Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Decanter
Aromas of blackcurrant, blackberry, rich earth, spice and liquorice are followed by a palate of striking persistence and structural amplitude. In 2013 this is typically large-scaled, fresh and built for the long haul, but Mike Dunn’s thoughtful changes to the estate’s barrel programme have resulted in more refined tannins. Brettanomyces issues that plagued the Dunn wines about 15 years ago also seem long gone, so nothing should compromise their lovely evolution in the cellar.
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James Suckling
A bright and fragrant red with blueberries and blackcurrants. Flowers, too. Full body, super-integrated tannins and a fabulous finish. Seamless and refined. Needs three or four years to soften but already a beauty.
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon is deep garnet-purple in color. Wow—it has a total rock-star nose of warm cassis, preserved plums, Chinese five spice and potpourri with hints of menthol, dusty earth, Ceylon tea and cigar box. Medium to full-bodied with a firm backbone of grainy tannins and great freshness, the palate gives loads of exotic spice and earth-laced black fruit layers, finishing very 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.