Country: U.S.A.

Region: Napa Valley

Vintage: 2021

Cépage: Cabernet Sauvignon (87%); Merlot (8%);  Petit Verdot (2%); Malbec (2%); Cabernet Franc (1%)

Size: 750 ml

Rating(s): 96+ (RP)

" The components of the 2021 Proprietary Red barely changed relative to the barrel sample I tasted last year, with 61% of the fruit being estate grown (Stagecoach and Waters Ranch), with the remainder coming from Upper Range (35%) and Vangone (4%). Dominant scents of cassis mark the nose, joined by hints of dark chocolate, black cherries and pencil shavings. This full-bodied wine is firm and muscular but with enough baby fat that you could try one now if you had a big steak on hand. The lingering, dusty finish adds savory tones of black olive and dried herbs."

Joe Czerwinski (RP) - 07/24