Cabernet Sauvignon (1986)
SommeliAI Insights
A classic Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon with rich fruit flavors and a velvety texture.
About this wine
The 1986 Spottswoode Cabernet Sauvignon presents a deep, rich color and ripe aromas, leading to bold fruit flavors and a velvety texture. This wine has been described as having 'everything'—deep color, rich, ripe aromas, bold fruit flavors, a velvety texture, depth, and balance. Notably, Robert Parker referred to Spottswoode as the 'Château Margaux of Napa,' highlighting its esteemed reputation. This vintage is a testament to the winery's commitment to producing exceptional, well-balanced wines that age gracefully.
About the grape
Cabernet Sauvignon, a cross between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc, is renowned for its thick skins and resilience, making it a staple in Napa Valley's vineyards. Cabernet Franc, an earlier-ripening parent grape, adds aromatic complexity and subtle spice. In the 1986 Spottswoode Cabernet Sauvignon, these varietals were cultivated organically—a pioneering practice in Napa Valley at the time—contributing to the wine's distinctive character. The blend of 96% Cabernet Sauvignon and 4% Cabernet Franc showcases the harmonious interplay between the structure of Cabernet Sauvignon and the aromatic finesse of Cabernet Franc.
Quick facts
- 🏆 The 1986 Spottswoode Cabernet Sauvignon received a 96-point rating from Wine Spectator, highlighting its deep color, rich aromas, and bold fruit flavors.
- 🏡 Spottswoode's estate, established in 1882, is renowned for its historic Victorian home depicted on the wine label.
- 🌱 In 1985, Spottswoode became one of the first Napa Valley vineyards to adopt organic farming practices, achieving certification in 1992.
- 🍇 The 1986 vintage is a blend of 96% Cabernet Sauvignon and 4% Cabernet Franc, showcasing the estate's dedication to crafting balanced wines.
- 🌬️ Spottswoode's vineyard benefits from cooling maritime breezes due to its location between the Mayacamas Range and Spring Mountain, contributing to the wine's elegance.
Palate profile
Producer
Spottswoode Estate Vineyard & Winery, established in 1882 in St. Helena, California, is renowned for its historic Victorian home and commitment to organic farming. In 1972, Mary and Jack Novak purchased the estate, and after Jack's passing in 1977, Mary led the winery to produce its first Cabernet Sauvignon in 1982. Spottswoode became one of Napa Valley's pioneers in organic viticulture, farming organically since 1985 and achieving certification in 1992. Today, the winery is managed by Mary's daughters, Beth Novak Milliken and Lindy Novak, and is celebrated for its elegant, balanced wines and environmental stewardship.
