Wines Napa Valley Nickel & Nickel - DeCarle Vineyard - 2022

Viniou Reviews

Nickel & Nickel’s 2022 Cuvée DeCarle Vineyard from Napa Valley is a quintessential expression of premium California Cabernet Sauvignon, although the exact blend may include other classic Bordeaux varietals such as Merlot or Petit Verdot, which often add plushness and aromatic complexity. This cuvée is crafted from grapes meticulously selected from the DeCarle Vineyard, a site known for yielding powerful yet finely structured reds. The 2022 vintage in Napa Valley benefited from moderate temperatures and perfect ripening conditions, resulting in wines with vibrant fruit, balanced acidity, and refined tannins. Nickel & Nickel practices single-vineyard vinification, allowing the unique soils and microclimate of DeCarle Vineyard to shine through. Expect a deep garnet color, pronounced aromas of ripe blackberry, cassis, and black cherry, underpinned by notes of mocha, graphite, and subtle oak from careful barrel aging. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied yet elegant, with polished tannins and a persistent, layered finish.

Napa Valley is California’s most acclaimed wine region, celebrated for its combination of Mediterranean climate, varied topography, and mosaic of soil types. The valley enjoys warm, sunny days and cool nights, thanks to marine influences from the San Pablo Bay and Pacific breezes that funnel through mountain gaps. This diurnal shift is essential for preserving acidity and developing complex flavors in the grapes. Napa’s winemaking heritage is rich, dating from the mid-19th century, and its terroirs—including those of the famed DeCarle Vineyard—are revered for producing some of the world’s most age-worthy and luxurious Cabernet-based wines.

Pair this robust Napa red with hearty dishes such as grilled ribeye steak, roast lamb with rosemary, or a classic American BBQ brisket. For a regional touch, try it alongside slow-cooked short ribs garnished with wild mushrooms or a steak au poivre, as the wine’s structure and depth effortlessly complement rich, savory flavors. Aged cheeses such as gouda or blue also make excellent companions.

Serve the Cuvée DeCarle Vineyard at 16-18°C to showcase its aromatic depth and supple texture. Decanting for an hour before pouring will help open the bouquet and soften the tannins, allowing you to fully enjoy the wine’s finesse and complexity.