Delectus Bear Crossing Cabernet Sauvignon 2013
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Robert
Parker
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
I tasted three Cabernet Sauvignons from Delectus Winery. The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Bear Crossing (305 cases) has notes of saddle leather, rich, super-concentrated blackberry fruit, striking density, richness, and a connoisseur’s backwardness and profound richness that will require some time to come around. The tannins are excruciatingly high, and this wine reminds me of some of the late 1960s and early 1970s vintages of famous Mayacamas from Mount Veeder when it was almost like Port in its extraction and richness. This wine needs a good 10 years and seems to have a high ceiling.
Over the years Delectus wines have garnered many accolades and a devoted and loyal following. In 2005, Linda and Gerhard’s dream of owning a vineyard estate came true with the purchase of 112 acres overlooking Knights Valley, only 40 acres of which are plantable due to slope limitations. The elevations of this majestic property vary from 1200 to 2200 feet and it has expansive and breathtaking views of Mount St. Helena, Diamond Mountain and on a clear day, the beautiful Pacific Ocean. By purchasing this land and planting their own vineyards (in 2006) they gain greater control over the fruit, secure a consistent grape source, and are able to ensure highest quality from beginning to the end of each growing season. Currently they have 18 acres planted to Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. They take extraordinary steps with farming practices to respect the natural beauty and history of the property by preserving the natural terrain.
A noble variety bestowed with both power and concentration, Cabernet Sauvignon enjoys success all over the globe, its best examples showing potential to age beautifully for decades. Cabernet Sauvignon flourishes in Bordeaux's Medoc where it is often blended with Merlot and smaller amounts of some combination of Cabernet Franc, Malbecand Petit Verdot. In the Napa Valley, ‘Cab’ is responsible for some of the world’s most prestigious, age-worthy and sought-after “cult” wines. Somm Secret—DNA profiling in 1997 revealed that Cabernet Sauvignon was born from a spontaneous crossing of Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc in 17th century southwest France.
A small and picturesque valley separating Napa Valley on its south border and Alexander Valley to its north, Knights Valley excels in similar varieties as the two aforementioned appellations, namely red Bordeaux varieties and blends, as well as Sauvignon blanc. Originally established by Beringer Vineyards, today several outstanding producers claim acreage here. The circadian cooling effects of the nearby Pacific Ocean create a nighttime respite for vineyards during the hot growing season.