1999 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley
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Tasting notes
Good medium red-ruby. Very ripe scents of currant, tobacco, mocha and brown spices. Flavors of plum, redcurrant, tobacco and spices are complicated by an earthy nuance and framed by sound acidity. The serious tannins build toward the back without turning dry. This bottle struck me as a bit fresher than the sample that was part of my Seavey Cabernet vertical two years ago but the tannins are a tad medicinal. (14.1% alcohol)
Critic scores
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
(14.1% alcohol; includes 3% Merlot and 9% Petit Verdot): Moderately saturated medium red. Musky, slightly roasted aromas of diffuse red fruits, coffee and mocha. Supple on entry, then a bit lacking in give in the middle palate, conveying a lightly medicinal quality to its red fruit and red licorice flavors. The tannins are strong and dry, even a bit peppery. I don't see much further improvement ahead but this wine boasts solid fruit and grip.
The 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon (a blend of 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Petit Verdot, and 3% Merlot; 1,400 cases) possesses an opaque purple color, loads of tannin, and a big, structured, beefy style with intense, concentrated, highly extracted black fruits intermixed with cedar, plum, coffee, and leather characteristics. Although not the most succulent Seavey Cabernet, and less successful than such vintages as 1997, 1995, and 1994, it is loaded, and the tannin is not excessive when compared to the fruit level. However, patience will be required. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2020. Tel. (707) 963-8339; Fax (707) 963-0232