2003 Lokoya Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain Napa

(96 Points) Notions of crushed rocks, white chocolate, black currants, plums, and flowers jump from the glass of the inky/purple-hued 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain. With sweet tannin, massive body, and undeniable elegance as well as length, it should drink well for 15 or more years.

No matter who Lokoya’s winemaker may be, this estate continues to turn out some of Napa’s most interesting Cabernet Sauvignons. Christopher Carpenter, the current winemaker for this property in Jess Jackson’s Artisans and Estates portfolio, has succeeded admirably with the 2003s, which are almost as spectacular as the 2002s. They are all indigenous yeast fermented, 100% Cabernet Sauvignons aged 18 or more months in French oak. Production ranges from a maximum of 560 cases for the Mount Veeder, to 290 cases for the Howell Mountain. Wine Advocate #162 Dec 2005