The Malk 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon is quintessential of the Stags Leap District showing a deep garnet-purple hue and a sophisticated concentration from the nose to the finish. Aromas of plum, blackcurrant, cassis, and black cherry give way to notes of cedar, dark chocolate and graphite. The 2019 vintage provided a classic Napa growing season, with winter rains providing just enough ground water resulting in a bit lower yields. The mild to warm growing season allowed the fruit to ripen evenly with a slightly early harvest. This resulted in a Cabernet Sauvignon that is fruit forward, with wonderfully balanced tannin and a depth and finesse that will provide the drinker pleasure for years to come.
The 2016 Malk Family Vineyards Pinot Noir has exceptional varietal character. It displays youthful expressions of fresh berries — ripe strawberry and wild raspberry — as well as offering the unique nuances of the copse of the Sonoma Coast: fresh earth, fern, and forest floor. The palate is vibrant and lively but maintains a wonderful balance of structure, spice, and texture. The finish is perfectly smooth and clean. One of the best qualities of this wine is the promise of the future: all of the attributes mentioned will grow and evolve allowing this wine to be enjoyed now as well as rewarding in the future.
The 2017 vintage offered a wonderfully warm and early growing season and the Malk Family Cabernet Sauvignon is a reflection of that. We can see what are now the beautiful aromatic expressions of the vineyard: the forward, dark fruit of blackberry, ripe current, cedar spice, and chocolate. The mouthfeel is perfectly balanced from entry to finish, exhibiting the true elegance of the wine. The tannins are soft and supple and provide a beautiful framework for the entire wine. The 2017 is simply a more concentrated version of these fantastic attributes. This wine is in excellent condition and is very approachable in its youth, but it will confidently age in the cellar.
