Saddleback Cellars
2009 Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon
California: Napa Valley
Mission Briefing
King of Cabernet!
Sometimes it’s best to let Robert Parker do the talking. In reading his review again after simply loving a bottle of this over the past two days, I would argue that the 91 part of the review is still going strong. The wine is turning into something more than RP captures. Hidden gem alert!
“The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon shows gorgeous focus in its beautifully delineated fruit and expressive aromatics. Blackberry, cassis, spices and licorice are some of the nuances that wrap around the palate in this fleshy, generous Cabernet Sauvignon. In 2009 the blend is 94% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Cabernet Franc and 3% Petit Verdot. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2019.”
89-91 points - The Wine Advocate #198 - December 2011
Tasting Profile
| Look: | Dark fruit. Opaque. |
|---|---|
| Smell: | Black cherry jam, cedar spice, cigar tinder box, graphite, fennel, dust, and more black fruit. Opens fully on day two, if you make it that far! |
| Taste: | A dark and chewy Cabernet that’s abundant with black fruits, tannin, and regional / varietal spice. Couldn’t be a more classic example of powerful, real deal Napa Valley Cab. The Petit Verdot really inks it up and keeps things dark. Lovely stuff. |
| Finish: | Just the right amount of rich fruit and tannin. A classic bold style. It drinks really well right now, and will continue to do so with a smile for another 5+ years. A comfort wine. |
| Pairing: | Bring on the protein! Lamb chops, meatloaf, a simple grilled “cowboy cut” of grass fed beef. |
What the Winery Says
- Grape Varietal
- 93% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Petit Verdot, and 3% Cabernet Franc
- Vineyard
- Estate (mostly) Oakville, Napa Valley
- Winemaker
- Nils Venge
- Oak
- Aged for 24+ months in 65% new French and American oak.
- Accolades
- 89-91pts, The Wine Advocate