Spottswoode is among my favorite estate wineries in Napa Valley, always delivering stellar Cabernet and Sauvignon Blanc, and the 2017 vintage is no exception. At only 13.7% alcohol, it is lively and fresh as well as flavorful and structured. This estate Cabernet has a lovely wild strawberry note on the nose, deep red and black currant flavors and mellow mocha notes. This one will age beautifully for another 7-10 years, and it's a real testament to the fact that it IS possible to make a beautifully balanced, fresh Cabernet in St. Helena, one of the warmest parts of Napa Valley. The label doesn't boast much about it, but the estate run by Beth Novak Milliken is one of the greenest, most sustainably operated wineries in California (a list of certifications and accomplishments follows). (96 Points)
- Tim Teichgraeber
Spottswoode Certifications
· California Certified Organic Farmers since 1992 (Organic since 1985)
· Demeter Biodynamic certified
· B Corp certified
Key Practices
· Utilizes solar power for the great majority of winery and vineyard operations
· Promotes biodiversity using bird boxes, insectaries, apiaries and animal husbandry
· Participates in Marin Energy’s Deep Green program
· Spearheaded a grass-roots community restoration of Spring Creek
· Measures green-house gas emissions annually via an independent company (Sustridge)
Partnerships/Organizations
· 1% For The Planet since 2007.
o Land Trust of Napa County, Napa Valley Vine Trail, Natural Resources Defense Council, Center for Biological Diversity, National Forest Foundation, Sierra Club and more
· International Wineries for Climate Action: Since 2020 (one of first six applicant members)
· Porto Protocol: Since 2019
· CarbonFund.org Partner
· Beth Novak Milliken — Founding Chair: Napa Valley Vintners Environmental
o Stewardship Committee (
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