Single vineyard, Valley floor Rutherford 100% Petit Verdot. Typically blended into Cabernet Sauvignon to add structure, this “P.V.” is indeed big, but not AS big as one might expect from the grape and the vintage. This is a good thing as a little less power allows more layers of flavor to emerge. Vanilla and toast from the barrel jump out at first, then the dark red cherries and plums take over. Cocoa, rare red meat and allspice peak in on the 20 second finish. In my wine merchant days, this was my favorite Napa Valley “alternative” big red to recommend. And the very reasonable price was the cherry on top.
About CERRO
Owned and made by Derek Beitler, long-time Napan who grew up in the winemaking business. His Cerro wines are tiny-production, single vineyard wines that always very strong, intense, well-made, multi-layered and ready to enjoy. Also factor in how little is made (100-300 cases of each wine typically), they are ridiculously good values! Check out all of Derek’s wines on his website. And check out all the Cerro Wines recommended on DDWA here.
