The 2016 Lerner Project RMS Napa Cabernet Sauvignon is a distinguished red wine from California's renowned Napa region. This varietal, predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon, is a blend of equal parts Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc, matured in new oak barrels. The wine clocks in at a robust 15.6% alcohol by volume and is sealed with a traditional cork closure.
Jeb Dunnuck awarded this wine an impressive 96 points, noting its "full-bodied, powerful yet surprisingly elegant style." He highlighted its "sumptuous notes of blackcurrants, blueberries, chocolate, graphite, and earthy minerality," praising its great mid-palate, sweet tannins, and terrific concentration. Dunnuck concludes that it’s "another gem from this lineup" (jebdunnuck.com, 1/31/2019).
Vinous' Antonio Galloni scored the wine 94 points, emphasizing its "serious depth, power and structure." Galloni appreciated the harmonious marriage of Cabernet Sauvignon from Tench and Merlot from Sugarloaf, spotlighting flavors of "black plum, bittersweet chocolate, spice, new leather, licorice, and espresso." Despite its intensity, Galloni noted that the wine "retains terrific freshness" (Vinous, 1/1/2020).
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate gave the wine a 93+ score, with reviewer LPB describing it as "deep garnet-purple colored." The blend of 34% Cabernet Sauvignon, 33% Merlot, and 33% Cabernet Franc presents an "earthy nose with notes of tires, asphalt, and licorice," alongside a core of "crème de cassis, baked plums, and blueberry compote plus touches of tea and tobacco." The palate is described as "full-bodied, lively and concentrated with firm, chewy tannins and a long earthy finish." The publication also noted that only 376 cases were produced (Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, 10/29/2018).
Overall, the 2016 Lerner Project RMS Napa Cabernet Sauvignon is celebrated for its complexity, depth, and balance, making it a standout selection for those seeking a powerful yet refined Napa red.