I introduced this gem by saying, "Simply put the finest Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon I’ve tasted under $80 in years." And I've been selling ever since, asking you to trust me, saying it was a 95-97 pt Cab as I live and breath. Those that have know I'm right... and now I've got some backup!

La Pelle Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2018

$74.99 net  - US best price!

94 pts Jeb Dunnuck

La Pelle was founded in 2016 by winemaker Maayan Koschitzy and viticulturalist Miguel Luna. In just a few years they’ve already become one of Napa’s hottest new labels. The Robb Report featured them recently, stating “There’s a Line Forming for La Pelle, Napa’s Newest Label.” Well here you can get to the front of the line, we’re one of only three states outside of California that even has access to this wine! Production is just 300 cases, that’s 12 barrels, not a lot to go around.

Maayan is director of winemaking for Atelier Melka, yes that Philippe Melka. Chances are you had or at least heard of some of the many wines that Atelier Melka produces, Screaming Eagle, Dalle Vale, Vineyard 29, and of course Melka Estates, just to name a few. These are some of the most sought after and highest rated wines in the world. Maayan is the man behind those wines, with his hands on the fruit, in the vats, racking barrels, really making wine. Miguel Luna brings his expertise from the vineyard. He’s a partner in Silverado Farming Company, one of Napa’s most prestigious vineyard management companies. They own and farm many of the best vineyards in Napa, their Rockstar list of clients includes Lail, Dana Estates, Mole Hill, Stags Leap Wine Company, Accedo Cellars, yep more 100 point wines…

So here we have La Pelle, Maayan and Miguel’s own wine. Crafted by a 100 point winemaker, with fruit from 100 point vineyards. The 2018 is from Miguel’s vineyards in Coombesville, Oak Knoll, Oakville and St. Helena. A blend of 98% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Petit Verdot, aged 18 months in French oak barrels 50% new, and a further 6 months in bottle. This Cabernet sings too! Classic cassis notes, beautiful red fruits, violets and hints of earthy minerals. Ripe and full-bodied, impeccably balanced, with a deep core of well-wrapped tannins, layered with juicy dark berries. Its velvet on your tongue. Dark chocolate, more blackcurrant and vanilla accents lead into a long seamless finish that seems to last for days. World class Cabernet, at an affordable price point. Superb!

“The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon comes from a blend of all five of the single vineyards and is 98% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Petit Verdot. This youthful, unevolved Cabernet boasts a deep purple color as well as Bordeaux-like crunchy black and blue fruits, green tobacco, violets, and cedarwood. It’s rich and medium to full-bodied, with a beautiful, elegant mouthfeel and great tannins, all making for a terrific Cabernet to enjoy over the coming 15 years or more." JD


Or reply. The wine will be available Thursday, in both stores.