90 pts. – Excellent
Editor’s Choice for Best Buy!
Proprietor Andrew Browne named this Red Mountain Cabernet after a secret collegiate academic society that his grandfather William Bitner Browne belonged to before joining the OSS intelligence agency in the 1940s (the predecessor of the CIA).
The enticing nose is brimming with dusky aromas of pipe tobacco and dark red fruit. The texture is tightly knit and notably dry, exuding suave dark plum, blackberry and cassis flavors supported by firm, gripping tannins forged onto a backbone of acidity that builds good intensity. Finishes long, with warm flickerings of earth, stone, mineral and spice notes.
Production: 1,000 cases
Editor’s note: Read an in-depth interview with Precept Wine’s CEO Andrew Browne here or learn more about Skull & Chain at Browne Family Vineyard’s website.