2020 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon

Wine Advocate, Joe Czerwinski

Tasted blind, in a lineup that included vintages back to 2010, a barrel sample of Spottswoode’s 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon stood out as being one of the most exciting efforts. Full-bodied, ripe and rich without being overbearing, it delivers concentrated black cherry and cassis fruit framed by supple, velvety-textured tannins. It’s long on the finish, with an attractively soft, dusty-loamy texture and no overt signs of a fire-troubled Napa vintage. 98–100 points (September 15, 2022)

The Wine Independent, Lisa Perrotti-Brown

The 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon, tasted as a barrel sample, has 4% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot in the blend. Deep garnet-purple in color, it springs with notes of cedar chest, cinnamon toast, and black cherry preserves, leading to a core of blackcurrant pastilles, potpourri, and mocha. Medium-bodied, and big on flavors, the palate delivers mouth-coating black fruits with a rock-solid structure of firm tannins and lively acidity, finishing long. 96–98+ points (September 28, 2022)

Ken’s Wine Guide, Ken Hoggins

This midnight purple colored Cabernet Sauvignon from Spottswoode opens with a black currant and black cherry bouquet with hints of violet, eucalyptus, and cigar box. On the palate, this wine is medium plus bodied with integrated medium acidity. The mouthfeel is well-balanced, finessed, velvety, and seamless. The flavor profile is black currant and blackberry blend with notes of stony minerality and black cherry. We also detected hints of black tea, oak, and black raspberry. The finish is dry, and its refined dusty mild tannins are sustained nicely before they drift off. 97 points (February 9, 2023)

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