Cabernet Sauvignon Solari 2017 Larkmead

Professional reviews

Robert Parker (92)

The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Solari (Black Label) is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, aged in Darnajou French oak, 90% new. Medium to deep garnet-purple colored, it is profoundly scented of baked blueberries, prunes and crème de cassis with touches of kirsch, cedar chest, menthol and bay leaves plus a waft of charcuterie. Medium to full-bodied, the palate has a solid structure of chewy, rugged tannins and lively freshness supporting the dense, muscular black fruit, finishing long and savory.

Winespectator (93)

Dark and winey, offering a mix of steeped black currant, fig and boysenberry notes, infused liberally with dark tea and licorice root flavors. Features a gutsy, juicy finish. This will need a little time. Best from 2022 through 2033.

James Suckling (95)

This rolls across the palate with a nimble, firm tannin structure that is beautiful and focused. Medium to full body. Savory finish. Hints of walnuts, dried tea and tobacco. Drink after 2021.

Vinous (94)

The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Solari is dark, fleshy and enveloping in feel. Black cherry, plum, tobacco, chocolate, licorice and grilled herbs add myriad shades of complexity, but searing tannins need time in bottle to soften. Pretty floral and savory notes develop in the course of time. The 2017 will reward readers who can wait.

Jeb Dunnuck (95)

The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Solari is a smaller production cuvée and is (as always) all Cabernet Sauvignon that was aged in 90% new French oak. Its similar inky purple color is followed by a beautiful nose of pure cassis and blackberry fruits intermixed with notes of dark chocolate, violets, crushed herbs, and plenty of chocolaty, earthy minerality. Rich, full-bodied, and beautifully concentrated, it stays focused, tight and backward on the palate, yet is loaded with potential. It's going to reward 4-6 years of bottle age and keep for 25+.