At a glance

Producer

Grgich Hills Estate

Region

Napa Valley, California, USA

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$60-$80

Tasting profile

Black currant, cassis, cedar, graphite, dark chocolate, earth and subtle mint notes

Evolution: Over the next several years, the fruit will integrate more with tertiary flavors of leather, tobacco, and forest floor

At peak: Well-rounded, ripe with silky tannins and complex layered aromas

Structure

Acidity

Moderate to high, well integrated

Tannins

Firm, yet refined with good grip

Alcohol

14.5% ABV

Aging potential

Excellent, 15+ years from vintage under proper cellaring

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2027 to 2043

Optimal window

2024 to 2046

Current status

Bottle is approaching early maturity and drinking well with some cellaring left

Current condition

The wine is showing fresh fruit concentration with balanced tannins and good structure, suitable for drinking now or continued aging

The 2018 vintage in Napa Valley produced structurally solid Cabernet Sauvignons with concentrated fruit and balanced acidity. Given Grgich Hills Estate's top-tier vineyard practices and winemaking, the wine benefits from significant aging potential. It reaches peak complexity approximately 9-14 years post-vintage, developing an elegant maturity while retaining freshness

Food pairing

Pairs excellently with grilled or roasted red meats, lamb, game, mature hard cheeses, and dishes with herbs like rosemary or thyme

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1 hour) — To soften tannins and allow aromatic complexity to open

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Grgich Hills Estate employs organic farming, avoids synthetic pesticides and herbicides, uses solar power for energy, implements water recycling in winemaking, and uses recycled packaging materials

Grgich Hills Estate is recognized for its longstanding commitment to organic viticulture and sustainability, maintaining environmental stewardship with reduced chemical inputs, renewable energy sourcing, and water conservation efforts. Packaging choices demonstrate ecological awareness. While global distribution creates unavoidable carbon emissions, the winery's local sourcing and green practices help mitigate overall environmental impact