2017 Solari Cabernet Sauvignon
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Tasting notes
The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Solari is a smaller production cuvée and is (as always) all Cabernet Sauvignon that was aged in 90% new French oak. Its similar inky purple color is followed by a beautiful nose of pure cassis and blackberry fruits intermixed with notes of dark chocolate, violets, crushed herbs, and plenty of chocolaty, earthy minerality. Rich, full-bodied, and beautifully concentrated, it stays focused, tight and backward on the palate, yet is loaded with potential. It's going to reward 4-6 years of bottle age and keep for 25+.
Critic scores
Average Score
Jeb Dunnuck
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Solari is dark, fleshy and enveloping in feel. Black cherry, plum, tobacco, chocolate, licorice and grilled herbs add myriad shades of complexity, but searing tannins need time in bottle to soften. Pretty floral and savory notes develop in the course of time. The 2017 will reward readers who can wait.
The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Solari (Black Label) is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, aged in Darnajou French oak, 90% new. Medium to deep garnet-purple colored, it is profoundly scented of baked blueberries, prunes and crème de cassis with touches of kirsch, cedar chest, menthol and bay leaves plus a waft of charcuterie. Medium to full-bodied, the palate has a solid structure of chewy, rugged tannins and lively freshness supporting the dense, muscular black fruit, finishing long and savory.
Larkmead's 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Solari is once again distinguished by its textural breadth. Red cherry jam, plum and floral notes fill out the wine's layers effortlessly. Creamy and plush on the palate, with a good bit of supporting energy, the Solari is super-expressive, even in the early going.