Spottswoode, Napa Valley (California) Cabernet Sauvignon Estate 2013

($186):  Stunning is a word that leaps to mind after tasting this wine.  Weighing in at less than 14 percent stated-alcohol, it dazzles with its elegance, harmony and length, not shear power.  Though it has plenty of that, too.  Paradoxically, almost, its power is restrained and not flamboyant.  It has a wonderfully refined texture and plushness that allows the glorious mixture of herbal notes, earthiness and dark fruit flavors to emerge even at this young age.  It changes as it sits in the glass revealing more complexity, so is wine to savor over a relaxed dinner.  You could enjoy it now for its youthful charm and stature, but I would favor a decade of cellaring to see it really shine. This is Napa Cabernet at its best. 97 Michael Apstein Oct 11, 2016