2012 Scarecrow, Cabernet Sauvignon, Rutherford 1x750ml

Vinous 93-96

Bright medium ruby. An appealing elderflower quality lifts the aromas of blackberry, black cherry, licorice and minerals. Layered, rich and deep, with a chocolatey ripeness as well as a medicinal reserve to its plush flavors of cassis, black raspberry, spices and Rutherford dust. Seriously dense wine with broad, noble tannins. The estate’s oldest vines now make up barely 15% of Scarecrow’s flagship cuvee, but this wine nonetheless offers great potential. [Stephen Tanzer, 01/05/2014]

Robert Parker 98-100

Another blockbuster potentially meriting a three digit score is the 2012 Scarecrow Cabernet Sauvignon. This fruit bomb displays the classic sucrosity and sweetness of creme de cassis, toasty oak, licorice and floral notes as well as a hint of that loamy soil character that is often referred to as the Rutherford dust character. An inky/purple color, full-bodied voluptuousness and no hard edges suggest this creamy, perfumed, multi-layered wine may come closest in style to their perfect 2007. It should drink well for at least two decades. [10/01/2013]

Anticipated maturity: 2013-2033