Larkmead Solari Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2003
-
Robert
Parker
Product Details
Your Rating
Somm Note
Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
-
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon Solari Reserve is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon aged 19 months in three-fourths new French oak from the well-known cooper of Sylvain. Named after the Solari family that purchased Larkmead in 1948, this cuvee is essentially an homage to their pioneer and visionary spirits. A dense ruby/purple color is followed by notes of cassis, flowers, and a subtle touch of vanillin. The fruit dominates the aromatics, and the purity is striking (a characteristic of all these wines) in this full-bodied, multidimensional effort. It is a terrific example of what Larkmead has been doing so impressively over the last decade. The alcohol is 14.7% with a finished pH of 3.86, which puts it in line with such great Bordeaux vintages as 2009. This 2003 is accessible now, but it has 25-30 years of cellaring potential.
Rating: 96+
Other Vintages
2004-
Robert
Parker -
Wine
Spectator
-
Robert
Parker -
Wine
Spectator
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.