Very light, smooth — 5 months ago
Popped and poured; enjoyed out of red Solo cups over the course of a few hours. The 1993 “Gravelly Meadow” pours a deep garnet with a near opaque core; medium+ viscosity with moderate staining of the tears and some sediment. On the nose, the wine is vinous with notes o ripe and desiccate fruit: cassis, blackberries, dried red flowers, tobacco, eucalyptus, Poblano pepper, leather, cocoa, graphite, a mix of organic and inorganic earth along with some cool and warm spices. On the palate, the wine is dry with medium+ tannin and medium+ acid. Confirming the notes from the nose. The finish is medium+. This was strong showing. Drink now through 2033. — 7 months ago
Brock thompson jordan john s kevin b — 7 months ago
Pale straw lemon color with aromas of tropical fruit, lime citrus and grassy aromas. On the palate flavors of pear and grapefruit with herb notes, vivid acidity. Medium+ finish, ending with fruit, grassy noted and mineral tones. — a month ago
Clear, medium ruby in color; on the nose, it's clean with pronounced primary and secondary aromas of raspberries, hibiscus, and potting soil; on the palate, it's dry with high acidity, medium tannins, medium alcohol, light body, and pronounced primary and secondary flavors of cherries, strawberries, and dried leaves with a long finish. This wine is complex and intense with good length. Overall, I rate this wine as very good. — 5 months ago
Linda Lista Chard. Genius — 2 months ago
Very smooth.
Buttery, begging for a bite of steak. Lighter on the tannins than many Malbecs, slight acidity softens it and masks the high proof. — 4 months ago
Nickel & Nickel – Vaca Vista Vineyard – Cab Sauv– 2022
Oak Knoll District, Napa Valley, California 🇺🇸
Overview
A single-vineyard Napa Cabernet sourced from the cool and elegant Oak Knoll District. Fermented and aged with the classic Nickel & Nickel precision, this expression favors balance, red-to-dark fruit purity, and structure over sheer power. A modern Napa style that emphasizes approachability without sacrificing depth.
Aromas & Flavors
Black cherry, cassis, plum, and violet, with cedar, vanilla, graphite, and a touch of baking spice. Subtle oak integration allows the fruit and minerality to shine.
Mouthfeel
Medium-plus in body, polished, and cohesive. Fresh acidity, supple tannins, and a graceful arc from entry to finish. Not a bruiser — a refined, cooler-climate profile that stays lively and lifted.
Food Pairings
Flat iron steak, short ribs, mushroom risotto, grilled lamb chops, herb-crusted pork tenderloin, or aged cheeses.
Verdict
A beautifully balanced, site-driven Napa Cabernet that delivers both sophistication and drinkability. Finessed rather than forceful, and a strong example of why Oak Knoll continues to be one of Napa’s most exciting AVAs for Cabernet.
Did You Know?
Nickel & Nickel was founded by the Far Niente family with a mission to produce 100% varietal, single-vineyard wines, showcasing Napa’s terroir with clarity. Oak Knoll is one of Napa Valley’s coolest sub-AVAs, producing elegant, aromatic reds with natural acidity and restraint.
🍷 Personal Pick Highlight
Oak Knoll being a single-vineyard expression from this sub-AVA makes it one of the easiest, most easygoing Cabernets from the Napa floor, and I always like to have it as an opener when pouring more intense Napa reds. A perfect warm-up that sets the stage beautifully. — 5 months ago
S&M
5/8/26 Wonderful, decadent berry tastes. Rich but smooth, jam like cherry and blackberry tastes immediate on the tongue. Fabulous wine — 11 days ago