I’ve always had a soft spot for Napa’s mountain cabs—Diamond, Howell, Spring, Atlas Peak—each with that rugged structure and bold personality. The catch, of course, is the price tag. Most start around $40 and climb steeply from there. That’s why stumbling upon the Kirkland Signature Series Napa Mountain Cuvée at just $20 felt like finding a hidden trail up the mountain.
And honestly? It drinks exactly as you’d expect for that price point—solid, enjoyable, and a nice entry into the world of mountain cabernets.
When first poured, the wine is tight, almost closed. This is one I strongly recommend decanting or letting breathe for an hour or two—the difference is dramatic. In the glass, it shows a thick, dark purple hue with a floral and slightly vegetal nose. On the palate, it’s full-bodied, highly tannic, and unapologetically bold, with flavors of blackberry, dark fruit, a touch of anise, and a peppery finish laced with cigar-box tobacco.
The alcohol clocks in at 14.9%, noticeable on the close, but it never overwhelms the wine’s character.
For $20, this bottle is a smart buy. And if you like where this one takes you, I encourage you to explore the higher-tier Napa mountain wines—it’s a rewarding way to expand your palate.
My rating: 89 points. A great value for what it delivers.
