Stags Leap District Cabernet Sauvignon

Hillside. .... STRONG SIDE!

Second of the blind red wines at this quarter's S&E Wine Club, which for red was either Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc or Merlot from either Rutherford or Stags Leap District. Thanks Claude and Carrie!

Medium ruby red. A touch of greenery on the nose with chalk and blueberries. Heavy tannins (7/10) and medium plus bodied. Attack of black cherries on the palate with tons of volcanic like soil. Definitely felt reserved. Dry and long finish. Drink till 2022.

Clos du Val's 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon is a pretty wine with lovely balance and an understated personality to match. Plums, black cherries, tobacco, cedar, flowers and mint are laced into the silky, expressive finish. Overall this is an attractive, mid-weight Cabernet built on a classic sense of structure. It should drink well for the next decade or more. (Antonio Galloni, Vinous)

Little pre-Xmas taste. Served best at 61 a bit dry but good spice and charcoal flavors.

Delightful. Not much tannins left. Hint of leather and vanilla.

Flavors of blackberry, dark currant, and tobacco. Maybe a hint of mint. Nicely balanced medium bodied cab. Really yummy.

Ok but not great for $70

Meh....was okay but expected more. Too much oak and not enough fruit.

Nice balance

Surprising for a Clos du Val. Richer and more tannins than I am used to.