2003 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 375mL
2003 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 375mL
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Wine Specs
Wine Specs
Appellation: Spring Mountain District, Napa Valley – Estate Grown & Bottled
Assemblage: Cabernet Sauvignon 88%, Merlot 9%, Cabernet Franc 3%
Élevage: 22 months in French oak
Alcohol: 14.6%
Winemaker’s Comments
Winemaker’s Comments
Intense and dark, the blood-red color gives the first indication of the power of this wine. The rich, concentrated black fruit aromas are heavily laced with an array of spices including cardamom, cinnamon and crushed black pepper. There is also a lovely sous bois earthy note that speaks directly to the mountain terroir of our vineyards. Bold and jammy, the youthful attack on the palate is layered with notes of cocoa, espresso and licorice. The texture is palpable and velvety to the point of chewiness. The weight of this wine is well supported by acid and tannins that are unique to mountain fruit. The mouth-filling feel elongates well into the finish with flavors of chocolate and raspberry that are reminiscent of "chocolate decadence." To appreciate at its best, decant at least 30 minutes before serving.
Additional Notes
Additional Notes
A light winter was followed by dry weather and budbreak that occurred in mid-March, with bloom 60 days later. Spring and early summer saw beautiful, mild weather interrupted by two heat waves in September. We were able to ride out the heat spikes and extend harvest later into the season, giving the Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot ample hang time to become physiologically mature. The 2003 Spring Mountain vintage yielded wines with great fruit expression, balance and soft, ripe tannins.