The cherished Napa Valley landscape is planted to 47,000 acres of wine grapes and segmented into 16 district AVA’s, each lauded for their unique and diverse terroir. Ranging from cool, coastal influences to warmer temperatures, mountainous terrain to valley floor, clay soil to volcanic rock, the Napa Valley American Viticulture Areas are truly remarkable. The wines of 1881 Napa honor the rich history, legacy and heritage of this world-famous wine growing region from its district wines to select wines blended with fruit from across the valley to create the ideal expression of a Napa Valley wine.
2020 kicked off with ideal growing conditions. Mild temperatures led to evenly developed clusters and an early budbreak was followed by a warm to hot summer. Low winter rains resulted in smaller berries with concentrated flavors. Harvest started in early August and all things pointed to normal yields and exceptional fruit quality.
With grapes primarily from Oakville, this 2020 Napa Valley Cabernet opens with aromas of cocoa and a ripe dark plum. The palate is rich and inviting with complex flavors of blackberry pie, dark chocolate, espresso and a hint of vanilla. Fine-grained tannins are robust but soft and silky, with balanced acidity lead to a long and rewarding finish.