If there is an indisputable gold standard for classic, age-worthy California Cabernet, Dunn Vineyards sits on the top tier. Pulling glowing 97–98 point reviews across the board, the 2022 Howell Mountain Cabernet is the poster child for traditional structure and mountain power. Back in 1983, Randy Dunn helped establish Howell Mountain as Napa's very first sub-appellation, turning this high-altitude volcanic haven into the epicenter of mountain Cabernet. Buying Dunn means securing unmatched pedigree, incredible freshness, and a wine built for the long haul.

That uncompromising vision continues today under Randy, his son Mike, and daughter Kristina, who hand-farm their 42 acres high above the fog line. Since 1978, the Dunn family has refused to chase modern trends, avoiding slick tricks and heavy oak to let raw volcanic terroir shine. Their commitment to site over short-term opulence has cemented Dunn as a permanent benchmark for collectors globally.

The 2022 release dialed back new oak to 84% (down from 100%), and that restraint pays off massively. Loaded with dark cassis, graphite, dried sage, and crushed violet, it retains its signature mineral core while delivering far more velvet and accessibility out of the gate. You no longer need decades of patience to unlock its depth—decant it for two hours, serve alongside a dry-aged steak, and enjoy a California legend in peak form.

Cheers and taste well. 

Critical Acclaim:

98 Points, Decanter Magazine:

“ … a wine that defines the vintage, the 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon raised 31-32 months in 84% new French oak. Its deep purple hue is followed by a captivating nose of darker currants, leather, graphite, dried herbs, and freshly sharpened lead pencil. Medium to full-bodied on the palate, it has a round, layered mouthfeel, velvety tannins, solid mid-palate depth, and a gorgeous finish. It's one of the more approachable Dunn Howell Mountains you're going to find and is going to be great for those who lack patience. ”

98 Points, James Suckling:

This minerally, earthy wine is highly impressive, with aromas of black and red currants, wet stones, bay laurel, bitter chocolate, dried flowers and walnuts. The palate is seamlessly balanced, showing depth of fruit, melting tannins and a silken, rounded mouthfeel that has no hard edges. Firm, mouthwatering finish. This is drinking very well now, but can age for decades. Drink or hold.

97 Points, Jeb Dunnuck: 

“A smoking good 2022 and a wine that defines the vintage … captivating nose of darker currants, leather, graphite, dried herbs, and freshly sharpened lead pencil. Medium to full-bodied on the palate, it has a round, layered mouthfeel, velvety tannins, solid mid-palate depth, and a gorgeous finish.”

97 Points, Wine Advocate:

“Round but structured, firm but silky, with undertones of crushed stone and pencil shavings on the lingering finish, it's a particularly strong effort.”

Why You'll Love It

• A benchmark of Napa Valley mountain Cabernet Sauvignon built for multi-decade aging.
• Sourced from 1,800+ ft elevation volcanic soils on Howell Mountain, delivering unmatched structure and mineral drive.
• Intense aromas of dark cassis, graphite, dried sage, pencil shavings, and sweet cedar.

How To Serve It

• Serve at a cool room temperature between 62°F and 65°F.
• Given its massive mountain tannic core, we strongly recommend a generous 2 to 3-hour decant in its youth.
• Pour into Bordeaux stems to frame its massive, structured profile.
• Pair with prime ribeye steak, roasted venison loin, braised short ribs, or dry-aged beef.