At a glance

Producer

Inglenook

Region

Napa Valley, California, USA

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon blend

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$150-$200 per bottle

Tasting profile

Dark berry fruits, cassis, black cherry, hints of graphite and cedar; concentrated with firm tannins

Evolution: Will gain complexity with tertiary notes of tobacco, leather, and earth as it ages

At peak: Rich, harmonious palate with integrated oak, silky mouthfeel, and long finish

Structure

Acidity

Balanced, supporting long aging

Tannins

Firm and well-structured

Alcohol

Approximately 14.5%

Aging potential

25-35 years

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2055

Optimal window

2024 to 2058

Current status

Approaching early maturity

Current condition

Developing complexity with firm tannins and balanced acidity

The 2018 vintage in Napa was excellent, producing structurally robust wines with firm tannins and balanced acidity. The Rubicon blend from Inglenook is designed for long aging, deriving from top vineyard blocks with meticulous winemaking. This allows the wine to evolve gracefully over decades, peaking between 10-20 years post-vintage.

Food pairing

Pairs well with richly flavored red meats such as ribeye steak, lamb, game dishes, and aged hard cheeses like aged Gouda or Comté.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To allow aeration and soften firm tannins, revealing more aromatics and complexity

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Inglenook employs water conservation methods, solar energy usage, and implements sustainable farming to reduce environmental impact. Packaging uses lightweight glass and recyclable materials.

While not officially certified organic or biodynamic, Inglenook commits to sustainability through efficient resource use, energy reduction, and habitat preservation. Their practices mitigate carbon emissions though the wine’s destination market and transport type influence final footprint.