At a glance

Producer

Schrader Cellars

Region

Napa Valley, California, USA

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$300-$400

Tasting profile

Dense blackcurrant, blackberry, graphite, cigar box, dried herbs, and crushed rock minerality.

Evolution: Gradually developing tertiary notes of leather, tobacco, truffle, and forest floor over the next 5-10 years.

At peak: Complex layers with integrated tannins and acidity, silky mouthfeel and profound length by year 8-15 after vintage.

Structure

Acidity

Medium to medium-high, supporting freshness

Tannins

Very high, firm and fine-grained

Alcohol

Approximately 14.5%-15%

Aging potential

20+ years from vintage given vintage quality, producer reputation, and concentration

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2056

Optimal window

2026 to 2059

Current status

Approaching early drinking window with continuing development

Current condition

Very tannic and structured; needs decanting if opened currently

The 2019 vintage in Napa Valley was excellent, offering ripe fruit and solid structure ideal for long aging. Schrader Cellars is a top-tier cult producer known for dense, ageworthy Cabernet Sauvignon with exceptional balance, allowing this wine to improve markedly after 7-10 years and maintain peak quality for up to 20 years or more.

Food pairing

Pairs superbly with grilled ribeye steak, roasted game meats, hearty mushroom dishes, aged cheddar, and rich stews.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To soften the powerful tannic grip and release complex aromas.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 6/10

Schrader Cellars practices moderate sustainability with water conservation efforts, solar energy usage on estate, and environmentally conscious packaging choices including recyclable materials.

While Schrader Cellars does not currently hold organic or biodynamic certifications, their sustainability practices focus on resource conservation and responsible energy use with a commitment to reducing environmental impact. However, as a luxury wine brand with global distribution, transportation contributes to a moderate carbon footprint. Overall, the producer earns a solid sustainability score reflecting balanced eco-conscious practices with room for deeper certification.