La Pelle 2018 Alluvium Vineyard St. Helena Cabernet Sauvignon

The 2018 La Pelle Alluvium Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon from St. Helena is a striking example of Napa Valley craftsmanship, sourced from nearly 40-year-old vines rooted in alluvial soils on the west side of Highway 29. Aged for 22 months in 75% new French oak from esteemed coopers like Taransaud, Sylvain, and Ermitage, this wine opens with vivid graphite aromas layered with brambleberries, black plums, and mountain herbs. The palate is dense and polished, showcasing sophisticated tannins, vibrant acidity, and a mineral-driven structure that supports opaque fruit and subtle spice. With only 125 cases produced, this micro-lot bottling has earned high praise from critics and enthusiasts alike. Ideal food pairings include grilled ribeye, rosemary lamb chops, or mushroom-stuffed ravioli, all of which complement the wine’s richness and herbal complexity. This vintage is both enjoyable now and built to age gracefully for decades.