Outpost Wines was established in 1998 and sits on a pristine piece of land atop Howell Mountain 2200 feet above Napa Valley. Thomas Rivers-Brown has been the winemaker from the start and has gained further acclaim making highly sought after wines for Schrader, Rivers-Marie and many others. Outpost produces Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon and a Right Bank inspired blend called Immigrant. In 2018 AXA Millésimes, the wine division of a French insurance giant, bought Outpost from the Dotzler family.
Crimson in color. 15.9% ABV. Sublime nose of red fruits, spice cake and pepper. Full bodied with just enough acidity. Lush and jammy with sweet fruits in spades. All things considered the balance is notable. Black cherry, raspberry liqueur, licorice and white pepper on the palate. The finish is exceptionally long and sweet. Without question this is a big Zinfandel but for me it is absolutely delicious. Pick your spots but enjoy this over the next 2-3 years.
My rating: 95 points.
The 2019 vintage will be released later this year and cost around $55.
Outpost wines are only available via the mailing list and sell out quickly. Don’t miss the Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon and Single Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon from True Vineyard. Highly recommended.