2002 Spottswoode "Estate" Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5L)

In 2002 very small yields produced only about 3,000 cases at 14.7% natural alcohol and a blend of 94% Cabernet Sauvignon and 6% Cabernet Franc. This wine is going from strength to strength since I first tasted it prior to bottling. Now a perfect wine, the incredible perfume of blueberries, black raspberries and cassis, along with white flowers and camphor is extraordinarily fragrant and intense. That is easily matched by the magnificent full-bodied richness and compellingly layered mouthfeel of this wine that is rich, full-bodied and a still youthful vintage that remains capable of another 25-30 years of cellaring. This is a dramatic vintage for Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, and it is always fascinating to taste a top winery’s 2001 and 2002 next to each other because they are both such great years. However, the 2002s tend to be the more flamboyant wines, and the 2001s the more structured and broodingly backward. (RP)

The 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon, with 6% Cabernet Franc in the blend, is deep brick in color. It needs a fair bit of swirling to get past the wall of intense blackberry preserves and blackcurrant preserves notes and unlock the myriad of savory and earthy nuances: crushed rocks, dried herbs, smoked meats, black olives, and unsmoked cigars with a touch of black truffles. The full-bodied palate is jam-packed with black fruits, framed by velvety tannins and bold freshness, finishing long with a spicy kick. 3,000 cases were made. (LPB)