2012 Vineyard 29 Cabernet Sauvignon CRU

The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Cru, which is 82% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest the other four Bordeaux varietals, comes from many different vineyards and the good news is there were nearly 6,000 cases of this wine that was aged 18 months in a combination of 50% new and 50% once-used French oak. The vineyard sources essentially span the entire length of the Napa Valley, from Coombsville in the south to north of St. Helena. This sexy, soft, velvety textured wine shows classic Cabernet notes of tobacco leaf, red and blackcurrants, licorice and cedar wood. Drink it over the next decade.

The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Cru is a great version of one of Napa Valley's most delicious and affordable Cabernets. Rich, layered and voluptuous, the 2012 wraps around the palate with layers of flavor. Raspberry jam, cloves, mint and new leather flesh out in a racy, hugely pleasing Cabernet that won't break the bank. The blend is 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Merlot, 6% Petit Verdot, 4% Cabernet Franc and 3% Malbec.

The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Cru is soft, seductive and opulent with a dense ruby/purple color, considerably more fruit and richness than the 2011, medium to full body and good ripeness. Dominated by its Cabernet Sauvignon component (82%), it offers explosive fruit, a consumer-friendly style and 10-12 years of aging potential. The two estate vineyards of Vineyard 29, the 29 Estate and further north the Aida, are owned by Chuck and Anne McMinn. It’s a shame they don’t make more than 100-160 or so cases of their 100% Sauvignon Blanc fermented in 100% new French oak because it is so delicious. Vineyard 29 also produces a reasonably priced Napa Valley cuvee that showcases the valley’s ripe, rich Cabernet Sauvignon fruit, but does not require a line of credit to purchase. Tel. (707) 963-9292