I have come across a vertical of Cabernet Sauvignon Rutherford 1979, 1980, 1981 from this producer. Can you tell me anything about them and what the wine might be worth? It was found in temperature controlled cellar.
Answer From Expert Roger Bohmrich MW
The name is somewhat familiar to me, but there is a lack of information about Shown & Sons although there are a couple of references on the internet to their Cabernets from these vintages. I found a half bottle of one vintage offered for $9.99. No winery of this name shows up either in the Napa Valley Vintners listing or in that of NapaValley.com. As I often advise those who find a few bottles of older wines, it would be best to think of this as a great find for the drinking pleasure it might bring - rather than for its possible monetary value. There are two factors in your favor: first, the wines have been stored well and, second, Cabernets of this origin have the potential to hold in bottle. There was one private tasting note dated 2005 which spoke very favorably of one of these wines. Why not plan to try all three vintages side-by-side with a few good steaks and a group of friends in the near future? They will no doubt have sediment, so stand the bottles upright overnight and decant before serving.
