Spottswoode 2023 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley

                                       
Limited Release from Spottswoode, one of California's Best Cabernet Producers. 2023 is one of the best vintages ever produced. Limited.

100 Points Robert Parker: "Spottswoode’s 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon is certainly a strong effort, even for this benchmark producer, featuring layers of dark, dense cassis, blackberry and blueberry fruit. The new oak component has been completely subsumed by the fruit in this medium- to full-bodied wine. Greater density and concentration somehow come without weight, supported by silky tannins. Featuring a lovely, elegant mouthfeel and tremendous length on the finish, it should stand tall among the many legends produced at this estate. "

100 Points Lisa Perrotti-Brown (The Wine Palate): “The 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon sports a deep garnet-purple color. It needs a little shaking to wake up notes of fresh blackberries, kirsch, and blackcurrant jelly, followed by nuances of violets, black olives, crushed rocks, and mossy tree bark. Medium-bodied, the palate is filled with energetic black and red berry layers, supported by firm, grainy tannins and wonderful tension, finishing long and earthy. This will easily cellar for 30 years+.”

99 James Suckling: "An exceptional release from this estate already known for purity and finesse. Aromas of black currants, berries, peppercorns, crushed stones, licorice and violets. The palate is tightly wound, with refined tannins, bright acidity and a luscious yet restrained mouthfeel that is flirtatious yet serious, with no hard edges or extra fat. This is a divine wine that is delicious now and will be for decades to come. Pure class. Drink or hold."

98+ Points Jeb Dunnuck: "Reminding me of the 2016, if not slightly more elegant, the Spottswoode 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate is based  on 88.9% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8.2% Cabernet Franc, and 2.9% Petit Verdot and was aged 20 months in  57% new oak. Darker cassis, black cherries, new saddle leather, and flowers all define the aromatics, and  it shines for its incredible complexity and depth even at this early stage. Medium to full-bodied and  beautifully textured, it has a multidimensional palate with plenty of ripe, polished tannins and outstanding length. This is another truly great example of this terroir just outside of St. Helena. It will  not reach maturity for 5-7 years and should evolve for 30, 40, possibly 50 years. Drink 2030-2073. "

98 Points Decanter: "Raspberry, cherry, and pomegranate notes lead, joined by fennel and sage. Positively gorgeous, with layers of floral and wild herb character and fresh, inviting, crisp tannins, all enhanced by a spine of zesty acidity. Elegant cedar wood frames savoury liquorice, fresh chanterelle, and red-toned, loamy earth notes. A very promising wine for the ages. Aged 20 months in 60% new French oak. Sourced from Organically farmed vines."

“When I think of what St. Helena Cabernet Sauvignon should be, I often think of Spottswoode. The wines are simply classic.” Antonio Galloni, Vinous