2020 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

Pure black currants on the nose with an incredible al dente grape character. It’s almost like grape must. Undertone of ink and violets and sandalwood. Perfumed. Hints of spearmint. Full-bodied, but so well-formed and reserved. A touch of mint on the palate with dark fruits. It is very complete and reminds me of the classy Spottswoode 2001. I keep being impressed with the purity of fruit with the earthy undertones and stones. Savory. A fitting 40th anniversary wine.

Spottswoode's 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon offers up hints of barrel char and a slightly roasted character, but the fruit itself—cassis and black cherries—is cool, even minty. This vintage is medium to full-bodied, not overly ripe or textural, with an excellent balance of firmness and freshness on the long, grippy finish. Tight and in need of some cellaring, it should evolve nicely for a couple of decades.

The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon is a classic wine off this estate. Bright and floral, with silky tannins, the 2021 is exceptionally finessed and so elegant. I can't remember another vintage like it. I wouldn't dream of touching a bottle anytime soon. The 2021 spent 20 months in barrel, 60-65% new, mostly French, with a touch of Hungarian wood. When I think of what St. Helena Cabernet Sauvignon should be, I often think of Spottswoode. The wines are simply classic. Proprietor Beth Weber Novak and winemaker Aron Weinkauf turned out a gorgeous 2021 that captures the essence of this site. (AG)