2018 Larkmead Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

“This red is earthy in tones of barnyard, sage and crushed rock, with underlying plush fruit. With 15% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc included, it boasts rich red fruit that broadens and lengthens the midpalate. It shows an enduring succulence on the balanced finish. (VB)” (11/2020)

“Pretty aromas of currants, walnuts and fresh tobacco follow through to a full-bodied palate with dusty, chewy tannins and lots of berry, coffee and lightly toasted-oak undertones in the aftertaste. Needs some time to resolve the tannins.” (02/2021)

“Consisting of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot, and 10% Cabernet Franc from various estate parcels, Larkmead's Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon from the 2018 vintage is an exercise in restraint. A floral, brambly, mineral nose slowly gives way to cherry brandy notes. The palate is still tightly wound, showing a good balance between its tannic scaffolding and cherry and liquorice flavours. This seems built for additional ageing. (JC)” (02/2024)

“A flash of menthol leads off, followed quickly by intense cassis, blackberry preserves and plum reduction flavors. Notes of singed alder and cedar score the finish, with the menthol hint peeking back in for an encore. Distinctive. (JM)” (10/2021)

“The base 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon is a beauty, offering classic currant and mulled cherry fruits as well as plenty of cedarwood, tobacco, and spice aromas and flavors. It's rich and medium to full-bodied, with some grippy tannins and a classy finish.” (01/2021)

“A blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc, aged in French oak (66% new), the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon (White Label) has a medium to deep garnet-purple color and skips out of the glass with bright, cheery scents of kirsch, black raspberries and cassis plus nuances of red roses, pencil shavings, cinnamon stick and wild sage plus a touch of lavender. Medium to full-bodied, the palate offers a gorgeous, plush texture and just enough freshness to lift the generous black and red berry layers to a long, fragrant finish. (LPB) 93+” (11/2020)

“The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley) is a fabulous introduction to the Larkmead Cabernets. It offers lovely mid-palate pliancy to match its mid-weight structure. Transparent and wonderfully nuanced, the 2018 has so much to offer. Sweet red cherry, red plum, cinnamon, mocha and cedar linger on the soft, open-knit finish. For the money, the Napa Valley Cabernet is the hidden gem in this range. (AG)” (01/2021)