Introduction:
The 2016 Burgess ‘Sorenson’s Reserve’ Cabernet Sauvignon is a formidable Napa Valley Cabernet from Howell Mountain—with depth, spice, and aging finesse. A rich and refined expression of one of Burgess’s premier single-vineyard wines.

Terroir:
Sourced from the historic Sorenson Vineyard on Howell Mountain—planted in 1872—on steep, volcanic slopes between 800–1,000 ft elevation. Soils are compacted volcanic ash and marine sediments, underlain by redwoods and fog-swept mornings. Estate-farmed with sustainable and restorative practices.

Appearance:
Deep garnet with a youthful, inky core and subtle ruby rim.

Nose:
Layered and aromatic—dark plum, blackberry, and cassis framed by cedar, graphite, potpourri, and refreshing mint-herbal notes.

Palate:
Full-bodied, with plush texture and polished tannins. Flavors revolve around baked blackberry, dark cherry, mulberry, and blackcurrant, woven with baking spice, tobacco leaf, lilac essence, and herbal notes of rosemary and thyme.

Finish:
Long and structured: fruit carries on into graphite, black tea, savory oak, and elegant herbal echoes. The tannins remain refined and supportive through the lingering close.

Overall Impression:
An age-worthy, richly-textured wine that balances mountain power with poise and aromatic lift. Built for both drinking now (decanting advised) and evolving beautifully over the next 10–15 years. Best paired with grilled ribeye, venison, rich stews, braised mushrooms, or aged cheddar.

Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): ~14.5%
Farming Practices: Estate-grown; regenerative and minimal intervention on historic vineyard
Producer Name: Burgess Cellars
Old World / New World: New World
Country of Origin: USA
Region: Howell Mountain AVA, Napa Valley, California
Grape Varietals: ~92% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Petit Verdot, 2% Malbec
Vintage: 2016
Wine Style: Full‑bodied, deeply structured Cab with peppery herbal lift, bold dark-fruit concentration, and mountain minerality
Winemaking Techniques: Hand-harvested; fermented in stainless steel; aged 30 months in oak (30% new, remainder neutral); extended maceration and lees contact; bottled unfiltered
Pack Size: 750 ml bottle
Container Style: Standard Bordeaux-style bottle
Closure Style: Cork

Wine Enthusiast: Rated 96 Points (Sept 2023)
"Generous, spicy and warm, this wine begs to be consumed now but has the stuffing for mid-term aging as well. Enticing mint, cedar and potpourri aromas lead to rich, inviting dark plums and black currants on the palate, where ample soft tannins lend a velvety texture. Best through 2033."