2012 The Widowmaker
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Tasting notes
Matured for 18 months in 30% new French oak, the 2012 The Widowmaker Cabernet Sauvignon is gliding gracefully toward its peak with a deep ruby-garnet color and intense aromas of red and black currants and berries, black olives, licorice, cigar box and dried roses. The medium-bodied palate offers youthful fruit flavors and the first touches of tertiary development. It’s framed by velvety tannins and fresh acidity and has a long, layered finish. 208 cases were made.
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Average Score
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Jeb Dunnuck
More reviews and scores
The 2012 Widowmaker is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon that’s all from the estate En Chamberlin vineyard. It’s unquestionably a beautiful wine and offers just a touch of rocks funk in its classic tobacco leaf, currants, cedary spice and earth aromatics. Seamless, elegant and silky on the palate, with good acidity and a fresh, focused character, it’s a dead ringer for a gorgeous St. Julien from Bordeaux.
(100% Cabernet Sauvignon from en Chamberlin; according to Baron, this was the first vineyard in Walla Valley to be grafted onto phylloxera-resistant rootstock, in 2000; aged in 600-liter Taransaud puncheons): Bright medium ruby-red. Aromas of black raspberry and licorice pastille sexed up by spicy, smoky oak. Sappy and sweet in the mouth, with a powerful flavor of raspberry Creamsicle supported by a firm mineral underpinning. Finishes with serious but dusty, even tannins and outstanding lingering perfume. Very refined.