As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste wines from both the 2018 and 2019 vintages in Napa. While both vintages have their merits, I have found that the 2018 wines tend to be more exciting and ripe compared to the 2019 wines.
In 2018, the wines showed a certain level of focus and delineation that made them truly stand out. The ripeness of the grapes was well-balanced, resulting in wines that were full-bodied and rich, yet still maintained a sense of elegance. The flavors were intense and concentrated, with notes of ripe fruit, earth, and spice. The overall quality of the wines was high, and they offered a truly memorable tasting experience.
On the other hand, the 2019 vintage presented some challenges. The late heat during the growing season had a negative impact on the grapes, leading to a lack of focus and less interesting wines. Many of the wines I tasted during that year, particularly around harvest time, felt heavy and lacked the same level of delineation as the 2018 wines. This was a significant concern, and it prompted some tastings to be moved or canceled without much notice.
It's important to note that not all wines from the 2019 vintage were disappointing. There were still some standout bottles, but overall, the vintage did not reach the same level of excellence as the 2018 vintage. The lack of focus and delineation in the 2019 wines made them less exciting and memorable in comparison.
In my personal experience, I have found that vintage variations can have a significant impact on the quality of wines. The weather conditions during the growing season, including temperature, rainfall, and other factors, can greatly influence grape ripeness and ultimately the character of the wines. This is why it's crucial for winemakers to closely monitor and adapt to these conditions to produce the best possible wines.
To summarize, while both the 2018 and 2019 vintages in Napa have their merits, I believe that the 2018 wines tend to be more exciting and enjoyable. The focus and delineation, along with the balanced ripeness, make them stand out as exceptional examples of Napa winemaking. The 2019 vintage, on the other hand, had some challenges due to the late heat, resulting in wines that felt heavy and less interesting. It's important to keep in mind that individual wines can still shine in any vintage, but as a whole, the 2018 vintage takes the lead in terms of quality and excitement.