“Damn, that’s good.”

No, not the $100+ OFF a premium Napa discovery. There’s more to that story.

That was the consensus at our weekly panel. Unanimously, everyone’s impressions read like an upper-90s tasting note. Then we asked, “Does it have press? YES. 96 Points!

“By whom?” was the next question. USA Wine Ratings was the answer. We were like WHO?! Skeptical of previous score sources, as ominous as the Shadowmere State Fair, we had all the right to inquire. Turns out USA Wine Ratings is legit as they come. This industry led competition hosts a panel of judges that reads like the who’s who of the buying world. With 20 pros including THREE Masters of Wine and a Master Sommelier for good measure. Oh, it also has a Gold from the arduous Chronicle competition.

Don’t get us wrong, the wine is every bit as delicious and wholesome as 96 points promises. But still, we had never heard of Forthright. The obscurity had us scratching our heads, wondering why and how.

Let’s start with the fruit. They are quite secretive about the sources. But we’re in the tiny Calistoga AVA, northernmost of Napa’s regions, famous for its warm growing season with terroir that makes the rest of the Valley jealous. It’s crammed with legendary names around here, from the classics like Chateau Montelena or Eisele, to modern cults such as Maybach or Realm, to insider favorites like Stormy Weather or La Sirena. One simply can’t go wrong with the quality of Cabernet Sauvignon coming from these parts.

Then we have the 2019 vintage fanning out its tail in flying colors. Per Vinous, “2019 Napa Valley Cabernets have turned out beautifully… a very high-quality vintage that will be easy to drink and enjoy with minimal cellaring. The extra kick of late heat softened the tannins, making the wines a pleasure to taste and drink, even in the early going.”

Could not describe what’s before us any better. It bursts from the glass with a rush of black fruit, smoke, licorice, graphite, and tar. All the elements flow together gracefully towards an opulent and fleshy finish. There is plenty of fine tannin left to support the fruit, suggesting it will drink well for another decade or so. We especially liked the way it keeps growing in the glass. A fabulous Cab, with the potential to cellar handsomely for another decade, while open knit enough to pair tonight with your favorite cut.

96 Points – Beverage Trade Network “Deep ruby with mocha, violet, and dark cherry aromatics, full-bodied richness leads to flavors of cassis, graphite, and cocoa with a polished, structured finish.”