2001 Cariad Cabernet Sauvignon
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Tasting notes
The 2001 Cariad boasts magnificent aromatic presence and tons of power. Black cherry, plum, chocolate, spice, leather, dried herbs and scorched earth give the 2001 its brooding profile. During this era Cariad was much more Merlot-based than it is today. I would prefer to drink the 2001 over the next handful of years.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Good medium ruby to the rim. Aromas of blueberry, blackberry, crème de cassis, espresso and licorice pastille convey an liqueur-like ripeness as well as an intriguing wildness. Thick, plush and sweet thanks to its chocolatey Merlot component but with a firm backbone to give shape to its black and blue fruit flavors. Plenty of dimension here! Finishes with substantial but perfectly integrated tannins and outstanding building flavors of black and blue fruits and licorice. This compellingly sweet, seamless yet firm wine boasts enough savory energy to maintain its balance, in spite of its 15.7% alcohol. And there's still plenty of baby fat 19 years later to buffer the wine's substantial fully ripe tannins. Manages the neat trick of thickness and generosity without heaviness or tiredness. No edges here!
About the producer
Colgin has been producing some of the finest Cabernet blends in Napa Valley since its first vintage in 1992. Within just 13 years, it was recognised as one of the top 50 wine estates in the world by Robert Parker.