Trefethen Prop Red ‘Dragon’s Tooth’ 2021

Intrepid aromas of richly peppered blue and black fruit with a sheen of minty refreshment. Structured, polished and densely textured, with indulgent tannins and a penetrating bead of fine acidity. Built for the long haul.  97pts Decanter

Trefethen is perhaps the defining estate of the Oak Knoll District in Napa. Due to this cooler climate, Trefethen has always made wines with more of an “old world” tilt favoring balance, elegance, and purity over all-out brawn. The Dragon’s Tooth comes from a specific part of the estate with the rockiest, gravelly soils laid down by the Napa River. The blend is dominated by Malbec and Petit Verdot with Cabernet Sauvignon in a supporting role. The combination works beautifully with Malbec delivering its signature bold, fleshy deep red fruits, Petit Verdot brining only richness, purple cassis fruit, pencil shaving, woodsy spices, and taught tannins. Cabernet Sauvignon adds some briary tones, a touch of cocoa powder and tobacco. Such a cool wine that has tons of character and depth. I can totally see how this wine impressed the judges so much at the illustrious Decanter World Wine Awards tasted blind amongst thousands of other wines. On paper it’s an unusual blend, but in the glass it’s seamless, complete and downright delicious!