Country: U.S.A.

Region: Napa Valley

Vintage: 2021

Cépage: Cabernet Sauvignon (92%); Petit Verdot (5%); Zinfandel (2%); Petite Sirah (1%)

Size: 750 ml

Rating(s): 91 (RP); 89 (JD); 91 (JS)

"Salvestrin's 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley comes largely from the winery's Crystal Springs Vineyard. A blend of 92% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Petit Verdot, 2% Zinfandel and 1% Petite Sirah, it's reasonably priced by Napa Valley standards, and yet it performs pretty consistently from year to year. While not overly concentrated, it's varietally correct, with scents of cassis and black cherries joined by vaguely herbal notions and hints of baking spices and vanilla. Medium-bodied and silky textured, it can be enjoyed in the near term, but it has the inherent balance to see it through another decade or so. It's a super value from a winery that deserves more recognition."

Joe Czerwinski (RP) - 07/24