Malk 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Stags Leap District, Napa Valley

94 pts - new discovery                
A killer Cabernet from the great 2019 vintage. Malk Cabernet is a great small-production gem to discover now. Only 220 cases produced.

previous vintage:

92 Points Robert Parker: "Soft, luscious oak—cinnamon streusel and vanilla—join black cherries on the nose of Malk's Cabernet Sauvignon Stags Leap District. It's less sweet on the medium to full-bodied palate, where some ripe tannins give it a more savory cast, then finish as a soft, dusty coating. It appears to be a wine that may best be enjoyed in its youth."

previous vintage 93 points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "Coming from the cooler Stags Leap District, the Malk Cabernet Sauvignon sports a deep purple color as well as vibrant aromatics of blue fruits, sappy green herbs, violets, and cedar. With medium to full-bodied richness, a supple, elegant texture, and nicely integrated tannins, this is an outstanding, well-made Cabernet Sauvignon to enjoy over the coming 10-12 years or so.

The Malk 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon is quintessential of the Stags Leap District showing a deep garnet-purple hue and a sophisticated concentration from the nose to the finish. Aromas of plum, blackcurrant, cassis, and black cherry give way to notes of cedar, dark chocolate and graphite. The 2019 vintage provided a classic Napa growing season, with winter rains providing just enough ground water resulting in a bit lower yields. The mild to warm growing season allowed the fruit to ripen evenly with a slightly early harvest. This resulted in a Cabernet Sauvignon that is fruit forward, with wonderfully balanced tannin and a depth and finesse that will provide the drinker pleasure for years to come