Wine details
The 2023 "The Dude" is a Napa Valley Bordeaux-style blend composed of:
- 85% Cabernet Sauvignon
- 10% Merlot
- 3% Cabernet Franc
- 2% Malbec
Fruit was sourced from Napa Valley appellations including Calistoga, Rutherford, and Howell Mountain, and the wine was aged for 16 months in approximately 40% new oak.
Producer tasting profile
According to the producer notes, the wine shows:
- Aromas of boysenberry, dark cherry liqueur, black fig, pencil shavings, sage, and cocoa.
- A plush, full-bodied palate with black raspberry preserve, plum, star anise, and nutmeg.
- Polished tannins and vibrant acidity supporting a long finish.
Independent retailer assessment
One Napa-focused retailer described the wine as delivering unusually strong value for a Napa Cabernet-dominant blend at around $25, highlighting:
- Classic Rutherford-style dusty tannins
- Deep cherry fruit
- Cabernet-driven structure
- 100% Napa Valley fruit sourcing
Winery Notes
Canepa Koch Wine Cellars is a partnership between Mark Canepa and Neil Koch. Together Mark and Neil have over 25 years of wine industry experience. Mark and Neil have known each other since 2004 and both were recruited by Seguin Moreau (Cooperage in Napa Valley) where they both took sales positions. They quickly realized that if they combined their skills and resources they could launch something exciting. Their goal is to create wines that are well-rounded, enjoyable, and affordable.
Neil has over 12 years of wine industry experience including 6 years working in the production side. He trained under Philip Melka at Seavey Vineyards, Bryant Family, and Vineyard 29. Based on his winemaking background he was appointed as the Enologist and Assistant Winemaker at Lewis Cellars where he facilitated the production of highly acclaimed Napa Valley Cabernet, Merlot, Syrah, and Chardonnay. Neil has also produced Pinot Noir under the “The Line Wines” Label.
