2012 Hess Cabernet Sauvignon Allomi Napa

The Allomi Vineyard is relatively young, and it has one thing that Cabernet Sauvignon surely loves: some heat, and a long, lingering growing season that allows fruit to ripen slowly on the vine, gaining complexity and layers of flavor. There’s a hint of floral aromas on the nose, with vanilla, oak spice and even a touch of pepper. Full bodied red fruit flavors typical for Cabernet are joined by notes of currant and blackberry with moderate, well-integrated tannins with wonderful balance and a soft, round, almost lush mouthfeel. Distinctive accents from American oak complete the profile, surely one of Napa’s great treasures from Pope Valley.