| Producer | Heitz Cellars |
| Country | United States |
| Region | California |
| Subregion | Napa Valley |
| Varietal | Cabernet Sauvignon |
| Vintage | 1997 |
| Sku | 15909 |
| Size | 750ml |
Heitz Cellars receives the entire production from the famed vineyard in Oakville for its limited edition of vineyard designated Cabernet Sauvignon. Its distinctive minty, characteristics, rich flavors, and overall balance have made it one of the most identifiable Cabernet Sauvignons in the world, and one of the most sought after. To add to its overall complexities, the 100 percent varietal Cabernet is aged for a year in American oak tanks and two and a half years in French limousin oak barrels.
The 1997 is one of the modern-day icons from Martha's Vineyard, and only the second vintage to be produced after the 1993 replanting. A rich and complex bouquet of ripe black cherry, mint chocolate, cassis and mocha is the prelude to a plush, expansive palate with remarkable volume and intensity. The velvety quality of the tannins is particularly special. While this is certainly a ripe vintage, the Heitz team produced a wine with impeccable balance which is only just entering the beginning of its drinking window. Every time I encounter it, it seems better than the last.
A deep, intense wine, the 1997 Cabernet Sauvignon Martha's Vineyard is rich and beautifully layered, with sweeping stature. Dark red cherry, crushed flowers, mint and spice fill out in the glass. At eighteen years of age, the 1997 tastes more like a ten year-old wine! There is no shortage of personality here, but readers need to give the 1997 at least another few years to allow some of the baby fat to melt off. This incredibly youthful Cabernet Sauvignon will drink well for another few decades. (10/2015)
This is layered and intriguing with blackberry, tar and burnt-orange character. Full to medium body and lightly chewy tannins. Fresh and linear. Hints of walnuts. Real Napa wine. Drink now.
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