Freemark Abbey Sycamore Cabernet 750mL 2012

Freemark Abbey Sycamore combines dark berries and black cherry with tobacco, cocoa and baking spice. Mostly new French oak and well-integrated tannins give this single-vineyard Cabernet a layered, substantial palate.

Key details

• Origin: Napa Valley, California, USA
• Sycamore Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon
• Includes Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot
• French-oak maturation
• ABV: 14.5%
• Sugar Level: Dry
• Body: Full-bodied

Flavor profile

Blackberry, currant and cherry unfold into tobacco, dark chocolate, cinnamon and clove, with integrated tannins and a long finish.

Cellaring & drinking window

This is already a mature bottle. The producer describes further aging potential, but its undated advice cannot establish how many years remain today. Assess storage history and taste a bottle now before committing to a longer hold; no reliable final drinking year is assigned here. Store unopened in darkness at a stable temperature around 55°F (13°C), away from vibration; keep natural-cork bottles on their side.

Pairing & serving

Serve at 60–64°F (16–18°C) with roast lamb, beef or mushrooms. Stand upright for sediment, taste first and decant gently only as needed.

After opening & when to enjoy

Recork and refrigerate after opening. Enjoy the same day for the fullest aroma, or assess the next day before serving; mature wines can fade quickly. Allow a chilled glass to warm slightly.

If you like this, you might also like

• Cakebread Cabernet Sauvignon 750mL — Another Napa Cabernet with dark fruit, spice and polished tannins.