Introduction:
The 2018 Heitz Cellar Trailside Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon is a stunning example of classic Napa Valley winemaking, combining power, elegance, and age-worthy structure. Sourced from the organically farmed Trailside Vineyard in Rutherford, this Cabernet delivers deep concentration, refined tannins, and a signature expression of "Rutherford dust" minerality.

Terrior:
Situated in the heart of Rutherford, the Trailside Vineyard benefits from well-drained alluvial soils with a mix of gravel, sand, and volcanic components. The warm valley floor climate is moderated by cooling evening breezes from nearby mountains, ensuring balanced ripening and preserving the wine’s freshness and structure.

Appearance:
Deep garnet with a nearly opaque core, hinting at both richness and longevity.

Nose:
Highly aromatic, with layers of cassis, black cherry, and blackberry, intertwined with notes of graphite, cedar, cigar box, and hints of dried herbs. Subtle floral notes and a touch of baking spice from extended oak aging add further complexity.

Palate:
Full-bodied yet beautifully balanced, with a firm tannic backbone and bright acidity. The palate delivers rich flavors of ripe blackcurrant, plum, and dark cherry, complemented by secondary notes of dark chocolate, crushed gravel, and tobacco. The wine's depth and structure suggest exceptional aging potential, while its silky mouthfeel makes it approachable even in its youth.

Finish:
Exceptionally long and refined, with lingering dark fruit, fine-grained tannins, and a signature dust-like minerality that is characteristic of Rutherford terroir.

Overall Impression:
A benchmark Napa Valley Cabernet that combines intensity with finesse. While already impressive now, this wine will continue to evolve beautifully over the next 15–20 years. Ideal for pairing with prime rib, dry-aged steaks, or roasted lamb. Decanting is recommended for early enjoyment.

Alcohol by Volume (ABV %): 14.5%
Farming Practices: Certified Organic
Producer Name: Heitz Cellar
Old World / New World: New World
Country of Origin: USA
Region: Napa Valley (Rutherford)
Grape Varietals: Cabernet Sauvignon
Vintage: 2018
Wine Style: Full-bodied, Structured, Age-Worthy Red Wine
Winemaking Techniques: Extended Barrel Aging in Neutral Oak, Minimal Intervention for Terroir Expression
Pack Size: 750ml
Container Style: Bottle
Closure Style: Cork

94 points, Wine Spectator:
"Sleek and focused, with notes of damson plum, red currant coulis, and dark cherry preserves corseted tightly with singed tobacco, cast iron, and loam accents. Cedar and sanguine notes add a twang amid the dark fruit, giving the finish a mouthwatering edge. A little patience required. Best from 2026 through 2040. 4,627 cases made."