2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain
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Tasting notes
The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain is a powerful, exotic wine. Black cherry, espresso, leather, licorice and chocolate confer notable intensity and gravitas. This dense, full-bodied Cabernet has a lot to offer. The 2015 is in its first plateau of maturity. It should drink well for another handful of years, maybe more.
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Average Score
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
(14.8% alcohol; widespread shatter during the flowering cut production by 50%): Bright ruby-red. Very dark scents of blackberry, cassis, licorice and bitter chocolate are lifted by a violet topnote. Surprisingly sweet and pliant on entry for such an infant Cabernet, then more tightly wound in the middle palate, with its bright, very intense dark fruit flavors complemented by sexy high-pitched spices and an element of bitter chocolate. Finishes with building tannins, an element of youthful austerity and classic dryness. This should be long-lived.
Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain is redolent of warm blackberries and black cherries with hints of Indian spices, fertile soil, cedar and hoisin. Big, full-bodied and voluptuous in the mouth, the concentrated, multilayered fruit is well framed by firm, grainy tannins and just enough freshness, finishing long and spicy.