Mt. Veeder, Napa Valley | 49-Acre Estate, 2,000+ ft. Elevation
WHY WE CHOSE THIS WINE
Anthem was founded in 2009 when proprietors Julie and Justin Arbuckle acquired two parcels on Mt. Veeder totaling 49 acres. Rather than go the obvious route of hiring an overbooked Napa consultant, Julie interviewed more than 100 winemakers before landing on Jeff Ames — the very first candidate she had spoken to. The decision proved extraordinary: Ames carries a resume that includes Schrader, Maybach, and Outpost, and his winemaking pedigree is unimpeachable. The estate farms its mountain vineyard with a serious commitment to regenerative agriculture, deep root irrigation, renewable energy, and efficient water management. The 2019 vintage — broadly regarded as one of Napa's finest of the decade — earned 95 points from International Wine Report and 93 points from Wine Enthusiast. The Mt. Veeder terroir delivers concentration and structure that few valley-floor Cabernets can match, and this wine has been singled out by top on-premise accounts as their pour-by-the-glass choice. Drink now through 2036.
TASTING NOTES
Rich and powerful on the nose with black cherry, plum, currant, blueberries, violets, graphite, sweet baking spices, and subtle loam. The palate is opulent and full-bodied — expressive of the mountain terroir — with earthy undertones, mid-palate blackberry, and finishing notes of olive, bay leaf, and espresso. Fine-grained tannins, polished texture, and a generous, lengthy finish. A wine that rewards patience but drinks beautifully today.