Sanghamitra Banik
Founder & CEO - Winesutra
At the recent Wine Paris event, enthusiasts and
professionals gathered for a masterclass that
delved deep into the allure of Napa Valley. This
iconic American wine region has captivated
global interest, and the masterclass shed light on
the factors that contribute to its esteemed
reputation. From the robust Cabernet Sauvignon
to the delicate Chardonnay, Napa Valley’s
vineyards offer a plethora of choices for wine
aficionados. The diversity in wine styles caters to
both seasoned connoisseurs and casual drinkers,
making it a globally inclusive wine region.
Innovation runs deep in Napa’s winemaking
history. Pioneers and modern vintners alike
continuously push the boundaries of viticulture
and oenology. The region’s commitment to
sustainable farming and advanced winemaking
techniques sets a standard that resonates on a
global scale.
At this masterclass we tasted some of the Cult
wines and Iconic labels such as : Raymond
Vineyards Located in St. Helena, Raymond
Vineyards is a cornerstone of Napa’s winemaking
history. Jean-Charles transformed Raymond into
an immersive experience with the Theater of Nature, an educational walk through biodynamic
farming practices.
The vineyard is a leader in
organic and biodynamic farming, reflecting
Jean-Charles’s commitment to environmental
stewardship. Known for their elegant
Chardonnays that capture the essence of Napa’s
terroir. Jean-Charles Boisset is not just a name but
a dynamic force in the wine world, infusing Napa
Valley with his unique blend of French heritage
and Californian innovation. Hailing from
Burgundy, France, Jean-Charles has seamlessly
bridged the gap between old-world winemaking
traditions and new-world creativity, making a
significant impact on America’s premier wine
region.
Boisset La Famille des Grands Vins, is one of
France’s most esteemed. Bringing this rich legacy
to Napa Valley, he has introduced a vibrant,
avant-garde approach that respects tradition
while embracing bold experimentation.
On the second flight we have Cathiard Estate
2023: A French Legacy Blossoms in Napa Valley
Nestled in the heart of Napa Valley, the Cathiard
Family Estate is a harmonious blend of
Frenchelegance and Californian innovation.
Owned by Florence and Daniel Cathiard,
renowned proprietors of Château Smith Haut Lafitte in Bordeaux, this winery is a testament to
international winemaking artistry finding a new
home in America’s premier wine region.
The
Cathiards have a storied history in France,
transforming Château Smith Haut Lafitte into one
of Bordeaux’s most esteemed estates, celebrated
for its exceptional Grand Cru Classé wines.
California Dreaming: Drawn by Napa Valley’s rich
terroir and vibrant wine culture, they expanded
their horizons, acquiring the historic Sullivan
Vineyards in Rutherford in 2018, now known as
Cathiard Family Estate. They have purchased the
vineyard during covid 2019. French winemaking
savoir-faire, merging it with Napa’s innovative
spirit to craft wines that are both classic and
contemporary. Committed to the environment,
they employ organic and biodynamic farming
methods, ensuring the health of the vineyard
ecosystem and the purity of the fruit.
On the third flight we have Carlton McCoy’s Ink
Grade 2020, Cabernet Sauvignon. High above
the valley floor spans elevations from 1,450 to
2,600 feet nestled in the rugged terrain of Howell
Mountain, Ink Grade lies a vineyard steeped in
history and now reimagined under his guidance.
At just 28, he has earned the esteemed title of
Master Sommelier and becoming one of the
youngest and one of the few African Americans
to achieve this designation. McCoy honed his
passion for food and wine at the Culinary Institute
of America. Ink Grade Estate focus on low-yield
farming to enhance grape quality, Utilizing a mix
of new and neutral oak to add complexity without
overshadowing the fruit, transitioning to organic
viticulture to promote sustainability and express
terroir authenticity. The unique expression of
mountain fruit sets Ink Grade apart in a region
famed for its diversity.
At just 28, he has earned the esteemed title of
Master Sommelier and becoming one of the
youngest and one of the few African Americans
to achieve this designation. McCoy honed his
passion for food and wine at the Culinary Institute
of America. Ink Grade Estate focus on low-yield
farming to enhance grape quality, Utilizing a mix
of new and neutral oak to add complexity without
overshadowing the fruit, transitioning to organic
viticulture to promote sustainability and express
terroir authenticity. The unique expression of
mountain fruit sets Ink Grade apart in a region
famed for its diversity.
