Carter Cellars Coliseum Block Cabernet Sauvignon 2014
Tasting Notes
Like in the previous two years, the 2014 vintage proved ideal for this naturally low yielding vineyard planted on fractured bedrock. Vibrant and concentrated, this robust Cabernet exudes confidence and character right out the gate. Dark and intense to the rim, concentrated aromas and flavors engage the senses with a spectrum of black raspberry, currants and wild berries. The mid-palate and finish are a perfect example of great hillside Napa Cabernet - plush fruit intertwined with a perfectly framed structure leading to a never ending finish.
"The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Coliseum Block is a 160-case cuvée that picks up the intensity level of fruit extract. It has a nice, sweet, earthy undertone, tobacco leaf, licorice, loads of blackcurrants and spicy oak. The wine is full-bodied, rich, hedonistic and lush. Drink it over the next 15 or so years."
94 Points ~ Robert Parker
Map of the Coliseum Vineyard
The History of the Coliseum Vineyard
Twenty years ago people thought Henry Hossfeld was crazy because of the slope and the solid rock he was trying to grow vines on in the south-eastern Napa hills in an area known as Soda Canyon. In fact, at planting, each vine hole was fractured into the terraces with a stick of dynamite. This dramatic site, steep and terraced like a Roman Coliseum has distinctive volcanic soils and as such, the resulting Cabernet fruit is also quite distinctive; structured graphite and herbal scented, compelling flavors. Today, we reap wines with massive fruit extraction, inky black color, and powerful tannins.
