Colgin Cellars Tychson Hill Cabernet Sauvignon/2017

Geographical Attributes

One of the most prestigious wines of the world capable of great power and grace, Napa Valley Cabernet is a leading force in the world of fine, famous, collectible red wine. Today the Napa Valley and Cabernet Sauvignon are so intrinsically linked that it is difficult to discuss one without the other. But it wasn’t until the 1970s that this marriage came to light; sudden international recognition rained upon Napa with the victory of the Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars 1973 Cabernet Sauvignon in the 1976 Judgement of Paris. Cabernet Sauvignon undoubtedly dominates Napa Valley today, covering half of the land under vine, commanding the highest prices per ton and earning the most critical acclaim. Cabernet Sauvignon’s structure, acidity, capacity to thrive in multiple environs and ability to express nuances of vintage make it perfect for Napa Valley where incredible soil and geographical diversity are found and the climate is perfect for grape growing. Within the Napa Valley lie many smaller sub-AVAs that express specific characteristics based on situation, slope and soil—as a perfect example, Rutherford’s famous dust or Stags Leap District's tart cherry flavors.

Blend

Cabernet Sauvignon

Vintner Notes

“Tychson Hill” reflects a deeper, darker element in the 2017 vintage, a compelling expression of the site with delicious flavors of black cherry, black currant, and molten chocolate. With a sense of purity and a feeling of clarity, the 2017 “Tychson Hill” unfolds with intricacy across the palate. The texture is supported by greater tannins with a dusted cocoa sensation. The balance between sweet ripe tannins and a crystalline acidity give the wine a calculated feeling of precision. These attributes ensure the 2017 “Tychson Hill” has an extended ability to age.

Ratings

Wine Spectator 94.A dense, packed version, with lots of steeped black currant and fig fruit forming the core, which expands steadily as it airs, fueled by extra tobacco, dark earth and espresso cream notes. A touch rugged and burly through the finish, an aspect of the vintage. This should cruise in the cellar and tame with time. Best from 2022 through 2038. Robert Parker 98.The berries at Tychson Hill vineyard were very small in 2017. “This wine totally required baby steps with the extraction,” said winemaker Allison Tauziet. Very deep purple-black in color, the 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Tychson Hill Vineyard leaps from the glass with vibrant black cherries, warm blackberries and blackcurrant scents with hints of violets, dark chocolate, lavender and camphor plus a fragrant waft of rose hip tea. Medium to full-bodied, the structure is taut, restraining all the tightly packed, energetic black fruit layers, with a wonderfully fine-grained texture and bags of freshness, finishing long and mineral laced. Still very tightly wound, this one needs time, but it should handsomely reward patience.