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Learn MoreExperience the richness of Cain Cuvée NV18, a masterful Bordeaux-style red blend from Napa Valley that embodies elegance and complexity. Crafted with a thoughtful mix of 48% Merlot, 31% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Cabernet Franc, and 8% Petit Verdot, this blend harmonizes the bold structure and depth of two exceptional vintages—2013 and 2014. Its dark color and subtle bouquet give way to a full-bodied palate with layers of black cherry, plum, currant, oak, and gentle spice, finishing with a satisfying touch of bitterness. With its seamless balance of firm tannins and smooth texture, this wine offers both immediate drinkability and the ability to age gracefully, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. Rated 93 points by James Suckling, Cain Cuvée NV18 delivers a distinctive, savory complexity that transcends fruit, embodying the craftsmanship of Napa's Spring Mountain District and Valley Floor vineyards.
Process & Profile
The Cain Cuvée NV18 embodies an innovative blending philosophy, combining 48% from the 2013 vintage and 52% from the 2014 vintage. Harvested from 100% Napa Valley vineyards—64% from the Spring Mountain District and 36% from the Valley Floor—this red blend benefits from varying altitudes, soil compositions, and microclimates. The result is a wine with depth and complexity, shaped by the challenges of the drought years in Northern California's 2013 and 2014 harvests. Composed of 48% Merlot, 31% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Cabernet Franc, and 8% Petit Verdot, the blend reflects Cain Vineyard's commitment to crafting wines that transcend fruity flavors. Fermentation plays a pivotal role, adding savory, earthy, yeasty, and even meaty dimensions, making this red blend truly distinctive.
- Alcohol Content: 13.5%
- Soil: Clay-rich sedimentary soils
- Release Date: September 1, 2018
Tasting Notes
The Cain Cuvée NV18 is both dense and approachable—a rare combination. Its dark red hue sets the stage for a wine of depth and elegance. The bouquet is shy upon first impression, revealing its full character only on the palate. The wine exhibits a firm, round fullness, a smooth texture, and finishes with a satisfying hint of bitterness. Expect layered aromas and flavors:
- Nose: Violet, rose, truffle, coffee, leather, and cedar.
- Palate: Currant, black cherry, plum, tobacco, spice, and subtle notes of smoke and raspberry.
What Makes It Special
- Blending Tradition: Drawing inspiration from the Champagne region's blending methodology, Cain Cuvée pays homage to the art of blending different vintages for a balanced, evolving profile.
- Fermentation-Driven Complexity: Cain's focus on fermentation adds layers of savory complexity, setting this wine apart from other red blends.
- Immediate Enjoyability: While dense and structured, the NV18 is crafted for immediate drinking pleasure, with the capacity to evolve beautifully over time.
- Acclaimed Excellence: Awarded 93 points by James Suckling, this vintage is celebrated as the most dense and rich Cain Cuvée to date.
How to Enjoy
The Cain Cuvée NV18 is versatile yet sophisticated, pairing perfectly with a range of dishes or enjoyed on its own. Here's how to make the most of this Napa gem:
- Best Served At: 60-65°F (16-18°C) for optimal flavor expression.
- Food Pairings: Enhance its savory notes with roasted lamb, mushroom risotto, aged cheeses, or charcuterie.
- Occasion: Ideal for intimate dinners, celebratory gatherings, or a reflective evening with a fine wine.
Embrace the depth, character, and innovation in every bottle of Cain Cuvée NV18. It's more than a wine; it's a Napa Valley story in a glass, crafted to be savored and remembered.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the blend composition of Cain Cuvée NV18?
The NV18 is composed of 48% Merlot, 31% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Cabernet Franc, and 8% Petit Verdot, blending these varietals to achieve a balanced, complex flavor profile.
What are the tasting notes for Cain Cuvée NV18?
The wine offers flavors of dark fruits, such as plum and blackberry, with earthy, smoky, and herbal undertones. It has a firm, round fullness, a smooth texture, and finishes with a satisfying bitterness. The bouquet includes subtle notes of violet, rose, leather, and mocha.
Is Cain Cuvée NV14 suitable for aging?
Yes, while it is designed for immediate drinkability, the Cain Cuvée NV14 can age gracefully over time, enhancing its complexity and balance as it matures.
What is the alcohol content of Cain Cuvée NV18?
The alcohol by volume (ABV) is 13.5%.
Where are the grapes for Cain Cuvée NV18 sourced?
The grapes are sourced entirely from Napa Valley, with 64% coming from the Spring Mountain District and 36% from the Valley Floor. It is a blend of two vintages: 48% from 2013 and 52% from 2014.
How does Cain Cuvée NV14 compare to other red blends?
The Cain Cuvée NV14 stands out for its richness, density, and savory complexity. Its use of fermentation highlights meaty and earthy dimensions along with the fruity notes, setting it apart from typical fruit-forward red blends.
What foods pair well with Cain Cuvée NV18?
This wine pairs exceptionally well with hearty meals, such as roasted meats, lamb dishes, and aged cheeses. Its smooth tannins and savory finish complement rich and bold flavors.
What makes Cain Cuvée NV18 unique?
The NV14 is unique in its use of a blend of vintages, a practice reminiscent of Champagne production. This method creates a more balanced and complex wine than a single vintage would achieve, showcasing the winemaker's artistry in crafting harmonious flavors.
What temperature should Cain Cuvée NV18 be served at?
It is best served slightly below room temperature, around 60‚Äì65¬∞F (15‚Äì18¬∞°C), to preserve its aromatic complexity and flavor profile.
What distinguishes the NV18 among the Cain Cuvée series?
The NV14 is described as the wealthiest and most dense release in the CaCuvéevee series to date. Its firm structure, smooth texture, and immediate drinkability reflect the craftsmanship that went into this blend.
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