2003 Spottswoode, Cabernet Sauvignon, St. Helena, Magnum (1.5L)

JD98 "I was surprised at the youthfulness and purity of the 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate (but probably shouldn’t have been, given the terroir and winemaking team). It’s another deep, rich, full-bodied, even unctuous Cabernet with a gorgeous sense of elegance. Loaded with textbook Cabernet notes of darker currants and berry fruits as well as graphite, tobacco leaf, and cedarwood, it has wonderful tannins, a layered, multi-dimensional texture, and a fabulous finish. It’s mature, yet given its mid-palate density and ripe, sweet tannins, has lots of life ahead of it." JD May 2021

RP95 "In 2003, production jumped up to 3,700 cases, with the blend identical to so many other vintages with 96% Cabernet Sauvignon and 4% Cabernet Franc. This was a year where there was some freaky heat spells, but this wine has come through nicely. Deep bluish purple with notes of blackberry and cassis and charcoal followed by a soft, velvety textured, opulent and full-bodied wine that seems to be approaching full maturity. It is interesting, this wine is far more evolved, and on a faster evolutionary track than the 2001 or 2002. Nevertheless it is a beauty, loaded, layered and impressive. It must be one of the top 2003s. Drink it over the next 20-some years.

LP95 "The 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon, with 4% Cabernet Franc in the blend, is deep brick in color. It flows effortlessly from the glass with evocative scents of raspberry coulis, redcurrant jelly, and blackcurrant pastilles, giving way to hints of dried lavender, tobacco, and Chinese five spice with a touch of iron ore. The medium to full-bodied palate has super-fine tannins and seamless freshness supporting the elegant black fruit and earthy layers, finishing with wonderful purity. 3,700 cases were made." LPB for TWI Sep 2022