2021 O’Shaughnessy Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain

JD97 Darker currants, scorched earth, iron, violets, dark chocolate, and smoked tobacco all emerge from the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain. Based on 83% Cabernet Sauvignon, along with small amounts of Merlot, Malbec, Petit Verdot, Carmenere, and St. Macaire, it’s full-bodied and rich, with an iron-laced, meaty character and powerful structure. Aged two years in French oak followed by a year in bottle, this killer effort will need 4-5 years of patience and keep for two decades.
VIN96 The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain is another impressive wine from O’Shaughnessy Estate Winery. Bright acid and beams of tannin run through a core of dark red/purplish Howell Mountain fruit. Potent yet refined, the 2021 is a fine effort. Blueberry jam, plum, lavender, chocolate and graphite all build into a huge, vibrant finish
DEC95 Such an artfully crafted wine that is expressive of its Napa Valley character in its ripe and succulent red, black, and blue-toned youthful fruits and brawny power, backed by a kind of dizzying freshness brought on by a spine of racy, tangy, blood orange acidity and lifted violet notes. Iron, volcanic minerals, tilled earth, and fragrant herbs further accentuate Howell Mountain muscle. Soaring robust tannins are compact and superfine. Blackberry fruit, crème de cassis, and black currants all make appearances nuanced by conifer, tobacco leaf, and dark cacao.
JS95 So rich, broad and concentrated, with a very firm texture from the stalwart tannins of Howell Mountain’s terroir. Deep in black cherries, dried blueberries and dark chocolate, emphasizing the powerful fruitiness but spicing it with peppery, toasty oak accents. It’s a full-bodied, age-worthy wine. Best from 2029.