Promontory Red Napa Valley 2014

The appearance is deep red with a brilliant reflection along the rim. On the nose, hints of graphite, wet stone, and fresh spices interplay with a fruit component that brings notes of fresh, dark berries, notably cassis. The wine begins with precision and tension, as mineral acidity drives linearly from the front to the back of the palate. The tannins, gaining definition, are harmoniously integrated with the density and freshness of the fruit, creating a long and vibrant finale. Elegance and controlled strength are wrapped in the now-familiar structure of Promontory, resulting in a wine with an athletic balance that will drink beautifully over the next 50-plus years.

Critical Acclaim

100 Vinous

I knew it was only a matter of time before Davide Cilli would make a wine at Promontory that would represent the maximum expression of this rugged hillside site. The 2014 Promontory has been exceptional in the past, but it has also gained another gear or two over the last year, which is pretty much now standard for these wines. Stunningly delineated and precise, with tremendous purity and exceptional balance, the 2014 Promontory dazzles from start to finish. This is an especially translucent style, one that is more about persistence and balance than power alone. Stated simply, the 2014 Promontory is a towering achievement from one of Napa Valley's most talented young winemakers. Kudos to the Harlan family and the winegrowing team led by Bob Levy and Cory Emptying for creating the framework that allowed Cilli to craft this exquisite, riveting Cabernet Sauvignon.

99 James Suckling

 This is red with such incredible depth and beauty with a tannin structure that just melts into the glass. It’s full-body, yet extremely tense and perfectly succulent. Hints of bitter lemon, cedar, and dark berry. Pine needle and spice with fresh mushroom. It’s reserved and wonderful. Tension and focus. First vintage aged in all cask. Impressive now but one for the cellar. A new classic for Napa. Better after 2022.

99 Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2014 Promontory bursts from the glass with bold, brazen notions of crushed blackcurrants, black raspberries, wild blueberries and redcurrant jelly with a compelling perfume of rose hip tea, sandalwood, unsmoked cigars and dried lavender. Full-bodied, super intense and yet wonderfully ethereal, it has a firm line of very fine-grained tannins, tons of freshness and incredibly vibrant, crunchy fruit, finishing long with bags of energy. Drink 2020-2054.