2018 Robert Craig 'Affinity' Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

Winemaker Notes:  2018 is Jason Price’s first vintage as head winemaker at Robert Craig Winery after many years in the associate winemaker role. Jason’s attention to detail shows in all the wines, and Affinity 2018 is no exception. La Londe Vineyard in Coombsville was planted by John Caldwell in 1988 on 5C rootstock, and I sometimes wish it were 110R or any other variation that did better in such stony soil. However, the wine exhibits a tremendous sense of site. Though Affinity is our least expensive Cabernet, it is no less cellar worthy than our mountain wine offerings.

Blend: 83% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot, 2% Cabernet Franc, 1% Malbec.

CRITICAL ACCLAIM


James Suckling - "A perfumed nose of mulberries, plums, cedar, dried herbs, forest floor and cigar box. Full body with firm, fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity. Balanced, structured and focused."


Vinous - "The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Affinity is a terrific entry-level wine in this range. Intense, savory and spice notes lend terrific aromatic nuance and vibrancy to play off a core of dark, inky fruit. Deep and dense, but also wonderfully nuanced, the 2018 Affinity has so much to offer. Most of the fruit is from a single site in Coombsville, with small additions from sites in Rutherford and Howell Mountain. This is an impressive showing from Robert Craig."


Jeb Dunnuck - "I've always loved this wine, and the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Affinity is another solid vintage for the estate. Lots of currants, blackberries, smoked herbs, graphite, and charcoal notes emerge from the glass, and it's medium-bodied, with a supple, elegant texture and outstanding length."