Expect dense blackcurrant, dark cherry, graphite, dark chocolate, espresso, and refined oak spice with full body, structured tannins, and a long finish. The 2013 Napa vintage was excellent — concentrated and age-worthy.
- Varietal
- Cabernet Sauvignon-dominant Bordeaux blend (typically Cab Sauvignon with Merlot)
- Region
- USA / California / Napa Valley
- Body
- Full
- Style
- dry red, opulent, oak-aged, age-worthy, luxury tier
The producer
Cardinale is the flagship Napa Cabernet from the Jackson Family Wines portfolio, with winemaker Christopher Carpenter (also of Lokoya, La Jota, Mt. Brave) behind the wine. Sources fruit from multiple top mountain vineyards across Napa.
What critics say
Cardinale consistently receives high-90s scores from major critics including Robert Parker / Wine Advocate and is regularly cited among Napa's top luxury Cabernets.
Pairing
Dry-aged ribeye, filet mignon with truffle, herb-crusted rack of lamb