2021 Buehler "Estate" Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

Violet and hibiscus notes add nice lift to the plush core of well-defined blackberry and black currant fruit in this red, backed by a melted licorice snap note. Ripe and caressing, with the floral freshness chiming prettily through the finish. Drink now through 2036. (JM)

Buehler's estate vineyard out in Conn Valley is nothing short of spectacular. It's like a whole entire world unto itself. The vines are scattered in dozens of parcellated hillside blocks looking down onto Lake Hennessy with Pritchard Hill just beyond. The iron rich, red volcanic soils are strewn with boulders and fractured basalt. With some vines dating back to the early 1970s, and a winemaker, David Cronin, who's been making the wines since 1993, Buehler has consistently produced excellent wines for more than 40 years. What's more, the value to be found here is exceptional, hence why these wines have been longtime staff favorites here at K&L. Cronin previously worked at Far Niente and Joseph Phelps, so most definitely knows how to make top quality Napa Cabernet. Preferring to fly under the radar compared to some more well known "celebrity" winemakers around the valley, his skills in the cellar speak for themselves. The 2021 Buehler Estate Cab is bold and powerful with ripe red and black fruits, dusty earth, luxurious oak spices, and a mouth filling texture. Blackberry, dark cherry, baker's chocolate, leather, some graphite. Ripe, fine tannins, smooth, lush mid-palate fruit, with stony, dusty mineral underpinning. This wine delivers truly unrivalled value and QPR in its competitive set with wines on Pritchard Hill just across Lake Hennessy consistently costing 5-10 times this price for a very similar experience! A recent visit to the estate with John Buehler reminded me just how special these wines are and I'm excited to share them with you. Cheers!