The 2021 Founding Brothers by Cathiard Vineyards is a Napa red blend that showcases the region's prowess in producing high-quality wines. This proprietary blend is composed of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, and 10% Cabernet Franc, delivering complexity and depth.
James Suckling rates this wine at 96 points, praising its transparency and aromatic profile. He describes it as having "flowers, currants, and citrus character," with additional notes of "pine needles." Suckling highlights the wine's "ultra-fine tannins that run the length of the wine and caresses your palate," concluding that it is "very fine and beautiful." He suggests that while it is enjoyable now, it will be even better in two or three years (jamessuckling.com).
The Wine Independent also awards the 2021 Founding Brothers 95 points, noting its deep garnet-purple color. The review mentions "showy notes of blackcurrant jelly, plum preserves, and wild blueberries," with secondary hints of "cardamom, iron ore, star anise, and dusty soil." The wine is described as full-bodied, featuring a "firm, grainy texture and beautifully knit freshness to support the bright black and blue fruit layers," finishing long with a mineral-laced note (The Wine Independent).
Antonio Galloni of Vinous rates this wine between 92-95 points, calling it "seriously impressive." He notes its dark, pliant, and explosive nature, emphasizing its intensity and substance. Galloni believes the wine shows promise of being superb, highlighting its resonance (Vinous).
Jeb Dunnuck gives the wine a score ranging from 94 to 96 points, noting its origins from older vines. He detects "jammy currants, chocolate, graphite, and a hint of pure crème de cassis" on the nose. Dunnuck describes the wine as full-bodied with a "balanced, layered mouthfeel, ripe yet certainly present tannins, and a great finish" (jebdunnuck.com).
With an alcohol content of 14.3%, this red wine features a cork closure and hails from the North Coast region of California, specifically the Napa appellation. Overall, the 2021 Founding Brothers by Cathiard Vineyards has received excellent reviews for its balance, depth, and potential for aging, making it a noteworthy selection for wine enthusiasts.