Gandona 2013 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley
More than our flagship Cabernet, it is the spirit of the estate personified. Named in memory of my grandfather, Gandona, which translates to “humble man,” Gandona always consists of 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from the highest and steepest blocks on the property, which consistently articulate the most profound and striking expression of our terrior, both emphatic and eloquent, like Gandona. With its inky purple color, a glorious nose of blackberry and blueberry liqueur, full-bodied mouthfeel, dense, pure notes interwoven with camphor, charcoal embers and spring flowers, this is stunning stuff and a great example of the Estate’s potential.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate - 94 Points
"The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate, which comes from their 18-plant of vineyard acres (the total estate possesses 116), is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon aged 22 months in 95% new French oak. The production is less than 500 cases. In contrast to several other Pritchard Hill-styled wines, this one shows significantly more loamy, earthy notes, white chocolate, burning embers and volcanic origins, with a hint of asphalt and smoked meats as well as cr?me de cassis and blackberries. The wine is a medium to full-bodied, ripe, luscious and rather earthy, masculine and exuberant Cabernet Sauvignon to drink now and over the next 20 years."
Vinous - 93 Points
"This is a striking set of wines from proprietor Manuel Gandona. I have been following these wines from the very beginning. This site on Pritchard Hill appears to naturally produce rich, intense wines. Another rich, visceral wine, the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon delivers superb intensity and volume in an up-front, flashy style. Inky blue and purplish fruit, spice, new French oak and sweet spices are some of the signatures. Ripeness is pushed forward in a hedonistic, super-concentrated wine endowed with character and real personality."
