2019 Ink Grade Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

A complex, biodynamically farmed wine featuring ripe dark fruits, cocoa, herbs, and baking spices, balanced by decent acidity and fine tannins.

Producer

Ink Grade

Region

Howell Mountain, Napa Valley, CA

Country

USA

Varietal

Cabernet Sauvignon

Varietal Composition

88.4% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11.6% Merlot

Specifications

2019

Vintage

2035

Drink By

ABV

Vinification

60% of grapes are aged 9 months in new French oak, 40% in oak tanks for 9 months, followed by 80% being aged in French oak (60% new), and 20% in oak barrels for 26 additional months

Occasional wine note

This was #96 on Wine Spectator's Top 100 Wines for 2023 and there's good reason. It's a damn good wine. with a lot going on. Loads of ripe dark fruits, cocoa, herbs, earth, and baking spices. Decent acidity and fine tannins add to it all. Oh and it's certified biodynamically farmed.

What experts say about this wine

100

James Suckling

So much pine needle, flowers, currants and ripe plums on the nose. Medium-bodied with fine and polished tannins. Linear and very tight with a clarity and energy. Vivid is the word. From biodynamically grown grapes with Demeter certification.

100

Wine Enthusiast

This classic style of Cabernet shows great balance, a snug structure and complex flavors that range from black cherry to black olive to sage and cedar. Moderate tannins and good acidity add to a slightly grippy and appetizing texture.

pairing recommendation