Dunn Vineyards produces 100% Cabernet Sauvignon under two labels: Howell Mountain and Napa Valley. Around 2500 cases of Howell Mountain and about 1500 cases of Napa Valley are made each year. The Howell Mountain Cabernet is from 100% percent Howell Mountain fruit, while the Napa Valley includes up to 15% Napa Valley floor fruit, with the remainder of the fruit coming from Howell Mountain. This floor fruit contributes to the wine’s softer approach, even though the wines usually can be laid down for 15+ years.

The bottles differ in two ways: The Napa Valley has a foil seal, whereas the Howell Mountain has been hand dipped in red wax. The Howell Mountain wine label bears both h the sub appellation Howell Mountain, as well as the appellation Napa Valley while the Napa release only reads Napa Valley. The Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is usually more approachable at a younger age with its softer tannins whereas, the Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon is massive in fruit and tannins.

The 2013 Dunn Cabernet Sauvignon from Howell Mountain is a notable expression of the Cabernet Sauvignon varietal, hailing from the renowned Napa region in California. Produced by Dunn, this wine is characterized by its robust structure and depth, a common trait among wines from this sub-appellation.

This vintage has garnered exceptional reviews, with Vinous awarding it a stellar 98 points. Antonio Galloni from Vinous describes it as "fascinating," with attributes such as "espresso, inky dark fruit, gravel, sage and menthol" that leave a lasting impression on the palate. The wine's tannin structure and acidity promise longevity, suggesting it is one to cellar rather than consume immediately.

James Suckling also rates this wine at 98 points, praising its "blue-fruit and floral character" with notes of "lavender and violets." He commends its "austerity" and "tension," recommending it be enjoyed starting in 2020.

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate contributes a 96-point score, with Lisa Perrotti-Brown highlighting the wine's "deep garnet-purple" color and a bouquet of "fresh blackcurrants, blackberry pie and crushed black plums." The medium to full-bodied profile, coupled with "very firm, ripe, grainy tannins," indicates a wine built for aging.

Decanter awards it 97 points, noting the wine's "striking persistence and structural amplitude." They credit Mike Dunn's refinements in the barrel program for the wine's refined tannins and improved evolution potential.

Jeb Dunnuck, offering another 98-point review, comments on the wine’s density and power, likening it to a First Growth Bordeaux. He emphasizes its "incredible bouquet" and "serious mid-palate density," predicting its longevity of at least 30 years.

Overall, the 2013 Dunn Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain is a wine of remarkable complexity and structure, praised across the board for its aging potential and intricate flavor profile.