The 2020 Spottswoode Lyndenhurst Cabernet Sauvignon is a noteworthy offering from California's Napa Valley. This red wine, produced by Spottswoode, showcases a complex bouquet and a refined structure, making it a commendable choice for Cabernet Sauvignon enthusiasts.
James Suckling awarded this wine an impressive 95 points, describing it as having "aromas of blackcurrant, hazelnut, and chocolate, with hints of mint and sage." He noted its "wonderful soft and fine tannins" that contribute to a "velvety texture and persistent finish," emphasizing its balance and subtlety. Suckling also mentioned that this vintage did not include grapes from Atlas Peak, a factor that did not detract from its excellence, suggesting it will improve with cellar aging.
Decanter provided a similar high score of 94 points, highlighting its "civic ruby color" and "loads of savory cedar spices, cinnamon, and tobacco brown baking spices." The review described it as "supple on entry with plump red berry fruit" and noted its "tangy blood orange acidity" and "crushed stone minerality." The tannins were described as "burly with good grip," yet the wine was deemed "light on its feet," indicating a well-rounded and energetic profile.
Wine Spectator's review, which scored the wine 91 points, focused on its "core of blackberry and black currant preserves" and "brambly energy and grip." The review mentioned notes of "licorice root, chaparral, and apple wood" on the finish, suggesting a robust and solid structure suitable for drinking now through 2030.
The Wine Independent also gave the wine 91 points, noting its blend composition—76.2% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10.3% Cabernet Franc, 6.7% Merlot, 5.6% Malbec, and 1.2% Petit Verdot. This vintage features more Cabernet Franc and less Petit Verdot than usual. The wine is "deep garnet-purple in color" with "gregarious scents of redcurrant jelly, fresh black raspberries, and crushed blackcurrants." The palate is described as "elegant and refreshing," with "soft tannins and lively red and black fruit layers."
Wine Enthusiast echoed the high praise with a 95-point score, commending its classic Napa Cabernet style and structure for aging. The review pointed out aromas of "blackberries, black olives, and bay leaves," leading to flavors of "black cherries, dark chocolate, and tobacco." The wine was described as "deep and persistent without being heavy," with an optimal drinking window from 2028 to 2038.
Overall, the 2020 Spottswoode Lyndenhurst Cabernet Sauvignon is highly regarded across multiple reviews, praised for its balance, complexity, and aging potential. It stands as a refined and expressive representation of Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon.
