Celebrating 25 Years of Excellence: The Majesty of Corison’s Kronos Cabernet

Cathy Corison, a revered winemaker in Napa Valley, celebrates the 25th anniversary of her Kronos Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon. Renowned for her remarkable talent and dedication to quality, Cathy invited a select group of wine enthusiasts to explore the evolution of her signature wine over its first quarter-century.

In the early years of her winery, while grappling with fluctuating market conditions, Cathy and her husband, William Martin, searched for the ideal vineyard site. Their quest led them to a long-available property nestled on Highway 29, previously rejected by the county for development plans. Despite its troubled history, Cathy recognized the vineyard’s potential, noting the ancient St. George rootstock that had been planted in 1971 and its fertile Bale gravelly loam soil. They made an offer, ultimately acquiring the vineyard in 1995.

Cathy’s focus has always been on crafting elegant and expressive Napa Cabernet Sauvignon, moving against the trends that favored higher alcohol and more concentrated fruit. Instead, she maintained her commitment to picking grapes when she deemed them ripe, resulting in wines that reflect the purity and clarity of the terroir. This unwavering vision has characterized her winemaking throughout her career.

After years of refining her craft, Cathy personally took over farming the Kronos Vineyard six years ago, ensuring the vines receive dedicated care. She embraced organic practices from day one, later achieving certification under the guidance of her daughter, Grace.

The retrospective tasting showcased vintages from 1996 to 2021, each revealing the influence of its growing season. Cathy’s wines consistently demonstrate a unique balance—delicate yet expressive—often scoring high ratings from wine critics. The tasting experience highlighted how each vintage reflects its time, with older vintages exhibiting secondary complexities that evolve over time.

As Cathy reflected on her journey, she acknowledged both the challenges and triumphs of operating the winery. The appreciation for her wines continues to grow, with the Corison Kronos Cabernet regarded as one of Napa Valley’s treasures. Looking ahead, Cathy’s ongoing commitment to her craft ensures that her legacy and the remarkable wines of Kronos will endure for many more years.

About the Author: Chris Lehoux

Meet Chris Lehoux, an experienced wine connoisseur and dedicated blogger with a deep passion for all things wine-related. With years of expertise in the industry, Chris shares insightful wine reviews, valuable wine tasting tips, expert pairing advice, and captivating tales of vineyard visits. Join Chris on a journey through the world of wine, where every sip is an adventure waiting to be savored!