At a glance

Producer

Annulus Wines

Region

Napa Valley, California, USA

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$250-$325 USD (release to current secondary market)

Tasting profile

Blackcurrant, blackberry, cassis, graphite, violet, integrated oak, espresso, subtle mint.

Evolution: Expect tertiary notes of cedar, dried herbs, sandalwood, leather as it matures; fruit softens, tannins integrate further.

At peak: Aromatic complexity, silky yet persistent palate, classic Vine Hill Ranch power balanced by refined structure.

Structure

Acidity

Medium-plus; maintains freshness and lift.

Tannins

Bold, ripe, and fine-grained, providing structure for long aging.

Alcohol

In the 14.5%-15% range, typical for premier Napa Valley Cabernets.

Aging potential

Outstanding; built to age for 15-20 years in ideal cellaring.

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2038

Optimal window

2025 to 2043

Current status

Just released; primary fruit-driven but structured, still youthful.

Current condition

Expressive, dense, firm tannins and significant potential. Suitable for early enjoyment but will reward patience.

2028-2038 will see tannins softened, aromatic development with tertiary complexity, while retaining fruit core—ideal for the expressive Napa style.

Food pairing

Well-marbled steak, dry-aged beef, rack of lamb, truffle risotto, aged cheddar, mushroom dishes.

Serving

Decant

Yes (30 minutes) — The wine has bold tannins and is medium-bodied, which can benefit from aeration to soften the tannins and enhance the flavors.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Precision irrigation and regen. cover-cropping, minimal chemical inputs, natural pest management, habitat restoration, recycled and lighter-weight glass bottles. Energy-efficient winery practices and water conservation integrated at both vineyard and production levels.

Annulus sources fruit from Vine Hill Ranch, an industry leader in Napa for sustainable viticulture—Napa Green Land and Fish Friendly Farming certifications guarantee practices above regional standards. Not fully organic or biodynamic (use of some conventional inputs possible), but exceptional resource conservation, biodiversity, and progressive energy/water management. Use of lighter bottles and local logistics improves carbon impact versus global shipping, but fine wine packaging/transport still carry moderate inherent footprint. Overall, a sustainably-minded production with ongoing improvements, exemplary in Napa context.