Grgich Hills Estate, Napa Valley (California) Cabernet Sauvignon 2012

($65): Grgich Hills Estate gets my vote for Napa’s most consistently excellent Cabernet that’s widely available.  Though not inexpensive (although it is considering the price of top Napa Cabernet), you don’t need to be a hedge fund manager to buy it.  Their 2012 has it all — again.  It’s fruity, but not overblown, aromatic and savory all at once.  Polished tannins reinforce its impeccable balance.  Their Cabernets develop beautifully with bottle age (and given this one’s balance I’m sure it will too despite its stated 14.7% alcohol) so there’s no rush.  But, if you twist my arm, I’d be happy to drink it tonight with a grilled steak.
94 Michael Apstein Jun 16, 2015