NAPA CABERNET 2022

A cool growing season followed by an unprecedented harvest-time heatwave and unexpected rain have resulted in an early-drinking vintage of rich, fruit-driven wines, many with immediate appeal.

- JONATHAN CRISTALDI

The variation in quality and ageability across all price points will make careful selection essential for both collectors and enthusiasts. Our Napa correspondent presents a selection of 40 excellent wines from the more than 600 he tasted, many with very high scores

Readers looking for easygoing, approachable reds will find plenty to love in the 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon releases from Napa Valley. Early reports from tasting rooms confirm their broad consumer appeal. Compared to more structured, long-ageing vintages such as 2021 or 2019, the 2022s are approachable, plush and opulent. Tannin structure varies, with some wines showcasing excellent granular grip and ageing potential while others exhibit a smoother, more fruit-driven profile that leans toward early drinking.

The 2022 Napa Cabs are predominantly fruit-forward, with red-toned fruit, sweet spices, sandalwood, supple tannins and slightly elevated alcohol. However, a small subset - mainly from cooler valley-floor sites and mountain appellations - lean toward black-toned fruit, savoury spices, balanced alcohol and more robust tannins. Blended wines incorporating Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot often offer freshness and refinement to counterbalance the heat of the vintage.

The wines have evolved markedly since their awkward, unformed stage when first presented in February 2024 at the Premiere Napa Valley trade event (see May 2024 issue report). ‘The colours stabilised and barrel age added more structure,' says consulting winemaker Thomas Rivers Brown. ‘They shifted from medium to medium-plus weight. They are definitely drinkers.'

Under the heat dome