The 2020 Cathiard Vineyard Hora Red Blend from Napa is a proprietary blend that showcases the efforts of winemaker Justine Labbé and consultant Frederick Ammons. Composed of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, and 10% Malbec, this wine reflects a European sensibility while retaining the intensity of its Californian roots. The grapes were harvested from September 9 to October 3, and the wine sees 40% new oak during aging, resulting in a medium alcohol content of 13.6%.
Jane Anson of janeanson.com scored the wine 91 points, highlighting its "finely boned, gentle charcoal, grilled peppers, and spiced black fruits." She notes that the Malbec makes a clear impact, adding depth and character. Anson also mentions that the wine is drinkable now with a good carafe, despite the inherent intensity of the 2020 vintage.
James Suckling from jamessuckling.com awarded the wine 93 points, praising its "perfumed aromas of tile, blackberry, bark, earth and pine needles." He finds the wine's medium body and fine tannins particularly appealing, concluding that "the balance and drinkability is really right." Suckling suggests that the wine can be enjoyed immediately or held for future aging.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate gave the 2020 Hora Red Blend 90 points. Reviewer JC describes the wine as having "attractive aromas of mixed cherries and berries, with coffee-tinged notes in the background." The wine is noted for its smooth, silky texture and gently dusty tannins on the finish, offering a Bordeaux-ish feel.
Wine Enthusiast's Jim Gordon provided an excellent review with a score of 94 points. He describes the wine as "inviting" and "chocolaty," with a super-soft mouthfeel initially, but tannins that firm up on the finish, indicating potential for aging. Gordon notes flavors of milk chocolate, blueberries, and mint, recommending the wine be enjoyed best from 2026.
Antonio Galloni of Vinous also awarded the wine 90 points. Galloni describes it as "a powerful, driving wine" with super-ripe black cherry, plum, licorice, and other complex flavors. Though he notes some edginess at the finish, he acknowledges that the elements are well-balanced, especially considering the challenges of the 2020 vintage.
Overall, the 2020 Cathiard Vineyard Hora Red Blend Napa is a well-received wine with notable complexity, balance, and aging potential.