| Score: |
96 RP.
"The spectacular 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon aged in 100% new French oak for 20 months that finished at 14.8% alcohol. It displays a classic mountain profile of lead pencil shavings, charcoal embers, creme de cassis, blackberries, licorice and a meaty, truffle-like character. Full-bodied and rich as well as exceptionally well-delineated with polished tannins and a savory, intense mouthfeel, this stunning debut Cabernet exudes enormous potential. The Vineyardist looks to be an impressive newcomer to the Cabernet Sauvignon scene in Napa. Readers take note. This was my first look at this interesting project on Diamond Mountain. This estate was originally founded by a Dutch-born ship builder in the late 1800s. The grapes that were first planted included Zinfandel, Carignan, Alicante Bouche, and Malvasia. Not surprisingly, the estate’s name comes from the fact that this proprietor was also a vineyardist. Prohibition did them in, and in 2000, after the estate was acquired by the current proprietor, Cabernet Sauvignon was planted at elevations ranging from 800 to 1,300 feet. Some of the top-notch names behind this property include Jim Barbour, who was responsible for the planting of this 100% Cabernet Sauvignon vineyard, and Mark Herold, who is responsible for the making of the wines. Herold first became well-known in this publication with his wines called Merus. Sadly, only 200-400 cases of these Cabernets are produced each year." Wine Advocate #209, Oct 2013 |