Mayacamas, "Mt. Veeder" Cabernet Sauvignon - 2020

When you reach the foot of Mount Veder, the two lane road from downtown Napa ends and you begin your ascent, single file, into the clouds of fog, traversing the jagged mountainside. The magic that awaits at the top is the Mayacamas Vineyards, operating since 1889 and to this day producing timeless wines. With 50 acres of vines planted in the rugged, volcanic terrain, there is a beautiful tension in these vines as the grapes strive for nutrients, resulting in low yields of small, concentrated berries. The Cabernet Sauvignon opens with an integrated bouquet of plum and blackberry, tobacco leaf and bitter coco, herb notes of bay laurel. A glass that is bombastic and enjoyable today to be sure. But time in the cellar will be well rewarded with elegantly faded fruit, toned French oak structure and subtly minted herbals.