At a glance

Producer

Promontory

Region

Napa Valley AVA, Napa Valley, California, United States

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$400-$600

Tasting profile

Dark black fruit (blackcurrant, black cherry), graphite, espresso, dried herbs, cedar, and cigar box aromas. On palate dense and concentrated with polished tannins and mineral undertones.

Evolution: Will gain more complexity with tertiary notes of leather, forest floor, and subtle floral hints over next decade.

At peak: Silky tannins, integrated oak, lush fruit layers melding into nuanced sophistication.

Structure

Acidity

Balanced acidity providing freshness and longevity

Tannins

Firm and well-structured, ripe but muscular

Alcohol

Around 14.5% ABV

Aging potential

20-25+ years from vintage due to the wine's pedigree, balance, and vineyard quality

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2053

Optimal window

2024 to 2056

Current status

Approaching early maturity

Current condition

The wine is developing complex tertiary notes with still strong tannic structure.

The wine's combination of powerful tannins, balanced acidity, and high-quality fruit from a premium Napa Valley site support long-term aging. The 2016 vintage quality and the wine's structure indicate a 20-25 year optimal drinking window with peak flavor complexity developing after 8-12 years.

Food pairing

Pair with rich red meats like grilled ribeye, lamb racks, or venison. Also excellent with aged hard cheeses and dishes with earthy mushroom sauces.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To soften tannins and allow complex aromatics to fully express

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Promontory employs water conservation techniques, solar energy usage, and minimal intervention vineyard practices. Packaging uses recyclable materials.

While not fully organic or biodynamic, Promontory demonstrates strong commitment to sustainable farming with Napa Green certification, water conservation, and renewable energy usage. Packaging is conscientious but international distribution impacts total footprint.