Sparkman Kingpin Cabernet Sauvignon, 2018

Sparkman Cellars' 2018 "Kingpin" showcases the raw power of Red Mountain's iconic Klipsun Vineyard. This bold blend of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Petit Verdot offers classic aromas of black currants and cigar box with silky tannins surrounding rich dark fruits and chocolate. Scoring 93 points from James Suckling, this age-worthy monster delivers impressive intensity and balance while promising continued development for decades.

Technical Information

• Producer: Sparkman Cellars
• Appellation: Red Mountain, Washington
• Vintage: 2018
• Varietal Blend: 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Petit Verdot
• Vineyard Sources: Klipsun, Olsen, and Dionysus Vineyards
• Aging: 22 months in approximately 70% new French Oak
• Bottle Size: 750 ml
• Launch Year: First released in 2006
• Drinking Window: Best after 2024, will age for decades
• Provenance: Purchased from a reputable source and stored in a temperature-controlled wine cellar

Tasting Notes Kingpin attacks with a classic nose of black currants, black cherry, black plum, earth, cigar box and cedar. Silky tannins surround rich blue and black fruits, dark chocolate, roasted herbs and minerals. Deep, rich and approachable, this monster will only improve for a generation or more.

Critical Acclaim

• James Suckling (93 Points): "Aromas of crushed blackberries, red licorice and toasted herbs. Full-bodied with chewy tannins. Lots of polished black fruit and dark chocolate. Good balance and very good intensity. This still needs some time. Best after 2024." (02/2022)

• Vinous (91 Points): "The nicely evolved 2018 Kingpin combines 90% Cabernet Sauvignon with the remainder Petit Verdot. Dense and chewy in the mouth, it delivers ripe dark currant flavors, scorched earth tones and suggestions of menthol on the palate. Consume this over the next decade." (03/2022)

Producer Notes Launched in 2006, Kingpin celebrates the raw power and intensity of Red Mountain's iconic Klipsun Vineyard. While centered around Klipsun, the blend also includes fruit from Olsen and Dionysus Vineyards to create a definitive expression of Red Mountain terroir. Sparkman Cellars has created a wine with both immediate appeal and exceptional aging potential.