Winemaker Notes
Bright ruby/purple. Intensely aromatic nose of sweet black cherry, dusty cocoa and a rich core of dark smoky fruits. Dark black fruits dominate the palate with cassis, blackberry and black raspberry. Typical Larkmead nuances of stony minerality, graphite and spice are supported by perfectly ripe, seductive tannins which glide across the palate creating a sense of seamless integration. A note of creamy mocha adds richness to round out the finish.
Approachable early due to the level of natural fruit sweetness, the wine should age well for a decade and beyond. Decant for an hour in its youth to experience the wine's full range of flavors. This large-scaled wine will further concentrate for 5 years in bottle and hold for a decade or more
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate boasts gorgeous creme de cassis fruit intermixed with notes of lead pencil, spring flowers and blackberries. The wood component is beautifully integrated. With superb texture, a full-bodied mouthfeel, and a finish that lasts for 45 seconds, this classic Napa Cabernet Sauvignon possesses an unmistakable Pauillac-like personality. It can be drunk now or cellared for 15-20 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.