Grgich Hills Estate’s 2019 Yountville Old Vine Cabernet Sauvignon is dedicated to founder Milijenko “Mike” Grgich’s 100th Birthday. Mike first stepped into the international wine scene as the winemaker behind the famed 1973 Chateau Montelena Chardonnay, which came in first place among the white wines at the Judgment of Paris. He founded Grgich Hills in 1977. This Cabernet is powerful yet classically restrained — finessed extraction pairs with moderate alcohol (14.5%) and 20 months maturation in 50% new French oak. Aromas of ripe red cherry come together with blackberry and blueberry, floating above a soft vein of mint leaf and baking spice. Chalky, structured tannins give the wine heft that is balanced nicely by a dark-fruited palate and bright acidity.
Grgich Hills Estate, Yountville – Napa Valley (California) Cabernet Sauvignon 2019
By John McDermott