The 2022 Howell Mountain estate, built entirely on Cabernet Sauvignon, was aged up to 32 months in 84% new French oak. The bouquet on this powerhouse is strikingly fresh, with a savoury richness reminiscent of cured black truffle charcuterie and a hint of bacon fat, lifted by dried rose petals, wild fennel, salted dark chocolate, walnut, and loamy earth. On the palate, soaring tannins frame a wine that is at once succulent, juicy and medium- to full-bodied, supported by firm beams of tannin that are impressively well integrated at this youthful stage. The hallmark minerality is stark yet beautifully layered with loamy earth and wet slate. This may prove to be one of the most approachable Dunn Cabernets in recent memory — unquestionably a product of the hot growing season, yet still carrying the structure and integrity for which these magnificent wines are renowned. Few 2022s will cellar gracefully, but this one will surely gain in complexity with time. That said, collectors should consider the 2022 a rare gift: a Cabernet to enjoy now, while the rest of their Dunn holdings continue their long slumber.

This minerally, earthy wine is highly impressive, with aromas of black and red currants, wet stones, bay laurel, bitter chocolate, dried flowers and walnuts. The palate is seamlessly balanced, showing depth of fruit, melting tannins and a silken, rounded mouthfeel that has no hard edges. Firm, mouthwatering finish. This is drinking very well now, but can age for decades. Drink or hold.

A smoking good 2022 and a wine that defines the vintage, the 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon raised 31-32 months in 84% new French oak. Its deep purple hue is followed by a captivating nose of darker currants, leather, graphite, dried herbs, and freshly sharpened lead pencil. Medium to full-bodied on the palate, it has a round, layered mouthfeel, velvety tannins, solid mid-palate depth, and a gorgeous finish. It's one of the more approachable Dunn Howell Mountains you're going to find and is going to be great for those who lack patience. I followed this bottle for multiple days and it held up beautifully. Drink this ripe, sexy 2022 any time over the coming two decades. Drink 2026-2046.

Dunn's 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain is the first vintage in a while that didn't get 100% new French oak—it's just 84%. Subtle, cedary oak frames bold cherry and blueberry fruit on the nose of this medium- to full-bodied wine. It's bigger-feeling than the Napa bottling, despite being lower in alcohol (13.9%). Round but structured, firm but silky, with undertones of crushed stone and pencil shavings on the lingering finish, it's a particularly strong effort.- JC

(95+ points) The 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain offers a striking interplay of vintage 2022 ripeness and Howell Mountain savoriness. Dried herbs, menthol, licorice, incense and blood orange stain the palate up front before beams of tannin punctuate the harmonious, expressive finish. The 2022 is exotic and unusually lush, but also full of character. I look forward to seeing how this ages. The Howell Mountain is clearly among the finest wines of the year. - Antonio Galloni

Mesquite and black pepper notes lead off, followed quickly by a black cherry paste and boysenberry compote core. Anise, apple wood and singed earth flavors filter through on the finish, which shows a touch of tarry grip. All things considered, this is a solid effort for this compromised vintage. Drink now through 2032. 3,012 cases made.