Abacus 8th Bottling (2001)

About this wine

The Abacus 8th Bottling from ZD Wines is a unique solera-style blend, combining Reserve Cabernet Sauvignons from 1992 through 2001. This results in a wine that offers a rich tapestry of flavors, including leather, cedar, mint, and a variety of ripe fruits. On the palate, it presents notes of pepper-encrusted meat, caramel, strawberries, and cherries, creating an elaborate sensory experience. The solera method used in crafting this wine ensures a harmonious balance between the complexity of aged vintages and the freshness of younger ones. With only 250 cases produced, this wine is a rare and distinctive expression of Napa Valley's terroir.

About the grape

Cabernet Sauvignon, a cross between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc, emerged in France in the 17th century and has become one of the world's most recognized red wine grapes. Its thick skins and hardy vines make it adaptable to various climates, contributing to its global popularity. In Napa Valley, the grape thrives due to the region's warm days, cool nights, and well-drained volcanic soils, producing wines with rich fruit flavors and balanced acidity. The 2001 Z.D. Wines Abacus 8th Bottling is a unique multi-vintage blend of Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, showcasing the depth and complexity achieved through this innovative solera-style approach.

Quick facts

• 🍷 The Abacus 8th Bottling from ZD Wines is a unique multi-vintage blend, combining Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon wines from 1992 to 2001, creating a complex and layered flavor profile.
• 🔄 This wine is produced using a solera-style system, where each new vintage is blended with previous ones, ensuring consistency and depth over time.
• 🧮 The name 'Abacus' is inspired by the ancient counting device, symbolizing the wine's multi-vintage composition and the meticulous blending process.
• 📅 The 8th Bottling of Abacus was released in 2007, showcasing the evolution of ZD Wines' Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon over a decade.
• 🏆 Due to its limited production and unique blending method, Abacus wines are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.

Palate profile

Producer

Founded in 1969 by aerospace engineers Norman deLeuze and Gino Zepponi, ZD Wines is a family-owned winery located in Rutherford, California. The name "ZD" stands for "Zero Defects," reflecting the founders' commitment to quality, a principle carried over from their engineering backgrounds. The winery has been a pioneer in organic farming practices since the 1980s and achieved certified organic status for its vineyards in 1999. Now in its third generation, the deLeuze family continues to produce world-class wines while emphasizing sustainability and community involvement.