Salty Goats 2023 Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley

99 points                                                       
New Howell Mt. Cabernet from boutique producer Salty Goats, one of our favorite new wineries! Limited.

99 Points Decanter: "What a stunning wine. Immensely fresh, it carries a distinct mountain signature, with pine forest and sappy notes layered over an aromatic mineral profile that's reminiscent of iron and white ash. The concentrated palate delivers lush blackberry alongside blue-and black-fruited depth, framed by firm, robust mountain tannins that bring a subtle chalky grip. The finish is focused, with a kind of grippy apple-skin firmness, underpinned by layered notes of dark loamy earth and crushed gravel. The vineyard is certified both organic and regenerative. Drink: 2026-2045. Alc. 14.7%"

Salty Goats 2023 Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon comes from the certified organic Diogenes Ridge Vineyard, which the winery controls and farms using regenerative practices. Densely planted in 2001, the 7 acre vineyard sits 1500-1800ft in elevation surrounded by pine trees. Made with native ferment in stainless steel, 20 days on the skins. 100% Cabernet Sauvignon 337 clone, aged for 20 months in 65% new French oak. A mere 150 cases produced.

Salty Goats Wine Company is a new portfolio showcasing the talents of rising stars Joe Harden and Phil Holbrook, the acclaimed winemaking team at Nickel & Nickel. Joe and Phil are prodigies in Napa Valley winemaking, mentored by Thomas Rivers Brown, and appointed head and assistant winemakers at Nickel & Nickel at the remarkable ages of 30 and 28, respectively. At Salty Goats, Joe and Phil are free to explore their own creative vision, crafting wines that are both elegant and expressive. The wines are made at TRB’s Mending Wall facility with grapes from some of the finest organically farmed vineyards on the Sonoma Coast and in Napa Valley.