2021 Spottswoode Estate - Cabernet Sauvignon (750ml)
Spottswoode Estate was established in 1882 on the western edge of St. Helena, and Mary Novak released the first Spottswoode Cabernet Sauvignon in 1982, exactly a century later. The estate is now stewarded by her daughters, Beth and Lindy Novak. Farmed organically since 1985, it has been Demeter certified biodynamic since 2020.
The 2021 Cabernet is made entirely from the estate's 42 acres, a blend of 87 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, 9 percent Cabernet Franc, and 4 percent Petit Verdot. Vines grow in alluvial clay loam from the Sulphur Creek fan, which drains well, while cool maritime breezes moving between Spring Mountain and the Mayacamas range help the fruit ripen evenly. The wine was aged for 20 months in barrel, 60 to 65 percent new, mostly French oak with a touch of Hungarian wood, and it finishes at 13.6 percent alcohol.
The aromas show mulberry, boysenberry, and plum puree, joined by violet, hibiscus, and sandalwood, with crushed stone and pencil shavings in the background. Medium to full in body, it is richly layered, with firm yet silky tannins and lively acidity leading to a long, elegant finish.