleness coexist, the varietals merging into a cohesive story—a portrait of both place and the winemaker’s devotion.
Ehlers
Portrait Red Blend
Saint Helena 2022
Retails at: $80
Your Price: $72
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“This wine immediately grabs your attention yet does so with an understated grace. The nose opens with compelling ripe blueberries and kirsch, their sweetness enhanced by subtle Italian glove leather and a distinct, dusty minerality. It’s a bouquet with both richness and restraint, alluding to the complexity to come. On the palate, the wine unfolds with a supple texture and satiny tannins that balance the rich, sweet black fruit power. Black currants and blueberry compote create a core of concentrated flavor. A saline note adds a mouth-quenching component to the fruit’s intensity, while black tea lends further nuance. The wine’s structure is compact and focused, promising longevity, yet it remains remarkably approachable. The finish is fabulous—long, luxurious, and leaving a lasting impression of elegance and depth. This Napa red blend showcases the best of the vintage, offering both immediate pleasure and the potential for graceful aging. It’s a wine that invites contemplation, revealing new layers with each sip.”
95 Points
