2018 Hudson Ranch Old Master
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Tasting notes
The Cabernet Franc-dominated 2018 Old Master (there’s 24% Merlot) has some classic Bordeaux-like green herb and tobacco notes as well as chocolatey dark berry fruits, medium-bodied richness, present yet ripe tannins, and outstanding balance. It’s another complex, impressive wine that’s going to evolve for 10-15 years.
Critic scores
Average Score
Jeb Dunnuck
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2018 Old Master is, in my view, the signature wine from Hudson, white or red. This blend of 70% Cabernet Franc and 30% Merlot is fabulous. Deep and explosive, with striking depth, the 2018 is outrageously beautiful. Inky dark red fruit, wild flowers, spice, mint and rose petal all race out of the glass. Cabernet Franc is not exactly what comes to mind when one thinks about Carneros, but it can be fabulous, as it is here. The 2018 is powerful and savory, with tons of class and without the over the top richness of some Napa wines.
The 2018 Old Master Proprietary Red is composed of 76% Cabernet Franc and 24% Merlot. It was aged for 22 months in French oak barrels, 80% new. Deep garnet-purple colored, it bursts from the glass with red currant jelly, kirsch and Black Forest cake scents plus hints of wild sage, tilled soil and pencil shavings. Medium to full-bodied, the palate offers a very firm, grainy texture along with a lively backbone, finishing with loads of layers.