2001 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain
Estimated value
Buying options
Tasting notes
The 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain is the second wine made from the estate, which at the time consisted of just the Rancho del'Oso parcel, planted in 1997. The 2001 has aged well, although it is now fully mature and starting to fray. Sweet red cherry, kirsch, new oak and sweet spice linger nicely.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Good dark red. Medicinal plum, currant and licorice aromas convey a distinctly mature character. Plush and fat if not especially complex or deep, offering plum and chocolate flavors framed by harmonious acidity. Finishes with chewy, serious tannins that are less suave than recent vintages of this wine. Maintains a juicy quality but one senses the first hints of maderization. (from a growing season featuring a very warm early spring and an early harvest)
An impressive Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon, this 2001 (a blend of 94% Cabernet Sauvignon and 6% Merlot) reveals a youthful purple color in addition to an explosive nose of black raspberries, cranberries, black currants, crushed rocks and white flowers. Elegant yet powerful and beginning to display secondary nuances, it possesses terrific potential. While it can be drunk now, it will not hit its prime for another 3-4 years, and should keep for 25 years thereafter. Tel. (707) 965-2898; Fax (707) 965-3010