2008 Outpost Cabernet Sauvignon
Estimated value
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Tasting notes
Good medium red. Aromas of blackberry, bitter chocolate and licorice are perked up by a violet element. Juicy and pliant, with enticing inner-mouth perfume to the flavors of redcurrant, tobacco and iron. Finishes aromatic and long, with serious but suave mounting tannins and notes of mint and violet.
Critic scores
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
An outstanding value in Napa Cabernet, the 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon’s opaque ruby/purple hue is followed by copious notes of crushed rock, blueberry pie, pen ink and black fruits. Full-bodied, opulent and fleshy with impressive purity and a long finish, this terrific Cabernet can be drunk now or cellared for 15+ years. Proprietors Kathy and Frank Dotzler along with winemaker Thomas Rivers Brown have quickly pushed this estate high on Howell Mountain to one of the leaders of that appellation. These wines all possess considerable character and the 2008s have certainly lived up to my forecast from last year, especially the Cabernets, Petite Sirah and Zinfandel. Tel. (707) 965-1718; Fax (707) 965-1761
Good deep ruby-red. Aromas of black cherry and licorice. Chewy, spicy and sweet, but with noteworthy lift and freshness. Today I find this fruitier than the 2007, and the wine's floral element adds to its interest. Very nicely balanced cabernet with an enticing combination of fruit ripeness and acidity and plenty of mid-palate intensity to support its firm tannic backbone.