2009 Second Flight
Buying options
Tasting Notes
The 2009 Second Flight (59% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Merlot and the rest Cabernet Franc) is peppery and spicy with hints of tobacco leaf, red and black currants and mocha presented in an attractive, medium-bodied, lush, forward style. It is meant to be drunk early on, but it should easily keep 10-15 years because of its balance. Under the ownership of Stan Kroenke, this vineyard has been replanted and a new cellar has been constructed. The production of Screaming Eagle has remained between 700-1,000 cases, and a second wine, the Second Flight, includes 520-800 cases. The introduction of a second wine is an attempt to keep Screaming Eagle at its mythical level of quality. This vineyard, situated on the valley floor at the Oakville Crossroads across the road from the Rudd Estate, encompasses 60 acres, but only a small percentage is used for these two cuvees. Based on the three vintages I tasted, it appears the Second Flight wines include much less Cabernet Sauvignon and more Merlot than the flagship Screaming Eagle.
Critic Scores
Average Score
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
Robert Parker, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
A beautiful expression of the year, the 2009 Second Flight emerges from the glass with intense layers of fruit in a style that very much recalls Screaming Eagle. Today, the 2009 comes across as a bit more structured and tannic than previous efforts. Some of that may be the vintage, but I imagine the addition of 9% Cabernet Franc over Merlot to the blend is also a contributing factor. Either way, the 2009 is a striking Second Flight endowed with serious depth, purity and finesse. Sweet red berries, crushed flowers and sweet spices are some of the many nuances that are woven together in this appealing, totally delicious wine. The 2009 is 59% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Merlot and 9% Cabernet Franc.
About the producer
Screaming Eagle is one of the Napa Valley’s original cult Cabernets. Right from the first release, the now iconic producer garnered huge scores and a fanatic following.