Many of you know the Charles Krug name as Napa Valley’s oldest winery. Established in 1861, during the very distant American Civil War, it has had a storied but checkered history. The Mondavi family, owners since 1943, endured a split between sons Robert and Peter. Robert left in 1965 to start his own eponymous estate, and Peter, mom’s favorite, stayed on @ Krug. (He recently died at age 101!) Krug Cabernets represent the old-style, dry, rustic reds that made Napa famous. This new release shows exactly what the fuss has been all about.
2016 Cabernet Sauvignon, Charles Krug, Napa Valley $39* suggested retail price
Inky purple in color. A classic nose of blackberry, dried Morello cherry, violets and mint. Aeration reveals smoke, leather, tobacco and cedar shavings. The flavors are concentrated and full-bodied, with a savory drive and chewy mouthfeel. Plum, blackberry and spicy vanilla merge on the long aftertaste. There is a delicacy overall that belies its 14.5% alcohol. (88% cabernet sauvignon, 6% merlot, 5% petit verdot and 1% malbec) Aerate at least one hour if drinking now. Drink now-2026.
91/100 points
*This is the Napa Valley bottling, not the less expensive “Yountville”.
