2018 was truly a winemakers’ vintage, and the quality of the resulting wines presents itself in bottle. Generous rainfall in February led to a late budbreak and extended flowering period. Beautiful and mild weather throughout spring and summer made for a healthy crop load. With no major heat spikes or weather events in the fall, winemakers were able to patiently wait to pick at optimal fruit ripeness.
This 2019 Amici Cellars Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon highlights the lush, ripe fruit and Rutherford Dust of valley floor vineyards along with the structure and ageability of Napa Valley’s best mountain appellations. Aromas of blackberry, black currant and blueberry compote give way to notes of cedar box, soy, and currant. The palate is dense and viscous with laser-like precision. Richly fruitforward with black raspberry, black plum and blackberry cobbler, the wine is also layered with spice, from savory herbs to vanilla and hazelnut. A long, fruit-driven finish leaves you wanting another sip.
Critic Ratings
Jeb Dunnuck Review - Tasted 3/10/2022 - Rated 96:
The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve Napa Valley comes from a mix of all the single vineyards. Readers should never overlook this type of wine, as the ability to blend from multiple sites gives winemakers incredible flexibility, and these wines can represent smoking values. Full-bodied aromas and flavors of currants, chocolate, lead pencil, and graphite emerge from this beauty, and it’s ripe, mouth-filling and balanced, with a great texture. It’s in the running for the best Napa Cabernet Sauvignon at the price point. - Jeb Dunnuck
Robert Parker Wine Advocate Review - Issue 18th Mar 2021 - Rated 96:
The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve is composed of 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Petit Verdot and 6% Cabernet Franc. Deep garnet-purple in color, it prances out of the glass with showy notes of warm cassis, baked black berries, Black Forest cake and menthol, plus suggestions of cardamom and licorice. The medium to full-bodied palate is refreshing and elegantly styled with bags of juicy, expressive black fruits and a satisfyingly savory finish. 1,600 cases are due to be made. (Tasted as a barrel sample.) - Lisa Perrotti-Brown
James Suckling Review - Published April 7, 2022 - Rated 94:
Aromas of blackcurrants, hazelnuts, chocolate and violets follow through to a full body with round, creamy tannins and a pretty finish. The soft and juicy texture makes it attractive now, but better in three to four years. Try after 2025.
