94pts Wine Enthusiast - Cellar Selection

Lush and expansive, this Cabernet of dark fruits, chocolate basil and rich spices envelopes the nose and palate. Mouthwatering and lengthy, this wine delivers an intriguing balance of bold presence and poise. 

94pts James Suckling

A beautiful, balanced, classic Napa cabernet from the vineyard surrounding the Nickel & Nickel winery. It opens with fragrant spiced cherry, spearmint and cinnamon aromas, then red and black cherries, dark chocolate and accents of tobacco leaf and cedar on the palate. Full-bodied but nicely balanced by acidity and moderate, polished tannins. Drink now or hold.

Wine Spectator

Offers frankly ripe boysenberry and blackberry fruit, with light, brambly energy throughout. The gently toasted finish lets a violet note in. Nicely done for the vintage. Drink now through 2030. 3,500 cases made.

Tasting Notes

With vibrant floral aromas mingling with hints of plum and olive, the 2022 John C. Sullenger Cabernet Sauvignon captivates the senses with an irresistible bouquet. On the palate, juicy black cherry, rich tobacco, spicy anise, and a touch of toast come together, enhanced by a lively yet balanced acidity. These dynamic flavors are supported by a robust core of tannins that unfold gracefully, leading to a long finish.

About the Wine

The home vineyard of Nickel & Nickel, Sullenger Vineyard is situated behind the winery in the heart of Oakville and is named for John C. Sullenger, who settled the farmstead in the 1880’s. The 2022 vintage opens with vibrant floral aromas mingling with hints of plum and olive. It captivates the senses with an irresistible bouquet. On the palate, juicy black cherry, rich tobacco, spicy anise, and a touch of toast come together, enhanced by a lively yet balanced acidity. These dynamic flavors are supported by a robust core of tannins that unfold gracefully, leading to a long finish.

Oakville is prized for its gravelly, volcanic soils, and enjoys the warmth of mountain-hugged valley and the cooling influence of the bay. These conditions combine to create Cabernet Sauvignons with elegant fruit flavors and supple tannins.