SPOTTSWOODE ESTATE
NAPA VALLEY, CALIFORNIA 2022
WHY BUY:
Spottswoode’s old-school, family-centered ways represents, for us, the very best of Napa, and this terrific trio of wines we selected from their current portfolio (their Sauvignon Blanc that critics have termed "the aristocracy of domestic Sauvignon Blanc," the flagship Estate Cabernet, and the Lyndenhurst, their accessible "second wine" that delivers Spottswoode quality at entry-level prices) reminded us why Spottswoode continues to exert such a hold on us. All three are brilliantly typical of their approach, eschewing trends and flashiness in favor of an elegant, terroir-driven style. And Bordeaux lovers, you're going to love the Old World character of these wines, particularly their reds, with their endless charm and distinctive finesse — there's a restraint and sophistication here that recalls the great châteaux. If you’re looking for the heart and soul of Napa, it’s right here, folks.
OUR TASTING NOTES:
The 2022 Estate Cabernet is a wine of energy and dynamism; their winemaker describes it as "our lanky thoroughbred getting ready to run,” and it’s a marvelously apt characterization. The flavors are rich and varied: wild strawberries, marionberries, and violets, all layered with graham cracker baking spice, cocoa powder, and toasted spice, and together with a slight (but distinct) salinity. The 2024 Sauvignon Blanc showcases why Spottswoode has elevated this variety to an art form; it’s expressive and exuberant, with alluring aromas of peach, white florals, and orange peel that come forward without delay. Delicate pear flavors emerge on the mid-palate, leading you to a long and almost succulent finish. We loved the wonderful balance on display here, between texture on the one hand and acidity on the other. The 2022 Lyndenhurst delivers accessible elegance — embodying the estate's refined style in a more approachable format, with the kind of balance and grace that rewards both immediate enjoyment and patient cellaring.
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 VINEYARDS:
The regenerative organic, biodynamic and organic-certified Spottswoode Estate Vineyard is situated on the western edge of St. Helena in Napa Valley, an ideal terroir for winegrowing. The alluvial clay loam from Sulphur Creek fan provides superb drainage, while cool maritime breezes between Spring Mountain and the Mayacamas range ensure even ripening. Founded in 1882, the 45-acre Estate has a distinguished history and is stewarded by second-generation sisters, Beth and Lindy Novak.
THE METHOD:
The Sauvignon Blanc derives from some pretty innovative fermentation techniques, having been crafted in a combination of French oak, small stainless steel barrels, clay amphora, and ceramic and concrete cuves. This diverse vessel approach makes for a wine of extraordinary complexity, while at the same time maintaining its freshness. The Cabernets undergo meticulous sorting, temperature-controlled fermentation with regular punch-downs and pump-overs, followed by aging in predominantly new French oak.
WHAT TO PAIR THEM WITH:
The Estate Cabernet is a centerpiece wine; pair it with a butter-basted grilled ribeye or a creamy, truffle-topped pasta. The Sauvignon Blanc seems to have been designed expressly to be opened in the company of fresh oysters, goat cheese salads, or herb-crusted fish. The Lyndenhurst offers eminent versatility, and will complement everything from a grilled lamb shoulder to an earthy mushroom risotto.
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 a touch of 19th century Napa.
OUR GUARANTEE:
As always, we only buy and source directly from the estate, so you can be confident that your wines will arrive in your hands with pristine provenance. This is an ideal opportunity to replenish your stocks with the handiwork of one of Napa's most revered producers. Don't let it pass you by!
*Offer NOT valid in-store. This offer is made pre-arrival, with wines estimated to be delivered to your preferred store in Winter 2025 (Dec. 21st - Mar. 20th, 2026). All sale prices are the lowest available at Total Wine & More and ONLY valid through Concierge Sales. No further discounts or coupons may be applied. The price reflected on your order form is subject to change after the order is placed in the event of a change in tariffs or taxes that are imposed by the U.S. government, or in the case of currency fluctuations of 10% or greater. Offer not valid in KS, MI, NE, NY, OK & TN. This offer is valid for TWO WEEKS, or until sold out, and will expire on Sunday, July 20th, 2025.