Wines Napa Valley Girard - Mt. Veeder - 2016

Girard’s Cuvée Mt. Veeder 2016 from Napa Valley AVA is a distinctive expression of California’s exceptional mountain terroirs. Crafted predominantly from classic Bordeaux grapes grown on the steep slopes of Mt. Veeder, this wine benefits from a unique microclimate and diverse soils—predominantly volcanic and well-drained—which contribute to a robust structure and remarkable intensity. The vintage 2016 stands out as a well-balanced year in Napa Valley, producing wines with rich concentration, pure fruit character, and refined tannins. Vinification at Girard focuses on gentle extraction and precise oak ageing, yielding a complex red with depth—look for aromas of blackcurrant, plum, graphite, and hints of spice, integrated with subtle notes of cedar and tobacco. On the palate, the wine delivers impressive power counterbalanced by freshness and persistent finish.

Napa Valley, and more specifically Mt. Veeder, is renowned for its challenging terrain and limited yields, which often produce wines of remarkable intensity and age-worthiness. The hillside vineyards are situated at elevations ranging from 400 to over 1,200 feet, where cooler temperatures, strong sunlight, and rocky soils result in smaller, highly concentrated grapes. Napa’s viticultural history traces back to the mid-19th century, evolving into one of the world’s most prestigious wine regions, known particularly for its expressive Cabernet Sauvignon blends. Mt. Veeder wines consistently showcase mountain tannins, layered fruit, and mineral undertones—attributes that are prominent in this Girard bottling.

Ideal food pairings for this bold and structured wine include grilled ribeye steak, rack of lamb with rosemary, and slow-cooked beef short ribs. The wine’s depth also complements hard cheeses like aged cheddar or gouda. For a local Californian touch, consider pairing with a burger topped with mushrooms and blue cheese or roasted duck breast.

To fully appreciate the complexity and aromatic profile of this Mt. Veeder cuvée, serve it at a temperature of 16-18°C. Decanting for an hour before tasting will allow the bouquet to unfold and soften the tannins, enhancing your overall experience.