Notes from the Archivist

"Parallax"

In 2013, a California couple spotted a rusty can poking out of a hillside while they were walking their dog. Inside: $10 million in gold coins. Just sitting there waiting to be found.

That same year, a Mt. Veeder Cabernet was put to rest in a cellar. It’s been waiting ever since…

Months ago we caught wind of a 2013 Mt. Veeder Cabernet that had been resting, untouched, for years. We tried it. We loved it. And we asked about the price. Which came in too rich for our gold-lacking-souls. So we passed.

Then, a month ago, the owner came back to us with an ask – take it all, and she’d part with it for a more reasonable price.

We can’t say much about the exact source, but we can tell you she was meticulous and spared no expense making it. In fact, I’ll just copy/paste the brief we received when we asked about it:

2013 was one of the best vintages in the last 10+ years here in Napa. And I can only imagine that with nearly three years in barrel, this thing was an absolute BEAST for years after bottling.

Now though, as it approaching a baker’s dozen in age? It settled into itself, but still has plenty of life. Generously anchored with loads of sweet/dark/tart plums, crushed blackberries, and figs, but also showing layers of cigar box, clove, and a kick of nice spicy French oak. Fully resolved fine tannins brace it together and carry into a finish that hangs on for a good 45 seconds.  A HUGE no-brainer for cab lovers – especially the ones who want a little age on ’em. It’s pumped full of raw power with an impenetrable edge that makes 2013 one of Napa’s all-time legendary vintages.

And while you’d pay an easy $150 or more for similar wines from comparable sources, you get this for a fraction. Rubissow’s own Mt. Veeder Cab goes for $175, and having tried both I can say its right in line with it.

I know a few of you have been waiting for this one. Cindy and her husband Mark, who stopped by the tasting room a few weeks ago tried it and declared it their favorite among the whole lineup. Florida Rick? This is probably your jam, too.

Lock it down! Like other releases, it’s a one time shot. Once it’s gone…it’s gone for good.