Abacus 7th Bottling (2004)

About this wine

Abacus 7th Bottling from ZD Wines is a unique blend of seven vintages of Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, combining wines from 1992 through 1998. This solera-style wine offers a rich tapestry of flavors, with the youthful vibrancy of blackcurrant and black cherry harmoniously intertwined with the mature notes of leather, tobacco, and subtle earthiness. The palate is full-bodied, showcasing well-integrated tannins that provide a smooth yet structured mouthfeel. Hints of dark chocolate and a touch of spice emerge on the finish, adding layers of complexity. The innovative blending technique ensures that each sip delivers both the freshness of younger wines and the nuanced depth of aged vintages.

About the grape

Cabernet Sauvignon, a grape variety renowned for its deep color and robust tannins, has been the cornerstone of Z.D. Wines' Abacus series since its inception. The 7th Bottling of Abacus, released in 2005, continued this tradition by blending multiple vintages of their Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, a practice that began with the first bottling in 1999. This solera-style blending method combines the complexity of aged wines with the vibrant fruit characteristics of younger vintages, creating a unique and evolving expression of Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. The Abacus series has become a cult classic, showcasing the versatility and enduring appeal of this grape in the region.

Quick facts

• 🍷 Abacus is a unique multi-vintage blend, combining every vintage of ZD Wines' Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon since 1992, creating a complex and evolving wine.
• 🛢️ The solera-style aging process used in Abacus involves blending small amounts of each vintage, ensuring a consistent and dynamic flavor profile over time.
• 🧮 Each bottle of Abacus features a medallion depicting an abacus, symbolizing the range of vintages included in the blend, with beads representing the first and last vintages.
• 📅 The inaugural bottling of Abacus in 1999 included seven vintages from 1992 to 1998, with only 15% of the solera bottled, while the remainder continued aging for future releases.
• 🏆 Abacus is renowned for its limited availability and high demand, often selling out quickly upon release, making it a coveted wine among collectors.

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.