Promontory 2013

The 2013 vintage for Promontory is widely regarded as one of the early standout wines from this Napa Valley cult estate. Critics such as Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate awarded 99 points, praising the wine for its richness, tannin integration, and spectacular structure. James Suckling (97 points) highlighted its intensity and energy, and Antonio Galloni also rated it highly (98 points), noting its vibrant mineral intensity and layered profile. It reflects a year with cool early conditions and thick skins, resulting in concentrated phenolics and a wine with powerful tannins, freshness, and long aging potential.

Appearance: Deep garnet-purple core with youthful saturation and strong visual density.

Nose: Intense and layered. Aromas of blackberry and blueberry fruit are enhanced by graphite, wet stone, and smoky mineral notes. Savory leather, cedar, and dark spice nuances unfold with air, while hints of espresso and earth add complexity.

Palate: Dry, full-bodied, and concentrated. The palate showcases rich dark fruit, firm yet finely grained tannins, and vibrant acidity that give shape and drive. Mineral tension—saline and stony notes—integrates seamlessly with flavors of cassis, plum, and spice. The texture is layered and structured, with noticeable grip that signals long-term aging potential. 

Finish: Long, persistent, and evolving—dark fruit, graphite, and spice linger, supported by a mineral undercurrent and a polished tannic framework. 

Overall: A benchmark expression of Promontory’s style from the early years—powerful yet refined, with exceptional depth, structure, and ageing potential. Though approachable now with significant decanting, this wine is built for the long haul.

Serving: 16–18 °C. Decant 2–4 hours recommended in current youth to allow aromatics and texture to open fully.

Pairing: Grilled ribeye with herbs, beef Wellington, roasted lamb with rosemary, venison loin, or aged hard cheeses.

Drinking Window (estimate): 2024–2044+ — long-term evolution ahead with tertiary complexity

This has a dense and intense palate with beautifully crafted tannins that frame a full body of fruit and wet earth, spice and dried mushrooms. Undertones of pine needles and cedar. Some truffles, too. Vivid and energetic. New Napa here. Better in 2022, but already very attractive. Drink or hold.

The 2013 Promontory was utterly spellbinding when I tasted it last year. Since then, it has totally shut down after its recent bottling. Beams of mountain tannin and salinity give the wine its vibrancy, energy and pure mineral-driven intensity. Graphite, leather, game, smoke and dark stone fruit overtones start to take shape, but the 2013 is in no mood to show all of its cards. The 2013 is the most brilliant wine made yet at Promontory, and it has plenty of upside.