96pts Parker
Robert Parker 96 Points: “Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon is composed of 93% Cabernet Sauvignon from Beckstoffer Missouri Hopper vineyard with 6% Petit Verdot and 1% Cabernet Franc. It offers up notions of crushed blackberries, warm blueberries and dried herbs with suggestions of cedar, Marmite toast and unsmoked cigar. Medium to full-bodied with impressive concentration and a rock-solid backbone of firm, grainy tannins, the palate delivers mouth-filling black and blue fruit with a lively kick on the long, earthy finish. 400 cases were made.”

Winemaker Notes: “The 2014 Carte Blanche Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon showcases Oakville’s Missouri Hopper Vineyard owned by Andy Beckstoffer. 93% Cabernet Sauvignon, the wine reveals the delicate balance of ripe dark fruits, plush velvety tannins, savory notes, structure and minerality. Ballard vineyard’s 6% Petite Verdot provides a brooding base note, depth and nuance. A hint of Cabernet Franc, 1% from Kuleto Vineyard, was the perfect touch to round out this stunning wine.”