2014 Spring Mountain Vineyard, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley - 750ML

94 Points – Wine Enthusiast

From Spring Mountain Vineyard’s high-elevation estate above Napa Valley, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon reflects the site’s signature combination of mountain structure, mineral character, and restrained elegance. The vintage delivers dark fruit and savory complexity without excess weight, making this a particularly classic expression of Spring Mountain Cabernet.

Blend: 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Cabernet Franc, 5% Merlot, 3% Petit Verdot, 3% Syrah, 2% Malbec.

Tasting Notes: Blackcurrant, plum, blackberry, graphite, black licorice, cedar, and mocha lead the aromatic profile, with additional hints of violet, black olive, peppercorn, and bay leaf. The palate is medium-bodied and composed, with firm mountain tannins, fresh acidity, and a mineral-driven finish that balances savory depth with polished fruit.

Structure: Firm, elegant, and classically proportioned, with fine mountain tannins, fresh acidity, and excellent aging potential.

Drink Window: 2024–2033. The winery’s original guidance extended through 2033, and the wine’s structure suggests it remains comfortably within its mature drinking phase today.

Decanting: At this stage, decant for approximately 30–45 minutes. The wine has had sufficient bottle age to soften, so the goal is to open the aromatics rather than give it prolonged aeration.

For buyers who appreciate mature Napa Cabernet with a more restrained, old-school profile, the 2014 Spring Mountain Vineyard is especially compelling. Its combination of black fruit, graphite, cedar, and savory mountain character makes it an excellent bottle for roast beef, lamb, or a special dinner, while the estate pedigree and bottle age give it equal appeal as a thoughtful cellar selection.