Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Cade's 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain boasts excellent depth and richness, both supported by firm mountain tannin. This attractive Cabernet is a good introduction to Cade. The only thing it lacks is a little more mid-palate juiciness, the issue with so many 2010s from Howell Mountain. Today, the 2010 comes across as a bit compact, but I expect the wine to always be a little on the lean side. I have to say, Cade’s 2010 was much more impressive when I tasted it last year from barrel. The 2010 is 87% Cabernet Sauvignon and 13% Merlot from a variety of sources on Howell Mountain, roughly 73% estate or estate-controlled and 27% purchased fruit. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2024.
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Decanter
Savoury, meaty, focused nose of dark fruit and bitter chocolate. Rich and concentrated palate but not too dense, with grippy tannins and a big bold finish. A good future – one to look out for.
Drink 2014–2030
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.