2012 Schrader, Old Sparky Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 1×1.5L

Vinous 88-91

Bright, full medium ruby. Brooding aromas of cassis and black cherry show a medicinal cast. Tightly wound and a bit peppery, but with a fine-grained texture to its flavors of dark berries, bitter chocolate and espresso bean. The note of peppery herbs carries through on the finish, where the dusty tannins are nicely ripe. Like the 2011, this is very Medoc-like. [Stephen Tanzer, 01/05/2014]