World-class Howell Mountain Cabernet for under $100!
Since purchasing the Rancho del Oso vineyard on Howell Mountain, Betty O’Shaughnessy’s eponymous estate winery has become known as one of the top producers of high-elevation Cabernet Sauvignon in Napa Valley. Since 2000, winemaker Sean Capiaux has consistently produced some of the most delicously balanced, yet approachable wines coming from Howell Mountain, now sourcing from 120 acres across three sites within Napa Valley’s original (and often favorite!) sub-AVA.
Showcasing the world-class potential for Cabernet from Howell Moutain, the wines are a blend of 82% Cabernet Sauvignon supported by Merlot, Malbec, Petit Verdot, and an almost extinct and rarely-seen Bordeaux variety known as Saint Macaire. Aromas of rich tobacco, graphite, and anise give way to a core of deep, concentrated red and black fruit with a robe of persistent, yet velvelty sweet tannins. Evolving beautifully over it’s first thirty minutes in the glass, this wine is easily enjoyed now with a light decant, but shows the structure and acidity necessary to cellar for 12-15 years easily. We were floored with the quality of this bottling when we featured it in a recent lineup of Cabernets from around the world, and it was easily the crowd favorite that evening! Don’t miss out on grabbing a six-pack of what has become a true benchmark for Howell Mountain Cabernet. Click below or drop us a note to reserve your order!
James Suckling, 93 Points: "Blue flowers and fruit on the nose, as well as licorice, tea leaf and dark chocolate. It’s medium-bodied with firm, tight tannins and fresh acidity. A distinct, saline streak cuts through the dark fruit."
Decanter, 94 Points: "A unique blend of 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Merlot, 5% Malbec, 3% Petit Verdot, and 2% each of Saint Macaire, Carmenere, and Cabernet Franc. Charred wood, pipe tobacco and black cherries on the nose. Texturally, the most focused and persistent of the O’Shaughnessy Cabernets. The palate is both generous and nimble, showing substantially chewy, textbook Howell Mountain tannins. A rustic Cabernet housed in a contemporary core."
