Dunn Vineyards is located east of St. Helena in the town of Angwin on Howell Mountain. The Winery was established in 1979, with the first harvest of Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. In 1981, the first release consisted of 660 cases of 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from the Howell Mountain vineyards. In 1982, Dunn released a Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon.
Dunn is one of the iconic producers of Cabernet Sauvignon in Napa Valley. Randy Dunn, to his credit, has held steadfast in how he produces and prices his wines. The wines are exceptionally long-lived and are truly a throwback to a different era in Napa Valley. Recent favorable press from Antonio Galloni, formerly of the Wine Advocate, has put a well-deserved spotlight back on the winery.
2000 was by all accounts a difficult vintage in the Napa Valley and with that in mind I only decanted the wine for 30 minutes.
Blood red in color with some fading at the edge of the glass. 13.6% ABV. Dried red fruits, leather and graphite on the nose. Medium body. Tight and bruising on the palate. Flavors of cherries, currants, pencil and cassis. Drying, coarse tannins on a medium length finish. The word rustic comes to mind. Dunn always seems to walk a tightrope of tanns and fruit. In this case I think the tannins may ultimately outlive the fruit. Underwhelming if you are a fan of Dunn Howell Mountain from classic years like ’91 and ’94 but not bad considering the vintage. Drink over the next 2-4 years.
My rating: 90 points.
Current vintages of Dunn Howell Mountain should cost around $85. The wine is readily available at retail and a great value at the price point.
If you enjoyed this post please consider subscribing to Zinfandel Chronicles updates by email.