2010 Brand Cabernet Sauvignon
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Tasting notes
The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Pritchard Hill (100% Cabernet Sauvignon) possesses attractive floral and blueberry characteristics, juicy, succulent fruit, touches of spice and underbrush, and a medium-bodied, fresh, lively finish. While it is an excellent 2010, it is clearly not one of the vintage’s superstars. It should be consumed over the next 10 years. This 12-acre vineyard situated at a 1,350 foot elevation above Lake Hennessey on Pritchard Hill is planted with the four classic Bordeaux varietals, and 2012 was the first harvest made in their new wine cellar. The debut release was 2009, which I have not tasted. Brand’s neighbors in this high rent district are noteworthy – Ovid, David Arthur and Colgin. Tel. (707) 963-1199
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon has come together beautifully over the last twelve months. A rich, full-bodied wine, the 2010 caresses the palate with seemingly endless layers of dark fruit. At the times of my tastings, the 2010 hadn't been bottled yet. I look forward to revisiting the 2010 once it has been in bottle. Today, my impression is that the 2009 (and possibly the 2011) is superior, but time will tell. Regardless, this is a terrific effort from this new winery, especially within the context of the 2010 vintage.
The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon is another terrific wine, but 2010 is clearly a much more difficult year for this hillside site. Violets, black cherries, plums and licorice are some of the nuances that burst from the glass in this compelling Cabernet Sauvignon. Today the tannins are quite firm and imposing. The 2010 is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon aged in French oak barrels, 87% new.
About the producer
BRAND is a boutique Napa Valley winery based on Pritchard Hill, known for producing limited-production Cabernet Sauvignon and proprietary red blends from estate mountain vineyards.