Nils Venge has always been known as a bit of a cowboy in the wine industry, making wine his own special way, and taking risks that have undoubtedly paid off.  You’re about as likely to find him on a tractor in the vineyard, than just about anywhere else.  Early on, he set the bar as the first American winemaker to earn a perfect 100 Point score from Robert Parker with the 1985 Groth Reserve Cab, and three decades later he’s still blazing the trails, producing bold and unapologetically expressive wines. The winery is located behind Opus One and a stones throw from Silver Oak’s Napa property.  At $75/btl this Oakville Cab will make even the most gristled cowboy grin.

 

Crafted in a deep, showy style, offering layer after layer of dense black fruits, exotic chocolates, white flowers and hints of graphite.  Our panel was shocked by how well the 2013 was showing and we bought all we could…  Kept for 24 months in oak barrels this beauty has had nearly 2 1/2 years of bottle development and it’s gorgeous right now.  I highly recommend adding some of this to your cellar.