100pts Jeb Dunnuck
The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Hartwell XX is another perfect wine in this lineup. From vines around the estate in Stags Leap, its saturated purple hue is followed by a deep, majestic, massively concentrated Cabernet Sauvignon offering incredible purity and depth in its blackcurrant, Griotte cherry, loamy earth, and dried flower-like aromas and flavors. With full-bodied richness, loads of glycerin, sweet tannins, a stacked mid-palate, and a blockbuster of a finish, this killer effort should drink well for 25-30 years.
99pts James Suckling
Amazing aromas of blackcurrant, orange peel and earth. Fresh mushroom. Medium- to full-bodied with great density and seamless tannins. Creamy texture with a savory and fresh finish. Earthy. Original planting of the Bosche clone and planted in 1986. Only 1.5 acres. 150 cases. Drink after 2026.
98pts Vinous
The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Hartwell XX emerges from a small two-acre parcel at the top of the hill planted with Grace clone. Inky dark fruit, menthol, licorice, plum, crème de cassis and a touch of new oak fill out the layers. This deep, virile Cabernet has a ton of potential. Here, too, the tannins are admirably polished.
History
Realm Cellars is one of Napa Valley’s most electrifying wine brands with estate vineyards in Stags Leap District, Pritchard Hill and Coombsville. In 2012, owner Scott Becker and his partner, winemaker Benoit Touquette teamed up to revive a nearly bankrupt brand. Since then, Realm has been transformed into one of the most collected wineries in Napa Valley, with a vineyard portfolio that today exemplifies the beauty and longevity of Napa Valley. Making wine at the very highest level is at the core of Realm Cellars. Since 2012, the wines have been awarded more 100-point scores from internationally recognized wine critics than any other producer in Napa Valley.
Formerly the Hartwell Estate, Realm acquired the property in 2015 and began initial construction and development phases of an endeavor that will take decades to realize. In 2022, Realm acquired Nine Suns and Houyi Vineyard in Napa Valley’s famed area, Pritchard Hill. Realm’s portfolio of wines includes estate, single vineyard wines and proprietary blends, unified by a “style” best described as a creative tension between richness and precision, density and finesse, purity of fruit and nuance. In addition to its estate vineyard sites, Realm partners with Napa Valley’s most prestigious and iconic wine growers and vineyard sites, including Beckstoffer Dr. Crane and Beckstoffer To Kalon.
