The Vineyardist 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon

The Vineyardist 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon is an exceptional wine that showcases the unique characteristics of its vintage. With a deep, garnet color, it immediately captivates the eye. On the nose, it reveals an intriguing bouquet of dark fruits, blackberries, and cassis, complemented by hints of tobacco, cedar, and earthy notes. The palate is rich and full-bodied, offering a tapestry of flavors that include black cherries, plum, and dark chocolate. Velvety tannins provide structure and balance, while vibrant acidity adds freshness and vitality. The finish is long and lingering, leaving a lasting impression of elegance and finesse. Despite the challenges of the vintage, The Vineyardist has crafted a wine that exemplifies their commitment to quality and craftsmanship. This Cabernet Sauvignon is a testament to the artistry of winemaking and the expression of its terroir.

Robert Parker - 90 Points

"As one might expect, the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon is lighter, but is one of the more impressive wines of this vintage because of the high elevation vineyard and the fact that it would appear they had less problems with fog-induced botrytis than the valley floor sites. The 2011 possesses 14.7% alcohol, and the tannins are sweeter and softer than what is found in 2009 and 2010. The fruit is forward, evolved, rich and intense. This 412-case 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon displays a dense purple color along with a big, rich nose of creosote, smoky barbecue, black currants, bouquet garni, and loamy soil/underbrush scents. With velvety tannins, a medium to full-bodied mouthfeel and an endearing rich suppleness, this 2011 can be drunk now or cellared for 10-12 years. The Vineyardist looks to be an impressive newcomer to the Cabernet Sauvignon scene in Napa. Readers take note. This was my first look at this interesting project on Diamond Mountain. This estate was originally founded by a Dutch-born ship builder in the late 1800s. The grapes that were first planted included Zinfandel, Carignan, Alicante Bouche, and Malvasia. Not surprisingly, the estate’s name comes from the fact that this proprietor was also a vineyardist. Prohibition did them in, and in 2000, after the estate was acquired by the current proprietor, Cabernet Sauvignon was planted at elevations ranging from 800 to 1,300 feet. Some of the top-notch names behind this property include Jim Barbour, who was responsible for the planting of this 100% Cabernet Sauvignon vineyard, and Mark Herold, who is responsible for the making of the wines. Herold first became well-known in this publication with his wines called Merus. Sadly, only 200-400 cases of these Cabernets are produced each year. The vintages between 2004 and 2008 were completely declassified until they were satisfied with the quality. The people ultimately responsible for what The Vineyardist has achieved are Dirk Fulton and his wife Becky Kukkola who took a decade to find this small vineyard on Diamond Mountain."

Antonio Galloni - 92 Points

"The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon, an early wine for The Vineyardist, has held up well, but it is also starting to show some fraying around the edges. Attractive savory notes frame a decidedly mid-weight Cabernet. I would not push my luck on cellaring beyond a few years. "