($185):  Spottswoode, one of the oldest producers of the “modern” Napa Valley era, was founded in 1972.  They started bottling and selling under their own label a decade later.  Far ahead of their time, they have been farming organically since 1985 and was certified organic in 1992, according to their website.  Best known for their consistently sensational Cabernet Sauvignon, they also make outstanding Sauvignon Blanc (also reviewed this week).  The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, a typical left-bank Bordeaux blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (86%), Cabernet Franc (10%) and Petit Verdot, is an outstanding wine.  The first impression, after the impressively floral nose, is a velvety texture.  It’s glossy, yet still structured.  Flavors — black fruits, olives, herbs — are restrained, almost needing to be coaxed out of the glass.  Then, with time and seemingly out of nowhere, they caress the palate.  This is not a flamboyant or bombastic wine, yet it is packed with flavor.  The finish is long and graceful, without a trace of heaviness.  This is a great, youthful Cabernet that will blossom even more over the next few years.
97 Michael Apstein Jan 2, 2018