2012 Heitz Cabernet Sauvignon Martha's Vineyard
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Heitz have produced Martha’s Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon since 1966, making it the first vineyard-designated wine in the Napa Valley, set in Oakville. The name comes from the Martha’s Cabernet clone. Malolactic conversion is blocked on this wine despite lengthy ageing in barrel. Sweet, leathery and spicy on the nose, very cassis and jam with hints of liquorice and strawberry laces. Glossy and unctuous on the palate, this is unashamedly ripe and powerful, with a great depth of lightly raisined black fruit. Despite this, there is a real cut of acidity, which should help this age in bottle. Sweet cherry cola on the finish. (TP)
Critic scores
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Tom Parker MW, jancisrobinson.com
James Suckling
More reviews and scores
Heitz's 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Martha's Vineyard is marked by very ripe red cherry fruit and an unusual kirsch-like alcohol. There is a good initial burst of fruit but, sadly, little in the way of persistence or real character. That is unfortunate, because Martha's can – and should – be one of Napa Valley's most memorable wines.
Intense aromas of mint, eucalyptus, dark berries, currants and redwood. Citrus peel to boot. Full-bodied, layered and very pretty with silky tannins and a juicy finish. Tight and subtle. Retro cool. From organically grown grapes. Beautiful now to drink.