2017 Freemark Abbey Sycamore Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley

Sycamore is a clear leap up in intensity over the regular Freemark cab that isn’t all that regular. The rich black and red fruit have more muscle power and interesting savoury raspberry cedar veins that run through a spicy, dark chocolate cherry jam finish. Freemark has had exclusive sourcing rights to the Rutherford Bench fruit of the 24-acre Sycamore Vineyard for 40 years. In 2017 the mix was 88/5/4/3 cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc, petit verdot and merlot, all aged 27 months in 74 percent new French oak. Winemaker Kristy Melton is knocking it out of the park at Freemark Abbey, adding elegance to what is now a modern Napa cab you can age 25 years.

94 points gismondionwine.com

This deeply colored Cabernet sees small additions of Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot. It is soft and supple, with red fruit at its core. A mix of cherry and currant play well against the savory components and graceful structure. 

95 points Virginie Boone wineenthusiast.com

Mint, spearmint, dark-berry and blueberry aromas. Leaves and sage, too. Full-bodied and firm with fantastic depth. Cool fruit with menthol and mint. Spice. Refreshing. Firm tannins. Fantastic 2017. Drink or hold.

97 points jamessuckling.com

From one of Napa Valley’s most historic estates, Freemark Abbey Sycamore Cabernet Sauvignon represents a classic expression of power shaped by pedigree and place. Founded in 1886 and revived in the 1960s by a pioneering group including Josephine Tychson and winemaker Ted Edwards, Freemark Abbey helped define Napa’s reputation for age worthy Cabernet. The Sycamore vineyard, located in the northern reaches of the valley near Calistoga, benefits from warm days, cool evenings and well drained alluvial soils that build concentration while preserving structure and aromatic lift.

A deep garnet purple fills the glass with commanding presence. Aromas rise in rich layers of blackcurrant, dark plum and blackberry intertwined with cedar, graphite, cocoa and subtle dried sage. There is an unmistakable Napa signature here, generous yet composed, where ripe fruit meets savoury complexity.

The palate is full bodied and finely structured, delivering concentrated cassis and black cherry fruit wrapped in firm, polished tannins and balanced acidity. Notes of dark chocolate, tobacco leaf and toasted oak unfold through the mid palate, leading to a long, powerful finish that lingers with mineral depth and spice. Built for longevity, this Cabernet Sauvignon will reward cellaring over fifteen to twenty years as tertiary nuances of leather, truffle and cigar box emerge.

A magnificent partner for deeply flavoured dishes, it shines with grilled ribeye, slow braised short ribs, roast lamb with rosemary or aged cheddar. Freemark Abbey Sycamore Cabernet Sauvignon captures the enduring grandeur of Napa Valley, perfect for celebratory dinners, fireside evenings and those moments when a truly classic Cabernet takes centre stage.