2023 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon

Wine Advocate, Joe Czerwinski

Spottswoode’s 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon will be offered to mailing list members in March 2026, prior to a general release in September 2026. It’s certainly a strong effort, even for this benchmark producer, featuring layers of dark, dense cassis, blackberry and blueberry fruit. The new oak component has been completely subsumed by the fruit in this medium- to full-bodied wine. Greater density and concentration somehow come without weight, supported by silky tannins. Featuring a lovely, elegant mouthfeel and tremendous length on the finish, it should stand tall among the many legends produced at this estate. 100 points (October 2025)

The Wine Palate, Lisa Perrotti-Brown

The 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon sports a deep garnet-purple color. It needs a little shaking to wake up notes of fresh blackberries, kirsch, and blackcurrant jelly, followed by nuances of violets, black olives, crushed rocks, and mossy tree bark. Medium-bodied, the palate is filled with energetic black and red berry layers, supported by firm, grainy tannins and wonderful tension, finishing long and earthy. This will easily cellar for 30 years+. 100 points (December 2025)

JamesSuckling.com, Ryan Montgomery

An exceptional release from this estate already known for purity and finesse. Aromas of black currants, berries, peppercorns, crushed stones, licorice and violets. The palate is tightly wound, with refined tannins, bright acidity and a luscious yet restrained mouthfeel that is flirtatious yet serious, with no hard edges or extra fat. This is a divine wine that is delicious now and will be for decades to come. Pure class. Drink or hold. 99 points (April 2026)

• Accolades
• Fact Sheet