V. Sattui Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2008

Founded in 1885 by Vittorio Sattui, this winery knows that wine goes with food.  They have an extensive deli at the Napa Valley tasting room which offers over 200 cheeses from all over the world, and you can have a picnic under the oaks outside.  V. Sattui produces, by my count, eleven different Cabernet Sauvignons.  Their wines are available only from the winery, either at their tasting room or from their website.

V. Sattui’s 2008 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon represents a vintage which experienced a spring frost and a dry growing season, meaning a lower yield and increased intensity in the grapes.  It is a blend of three Cabs from Henry, Preston and Vittorio's vineyards, fermented separately and aged in French oak for 18 months.  There is a 2% blast of Petit Verdot and a 1% hit of Cabernet Franc in the blend.  The retail price is $35.

Looking at it in the glass, it's a very dark wine, inky purple, and the nose gives aromas that are equally dark.  Cassis, plum, blackberry and a faint whiff of tar make a ripe, bold bouquet.  The flavors are fruity as well, with currant and blackberry appearing forcefully, but complexity appears in a savory note of pencil shavings that rides underneath the fruit.  The tannins exert a bit of force - good news if there's a thick, juicy steak in your future - but the silky mouthfeel allows for the wine to be enjoyed all alone as a sipper, if you like.


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