Clos du Val Wine Co.
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley, California, USA
To me, this smells and tastes like a late-70s, old school Napa Cab. Very dark color. Nose charges out of the gates with cassis, olives, dark green pungent herbs, gravel, and a little iodine. Approachable (and enjoyable) already on the palate. Sure, it’s a bit tannic but they’re soft, with mouth-coating savory flavors. None of that damn chocolateyness I don’t like (which seems near-ubiquitous now in Napa Cabs), and zero jamminess. What a value (I got it for $39) for a very tasty and true-to-type Napa Cab.
To me, this smells and tastes like a late-70s, old school Napa Cab. Very dark color. Nose charges out of the gates with cassis, olives, dark green pungent herbs, gravel, and a little iodine. Approachable (and enjoyable) already on the palate. Sure, it’s a bit tannic but they’re soft, with mouth-coating savory flavors. None of that damn chocolateyness I don’t like (which seems near-ubiquitous now in Napa Cabs), and zero jamminess. What a value (I got it for $39) for a very tasty and true-to-type Napa Cab.
Sep 1st, 2025
Actually a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (77%), Merlot (12%), Malbec (5%), Cabernet Franc (4%) Petite Verdot (2%). Dark ruby color with some purple highlights. Aroma of ripe black fruit, violets, cedar and burnt caramel. Flavors of black berry/currant/plum fruit, black tea, savory herbs and spices. Lingering finish, plush, well balanced with fine grained tannins. Solid value. Enjoyed at Thyme Rooftop Restaurant with Keith S!
Actually a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (77%), Merlot (12%), Malbec (5%), Cabernet Franc (4%) Petite Verdot (2%). Dark ruby color with some purple highlights. Aroma of ripe black fruit, violets, cedar and burnt caramel. Flavors of black berry/currant/plum fruit, black tea, savory herbs and spices. Lingering finish, plush, well balanced with fine grained tannins. Solid value. Enjoyed at Thyme Rooftop Restaurant with Keith S!
May 2nd, 2026
2022 vintage, very unique and bold Napa Cab; dark plum in color, aromas of blackberry on the nose, surprising velvety taste with a smooth finish; not chewy nor heavy on the jam despite its nose. Definitely a different Napa Cab experience, but one I would have again.
2022 vintage, very unique and bold Napa Cab; dark plum in color, aromas of blackberry on the nose, surprising velvety taste with a smooth finish; not chewy nor heavy on the jam despite its nose. Definitely a different Napa Cab experience, but one I would have again.
Mar 29th, 20262/2026. Good fruit and easy on the palate. Nice finish
2/2026. Good fruit and easy on the palate. Nice finish
Feb 25th, 2026
If someone had never tasted a Napa Valley Cab, I would happily pour this for reference. It's bold and great. I'm enjoying the balance of ripe, dark fruit with tasteful oak additions. There's a hint of eucalyptus, and pleasant leathery tannins. I personally would take this over Silver Oak or Heitz with my ribeye, and that's not just my wallet talking. $50 well spent.
Listening to Arctic Monkeys, again.
If someone had never tasted a Napa Valley Cab, I would happily pour this for reference. It's bold and great. I'm enjoying the balance of ripe, dark fruit with tasteful oak additions. There's a hint of eucalyptus, and pleasant leathery tannins. I personally would take this over Silver Oak or Heitz with my ribeye, and that's not just my wallet talking. $50 well spent.
Listening to Arctic Monkeys, again.
