Grace Family Vineyards Reliquus Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2021

The Grace Family Vineyards Reliquus Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 is a site-driven, estate-focused expression of Cabernet Sauvignon drawn entirely from Grace Family’s vineyards in St. Helena, at the heart of Napa Valley. Produced as an annual blend, Reliquus is designed to capture the full breadth of the vintage across the estate rather than emphasize a single block or soil type, offering a nuanced view of both land and growing season.

The 2021 vintage unfolded during the second year of a drought cycle in Napa Valley, marked by a notably dry winter and spring with roughly half the region’s historical rainfall average. These conditions encouraged early phenolic development and the formation of smaller berries, contributing to concentration and structural intensity. Despite the lack of rainfall, vine balance was maintained, with average-sized canopies requiring minimal mid-season intervention. Slightly elevated but consistent temperatures through the growing season allowed fruit to ripen evenly, with harvest extending from September 18 through September 27, preserving freshness while achieving full flavor maturity.

Reliquus 2021 is sourced from two estate vineyards in St. Helena, located just two miles apart yet separated by dramatically different geologic histories. Grace Estate sits atop volcanic bedrock dating back approximately five million years, while Cornelius Grove is defined by ancient sandstone and metamorphic gravel soils formed over more than 100 million years. This contrast in soil composition contributes to the wine’s layered structure and sense of dimension, bringing together power, lift, and textural complexity within a single Cabernet Sauvignon.

In the glass, the wine presents aromas of red and black cherry, cassis, bakers’ chocolate, rosemary, incense, and violets, accented by a subtle note of fresh mint. The palate opens with a notably silky entry, leading into flavors of mocha, anise, black cherry, and cigar box, supported by lifted floral tones. Ultrafine, cocoa-textured tannins provide depth and continuity, carrying the wine through a long, seamless finish without excess weight.

Crafted under the direction of winemaker Helen Keplinger, the Grace Family Vineyards Reliquus Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 reflects a restrained, thoughtful approach to fermentation and élevage, allowing vineyard character and vintage conditions to remain clearly expressed. Bottled on May 30, 2023, with a limited production of 342 cases, this Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon offers both immediate appeal and the structure to evolve gracefully with additional time in the cellar.