Lion Tamer Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon (750Ml)

Lion Tamer is a Napa Valley red from The Hess Collection, now part of Hess Persson Estates. Cabernet Sauvignon leads the blend. Smaller shares of Malbec and Petite Sirah round it out. The winemaker uses the Malbec to soften the tannins and give a smooth texture. The exact mix changes from vintage to vintage, so check the label on your bottle.

Recent vintages age about 20 months in French and American oak. The 2021 nose shows black cherry, cassis and a little loamy earth. The palate brings black cherry, black currant and blackberry. Toast, cinnamon and cedar come through from the barrel. The tannins feel supple, and the finish is long with a touch of vanilla.

Wine Enthusiast gave it 95 points. James Suckling and Wine Spectator each scored it 92, and Wine Advocate gave it 91.

Decant it for half an hour and let it open up. The winery suggests pork osso buco with mushrooms. Grilled steak, lamb or a mushroom risotto work well too. If you enjoy bold, high-quality wines with a soft edge, keep this one in mind.

Lion Tamer is a Napa Valley red from The Hess Collection, now part of Hess Persson Estates. Cabernet Sauvignon leads the blend. Smaller shares of Malbec and Petite Sirah round it out. The winemaker uses the Malbec to soften the tannins and give a smooth texture. The exact mix changes from vintage to vintage, so check the label on your bottle.

Recent vintages age about 20 months in French and American oak. The 2021 nose shows black cherry, cassis and a little loamy earth. The palate brings black cherry, black currant and blackberry. Toast, cinnamon and cedar come through from the barrel. The tannins feel supple, and the finish is long with a touch of vanilla.

Wine Enthusiast gave it 95 points. James Suckling and Wine Spectator each scored it 92, and Wine Advocate gave it 91.

Decant it for half an hour and let it open up. The winery suggests pork osso buco with mushrooms. Grilled steak, lamb or a mushroom risotto work well too. If you enjoy bold, high-quality wines with a soft edge, keep this one in mind.