Mt. Brave is a tribute to the pioneering spirit of those who settled the rugged terrain of Mt. Veeder during the 1800s and a homage to the Wappo Indians, "the brave ones," who were the original inhabitants of this extraordinary place. The Mt. Brave Vineyard, once the Chateau Potelle Vineyard, was established decades ago at elevations ranging from 1,400 to 1,800 feet.

A blend of 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6.5% Cabernet Franc, 3% Merlot, 1.5% Petit Verdot and 1% Malbec aged 22 months in oak barrels, mostly new. It is deep garnet in color with purple hues. Leaping out of the glass are vibrant aromas of cassis, layers of rich black and blue fruit, dark chocolate, violets and a hint of herbs and earthy underbrush. This deep full-bodied Mt. Veeder Cabernet Sauvignon is plush and layered in texture with a backbone of solid grainy tannins. This beauty leads to a long finish and has a touch of acidity that lifts the fruit and minerality. This stunning mountain Cabernet Sauvignon will need patience and time in the bottle to reveal the distinctive character. When it does, wow! I would argue that this is one of the best Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon's offered at this price point.

The excellence in winemaking of Chris Carpenter makes Mt. Brave Cabernet Sauvignon particularly impressive as a relative value proposition.

By Perry Miroballi