2023 Spottswoode 'Estate' Cabernet Sauvignon St. Helena Napa Valley
The crown jewel of Spottswoode, sourced entirely from the historic, organically and biodynamically certified Spottswoode Estate Vineyard that was established in 1882. The 2023 Estate Cabernet is a masterclass in graceful power. The 2023 vintage was a slow-ripening growing season allowing the canopies to achieve a perfect balance. With a flawless 100 point score from the Wine Advocate, James Suckling 99 points, and glowing 98 point reviews from both Decanter and Jeb Dunnuck, this is sure to be one of the wines of the vintage.
“Layers of dark, dense cassis, blackberry and blueberry fruit…... Greater density and concentration somehow come without weight, supported by silky tannins. Featuring a lovely, elegant mouthfeel and tremendous length on the finish, it should stand tall among the many legends produced at this estate.”– 100pts Wine Advocate
Wine Advocate
Spottswoode’s 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon will be offered to mailing list members in March 2026, prior to a general release in September 2026. It’s certainly a strong effort, even for this benchmark producer, featuring layers of dark, dense cassis, blackberry and blueberry fruit. The new oak component has been completely subsumed by the fruit in this medium- to full-bodied wine. Greater density and concentration somehow come without weight, supported by silky tannins. Featuring a lovely, elegant mouthfeel and tremendous length on the finish, it should stand tall among the many legends produced at this estate.
The Wine Palate
The 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon sports a deep garnet-purple color. It needs a little shaking to wake up notes of fresh blackberries, kirsch, and blackcurrant jelly, followed by nuances of violets, black olives, crushed rocks, and mossy tree bark. Medium-bodied, the palate is filled with energetic black and red berry layers, supported by firm, grainy tannins and wonderful tension, finishing long and earthy. This will easily cellar for 30 years+.
James Suckling
An exceptional release from this estate already known for purity and finesse. Aromas of black currants, berries, peppercorns, crushed stones, licorice and violets. The palate is tightly wound, with refined tannins, bright acidity and a luscious yet restrained mouthfeel that is flirtatious yet serious, with no hard edges or extra fat. This is a divine wine that is delicious now and will be for decades to come. Pure class. Drink or hold.
Jeb Dunnuck
Reminding me of the 2016, if not slightly more elegant, the 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate is based on 88.9% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8.2% Cabernet Franc, and 2.9% Petit Verdot and was aged 20 months in 57% new oak. Darker cassis, black cherries, new saddle leather, and flowers all define the aromatics, and it shines for its incredible complexity and depth even at this early stage. Medium to full-bodied and beautifully textured, it has a multidimensional palate with plenty of ripe, polished tannins and outstanding length. This is another truly great example of this terroir just outside of St. Helena. It will not reach maturity for 5-7 years and should evolve for 30, 40, possibly 50 years. Drink 2030-2073.
Decanter
Raspberry, cherry, and pomegranate notes lead, joined by fennel and sage. Positively gorgeous, with layers of floral and wild herb character and fresh, inviting, crisp tannins, all enhanced by a spine of zesty acidity. Elegant cedar wood frames savoury liquorice, fresh chanterelle, and red-toned, loamy earth notes. A very promising wine for the ages. Aged 20 months in 60% new French oak. Sourced from Organically farmed vines.
Vinous
The 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon is every bit as impressive as it was last year. Vertical and statuesque, the 2023 dazzles from start to finish. Gravel, red cherry jam, rose petal, cedar and new leather soar from the glass. Firm tannins shape this vibrant, intensely saline Cabernet Sauvignon. It's a wine to bury deep in the cellar. Classic Spottswoode all the way.