Cakebread Benchland Select Cabernet Sauvignon 2016
Cakebread Benchland Select Cabernet Sauvignon 2016 is a 14.9% ABV Napa Valley Cabernet — a special blend of five clones from two superior vineyards on the gently sloping western benchlands of Rutherford and Oakville, aged 22 months in French oak barrels (61% new) before bottling. The 2016 vintage, refreshed by abundant winter rainfall after years of drought, is a standout: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon with boysenberry, fig and dark chocolate over firm, supple tannins. Available to order online at Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.
- ABV: 14.9% ABV
- Vintage: 2016
- Grapes: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon (five clones, two benchland vineyards)
- Aging: 22 months in French oak barrels, 61% new
- Ratings: 95 Jeb Dunnuck, 95 Wine Advocate, 93 Wine & Spirits, 92 James Suckling
Rutherford and Oakville's Western Bench
Benchland Select pays tribute to Napa's western bench, where cool afternoon shade from the Mayacamas Mountains ripens grapes slowly and gravelly loam drains freely — each lot destemmed and fermented separately with yeasts, temperatures and maceration tailored to the vineyard block. The result is one of Cakebread's most collectible single-cuvée wines. Browse our Cabernet Sauvignon wines and the full Cakebread Cellars range at Del Mesa Liquor.
Tasting Notes
Nose: bright boysenberry, delicate violets, blackcurrant cordial, cigar box and pencil lead. Palate: ripe blackberry, fig and dried sage over sweet blackberry and dark chocolate; elegant tension of dense fruit, bright acidity and firm tannins. Finish: long, spicy, layered.
How to Enjoy
Decant 1–2 hours and serve at cellar temperature; pairs with hearty stews, grilled steaks and fire-roasted vegetables. Drinks beautifully now and will reward 7–10 more years in the cellar.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ABV of Cakebread Benchland Select 2016?
14.9% ABV.
Where does Benchland Select Cabernet come from?
Two vineyards on the western benchlands of Rutherford and Oakville in Napa Valley.
How is Cakebread Benchland Select aged?
22 months in French oak barrels, 61% new.
What ratings did the 2016 get?
95 points from both Jeb Dunnuck and the Wine Advocate, 93 from Wine & Spirits and 92 from James Suckling.
One of Cakebread's finest 2016s — order Benchland Select Cabernet Sauvignon 2016 online from Del Mesa Liquor in San Diego, CA.