Inglenook : Cabernet Sauvignon 2019

A rich and structured California red wine

The estate

Located in the Rutherford AVA in Napa Valley, the Inglenook winery was established in 1879 by Gustave Niebaum, a Finnish captain. The estate's wines swiftly became known for their quality and richness.

From 1975 onwards, Francis and Eleanor Coppola gradually acquired the entire estate with the ambition of turning Inglenook into an emblematic reference for Californian wines. The couple undertook major renovations to the infrastructure and hired renowned winemaker André Tchelistcheff as a consultant and Philippe Bascaules of Château Margaux to oversee the vinification process.

A pioneering estate in constant search of innovation, Inglenook's uniqueness lies in its singular and authentic expression of fine terroirs through delicate, refined and perfectly balanced wines. These wines are recognised by many critics, highlighted by the fact that the Inglenook Cabernet Sauvignon 1941 wine was awarded a score of 100/100 by the Wine Spectator in 1990.

The vineyard

Inglenook reigns over a 95-hectare vineyard, which has been certified organic since 1991. The variations in topography of the vineyard reflect the mosaic of terroirs in the Napa Valley and contribute to the uniqueness of Inglenook. Since 2015 the estate has begun an ambitious programme of replanting an average of 2% of the vineyard each year, to ensure the continuous renewal of the vineyard.

The wine

A fine Rutherford wine and made from a rigorous selection of the estate's best vineyards, Inglenook's Cabernet Sauvignon pays tribute to John Daniel Jr. The grand-nephew of Gustave Niebaum's wife, who took over the running of the estate from the founder for a few years, John Daniel Jr. produced the 1941 vintage of this Cabernet Sauvignon from vine cuttings brought by Gustave Niebaum from Bordeaux.

The vintage

A wet winter was followed by a cool spring, favouring early budburst and flowering. Although July was cool, the warmer conditions in August and September were ideal for ensuring an even and gradual ripening of the grapes.

Vinification and ageing

Aged for 19 months exclusively in French oak barrels, 50% of which are new.

The blend

Cabernet Sauvignon (96%)

Cabernet Franc (4%).

Inglenook’s Cabernet Sauvignon 2019: Characteristics and tasting tips

The tasting

Colour

This wine showcases an intense ruby red colour.

Nose

Complex, with aromas of black cherry, vanilla, warm brioche and crème de cassis.

Palate

The lively and precise palate harmoniously blends a rich aromatic palette with very fine tannins.