2019 Spottswoode 'Estate' Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 1.5L
Situated on the western edge of St. Helena in Napa Valley, the Spottswoode Estate terroir is ideal for winegrowing. The alluvial clay loam from the Sulphur Creek fan provides superb drainage while cool maritime breezes passing between Spring Mountain and the Mayacamas range allow the fruit to ripen evenly.
Stunning notes of black cherry and currants create a sense of both warmth and freshness. Secondary flavors of pomegranate, pine, earth, and sandalwood complement a backbone of vibrant acidity. The refined tannins are structured yet velvety, showcasing the power, elegance and finesse of this classic wine.
Wine Advocate
The gorgeous 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon is already drinking beautifully, with incredible waves of black cherry and cassis fruit that have completely absorbed the roughly two-thirds new oak. On this occasion, the wine came across as rather forward and supple, with lush tannins framing ample fruit on the medium to full-bodied palate. Impeccably balanced, with tremendous length on the cool, refreshing finish, it manages to showcase the warmth and generous nature of the site and vintage without going over the top.
Jeb Dunnuck
The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon is another incredible wine from this reference point estate in the Valley. Based on 89.5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6.5 % Cabernet Franc, and the balance Petit Verdot that was raised in 65% new French oak, it has that classic Spottswoode refinement and elegance as well as medium to full-bodied aromas and flavors of cassis, tobacco, sandalwood, and flowers. I don’t think this hits the heights of the 2013 or 2016, but it shines for its flawless balance, remarkable purity, and great finish. It’s going to have 30 years of prime drinking.
James Suckling
Ripe blackberries, blackcurrants, cocoa powder, dried thyme and walnut husk on the nose. It’s full-bodied, chewy and compact with firm tannins and a broad, muscular palate. Structured, polished and well balanced. From biodynamically grown grapes. Try after 2024.
Vinous
A bright, effusive wine, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate is all finesse. Bright aromatics, vibrant red berry fruit and mid-weight structure give the 2019 its charming, sensual personality. I am surprised to see how open the 2019 is at this stage. I imagine it might close down a bit post-bottling, but the 2019 has superb balance to go with a real feeling of openness, at least today. Red/purplish berry fruit, rose petal, lavender and sweet spice shape the inviting finish.
Wine Spectator
Not shy, this throws a pretty lush and gorgeous wave of warmed cassis and mulberry puree at you, carried by very polished tannins as violet, red licorice and sweet tobacco hints fill in behind. Shows good energy through the finish, too, with a subtle mineral hint to keep everything honest.