Founded in 1879, Inglenook is one of Napa Valley’s most historic and revered estates. Under the visionary stewardship of filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola since 1975, the estate has been meticulously restored to its former glory, with a focus on producing world-class, organically farmed wines from its Rutherford vineyards.
The 2016 Inglenook Cabernet Sauvignon is a masterclass in balance and varietal purity. Aromatically precise, it opens with vibrant notes of ripe black cherry and blackberry, complemented by subtle hints of garrigue, lavender, thyme, and bay leaf that add depth and intrigue. The palate is finely tuned and seamless, with polished tannins and a supple texture that carries layers of dark fruit, cassis bud, and a whisper of savoury herbs. Oak is impeccably integrated, supporting the wine’s structure without overwhelming its elegance. The finish is long, fragrant, and composed, a hallmark of both the vintage and the estate’s restrained, classical approach. This is a Cabernet of remarkable finesse and ageing potential, offering a refined expression of Inglenook’s historic vineyards.