Spottswoode Winery—Wine Advocate’s Spottswoode Reviews

Antonio Galloni

The Wine Advocate
December, 2012, Issue 204

Spottswoode’s 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon flows across the palate with gorgeous depth and purity. Warm hints of mocha, espresso, exotic spices and plums blossom in the glass in this dark, voluptuous Cabernet. The 2010 is surprisingly open at this stage, but I expect it will shut down over the next few years. Readers who want to taste the 2010 should do so within the next 6-12 months. This stunning wine remains incredibly primary, but it promises to drink well for several decades. Graphite, menthol and violets are layered into the precise, delineated finish. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2039. (95+ points)

Another super-impressive effort, the 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon boasts stunning depth and sheer power. Black currants, pencil shavings, mocha, incense and melted road tar are all woven together gracefully in this powerful, opulent wine. The tannins remain firm, so another few years of cellaring is a must. There is serious density and sheer power to burn. Today the 2009 is a touch less vibrant than the 2010, but more overt and voluptuous. A brooding, muscular finish rounds things out beautifully. The 2009 is 95% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot. Anticipated maturity: 2019-2034. (97 points)

These are two thrilling Cabernets from Spottswoode. Beth Novak Milliken runs her family’s winery with tons of energy and passion. The estate’s vineyards are located just behind the St. Helena town center. Spottswoode’s Cabernet Sauvignon remains one of the most distinctive wines in Napa Valley, and a personal favorite. Tel. (707) 963-0134

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