Silver Oak says:
Like a sigh of relief, 2018 was a welcome change to previous vintages. Cooler spring temperatures and a light dusting of snow in the mountains around the winery set the theme for a near-perfect growing season: cooperative and slower-paced. By May, the soils were at capacity from winter and spring rains, and conditions were perfect for a long and even bloom. A generous fruit set—both in terms of cluster count and size—followed, and the ripening season was blessed with “natural air conditioning” in the form of the Pacific fog layer in the evenings. is phase concluded with glorious warm and dry weather that allowed the grapes to achieve slow and synchronized physiological and aromatic maturity. With the abundant amount of fruit, harvest commenced in Alexander Valley on September 14—about two weeks later than the previous vintages. 2018 was truly a stand-out vintage that’s accessible, young and commands great aging potential.
There’s no US press yet, but Silver Oak showed this early to the British trade, and Master of Wine Greg Sherwood scored it 97+, saying:
The amazing thing about the 2018 Sonoma and Napa Valley 2018 reds is that when you put your nose in a glass, you can almost smell the freshness and vibrant acidity lurking beneath their voluptuous fruit complexity. This beautiful Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is no exception boasting striking high notes of violets, purple blossoms and lilac over rich, dense black berry fruits with a strong vein of blue berry crumble and sweet cherry tobacco. The palate is just as enticing boasting a wonderfully dense core of black berries and black cherry fruit concentration tightly interwoven with notes of graphite, stony minerality, kirsch liquor and black plum extract. With the harmonious density and superb fruit – acid balance comes a certain youthful charm, but undoubtedly, this is another vintage from Silver Oak that merits burying in the cellar because time will definitely reward the patient! A real 5 star stunner! Drink from 2026 and over the next 30+ years.