The 2018 Vineyard 29 Estate Ceanda Cabernet Sauvignon is a notable offering from the renowned Napa appellation, showcasing the craftsmanship of Vineyard 29. This wine is composed of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc, 3% Petit Verdot, and 2% Merlot, reflecting a meticulous blend that highlights the strengths of each varietal.
Jeb Dunnuck awarded this wine an impressive score of 95 points, describing it as an elegant and seamless creation. "Black fruits, chocolaty herbs, graphite, violets, and acacia flower notes all emerge from the glass," Dunnuck notes, adding that its ultra-fine tannins and great finish make it a joy to drink, with the potential for aging over the next 20 years or more. This high praise suggests a wine that is both approachable now and promising for the future.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate gave the 2018 Ceanda a commendable 93 points. Reviewer LPB highlights the wine's deep garnet-purple color and expressive profile, which includes "blackberry pie, Black Forest cake and crème de cassis with hints of licorice, tar and Sichuan pepper plus a waft of wild sage." The full-bodied palate is supported by a robust structure of grainy tannins and ample freshness, culminating in a lingering aniseed note.
Vinous, represented by Antonio Galloni, rated the wine at 94 points, calling it "absolutely gorgeous." Galloni praises its medium body and refined character, noting that the wine marries fruit richness with energy effectively. He observes that "ripe dark cherry, lavender, spice and menthol build into the delineated finish," illustrating a balance that signifies a shift from Vineyard 29's previous style towards a more nuanced and finessed expression.
Overall, the 2018 Vineyard 29 Estate Ceanda Cabernet Sauvignon is a distinguished wine that has garnered strong reviews from multiple critics. Its blend of varietals, elegant structure, and expressive flavors make it a standout choice for both immediate enjoyment and long-term cellaring.