The Macauley Vineyard label was originally established in St. Helena in the early 1980's by Ann Macauley Watson. In the late summer of 2000, Ann’s son Mac went to work for Rudd Estate in Oakville. After several months of winery work and education he was inspired to revive the family label, and, working with winemaker and childhood friend Kirk Venge, crushed his first grapes in October 2001. Mac and Kirk have one goal: to source the highest quality fruit in Napa Valley and make wines of extraordinary depth and personality. The grapes they choose showcase the terroir of the vineyards and create a remarkable wine experience.
The 2018 vintage will prove to be a great one for all things Macauley Vineyard, beginning with this, their Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon release. Yields and balance were the watchwords of the season. They thinned the grapes on multiple passes through the vineyards to ensure the vines concentrated their energy into quality rather than quantity and by thinning these correctly they believe they are poised for a big win.
The 2018 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon starts with a hedonistic mix of black licorice, dried cherry, field spices, herbs, and even a taste of grilled game. With time in the glass, the dominant, savoury notes make way for dark chocolate, cola berry and espresso dust, courtesy of 22 months in 75% new French Oak. Glycerol coats the mid-palate before it meets firm, youthful tannins. At 89%, the Cabernet is sourced from the most prestigious Oakville, Rutherford and Oak Knoll vines. Rounding out the blend for shape, colour, longevity and balance is 4% Merlot, 4% Malbec and 3% Petit Verdot.
93 Points - Wine Spectator
Rich and dark, showing cassis and blackberry compote notes that cruise through slowly, lined with ganache, tobacco and loam along the way. Stays very polished and poised despite its heft, with good underlying acidity and a nice violet flash in the background. Drink now through 2034.
RELATED PRODUCTS
UNLOCK EXCLUSIVE OFFERS!
Subscribe for priority access to ZYN’s best deals. Be the first to enjoy AmaZYN discounts and exclusive promotions!
