2016 Nicholson Jones Sugarloaf Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

“As a winemaker, my job is to bring out the best qualities that the vines have provided. I don’t seek to make a style of wine but more so to make wine that sings of its place, its history and its uniqueness. That’s my goal as a winemaker, to make wines that are pure expressions of their environment and not mask it. Wines with an identity.” ~Julien Fayard, Winemaker

Welcome to the world of Nicholson Jones—a place where two passionate minds came together to create something of of this world. On one side, you’ve got Julien Fayard, a French-born winemaker with a résumé that reads like a who's who of the wine world, including stints at Château Lafite Rothschild and Quintessa. On the other, there’s Cal Nicholson, a former marketing guru who traded corporate life for surfing and winemaking. Together, they’ve crafted a wine that’s as rich and complex as the story behind it.

The 2016 Nicholson Jones Cabernet Sauvignon is a product of one extraordinary vineyard—Sugarloaf. The Sugarloaf Vineyard, with its rocky, volcanic terrain, captures the sun’s warmth by day and releases it by night, helping the Cabernet grapes reach their full potential. 

Julien Fayard is the kind of winemaker who brings a little magic to every bottle. Raised in the French Riviera and trained in the world-renowned regions of Bordeaux, he’s got a knack for blending Old World elegance with New World boldness. His experience with legendary wineries like Château Lafite Rothschild has shaped his approach, and it shows in every sip of this Cabernet. The 2015 vintage is a perfect example of his ability to balance power and finesse, delivering a wine that’s both robust and refined.

This isn’t just another Napa Cabernet—it’s a wine with character. Imagine deep, dark fruits like blackcurrant and cherry, layered with hints of spice and a velvety finish that goes on and on. It’s the kind of wine that’s equally at home at a casual dinner or a special occasion, impressing both wine newbies and seasoned aficionados alike.

Every great wine has a story, and the 2016 Nicholson Jones Cabernet Sauvignon is no exception. It’s a story of vision, determination, and a little bit of daring. Sugarloaf Vineyard was once thought to be too challenging for Cabernet, but like all great stories, this one ends with a triumph. So, here’s to taking risks, breaking the rules, and enjoying every moment along the way.

FYI: Nick Jones’ wines are crafted by Julien at Covert Estate, a top-notch cult winery known for its exclusivity, offering wines mainly through a private mailing list. With prices starting at $200 a bottle... talk about quality!

The 2016 vintage in Napa Valley was absolutely epic! It scored 98 points from Wine Advocate, Wine Spectator and Vinous Media.The last one said, "The 2016s are aromatically expressive, nuanced and super-finessed. 2016 has the potential to be one of the finer vintages Napa Valley has seen since 2011."

Aging: 24 months in French oak barrels.

100% Estate Grown Cabernet Sauvignon. Red currant, cinnamon, and clove are predominant on the nose with hints of bouquet de garni, vanilla, and petrichor. Spiced blackberry pie shows on the pallet with notable red berry fruit which lends freshness and tone, contrasting nicely with subtle cocoa and cigar box earthiness. This wine is structured and elegant delivering gorgeous layers of sap laden fruit, chewy tannins, and mouthwatering acidity. It drinks very well now but ought to develop gracefully in a cellar for many years to come.

NYR

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