Hoopla California Cabernet Sauvignon 2018

Drink now or cellar for up to 7 years. No need to decant before serving. Spencer Hoopes grew up on a farm in southeastern Arizona and only became interested in wine following a chance invite to a wine tasting in San Francisco. With his farming background it was not long before he tried his hand at planting 10 acres of Cabernet Sauvignon vines in Oakville. Since 1983 when the initial vines were planted Hoopes Vineyard has blossomed into a thriving Napa winery under the watchful eye of Spencer and his daughter, Lindsay. In recent years the family have created a brand-new label, Hoopla, inspired by their love for the canine companions that live and work alongside them. Their Hoopla California Cabernet is made in honour of Dante, the small terroir who was Spencer’s loyal friend for many years. Like Dante this is a robust and lively wine with an impeccable California pedigree. Fruit for this bottling is sourced from Monterey, Napa and Paso Robles with a small amount of Petite Sirah, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Malbec. Following vinification the young wine is then aged in two year old French oak barrels for 18 months before bottling. Bursting with cassis, dark berry and plum on the nose, this full-bodied red boasts a silky smooth texture, firm tannins and a long finish seasoned with winter spice, toasted oak and crushed wild berries.

Price: £28.82 from 8wines UK