It was 16 years ago on my first job here and I got to taste their Cabernet for the first time. One sip of Robert Craig’s Cabernet and I was convinced that this was not only a great producer but Napa did, indeed produce awesome Cabernet.
Let’s fast forward to today and celebrate the release of the 2018 vintage- an impressive vintage to say the least and I believe will be looked back at as one of the greats this century (to date). Both Howell Mt and Mt Veeder are high altitude vineyards with wonderful restraint and elegance displaying exceptional balance and complexity. Winery founders Bob and Lynn retired in 2018 after 3 decades of passion and commitment- talk about going out on a high. On a side note, Bob passed away Sept of 2019 and is considered ‘one of the most important figures in Mountain Cabernet development and production’ sourced: http://www.robertcraigwine.com, and will be missed.
Amentet Vineyard, Mt Veeder Cabernet 2018.
Aromas are intoxicating as they whisper from the glass drink me with layers of dark fruits and chocolate with just a hint of blue fruits and sweet tobacco. This blend of 90% Cab and 10% Cab Franc is lighter on the mouthfeel that one would expect but it gets back to the restraint and elegance that is so evident in high elevation Mt. fruit. So soft and pleasing on the mouthfeel, everything is where it should be- wonderful balance. Almost seamless layers of blackberries, black raspberries, cassis, blueberries, dark chocolate and sweet tobacco. Tannins are precise and hold everything in place with just a hint of sweetness. Great length on the finish. Definitely a highlight of the 2018 vintage. I’d pair this with red meat dishes from Filet Mignon, venison stew, roast lamb and duck to burgers on the grill, just as long as you enjoy this wine.
Howell Mountain Cabernet 2018
This is a totally different beast on the nose, bramble, crushed stone, earthy notes, spices with just a hint of dark fruits. The palate is an entirely different matter with black current, black cherries and blackberries dominating with a healthy side serving of plums, chocolate and spices. This is a bigger wine than the Mt Veeder release but equally enjoyable- just needs a little more decant time. Tannins more evident but doing their job contributing structure and body with the same impressive balance.
Both wines will need 5 plus years to show their character and will age beautifully over the next 20 years. Pair with your favorite red meat dish with bold flavors to match.
Vine to Table 