Hess Collection 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon, Allomi Vyd., Napa Valley

The Allomi vineyard lies in the gently rolling hills of northeastern Napa Valley, where the combination of a typically long, warm growing season and well-drained soils create optimal ripening conditions. Sustainably farmed, the 210-acre vineyard is focused into 35 unique growing blocks with six different Cabernet clones that add diversity of flavors and complexity to the wine. In each vintage, winemakers evaluate the grapes and select only the finest components for this cuvée.


In the outstanding 2016 vintage the blend is 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Petite Sirah, 4% Malbec, 2% Petite Verdot and 2% Merlot and the wine aged in 22% new American oak for 18 months.


James Suckling scored this 91 points saying "This blend of 85 per cent cabernet sauvignon with touches of petite sirah, malbec, petit verdot and merlot, has a ripe-plum and blackberry core that delivers sweetly attractive and fresh into the finish. Drink or hold."

Wine Enthusiast Magazine made this an "Editors' Choice" and scored it 92 points saying "This blend is dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon, with smaller amounts of Petite Sirah, Malbec, Petit Verdot and Merlot. Bold black fruit expand on the palate, with a lengthy powder keg of tobacco, gun smoke and cigar box shining through. The tannins are persistent yet soft."