Anomaly Designation Red Wine Napa Valley 2021

There is a corner of Napa Valley where time seems to fold in on itself — a small, horseshoe-shaped enclave in St. Helena, tucked beneath the watchful ridgeline of the Mayacamas Mountains. This is where Anomaly Vineyards calls home. For over two decades, the Goldfarb family has quietly tended this land, crafting small-lot Cabernet-based wines that reflect the depth and elegance of this storied appellation.

Within this pocket of Napa, legendary neighbors — Beckstoffer Las Piedras and Dr. Crane — have long cemented the area's reputation. But in the Anomaly Estate vineyard, something extraordinary takes shape: a microcosm of St. Helena's voice, expressed through soils, sun, and the patient work of hands.

Guiding that voice is Mark Porembski, whose thoughtful winemaking style has shaped Anomaly's identity for nearly two decades. Mark has a gift for striking balance — honoring the inherent power of St. Helena Cabernet while drawing out its finer edges of detail and elegance. Designation is Anomaly's rarest wine, and each vintage is a testament to Mark's steady hand, deep intuition, and respect for time in the cellar.

The 2021 vintage is the first that ACME has ever gained access to due to the Designation's exclusive nature. Each vintage, just a handful of barrels are chosen from the cellar that represent the truest expressions of the year. In 2021, only 300 cases were made. The blend is both classic and quietly nuanced: 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc, and 3% Petit Verdot. All the fruit comes from four vineyards within St. Helena: Cossette, Indee's, Ashby's, and Bressler — each contributing its unique inflection.

The nose unfurls in layers: blackcurrant liqueur and plum skin, accented by graphite, clove, and cardamom. A thread of wet slate after rain and a lift of sweet earth bring brightness and depth. On the palate, the entry is sculpted and focused, revealing cassis, blackberry, and plum. Mid-palate, the wine turns contemplative, offering espresso crema, thyme, and black tea. The finish resonates long and deep — sandalwood, violet, and blueberry echoing with remarkable clarity. Stunning with patience and air today, the wine will only gain nuance in time, destined to evolve for 15–25 years in the cellar.