Spottswoode dates to 1882, when 17 acres of vineyard were planted by German immigrant George Schonewald. Following a change of hands, the property was renamed “Lyndenhurst” in a nod to the beautiful Linden trees that populated the grounds—and still do. After Prohibition put the estate in disarray, it underwent a few more ownership changes until being purchased by the Novak family in 1972 (it is still run by them to this day). Years of selling grapes to established names (Shafer, Duckhorn) paid off a decade later, in 1982, with the inaugural release of Spottswoode flagship Cabernet. Today’s “Lyndenhurst” offering, however, wouldn’t make its first appearance until 2002, and I’m sure thankful it did—it competes for the best under-$100 Napa Cab year in and year out. 

Nearly three quarters of the grapes in this bottle came from the Spottswoode Estate Vineyard—the source for their flagship wine. This 40+ acre vineyard has been organically farmed since 1985 and it extends to the base of the Mayacamas range on the southwestern border of St Helena. Here you can find a mixture of alluvial and clay-loam soils with some volcanic material. The remaining grapes came from distinguished producers like Young Inglewood, Darms Lane, and Oakville Ranch in the Napa AVAs of St. Helena, Oak Knoll, and Oakville, respectively. After hand harvesting and a long fermentation, the wine aged in 40% new French oak for 20 months. The final blend in 2014 consisted of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Cabernet Franc, 3% Petit Verdot, 2% Malbec, and 2% Merlot. 

2014 “Lyndenhurst” shows a completely opaque, deep crimson core leading out to a light ruby and magenta rim. This is a fully concentrated wine that clings to the edge of the glass after a few swirls. The nose is bursting with superbly ripe fruit and freshly-picked flowers; you can expect notes of black raspberry liqueur, fresh-picked violet, créme de cassis, black cherry, huckleberry, dark fruit blossoms, chocolate truffle, beautiful expressions of clove and nutmeg, underbrush, cedar shavings, and damp earth. The rich, mouth-coating palate has a lush feel with a fresh layer of acidity that frames the wine. Neither the tannins nor alcohol are overpowering; this is showing perfect integration for such a youthful cab. “Lyndenhurst” is a delicious wine right now and there is no need to wait whatsoever; it’s already in its prime and will drink well over the next 5-10 years. This is more opulent than the 2013 vintage so you best prepare yourself for a lavish drinking experience. Decant for 30-45 minutes and serve in large Bordeaux stems alongside a savory preparation of pan-seared lamb steaks. Enjoy yourselves!