Vida Valiente The Movement Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2021

What could make a bottle of estate-grown, 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa Valley crafted by all-star winemaker Sam Kaplan taste any better than it already is?  The fact that proceeds from said bottle support a non-profit organization dedicated to funding and mentoring the college careers of first-generation Americans.  Hayes & Susana Drumwright and Sam & Nancy Kaplan established the Vida Valiente Foundation and Winery in 2021 with two missions in mind (and heart.)  First, to make exceptional Napa Valley Cabernets showcasing the region’s premier vineyards, and second, to raise funds for low-income Stanford students to complete their education in four years.  After tasting their 2021 inaugural release from the Vida Valiente Estate and knowing that the Foundation raised close to one million dollars in its first year alone, ACME can certify that they’ve completed these “missions” with flying colors and are just getting started.

While the winery aspect of Vida Valiente was the brainchild of Hayes and Sam, who you may know well from their collaboration at Memento Mori Winery, Susana Drumwright was and is the driving force behind the Foundation.  As a first-generation American, she can attest to the seemingly unending hurdles these students face in their pursuit of higher education.  Without anyone setting an example or laying the path, first-generation college students are forced to forge their way, proving they are tenacious and hard-working.  Yet, they face undue financial stress and are more likely to take longer to earn their degrees or even not complete secondary education at all.  These obstacles are why the Vida Valiente Foundation provides financial support for tuition and mentorship with leading executives in varying industries.  The project stands out from traditional wine philanthropy as the scholars are not required to pursue a career in wine upon accepting the scholarship.  It is a testament to the Drumwrights and Kaplans that they’ve used their expertise in the wine world to encourage young leaders to thrive, regardless of their passion or path.

A wine that embodies the overarching philosophy and mission of living a brave and valiant life, The Movement is the brand's Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, comprised of all the single vineyard sites that make up the portfolio of wines. Focused, expressive, and precise, a classic bouquet of black cherries, blackberry compote, blueberries, crème de cassis, pencil shavings, and currants emerge from the glass, only to be followed by seductive layers of leather, truffle, tobacco leaf, savory herbs, and exotic spices. Waves of volcanic minerals envelop a fluid fruit-laced energy, all framed by garnet acidity and a plush, velvety texture. Stylishly concentrated and seductively sophisticated, this vibrant and dynamic offering from a fabulous vintage is beautiful and bold now with plenty of promise for a bright future.