The 2014 Mayacamas Cabernet Sauvignon from Mount Veeder is a wine that commands attention and admiration. This vintage has earned high praise across the board, with reviewers noting its impressive structure and complexity.
Wine Spectator awarded this Cabernet a stellar 96 points, highlighting its "terrific cut and tension" with flavors of "sweet bay, chaparral and pine forest." They describe it as evolving "slowly and beautifully," suggesting it can be enjoyed now or continue to age gracefully until 2042.
Vinous also rated the wine 96 points, emphasizing its "density, power and structure." Antonio Galloni noted the presence of "black fruit, leather, gravel, incense, tobacco, and scorched earth," suggesting that it remains youthful and benefits from decanting for immediate enjoyment. Galloni admired the evolution under winemaker Braiden Albrecht, praising it for its approachability and potential for further aging.
James Suckling gave an even higher score of 97 points, describing the wine as "muscular and chunky" with aromas of "blackcurrant, mushroom, wet earth and bark." He noted its serious nature and connection to the "Mayacamas DNA," with minimal new oak influence.
Jeb Dunnuck echoed this sentiment with a 96-point review, drawing parallels to a "great vintage of Lafite." He commended the wine's depth, richness, elegance, and "sensational purity of fruit," recommending aging for enhanced complexity.
Wine & Spirits offered a slightly lower score of 92 points but still praised the wine's "muscular, youthfully impenetrable" character. They appreciated the shift under organic practices and noted its need for extended cellar time to reveal its full potential.
Overall, the 2014 Mayacamas Cabernet Sauvignon is a wine of notable gravitas, ideal for collectors and enthusiasts willing to wait for its full expression.