2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Hyde Vineyard
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Tasting notes
Deep ruby. Vibrant, intensely spicy bouquet of red- and blackcurrant, candied cherry, black cardamom and anise. Lively, sharply focused dark berry flavors are firmed by juicy acidity, which carries into the finish. Closes with impressive lift and cut, repeating the anise quality. Really energetic stuff.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
There may not be a better Carneros Cabernet than Hobbs’ 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Hyde Vineyard. This beauty boasts a dense ruby/purple color, refreshing, sweet aromas of subtle menthol, black cherries, and black currants, full-bodied power, elegance, cool climate acids, and a long, layered finish. Enjoy it over the next 15 years. Previously recommended: 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa (90), 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To-Kalon Vineyard (95+), 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard (92+), 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Hyde Vineyard (91), 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Stagecoach Vineyard (94). Tel. (707) 824-9879; Fax (707) 824-5843
Saturated ruby. Fresh red berry and cherry aromas are underscored by dusty herbs and a hint of iron. Very fresh and red fruit-driven, with zesty acidity and a hint of candied licorice on the finish. This suave cabernet has very soft tannins and is impressively silky for young cabernet. It's still early days but I'll bet that this is really seductive soon after bottling.
About the producer
Paul Hobbs is one of California wine’s biggest names. Twice named Wine Personality of the Year by Robert Parker, he joined Robert Mondavi in 1977, worked at Opus One and Simi before setting up his eponymous winery in 1991.