TOR Wines 'Black Magic' Cabernet Sauvignon, Oakville, California

The 2021 TOR Wines 'Black Magic' Cabernet Sauvignon embodies an enigmatic allure that transcends explanation. Crafted only in exceptional vintages, this wine is the result of an uncompromising barrel selection process, coaxed into existence when its essence is ready to reveal itself. As dark as a moonless night in Napa Valley, it is an opulent, seamless expression of Cabernet Sauvignon, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in fine wine. Mysterious, profound, and extraordinary, it is an experience that will captivate collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Product Details

• Alcohol ABV: 15.1%
• Blend: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon

Sensory Description
The 2021 'Black Magic' opens with a spellbinding nose of blackcurrants, ripe black cherries, and licorice, evolving to reveal layers of anise, Mexican chocolate, and subtle hints of mint. On the palate, the wine is tension-filled and deeply focused, with a dense and impenetrable mid-palate that exudes immense structure. Dark fruit flavors dominate, wrapped in a velvety texture, and the wine concludes with a seamless, lingering finish that fans out like a peacock tail, unveiling notes of graphite and fresh herbs. This vintage promises exceptional longevity, designed to evolve and enchant over decades.

Critical Acclaim

• Jancis Robinson: 17/20 (Tasted September 2024; Drink 2024–2034)
• Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate: 98 points (Tasted July 2024; Drink 2027–2050)

Producer’s Background
TOR Wines' 'Black Magic' is a rare and mystical creation within the portfolio, born only in years when the stars align to produce something truly extraordinary. Tor Kenward and winemaker Jeff Ames craft this wine through a meticulous selection of barrels, ensuring only the most exceptional expressions of Napa Valley terroir are included. This exclusive bottling is a testament to their dedication to pushing the boundaries of winemaking, delivering a wine that defies convention and redefines opulence.

Vintage Notes
The 2021 vintage benefited from winter rains that replenished the soils, promoting healthy vine growth while setting a small crop, 20–25% below normal. A dry and steady summer allowed for optimal ripening, producing small, concentrated clusters with a high skin-to-juice ratio—ideal for crafting wines with power, depth, and structure. Over 20 months in barrel, the wine slowly evolved, gaining complexity and dimension. This vintage is widely regarded as one of Napa Valley's finest, yielding wines that combine density with remarkable freshness and balance.

Serving Suggestions
Serve the 2021 'Black Magic' slightly cool, around 60–65°F, to fully appreciate its intricate aromas and luxurious texture. This wine pairs beautifully with indulgent dishes such as herb-crusted lamb chops, dry-aged ribeye, or a truffle-infused wild mushroom risotto. For dessert, dark chocolate soufflé or a bitter chocolate tart would echo the wine’s rich, dark flavors. With its immense structure and age-worthiness, this wine will benefit from decanting if enjoyed young, but promises to evolve beautifully over the next three decades or more.