Operatives who’ve been with us over many years, here’s a blast from the past name; Topel! One of our favorite winemakers historically is Mark Topel and when he retired, we thought that was the last of his gems that we would see. We were wrong, and pleasantly surprised to hear from the recently appointed new winemaker Martin Bernal-Hafner who happens to be the former Head of Enology at Paul Hobbs Winery, about some dusty ole cases he unveiled from the library cellar! Upon tasting the jewels, and fierce negotiations, we bring you Blend 2 from 2010, with a massive 98-point vintage rating by Wine Spectator editor in chief James Laube.

Amazingly vivid for almost 10 years old, ruby with the slightest garnet. Deep and rich on the nose with dark berries, mocha, black tea, cedar, and graphite. Shows purity and muscle throughout the velvety mouthfeel, with black cherry in a band of sweet tannins. Energetic, with savory hints lining a finish that combines power and finesse with grace and elegance that only comes with time in a cellar. A well-rounded red that is ideal for gamy rich stews or long-simmered sauces.

At under $20, this is a dream come true value for a Napa Valley red from 2010. Why is it called Blend 2? Here’s the insider’s bit, the original Bordeaux styled Blend 1 was shy on the Cabernet part so upping the Cabernet to 75% really made this wine sing. We thank Mark Topel for this wise decision that assured age-worthiness, this is a bombastically youthful, explosively delicious red. Pile up today as back vintage deals like this rarely come our way.