We tasted this debut vintage of Namo for the first time last month at Philippe Melka’s tasting at Premiere Napa Valley, the barrel auction exclusively for trade and media, sponsored by Napa Valley Vintners. Namo was a standout amongst approximately 30 wines we tasted at that specific event. 2018 marks the debut vintage of Namo and in total, 400 cases were produced. Made by winemaker Nick Briggs and consulting winemaker Philippe Melka, it is outstanding. This wine shows all the classic characteristics of great Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. “The color is a bold, dark garnet hue. The nose displays notes of cassis and dried cherries along with dried herb, sage, and crushed rock. In the periphery you get some dark and rich qualities with hints of toasty oak, peppercorns, violets, and dark chocolate. The palate is on point with the aromas; loads of ripe red fruits are encircled by mouth-coating, youthful tannins. This is a great wine start to finish with a nice pop of acid that hits in the middle and draws through to a lengthy finish.”