2019 "Criscione Vineyard" Cabernet (1 x 750 ml)
Approximately 20 miles north of the San Francisco and San Pablo Bays, and nestled between the Mayacamas and Vaca Mountain ranges, lies appellation St. Helena. The hourglass shape of this appellations geography, and its distance from the cool waters of the Bay and the Pacific Ocean, set this historic location apart from any other growing region. Vineyards are located on ancient alluvial fans, that sweep toward the Napa River. Consistent heat is locked in during the day and is amplified by the hillsides; at night, that same slender width funnels moderating breezes to dramatically cool the vines, sometimes by as much as 40 to 50 degrees. This extreme shift in temperature helps the fruit retain ideal balance and acidity.
While largely unknown by consumers, this vineyard is held in high regard by those in the industry. Located in a small, quiet valley at the base of Howell Mountain, the east-facing vineyard benefits from the cooling breezes coming off the mountain and the Bell Canyon Reservoir. The soils are a Cortina Series alluvial gravel mix of red volcanic soils and obsidian. The property is 18-acres with roughly half under vine.
The 2019 growing season started off with lots of winter rain and cold temperatures. Mild conditions continued throughout the summer with an occasional heat wave allowing the grapes to ripen slowly and evenly. The 2019 vintage delivered high quality with relatively large yields, balanced acidity and superb flavors.
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Tasting notes
The 2019 "Criscione Vineyard" Cabernet Sauvignon opens with generous fruit aromas of blackberry, black raspberry and boysenberry, accentuated with notes of savory spice, fresh tobacco and sage. Well integrated tannins and a vibrant acidity are rounded out by a juicy center of mixed berry compote, vanilla and anise.- Winemakers Sean Thompson, Csilla Kato and Hugh Davies
Reviews
95 PointsThe 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Criscione Vineyard is another new offering in this lineup, powerful, bombastic wine. Black cherry, plum, tobacco, spice and chocolate build in a potent, pompous Cabernet that demands attention. A whole range of savory accents lend complexity. This dense, muscular Cabernet has a ton to offer. It is a wine of distinction, personality and class.- Vinous, January 2022
94 Points - Best of Year
Opulent and ripe-tasting, this luxe-style wine was aged in 43% new French barrels. It is full bodied, drenched in super-ripe berries and plums, and generously spiced with oak notes of cinnamon, clove, cedar and vanilla. Best through 2028.- Wine Enthusiast, November 2022
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