At a glance

Producer

Young Inglewood Vineyards

Region

Napa Valley, California, USA

Grape variety

100% Cabernet Sauvignon (may contain a very small proportion of Merlot or Petit Verdot as allowed under labeling laws, but primarily Cabernet Sauvignon)

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Smooth

Sweetness

Bone Dry

Typical price

$90-120 USD per 750ml bottle (as of mid-2024, secondary and primary market combined)

Tasting profile

Deep cassis, blackberry, and black cherry; supported by cocoa, cedar, graphite, subtle menthol, dried herbs, and well-resolved oak spice. Silky tannins, medium-plus body, and persistent finish.

Evolution: As it ages, the fruit notes soften, revealing more savory dried herbs, forest floor, tobacco, and a sweeter, more integrated spice character. Secondary notes of leather and earth will become more prominent.

At peak: At peak (2024-2028), expect a balanced interplay of ripe Napa fruit, refined tannins, and complex tertiary aromas (cedar, cigar box, dried flowers) with harmonious, lingering finish.

Structure

Acidity

Medium to medium-plus, providing freshness and supporting further aging. Acidity remains lively, preventing the wine from feeling heavy.

Tannins

Moderately firm at release, now rounding off and integrating smoothly, contributing to an elegant mouthfeel.

Alcohol

Moderately high (around 14.5%), integrated well by this stage, adding to the wine's texture without noticeable heat.

Aging potential

14-18 years from vintage (2016-2034); still has 6-8 years of life in optimal conditions.

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2024 to 2028

Optimal window

2022 to 2030

Current status

At peak

Current condition

Mature, with developed aromas and softened tannins; well-balanced and showing classic Napa structure. No signs of decline if properly stored.

The 2024-2028 window coincides with the resolution of tannins and full integration of oak, fruit, and acidity. During this time, the wine expresses its maximum aromatic complexity and palate harmony before fruit intensity begins to diminish and tertiary flavors dominate. After the peak window, freshness and core fruit gradually recede, leading to a more tertiary-driven profile and eventual decline.

Food pairing

Classic pairings: grilled or roasted beef (prime rib, ribeye), lamb, venison. Excellent with wild mushroom risotto, aged cheddar, and truffle-scented dishes. As the wine matures, lighter pairings with roasted poultry, duck with cherry sauce, or earthy vegetarian dishes (eggplant, root vegetables) become increasingly suitable as the structure softens and tertiary notes intensify.

Serving

Decant

Yes (30 minutes). The wine has moderately firm tannins that are now rounding off, which can benefit from aeration to enhance its elegance and integrate flavors further.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Organic and sustainable vineyard management; minimal intervention winemaking; solar-powered winery facilities; water conservation; biodiversity promotion.

Young Inglewood Vineyards is recognized for strong sustainability initiatives including organic viticulture, solar energy, and certified green status. While the winery exceeds regional norms, some environmental impact remains inherent to premium Napa production and global distribution.