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2008 Hourglass Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon: 750ml
$159.99
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 9292 points,
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, December 2010
The flagship offering from a 4-acre parcel, the 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa is a 650-cases, 100% Cabernet Sauvignon offering an excellent opaque ruby/purple color as well as abundant aromas of camphor, creme de cassis, subtle smoke and graphite characteristics. Full-bodied, rich, dense and concentrated with some tannins still to shed, it should drink nicely for 15 or more years. 92+

