Wines Napa Valley Silver Oak - Cabernet Sauvignon - 2017

Viniou Reviews

The 2017 Silver Oak Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa Valley stands as a prime example of Californian winemaking prowess. Crafted predominantly from Cabernet Sauvignon, this cuvée captures the quintessential characteristics of the grape: intensity, structure, and longevity. The 2017 vintage was marked by fluctuating weather conditions, including a cool spring and a warm summer, followed by early autumn fires that fortunately left most grapes intact. Silver Oak is renowned for meticulous vineyard management, hand-harvesting, and a vinification process that favours American oak ageing, resulting in a wine that is both powerful and generously aromatic. In the glass, expect vivid notes of blackcurrant, ripe plum, cedar, vanilla, and a signature touch of sweet spice from the oak.

Napa Valley, the beating heart of Californian viticulture, benefits from a Mediterranean climate characterised by warm days and cool, foggy nights, thanks to proximity to the Pacific Ocean and the Mayacamas Mountains. Its diverse soils, ranging from volcanic to alluvial, contribute depth and complexity to the wines. Since the 1960s, Napa has rapidly ascended to global prominence, with Cabernet Sauvignon at the fore of its prestige. The region's history is also shaped by pioneering estates and a continuous commitment to excellence and innovation.

Such a robust Cabernet Sauvignon requires equally bold food pairings. It shines alongside classic preparations such as herb-crusted rack of lamb, dry-aged ribeye steak, or a slow-cooked beef stew. Regional American dishes like barbecued short ribs or even a blue cheese burger also make excellent matches, the wine’s tannic structure harmonising with protein-rich, savoury foods. For a more traditional touch, consider serving it with mushroom risotto or roasted root vegetables infused with thyme.

To fully appreciate its bouquet and structure, decant the wine for at least an hour before serving. The ideal serving temperature is between 16-18°C, which will best showcase the nuance, balance, and expressive fruit of the Silver Oak Cabernet Sauvignon 2017.