99-Pt Spottswoode Napa Cab! NEW Release!

Why Buy: This double-99-point, 40th anniversary Cabernet from Spottswoode — one of Napa's pioneering, multi-generational families, and a producer whose exemplary old-school approach represents, for us, the very best of Napa — is a serious candidate for best-in-class of an exceptional 2021 vintage in the valley. And Bordeaux lovers, you’re going to love its Old World character, charm, and finesse. 

What They're Saying: Lisa Perotti-Brown of The Wine Independent was utterly spellbound by this 2021 Cabernet — "pure electricity!” she declared, in her 99-point paean, a wine shimmering "with bright, vivacious black and blue fruits, framed by firm yet super-ripe tannins and amazing tension, finishing long with loads of mineral, baking spice, and floral layers." And James Suckling was no less enamored, writing, in another 99-point review, that this Cabernet is "incredible... very complete [and] classy” and with tremendous "purity of fruit."

Our Tasting Notes: An enthralling experience, and the dynamic interplay of power and grace is evident from your very first sighting and sip. The deep, inky hue signals the concentration to come, while the nose serves up an intricate and evocative array of aromatics: ripe blackberry, crushed violets, warm baking spices. On the palate, you’ll find yourself seduced by its complexity, depth, and dimension, and by the utter seamlessness of the attack, with a mineral freshness that provides lift amid all the sumptuousness and heft. The finish lingers on, revealing nuanced layers of dark chocolate, dried herbs, and a hint of cedar. 

The Story: Though many Napa wineries fancy themselves "historic," Spottswoode's got a legit claim to the word, as one of the pioneering properties that helped to put Napa Cab on the map. Not in the 1970s, in the wake of the legendary "Judgment of Paris” — no, no, we're going all the way back to the 19th century, to 1882, when Napa was just acres of scrubby farmland and ANYTHING but trendy. In its earliest days, Spottswoode was known for producing quality fruit, supplying many winemakers in the region. The modern chapter of Spottswoode began in the 1970s, when the Novak family took over and released its first Cabernet in 1982, exactly a hundred years after the estate’s founding. Those early releases became highly sought-after, and, in short order, Spottswood became a cult favorite, beloved for the extraordinarily quality of its carefully crafted, richly attenuated Cabernets. Tradition, sustainability, and undeniable excellence: these are the calling cards of Spottswoode, and what continues to make these wines stand out. But the family has gone a step beyond in its commitment to sustainability. It has farmed organically since 1985, becoming one of the valley’s first certified organic wineries (CCOF) in 1992, while also embracing biodynamic practices, climate action, and social equality. 

The Specs: After a meticulous sorting process, the grapes underwent a temperature-controlled fermentation, with regular punch-downs and pump-overs to extract optimal color, flavor, and tannin. The wine then spent 20 months aging in 70% new French oak barrels.

What to Pair It With: This is a Cabernet that demands to be made the centerpiece of an elegant evening. For the ultimate in hedonism, pair it with a butter-basted ribeye or a creamy, truffle-laced pasta. 

Fun Fact: The winery's tasting room was once a Victorian-style house that the estate’s original owners lived in. It was built in 1884, and has been carefully preserved, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience the charm of 19th century Napa.

Our Guarantee: Remember, friends — we always buy and source direct, so you can be confident that your Spottswoode Cabernet will arrive in your hands with pristine provenance. This is a rare opportunity to secure a true landmark wine from one of Napa's most revered producers. Don't let it pass you by!