Scattered Peaks is part of Derek Benham’s Purple Wine Company portfolio which includes Raeburn and Avalon. Of several Cabernets offered, this Napa Valley bottling offers the best value by far. Made from selected vineyards scattered around Napa Valley, the Cabernet was blended with 14% Merlot and aged 18 months in French oak, 50% new. My initial reaction was that the aroma was suggestive of a Medoc but on the palate the body and juicy ripe dark fruit flavors reveal its Napa identity. Blackberry and cedar along with some floral notes are primary aromatics that lead to a round, rich palate. Cassis and juicy dark berry flavors are supported by light oak and dusty tannins. Needs a few years to settle down, but at this price you can enjoy it whenever.
Scattered Peaks, Napa Valley (California) Cabernet Sauvignon 2021
By Norm Roby