1997 Del Dotto Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley
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Tasting notes
(13.5% alcohol): Good dark red. A sexy note of claret funk complicates aromas of blackcurrant, cherry, coffee, mocha, brown spices and flowers. Silky on entry, then firm acidity gives lift and shape to the wine's pure dark berry and spice flavors, with a floral element contributing even more verve. With its harmonious spine of acidity and firm dusting of tannins, this wine seems to be at the front end of its peak drinking plane. Finishes juicy and long. Nothing heavy or overdone about this. I was not yet tasting the Del Dotto wines in the late '90s, so this impeccably made Cabernet was a revelation to me.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 1997 Cabernet Sauvignon has a deep ruby/purple color, straightforward black currant and new oak aromas of no great intensity or distinction, and a surprisingly short, shallow finish. It is a competent Cabernet that should be drunk over the next 5-7 years. The only problem is why the high prices in such a challenging vintage? Tel. (888) 335-3638