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2005 Hourglass Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon: 750ml
$129.99
about this wine:
"149 cases made. Last tasted 10-16-04. Most of the fruit was under contract to Duckhorn winery. Because of this commitment, the fruit Hourglass took that year was in close proximity to the three eucalyptus trees that flank one perimeter of the vineyard. This vintage is punctuated with an elevated aroma of eucalyptus, and mint, balanced by sweet coffee notes. Full body fruit flavors accented with crA"me-de-casis, dark chocolate, tar, and hints of pomegranate. Good tannin structure, but tannin is not as balanced with fruit as it is in later vintages. Round mid palate softness associated more with Merlot (but HG is 100% Cab). Long deep finish with lingering eucalyptus and pomegranate. A very solid wine, but has some angles that are better integrated in later vintages. Opens nicely with decanting. Should remain in its prime for the next few years, but may not be as long lived as later vintages. We suspect that the eucalyptus is gaining in the flavor profile as the fruit matures. (This is especially noticeable when tasted at cellar temperature. When decanted and warmed to room temperature the eucalyptus become more integrated with the fruit.) Has shown exceptionally well against other top Napa Valley '97 Cabs. When tasted blind upon its release in 2001, by David Stevens (then director of Tra Vigne's wine program, and now owner of ACME Fine Wines) and 25 wine industry professionals, along side '97 Harlan, '97 Screaming Eagle, and '97 Bryant, Hourglass never placed less than third in the flight with many higher ratings. This tasting of the maiden '97 vintage Hourglass set in motion the avalanche of interest in the brand. Decant 2 - 4 hours for full aromatics and texture."
points awarded:
WA 9393 points,
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, December 2007
Well-known winemaker Bob Foley is the force behind the wines of Hourglass. This tiny vineyard of around five acres is located just north of St. Helena on a gradually sloping hillside somewhat reminiscent of Colgin's Tychson Hill Vineyard or Vineyard 29, both nearby neighbors. These hillsides are essentially the lower foothills of the Mayacamas Mountains and are largely volcanic rock and loamy soil called "hambright." The 2005 is a beautiful wine, and another strong effort. Deep ruby/purple-colored with a beautifully pure nose of creme de cassis, spring flowers, subtle wood, and hints of graphite and cedar, the wine is rich, full-bodied, with sweet tannin, good acidity, and a long, long finish. It is still very youthful, but with 2-3 years of cellaring, this wine has the potential to jump a few points in score and will no doubt last for two decades.
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