2021 Smith Devereux Oak Knoll Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

Smith Devereux isn’t your typical Napa Valley winery. It’s the kind of place where boots are muddy, hands are calloused, and wine isn’t just a bottle on a shelf—it’s an invitation to join a community. Founded by three friends with a passion for wine, music, and adventure, this small but mighty winery has been crafting sustainable, world-class wines since 2012. Their goal? Pure joy, authenticity, and wine that makes you want to come back for more.

2021 Oak Knoll Cabernet Sauvignon is everything you want from Napa, but with a bit more soul. It’s bold, balanced, and seriously delicious. Think lush dark fruits—blackberry, plum, and a hint of cherry—wrapped up in velvety tannins with whispers of vanilla, cedar, and a touch of earthy spice. But it’s not just a big, bold Cab; this wine has finesse. It’s structured, layered, and built for food, but just as happy to be sipped on its own.

Sourced from Napa Valley’s Oak Knoll district, a region known for its cool microclimate and perfect growing conditions, this Cab has all the hallmarks of top-tier Napa wine. Sustainability is at the heart of everything Smith Devereux does, and this Cabernet is no exception. From hand-farming the vineyards to using the lightest possible glass bottles, every step is taken with care for the land and respect for the grapes.

Smith Devereux is driven by two founders, Ian Devereux White and Steve Smith, each bringing their own unique flair. Ian, a globetrotting wine writer turned vintner, and Steve, a music industry insider with a love for wine, have created something special here—wines that are approachable, fun, and totally unpretentious.

Alongside them is winemaker Rudy Zuidema. He began his winemaking journey at St. Clement Vineyards, learning from local winemaker Dennis Johns. Over the years, Rudy has held key roles at esteemed wineries like Cuvaison, Honig, Robert Craig, Ehlers Estate, and White Cottage Ranch, where he rose from assistant winemaker to general manager. Passionate about sustainability, he studied organic and biodynamic farming, earning CCOF and Demeter certifications across several vineyards. Rudy has been with Smith Devereux for nearly a decade, and in 2023, he officially took the reins as winemaker and vineyard manager, continuing his commitment to environmental stewardship.

Their 100% Napa Valley Cabernet is sustainably farmed in Napa's renowned Oak Knoll District. Often called the "sweet spot," this region is celebrated for its moderate temperatures and balanced soils, ideal for crafting rich, silky reds. It's also where they host vineyard guests.

2021 is looking to be one of the vintages of the decade. Vinous Media blessed this year with a 95-98 point score, and said: "Two thousand twenty-one is a fabulous vintage in Napa Valley. That’s the good news. The not so good news is that production is down sharply, 30-50% in many cases. The wines have tremendous energy as well as finesse. In tasting, the 2021s show some of the savory intensity of other drought vintages – 2013 and 2014 come to mind – but with more aromatic explosiveness and greater inner sweetness."

Aging: 30 month in 50% new French oak barrels

100% Cabernet Sauvignon. It opens with inviting aromas of ripe blackberry, plum, and a touch of cherry, followed by subtle hints of vanilla and cedar. It’s smooth and rich on the palate, with juicy dark fruits and a little spice, all wrapped up in soft, velvety tannins. The finish is long and satisfying, leaving just a touch of chocolate and warm spices. This wine pairs beautifully with grilled steak, roasted lamb, or even a hearty mushroom pasta—perfect for a cozy night in or a dinner with friends.

~95pts GOLD Medal, Cellar Selection, BTI

~BEST IN CLASS, SF Chronicle Wine Competition

~93 Points Decanter (v.2018)

~92 Points Wine Enthusiast (v.2018)

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