If you're not familiar with the name Amulet Estate, it probably because for most of it's history this fantastic property was known as Dancing Hares. The winery was sold in 2020 and rebranded as Amulet Estate, and the new releases continue to showcase why it is one of the most exciting properties and estates in Napa Valley. The winery brings together incredible pedigree under the direction of winemaker Shawn Johnson, who honed his craft alongside Napa icon Philippe Melka. Together, they focus on single-vineyard precision and sustainable farming, sourcing the AE Cabernet directly from the Bettinelli Family’s (the same folks who own and farm the famous Sleeping Lady Vineyard) heritage vineyard site in Yountville. That high-caliber farming pedigree shines through in every bottle, making this project an absolute force in contemporary winemaking.
While the 2021 vintage leaned into deep, brooding cassis and dense graphite notes, the newly arrived 2022 release pivots toward elegance, freshness, and immediate charm. It captures classic Yountville character, opening with vibrant aromas of sweet black cherry, fresh marjoram, and a subtle touch of tobacco leaf. On the palate, it unfolds with layers of ripe mission fig, tart plum skin, and dark chocolate, all framed by seamless, fine-grained tannins and a mouthwatering finish. Where the 2021 was a cellar candidate, the 2022 is an absolute dream to drink right now—plush, aromatic, and beautifully balanced, making it an essential bottle to try side-by-side with its predecessor.
Finding a Napa Valley Cabernet with this kind of winemaking lineage under fifty dollars is almost unheard of in today's market. Thanks to our strong relationship with the distributor, we are able to bypass the winery’s standard $84.99 price tag and offer the 2022 vintage for just $49.99. Whether you loved the previous release or are looking to discover Amulet Estate for the first time, this new arrival delivers top-tier Napa craftsmanship at an unbeatable price.
90pts Jeb Dunnuck, 93pts Decanter, 91pts Wine Advocate
The Amulet Estate 2022 "AE" Napa Cabernet Sauvignon is a graceful Bordeaux-style blend composed of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc, 5% Merlot, and 5% Malbec. Sourced from a sustainably farmed single vineyard in the Yountville AVA managed by the Bettinelli family, this 14.9% ABV red wine captures the slightly cooler nuances of its low-elevation terroir. On the nose, it offers an enticing bouquet of tobacco leaf, black cherry, and gently herbal notes. The medium-to-full-bodied palate reveals layers of ripe mission fig, tart plum skin, and fresh marjoram, balanced by a core of ripe cherries. It features a fine, silky tannic texture and a bright, mouthwatering finish that lingers with notes of dark chocolate.
The structural elegance and fine-grained tannins of this Yountville Cabernet blend beautifully with roasted or grilled lamb dishes, such as herb-crusted rack of lamb or slow-braised lamb shanks seasoned with rosemary and garlic. The fresh marjoram notes and inherent acidity of the wine mirror savory elements in grilled prime ribeye or wood-fired steaks. Additionally, it complements a charcuterie board featuring mature and hard cheeses like aged Gouda, Manchego, or sharp cheddar, which cut through the wine's dark chocolate undertones and rich body.
750ml
