Gemstone 2021 “Facets” Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

Decanter 95 Points: “The Gemstone estate vineyard encompasses 6.5 hectares (16 acres) on the western benches of Yountville; however, Facets is Gemstone’s non-estate wine, crafted from grapes sourced from select vineyards in Yountville by winemaker Julien Fayard, who began making the wine in 2021. This compact, power-packed red showcases a seamless integration of fine-grained tannins and layers of complex character, making it an exceptional value considering its pedigreed winemaker and grape sources. An alluring pop of dried sage teases the senses, while perfumed rose petals and hints of red volcanic soil add intrigue before a rush of boysenberry fruit fills all the gaps. The full-bodied finish offers lingering notes of toasty cedarwood and dark cocoa. Grapes are gently pressed directly into barrels for fermentation and aging for up to 20 months in 70% new French oak. Bottled unfiltered and unfined.”