1993 Grace Family Cabernet Sauvignon Napa

(91 Points) The 1993 Cabernet Sauvignon is a top-flight example of this high class vintage. Deep purple-colored, with well-integrated, spicy, toasty oak competing with gobs of sweet blackcurrant fruit and spice, this full-bodied, well-endowed, concentrated Cabernet is powerful yet well-balanced. It needs another 2-3 years of cellaring to resolve some tannin, but it will easily last 15-20 years. These limited production gems certainly merit the hyperbole and accolades they receive. This wine is only available via the winery's mailing list, and I am sure there are more potential suitors than wine to be sold. Current production has dwindled, largely because much of the vineyard is in the process of being replanted due to the phylloxera scourge. For example, in 1995 only the upper block of the vineyard was in production. Only 75 cases will emerge from this vintage, further ensuring a preposterously high price. In 1994 there are 175 cases. These beautifully made wines are among the finest Cabernets in California. I rarely report on them because they are, for all intents and purposes, unobtainable. Yet there is no doubting the high quality aspirations of the owner, and the skills exhibited by winemaking consultant Heidi Barrett in the production, aging, and bottling of these 100% Cabernet Sauvignon wines. Tel. (707) 963-0808