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.
Dark crimson in color with some bricking at the edge of the glass. 14.1% ABV. Gorgeous nose of black fruits, saddle leather, pencil shavings and wet leaves. Medium body with perfect acidity and balance. Tremendous structure and concentration. Currants, cassis, plums and tobacco on the finish. Exceptional length on the finish with mostly resolved tannins. This will drink well at 25 years of age but I would not wait much longer.
My rating: 94 points.
The 2025 version of Spottswoode is currently available for around $225 per bottle. I stopped buying this wine many years ago.