Tasting Notes
Vinous 96+
The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon bursts from the glass with an exotic combination of pure power and intensity. Plums, mocha, lavender, espresso, licorice and new leather all blossom in a brooding, imposing wine that is going to require quite a bit of patience. This is another huge, dark Screaming Eagle. Plums, smoke, licorice and melted road tar add complexity on a huge crescendo of exotic aromas and flavors. The 2010 is 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Merlot and 9% Cabernet Franc.
Anticipated maturity: 2018-2030
Robert Parker 100
Utter perfection, the 2010 Screaming Eagle Cabernet Sauvignon (a 610-case blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Merlot and 9% Cabernet Franc; 14.5% natural alcohol) boasts a dense ruby/purple color along with a staggering bouquet of spring flowers, graphite, creme de cassis, kirsch, licorice and subtle toast in the background. Opulent and full-bodied with a multidimensional personality, gorgeous purity and a stunning, flawless texture, this spectacular wine is among the wines of the vintage. Under the ownership of Stan Kroenke, this vineyard has been replanted and a new cellar has been constructed. The production of Screaming Eagle has remained between 700-1,000 cases, and a second wine, the Second Flight, includes 520-800 cases. The introduction of a second wine is an attempt to keep Screaming Eagle at its mythical level of quality. This vineyard, situated on the valley floor at the Oakville Crossroads across the road from the Rudd Estate, encompasses 60 acres, but only a small percentage is used for these two cuvees. Based on the three vintages I tasted, it appears the Second Flight wines include much less Cabernet Sauvignon and more Merlot than the flagship Screaming Eagle. Tel. (707) 944-0749
