Realm Cellars 'Moonracer' Cabernet Sauvignon 2015

Moonracer is Realm’s Estate wine from our SLD Estate Vineyard on Wappo Hill in the Stags Leap District. It is said this elevated site was important to the Wappo Native Americans as it provided the tribe with a central lookout from which to identify intruders and such. The Wappos, though small in number, were known for their bravery, strength and athleticism. Author Jack London, writing about the curious inter-tribal races that took place during full moons, noted that the Wappos often won these contests. Thus Moonracer, an oblique reference to the earliest inhabitants of the place Realm calls home.

The Cabernet Sauvignon-based Moonracer is composed of the finest lots from the Estate vineyard. Winemaker Benoit Touquette has much to choose from, as the site, with its multiple blocks, elevations, facings and diverse soils, has character in spades. Moonracer bears the unmistakable mark of this stimulating vineyard as well as the Stags Leap District. The wine is strong and powerful yet elegant, with refined tannins and plenty of depth. What Benoit calls “intellectual.” It’s a wine that will appeal to both international and American palates. It walks the line, combining characteristics typical of northern and southern Napa Valley. It’s got plenty of fruit but also layered flavors, depth and complexity.

"Blended of 77% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon The Estate-Moonracer features compelling red and black currant notes laced with sandalwood, cinnamon stick, cedar chest, cigar boxes, dried leaves and dusty soil. The muscular, medium to full-bodied palate fills the mouth with lively red and black fruit layers, framed by wonderfully fine, pixelated tannins, finishing long and spicy." - RP

Robert Parker | 96pts