2019 Dunn Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon

Dunn Vineyards is a respected and iconic wine producer based in the Napa Valley, California. The winery is known for its exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon wines and its dedication to producing wines that express the character of the Napa Valley.

History of Dunn

Dunn Vineyards was founded in 1978 by Randy Dunn. He was driven by a vision to produce world-class Cabernet Sauvignon wines in the Napa Valley. Dunn Vineyards is best known for its Cabernet Sauvignon wines. They produce both Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon and Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon. The Howell Mountain appellation, where a significant portion of Dunn grapes are grown, is known for its high elevation and unique terroir. The volcanic soil and cooler climate contribute to the production of intensely flavored, structured and long-lived Cabernet Sauvignons.

Traditional wine making

Randy Dunn is known for his traditional winemaking techniques. This involves using a longer maceration period and aging the wines in large, neutral oak barrels. The aim is to produce wines that showcase the inherent qualities of the fruit without an overt influence of oak. Dunn's Cabernet Sauvignons are known for their aging potential. They are structured wines with firm tannins and acidity, which allow them to evolve and improve with long-term cellaring. Dunn's wines are known to continue to develop and improve over decades.

Dunn Family

The winery remains a family business, with a strong commitment to maintaining tradition and quality standards. Dunn Vineyards has maintained a reputation for producing some of the most iconic and long-lived Cabernet Sauvignon wines in the Napa Valley. Their wines are prized by collectors, connoisseurs and wine enthusiasts for their depth, complexity and ability to age gracefully.

Napa Valley, nestled in the heart of California, stands as a viticultural gem renowned for its rich history, diverse terroir, and world-class wines. Dating back to the late 18th century, Catholic missions in the region were mandated to produce wine for sacramental use, marking the inception of grape cultivation in California. However, early grape growers and winemakers in California faced challenges, and it took time for the region to earn global recognition.

More information about Napa Valley

The turning point came in 1976 when Chateau Montelena and Stag's Leap Wine Cellars from Napa Valley outshone renowned Bordeaux wines at the historic Paris Wine Tasting. This event signaled a shift in perception, boosting respect for California wines, especially those hailing from Napa Valley.

Situated between two mountain ridges converging from south to north, Napa Valley's geography is as breathtaking as it is conducive to winemaking. The narrow eight-kilometer-wide valley is shaped by the Mayacamas Mountains to the west and the Vaca Range to the east, meeting at Calistoga. The Napa River flows through, splitting the two mountain ridges and giving birth to the renowned Napa Valley.

While Napa Valley represents just 5% of annual U.S. wine production, its global reputation is unparalleled. It was not the first American Viticultural Area (AVA), but it holds a special place as a premier wine region. Located in central California, north of San Pablo Bay, the valley boasts a highly variable climate and an abundance of microclimates due to its narrowness and mountainous surroundings.

The unpredictability of Napa Valley wines, unless familiar with the winery, is attributed to its diverse geology. The valley floor consists of marine sediments, volcanic rock, river deposits, silt, limestone, and sandstone, creating a patchwork of soils. From the volcanic soils in the north ideal for Cabernet to calcareous soils in the south perfect for Pinot Noir, the variety of soils and climates foster a dynamic viticultural environment.

With investments pouring in from prominent wine companies, Napa Valley continues to evolve, solidifying its position as a global wine powerhouse, offering a spectrum of wines that showcase the region's diversity, innovation, and unwavering commitment to quality winemaking.

What about Napa valley's subregions?

Napa Valley, renowned as a viticultural paradise, unfolds its vinous tapestry through a collection of distinctive subregions, each contributing unique characteristics to the valley's diverse and celebrated wines. From the rugged terrains of Howell Mountain to the sun-kissed slopes of Atlas Peak, Napa Valley's subregions are a testament to the region's winemaking prowess.

Howell Mountain: Nestled in the northeast, Howell Mountain stands tall as a premier subregion known for its elevated vineyards. The mountainous terrain, with elevations reaching over 1,400 feet, provides a cooler climate, resulting in wines with robust structure and intense flavors. Howell Mountain is celebrated for producing exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Viognier, and Zinfandel.

Calistoga: At the northern tip of Napa Valley lies Calistoga, renowned for its warm temperatures and diverse soils. Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Petite Sirah, and Zinfandel thrive in this subregion. Calistoga's unique terroir imparts a distinct character to its wines, characterized by boldness and depth.

Diamond Mountain District: Known for its volcanic soils and elevated vineyards, Diamond Mountain District is home to some of Napa Valley's most esteemed Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. The wines from this subregion are recognized for their elegance, structure, and age-worthiness.

Spring Mountain District: Perched on the western side of Napa Valley, Spring Mountain District boasts a diverse mix of grape varieties, including Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, and Zinfandel. The elevation and varied microclimates contribute to wines of complexity and balance.

St. Helena: At the heart of Napa Valley, St. Helena is a historic subregion that thrives on the cultivation of Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Viognier, and Zinfandel. St. Helena's wines often showcase a harmonious blend of power and finesse.

Rutherford: Rutherford, with its iconic dusty terroir, is synonymous with some of Napa Valley's most celebrated Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Zinfandel. The well-drained soils and warm climate contribute to wines known for their structure and longevity.

Oakville: Situated between Rutherford and Yountville, Oakville is recognized for its exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Sauvignon Blanc. The subregion's gravelly soils and optimal climate create wines of finesse and concentration.

Atlas Peak: The elevated slopes of Atlas Peak, on the eastern side of Napa Valley, are dedicated to growing Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay. The cooler temperatures and volcanic soils contribute to wines with vibrant acidity and expressive flavors.

Stag's Leap District: Stag's Leap District, known for its dramatic palisades, specializes in Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Sangiovese, and Sauvignon Blanc. The unique climate and soil combination result in wines recognized for their elegance and finesse.

Yountville: South of St. Helena, Yountville is celebrated for its Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. The subregion's climate, influenced by its proximity to the San Pablo Bay, lends itself to wines with a balanced and approachable style.

Mount Veeder: Perched on the southwestern side, Mount Veeder produces outstanding Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, and Zinfandel. The mountainous terrain and volcanic soils contribute to wines of depth and concentration.

Oak Knoll District: Known for its moderate climate, Oak Knoll District produces a diverse array of wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Riesling, and Sauvignon Blanc. The balanced conditions create wines that showcase both elegance and structure.

Coombsville: In the southeastern part of Napa Valley, Coombsville is dedicated to Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Pinot Noir, and Syrah. The region's cool evenings and volcanic soils contribute to wines with complexity and finesse.

Wild Horse: Focused on Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir, Wild Horse is a subregion that reflects the diversity of Napa Valley's terroir. The wines are known for their expressive fruit character and vibrant acidity.

Each subregion within Napa Valley tells a unique story through its wines, reflecting the interplay of soil, climate, and human expertise. Collectively, they contribute to the rich mosaic that has firmly established Napa Valley as one of the world's premier winegrowing regions.