Melka
CJ Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon Blend
Napa Valley, California, USA
An interesting yet somewhat restrained Napa cab. Muted nose, precise palate, presented in a contemporary, fruit-forward style. Lacking complexity and depth, but good nonetheless.
An interesting yet somewhat restrained Napa cab. Muted nose, precise palate, presented in a contemporary, fruit-forward style. Lacking complexity and depth, but good nonetheless.
Mar 24th, 2018
Did a little Coravin training for my team with one of their reps, Taylor. I have to say, Melka is almost always kickin', but 2013 was a bit monstrous for me. The 15.5% ABV wasn't well hidden, and the wine isn't going to be ready to drink for another 5-10 years once it has calmed down.
This made me sad. Also, made me reluctant to try the equally high alcohol, 2014, also with a 94 Advocate critique. Boy was I wrong..
MELKA'S BACK, BABY! This was so elegant, like, stupid smooth and you wouldn't believe a minute that the alcohol was that high. The oak was perfect, the fruit, the tannin, all on point. This has to be the best CJ yet. Dark plum, blackberry cobbler, smoke, leather, tobacco, mocha, dark chocolate, pepper, and just a smoooooth finish. This is one that everyone needs to buy up while it is available. It will cellar very well, but it is already a WOW wine. This is the kind of wine that got me hooked on this wine maker, great job Philippe!
Did a little Coravin training for my team with one of their reps, Taylor. I have to say, Melka is almost always kickin', but 2013 was a bit monstrous for me. The 15.5% ABV wasn't well hidden, and the wine isn't going to be ready to drink for another 5-10 years once it has calmed down.
This made me sad. Also, made me reluctant to try the equally high alcohol, 2014, also with a 94 Advocate critique. Boy was I wrong..
MELKA'S BACK, BABY! This was so elegant, like, stupid smooth and you wouldn't believe a minute that the alcohol was that high. The oak was perfect, the fruit, the tannin, all on point. This has to be the best CJ yet. Dark plum, blackberry cobbler, smoke, leather, tobacco, mocha, dark chocolate, pepper, and just a smoooooth finish. This is one that everyone needs to buy up while it is available. It will cellar very well, but it is already a WOW wine. This is the kind of wine that got me hooked on this wine maker, great job Philippe!
My bottle doesn’t say “blend”. I was ready to give up on the CJ because they weren’t the style I’m looking for. I was pleasantly surprised with this one since its got some extra bottle age.
My bottle doesn’t say “blend”. I was ready to give up on the CJ because they weren’t the style I’m looking for. I was pleasantly surprised with this one since its got some extra bottle age.
Feb 16th, 2022
Muted on the nose. Very ripe fruit forward, black and blue. Dry peppery finish. Leather, tobacco. Not very complex but good nonetheless.
Muted on the nose. Very ripe fruit forward, black and blue. Dry peppery finish. Leather, tobacco. Not very complex but good nonetheless.
Aug 2nd, 2021
Such an approachable cab from Melka.. smooth tannins, good fruit structure .. really good!
Such an approachable cab from Melka.. smooth tannins, good fruit structure .. really good!
Jun 9th, 2020
Double decanted. Blueberries, chocolate, cinnamon, and boysenberries on the palate. Still some oak present that may get integrated with more time. Smooth tannins, along with a finish that brings a hint of baking spice. Overall an enjoyable bottle that I would love to revisit in 3-5 years.
Double decanted. Blueberries, chocolate, cinnamon, and boysenberries on the palate. Still some oak present that may get integrated with more time. Smooth tannins, along with a finish that brings a hint of baking spice. Overall an enjoyable bottle that I would love to revisit in 3-5 years.
Nov 28th, 2019
Been taking a break from Napa Cabs, have always enjoyed Melka’s wines. Alcohol was in balance, dark berries, chocolate, sweet tobacco. Good Napa cab.
Been taking a break from Napa Cabs, have always enjoyed Melka’s wines. Alcohol was in balance, dark berries, chocolate, sweet tobacco. Good Napa cab.
Oct 20th, 2019
Really enjoyed this! Outstanding wine!
Really enjoyed this! Outstanding wine!
Jul 2nd, 2018