The 2016 Ulysses Cabernet Sauvignon is a remarkable wine that embodies the essence of California's North Coast region. With a deep red color that shimmers in the glass, this wine is a visual delight. The elegant label of the bottle hints at the sophistication within.
On the nose, the 2016 Ulysses Cabernet Sauvignon offers a captivating blend of cool blue fruits, violets, and a distinct minerality reminiscent of damp rocks. It is a bouquet that immediately transports you to the beautiful Napa Valley, where this wine was crafted. The aromas are vibrant and enticing, enticing you to take that first sip.
Once on the palate, this wine continues to impress. Medium to full-bodied, it showcases a classic structure that is reminiscent of the great wines of St. Julien. The tannins are well-integrated, providing a velvety and focused texture that is both layered and soft. The flavors of sweet berries, fresh herbs, currant bush, and licorice dance on the tongue, creating a harmonious and balanced experience.
The 2016 Ulysses Cabernet Sauvignon is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot, showcasing the winemaker's artistry in creating a wine that is greater than the sum of its parts. It is a wine that can be enjoyed now, but for those with patience, it has immense aging potential. Hide a few bottles for 4-6 years, and it will evolve beautifully over the next two decades.
This wine has received high praise from esteemed wine critics. Jeb Dunnuck awarded it an impressive 93 points, describing it as a wine with tons of potential. James Suckling gave it an astounding 99 points, highlighting its breathtaking texture and phenomenal focus. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate scored it 95+, emphasizing its restrained elegance and need for additional aging. Wine Spectator awarded it 94 points, noting its well-built nature and potential for further development. Lastly, Wine Enthusiast gave it 93 points, praising its herbaceous and earthy notes.
In conclusion, the 2016 Ulysses Cabernet Sauvignon is a wine of exceptional quality that showcases the best of California's North Coast. With its captivating aromas, balanced structure, and impressive aging potential, it is a wine that will delight both seasoned collectors and those new to the world of fine wine.