2015 Moonracer Cabernet Sauvignon
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Tasting notes
The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Moonracer is soft, open-knit and expressive. Black cherry, lavender, mocha, chocolate, truffle and licorice show the gentle patina of age. Now at its first plateau of maturity, the Moonracer is peaking today. The 2015 was initially made as a Hartwell wine and was purchased by Realm as part of their acquisition of the estate. It was made from some of the warmest south-facing blocks on the property that have since been replanted.
Critic scores
Average Score
Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW, Wine Advocate
Robert Parker
More reviews and scores
The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Moonracer Realm Estate is forward and lush, as most wines are in this vintage. Inky dark fruit, chocolate, spice, new oak and sweet floral accents all meld together. Although the 2015 is open-knit and quite giving, there is a bit of edginess in the tannin that lurks beneath, a reminder of a growing season marked by intense heat and drought that make achieving full phenolic maturity a challenge. I would prefer to drink the 2015 on the earlier side, while it retains the gorgeous opulence that is on display today.
This was the first year that Realm owned the vineyards here. Full-bodied, tight and powerful with so much spice and stone character. Hints of dark chocolate. Extremely long and flavorful. Needs time to come together. Better in 2020.
Lastly, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Moonracer checks in as 77% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% each of Cabernet Franc and Merlot, and the balance Petit Verdot. This full-bodied, sexy, expansive beauty boasts a deep purple color to go with perfumed notes of blueberries, spring flowers, violets, and spices. With a terrific floral character, fine tannin, beautiful purity of fruit and an already impossible to resist personality, drink it anytime over the coming 20+ years. One of the most thrilling tastings I was able to do for this report, these incredible wines from Realm are made by the talented Frenchman, Benoit Touquette. These are true blockbuster, magical wines I wish every reader could taste.
About the producer
Realm Cellars has become one of Napa Valley’s most compelling modern estates, known for site-driven Cabernet Sauvignon. Drawing from some of the valley’s most sought-after vineyards, Realm’s wines consistently earn top critical acclaim while remaining firmly rooted in place.