A quick look at recent Napa vintages from West Coast Wine Supervisor Marie Griffin.
California, Napa Cabernet Sauvignon has had great ratings over all, from 1994 thru 2004 according to the Wine Spectator’s vintage chart, 2007 edition. Their ratings range from 84 points to 99 points. Note that these ratings are for the overall vintages, not individual wines within the vintage.
Why be concerned with vintages? When faced with unfamiliar wines, they are helpful in making good choices, as well as determining when to drink a wine.
The Cabernets from 1994, 1995, and 1999 vintages were all rated 97 points. The ’94 and ’95 vintages are recommended to be at their best now, while the 1997 vintage would be great to drink now but can still be held until later. Of course, if you don’t currently have these vintages in your collection, they may be a little difficult to find.
The Cabs from 2000 to 2004 are going to be easier to find in wine stores. Most of our stores carry mostly ’03 and ’04 (for the most part, the 2005 vintage is just beginning to be released). And of course one thing to consider is that the more expensive the wine, the more likely it is still available! Bargains—especially among long-lived wines like Cabernet—tend to get snapped up quickly.
Wine Spectator’s rating system:
95-100 Classic
90-94 Outstanding
85-89 Very good
80-84 Good
75-79 Mediocre
50-74 Not recommended
Remember…..these are only guidelines!