2017 Hess Collection Lion Tamer Cabernet Sauvignon ($60)

This Hess Lion Tamer Cabernet Sauvignon is from Napa Valley. It a blend of 81% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Petite Sirah and 8% Malbec. It’s aged in 33% New French and American oak barrels for 20 months.

The name Lion Tamer has become their nickname for Malbec because they use this grape as a blending variety to tame powerful tannins. They say “This Cabernet Sauvignon brings all the roar of Napa Valley and when blended with a touch of Malbec, produces a big, lush wine that finishes with smooth and tamed round tannins.”

Winemaker Dave Guffy states “Lion Tamer Cabernet Sauvignon is plush in texture with heady aromas of blackberries, black cherries and notes of freshly ground coffee. We add a touch of Malbec to the blend to develop a softness in the tannins, making this a wonderfully smooth and seamless wine. These mouthwatering tannins surround the palate, framing layered elements of bright blueberry, toasty oak and deliciously rich mocha. I find this vintage of Lion Tamer Cabernet is perfectly balanced, with well-integrated vanilla oak notes presenting on the lengthy, elegant finish.”

I found this Lion Tamer Cab to have a big, full-bodied profile with great chocolate and vanilla notes from the oak aging. The tannins were firm but not over-powering and finished smooth with lingering flavor.

This is an exceptional Cab from Napa. If you are looking for a special wine for a special occasion, this one’s for you! Cheers!

Disclosure of Wine Sample Submission: I received this wine at no cost for review. The opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Sample Provided by Donna White, Donna White Communications