Chimney Rock Cabernet Sauvignon 2022

The 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon Stags Leap District comes entirely from the estate's parcels in the Stags Leap District and checks in as 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, and the balance Petit Verdot and Malbec, all raised in 50% new barrels. It's clearly a successful 2022 and has a great nose of ripe red and black fruits, chocolaty wood, tobacco, and cedar pencils. A classic Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, it's medium to full-bodied and has a round, plush mouthfeel and outstanding length. I'd be thrilled to drink a bottle any time over the coming decade. It reminds me of the 2019. Hats off to winemaker Elizabeth Vianna for a brilliant classic cuvée in a challenging vintage.

The nose is lifted and fresh, with aromas of wild blackberries, blueberries and herbs de Provence. The palate is full-bodied with notes of coffee beans, tobacco and cigar box. Drinkable now, but best from 2028.

The 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley) is a very pretty, soft wine. Red plum, spice, leather, spice and rose petal all meld together nicely. Pretty floral notes lift the finish. This Napa Valley Cabernet is a charmer. I would prefer to drink it over the next few years.