“This exceptional, small-lot wine highlights the unique character of its single vineyard origin.” – IWR

Brace yourselves, for we may have the single best Cabernet value of the year. V. Cab RETURNS with a brand new 96 point vintage!

Plus, a gaggle of scores from the pros - 95 from International Wine Report, and a pair of 94s from The Wine Independent and James Suckling firm up this sensational wine. And while $90 seems justified, if not expected for any wine from 100-point winemaker Jean Hoefliger, our $36 price is anything but.

Per Wine Independent, “one of Napa’s most famous consultant enologists, Michel Rolland has worked with and mentored many of the top winemakers in Napa Valley today, some of whom have become consultants themselves. One of his most gifted protégés is Jean Hoefliger.”

Owners Gina and Steve Viets weren’t looking for wine fame when they bought the land that would become V. Vineyards; they were just looking for an off-the-beaten-path spot to raise their kids. When they discovered that their hillside home once sported vines in the 1800s, they decided to rekindle its winegrowing past. They likely had no idea of the true value of the vinous goldmine they were sitting on until their paths crossed with the famed Alpha Omega winemaker.

Jean Hoefliger is simply one of the best. The Swiss talent is renowned for turning out countless 95-100 points wines in Bordeaux at Château Lynch-Bages, Château Carbonnieux and in California at Alpha Omega, Newton, AXR, Medlock Ames, Maxville, Hartford Court, among others. He’s also the genius behind the recently launched and very popular The Debate trio of wines (which fetch hundreds of dollars EACH, by the way).

And the relatively modest release price must largely be driven by one thing - the fact that it comes from the “other” side of the Mayacamas. Had it been born just a mile on the other side of the hill, with “Napa Valley” stamped on the label, it’d go for at least twice that price.

The complexity at first sniff sends the mind reeling - dried violets, rich and juicy red berries, sagebrush, sandalwood, graphite - is enough to justify its existence. But we’re not recommending it as a replacement for your reed diffuser home aromatics - as much as we revel in the thought.

Because what matters is the TASTE. Which is just impeccable. The balance between mouth-coating, plummy fruit, jaunty acidity, concentration, and supple tannins would make most Napa Cab lovers’ heads explode.

Most impressive, indeed. This Cab even gets the rock-star Napa-like treatment in the cellar: 22 months barrel aging in 100% French oak (80% new). The only reason it doesn’t list for $200+ and on the contrary, 60% OFF today down to a crazy low $36 (!!!) is that the vineyard sits on the “Other Side” of that county line, simple as that.

Cab value of the year? One of them for sure. Will move fast. Only a few hundred cases exist. A sellout seems likely here…

96 Points – Decanter “Just on the Sonoma side of Spring Mountain lies V. Vineyards, with its volcanic and clay loam soils. This estate Cabernet Sauvignon was aged for 22 months after 100% barrel fermentation. There is a real freshness here, with the wine leading with savory wild herbs, elderberry, juniper, and tobacco, alongside candied violets and plush blue fruit notes. The palate is medium to full-bodied, revealing deep, concentrated flavors of Bing cherry, violet pastille, and intense blue fruit. It is long and focused, framed by firm, planky tannins and underscored by racy acidity. Drink 2025-2040.”

95 Points – International Wine Report “V. Vineyards’ Single Vineyard Limited Production Cabernet Sauvignon from Sonoma County unveils an enticing bouquet of ripe blackberries, plum, and a touch of cassis, complemented by delicate nuances of graphite, cedar, and a hint of sweet spice. The palate is powerful yet refined, with velvety tannins and well-balanced acidity that provide structure and depth. Flavors of dark fruit, espresso, and toasted oak evolve gracefully, leading to a long, smooth finish. This exceptional, small-lot wine highlights the unique character of its single vineyard origin, making it a standout expression of Sonoma County’s terroir.”

94 Points – The Wine Independent “The 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon is made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. Deep garnet-purple colored, powerful notes of blueberry preserves and crème de cassis erupt from the glass, leading to touches of dried lavender, mint tea, and cumin seed. The full-bodied palate is packed with black fruit layers, supported by firm, grainy tannins and a lively backbone, finishing long and fragrant. Drink 2025-2041.”

94 Points – James Suckling “Layers of blueberries, violets, licorice and blackberries. The full-bodied palate has finely integrated tannins and balanced acidity, showing cedar, tobacco leaves and graphite. Soft and pure with an underlying power. Drink or hold.”