The 2021 Spottswoode Estate Cabernet Sauvignon is simply breathtaking. It offers a captivating bouquet that is layered with ripe blueberries, blackberries, and cassis intertwined with gorgeous fresh violets. Beneath the fruit, nuances of crushed gravel, pipe tobacco, cigar box, and subtle hints of espresso which all come together beautifully adding to its sophistication. On the palate, it is full-bodied with a polished texture that is both well-defined and impeccably balanced. It displays a striking combination of acidity and refined tannins, along with a wonderful sense of freshness and poise, leading to a long, elegant finish. The 2021 Estate Cabernet a wine of impressive class and harmony, showcasing remarkable finesse and refinement, resulting in a Cabernet that is ideal for aging. (JD)

Pure black currants on the nose with an incredible al dente grape character. It’s almost like grape must. Undertone of ink and violets and sandalwood. Perfumed. Hints of spearmint. Full-bodied, but so well-formed and reserved. A touch of mint on the palate with dark fruits. It is very complete and reminds me of the classy Spottswoode 2001. I keep being impressed with the purity of fruit with the earthy undertones and stones. Savory. A fitting 40th anniversary wine.

Moving to the Grand Vin, the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon reveals a deep, dense purple color as well as a primordial nose of ripe black fruits, cassis, camphor, scorched earth, violet, and lead pencil aromas and flavors. Reminding me of a young Leoville Las Cases with its closed, dense, structured style, it’s concentrated, has a pure, layered, focused style, ripe tannins, and a great finish. It needs 5-7 years of bottle age and will evolve for 30+ years. The blend of the 2021 is 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Petit Verdot. (JD) 98+