Cult Cab Flash! Axios and Venge!

Axios 2003 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

$1524/case, $127/bottle

"A Napa Cabernet worthy of bearing an emperor's image." – Wine Spectator

This larger than life wine is one of the consistently best of all the Napa "cult cabs," with brooding, complex flavors of wild sun-ripened black fruits, cedar, earth, tobacco, anise and oak spice, culminating in an impressively long finish.

It's crafted by genius winemaker Bob Egelhoff who has been instrumental in classic vintages from Beckstoffer Vineyards, Harlan Estate, Pahlmeyer, Merryvale, David Arthur and Richard Partridge, among others. The fruit is sourced from two immaculately tended vineyards: one in the Eastern Rutherford Hills and another at a higher elevation near the Howell Mountain appellation.

This is handcrafted A-List Napa Cabernet made by one of this country's greatest winemakers. If you collect, or just appreciate the very best things in life, you need some of this.

Venge 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville Napa Valley Family Reserve

$1104/case, $92/bottle

Nils Venge is universally regarded as a California wine pioneer. From his groundbreaking work with Villa Mount Eden and Groth in the 70's and 80's, to more recent accomplishments at Plumpjack, Del Dotto and his own Saddleback Cellars, Venge has consistently remained on the cutting edge of the Napa wine world. During his tenure at Groth Venge became the first American winemaker to receive a perfect 100 point rating from Wine Critic Robert Parker Jr. The 1985 Groth Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon catapulted Venge to a venerated position in the California wine industry

Since 1999, Nils' son Kirk has been Venge's winemaker and Dad's co-conspirator on many projects, and he has definitely taken them to the next level, if such a thing is possible.

Kirk is without a doubt one of the hottest young winemakers out there.

We absolutely loved this wine at the recent Oakville Growers Tasting, and worked hard to get a bit of this classic Oakville Cabernet to you. Robert Parker is equally enthusiastic about this big bold wine, giving it a 92 score.

Our Tasting Notes:

Fans of serious Napa Cabernet need look no further. A deep, brooding hue and a nose of blackberry, tobacco and cedar opens the door; and the first sip escorts you into the foyer (vestibule?) of smoky, dark fruit. Black cherry, red licorice and black currant mingle with spicy oak, earth, tar and graphite on the long finish. The powerful and unique structure, exquisite tannins and classic Oakville flavor profile make this one a must taste affair.