Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
91 Points Jeb Dunnuck, Jeb Dunnuck
"The appellation 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley is another winner. Ripe red and black fruits, dried flowers, and spice all define the bouquet, and it’s upf-ront, soft, balanced, and just delicious. Drink bottles over the coming decade."
90 Points James Molesworth, Wine Spectator
"Well-structured and quite oaky, this assertive wine is loaded with ripe fruits, toast and apple-pie spices on a velvety texture that has a bit of tannic grip. Impressive now, but it should drink best from 2025."
90 Points Joe Czerwinksi, Wine Advocate
"The winery's largest bottling, approximately 38,000 cases, is the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley. Primarily from the Hardester Ranch in Pope Valley, with other major contributions from St. Helena, Soda Canyon and Glass Mountain, it's a medium to full-bodied effort, with bold flavors of cherries, cassis and cedar. It's easy, but not soft, nicely firm, with a long, silky-textured finish."
93 Points James Molesworth, Wine Spectator
"This packs in some serious plum compote and cassis flavors, liberally wrapped in dark licorice and finishing with a swath of sweet toast and tobacco on the broad finish. Nice mineral underpinning keeps it honest. Fairly accessible despite its heft. Drink now through 2034."
90 Points Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast
“With just 1% Merlot, this bold red is plush, lush and brimming in black and red cherry. The ripe, fleshy and fruit-forward style is tempered by sweet tobacco and oak, a richly concentrated offering of substance and power.”
90 Points James Molesworth, Wine Spectator
“Fresh up front, with a beam of cassis and cherry preserve flavors leading the way, while sweet spice, singed vanilla and licorice root notes start to chime in on the back end. The finish is just a bit on the firm side. Best from 2021 through 2027. 27,275 cases made.”
94 Points Jeb Dunnuck, Wine Critic
“A smoking value, the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley offers classic notes of blackcurrant and blackberry fruits intermixed with more earthy, tapenade, and olive-like aromas and flavors. It too is full-bodied, has remarkable purity, a seamless texture, and a beautiful finish. It tastes like it cost 2-3 times the price.”
92 Points Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate
“Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon delivers open-knit notions of Black Forest cake, crème de cassis and black raspberries with hints of tar, smoked meats and menthol plus a hint of tree bark. Full-bodied, the palate has a firm frame of grainy tannins and soft acidity supporting the savory black fruits, finishing earthy.”
92 Points Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
“Hall's 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley) is a terrific introduction to the vintage. Pliant, supple and racy, the 2016 has a lot to offer. Macerated cherry, red plum, flowers, cinnamon and a kiss of new French oak all run through this succulent, plush Cabernet Sauvignon. Readers who want to understand why the 2016 vintage is so compelling would do well to start with this superb appellation-level Cabernet from Hall.“
90 Points Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast
Quote coming out in the wine enthusiast September edition.
93+ Points Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate
“The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon offers an earthy/savory nose with notes of fertile loam, tree bark and smoked meat over a cassis and black cherry core with touches of roses and menthol. The full-bodied palate delivers great expression and plenty of character, supported by chewy tannins and finishing on a savory note.”
90 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
“An immense wine, deep, rich, extracted and tannic, yet with a wealth of dark berry, melted black licorice, cedar, cigar box and fig flavors. Eventually succeeds in capturing the complexity of the grapes, but needs time. Best from 2003 through 2032. 146 cases made.“
93 Points Jeb Dunnuck, Wine Critic
"As with the 2015, the base 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon is a tremendous value. Blueberries, black cherries, licorice and hints of charcoal all emerge from this medium to full-bodied, ripe, opulent red that lacks the sheer grandeur and finesse of the top cuvee, yet packs gorgeous fruit and offers a peek at the quality coming from this estate. The blend is 96% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Merlot, and 1% Cabernet Franc aged in 50% new French oak."
91 Points Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast
"Among the winery's larger offerings, this wine doesn't hold back on quality, offering tight-grained tannin expression around rounded flavors of plum compote, blackberry bramble, cedar and clove. Bright, focused acidity tempers the ripeness and underlying richness, making for a welcome drinking experience."
92 Points Owen Bargreen, International Wine Report
“Hall has gained an outstanding reputation from their appellation Cabernet Sauvignon and this is a gorgeous effort from the vintage. The 2014 Hall Cabernet Sauvignon is sourced from a host of vineyards throughout the Valley. It begins with aromatics of crème de cassis, red bell pepper, anise and mocha which soar from the glass. The texture is lovely as it demonstrates wonderful depth, with flavors of crème de cassis red bell pepper, spice box and Turkish coffee which persist through the finish. While this is excellent now it should only become more appealing as it evolves over the next decade.”
91 Points (91-93 Barrel) Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
“The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon (96% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Merlot and 1% Cabernet Franc) represents the least expensive wine in the Hall portfolio at $55. The color is a saturated purple, and the wine rich, chewy and unctuously textured, with ripe tannin and a round, juicy mouthfeel. For a generic Napa, it has plenty of upside to it and will actually benefit from several more years of bottle age and keep for 15-20 years.”
"The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa is a very sexy, juicy wine with oodles of blackcurrant fruits, silky tannins and a plush, opulent mouthfeel. This medium to full-bodied wine is best drunk young and over the following 10-12 years."
91 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
“Dark and rich, with explosive dark berry, mocha, licorice, cedar and crushed rock touches, tilting toward herbal underbrush notes on the finish but never losing focus on the fruit. Drink now through 2032.”
92+ Points Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
“The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa, which is 83% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Petit Verdot, 6% Merlot, 3% Syrah, shows a dense ruby/purple color, super - concentration, chocolate, a touch of oak and a medium to full-bodied impressively concentrated style. It’s approachable now but perhaps will be better in 4-5 years and last 20.”
Double Gold 2016 San Francisco Wine Competition
91 Points Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast
"From both hillside sites and valley floor, this entry-level wine is impressively made and ready to be enjoyed. A mix of rose petals and raspberry preserves surround a good grip of tannin and savory tease of clove, before a lengthy finish adds to the experience. It’s made with 2% Petit Verdot and 1% Cabernet Franc."
92 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
“Fairly rich and concentrated, with excellent depth and a range of flavor built around dark berry, mocha, espresso, cedar and tobacco notes, turning graceful midpalate and ending with a persistent finish. Offers ripe, interwoven tannins. Drink now through 2024.”
90 Points Antonio Galloni, Vinour Media
“The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon is dark, rich and voluptuous. Mocha, espresso, plum, black cherry and intense spices all meld together in a textured, layered wine loaded with class and personality. As always, the Hall Cabernets are forward, fruit-driven and super-rich. This is a great introduction to the house style.”
91 Points Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast
“The winery's most approachable Cabernet when young, this features notes of chocolate-covered cherry and red and blue berry, intermixed with soft, yet substantial tannins. Peppercorn dances on the palate through the finish. A high-octane intensity suggests that the wine should spend more time in the Cellar, through 2021. Cellar Selection.”
91 Points Stephan Tanzer, International Wine Cellar
“Pungent blueberry, cassis, mineral and licorice aromas show an almost liqueur-like sweetness. Then suave and fine-grained in the mouth, with concentrated, smooth dark berry and licorice flavors. The strong, building finish features intense, bright dark fruits and sweet chewy tannins.”
95 Points Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
“A dense, full-bodied wine with lots of creme de cassis, charcoal, licorice and forest floor, the wine is opulent and already delicious and powerful.”
91 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
“Dark and rich, with explosive dark berry, mocha, licorice, cedar and crushed rock touches, tilting toward herbal underbrush notes on the finish but never losing focus on the fruit. Drink now through 2032.”
Kathryn Hall Cabernet Sauvignon
94 Points, James Molesworth, Wine Spectator
"This is in the lush, forthright style, with waves of warmed cassis, plum reduction and fig preserves. Moves steadily, showing hints of singed alder and cedar, along with warm earth and tobacco nuances along the way. Finishes dense, deep and broad in feel. Feels like a throwback to the late '90s/early '00s power style."
96-98 (barrel) Points Lisa Perrotti-Brown, The Wine Independent
"The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Kathryn Hall was tasted as a barrel sample. Deep garnet-purple in color, it waltzes out with gregarious notions of stewed black plums, black cherry compote, and creme de cassis with hints of clove oil, dark chocolate, and cedar. Full-bodied, rich, and spicy and the mouth, the concentrated black fruit preserves flavors are well supported by velvety tannins and just enough freshness, finishing on a lingering cedary note."
95-97 Points Jeb Dunnuck, Jeb Dunnuck
"The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Kathryn Hall comes from a mix of sites in the valley. It's a ripe, concentrated, impressive 2021 offering lots of ripe plum and darker currant-like fruit as well as ample baking spice, leather, and dried tobacco notes. Rich and full-bodied, with ripe tannins, beautiful mid-palate density, and a great finish, this ripe, sexy, pleasure-bent beauty will also evolve gracefully."
97 Points Owen Bargreen, Wine Critic
"The 2021 HALL ‘Katheryn Hall’ Cabernet Sauvignon is a knockout bottling that follows an incredibly long line of this wine. Mainly coming from the Sacrache Vineyard, this wine displays beautiful dark florals on the nose alongside mocha, creme de cassis and exotic spices. The palate is soft, round and generous with a seamless texture, showing serious concentration and power. Finishing long with roasted figs, refined tannins and copious minerals, this is a silky, elegant Napa Cabernet that is already drinking beautifully. Drink 2023-2040."
94 Points Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
"The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Kathryn Hall is built on a core of the best blocks at Sacrashe. It offers up copious red-toned fruit mixed with sweet spice, floral notes and mocha overtones. As is typically the case, the Kathryn Hall is one of the more aromatic wines in the range."
91 Points Joe Czerwinski, Wine Advocate
"The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Kathryn Hall features upfront notes of dark chocolate, plums and black cherries on the nose, while the full-bodied palate is rich and velvety. It's a popular but slightly dated style, but it's well made and should be delicious over the short term."
90 Points Elaine C. Brown, Wine Enthusiast
"Brawny, bold and persistent, this concentrated and savory Cabernet fills the palate with flavors of boysenberry, pine pitch and smoky spices. Dusty earth tannins and glittering acidity persist through a long finish."
95-97 Points Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate
"A barrel sample of 97% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3% Merlot, the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Kathryn Hall is opaque purple-black colored with a beautiful perfume of bold black currants, Black Forest cake and aniseed with candied violets, ripe red and black plums and rose hip tea notions plus a waft of forest floor. The full-bodied palate is a little closed and tightly wound with elegant, fine-grained tannins and seamless freshness, finishing long and fragrant."
94 Points James Molesworth, Wine Spectator
"Rich and ripe, with a caressing edge to its plum paste and cassis core, while melted red licorice, red tea and iron notes add range and length through the fine-grained finish. Not shy on stuffing, but there's a nice sense of refinement to the structure, which lets the fruit play out nicely. Best from 2022 through 2037."
93 Points Joe Czerwinski, Wine Advocate
"There are 6,500 cases of the flagship 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Kathryn Hall, based largely on fruit from the Sacrashe Vineyard, at the eastern edge of the Rutherford AVA. A blend of 96% Cabernet Sauvignon and 4% Merlot, aged in 75% new barrels (mainly Taransaud), it's cedary on the nose, with plenty of cassis and black cherries in support. Full-bodied and plush, this well-endowed effort finishes long and softly dusty, with just a touch of alcoholic warmth."
97 Points Owen Bargreen, Wine Critic
"Mostly sourced from the Sacrashe Vineyard, the stunning 2019 HALL ‘Kathryn Hall’ Cabernet Sauvignon offers a seamless, pillowy texture mid-palate. Showing good weight, and underlying acidity. Dense and jam-packed full of blackberry and huckleberry flavors, this connects with espresso grounds and dark chocolate shaving accents. This is dense, hedonistic and silky, remarkably approachable Cabernet Sauvignon that is absolutely delicious to consume right now. Drink 2022-2038."
95-97 Points Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate
"A barrel sample of 97% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3% Merlot, the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Kathryn Hall is opaque purple-black colored with a beautiful perfume of bold black currants, Black Forest cake and aniseed with candied violets, ripe red and black plums and rose hip tea notions plus a waft of forest floor. The full-bodied palate is a little closed and tightly wound with elegant, fine-grained tannins and seamless freshness, finishing long and fragrant."
95 Points James Molesworth, Wine Spectator
"Rich and ripe, with a caressing edge to its plum paste and cassis core, while melted red licorice, red tea and iron notes add range and length through the fine-grained finish. Not shy on stuffing, but there's a nice sense of refinement to the structure, which lets the fruit play out nicely. Best from 2022 through 2037."
94-96 Points Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate
"A barrel sample of 96% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Merlot, the 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Kathryn Hall is opaque purple-black colored and bursts flamboyantly from the glass, revealing notes of spice cake, potpourri, Ceylon tea and incense notes over a core of black currant cordial, black forest cake and baked blackberries with a waft of dusty soil. The palate is full, rich, spicy and seductive with a velvety texture and seamless freshness, finishing long and perfumed."
91-93 Points Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
"The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Kathryn Hall is plush, dark and jammy, with tons of palate presence and resonance. Medium in body and pliant, the 2017 is shaping up nicely. Red fruit, cedar, iron, licorice, dried herb and earthy notes all develop in the glass. Most of this fruit is from Hall's Sacrashe vineyard in Rutherford."
97 Points Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate
"Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Kathryn Hall sashays out of the glass with beguiling notions of warm black and red currants, fresh blackberries, black raspberries and boysenberries with touches of rose hip tea, forest floor, pencil shavings and violets. Full-bodied with a taut foundation of firm, fine-grained tannins and bags of freshness, it has layer upon layer of perfumed black and red fruits, finishing long and fragrant."
97 Points Owen Bargreen, International Wine Report
"The 2016 ‘Katheryn Hall’ Cabernet Sauvignon is a show-stopping wine from superstar winemaker Steve Leveque. The core fruit source for the wine is the Sacrache Vineyard as this is a barrel-selection Cabernet Sauvignon wine. The nose is simply captivating as violets and tar collide with shades of blueberry compote and sweet pipe tobacco that all sing in the glass. Soft and plush on the mouth, the wine delivers a seamless quality with wonderful weight that truly entices. Blueberry compote, leather, mocha, creosote and shades of Asian spices all shine brightly on this exceedingly good palate. With polished tannins this finishes long with dark fruits and minerals. While a delight to consume in its youth, the 2016 ‘Katheryn Hall’ will provide drinking enjoyment for twenty years."
91-94 Points (barrel) Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
“Crème de cassis, blueberry jam, licorice and French oak abound in the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Kathryn Hall. In most vintages, the Kathryn Hall leans towards the redder end of the fruit spectrum, but in 2016 the wine is decidedly dark. Sumptuous, silky and richly textured, the 2016 has quite a bit to offer.”
94-96 Points (barrel) Jeb Dunnuck, Wine Critic
“The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Kathryn Hall is also gorgeous. Currants, cassis, spring flowers, and hints of underbrush all emerge from this full-bodied, opulent and seamless barrel sample that has richness with no weight, fine tannin, and stunning purity of fruit. It much more approachable than the 2015 but should age gracefully as well.”
95+ Points Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate
"Very deep purple-black, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Kathryn Hall offers up exuberant black cherries, black berries and plum preserves notes with wafts of crushed blackcurrants, red roses, tilled black soil, ground pepper and cedar chest plus a touch of espresso. Full-bodied, concentrated and delivering layer upon layer of earth and spice-laced black fruits, it has a solid line of grainy tannins and plenty of freshness to support, with a very long finish."
98 Points Owen Bargreen, International Wine Report
“The Cabernet has amazing balance on the mid-palate, alongside lovely weight. While this is obviously a heavy Cabernet, the elegance here is amazing. Mocha, tar, cigar box, creme de cassis and Turkish coffee flavors persist alongside some moderate tannins. There is a seamless quality to this wine that is hard to describe.”
95 Points Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate
“Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Kathryn Hall opens with intense crème de cassis, mulberries and plum preserves notions over hints of Chinese five spice, tapenade and smoky bacon, plus a touch of dried Provence herbs. Full-bodied, concentrated and powerfully fruited on the palate, it has a soft, inviting frame of fine-grained tannins and loads of spice and savory layers coming through on the long finish.”
96 Points Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
“The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Kathryn Hall from Napa is another blockbuster, exhibiting an opaque bluish purple color, notes of charcoal, graphite, blackberry, chocolate and exotic spices, a full-bodied mouthfeel, and a long, long finish. Like most 2013s, it is just hinting at its ultimate potential, but this wine is loaded and exciting. Forget it for another 4-5 years and drink it over the following three decades!”
91-93 Points Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
“The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Kathryn Hall is one of the silkiest, most polished wines in the range. Sweet raspberry, rose petals, mint and red-fleshed fruits all blossom in the glass. Racy and voluptuous to the core, the Kathryn Hall is also distinctly bright in its voice. Mocha, ripe red cherry, plum and sweet floral/spiced notes meld into the finish. The base for the Kathryn Hall is the Sacrashe Vineyard, in Rutherford. Like all of the wines here, the Kathryn Hall is rich and extracted, but it also always has an attractive aromatic upper register.”
97+ Points Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
“The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Kathryn Hall is largely sourced from their Sacrashe Vineyard. The color is dense ruby/purple. The wine is very young, and less evolved than many of its peers, but bursting with potential. Lots of blueberry and black raspberry fruit with a hint of mocha and background oak are all present in this full-bodied, opulent, absolutely spectacular Cabernet Sauvignon. This is a long-distance runner, although not so much because of the tannic structure, because the fruit seems younger and more primary than some of its siblings. Nevertheless, it is loaded with potential promise, and as Kathryn Hall says so frequently, “Magic.” This full-bodied, classic Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa should hit its prime in 4-5 years and last at least two decades or more.”
95 Points Cellar Selection Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast
“Pulling from both the Sacrashe and Bergfeld vineyards, as well as other partner sites, this is a tremendously impressive wine, bright in herb, cedar and cassis, with soft, integrated tannins. Concentrated, it maintains elegance despite the full-bodied luxuriousness, finishing in decadent chocolate. Drink now through 2022.”
91-93 Points Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
“Dark cherries, plums, spices, smoke, licorice and menthol all flesh out in the Cabernet Sauvignon Kathryn Hall. Inviting, rich and seductive, the 2012 is beautiful and totally expressive today. Sweet floral, spice and raspberry notes add complexity on the perfumed finish.”
92 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
“Aromas of red candy and candied apple fold over to the palate in this elegant, medium-weight style. Shows hints of crushed rock and minerality. Long and clean on the finish. Drink now through 2027.”
93 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
“Beautifully orchestrated, rich and juicy offering an opulent array of delishously ripe and layered red and black fruits, with blackberry, currant and raspberry flavors, shaded by mocha and toasty-cedary oak nuances. Drink now through 2025.“
93 Points Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast
“Dark and dense, this is sourced from the winery's own Sacrashe property in the hillsides of Rutherford, as well as Bergfeld Vineyard. The wine has a concentrated and jammy quality that doesn't step over the edge. It offers anise, blackberry ,black currant and dried herb around a soft, rounded mouthfeel and long finish. Enjoy 2021-2026. Cellar Selection. “
88-91 Points Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
“The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Kathryn Hall’s deep ruby/purple hue is followed by a wine with clean, pure, black currant fruit, medium body, more concentration than most 2011s, good balance, low acidity and ripe tannin. It should turn out to be very good, possibly outstanding.”
96 Points Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
“The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Kathryn Hall Cabernet Sauvignon is another big, beautifully pure, multidimensional, textured and impressive effort revealing lots of creme de cassis and spring flowers, full body and long, sweet tannins. Again, brilliant winemaking has turned out a terrific 2010 that should evolve for two decades or more. Readers should not miss this portfolio of compelling 2010s. Kudos to former Ambassador to Austria, Kathryn Hall.”
93 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
“Offers bold, ripe tiers of dark berry fruit, plum, currant and blackberry flavors, with oak shadings and hints of anise, cigar box and cedar. The finish is long.”
92 Points Stephen Tanzer, International Wine Cellar
"Sexy high-toned aromas of cassis, licorice, dark chocolate and minerals. Sweet, suave and pliant, offering a captivating combination of generosity of texture and underlying power. Broader than the Jack's Masterpiece but less sweet in the early going, showing a firm acid/tannin underpinning. Finishes with substantial dusty, ripe, seamless tannins and a chocolatey quality."
91 Points Steve Heimoff, Wine Enthusiast
“Softness of texture and extremely ripe fruit characterize this Cabernet Sauvignon, which has a few drops of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. It’s huge in extracted blackberries and raspberries, while caramelized new oak adds to the impression of overall richness. Not showing much finesse now, just power, but it should age well; try after 2018.”
93 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
“Ultrarich and multiflavored, with a range of deep, baked berry notes. Intense and focused, balanced and persistent, this ends with touches of red and black licorice and subtle, grainy earth accents and tannins.”
91 Points Antonio Galloni, Wine Advocate
“Sweet red cherries, flowers and spices are some of the nuances that emerge from this silky, polished Cabernet Sauvignon.”
90 Points Stephen Tanzer, International Wine Cellar
"Good saturated ruby-red. Super-ripe aromas of dark fruits, coffee and mocha. Sweet and large-scaled if a bit unrefined, with a smooth texture and considerable alcoholic power to the chocolatey fruit. Plenty of ripeness and depth here but today the wine's exotic oak component is keeping the fruit under wraps."
96 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
“Rich, savory and full-bodied, showing direct, potent young Cabernet flavors built around blackberry and dark berry fruit, with touches of spice, black licorice, mineral and toasty wood. Very impressive for its purity, finesse and graceful finish. #2 on Wine Spectator's "Top 100 Wines of 2011”
94 Points Steve Heimoff, Wine Enthusiast
"This is a best of barrels blend from HALL's various vineyards, including the famous Sacrashe. The wine itself is lovely. It has a firm structure thanks to dusty tannins and a dry minerality, while bright acidity makes the cherry, blackberry, blueberry, cassis and dark chocolate fruit sing."
93+ Points Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
"Full-bodied, showing notes of minerality and more dusty, loamy scents intermixed with crushed rock, black currants and herbs, it is a deep, full-bodied wine.”
92+ Points Stephen Tanzer, International Wine Cellar
“Currant, bitter chocolate and seductive oak on the nose, complicated by loamy soil tones. Sweet, pliant and fine-grained, with cassis, espresso and mocha _flavors. At once sweet and nicely delineated; this really fills the mouth. This very firmly built cabernet finishes with superb mouth-dusting tannins and excellent length.”
96 Points Steve Heimoff, Wine Enthusiast
“One of the richest Cabernets of the vintage. Amazingly soft and velvety in the mouth, yet there's a solid grip of acidity and tannins that balance the richness. The flavors are extraordinary, ranging from blackberry and cherry-pie filling through currant liqueur and milk chocolate to leather. So decadent now, it's hard to resist, but should develop for 4-6 years."
96 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
“A big, dense, concentrated wine, with wonderful aromas marked by chewy tannins, yet the core currant and blackberry flavors and savory herb and earth nuances provide a solid foundation. Best from 2010 through 2016.”
95 Points Steve Heimoff, Wine Enthusiast
"Outstanding for its purity, and the incredibly fine tannins, not to mention the compelling flavors. Black and red cherries, currants, cola, mushrooms, cedar, anise and spice flavors mingle into a long, rich finish. So balanced and elegant. Made from 95% Sacrashe Vineyard fruit, in the Rutherford AVA."
90+ Points Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
“Medium to full-bodied with a more aggressive structure [than the 2005] as well as a more noticeable astringency to the tannins, but with the necessary depth of fruit and concentration for balance.”
92 Points Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
"The 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon (primarily estate fruit) reveals a deep ruby purple color as well as sweet, tarry, black currant, and chocolate notes with hints of wood smoke and spice box... It should drink beautifully for 15 or more years."
92 Points Steve Heimoff, Wine Enthusiast
"Firmly tannic and dry, this Cabernet, which was blended with a little Merlot, Malbec and Petit Verdot, is one for the cellar. The tannins are tough and astringent, but when they melt away over the next decade or so, they’ll leave behind sweet currants, cedar and violets."
Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon
96-98 Points Jeb Dunnuck, Jeb Dunnuck
"More black (and some blue) fruits, creosote, scorched earth, iron, and bouquet garni-like notes emerge from the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain, a powerful appellation release that's full-bodied and has a concentrated, pure, layered mouthfeel, ripe, substantial tannins, and a great finish. Displaying classic Howell Mountain character, this gorgeous wine will evolve for 25+ years if well stored."
94-96 (barrel) Points Lisa Perrotti-Brown, The Wine Independent
"The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain was tasted as a barrel sample. Deep garnet-purple in color, it is a touch closed to start off, soon opening out to offer glimpses at wet slate, crushed blackberries, and fresh blackcurrants notes, plus suggestions of lavender, bouquet garni, and beef dripping. The full-bodied palate offers tight-knit black fruit and earthy/mineral accents, supported by a solid backbone of grainy tannins and wonderful freshness, finishing long and energetic.
94 Points Joe Czerwinski, Wine Advocate
"Hall's 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain reps this AVA faithfully, with scents of blueberries and pine needles accented by deep mocha shadings. Like all of Hall's high-end Cabernets, it's full-bodied, ripe and concentrated, but this one seems particularly lush, with a dense, creamy texture that turns velvety on the long, lingering finish."
94 Points Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
"The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain is packed with blue/black fruit, lavender, licorice, chocolate, spice, menthol, tobacco and dried herbs. This is an especially full-throttle style for Howell Mountain, but it works quite well. Time in the glass opens the bouquet nicely. Vineyard sources are about as good as it gets."
92 Points Elaine Chukan Brown, Wine Enthusiast
"Subtle aromatics flip into abundant flavor and a muscular, full-bodied Cabernet of candied plums, figs, tobacco and spices. Mouthwatering and peppery, these flavors are wrapped with powdery fine abundant tannins. This Cabernet captures the promise of fully ripe, abundant fruits and a savory accent."
96 Points Lisa Perrotti-Brown, The Wine Independent
“The single-varietal 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain is deep garnet-purple in color. It opens with notes of crushed rocks, cast-iron pan, and garrigue over a core of creme de cassis and baked blackberries, plus a hint of wild sage. The full-bodied palate is densely laden with black fruit and earthy layers, supported by firm, ripe, grainy tannins and plenty of freshness, finishing on a lingering ferrous note.”
95+ Points Joe Czerwinski, Wine Advocate
“Made from purchased fruit, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain is slightly floral-herbal, fragrant and perfumed, with those elements delicately wrapped around a core of blueberry and cherry fruit, plus maple-syrup-like oak nuances. Full-bodied and maybe even a bit warm, it's reasonably supple but concentrated, rich and velvety. The long, mocha-tinged finish closes with a wash of softly dusty tannins.”
93 Points James Molesworth, Wine Spectator
“Well-packed, delivering a mix of black currant and boysenberry fruit with good tension, while violet, melted licorice and blueberry sauce notes fill in on the finish. Has a polished feel, but there's a racy iron note buried here, too, for a nice sense of terroir. Best from 2023 through 2035.”
97 Points Jeb Dunnuck, Jeb Dunnuck
“Textbook blue fruits, sappy flowers, spice box, and foresty, herbal notes all emerge from the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain, a perfectly balanced, layered, seamless mountain Cabernet Sauvignon. It’s deep purple-hued and has perfectly integrated fruit, tannins, and acidity, background oak, and a great finish. It’s another 20– to 25-year wine from this great estate."
93-95 Points Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate
"Opaque purple-black colored, the barrel sample of 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain is a little closed, slowly offering up warm black cherries, fresh black currants and blackberry compote with licorice, red roses, fragrant earth and bay leaves plus a waft of crushed rocks. The palate is full-bodied, firm, grainy and fresh with loads of earthy layers and a mineral-tinged finish."
97 Points Owen Bargreen, Washington Wine Blog
"The 2017 ‘Howell Mountain’ Cabernet Sauvignon is a sensational new release by HALL. Gorgeous aromatics of creme de cassis, Turkish coffee, smoke and blueberry compote all collide on the nose. The palate shows off its silky, seductive texture and scintillating length. Layers of black cherry cough syrup, mocha and tar are woven together with sweet pipe tobacco, tar and graphite. The wonderful sense of range here is particularly striking. With great weight and poise, this is a stunning Cabernet Sauvignon that has some serious aging potential. Drink 20021-2045"
91 Points James Molesworth, Wine Spectator
"Nicely packed with ripe plum, boysenberry and blackberry compote flavors, this red is harnessed by a strong graphite spine and singed alder notes on the finish. Light violet and licorice snap accents chime in the background. A touch toothy on the finish, but still solid. Best from 2021 through 2031."
92 Points Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast
"This is a substantially dense, hearty wine, rich and round in style, with structured tannins. Sweet oak envelopes packed layers of blueberry, mocha and vanilla, showing a hint of the mountain in cocoa powder and dust."
93 Points James Molesworth, Wine Spectator
"Packed with açaí berry, blackberry and fig notes, this is fruit-laden from the get-go. Features waves of warm ganache and melted black licorice as well, with a singed alder streak on the grippy yet integrated finish to help knit all the elements together. Best from 2021 through 2034."
94-96 Points Jeb Dunnuck, Jeb Dunnuck
"The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain offers classic Howell Mountain blue fruits as well as ample leafy herbs, spring flowers, and incense. It's opulent, ripe, hedonistic and powerful, yet light on its feet and graceful. This cuvee will see 26 months in 75% new French oak and should have 2-3 decades of longevity."
94 Points Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate
"Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain is a little broody to begin and then, with coaxing, offers glimpses at fertile loam, fungi and charcoal notes over a core of blackcurrant pastilles, mulberries and ripe plum plus a waft of stewed tea. Full-bodied, the palate is packed with earth and mineral accents, framed by firm, sturdy tannins and compelling freshness, finishing on a lingering minerally note."
94 Points Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
"The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain is a wine more of nuance than anything else. Medium in body with terrific aromatic presence and drive, the 2016 is less obvious than some of the other wines in this range, but it has plenty going on. Super-ripe red cherry, plum, rose petal, mint and dried flowers all open up, but the 2016 still needs time to be at its very best."
95+ Points Jeb Dunnuck, Jeb Dunnuck
"More blue fruits, charcoal, scorched earth, and forest floor notes emerge from the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain, and it stays tight, backward, and structured on the palate, with plenty of tannins, beautiful purity, and good acidity. This is a magical, ageworthy mountain Cabernet that's going to benefit from a solid 4-6 years of bottle age."
97 Points Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate
“Very deep purple-black in color, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain displays compelling earth-inspired and savory notes of black truffles, fertile loam, mossy bark, yeast extract, black olives and sautéed herbs over a core of baked plums, black cherry compote, blackcurrant cordial and dark chocolate plus a waft of lilacs. Full-bodied, super intense and jam-packed with black fruits and earthy layers, it has a firm, grainy frame in the mouth and very long, savory finish.”
94-97 Points Jeb Dunnuck, Jeb Dunnuck
“The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain cuvee offers classic Howell Mountain blue fruits as well as lots of intermixed cedary spice, dried flowers and brambly herbs. It's ripe, opulent and deep, with building tannin and the incredible purity that's the hallmark of this estate. It's seriously good.”
90-93 Points (barrel) Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
“Hall's 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon (Howell Mountain) is another rich, hedonistic wine. Here, too, the balance of fruit and tannin is impressive, especially for a young Cabernet. Black cherry, plum, new French oak, menthol, licorice, savory herbs, earthiness and dark spices are front and center. This is an especially flamboyant, ripe style for Howell Mountain.”
92 Points Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
“The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon (Howell Mountain) is rich and explosive in the glass. There is no shortage of fruit intensity or pure power. Today, the 2015 is very young and primary, it is still interesting to see how the wine develops with time in bottle.”
95+ Points Lisa Perotti-Brown, Wine Advocate
“Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain reveals notes of freshly crushed black currants and blackberries with underlying kirsch, cigar box, dried mint, chargrilled meat and new leather hints. Very big, full-bodied and decadent in the mouth, it has velvety tannins and exotic spices accenting the black fruit preserves flavors, leading to a very long finish.”
99 Points Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
“The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain is exquisite. It has an impenetrable blue/black color to the rim, a gorgeous nose of incense, charcoal, mulberry and blackberry liqueur, a multi-layered texture, and terrific purity and length. Keep in mind this is a 2013, so it has at least 25-30 years of upside and would probably benefit from 4-5 years of additional bottle age. This is sensational.”
90-93 Points Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
“A huge, massively endowed wine, the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain is incredibly raw and unformed today. The purity of the fruit, though, is striking. Graphite, pencil shavings and crushed rocks are laced into the inky, extracted finish. The Howell Mountain Cabernet emerges from three sources. Like all the Hall Cabernets, the Howell is powerful and massively extracted, but these hillsides might be able to handle that approach. We will see when the wine is bottled.”
98+ Points Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
“Part of what Kathryn Hall calls her Artisan Collection, the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain has a dense ruby/purple color and a glorious nose of boysenberry, mulberry and blueberry that soars from the glass and saturates the olfactory senses. This is one of the greatest Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignons I have ever had the pleasure of tasting, and I’ve had many a top one. With just a hint of graphite and beautiful well-integrated acidity, the new oak, which I’m sure is substantial – pushed way to the background because of the extravagant fruit and an unctuous texture – make for a near-perfect wine to drink over the next two decades. This is stunning, even profound, wine. Kudos.”
94 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
“Rich and powerful, with a dense core of pure blackberry and wild berry that is remarkably plush, focused and persistent. Ends with cascading mocha and berry fruit that’s supple and graceful. Drink now through 2028.”
94 Points (Cellar Selection) Wine Enthusiast
93-95 Points Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
“A deep, inky wine, the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain boasts serious depth and density, with tons of dark, opulent fruit framed by equally compelling Howell Mountain minerality. The flavors remain beautifully precise and layered all the way through to the finish. This is a hugely promising Cabernet Sauvignon from Hall. There is so much to look forward to here.”
90-92 Points Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
“The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain displays the finest depth of these 2011s along with splendid ripeness, a full-bodied mouthfeel, good length and a rich, textured finish with lots of blueberry, black currant and graphite characteristics. This impressive effort is another example of why Howell Mountain may have been Napa’s most successful appellation in 2011.”
91 Points Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
“The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain comes across as super-compact and introverted, with less of the immediate appeal of the other wines in this range. Graphite, smoke, black cherries and plums all take shape in the glass, but the 2011 remains unexpressive, even with considerable aeration. Hall's Howell Mountain Cabernet, while outstanding, doesn't quite reach the level of the best wines of the appellation, one of the few areas in Napa Valley that largely excelled in 2011.”
90 Points Stephen Tanzer, International Wine Cellar
“Medium ruby-red. Musky aromas of currant, mocha, licorice and coffee bean. Concentrated and nicely ripe, with enticing sweetness to the currant, tobacco and mocha flavors. Just a touch of greenness here, but it's nicely supported by the wine's rather creamy texture. Finishes with ripe tannins and bright firming acidity.”
96 Points Antonio Galloni, Wine Advocate
“2010 HALL "Howell Mountain" Cabernet Sauvignon - The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Hall (Howell Mountain) possesses staggering richness and power. I loved it.”
94 Points Steve Heimoff, Wine Enthusiast
“Here’s the poster child for a massive Howell Mountain Cabernet. Made from 100% Cabernet, it shows the concentrated intensity of mountain fruit, with a molten core of blackberry essence, cassis liqueur, cola and spice flavors, liberally oaked and wrapped into gorgeously thick but fine tannins. So delicious now, it’s hard to wait, but this wine is a guaranteed ager.”
93 Points Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
“The dense purple-colored 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain offers beautiful blueberry, black raspberry and floral aromas, full body, and a pure, textured style. The tannins are melted and well-integrated It is a terrific example of a Howell Mountain Cabernet.”
93 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
“Smooth, rich and creamy-textured, with a mix of mocha, currant, dark berry and espresso flavors that are tightly focused, gliding along on the long, persistent finish.”
92+ Points Stephen Tanzer, International Wine Cellar
"Cassis and a meaty suggestion of flank steak on the nose. Rich and sweet if a bit youthfully aggressive today and less open than the Diamond Mountain and Stags Leap cabernet. This will need time in bottle to develop more nuance and communicate its soil character. Finishes with substantial dusty tannins and a note of menthol."
Exzellenz Cabernet Sauvignon
93 Points James Molesworth, Wine Spectator
"Broad, rich and well-toasted, this delivers a rolling wave of warmed cassis, steeped plum and mulled blackberry notes allied to licorice root, worn cedar and singed alder accents. A long loamy detail underscores the finish as the fruit lingers. Certainly not shy about aiming for power rather than freshness."
96 Points Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
"The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Exzellenz is a blend taken from the best blocks at Sacrashe. It captures all the magic of this evocative, elite site, but with an added kick of textural intensity. Dark red plum, kirsch, mocha, licorice, spice and new leather are some of the many notes that build into the substantial finish."
95-97 Points Jeb Dunnuck, Jeb Dunnuck
"More red and black fruit, spice cabinet, new leather, and dried flower notes all emerge from the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Exzellenz, a more forward, complex, approachable 2021 that still has the vintage's pure, focused, utterly classic style. It's going to be one of the more approachable wines in this lineup, but it will still benefit from 2-4 years in the cellar."
95-97 Points Lisa Perotti-Brown, The Wine Independent
"The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Exzellenz is deep garnet-purple in color. Notes of black cherries, mulberries, and blackcurrant cordial leap from the glass, giving way to hints of pencil shavings, fallen leaves, and Sichuan pepper. The full-bodied palate is jam packed with ripe black fruit layers and a firm, grainy texture, offering soft acidity and a long, decadent finish. This wine was tasted as a barrel sample."
93 Points Joe Czerwinski, Wine Advocate
"Mainly from the Sacrashe Vineyard (95%), the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Exzellenz is a 1,000-case selection that raises the bar, quality-wise. Rather than just being dark and rich, it's floral and perfumed, with red berries joined by hints of cedar and menthol. Full-bodied and rich yet fresh and framed by fine-grained tannins, this is a fine Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon."
92 Points Elaine Chukan Brown, Wine Enthusiast
"Rich and full-bodied, this Cabernet Sauvignon combines bold and lush character with flavors of dark fruits, sandalwood, tobacco, pitch and freshening bay laurel. Powdery, palate-coating tannins and a persistent finish complete the wine."
98 Points Owen Bargreen, Wine Critic
"Entirely sourced from the Sacrashe Vineyard, which is a hillside site, the 2019 HALL ‘Excellenz’ Cabernet Sauvignon reveals tar and scorched earth with sweet pipe tobacco and creme de violette notes. The palate is massive, dense and tannic, with hedonistic dark and blue fruits, with Turkish coffee, Nutella and pencil lead accents. Sensational to consume now, this beauty is just coming into its own and will surely live on for another twenty years to come. Give this beauty another year in the bottle before consuming. Drink 2023-2042."
97 Points Jeb Dunnuck, Jeb Dunnuck
"The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Exzellenz is another wine from this team that plays at the upper end of the spectrum. Incredibly aromatic with notes of bloody black and blue fruits, iron, leather, and tobacco, it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a round, lush, pleasure-bent mouthfeel, velvety tannins, and a great, great finish. I followed this bottle for multiple days, and it never failed to impress. It can be drunk any time over the coming 20-25 years."
96 Points Joe Czerwinski, The Wine Advocate
"Predominantly Sacrashe Vineyard fruit (94%), the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Exzellenz—named for Kathryn's ambassadorship to Austria (1997 – 2001)—shows more floral notes than many of the other Hall Cabernets, bringing an intriguing complexity to the purple raspberry fruit. Medium to full-bodied, this wine is firmly built but silky, with a long, mouthwatering finish."
99 Points Jeb Dunnuck, Wine Critic
"I've loved this cuvée in the past, and the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Exzellenze certainly doesn't disappoint. Coming from a site in Rutherford (the Sacrashe Vineyard), it's one of the riper, sexier wines in the lineup and offers a heavenly nose of spiced red and black fruits intermixed with notes of new leather, loamy soil, chocolate, and Asian spice. Gorgeous on the palate, it's full-bodied and has velvety tannins, ample flesh and fatness, no hard edges, and a great finish. It's already impossible to resist, yet I have no doubt it will evolve for 25+ years if stored properly. It's another impeccably made wine from this team that’s well worth your time and effort."
96-98 Points Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate
"A barrel sample blend of 91% Cabernet Sauvignon and 9% Cabernet Franc, the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Exzellenz is opaque purple-black colored. The nose is broody and closed, unfurling to reveal baked blackberries, plum preserves and black currant pastilles with hints of chocolate cake, licorice, charcoal and fragrant soil. Full-bodied, fine grained and with impressive tension, the palate offers layer upon layer of black and blue fruits, finishing long and fragrant."
94-96 Points Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
"The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Exzellenz is a wild, exotic wine. Iron, dried flowers, white pepper, mint and earthy overtones are some of the many notes that open up as the 2018 sits in the glass. Powerful and super-concentrated, with striking aromatic brightness and energy, the Exzellenz is another Cabernet in this range that really shows off the Hall style to great effect."
93 Points Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast
"Deep ruby red, the 2017 Exzellenz exhibits tightly wound aromas that take time to open. Deep and intense layers of black cherry, earth, freshly ground coffee, warm baking spice. The palate is powerful and energetic - full of inky dark fruits, chocolate, and leather. The dense frame of tannin is supported by a supple and full mid-palate that leads into a very lengthy, slightly dusty finish."
91-93 Points Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate
"A barrel sample, the opaque purple-black colored 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Exzellenz sings of blackberries, stewed plums, oolong tea and tilled soil with hints of tobacco and new leather. Full-bodied and laden with savory accented black fruits, the palate is chewy with loads of freshness and a grippy finish."
92-94 Points Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
"The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Exzellenz is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from Hall's estate Sacrashe vineyard in Rutherford. Bright, high toned floral, chalky and savory notes perk up the red berry fruit in a taut, striking Cabernet that really captures the essence of this site. Power and nuance come together so well."
98 Points Lisa Perotti-Brown, Wine Advocate
“Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Exzellenz leaps from the glass with exuberant black cherry compote, blackberry pie and cassis notions with hints of preserved plums, spice cake, tobacco and bay leaves. Full-bodied with a solid foundation of firm, grainy tannins and oodles of freshness, it delivers a muscular mid-palate and long, savory finish."
97 Points Owen Bargreen, International Wine Report
“2016 HALL ‘Exzellenz’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The ‘Excellenz’ is limited production wine that was entirely sourced from the Sacrashe Vineyard on Diamond Mountain. The aromatics of the wine are simply gorgeous as the wine immediately unveils crushed mint and black tea that mingle with shades of creme de cassis, Turkish coffee and blueberry compote that sing together in harmony. The silky texture and mouthfeel to the wine is remarkable as soft tannins line this beautiful wine. Blackberry pie, blueberry, tar and milk chocolate with earthy undertones and minerals all marvelously amalgamate on the palate. The exceedingly long finish lingers with black fruits and minerals. While seductive and deep in its youth, this beautiful wine will continue to cellar well for decades."
91-94 Points (barrel) Antonio Galloni, Vinous
“The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Exzellenze is one of the more unctuous, overt wines in this lineup. Dark cherry, chocolate, leather, menthol and torrefaction signatures flesh out in an ample, super-concentrated Cabernet Sauvignon long on intensity and power. There is no shortage of intensity, that much is obvious."
99 Points Lisa Perotti-Brown, Wine Advocate
“Composed of 100% Cabernet Sauvignon and sporting a very deep purple-black color, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Exzellenz unfurls slowly, tantalizingly out of the glass to reveal powerful, intense scents of crème de cassis, Black Forest cake, blueberry compote and preserved plums with an undercurrent of Chinese five spice, molten chocolate, licorice and Marmite toast with wafts of garrigue and camphor. Very rich, full-bodied and concentrated on the palate, it coats the mouth with black and blue fruit preserves plus tons of spice and savory accents, held together by a rock-solid, grainy frame and finishing with epic persistence."
95+ Points Lisa Perotti, Brown, Wine Advocate
“Displaying a deep garnet-purple color, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Exzellenz has a serious, savory nose, featuring smoked meat, chargrill, Indian spices and black pepper notes over a core of preserved plums and mulberries, plus suggestions of tree bark and dusty soil. Full-bodied and very firmly structured, the earthy/savory, muscular fruit is supported by firm, chewy tannins, and it has a long pepper and spice-laced finish.”
100 Points Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
“The last Hall wine I saw from bottle was the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Exzellenz. This hails from the foothills of Rutherford and refers to Kathryn Hall’s ambassadorship to Austria between 1997 and 2001. A prodigious wine with beautiful floral notes intermingled with blueberry, blackberry, black raspberry and graphite, the wine hits the palate with a full-bodied force, but nothing seems pushed, cloying or out of sync. Gorgeously pure blue and black fruits cascade over the palate, a full-bodied presentation with remarkable purity and complexity. The finish is a good 45-50 seconds, and while there is significant tannin, the extravagance of the fruit and glycerin generally conceal it. This is a remarkable, one-of-a-kind, world class Cabernet Sauvignon that should prove compelling for at least another 30-40+ years. While an old geezer like me could commit infanticide and drink it now, most more rational and intelligent people should give this wine 5-7 years of bottle age and drink it over the following half-century or so.”
91-94 Points Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
“The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Exzellenz, a selection from Hall's Sacrashe Vineyard, is rich, voluptuous and powerful. Mocha, plum, raspberry jam and wild flowers are all shaped by the 100% new French oak. This is a classic Hall Cabernet Sauvignon built on textural resonance, power and breadth.”
95+ Points Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
"The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Exzellenz, which comes from their Sacrashe Vineyard in Rutherford seems more tightly knit than the Cabernet Sauvignon Kathryn Hall. Again, it seems like this fruit source of theirs in Rutherford tends to produce wines that need time in bottle. The overwhelming, extravagant, richness is certainly present, as is the vintage personality of opulence, ripeness and fabulous purity and texture. This dense purple wine is loaded, much like all its siblings, but more backward and a longer-term prospect. Forget it for five years and drink it over the next 25.”
100 Points Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
“The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Exzellenz Sacrashe Vineyard appears to be the deepest colored wine of this group. It reveals a pungent, penetrating, haunting bouquet of black and blue fruits as well as spring flowers. Exceptionally rich with perfect balance, a multidimensional skyscraper-like texture, but no heaviness, this is a tour de force in great winemaking. The finish lasts for nearly a minute. This epic Napa Cabernet Sauvignon should evolve over the next 25 years.”
93 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
“Combines rich flavors with a deep, plush texture, offering tiers of blackberry, plum, wild berry and blueberry notes cascading on the palate, unveiling red and black licorice and dark berry pie details.”
93-95 Points Antonio Galloni, Wine Advocate
“Combines rich flavors with a deep, plush texture, offering tiers of blackberry, plum, wild berry and blueberry notes cascading on the palate, unveiling red and black licorice and dark berry pie details.”
94 Points Antonio Galloni, Wine Advocate
"The 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Exzellenz Rutherford Sacrashe Vineyard is a much more understated wine than most of the other 2008s here, with elements of classicism that balance the ripe fruit. Sweet tobacco, flowers, spices are some of the nuances that add complexity. This is still a pretty rich style of Cabernet Sauvignon, but there is more than enough complexity and sheer character in the glass."
92 Points Steve Heimoff, Wine Enthusiast
"Made from 100% Cabernet, this shows the tremendous richness and concentration of previous vintages of this wine, which was aged in 90% new French oak. Huge and flashy in cherry, blackberry and raspberry fruit, gorgeous, sumptuous, fat, although purists will insist it’s too much of a good thing. Hard to predict its long term future, but the next six years are assured.”
96 Points Steve Heimoff, Wine Enthusiast
"The Sacrashe Vineyard repeatedly proves itself as one of the best in Rutherford, if not Napa Valley itself. The 100% Cabernet, is a limited production barrel selection, so delicious in blackberry jam, chocolate, olive and cedar flavors, it's hard to not drain the bottle now. But it also shows fabulously rich tannins that suggest aging. #35 of Wine Enthusiast's "Top 100 American Wines, 2011"
93 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
"A powerful expression, ripe and rich, with tiers of loamy earth, spice, currant, blackberry and herbal notes."
97 Points Steve Heimoff, Wine Enthusiast
"This 100% Cabernet Sauvignon is like a neutron star, with massive power packed into a concentrated mass. Just huge in black currants, black cherries and chocolate, almost as thick as molasses, yet dry and firm and minerally. Vast weight and authority. Cellar Selection." Wine Enthusiast #1 Cellar Selection Wine of the Year
95 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
“Pure, ripe, rich and complex, with a smooth, fleshy mix of currant, plum and black cherry fruit that’s intense and supple, balanced and persistent, scoring points for its pure flavors and its elegant, delicate finish. Cabernet Sauvignon-based blend.”
Montagna Cabernet Sauvignon
96 Points Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
"The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Montagna Vineyards captures the essence of this site on Pritchard Hill. Intense red-toned fruit, cedar, tobacco, rose petal, espresso, spice and mint infuse the palate as this heady, layered Cabernet shows off its alluring personality. Montagna is such an evocative site. Winemaker Megan Gunderson captured all of its sensuality and character. The 2021 was fermented in equal parts concrete and tank."
95-97 Points Jeb Dunnuck, Jeb Dunnuck
"The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Montagna Vineyards comes from a great site on Pritchard Hill and is another concentrated, rich, beautifully textured wine from this team. Ripe black fruits, smoked tobacco, graphite, and rocky, mineral, coffee-like notes give way to a full-bodied, layered 2021 with impressive tannins, plenty of mid-palate depth, and a great finish. It shows its mountain heritage with its structure and depth, yet there's plenty of baby fat and opulence to give it some early appeal as well."
95 Points Joe Czerwinski, Wine Advocate
"The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Montagna Vineyards comes from a site on Pritchard Hill. For a Hall wine, it comes across as the reddest-fruited and most herbal of the wines tasted in this report, offering up scents of raspberries, cherries and dried sage, underscored by hints of mocha. As it should be, it's boldly differentiated from their other offerings. Full-bodied, firm and tannic, with a dusty edge to the finish, it may be the longest lived of the quartet."
95-97 (barrel) Points Lisa Perrotti-Brown, The Wine Independent
"Tasted as a barrel sample, the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Montagna Vineyard is deep garnet-purple in color. Notes of creme de cassis, baked blueberries, and plum preserves burst from the nose, followed by hints of camphor, crushed stones, and vanilla pod with a waft of chocolate. The full-bodied palate is rich and decadent with loads of spicy sparks to the generous black fruit flavors, framed by plush, velvety tannins, finishing very long and opulent."
97 Points Owen Bargreen, Wine Critic
"The 2021 HALL ‘Montagna’ Cabernet Sauvignon comes from Pritchard Hill, located on the slopes that rise on the southern side of Lake Hennessy. The site is lined with scrub brushes and is set on rocky soils at high elevation. A brooding black color, this offers serious viscosity and flavor density with plenty of stony character from this site. Creme de cassis, anise, tar and black licorice candy flavors combine with refined tannins on the palate. Give this beauty at least another year in the bottle before consuming. Drink 2024-2043."
92 Points Elaine Chukan Brown, Wine Enthusiast
"Juicy and generous, while also brawny and full-bodied, this is a Cab with sticky length and rich flavor. Velvety spices and tobacco melt into mixed plums, ripe cherries and cocoa powder. A peppery finish emerges with further sipping."
97+ Points Jeb Dunnuck, Jeb Dunnuck
“The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Montagna Vineyards is going to flirt with perfection at maturity, and it’s clearly up with the crème de la crème in this great vintage. Deep purple-hued, with a monster bouquet of ripe black fruits, chalky minerality, melted chocolate, and licorice, it builds beautifully on the palate and is full-bodied, has a concentrated, structured mouthfeel, and a great finish. This is classic Napa Valley Mountain Cabernet done brilliantly. Hide bottles for 4-5 years and enjoy over the following two decades.”
97 Points Lisa Perrotti-Brown, The Wine Independent
"The single-varietal 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Montagna Vineyard is deep garnet-purple colored. It gallops out with vibrant notes of crushed blackcurrants, fresh plums, and boysenberries, backed up by hints of Indian spices and camphor with a waft of violets. The full-bodied palate is jam packed with juicy black fruits, supported by fine-grained tannins and lovely freshness, finishing long and perfumed."
93 Points James Molesworth, Wine Spectator
“Ripe, well-built and approachable in feel, though no rush, with a round structure carrying a core of black currant, blackberry and black cherry preserves. Shows a solid licorice root spine, with a dusting of bittersweet cocoa on the finish. Best from 2023 through 2036."
94 Points Joe Czerwinski, Wine Advocate
“From a source high on Pritchard Hill, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Montagna Vineyards is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, fermented in a combination of concrete, stainless steel and oak, then matured in 100% new Taransaud barrels. It's full-bodied and rich, with pronounced, dark notes of coffee, cedar and chocolate framing cassis and plum fruit. At the risk of quibbling, it's a bit one-dimensionally dark and brooding, with a slightly coarse, dusty texture on the long finish."
97 Points Jeb Dunnuck, Jeb Dunnuck
“Lots of pure cassis and darker, almost blue fruits as well as iron, crushed stone, new leather, and chocolaty notes emerge from the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Montagna Vineyards, a powerful, concentrated, structured mountain Cabernet Sauvignon that has beautiful tannins as well as balance. Opening up nicely with time in the glass, this full-bodied beauty will benefit from 3-5 years of bottle age and deliver the goods over the following two decades. It's a seriously good bottle of wine and matches what the estate achieved in 2016.”
94-96 Points Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate
“Opaque purple-black colored, the barrel sample of 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Montagna prances out of the glass with crushed black and red plums, warm blueberries and black currant jelly with hints of bay leaves, forest floor and bouquet garni. Full-bodied, the palate is jam packed with ripe black fruits and earthy sparks, framed by grainy tannins and loads of freshness, finishing savory."
94 Points James Molesworth, Wine Spectator
“Another vividly fruited 2018, with a long beam of cassis, distilled plum and blackberry preserves driving through steadily, flanked by violet and sweet bay leaf notes and carried by a graphite edge on the finish. Shows nice freshness throughout. Best from 2022 through 2036."
91-93 Points Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
“The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Montagna is deep, plush and super-concentrated. In this tasting, the Montagna is a pretty rich wine, even by Hall standards. Black cherry, chocolate, licorice, spice and tar add to the wine's potent, broad feel.”
92-94 Points Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate
“Opaque purple-black colored, the barrel sample of 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Montagna prances out of the glass with crushed black and red plums, warm blueberries and black currant jelly with hints of bay leaves, forest floor and bouquet garni. Full-bodied, the palate is jam packed with ripe black fruits and earthy sparks, framed by grainy tannins and loads of freshness, finishing savory."
94 Points Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate
“The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Montagna is deep garnet-purple colored and gives up expressive black cherries, preserved plums and crushed blackcurrants with hints of chocolate mint, Indian spices and fragrant soil plus a waft of violets. Full-bodied, richly fruited and sporting beautifully ripe, fine-grained tannins, it has just enough freshness and a long, spicy finish.”
96 Points Owen Bargreen, International Wine Report
“2016 HALL ‘Montagna Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon- A new wine to the HALL collection of Cabernet Sauvignon wines, the ‘Montagna Vineyard’ is located on Pritchard Hill towards the top of the hill, as the vineyard is blessed with sweeping views of the town of Napa. The nose is highly perfumed here with violets that mingle with shades of black tea, exotic spices, black currants and dusty terroir that all collide in the glass. The silky texture beautifully coats the mid-palate. Chinese black tea, blackberry cobbler, creosote and shades of espresso bean all mingle together on this beautiful palate. There is a wonderful elegance to the wine. With fine grained tannins lining this wine and a wonderful mid-palate weight, this beautiful wine will have an exceedingly long life in the cellar.”
Bergfeld Cabernet Sauvignon
95 Points Owne Bargreen, Wine Critic
"Named after the historic property this is mostly sourced from their Saint Helena Estate which is set on an ancient creek bed with very well-drained soils. The nose shows some stony influence with black rose, tar and graphite notes, alongside boysenberry fruits. The palate is refined and elegant with firm tannins that hold a core of blackberry pie and black cherry cordial, showing very pure black fruits and wet gravel. Drink 2022-2037."
95 Points Owen Bargreen, Wine Critic
"The 2018 ‘Bergfeld’ is located at the HALL property in Saint Helena. 20 acres are planted to mainly Cabernet Sauvignon as soils are very well-drained in this ancient riverbed soils. Showing off its dense and polished mouthfeel, silky tannins line a massive core of blackberry, creme de cassis and mocha flavors with salty undertones and shades of loamy soils on the palate. Gorgeous now, this has a long way to go in t he cellar. Drink 2021-2038"
93 Points Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate
“The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Bergfeld is made from 91% Cabernet Sauvignon and 9% Merlot. Deep garnet-purple colored, it delivers scents of Black Forest cake, crème de cassis and blueberry pie with suggestions of aniseed, clove oil, Chinese five spice and Sichuan pepper. Full-bodied, the richly fruited palate has a solid backbone of grainy tannins and bold freshness, finishing long and spicy.”
92 Points James Molesworth, Wine Spectator
“Well-rendered for the vintage, this lets exotic plum, açaí berry and loganberry fruit splay out, maintaining focus on the anise- and apple wood–tinged finish. Delivers good energy but lacks the vintage's rustic edge. Drink now through 2030.”
92-95 Points (barrel) Lisa Perotti-Brown, Wine Advocate
“The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Bergfeld (a barrel sample) is deep purple-black in color and gives up notes of warm plums, chocolate-covered cherries and wild blueberries with touches of tapenade, tobacco and wild sage. Full-bodied with a firm frame of chewy tannins, it delivers loads of herb-sparked black fruit layers and a very earthy finish.”
92-95 Points (barrel) Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
“The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Bergfeld, from Hall's home vineyard, is a terrific expression of this sector of St. Helena. Floral notes and a host of sweet red cherry, raspberry fruit make a strong first impression. Silky tannins add to the wine's gracious, inviting personality. Rich in flavor and also light on its feet, the Bergfeld is another superb wine from Hall.”
93-95 Points (barrel) Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
“The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Bergfeld is a stunner. Beautiful graphite, spring flowers, blueberry and blackberry fruit, full-bodied opulence, stunning purity and a terrific presence on the palate with no heaviness make for a profound and gorgeous Cabernet Sauvignon to drink over the next 20 years, although it will be absolutely sensational after bottling.”
91-94 Points (barrel) Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
“The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Bergfeld, from Hall's St. Helena vineyard, is deep, powerful and intense, with a solid core of fruit and notable mid-palate depth. This is one of the juicier wines in the lineup, although there is plenty of aromatic brightness that adds lift to the expressive dark red and purplish-hued stone fruits. Radiant and inviting, the 2015 will likely drink well with minimal cellaring.”
96 Points Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast
“Smoke and oak commingle on the nose of this bright, crisply underwritten red, with 7% Merlot. Vibrant in red cherry, red licorice and cassis, the flavors are highlighted along a carpet of velvety texture and serious power. Enjoyable now, this should also be lovely and in full grasp of its grace from 2024–2034. Cellar Selection.”
93 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
“Pure and perfumed, with a rich mix of plum, blackberry, blueberry and raspberry flavors, offering zesty acidity and ripe tannins that give the elements traction and finesse. Ends with a dash of heat. Drink now through 2032.”
94+ Points Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
“The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Bergfeld, which comes from a vineyard in St. Helena, has a softer underbelly than the two mountain Cabs, but beautiful blueberry and blackberry fruit, floral notes, silky tannins, and a nice plush mouthfeel that builds incrementally. This full-bodied, luscious wine should drink well in its first 15-20 years of life.”
90-93 Points Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
“The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Bergfeld emerges from a site on the St. Helena valley floor, right behind the winery and tasting room facility. Today, the tannins are especially dominant, while the radiance and layered personality that is typical of this wine is not especially apparent. It will be interesting to see how the Bergfeld shows after bottling. In this tasting it comes across as not fully formed.
93 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
"Offers pure, rich, explosive fruit, with tiers of blackberry, wild berry, cherry and spice flavors, delivering touches of black licorice and cedary oak. Glides along with a touch of toasty oak and espresso, tightening on the finish."
92 Points Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast
“Bergfeld is named for the winery's historic owner and the land he originally planted around the winery in 1873. Given to old-world airs, the wine is chalky in black fruit, tobacco, and mocha, as well as soft, substantial tannins. Generous in juiciness and structure, it has an herbal quality on the finish.”
89-91 Points Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
“The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Bergfeld offers an attractive blackberry-scented bouquet as well as jammy sweet fruit. I was surprised by the degree of ripeness, richness and personality it possessed for a 2011.”
95 Points Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
“A big, classic St. Helena Cabernet, the powerful 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Bergfeld possesses a glorious bouquet of creme de cassis and kirsch, layers of fruit and power, wonderful purity and a long, full-bodied, voluptuous finish. This is another dazzling Cabernet Sauvignon from proprietress Kathryn Hall.”
94+ Points Antonio Galloni, Wine Advocate
“The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Hall Bergfeld captures the essence of this St. Helena site in its perfumed, red berries, silky tannins and phenomenal length. This is one of the more primary wines at Hall, but it seems to have a very bright future. Today the 2010 is way too rich to truly enjoy, but is super-impressive just the same. A huge, intense, racy finish rounds things out in style.”
93 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
“Pleasantly earthy, dense and concentrated, with a tight core of dark berry, cedar, tobacco leaf and dried herb, tilting toward extracted tannins on the finish.”
91 Points Stephen Tanzer, International Wine Cellar
"Redcurrant, tobacco, mocha and a hint of cola on the expressive, slightly high-toned, oaky nose. Plush, round and fine-grained, with very sweet, creamy flavors of currant, sassafras, chocolate and spicy oak. A bit aggressive but open-knit; the smooth tannins will not get in the way of early drinking."
91 Points Steve Heimoff, Wine Enthusiast
“This is a beautiful wine that’s a classic example of a high-alcohol style that retains balance. It’s soft and mellow, with a warmth that conveys the most delicious black raspberry, chocolate, espresso and spice flavors. Blended with Merlot, it’s a sexy wine to drink now and over the next eight years.”
94 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
"Exhibits a rich, opulent, expressive mix of black cherry, blueberry, savory herb, cedar and crushed rock flavors. Impressively focused, showing depth, length and persistence. Best from 2013 through 2027. 350 cases made.”
93 Points Antonio Galloni, Wine Advocate
"Arguably the best of Hall’s 2009s, the Cabernet Sauvignon Bergfeld flows effortlessly from the glass. Sweet red berries, mint and wild flowers all come alive in the glass. The 2009 naturally doesn’t have the structure or broad shoulders of the 2010, but instead it brings with it plenty of elegance and silkiness, not to mention tons of near-term appeal. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2019.”
94 Points Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
"The 2008 Bergfeld Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the more opulent, silky wines, with impressive levels of black currant, black cherry and licorice-infused fruit, with some toasty oak and spice box in the background. Elegant yet powerful, pure and velvety, it can be drunk over the next 15 or more years.”
92 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
"A firm, robust style, dense and chewy, showing concentrated, focused currant, mineral, graphite, cedary oak and black licorice, with a dash of blackberry. Full-bodied, intense and persistent, with a long, complex finish."
90+ Points Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
"Possesses an opaque purple color, full body, and tons of concentration and sweetness.. Everything is here..."
93 Points Steve Heimoff, Wine Enthusiast
"From vineyards in the St. Helena appellation comes this soft rich wine. It brims with spice flavors of cherries, currants, chocolate and cedar, wrapped into softly melted tannins. Decadently good, and probably at its best soon."
95 Points Steve Heimoff, Wine Enthusiast
"This is one of those Napa Cabs that tastes glamorous. Even people who know little about wine will taste it and go, Wow. And the longer it sits in the glass and airs, the better it gets. Bone dry, soft and smooth, it shows luscious black currant, plum, sage, spice and cedar flavors, wrapped into finely ground tannins."
93 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
"Impeccably balanced and sumptuous, this is supple, ripe and juicy, with complex plum, black cherry, raspberry, black olive and savory cigar box spices. Full-bodied, elegant and polished. Long and complex on the finish."
Diamond Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon
95 Points Joe Czerwinski, The Wine Advocate
"Despite weighing in at a labeled 15.2% alcohol, Hall's 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Diamond Mountain District is impressively floral and expressive, with hints of lavender, sage and bay bringing welcome nuance to the cassis and black cherry fruit. It's full-bodied and creamy-silky in feel, but tannic and streamlined in shape, reflecting its mountain origins. Focused and long on the finish, it's a lovely example of its AVA."
96-98 Points Jeb Dunnuck, Jeb Dunnuck
"The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Diamond Mountain District comes from the northwestern region of the valley, which is a warmer, mountainous terroir. Blackcurrants, scorched earth, graphite, new leather, and savory herb notes all shine in this beauty, a power-packed 2021 with a great mid-palate, ripe, velvety tannins, beautiful overall balance, and a great finish. It has a certain generosity and opulence that should allow it to offer pleasure in its youth, yet it still has plenty of classic Diamond Mountain tannins and structure and will be very long-lived."
94-96 (barrel) Points Lisa Perrotti-Brown, The Wine Independent
"The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Diamond Mountain was tasted as a barrel sample. Deep garnet-purple in color, it leaps from the glass with bold notions of black raspberries, wild blueberries, and cassis, leading to an undercurrent of tar, mossy tree bark, and wild sage. The full-bodied palate is laden with intense black fruit and earthy layers with a firm, grainy texture, finishing on a lingering peppery note."
95 Points Joe Czerwinski, The Wine Advocate
"Despite weighing in at a labeled 15.2% alcohol, Hall's 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Diamond Mountain District is impressively floral and expressive, with hints of lavender, sage and bay bringing welcome nuance to the cassis and black cherry fruit. It's full-bodied and creamy-silky in feel, but tannic and streamlined in shape, reflecting its mountain origins. Focused and long on the finish, it's a lovely example of its AVA."
94+ Points Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
"The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Diamond Mountain District is a dense, packed wine. I imagine it will be even better in another year or two, once the formidable tannins soften a bit. A core of dark red-toned fruit, spice, menthol, licorice and blood orange begins to emerge with air, but this needs time to be at its best. Vineyard sites are Rainin and Constant."
90 Points Elaine Chukan Brown, Wine Enthusiast
"Brawny, robust and powerful, this full-bodied Cabernet brings together the upright tannins of its mountain vineyard with savory, warmly spiced, dark fruits and desert herbs. Dusty earthy tannins and a lengthy finish."
96 Points Lisa Perrotti-Brown, The Wine Independent
"Deep garnet-purple in color, the unblended 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Diamond Mountain slowly grows on the nose to a crescendo of plum preserves, blackcurrant jelly, and licorice scents, followed by hints of espresso, black olives, and unsmoked cigars. The full-bodied palate is equally slow to emerge, gradually delivering earth-laced black fruit layers and a firm, grainy texture, finishing long and mineral-laced. It needs time!"
96+ Points Jeb Dunnuck, Jeb Dunnuck
"Another gem of a wine from this estate, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Diamond Mountain District is concentrated and full-bodied, with lots of ripe dark mulberry and cherry fruits, notes of iron, dried violets, and loamy earth, tons of minerality, building tannins, and a great finish. It needs to be hidden in the back of the cellar for 4-6 years but will have 20-25 years of overall longevity."
95 Points Joe Czerwinski, The Wine Advocate
"Sourced mainly from the Rainin Vineyard, with small parcels from Constant and Klopka, the 100% varietal 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Diamond Mountain was partially fermented in concrete, which serves to lengthen the ferment. It offers lovely purity of cassis up front, then adds dark chocolate, mocha and hints of sage. It's full-bodied, rich and velvety, with a dark-chocolate finish that somehow retains ample freshness."
94 Points James Molesworth, Wine Spectator
"Pumps out broad, dense açaí berry, blueberry and plum compote flavors, laced with sweet toast and anise through the rich, polished finish. Shows a subtle tug of dark earth at the very end, which is well-embedded in the fruit. Best from 2024 through 2038."
95-97 Points Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate
“The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Diamond Mountain is a barrel sample blend of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Merlot. Opaque purple-black colored, it offers up bold black currants, boysenberries, kirsch and black raspberry scents with hints of violets, cedar chest and yeast extract plus a waft of crushed rocks. The palate is full-bodied, firm and rugged in the mouth with prominent yet ripe tannins and loads of muscular fruit, finishing long and earthy."
95 Points James Molesworth, Wine Spectator
“Packed with cassis and plum and blackberry compote flavors, this is seemingly ready to burst with fruit, though it's all harnessed nicely with sleek graphite and mulling spice notes that add definition and length while the finish cruises through, supported by warm earth and roasted alder. A big wine with admirable purity to its hefty fruit core. Best from 2022 through 2038."
97+ Points Jeb Dunnuck, Wine Critic
"Another gem, the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Diamond Mountain District boasts a deep purple hue as well as ripe, powerful notes of black and blue fruits, crushed stone, graphite, and lead pencil. It's ripe and concentrated, yet also has a touch of austerity, which is both the vintage and the appellation. Full-bodied and structured, I like the quality of the tannins, and it has plenty of mid-palate depth as well as a great finish. It's not for those seeking instant gratification, though, and demands 5-7 years of bottle age. It should be incredibly long-lived."
91+ Points Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate
“Made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Diamond Mountain has a deep garnet-purple color, leading with notions of black cherry compote, redcurrant jelly and warm cassis plus suggestions of beef drippings, tar and star anise. Medium to full-bodied, the palate delivers a good core of muscular black fruit with a sturdy frame of grainy tannins and plenty of freshness, finishing on an earthy note."
98 Points Jeb Dunnuck, Wine Critic
“Looking first at the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Diamond Mountain, which comes from a warmer AVA located in the northern part of the valley, this brilliant wine boasts a huge nose of tobacco, violets, loamy earth, black truffle, and bloody, iron-laced blue fruits. It’s deep, layered, and concentrated on the palate, with an undeniable opulence and decadence that largely conceals its considerable underlying structure."
93 Points Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate
“The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Diamond Mountain is deep garnet-purple colored and reveals earth-inspired notions of tilled soil, truffles, mossy bark and crushed rocks over a core of warm blackberries, cassis and plum preserves. Full-bodied, the palate has lovely ripe, rounded tannins and plenty of freshness to support the generous black fruits, finishing with a peppery kick.
94 Points Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
“The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon (Diamond Mountain) is laced with the essence of dark cherry, plum, menthol, spice, new leather and savory herbs. Vibrant and pulsating with energy, the 2016 has so much to offer. Mountain structure plays off the typically lush Hall fruit beautifully.”
96+ Points Lisa Perotti-Brown, Wine Advocate
“Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Diamond Mountain opens with expressive crème de cassis, mocha and tilled soil notes with hints of blueberry compote, dried bay leaves and truffles, plus a touch of black olives. Big, voluptuous, full-bodied and full-on sexy in the mouth, it struts a lot of spicy fruit with plush tannins and just enough freshness, finishing with great length.”
93 Points (barrel)James Laube, Wine Spectator
“Big, sturdy and immense, with tiers of complex flavor built around cedar, dark berry, tobacco leaf and dried herb, ending with a sense of gusto. Drink now through 2030.”
91-94 Points (barrel)Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
“The Hall 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon (Diamond Mountain) is rich, unctuous and super-concentrated. Blackberry jam, dark spices, crème de cassis, new oak, new leather and cloves give the wine its jammy, unctuous personality. Rich and flamboyant to the core, the 2015 exudes power. Today, the Diamond Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the most expressive wines in the range.”
97+ Points Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
“The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Diamond Mountain is a blend of 94% Cabernet Sauvignon and 6% Merlot. Opaque purple, it offers up beautiful notes of chocolate, espresso, blackberry and cassis. The wine hits the palate with a gush of deliciously pure, unctuously textured fruit and offers up full body, a multi-layered mouthfeel, and a long, long finish, nearly disguising some serious structure and tannin. This is a gorgeous, classic Diamond Mountain wine to drink over the next 25-30+ years.”
96 Points Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast
“Deliciously crafted and full-bodied ripe, this shows dense layers of blackberry and blueberry crumble succulence and richness, well-etched flavors that are wrapped in soft integrated oak. Juicy and earthy, it offers length and breadth, the tannins roundly structured. Memorable seasonings include chocolate and clove. Enjoy best 2024–2034.”
92 Points Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
“The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon (Diamond Mountain) presents an attractive interplay of mountain structure, Hall richness and the savory, mineral-driven tension that is such a signature of these sites. Sweet tobacco, earthiness, licorice, leather and black cherry are laced into the mid-weight finish.”
91 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
“Rich and extracted, with dark berry, fresh earth, graphite and anise notes. Though the tannins are pebbly and chewy, there's plenty here to sink your teeth into now and for the next decade. Drink now through 2031.”
96 Points Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
“Another of the artisan collection series, the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Diamond Mountain District is another wine of great purity and expression. The wine has loads of intense blueberry and blackberry fruit, while licorice, graphite, spice box and pen ink are all present in this complex multi-dimensional wine. It is full-bodied, pure, rich and a tour de force in this great vintage. Drink it over the next 25-30 years.”
93 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
“Offers tiers of zesty wild berry and blackberry flavors, shaded by spicy oak, anise, black licorice and currant notes. The ending is plush and layered, maintaining focus and gaining persistence. Drink now through 2029.”
92 Points Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
“Firm beams of underlying tannin give the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Diamond Mountain much of its energy, drive and precision. Savory and mineral notes are all pushed forward, while fruit is more in the background relative to the other wines in the range, although as a group, the Hall Cabernets are always intensely fruit-driven. Graphite, smoke and earthy notes inform the virile, imposing finish.”
94 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
"Aromas of dill and roasted herb join a chorus of red and dark fruit in this supple, harmonious effort. Hints of cedar, black licorice and dusty, rocky earth join the mix. Ends with a long, full finish. Drink now through 2029."
93+ Points Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
“The other wine from Hall's Artisan Collection is the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Diamond Mountain District. A simpler, backward, foreboding style of Cabernet Sauvignon, the mountain elevation gives the wine more structure, masculinity and tannin. The color is a dense purple, the wine less forthcoming and showy compared to the other cuvées from Kathryn Hall, but still impressive. Rich, full-bodied and built for 15-20 years of longevity.”
94 Points (Cellar Selection) Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast
“Juicy black cherry and vanilla wrap around sizable mountain tannin making for a full-bodied experience of tobacco, clove and tar. Chocolate and dust round out the profile of a wine with prolific power and structure, along with a bright, fresh finish. Drink now through 2022.”
92-94 Points Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
“Graphite, ash, smoke, incense and licorice all jump from the glass in the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Diamond Mountain District, a wine that is full of aromatic complexity, nuance and structure. The typical, rich lush Hall fruit is there, coupled with plenty of underlying grip and tons of Diamond Mountain personality. A brooding, backward wine, the 2012 is going to need time to soften.”
90 Points Stephen Tanzer, International Wine Cellar
“Aromas of plum, blackberry, spices, herbs and peppery licorice. Supple and nicely concentrated, with dark fruit and mocha flavors lifted but not overwhelmed by a peppery element. Has good ripeness and mid-palate texture to support its fairly serious tannic spine. Savory on the finish in a Medoc way.”
96 Points Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
“The inky purple-colored 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Diamond Mountain offers lots of blueberry, blackberry and forest floor aromas, a full, deep and expansive personality with layers of blue and black fruit flavors, abundant glycerin, good acidity, and a full-bodied, exceptionally pure, brilliantly textured finish.”
93 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
“Deceptively subtle and polished for a full-bodied wine, with smooth currant, dried herb, earth and smoky, toasty oak, all rich, chewy and well-distributed.”
93 Points Stephen Tanzer, International Wine Cellar
"Sexy, expressive aromas of cassis, minerals, licorice, loam and roast coffee. Concentrated, creamy and suave, with the currant, licorice and chocolate flavors really sucking up the new oak today. Plenty sweet but nicely buffered by bright acidity. This expressive, tactile cabernet finishes with sweet tannins and impressive soil-driven length. Very nicely balanced and concentrated wine."
92 Points Antonio Galloni, Wine Advocate
“2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Diamond Mountain District is once again a huge, hulking Cabernet bursting with the essence of black fruit, tar, smoke, graphite and minerals. It shows fabulous intensity all the way through the building, dramatic finish. This statuesque Cabernet is a great wine in the making. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2025.”
94+ Points Antonio Galloni, The Wine Advocate
“The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Diamond Mountain District is compelling. Tar, asphalt, cassis and blackberries are just some of the many notes that emerge from this piercing, tannic Cabernet Sauvignon. At times it reminded me of Serralunga Barolo, with which it shares a dark profile and muscular, virile tannins, all also typical of Diamond Mountain. Layers of perfumed cherries linger on the sweet, inviting finish. This is a fabulous wine that will require patience. I loved it. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2024.”
90 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
"Very ripe and intense, delivering a complex range of dark berry, berry pie and subtle jam notes, with touches of tobacco and mocha. Retains its structure and focus, ending with a loamy earth aftertaste."
95 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
"Striking for its firm, dense core of loamy earth, dried berry, sage and underbrush, fairly typical of Diamond Mountain in its restraint and structure, yet there's plenty of ripe currant and berry fruit to satisfy."
92 Points Stephen Tanzer, International Wine Cellar
“Suave and light on its feet, offering harmonious flavors of cassis, black cherry, earth and toast... The melting tannins make those of the Napa Valley bottling seem tough by comparison. Finishes with lingering notes of coffee and cola. Very well done.”
94 Points Steve Heimoff, Wine Enthusiast
“A wonderfully rich, complex and ageworthy Cabernet. It displays the impeccable winemaking from this winery, with deep, long flavors of blackberries, currants and chocolate, and while it’s drinkable now, those sturdy Diamond Mountain tannins should carry the wine forward for 6–8 years.”
93 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
“A powerful expression, ripe and rich, with tiers of loamy earth, spice, currant, blackberry and herbal notes."
90+ Points Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate
“The 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Diamond Mountain reveals mountain tannins as well as plenty of concentration and depth. Black currant, cocoa, chocolate, espresso roast, lead pencil shavings, and new oak notes characterize this full-bodied, concentrated, moderately tannic 2007 Cabernet. It should hit its prime in 5-6 years, and keep for 20-25.”
93 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
“Rich and fleshy... Intense, structured and full-bodied, with a complex array of dried currant, sage, underbrush and espresso bean. Firms up, with the tannins providing great structure.”
Ellie's Cabernet Sauvignon
92 Points Elaine C. Brown, Wine Enthusiast
"Bold and plush with flavors of generously spiced chocolate, juicy black plum, cedar and graphite, this big-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon shows off the generosity possible from the variety. Velvety tannins carry into a long finish."
94 Points Owen Bargreen, Wine Critic
"The 2019 ‘Ellie’s’ is stylistically the wine that expresses more of an old-world style. On the nose there is wet gravel aromas that combine with cassis, dried herbs and shades of red bell pepper. The palate is soft, seamless and elegant with coffee grounds, ripe black fruits and copious minerals. This is fantastic to enjoy now and over the next ten plus years. Drink 2022-2032."
92 Points Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast
"Thick and burly, with an intensity of dusty blackberry, gun smoke and toasted oak, this wine is concentrated and reductive, with the full force of flavor. Big in style, it has lush tannins that elongate the finish."
94 Points Owen Bargreen, Wine Critic
"Named after Craig Hall’s grandmother who was an artist, the 2018 ‘Ellie’s’ Cabernet Sauvignon reveals ripe dark currants collide with tobacco leaf, milk chocolate and shades of coffee grounds on the nose. The palate is very elegant with silky tannins that come together with ripe dark fruits, cigar box and pipe tobacco on the palate. With good freshness and finesse, this gorgeous new bottling will cellar well for another fifteen years."
94 Points Owen Bargreen, Wine Critic
The 2017 ‘Ellie’s’ Cabernet Sauvignon is named after Craig’s mother and is sourced from more than ten vineyards and is made in a more restrained style. Layers of red bell pepper and coffee grounds are woven together with red cherry and mocha tones on the palate. This has great acidity and mouthfeel, with a good sense of elegance once on the mouth. Cassis and mocha combine with very pretty red fruits on the palate. The tension and acidity really drives this beautiful wine that will cellar well over the next ten to fifteen years."
91-93 Points (barrel) Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate
“The deep purple-black colored barrel sample of 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Ellie's reveals notions of warm black cherries, cassis and baked plums with touches of spice cake, wilted roses and tobacco leaf. The palate is medium to full-bodied with an approachable backbone of chewy tannins and appealing freshness lifting the fragrant black fruit to a good long finish.”
91-94 Points (barrel) Antonio Galloni, Vinous
“The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Ellie's is a blend of fruit from several mountain appellations. Firm tannins and bright acids add energy to a core of red and purplish berry fruit. Lithe and medium in body relative to the other Hall wines, the Ellie's is more about persistence than opulence. Chalk, white pepper, iron and game overtones add nuance to this super-expressive Cabernet.”
94 Points Virginia Boone, Wine Enthusiast
“Brawny, thick and rich, this is a woody, generously oaked wine, blended with 3% Merlot. Leathery and herbal, it offers substantial weight and ripeness, dappled in dark chocolate, pepper and crushed rock notes that lend a complex texture and finishing touch of the savory.”
92 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
“Firm and tight, yet with a plump core of plum, blackberry, black cherry, cedar and anise flavors. A mouthful that's quite chewy now but a good bet to reward with time. Best from 2021 through 2030. 3,088 cases made.”
92-94 Points (barrel) Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate
“The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Ellie's is a barrel sample, yet it is already strutting a lot of black cherry, plums and mulberries notions and hints of spice box and bay leaves. Full-bodied, rich and bold, it has a solid frame of chewy tannins and a long, berry and spice-laced finish.”
93-95 Points (barrel) Jeb Dunnuck, Wine Critic
“Brought up in 70% new French oak, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Ellie's is beautiful and gets close to the elegance and purity of the top cuvees. Blackcurrants, cassis, spicy oak and licorice notes, as well as an impressive floral character, give way to a ripe, polished, beautifully concentrated Cabernet that's going to shine for two decades.”
95 Points Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast
“Softened by 6% Merlot, this is a classically elegant wine, juicy in cranberry, cassis and teases of coffee bean, the tannins broadly etched and brawny in their youth. Integrated oak provides a spiciness of toffee and black licorice, as the aromas develop floral notions of violet as the wine opens in the glass. Enjoy best 2024–2034.”
94 Points Owen Bargreen, International Wine Report
“The 2014 ‘Ellie’s’ Cabernet Sauvignon begins with deep aromas of crème de cassis, red bell pepper, anise and mocha with a graphite edge. The palate showcases remarkable depth, with flavors of red bell pepper, mocha, sweet pipe tobacco and crème de cassis. This remains beautifully concentrated with a core of ripe sweet fruits, which accentuate the finish. Overall this is a simply outstanding effort which displays plenty of power, combined with a wonderful sense of place and purity of fruit.”
93 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
“A seductive style that mixes jazzy, mocha-scented oak, pure dark berry, spice, gravel and cedar flavors and fine-grained tannins, making for a distinctive drink. Drink now through 2030. 4,134 cases made.”
94 Points Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast
“This wine opens with big, full-bodied and extracted flavors, high-lighted by black cherry, smoked meat and clove. Blended with 4% Merlot, it exudes textural complexity and velvety lushness, with length and breadth to spare. Within its fountain of power exists a strong sense of grace, accented by aromas of wild violet and forested earth.”
93+ Points Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
“Lastly, the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Ellies is a blend of 96% Cabernet Sauvignon and 4% Merlot. Once again, it has an opaque purple color, a gorgeous nose of graphite, crème de cassis, blackberry and new saddle leather. Full-bodied, powerful, unevolved and seeming much more backward than the other two, this wine seems built for the long haul and should be cellared for another 3-4 years before consumption. It has at least 25 to 30 years of aging potential.”
90 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
“Rich and juicy, with a zesty core of blackberry, wild berry, spice, cedary oak and anise. Broad and expansive on the palate, long and lingering in the mouth. Drink now through 2024. 4,186 cases made.”
Best Cabernet 2016 San Francisco Wine Competition
93 Points Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast
"Blended with a healthy dose (21%) of Merlot, this luxurious, velvety wine is named for co-owner Craig Hall’s mother. Blackberry jam, black pepper and a touch of thick tar mark the full-bodied deliciousness going on here, a totally pleasurable experience worth enjoying now, though it can be held through 2020."
92 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
"Rich, pure and direct, with a pleasant dusty earth and cedary edge to the opulent blackberry, plum, licorice and spicy oak notes. There's plenty to admire here. Drink now through 2027."
90 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
“Well-proportioned, with a ripe, juicy core of vivid currant and blackberry flavors, accented by spicy-cedary oak and hints of licorice. Fans out on the finish, ending with the right amount of tannins to give the flavors traction. Drink now through 2023.”
95+ Points Antonio Galloni, Wine Advocate
“Another super impressive wine, the 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Ellie’s wraps around the palate with layers of voluptuous dark fruit. Plums, black currants, cinnamon and licorice are some of the many notes that come alive in the glass. The Ellie’s is one of the more overt wines in this lineup. It captures the essence of the Hall house style in all of its pure exuberance. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2030.”
92 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
"The creamy, mocha-infused oak lends this a sense of luxury and a supple texture, with plenty of substance to the currant and dark berry fruit. Gains depth and dimension on the finish, revealing roasted herb and black licorice nuances."
90 Points Stephen Tanzer, International Wine Cellar
"Full, bright ruby-red. Slightly high-toned aromas and flavors of plum, currant, coffee and mocha. Plush and open-knit, in an almost exotic style and showing considerable early appeal. A sweet chocolate element carries through to the long finish, which features sweet, building tannins."
90 Points Antonio Galloni, Wine Advocate
"The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Ellie’s is a deep, super-ripe wine loaded with black cherries, plums, chocolate and sweet spices. This is a decidedly opulent expression of Cabernet, with plenty of mid-palate richness and density. Warm notes of mocha and spices round out the generous finish. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2019."
94 Points Steve Heimoff, Wine Enthusiast
“Amazingly delicious and soft. Defines the modern Napa Cabernet style, with the tasteful elegance Hall wines are known for. With 20% Merlot, it displays dazzlingly rich flavors of blackberries, black cherries, red currants and mocha, with a savory note of bacon. Now–2013.”
92 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
"Smooth, rich and savory, deep and concentrated, with polished currant, plum and blackberry flavors accented by black licorice. Full-bodied, fleshy and persistent, ending with an espresso aftertaste. Drink now through 2020."
Mount Veeder Cabernet Sauvignon
96-98 Points Jeb Dunnuck, Jeb Dunnuck
"I loved the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Mount Veeder, which has a terrific sense of balance and completeness that makes it remarkably compelling. Blackcurrants, blueberries, sage, wild herbs, and graphite are just some of its nuances, and it's full-bodied on the palate, with ultra-fine yet building tannins, flawless balance, and a great, great finish. This complex, nuanced, layered 2021 is going to benefit from just 3-4 years of bottle age and evolve for well over two decades."
94-96 (barrel) Points Lisa Perrotti-Brown, The Wine Independent
"The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Mt. Veeder was tasted as a barrel sample. Deep garnet-purple in color, it sings of freshly crushed black cherries, blackcurrant jelly, and mulberries with suggestions of cedar chest, black olives, and violets. The full-bodied palate is bursting with perfumed black fruits, supported by firm, grainy tannins and seamless freshness, finishing on a lingering fragrant earth note."
95 Points Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
"The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Mount Veeder is redolent of iron, red plum fruit, white pepper, incense, tobacco, cedar and dried herbs. Driving tannins give the wine palpable energy all the way through to the persistent, layered finish. This is pure Veeder in an intense, voluptuous style. Dollops of Merlot and Cabernet Franc round out the blend. I loved this in barrel and find it every bit as compelling today."
94 Points Joe Czerwinski, The Wine Advocate
"Hall's 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Mount Veeder features scents of black cherries, bay leaf, sage and mocha on the nose. It follows the winery's full-bodied approach, but it isn't as big or rich as the Howell Mountain bottling. Streamlined and velvety, with a long, lingering finish, it showcases dark fruit and subtle herb shadings to great effect."
93 Points Elaine Chukan Brown, Wine Enthusiast
"Both ripe and tart, this Cabernet Sauvignon brings together woodsy and sandalwood aromatics with blackberry and blueberry flavors for a full-bodied and lush red wine. Powdery fine tannins and a mouthwatering palate of darkened spices trace through a long finish."
96+ Points Jeb Dunnuck, Jeb Dunnuck
"Another mountain Cabernet release from this team, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Mount Veeder is flat-out gorgeous in every way, offering a complex array of ripe plums, currants, thyme, rosemary, and iron-like aromas and flavors. With medium to full-bodied richness, a deep, layered mid-palate, and building tannins, it has some accessibility today (as do most 2019s) but will ideally be given 4-5 years of bottle age. It’s going to keep for at least two decades in cold cellars."
94+ Pints Joe Czerwinski, Wine Advocate
"The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Mount Veeder blends fruit from the leased Beller Vineyard with another source to yield a floral but dark-fruited Cab loaded with cassis and plum, accented by cedar and vanilla. Full-bodied and supple, it finishes long and velvety, with hints of dark chocolate and a bit of alcoholic warmth."
94-96 Points Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
"The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Mt. Veeder is another stellar wine in the range. Pointed and brilliant with terrific intensity, the 2018 sizzles with the energy that is so typical of the best Mt. Veeder Cabernets. Inky dark fruit, graphite, mint, lavender and exotic spice give the 2018 its complex, multi-dimensional personality."
94-96 Points Lisa Perotti-Brown, Wine Advocate
"The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Mount Veeder is a barrel sample blended of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Cabernet Franc. Opaque purple-black colored, it is a little broody to begin with black earth, tar and truffles scents giving way to a core of baked black currants, black cherry compote and blackberry preserves plus hints of cigars, sautéed herbs and iron ore. Full-bodied, firm and grainy, the palate is packed with earth-laced black fruits, finishing long and mineral laced."
94-96 Points James Molesworth, Wine Spectator
"Nicely packed, with a mix of plum, boysenberry and mulberry compote flavors holding center stage, while licorice root, sweet bay leaf and violet accents swirl around the edges. The finish is carried by racy structure, underscored by a note of iron. Should blossom in the cellar."
97 Points Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate
“Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Mount Veeder comes bounding out of the glass with gregarious notes of baked plums, blueberry preserves and blackcurrant cordial plus hints of mocha, tapenade, cinnamon stick and gingerbread. Full-bodied, concentrated and oh-so-spicy in the mouth, it has a firm texture of grainy tannins and background freshness, finishing on a lingering cinnamon toast note.”
97-99 Points (barrel) Jeb Dunnuck, Wine Critic
“A wine that will flirt with perfection on release is the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Mount Veeder, this heavenly wine should not be missed. Blackcurrants, cassis, black cherries, leafy herbs, damp earth and floral notes are just some of the nuances in this beauty. It's full-bodied, opulent, and weightless on the palate, with perfectly ripe, building tannin and a huge finish. It's a “Wow” wine any way you look at it.”
91-94 Points (barrel) Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
“An intensely savory, mineral and tannic wine, the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon (Mt. Veeder) speaks quite eloquently to its origins. Most of the Hall Cabernets exude fruit intensity and voluptuousness. In that context, the Mt. Veeder bottling is decidedly structured and less forthcoming in the early going. It will be interesting to see where things go in the coming years.”
97 Points Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate
“Very deep purple-black in color, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Mt. Veeder hits the ground running with energetic notions of freshly crushed black cherries, blackberries and cassis plus touches of cigar box, lilacs, mocha, fragrant soil and sassafras plus a waft of bay leaves. Full-bodied, concentrated and boldly fruited, it has a very firm frame of ripe, grainy tannins and seamless freshness, finishing very long.”
94-96 Points (barrel) Jeb Dunnuck, Wine Critic
“The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Mount Veeder is another blockbuster. Spring flowers, lavender, blueberries, black cherries, graphite and hints of leaf herbs all emerge from this terrific 2015 and it has lots of tannin, as well as lots of fruit. Given the tannin profile, it's going to need short-term cellaring and keep for 25-30+ years.”
93 Points Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
“The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon (Mt. Veeder) is bold, rich and unctuous in this vintage, with tons of pure fruit intensity and textural richness. Time has softened some of the contours the 2015 showed as a young wine, but this remains an especially flamboyant wine within the context of Mt. Veeder Cabernets.&rdquo
95 Points Owen Bargreen, International Wine Report
“This outstanding Cabernet Sauvignon is sourced from five different vineyards in Mount Veeder. It begins with profound nuances of dark fruits, crème de cassis, Asian spices, mocha, cigar ash and anise, which all meld together to form the absolutely intoxicating aromatics. Dense, rich and concentrated, this delivers layers of crème de cassis, mocha, black tea, anise and sweet pipe tobacco that sit alongside gorgeous velvety tannins. Massive and intense, this is an outstanding effort that will cellar well for decades.”
93-95 Points Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
“From their artisan collection of wines, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Mt. Veeder has the blueberry and black raspberry fruit of this AVA, a floral note as well, sweet tannin, and broad, savory, medium to full-bodied flavors and a long finish. Another strong effort. Drink 2018-2035.”
96 Points Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
“The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Mt. Veeder is one of the winery’s artisan series. This wine has a dense opaque, bluish purple color, gorgeous blueberry and black raspberry fruit, licorice, graphite, incense and is full-bodied and opulent. This is a stunner. Multi-layered and complex, this full-throttle Cabernet Sauvignon can be drunk now or cellared for 25-30 years.”
95 Points (Editors' Choice) Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
“The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Mt. Veeder is superb. One of the most explosive, intensely aromatic wines in the range, the 2013 pulses with energy. Sweet rose petal, mint, red cherry, plum and pomegranate are all super-expressive in the glass. Bold, racy and opulent, but with tremendous supporting structure from the mountain tannin and acidity, the 2013 is a real head-turner.”
97+ Points Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
“Another flirtatious example of near perfection is the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Mount Veeder. Pure blackberry and blueberry fruit mixed with white flowers and spice box are sensational in this opulent full-bodied, voluptuously textured wine. Deep, textured, rich, this is another tour de force from a winery that seems to be at the top of its game. Drink it over the next 20 years.”
95 Points Virginie Boone (Editor's Choice) Wine Enthusiast
"A structured, concentrated and classically crafted 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. Sanguine red currant and rhubarb combine with darker, more brooding tangles of blackberry and clove to define this beauty, enhanced by a velvety texture and lingering accents of cedar, pine and dried herb."
93 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
“A best-of-both-worlds mix of seductive loamy earth, dried dark berry, licorice, sage and cedary oak, gaining focus and persistence on the finish, where the tannins grab and hold the fruit. Drink now through 2030.”
92-95 Points Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
“The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Mt. Veeder is another beautiful and distinct wine. The full range of Mt. Veeder aromas and flavors have yet to take shape as the fruit is so intense and primary at this stage. With time in the glass, though, hints of savory herbs and tobacco begin to emerge, even if with great reluctance. I can't wait to taste the 2012 from bottle.”
Jack's Masterpiece Cabernet Sauvignon
95 Points Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
"The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Jack's Masterpiece is a dense, powerful wine. Inky blue/purplish fruit, cloves, new leather, lavender, licorice and chocolate fill out the layers. I would be tempted to cellar this for a year or two, as the tannins are quite potent at this stage. Vineyard sites are Sacrashe, Beller, Dellar-Freidkin and Sage Ridge."
94-96+ Points Lisa Perotti-Brown, Wine Independent
"Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2021 Jacks Masterpiece Cabernet Sauvignon swans out with gregarious notes of creme de cassis, blackberry pie, and plum preserves followed by hints of mocha, mint tea, and underbrush. Full-bodied, rich, and impactful, the palate delivers velvety tannins and just enough freshness, finishing long with a peppery lift. This wine was tasted as a barrel sample."
95-97 Points Jeb Dunnuck, Jeb Dunnuck
"The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Jack's Masterpiece is also a blend of sites, yet it generally comes more from hillside vineyards. It's similarly deep purple-hued, with a more focused, elegant, structured style. Black and blue fruits, crushed stone, liquid violets, and new leather are just some of its nuances, and it's concentrated and full-bodied, with ripe, building tannins and a great finish."
97 Points Owen Bargreen, Owen Bargreen
"Named after director of winemaking Mike Reynolds’s youngest son, the 2021 HALL ‘Jack’s Masterpiece’ Cabernet Sauvignon is a proprietary barrel selection wine made by the winemaking team. Very inky in the glass, this offers black rose petals notes on the nose with pencil lead, Asian spices, Turkish coffee and shades of black licorice. The palate is velvety and soft with serious concentration and great underlying finesse. Finishing very long, this will easily be a 20 year wine. Drink 2023-2043."
96 Points Jeb Dunnuck, Jeb Dunnuck
"The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Jack's Masterpiece is in the same ballpark, with slightly more blue fruits in its bouquet of blueberries, mulberries, violets, and spicy oak. A blend of 96% Cabernet Sauvignon and 4% Cabernet Franc, this full-bodied, concentrated, incredibly textured 2019 can be drunk any time over the coming two decades or more."
96 Points Joe Czerwinski, Wine Advocate
"Blended to be a more robust, mountain-driven counterpart to the Kathryn Hall bottling, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Jack's Masterpiece blends fruit from Mount Veeder, Atlas Peak, Sacrashe and Montagne. Aged in 75% new French oak (mostly Taransaud), it delivers scents of cassis, herbal shadings like bay leaf and sage, cedar, dark chocolate and vanilla. It's full-bodied, firm but ripe and velvety, then shows more of a silky, dusty edge on the finish."
94-96 Points Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate
"The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Jack's Masterpiece is a blend of 96% Cabernet Sauvignon and 4% Cabernet Franc. Deep garnet-purple colored, it slowly unfurls to reveal dark fruited, broody notes of crushed blackcurrants, baked plums, tar and new leather with hints of wild sage, charcoal and fertile loam. The taut, muscular, full-bodied palate has a solid foundation of firm, grainy tannins and plenty of freshness, finishing long and earthy."
93 Points James Molesworth, Wine Spectator
"Dark, compact and slightly muscular in feel now, this has a core of dense black currant, açaí and fig preserves laced liberally with singed cedar, bittersweet cocoa and warm earth. A flash of iron through the finish provides a nice counterpoint. Needs to unwind in the cellar. Best from 2024 through 2037."
98 Points Jeb Dunnuck, Wine Critic
"All Cabernet aged 26 months in 75% new French oak, the 2018 Jack's Masterpiece is another head-turning 2018 that's up with the crème de la crème of the vintage. This rich, well-oaked, powerful Cabernet reveals a dense purple/plum color as well as a rock star nose of blackcurrants, espresso roast, smoked tobacco, and Asian spices. Decadent, full-bodied, and concentrated, it has notable tannins, a deep, layered mid-palate, and a stunning finish. This majestic, concentrated, ripe, sexy beast of a wine will drink well for two decades with no issues."
93-95 Points Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate
"Opaque purple-black colored, the barrel sample of 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Jack's Masterpiece comes bounding out of the glass with exuberant black cherries, warm plums and mulberries scents plus hints of baking spices, lilacs and fallen leaves with a waft of tree bark. Full-bodied, expressive and with loads of juicy black fruits, it has a firm, grainy texture and just enough freshness, finishing savory."
96 Points Owen Bargreen, Washington Wine Blog
"The 2017 ‘Jack’s Masterpiece’ is a dense, hedonistic Cabernet Sauvignon that has a long life in the cellar ahead of it. Enticing aromas of creme de cassis, tar, cigar ash and chocolate covered espresso bean tones all sing in unison on the nose. The palate is dense, plush, and downright delicious. Rich black currants dance with mocha, tar, anise, dark chocolate shavings and sweet pipe tobacco tones on the palate. Decadent, yet elegant, with outstanding length and poise, this beautiful wine will cellar well for decades to come. If enjoying in its youth, be sure to give this a two to three hour decant. Drink 2021-2040- 96"
92 Points James Molesworth, Wine Spectator
"This is dark, featuring cool plum, blackberry and boysenberry compote flavors, fresh and well-defined, with a violet note aiding along the way. A flash of apple wood and a small dose of briar on the finish completes the picture. Best from 2021 through 2030."
96 Points Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate
“Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Jack's Masterpiece bursts from the glass with confident cassis, preserved plums and mulberries scents backed up by notions of cedar chest, pencil lead, espresso and tar. Full-bodied, the palate is built like a brick house with a solid frame of grainy tannins and bold freshness, finishing long with fantastic purity.”
95-98 Points (barrel) Jeb Dunnuck, Wine Critic
“The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Jack's Masterpiece is another brilliant wine that offers more cassis, toasty oak, and cedary spice, with terrific floral nuances developing with time in the glass. Ripe, sexy and succulent, with building tannin and sensational purity, it's just another killer wine, as well as a great expression of the vintage.”
96 Points (barrel) Owen Bargreen, International Wine Report
“2016 HALL ‘Jack’s Masterpiece’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2016 ‘Jack’s Masterpiece’ by HALL is a stunning new wine that is built to age for decades. Sourced from a host of Napa Valley AVAs, the ‘Jack’s Masterpiece’ shows deep tar, Turkish coffee, dried sage, with dusty terroir aromatics all are brilliantly woven together on this expressive nose. The power on the mid-palate is quite massive as the wine shows moderate tannins with shades of espresso bean, tar, black currant jelly and shades of blackberry pie. Seductive and intense in its youth this beautiful wine will cellar well for decades. Try to give this spectacular wine at least another year prior to consumption.”
91-94 Points (barrel) Anthonio Galloni, Vinous Media
“The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Jack's Masterpiece is dark, powerful and massively tannic at this stage, no doubt owing to the majority of hillside fruit in this bottling. There is more than enough density to fill out the wine's imposing frame, but the 2016 also clearly is at an embryonic stage of its development. This is an especially potent, muscular style.”
96+ Points Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate
“The very deep purple-black colored 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Jack's Masterpiece reveals the most stunning perfume of violets, chocolate box, star anise, rose hip tea and lavender over a core of kirsch, blackberry pie, warm plums and cassis plus a waft of allspice. Full-bodied and delivering intense fresh black and red fruits in the mouth, the palate maintains a lot of grace and finesse in spite of the the obvious power, with beautifully plush tannins and a very long, perfumed finish.”
91-94 Points (barrel) Anthonio Galloni, Vinous Media
“The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Jack's Masterpiece comes across as remarkably harmonious for a young Hall Cabernets. There is no shortage of depth or intensity in the Jack's - far from it - and yet the tannins are nearly buried by the sheer plushness of the fruit. That is even more surprising given that most of the fruit in this vintage is from Diamond Mountain. Black fruit, graphite, smoke, menthol and licorice meld into the huge, dramatic finish.”
91 Points Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast
"Smoky cherry and mocha flavors are accented by dark chocolate and sweet oak in this lush, creamy red that is made in a rich, layered style. Lasting notes of tobacco, dusty sage and brawny tannin round out the impressive experience."
96 Points Owen Bargreen, International Wine Review
“The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Jack’s Masterpiece has an inky almost opaque purple color, greats depth of fruits, incense, blackberry, cassis, blueberry, a full-bodied mouthfeel and really terrific intensity and up-front fruit. It is in keeping with 2014, although this wine seems more concentrated than most of them.”
95 Points Lisa Perotti-Brown, Wine Advocate
“Deep purple-black in color, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Jack's Masterpiece delivers wonderfully spicy blackberry compote, blueberry pie and black pepper notions with hints of dried Mediterranean herbs, truffles and charcuterie. Full-bodied, concentrated and laden with spiced black and blue fruit preserves flavors, the generous fruit is well supported by chewy tannins and an invigorating backbone, finishing with great persistence.”
94 Points Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast
“This is a sturdy, grippy and youthful 100% varietal wine, from vineyards planted in mountainous locations. Bright focused acidity lifts dense flavors of black cherry and sage that are wrapped in spicy, clove-driven oak. Enjoy best from 2024–2034.”
92 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
“Offers pure, clean, rich aromas of extracted dark berry, cedar, gravel and herbal scents. This is truly a mouthful, but with enough promise to warrant a recommendation. If you like to chew on young wines, proceed. Otherwise cellar this short-term. Best from 2020 through 2034.”
99 Points Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
“The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Jack’s Masterpiece, which is a blend from their finest vineyards, displays super-sweet tannins, an opaque purple color and beautiful crème de cassis, blueberry and blackberry fruit. Its flawless integration of acidity, tannin, wood and alcohol and its opulent, full-bodied mouthfeel make for a true elixir and fabulous Cabernet Sauvignon to drink now or cellar for 25-30 more years. I would still try to defer gratification for 2-3 years prior to drinking this big boy. It has three decades-plus of longevity.”
95 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
“A brilliant effort, rich and layered, capturing tiers of espresso-laced dark berry flavors, mocha-scented oak and notes blackberry, licorice, hazelnut and brownie. Maintains focus, with a long, persistent finish that echoes the core flavor themes. Drink now through 2032.”
90-93 Points Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
“The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Jack's Masterpiece is a blend from several hillside appellations. Savory and mineral notes abound, while powerful, searing tannins keep the black cherry fruit in the background. The Jack's Masterpiece is another wine that needs time in bottle to come together. Hints of leather and cedar add nuance, but this structured, powerful Cabernet still needs to come together.”
93 Points Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast
“A small percentage of Merlot softens the otherwise full-bodied nature of this wine, a blend from various vineyards across the valley. Cassis, cranberry and a high-toned liveliness provide an elegance around leathery tannins and toasty oak, finishing with length.”
95 Points Owen Bargreen, International Wine Cellar
“The 2012 'Jack's Masterpiece' is another highly impressive Cabernet from Hall in this vintage. The wine is barrel selected from the choicest mountain fruit and it reflects beautifully in the wine. As this opens it releases striking aromas of ripe dark fruits, crème de cassis, mocha, sweet spices, Turkish coffee, anise and dill, which all take shape and mirror on the palate. This is extremely compelling, showing the intensity of this great vintage, but currently needing some additional bottle age to fully unwind. (Best 2018-2035).”
91 Points Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast
"The 4% Petit Verdot in this dark, inky Cabernet Sauvignon is doing its job in terms of color and structure, adding much of both to the mix. Overall the wine is savory and full-bodied on the palate, with bits of spicy clove and sage around black cherry and toasted oak. Enjoy through 2030.”
94 Points Antonio Galloni, Wine Advocate
“The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Jack’s Masterpiece is one of the cooler, more inward wines in this lineup of 2010 Cabernets. Melted road tar, graphite, pencil shavings and black currants are all supported by clean veins of minerality and acidity. Violet and menthol overtones appear later, adding further complexity to the long, delineated finish. The 2010 is a bit clenched today, but it will soften with another few years in bottle. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2025.”
92 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
“Rich and complex, with a firm tannin-cloaked mix of black licorice, dark berry, cigar box and tobacco. This is a sizeable wine, yet very graceful and elegant, long and persistent.”
92 Points Stephen Tanzer, International Wine Cellar
"Reticent, lively nose offers cassis, licorice, mint and bitter chocolate, plus a touch of exotic oak. Creamy, seamless and densely packed; surprisingly sweet after the laid-back nose, with a lot of sweet oak influence, but not yet expressing itself. Finishes with supple, building tannins and an exotic oak quality that's nicely buffered by the wine's rich, pliant fruit."
92 Points Steve Heimoff, Wine Enthusiast
“Firm tannins and good acidity mark this 100% Cabernet, which, like all Hall wines, is high in alcohol yet balanced. It’s deep and long in blackberry jam, mocha and new-oak flavors. This is appealing now for its sheer drinkability and deliciousness, but its inherent subtleties will become increasingly apparent with age. Drink now–2020.”
93 Points Antonio Galloni, Wine Advocate
"The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Jack’s Masterpiece brings together many of the elements that make the Hall wines so appealing. Well-articulated aromatics meld into a seamless core of fruit in this vibrant, expressive Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine possesses terrific delineation and plenty of class. Despite its ripeness there is plenty of underlying structure. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2024.”
93 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
"Firm and muscular, with dense dark berry fruit and flavors of mocha, espresso, road tar and cedary oak. Full-blown, with rich, chewy tannins that are ripe and oaky, ending with a creamy note."
92 Points Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
"Somewhat restrained, the 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Jack’s Masterpiece has a touch of Petite Verdot and Merlot in the blend. It displays a dense purple color and plenty of smoky notes intermixed with scorched earth, espresso roast, chocolate, and black currant. In the back, the tannins kick in, so this wine needs a few years of cellaring, but should keep for two decades.”
90 Points Steve Heimoff, Wine Enthusiast
"Solidly in the Hall style of voluptuous, stylish Cabernets, rich in fruit and softly sweet. With a flood of blackberries, cassis and chocolate, it’s intricately structured with finely ground tannins that give a sting of astringency. Probably best consumed soon with rich beef dishes.”
93 Points Steve Heimoff, Wine Enthusiast
“A gorgeous Cab in every way. Seduces for its fantastic wealth of black currants, dark chocolate, plum, cedar and spice flavors that are so deep and long. Yet the richness is balanced with beautifully ripe, refined tannins and just-in-time acidity. Distinguished and classic. The grapes are from St. Helena, Diamond Mountain and Hall’s Sacrashe Vineyard. Now through 2012.”
92 Points Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate
“The 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Jack’s Masterpiece exhibits copious amounts of sweet creme de cassis fruit intermixed with notions of chocolate-covered cherries, licorice, and flowers. This dense, full-bodied, multilayered wine possesses terrific fruit, ripe tannin, and an opulent, voluptuous finish. Give it 3-4 years of bottle age, and drink it over the following 15-20 years.”
92 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
"Pure, intense, rich and layered, with a mix of full-bodied currant... This is supple, yet firms with tannins that gain traction."
96 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
"Amazing for its complex mix of flavors, which ranges from mint-herb, loamy earth, dried currant, black cherry and berry fruit that’s deep and supple, gaining velocity. Well-structured, this ends with firm tannins and a long finish. Best from 2010 through 2017."
94 Points Steve Heimoff, Wine Enthusiast
"A gorgeous Cab in every way. Seduces for its fantastic wealth of black currants, dark chocolate, plum, cedar and spice flavors that are so deep and long. Yet the richness is balanced with beautifully ripe, refined tannins and just-in-time acidity. Distinguished and classic. The grapes are from St. Helena, Diamond Mountain, and HALL's Sacrashe Vineyard. Now through 2012."
91 Points Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
"Equally impressive is the 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Jack’s Masterpiece, which exhibits notes of blackberry, creme de cassis, incense, licorice, cocoa, and a hint of chocolate. This full-bodied, layered, luscious wine is a beautiful effort for a 2006. It should drink well for 15-20 years or more.”
Eighteen Seventy-Three Cabernet Sauvignon
96 Points Owen Bargreen, Owen Bargreen
"The 2021 HALL ‘1873’ Cabernet Sauvignon is named after the first grapes documented on the HALL property come from this year. The wine comes from grapes sourced mostly the eastern Vacca hillsides. The palate is very rocky and stony on the palate, with serious power and underlying finesse. Dark currant cordial, mocha, cigar box and volcanic ash flavors all seamlessly come together on the palate. Drink 2023-2040."
95 Points Jeb Dunnuck, Jeb Dunnuck
"Readers looking for an incredible value in top Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon should look no further than the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Eighteen Seventy-Three from Hall Winery. Sporting a deep purple hue as well as layered, slightly reserved bouquet of red and black fruits, tobacco, cedary pencil, and chocolaty oak, it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a deep, concentrated mid-palate, and a great finish. It tastes like it cost two to three times its going rate. Drink bottles any time over the coming decade."
95 Points Owen Bargreen, Owen Bargreen
"The beautiful 2019 HALL ‘Eighteen Seventy-Three’ comes form the northeastern hillsides of the Napa Valley. The nose shows beautiful dark florals with pipe tobacco, dark currant jelly, blackberry pie and espresso grounds. The palate is beautifully balanced, with bright acidity and velvety tannins that combine with the ripe core of dark fruits. This is beautiful wine to consume now and over the next fifteen years. Drink 2022-2037."
91-93 Points Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate
“Structured in firm, burly tannin, this dark and brooding wine has a lift of red fruit in the form of cassis and plum. Crushed rock, turned earth and tobacco leaf give it varietal character and complexity around full-bodied concentration and richness.”
91 Points Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast
"With good components of red fruit, acidity and tension, this wine offers well-integrated tannins and oak, made in a burly, full-bodied style with richness to spare. The finish is especially succulent, with twists of mocha chocolate."
94 Points Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast
“Structured in firm, burly tannin, this dark and brooding wine has a lift of red fruit in the form of cassis and plum. Crushed rock, turned earth and tobacco leaf give it varietal character and complexity around full-bodied concentration and richness.”
94 Points Owen Bargreen, International Wine Report
“2016 HALL ‘1873’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2016 HALL ‘1873’ Cabernet Sauvignon is sourced from a host of vineyards primarily in the Atlas Peak AVA and also vineyards to the north of that AVA. The ‘1873’ shows off an inky color and begins with shades of red bell pepper that mingle with milk chocolate and tar on this expressive nose. Soft and plush on the mouth, the wine delivers seductive black tea, Asian spices, mocha and sweet pipe tobacco flavors. The length and soft texture really entices. Outstanding in its youth, this beautiful wine will cellar well for fifteen years or more.”
91-93 Points (barrel) Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate
“A barrel sample, the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon 1873 is deep purple-black in color. Baked redcurrants, kirsch, cassis and black raspberries leap from the glass followed by notions of dark chocolate, star anise and dried Provence herbs. Full-bodied, the palate delivers vivacious red and black berry flavors with a chewy frame and lively lift to the finish.”
93 Points Antonio Galloni, Wine Critic
“The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon 1873 is pliant, supple and forward, with soft contours, racy fruit and terrific balance. Medium in body and incredibly inviting, the 1873 is another positively stellar wine from Hall. Sweet red cherry, plum and pomegranate fruit build into the super-expressive finish.”
93 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
"Ultrarich and extracted, offering a big mouthful of chewy dark berry, black licorice, toasty oak, mocha, herb and sage flavors, ending with a full-bodied aftertaste and fruit that sails on and on. Drink now through 2030."
90 Points Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast
"Thick, chewy oak and tannin provide a substantial mouthfeel to this wine, blended with just 1% Petit Verdot. Tar, dried herb, black currant and clove give it a complex layering of flavor and texture that builds momentum in the glass. It finishes in sweet oak and baking spice."
93 Points Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
"The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon 1873 is a gorgeous, mid-tier offering from Hall that draws fruit from a number of estate and grower parcels mainly in Rutherford, Howell Mountain and Atlas Peak. Pliant and racy, with plenty of forward fruit and soft contours, the 1873 is a terrific choice for drinking now and over the next few years. Kirsch, white chocolate, sweet spice and floral notes add to the wine's racy personality."
95 Points Owen Bargreen, International Wine Report
“The 2014 ‘1873’ Cabernet Sauvignon is an incredible effort from the winemaking team at Hall. Sourced from the northern edge of the Vacca Mountains towards Atlas Peak, this wine begins with aromatics of sweet tobacco, crème de cassis, mocha, crushed mint and suggestions of baking spices. The palate is plush, layered and simply gorgeous, as it showcases concentrated flavors of crème de cassis, anise, coffee grounds and blueberry pie that are deep and penetrating. This majestic, powerful wine, will thrive in the cellar for many years to come, however if approaching early be sure to give this beauty plenty of air contact.”
95 Points Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast
“A 100% varietal wine, this is brawny in tannin and big in oak, yet completely beguiling in an underlying delicacy of refined power. Chalky texture that traffics in tobacco and leather overlays elusive fruit and persistent earthiness, a mix of blueberry and blackberry bramble and mountain sage.”
95 Points Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
“As for the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon 1873, this is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon generally from eastern Napa Valley hillside vineyards. Multi-dimensional, with tremendous concentration and richness, this wine has a dense purple color, unctuously thick, juicy, yet well-balanced crème de cassis, blackberry and blueberry flavors, a floral component, and a long, powerful finish. This is a classic stunner from this great vintage in Napa, and while approachable now, it won't hit its prime for another 5-6 years and then evolve for 25-30 or more.”
95 Points Owen Bargreen, International Wine Report
“The 2013 'Eighteen Seventy Three' Cabernet Sauvignon is a scintillating effort from this impressive estate. This dense and remarkably concentrated Cabernet begins with aromas of blackberry, milk chocolate and sweet spices. On the palate this offers flavors of Turkish coffee, anise, creme de cassis and blackberry cobbler. This is highly tannic and intense right now, with gorgeous fruit weight and complexity. An extremely impressive showing, but will need some additional bottle age to soften out.”
94 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
“Ultrarich, layered and tightly focused on a dense core of meaty blackberry, currant, loamy earth, anise, crushed rock and graphite notes. For all the flavor and depth, this features a persistent finish that folds in a smoky, toasty oak, adding an extra dimension of texture, flavor and aroma. Drink now through 2028.”
95 Points Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
“The last 2012 I tasted was the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon ‘1873', which is part of their Artisan Collection and named after Captain William Peterson, who established a pioneering winery on their St. Helena property in 1873. This is another beauty from Hall. Dense ruby/purple with layered blackcurrant fruit mixed with licorice, incense and forest floor, this deep, full-bodied, opulent wine has gorgeous purity and harmony among its component parts. Like so many of these wines, it has symmetry and density that are world-class. Drink over the next 20 years.”
93 Points Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast
“Opaque deep purple in color, this luxuriously rendered wine comes from the eastern Vaca range of the Napa Valley. It expands on the palate with a richness of plum, cinnamon, brown sugar and dark chocolate. Smooth and sturdy in tannin, it finishes with a taste of hazelnut.”
94+ Points Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
“The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon 1873 has a saturated purple color, plenty of cassis, graphics and smoke, full body and a muscular, very tannic finish. Patience is essential.”
91+ Points Stephen Tanzer, International Wine Cellar
"Initially restrained aromas of cassis, licorice and nutty oak picked up a chocolatey nuance with air. Densely packed and seamless, offering rich flavors of currant, mocha and chocolate that avoid heaviness...Has the chewy sweetness of material to support its serious tannic underpinning. Turned a bit dusty with aeration, displaying a note of menthol."
Stags Leap Cabernet Sauvignon
93 Points James Molesworth, Wine Spectator
"A fruit-driven red, with a generous core of boysenberry, açaí and blackberry compote flavors that won't quit, lingering on the finish while light notes of anise, violet and singed tobacco peek in. Will be hard to lay off with such generous fruit, but there's substance for some bottle development, too."
96-98 Points Jeb Dunnuck, Jeb Dunnuck
"Black raspberries, plums, spring flowers, and chalky minerality all emerge from the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Stags Leap District, a pure, concentrated, full-bodied 2021 that has a fresher, focused mouthfeel, plenty of tannins, integrated acidity, and a great finish. It's a rich, concentrated, yet balanced 2021 that, like many in the vintage, is going to need bottle age to show its full potential."
95 Points Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
"The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Stags Leap District offers up a heady concoction of blackberry jam, graphite, menthol, licorice, plum, black cherry, chocolate and lavender. I would give the tannins a year or two to soften. This rich, full-throttle Cabernet Sauvignon is an exotic beauty."
93 Points Joe Czerwinski, Wine Advocate
"There are 700 cases of the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Stags Leap District, sourced from the Schweizer Vineyard. It boasts lovely floral aromas combined with redcurrants and cherries on the nose, while the full-bodied palate is concentrated and velvety, tannic and dusty but also fresh and mouthwatering, not overdone at all."
90 Points Elaine Chukan Brown, Wine Enthusiast
"Dripping ripe plums, warming spices and peppery length combine for this bold and concentrated Cabernet of velvety tannins, balanced acidity and profound length. Woodsy and savory."
96 Points Jeb Dunnuck, Jeb Dunnuck
"The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Stags Leap District is another perfumed, complex, incredibly pure wine from Hall Winery. All varietal and loaded with red and blue fruits as well as notes of white flowers, violets, and spicy wood, it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a layered, opulent mouthfeel, and fine yet present tannins. It shows the complex, perfumed style of the appellation nicely while still bringing ample richness and power. It will keep for 20-25 years."
93 Points James Molesworth, Wine Spectator
"Juicy and fruit-filled, with a zesty mix of loganberry, mulberry and black currant preserves that are racy in feel, while sassafras and sweet bay leaf line the modestly toasted finish. Solid energy. Best from 2023 through 2034."
95 Points Joe Czerwinski, Wine Advocate
"Sourced from the Schweizer (75%) and Bench (25%) vineyards, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Stags Leap District features notes of mint, thyme, cherries and red raspberries. While it's full-bodied, it's also silky, marked by fine-grained tannins, and comes across as appreciably more elegant than the mountain wines, with a long, mouthwatering finish."
96 Points James Molesworth, Wine Spectator
"Ripe, juicy and delivering a mouthful of steeped plum, warmed cassis and cherry reduction flavors wrapped in bittersweet cocoa and tobacco notes. Grippy, tar-edged finish gets enlivened with a violet hint, while the fruit pushes through easily. Let this unwind in the cellar. Best from 2023 through 2038. 1,400 cases made."
96+ Points Jeb Dunnuck, Wine Critic
"Lots of perfumed red and black fruits, spice box, dried flowers, and scrub brush-like herbal notes emerge from the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Stags Leap District, a deep ruby/purple-hued Cabernet Sauvignon that's medium to full-bodied and has a balanced, layered mouthfeel, notable purity, and a great finish. I love the mid-palate on this beauty, and it's classic 2018 with its more structured, focused style. There's not much baby fat here, and it's a serious wine that will benefit from 4-5 years of bottle age."
93-95 Points Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate
"A barrel sample blend of 95% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Merlot, the opaque purple-black colored 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Stags Leap District features baked cherries, mulberries, blueberry compote and tobacco with touches of wild sage and underbrush. The palate is full-bodied, firm and grainy with plenty of juicy black fruit and an herbs-laced finish."
94-96 Points Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
"The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon (Stag's Leap) is endowed with stunning purity of fruit and tons of appellation character. Even if the Stag's Leap Cabernet comes across as a bit less formed than some of the other wines in the range, it exudes balance and a level of delineation in its flavors and textures that is truly remarkable. I can't wait to taste it from bottle."
91 Points Lisa Perrotti--Brown, Wine Advocate
"Made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Stags Leap District is deep garnet-purple in color and has a nose of kirsch, redcurrant jelly and blackcurrant pastilles with hints of plum pudding, potpourri, sandalwood and unsmoked cigars. The medium to full-bodied palate is chock-full of red and black fruit layers with a chewy texture and just enough freshness, finishing savory."
95 Points Lisa Perotti-Brown, Wine Advocate
“Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Stags Leap District offers up expressive scents of baked black cherries, warm mulberries, cassis and wild blueberries with touches of garrigue, wild sage and tilled soil. Full-bodied, the palate has a firm structure of grainy tannins and lively freshness lifting the densely laden black fruits to a long, herb-lifted finish.”
95-97 Points (barrel) Jeb Dunnuck, Wine Critic
“Maybe the best of the three vintages, the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Stag's Leap is an opulent, incredibly sexy, polished, silky wine that grows on you due to its pretty, elegant, layered style. Plums, blueberries, hints of graphite and white flowers flow to a seamless, full-bodied barrel sample that doesn't put a foot wrong. Readers looking for elegance and nuance in the Napa Cabernet should latch on to this.”
90-93 Points (barrel) Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
“The Cabernet Sauvignon (Stag's Leap) is one of the most reticent and tightly wound of these 2016s. There is quite a bit of depth and persistence, but relative to the other 2016s in this tasting, the Stag's Leap Cabernet is quite raw and not fully formed. I am not surprised, though, as the Stag's Leap seems to evolve at a slower pace than most, if not all, of the wines in this range.”
97+ Points Lisa Perotti-Brown, Wine Advocate
“The very deep purple-black colored 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Stags Leap comes sashaying out of the glass with evocative earth scents—forest floor, fungi, mossy bark and dusty soil—over a core of warm red and black cherries, crème de cassis and blueberry compote plus touches of cigar box and eaucalyptus. The powerfully fruited, rich, full-bodied palate is wonderfully contrasted by layers of fragrant earth notions and framed with ripe, firm, grainy tannins, finishing with fantastic persistence and depth.”
93 Points Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
“Hall's 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon (Stag's Leap) is full of character and personality. Inky blue/purplish fruit, lavender, spice, licorice and crème de cassis are beautifully layered. Expressive, pliant and quite giving, the 2015 captures plenty of Stags Leap character.”
94 Points Lisa Perotti-Brown, Wine Advocate
“Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Stags' Leap opens with baked cherries, mulberries and plum preserves on the nose with hints of eucalyptus, fragrant earth, moss, black tea and rose hips. Though full-bodied and packed with concentrated red and black fruit layers, the structure is lithe and refreshing, with plush tannins and a spring in its step on the long finish.”
94 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
"Rich and generous, with tiers of juicy plum, black cherry and wild berry, plus a dash of crushed rock, which gives the flavors traction and dimension. Drink now through 2032."
96+ Points Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
“Although Hall is in St. Helena, they have produced a 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Stags Leap. A Châteaux Margaux-ish style of wine, with floral notes intermixed with blueberry, black raspberry, and blackcurrant, the wine has a hint of minerality that adds to the complex aromatics. Full-bodied, rich and concentrated, the wine is still an infant but has at least three decades or more of upside potential. The finish is long, rich and reassuring. This is a wine to put away for 4-5 years and drink over the following three decades.”
93 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
“Offers explosive, dense fruit, with blackberry, wild berry, black licorice, savory herb and underbrush flavors, showing touches of cigar box and tobacco leaf. Ends with a sustained burst of flavor. Drink now through 2028.”
92-95 Points Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
“The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Stags Leap is a terrific example of the Hall style at its best. This site, which lies next to parcels used in Shafer's Hillside Select, as the inherent depth and pedigree to marry well with the approach to extraction here. Inky blue/purplish fruit, lavender, mint and exotic spices are all beautifully delineated. Expressive, dense and totally vivid, the 2013 Stags Leap is shaping up to be a real beauty.”
94-98 Points Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
“The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Stags Leap shows the breadth of richness, sweetness and opulence this vintage possesses. It is a head-turning, hedonistic, thrill-a-second wine.”
92 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
“Pure, rich and dense, with deeply concentrated blackberry, wild berry, currant, cedary oak and gravelly earth notes. Ends with tight, gripping tannins and hints of chocolate-covered cherry-raspberry torte and roasted coffee in the aftertaste. Drink now through 2028.”
93 Points (Cellar Selection) Virginie, Boone, Wine Enthusiast
"The appellation is showcased in all its glory in this 100% varietal wine, a brooding and weighty experience with a ton of power and concentration. Black currant, wild berry, pencil and tea make for big flavor and persistence, finishing with length and grace. Drink now through 2022."
93-95 Points Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
“As it often is, Hall's 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Stags Leap is one of the most distinctive wines in the range. Blueberries, blackberries, cassis, mint and violets literally jump from the glass in this beguiling, exotic beauty. Ash, smoke and licorice notes appear later, adding nuance and complexity to this graceful, beautifully delineated Cabernet Sauvignon.”
93 Points Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
"The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Stags Leap District is the most overt of the 2011 Hall Cabernets I tasted. The essence of Stags Leap comes through in the wine's rich, blue/black fruit, graphite, white pepper, violet and orange peel notes. Readers will find an exuberant, juicy Cabernet in the 2011 Stags Leap. Hall has done a fabulous job with the Stags Leap, a wine that once again shows the estate's ability to excel with ripe wines that are also impeccably balanced."
96 Points Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
“The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Stags Leap is nearly as compelling as the Exzellenz, boasting juicy blue and black fruits intermixed with an elegant and beautiful floral character. Stunningly rich, proportioned and majestic, this beauty is accessible now, but promises to evolve for 15 or more years.”
94 Points Antonio Galloni, Wine Advocate
93 Points Steve Tanzer, International Wine Cellar
“Expressive aromas of black cherry, blackberry, licorice and bitter chocolate, complicated by loam and spice nuances. Sweet, very rich, pliant and deep, with a layered texture given shape by harmonious acidity. Classic Stags Leap flavors of cassis, loam and tobacco. Plenty of tannic spine here but the tannins are also fine-grained and perfectly integrated. This large-scaled cabernet is very long on the aftertaste.”
92 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
“Offers a rich, juicy, supple mix of mocha, dark berry, light cedar and sandalwood scents before loamy earth and crushed rock nuances fold in. Drink now through 2025. 147 cases made.”
90 Points Steve Heimoff, Wine Enthusiast
“This is a good example of the high-alcohol style of warmth and deliciousness. While it’s not common for Stags Leap wines to have these characteristics, it is incredibly deep in black cherries, milk chocolate and oak, with a spicy finish that goes on for a long time, indicating the power of this Cabernet. Drink over the next six years.”
Segassia Cabernet Sauvignon
96 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
"A remarkable effort, beautifully crafted, ripe and concentrated, with a core of pure blackberry, wild berry, licorice, cedary oak and graphite flavors. Ends with a long, persistent, explosive finish. Drink now through 2030. From California."
92 Points (Cellar Selection) Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast
Grippy in sizably powerful mountain tannins, this wine is at first difficult to penetrate and will benefit from further cellaring, through 2022. In the shadows lurk fullbodied hits of floral violet and earthy cedar, with a tease of beautifully bittersweet chocolate.
92-94 Points Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
“The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Segassia is one of the darker, richer wines in the range. Plums, cassis, white flowers, cloves and violets jump from the glass. Hints of white pepper and orange zest add an exotic flair to the Segassia, but the style remains super-ripe, forward and totally striking. This opulent, racy Cabernet embodies the essence of the house style.”
90-93 Points Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
“The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Segassia is the lightest, most floral and elegant of the 2012s as well as the least concentrated. Nevertheless, there is plenty of stuffing and flesh to this cuvee. It’s reassuring to see one wine that’s merely mortal, but still outstanding.”
91-93 Points Antonio Galloni, Wine Advocate
"The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Segassia Vineyard boasts a serious core of blue and black fruit, cinnamon, cloves, licorice and menthol. The 2009 Segassia is one of the better wines of the vintage at Hall. A long, expressive finish and a compelling sense of overall balance distinguish the Segassia in this lineup.”
95-97 Points Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
"Full-throttle Cabernet flavors, loads of blue and black fruits, some subtle background oak, full-bodied mouthfeel, as well as stunning concentration and richness."
96 Points Antonio Galloni, Wine Advocate
"The 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Segassia Vineyard is a racy, super-ripe offering bursting with ripe juicy plums, black cherries, menthol, chocolate, spices and licorice. It possesses tons of inner sweetness and an extroverted personality. It is a beautifully balanced, striking wine.”
93 Points Steve Heimofff, Wine Enthusiast
"As good as the 2007, Hall's '08 Segassia is vastly rich in sweet, pure blackberry and cherry fruit flavors. New oak, to the tune of 85%, adds important notes of sweet caramel and buttered toast. This is not your typical Mount Veeder Cab, but much softer and riper than you might expect."
93 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
"Notably polished and graceful for a Mount Veeder Cabernet, this full-bodied red is well-balanced, focused, pure and persistent, offering a mix of ripe berry and cherry pie, espresso, loamy earth and sage-underbrush notes. All in all, an excellent wine. Best from 2012 through 2024.”
95 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
“An amazingly rich and powerful young Cabernet, with a sense of elegance and finesse. A full-blown wine, with tiers of currant, raspberry, espresso, mocha, mineral and black licorice. For all its power and thrust, this offers an air of refinement and detail. Drink now through 2023.”
93 Points Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
“There is something about the fruit from this area that tastes like blood of the vine. Blueberry pie notes intermixed with jammy black raspberries, cassis, graphite, and acacia flowers jump from the glass of this impressively constituted, rich, full-bodied 2007.”
93 Points Steve Heimoff, Wine Enthusiast
"Hall, which has gotten huge scores over the years, now has this Mount Veeder bottling, but the warning is that they’re playing with fire. It’s so massive in fruit, it risks being ridiculed as a bombastic pop wine. There’s no denying the power of the blackberries, currants, chocolate and oak, but there’s a case to be made for elegance and restraint. Easily earns its."
Knights Valley Sauvignon Blanc
93 Points Owen Bargreen, Washington Wine Blog
"The 2019 ‘Knight’s Valley’ Sauvignon Blanc is a gogroues new effort from HALL. Aged for 10 Months in 20% New French Oak, the wine was sourced from the Blau Vineyard. The texture here is utterly sensational as this unveils layers of beeswax and honeydew melon that combine with minerals, lemon rind, kiwi and shades of challah bread on the palate. Dense and downright delciiuosu, this gorgeous new Sauvignon Blanc will cellar well over the next seven plus years."
94 Points MaryAnn Worobiec, Wine Spectator
“Stylish and memorable, this white strikes an ideal balance between richness and vibrancy, with a spicy, smoky note of palo santo and a juicy, crisp core of lemon curd, orange sherbet and dried apricot flavors. A touch of green tea lingers on the finish. Drink now through 2030.”
93 Points Marynn Worobiecc, Wine Spectator
"A terrific, fragrant mix of litsea, lemongrass and mango aromas gives way to succulent peach, pear and melon flavors. Spice, honeysuckle and peach cobbler notes linger on the finish, where a thread of acidity imparts a refreshing edge. Drink Now."
T-Bar-T Ranch Sauvignon Blanc
90 Points MaryAnn Worobiec, Wine Spectator
“An intense floral note of honeysuckle accents the crisp, mouthwatering core of lemon, lime and ruby grapefruit flavors. Spicy on the finish. Drink now. 1,456 cases made.”
91 Points (Editor's Choice) Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast
“This intriguing and delicious wine includes 15% Viognier, the two grapes spending nine months in French oak, only 30% of it new. The oak provides structure and strength in unobtrusive ways, allowing the freshness of pomelo and grapefruit to speak and remain tangy against a tease of vanilla. The finish is dry and lengthy.”
90 Points MaryAnn Worobiec, Wine Spectator
“Rich, aromatic and intense, with honeysuckle, peach cobbler and lemongrass flavors infused with a spicy, toasted vanilla accent. Fleshy and vibrant, mouthwatering on the finish. Drink now. 1,537 cases made.”
91 Points Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast
“With a handful of Viognier blended in, and nine months spent in new French oak, this wine offers deep layers of melon and peach surrounded by a wall of floral aromatics. Delicious and ripe, the wine holds enough structure to hold well for another couple of years.”
90 Points MaryAnn Worobiec, Wine Spectator
“The lush pineapple, lemon and mango flavors are ripe and wonderfully juicy, framed by notes of spice, Key lime pie and toasted cedar.”
93 Points Steve Heimoff, Wine Enthusiast
"One of the best Sauvignon Blancs of the vintage, it's picture-perfect in the balance of tropical fruit, acidity, jazzy minerals and vanilla cream. A real standout."
Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc
92 Points Owen Bargreen, Wine Critic
"The fantastic 2023 HALL ‘Napa Valley’ Sauvignon Blanc was entirely stored in stainless steel prior to bottling. This shows really good tension on the palate, loaded with bright kiwi and gooseberry flavors that mingle with shades of wet stone and Japanese pear. Fabulous to enjoy in the summer sun, savor over the next few years."
90 Elaine C. Brown, Wine Enthusiast
"Pithy aromatics mesh with flavors of sweet melon, ripe apple, nectarine and a squeeze of apricot. The firm acidity of this wine enlivens the palate, lingering through pleasing grapefruit."
92 Points Owen Bargreen, Wine Critic
"The really good 2022 HALL ‘Napa Valley’ Sauvignon Blanc was entirely stored in stainless steel prior to bottling. It comes off very bright and juicy on the palate with ripe kiwi and pear flavors alongside copious minerals and cashew nut undertones. You’ll find this impossible to resist once opened. Drink 2023-2028."
91 Points Owen Bargreen, Wine Critic
"The 2021 ‘Napa Valley’ Sauvignon Blanc is sourced from a host of Napa Valley vineyards, as this reveals bright kiwi, starfruit and orange blossom tones that all take shape in the glass. The palate is soft and inviting with a seamless texture and bright veil of tension. Great to enjoy now, serve slightly warmer to savor the really good range of flavors and aromas."
90 Points Jeb Dunnuck, Wine Critic
"A rocking little Sauvignon that does everything right, the 2019 Sauvignon Blanc has lots of ripe citrus, pineapple, and white grapefruit notes to go with a juicy, elegant, lively style on the palate. With both bright acidity and plenty of texture, it's going to be versatile on the dinner table. Enjoy bottles over the coming year or two."
90 Points MaryAnn Worobiec, Wine Spectator
"Vibrant Meyer lemon, tangerine, Key lime and lemon blossom flavors are fresh and juicy, with notes of lemon verbena and fresh ginger on the finish. Drink now."
92 Points Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast
"With a lively nose of guava, fig and melon, this exuberant white is bright and crisp throughout, fresh and lively with a moderate weight and lushness. Textured and creamy, it dazzles in wet stone and a hint of legume as it reaches a lengthy finish."
91 Points Joe D'Angelo, International Wine Report
“The 2018 Hall Sauvignon Blanc is a terrific effort by this talented winemaking team. On the nose this takes on an alluring bouquet of crushed white flowers with citrus blossom and shades of green apple. The plate combines wonderful freshness and soft texture with copious orchard fruits that combine with lemon oil and minerals. Enjoy this beautiful Sauvignon Blanc in the short term.”
90 Points MaryAnn Worobiec, Wine Spectator
“Key lime pie, melon and citrus flavors are bright and refreshing, with a succulent edge to the fleshy texture. Details of orange blossom and green tea linger beautifully on the long finish. Drink now. 7,015 cases made.”
91 Points Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast
“A dry, stainless-steel fermented wine, this presents a generous floral bouquet upon entry, followed by a creamy palate, with textural layers of apricot and peach. Medium bodied, it remains refreshing throughout, making it an ideal choice for lighter occasions and lighter fare.”
92 Points Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast
“Voluptuous and well developed, this is tingling in acidity with a luscious mouthfeel and flavors of ripe peach, grapefruit and vanilla bean. Complex, the citrus is seasoned with a vibrancy of herb and pepper spice. A delicious wine for fresh oysters or crab cakes.”
90 Points MaryAnn Worobiec, Wine Spectator
"Vibrant and tangy, with terrific Key lime pie, passion fruit and lychee flavors mingling with the grassy, lemon-lime notes at the core. Refreshing and distinctive. Drink now."
Coeur Cabernet Sauvignon
94 Points Owen Bargreen, Wine Critic
"The 2021 ‘Coeur’ comes from Saint Helena and is a selection of some of their choicest sites in this appellation. The wine shows tar, pencil lead, mocha and anise on the nose with dark currants. The palate is fresh and polished with a smooth mouthfeel. Finishing long with pencil lead and medium-bodied dark fruits this is a beautiful with violet rose petal accents. This shows wonderful balance. Drink 2023-2035."
92 Points Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast
"From the heart of the Napa Valley, where the producer is based, this wine captures the full-bodied concentration that is possible in a warm vintage in a warm spot. It offers dusty sage and sweet tobacco accents amid ripe tannin, oak and blackberry fruit."
94 Points Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast
"Herbal, earthy and Old World in style, this full-bodied wine is savory and softly integrated in tannin and oak. Complex structure accentuates a core of lengthy intensity that leads to closing notes of black pepper, tobacco leaf and clove."
93 Points James Molesworth, Wine Spectator
"This has character, with smoldering bay leaf and tar notes out front, backed by a hefty core of dark fig and black currant paste flavors. Energetic, featuring a long, powerfully rendered finish that has ample cut to match the heft. Best from 2022 through 2035."
94 Points Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast
"Expansive and generous in black cherry, blackberry and vanilla cola, this is a sumptuous red wine layered and rich in supple tannin and toasted oak. With voluptuous, full-bodied style, it offers a length of underlying cedar, dried herb and black pepper that fully complement the fruit."
94 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
“Sleek and elegant, deep and refined, with a tight focus to the core of blackberry, wild berry, anise and cedar flavors, gliding effortlessly on the finish. Best from 2020 through 2032.”
94 Points Owen Bargreen, International Wine Report
“The ‘Coeur’ is a Santa Helena appellation red blend, primarily composed of Cabernet Sauvignon. HALL has a host of vineyards located in this appellation both in the hills and the valley floor. This shows a marvelous purity of fruit on the nose with creme de cassis, mocha, anise and blueberry compote. The palate shows wonderful richness and depth, showing a seamless quality. Blueberry compote, and gobs of dark fruits, with espresso bean mark the palate shows wonderful viscosity and tension. This will be another long ager. Drink 2018-2040.”
93+ Points Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
“The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Coeur (94 % Cabernet Sauvignon and 6% Merlot primarily from the Bergfeld Vineyard, but other St. Helena terroirs as well) has an inky purple color, a big, sweet kiss of crème de cassis, blackberries, licorice, and camphor. Full-bodied, opulent and fleshy, it can be drunk now in its exuberant youthfulness but promises to age gracefully for two decades or more.”
Double Gold 2016 San Francisco Wine Competition
94 Points International Wine Report
“As it begins to open it delivers aromas of wild blackberry, nutmeg, pipe tobacco and crème de cassis. There are rich flavors of blackberry preserves, crème de cassis, anise and mocha in this full-bodied, layered Cabernet. This wine needs time for the tannins to soften and would be best to allow this impressive bottling at least another year in the bottle to mellow.”
Terra Secca Cabernet Sauvignon
94 Points International Wine Report
“This is the first vintage that Hall has produced the ‘Terra Secca’ Cabernet Sauvignon which translates to 'dry earth'. Aged 22 Months in 65% New French Oak, this wine opens with a bouquet of crème de cassis, exotic spices, coffee grounds and anise with sandalwood accents. Dense and concentrated, flavors of baking spice, coffee, cigar box and crème de cassis flavors persist through a plush, velvety texture which glides effortlessly into the layered finish. This is another gorgeous wine made by the winemaking team at Hall.”
94 Points Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast
“This is a 100% varietal wine from a range of vineyards along the eastern hillsides of the valley. It is hugely concentrated in mocha, chocolate, sage and tar. Toasted oak supports powerful, firm tannins and a plush texture, all beautifully spiced with clove.”
92 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
“Intense and well-centered on vivid ripe currant, blackberry and cherry flavors, shaded by cedar notes and framed by firm, chewy tannins. Leaves you with a rustic impression and a solid core of fruit. Drink now through 2028.”
The North End Cabernet Sauvignon
92 Points Elaine C. Brown, Wine Enthusiast
"Generous and richly flavored with black plum, layers of toasted oak and a finale of spiced butterscotch, this full-bodied wine offers palate-coating tannins and a long finish."
94 Points Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast
"Reductive on the nose, this wine offers an earthy mineral component akin to iron and crushed rock that makes it interestingly complex. Strawberry, red-currant and cassis notes adorn a lengthy, supple and luxuriously robust concentration."
89-91 Points (barrel) Antonio Galloni, Vinous
“The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon North End is a new wine from Hall and is done in a restrained style that is also more approachable young than most of the other wines in the range. Dark cherry, plum, lavender and mint are all nicely pushed forward. This soft, supple Cabernet should drink well upon release.”
92-94 Points (barrel) Lisa Perotti-Brown, Wine Advocate
“A barrel sample, the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon North End offers a deep garnet-purple color and nose of crushed blackberries, black cherry coulis and cassis with touches of dried sage, underbrush, violets and mossy bark. Full-bodied with great beauty and finesse in the mouth, it has lovely silt-like, very finely grained tannins and wonderful freshness, finishing on a lingering herbal note.”
92-94 Points (barrel) Jeb Dunnuck, Wine Critic
“A new wine (I think anyway), the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon North End is a ripe, upfront, beautifully fruited effort that offers lots of currants, smoked earth, chocolate and hints of earth. It's broad, expansive and ripe, with enough tannin and depth to keep for 15 years.”
92 Points Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast
“This is a powerful, richly woven wine, substantially earthy and savory in spirit. Elements of cedar, pencil shavings, sage and tobacco characterize an expansive and weighty mouthfeel of explosive tannin and robust oak."
94 Points Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast
"Made from grapes grown in Calistoga, St. Helena and other northernmost spots, this wine is chalky, rounded and rewardingly rich, made in an unabashedly robust style. Chocolate and blueberry-pie flavors are dappled in coconut and a hint of cinnamon, finishing lushly soft."
94 Points Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast
“This is an inaugural release, blended with 7% Merlot and aged 22 months in French oak, 65% new. From vines grown predominantly in the northern end of the valley (Calistoga and St. Helena), it features a grainy texture of bold dark cherry that's granular and focused on the palate. Tobacco and leather add to the savory nature of the billowy tannin power. Enjoy best 2020–2030.”
94 Points Owen Bargreen, International Wine Report
“Highlighting the vineyards in the Northern end of the valley this Cabernet Sauvignon includes 7% of Merlot and was aged 22 Months in 65% New French Oak. As this wine begins to open it releases intense aromatics of crème de cassis, spring floral, mocha and cigar box. The mouthfeel is plush, with dense layers of black cherry preserves, mocha, crème de cassis and sweet pipe tobacco flavors coating the palate. This is an absolutely sublime effort which should continue to evolve beautifully over the next decade.”
92 Points James Laube, Wine Spectator
“Plump rich blackberry, mocha, cigar box, licorice and spice notes are delivered in even portions, making for a deep, complex, persistent charmer. Best from 2019 through 2032.”
Napa Valley Merlot
92 Points Owen Bargreen, Washington Wine Blog
"The 2016 HALL Merlot is another fantastic bottling from this famed Napa estate. On the nose this takes on lovely creme de cassis and tar aromas that mingle with shades of blackberry cobbler on this expressive nose. The soft texture is inviting as the wine unveils copious dark fruits and chocolate flavors. This deftly walks the tightrope of unveiling the warmth of the vintage yet also displays some restraint.While fantastic now, this compelling Merlot will continue to evolve well for at least another decade. Drink 2019-2029."
92 Points Kim Marcus, Wine Spectator
“Plush and full of richly spiced flavors of dark cherry, blackberry and plum tart, supported by elegant, medium-grained tannins. The finish is filled with notes of sandalwood and allspice. Drink now through 2022.”
91 Points Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast
“Hugely concentrated, this wine has power to spare, within its full-bodied richness and fruity succulence. Blackberry, black cherry and milk chocolate combine effortlessly to provide a pleasurable experience of complexity met by supportive acidity and exotic spice.”
93 Points Steve Heimoff, Wine Enthusiast
"A rich, dense, vital Merlot, one of the best of the vintage. Offers loads of cherry, green olive, roasted meat and pepper flavors, wrapped into firm tannins leading to a distinguished finish. Dry and elegant, it’s a beautiful wine to decant and drink soon with steak, chops, lamb."
Craig's Red Wine
90 Points Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast
"High-octane in style, this likable powerhouse offers smooth layers of red berry and black berry alongside brooding tannin and oak. Well integrated, it finishes in savory clove, tobacco and earthy herb."
92 Points Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast
"Smooth and chocolatey like mocha, this is a luxurious, lengthy and robustly full-bodied red with dense blue and black fruit. Graham cracker, cola and clove round out the finish."
92 Points James Molesworth, Wine Spectator
“This sports bay leaf, cassis, raspberry and tobacco notes, revealing a peppery edge. Everything knits nicely, with an echo of bramble at the end. Slightly edgy in feel, but shows excellent range and length. Drink now through 2030."
93 Points Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
"A new wine in this range, the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Craig's Red Wine is conceived as a Bordeaux blend that incorporates dollops of (insert). Dark and plush on the palate, the Craig's Cuvée is another super-appealing wine in this range. Mocha, espresso, plum, lavender and sweet spice add to an impressive gravitas, but the ripe, plush tannins give the wine considerable immediacy."
95 Points Lisa Perotti-Brown, The Wine Advocate
“...the very deep purple-black colored 2015 Red Blend Craig's Cuvée charges out of the gates with flamboyant notions of spice cake, crème de cassis, kirsch, blackberry pie and cardamom with hints of potpourri, hoisinHey , charcuterie and dried Provence herbs. Full-bodied, rich and plush in the mouth, the palate packs in the fruit preserves and spice box layers, finishing very long and very spicy."
90 Points Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast
"Ruby red in color, this wine opens with rich Bordeaux blend aromas of black plum with undertones of bay leaf, dried tobacco, pencil lead, and wet gravel. The palate reveals an ongoing personality of Cabernet tempered by Merlot and rounded out with a touch of Malbec. The wine shows loads of dark ripe fruit, round sweet tannins, and a full concentrated finish."
91 Points Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast
“This blends 65% Cabernet Sauvignon with 35% Merlot, the two playing well against each other to provide a broad soft expanse of decadent flavor. Cherry, plum, vanilla and well-integrated oak make it round and opulent, with a fleshiness that persists through a lengthy finish."