Wine Reviews

One of the more consistent, affordable Napa Valley Cabs, Sequoia Grove has hit the mark with its 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon, crafting a terrific value. Sourced primarily from the winery’s two Rutherford vineyards, it offers up hints of violets, blackcurrants and black olives on the nose, while the medium- to full-bodied palate features ample concentration, silky, tight-grained tannins and a long, mouthwatering finish.

So toasty, espresso-like, dense and savory in aromas, then graphite, black currant, black olive and cocoa flavors on a firmly tannic texture. Very taut, structured, lithe and muscular, with iron, blackberries, tobacco and dark chocolate. Drinkable now and best from 2030.

Nicely tight, elegant, firm with tannins and alive with tasty red and black fruits. While velvety and approachable, this is a good vintage to cellar for several years for more complexity to develop. Great balance, freshness and linearity propel it through a lingering finish.

This blend of 81% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc, 7% Merlot, 3% Petit Verdot, and 2% Malbec is sourced half from estate vines in Rutherford. Aged for 18 months in 55% new French oak, this is a full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon with richly textured, velvety tannins that frame an attractive profile of cassis, black cherry, and plum fruit. Nuances of warm red baking spices, leather, fine pipe tobacco, espresso bean, and dark cacao add complexity. At the same time, the hallmark Rutherford loamy earth character is prominent on the nose and palate. With good concentration, freshness, and energy, this wine is delicious straight from the bottle and well-suited for both immediate enjoyment and further ageing.

A blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc, 2% Petite Verdot, and 3% Malbec sourced from over 60% Rutherford vineyards (including over 50% from the estate) and aged 18 months in 55% new French oak, the 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon reveals classy, varietal aromatics of darker currants, minty herbs, and smoke. Medium-bodied on the palate, it has a pure, focused mouthfeel, firmer yet still ripe, integrated tannins, and outstanding length. It’s a terrific value in impeccably made Napa Cabernet Sauvignon. Give it a few years if you can, and it will keep for a decade or more. Drink 2028-2038.