2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley
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Tasting notes
The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon is a very pretty, aromatic wine that is just entering its first plateau of maturity. Spice, tobacco, cedar, mint, dried flowers and mocha open first. Medium in body, with terrific persistence and tons of class, the 2014 is impeccable in its balance. The 25% Cabernet Franc gives the wine its expansive aromatic personality. What a classy, polished Cabernet Sauvignon this is. Readers who own it should be thrilled.
Critic scores
Average Score
Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW, The Wine Independent
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon is a blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot. Deep garnet colored, it slowly opens up to offer glimpses of blackberry preserves, baked plums, and redcurrant jelly scents, plus suggestions of black olives, tilled soil, and beef dripping. Medium to full-bodied, the mouth is coated with savory-laced black fruit layers and finely grained tannins, finishing with a refreshing lift.
The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon is super-refined, polished and articulate, with mid-weight structure and fine overall balance. Readers should expect a somewhat laid-back wine by Dalla Valle's standards. In 2014, the Cabernet Sauvignon is especially aromatic and nuanced. It should drink well with minimal cellaring.
The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon displays plenty of loamy soil notes, some underbrush, roasted herbs, a dense ruby/purple color, and copious quantities of blackcurrant and black cherry fruit. Drink it over the next 15 years.
About the producer
Dalla Valle Vineyards was founded in 1986 by Naoko and her late husband Gustav Dalla Valle, in Oakville. Initially they had wanted to create a luxury resort, but when they discovered the potential of the site, they changed tack and decided to make wine.