Heir Apparent is the flagship spinoff by Operative favorite Grand Napa Vineyards. They’ve been making some killer wines from their Rutherford outpost, sourcing from some of the top vineyard sites in there, in Oakville, St. Helena, and Spring Mountain of course.

According to Napa Valley Register “Possibly the most historic grape-growing region in the Napa Valley is the Spring Mountain District… At some point, the AVA was described as ‘probably more responsible than any other Napa hillside for creating the mystique of mountain grapes.’”

This stunner that drinks like silk thanks to the 5 years of age on the vintage, is driven by Merlot, a variety that has a huge reputation in Spring Mountain, thanks to Pride, Paloma, Keenan, Barnett, or Juslyn proving that the terroir is a perfect fit for decades. Wirth Cabernet rounding the blend out, it has ample structure, and serious length, while a streak of plummy fruit, dusty earth, and intriguing spices show us what this prized appellation is capable of.

Wait, did we say it’s $35 today? Down from the original $120 release price?

How is it still here??!!

92 Points – Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate

“A blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2019 Heir Apparent Cellar Selection Red features scents of cedar, loam and ripe cherries. Medium to full-bodied, this is nicely rounded and harmonious, with hints of mocha, a silky feel and a long finish. Drink 2023-2035.”