Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Petit Verdot
75cl * Organic * 14.5% ABV * Spring Mountain District, Napa Valley, California, USA
The spectacular Cain Vineyard site sits over 90 acres, cradled in a bowl overlooking the town of St. Helena from the top of the Spring Mountain District. In 1980, Joyce and Jerry Cain purchased part of the historic McCormick Ranch, a homestead dating back to the 1840's. The Cains had a dream to plant the five classical Bordeaux varietals from which to draw one ideally structured wine, from a blend of all five varieties. Jim and Nancy Meadlock joined the Cains in 1986, and in 1991 they purchased full ownership. The first Cain Five, the 1985 vintage, was released in 1989.
Superbly nuanced and articulated, round, sweet, flowing, with just enough mouth-watering acidity and savoury grip so that you know this wine, delicious today, promises to have a great future. A classic Cain Five vintage, 2016 was one of those years, neither too hot nor too cold, where ripening could proceed smoothly and progressively. The winemaker's at Cain not only appreciate the value of organic farming but are also aided by long-time biodynamics consultant, Philippe Armenier. Their choice to pick once grapes have reached optimum ripeness, ferment grapes with native yeast, and take a minimal-intervention approach in the winery create wine with an unmistakable sense of place.
Drinking Window: 2023 - 2038
"Exotic aromas of dried fruit, flowers, bark, sandalwood and dried flowers. Pine cone, too. Full-bodied with wonderful, refined tannins with riper tannins that show softness and pretty length. Harmonious. Just a hint of chocolate. A beautiful 1970s vibe to this. 57% cabernet sauvignon, 15% merlot, 14% cabernet franc, 9% malbec and 5% petit verdot. Drinkable now, but even better in a few years." 97/100 points, James Suckling
"A beautifully balanced wine from a beautifully balanced vintage. The nose is succulent and rich in blackberry fruit. It's concentrated, of course, but also svelte and elegant, with bold but ripe tannins. Although dense, it's very polished, with solidity but not heaviness. Very long." 95/100 points, Stephen Brook, Decanter - Part of Tasting Cain: a vertical from this Napa mountain Cabernet estate (Jan 2022)