Maybe I'm like most of you who, noting the name Freemark Abbey, believed this illustrious winery was founded by a bunch of industrious monks who, seeking to escape persecution, left some war-ravaged homeland in search of paradise and landed, miracle of miracles, in the heart of Napa Valley. But actually the winery took its name by combining those of the three owners- Charles Freeman, Markquand Foster and Abbey Ahern in 1939. Pretty clever huh? And seventy-five years later, this place is still making wondrous wines that shine like, well, the sunlight off a monk's pate. Just tasted the latest incarnation of their Cabernet Sauvignon, and it has all the classic, soulful components of a benchmark red wine created from premium Napa vineyards--Bosche, Potelle, Stage Coach and Round Pond. Aged for over 22 months in barrel, 40% new French oak, the lavish fruit expression of blackberry, black cherry and ripe plum on the palate is enhanced by notes of cedar, kitchen spice and sweet oak. Full-bodied, structured and elegant, this velvety Cab will deliver years of serious vinous pleasure, and just think, you won't have to work like a monk to enjoy it!

Freemark Abbey has been back on our radar for some time now and we are all fired up about their Cabernets. After a few years of less than stellar releases in the mid 90s/early 00s where they just seemed to be producing too much wine, they straightened up and have gotten back on the road to stardom. The 2010 Cabernet instantly reminded us of their classic wines of the 70s and 80s when Freemark Abbey were making slightly rustic, old-school wines with plenty of charm and varietal correctness. The nose is wonderfully reminiscent of Cabs of yesteryear with aromas of warm clay, black currant, olive and graphite, all the while remaining on the more savory side of the spectrum. Plush and inviting with rock solid black fruits this feels incredibly honest and real in a sea of Cabs that are just getting out of hand. Sure it has nice toasty oak, but it is fully integrated in the wine. Yes there are some great, structural tannins here but nothing that is going to make your teeth scream. The classic old leather, bay leaf, currant, black olive, cocoa powder flavors are like your favorite chair calling you in after a long work day. Get back to a true classic!

Freemark Abbey hits its mark! Dusty cassis, graphite, balsam-cedar notes on the nose lead to a palate that shows moderately sweet, plummy fruit, before veering in a more dry, woodsy-spicy direction. The wine makes a solid impact in a more restrained California style. The tannins rally a bit on the finish, enough to give the wine shape, but without taking over the show.