2019 ALTA Oso Malo Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

About the Wine

ALTA is a testament to the magic of nature, the artistry of winemaking, and a commitment to excellence. 

When ALTA embarked on its winemaking journey, the mission was clear: handcraft wines that would amaze, surprise, and delight. For ALTA, it all begins with the vines and the land.

The story unfolds when, in 2008, ALTA laid eyes on the 90+ acre ALTA Vineyard in Atlas Peak, instantly recognizing the magic and potential of this extraordinary site. FYI: Some of the most iconic wineries in Napa, including Stagecoach Vineyard (SRP $100), Hess Collection (SRP $80-$100), Altamura ($150 SRP) and more, source fruit from Atlas Peak. 

ALTA respects the environment and practices sustainable vineyard methods. This commitment yields the highest quality grapes, which are the foundation of ALTA's winemaking philosophy. They believe that great wine starts in the vineyard. ALTA's approach is simple: intervene as little as possible during the growing season and winemaking process. By meticulously attending to details in the vineyard, ALTA allows its wines to express the unique character of Napa Valley's soils and climate. Their dedication to these practices has made them the sole supplier of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot to Kongsgaard Wines since 2009.

With patience and precision, ALTA identified quality growers who shared their commitment to excellence. Partner vineyards are chosen for sustainable farming practices, site elevation, and microclimate, resulting in low-yield, highly concentrated fruit.

Fred Oliai, the Owner and winemaker of ALTA, is a master of fermentation sciences. His journey from Kentucky to the Bay Area, via the brewing industry and graduate studies in molecular biology, led to a lifelong passion for winemaking. For Fred, winemaking is an art and science. He aims to create natural, elegant, and balanced expressions of the vineyard.

2019 was a fabulous year for Napa Valley Cabernet. Wine Spectator awarded this year a 97-point score, and Vinous Media gave it 96 points saying that "The 2019 Napa Valley Cabernets have turned out beautifully. 2019 is a very high-quality vintage of Cabernets 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."

Aging: 30 months in 70% new French Oak barrels.

Tasting Notes: 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc. The wine has a deep purple-black color and delivers notions of ripe plums, black cherries, and blackberries, crème de cassis with sweet French Oak, mocha, and truffle-like spiciness. Medium to full-bodied on the palate with plenty of juicy black fruit and earth-inspired flavors framed by chewy tannins finishing on a peppery note. 

Reviews

A blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Cabernet Franc from Atlas Peak, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Oso Malo is nicely fragrant and floral, with scents of mint leaves, violets, cherries and cassis. It's medium to full-bodied, smooth and silky, with just a touch of toasted oak on the lingering finish. ~91 Robert Parker

Eucalyptus, cassis, and minty herbs all emerge from the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Oso Malo, a medium-bodied, nicely balanced, complex, fruit-forward Cabernet geared for drinking over the coming 4-6 years or so. ~90 Jeb Dunnuck

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