Wines Napa Valley B. Wise Vineyards - Trios - 2018

Viniou Reviews

B. Wise Vineyards’ Cuvée Trios 2018 from Napa Valley AVA is a sophisticated red blend that beautifully showcases the rich diversity and winemaking expertise of this acclaimed Californian terroir. The exact blend is often dominated by classic Bordeaux varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc, which is typical for prestigious Napa Valley cuvées. The 2018 vintage is recognized for its elegance and clarity, thanks to a growing season marked by even temperatures and a long hang time. Gentle vinification and deliberate barrel aging bring forth layers of ripe dark fruit, subtle herbal nuances, and finely integrated oak, culminating in a well-balanced structure and velvety tannins.

Napa Valley is one of the United States’ most celebrated wine regions, nestled between the Mayacamas and Vaca mountain ranges in Northern California. Its Mediterranean climate combines warm days with cool nights, ideal for slow grape maturation, enhancing complexity and aromatic depth. The soils here are strikingly diverse, with volcanic, alluvial, and sedimentary origins contributing unique character to the wines. Since the late 19th century, Napa has built a reputation for producing some of the world’s finest red wines—especially Bordeaux-style blends—thanks to both natural advantages and pioneering winemaking practices.

For food pairings, the refined structure and depth of Cuvée Trios make it an excellent partner for grilled meats such as prime rib or rack of lamb, but its balance also supports pairings with dishes like duck confit, wild mushroom risotto, or a classic beef bourguignon. Local California cuisine—such as short ribs braised in wine or roast quail with herbs—will also highlight the wine’s aromatic complexity and polished tannins.

To experience this wine at its best, serve it at 16-18°C. Decanting for an hour before pouring will help the wine open up further, allowing you to fully appreciate its aromatic subtlety and layered palate. Enjoy now for its expressive fruit and refined texture, or consider cellaring for a few more years to let its tertiary notes develop further.