I somehow got talked into cooking dinner ???? so I needed a stellar wine to overshadow my mediocre stove skills. And the 2016 Far Niente Estate Cab delivered!

IYKYK, the 2016 vintage in Napa was ???????? many of these wines are drinking spectacularly, especially if you love a fruit bomb cab.

I personally really like Far Niente. Call me basic, but their Chardonnay is always a hit with varying palates and their estate cabs age very well, IMO.

The 2016 is no exception. On the nose, it’s quite powerful: blackberry, chocolate, licorice. But on the palate it’s a lot smoother. Still a ton of cherry and cassis, but just a tiny hint of oak to bring out some roundness. Mellow tannins. Just the right amount of acidity.

Paired with a red sauce pasta dish with mushrooms and chicken. Don’t hate… it’s one of only a few things I can cook. Plus we don’t eat red meat.

Purchased directly from the winery in 2023 for $304. Happy Hump Day!