2010 Jones Family Cabernet Sauvignon

The estate's 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate is more typical of the year in its blue and black fruit, violets, asphalt, graphite and pencil shavings. Here, too, there is considerable energy and pure minerality to back up the fruit. Graphite, tar and savory herbs add a measure of gravitas on the deeply resonant, pure finish. This is another fabulous, exciting wine from Jones Family.

The estate’s 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate is more typical of the year in its blue and black fruit, violets, asphalt, graphite and pencil shavings. Here, too, there is considerable energy and pure minerality to back up the fruit. Graphite, tar and savory herbs add a measure of gravitas on the deeply resonant, pure finish. This is another fabulous, exciting wine from Jones Family. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2025. The Jones family purchased their property on the lower slopes of Howell Mountain in 1992. For the first few years they sold fruit before starting to make their own wines in 1996. David Abreu manages the vineyards while Thomas Rivers Brown makes the wines. The 2010s have turned out just as great as I had hoped they would based on my barrel tastings last year. Jones Family Vineyards is one of the most exciting emerging properties in Napa Valley today. Tel. (707) 942-0467

Bright, full ruby. Wild blueberry, minerals, mocha and caraway seed on the nose, complemented by sexy oak notes of smoke and toast. Rich, sweet, creamy and dense, but given verve by penetrating acidity. A much more primary style than the 2009 but not yet showing the same flavor definition; this will need some aging to show its best. Notes of caraway seed and dried herbs add complexity to the very long finish.