Coming from Jim Barbour’s west side St. Helena estate vineyard, this 100% Cabernet Sauvignon produced by Celia Welch is a knockout. Like the 2015, it immediately showcases its potential upon opening. Seamless and beautifully-layered, it is lush with rich blue and black-toned fruits on the nose and palate, including cassis, boysenberry and blackberry.  “The 2016 vintage seems to emphasize those lifted, aromatic qualities even more intensely. In addition to purple fruit, notes of plum, cinnamon, nutmeg and sweet earth add complexity. The finish echoes the aroma with forward, juicy fruit notes.” If you don’t already know this, Jim Barbour is one of the best vineyard growers in Napa Valley and has planted and farmed some of the best properties here. That is why in combination with Celia’s winemaking, this 2016 is phenomenal. 309 cases were produced.