Cornerstone’s 2023 Benchlands treats Napa Valley itself as the vineyard. The wine draws from multiple benchland AVAs, each contributing something different to the final wine. Rather than narrowing the lens to one site, Benchlands builds complexity by widening it. Kari Auringer brings those pieces together. She first joined Cornerstone in 2001, returned in 2014 to lead the winemaking program, and today serves as both winemaker and general manager. That continuity gives Benchlands an experienced hand behind every blending decision. What makes Benchlands work is that the individual sites still matter once the wine comes together. Cornerstone’s small-lot approach keeps the blend focused and intentional, not anonymous. At $42, this is a compelling amount of Napa Cabernet Sauvignon for the money.