Sullivan Vineyards J.O. Sullivan Founder's Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2021
(Rutherford, Napa Valley, CA) - [JD 98+] [TWI 95]

About the Winery:
Founded in 1972, during the apex of the boutique winery movement, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon vines were first planted on the 26-acre estate in 1978, per the encouragement of legendary winemaker, André Tchelistcheff.

Under new family ownership in 2018, the team is deeply investing in its vineyard programs and plans are underway to build a state-of-the-art winery and hospitality facilities. Led by entrepreneur Juan Pablo Torres-Padilla, who has gradually gathered one of the top teams of wine professionals in the country to lead the Estate, recognizes great potential for crafting exquisite wines and one of the top visitor experiences.

Winemaker Jeff Cole earned a degree in Wine and Viticulture from California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo. Prior to joining Sullivan, he worked with Schramsberg and J. Davies Vineyards, where from 2006 through 2013 he played an indispensable role both in J. Davies’ red wine program and Schramsberg’s méthode champenoise sparkling wine production. In 2019 Cole was named Top Up & Coming Winemaker by Robb Report:
“If making a $500 bottle of wine is a kind of benchmark, Jeff Cole has just reached it...The estate’s top-tier reserve wine, James O’Neil, usually sells for about $250 per bottle, but even that Cab drinks like a more expensive example and is one of the best being made in the Rutherford AVA right now.” -Janice O’Leary

About this wine:
The 2021 J.O. Sullivan Founder’s Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon is a profound masterpiece, an inky marvel of depth. Its enchanting aroma reveals distilled notes of elderberry, blackberry compote, and spice, with rich dark chocolate undertones. With a tarry, structured profile, this dense Cabernet introduces minerality for a unique dimension. Meticulously crafted, flawless tannins intertwine, striking a harmonious balance between opulence and grace. The sophistication and depth testify to the Estate’s world-class soils, resulting in the most complete wine in its 50+ year history. Anticipate a journey of enjoyment over the next two decades.

WINEMAKER: Jeff Cole

VARIETALS: 89% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Merlot

PRODUCTION: 500 cases

BARREL AGING: 22 months in 85% new French oak

ALCOHOL: 14.8%

Rating & Reviews

98+ Points - Jeb Dunnuck

"A rich, full-bodied, concentrated Cabernet Sauvignon with the vintage’s more inward, structured profile, building yet flawless tannins, and incredible balance between its richness and elegance.”

95 Points - The Wine Independent

“The full-bodied palate is chock full of rich black fruit preserves and savory layers, supported by firm, grainy tannins and seamless freshness, finishing long and peppery/spicy.”