Gallica Gallica Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2010 750ml

I also tasted an Amador County Grenache, Syrah and Mourvedre blend from the Shaker Ridge Ranch that I thought was excellent, but this report is about Napa Valley, so it is not included in these reviews. However, Gallica’s 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon is a winner! A blend of 83% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc and 7% Petit Verdot, it combines power and elegance in a full-bodied style with good structure, sweet but noticeable tannin and authoritative flavor intensity (black currants, licorice, underbrush and unsmoked cigar tobacco). This deep, penetrating, intense Cabernet reveals admirably integrated acidity, tannin, alcohol and wood. Enjoy this impressive 2010 now and over the next two decades.

Beautifully balanced, tight and well-built, this is an understated style, with a firm, structured mix of dried berry, cedar, currant and crushed rock, gaining depth and richness on the finish, where the flavors unfold gracefully. Drink now through 2024. 217 cases made. (James Laube)

Dark black cherries, plums, mocha, spices and new leather all flesh out in the 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon. Today the 2010 is rich, deep and full of intensity. Tobacco, wild flowers and savory herbs all add complexity over time, but the 2010 isn’t ready yet to deliver maximum pleasure. Another few years in bottle should do the trick. The 2010 is 83% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc and 7% Petit Verdot, mostly from Oakville and St. Helena. The Petit Verdot is from a site in Coombsville. (Antonio Galloni)

This Cab, which contains small amounts of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, is the poster child for the modern Napa style of exceptional fruitiness, softness and sweet oakiness. You’ll either love the mélange of blackberries, cherries and mocha, or you’ll find it overbearing.