Lion Tamer 2022 Cabernet

The 2022 Lion Tamer Cabernet Sauvignon is a masterclass in modern Napa Valley winemaking—a wine that captures the region’s strength while embracing a new, silk-gloved refinement. The dominance of Cabernet Sauvignon (86%) provides the structural backbone and depth expected from valley floor fruit, but it’s the inspired addition of 12% mountain-grown Malbec that elevates this bottling into something truly transcendent. The Malbec tempers the Cabernet’s muscular tannins, coaxing a supple, almost sensual mouthfeel that is both polished and compelling. Petite Sirah, making up the final 2%, adds a trace of inky color and mid-palate density, ensuring the wine maintains a full, luxurious texture without ever tipping into excess.

Aromatically, the wine opens with a commanding display of blackberries, crème de cassis, and dark cherry liqueur, all wrapped in sweet cigar box and roasted espresso bean. There’s a precise, almost architectural layering to the bouquet—each swirl of the glass unlocking deeper shades of fruit and spice. The oak is impeccably integrated, delivering just enough vanilla, toasted coconut, and baking spice to enrich rather than overwhelm. On the palate, the wine is seamless. Ripe black fruit glides across the tongue, supported by ultra-fine tannins and a lively acidity that brings freshness and vibrancy to the experience.

The winemaking team, led by Stephanie Pope, harnesses state-of-the-art technology at the Lions Head Cellar to fine-tune every detail of this wine’s creation. From the optical sorter that selects only pristine berries to the 24/7-monitored fermentation tanks that ensure optimal extraction and balance, no element is left to chance. This is precision winemaking at its finest—an intersection of cutting-edge science and intuitive craft.

The 2022 Lion Tamer Cabernet delivers a finish that is both persistent and elegant, lingering with notes of dark plum, mocha, and graphite. It is an ideal Napa Cabernet for those who seek power with polish, opulence without weight, and a wine that speaks clearly of place and purpose. A cellar-worthy gem that is equally pleasurable now with a decant, this bottling represents one of the most compelling values in Napa Valley Cabernet today. It is a bold yet balanced red that honors tradition while boldly charting a path forward—an irresistible expression of innovation wrapped in classicism.

Blend: 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Malbec, & 2% Petite Sirah

Alcohol: 14.5%

91 POINTS - "It's a nicely pumped-up cabernet that's moderately tannic and very generous in fruit and oak spice flavors. Full-bodied, broad and delicious, leading with blueberries, cocoa and blackberries, then hints of vanilla bean in the finish from a portion of American oak barrels used for aging. 12% malbec and 2% petite sirah go into this big wine." - James Suckling

90 POINTS - "A blend of 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Malbec (the "lion tamer") and 2% Petite Sirah, the 2022 Lion Tamer Cabernet Sauvignon serves up bright red berries—raspberries and cherries—some slightly herbal nuances similar to fresh dill, and dried sage. Medium to full-bodied, it's supple and easy to drink, nothing too serious, with some fine-grained tannins on the finish." - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

In crafting this wine, we strive for the perfect balance between hedonism and elegance. By incorporating a touch of Malbec into the blend, we enhance the softness of the tannins, resulting in a smooth and seamless experience. These supple tannins envelop the palate, revealing layers of blackberries and dark cherries, complemented by hints of freshly ground coffee. The wine is beautifully balanced, featuring well-integrated sweet oak notes that culminate in a lengthy, elegant finish.