2011 Paul Hobbs Cabernet Sauvignon Stagecoach Vineyard
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Tasting notes
Glass-staining ruby. Pungent dark fruits, cherry compote and cured tobacco on the nose, with sexy floral and fruitcake qualities gaining strength with air. Broad and fleshy on the palate, offering densely packed blackcurrant and bitter cherry flavors. Velvety tannins add grip and focus to the long, smoky finish, which leaves a plummy note behind. Paul Hobbs told me that this fruit was picked after the rains, on November 1st, at between 27 and 28 degrees Brix, which is very high for this vintage. (JR)
Critic scores
Average Score
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Intensely mineral and savory, the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Stagecoach Vineyard stands out from the rest of the Paul Hobbs lineup. Graphite, rosemary, sage, ash, blackberry jam and pencil shavings jump from the glass in an intense Cabernet Sauvignon supported by incisive, dusty mountain tannins. There is plenty of personality in this hillside Cabernet.
About the producer
Paul Hobbs is one of California wine’s biggest names. Twice named Wine Personality of the Year by Robert Parker, he joined Robert Mondavi in 1977, worked at Opus One and Simi before setting up his eponymous winery in 1991.