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A vineyard founded in 1982 in Oakville, Napa Valley, California, Cardinale is a limited-production operation that churns-out some of the most incredible Cabernet Sauvignon on the planet. Winemaker Christopher Carpenter follows in the footsteps of two winemakers before him, adding his own touch and sensibility to this already legendary wine.
Cardinale uses mountain grown grapes mainly from Mount Veeder, Howell Mountain, Spring Mountain and Diamond Mountain. The blend of sub-appellations create a flavor profile that is unmatched by others in the area and the product produced is a strong and powerful Cabernet that pairs beautifully with particular dishes, but can be sipped on its own without issue.
nce the grapes are harvested and crushed, the juice ages in French oak on average for 18 months. There are 2,500 cases produced per year and they are highly sought after by collectors in the wine world, as well as those who just love a stellar cab. Winemaker Christopher Carpenter tastes the wine in his barrels every quarter, searching for the best. From the few that stand out, he creates a base that will become that vintage of Cardinale.
Tasting this magnificent wine you’ll detect notes of dark barry, espresso bean, cedar and rose petal. There’s a ripe plum nose with a velvety texture that is so smooth, you won’t believe it. Cardinale retails just shy of $300 per bottle, and it’s worth every penny. Drinking it is experiencing the best. But, a word of warning, once you taste Cardinale it’ll be tough to go back to any other wine you might have had before this awakening.
