Acumen 'Mountainside' Cabernet Sauvignon 2019 (100ml)

Acumen is a modern Napa estate dedicated to high-elevation Cabernet Sauvignon from Atlas Peak. Founded by Eric Yuan, the project centres on two mountain vineyards, where rocky volcanic soils and cooler nights bring structure and freshness to naturally ripe fruit.

Winemaker Henrik Poulsen focuses on balance rather than sheer power, using careful extraction and measured oak to keep the wines poised. Acumen’s Cabernets show depth without heaviness, often carrying a lifted edge that reflects their altitude.

It is a relatively young estate, but one that has quickly earned attention for its focused, thoughtfully crafted mountain wines.

American wine emerged through early European settlers, with California’s first mission vineyards laying the groundwork. Prohibition halted progress, but the industry rebounded in the mid twentieth century, gaining global attention after the 1976 ‘Judgement of Paris’.

Today, the United States has grown into one of the world’s most exciting wine producers, driven by diverse climates and a flexible approach to winemaking. Its appellation system is centred on AVAs, which define geographic origin rather than strict rules on grape or style. California leads the charge with Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Zinfandel, while Oregon is known for elegant Pinot Noir and Washington for structured Syrah and Riesling amongst others. Beyond these hubs, emerging regions such as New York and Texas are building strong identities of their own. American wine is ultimately about experimentation, regional character and a confident sense of individuality.

Napa is California’s powerhouse valley where sunshine ripens grapes effortlessly and winemakers convert them into seriously impressive wines. Cabernet Sauvignon is the undisputed hero here, producing deep velvety reds packed with concentration, while Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot often play their parts.

Chardonnay also thrives in this warm part of the world, offering everything from crisp citrus styles to richer barrel-aged expressions. Napa’s winemaking culture mixes pioneering energy with a deep respect for the land, resulting in wines that are bold confident and unmistakably Californian.