AG100 “The 2019 Bella Oaks Proprietary Red Wine is a more than worthy follow up to the fabulous 2018. Proprietor Suzanne Deal Booth and winemaker Nigel Kinsman crafted a wine that captures all the pedigree of this historic Rutherford site in spades. Crushed flowers, sweet red berry, mocha, blood orange, spice and mint all soar out of the glass as this majestic, statuesque Cabernet Sauvignon shows off its undeniable pedigree. In 2019, Kinsman opted to co-ferment a dollop of Cabernet Franc, a choice that paid off brilliantly. The 2019 is not as potent as the 2018, but instead is all about finesse and elegance. It shows just how refined Napa Valley can be. I only hope I have a chance to taste it as a mature wine. In a word: unforgettable.” AG for VM Jan 2022 AG for VM

RP98+ “The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon is composed of 93% Cabernet Sauvignon and 7% Cabernet Franc. Deep garnet-purple in color, it has an evocative, savory nose of charcuterie, tapenade and sauted herbs over a core of warm cassis, damp soil and truffles, plus wafts of ripe plums and raspberry leaves. Medium to full-bodied with lots of tight-knit savory and earthy layers, the fruit is beautifully supported by fantastic freshness and a firm, grainy texture, finishing long and minerally. A stunning expression of this very special place! 470 cases were made.” LPB for TWA Nov 2021

Antonio Galloni for Vinous Media writes, “I was blown away by the 2019 Bella Oaks Cabernet Sauvignon. Of course, Bella Oaks is a historic vineyard, but its redevelopment is very recent, which makes these early results so impressive. Congratulations to Proprietor Suzanne Deal Booth and Winemaker Nigel Kinsman. The 2019 is simply magnificent!”
Published: Jan 1, 2022