Bottle Notes, Cabernet Sauvignon

2000 Dunn Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain – Bottle Notes

Dunn Vineyards is located east of St. Helena in the town of Angwin on Howell Mountain. The Winery was established in 1979, with the first harvest of Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. In 1981, the first release consisted of 660 cases of 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from the Howell Mountain vineyards. In 1982, Dunn released a Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon.

Dunn is one of the iconic producers of Cabernet Sauvignon in Napa Valley. Randy Dunn, to his credit, has held steadfast in how he produces and prices his wines. The wines are exceptionally long-lived and are truly a throwback to a different era in Napa Valley. Favorable press in the last several years from Antonio Galloni of Vinuous has put a well-deserved spotlight back on the winery.

Crimson in color. 13.6% ABV. Powerful nose of red fruits, leather and fresh mint. Big and structured on the palate with fading fruits and substantial tannins. Dried cherries, currants, plums and pencil lead on the palate. The finish is long with coarse tannins. This wine is everything you expect from Randy Dunn in size and structure but just does not match up to the better vintages of the late 90’s and early 00’s. Drink over the next several years.

My rating: 88 points.

Current vintages of Dunn Howell Mountain should cost around $85. The wine is readily available at retail and a great value at the price point.

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