Talk about a storied history. The property where AXR Winery now stands dates back to what was formerly fierce Native American hunting grounds, wild west pioneers and the first woman vintner of California in 1886. Over 134 the estate changed hands to become a brewery, restaurant, inn, winery and saloon.
AXR was started by Kelly Trevethan, Mark Schratz and Don Van Laeken, as well as their famed winemaker, Jean Hoefliger. Jean has a longstanding history in the Napa Valley and I have long admired the wines that he has made not only at AXR but spots like Alpha Omega. HIs new wines were utterly sensational across the board. I adored the 2017 AXR Chardonnay (OB, 94 ) which is dense, showing a luxurious mouthfeel and seriously good texture. Jean has crafted a sensational 2016 AXR Cabernet Sauvignon (OB, 93) which is chewy, juicy and shows plenty of ripe dark fruits from this warm vintage in the Napa Valley. Learn more about this great Napa estate at https://www.axrnapavalley.com and here are my reviews of the new AXR wines.
2020 AXR ‘Napa Valley’ Sauvignon Blanc- Bright kiwi and gooseberry hit the nose alongside shades of wet stone and melon undertones. The palate reveals its plush texture with plenty of cantalope, green papaya and vanilla cream flavors with stony undertones. Flamboyant and delicious now, this has a long way to go based on its lithe sense of acidity and wonderful depth. Drink 2021-2028- 93
2017 AXR ‘Napa Valley’ Chardonnay- The 2017 AXR ‘Napa Valley’ Chardonnay is a weightless effort that beautifully shows off this warm vintage. Baking spice dusted brioche aromas and lemon rind with baked apple all meld in the glass. The palate is soft and seamless, as this effortlessly glides throughout the drinking experience. This is sinfully good to enjoy now at the four year mark. Drink 2021-2031- 94
2016 AXR ‘Napa Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon- A considerably later release than most, the 2016 AXR ‘Napa Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon saw nearly all new French oak (80%) for 22 months prior to bottling. Tar, tobacco leaf and rich dark fruits all fill the nose. The palate is soft and very well-balanced with cassis, anise and dark chocolate shaving flavors that combine with the good veil of tension. Drink 2021-2035- 93