2012 Staglin, Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley

The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate may turn out to be one of the finest examples of this cuvee yet made. Already exhibiting complex notes of forest floor, spring flowers, loamy soil and abundant black currant, black raspberry, licorice and charcoal notes, this full-bodied, opulent 2012 shows no hard edges. It should turn out to be spectacular. Both of these 2012s will drink exceptionally well young and last for two decades or more. It is good to see the Staglins exploit the well-known Bella Oaks Vineyard made famous by Joe Heitz. www.staglinfamily.com

The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate has aged beautifully. Fresh, vibrant and so expressive, the 2012 is just starting to show the first signs of aromatic development. It retains the mid-weight structure of the year, with all its elements very nicely balanced. Sweet dark cherry, kirsch, mocha, espresso and licorice lend nuance throughout. This is such a pretty and satisfying wine.

Purchased at a restaurant in Napa, the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate showed reasonably well, but it’s clearly a step back from the magical 2013. Mature darker currants, blackberries, smoked tobacco, licorice, and lead pencil notes all define the aromatics, and it's full-bodied on the palate, with a layered, ripe mouthfeel, good mid-palate density, and outstanding length. If this bottle is representative, it's fully mature today with another decade of prime drinking ahead of it.