1998 Chimney Rock Dionysus Cabernet Sauvignon
This is the time of year we go through the old wine celler and bring out some of the good stuff. I have been hording a few bottles of Chimney Rock Dionysus and decided to open one. This is one of the last wines produced by winemaker Doug Fletcher before the winery sold half interest to Terlato Wine Group. Not as spectacular as the 95 point 1998 Reserve Cabernet, but still excellent at the 90 point mark. Stags Leap District still produces the best Cabernet.
Winery Notes:
Deep ruby brick in color, the Dionysus has well integrated aromas of blueberry and red licorice with a hint of wild mint and cedar. Medium tannins are softened by the Merlot component, and flavors of cherry, black licorice, dark plum, chocolate and smoky nutmeg evolve as the wine opens. Decanting this wine will bring out a host of full fruit flavors, typical of fine Cabernets from the Stags Leap appellation. The Dionysus vineyard no longer exists.
Varietal: 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot
Aged 18 months in 100% New French Oak
Lifespan: 25 years
Only 259 Cases Produced
Tags: cabernet, California, Napa
