2011 Woodward Canyon Cabernet Sauvignon Old Vines
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Tasting notes
(14.4% alcohol; from Champoux and Sagemoor Vineyards plantings—110 miles apart—dating back to the 1970s): Bright, saturated medium ruby. Slightly high-toned aromas of blackberry, licorice, violet and exotic oak. Tightly wound and high-pitched, conveying a distinctly imploded character to the flavors of dark berries, spices and mint. Sweet but edgy cabernet, with firm, oak-influenced tannins giving the finish a youthful dryness today. This will need a lot of patience, and it’s tough going today.
Critic scores
Average Score
Jancis Robinson MW
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
From Champoux and Sagemoor vineyards, planted in the early 1970s, 100 miles apart. Intense and clean, fresh and intriguing. Really appetising. Rich and rewarding. Intense. Thick and sweet. Old style cf Leonetti. (JR)
Along the same lines, yet with a smidge more concentration, the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Old Vines boasts rock star aromas and flavors of creme de cassis, black raspberry, chocolate and jam-covered toast that flow seamlessly to a full-bodied, layered and elegant profile on the palate. Possessing beautiful mid-palate density, notable tannin and a terrific finish, this superb Cabernet will have two decades or more of longevity. Tel. (509) 525-4129; www.woodwardcanyon.com