4.5 Vivino Stars (200+ Reviews)

Winemaking legend Kirk Venge has perfection in his blood—his father Nils Venge scored Robert Parker’s first 100-point rating for an American wine, and Kirk has carried on that legacy with a series of flawless wines of his own.

In addition to consulting for boutique Napa Valley greats like Beau Vigne, Hunnicutt, and Macauley, he’s turning out masterful California classics at Venge Vineyards, with a focus on voluptuous, flavorful reds.

Robert Parker himself calls the younger Venge “a great craftsman of Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon.” 2018 is a vintage Venge considers one of Napa’s all-time best, and Silencieux is a shining example of Venge’s signature style, with deep black and blue fruit, savory undertones, and fine, elegant tannins.

Jeb Dunnuck 94

Including 2% each of Malbec and Merlot, the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Silencieux has a classic, sweetly fruited, medium-bodied style that carries lots of dark, almost blue fruits (cassis, blueberries), notes of candied violets and cedar, ripe tannins, beautiful purity, and outstanding length. A smoking value, it can be drunk today with incredible pleasure or cellared for over a decade.

Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate 92

Composed of 96% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Malbec and 2% Merlot, the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Silencieux prances out of the glass with gregarious notions of black currant cordial, kirsch, blueberry preserves and potpourri plus suggestions of fallen leaves, cinnamon stick and aniseed. Medium to full-bodied, the palate bursts with ripe black and blue fruits, supported by grainy tannins and loads of freshness, finishing on a compelling savory note.