For Golden State producers of Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2020 vintage was like a fork in the road, leading to one of two divergent outcomes. The stakes couldn’t have been higher, considering that Cabernet is California’s most prominent wine category, dominated by big-name estates in Napa Valley and commanding the highest prices. The extreme heat of the growing season, followed by harvesttime wildfires, forced vintners to make some of the toughest choices of their careers. Read senior editor James Molesworth's report, including scores and tasting notes for top wines and good values from Napa, Sonoma, the Santa Cruz Mountains and beyond, including standout bottlings from Dominus, Corison, Paul Hobbs, Louis M. Martini and many more.
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
