1995 Spottswoode Cabernet Sauvignon Estate

(92-95 Points) Another outstanding example from this consistently high quality performer, Spottswoode's 1995 stood out in my barrel tasting as one of the strongest efforts of the vintage. Although tightly wound, it exhibits an opaque purple color, and a tight but gorgeous nose of blackcurrants, vanilla, minerals, and a touch of smoke and blueberries. Medium to full-bodied and impeccably well-balanced, this wine's structural components (acidity, alcohol, and tannin) are beautifully meshed together with the lavishly rich fruit that is presented in a medium to full-bodied format. This should turn out to be a textbook, classic Napa Cabernet Sauvignon that admirably balances elegance and power. Anticipated maturity: 2000-2015. (Tasted in barrel.) Wine Advocate #111 Robert Parker