Somewhat quietly over the last ten years, Waterstone has been making a solid reputation for their Napa Cab, with consistent scores in the ninety and up category. The 2012 vintage is said by some to be the best yet. This is a fine example of a Napa wine labeled as a Cabernet Sauvignon, being more aptly described as a Bordeaux style blend. The Waterstone’s make-up is 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Merlot, with 2% each, Syrah and Cabernet Franc, and 1% each, Malbec and Petit Verdot. The alcohol content is 14.8% and the wine was aged for twenty-one months in French oak. Norm’s score is 91.
This cab opens with a nose full of cherries and other dark berries. The flavor is a robust and hardy presentation of cherry and currant. It is underscored by a layer of plum, with a touch of wild berry, which drifts into a rich and concentrated finish, highlighted by a hint of spice and mellow oak. This wine does not fade away, but continues to make its presence known until the next sip.
The Waterstone Napa Cabernet Sauvignon would be good with a steak fresh off the grill, like most Napa cabs. But, in addition, this wine would make a great companion for Chateaubriand, to accentuate the French characteristics of the meal, at a price much lower than comparable red Bordeaux. The Waterstone Napa Cabernet would also make an excellent choice for Beef Bourguignon, which is the way we enjoyed it.
Score: 91
Price: $23 – $28
By: Norm Bentley
North Georgia Wine Advisor
normwine@bellsouth.net
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