Corison, Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2021

Cathy Corison is undoubtedly one of the most influential winemakers in Napa Valley history, having championed a hands-off approach to winemaking for decades. A master at letting her wines do all the talking, her focus on restraint has long made her Cabernets distinct in a region oft dominated by intense fruit flavours and extensive use of American oak. Holding a well-deserved reputation for producing some of the best Cabernet Sauvignons in the world, Cathy's wines reveal why Napa has become one of the world's pre-eminent wine regions.

97/100 - A totally seductive, fresh, and vibrant 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from Cathy Corison, showcasing fragrant black cherry and blue fruit aromatics, a hint of liquorice and incense, and toasty cedarwood. Medium to full-bodied, with silky boysenberry fruit, satiny tannins, and a spine of tantalising acidity, and a long mineral-rich finish lifted by tangerine peel and grapefruit zest. Aged 20 months in French oak barrels, of which 50% were new. The winery has been a Napa staple almost since opening its doors in 1987. - Jonathan Cristaldi, Decanter

95/100 - This takes an elegant approach, offering racy, refined notes of iris, violet, hibiscus and mulberry that stay focused and fresh from start to finish, flashing light mineral and anise accents along the way. The finish glistens with purity, and the precision should allow this to evolve nicely in the cellar. Drink now through 2040. - James Molesworth, Wine Spectator

94/100 - Cathy Corison and her husband William Martin began their winemaking journey in the Napa Valley in the mid ‘80s buying fruit from other vineyards. In the mid ‘90s they bought land to plant their own vineyards and build their Victorian-style winery barn. For 35 vintages they have handcrafted their wines, and their love for wine shows in this wonderful and expressive Cabernet Sauvignon. The nose brings aromas of anise, wild berries, forest floor, and some flecks of pepper. Then the palate unveils flavors of juicy cherries and plums with hints of cocoa nibs, and spice. The mouthfeel is elegant yet powerful with unbelievable balance. - Keith Beaver, Vinepair

93/100 - The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley) is gorgeous. Medium in body and super-expressive, the 2021 is a classic Cathy Corison wine. Pipe tobacco, cedar, crushed leaves and earthy tones all run through this wonderfully nuanced Cabernet Sauvignon. Readers will find an exquisite, alluring old-school Napa Cabernet that delivers the goods, big time. All the elements are so well balanced. - Antonio Galloni, Vinous