Big Deal Cabs… Splurge-worthy!
There are days when I really love my job — and tasting a bunch of big, structured Cabernets is a good example of a really good day. (It looks like another wave of winter weather is on the way — so pick up one of these today to see you through!)
Beaulieu Vineyard 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Georges de Latour Private Reserve ($110). Structured and elegant, with wild berry and black currant fruit layered with aromatic sage, cedar, spicy dark chocolate, cigar box and dusty tannins. Should age beautifully — 7-10 years, at least – but its supple finish makes it awfully appealing now. Locate this wine online or in your area.
L’Aventure 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Paso Robles Estate ($85). Big and dense, with spicy black currant, blackberry, blueberry, clove and rich tobacco aromas and flavors that build through the slightly alcoholic finish. This is monster Cab that packs a flavor wallop. Ready to drink now and over the next 3-4 years. Locate this wine online or in your area.
Mayacamas 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley ($65). Intense and tightly wound — just a baby at this stage. With black currant, wild blackberry, sage, allspice and big, dusty tannins. Needs loads of decanting now to smooth out. Best after a few years bottle age, then drink for at least another decade. Locate this wine online or in your area. (2010-02-19)
Mayacamas 1996 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley ($150). This was actually my New Year’s Eve wine a couple of months ago. I’m including it here because it’s available again from the winery library. Complex dried tobacco, mineral and sage notes surround a core of lithe cherry fruit. Silky on the front/mid palate, then the grip kicks in on the finish. Drinking very well now. Should continue to age well for another 5-10 years. Locate this wine online or in your area.
Meyer Vineyards 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley ($45). Really good (and really well-priced!), offering waves of supple, rich blackberry, black cherry, cream, licorice and dark chocolate, with a lush finish supported by integrated tannins. Ready to drink now and over the next 5-7 years. Locate this wine online or in your area.
Saunter 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley ($65). Just a baby at this stage. Offers intensely concentrated fruit — blackberry, black currant — with hints of coffee and toasted vanilla mid-palate. Fruit takes over again on the long, rich finish. Opened up with a bit decanting. Quite impressive for a debut release! I’ll be curious to taste this again in 5-10 years! Locate this wine online or in your area.
Posted: February 22nd, 2010 under All Posts, Varietal Tastings.