Hess Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2003 Front Label
Hess Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2003 Front Label

Winemaker Notes

The 2003 vintage started with a very warm March giving the vines a boost at the start of their growing season. This proved invaluable as the summer's weather pattern was cooler than normal. By the end of summer, concern increased again because the grapes were behind in maturity. However, September brought back the beautiful, warm weather that made California famous. The vines responded and by the beginning of October we were harvesting grapes with exceptional flavors.

Bing cherry, allspice, and nutmeg start the aroma presenting a classic Napa style Cabernet Sauvignon. The second layer brings loganberry, red licorice, fennel and toasty oak. The full texture and concentrated flavors of the wine coats your mouth. The finish reminds you of its heritage - Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon - where supple yet present tannins will allow this wine to age well over the next five years.

Some of the foods that pair well with this wine are: caramelized shallots and onions,wild mushrooms, braised root vegetables, rich moist fish and grilled meats.

The Hess Collection

The Hess Collection

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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.

WIN102915X_2003 Item# 86449