The Stony Hill 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon(Spring Mountain, Napa Valley) fills every sip with mountain-driven elegance and precision. The 2018 vintage is floral yet substantial—ripe cherry and huckleberry merge with violet and sandalwood, structured by crunchy mountain tannins and wrapped in a fresh-cut leather finish. It’s compelling now and promises graceful aging.
Origins & Craftsmanship
Sourced from Stony Hill’s organically-farmed estate on the steep, north- and east-facing slopes of Spring Mountain (400–1,500 ft elevation), the wine showcases volcanic and sedimentary soils unique to this AVA. It is a single-varietal Cabernet Sauvignon, aged 18 months in a blend of new and neutral French oak, with low residual sugar and elevated acidity.
Critics
“One of several stalwarts on Spring Mountain, Stony Hill has turned out a classic 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon. Scented of cassis, graphite, cherries and sage, it’s firmly structured and medium-bodied, framed by ample (fruit) tannins that linger elegantly on the long finish. With a relatively small proportion of new oak and a restrained alcohol level (labeled at 13.8%), it hearkens back stylistically to Napa Valley Cabs from 40 years ago, without any of the rusticity those wines sometimes carried. It’s a refined, elegant offering, one that should be cellared for at least several years and then drink well for two decades.” Robert Parker 94+ Points
“Shows heavy sweet bay leaf and sassafras accents amid a core of gently mulled red currant, raspberry and red cherry fruit. Reveals pretty red tea accents and bright iron notes that run throughout, adding lovely cut, freshness and drive. A very typical Spring Mountain Cabernet. Drink now through 2035. 336 cases made.” Wine Spectator 93 Points
Tasting Profile
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Aroma & Flavor: Floral notes of violet and sandalwood intertwine with rich Bing cherry and huckleberry fruit.
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Palate: Broad and full-bodied, the wine is defined by mountain tannins, refined structure, and a forward fruit core.
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Finish: Elegantly closes with a fresh-cut leather echo that lingers.
Structure & Aging
With 14.1% ABV, 5.5 g/L total acidity, and only 0.7 g/L residual sugar, this wine is balanced and vibrant. While enjoyable now, it has the structure to evolve well over the next decade and beyond.
Quick Overview
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Appellation & Terroir | Spring Mountain District, Napa Valley – steep slopes, volcanic/sedimentary soils |
| Varietal | 100% Cabernet Sauvignon |
| Aging | 18 months in new & neutral French oak |
| Key Flavors | Violet, sandalwood, cherry, huckleberry, leather |
| Texture & Structure | Full-bodied, mountain tannins, crisp acid backbone |
| Finish | Fresh-cut leather lingering closure |
| Drinking Window | Immediate appeal, but exceptional aging potential (10+ years) |
Reviews
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