2011 Tusk Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

Tusk Estates is positioning itself as one of Napa Valley’s 21st century cult wines. It was founded in 2007 by Tim Martin, a long-time Napa Valley food and wine marketer and entrepreneur; Michael Uytengsu , a former investment banker and heir to an international food conglomerate; and Philippe Melka, a French-born winemaker and international consultant. Tusk sources grapes from Napa Valley vineyards and calls itself “the next great luxury brand.” Tusk makes only about 150 cases a year and produces a single Cabernet Sauvignon.

Sourced primarily from Oakville and Prichard Hill and several other sub-appellations throughout Napa Valley, and is a project from wine consultant Phillipe Melka and partners. The winery notes: “In a Bordeaux year, the 2011 Tusk displays the major components of California Style. Throughout the growing season, the sun was able to develop layers of complexity in a the fruit resulting in great concentration of flavor and rich ripeness. The 2011 portrays the feminine side of the wine with a wonderful sweetness and ripeness from the fruit, along with great acidity which will aid in the aging process.”