Decanter Review – Seven Apart Expedition™ Cabernet Sauvignon

Published September 2, 2021 on decanter.com

Written by Clare Tooley MW

Toasted oak on the nose, with nutmeg, white spice, gingerbread and fresh linseed nuttiness. This is followed by dark berry fruit aromas seeping through together with more subtle florals (hibiscus) and a touch of a fresh Cabernet leaf. Full-bodied palate held in check by seamlessly tight-knit tannins, there is a concentration of ripe black berries, currants, plump blueberries and a hint of ripe strawberry. Restrained at this youthful state, the elegant oak mantle is firmly in place and unresolved. The level of acidity is well matched to the fruit ripeness and intensity, thanks to the mountain-top fruit from the Stags Ridge vineyard component, ensuring there is no hint of heat despite the 15% alcohol. There is an appealing lightness and energy to this wine despite its compact fruit core and oak barrel frame. Very elegant wine with no overbearing elements, finely tuned, refined, still a little reticent. It needs three or four years to find its feet but will age beautifully over two decades or more. Cru Classe Margaux-esque in its finesse, but with that signature, powerful, inimitable California fruit sweetness at its heart.

Drinking Window 2021- 2045

96 points