Woodward Canyon Old Vines Cabernet Sauvignon 2017

Professional Ratings

• 97 Jeb Dunnuck

  The flagship here from this reference point estate is the 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Old Vines, which is based on 93% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Petit Verdot, and 2% Malbec aged 21 months in new barrels. The fruit comes 80% from the Sagemoor Vineyard, with smaller amounts from Champoux and Woodward Canyon. Deep purple/plum-colored with powerful notes of blackcurrants, dried earth, tobacco, lead pencil, and chocolate, this full-bodied, regal, austere beauty has a stacked mid-palate, a layered, mouthfilling texture, ripe tannins, and a great, great finish. Reminding me of a top Saint-Estephe (or Pauillac?), it needs to be hidden in the back of the cellar, but it will cruise for 30 years or more. Hats off to winemaker Kevin Mott for another gorgeous Cabernet Sauvignon that will stand up to the best out there.

• 93 James Suckling

  Plenty of chocolate and coffee character to the dark fruit here. It’s full-bodied with a velvety texture. Big wine, yet toned and polished. 93% cabernet sauvignon, 5% petit verdot and 2% malbec. Drink after 2022.

• 92 Wine Enthusiast
  As always, this wine is a blend of fruit from Champoux and Sagemoor vineyards, both first planted in the early 1970s. The aromas are reserved, with notes of blackberry, vanilla, spice and cigar box not yet ready to reveal themselves. Full, palate-coating, layered flavors follow, showing a lot of intensity. It packs a big punch, with a warm finish following. It's all about opulence but keeps it in balance.
• 91 Wine & Spirits

  Unabashedly old-school, this wine is all caramel and cedar, its black-fig fruit heavily paneled with oak. Don’t touch it for a decade, and decant it before serving.

• 91 Decanter

  Rich and full, with fresh, lifted notes of lively, engaging dark fruits. Balanced oak and violets, and a complex finish.