2011 J. Davies Cabernet Sauvignon Diamond Mountain

The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon J. Davies is another pretty wine from J. Davies. Here the aromas and flavors are more floral, spiced and expressive than in the entry-level JD. Raspberries, flowers, spices and licorice meld together on the resonant, generous finish. This is a remarkably textured, supple wine for the vintage and Diamond Mountain. The 2011 will drink well early and seems to be built for near-term pleasure. Readers won't find too many 2011 Napa Valley Cabernets where the fruit is so juicy. There is certainly a lot to like here.

Made from essentially the same blend, the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon is slightly more exotic with evolved aromas of white flowers, creme de cassis, licorice and graphite. This perfumed, medium to full-bodied wine possesses both power and elegance (as the finest Napa Cabernets often do). It should drink well for another 12-15 years. These Cabernet Sauvignons are made by J. Davies, the proprietor of Schramsberg. Tel. (707) 942-6668