2012 Lail Cabernet Sauvignon J Daniel Cuvée
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Tasting notes
The utterly profound 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon J. Daniel Cuvée (100% Cabernet Sauvignon aged 20 months in 75% new French oak) comes from a mix of vineyards, with one each in Calistoga, Howell Mountain, and Oakville. It shows what’s so compelling about the 2012 vintage and has an incredible bouquet of crème de cassis, kirsch, sweet earth, cedarwood, and exotic spices that just jumps out of the glass. This flows to a powerful, full-bodied, sexy Cabernet that has tons of fruit and texture, ripe, framing tannins, and a monster finish, all while staying weightless, silky, and flawlessly balanced. It’s an incredible, perfect wine from a great estate and a great vintage.
Critic scores
Average Score
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Robert Parker
More reviews and scores
Lail Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon J. Daniel Cuvée Napa Valley Red) Bright full ruby. Explosive liqueur-like scents of black raspberry and chocolate plus a whiff of menthol. Compellingly large-scaled, full and opulent, conveying almost confectionery sweetness and chocolatey richness to its dark fruit, spice and licorice pastille flavors. Harmonious acidity and suave, well-integrated tannins give this wine lovely balance in spite of its serious ripeness and suggestion of youthful muscularity. This wine has plenty of baby fat to burn off and it may well last longer than my range suggests. A very flashy, modern Napa style.
A firm, dark and deep wine that shows freshness and edge for a 2012. Full-bodied, solid and savory. Cool tannins. Forest floor and sweet tobacco. Holding on beautifully. Flavorful finish. Drink or hold.
A ripe, explosive Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon John Daniel cuvée bursts from the glass with a rush of intense dark fruit. Spice and mocha overtones add nuance, but the 2012 is very much a wine of the vintage. A crescendo of intense, dark fruit builds to the round, explosive finish. The 2012 is undoubtedly striking. It is also on the edge of being overripe. Most of this fruit was brought in from October 15 to 29.