Chappellet Signature Cabernet Sauvignon 2009
Price:$51.00 in mixed case $45.90 SKU1812 |  |
The Signature Cabernet Sauvignon has been our flagship wine for more than four decades. It is a benchmark for the long-lived hillside wines of the Napa Valley; full of structure and aging potential, yet seductively forward in its concentrated varietal character. The dry, rocky soils of Pritchard Hill produce small, intensely flavorful grapes. Crop thinning allows for full, even ripening and further elevates flavor complexity.
Tasting Notes:
The depth and complexity that mark the spectacular 2009 growing season are fully on display in this wine, with head-turning aromatics of black currant, raspberry, cherry, plum and violet leaping out of the glass before revealing subtler notes of cola, cinnamon, clove, espresso, cocoa and anise. On the palate, the tannins are large, yet velvety, supporting voluptuous layers of blackberry pie, boysenberry, Bing cherry, bramble, cassis, rum raisin and baking spices. Oak-inspired notes of caramelized brown sugar and molasses add additional nuance, while leading to a plush, lingering finish.
Vineyard Notes:
Though rainfall was little more than two-thirds of normal for the third year in a row, the timing of the precipitation was on the vines’ side, as late spring rains delayed irrigation needs. June, July and August were cool, but September was quite warm, which helped the fruit reach complete maturity. A large storm hit in mid-October, but all of our grapes were harvested before the rains. Overall, an ideal growing season on Pritchard Hill.
Wine Enthusiast
Another terrific Signature Cabernet from Chappellet. This has primary blackberry and cherry-jam flavors, with an additional note of toasty oak. The tannins and acids are excellent, lending structure to the richness. The result is a wonderfully-complex Napa Cabernet that should develop over the next six years.
Score: 93.
—Steve Heimoff,
July
01,
2012.
Wine Spectator
Dense and a touch rustic, with chewy tannins, crushed rock, dried berry, sage and savory flavors. Maintains its firm, tight focus and appears built for the long haul. Best from 2013 through 2027.
Score: 90.
—James Laube,
June
30,
2012.
All sizes are 750mL unless otherwise noted.
Vintages and ratings subject to change at any time.
All pricing and availability subject to change.
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