Wines Yountville Piña - Wolfe Vineyard - 2016

Viniou Reviews

Piña’s Wolfe Vineyard Cuvée 2016, originating from the Yountville appellation in California’s famed Napa Valley, is a red wine that beautifully expresses the specificity of its terroir. The wine is most likely dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon, as is characteristic of this area, though it could have small inclusions of Merlot or other Bordeaux varietals. The 2016 vintage was lauded in Napa for its ideal growing conditions, resulting in wines with excellent ripeness and balance. Careful vinification and bottle aging are evident in the wine’s generous structure, with well-integrated oak from barrel maturation adding subtle notes of vanilla, spice, and toasted cedar to a dense core of dark fruit—think ripe blackcurrant, plum, and blackberry, accented by graphite and herbal undertones.

Yountville, a sub-appellation within California’s Napa Valley, lies in the heart of this iconic wine region. The terroir here is defined by well-drained alluvial soils, a moderate climate tempered by cool morning fog and warm sunny afternoons, and a long growing season. These conditions are ideal for Bordeaux varietals, allowing grapes to reach full physiological ripeness while retaining fresh acidity. Napa Valley itself is steeped in viticultural tradition, and Yountville has become renowned for producing Cabernet Sauvignons and red blends recognized for both power and finesse, often showcasing exceptional aging potential.

This robust Yountville red is a classic partner for richly flavored dishes. Grilled ribeye steaks, lamb chops with rosemary, or even a well-charred burger with blue cheese will complement the wine’s intensity and structure. For a regional touch, try it with slow-braised short ribs or tri-tip barbecue, both of which are classic pairings in California wine country. Aged hard cheeses, such as a mature cheddar or an artisanal blue, will also harmonize beautifully with the wine’s tannic framework.

For optimal enjoyment, decant this wine for at least one hour to soften the tannins and reveal its aromatic complexity. Serve at 16-18°C to fully appreciate both its youthful fruit expression and those subtle secondary notes acquired through barrel aging. This bottle is drinking beautifully now but will reward further cellar time if you wish to wait.