Wines St. Helena Sodhani Vineyards - Reserve - 2018

Sodhani Vineyards’ 2018 Cuvée Reserve is a remarkable red wine crafted in the renowned St. Helena AVA, nestled in the heart of California’s Napa Valley. This cuvée is typically composed of classic Bordeaux varietals, with Cabernet Sauvignon often at the core, possibly blended with Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and/or Petit Verdot, depending on the house style for the vintage. The 2018 vintage benefitted from an exceptional growing season: moderate temperatures, minimal heat spikes, and an extended hang time allowed for optimal phenolic ripeness and precise harvesting. Sodhani Vineyards employs meticulous vineyard management and a thoughtful vinification process, often involving hand-harvesting, careful berry selection, and aging in high-quality French oak barrels ranging from 18 to 24 months. This results in a wine of impressive concentration, layered aromatics, and a harmonious balance between power and elegance.

St. Helena AVA is one of Napa Valley’s oldest and most prestigious sub-regions, with viticulture dating back to the mid-19th century. The area is defined by its warm climate, with ample sunshine moderated by cool breezes from the Pacific, which helps retain the grape’s natural acidity. The soils are primarily alluvial and gravelly, providing excellent drainage and lending structure and minerality to the wines. St. Helena’s unique terroir consistently yields bold, expressive reds with an enviable aging potential, and its reputation is burnished by the many acclaimed estates and small vineyards like Sodhani that call the region home.

To highlight the rich profile and fine tannic structure of this Cuvée Reserve, pair it with prime rib, grilled lamb chops, or a classic American ribeye steak. Its boldness also stands up beautifully to smoked brisket or barbecued short ribs. For fans of regional flavors, consider a pairing with California-style tri-tip roast or a wild mushroom risotto, which will echo the wine’s earthy undertones.

For optimal enjoyment, decant the wine for 1 to 2 hours before serving to allow its bouquet to open fully. Serve at a temperature between 16-18°C to showcase its complexity, balance, and plush texture. This wine will continue to evolve beautifully in the bottle over the next decade, rewarding patience and careful cellaring.