In 2018 in Napa Valley, vineyards got a little drink of rain in early October, but then there was no more precipitation until November 23rd. This meant that everyone could pick at their leisure in every AVAespecially the late-ripening mountain onesand the grapes extended stay on the vine made for a spectacular vintage, one that Wine Spectator awarded 99 points.

The 2018 Bell Cellars Cabernet Sauvignonmade up mostly of Atlas Peak and Coombsville fruit and crafted by a highly respected alum of BVachieved perfect maturity in that gorgeous season, and it shows in every sip. Elegant and delicious, it was a UNANIMOUS hit with our tasting panel. It tastes like a $75 bottle of wine, because thats exactly what it is.

Well, its $75 for everyone except Wine Access members, who get it for as low as $35 per bottle on case-buys. Due to limited supply and strong anticipated demand, we ask that you limit your purchase to one case.

So thats what makes todays offer a little bittersweet: The 2018 was founder Anthony Bells final vintage of Cabernet Sauvignon before his retirementand it may well be his best, thanks to a flawless harvest. It comes from six different AVAs, with 86% of it drawn from Atlas Peak and Coombsville, and the remainder from St. Helena, Rutherford, Mt. Veeder, and Yountville.

In 1977, Bell, a South African viticulturist, arrived in Napa Valley. He soon landed an interview at Beaulieu Vineyards with the legendary Andr Tchelistcheff. Tchelistcheffstruck by Bells education and enthusiasmhired him on the spot, naming him assistant winemaker and viticulturist at BV, where he stayed for 15 years and became well-known for his research into Cabernet Sauvignon clones. Bell founded his eponymous wine label in 1991, and in 2002, he took on the Spanos and Berberian families as partners. They own the winery today.

Not a whit is out of place on this Cabernet Sauvignon, which makes it such a terrific bargain for $40. All of Anthony Bells viticultural and winemaking expertise went into making it, and it blooms with aromas of black cherry and blackberry preserves, previewing the plush, dark-fruited palate. Its ripe, satisfying, and worth every cent of its $75 SRPwhich is why you shouldnt pass it up at our phenomenal, nearly 50%-off price.