2023 On Q Wines Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

Steve Brady is the passionate founder behind On Q Wines, a tiny, cult-status garage winery tucked into the Coombsville AVA — a place where Napa’s coolest climate meets its most expressive fruit.

Growing up in Napa, Steve’s life revolved around two things: wine and music. He’s played the trumpet since childhood, and the name On Q reflects that deep connection — the precise moment a conductor signals musicians to begin. “In wine, music, and life, timing is everything,” he says. And that philosophy drives everything he creates.

From planting his first vineyard in 2003 to launching On Q Wines in 2010, Steve has blended artistic intuition with meticulous craftsmanship. His three daughters—his biggest supporters—have been at his side from day one, helping turn a family passion into a micro-production label that has earned glowing reviews and high scores from the very first release.

And behind the scenes is the powerhouse that elevates On Q even further: 100-point winemaker Julien Fayard, the man whose résumé includes Chateau Lafite Rothschild, Quintessa, and Atelier Melka. Julien is one of the most respected winemakers working in Napa today, and his partnership with On Q is nothing short of alchemy.

In 2022 On Q joined Appellation Trading Company, the Napa company that also owns Edict.

The 2023 comes from the longest Napa growing season in a decade. It opens on cassis and black cherry, with cedar, graphite and tobacco underneath. The palate is full and concentrated, with firm tannins.

I like Napa labels that started with one person and a real reason. This one started with a trumpet. Pour it next to a ribeye, an hour ahead of dinner.