Winemaker Notes
It is the fine focus that drives the character of the 2017 Cervantes Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine has a dark black-purple hue, bright aromatics, and a generous yet precise palate impression. Immediately on the nose are notes of red raspberry, loam, incense, and fresh blackberries. It enters the palate with a rush of flavor, then broadens and lengthens through the finish. There is excellent structure, even as the wine is balanced and nimble. It is built for the long haul and should age for more than a decade.
Blend: 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Petit Verdot and 3% Malbec
Professional Ratings
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Jeb Dunnuck
Every bit as good as the 2016, if not better, the 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon boasts a stunning nose of crème de cassis, crushed flowers, violet, garrigue, and even a touch of orange blossom. It’s complex aromatically, with the herbal, exotic note that’s always present in this cuvée, and it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, beautiful balance, and ripe tannins, all making for a captivating, incredibly satisfying Napa Cabernet that’s going to drink nicely for 15-20 years.
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James Suckling
A tight cabernet with a core of attractive blackberries and blackcurrants, as well as undertones of mint and sage. Tar, too. Full body and polished, integrated tannins. Flavorful finish. Serious wine.
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Composed of 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Petit Verdot and 3% Malbec, the 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon MMXVII is deep garnet-purple in color. It charges out of the gate with bold black and red cherries notes, followed by a core of mulberries and cassis with hints of Indian spices and roses. The full-bodied palate is concentrated and full-on seductive, featuring mouth-coating black fruit layers offset by great freshness and seductively plush tannins, finishing long and spicy.
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.