Winemaker Notes
A complex nose of blackberry, fresh boysenberry, and violet. On the palate, layered, fresh expressions of blackberry, boysenberry, and black cherry are balanced by fresh acidity and supported by a firm tannic structure. The finish reveals a hint of minerality underlying the deep, dark fruit.
Professional Ratings
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The Somm Journal
This blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Merlot comes from Suscol Springs estate vines, planted on rocky outcroppings to yield small, concentrated berries. Spending 22 months in 70% new and 30% neutral French oak, it’s an invitation to luxury—as exhibited by plump, ripe blue fruit; a coating of dark chocolate; and firm tannins that bend as it continues to open up. Marvelous acidity and a weaving of minerality throughout reveal its power and finesse
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Tasting Panel
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James Suckling
Ripe blackberries, cassis, chocolate, mocha and sweet spices on the nose with some tobacco leaf. Full-bodied with fine-grained tannins and fresh acidity. Polished and well-balanced. Drink from 2023.
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Suscol Springs is blended of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Merlot. Deep garnet-purple in color, exuberant notes of fresh blackberries, boysenberry preserves and blackcurrant pastilles rocket from the glass, followed by hints of sautéed herbs, forest floor and black olives. The medium to full-bodied palate is intense and energetic, featuring finely grained tannins and a refreshing backbone, finishing long and lifted.
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.