Hudson Carneros Napa Valley Old Master 2015

If California had a vineyard classification system, Hudson would without doubt be among those to class as a Grand Cru: their wines epitomise classic Californian Chardonnay at its best, lushness and opulence matched by exceptional balance. Alongside supplying grapes to some of the most prestigious wineries in California, including Kistler, Aubert and Kongsgaard, Hudson produces an exceptional range of wines. While Chardonnay is their undisputed speciality, their reds are world class, too. 

Old Master is a barrel-selection of predominantly Cabernet Franc, sourced across select plots on the Hudson Ranch. When Hudson began more than forty years ago, the southern reaches of Napa Valley were considered too cool for Bordeaux varieties. Undeterred, Lee Hudson pioneered the planting of Cabernet Franc, a decision that proved prescient. Full bodied, plush and densely textured, with concentrated dark fruit and menthol lift. Possibly the best California Cabernet Franc-led red we've tried.

96+/100 - The 2015 Old Master Proprietary Red is mainly composed of Cabernet Franc (58%) with some Merlot (42%) both coming from a single vineyard called the Old Master. Medium to deep garnet-purple colored, the nose simply sings of black forest cake, raspberry preserves and kirsch with subtle notions of pencil lead, cigar boxes, underbrush and spice cake plus a waft of potpourri. Medium to full-bodied, the palate delivers beautiful freshness and energy with tons of mineral and perfumed red fruit layers structured by a fantastic frame of ripe, grainy tannins, finishing with amazing persistence and depth. 413 cases were made. (Tasted Oct. '18) - Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW, Wine Advocate