Description
Hoopes Vineyard Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon 2019
This commanding wine is a pure, single-varietal expression crafted from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon grown on the Hoopes family's estate in the heart of the renowned Oakville AVA. The fruit is sourced from a heritage vineyard planted in 1983, which sits on a rare vein of volcanic soil mixed with heavy clay and loam—a unique geological feature for the valley floor that imparts distinctive structure and minerality. The 2019 growing season in Napa Valley was defined by its elegance and consistency; a wet winter followed by a mild, extended summer allowed for slow, even ripening without heat spikes. This climatic grace is reflected in the wine's seamless balance, preserving fresh acidity alongside deep fruit concentration. Hoopes Vineyard is a leader in regenerative and organic farming, utilizing biodiversity, cover crops, and animals to maintain a healthy ecosystem that translates into the vibrancy of the wine.
In the glass, the wine reveals a deep, opaque ruby-garnet hue that hints at its density. The nose is highly aromatic and complex, opening with an inviting bouquet of ripe blackberries, cassis, and dark plums, layered with sophisticated notes of crushed violets, lilac, and pencil shavings. As it breathes, secondary aromas of cedar, warm spices, and a touch of graphite emerge. On the palate, this is a full-bodied and dry Cabernet that marries power with finesse. Intense flavors of blueberry compote, black cherry, and sweet licorice are framed by velvety, polished tannins. A savory tension runs through the mid-palate, marked by hints of black tea, sage, and dark chocolate, leading to a long, resonant finish. Under the direction of acclaimed winemaker Aaron Pott, the wine was aged for 28 months in 50% new French oak, a regimen that integrates the structure without masking the terroir-driven fruit.
This vintage has garnered significant praise, achieving a score of 94 points from Jeb Dunnuck, who highlighted its elegance and potential to evolve for over a decade. Its combination of lush fruit and savory depth makes it a quintessential partner for American cuisine. Pair this Cabernet with a dry-aged bone-in ribeye steak served with a rosemary-garlic compound butter; the wine’s tannins will cut through the marbling while the herbal notes complement the seasoning. Alternatively, it serves as a brilliant match for slow-smoked beef brisket with a savory espresso rub, where the wine's dark fruit and smoky undertones will harmonize with the rich, caramelized meat.
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