2014 Nickel & Nickel Cabernet Sauvignon Hayne Vineyard

The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Hayne Vineyard, which like its siblings is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, comes from the base of the Mayacamas Mountains in St. Helena. Easily the blackest and most saturated in color of the Nickel & Nickel Cabernet Sauvignons, the wine is rich and concentrated, with loads of blueberry and blackberry fruit, some licorice, graphite, and a full-bodied, opulent mouthfeel. This is sensational stuff that should drink beautifully for the next 20-25 years.

The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Hayne Vineyard emerges from one of the most historic vineyards in St. Helena. In this vintage, the Hayne comes across as a bit soft and restrained. Bold red cherry, pomegranate and sweet floral notes offer good punchiness at the outset before some of that initial juiciness starts to taper off through the finish. There is fine balance, but less of the visceral thrill of the very best years.