2008 Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon
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Tasting notes
Bright, deep ruby. Pungent, high-pitched aromas of cassis, violet and crushed rock; hints at a distinct mineral austerity. Then almost surprisingly lush and sweet on the palate, with rich, clean dark berry flavors expanding to fill the mouth and building on the finish. This highly concentrated, multilayered wine finishes with noble tannins and terrific lingering violet perfume.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Another stunning effort, the 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain comes from Jess Jackson's well-known Keyes Vineyard high on Howell Mountain. Like all of these wines, it is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. It offers stunning notes of crushed rocks, boysenberries, blueberries, black raspberries, black currants, graphite and a hint of toasty oak as well as a sensationally concentrated mid-palate and finish. Forget it for 3-5 years and drink it over the following three decades. One of the stars in Jess Jackson's Artisans and Estates portfolio, Lokoya focuses on high elevation mountain vineyards in four separate Napa appellations. Winemaker Chris Carpenter has been the force behind these wines for many years. Production levels were very low in 2008 with the exception of the Mt. Veeder (approximately 700 cases). The magnificent 2007 remains the vintage of reference for Lokoya along with 1997, 2001 and 2002. However, 2008 is a strong vintage although the spring frosts dramatically curtailed quantity. Speaking of the 2007s, which I reviewed from bottle last year, the scores they merited were: 2007 Diamond Mountain (95), 2007 Howell Mountain (97), 2007 Mt. Veeder (99) and 2007 Spring Mountain (95+). Tel. (866) 462-4641; Fax (866) 853-1707