Tough to accept as credible any list of ageworthy Napa Cabernet not including names like Dunn, Dominus, or Diamond Creek. Just as difficult to accept one omitting Cathy Corison’s superb ‘Kronos Vineyard’ bottling, my vote for Napa’s strongest pound-for-pound cellarer.
‘Kronos’ was planted in 1971 and its low-yielding vines produce smaller berries and a darker, more concentrated cuvée than Corison’s straight Napa bottling. The wine’s intensity of graphite and cassis make one of the most distinctive tandems in all California Cabernet. Kirsch liqueur notes give, particularly in warm years, a Châteauneuf-like touch.
Purity, poise, and symmetry rarely fit Napa so snugly. Experience reminds that an hour’s decant, two if you can find them, generously repays the effort.
Cheers,
Jason
