Not easy to get this in the Netherlands. Believe it or not, but this bottle will set you back at least 250 dollars in Europe. Managed to get a bottle at an auction. Was curious for a long time!
Very little fruit and the smell of nail polish just after opening. A slight panic decant helped it open up almost immediately. After 15 minutes it started to develop lovely aroma's of blackcurrant jam. Matches the colour incredibly well. After half an hour hints of spice and floral notes started to develop.
Love the richness and silkyness on the palate. So much deep red and black fruit, combined with hints of liquorice. Usually not a fan of liquorice but it is subtler than you might find in a Rhone Syrah.
Overall great wine experience! The French were not wrong in 1976. Wonder what else the US community would recommend of the same caliber.
by chess_notcheckers
4 Comments
$152 (1699 SEK) here in SE but still expensive though. I’m not part of the US community but I really do like Heitz 😊 The standard cab from Heitz will probably cost you just under $100.
If you get your hands on 2016 Napa cabs that are from good spots you’ll be impressed. Frogs leap is fun, Chappalet, Quintessa, I also like Faust for cheaper but still solid.
This is my wife’s favorite wine! Glad to hear the 2015 is doing well because we have some of those tucked away.
I love their stuff and although SLV is the “OG” Bordeaux killer I really enjoy Cask 23.
I find the following wines to be of similar caliber but a bit more French-esque: Insignia (2016 and earlier), Heitz Martha’s, Opus One (but likely 450€ plus), Dunn Howell Mountain, Pahlmeyer (Merlot blend), and Mayacamas.
There are many more – but those are ones that I find to be rather consistently made over the years.
Good luck – thanks for sharing!
I love Stag’s Leap, their winery is incredible too. Decanting always a must with anything after 2010, but patience is rewarded.