The 2019 Bordeaux Blend "Memoir" from Ackerman Family Vineyards has received relatively limited coverage from major critics compared with larger Napa producers, but there is one published professional review and several trade tasting notes.
Professional ratings
| Critic |
Rating |
Comments |
| James Suckling |
92 points |
Described as a polished Napa Bordeaux blend with ripe dark fruit, balance, and approachable structure. This is the only widely published major critic score for the 2019 vintage. |
Winery / trade tasting notes
The winery's technical sheet describes the wine as:
- Blend
- 70% Cabernet Sauvignon
- 8% Cabernet Franc
- 8% Merlot
- 8% Malbec
- 6% Petit Verdot
- Alcohol: 14.5%
- Aging: French oak (65% new)
- Release: February 2023
- SRP: $50
Official tasting notes include aromas and flavors of:
- blueberries
- blackberry compote
- plum preserves
- dark chocolate
- toasted vanilla
- baking spices
The palate is described as medium- to full-bodied, with velvety tannins, freshness, and an elegant finish.
Independent merchant review
Wine Access awarded no numerical score but praised the wine, noting:
- candied violet and lilac aromatics
- cassis, espresso, and licorice notes
- muscular dark-fruit palate
- supple tannins
- recommended drinking window: now through 2035.
Consumer reception
On Vivino:
- 2019 vintage: 3.9/5 (about 34 ratings)
- All vintages combined: 4.1/5 from roughly 178 ratings.
Overall assessment
The 2019 Memoir is a Cabernet-dominant Napa Bordeaux blend positioned as an accessible, value-oriented premium red. While it hasn't been reviewed by critics such as Robert Parker, Antonio Galloni, or Jeb Dunnuck, the available professional assessment is favorable, with a 92-point James Suckling rating. Its composition, restrained alcohol, and projected aging potential through about 2035 suggest it should continue to develop well over the next several years.
Vintner and Philanthropist, Lauren Ackerman, helped found AFV in 1994 after purchasing the 15.5 acre "Stonehaven" property in Napa's up and coming Coombsville district. The following year the first experimental wine was produced and in 2003 the company produced it's first commercial wine, a Cabernet Sauvignon from the Stonehaven Estate. In 2009, AFV became the first certified organic vineyard in the Coombsville AVA. Today, Ackerman Family Vineyards produces an estate-grown 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, in addition to Memoir, A bordeaux style blend, Alavigna Tosca, A Cabernet Sauvignon and Sangiovese blend and Sauvignon Blanc
