Frequently Asked Questions
The Robert Craig Cabernet Sauvignon Affinity is a masterful expression of Napa Valley's mountain terroir, crafted with meticulous care from the La Londe Vineyard in the Coombsville AVA, near Mount George. This Bordeaux-style blend delivers a rich tapestry of flavors, with bold notes of blackcurrant, blackberry, and hints of graphite complemented by subtle herbal undertones like sage. Estate-grown and celebrated for its structured elegance, the 2019 vintage showcases supple tannins and exceptional depth, making it a standout among Napa Valley Cabernets. Perfect for cellaring or enjoying now, Affinity pairs beautifully with hearty meats and aged cheeses, offering a luxurious wine experience steeped in Robert Craig's pioneering legacy of mountain viticulture.
Process & Profile
The Robert Craig Affinity Cabernet Sauvignon is an estate-grown, single-vineyard selection from the La Londe Vineyard, located in Coombsville's Mt. George foothills. The vineyard's stony, volcanic soils and hillside location yield low grape yields (just 3.5 tons per acre), resulting in exceptional focus and intensity. The 2020 blend features 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, and 4% Malbec, showcasing a Bordeaux-style composition renowned for its bold yet balanced character. Every bottle is crafted with the same meticulous care as Robert Craig's celebrated mountain wines, ensuring unparalleled quality in every vintage.Tasting Notes
The Affinity Cabernet Sauvignon captivates with its rich and nuanced profile. On the nose, expect tantalizing aromas of roasted coffee bean, anise, dusty cherry, and subtle hints of cigar box. The palate is equally inviting, offering deep flavors of blackberry, blackcurrant, and cherry, accented by notes of cocoa, sage, and a touch of blood orange. This full-bodied wine boasts refined tannins and vibrant acidity, delivering a harmonious balance of power and elegance with a long-lasting, silky finish.What Makes It Special
- Estate-Grown Excellence: Produced exclusively from the historic La Londe Vineyard, this wine represents the best of Coombsville's volcanic terroir.
- Bordeaux-Style Blending: Its layered blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Malbec creates a complex, multifaceted wine that rivals more expensive Napa wines.
- Heritage of Craftsmanship: The Robert Craig Winery, a pioneer in Napa Valley mountain winemaking since the 1980s, imbues every wine with its legacy of excellence and innovation.
- Age-Worthy Elegance: This wine develops beautifully with time, making it both an excellent collectible and a fine choice for cellaring.
How to Enjoy
- Pairing Suggestions: Its robust flavors make it an ideal match for richly marbled steaks, braised short ribs, or lamb chops. For vegetarian options, try pairing it with mushroom risotto or eggplant parmesan.
- Serving Recommendations: Decant the wine for at least an hour to unleash its full aromatic and flavor potential. Serve at approximately 60-65°F (15-18°C) for optimal enjoyment.
- Occasions: Whether celebrating a milestone or indulging in a quiet evening of luxury, the Affinity Cabernet Sauvignon is a perfect choice for any memorable moment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the composition of the Robert Craig Affinity Cabernet Sauvignon?
The Robert Craig Affinity Cabernet Sauvignon is a Bordeaux-style blend. The 2019 vintage includes 83% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Petit Verdot, and 5% Malbec. This combination highlights the strengths of each varietal, resulting in a wine with depth, complexity, and balance.
What are the tasting notes for the Robert Craig Affinity Cabernet Sauvignon?
The 2019 vintage offers a dark, inky color with aromas of cassis, espresso, roasted coffee bean, and sage. On the palate, it delivers rich blackcurrant flavors, complemented by silky tannins, vibrant acidity, and a lingering finish. There are also hints of anise and a harmonious balance of power and elegance.
Where is the vineyard located, and how does it influence the wine?
The grapes for the Affinity Cabernet Sauvignon are sourced from the La Londe Vineyard in Coombsville's Mount George foothills in Napa Valley, known for its volcanic soils. These soils contribute distinct minerality and enhance the wine's structure and flavor profile.
How long can I age this wine?
The 2019 Robert Craig Affinity Cabernet Sauvignon is highly age-worthy. While it is approachable now, it has the potential to develop further complexity with proper cellaring for up to 10 years or more, making it an excellent choice for collectors.
What foods pair well with the Affinity Cabernet Sauvignon?
This wine pairs beautifully with richly flavored dishes such as grilled steak, lamb, or wild game. It also complements dishes with hearty sauces or roasted vegetables. For the optimal experience, decant the wine for 30 minutes prior to serving.
What accolades or ratings has the Robert Craig Affinity Cabernet Sauvignon received?
The 2019 vintage earned a 90-point score from Wine Advocate, praising its concentrated, dense profile and ripe tannins. Robert Craig wines are consistently recognized for their exceptional quality and craftsmanship.
Can I visit the Robert Craig Winery for a tasting?
Yes, you can enjoy a tasting experience at the Robert Craig Tasting Salon in Downtown Napa or reserve a mountaintop tasting at their Howell Mountain Estate. Both options provide an intimate opportunity to explore their wines and learn more about their winemaking philosophy.
Is the Robert Craig Affinity Cabernet Sauvignon part of a wine club allocation?
Yes, the Affinity Cabernet is included in the allocations for Cabernet Club members at various levels. Members receive priority access to new releases and exclusive wines, as well as other benefits like discounted pricing and complimentary tastings.
How does this wine compare to other Napa Valley Cabernets?
The Robert Craig Affinity Cabernet Sauvignon stands out for its mountain vineyard origins, showcasing the unique terroir of Coombsville. It offers a refined structure, bold flavors, and a balance of intensity and elegance at a competitive price, making it a standout option in Napa Valley Cabernet selections.
What makes Robert Craig Winery unique?
Founded in 1992, Robert Craig Winery specializes in small-lot, mountain-grown Cabernet Sauvignons. Their focus on high-elevation vineyards with shallow, rocky soils results in wines of exceptional concentration and terroir expression. They are recognized as pioneers in mountain vineyard development in Napa Valley.
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