As is well documented, I am not a fan of the 2012 Napa vintage. The flabbiness just doesn’t do it for me, though scores would tell the 99% otherwise. This wine, however, manages a structural aplomb quite different from my usual 2012 nay-saying. No age to speak of on bouquet OR palate, it is dense and concentrated with rivers of harsh beauty springing up on all sides. Never going chubby, it strikes me as a timeless cab, well-founded in balance and able to go the long-run. A certain burnt aspect troubles me, but such is the story for stupidly round, hi-scoring vintages which everyone loves. Ripeness will do that to you. You know this. Just ask Paso. Still, Mount Veeder Winery manages to keep everything in check and I am grateful I have numerous brethren in the cellar.
2012 MOUNT VEEDER WINERY Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 14.5
Stephen McConnell 