2007 Kapcsandy Family Winery Grand-Vin State Lane Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 1×1.5L

Vinous 97

(14.4% alcohol): Youthful bright, dark ruby. Vibrant, very deep aromas of blackcurrant, spiced plum, violet, dark chocolate, licorice and coffee bean. Plush, spicy and wonderfully broad, showing sexy high tones to its flavors of blueberry and blackberry pastille and licorice. Remarkably horizontal and long on the back end even if it’s still young and tight. Finishes with a lovely touch of sweetness and wild spices. This is evolving very slowly. All of the Cabernet here was harvested in October in 2007. [Stephen Tanzer, 01/05/2017]

Anticipated maturity: 2020-2036

Robert Parker 100

Absolutely riveting, and even better than I predicted last year is the 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon – Grand Vin State Lane Vineyard. Made from 92% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Merlot, and the rest tiny dollops of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot (400 cases produced), in two weeks of tastings, this wine stood out as one of those singular efforts that it is impossible to get out of your mind and off of your palate. A flawless, seamless, profound example of Napa Cabernet, it exhibits an opaque purple color along with a gorgeous perfume of lead pencil shavings, cedar, creme de cassis, ink, flowers, and espresso roast. With phenomenal depth, a multidimensional personality, unbelievable length, and an impeccable integration of all its component parts, this stunning wine lasts and lasts, with a finish approaching a full minute. Give this profound wine 3-5 years of cellaring, and drink it over the following 25-30 years. This is a superb line-up of wines from Lou Kapcsandy, who emigrated from Hungary to set up a construction business in Seattle, which he gave up for his true love – making wines along with his wife, Bobbi, and son, Louis. They were fortunate to be able to purchase Beringer’s State Lane Vineyard in Yountville, and have it completely replanted by Helen Turley and John Wetlaufer. They then brought in Bordelais Denis Malbec to help produce the wines, which have gone from strength to strength. The 2006s are magnificent, but may be eclipsed by the 2007s. Tel. (707) 948-3100; Fax (707) 948-3106 [Robert M. Parker, Jr., 12/22/2009]

Anticipated maturity: 2012-2042