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“NAPA VALLEY CABERNET”

It’s been said that some of the best Cabernet Sauvignon is found in Napa Valley California. I tend to believe this true. I might be biased, by living in California and drinking a lot of California Cab…but, many people feel this way; including wine experts and enthusiasts alike. There are many a California Cabernet that receive high acclaim and awards – some known for being a cult wine or notoriety of someone famous who owns the name. But truth be told, I’m not so sure these are always the “Best” Cabernets in Napa Valley. I’m not sure they become rated solely on the integrity of the wine itself. What I do know is there are many Cabernets to enjoy and a short list, in my book, that you can call the “Best”. One winery that is on my short list of “Best Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignons”…Cornerstone Cellars.

There are some that will call me crazy to put Cornerstone Cellars on a list of “Best Cabernets Sauvignons in Napa Valley”, but those that would, probably have not had a Cornerstone Cellars Cabernet in a few years. Craig Camp and Jeff Keene of Cornerstone Cellars, are taking their wines and specifically their Cabernets’ to new heights. They are focused and driven to produce the best wine from what Napa Valley has to offer…which is the best Cabernet Sauvignon grapes grown in the U.S. So why wouldn’t they be on the “Best” list? The 2010 releases are their best yet and seeing that with each year and vintage, Cornerstones’ Cabernets are getting better and better…I get excited thinking what 2011 and 2012 will bring!

CORNERSTONE CELLARS HOWELL MOUNTAIN CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2010

dvinewinetime Cornerstone Cellars 2010 Howell Mntn CabernetThe Howell Mountain AVA is famous for their terroir and outstanding Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. It’s no secret why Cornerstone would pursue a production of Cabernet Sauvignon from this source. The 2010 Cornerstone Cellars Howell Mountain Cabernet is a dark, sensual plum color with colorful hints of blackberry. The nose hits with vanilla first and then dark plum with wonderful hints of cassis and baking spice and just a touch of evergreen. Very enjoyable. Of course to taste it brings on the big juicy berries that are beaming with ripeness; spices of cinnamon and nutmeg with a beautiful tannic structure and a complex, smooth finish. The Cornerstone Cellars 2010 Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon has so much shelf potential, yet it is drinking very well right now. It does need to breath or decant for a bit….but it rounds out quickly and nicely. SRP on this Cabernet Sauvignon is $80.00 and I give it a FIVE BOTTLE Rating.

CORNERSTONE CELLARS NAPA VALLEY CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2010

dvinewinetime Cornerstone Cellars 2010 Napa Valley CabernetThe 2010 Cornerstone Cellars Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is no exception to the greatness of Cornerstone Cabernets. It’s premium, in all the sense of the word. A luscious, inky, red berry darkness with beautiful clarity. A spice on the nose that gives you every indication of what is to come when you taste it. The palate receives a taste bud explosion of spices; cinnamon, nutmeg and a bit of white pepper with juicy blackberries and notes of blueberry. Good length with superb tannin structure. A supple Cabernet Sauvignon that feel luxurious in your mouth. This is a wine where the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. Truly amazing in every way. Drinking exceptionally well now with a little decanting – it will cellar for years with even greater pleasure. SRP is $65.00 and I also give this Cabernet Sauvignon a high praise FIVE BOTTLE Rating.

Though these 2010 Cornerstone Cellars Cabernet Sauvignons are not value, everyday sippers….it by no means justifies you not buying one or both to try for the occasional splurge or special occasion. They are worth every penny and splurge worthy. Premium Cabernets, through and through. Besides, it’s Napa Valley grapes and Napa Valley terroir and what says “Best” Cabernet Sauvignon than Napa Valley and Cornerstone Cellars? Not much.

Cheers!

** Samples received courtesy of Cornerstone Cellars **