2023 Spottswoode 'Lyndenhurst' Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley
Named after the historic linden trees that grace the Spottswoode estate, Lyndenhurst is a beautifully approachable showcase of Napa Valley terroir. Think of it as the Spottswoode estate’s "Second Wine" in the same tradition of Bordeaux Châteaux. It is crafted with the same pedigree, meticulous attention, and winemaking brilliance as the flagship bottling, but designed to offer immediate pleasure. The 2023 opens with expressive red fruits, highlighting Morello cherry and pomegranate. A bright, juicy core, framed by chalky tannins, offers both structure and elegance. Notes of violets, allspice, and dried herbs lift the finish. Softer and more approachable than the Estate Cabernet, yet no less serious or layered, it shows subtle mineral tension and beautiful depth.
James Suckling
A ripe, supple and refined red with flair, showing layers of black and blue fruit, violets, graphite, boysenberries, spices and ink. Lovely purity and juiciness bring early-drinking appeal. The palate is smooth and textural with fine-boned tannins and a luscious finish. A delightful representation of many AVAs across Napa Valley, from sourced and estate-grown fruit, including all five red Bordeaux varieties. Drink or hold.
The Wine Palate
Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2023 Lyndenhurst Cabernet Sauvignon comes bounding out with exuberant notes of red currant preserves, wild blueberries, and cassis, leading to hints of menthol, pencil lead, and wild sage. Medium-bodied, the palate is wonderfully elegant and vivacious, delivering red, black, and blue fruit layers with minerally sparks and fine-grained tannins, finishing long and refreshing.
Jeb Dunnuck
The second wine of this flagship estate, the 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon Lyndenhurst checks in as 75.4% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15.9% Merlot, and smaller doses of Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec, aged 20 months in 59% new oak. Crème de cassis, graphite, crushed stone, and spicy wood notes all shine here, and it’s medium to full-bodied, with a beautiful mid-palate, ripe tannins, and a beautiful finish. It’s a true gem of a second wine that will shine for 15-20 years if well stored. Drink 2025-2040.