Wines Napa Valley Charles Krug - 2019

Viniou Reviews

Charles Krug 2019 from Napa Valley AVA is a shining example of California’s renowned Cabernet Sauvignon tradition, even though the estate is also celebrated for its exemplary Merlot and Bordeaux-style blends. The 2019 vintage, marked by an ideal growing season with steady, moderate weather, allowed for optimal ripeness and complexity in the fruit. Traditionally, the vinification at Charles Krug involves careful hand selection of grapes, fermentation in stainless steel tanks for precision, and aging in a combination of French and American oak barrels, bringing out a rich tapestry of flavors and refined tannins. This wine offers a deep, vivid color, and on the palate, you can expect concentrated notes of ripe blackberry, cassis, and black cherry, layered with subtle undertones of mocha, vanilla, and aromatic spices, all underscored by an elegant structure and a lingering finish.

The Napa Valley AVA, one of the world’s premier wine regions, benefits from a diverse terroir shaped by volcanic soils, river sediments, and a unique interplay of fog, sun, and cool breezes from the San Pablo Bay. The valley’s landscape and microclimates enable the production of complex, well-balanced reds, especially Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Historically, Napa has been at the forefront of California’s rise to international wine prominence since the mid-20th century, with Charles Krug being the oldest winery in the area and a pioneering force in fine winemaking since its founding in 1861.

For food pairing, the structured tannins and bold fruit profile of Charles Krug 2019 make it a perfect companion for robust dishes. Classic pairings include grilled ribeye steak, beef short ribs, or rack of lamb, as well as regional specialties like California tri-tip. It also works beautifully with hard cheeses like aged cheddar or gouda.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine at 16-18°C. Consider decanting it for at least an hour to let its expressive bouquet and layered flavors fully develop. This wine will continue to evolve over the next several years, promising rewarding moments as it matures in your cellar.