Pride 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa/Sonoma

The Summit Ranch where Pride Moutain Vineyards are located dates back to the 1880's and is one of Napa Valley's oldest grape growing properties. Owners Jim and Carolyn Pride launched their first vintage in 1991 and it's been a cult favorite ever since. The vineyard blocks up Napa's Spring Mountain stretch over into Sonoma so the wine carries both names on the label.  
 
The fruit for this 2016 is 76% Napa and 24% Sonoma. Twenty-one individual lots were fermented in stainless steel vats for 14 – 25 days and were then gently pressed to French oak barrels, 50% new, for 19 months of barrel aging. The blend is 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Merlot and 5% Petit Verdot.

The Wine Advocate scored this 93 points saying "The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon is made up of 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Merlot and 5% Petit Verdot, and 76% of the fruit came from Napa County and 24% from Sonoma County. Medium to deep garnet-purple colored, it rolls sensuously out of the glass with provocative notes of warm cassis, blackberry pie and preserved plums plus suggestions of cigar box, dried lavender, menthol and melted chocolate. Medium-bodied, the palate has wonderful energy and freshness, featuring plenty of perfumed black fruit and a firm, ripe, grainy frame, finishing with a minty kick."

Jeb Dunnuck scored this 94 points saying "The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon is a beauty and is certainly worth seeking out. Deep black fruits, smoke tobacco, scorched earth and graphite notes all emerge from the glass. It’s medium to full-bodied, has terrific purity of fruit, sweet tannins, and the balance to evolve for 15 years or so."