Spottswoode is a family owned winegrowing estate located on the western edge of St. Helena in the Napa Valley. The 46 acre estate, established in 1882, is distinguished by the historic Victorian home depicted on the label. Its entrance is graced by classic formal gardens, while the vineyard stretches behind to the Mayacamas Mountains.
The Spottswoode Estate was bought by Jack and Mary Novak in 1972. The first Cabernet Sauvignon was produced in 1982. Spottswoode also makes an exceptional Sauvignon Blanc, a second Cabernet named Lydenhurst and a Rhone blend known as Field Book.
Terra Bella Vineyard is in Paso Robles and this wine is a blend of 95% Syrah and 5% Grenache. Field Book is produced for members of the Spottswoode Wine Club.
Dark crimson in color. 14.5% ABV. Savory nose of black and blue fruits, grilled meats and espresso. Rich and full bodied with robust acidity. Dense, concentrated and powerful. Perfect balance. Blueberries, blackberries, cassis liqueur and chocolate truffles on the palate. The finish is exceptionally long with silky tannins. Stunning Syrah that far exceeded my expectations. I should have known better given the producer. I will wait 2-4 years before I open my last bottle.
My rating: 95 points.
I blogged about Spottswoode previously in Overlooked Wines from Great Producers.
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