Darioush Caravan Cabernet Sauvignon 2021

Tasting Profile
Deep purple-black with garnet rim, this opulent Napa Cabernet opens with intense aromas of ripe blackcurrant, black cherry, and cassis layered with notes of cedar, graphite, and sweet tobacco, accented by hints of vanilla and mocha. The palate delivers concentrated flavors of dark berries, plum compote, and blackberry preserves complemented by nuances of espresso, dark chocolate, and baking spices. Full-bodied with plush, velvety tannins providing impressive structure while maintaining remarkable balance, leading to a long, complex finish with lingering notes of dark fruit, toasted oak, and subtle minerality.

Winemaker Notes
Crafted by the esteemed Darioush Khaledi estate, Caravan represents their dedication to creating Bordeaux-inspired wines of distinction. The fruit is meticulously sourced from select vineyards across Napa Valley's most renowned appellations, with particular focus on mountain and hillside locations that provide optimal growing conditions for developing complex flavor profiles. Following careful sorting, the wine undergoes extended maceration and aging in French oak barrels (approximately 60% new) for 20-22 months, allowing for seamless integration of fruit and oak characteristics.

Vintage Notes
The 2021 vintage in Napa Valley was characterized by a dry growing season with moderate temperatures and minimal heat spikes, creating ideal conditions for even ripening and excellent phenolic development. These favorable conditions allowed for extended hang time, resulting in grapes with exceptional concentration, complexity, and balanced acidity that showcase the region's distinctive terroir expression.

Suggested Pairings

• Prime dry-aged steaks
• Lamb chops with rosemary and garlic
• Venison with berry reduction
• Mushroom and truffle dishes
• Aged hard cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano

Technical Details

• Region: Napa Valley, California
• Classification: Napa Valley AVA
• Varietal: Predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon with small percentages of traditional Bordeaux varieties
• Alcohol: 14.8% ABV
• Aging: 20-22 months in French oak barrels (approximately 60% new)
• Contains sulfites

Cellaring
While already showing beautifully, this wine has significant aging potential and will continue to evolve favorably for 10-15 years, developing additional complexity while maintaining its powerful fruit expression.