2004 Mayacamas Cabernet Sauvignon Mount Veeder

Mid crimson with shaded rim. Nicely integrated, aged nose. Sweet start and then that acidity comes through loud and clear! A bit pinched. Tastes as though it may have benefited from seeing just a little more oxygen during élevage? A bit fossilised. (JR)

The 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon is scheduled to be a 2018 library release from Mayacamas. A dark, powerful wine, the 2004 is burly, powerful and a bit rough around the edges, although certainly not lacking in personality, density or character. The aromatics are just beginning to show the first signs of complexity, but the fruit is still so vibrant and fresh. Firm tannins ensure the 2004 will drink well for decades to come. I am frankly amazed by how young the 2004 is today.

(the alcohol content is listed on the label as "13-3/4"): Full, deep ruby. Lovely perfumed lift to the aromas of medicinal black cherry, crushed dark berries, violet, spices and rock. Tightly wound and taut, with pungent mineral-driven acidity giving outstanding cut and definition to the dark berry and licorice flavors. This youthfully imploded wine is showing little in the way of sweetness today but boasts compelling inner-mouth perfume. The slowly mounting, very long finish features dusty tannins and a lingering note of licorice. Still painfully young, this mountain wine will age for a long time and should ultimately merit an even higher score.