This is a clone 337 Cabernet Sauvignon from the winery’s Artist’s Series,’ purchased during a visit to Chappellet in 2016.

 

Chappellet’s famous Pritchard Hill vineyard was founded in 1967 by Donn Chappellet in the eastern hills over looking the Napa Valley floor upon the advice of the even more famous André Tchelistcheff, perhaps America’s most influential post-Prohibition winemaker.

 

On the eyes, this 13 year old (2008) wine is deep garnet with a bricked rim and long legs. The nose is resplendent with loads of blackberry, black pepper, green pepper, fresh dirt and a strong minerality.  

 

The dry palate shows seamless blackberry, black cherry and plum with menthol, tobacco and capsicum. The structured yet malleable tannins loved our prime rib.

 

Bold with great carpentry, it’s drinking beautifully now but can be held for several years yet as evidenced by the still bright and delicious fruit. It took no time to unwind in the decanter, and charm us with its balance and depth.