Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon from Lokoya is a single-site expression sourced from high-elevation vineyards above the fog line, where volcanic soils and cooler conditions shape a distinctly structured style. Made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, the wine reflects low-yielding vines that produce concentrated fruit with natural acidity and firm tannic backbone.
Winemaking follows a minimal-intervention approach, including native yeast fermentation and no fining or filtration, allowing the vineyard character to remain fully transparent. Aromatically, it is intense and layered, with notes of blackcurrant, blackberry, and dark plum, alongside graphite, crushed stone, violet, and subtle herbal nuances.
On the palate, it is powerful and tightly structured, with dense, muscular tannins balanced by freshness and precision. The texture is firm and linear, emphasizing structure over immediate softness.
With time in bottle, the wine evolves toward more complex notes of tobacco, leather, and mineral depth, gaining integration and nuance. The finish is long, persistent, and marked by both fruit concentration and savory elements.
This wine is built for long-term aging, often requiring years or decades to fully open, and stands as a clear representation of Howell Mountain’s rugged, high-altitude character.
Producer
Lokoya is a premium Napa Valley producer founded in 1995 by Jess Jackson, dedicated exclusively to crafting single-vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon from high-elevation mountain sites. The winery focuses on four renowned appellations - Howell Mountain, Mount Veeder, Spring Mountain, and Diamond Mountain - each offering distinct soil compositions, elevations, and microclimates that shape the wines’ identity.
Vineyards are located above the fog line, where cooler temperatures, volcanic soils, and low yields contribute to concentration, structure, and natural acidity. Winemaking follows a minimal-intervention philosophy, with native yeast fermentation and no fining or filtration, allowing each site to express itself without stylistic influence.
The wines are typically powerful and structured, with firm tannins and layered profiles of blackcurrant, blackberry, violet, graphite, and mineral notes. Despite their intensity, they retain precision and balance, reflecting both site and disciplined vinification.
These Cabernets are built for long-term aging, often requiring significant time in bottle to reach full complexity and integration. Production is limited, reinforcing a focus on detail and quality.
Lokoya has established itself among Napa Valley’s leading “cult” producers, known for wines that emphasize terroir, elevation, and longevity rather than immediate accessibility.