Bottle Notes, Cabernet Sauvignon

1997 Plumpjack Cabernet Sauvignon – Bottle Notes

Gavin Newsom and Gordon Getty established PlumpJack Winery in 1995, inspired by one of Shakespeare’s most memorable characters, Sir John “PlumpJack” Falstaff. PlumpJack Winery sits squarely in the heart of Napa Valley’s renowned Oakville region, surrounded by a 42-acre estate vineyard highly regarded for the quality of its Cabernet Sauvignon.

PlumpJack holds a special place in my heart: My wife and I were married at their Squaw Valley Inn and served PlumpJack Merlot and Chardonnay at our wedding.

Dark crimson in color with some slight bricking at the edge of the glass. 13.8% ABV. Great nose of red fruits, cedar and leather. Powerful and concentrated. Cassis, currants, plums and graphite on the palate. This wine was big and tannic for the better part of the last 15 years. The tannins are finally resolving and the fruit is now shining through. Super showing for this 18 year old bottle. Drink over the next 5 years.

My rating: 93 points.

The 2012 PlumpJack Cabernet Sauvignon was recently released and can be obtained at retail and the winery for right around $100. The winery is also a great place to visit on your next trip to Napa Valley.

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