2016 Lail Vineyards, J Daniel Cuvee Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley

Lail Vineyards traces its Napa Valley roots back five generations to the 1879 founding of Inglenook by Gustave Niebaum, and today fourth-generation vintner Robin Daniel Lail carries that history forward with this flagship bottling. The wine is made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon sourced from select estate sites, including the high-elevation Mole Hill vineyard on Howell Mountain, which features rocky, loam-rich soils. In the glass, it presents focused aromas of crème de cassis, black cherry, and graphite, supported by firm, fine-grained tannins and a long, minerally finish. The 2016 vintage provided a consistent, moderate growing season that allowed for steady ripening and the development of deep, structured fruit character. This bottling is built for the cellar and possesses the balance to reward those who wait, though it remains a compelling experience for those ready to open it now.