96 Point 2023 Napa Valley Cabernets

James Suckling Editor Ryan Montgomery recently visited St. Supéry to taste through the stellar 2023 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignons and more.

2023 Napa Valley Estate Elu – 96 points – This wine shows the vintage with refinement, purity and finesse. Aromas of black and blue fruit, licorice, cedar, graphite and cassis. The palate is seamlessly integrated, with silken tannins and bright acidity in complete harmony. A blend of 69% cabernet sauvignon, 21% merlot, 6% petit verdot, 2% malbec and 2% cabernet franc.

2023 Rutherford Estate Vineyard RU3 – 96 points – Perhaps the most structured, savory and complete wine of the 2023 releases from St. Supery, showing deep, dark-fruited aromas with touches of black olives, graphite, dark chocolate, iodine and earth. The palate is firmly structured yet refined, with a mineral-edged, brooding finish. A well-constructed blend of 65% cabernet sauvignon, 27% merlot and 8% petit verdot. Delicious.

2023 Rutheford Estate Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon – 95 points – This is about as classic as it gets, with refinement and purity that come from the cool vintage. Luscious aromas of black currants, dark chocolate, earth, plums and cocoa. The palate is focused and structured, with a savory, earth-driven edge that leads to a densely packed yet pure, fresh and fruity finish. A well-constructed blend of 84% cabernet sauvignon, 11% merlot, 3% petit verdot and 2% cabernet franc.

2023 Dollarhide Estate Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon – 95 points – This wine shows real depth of flavor and intensity. Aromas of black currants, cedar, chocolate, dried herbs and spices. The palate is textured, with refined tannins and fine acidity. The balance of power and freshness is impressive, driven by 40-year-old vines, the oldest in this vineyard.

2023 Rutherford Estate Vineyard Merlot – 95 points – Plush aromas of blood plums, red and black currants, cassis, dark chocolate and spices. The palate is luscious, with refined tannins and a silken mouthfeel. There’s lovely freshness and balance, with a succulent and mouthwatering finish. Small amounts of cabernet sauvignon and petit verdot add structure. Delicious

2023 Napa Valley Estate Cabernet Sauvignon – 92 points – Vibrant and fruit driven, with bright red fruit, spice and cherry confit aromas. The palate is plush and rounded, with an energetic mouthfeel and fine tannins. A very approachable and delicious cabernet-dominant blend with touches of malbec, petit verdot, merlot and cabernet franc.