Clos du Val 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate, Napa Valley

For more than four decades Clos du Val has been producing distinctive Napa Valley Cabernets from their estate vineyards in the Stag's Leap District and beyond. French Winemaker Bernard Portet secured prime vineyard property back in the early '70s which has been the basis for the legacy this winery holds today.

2018 was another excellent vintage. The gapes were fermented in temperature controlled stainless steel tanks with pump overs 2 to 3 times a day. The wine aged 19 months in 58% new oak (50% French, 5% Hungarian, 3% American). The final blend is 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Merlot, 7% Petit Verdot and 1% Malbec.

Decanter Magazine scored this 97 points saying "Polished aromas of lovely ripe dark fruit and chocolatey spicy oak, with floral and herbal notes. An expressive and fresh palate with a purity of fruit, juicy tannins, and a solid length. Approachable now and will age well."