TOR Kenward Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville 2021 – 750ml Terroir

92pts+ Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate

Bottled just one week before I tasted it, the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville was showing rather well, with gentle floral and sage nuances set against a backdrop of rich loam and black cherries. Yes, it’s still a bit tight, but this medium to full-bodied effort boasts silky tannins and a long finish. Don’t overlook it because it isn’t vineyard-designated.

Winemaker Notes

Our TOR Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon hails from three exceptional vineyards in the Oakville appellation – Tench Vineyard, Double H Ranch Vineyard, and Renteria 360 Vineyard. With famous neighbors such as Screaming Eagle, Tench is in eastern Oakville where the Vaca Range and valley floor converge to form the Eastern Oakville Bench. Its signature rocky and nutrient deficient soils promote optimal vine stress producing exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon. Double H Ranch Vineyard is a small hillside vineyard on the western slopes of the Vaca Range directly below Dalle Valle. The iron rich site gives our 2021 Oakville its signature dark fruit and perfumed characteristics. Renteria 360 Vineyard is in the northeastern part of Oakville and has a long history of producing excellent Cabernet Sauvignons.

Tasting Notes

Our Oakville Cabernet is a perfect example of why Oakville is the premiere appellation for Cabernet in the Napa Valley. This wine checks all the boxes, with a savory, umami element, a touch of mushroom and a hint of eucalyptus. The fruit is plentiful, with blackberry, chocolate covered cherry, blueberry pie and a graphite minerality. Baking spices of cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg add an extra touch of complexity. A true champion of this vintage.