2014 Chappellet Cabernet Sauvignon Pritchard Hill Estate Vineyard
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Tasting notes
Drinking beautifully, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Pritchard Hill boasts classic aromas of mint, sage and ripe cherries. I don't see it as being quite as long-lived as previous reviewers, but the quality is definitely at an extremely high level. Full-bodied, it's supple, creamy and lush on the palate yet still shows ample freshness and vivacity and a long, silky finish.
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Average Score
James Suckling
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
This shows great structure and muscle with a firm and flexing tone. Full-bodied, tight and reserved. Currants, black truffles and espresso. A classic structure that harks back to the great Chappellets of the 1970s. Savory. What length. Will improve with many years, but it\'s still a dream to drink now.
The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Pritchard Hill is every bit as magnificent today as it was last year from barrel. Inky, concentrated and regal in its pedigree, the 2014 is all class. The 2014 is not as bombastic or huge as the 2013. Instead, it is a wine of total finesse and elegance. The purity of the fruit is simply striking. This is a mesmerizing, utterly compelling wine from the Chappellet family.
The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Pritchard Hill might turn out to be better than the 2013, as it has a bit more focus, delineation and energy. Although it is quite early, the 2014 offers superb potential. The flavors are intensely mineral and savory today, while the wine possesses magical translucence and tons of personality. The sample I tasted was 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, but the final wine may included blenders. Winemaker Philip Corallo-Titus adds that 2014 is a low tannin vintage at Chappellet, so the wines spent a bit longer than normal on the skins.
About the producer
Founded in 1967, Chappellet is a pioneering, family-owned Napa Valley estate on Pritchard Hill, where it helped establish the tradition of high-elevation viticulture. Its mountain-grown wines are renowned for their depth, elegance and longevity, led by Cabernet Sauvignon.