95pts Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

From a seven-acre parcel on Howell Mountain planted in 2002 at 1,400 feet above sea level (across from Cade Winery), the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Linda Falls Vineyard is a dark-hued, deeply pine-scented wine, loaded with blueberries and black cherries and backed by savory earth and black olive notes. It's medium to full-bodied on the palate, richly velvety in feel and espresso-tinged on the lengthy finish. Rating: 95+

94pts Wine Spectator

This brims with steeped dark currant and mulled blackberry fruit inlaid with racy streaks of tar, singed mesquite and sweet tobacco. A sanguine echo adds a mouthwatering edge through the grippy finish. Rock solid. Best from 2026 through 2038. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 1,593 cases made.

94pts Vinous

The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Linda Falls Vineyard has really come together during the last phase of élevage. Black cherry, espresso, chocolate and licorice are all potently expressed. Howell Mountain Cabernet has more than enough density to stand up the new oak that runs through all the 2018s at Heitz. If anything, this Howell Mountain fruit handles the new oak best of all the Cabernets in the range. The Linda Falls is a big wine with huge mountain tannins but also a good deal of finesse.

Winemaker Notes

The classic characteristics of our prized Howell Mountain vineyard, Linda Falls, are elevated and highlighted in a way we only see in exceptional vintages. The savory complexities of pine, juniper, and sage complement notes of ripe blueberry, tart plum, and raspberry. The structure of this wine speaks to its Howell Mountain origin but with the softness and elegance for which Heitz Cellar is renowned.