Karl Lawrence 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon, Pocai Vineyard, Napa Valley

The Karl Lawrence 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon from Pocai Vineyard begins with a bright pulse: boysenberry, black raspberry, and cassis swirl from the glass, threaded through with lavender blossom, baking spice, and a wisp of floral intensity that feels alive, not staged.

Taste gives that promise follow-through. Dark fruit stretches across the palate, merging into mocha and subtle dark chocolate with a final echo of sage or dried herb. Tannins are present and firm but softened—layered, not abrasive—giving the wine power without the edge.

Pocai Vineyard lays its mark gently but unmistakably. Located in the northern reaches of Napa, its soils—volcanic clay and gravel—lend a mineral undercurrent, while the 2021 drought vintage produced smaller, more concentrated berries, retaining acidity and depth. A “return to form” vintage across the valley, it brought structure and vibrant energy to each Cabernet barrel.

Karl Lawrence’s legacy is quietly woven through the fabric of this wine. For decades, the winery has sourced from such elite vineyards without pretense—no heavy bottles or self-promotion, just attention to detail. Pocai has been a core site since 2013, and with winemaker Bruce Devlin at the helm, this wine feels honed to let place speak before technique.

Beyond the glass, this is California Cabernet that lives between the lines. It holds maturity and warmth in one hand, clarity and grip in the other—built for today, with the backbone to evolve. Pour it with rare steak, complex braises, or sidebar conversations. Either way, it rewards thought and earns remembrance.

Karl Lawrence 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon, Pocai Vineyard—Napa power refined by place and purpose.