2008 Samantha's Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon

The 2008 Samantha’s (formerly called Crossroads) is a blend of primarily Cabernet Sauvignon with 14% Cabernet Franc and small quantities of Merlot and Petit Verdot. Normally 600-800 cases are produced from their estate. Its dense purple color is followed by abundant aromas of creme de cassis, sweet licorice, charcoal and earth. This supple, dense 2008 should drink nicely for 10-15 years. Ever since Leslie Rudd acquired this estate, formerly known as Girard, at the corner of the Silverado Trail and the Oakville Crossroads, he has been hell-bent to build it into not only one of the finest in Napa Valley, but in the world. This has involved a number of bold moves, including installing super-star David Abreu as vineyard manager, bringing in Pat Sullivan as the winemaker, and hiring Bordeaux’s globe-trotting consultant, Michel Rolland. The current portfolio is Rudd’s strongest to date. The Bordeaux varietal offerings come from one of Napa Valley’s classic sectors, which many people believe is the sweet spot for Napa Cabernet Sauvignon, the Oakville Corridor. Rudd’s neighbors include such renowned estates as Screaming Eagle, Dalla Valle and Plumpjack. Tel. (707) 944-8577; Fax (707) 944-2823