2017 Bevan Cellars Tench Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville Napa Valley

“Russell Bevan is one of the more outspoken producers in the Napa Valley, and so are his wines. These sumptuous, beautifully textured reds are full of personality. Made to be accessible right upon release, the Bevan wines are rich, intense, and hugely delicious.” –Antonio Galloni, Vinous

The 2017 Bevan Cellars Tench Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon is one of those rare gems that showcases everything that makes Napa Valley’s Oakville region legendary. When Russell and Victoria founded Bevan Cellars back in 2005, they didn’t just set out to make great wine—they set out to discover the magic hidden in Napa’s vineyards. And oh, did they find it.

This particular vintage hails from the Tench Vineyard, a site known for its challenging conditions and rewarding results. Imagine a vineyard where the soil is so sparse that each vine fights for survival—yet it’s that struggle that gives this Cabernet its intense character. The vines here grow in a mix of red volcanic rock and just a smattering of clay loam, soaking up every last drop of sunlight until the sun dips behind the Mayacamas Mountains.

What’s in the bottle? Pure decadence. This Cabernet Sauvignon bursts with the richness that Oakville wines are famous for, yet it maintains a balance that only someone like Russell could achieve. It’s intense, yes, but also beautifully structured. The kind of wine that commands attention whether you’re enjoying it tonight or laying it down for a future special occasion.

Fun fact: Jeb Dunnuck crowned the 2021 vintage of this wine as the #1 red blend under $125.

What sets Russell apart? It’s his relentless pursuit of perfection. With 34 wines that have scored the coveted 100 points, he’s not just making wine—he’s making history. But it’s not just about the accolades; it’s about the passion that goes into every bottle. Each vintage is a new journey, and this 2017 Tench Vineyard Cab is a testament to that adventurous spirit.

Russell and Victoria have always believed that the journey is just as important as the outcome, and that philosophy shines through in this wine. From the sustainable practices in the vineyard to the meticulous attention in the cellar, every step is taken with care. The result? A wine that’s exciting, memorable, and quintessentially Bevan.

Tench Vineyard sits in eastern Oakville, where the valley floor meets the Vaca Mountains, creating Napa’s most prized soils. Nestled next to Screaming Eagle and neighbors with Dalla Valle and BOND’s St. Eden, Tench has become a powerhouse of high-scoring wines, thanks to Russell’s expert touch.

The Tench Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon is the most massive of our Tench wines. It is truly a beast! Massive but seductive, this wine is perfect for a day when you need to treat yourself to something with hips and curves.