Vineyard Selection 82 (1986)

About this wine

The 1986 Johnson Turnbull 'Vineyard Selection 82' Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon offers a deep ruby color with slight bricking at the edges, indicating its maturity. On the nose, it presents an expressive bouquet of sweet aged cabernet perfume, cherries, eucalyptus, cedar, green vegetables, and smoked meats. The palate is elegant and smooth, featuring dried black fruit, dried herbs, pepper, and a medium finish with currant and leather notes, accompanied by a subtle tannic kick. This wine reflects the classic Napa Valley style of the 1980s, showcasing the region's ability to produce age-worthy Cabernet Sauvignons. Notably, early Turnbull wines were known for the character imparted by neighboring eucalyptus groves, contributing to the distinctive eucalyptus and mint aromas present in this vintage.

About the grape

Cabernet Sauvignon, a cross between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc, emerged in 17th-century France and has become one of the world's most recognized red wine grapes. Its thick skins and hardy vines make it well-suited to various climates, including California's Napa Valley. In 1986, Johnson Turnbull Winery, founded in 1979 by architect William Turnbull and attorney Reverdy Johnson, produced the 'Vineyard Selection 82' Cabernet Sauvignon. This wine showcased the grape's adaptability to Napa's terroir, benefiting from the region's favorable climate and the winery's commitment to quality viticulture. Notably, early Turnbull wines were known for their distinctive eucalyptus and mint aromas, a characteristic attributed to the proximity of eucalyptus groves near the vineyards.

Quick facts

• 🏆 The 1986 Johnson Turnbull Vineyard Selection 82 Cabernet Sauvignon received a remarkable 95-point rating from Wine Spectator, highlighting its exceptional quality.
• 🍒 This wine is known for its intense flavors of tart black cherry, currant, spice, and cedar, all framed by firm tannins and toasty oak.
• 🏛️ Turnbull Wine Cellars, originally named Johnson Turnbull, was founded in 1979 by architect William Turnbull and lawyer Reverdy Johnson.
• 🍇 The winery is situated in Oakville, Napa Valley, a region renowned for producing some of the world's finest Cabernet Sauvignon wines.
• 🍷 Cabernet Sauvignon, the grape variety used in this wine, is a cross between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc, known for its full-bodied nature and high tannins, contributing to its excellent aging potential.

Palate profile

Producer

Turnbull Wine Cellars, originally known as Johnson Turnbull Vineyards, was founded in 1979 by architect William Turnbull Jr. and attorney Reverdy Johnson in Oakville, California. Turnbull, renowned for his work on the Sea Ranch community, designed the winery's distinctive barn-like structures, reflecting his architectural style. In 1993, the winery was acquired by Patrick O'Dell, who expanded its vineyard holdings and rebranded it as Turnbull Wine Cellars. The winery is also notable for housing an extensive collection of American photography, including works by Ansel Adams.