Spottswoode is a family owned winegrowing estate located on the western edge of St. Helena in the Napa Valley. The 46 acre estate, established in 1882, is distinguished by the historic Victorian home depicted on the label. Its entrance is graced by classic formal gardens, while the vineyard stretches behind to the Mayacamas Mountains.
The Spottswoode Estate was bought by Jack and Mary Novak in 1972. The first Cabernet Sauvignon was produced in 1982. Spottswoode also makes an exceptional Sauvignon Blanc, a second Cabernet named Lydenhurst and a Rhone blend known as Field Book.
Ruby in color with just a hint of bricking on the edge. 13.5% ABV. Leather and graphite on the nose. Currant, cassis, tobacco, cherries, dried cranberries, violets and soy sauce on the palate. Well integrated tannins. Admittedly, my cellar has been kept cold in years past but this wine continues to show better than recent notes on CellarTracker might indicate. This was my last bottle but I suspect well-cellared bottles will be stellar for years to come. A great wine for Father’s Day dinner!
My rating: 94 points.
The 2010 vintage will be released this Fall. I have ordered a few bottles, but at $145 per, the wine is no longer the value it was 5-7 years ago. Nonetheless, still highly recommended. Available at the winery via the mailing list and quite often at retail.
If you enjoyed this post please consider subscribing to Zinfandel Chronicles updates by email.
Tom:
Have you ever tried the Spottswoode Lyndenhurst Cabernet Sauvignon? Just curious how the Lynderhurst compares with the Spottswoode Estate Cabernet.
Peter
The Lyndenhurst is a step below Spottswoode in terms of complexity. That being said it is really good wine at an attractive price in the world of Napa Cabernet Sauvignon.
Thanks very much for the perspective; just the kind of comparison I was seeking! Much appreciated, Tom!