Freemark Abbey, Napa Valley (California) Cabernet Sauvignon 2012

This vintage of Napa Valley Cabernet from Freemark Abbey is a bit ungainly, but that’s to be expected. Winemaker Ted Edwards builds his Cabs for the long haul and this one is no exception. Muscular and bold, it shows deep aromas of black currant and blackberry, with a backnote of cedar and pencil lead. The finish has plenty of grip. This is a Cab that will need a good three to five years to begin to reveal its true personality, and then look out.