Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Vinous
Tasted from magnum, the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Elevation 1147 is a deep, bold, savory wine, very much in the mid-weight style typical of David Arthur. Crushed red berry fruit, menthol, pine and spice linger in this understated, super-classy Cabernet. The large format helps, but the 2011 has unquestionably aged gracefully.
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
David Arthur’s flagship wine, the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Elevation 1147 is the best wine of this group. Rich, deep, creme de cassis, licorice, forest floor and a hint of subtle smoke are present in this medium-bodied effort. With outstanding concentration and purity as well as low acidity and ripe tannins, it should drink well for 7-10 years.
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.