Scattered Peaks 2015 Napa Valley Cab - 97 Points

Scattered Peaks is an elevated spin on Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon carefully curated and elegantly crafted by wine industry icon, Derek Benham and legendary Napa Valley Winemaker, Joel Aiken. (27 years as Winemaker at Beaulieu Vineyards). Leveraging their deep passion for—and long history within—the California wine industry, Derek and Joel source exceptional fruit from coveted regions throughout Napa Valley. Their plunder is then aged in carefully selected oak barrels and artfully blended to achieve the high levels of quality and experience.

97 POINTS - "Roasted herb, coffee, black cherry and blackberry fruit compote on the nose. The palate is rich and concentrated but never heavy, with a lively acidity providing a sense of movement. Tannins are mighty and show that this will blossom with more time. 93% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Merlot, 1% Petit Verdot." - Decanter

92 POINTS - "Black garnet color. Aromas of raspberry jam, fresh roses, vanilla bean cream, and blueberry gelato with a tannic, vibrant, dry-yet-fruity full body and a subtle, medium-long leather, cedar box, and tobacco finish with cottony, firm tannins and heavy oak. A tight Cab for cellaring; this will become beautiful." - Tastings

92 POINTS - "Well-defined, nicely structured, and possibly Napa Valley's best deal amongst the super-premium Cabs, the animated 2015 Scattered Peaks by Derek Benham Cabernet Sauvignon shows up strong yet poised on the palate. The wine's black fruit, light oak, and firm tannins pair it well with a thick charbroiled steak." - Wilfred Wong

Scattered Peaks offers intense black and red fruit aromas bolstered by hints of mountain sage and a touch of anise. On the palate, dark brooding fruit flavors of black cherry and cassis mingle with essence of black licorice and violets as well as espresso and dark chocolate notes. Firm and silky tannins and a touch of vanilla support the long, lingering finish of this classic Napa Valley Cabernet.