Nickel & Nickel John C. Sullenger Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2021
Nickel & Nickel John C. Sullenger Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 is the winery's signature wine — 14.6% ABV, 750mL — from the home vineyard directly behind the winery in the heart of Oakville. Thirty acres of clay loam planted exclusively to Cabernet Sauvignon, aged 16 months in 55% new French oak, from a 1,800-case 2021 vintage: classic Oakville tannins, red-fruit layers, and a long, seductive finish. It's available to order online at Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.
- ABV: 14.6%
- Size: 750mL
- Vintage/Appellation: 2021, Oakville, Napa Valley
- Vineyard: John C. Sullenger — the home vineyard behind the winery; 30 acres clay loam, exclusively Cabernet Sauvignon
- Aging: 16 months in French oak — 55% new, 45% once-used
- Production: 1,800 cases (Wine Spectator)
- Awards (2021): 98 Tasting Panel, 97 Wine Enthusiast (Cellar Selection), 95 Jeb Dunnuck, 94 James Suckling, 93 Wine Spectator
The Home Vineyard: John C. Sullenger
This is the wine that defines Nickel & Nickel — from the vineyard behind the winery in the heart of Oakville, named for John C. Sullenger, a gold, silver, and quicksilver prospector who acquired the Oakville parcel in 1865 and settled the farmstead in the 1880s. The 42-acre farmstead, with its classic barns and Queen Anne home, was purchased by Nickel & Nickel in 1998 and restored; its 30 acres of clay loam grow Cabernet Sauvignon exclusively, on two rootstocks and several clones. Winemaker notes for 2021: "Beautiful red plum and raspberry aromas underscored by subtle spice and earthy notes opening onto layers of juicy red fruit flavors. Classic Oakville tannins support the full, round palate, while soft toasted oak and spice lift the long, seductive finish." Compare all three 2021 vineyards at Nickel & Nickel, or browse more Oakville and Napa Cabernet Sauvignon at Del Mesa.
Tasting Notes
Red plum and raspberry with subtle spice and earth; layers of juicy red fruit; classic Oakville tannins on a full, round palate; soft toasted oak and spice on the long finish. Wine Enthusiast (97, Cellar Selection): "So silky but also so potent and concentrated... remarkable more for its finesse than its power."
How to Enjoy
Decant 60 minutes to soften the Oakville tannins. Wine Enthusiast suggests the window 2027–2037, Wine Spectator 2025–2036 — buy for the cellar or the table. Pair with prime rib, braised short ribs, or a proper steakhouse dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the John C. Sullenger Cabernet?
Nickel & Nickel's signature wine — a 2021 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from the winery's home vineyard in Oakville, Napa Valley.
Who was John C. Sullenger?
A gold/silver/quicksilver prospector who acquired the Oakville parcel in 1865; the farmstead was bought and restored by Nickel & Nickel in 1998.
What awards did the 2021 get?
98 Tasting Panel, 97 Wine Enthusiast (Cellar Selection), 95 Jeb Dunnuck, 94 James Suckling, 93 Wine Spectator — the most decorated of the three 2021s.
How many cases were made?
1,800 cases (Wine Spectator).
The estate's signature bottle in its best-documented vintage — order Nickel & Nickel John C. Sullenger Cabernet 2021 online at Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.