Deep ruby-red. Floral, cool aromas of boysenberry, violet and mint. Intense, penetrating dark berry and licorice flavors are given definition by a strong acid spine. Quite tightly wrapped today and beginning to shut down. Lingering, subtle berry flavors on the finish. This cabernet will age as much on its acids as on its tannins.

Professional content appears courtesy of Vinfolio

Another outstanding example from this consistently high quality performer, Spottswoode's 1995 stood out in my barrel tasting as one of the strongest efforts of the vintage. Although tightly wound, it exhibits an opaque purple color, and a tight but gorgeous nose of blackcurrants, vanilla, minerals, and a touch of smoke and blueberries. Medium to full-bodied and impeccably well-balanced, this wine's structural components (acidity, alcohol, and tannin) are beautifully meshed together with the lavishly rich fruit that is presented in a medium to full-bodied format. This should turn out to be a textbook, classic Napa Cabernet Sauvignon that admirably balances elegance and power. (Tasted in barrel.)

Professional content appears courtesy of Vinfolio

Beautifully textured, this dense, firm red is thick with ripe fruit flavors, accented with tar, spice and earth. It's balanced and long. Approachable now.--Spottswoode vertical. 4,550 cases made.

Professional content appears courtesy of Vinfolio