The 2018 Freemark Abbey Cabernet Sauvignon Bosche Vineyard is a notable offering from the renowned Napa Valley in California. This red wine, composed of 93% Cabernet Sauvignon and 7% Merlot, boasts an alcohol content of 14.8% and is sealed with a traditional cork closure.
James Suckling rates this wine 95 points, highlighting its "lead pencil, iodine and black fruit on the nose" along with "dried fruit" notes. He describes the palate as "rich" and "juicy" with a finish marked by "lightly toasted oak and spice." He suggests that this wine will benefit from another four to five years of aging to reach its full potential (jamessuckling.com).
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate also awarded the wine 95 points. The review notes a "hint of mint upfront" and a mix of "red and black currants." The wine’s "gentle herbal undercurrent" adds complexity, making it "rich and velvety without being overly broad or expansive," and the finish is described as "long and elegant" (Robert Parker's Wine Advocate).
Wine Enthusiast gave the highest score to this wine with 98 points. Virginie Boone praises it as a "juicy, delicious and sophisticated wine" with "impressive, complementary bolts of freshness and intensity." The tasting notes mention "gravel, black cherry, currant and herb," riding on a "structured and generous palate of memorable greatness." It is recommended to enjoy this wine best from 2028 to 2038 (Wine Enthusiast).
Vinous rates the wine 94 points, describing it as "a powerful, virile wine" with an array of "wild cherry, chocolate, spice, leather and grilled herbs." While the wine is "potent, savory and super-expressive," it is noted that it may need several years to soften (Vinous).
Decanter also gives 94 points, underscoring the vineyard’s unique characteristics, such as its gravel bench location and high water table. The review notes "bright black fruit nose with pretty red florals and classic Rutherford dust." The palate features "beguiling blueberry and black cherry flavors" and "angular tannins" that lead to a "confected finish." The wine is recommended to be enjoyed between 2022-2038 (Decanter).
Wine Spectator provides a slightly lower score of 91 points, but still commends the wine for being "ripe and expressive" with flavors of "sweet bay leaf, licorice and cassis." The finish is "lightly toasted, savory," and the wine is drinkable now through 2032 (Wine Spectator).
Overall, the 2018 Freemark Abbey Cabernet Sauvignon Bosche Vineyard is a complex and sophisticated wine with high praise from multiple reviewers, indicating its potential for longevity and development over the coming years.