2010 Plumpjack Cabernet Sauvignon Estate McWilliam's Vineyard
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Tasting notes
The inky purple-colored 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate reveals a beautiful nose of sweet cassis, vanilla, fruitcake and a touch of graphite. Full-bodied, rich and pure, but neither overbearing nor heavy, there is plenty of tannin, but it is cushioned by extravagant fruit and ripeness. It should drink well for a minimum of 20-25 years. This enviable estate on the Oakville Corridor, sandwiched between Rudd Estate and Screaming Eagle, and overlooked by Dalla Valle and a handful of other blue bloods is the former Villa Mt. Eden estate made famous by Nils Venge in the 1970s. The great wines of Villa Mt. Eden are well represented by what Plumpjack has accomplished since they took over this estate. There are two cuvees, the basic Cabernet Sauvignon and a Reserve offering. Tel. (707) 945-1220
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
(15% alcohol): Good deep, bright ruby. Deep aromas of cassis and smoky, chocolatey oak. Dense, concentrated and very ripe, with an exotic creaminess to the sweet flavors of black raspberry and spicecake. Bright acidity gives the wine shape and considerable sex appeal. Finishes with ripe, building tannins that coat the front teeth.
A gorgeous core of juicy red fruit announces the 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon. The 2010 stands out for its expressive, supple personality. There is more than enough fruit for the 2010 to drink well early. The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the more approachable wines of the vintage. It should drink well pretty much upon release. Raspberry jam, flowers and cinnamon add lift on the floral, perfumed finish. This is a lovely showing from Plumpjack. In 2010 the new oak, 80%, is a little more evident than is typically the case.
(100% cabernet sauvignon): Good deep ruby. Blueberry, cassis and licorice aromas accented by notes of eucalyptus and pepper. Juicy, pure and intense, with a subdued sweetness to the rather cool black fruit, spice and mint flavors. Some subtle green notes reminded me of a Medoc wine on the finish, which features fairly suave tannins. "We picked on the early side because we liked the flavors," noted assistant winemaker Jeff Owens. This subtle, perfumed wine should make a classy drink.