TASTING NOTES:
The 2022 VIADER is a compelling expression of Howell Mountain, capturing both the intensity of the vintage and the timeless elegance that defines our flagship blend. Composed of 64% Cabernet Sauvignon and 36% Cabernet Franc, it reveals a captivating interplay of richness, freshness, and structure.
Layers of cassis, black cherry, and dark plum are complemented by notes of violet, cocoa, graphite, tobacco leaf, and crushed stone. The palate is expansive yet precise, with velvety texture, remarkable concentration, and finely woven tannins that carry the wine through a long, seamless finish. Distinctive mountain minerality and vibrant acidity lend energy and balance, promising a long and graceful evolution in the cellar.
A wine of both power and poise, the 2022 VIADER reflects the unique character of our estate and the enduring partnership of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc.
64% Cabernet Sauvignon & 36% Cabernet Franc
Owen Bargreen (97 pts)
The brilliant 2022 Viader Red Wine has a small portion of Cabernet Sauvignon (64%) and more Cabernet Franc (36%) than the '21 bottling. A total gem, this needs about an hour in the decanter to really get moving. Anise and wet rock mark the nose alongside dark chocolate shavings, sweet pipe tobacco, violets and shades of yellow bell pepper. The palate has beautiful elegance as this glides throughout the drinking experience, with firm tannins holding everything in place. Loamy and rocky soils collide with dense blackberry and black cherry flavors alongside shades of Black Forest cake. A total stunner, enjoy now and over the next twenty plus years. Drink 2025-2049. 97pts
Lisa Perotti-Brown (96pts)
The 2022 VIADER Proprietary Red Blend is made from 64% Cabernet Sauvignon and 36% Cabernet Franc. Deep garnet-purple colored, it prances out with gregarious notes of warm cassis and plum preserves, plus hints of camphor, sandalwood, unsmoked cigars, and dusty soil. The full-bodied palate is laden with rich, spicy black fruit preserves flavors, supported by grainy tannins and seamless freshness, finishing long and fragrant. Drink 2026-2042. 96pts
James Suckling (96 pts)
A Beautiful, grand and finely structured wine that rises above the difficult 2022 vintage to show opulant fruit and spice with a balanced, powerful texture that will help it age and improve for decades. Seamless layers of oak, black cherries, dried blueberries, graphite, espresso and iron on a full body. Made from 64% Cabernet Sauvignon and 36% Cabernet Franc. Drinkable now but best from 2030. 96pts