Since its inception in 1972, the Napa Valley’s Silver Oak Cellars has challenged the conventions. First in its embrace of American Oak cooperage to age its wines, when most other vintners prefer French. Second in its decision to hold its wines nearly five years prior to release, making them more drinkable when young.
Thus it has become a huge celebration of Silver Oak fans each year as the winery unveils the new vintage, just about a year behind everyone else. So now, as we see most of the 2005 Napa Cabs hitting the market, Silver Oak is showing its 2004.
I tasted both the 2004 Alexander Valley and 2004 Napa Valley on a recent visit, and video recorded winemaker Daniel Baron’s thoughts and comments on each.
On a personal level, I found both wines superb. The Alexander Valley Cab is soft and voluptuous, and a whiff of mint on the nose that is very inviting. The Napa Valley Cab is more darkly fruited and structured, but each wine possesses the signature supple tannin of Silver Oak.
Most appealing, however, is the balance of both wines. Despite modest alcohol levels (both wines have a stated alcohol of less than 14 percent) there is no dearth of ripe fruit or layered complexity. Both express freshness and elegance throughout.
These are lovely wines that will deliver immediate satisfaction — but no doubt improve with age. Expressions of the Alexander and Napa Valleys at their very best.
8