Winemaker Notes
The Wine Advocate
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Constant’s youthful 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Diamond Mountain Vineyards reveals a deep ruby/purple-tinged color as well as lots of raspberry and blueberry fruit. From a 2,100-foot elevation, this elegant, cool climate Cabernet Sauvignon (which includes small amounts of Cabernet Franc and Merlot) shows no hint of herbaceousness or the earthy underbrush character high elevation vineyards can produce when they do not achieve full ripeness. With medium body as well as outstanding concentration and purity, should continue to evolve and drink well for another 15-20 years, developing even more fragrance as it ages. It is filled with finesse, a characteristic Napa is often accused of not being able to produce.
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.