Spottswoode Cabernet Sauvignon 2023

100 Robert Parker's Wine Advocate Spottswoode's 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon will be offered to mailing list members in March 2026, prior to a general release in September 2026. It's certainly a strong effort, even for this benchmark producer, featuring layers of dark, dense cassis, blackberry and blueberry fruit. The new oak component has been completely subsumed by the fruit in this medium- to full-bodied wine. Greater density and concentration somehow come without weight, supported by silky tannins. Featuring a lovely, elegant mouthfeel and tremendous length on the finish, it should stand tall among the many legends produced at this estate.

99 James Suckling An exceptional release from this estate already known for purity and finesse. Aromas of black currants, berries, peppercorns, crushed stones, licorice and violets. The palate is tightly wound, with refined tannins, bright acidity and a luscious yet restrained mouthfeel that is flirtatious yet serious, with no hard edges or extra fat. This is a divine wine that is delicious now and will be for decades to come. Pure class.

98 Jeb Dunnuck Reminding me of the 2016, if not slightly more elegant, the 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate is based on 88.9% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8.2% Cabernet Franc, and 2.9% Petit Verdot and was aged 20 months in 57% new oak. Darker cassis, black cherries, new saddle leather, and flowers all define the aromatics, and it shines for its incredible complexity and depth even at this early stage. Medium to full-bodied and beautifully textured, it has a multidimensional palate with plenty of ripe, polished tannins and outstanding length.

98 Vinous The 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon is every bit as impressive as it was last year. Vertical and statuesque, the 2023 dazzles from start to finish. Gravel, red cherry jam, rose petal, cedar and new leather soar from the glass. Firm tannins shape this vibrant, intensely saline Cabernet Sauvignon. It's a wine to bury deep in the cellar. Classic Spottswoode all the way.