Larkmead 2022 'Solari' Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley

                                           
Rare new release of Larkmead's rare Solaris Reserve Cabernet.

97 Points Decanter: "The flagship single-vineyard wine from Dan Petroski at Larkmead is remarkable. Comprised of two parcels at the southern border of Calistoga, bordering St. Helena. Soils are a combination of Cortina gravel and Pleasanton clay. A major level up in every dimension from the already fantastic Napa Valley Cabernet, the nose is enthralling: savoury and floral, ripe but restrained, smoldering and spry. The texture is seamless, multidimensional, but has a rustic authentically to it. A truly fantastic wine, and one to be looked to as a benchmark for balance, complexity, age-worthiness and transparency."

95 Points Jeb Dunnuck: "All varietal aged 22 months in 81% new barrels, the flagship Larkmead 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon Solari is deeper ruby/plum-hued and reveals a spice, savory perfume of red and black currants, leather, dried herbs, and graphite. A quintessential Calistoga Cabernet, it's medium to full-bodied, has nicely integrated oak, ripe, polished yet building tannins, and a great finish. This spicy, complex, nuanced beauty reminds me of a great Margaux. It should have 15+ years of prime drinking."

95 Points James Suckling: "Deep aromas of dark cherries, blackcurrants, bitter chocolate, leather and black olives. The palate is full-bodied with a rounded mouthfeel and finely integrated tannins. This is the most polished release from Larkmead in the 2022 vintage, with some lovely freshness and tension underneath the ripe fruit. Drink or hold."

Larkmead’s flagship wine, Solari Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, captures the balance, beauty, and breadth of the site. Most vintages, Solari is comprised entirely of old-vine Cabernet Sauvignon grown on a mix of Cortina gravel and Bale loam.

Food Pairings:  Pairs well with beef wellington, braised lamb shank, espresso-rubbed dry-aged NY strip steak,