The 2018 Spring Mountain, "Estate" Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley was a Merchant's Pick
Our Top 5 of 2021 • #4
March 18, 2022
My all-time favorite Cabernet Sauvignon continues to have limited distribution. What a shame; the wine over-delivers without fail!
Spring Mountain's "Estate" Cabernet brings back nirvana-like memories of my first encounter with it years ago: sweet-salted butter atop warm onion bread and a glass of this superb Napa Valley red.
That alone was a satisfying experience. Add a porter-house steak and creamed spinach and I couldn't imagine being anywhere else!
The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon opens with aromas of dusty cedar and sage. Notes of dark cherry, sassafras, and fresh fig on the nose compliment floral notes of lavender and violets. Brambly red fruit layered with tobacco, bay leaf, and cassis rounds out the expressive bouquet. On the palate bright red and blue fruits of cherry and boysenberry burst from the glass. This bright fruit evolves into darker notes of brambly blackberry and black plum all layered with savory flavors of olives and sage." Spring Mountain Winery
There are a handful of wineries in the Spring Mountain District in Napa Valley, however, there is only one namesake winery, Spring Mountain Vineyard. The rugged hillside allows for only small vineyards. The grapes develop intense character and flavor as the vines struggle deep into the soil for nutrients.
This Cabernet is a beautiful expression of mountain fruit with its layers of tobacco, fig, and dusty cedar - all hallmarks of the estate.
2018 was a delicious but smaller crop; make sure to get some while you can.
Enjoy!