2020 Conn Creek Rutherford Napa Valley Cabneret Sauvignon

 

Bill and Kathy Collins were among the early pioneers of Napa Valley, determined to tell the world that Napa Valley was a fine wine growing region.  Conn Creek Winery was born about fifty years ago, and they have consistently produced delicious and high quality Cabernet Sauvignon and Bordeaux-styled wines.  Winemaker Jean Hoefliger's colorful past and experience helps him shape the future of the winery with expertise while paying homage to the famous Rutherford American Viticultural Area.

2020 was an exceptionally difficult year for Napa Valley and California wines.  A domino effect of a global pandemic, two major wildfires, smoke taint and overall low yields left scars (literally and figuratively) in the most famous wine growing regions of the United States.  Cabernet offerings plummetted by as much as 35% compared to the previous year and several producers simply did not release a 2020 vintage.

Luckily, the 2020 Conn Creek Rutherford Napa Valley Cabneret Sauvignon was spared the major ill effects of the wildfires and became a shining example of what really small, specific vineyards could produce despite the odds.  This is a 100% Cabernet Sauvignon blended from varying batches.  When you open and decant this, picture a box of chocolates that have been eaten, but you still smell the wonderful, sweet aromas accompanied by fresh fruit and damp earth.  Medium red in color, the soft tannins are amplified by the flavors of plum, juicy blueberries, black cherry, barn wood and a hint of that famous Rutherford dust.  The finish is short and pleasant and this wine is drinking at peak now and the next couple of years.  Quite lovely!

ABV:  14.8%

Rutherford AVA

Winery:  Conn Creek Napa Valley

Suggested retail price:  $120.00

Drink The Bottles score:  91/100