The 2021 Lail Vineyards Blueprint Cabernet Sauvignon is a noteworthy example of Napa Valley winemaking. This Cabernet Sauvignon, produced in the North Coast region of California, comes from a blend of multiple vineyards, with a significant portion sourced from Rutherford. It has an alcohol content of 14.5% and is sealed with a traditional cork closure.
Jeb Dunnuck, writing for jebdunnuck.com, praises this wine as “brilliant” and recommends it as a great Cabernet Sauvignon under $100. He describes the bouquet as featuring cassis, blackberries, chocolate, spice, and graphite, noting its medium to full-bodied nature and a layered, seamless mouthfeel with a great finish. Dunnuck awards it a score of 93.
James Suckling, in his review on jamessuckling.com, gives the wine a 92 and highlights its aromas of black cherries, brambles, and vanilla bean, followed by ground cloves, tobacco, and a hint of eucalyptus. He characterizes it as full-bodied with moderate acidity and firm, juicy tannins, noting the underlying graphite notes on the palate and calling it a "nicely framed and polished wine."
Antonio Galloni of Vinous also scores the wine at 93, describing it as “packed with fresh blueberry, lavender, cloves, licorice, and chocolate.” He finds it juicy and medium-bodied, with savory and floral notes that linger on the finish. Galloni emphasizes its vibrant and flavorful profile.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, reviewed by Joe Czerwinski, rates the 2021 Blueprint Cabernet Sauvignon at 94. Czerwinski notes its fruit-forward scents of blueberries, cassis, and black cherries. He appreciates the balanced, medium to full-bodied palate, describing it as silky, fine, and elegant with just the right amount of ripe, savory tannins on the finish. He considers it a terrific value in the context of Napa Valley Cabernet.
Wine Enthusiast’s Jim Gordon also scores it 94 and highlights the baked fruits and toasty oak aromas, which lead to richly layered blackberries, blueberries, and cocoa. Gordon mentions its aging potential, with the wine being well-structured for aging and best enjoyed from 2028-2038, thanks to its concentration and the use of 50% new French barrels during aging.
Overall, the 2021 Lail Vineyards Blueprint Cabernet Sauvignon is a highly praised wine, noted for its rich fruit flavors, balanced structure, and excellent value. It is recommended both for immediate enjoyment and for aging to enhance its complexity.