Full disclosure, I am a big fan of Chappellet, a Napa-based winery located in the elite Pritchard Hill district. This blend of 44% Cabernet Sauvignon, 44% Merlot, 9% Petit Verdot, 7% Malbec, and 4% Cabernet Franc combines mountain fruit from both Napa County (72%) and Sonoma County (28%). It's worth noting that there are some truly extraordinary mountain hillside vineyards on the Sonoma side of the Mayacamas mountain range that divides the two counties. This is a dark, brooding red, full of structure, with cassis and black cherry fruit, tar, bay laurel, black pepper and olive flavors with a trailing hint of vanilla and cola. It's weighty on the palate, and the hillside tannins are present from beginning to end, but not at all harsh on the finish. For the money, it's damn good, and a fascinating mashup of Napa and Sonoma fruit. Recommended, and a pretty good value. (92 Points)
- Tim Teichgraeber
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