Favia Erickson Winegrowers and the special character of Coombsville

Favia Erickson Winegrowers is the project of winemaker Andy Erickson and viticulturist Annie Favia. Their wines are among the most refined and characterful in Napa Valley, characterized by precision, layering, and a striking balance between power and freshness. Coombsville, located on the eastern edge of Napa Valley, boasts a cooler microclimate ideal for Cabernet Sauvignon. The combination of volcanic soils, chalky subsoils, and the cool influence of the Bay produces wines with tension, structure, and aromatic depth.

The Coombsville Cabernet Sauvignon is a key wine within the estate. It reflects not only the estate's style but also the unique expression of this provenance: dark aromas, mineral tension, mature fruit, and a refined yet firm tannin structure.

The vineyards and grapes of the 2021 harvest

The 2021 edition is entirely Cabernet Sauvignon. The grapes are sourced from specific plots in Coombsville, which are elevated and benefit from cooler nights. This allows the grapes to ripen slowly and retain their aromatic precision. The soils consist primarily of volcanic rock and mineral-rich deposits, contributing to the wine's characteristic graphite and stone notes.

Many winemakers consider 2021 an exceptional vintage in Napa Valley. Conditions were ideal: not too hot, not too dry, and with enough coolness to maintain balance and structure. The tannins are firm yet refined, and the fruit is ripe without being overdone. Andy Erickson described this year's wines as harmonious, structured, and with clear aging potential.

Vinification and style of the house

Favia's vinification is all about precision. The grapes are harvested by hand, rigorously selected, and fermented plot by plot. The wine is then aged in oak barrels, with new oak used sparingly. This allows the mineral and floral notes of Cabernet Sauvignon to remain prominent. The house's style is characterized by power without heaviness, structure without harshness, and aromatic depth that continues to blossom with bottle aging.

Color, aroma and taste of the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Coombsville

The color is deep purple-red with an almost opaque core. The aroma displays impressive layering. Dark aromas of blackcurrant and blackberry are complemented by notes of pencil shavings and crushed stone. A subtle spiciness of dried thyme, sage, and graphite gives the wine tension. Floral accents such as purple flowers and dried rose petals add refinement. The nuance of blood orange and light spices gives the nose a lively, fresh undertone. The overall effect is intense, yet remains precise and taut, entirely in keeping with the descriptions that praise the wine for its nuance and Coombsville character.

On the palate, the wine is full and concentrated, yet never heavy. The palate opens with blackcurrant, dark plum, and a hint of cherry. Then, the mineral character emerges: notes of graphite, crushed stone, and subtle earthy hints. The structure is firm, with powerful yet finely veined tannins that are clearly present yet beautifully balanced. The wine displays tension, freshness, and a lively acidity that gives the whole wine its carrying capacity. The light spiciness and floral nuances continue into the mid-palate, adding further layers of depth.

The finish is long and tight, with dark fruit, fresh acidity, and a subtle salty minerality. The wine finishes with precision and power, without any harsh edges. The tension and structure indicate that this wine has a long future. According to reviews, it needs time to fully develop and will reveal even more nuance with cellar rest.

Reviews

The Wine Advocate – 96+ points (Joe Czerwinski): Blackcurrant, stony aromas, spice, and firm yet refined tannins. Powerful, vibrant, and with great potential.

Suckling – 97 points : Intense black fruit, pencil shavings, layered tannins and a powerful, precise style with clear Coombsville character.

Vinous – 97 points (Antonio Galloni): Lavender, graphite, herbs, rose petals, and a deep, concentrated structure. Pronounced nuance and a recognizable signature of its origin.

Would you like to order wines from Favia Erickson Winegrowers online?

If available, you'll find the official fact sheet and additional information about this fine wine in the "Attachments" tab. We'll automatically send you these when you order this wine. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you pick it up, you'll often receive a nice discount. You'll see your discount immediately when you select "Pick up" at the checkout page. We're located in Dordrecht, just off the A16 motorway with ample parking. Click here for our address. You can read full wine reviews from publications like Parker, Suckling, Vinous, and Wine Spectator.
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Wine and food pairings

• Grilled ribeye with rosemary and black pepper. The wine's structure perfectly complements the rich meat.
• Slow-cooked short ribs with a spicy jus. The depth of the wine enhances the savory notes of the dish.
• Mushroom risotto with Parmesan. The earthy flavors pair seamlessly with the mineral notes of the Cabernet Sauvignon.
• Veal shank with sage and oven-baked vegetables. The fresh acidity keeps everything light and lively.
• Grilled vegetables with thyme and garlic. The wine beautifully carries the intensity of the charred vegetable flavors.
• Aged Comté or aged Gouda. The salty and nutty notes combine well with the wine's robust structure.