From: Carneros, North Coast, Napa, California
Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
Taste: The wine shows a deep ruby color in the glass with purple highlights at the rim. Aromas open with ripe blackberry, cassis, and plum layered over hints of cedar, graphite, and crushed violets. It is full-bodied but composed on the palate, with well-structured tannins and flavors of black cherry, espresso, and dark chocolate. The oak is supportive but restrained, adding subtle tones of vanilla, spice, and toasted almond. The finish is firm and persistent, driven by fresh acidity and a mineral undertone.
Pairing: Cabernet Sauvignon’s structure and richness make it a natural partner for char, fat, or savory umami depth dishes. Begin with proteins that match the wine’s tannic frame—grilled lamb chops with rosemary, dry-aged ribeye, or coffee-rubbed brisket are all strong candidates. Its dark fruit and spice notes are well-suited to braised dishes like beef short ribs or oxtail stew with root vegetables.
About: Starmont Vineyards operates out of Napa, California, with its winery and hospitality center based in the Carneros district—a sub-AVA that straddles both Napa and Sonoma counties and is known for its cooler climate and maritime influence. The estate was established in 1989 as part of the greater Merryvale Family of Wines and serves as the dedicated site for the group’s Carneros-focused production
