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Cabernet Sauvignon, Outpost Winery, Howell Mountain, CA, 2023

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Article code: JD 96 Pts.

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$139.95

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Overview

2023 Outpost Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon: JS 96, JD 96, WA 94–96. Powerful yet balanced, with black currant, blackberry, dark chocolate, herbs and mineral notes. Silky tannins, vibrant acidity, and outstanding 20–25+ year aging potential.

Details

The 2023 Outpost Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon has been reviewed by several leading critics, and early assessments are very strong.

Critic	Rating	Review highlights
James Suckling	96 points	"Lovely depth of dark fruit" with black currant, blackberry, spice, black olive, dark chocolate, mineral tension, and a vibrant, focused finish. Drink or hold.
Joe Czerwinski (Robert Parker Wine Advocate)	94–96 points (barrel)	Ripe cherry aromas accented by rosemary/lavender; full-bodied, supple and creamy with a silky finish. Described as nearly approachable young but structured to age 20+ years.
Jeb Dunnuck	96 points	Dark currants, dark chocolate, tobacco, crushed stone, and classic Howell Mountain herbal character. Praised for layered concentration, freshness, beautiful tannins, and a long finish. Recommended drinking 2025–2050.

Wine details

Appellation: Howell Mountain, Napa Valley
Variety: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
Winemaker: Thomas Rivers Brown
Élevage: 18 months in 85% new French oak
Production: Approximately 1,780 cases

Vintage assessment

The 2023 growing season on Howell Mountain is widely regarded as outstanding. A cool, extended season and even ripening produced wines with:

Dense color
Excellent concentration
Bright natural acidity
Polished tannins
Strong aging potential

Overall impression

The consensus among professional reviewers places the 2023 Outpost Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon in the mid-90s, with consistent praise for:

Classic Howell Mountain structure and minerality
Intense black-fruit character
Balance despite its power
Long cellar potential (20–25+ years)

If you're considering purchase or cellaring, this appears to be one of the stronger recent vintages for the wine. The 96-point scores from James Suckling and Jeb Dunnuck, combined with Wine Advocate's 94–96-point barrel review, suggest excellent quality and long-term potential.