97-pt Mountain Cabernet BRILLIANCE from Russell Bevan

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ADVERSITY CELLARS

NAPA VALLEY, CALIFORNIA
 

Why Buy: Russell Bevan, creator of – count 'em – 34 perfect 100-point wines and more than 200 rated 97 points or better, continues his extraordinary run with this remarkable collection – including a a 97-pointer and three 96-pointers. But what makes these wines truly special isn't just the numbers, it's Bevan's understanding that greatness emerges from struggle. (Hence, the name of the label: Adversity Cellars.) His focus on low-vigor sites and mountain vineyards, where stressed vines produce smaller berries of intense concentration, results in wines of exceptional power and distinction, showing both the muscularity of their mountain origins and the refinement that comes from careful, thoughtful winemaking.
 

What They're Saying: The “powerful,” 97-point Twin Blend impressed Jeb Dunnuck with the "terrific purity in its cassis and blackberry-like fruit, as well as graphite, dark chocolate, and spring flower notes, with nicely integrated background oak." The 96-point Catastrophe Cabernet similarly impressed Dunnuck with its "indulgent, luscious fruit" and "deep, velvety texture," while showcasing the richness of Rutherford in a way that remains "elegant and refined."
 

Our Tasting Notes: These wines remind us why mountain fruit creates such thrilling Cabernets, and why Bevan has become legendary for handling it. The intensity here is remarkable – like a perfectly orchestrated crescendo that builds and builds without ever losing control. The mountain-grown Phelans show extraordinary depth, their concentrated dark fruits and mineral backbone suggesting years of development ahead, delivering the kind of complexity that makes you want to cancel your evening plans and just contemplate what's in your glass. But what's particularly impressive is how the Catastrophe and The Twin Blend demonstrate that Bevan's mastery extends beyond high-altitude sites. These valley floor wines show a more supple personality, all silk and velvet, but with the same precise architecture. 
 

The Story: What makes a philosopher turn winemaker? For Russell Bevan, it began with a deep appreciation for wine during his college days at Gonzaga. Without formal training but with relentless determination, he embarked on a self-taught journey that would lead him to become one of California's most celebrated vintners. Working with wife Heidi, he focuses on low-vigor sites and mountain vineyards that produce wines of exceptional distinction – each bottle a testament to the belief that greatness often emerges from challenging conditions.
 

Fun Fact: Each bottle features unique abstract art by German artist Christian Hetzel, chosen to reflect the complexity and depth of these remarkable wines.
 

Our Guarantee: As always, we source directly from the winery to ensure perfect provenance. Secure yours today!
 

 
 
*Offer NOT valid in-store. This offer is made pre-arrival, with items estimated to be delivered to your preferred store in Summer 2025. All sale prices are the lowest available at Total Wine & More and ONLY valid through Concierge Sales. No further discounts or coupons may be applied. Offer only valid in CA and FL. This offer will expire on Wednesday, February 19th, 2025.