J.McClelland Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2016

The Data

Country USA

Appellation Napa Valley

Varietal Cabernet Sauvignon

Retail Price $50

ABV 14.4%

Score 4 Stars/92 points

In the Glass

Appearance

Brilliant, deep ruby color.

Aromatics

The aromatics are very intense offering scents of cassis and black cherry with supporting notes of blackberry, wet stones, and sweet oak.

Flavor

The palate echoes the nose delivering a black fruit-driven core with flavors of black fruits, baking spices, and plum. The finish is long and lingering with silky tannins and vanilla bean.

Intensity & Texture

Full-bodied and nicely balanced with a silky, rich texture.

Cool Factor

In the crowded field of Cabernet wines from the New World it's hard to rise above the crowd. The J.McClelland Cab stands out with its bright acidity, great balance, and charming blend of old-world ethos and Napa fruit.

Value Grade

At $50 this is not likely an everyday wine for you but it's not supposed to be. Set aside for a holiday or big occasion and do serve with food. Fewer than 1,000 cases produced.

Analysis

This bold New World Cabernet with an Old World soul is made with a classic blend of 86% Cabernet Sauvignon and 14% Merlot. The J. McClelland Cellars wines are created by the careful blending of separate lots of wines determined by winemakers Paul Scotto and Mitch Cosentino. Wines from various vineyards or even wines from the same vineyard are given different oak treatments resulting unique flavors. We love the result as it's ideally balanced with waves of complex fruit and bright acidity. This a beautiful and age-worthy Cabernet that will outlive many of its contemporaries in the cellar.

How to Enjoy

I highly recommend that you decant this wine. Just one hour in a decanter will be enough time to allow this wine to show you what it has. Pair with braised meats and rich stews.