Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon is a fairly straightforward wine with good varietal character. With time in the glass the wine opens up nicely. Dark plums, tobacco, grilled herbs and licorice take shape nicely in this attractive, mid-weight offering. This is a beautiful, sleek Cabernet Sauvignon. In 2008 the blend is 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc, 4% Petit Verdot and 1% Malbec. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2016.
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Wine Spectator
Aromas of smoldering campfire embers lead to a complex mix of dried berry, mineral and black olive, with a touch of dark berry jam. Nicely layered, clean and focused, firming the finish. Drink now through 2019. 15,000 cases made.
One of the most prestigious wines of the world capable of great power and grace, Napa Valley Cabernet is a leading force in the world of fine, famous, collectible red wine. Today the Napa Valley and Cabernet Sauvignon are so intrinsically linked that it is difficult to discuss one without the other. But it wasn’t until the 1970s that this marriage came to light; sudden international recognition rained upon Napa with the victory of the Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars 1973 Cabernet Sauvignon in the 1976 Judgement of Paris.
Cabernet Sauvignon undoubtedly dominates Napa Valley today, covering half of the land under vine, commanding the highest prices per ton and earning the most critical acclaim. Cabernet Sauvignon’s structure, acidity, capacity to thrive in multiple environs and ability to express nuances of vintage make it perfect for Napa Valley where incredible soil and geographical diversity are found and the climate is perfect for grape growing. Within the Napa Valley lie many smaller sub-AVAs that express specific characteristics based on situation, slope and soil—as a perfect example, Rutherford’s famous dust or Stags Leap District's tart cherry flavors.