DuMOL Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2018

We know by now that 2018 was a historic vintage for DuMol and Andy Smith. Jeb Dunnuck who has been reviewing Dumol wines for two decades declared, “This was easily the finest set of releases I have tasted from winemaker Andy Smith.” Vinous chimed in, calling Smith’s 2018’s “vivid and super expressive.”

But it was the most notable critic, Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate, who took it even further declaring, “Some of the 2018’s are potential career wines and the wines from DuMol are the best I have ever tasted.”

It’s true. The 2018 DuMol Napa Valley Cabernet that Smith crafted is otherworldly. It’s highly perfumed with intense notes of a medley of dark fruits: wild blackberry, plum, huckleberry, with a touch of sage & spice. The fresh fruits parade continues on the palate with black cherries and crushed cassis giving way to more complex notes of tobacco and dark chocolate.

I think what’s most mesmerizing – and frankly so enjoyable – about the wine is it’s perfect marriage of over-the-top Napa opulence and a much more modern style to the winemaking. It harkens back to the glory days of big, bold wines while actually being drinkable.

When we sent an email for this wine a month ago, I predicted it would be near the top of Top 100 lists this year. Turns out I was right! My last 30 bottles are up for grabs for Wine Enthusiast’s #7 Cellar Selection in the World of 2021.