Consistency across a large span of time is no small feat in any discipline, but the achievement of such a goal when variables like weather play an outsized role is cause for celebration. Smith-Madrone has been at this for 55 years now, and they are certainly a player to celebrate when it comes to Napa Valley Cabernet. The sort of knowledge that comes with 55 years on the same slopes with the same vines through sun, rain, wind, snow, and fire makes it possible to bring consistency to bear. That’s not to say that the wines that come from this Spring Mountain site are all the same, but there is an evolved house style that eschews trends or fads that come and go. The 2022 shows the warmth of the vintage, but it maintains the classic markers of pepper and dried herbs that fans of the label prize. Dollar for dollar, there is no one better in Napa. ~ 96 Wine Review Online
Focused notes of dried lavender, clove, and mint surrounds concentrated plum and blueberry. Linear waves of graphite and licorice are in rhythm with fruit and floral components. Acidity adds vivacity to the wine’s tension and striking structure. ~ 94 Tasting Panel Magazine
Smith-Madrone's 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon is another successful vintage for this Spring Mountain stalwart. Marked by scents of mountain bay and ripe cherries, it's medium- to full-bodied and reasonably supple, with smooth, silky tannins that linger easily on the vibrant, lasting finish. There are no issues with jamminess or over-ripeness in this classically built offering, which actually comes in a hair lower in alcohol than the 2021 vintage (14.2% versus 14.3%). It's a terrific value given the quality and provenance, just don't expect a big, plush style. ~ 93 Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Coming from their estate in the Spring Mountain District, the 2022 Smith-Madrone Cabernet Sauvignon is polished and round from this hot vintage. Tar, tobacco leaf and black currants all combine on the palate, with bright acidity. This is a great accomplishment from this tough vintage. Drink 2026-2036 ~ 93 Owen Bargreen



2022 Smith Madrone Cabernet Sauvignon Spring Mountain District Napa Valley
- "Another Successful Vintage for This Spring Mountain Stalwart"~ Wine Advocate
- One of Napa Valley's Most Storied Mountain Estates
- Awarded Top 100 Wines of 2025 ~ Wine Enthusiast
- "This is a Great Accomplishment" ~ Owen Bargreen
- BHW has the Lowest Price Anywhere!
About The Wine
At A Glance
- Varietal:
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Varietal:
- Cabernet Franc
- Region:
- Napa Valley
- Sub-Appellation:
- Spring Mountain District
- Alcohol:
- 14.2%
- Size:
- 750ml
TASTING NOTES
What's in the Glass
- PAIRS WITH
- Ribs · Beef · Venison · Pasta
Mouthfeel & Acidity
CRITIC REVIEWS
What the Critics Said
THE PRODUCER
Smith-Madrone Vineyards & Winery
Founded in 1971 by brothers Stuart and Charles Smith, Smith-Madrone is a true Napa original — a family-owned, estate-only winery perched atop Spring Mountain at elevations between 1,300 and 2,000 feet.
While the rest of Napa Valley transformed around them, the Smiths never wavered: same mountain, same vineyards, same commitment to dry-farming and minimal intervention winemaking. They even built the winery by hand using stone and timber from the property. Over 50 years later, Smith-Madrone remains one of the valley's most authentic producers — making wines that speak of place, not trend.
CUSTOMER REVIEWS
What Customers Say About This Wine
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2022 Smith Madrone Cabernet Sauvignon Spring Mountain District Napa Valley









