Forman Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2011
(Napa Valley) - [VM 93] [WA 93]
Regular price $150.00 Sale price $139.97 Save $10.03
Influenced early on by the wines and winemaking practices of the Bordeaux region of France, Ric Forman has consistently sought a similar perfection for the wines of Forman Vineyard. Ric founded Forman Vineyard in 1983 to fulfill his dream of producing, as a sole proprietor, small quantities of classically made Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon. In 1978, after a 3-year search of Napa Valley for the perfect location, Ric purchased the current winery/vineyard site, which is perched on the ridge at the base of Howell Mountain overlooking the town of St. Helena. Overall, Ric Forman grows his grapes on 88.5 acres of land split between three different parcels, each one planted to the four Bordeaux varieties, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Petit Verdot. These locations each contribute their subtle differences to the wine, the whole of which is a synergy of complexity.
Ratings & Reviews
93 Points - Vinous Media:
"The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon is a gorgeous wine. Orange peel, spice, mint, cedar, tobacco and wild cherry give the 2011 a super distinctive, exotic profile. Deep and layered, the 2011 possesses superb richness and resonance. I loved the 2011 when it was first released and feel exactly the same way today. Ric Forman waited in 2011; this fruit was brought in at 26 Brix, which is to say on the riper side within the context of what is typical here. 2021-2031." - Antonio Galloni (May 2022)
93 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate:
The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon opens with a striking, totally gorgeous bouquet. Medium in body, the 2011 impresses for its beautiful aromatics and fine overall balance. The 2011 is a decidedly mid-weight, gracious Cabernet. Hints of spice box and cassis inform a finish laced with suggestions of Bordeaux’s Left Bank. It will be interesting to see where the wine goes over the coming year and if it puts on weight once it is in bottle. In 2011 yields were down 50% because of the poor weather. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2026.
Ric Forman is arguably Napa Valley’s first superstar winemaker. Although sometimes overlooked today, there is little question Forman has had a profound influence on a number of younger winemakers who still speak of him with great reverence. In 2012 Forman celebrated his 46th harvest. Today, Forman counts on the assistance of his son Toby, in running this small, family-owned jewel of an estate. As for the wines, they are superb, but, best of all, remain realistically priced for the consumer who wants to drink top-flight Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon without having to take out a second mortgage. The Chardonnay is made in the non-malo style Forman pioneered in the 1970s. Forman’s Cabernet is one of the classic masterpieces of Napa Valley, even if recent vintages come across as a bit riper than the norm. Still, it is impossible to go wrong with any of these wines." - Antonio Galloni (Dec 2012)