In early 2020, Daniel and Florence Cathiard, owners of Château Smith Haut Lafitte in Bordeaux, acquired the homestead and historic winery that once belonged to Napa pioneer Louis M. Martini, renaming it Cathiard Vineyard. Despite the challenging year due to wildfires, the estate’s first vintage debuted in 2020. Looking ahead, the 2021 vintage reveals the estate’s extraordinary potential. The “Hora,” a blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, and 10% Malbec, presents a multi-layered symphony of crushed red and black currants, cassis, cigar box, menthol, mint, and baking spices. The tannins are tantalizingly silky, the acidity is bright, and the finish is harmonious. This wine is a true stunner, built to impress for many years to come.
Cathiard Vineyard, Napa Valley (California) 2021
By Miranda Franco