2018 Macauley Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

The 2018 vintage will prove to be a great one for all things Macauley Vineyard, beginning with this, our Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon release. Yields and balance were the watchwords of the season. We thinned the grapes on multiple passes through the vineyards to ensure the vines concentrated their energy into quality rather than quantity. The 2018 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon starts with a hedonistic mix of black licorice, dried cherry, field spices, herbs, and even a taste of grilled game. With time in the glass, the dominant, savory notes make way for dark chocolate, cola berry and espresso dust, courtesy of 22 months in 75% new French Oak. Glycerol coats the mid palate before it meets firm, youthful tannins. At 89%, the Cabernet is sourced from the most prestigious Oakville, Rutherford and Oak Knoll vines.  Rounding out the blend for shape, color, longevity and balance is 4% Merlot, 4% Malbec and 3% Petit Verdot.  Enjoy it now or to 2040 and beyond. 600 cases produced. -Krik Venge