Yes, it’s an expensive wine, and yes, it will surely get even better in years to come, but one lesson many of us have taken away from the horrible pandemic year 2020 it’s that sometimes it’s a good idea to enjoy what we’ve got in front of us right now instead of waiting for a tomorrow that may never arrive. Furthermore this wine is so delicious that it’s hard to imagine in what way it might improve. Deeply colored, with a heavenly perfume, a texture of fine silk, a fireworks display of flavors and a long, lingering finish — what more might we ask of it? Small amounts of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot contribute just the right amount of subtle seasoning.
Spottswoode Estate Vineyard & Winery, St. Helena, Napa Valley (California) Cabernet Sauvignon 2016
By Marguerite Thomas