At a glance

Producer

Chimney Rock Winery

Region

Napa Valley, California, USA

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$90-$130

Tasting profile

Blackcurrant, cassis, dark cherry, graphite, cedar, and subtle tobacco

Evolution: Over time will develop complex tertiary notes of leather, earth, and forest floor

At peak: Balanced integration of fruit, oak, and complexity with silky tannins

Structure

Acidity

Moderate to high acidity supporting longevity

Tannins

Firm and well-structured

Alcohol

14.5% approx.

Aging potential

20-25+ years with cellaring

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2026 to 2043

Optimal window

2023 to 2046

Current status

Approaching early peak drinking window

Current condition

Showing vibrant primary dark fruit and developing secondary notes, tannins firm but approachable

2018 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon by Chimney Rock is a high-quality, structured, classic vintage with great tannin and acidity balance. The vintage conditions favored ripe, concentrated fruit with refined tannins, allowing a drinking window extending 20+ years. Early years show fresh fruit with developing secondary complexity, reaching optimal drinking between 5-15 years post vintage, with a peak drinking phase from roughly 8-18 years after release.

Food pairing

Pairs excellently with grilled or roasted red meats, game, aged cheeses, mushroom dishes, and hearty stews.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

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

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Use of drip irrigation to conserve water, solar panels for energy use, minimal chemical intervention; recyclable packaging

Chimney Rock Winery employs a range of sustainability measures typical of quality Napa producers, including water conservation and renewable energy usage. While not certified organic or biodynamic, sustainability practices are firm. The carbon footprint is mitigated somewhat by modern vineyard and winery practices and optimized transportation logistics.