2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Signature

Quality is on the rise at Chappellet, one of the most historic wineries in Napa Valley. Winemaker Philip Corallo-Titus credits new state of the art optical sorting equipment for much of the upswing in quality. Corallo-Titus adds that the recently built new winery also allows him to keep temperatures low during aging and therefore use less SO2. All I could think while tasting these wines is "What took so long?" Surely the Chappellets have had the means to make these investments for years, if not decades. Then again, running a multi-generational family winery with many stakeholders can't possibly be easy. Still, there is no question the newer wines at Chappellet are terrific. In particular, the entry-level Signature Cabernet, which is made from both estate and purchased fruit, is one of the very best values in Napa Valley today.