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Cornerstone Cellars relies on the winemaking talents of Charles Thomas and Kari Auringer.

Cornerstone Cellars relies on the winemaking talents of Charles Thomas and Kari Auringer.

Cornerstone Cellars

May 7, 2018

One of the hidden gems in Napa, first founded in 1991, Cornerstone Cellars produces some fantastic Cabernet wines that are not to be missed. Cornerstone holds their tastings in downtown Napa and are currently constructing a new tasting room in Yountville. Two Memphis physicians, Michael Dragutsky and David Sloas, originally founded this winery and the winery is currently owned by both Michael Dragutsky and Craig Camp. Relying on the winemaking talents of Charles Thomas and Kari Auringer, Cornerstone has some excellent guidance.

Charles was responsible for some absolutely epic Napa Cabernet bottlings including the Robert Mondavi Winery Reserve wines from the 1980s to the mid 1990s. He has been described by Robert Parker as a ‘star winemaker.’ Kari has been making wine in Napa for more than a decade. They have teamed to craft some really good new releases. Look to the 2014 Cornerstone Cellars ‘Benchlands’ Cabernet Sauvignon (WWB, 93) which delivers a ton of range and Napa character. This is a gorgeous, warm vintage wine, that will cellar marvelously over the next fifteen plus years. Learn more about this great winery at https://www.cornerstonecellars.com Here are the great new Cabernet releasees by Cornerstone Cellars. 

2014 Cornerstone Cellars ‘Calistoga’ Cabernet Sauvignon- This inky colored wine starts off with highly perfumed aromas of red currant, dusty earth and blackberry puree. There is a nice combination of minerality, richness and tannin to the mid-palate. Dark currant, boysenberry cordial and milk chocolate flavors connect with a nice tension in the wine. This will have a long life in the cellar.  Drink 2018-2030- 92

Cornerstone Cellars 2014 Benchlands Cabernet.jpg

2014 Cornerstone Cellars ‘Benchlands’ Cabernet Sauvignon- An even deeper hue than the ‘Calistoga’ bottling, the 2014 ‘Benchlands’ by Cornerstone opens with aromas of red bell pepper, mocha and creme de cassis. The palate is lithe and downright delicious, showcasing dark currant, mint, creme de cassis and Turkish coffee flavors. This shows an exotic edge, while maintaining a wonderful tension in the wine. Drink 2018-2033- 93

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