Top Napa Wine Producers Earning 100-Point Scores for Exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon

A Napa Valley winemaker has achieved remarkable success by earning 39 perfect 100-point scores, elevating his standing within the competitive wine industry. This extraordinary journey began for Thomas Rivers Brown during a seemingly ordinary event—a formal dinner where he sat among notable figures, including journalist Katie Couric. Overwhelmed and out of place, he was encouraged by a connection made during the dinner to explore his passion for wine in Napa.

Originally from Sumter, South Carolina, an area not synonymous with winemaking, Thomas never envisioned himself pursuing a career in this field. Yet, fate intervened when he found himself working at Turley, a small but reputable winery. There, he was mentored by a head winemaker who appreciated Thomas’s passion. By 2000, he had transitioned to Schrader Cellars, where he made his debut with the iconic To Kalon vineyard and earned his first 100-point score in 2002.

Thomas’s philosophy in winemaking prioritizes the vineyard’s authenticity over imposing his own style, allowing the wine to reflect its true character. This approach has resonated with critics, further solidifying his reputation.

Schrader Cellars, initially sourcing grapes from a prestigious section of To Kalon, developed various bottlings to showcase the vineyard’s unique aspects. This strategic expansion coincided with the transfer of ownership of the vineyard to Constellation Brands, aligning Schrader with a broader portfolio of esteemed wines.

The legacy of influential figures like Robert Mondavi also plays a crucial role in Napa’s development. Mondavi faced substantial doubt when he championed Napa Valley wines, yet his efforts ushered in a renaissance for the region, proving that dedication can redefine standards.

As Thomas reflects on his career, he attributes his journey’s success to the right connections at pivotal moments, such as meeting Fred Schrader, who initially invited him to collaborate on a Cabernet Sauvignon. This partnership has culminated in numerous accolades, and Thomas now stands at the forefront of Napa’s winemaking industry.

The 2023 vintage promises to be exceptional, with optimal growing conditions yielding extraordinary wines from Schrader Cellars, including the impressive "TKS," "Monastery Block," and "Heritage Clone" bottlings—each an embodiment of Napa’s potential and the winemaker’s craftsmanship.

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!