Colgin Cellars Cariad

While it is primarily a Cabernet Sauvignon, the Cariad is a proprietary blend that often includes small amounts of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. The grapes are sourced from prestigious Napa Valley vineyards, specifically on Howell Mountain and in Oakville. This blending process adds complex layers of dark fruit and structure to the final wine.

The wine undergoes an extended barrel aging process, typically spending around 24 months in entirely new French oak. This extended contact with the wood helps develop the distinctive cedar and spice nuances that complement the dark fruit flavors. It also allows the tannins to polymerize and soften, making the wine incredibly smooth.

Because of its robust tannins and high acidity, this wine is built for long-term cellar aging and usually requires at least 7 to 10 years to truly integrate. Bottles from exceptional vintages can easily improve over 20 years or more. Decanting a younger bottle for at least two hours is recommended if you choose to open it early.

As a luxury Napa Cabernet Sauvignon, the Colgin Cellars Cariad typically commands a premium price point, often retailing upwards of $400 per bottle. The exact price fluctuates depending on the specific vintage and the retailer. It is highly sought after by collectors, which means allocations are frequently sold out upon release.