Elizabeth Spencer Winery Reviews
The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Calistoga features pretty straightforward cherries, cedar and vanilla notes—clean, correct, fruity and forward. Medium to full-bodied, it's supple, almost creamy in feel, even if it's not overly concentrated, then finishes with some silky, tea-like tannins. - Joe Czerwinski
Another strong performer from the Elizabeth Spencer winery, sourced this time from long-term partner grower Hendricks Vineyard among other top Sonoma Coast sites. “Very fresh and inviting on the nose: raspberry, fresh cut flowers, black plum, with fruity crunch and real charm,” the judges said. “Some smoke and meat and tobacco notes on the palate, elegant oak, juicy wild strawberries and great length. One for the Burgundy lovers, this is classy, elegant, and restrained – a stunning Pinot Noir.”
Elizabeth Spencer has two distinctive Cabernet Sauvignons in this year's California Collection line-up. The first hails from Napa and is sourced from a variety of sites across the valley, with the blend aged in 20% new French oak. It "surprised" the judges "with a delightful freshness". One added: "This is a good-looking bottle; it has layers of complexity and a fantastic finish. I can't help but think it needs some time in the cellar to really come alive."
This nononsense, nicely concentrated wine offers a firm, tannic texture, good blackberry, black olive and sage flavors and a medium body. It comes off a bit lean and edgy but will taste great with a steak. Or wait for it to mellow with some time in cool storage. Best from 2027. —J.G.
Rich, true fruit, berry pie elegant.