Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Vinous
(two barrels of the best cabernet from Coombsville were selected for their density and aromatics and given an extra five months in barrel; bottled in December of 2012): Saturated, bright medium ruby. Inviting nose offers cassis, leather, black pepper and cocoa powder. Very suave and fine-grained, with harmonious acidity carrying the dark fruit and cocoa flavors through a very long, resounding finish. Polished tannins coat the front teeth. This is amazingly fresh for a wine that was only bottled in December of 2010.
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Rich, opulent and full-bodied with good purity as well as a boatload of character, this superb 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Keys is approachable, but should evolve for another 15-20 years. This wine’s dense purple color is followed by abundant aromas of creme de cassis, licorice, subtle smoke, and a truffle-infused earthiness.
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.