Cathiard Vineyard (OWC3)

Winemaker notes

2021: "A wine composed of the best of its namesake, Cathiard Vineyard displays an intensity and elegance that mirror the very soul of our terroir. On the palate, the wine showcases a velvety texture with rich flavors of dark fruits, tobacco and spice. Well integrated tannins provide structure and depth while a subtle minerality adds elegance and complexity. The finish is long and lingering, embracing the finesse of old world craftsmanship."

2021

James Suckling 99: Aromas of blackcurrants, pine needles, cedar, tree bark and fresh dark mushrooms. Some stone and black fruit, too. A very fine-grained wine, complex and refined with energy and focus. It’s elegant with a lasting finish. Hints of nutmeg and other spices at the end, with a touch of incense and sandalwood. Pure cabernet sauvignon from 45-year-old vines, the oldest hillside block at the property. 9,000 bottles made.

Decanter 97: Fragranced and floral on the nose with clear toast, liquorice, cedar and blueberries. Dense yet agile, this has weight and an instant texture in the mouth - like crushed velvet, massy and full but chalky and softly chewy while remaining cool and lifted. I like the clean aspect with a really mineral, graphite aspect to the finish. Feels polished and utterly elegant, still super young, this hasn't given up any tension yet, but it will be sublime in time. Blackcurrants, plums and sweet spices but cool too, nothing overripe or pushed about this. Very good.