1997 Dynamite North Coast Cabernet Sauvignon
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Tasting notes
There are 45,000 cases of the 1997 Dynamite Cabernet Sauvignon. Given today's ridiculously overpriced wine market, the Dynamite is a terrific bargain. Most of the fruit comes from Pope Valley, a diverse viticultural area that is, inexplicably, part of Napa Valley. However, it has at least one super Cabernet source in the Cypress Vineyard of Flora Springs. Aged in oak barrels (the majority American), the Dynamite's dense ruby/purple color is accompanied by an overripe nose of black currants and jammy cassis. Lush, medium to full-bodied, and spicy, with low acidity, this is a mouthfilling, pure, textbook Cabernet Sauvignon to drink over the next decade. Don't miss it! Tel. (707) 996-5870; Fax (707) 996-5302
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Ruby-red. Slightly medicinal aromas of cassis and blackberry. Lively and fresh in the mouth, with dark berry and herbal flavors. Vinified for early consumption, and more pliant than a number of rock-hard, sometimes sour, and generally more expensive wines I tasted from this producer. Finishes with good fruit and firm, moderate tannins. The Chalone Group Edna Valley Vineyard Paragon Edna Valley and 1997 Chalone Estate Bottled Chardonnay were both marred by aromas of musty shower curtain, like most other recent vintages of these two wines that have come my way. Other Carmenet wines tasted: 1997 Chardonnay Sangiacomo Vineyard Carneros, 1997 Sauvignon Blanc/Semillon Paragon Valley Edna Valley, 1996 Merlot Sangiacomo Vineyard Sonoma Valley, 1995 Cabernet Franc Moon Mountain Vineyard Sonoma Valley, 1995 Moon Mountain Estate Reserve Sonoma Valley, 1996 Delta Zin Old Vines Evangelho Vineyard Contra Costa County.