2011 Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon
Market price
Buying options
Tasting notes
The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon has aged quite well, although it comes across as a bit monolithic because of its super-concentrated style. Sweet black cherry, chocolate, espresso and copious new oak abound. The 2011 is well done in this style. At the same time, though the wines belong to a time in the past when Chris Carpenter pushed extractions much more than he does today.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
Mid crimson (= pale for Napa Valley). Warm, minty nose. A little timid. Sweet and sour impression without quite enough in the middle. Slightly drying tannins on the end. A very vintage-stereotypical 2011? (JR)
(based on 82% cabernet sauvignon): Bright ruby-red. The nose shows a pungent piney high note to the aromas of blackberry and licorice, plus an infusion of aromatic herbs. Spicy and high-pitched, with a strong element of peppery herbs to the flavors of dark berries, candied licorice and minerals. Distinctive if somewhat green wine with good length. These vines were picked in early November.
Graphite, pencil shavings, violets, melted road tar, spices, blue/purplish fruit and lavender flesh out in the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon from La Jota. Aromatically striking and totally vivid in the glass, the 2011 stands out for its crystalline purity, finesse and vibrant finish. All the elements are in the right place. The tannins are firm yet also silky. This is a flat-out stunning wine from Chris Carpenter and La Jota. The 2011 is 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc and 4% Petit Verdot.