The 2022 Spottswoode Cabernet Sauvignon is a distinguished wine from Napa, California, known for its exceptional balance and elegance. This vintage, primarily composed of Cabernet Sauvignon with smaller amounts of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, has garnered impressive reviews from several esteemed critics.
James Suckling awarded this wine a score of 96, describing it as having "pretty fruit and a rather soft texture," with "mild, creamy, layered tannins" that make it "easy and gorgeous" to drink now. He highlights its drinkability and suggests enjoying it young.
The Wine Independent gave this vintage an outstanding 97+ score, noting its "deep garnet-purple color" and "expressive notes of blackcurrant jelly, kirsch, and juicy plums." The review emphasizes the wine's "rock-solid backbone of firm grainy tannins" and "wonderful freshness," predicting it will age gracefully.
Jeb Dunnuck, scoring it at 95, commends its "deep purple hue" and "classic notes of crème de cassis, new leather, graphite, and spring flowers." He describes it as "medium-bodied, beautifully balanced, layered, and elegant," with potential to evolve over two decades.
Antonio Galloni of Vinous also rated this wine 95, calling it "a wonderfully classy, polished wine." He notes its "rose petal, bright red cherry/plum fruit, cedar and mocha" characteristics, acknowledging its charm despite a slightly softer profile.
Wine Enthusiast's Virginie Boone similarly gave it a 95, praising its "complex and smooth" attributes with "an exotic array of cigar, tar, black pepper and currant."
Finally, Decanter highlights its "attractive red berry fruit" and "lithe tannins" with a score of 95. The review emphasizes the wine's "brightness and energy" with "savoury layers adding depth and complexity."
Overall, the 2022 Spottswoode Cabernet Sauvignon is celebrated for its elegance, complexity, and potential for both immediate enjoyment and long-term aging.