Ladera Vineyards Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
(Napa Valley, California) - [TP 96] [OB 93] [WRO 93]

About the Winery:
Consistently recognized as one of the premier wineries in Napa Valley, the Ladera name has been synonymous with creating preeminent mountain-grown Cabernet Sauvignon, impressive Sauvignon Blanc and alluringly distinctive Pinot Noir and Chardonnay for America’s most exacting wine enthusiasts for 25 years

In an era of large corporate owned businesses, our small, family-owned and operated winery is dedicated to the timeless traditions of artisan winemaking. Lovingly crafted by hand, nurtured barrel by barrel and artfully blended, our limited-production Howell Mountain Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon is a testament to these practices.

Showcasing the majestic mountain structure and soaring flavors that have made Howell Mountain wine internationally renowned, we are honored to be a part of a small and dedicated group of wineries highlighting the majestic grapes of Howell Mountain. Similarly, our Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon offers a supple balanced palate ideal for those seeking a unique expression not typically found in other valley floor wines.

Notes from the Winemaker:
The 2018 Ladera Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon reflects both the power and complexity of each vineyard site. The grapes were carefully sorted by hand, de-stemmed without crushing then sorted a second time using optical image-processing. Once in tank, the grapes were cold soaked for 5 days to extract maximum fruit character. The wine was aged in 75% new premium French oak for 22 months before the final blend was assembled.

Tasting Notes:
The 2018 Ladera Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon features a beautiful purple hue color with rich, striking black and blue fruit aromas with prominent notes of dark chocolate and anise. On the palate, silky tannins and a lush texture accentuate the luscious, dark berry flavors. Balanced throughout, the stunning 2018 vintage is on full display in this classic Ladera Cabernet Sauvignon.

96 Points - Tasting Panel:

“From three prestigious mountain blocks: Howell Mountain, Atlas Peak, and Pritchard Hill, with some valley floor fruit, this patchwork Cabernet Sauvignon shows off a perfume of vanilla malt, cherry pie, and a toasty twist. Creamy and concentrated, with elderberry preserves and coffee latte. The mouthfeel is streamlined and opulent with a cinnamon-cedar spice from middle to end.”

93 Points - Owen Bargreen:
Sourced from sites on Howell Mountain as well as Atlas Peak, Pritchard Hill and Calistoga, the 2018 ‘Napa Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon was stored for 22 months in 81% new French oak before bottling. Black licorice, iodine and pencil lead notes combine with rich huckleberry tones on the palate. Delicious and beaming with bright acidity, savor this beauty now and over the next fifteen plus years.

93 Points - Wine Review Online:
Ladera Vineyards continues to turn out the hits, particularly in the Cabernet section of the portfolio. It hits all the varietal markers, delivering blackberry, cassis, soft herbs and easy fall spice, with fine grained tannin structure, fine-tuned acidity and a lithe feel for such a weighty wine. I would age this a while to let the tannins fold in a bit further if you are looking for perfect balance, or give it a good decant if you prefer youthful boldness. (Rich Cook)