Cliff Lede Poetry Cabernet Sauvignon 2017
- jd99
- we96
- v96
- ws92
Category | Red Wine |
Varietals | |
Brand | Cliff Lede |
Origin | California, Napa Valley, Stags Leap District |
Alcohol/vol | 15% |
Jeb Dunnuck
- jd99
The flagship is the 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Poetry, which is based on 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc, 4% Petit Verdot, and the balance Merlot. Straight-up awesome notes of black raspberries, blueberries, smoked tobacco, violets, spice box, and gravelly earth as well as a bloody, meaty character all emerge from this magical wine. With full-bodied richness, ultra-fine tannins, flawless balance, and a great, great finish, it doesn't have the sheer opulence of the 2016 or 2015 yet shows a more classical, elegant, style that still packs ample richness and depth. It needs 4-5 years of bottle age and will keep for 20 years or more. It's a candidate for the wine of the vintage and is an incredible achievement for this team. Bravo.
Wine Enthusiast
- we96
The producer's Poetry Vineyard is steep and at a high-elevation for the appellation. The wine opens in tones of tar, tobacco and brooding black currant, with highlights of cedar, lavender and sage. It's powerfully built and concentrated, showing the structure to last in the cellar. Best from 2027-2032.
Vinous
- v96
The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Poetry, Lede's top wine, emerges from the oldest vines on the property and some of the upper blocks, where the soils are very rocky. Deep and ample on the palate, the 2017 possesses off-the-charts richness and tons of character. A rush of black cherry, lavender, mint, pine, licorice and sweet spice builds effortlessly in the glass. Vertical in feel with tremendous lift, the 2017 is just stellar. All the elements are wonderfully fused together in this powerful, extravagantly ripe Cabernet Sauvignon from Cliff Lede and his team.
Wine Spectator
- ws92
A fun, extroverted style, with creamed plum and boysenberry preserve flavors sailing along, lined with red licorice details and backed by sweet toast. Shows brambly edges on the finish as the fruit drives through, delivering plenty of fruit. Drink now through 2030. 863 cases made.