As has been the case for the last several vintages, Lail's 2022 J. Daniel Cuvée Cabernet Sauvignon draws largely on vineyard sources in Calistoga, Oakville and Stags Leap. Marked by intense black cherries and cassis, this full-bodied beauty is concentrated and velvety, finishing plush and long, while showing no chocolaty over-ripeness or dried fruit at all. Even if it appears to lack the polished structure and potential longevity of the 2021, it remains a luscious calling card for soul-satisfying Napa Valley Cabernet. ~ 98 Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

~ 97 The Wine Palate

The flagship 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon J. Daniel Cuvée is based on 100% Cabernet Sauvignon sourced from throughout the valley. Its deep ruby/plum hue is followed by a brilliant Cabernet revealing loads of cassis, blue fruits, scorched earth, baking spices, and subtle chocolate oak that define the aromatics, and it's full-bodied on the palate, with a forward, voluptuous mouthfeel, velvety tannins, and a great finish. It plays in the ripe, forward, sexy style of the vintage and will drink brilliantly over the coming 15 years or more. ~ 96 Jeb Dunnuck

Made from four of the best parcels sourced throughout the valley, this shows its quality and pedigree with aromas of red and black fruit, ferric earth, crushed stones and dried rose petals. The palate is silky and refined, with tannins in complete harmony and a long and persistent finish. Exceptionally well made, with a high level of finesse. Drink or hold. ~ 95 James Suckling

In 2022, the J. Daniel Cuvée is remarkably approachable right at the pull of the cork. Briary blackberry and cedarwood lift from the glass, leading to a full-bodied palate where robust tannins build with intensity, only to melt away gracefully. As the wine unfolds, layers of sage, dried thyme, and black currant emerge, framed by graphite minerality and dried violets that carry through the expressive, lingering finish—a powerful yet refined Napa Cabernet with immediacy and depth. ~ 94 Decanter