Cathiard Family Estate in St Helena, Napa Valley is one of those awe-inspiring places with an identity that is immediately apparent. Daniel and Florence Cathiard, owners of Chateau Smith Haute Lafitte fame in Bordeaux, completed the purchase of this 200-acre property in the foothills of the Mayacamas Mountains. In many ways, the future potential of this property is reminiscent of their grand cru classe estate in France’s Pessac-Léognan appellation. The Cathiards are poised to position their wines at the top tier of Napa’s elite.

The vineyard’s proximity to renowned sites such as Dana Helms, Inglenook, and Staglin highlights its prime location and the exceptional quality of its terroir.

"Cathiard Vineyard's 2021 Hora Red from Napa Valley blends 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot, and 10% Malbec, sourced primarily from benchland blocks and aged in oak for 14 months. This red blend is a combination of gentle extraction and whole berry fermentation. The addition of Malbec provides lifted aromatics on a stunning, compact, and precise wine. In the glass, the deep ruby red color shows purity. The aromatics exude floral accents, ripe blackberry, currant, cedar, crème de cassis, and baking spices. The tannins are polished and finely grained through the palate. The wine has a lovely mouthfeel that is seamlessly bright and clean. This wine is a perfect example of purity and balance. It is enjoyable now but will age gracefully 10 years +. A definite buy!

By Perry Miroballi