2019 Mark Herold ‘Mastadon’ Cabernet Sauvignon, Oakville, USA (1.5L/MAGNUM) GLWS

WINEMAKER’S NOTES:

The 2019 vintage was characterized by perfect growing conditions which were ideal for producing world class wines. Starting with significant precipitation that increased soil moisture and fueled by a long warm summer which lacked the typical extreme heat events, produced extended fruit hang time. The slow even harvest conditions resulted in highly pigmented wines characterized by great acidity and resolved tannins. A classic vintage with only 120 bottles produced. 

The 2019 Mastodon is a single barrel of Oakville Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon blended from my favorite blocks and barrel aged for 20 months. The result is a ridiculously aromatic wine revealing gobs of black and purple fruits with black cherries, crème de cassis, strawberries, crushed rock, and interlacing aromas of black raspberry jam. Nuances of black cardamon, mocha, roasted tree nuts, tobacco, and suede, further propels the aromatic complexity. Mastodon is a wine that embodies elegance, power, and balance. The seamless expression of full throttle yet seamless black and purple fruit flavors is framed by great acidity and velvety melting tannins. A beautiful example of the impeccable fruit quality of Oakville Ranch. This wine is drinking beautifully now and will age effortlessly over the next 20 years.

TASTING NOTES:

The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Mastodon certainly lives up to its name. There is just one barrel of the 2019, a blend from the Summit and Terraces blocks at Oakville Ranch. Soaring tannins enshroud a core of inky red fruit, blood orange, tar, new leather and spice. Exotic in its richness, the 2019 flaunts massive concentration and opulence. I tasted in twice and was blown away both times. Readers who adore large-scaled Napa Valley wines will flip out.

– Antonio Galloni, 98 pts.