The 2016 Heitz Cellar, "Martha's Vineyard" Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley was a Merchant's Pick
#3 Wine Spectator Wine Of The Year • A Game Changer!
February 22, 2023
I vividly remember my first time having Heitz "Martha's Vineyard" Cabernet Sauvignon.
Years ago at an industry tasting, colleagues and collectors brought what they thought was THE wine of the evening. Among a crowd of 1982 Bordeaux and 1988 Barolo, there was one wine, unlike all the rest.
Heitz Martha's Vineyard!
It was a game changer for me.
The 2016 will be for you too!
"The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Martha's Vineyard barely hints at eucalyptus on the nose, with much more emphasis given to black cherries and cassis. This is full-bodied and rich, nicely balancing richness and texture against linear shape and focus and picking up hints of blueberries and spice on the long, mouthwatering finish." Wine Advocate
What We Love About This Wine
Tucked against the Mayacamas mountains in the Oakville district, a hidden, windy road takes you to the prized 34 acres known as Martha's Vineyard. The mountains shelter the hot sun and afford the grapes longer hang-time on the vine. We love the cool, vibrant notes of mint, cedar, eucalyptus, and basil that, regardless of vintage, come alive in the wine.
Now back to my first encounter ---
I was at a NYC steakhouse, and a 1976 Heitz Martha's bottle emerged. As soon as the cork popped, there was an instant buzz around the bottle, and the crew just gravitated towards it. It was perfectly aged and in its prime, outshining all the rest.
I have no doubt the 2016 Heitz Martha's Cabernet will bring you similar joy; this is your chance to have your version of the enthralling 1976 I enjoyed years ago.
As someone who cut their teeth in this industry on Bordeaux and Burgundy, this wine opened my eyes to California wines in the most extraordinary way.
It was a game-changer for me.
Drink or hold for 20 years.
Enjoy!