GkG Cellars Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon Blend 2012

96 points - from Dave Phinney                               Limited new Cabernet from Dave Phinney - one of the top scoring Cabernets of the vintage. 94 Points Robert Parker: "The full-bodied 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon (96% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Malbec) exhibits lots of cedarwood, blackberries, blackcurrants, licorice and graphite characteristics. Primarily from two valley vineyards, Llewellyn and Morisoli, it can be enjoyed over the next 10-15 years...This is an impressive project of well-known California photographer Greg Gorman and Dave Phinney." GKG are the intials of winery owner Greg Gorman. Dave Phinney (of Orin Swift Cellars) is his winemaker. This wine is 96% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Cabernet Franc, 1% Merlot and 1% Malbec. It is a high-octane, full-flavored Cabernet with aromas and flavors of black cherries, blackberry liqueur, espresso, cassis, toasty oak and vanilla, Chinese five spice and more. Rich, silky tannins, and drinking nicely now.  Greg is a photographer by day who took the photo for Orin Swift's Papillon Cabernet label.  The following year Greg approached Dave in regards to helping Greg make his own wine. Dave not only agreed but was very encouraging. Dave also really pushed Greg by bringing in all the samples blind and tasting through the different varietals until Greg had found the various components to make his blend. It certainly was trial and error coming up with what worked for Greg's palette-but what a learning experience!

Save