I am delighted to offer the second vintage of one of my favourite Napa producers – Long Meadow Ranch’s Cabernet Sauvignon from the exceptional 2019 vintage. Long Meadow Ranch has managed to stay just under the radar and still offers incredible value in a region where this concept is being challenged.
This family-owned estate in Rutherford consistently makes complex, balanced, fine Napa cabernets combining fruit from the valley floor and the mountainside to ensure a thread of elegance. Sympathetic winemaking means the wine has achieved well-managed, perfectly ripe tannins that are integrated even in its youth, while the fruit has kept its fresh vibrancy. Low yields and attention to detail at every stage means that this has great concentration and fresh acidity to enable this wine to age beautifully despite being ready to enjoy on release.
Order by 4pm on Friday 10th May
Another extremely good year
I released the 2018 Long Meadow Ranch Cabernet last year declaring it to be an excellent vintage, and I find myself sincerely echoing this with the 2019. A thankfully wet winter followed by a cool spring saw budbreak coming later than usual in most of the Napa Valley. The growing season was warm but not hot, allowing for slow phenolic maturity. The resulting cabernet sauvignon crop had great freshness, with precise black-fruit vibrancy and well-balanced tannins from the start. A classic vintage that shows promise in its youth while having the capacity to age beautifully.
