Melanson Vineyard is a 10.5-acre vineyard which is planted to Clone 7 and Clone 337 Cabernet Sauvignon on the rugged slopes of Pritchard Hill above Lake Hennessy. While it is surrounded by some of Napa’s most iconic wineries, Melanson Vineyard certainly stands out on its own, and is a vineyard that readers should become very familiar with, if not already. The 2016 Cabernet from Tor is an absolutely sensational showing from this site. As it begins to open, it slowly reveals its wonderful characteristics, layer at a time, starting with seductive aromatics of ripe blackberries, red currants and even some blueberries that combine with violets, pencil shavings, dusty leather, exotic spices and the slightest hint of smoldering earth. On the palate this is full-bodied and beautifully concentrated, with powerful, yet well integrated tannins. It continues to impress with its remarkable depth and persistence, as waves of ripe dark fruits, graphite and bittersweet dark chocolate leave a lasting impression on the long, polished finish. Displaying outstanding structure and precision, this is a remarkable example of winemaking, and the result speaks for itself. The 2016's from Tor have all been utterly fascinating, and the Melanson Vineyard Cabernet is no exception. While this exceptionally crafted Cabernet may require the most bottle age of all 2016 releases from Tor, there is certainly no doubt it will go on to have an absolutely brilliant future.
Rating | Value | Drink |
97 |
$225 |
2023-2046 |
Country | Region | Appellation |
United States |
California |
Napa Valley, Pritchard Hill |
Editor | Issue | Importer |
J. D'Angelo |
November, 2018 |
NA |