Robert Craig 2020 Affinity Cabernet

Discover the allure of Robert Craig's 2020 Affinity Cabernet Sauvignon, a testament to the winery's unwavering commitment to pure site expression. Sourced exclusively from the La Londe Vineyard in Coombsville's Mt. George foothills, just south of the famed Stag's Leap, Affinity emerges from vines grappling with stony soils, yielding a mere 3.5 tons per acre—a triumph of intensity and focus. This is no ordinary "entry level" Cabernet; it mirrors the meticulous care bestowed upon its mountain-grown counterparts while benefiting from more accessible farming costs.

The 2020 Affinity stands as a robust offering, a wine that rewards patience in every sip. Despite a vintage that threw challenges, with a cold and wet spring followed by a moderate summer, the 40-plus-year-old vines weathered the storm, showcasing the distinct character of the stony hillside. The grapes, harvested in a single pass due to unforeseen events, delivered classic, structured Cabernet and Merlot. From the glass, Coombsville's signature roasted coffee bean, anise, dusty cherry, and a hint of cigar box rise, creating an explosive yet initially constrained wine that promises exceptional evolution with time.

Unfortunately, the 2020 Affinity's production is limited due to the fires, heightening its rarity and desirability. The wine demands a few months in a dark, quiet sanctuary to unlock its full potential. Often overshadowed by its price point, Affinity stands as one of Napa Valley's hidden treasures, a collectible gem deserving of recognition.

Situated in Coombsville's Mt. George Foothills, La Londe estate vineyard, just south of Stag's Leap, has been the cradle of exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon for Robert Craig since 1993. The hillside, cane-pruned vines, producing a mere 3.5 tons per acre, allow the volcanic, stony soils to echo in the final wines. These 30-year-old vines yield grapes that are small, intensely flavored, and irresistibly racy, with a robust backbone of acidity.

With a composition of 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, and 4% Malbec, sourced from La Londe Lane Vineyard and Winery Estate Vineyard in Coombsville and Howell Mountain, only 1,818 cases of this extraordinary wine were produced. Affinity is not just a wine; it's a sensory journey, an embodiment of terroir, and an investment in a limited piece of Napa Valley's vinous history.

Blend: 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, & 4% Malbec

Alcohol: 14.8%

Just south of Stag’s Leap, nestled in Coombsville’s Mt. George Foothills on the eastern side of the Napa Valley, our La Londe estate vineyard has produced exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon for our portfolio since Bob Craig purchased the property back in 1993. As a hillside, cane-pruned site that bears just 3.5 tons per acre, the 30-year-old vines allow a rare display of the volcanic, stony soils in the finished wines. Grapes are small, deeply black flavored, and undeniably racy with a big backbone of acidity.

You’ll find the signature Coombsville roasted coffee bean, anise, dusty cherry and a touch of cigar box rising from the glass and flowing in the center of the palate. This is an explosive wine that is a bit constrained on release. A number of months in a dark, quiet place will yield wonderful results.