The 2021 Tor Wines Vine Hill Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon is a distinguished offering from Napa's Oakville sub-appellation, produced by Tor Wines. This vintage is a 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, sourced from Blocks 3, 4, and 7 of the Vine Hill Ranch Vineyard. It is notable for its rich, complex profile and a significant aging potential.
James Suckling gave this wine an excellent score of 98 points, highlighting its "extremely aromatic" nature with scents of violets, blueberries, and black currants. He noted the presence of "graphite and lead pencil" along with "bark and wet earth undertones." Suckling remarked on its "rich and dusty tannins" that reflect "fantastic length and intensity," suggesting it would be best enjoyed after 2026.
Jeb Dunnuck also awarded the wine a high score of 97 points, describing it as "about as silky and seamless as they come." He identified full-bodied aromas and flavors, including "red and black fruits, savory herbs, chocolate, and spicy wood." Dunnuck praised its "polished tannins" and "flawless overall balance," predicting it would keep for 20-25 years, though it could be enjoyed with just 3-4 years of bottle age.
Vinous echoed these sentiments with another 97-point rating, calling the wine "fabulous" and "dark and brooding, with tons of intensity." The review emphasized the wine's unique blend from multiple blocks, which allows for a high degree of fine-tuning. The tasting notes included "dark fruit, lavender, espresso, mocha, leather, and dried herbs," and highlighted the wine's energetic quality.
This 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon stands out not only for its high praise from multiple reviewers but also for its robust structure and complex flavor profile. With an alcohol content of 15.1%, it promises a powerful yet balanced experience, making it a noteworthy addition to any collection. The use of a cork closure ensures traditional aging, enhancing its potential for long-term storage.