1991 | Cabernet Sauvignon
Freemark Abbey; Sycamore Vineyard
Napa Valley; Rutherford, California, USA
(93-95; Drink 2023-31)
Decanted 8H, more time appreciated.
Bought winery direct about 15Y post vintage.
We've always found the Sycamore as the more understated of the FAW Cabernet trifecta, but mostly over delivering each instance, and today is no exception. Some funky raspberry/cherry lead the nose, fruit leather, rich garden soil, shaved tanned leather; palate extends with dried Bing cherry, tobacco, dried raspberry, faint cedar notes. Tannins banished.
Possibly an ultimate burger wine when gratuitously paired with USDA Prime ground beef from Allen Bros. — 9 months ago
Located halfway up the hill dominating the principal valley of Barolo, supported by steep slopes lined by orderly vineyards, lies the 15th century Abbey of Annunziata. Medium Ruby with aromas of ripe berry fruits with earthy herb notes, aged for 12 months on oak. On the palate flavors of cherry, strawberry and raspberry with sweet vanilla spice. Fine tannins, vivid acidity, medium+ finish ending with earthy fruit character. Good value, Barolo like without $$! — 5 months ago
Paired with a butchers select choice cut and a sexy, smart and holder of all my heart and soul beautiful woman. This wine is velvety and jammy on the front with low tannins on the back end. Blessed to be in the Chi with my love and embracing empty nesting. — 8 months ago
Decant and pour. A fabulous still dark garnet with bricking. On the nose: Intoxicating musky sweet notes of cherry/plum, wet forest floor, stewed meat, black olives. Taste: creamy, silky smooth wine with dried cherry, prunes, soy sauce, pepper, smokey earth, mocha and a medium plus finish. Sure, on the downside, but showing its 31 year age beautifully and fun to drink tonight. Won a charity auction of old wines direct from the winery so more old vintage reviews down the road — 9 months ago
Located halfway up the hill dominating the principal valley of Barolo, supported by steep slopes lined by orderly vineyards, lies the 15th century Abbey of Annunziata. Deep Ruby with aromas of ripe berry fruits and pepper spice. On the palate flavors of cherry and strawberry, lively spice, well balanced with savory fine tannins on a medium+ finish ending with mineral character. Nice value! — 5 months ago
It is time for some Merlot on this #MerlotThursday. Let's bring Merlot back!
Dark ruby in color with a short reddish rim.
Nice nose of chocolates, cedar, licorice, spices and peppercorn.
Dry and fruit forward on the palate with nice complexity. Full-bodied with medium acidity.
Showing red and black fruits with cedar, vanilla, leather, earth, tobacco, spices, peppercorn, coffee, light cola and chocolates.
Long finish with round tannins and tangy cherries.
This 9 year old Merlot is drinking beautifully now, and the great 2014 vintage is showing very well.
Feels like a Right Bank Bordeaux right out of the bottle, but after 3 hours of airtime it feels like a Napa Cabernet.
This Single Vineyard is showing nice complexity with nice balance, and will continue to age nicely in the 10 years.
Good by itself as a sipping wine, or with food.
14.5% alcohol by volume.
93 points.
$60. — 7 months ago
Scott@Mister A’s-San Diego
2021 vintage. Old-school styled, Napa cabbage. The solitary nod to new-school is the medium-heavy body. Focused, dark fruit presence (not as much as Freemark Abbey but not far behind either). Plenty of value to be had here. Grip if you want it. Fruit if you so desire. Obvious balance. Nicely done. First Neal product visit/tasting but it won’t be the last. 1.24.24. — 3 months ago