For our 2018 Napa Valley Quilt Reserve, we tasted the developing wine throughout the fermentation and aging processes, then set aside the very best 2% for this reserve bottling. Our lot selection was based on intensity, complexity and boldness of expression that could withstand a longer aging cycle and heavier use of new French oak.
Tasting Notes
Deep Ruby Red in color with aromas of black currant, bright cherry, toffee, blackberry, marionberry pie and notes of dark chocolate. Rich and satisfying on the palate with flavors of boysenberry jam, black cherry pie filling, and cocoa layered with notes of vanilla and hazelnut. A full-bodied Cabernet with layers of concentrated black fruit, bright acidity and excellent balance. A long, velvety and satisfying finish, enjoy this stellar vintage now and for years to come!
Powerful and rich tasting, this wine from Joseph Wagner is velvety in texture and spicy in aroma. It drips with jammy Port like flavors that are backed by fine-grained tannins that tightened a bit on the finish for a good grip. Best from 2025.
-Tasting Panel 97 Points
Hyde de Villaine Napa Valley Hyde Vineyard Belle Cousine is made from 85% Cabernet Sauvignon & 15% Merlot.
The name Belle Cousine is a reference to Pamela Fairbanks de Villaine, Larry Hyde’s lovely cousin, who is the wife of Aubert de Villaine of Burgundy. It is Pamela who brings these visionary viticultural families from Burgundy and the Carneros region of Napa Valley together to make wines that express the character of place, with that rare minerality so dear to the Burgundian palate. Belle Cousine is a blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon that varies each vintage; Merlot from Niebaum selections and Cabernet from Bordeaux-origin selections.
The vineyard is certified Napa Green Land and Fish Friendly Farming and Larry Hyde uses a variety of biodynamic and organic practices in the vineyard; the wines are unfined and unfiltered.
Review:
"The balance of fruit purity and savory nuances is divine. Aromas of black currants, licorice, dried herbs and leather. The palate is mid-weighted with a pure, refined mouthfeel and firmly framed yet fine tannins. A well-crafted blend of 85% cabernet sauvignon and 15% merlot that shows great harmony."
-James Suckling 96 Points