Freddy R. Troya

9.4

2013 Kelham Vineyards “Sons” Proprietary Red – Oakville, Napa Valley

Crafted by Rawson Kelham and inspired by his wife Susanna’s love for balanced reds, “The Sons” is a masterful blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, and 10% Sangiovese. Lovingly bottled by Rawson’s stepsons—who’ve been at the helm of this line for over 20 years—this 2013 vintage was cellared until 2016, with just 300+ cases produced.

Now, over a decade since harvest, this wine is a revelation. The blend unfolds seamlessly-structured, layered, and impossibly harmonious. Aromatically, it’s a mature tapestry of dark cherries, dried herbs, cedar, and hints of worn leather. On the palate, it’s intense yet controlled: lush black fruit, plum, a whisper of tobacco, and an echo of sweet balsamic reduction that brings complexity without weight.

What’s most striking is its youthful acidity—this bottle feels alive, still pulsing with energy as if it’s just waking up. That freshness paired with age-built depth makes it one of the most compelling wines I’ve had from Kelham (and I’ve had many—see my past notes!).

This is Oakville at its best. Bold, nuanced, timeless.

Speechless after the first glass. Crazy delicious.
Cheers! — a month ago

Marcela Gallo

10

One of my favorite reds right now. Flavorful and rich! — 7 months ago

N O

9.1

bitter lemon 🍋 initially but finishes pamplemouse spritz — 3 years ago

Jody Scharf

9.0

Cab that misses the acids I enjoy, some age but ready now. — 4 months ago

Ron R

9.4

This was so well behaved. Subtle nose of pineapple and roasted nuts. Mid palate presents honeysuckle, honeydew melon and moderate acidity. Finishes soft and round. Unsure that this will further improve with cellaring. — 4 months ago

Mark Scott

9.8

Elizabeth & I both liked a lot!… but it gave her a headache :-( — a year ago

Iain Newton

9.2

Fantastic. — 4 years ago

Ed Anderson

9.0

The house cab at Jimmy P’s steakhouse in Naples, Fl. Perfect mid price pairing with a big steak. Fruity start with hints of blackberries and currants. Finishes with light oaky fruit taste. Really nice. — 4 months ago

Doug Powers

9.0

Super dark purple color, essentially opaque, rich darkfruits buried beneath some serious structure, needs cellaring (5-7 years, at least), a touch of heat (14.5% ABV) shows in the finish, rated on future potential, as tonight it was a tad over the top for me. — 7 months ago

with Jim

Sean Burke

9.0

Orange New Orleans baccahnal, funky but really smooth. Drinking straight with no food and it’s really good — 3 years ago