2020 Cathiard Vineyard

The 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon was the maiden vintage from Daniel and Florence Cathiard, better known for owning Smith Haut-Lafitte. Blackberry, cedar and wild mint appear on the nose, which is pretty tight initially. I appreciate how this gains precision with aeration. The palate is youthful and structured, perhaps a soupçon of Bordeaux in the mix (and why not?) It needs a couple of years, but there is breeding in this Cabernet Sauvignon. It should give years of drinking pleasure. It was interesting to juxtapose this directly with the maiden release from Alfred Tesseron of Pontet-Canet.

- Neal Martin (06/2024)

Made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon off 45-year-old vines, the deep garnet-purple colored 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate reveals vivacious notions of warm cassis, raspberry coulis, and wild blueberries, followed by suggestions of Indian spice, clove oil, dried lavender, and fragrant earth with a waft of menthol. The medium to full-bodied palate is generous and seductive, featuring fine-grained tannins and alluring tension to support the savory layers, finishing long and fragrant. 9,000 bottles were made. (03/2023)

Forward, with a gush of dark cherry and plum fruit wrapped in black licorice. Shows brambly grip but stays fleshy and open-knit overall, with a not-shy dose of dark toast on the finish. Drink now through 2033. 395 cases made.

– J.M.

There are 9,000 bottles of the flagship 2020 Cathiard Vineyard Proprietary Red, a sturdy blend of 95% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cabernet Franc. Marked by scents of black cherries, cassis and cedar, this debut is medium to full-bodied and nicely proportioned but also a bit astringent and drying, in need of time to come together. Finishing with savory elements of mocha, earth and black olives, this wine offers a promising juxtaposition of California fruit with Bordelais sensibilities regarding structure and aging.

- Joe Czerwinski (05/2023)