Spottswoode 'Lyndenhurst' Cabernet Sauvignon 2021

94 Points Decanter

Spottswoode's 20th anniversary blend of its Lynderhurst bottling combines 79.2% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10.6% Merlot, 3.8% Petit Verdot, 3.5% Cabernet Franc, and 2.9% Malbec. Sourced from a number of sites throughout Napa Valley, aged 20 months in 35% new French oak. Though this is considered a second label of the estate, it is a fabulous wine in its own right. In 2021, it captures the powerfully compact tannin structure of the low-yielding vintage, matched by the savoury-spiced aromatics that are so prevalent in the best-made Cabernets of the year. Beautifully fragrant cranberry and cassis intermingle with dusty minerals, spearmint and sagebrush. Medium-bodied on entry, its upfront bright, red-berry fruit is juicy and showy until a wealth of robust chalky tannins overtakes everything and holds firm until resolving several seconds later with a cache of sweet brown baking spices, and candied violets.