Composed of 96% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Merlot, and 1% Cabernet Franc, the 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate (nearly 4,000 cases produced) is a great buy for a world-class Napa Cabernet Sauvignon. It exhibits a dense purple color, notes of charcoal, creme de cassis, graphite, and forest floor, and a ripe, opulently fruity, rich, full-bodied style. Its endearing silkiness, multi-dimensions, and mature, sweet tannins suggest it has two decades of life ahead of it.
One of Napa Valley’s finest estates, and one that is not as appreciated as it should be, Larkmead fashions top-flight wines that should evolve for 15-25 years or more. Scotsman Andy Smith is the consulting winemaker for this estate, which is located off the valley floor just north of St. Helena. The 2007s are strong follow-ups to Larkmead’s terrific 2005s and 2006s. As a historical note, the 2009s will be the 114th vintage this iconic estate has produced. 94+ Wine Advocate # 186 Dec 2009
($60; includes 3% merlot and 1% cabernet franc) Good full ruby. Pungent aromas of raspberry, currant, graphite, dried herbs, violet and loam, along with a whiff of dark tobacco; smells like a Graves. Less giving on the palate than the nose suggests, with a firm edge of acidity keeping the flavors under wraps today. Finishes with youthfully strict tannins. Winemaker Smith notes that he has not added either water or acid to any of the Larkmead reds since the 2004 vintage. 91(+?) points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar, May/Jun 10
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