2009 Freemark Abbey Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon The 2009 vintage is remembered fondly as a very successful year in Napa Valley, and the wines, now 15 years later, bear out that early optimism. The growing season began with below-average rainfall and a moderate amount of water stress on the vines. Weather throughout the year was relatively stable, with no dramatic heat events or untimely rains to create major issues for grape growers. The crop came in just above average, with consistently high quality across the board. In their youth, the 2009s showed a lovely balance of primary fruit and medium-plus structure. While not as concentrated or dramatic as the 2010s, the 2009s have a wonderful sense of balance, purity, and approachability. This bottling from Freemark shows the effortless grace of the vintage, with richness of fruit and mid-palate plushness carried by beautifully resolved structure. Now showing delicious secondary character, this wine is in absolute prime condition to enjoy over the next one to five years. The profile is mostly deep red-fruited, with briary, brambly elements and a lovely dusty, loamy earth component. Hints of graphite and pencil shavings mingle with unsmoked cigar, subtle bay leaf, and worn leather. Silky on the palate, the tannins are relaxed and supple, making this ready for a quick 20- to 30-minute decant and straight into the glass. So easy to enjoy, this is a lovely wine drinking perfectly right now.