2014 Hudson Ranch Old Master
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Tasting notes
The 2014 Red Blend Old Master, Hudson's Cabernet Franc/Malbec blend, is both very ripe and also tightly wound. There is no shortage of intensity, that much is clear. What is less evident is whether or not the wine will ever be in balance. Hints of cherry, smoke, game and sweet tobacco struggle to emerge fully.
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Average Score
Jeb Dunnuck
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
A blend of 60% Cabernet Franc and 40% Merlot raised in 80% new French oak, the 220-case 2014 Hudson Old Master offers a Pauillac-like (although Lee Hudson commented that the Right Bank was the idea) bouquet of lead pencil, graphite, tobacco leaf and assorted darker fruits. With medium to full-bodied richness, present tannin, and rich, layered, elegant personality, it’s another terrific wine from this estate. Hudson Ranch is the result of a collaboration between three people: Lee Hudson, owner and operator; John Kongsgaard, consulting winemaker; and Christopher Vandendriessche, winemaker. The wines all come from the estate Hudson Vineyard located in Carneros.
Composed of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon and 35% Merlot, the 2014 Old Master Proprietary Red has a deep garnet-purple color and exotic spice-laced nose over notions of cassis, wild blueberries, preserved plums and dusty earth, plus wafts of cedar chest and potpourri. The medium to full-bodied palate delivers spectacular energy, featuring taut, muscular black and blue fruit with a firm, grainy backbone and plenty of freshness, finishing with great length and a spicy kick.