Guided by the vintage character of each year, these wines assemble the distinctive flavors and personality of individual Napa Valley appellations into a richly layered, balanced whole. The 2019 is a great example of this, with its great primary fruit characters, but also tons of rose petal, cedar, espresso bean, and pain grillé. The ’19s have a compelling savory aspect that really comes through in this wine – a perfect frame for the intense, dark fruit of the mountains.

Cardinale offers the same winning combination in vinous form: a brilliant ensemble of celebrated Napa Valley vineyards where each brings its own personality and flavor contributions to create a singular storyline of their vintage. The 2017 has the signature structure of Cardinale and showcases Asian spice, blackberries, sweet black cherry, a touch of cedar, and a lush tannin expression that carries on the tradition of this wine at the highest level.

"Nearing the 10-year mark, the 2016 vintage showcases jasmine, cherry blossom, huckleberry, and Asian spice aromatics. Layers of red fruit, cocoa, plum, and tobacco unfold on the palate, guided by beautifully refined tannins."  

CHRISTOPHER CARPENTER, WINEMAKER

JULY 2025

“In 2013, we knew that Mother Nature had created her transcendent work. It was up to us to present Cardinale to you as one of the wines that would exemplify this vintage now and far into the future. This was a responsibility we did not take lightly, knowing we had to focus on the depth, the power, the subtlety and complexity of this vintage. In the end I am confident we created a wine that captures that idea and those aspects and celebrates 2013 as it should be– transcendent." 

“The 2011 Cardinale has aged gracefully over time. Similar to a great Bordeaux vintage, the fruit continues to shine, and the tannins have softened, while the savory characters that defined the 2011 vintage continue to eloquently develop. With aromatics of dark cherry, sage, black pepper and toast, accompanied by flavors of bright fruit, Asian spice, and espresso bean – this wine continues to present itself beautifully and will continue to do so for decades to come.”

“Layering of sensory qualities from Mount Veeder and Howell Mountain is the foundation of every Cardinale, and 2009 gave us aromas of rose petal, mineral and cassis, and palate impressions of blackberry, dragon fruit and dark chocolate, with a silky, mouth-filling texture.”

“At 10 years old, it’s in peak drinking condition, with mouth-filling fruit, supple texture, velvety tannins and distinctive anise and graphite notes. Mountain vineyards contributed approximately 90% of the grapes to the blend and time has rounded their youthful edges. Fruit from warmer benchland vineyards in Oakville and St. Helena enhance the mid-palate and richness.”

“The Stags Leap and Oakville portion of the blend represented higher percentages, as the mountain components needed the middle body these valley-floor vineyards provide. The sweetness of the Taylor Vineyard in Stags Leap and the weight of To Kalon in Oakville fit gracefully with the strength, minerality and black fruit from Mount Veeder and Howell Mountain.”

“Dominated by Mount Veeder fruit, this vintage opens with violets, anise, dark fruit and a hint of vanilla on the nose. The palate is rich and velvety, with sweet tannins, a tremendous middle body, and a Mount Veeder finish of acid and structure.”