2023 Chappellet Mountain Cuvée, Napa Valley California

The 2023 Chappellet Mountain Cuvée is a Napa Valley Bordeaux-style red blend crafted by Chappellet, the family-owned winery established by Donn and Molly Chappellet in 1967. Based at Pritchard Hill, Chappellet has built a reputation for producing mountain-grown wines from its rugged hillside vineyards. The Mountain Cuvée brings together traditional Bordeaux varieties, including estate-grown fruit, to create an approachable expression designed for vibrant fruit and near-term enjoyment. The 2023 blend is 51% Cabernet Sauvignon, 24% Merlot, 10% Petit Verdot, 8% Malbec and 7% Cabernet Franc.

Aromas of dark cherry, blackberry and plum lead into notes of clove, cardamom, cedar, black pepper and fresh herbs. The palate is rich and mouth-filling, with ripe berry flavors framed by fine-grained tannins and a lingering finish of dark chocolate and anise. Its generous fruit and balanced structure make it an excellent match for grilled steak, lamb, hearty pasta dishes and hard cheeses such as Gouda or cheddar.