Miguel Caratachea, Napa Valley (California) Cabernet Sauvignon “Bracero” 2020 ($100)

Jan 29, 2025

By Rich Cook
Wine label

The full throttle style that came to the forefront in Napa Valley in the late 1980s /early 1990s is on display here, and that said, it’s a wine that rides right up to the line and holds there, not showing any signs of overripe fruit or overt barrel characteristics, opting instead for nuance and complexity while maintaining boldness and weight. Everything is seamlessly folded together in a way that will capture admiration from a wide range of drinkers. It’s tiny production wine, but it’s also a classic that’s worth seeking out. Note: This was harvested prior to the fires that damaged so much of the 2020 Napa Valley vintage, so if that’s a “hole” year in your cellar, this is a worthy selection.
97 Rich Cook

Country / Region

California

Appellation

Napa Valley

Grape Variety

Cabernet Sauvignon

Color

Red

Vintage

2020

Score

97

Price

US $ 100

Producer

Miguel Caratachea