“The 2018 Napa Valley Cabernet vintage belongs in an echelon with the finest of the past two decades”. – Decanter Magazine.
Originally three separate vineyards established in 1873, the Draper Vineyards (La Perla) consisting of 435 acres was the first site of Cabernet plantings on Spring Mountain. Interesting side note: part of the La Perla estate incorporates the first vineyard planted by Fredrick and Jacob Beringer in 1882. All that being said, there is some serious winemaking history behind this winery not to mention numerous accolades.
I’ve been fortunate enough to taste several vintages of this wine since moving to the States and I have to say the 2018 is an absolute delight to drink, I have a soft spot for this wine, it has never disappointed me and the 2018 is no exception. Considered to be one of the best vintages in two decades, surpassing the 2012 and 2016 vintages this is excellent opportunity to grab yourself a great Cabernet made from Mountain fruit (restrained and elegant) from an excellent vintage by a great winery. Sounds like an unbeatable combination to me.
The nose opens with cherries and floral notes of violets and lavender with some dusty blueberry notes and spices to round things out. The palate is bright and full of character showcasing an array of cherries, cassis and blueberries with secondary notes of plum, tobacco and spices. Nice bold structure and tannins evident. Hints of olive and savory notes evolving on the palate after some much needed decant time- 2 hours plus.
This wine will age beautifully over the next 10 years and will reward your patience. Given the anticipated shortage of wine out of Napa from the 2020 and 2021 vintages, this is a must buy for any serious Cabernet lover.
Vine to Table 