Whitehall Lane 2016 Cabernet Leonardini Estate   

Whitehall Lane Cabernet Sauvignon "Leonardini Estate" Napa Valley 2016

NVWE Notes: As deep and bright in color as it is in fruit expression, this lovely Cabernet is delicious now, yet it has several years of positive evolution ahead. The nose offers brisk, forthcoming fruit scents of black cherry, blueberry and blackberry, with highlights of violet and undercurrents of cedar, mace, dark pipe tobacco, coffee bean and licorice root. Both in its aromas and in the flavors that follow, the harmony and balance so notable in 2016 are in full evidence. Those flavors are vibrant, focused and lingering, with sweet red cherry, black cherry, violet and cherry pit at center stage to push aside the tannins. Enjoy it now with classy sauced entrees, or allow it four years or so in the cellar to fully deliver all that it has to offer.

Wine Advocate

93 Points

Composed of 97% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3% Petit Verdot, the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Leonardini Estate was aged for 26 months in French oak, 65% new. Deep garnet-purple in color, warm cassis, blackberry pie and mulberries scents slowly unfurl, giving way to nuances of pencil lead, mossy tree bark and truffles with a waft of cardamom. Full-bodied, the palate is delivering mouth-filling black fruit and compelling tension with a plush texture and a long, savory finish. 1,050 cases were made. Drink Date 2019 - 2034. Lisa Perrotti-Brown 30th Sep 2019