2001 Freemark Abbey Cabernet Sauvignon 'Sycamore Vineyard' Napa Valley

Winemaker Notes:  Winter rainfall came mostly in late January through early March at about 60% of historical average. Bud-break began in mid-March. The vineyard successfully survived some frost in March and April. Several heat spikes occurred in May, June, and July, followed by cooling trends that allowed for promising development of fruit. Harvest was well paced and spread out over a long period, allowing us to selectively pick at optimum ripeness.

Dark ruby color. Enticing aromas of black currant, blackberry, blueberry, walnut, cedar, and vanilla. Full, plush and balanced flavors from start to finish of blueberry, black cherry, and cassis, with hints of dark chocolate. Modest integrated tannins lead to a crisp finish.

CRITICAL ACCLAIM


Robert Parker's Wine Advocate - "More backward and less precocious and mature is the 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon Sycamore, a blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Merlot and 8% Cabernet Franc. Like Bosche, winemaker Ted Edwards ages it two years in French oak prior to bottling. The Sycamore Vineyard, just south of Bosche, is planted in gravelly clay and loam soils. The wine reveals a dark, dense ruby/purple color along with copious spicy oak notes intermixed with blackberry, cedarwood, Christmas fruitcake and licorice characteristics. 92+"