2005 Fairchild Cabernet

Since hurricane Ike blew into town, Paul and I have not done much blogging. All things in perspective, this blog had to take a back seat to the devastation we’ve all experienced recently in Texas. Last night we decided it was time to drink some fine wine, and ponder it’s simple beauty, and of course blog about it.

 We started off with the 2005 Fairchild Cabernet by winemaker Paul Hobbs.

Wine Details:

Varietal: 100% Cabernet

Vintage: 2005

Appellation: Napa Valley

A blend of 60% Sigaro Vineyard and 40% Beckstoffer Vineyard fruit. Only 90 cases produced although the label says 180. This is most likely because some winemakers ship 6 pack cases and not 12. The Fairchild estate produces only 1.5 tons of fruit per acre, giving the wine it’s dark, dense fruit flavors. Aged 20 months in French Oak

Garnet in color with. On the nose, rich black cherry, plum, cassis, leather, ash, toast, with a hint of vanilla, cinnamon stick, eucalyptus, cedar, and a floral component. The wine is extremely graceful on the palate. rich and full in the mouth with smooth, polished  tannins. The finish is very generous and explodes in your mouth. I found the wine was a little tight and evolved over the course of drinking the bottle. I would say this wine will improve for another 3 to 5 years.

Rating: 92 JH