2003 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley
Buying options
Tasting notes
This 2003 was showing spectacularly well, and based on my recollection, I think I may have liked it even more than the 2002, which is the reverse of how I felt a decade ago. One of the biggest (14.6% alcohol) wines made by Screaming Eagle during this period, it boasts an opaque ruby/purple color as well as classic, pure, creme de cassis, cedarwood and hints of Asian soy sauce and forest floor notes. The multidimensional aromatics are followed by a full-bodied, silky-textured, opulent, rich, atypically big wine that is impeccably well-balanced. It is just starting to come into its own. Four to five more years in the cellar will prove magical, and this 2003 is one of the candidates for the wine of the vintage. It should last another 20+ years.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Good dark red-ruby. Distinctly rocky, mineral-driven aromas of redcurrant and leather. Juicy, suave and delineated, with lovely acid spine and a strong spice character. Not a dense or fleshy wine (fans of sheer size may be underwhelmed) but nicely balanced, pure and long on personality. Finishes with dusty, broad tannins and lovely finesse.
About the producer
Screaming Eagle is one of the Napa Valley’s original cult Cabernets. Right from the first release, the now iconic producer garnered huge scores and a fanatic following.