A release that was first produced in 2019, the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Wappo Hill Vineyard comes from a site in the Stags Leap District and is all Cabernet Sauvignon brought up in mostly new French oak. Red and black currants, iron, white flowers, candle wax, and spicy notes all emerge from this full-bodied, concentrated yet vibrant, fresh, focused 2021 that has plenty of ripe tannins, a great mid-palate, and one incredible finish. It's going to age beautifully. Give bottles 2-4 years and enjoy over the following two decades or more.
97+ points, Jeb Dunnuck (Dec 2023)
This captures the essence of the vintage wonderfully, with vivid notes of violet, anise and iris leading the way for ripe, succulent blackberry, boysenberry and mulberry paste flavors. Offers a flattering melted licorice snap accent along the edges, while the finish packs in brambly energy at its core. This is going to unfurl wonderfully in the cellar. Drink now through 2042. 450 cases made.
97 points, James Molesworth, Wine Spectator (Nov 2024)
A Stags Leap District showcase, the Wappo Hill Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 from Schrader Cellars highlights the AVA's natural expression of acidity and perfumed aromatics. Robes of dark black ruby fruit emerge from a lifted nose of dusty minerals, fragrant brown spices, and dried red floral notes. The palate has a seductive, lush feel marked by blackberry, Bing cherry and black currant fruit flavours enriched by ironstone minerality. The tannins are super-fine, and the extended finish brings about a refreshing quality from racy and grippy acidity. Long and powerful, but also a Cabernet with great elegance.
97 points, Jonathan Cristaldi, Decanter (Mar 2024)
Just Schrader's second vintage of this wine (there was no 2020 produced), the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Wappo Hill comes across as a bit tarry, backed by black olives and black cherries. It's full-bodied, silky and almost plush yet retains a savory edge on the vibrant, lingering finish. All clone 685 and matured in a mix of new Taransaud and Darnajou barrels.
95 points, Joe Czerwinski, Wine Advocate (Jan 2024)
This tightly wound, age-worthy wine comes from a different terroir than most of the Schrader cabernets. Shows the classic combination of light savory and herbaceous qualities over dense black cherries, blackcurrants and blueberries. Firm tannins kick in, along with good acidity to balance the ripeness and full body. Best after 2030.
95 points, Jim Gordon, James Suckling (May 2024)
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