Clos Julien Cabernet Sauvignon Moon Mountain 2023

Unlike most producers, if it isn’t perfect, the Clos Julien team would rather not do anything at all. They’d stepped away from Cabernet years ago to focus on their stellar Pinot Noir and Chardonnay programs. But they had a hunch about 2023 Moon Mountain fruit. They were right.

This is their first-ever Moon Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon – marking their entry into what Antonio Galloni of Vinous calls “one of the most exciting emerging appellations in California” and “one of California’s great terroirs.” Galloni has been fascinated by the appellation for 15 years, calling it “reminiscent of the eastern hills of Oakville” but cooler due to its proximity to the Pacific. The Moon Mountain side of the Mayacamas produces wines that are distinctly different from anything else in California.