Going back to the 2013 vintage, each release of this wine I've had the pleasure of sampling shares four qualities: approachability on release, ageworthiness, the indelible thumbprint of competence in the cellar, and the consistent register of Spring Mountain's character. Celebrating its 50th harvest this year, Smith-Madrone does it again.
This year's release, the 2021 Smith-Madrone Cabernet Sauvignon Spring Mountain ($65) continues the tradition of the aforementioned qualities with finesse and elegance. Medium bodied and translucent garnet in the glass, the bouquet serves up a walk through a hillside forest: cedar bark, dried rosemary, and even a dab of eucalyptus delicately frame the honest cabernet fruit that is neither ostentatious or restrained. Complex and refined, with seamless tannins and a bit of grip without being aggressive. On day two, it begins to relax a bit, but remain quite poised, suggesting longevity for this fine Cabernet. This wine is a delight to drink and remains one of Napa's treasures, not to mention among its greatest values at a price point that - shockingly, and at odds with most of Napa - has remained unchanged in 5 years. Dry-farmed at around 1,900 above sea level with steep slopes, the vineyards were planted when they founded the winery in 1971. 82% cabernet sauvignon, 18% cabernet franc, and a touch of petit verdot all aged 18 months in 65% new French oak. 1,65o cases made. 93 points.
