2012 Burgess Cabernet Sauvignon

The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon from Burgess hits the palate with an exotic concoction of dark fruit, pencil shavings, spices, tobacco, cedar, savory herbs, licorice and lavender. Dark and imposing, the 2012 possesses superb richness, with plenty of Howell Mountain character and intensity. The silkiness of the vintage has softened some of the contours, but this remains a distinctly savory and mineral-inflected Cabernet with tons of hillside character. Today, the 2012 comes across as tightly wound and in need of further cellaring, so readers should not be in any rush to open bottles. This distinctly old-school leaning Cabernet will also thrill readers seeking value, as it delivers superb quality and personality for the money.