Loren Crossing Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

Loren Crossing takes its name from a Sunday bicycle route through Napa Valley, winding past vineyards and stands of California Bay Laurel from north to south and east to west. It is an apt inspiration: this is a wine built for the pleasure of the journey rather than the formality of the destination, and it consistently punches well above its price point. The blend is 90% Cabernet Sauvignon with the remaining 10% filled out by Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, and Petit Verdot, with grapes handpicked from across Napa Valley and a significant portion sourced from St. Helena. The winemaking is earnest and thorough: native yeast fermentation in closed-top vats with 24 days of skin contact, then 16 months of aging in 40% new French oak from a carefully chosen selection of top cooperages including Seguin Moreau, Boutes, Taransaud, and Nadalie. The result is a genuinely Napa-boned Cabernet at a fraction of what the address usually costs. Black fruits dominate from the first pour: boysenberry, blueberry compote, ripe plum, and blackberry, layered with savory notes of bay leaf, cracked pepper, sage, dark chocolate, clove, and coffee. The tannins are silky and well integrated, the acidity juicy and fresh, and the finish long enough to earn its keep at the table. Full-bodied without being heavy, and ready to drink now with no need for patience. Pair with grilled ribeye, braised short ribs, aged cheddar, or anything with herbs and roasted depth. One of the more honest values in California Cabernet.