Experience Vineyards, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, 2017 (TOP VALUE PICK)

Overview of the Wine
Experience wine is the dream of Catherine and Travis Vale. Travis was born and raised in the Russian River Valley of California’s Sonoma Coast. He first worked a harvest in 1998, falling in love with the sights and sounds of a working winery. The daughter of a master brewer, Catherine was born and raised in London. The two met in 2001 while both were traveling in New Zealand. The tour bus they shared was aptly named the Kiwi Experience New Zealand. “That chance meeting far from our homes was a turning point in our lives,” says Catherine. Naming the fledgling wine Experience seemed a perfect fit.

Grape / Blend
92% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Merlot, 2% Malbec

Origin
Napa Valley, California

Tasting Notes
Intense ruby in color, this Cabernet opens with a lovely bouquet of for ward fruit, soft notes of oak from the barrel fermentation, some anise and a hint of mocha. Ripe black fruit unfolds on the palate offering cassis, blackberry and black cherry. The finish is long and lingering with a smooth rich texture.

91 Points - Tasting Panel
Rich garnet color; juicy and bright, long and fresh with fresh berry fruit.

90 Points - Wine Enthusiast
With small percentages of Merlot and Malbec added to the blend, this red offers a juicy blackberry flavor and smooth, integrated tannins. It is cohesive on the palate, with light accents of baking spice and mocha around the layers of rich fruit.

Product size: 750ml