I think most would consider Cuvaison one of the top spots in Carneros to visit. For many years now Steve Rogstad has made these wines and has a beautiful style of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir that focuses on poise and texture. I have long admired these wines and fondly recall tasting some impressive early 2000s Chardonnay when I was in graduate school. It is hard to believe that this winery was first founded back in 1969. Then in 1979 they acquired 400 acres of highly prized land north of San Pablo Bay in the Los Carneros district of Napa Valley which is a site that is highly influenced by fog and cooler temperatures from the bay.
The new Cuvaison which come from the 2020 and 2022 vintages. I adored the new 2022 Cuvaison ‘Kite Tail’ Chardonnay (OB, 93) which is dense and rich with serious tension despite the heat at harvest in this year. Learn more about this outstanding producer at https://www.cuvaison.com and here are the killer sparkling wine, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir releases by Cuvaison.
2020 Cuvaison ‘Brut Cuvee’ Sparkling Wine- The ‘Brut Cuvee’ comes from their estate Tai Estate Vineyard. A blend of 60% Chardonnay with the remainder Pinot Noir, this offers bright pear and green apple flavors, alongside loads of salty minerals on the palate, with salted Macadamia nut accents. 7.1 g/l dosage but you only get the slightest kiss of sweetness. This would be a fabulous match for top nigiri. Drink 2024-2033- 92
2022 Cuvaison ‘Kite Tail’ Chardonnay- The 2022 ‘Kite Tail’ comes from the Estate Tai Vineyard in the Carneros region. Stored in 40% new French oak, this offers rich banana and creme brûlée flavors combine with salty minerals and shades of poached pear on the palate. Fresh, neatly textured and downright fabulous to enjoy now, this has some great aging potential. Drink 2024-2032- 93
2022 Cuvaison ‘Debut Cru’ Pinot Noir- The 2022 ‘Debut Cru’ is the first vintage release of their Pinot Noirs and was stored for nine months in 33% new French oak before bottling. This offers a beautiful combination of finesse, richness and texture. Rich Morello cherry combines with sassafras, cola, red currants and loamy soils on the palate, with sea salt accents. Drink 2024-2036- 93