Nickel & Nickel "State Ranch" Cabernet Sauvignon 2023

98 Points Decanter This 100% Cabernet Sauvignon is finesse-driven, offering lush fruit and classic Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon character, with blackberry and black cherry fruit layered with dark salted chocolate and espresso bean nuances. Fine-grained, polished tannins shape the palate, while a wave of freshness carries through in notes of crushed stones, saline acidity, and fragrant dark berry fruit on the finish. Positively delicious, with a freshness factor that surpasses the already impressive 2022 vintage. In 2023, the wine was aged for 18 months in 45% new French oak. Lattice Run Vineyard, planted in 1998 to Clone 337, is known for producing plush fruit in its youth; as the vines mature, that early generosity has evolved into greater layered intensity, with smaller berries contributing structure and concentration. Located along the western bench of Yountville, just north of Sleeping Lady Vineyard, the site is owned and meticulously farmed by the Bettinelli family. Gravelly Cortina series soils provide excellent drainage, while the vineyard’s lattice-style trellis system promotes airflow and sunlight exposure.