When it comes to California wine, Napa Valley has a reputation for higher prices. Yet, when you look beyond blue-chip bottles sought after by collectors, there are still many outstanding examples that don’t break the bank. This week’s list spotlights ten recently tasted Cabernet Sauvignon reds from the exceptional 2021 vintage. All scored at least 90 points and are priced less than $75, making them relative values in a region where many Cabernets exceed $300.
Finding well-priced California Cabernet often means seeking out the big-name wineries. While several of those prominent, familiar names are in this lineup, there are also a few family-owned wineries making wines that offer a lot of bang for the buck. Take Reynolds Family, which has made a ripe, lush Cabernet with warmed cassis and plum reduction flavors; it is among the top-scoring wines in this selection. Owning your vineyards, rather than purchasing grapes, is a great way to keep costs down, and this wine comes from the Reynolds' estate vineyard just south of Napa's Stags Leap District.
This lineup also includes Beringer's Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Distinction Series 2021, one of the top scorers, a dense red with dark fruit and espresso notes. Read on to get our score and full tasting note for this outstanding Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon red and nine others!
Tasting Highlights' wine reviews are fresh out of the tasting room, offering a sneak peek of our editors' most recent ratings—including scores and full tasting notes—to WineSpectator.com members.
Member-Only Content
Premium SubscriptionJoin today and get immediate access to this article, and to our entire database of more than 400,000 wine ratings. It only takes moments—but it will help you drink better all year long.
Already a member? Sign In
Try Winespectator.com Free for 30 Days!
Full access to our database of more than 425,000 wine ratings
Early access to reviews on our editors' favorite just-rated wines
Wine and food pairing tool,
chefs' pairing recommendations
Best value wines and winery intel
Subscribe today