Beverage of the Week (BOW)

Mount Veeder Reserve Napa Valley 2012

Product Story

This mountain beauty is 91% Cabernet Sauvignon so it clearly could have been labeled as a Cab. The vines sit at 1,500 to 1,600 feet above sea level on rugged rocky soils that require the vines to struggle to survive. The result is a very low yield of fruit that is highly concentrated and complex. The Mount Veeder appellation features some of the steepest vineyards in California and has been home to winemaking since the 1860s. There are much easier areas to farm — you have to have a real commitment and love of wine to plant your flag here. 98 points out of 100.

Brand Story

The debut wine from Mount Veeder Winery was the 1973 Cabernet Sauvignon.  Since that first vintage, Mount Veeder Winery has expanded to three vineyard ranches nestled high in the Mayacamas Mountains and continues to produce powerful, bold wines that are a true expression of this unique wine-growing region. Mount Veeder Winery was born from the hard work and dedication of Michael and Arlene Bernstein. The Bernsteins first discovered the rugged property in the early 1960s and later bought it as a rustic retreat. In the ensuing years they transformed it into an enviable vineyard.

Tasting Note

Deep garnet to maroon color. The nose is wonderfully complex — imagine Bordeaux meeting Napa hillsides. Scents of blackberry, blueberry, plum, and cassis take the lead supported by fresh herbs, toasted oak, allspice, nutmeg, and hints of dark chocolate, leather, and licorice. The palate echoes the nose delivering a lush, fruit-driven core with a wildly complex mix of earth, cigar, brown baking spices, sweet herbs, and oak to add intrigue. It's certainly full-boded but this wine offers more nuance than heft as it's never brooding while constantly changing from sip to sip.

How to Serve

Be sure to decant this wine and allow it to breathe for an hour. This multifaceted wine pairs well with roasted meats especially with a strong herbal compliment.

Price: $ 90

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