REVIEWS
“The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Samantha’s is a ripe, plush wine bursting with dark blackberries, spices, licorice and new leather. The aromas and flavors build effortlessly to a round, explosive finish imbued with the essence of graphite, flowers, cassis, minerals and crushed rocks. This is an especially ripe, flashy wine loaded with depth and pure energy. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2024.’’ -Antonio Galloni, Wine Advocate #198, Dec 2011, 93 Pts
“Another exciting Rudd, this is plush, rich and extracted, featuring a dense mix of dark berry, black licorice, currant and tobacco-cigar box touches, firming before ending with fine-grained tannins. Best from 2013 through 2028.” -James Laube, Wine Spectator, Aug 2012, 93 Pts
The 2008 represents the debut vintage of the Samantha's Cabernet Sauvignon, which is our homage to the varietal that has made Napa Valley famous. The 2008 vintage was long and dry throughout the North Bay winegrowing region. Our Oakville Estate was lucky to escape the near record frosts that impacted Napa, and was only minimally affected by the cold dry spring. While our crop was drastically down in quantity, it was up in quality. We averaged only 1.75 tons an acre, and produced our finest wine to date in this difficult vintage.
"The 2008 Samantha’s is a blend of primarily Cabernet Sauvignon with 14% Cabernet Franc and small quantities of Merlot and Petit Verdot. Normally 600-800 cases are produced from their estate. Its dense purple color is followed by abundant aromas of creme de cassis, sweet licorice, charcoal and earth. This supple, dense 2008 should drink nicely for 10-15 years." -Robert Parker, Wine Advocate #192, Dec 2010, 92 Pts
The 2007 vintage was an almost flawless vintage for all varietals. A mild spring gave way to a cool summer marked by a few but short summer heat waves. This allowed the fruit to mature at a steady and consistent pace. Fruit ripened evenly while retaining acidity. Ideal harvest conditions allowed us a perfect storm of conditions for the highest quality wine possible.
"The 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Crossroads performed much better this year than it did last year...it is still unevolved with a primary character, but it does reveal attractive blueberry and cassis fruit interwoven with notions of incense, camphor, and licorice. As the wine sits in the glass, a graphite scent also emerges. Full-bodied with ripe tannin, but only hinting at its ultimate potential, this 2007 should be forgotten for 5-6 years, and enjoyed over the following 20-25 years." -Robert Parker, Wine Advocate #186, Dec 2009, 95+