1990 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
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Tasting notes
Critic scores
Robert Parker
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
Still healthy crimson. Sweet, minty start with flatteringly middle aged tannins – although they were sufficiently present that I scrawled 'maybe this needs meat?'. The rewarding, complex palate has strong notes of cassis and some dustiness. The finish is dry and particularly appetising. (JR)
1990 was the first vintage (4,756 cases produced) and one of the most abundant before the replanting became essential because of phylloxera, and was again made at Robert Pepi. However, the percentage of Cabernet Franc jumped to 10% in the final blend. Mia Klein, who worked with Tony Soter, was part of the winemaking team. This wine performed beautifully, and had that Château Margaux-like finesse, elegance and richness. Beautiful blackcurrant notes, graphite, rose petal and licorice, were all present in this deep ruby/plum-colored wine that came across like a Napa version of a first-growth Médoc. It is medium to full-bodied, with beautiful, integrated tannin, acidity and wood. This should continue to drink well for another 10-15-plus years.
Very pale brick-red. Maderized (two bottles tasted.)
About the producer
Spottswoode is one of those rare Napa estates whose reputation rests less on volume or spectacle than on persistent exactitude. Set on the western edge of St Helena, where the Mayacamas rise and afternoon breezes temper the valley’s warmth, the vineyard occupies a favoured pocket of the appellation.