Bella Union 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon

Winemaker Brooke Bobyak Price is renowned for her dedication to crafting wines of exceptional elegance and depth, with a lively character that enlivens both the senses and the conversation. Her philosophy revolves around blending as an art form—creating a harmonious union in each bottle, characterized by polish, radiant fruit, and an undeniable joie de vivre.

The 2022 Bella Union Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is a testament to this vision. From the moment the wine is poured, it offers an inviting bouquet of black cherry, cassis, and cedar, setting the stage for a memorable tasting experience. On the palate, it unfolds with rich flavors of ripe plum and dark chocolate, subtly complemented by hints of vanilla. The well-integrated tannins provide a seamless structure, leading to a long, satisfying finish that lingers beautifully. This Cabernet Sauvignon embodies the quintessential Napa Valley characteristics with both elegance and finesse, and it promises to evolve gracefully over time.

Bella Union, founded by the esteemed partners of Far Niente, is dedicated to the meticulous craft of blending Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. At the heart of Bella Union's blend is the renowned Cabernet Sauvignon from the Rutherford estate vineyard, known for its lush black fruit flavors of currant, cherry, and plum, all enhanced by a touch of oak spice. This core is meticulously blended with other classic varietals—Merlot, Malbec, Cabernet Franc, and Petite Verdot—sourced from select Napa Valley vineyards. Each varietal contributes its unique qualities: Merlot adds body and silkiness, Malbec imparts rich color and subtle spice, Petite Verdot introduces depth and violet aromatics, while Cabernet Franc offers finesse with its delicate peppery notes. Together, these components create a Cabernet Sauvignon of remarkable complexity and elegance.

The 2022 growing season began with exceptionally mild conditions, with budbreak starting in March. By May, the vines showed robust shoot growth and average crop yields, setting the stage for a successful harvest. Veraison occurred in mid-July, and despite a few heat spikes during the summer, Bella Union's proactive vineyard management—utilizing shade cloths and misting systems—ensured that the quality of the fruit remained exceptional. The mild to moderate temperatures in August provided optimal conditions, resulting in bright, focused flavors that define this extraordinary wine.

Blend: 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Merlot, 3% Malbec, 2% Petit Verdot, & 1% Cabernet Franc

Alcohol: 14.5%

95 POINTS - "With small percentages Merlot, Cab Franc, Malbec, and Petit Verdot, this exquisitely aromatic and textural red begins with a perfume of crushed violets and black cherry. Concentrated flavors of blackberry liqueur and vanilla sandalwood stream across chewy, velvet-lined tannins. Within its sculpted frame is sweet earth, dark chocolate, and roasted coffee" - Tasting Panel

92 POINTS - "Savory Italian herbs, sweetened oak spices, and a blend of complex of black fruit aromas are accented by flavors of bright citrus that deliver a Cabernet Sauvignon that make the mouth water. Layers of tannins and a persistent finish make this a juicy and attractive wine." - Wine Enthusiast

The 2022 Bella Union Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon begins with enticing aromas of black cherry, cassis, and cedar. On the palate, rich flavors of ripe plum, dark chocolate, and hints of vanilla mingle seamlessly with well-integrated tannins, leading to a long, satisfying finish. This wine showcases the classic Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon characteristics with elegance and finesse, promising to evolve beautifully with age.s.