Where Napa Valley wine really becomes cool is when you find the producers making great Napa Cabernet off of that grid. Here you can break off of the main drag and visit a Napa Valley winery while having a laid-back and down-to-earth experience. And after you're through you can pay 40 or 50 bucks for a bottle of Napa Cab that amazes you. One that you know is as good as wines priced much higher. And one that gives you the essence of the place you just visited.
A couple of names that fit the description for me are Smith-Madrone and White Rock Vineyards. What got me going on this was seeing White Rock's 2005 Laureate on Lot 18 yesterday. Lot 18 is offering 6 packs for 179.94 through mid-March. The winery's price is listed at $45, so in my book it's a steal. If you like classically-styled Napa Cab with hillside tannins, focused fruit and the ability to age- it's a great deal. And if you're planning a visit to Napa Valley, head down to Soda Canyon and check out the vineyards and underground winery.
White Rock Vineyards
Here's a note I wrote when I visited the winery last year-
Tasted at the winery. Vanilla, cedar, toffee, minerals, currant, and cassis are introduced on the bouquet. A beautiful satiny feel in the palate, with added notes of black tea, iron, red currant, and cherry. Nice weight throughout. Firm, gripping tannins. Big finish with spice and currant. Multi-layered, it's outstanding now and but will continue to benefit with time. (rating- I love!)
One to indulge on!
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