California / USA wines in the Flickinger Fine Wines inventory http://www.flickingerwines.com/wineregions/californiausa.asp VM 97 (12/2012): Mocha, espresso, plums and raspberries float from the glass as the 2009 Proprietary Red Cappella conquers the palate and intellect. A sexy, radiant wine, the 2009 Cappella is bright, focused and exceptionally polished. Floral notes intermingled with hints of sweet tobacco, sage and mocha appear on the finish, adding considerable lift and finesse. Ideally the 2009 needs time in bottle, but it is incredibly appealing even today. I wouldn't suggest opening the Abreu 2009s anytime soon, but if I were going to open one, it would be the Cappella. In 2009, the Cappella is 72% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Cabernet Franc, 10% Petit Verdot and 3% Merlot. WA 96 (10/2013): The 2009 Cappella, which is nearly three-fourths Cabernet Sauvignon, followed by Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and a tiny quantity of Merlot, possesses an inky/purple color and sweet notes of incense, violets, espresso beans, white chocolate and lots of creme de cassis and blackberries. There is plenty of glycerin, but unlike a lot of 2009s, despite relatively elevated tannins, the wine is open, showy and exuberant, which I consider to be a positive. Production was tiny, with only 250 cases produced. The 2009 should continue to drink well for 20-25 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Abreu.aspVM 97 (12/2012): Mocha, espresso, plums and raspberries float from the glass as the 2009 Proprietary Red Cappella conquers the palate and intellect. A sexy, radiant wine, the 2009 Cappella is bright, focused and exceptionally polished. Floral notes intermingled with hints of sweet tobacco, sage and mocha appear on the finish, adding considerable lift and finesse. Ideally the 2009 needs time in bottle, but it is incredibly appealing even today. I wouldn't suggest opening the Abreu 2009s anytime soon, but if I were going to open one, it would be the Cappella. In 2009, the Cappella is 72% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Cabernet Franc, 10% Petit Verdot and 3% Merlot. WA 96 (10/2013): The 2009 Cappella, which is nearly three-fourths Cabernet Sauvignon, followed by Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and a tiny quantity of Merlot, possesses an inky/purple color and sweet notes of incense, violets, espresso beans, white chocolate and lots of creme de cassis and blackberries. There is plenty of glycerin, but unlike a lot of 2009s, despite relatively elevated tannins, the wine is open, showy and exuberant, which I consider to be a positive. Production was tiny, with only 250 cases produced. The 2009 should continue to drink well for 20-25 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Abreu.aspWA 98 (10/2013): The 2010 Cappella, ( 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Petit Verdot and Merlot) reveals a dense purple color, and even greater aromatic and flavor dimensions than the 2009. Notes of sweet creme de cassis, coffee bean, graphite, white chocolate and forest floor are followed by an intense, full-bodied, luxuriously textured wine that has plenty of tannin, but it is sweet and enrobed by sumptuous fruit and glycerin. This fabulous 2010 is one of the superstars of the vintage. It should continue to evolve for 25-30 years. VM 96+ (11/2013): The 2010 Cappella opens with expressive, savory tobacco, grilled herb, menthol and espresso notes, all typical of Cabernet Franc. Rich, layered and beautifully nuanced, the 2010 impresses for its depth and dark, intense fruit. Today, the 2010 comes across as tightly wound and not as expressive as it was from barrel, something that is typical of the vintage here. The 2010 is 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Cabernet Franc, 10% Petit Verdot and 2% Merlot, all planted on St. George rootstock.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Abreu.aspWA 98 (10/2013): The 2010 Cappella, ( 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Petit Verdot and Merlot) reveals a dense purple color, and even greater aromatic and flavor dimensions than the 2009. Notes of sweet creme de cassis, coffee bean, graphite, white chocolate and forest floor are followed by an intense, full-bodied, luxuriously textured wine that has plenty of tannin, but it is sweet and enrobed by sumptuous fruit and glycerin. This fabulous 2010 is one of the superstars of the vintage. It should continue to evolve for 25-30 years. VM 96+ (11/2013): The 2010 Cappella opens with expressive, savory tobacco, grilled herb, menthol and espresso notes, all typical of Cabernet Franc. Rich, layered and beautifully nuanced, the 2010 impresses for its depth and dark, intense fruit. Today, the 2010 comes across as tightly wound and not as expressive as it was from barrel, something that is typical of the vintage here. The 2010 is 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Cabernet Franc, 10% Petit Verdot and 2% Merlot, all planted on St. George rootstock.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Abreu.aspWA 98 (10/2013): The 2010 Cappella, ( 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Petit Verdot and Merlot) reveals a dense purple color, and even greater aromatic and flavor dimensions than the 2009. Notes of sweet creme de cassis, coffee bean, graphite, white chocolate and forest floor are followed by an intense, full-bodied, luxuriously textured wine that has plenty of tannin, but it is sweet and enrobed by sumptuous fruit and glycerin. This fabulous 2010 is one of the superstars of the vintage. It should continue to evolve for 25-30 years. VM 96+ (11/2013): The 2010 Cappella opens with expressive, savory tobacco, grilled herb, menthol and espresso notes, all typical of Cabernet Franc. Rich, layered and beautifully nuanced, the 2010 impresses for its depth and dark, intense fruit. Today, the 2010 comes across as tightly wound and not as expressive as it was from barrel, something that is typical of the vintage here. The 2010 is 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Cabernet Franc, 10% Petit Verdot and 2% Merlot, all planted on St. George rootstock.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Abreu.aspWA 95 (10/2014): Finally in the bottle, the 2011 Proprietary Red Cappella is showing even better than it did from barrel last year (a common occurrence at Abreu). The 2011, which includes more Merlot than usual because of the cold growing season, reveals terrific notes of espresso roast, chocolate, forest floor, incense, and blackberry and cassis fruit. This broad, round effort is an opulent, fruit-forward, supple, luscious wine that should drink well for 10-15 years.VM 94 (12/2014): The 2011 Cappella is about as soft and approachable a young Abreu wine as readers will come across. Savory herbs and ferrous notes add nuance in a pretty, accessible wine that will drink well pretty much upon release. I am quite surprised how expressive the Cappella is today.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Abreu.aspWA 96+ (10/2015): The 2012 Cappella, probably has less Cabernet Franc than his other cuvées but at least 25-30%. This wine has closed down since I had it from barrel last year, but that probably reflects more on its post-bottling dormancy. A wine of great character and class, with notes of charcoal, incense, blackberry, chocolate, and blackcurrants, this 2012 is super-full-bodied, beautifully pure, structured, powerful and long. Unlike many 2012s, it needs a few more years of bottle age and should evolve gracefully for 30-40 years.VM 96 (10/2015): Abreu's 2012 Cappella is dark, sensual and totally inviting. Dark red cherry, plum, menthol, smoke, new leather and spice notes are some of the signatures. One of the most open, young wines I have tasted from Abreu, the 2012 Cappella will please readers who don't or can't wait for some of the more structured wines to come around. Sweet rose petal and spice notes from the Cabernet Franc reappear on the finish, adding to the wine's, inviting personality. The blend is 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Cabernet Franc, 9% Petit Verdot and 4% Merlot. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Abreu.aspWA 95+ (12/2009): The 2006 Howell Mountain has already gone into hiding, but there is no doubting its enormous weight, richness, note of graphite, and minerality. The wine possesses enormous concentration and richness as well as lots of blue and black fruits, but I wouldn’t touch it for 7-10 years. It should keep for 30 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Abreu.aspWA 96+ (12/2011): The 2008 Howell Mountain is fabulous. Blackberries, savory herbs, graphite and mint are some of the nuances that are woven together in a fabric of notable class and sheer personality. The tannins are quite firm and suggest the 2008 will require considerable patience. Readers who can wait will be treated to a superb wine. The 2008 Howell Mountain is 63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Cabernet Franc, 10% Petit Verdot and 9% Merlot. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2033.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Abreu.aspWA 96+ (12/2011): The 2008 Howell Mountain is fabulous. Blackberries, savory herbs, graphite and mint are some of the nuances that are woven together in a fabric of notable class and sheer personality. The tannins are quite firm and suggest the 2008 will require considerable patience. Readers who can wait will be treated to a superb wine. The 2008 Howell Mountain is 63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Cabernet Franc, 10% Petit Verdot and 9% Merlot. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2033.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Abreu.aspWA 98+ (12/2010): The riveting 2007 Howell Mountain exhibits aromas of black raspberries, blueberries, crushed rocks and flowers along with full-bodied power accompanied by an ethereal delicacy and sublimity that make it a haunting wine to smell and taste. It should drink well for 25+ years. VM 97 (6/2017): Abreu’s 2007 Howell Mountain (known today as Las Posadas) shows the pedigree of this site in spades. A classic Howell Mountain wine, the 2007 offers fabulous depth and striking inner sweetness, along with remarkable translucence. Graphite, smoke, licorice, plum, lavender, wild flowers and crème de cassis add nuance throughout, but it is the wine’s balance that is truly remarkable. The 2007 was made entirely from the lower section of the vineyard, which was planted in 2002. The 2007 is gorgeous today and will drink well for another decade plus. This is a blend of 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Petit Verdot, 4% Cabernet Franc, and 4% Merlot.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Abreu.aspWA 98+ (12/2010): The riveting 2007 Howell Mountain exhibits aromas of black raspberries, blueberries, crushed rocks and flowers along with full-bodied power accompanied by an ethereal delicacy and sublimity that make it a haunting wine to smell and taste. It should drink well for 25+ years. VM 97 (6/2017): Abreu’s 2007 Howell Mountain (known today as Las Posadas) shows the pedigree of this site in spades. A classic Howell Mountain wine, the 2007 offers fabulous depth and striking inner sweetness, along with remarkable translucence. Graphite, smoke, licorice, plum, lavender, wild flowers and crème de cassis add nuance throughout, but it is the wine’s balance that is truly remarkable. The 2007 was made entirely from the lower section of the vineyard, which was planted in 2002. The 2007 is gorgeous today and will drink well for another decade plus. This is a blend of 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Petit Verdot, 4% Cabernet Franc, and 4% Merlot.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Abreu.aspVM 100 (11/2013): The 2010 Howell Mountain is simply magnificent. Inky, deep, and full-bodied to the core, the 2010 blasts out of the glass with graphite, pencil shavings, menthol, melted road tar, plum, cassis and licorice notes. The 2010 is an exciting, viscerally thrilling wine that takes hold of the sense and never lets up. Today, it is firing on all cylidners. The Howell Mountain is the only Abreu wine that incorporates Malbec, a variety that seems to work magic here. The 2010 is 63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Cabernet Franc, 8% Petit Verdot, 8% Malbec and 5% Merlot. WA 94-97 (10/2013): An absolute blockbuster, the 2010 Howell Mountain includes Malbec and Petit Verdot blended with the Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. It boasts an inky/blue/purple color as well as a sumptuous perfume of barbecue smoke, lead pencil shavings and wet rocks. This ripe, smoky, intense, full-bodied wine reveals a boatload of tannins, but also richer fruit and a deeper, multidimensional mouthfeel and finish than the 2009, which appears to be more broodingly backward and structured. This appears to be a great success. Consume it over the next 25-30 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Abreu.aspJS 97 (5/2016): So much tar with blackberry and blueberry aromas. Perfumed. Black olive. Forest floor. A fabulous Bordeaux blend with complexity and subtlety. Full-bodied yet polished and refined. Incredible length and finish. Wonderful spice. Hard not to drink now. About 300 cases made. March release.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Abreu.aspWA 95 (12/2006): The 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon Madrona Ranch is just an amazing wine in the vintage. Notes of smoked meats intermixed with licorice, camphor, graphite, blackberry, and flowers, with a hint of cedar and spice box, have produced a wine that is more up-front and forward than most Abreu wines have been, and gorgeously rich and full-bodied. Last year I thought the wine needed 2-3 years of cellaring, but based on this tasting, I could drink it now or cellar it for 20+ years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Abreu.aspWA 98 (12/2010): The 2007 Madrona Ranch is a compelling, creamy-styled red offering an assortment of aromas, including white chocolate, graphite, forest floor, blackberries, cassis and blueberries. Pure, multilayered and super-rich, without any harshness or astringency, this is one of those wines that can be drunk young or laid away for 25+ years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Abreu.aspVM 98+ (12/2012): The 2009 Proprietary Red Madrona Ranch opens with beguiling notes of smoke, tar, incense and graphite. Layers of fruit blossom in the glass as this fleshy seductive wine continues to open up. Rich and multi-dimensional, the 2009 impresses for the way it covers every inch of the palate. This is a drop-dead gorgeous wine from David Abreu and Brad Grimes. The 2009 is 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Cabernet Franc, 10% Petit Verdot and 5% Merlot. WA 97 (10/2013): Initially reviewed in December, 2010, the 2009 Madrona Ranch has turned out to be spectacular. Lots of mulberry, blackberry, cassis, roasted coffee, chocolate and toast aromas are all present in the extremely perfumed bouquet. Showing more evolution and charm than other 2009s which seem to be closing down, this example is exceptionally concentrated and full-bodied with an endless finish. The tannins are ripe, and I suspect the alcohol is in the 14%-15% range, but no higher. This dense purple-colored, still youthful, approachable 2009 can be drunk now and over the next 15-20 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Abreu.aspWA 98 (10/2013): The 2010 Madrona Ranch, which David Abreu told me he crop-thinned by at least 50%, is a more backward, tannic, brooding wine at present. An inky/purple color and lots of baking spice, espresso, black and blue fruits, and hints of graphite and toast emerge from this wine as well as formidable tannins in the finish. However, the tannins are sweet and well-integrated in this big, blockbuster effort. It will require patience by purchasers as it needs to be forgotten for 4-5 years; it will drink well over the following three decades.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Abreu.aspWA 98 (10/2013): The 2010 Madrona Ranch, which David Abreu told me he crop-thinned by at least 50%, is a more backward, tannic, brooding wine at present. An inky/purple color and lots of baking spice, espresso, black and blue fruits, and hints of graphite and toast emerge from this wine as well as formidable tannins in the finish. However, the tannins are sweet and well-integrated in this big, blockbuster effort. It will require patience by purchasers as it needs to be forgotten for 4-5 years; it will drink well over the following three decades.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Abreu.aspWA 100 (10/2015): The perfect 2012 Madrona Ranch displays notes of roasted coffee, forest floor, incense, Christmas fruitcake, blackcurrants and blackberry fruit in an incredibly fragrant, full-bodied, opulent style. Far more dramatic and open-knit Capella, the 2012 Madrona is super-intense, with incredibly velvety tannins. This is a sublime wine of the highest order, a fabulous example of the vintage, and a tribute to the craftsmanship of David Abreu and Brad Grimes. It should drink well for 30+ years. VM 100 (10/2015): One of the many highlights in this tasting, the 2012 Madrona Ranch is a real stunner. Bright, nuanced and lively, the 2012 exudes freshness. Blood orange, sweet red berries, mint, cinnamon and a host of bright notes grace the palate. Exquisite, subtle and beautifully nuanced, the 2012 has everything going on. Best of all, the 2012 won't require much cellaring. In 2012, the Madrona Ranch is 47% Cabernet Sauvignon, 45% Cabernet Franc, 6% Petit Verdot and 2% Merlot. Antonio Galloni. JS 97 (7/2015): Intense aromas of mushroom, earth and dried flowers follow through to a full body with juicy, rich and ripe tannins and a beautiful austerity. Very contrasty and structured. Balanced and powerful. Needs a lot of time to soften. 53% cabernet sauvignon, 26% merlot, 12% cabernet franc, and 9% petit verdot. Madrone Howell Mountain and Thorevilos from Abreu. Wait until 2021 to soften. March 2016 release.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Abreu.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Abreu.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Abreu.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Abreu.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Abreu.aspWA 94 (10/2014): The sumptuous 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon exhibits a deep purple color along with notes of incense, white chocolate, mocha, blackberries, blackcurrants, forest floor and barrique smells in the background. This dense, full-bodied 2010 is the richest, most complex of these offerings from Rothwell Hyde. Drink now-2028. VM 94 (12/2014): Perhaps the greatest compliment I can pay the 2010 Rothwell Hyde, Abreu's rarely seen second wine, is that Brad Grimes served it last in our tasting and it more than held it's own. Sure, there is plenty of vintage 2010 pedigree, along with the typical Abreu textural richness, but it is the wine's overall balance that leaves the most lasting impression. Rothwell Hyde is made from a selection of the wines that don't go into the four main labels and is sold mostly through the mailing list and in a few select restaurants. If you see the 2010, grab it.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Abreu.aspVM 93 (12/2016): The 2013 Rothwell Hyde is the hidden gem in this lineup from Abreu. Made from a selection of fruit that does not go into the single-vineyard wines, the Rothwell Hyde captures all of the Abreu signatures in a more approachable style that also comes with an relatively accessible price tag by Napa Valley standards. Scents of graphite, charcoal and inky blue-ish fruits infuse this super-expressive, inviting wine. Readers who can find the 2013 Rothwell Hyde should not hesitate, as it is terrific. Once again, winemaker Brad Grimes poured the Rothwell Hyde at the end of our tasting, after all the other wines. It did certainly did not suffer in comparison to the other wines, to say the least. If anything, the slightly lower level of intensity in the various lots has resulted in a wine that can be enjoyed with minimal cellaring, which is a rarity here. The 2013 is a total knockout. It's as simple as that. WA 92 (10/2016): The least expensive and most easily drinkable wine out of the gate from Abreu is his Rothwell Hyde, and the 2013 Rothwell Hyde delivers the goods with its notes of roasted coffee, black currants, licorice, caramel, and spice. It is medium to full-bodied, has terrific fruit intensity, and a long, heady, chewy finish. It obviously can’t stand on its own against the likes of Cappella, Madrona Ranch, Las Posadas or Thorevilos, but it is a heck of a bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon-based wine. Drink it over the next 12-15 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Abreu.aspVM 93 (12/2016): The 2013 Rothwell Hyde is the hidden gem in this lineup from Abreu. Made from a selection of fruit that does not go into the single-vineyard wines, the Rothwell Hyde captures all of the Abreu signatures in a more approachable style that also comes with an relatively accessible price tag by Napa Valley standards. Scents of graphite, charcoal and inky blue-ish fruits infuse this super-expressive, inviting wine. Readers who can find the 2013 Rothwell Hyde should not hesitate, as it is terrific. Once again, winemaker Brad Grimes poured the Rothwell Hyde at the end of our tasting, after all the other wines. It did certainly did not suffer in comparison to the other wines, to say the least. If anything, the slightly lower level of intensity in the various lots has resulted in a wine that can be enjoyed with minimal cellaring, which is a rarity here. The 2013 is a total knockout. It's as simple as that. WA 92 (10/2016): The least expensive and most easily drinkable wine out of the gate from Abreu is his Rothwell Hyde, and the 2013 Rothwell Hyde delivers the goods with its notes of roasted coffee, black currants, licorice, caramel, and spice. It is medium to full-bodied, has terrific fruit intensity, and a long, heady, chewy finish. It obviously can’t stand on its own against the likes of Cappella, Madrona Ranch, Las Posadas or Thorevilos, but it is a heck of a bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon-based wine. Drink it over the next 12-15 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Abreu.aspWA 98 (12/2006): The single-vineyard offering from Thorevilos is usually a blend of 80-85% Cabernet Sauvignon with a good dosage of Cabernet Franc added to finish out the wine, and occasionally a touch of Petit Verdot. This pure, steep hillside vineyard is planted in what they call tufa, or white volcanic ash-based soils. The 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon Thorevilos is borderline perfection, an unreal wine with notes of crushed rocks, acacia flowers, blueberry pie, and creme de cassis intertwined with a bit of smoke, espresso roast, and chocolate. The wine is phenomenally rich, has great nobility, purity, and a finish that goes on for just over a minute. This is an amazing wine that, like its stable mate the Madrona Ranch, seems to have softened considerably in the last year of bottle age. It can be drunk now or cellared for 20-25+ years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Abreu.aspWA 98 (12/2011): As outstanding as all the Abreu wines are, if I had to choose one that stands apart from the others it would be Thorevilos. The 2008 Thorevilos is the most complete and deeply satisfying of Abreu’s 2008s because the balance of fruit and structure is so impeccable. The 2008 literally explodes onto the palate with masses of dark fruit, tar, licorice and smoke. There is a fleshiness and depth of the fruit here that separates the Thorevilos from the other 2008s. Layers of fruit build towards the massive, masculine finish. In 2008 Thorevilos is 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Cabernet Franc and 15% Petit Verdot. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2038. VM 96-98 (12/2011): As outstanding as all the Abreu wines are, if I had to choose one that stands apart from the others it would be Thorevilos. The 2008 Thorevilos is the most complete and deeply satisfying of Abreu's 2008s because the balance of fruit and structure is so impeccable. The 2008 literally explodes onto the palate with masses of dark fruit, tar, licorice and smoke. There is a fleshiness and depth of the fruit here that separates the Thorevilos from the other 2008s. Layers of fruit build towards the massive, masculine finish. Antonio Galloni. WS 94 (6/2013): Ultrarich and gutsy, nuzzling up to syrupy, this is a chewy, extracted style that extends the flavors to kirsch, black licorice, blackberry jam, espresso, hazelnut and toffee. Ends with chewy, grainy tannins that give the flavors traction. Drink now through 2026. 350 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Abreu.aspVM 97 (12/2014): The 2011 Thorevilos is surprisingly open and expressive today, which just makes it all the more pleasurable to taste. Grilled herbs, cedar, tobacco, cloves and licorice add dimensions of nuance to a dark, sumptuous wine endowed with striking balance and pure class. WA 96 (10/2014): As good as other cuvées from Abreu are, I am beginning to believe that my favorite vineyard in Napa Valley may be the site that David Abreu co-owns with Ric Forman, the Thorevilos Vineyard. Situated on a steep hillside behind the luxury resort of Meadowood, it is, bizarrely, not entitled to any AVA. This cuvée is normally a blend of 45%-60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30%-40% Cabernet Franc and the rest tiny dollops of Petit Verdot and Merlot. The 2011 Proprietary Red Thorevilos exhibits classic notes of white flowers, blueberries, blackberries, and hints of chocolate and wet rocks, a full-bodied mouthfeel, sweet tannin and an incredibly long finish. In a vintage that offered so many challenges, this wine’s purity and full-bodied texture are remarkable. Drink it over the next 15-20 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Abreu.aspWA 95+ (2/2011): After the mind-blowing 2004 Agharta Syrah, I had high expectations that it would be followed by additional great wines, and those hopes were answered with the 2005 Black Label, a blend of 97% Syrah, 2% Grenache and 1% Viognier. Aged 64 months (which must be a record in California) in 30% new French oak, it is another spectacular effort from winemaker/proprietor Pax Mahle. It boasts a gorgeously dense plum/purple color as well as stunning notes of black raspberries, gun flint, blackberries, licorice and camphor. This complex red builds incrementally on the palate resulting in a full-bodied, concentrated, complex wine that is bursting at the seams and loaded with potential. It should continue to evolve for another 12-15+ years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Agharta.aspWA 98 (2/2010): Proprietors Pam and Pax Mahle have fashioned a 2004 Syrah called Agharta. Aged 58 months (that’s not a typo) in French oak casks (the 2005, 2006, and 2007 vintages will spend 45-48 months in cask), the extraordinary 2004 is a 475-case blend of 92% Syrah, 5% Grenache, and the rest Viognier, Marsanne, and Roussane. Most of the Syrah comes from the Alder Springs Vineyard in Mendocino. This profound wine’s inky/purple color is followed by aromas of smoky barbecue meats, grilled Provencal herbs, and exotic tropical fruits intermixed with blackberry, cassis, blueberry, and graphite. This super-rich effort tastes like the nectar of Syrah, yet it is dry, elegant, and remarkably fresh and precise. In the mouth, the impression is like that of a multilayered cake - everything is there. This is an amazing, very multi-dimensional wine that must be tasted to be believed. It can be drunk now or cellared for two decades. VM 92 (6/2010): Dark ruby. A complex, expansive bouquet displays smoky herbs, dark berry liqueur, red- and blackcurrant, potpourri and an exotic apricot pit quality. Lush, pungent dark fruit and floral pastille flavors are complemented by smoky herbal and floral qualities and framed by supple tannins. Leaves spice and licorice notes behind on the long, sappy finish.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Agharta.aspWA 98 (2/2010): Proprietors Pam and Pax Mahle have fashioned a 2004 Syrah called Agharta. Aged 58 months (that’s not a typo) in French oak casks (the 2005, 2006, and 2007 vintages will spend 45-48 months in cask), the extraordinary 2004 is a 475-case blend of 92% Syrah, 5% Grenache, and the rest Viognier, Marsanne, and Roussane. Most of the Syrah comes from the Alder Springs Vineyard in Mendocino. This profound wine’s inky/purple color is followed by aromas of smoky barbecue meats, grilled Provencal herbs, and exotic tropical fruits intermixed with blackberry, cassis, blueberry, and graphite. This super-rich effort tastes like the nectar of Syrah, yet it is dry, elegant, and remarkably fresh and precise. In the mouth, the impression is like that of a multilayered cake - everything is there. This is an amazing, very multi-dimensional wine that must be tasted to be believed. It can be drunk now or cellared for two decades. VM 92 (6/2010): Dark ruby. A complex, expansive bouquet displays smoky herbs, dark berry liqueur, red- and blackcurrant, potpourri and an exotic apricot pit quality. Lush, pungent dark fruit and floral pastille flavors are complemented by smoky herbal and floral qualities and framed by supple tannins. Leaves spice and licorice notes behind on the long, sappy finish.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Agharta.aspWA 95+ (2/2011): After the mind-blowing 2004 Agharta Syrah, I had high expectations that it would be followed by additional great wines, and those hopes were answered with the 2005 Black Label, a blend of 97% Syrah, 2% Grenache and 1% Viognier. Aged 64 months (which must be a record in California) in 30% new French oak, it is another spectacular effort from winemaker/proprietor Pax Mahle. It boasts a gorgeously dense plum/purple color as well as stunning notes of black raspberries, gun flint, blackberries, licorice and camphor. This complex red builds incrementally on the palate resulting in a full-bodied, concentrated, complex wine that is bursting at the seams and loaded with potential. It should continue to evolve for another 12-15+ years. VM 93 (6/2010): (96% syrah and 4% grenache, aged for 53 months in oak) Opaque ruby. Black and blue fruit aromas are complemented by exotic notes of anise, incense and black cardamom. Fleshy but nicely focused black and blue fruit flavors gain sweetness with air and pick up notes of succulent herbs and candied flowers. Manages to maintain focus thanks to its juicy acidity, which gives firmness to the lush and strikingly concentrated dark fruit and floral flavors.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Agharta.aspWA 95+ (2/2011): After the mind-blowing 2004 Agharta Syrah, I had high expectations that it would be followed by additional great wines, and those hopes were answered with the 2005 Black Label, a blend of 97% Syrah, 2% Grenache and 1% Viognier. Aged 64 months (which must be a record in California) in 30% new French oak, it is another spectacular effort from winemaker/proprietor Pax Mahle. It boasts a gorgeously dense plum/purple color as well as stunning notes of black raspberries, gun flint, blackberries, licorice and camphor. This complex red builds incrementally on the palate resulting in a full-bodied, concentrated, complex wine that is bursting at the seams and loaded with potential. It should continue to evolve for another 12-15+ years. VM 93 (6/2010): (96% syrah and 4% grenache, aged for 53 months in oak) Opaque ruby. Black and blue fruit aromas are complemented by exotic notes of anise, incense and black cardamom. Fleshy but nicely focused black and blue fruit flavors gain sweetness with air and pick up notes of succulent herbs and candied flowers. Manages to maintain focus thanks to its juicy acidity, which gives firmness to the lush and strikingly concentrated dark fruit and floral flavors.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Agharta.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Agharta.aspWA 88 (2/2011): The 2006 Exhibit B White Label is a high octane (15.1% alcohol) blend of 40% Merlot, 34% Cabernet Franc, 22% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Petit Verdot. It offers attractive aromas of raspberries, spice box, earth and wood, but the idea of aging a Bordeaux blend for 52 months does not work nearly as well as it did in Agharta’s Syrah program. This is certainly a good wine, but it seems somewhat disjointed, in short, lacking equilibrium. Judgment reserved.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Agharta.aspVM 90 (1/2015): Agharta's 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Mountain Terraces Vineyard is a very pretty wine, especially for a vintage that was so challenging. Crushed flowers, rose petals, mint, hard candy and cinnamon waft from the glass as this silky, beautifully perfumed Cabernet shows off its considerable personality and pedigree. This delicate, gracious Cabernet is delicious today and should continue to drink nicely for at least the next handful of years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Agharta.aspVM 90 (1/2015): Agharta's 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Mountain Terraces Vineyard is a very pretty wine, especially for a vintage that was so challenging. Crushed flowers, rose petals, mint, hard candy and cinnamon waft from the glass as this silky, beautifully perfumed Cabernet shows off its considerable personality and pedigree. This delicate, gracious Cabernet is delicious today and should continue to drink nicely for at least the next handful of years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Agharta.aspWA 90-92 (8/2011): The 2009 Roussanne comes across as quite rich and textured, with plenty of overt fruit, but less aromatic complexity and overall minerality. The vintage was the third in a series of drought years and the low - perhaps excessively low - yields are felt in the weight of the wine. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2017.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/AlbanVineyards.aspVM 93-95 (5/2011): The 2008 Grenache is just plain beautiful at this stage. A striking bouquet redolent of dark red fruit, flowers and spices melds into a core of textured fruit. This is all purity and finesse. I can hardly wait to taste the finished wine. This is very fresh for a wine that has been in barrel for nearly three years. The 2008 Grenache is 98% Grenache and 2% Syrah. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/AlbanVineyards.aspWA 97 (8/2013): Also totally brilliant, the 2009 Syrah Lorraine’s Vineyard possesses incredible purity and focus with its creme de cassis, black raspberry, vanilla, spice box and licorice-styled bouquet flowing to a full-bodied, seamless wine that has no hard edges, building tannin and an overall perfect blend of richness and elegance. It’s approachable now, but given the overall density, will also age effortlessly for 15+ years. Drink 2015-2024.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/AlbanVineyards.aspWA 97 (8/2015): Sporting the same inky color as the Reva, the 2010 Syrah Lorraine Vineyard has terrific elegance and purity in its sweet black raspberry fruits, crushed flowers, creme de cassis and subtle smoked meat characteristics. Seriously concentrated and backward on the palate (this cuvee normally is the most approachable of the lineup), with a rich, full mouthfeel, a big mid-palate and a great finish, give bottles 2-3 years and enjoy through 2030.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/AlbanVineyards.aspWA 95 (8/2015): Incorporating 10% Syrah, the Grenache-dominated 2011 Pandora comes from a single block of chalky soils in the Seymour's Vineyard. More floral and exotic than the straight Grenache release, it has beautiful currant, blackberry, violets, toasted spice and licorice aromas and flavors all emerging from the glass. Full-bodied, supple and sexy, with great acidity, it's slightly more expansive, sexy and textured than that more concentrated, yet streamlined Grenache release, and as such will drink better in its youth.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/AlbanVineyards.aspWA 95 (8/2004): There are 1,400 six-packs of the 2002 Syrah Reva Vineyard Estate. Tasted just after bottling, it was performing spectacularly well. Its opaque purple color is accompanied by a classic bouquet of creme de cassis, blackberries, and touches of new oak, tar, and sweet leather. It is a spectacular, dense, opulent, full-bodied effort with good minerality as well as structure. It should drink well for 10-15 years. WS 93 (2/2005): Dark-hued, with a rich core of meaty, beefy, peppery Syrah that shows a remarkable level of concentration and depth¿sheer power, if you will¿finishing with an exotic mix of floral, berry, leather and beef scents. Best from 2006 through 2012. 1,500 cases made. VM 92 (2/2005): Full ruby. Wild aromas of roasted red berries, game, smoke and roasted herbs. Supersweet, dense and lush, with a strong raspberry flavor. Impressively thick, pliant wine with enough balancing acidity to retain freshness. Finishes very long and sweet, with suave tannins.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/AlbanVineyards.aspWA 96+ (8/2012): The 2008 Reva (Syrah) is stunningly beautiful. This is a relatively delicate, feminine Reva that impresses for its length, balance and utter purity of fruit. Dark red cherries, flowers, mint and silky, saline notes wrap around the expressive fruit on the long, polished finish. A hint of truffles adds to the wine’s sensual, totally beguiling personality. In 2008, the Reva is drop-dead gorgeous. Readers should note that, in this vintage, there is no Lorraine or Seymour’s, so the 2008 is a “super-Reva!" Anticipated maturity: 2013-2020. JS 95-96 (5/2012): Love the spice, game and dark berries, yet reserved and austere. Shows form and firmness. Long and beautiful. Should be in market in November 2012. VM 94 (12/2012): (raised in French oak, 80% of it new, for 44 months; 15.1% alcohol): Glass-staining purple. Sexy smoke- and spice-accented aromas of candied black and blue fruits and potpourri, with a suggestion of black pepper building with air. Lush and expansive on the palate, offering deeply pitched but lively cassis and blueberry flavors and a suave floral pastille nuance. The spicy note comes back strong on the finish, which shows only a hint of tannins. RR 93-96 (12/2011): The 2008 Alban Vineyards Syrah Reva Alban Estate Vineyard was the only Syrah produced in '08. Showing a lively, more energetic profile than the more heavy weight '06 and '07, it still doesn't lack for structure, depth, or complexity. Showing loads of tapenade, lavender, blood, and black fruits, medium to full-body, and a beautifully focused, pure texture and finish, this elegant Syrah should still benefit from short term cellaring once released. I love the vibrancy here, and it will be interesting to see how this shows from bottle.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/AlbanVineyards.aspWA 97 (8/2012): Moving on to the vineyard designated Syrahs and a fantastic vintage for this cuvee, which goes back to the 2005, 2006 and 2007 levels of richness, the 2009 Syrah Reva (100% Syrah aged 42-months in French oak) offers up more fruit and purity than normal, with only hints of its normal iodine/seaweed tinged profile. Loaded with sweet black raspberry, cassis, wild herbs, flowers and subtle blood and iodine qualities, it is a full-bodied, decadent Syrah that has incredible mid-palate depth, beautiful freshness and a blockbuster finish. It will continue to gain in depth and richness with short-term cellaring and have an easy 12-15 years or ultimate longevity. Drink 2015-2024. VM 97 (7/2013): Alban's 2009 Syrah Reva is drop-dead gorgeous. Sumptuous, layered and absolutely impeccable, the 2009 boasts stunning depth and richness but it is never overdone or excessively heavy. Today, the aromas and flavors remain intensely primary, so readers will have to be patient. Still, the Reva is simply thrilling, pretty much as it always has been from barrel. As compelling as Alban's higher-end Syrahs are, in 2009 I prefer the Reva, as it is the most polished, impeccable and balanced wine in the range. It will be interesting to follow the development of these wines over the next few years. JS 96-97 (5/2012): So much up front with wild fruit and intense berries and licorice. Voluptuous on the nose. But the palate is balanced refined and velvety. Long finish. Contrasty. VM 93 (11/2013): Inky purple. Deeply scented, spicy and smoky aromas of ripe cherries and cassis are lifted by notes of black pepper, Indian spices and a dusty herbal quality. Shows impressive depth and vivacity to its blueberry and blackcurrant flavors, which are sharpened by juicy acidity. Supple tannins come on late, adding focus to a sweet, impressively long finish. This sexy syrah is surprisingly approachable but clearly has the material for a positive evolution in the cellar. WS 92 (12/2013): Ripe and fleshy, with generous blackberry, plum, raspberry and licorice notes, revealing an edge of fresh-turned earth and cedar. Drink now through 2022. 1,500 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/AlbanVineyards.aspWA 94-96 (8/2015): All of the 2011 Syrahs will be in bottle by the time you read this. The 2011 Syrah Reva Alban Estate Vineyard offers a cool-climate, pretty and perfumed style to go with lots of pepper, violets, iodine and dark fruits, with just a hint of vanilla and oak. Full-bodied, fresh and lively, with bright acidity and fine tannin, it's a Northern Rhone look-alike that will have 15-20 years of longevity.VM 92-94 (9/2015): Bright purple. Energetic black and blue fruit scents, with notes of olive paste and candied violet adding complexity. Shows very good focus and lift to its sweet boysenberry and cherry-cola flavors, gaining weight and sweetness with aeration. Finishes with excellent power and persistence, leaving peppery spice and cola notes behind. Quite Old World in style and structure, showing no excess fat or undue warmth. Josh Raynolds.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/AlbanVineyards.aspIWC 91 (6/2013): Green-tinged gold. Complex aromas of pear, iodine, white flowers and smoky peat. Densely packed, spicy and focused, with very good energy to its orchard fruit, mineral and chamomile flavors. This deep but lively chardonnay finishes firm and smoky, with a lingering note of candied ginger.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Alesia.aspVM 90 (7/2014): A gorgeous, supple wine, the 2012 Pinot Noir Alder Springs is beautifully supple and expressive in the glass. Sweet dark cherries, spices, leather and menthol flesh out in an open, resonant Pinot to drink over the next few years. This is total class. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Alesia.aspVM 90 (7/2014): A gorgeous, supple wine, the 2012 Pinot Noir Alder Springs is beautifully supple and expressive in the glass. Sweet dark cherries, spices, leather and menthol flesh out in an open, resonant Pinot to drink over the next few years. This is total class. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Alesia.aspVM 90 (7/2015): Dark red cherry, plum and spice give the 2013 Pinot Noir Alder Springs Vineyard much of its juicy, up-front Pinot. Sweet floral, saline and earthy notes follow, adding layers of nuance. This flashy Pinot is a terrific choice for drinking over the next few years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Alesia.aspBH 91 (1/2008): A high-toned and very pure red raspberry and cranberry fruit nose nuanced by subtle and very deft hints of spice, wood and a bit of crushed herb merges into sweet, round, rich and textured medium-weight flavors that possess a seductive texture yet concede nothing in terms of precision and detail on the admirably persistent and slightly dusty finish. This is a lovely, indeed almost understated wine of finesse and balance but with plenty of vibrancy. Drink 2011+. Outstanding! VM 91 (6/2008): Medium red. Spiced cherry and black raspberry on the nose, with cocoa powder and baking spices adding complexity. Fleshy and deep, offering sweet red and dark berry flavors, a supple texture and sexy Asian spices on the back end. The oak element blends smoothly with the berry fruit and adds spice to the long, sappy finish. This is already very seductive. WS 87 (12/2008): Aromas of black cherry, stewed plum and wild berry offer a ripe, sweetish edge on the palate before firming up on the finish, with a dash of cola. Drink now through 2011. 300 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Alesia.aspBH 90 (1/2008): Light ruby. An airy upper register nose of red cherry and pinot fruit that is ever so lightly spiced leads to nicely balanced, rich and almost delicate barely middle weight flavors that possess excellent flavor authority and more finishing power and persistence than the size and weight of the flavors would suggest. This is lovely and decidedly understated in personality and will please those who appreciate restrained pinot. In a word, lovely. Drink 2010+. Outstanding!http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Alesia.aspIWC 91 (6/2009): Bright red. Alluring aromas of red berries, cherry, potpourri and sandalwood. Zesty white pepper and mineral notes come up with air, adding vivacity to the sweet red fruit preserve flavors. Dusty tannins add spine and back-end grip but don't distract from the fruit. The floral and exotic spice notes repeat strongly on the finish, which is sweet, focused and very long.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Alesia.aspIWC 91 (6/2010): Vivid red. Strawberry, raspberry and spicecake on the nose, with a sexy sandalwood quality. In a distinctly vibrant style, with the sexy spice and red berry qualities following through in the mouth. Sappy and fine-grained wine, finishing on a suave note of candied flowers. This will be the last vintage for this wine. BH 89 (10/2010): A ripe and very pretty nose artfully blends both red and blue pinot fruit that is trimmed in subtle violet and mint hints that leads to round and rich middle weight flavors that possess fine intensity and volume on the solidly long finish. This delicious offering could easily be enjoyed now but should also age well.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Alesia.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Alesia.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Alesia.aspWA 92 (12/2009): The 2007 ERA Proprietary Wine exhibits a deep ruby/purple color as well as cedar, roasted herb, black currant, and camphor notes, outstanding ripeness, purity, and depth, good richness, sweeter tannin than the 2006, and, like many 2007s, an underlying minerality and precision that make this vintage so special. Give it 2-3 years of bottle age, and enjoy it over the following 15 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/AlphaOmega.aspWS 86 (11/2008): Mature for its age, complex dried currant, anise and black cherry, tobacco and a hint of tea.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Altamura.aspWA 94 (12/2014): The 2012 Turbine Proprietary White is a Rhône Ranger blend of 27% Grenache Blanc, 27% Viognier, 26% Marsanne and 20% Picpoul Blanc. This may be the first California white I have tasted with Picpoul Blanc in it, so old dogs can learn new tricks. With 13.9% alcohol, it displays lots of quince, white currant and white flower characteristics, gorgeous fruit, medium body, and no evidence of oak. With a luscious texture, as well as terrific purity, this is an example of why California is now the epicenter for great wines. A revelation, it can be consumed over the next several years.WS 85 (7/2015): A toasty, spicy note up front lends a vanilla bean—scented overtone to the crisp grapefruit and apple flavors. Finishes with a cedary accent. Grenache Blanc, Viognier, Marsanne and Picpoul Blanc. Drink now. 342 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Anaba.aspWA 94-96 (12/2009): The 2007 Eloge (65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Petit Verdot and Merlot) possesses a denser, more concentrated style than even the 2006. The tannins are also slightly sweeter, and the wine is more voluminous, layered, and textured. This young, promising, locked and loaded 2007 is somewhat backward because of the levels of concentration and intensity. Forget it for five years, and drink it over the following 25+years. These brilliant 2007s are some of the strongest efforts that have emerged from Anderson’s Conn Valley Vineyards over the last decade.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/AndersonsConnValleyVineyards.aspWA 96+ (12/2012): The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Reserve is rich, sumptuous and totally gorgeous. Plums, black currants, blackberries, menthol, licorice and sweet herbs jump from the glass as this intense, full-bodied wine shows off its considerable personality. Layers of fruit flow effortlessly as the 2009 continues to open up over time. This is a gorgeous 2009. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2029. VM 92 (12/2011): The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Reserve is quite a bit juicier than the 2008. Layers of dark red fruit, flowers, licorice and oak are some of the notes that flow from the glass. The percentage of new oak (60%) is up a little over previous years, but the wine won't be released until next year, and there is more than enough fruit to think the 2009 will shape up beautifully with more time in bottle.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/AndersonsConnValleyVineyards.aspWA 96+ (12/2012): The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Reserve is rich, sumptuous and totally gorgeous. Plums, black currants, blackberries, menthol, licorice and sweet herbs jump from the glass as this intense, full-bodied wine shows off its considerable personality. Layers of fruit flow effortlessly as the 2009 continues to open up over time. This is a gorgeous 2009. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2029. VM 92 (12/2011): The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Reserve is quite a bit juicier than the 2008. Layers of dark red fruit, flowers, licorice and oak are some of the notes that flow from the glass. The percentage of new oak (60%) is up a little over previous years, but the wine won't be released until next year, and there is more than enough fruit to think the 2009 will shape up beautifully with more time in bottle.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/AndersonsConnValleyVineyards.aspVM 94 (12/2016): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Reserve is intense, deceptively medium in body and brooding in style. Lavender, sage, menthol, spice and crème de cassis infuse this striking, delineated Cabernet Sauvignon. The 2013 could use another few years in barrel, but it is quite impressive, even at this early stage. This is a great showing from the 2013.JS 92 (12/2016): Lots of dried-fruit character here that verges on raisins. Chocolate and walnuts, too. Full body, velvety and chewy tannins and a savory finish. Shows tension for such a ripe wine. Needs two or three years to soften.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/AndersonsConnValleyVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/AndremilyWines.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/AnselmoVigne.aspBH 90 (6/2014): A brooding and noticeably smoky nose features notes of dark currant, raspberry and plum along with hints of anise and Asian tea. The smoky character is also reflected by the concentrated and intense flavors that possess fine mid-palate volhttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Anthill.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/AraujoEstate.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/AraujoEstate.aspIWC 95 (6/2009): Full ruby-red. Very ripe aromas of black raspberry, mocha, coffee and nutty oak, plus strong soil tones of spice, tobacco and iron. Wonderfully ripe and full but with a sappy menthol lift to the flavors of currant, minerals, mocha, tobacco and game. There's something Graves-like to this compellingly sweet wine. Compared to the Altagracia, the estate's flagship bottling has more of everything, including class. A worthy successor to the superlative 2005.WA 92-93 (12/2008): The dense ruby/purple-tinged 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Eisele Vineyard is more tannic, backward, and austere than either the 2005 or 2007. Although more monolithic than its siblings, it displays the Eisele character in its blue and black fruit, crushed rock, and flowery personality. It should be forgotten for 2-3 years, then enjoyed over the following two decades.WS 91 (11/2009): Smooth, ripe and fleshy, this full-bodied red shows supple black cherry, plum and wild berry framed by a layer of toasty, mocha-laced oak. Elegant, stylish and understated, this gains complexity and depth on the finish, with hints of mineral and graphite. Drink now through 2016. 1,600 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/AraujoEstate.aspVM 95+ (6/2010): Good full ruby-red. Vibrant aromas of deep black raspberry, licorice and violet; quite expressive considering it was bottled about a month prior to my visit. Then dense, deep and very primary, with powerful yet suave flavors of blackberry, smoke, licorice, minerals, chocolate and earth spreading out to saturate the palate. An infant today but the wine's superb persistence and finishing perfume suggest it will rank among the best vintages of this bottling. If there is ever a classification of Napa Valley cabernet vineyards, the Eisele Vineyard would clearly be a grand cru. Stephen Tanzer. JR 18.5 (8/2010): I tasted the blend that was due to be bottled last November and was struck by the delicacy of the winemaking, or do I mean the wine? Very perfumed and subtle. Gentle in texture. Very fresh, very persistent with a finish that was defiantly dry rather than sweet. There was a reference to 'Matt's Pinot Noir-like winemaking' ... Impressive and distinctive. Not the standard Napa Valley recipe. WA 93 (12/2010): Since last year’s report I have had the 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Eisele Vineyard on three separate occasions, including recently at the winery. It has definitely improved over last year’s report, but it has not lived up to my barrel tasting reviews. There is no explanation for this other than that the Araujos told me that the wine was bottled three months later than normal, which seems like a negligible reason to explain the differences. A beautiful wine by any standards, it is just not one of the great Eiseles. Its deep plum/ruby/purple hue is accompanied by notes of cassis, blueberries and acacia flowers. This medium-bodied effort seems surprisingly reserved and restrained, but it has put on a little weight, revealing sweet tannin as well as a velvety texture. This offering should drink nicely for 12-15 years. WS 87 (12/2010): Though a very good wine, this is disappointing considering the producer's history. Trim and focused, with full-bodied flavors built around dried currant, herb, mineral and sage, but ending with a clipped finish of dried berry and herb. Tasted four times, with consistent notes. Drink now through 2017. 1,710 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/AraujoEstate.aspVM 95+ (6/2010): Good full ruby-red. Vibrant aromas of deep black raspberry, licorice and violet; quite expressive considering it was bottled about a month prior to my visit. Then dense, deep and very primary, with powerful yet suave flavors of blackberry, smoke, licorice, minerals, chocolate and earth spreading out to saturate the palate. An infant today but the wine's superb persistence and finishing perfume suggest it will rank among the best vintages of this bottling. If there is ever a classification of Napa Valley cabernet vineyards, the Eisele Vineyard would clearly be a grand cru. Stephen Tanzer. JR 18.5 (8/2010): I tasted the blend that was due to be bottled last November and was struck by the delicacy of the winemaking, or do I mean the wine? Very perfumed and subtle. Gentle in texture. Very fresh, very persistent with a finish that was defiantly dry rather than sweet. There was a reference to 'Matt's Pinot Noir-like winemaking' ... Impressive and distinctive. Not the standard Napa Valley recipe. WA 93 (12/2010): Since last year’s report I have had the 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Eisele Vineyard on three separate occasions, including recently at the winery. It has definitely improved over last year’s report, but it has not lived up to my barrel tasting reviews. There is no explanation for this other than that the Araujos told me that the wine was bottled three months later than normal, which seems like a negligible reason to explain the differences. A beautiful wine by any standards, it is just not one of the great Eiseles. Its deep plum/ruby/purple hue is accompanied by notes of cassis, blueberries and acacia flowers. This medium-bodied effort seems surprisingly reserved and restrained, but it has put on a little weight, revealing sweet tannin as well as a velvety texture. This offering should drink nicely for 12-15 years. WS 87 (12/2010): Though a very good wine, this is disappointing considering the producer's history. Trim and focused, with full-bodied flavors built around dried currant, herb, mineral and sage, but ending with a clipped finish of dried berry and herb. Tasted four times, with consistent notes. Drink now through 2017. 1,710 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/AraujoEstate.aspIWC 95+ (6/2010): Good full ruby-red. Vibrant aromas of deep black raspberry, licorice and violet; quite expressive considering it was bottled about a month prior to my visit. Then dense, deep and very primary, with powerful yet suave flavors of blackberry, smoke, licorice, minerals, chocolate and earth spreading out to saturate the palate. An infant today but the wine's superb persistence and finishing perfume suggest it will rank among the best vintages of this bottling. If there is ever a classification of Napa Valley cabernet vineyards, the Eisele Vineyard would clearly be a grand cru.JR 18.5 (8/2010): I tasted the blend that was due to be bottled last November and was struck by the delicacy of the winemaking, or do I mean the wine? Very perfumed and subtle. Gentle in texture. Very fresh, very persistent with a finish that was defiantly dry rather than sweet. There was a reference to 'Matt's Pinot Noir-like winemaking' ... Impressive and distinctive. Not the standard Napa Valley recipe.WA 93 (12/2010): Since last year’s report I have had the 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Eisele Vineyard on three separate occasions, including recently at the winery. It has definitely improved over last year’s report, but it has not lived up to my barrel tasting reviews. There is no explanation for this other than that the Araujos told me that the wine was bottled three months later than normal, which seems like a negligible reason to explain the differences. A beautiful wine by any standards, it is just not one of the great Eiseles. Its deep plum/ruby/purple hue is accompanied by notes of cassis, blueberries and acacia flowers. This medium-bodied effort seems surprisingly reserved and restrained, but it has put on a little weight, revealing sweet tannin as well as a velvety texture. This offering should drink nicely for 12-15 years. WS 87 (12/2010): Though a very good wine, this is disappointing considering the producer's history. Trim and focused, with full-bodied flavors built around dried currant, herb, mineral and sage, but ending with a clipped finish of dried berry and herb. Tasted four times, with consistent notes. Drink now through 2017. 1,710 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/AraujoEstate.aspWA 98 (12/2012): Araujo’s 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Eisele Vineyard is a picture perfect example of the year. Vibrant, precise and beautifully chiseled, the 2010 boasts serious depth and concentration. The aromas and flavors are incredibly vivid in this textured, dazzling Cabernet Sauvignon. Hints of dark blue and black fruit, mocha, espresso and grilled herbs flesh out on the huge finish. Today the 2010 is unusually open, but it is almost certain to shut down in bottle over the next 6-12 months. The 2010 is a super-classic Eisele Cabernet Sauvignon from Araujo. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2035. IWC 95+ (6/2013): Good full, deep red-ruby. More floral and refined on the nose than the Alta Gracia, offering ineffable aromas of blueberry, brown spices, menthol, bay laurel and cedar. Marvelously silky on entry, then opens out dramatically on the back half, showing insidious, savory flavor concentration but also finishing with outstanding grip and verve. The very fine-grained, building tannins are perked up by notes of pepper and herbs. This wonderfully poised wine, delivering great richness without any undue weight, displays classic Eisele Vineyard character without any signs of roasted fruit. Understated today, this beauty may well merit an even higher score eight or ten years down the road. WS 94 (11/2013): Pure, rich and delicious, with a sumptuous core of melted black licorice, dark berry, nutmeg-scented spice, loamy earth and dried herb. Shows impressive focus, density and persistence. Tempting now, but should age well. Best from 2014 through 2028. 1,900 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/AraujoEstate.aspWA 98 (12/2012): Araujo’s 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Eisele Vineyard is a picture perfect example of the year. Vibrant, precise and beautifully chiseled, the 2010 boasts serious depth and concentration. The aromas and flavors are incredibly vivid in this textured, dazzling Cabernet Sauvignon. Hints of dark blue and black fruit, mocha, espresso and grilled herbs flesh out on the huge finish. Today the 2010 is unusually open, but it is almost certain to shut down in bottle over the next 6-12 months. The 2010 is a super-classic Eisele Cabernet Sauvignon from Araujo. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2035. IWC 95+ (6/2013): Good full, deep red-ruby. More floral and refined on the nose than the Alta Gracia, offering ineffable aromas of blueberry, brown spices, menthol, bay laurel and cedar. Marvelously silky on entry, then opens out dramatically on the back half, showing insidious, savory flavor concentration but also finishing with outstanding grip and verve. The very fine-grained, building tannins are perked up by notes of pepper and herbs. This wonderfully poised wine, delivering great richness without any undue weight, displays classic Eisele Vineyard character without any signs of roasted fruit. Understated today, this beauty may well merit an even higher score eight or ten years down the road. WS 94 (11/2013): Pure, rich and delicious, with a sumptuous core of melted black licorice, dark berry, nutmeg-scented spice, loamy earth and dried herb. Shows impressive focus, density and persistence. Tempting now, but should age well. Best from 2014 through 2028. 1,900 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/AraujoEstate.aspVM 96+ (11/2013): Araujo has long made some of the more restrained Cabernets in Napa Valley. The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Eisele Vineyard is one of the more Left Bank inflected wines in the estate's distinguished history. Beautifully layered and expressive, the 2011 graces the palate with exquisite finesse and total harmony. The 2011 isn't a huge, explosive wine like the 2010 or 2009, but it stands out for its exceptional length and vibrancy. Readers should not expect an obvious Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. I imagine the 2011 will still be marvelous at age 30, and I won't be surprised if it is one day regarded as one of the great, iconic wines of the vintage. The 2011 has been truly special since I started tasting the single blocks in the Spring of 2012. The blend is 94% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot. Antonio Galloni. WA 92-95 (12/2012): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Eisele Vineyard is simply beautiful. It is easily one of the most complete and compelling wines of the vintage. Rich, flashy and open, especially within the context of the vintage, the 2011 impresses for its depth and polish. Layers of blue and black fruit, savory herbs, mint and licorice come together in this complete Cabernet. A model of total class and elegance, the 2011 is simply remarkable for the year. This is one of the few wines of the vintage with real potential not just for the near-term, but also for the future. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2026.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/AraujoEstate.aspVM 96+ (11/2013): Araujo has long made some of the more restrained Cabernets in Napa Valley. The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Eisele Vineyard is one of the more Left Bank inflected wines in the estate's distinguished history. Beautifully layered and expressive, the 2011 graces the palate with exquisite finesse and total harmony. The 2011 isn't a huge, explosive wine like the 2010 or 2009, but it stands out for its exceptional length and vibrancy. Readers should not expect an obvious Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. I imagine the 2011 will still be marvelous at age 30, and I won't be surprised if it is one day regarded as one of the great, iconic wines of the vintage. The 2011 has been truly special since I started tasting the single blocks in the Spring of 2012. The blend is 94% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot. Antonio Galloni. WA 92-95 (12/2012): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Eisele Vineyard is simply beautiful. It is easily one of the most complete and compelling wines of the vintage. Rich, flashy and open, especially within the context of the vintage, the 2011 impresses for its depth and polish. Layers of blue and black fruit, savory herbs, mint and licorice come together in this complete Cabernet. A model of total class and elegance, the 2011 is simply remarkable for the year. This is one of the few wines of the vintage with real potential not just for the near-term, but also for the future. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2026.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/AraujoEstate.aspVM 96+ (11/2013): Araujo has long made some of the more restrained Cabernets in Napa Valley. The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Eisele Vineyard is one of the more Left Bank inflected wines in the estate's distinguished history. Beautifully layered and expressive, the 2011 graces the palate with exquisite finesse and total harmony. The 2011 isn't a huge, explosive wine like the 2010 or 2009, but it stands out for its exceptional length and vibrancy. Readers should not expect an obvious Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. I imagine the 2011 will still be marvelous at age 30, and I won't be surprised if it is one day regarded as one of the great, iconic wines of the vintage. The 2011 has been truly special since I started tasting the single blocks in the Spring of 2012. The blend is 94% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot. Antonio Galloni. WA 92-95 (12/2012): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Eisele Vineyard is simply beautiful. It is easily one of the most complete and compelling wines of the vintage. Rich, flashy and open, especially within the context of the vintage, the 2011 impresses for its depth and polish. Layers of blue and black fruit, savory herbs, mint and licorice come together in this complete Cabernet. A model of total class and elegance, the 2011 is simply remarkable for the year. This is one of the few wines of the vintage with real potential not just for the near-term, but also for the future. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2026.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/AraujoEstate.aspVM 96+ (11/2013): Araujo has long made some of the more restrained Cabernets in Napa Valley. The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Eisele Vineyard is one of the more Left Bank inflected wines in the estate's distinguished history. Beautifully layered and expressive, the 2011 graces the palate with exquisite finesse and total harmony. The 2011 isn't a huge, explosive wine like the 2010 or 2009, but it stands out for its exceptional length and vibrancy. Readers should not expect an obvious Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. I imagine the 2011 will still be marvelous at age 30, and I won't be surprised if it is one day regarded as one of the great, iconic wines of the vintage. The 2011 has been truly special since I started tasting the single blocks in the Spring of 2012. The blend is 94% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot. Antonio Galloni. WA 92-95 (12/2012): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Eisele Vineyard is simply beautiful. It is easily one of the most complete and compelling wines of the vintage. Rich, flashy and open, especially within the context of the vintage, the 2011 impresses for its depth and polish. Layers of blue and black fruit, savory herbs, mint and licorice come together in this complete Cabernet. A model of total class and elegance, the 2011 is simply remarkable for the year. This is one of the few wines of the vintage with real potential not just for the near-term, but also for the future. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2026.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/AraujoEstate.aspJS 98 (7/2015): The aromas to this wine are very complex and brooding with black currant, sage and spearmint. Sous bois and wet earth too. Then turns to black fruits. Entrancing nose. This is full-bodied yet tight and focused with compressed tannins and a long finish. Very intense volcanic sea salt to the wine. A much more subtle and mind-provoking style. Available summer 2015.WA 97 (12/2015): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Eisele Vineyard, 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, is a relatively powerful statement from the new owners. Dense ruby/purple in color, with an exceptional nose of crème de cassis, a touch of mulberry and spice. The oak is completely obscured by the lavish, concentrated, ripe fruit and multi-dimensional mid-palate that expands beautifully, but with no sense of heaviness. The wine is rich and full-bodied, but with velvety tannin and stunning purple and black fruits. This is a beauty, with savoriness that’s hard to articulate. The finish goes on for a good 45+ seconds. This is a beauty that’s velvety, opulent and capable of drinking well now or in 25 to 30+ years. WS 94 (10/2015): This delivers a gorgeous mix of rich, vibrant blackberry, wild berry, currant and cassis flavors, taut and firm, with chewy tannins and dusty, cedary earth details on the finish. Ends with a burst of black licorice and graphite. Drink now through 2030. 1,500 cases made.VM 89 (12/2014): Araujo Estate's 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Eisele Vineyard is quite soft, supple and nuanced. Although texturally quite pretty, the 2012 doesn't have its usual depth or intensity. Hints of over ripeness linger on the finish, while the flavors really struggle to emerge. I don't see much Eisele personality here. Perhaps that will come in time, but personally I doubt it. Needless to say, this is quite a disappointing showing based on the potential I saw last year.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/AraujoEstate.aspWA 92 (12/2008): Despite having over 40-plus acres of vineyards in the northeasterly sector of Napa just south of Calistoga, the production at Araujo remains relatively limited, with the flagship wine, the Cabernet Sauvignon Eisele Vineyard, producing between 1,600 and 2,200 cases of wine, and the second wine, the Altagracia, between 800 and 1,200 cases. Add to that another 1,000 cases of Sauvignon Blanc and 300-400 cases of Syrah, and there is just not a lot to go around given the greatness that can be achieved from this vineyard. Much of the credit has to go to proprietors Bart and Daphne Araujo and, of course, their top-notch winemaking team, which has always been led by Francoise Peschon. Araujo’s second wines are among the finest second wines consumers will find in northern California. For example, the Altagracia cuvees, which represent 25-35% of the production, have been outstanding examples of Cabernet Sauvignon. Araujo has done an excellent job with Syrah, which they typically co-ferment with 3-4% Viognier. Sadly, only 300-400 cases are produced.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/AraujoEstate.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/AraujoEstate.aspVM 89 (12/2014): The 2012 Syrah Eisele Vineyard is a soft, immediate wine with good balance, but less of the explosiveness and resonance that has been the norm here in recent times. Hints of red plum, cherry and pomegranate linger on the attractive finish.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/AraujoEstate.aspIWC 91 (6/2009): Deep red. Seductive red berry and floral aromas are deepened by notes of cola and sassafras. Silky, sweet raspberry and candied rose flavors pack solid punch but are fat-free and gently framed by dusty tannins. Racier strawberry and mineral qualities build on the finish, which is well-focused and refreshingly spicy.WA 90 (10/2009): The 2007 Pinot Noir Arcus Vineyard is sourced from a 40-acre parcel, the winery’s largest with some vines dating back to 1973. Medium ruby-colored with a fragrant perfume of spice box, cedar, and red fruits, the wine reveals some tannin upon entry to the palate backed up by a solid core of savory red fruit. The fruit is sweet and ripe and the wine’s balance is precise suggesting that another 2-3 years of bottle aging will prove beneficial. WS 89 (12/2009): Crisp and tight, with mildly grippy tannins around a floral, cherry core, lingering easily and expressively. Needs time to develop. Best from 2011 through 2015. 1,150 cases made. BH 89 (1/2010): A ripe, fresh, elegant and admirably pure nose blends a mix of both red and blue fruits plus discreet floral and spice notes that introduce delicious, supple and relatively round middle weight flavors that display an appealing mouth feel and terminate in a dusty and detailed finish of moderate length. This could use a bit more depth though the material appears to be present to allow it to develop same in time and my score reflects this optimism. Drink 2013+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ArcherySummit.aspIWC 91 (6/2009): Deep red. Seductive red berry and floral aromas are deepened by notes of cola and sassafras. Silky, sweet raspberry and candied rose flavors pack solid punch but are fat-free and gently framed by dusty tannins. Racier strawberry and mineral qualities build on the finish, which is well-focused and refreshingly spicy.WA 90 (10/2009): The 2007 Pinot Noir Arcus Vineyard is sourced from a 40-acre parcel, the winery’s largest with some vines dating back to 1973. Medium ruby-colored with a fragrant perfume of spice box, cedar, and red fruits, the wine reveals some tannin upon entry to the palate backed up by a solid core of savory red fruit. The fruit is sweet and ripe and the wine’s balance is precise suggesting that another 2-3 years of bottle aging will prove beneficial. WS 89 (12/2009): Crisp and tight, with mildly grippy tannins around a floral, cherry core, lingering easily and expressively. Needs time to develop. Best from 2011 through 2015. 1,150 cases made. BH 89 (1/2010): A ripe, fresh, elegant and admirably pure nose blends a mix of both red and blue fruits plus discreet floral and spice notes that introduce delicious, supple and relatively round middle weight flavors that display an appealing mouth feel and terminate in a dusty and detailed finish of moderate length. This could use a bit more depth though the material appears to be present to allow it to develop same in time and my score reflects this optimism. Drink 2013+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ArcherySummit.aspIWC 92 (6/2008): Dark red color. Intensely minerally aromas of graphite-accented raspberry and cherry, Indian spices and dried flowers. Juicy red fruit flavors are medium-bodied and strikingly sweet, with an energetic snap of zesty minerality adding lift. Finishes fresh and elegant, with no excess fat and superb cut. I love the clarity of this pinot. BH 89 (10/2007): Noticeable if not intrusive oak presently fights for center stage with the otherwise pretty black cherry and blue berry infused nose where the rich, supple, lush and forward flavors also display the fruit character of the nose and culminate in a moderately structured and nicely long finish. The flavors are still a bit on the one-dimensional side though I like the balance here and there is enough material that the wine should eventually manage to integrate the wood. That said, I suspect the wood will always affect the texture to a certain extent by rounding off the finish somewhat. To be sure, there is very good quality here and once the wine has seen 3 to 6 years in the cellar it should be lovely. Drink 2010+. Outstanding!WS 88 (2/2008): Firm in texture, with spicy notes and crisp tannins around a modest core of raspberry and nectarine fruit. Needs time to show what it has. Best from 2009 through 2012. 947 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ArcherySummit.aspWA 93 (12/2003): A blend of 60% Merlot and 40% Syrah, the 2001 Variation One exhibits sweet, flowery, blackberry and cassis flavors with chocolate and leather in the background. This big, full-bodied, opulent, layered, multidimensional 2001 needs 2-3 years of cellaring. It should drink well for 1-2 decades.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Arietta.aspIWC 94 (5/2009): (55% syrah and 45% merlot, co-fermented) Good full medium ruby. Wild aromas of black raspberry, game, smoke and gravel. Lush and sweet, with the gamey quality joined by chocolate and roasted herbs on the very ripe palate. Finishes with substantial fine-grained tannins. Big and rich but fresh: winemaker Andy Erickson told me he uses the merlot "to tame and freshen the syrah, and to lower the wine's pH."WA 93 (12/2008): The blend of 55-60% Syrah and the rest Merlot is called Variation One (450-500 cases produced). The dense purple-hued 2006 Variation One exhibits notes of asphalt, chocolate, blackberries, and forest floor, and an extravagantly rich, full-bodied style with none of the noticeable tannin found in some of the other 2006s. This broad, savory, complex wine should provide provocative drinking over the next 15 or more years. WS 92 (4/2009): Firm, complex and full-bodied, with spicy, peppery wild berry flavors that walk the line of balance without wavering, ending with firm, dry tannins. Ends with a nice burst of grapey berry fruit and mineral and then some creamy oak. Syrah and Merlot. Drink now through 2014. 500 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Arietta.aspVM 94 (1/2015): Another deep, inky wine 2013 Syrah Griffin's Lair Vineyard is striking, but also shows only a fraction of its true potential. Black pepper, smoke, inky purple fruit, cloves, game and menthol meld together in a deep, inky wine that is going to need further time in bottle as the tannins are quite imposing. This is a classic, coastal, cool-climate Syrah with expressive aromatics, crystalline fruit and fabulous overall balance.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Arnot-Roberts.aspVM 95 (1/2015): An addition to the range, the 2013 Que Syrah Vineyard is super-expressive today as well as a great example of coastal Syrah in this vintage. Black pepper, tobacco, smoke, game, licorice and pomegranate open up in the glass. The flavors are bold and intense throughout, yet lovely floral/spiced notes keep the flavors bright and focused.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Arnot-Roberts.aspVM 91 (12/2016): Brilliant red. High-pitched raspberry and rose scents are complemented by hints of anise and allspice. Shows very good energy and depth to the red berry and floral pastille flavors, which are given lift by a spine of juicy acidity. Closes smooth, spicy and very long; fine-grained tannins frame the juicy, appealingly sweet red fruit. This wine delivers outstanding value and shows impressive nerve for a warm vintage. Josh Raynolds. WA 90 (6/2016): The 2014 Pinot Noir Dundee Hills is a blend of Maresh, Juliard, Weber, Gehrts and Folie Hill vineyards. It has a fresh and vibrant bouquet with red cherry and wild strawberry fruit, touches of blood orange with fine delineation. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannin - a mixture here of red and black fruit, meaty in style with a Pommard-like finish that lingers in the mouth. For $25, it's probably the bargain of the vintage.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ArterberryMaresh.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DavidArthur.aspVM 92 (12/2014): David Arthur's 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Elevation 1147 is quite floral and lifted in style with lovely aromatic complexity and nuance, but less depth and texture than the Estate Old Vine. It will be interesting to see if the 2012 fleshes out in bottle. Today, it is a bit on the light side, which, among other things, exposes the tannin. My sense is that the Elevation 1147 will always remain an ethereal, slightly fleeting Cabernet Sauvignon. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DavidArthur.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DavidArthur.aspVM 90 (12/2014): (55% Grenache, 40% Syrah and 5% Mourvedre): Medium red. Sexy aromas and flavors of maraschino cherry, mirabelle, licorice, graphite, smoke and tar. Sweet, plush and fine-grained, but nicely delineated too, thanks to ripe acidity. The juichttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LaurenAshtonCellars.aspWS 90 (9/2014): Marked by a trim, earth-laced cranberry and wild berry core, this is fresh and snappy, with vivid, gripping, gravelly tannins and good length. Expansive on the finish. Drink now through 2022. 1,000 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/AstonEstate(Schrader).aspWS 90 (9/2014): Marked by a trim, earth-laced cranberry and wild berry core, this is fresh and snappy, with vivid, gripping, gravelly tannins and good length. Expansive on the finish. Drink now through 2022. 1,000 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/AstonEstate(Schrader).asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/AstonEstate(Schrader).aspWS 89 (12/2008): Loamy clay and earth notes form the baseline for this wine. Offers subtle blueberry and herb-laced flavors that gain depth and richness, with a hint of tobacco, while maintaining a delicate mouthfeel. Drink now through 2012. 225 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/AstonEstate(Schrader).asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/AstonEstate(Schrader).aspWS 90 (9/2008): Pleasantly earthy, with dried currant, blueberry and wild berry flavors that are subtle and marked by tar, sage and light herbal scents. Complex and persistent on the finish. Drink now through 2011. 450 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/AstonEstate(Schrader).asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWS 92 (6/2013): Exhibits a rich core of citrus, ripe pear, honeysuckle, hazelnut and green apple flavors, tightly wound with lively acidity. Ends with a long, persistent finish and a crushed rock minerality. Drink now through 2018. 286 cases made.WA 91 (4/2013): The 2011 Chardonnay CIX Vineyard is the least expressive of these single-vineyard wines. Bright floral notes meld into various shades of citrus. There is plenty of polish, but the CIX doesn’t have anywhere near the level of complexity and/or nuance of the best wines in the range. Today, the CIX appears to still be somewhat of a work in progress relative to the high level that is customary throughout the rest of the range. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2018.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWS 92 (6/2013): Exhibits a rich core of citrus, ripe pear, honeysuckle, hazelnut and green apple flavors, tightly wound with lively acidity. Ends with a long, persistent finish and a crushed rock minerality. Drink now through 2018. 286 cases made.WA 91 (4/2013): The 2011 Chardonnay CIX Vineyard is the least expressive of these single-vineyard wines. Bright floral notes meld into various shades of citrus. There is plenty of polish, but the CIX doesn’t have anywhere near the level of complexity and/or nuance of the best wines in the range. Today, the CIX appears to still be somewhat of a work in progress relative to the high level that is customary throughout the rest of the range. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2018.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWS 92 (6/2013): Exhibits a rich core of citrus, ripe pear, honeysuckle, hazelnut and green apple flavors, tightly wound with lively acidity. Ends with a long, persistent finish and a crushed rock minerality. Drink now through 2018. 286 cases made.WA 91 (4/2013): The 2011 Chardonnay CIX Vineyard is the least expressive of these single-vineyard wines. Bright floral notes meld into various shades of citrus. There is plenty of polish, but the CIX doesn’t have anywhere near the level of complexity and/or nuance of the best wines in the range. Today, the CIX appears to still be somewhat of a work in progress relative to the high level that is customary throughout the rest of the range. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2018.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWA 96-100 (12/2014): The potentially perfect 2013 Chardonnay Cix Estate comes from a vineyard planted with the Reuling clone of Chardonnay. It is already showing incredible minerality along with notes of white peach, pineapple, oily citrus, apple blossom and lemon oil. This multidimensional, full-bodied, sensational Chardonnay should drink well for 10+ years. VM 96 (1/2015): The 2013 Chardonnay CIX Vineyard is another reticent wine, but there is plenty of depth, volume and raciness. With time in the glass, deeper, soil-inflected notes, graphite, chamomile and honey open up, adding considerable complexity and nuance. Bright, saline notes punctuate the finish. The CIX starts off slow, but then really accelerates with air.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWS 95 (6/2013): Amazingly complex, with a rich array of fig, apricot, butterscotch, crème brûlée and roasted marshmallow notes, sailing along and gaining on the finish, where the flavors are deep and persistent. Drink now through 2019. 497 cases made.WA 94 (4/2013): The 2011 Chardonnay Eastside Vineyard is rich, fat and explosive. Butter, smoke, spices, apricots, orange blossoms, almonds, hazelnuts, and nectarines all burst from the glass. This is a decidedly extroverted, plush Chardonnay with tons of Russian River character. It has a bit more oiliness and fat than the Ritchie, and is also just as beautiful. A wine of pure richness and glycerin, the vinous, textured Eastside Vineyard will drink well right out of the gate. Vintage 2011 is the first release of the Eastside Vineyard, which previously went into the Russian River bottling. Vineyard guru Ulises Valdez planted this site with Montrachet clones. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2018.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWA 100 (12/2015): The 2013 Chardonnay Eastside is from a vineyard owned by Ulises Valdez, and planted with the Montrachet clone on the very low-yielding rootstock called riparia gloire. This wine displays terrific intensity, plenty of stony minerality, and great precision in its notes of subtle white peach, pineapple, almond paste, brioche and crème brûlée. This is a killer wine and a perfect example of 2013 Chardonnay at its best. I never thought this wine could hit this peak, but the proof is in the tasting, and the wine, which was somewhat shy and reserved after bottling, has truly come to life over the last three to four months. This five-acre vineyard sits on a west-facing hill on Eastside Road in the Russian River. Drink it over the next 10-12 years. VM 95+ (1/2015): The 2013 Chardonnay Eastside Vineyard is one of the most tightly wound wines in this range. White pepper, crushed rocks, smoke, mint and lemon peel gradually open up, but only with great reluctance. Today, it is the wine's energy and tension that stand out above all else. A vivid, mineral-drenched finish rounds things out in style.WS 92 (6/2015): Tight, bright and focused, with an elegant core of zesty, lemon-infused green apple, honeydew and tangerine notes, ending with a pithy grapefruit skin edge. Drink now. 900 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWA 96-99 (2/2010): The 2008 Chardonnay Hyde and Sons Vineyard (the debut vintage of this offering) offers prodigious notes of citrus oil, nectarines, orange blossoms, apples, and a liquid wet stone-like component that gives the wine minerality as well as uplift. It is reminiscent of a Coche-Dury Corton-Charlemagne. Despite the use of 100% new French oak, the wood is buried under a cascade of fruit, layers of flavor, great acidity, and fabulous purity. This remarkable Chardonnay should evolve for a decade or more.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWA 95 (2/2012): The 2009 Chardonnay Hyde Vineyard comes across as rich, round and layered. Dried apricots, peaches, flowers and tangerine are some of the notes that flow from this sumptuous, well-spoken Chardonnay. The wine turns more and more delicate with time in the glass. I loved it. This is a great showing from Mark Aubert. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2021.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWS 96 (12/2011): A rich yet subtle style that serves up bold fig, honeydew, apricot and savory flavors that are full-bodied and tapered, at points both silky and minerally, ending with a fabulous burst of fruit. Drink now through 2018. 1,553 cases made.WA 95 (2/2012): The 2009 Chardonnay Ritchie Vineyard is precise and articulate, all nuance and detail. Here the aromas and flavors are all beautifully sculpted from start to finish. The wine blossoms with time in the glass, showing quite a bit of power while maintaining significant freshness. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2021.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWA 93 (2/2012): The 2010 Chardonnay Hyde Vineyard blossoms from the glass with tangerine, lemon, spices and butter. It shows gorgeous minerality and freshness that balances some of the wine’s more overt tendencies. Crushed rocks, lemon peel and mint reappear on the textured, large-scaled finish. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2020. WS 93 (5/2012): Rich without being weighty, this offers intense smoke, spice, nectarine, peach and pear notes that are fresh and vibrant, gaining depth, ending with a citrusy aftertaste. Drink now through 2019.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWA 95-97 (12/2015): The 2014 Chardonnay Larry Hyde and Sons is a bigger wine, no doubt the alcohol slightly higher, but the acids are present. The wine reveals terrific white peach and honeysuckle notes along with some quince and marmalade. Rich, full, powerful and long, it is a stunner that should drink well for 10-15 years. VM 95 (2/2016): The 2014 Chardonnay Larry Hyde and Sons opens with strikingly beautiful aromatics. Sensual, layered and polished, the Hyde boasts fabulous purity, nuance and class. Apricot pit, honey, candied lemon, crème brulee, wild flowers, mint and lightly buttered notes meld into the supple, radiant finish. This is a great example of Hyde.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWA 98 (12/2007): Another utterly profound wine is the 2005 Chardonnay Lauren Vineyard. A gorgeous nose of wet rocks, white currants, flowers, pineapple, and honeysuckle are all present in this vivid, full-bodied, powerful wine that tastes like a Chevalier-Montrachet from France. Stunningly rich, pure, and long, this is another tour de force from Mark Aubert, who certainly has the Midas touch when it comes to Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. It should drink well for 5-8 years.VM 93+ (6/2007): Yellow-green. Flamboyant aromas of pineapple, dried apricot, crushed stone and candle wax, with some oaky sweetness showing. Powerful, slightly aggressive flavors of sappy pineapple and crushed stone are a bit less smooth than those of the Ritchie, which offers the creaminess of old vines (it's from a 1971 planting), but this chardonnay, from seven-year-old vines, boasts terrific intensity and length and has the acid backbone to age. Give this lots of air if you open it anytime soon.WS 92 (7/2007): Floral, pear, peach and apple aromas are joined by toasty, cedary oak, delivered on a tightly focused beam. Intense and vibrant, with lively acidity keeping the flavors fresh and lively. Drink now through 2011. 1,214 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWA 96 (12/2008): The 2006 Chardonnay Lauren Vineyard is a brilliant effort. One has to admire Aubert’s ability to turn out something of this majesty in such a challenging year when so many Chardonnay and Pinot Noir vineyards were filled with botrytis. Lemon blossom, orange marmalade, and white currant aromas jump from the glass of this light straw-colored cuvee with a greenish hue (a characteristic that also appears in the Aubert 2007s). Beautiful notes of tropical fruits and crushed rocks are present in this gorgeously rich, full-bodied, well-focused Chardonnay. All the Aubert Chardonnays offer abundant power, vivid acidity, and dramatic, laser-like focus.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWA 96 (12/2008): The 2006 Chardonnay Lauren Vineyard is a brilliant effort. One has to admire Aubert’s ability to turn out something of this majesty in such a challenging year when so many Chardonnay and Pinot Noir vineyards were filled with botrytis. Lemon blossom, orange marmalade, and white currant aromas jump from the glass of this light straw-colored cuvee with a greenish hue (a characteristic that also appears in the Aubert 2007s). Beautiful notes of tropical fruits and crushed rocks are present in this gorgeously rich, full-bodied, well-focused Chardonnay. All the Aubert Chardonnays offer abundant power, vivid acidity, and dramatic, laser-like focus.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWA 96 (12/2008): The 2006 Chardonnay Lauren Vineyard is a brilliant effort. One has to admire Aubert’s ability to turn out something of this majesty in such a challenging year when so many Chardonnay and Pinot Noir vineyards were filled with botrytis. Lemon blossom, orange marmalade, and white currant aromas jump from the glass of this light straw-colored cuvee with a greenish hue (a characteristic that also appears in the Aubert 2007s). Beautiful notes of tropical fruits and crushed rocks are present in this gorgeously rich, full-bodied, well-focused Chardonnay. All the Aubert Chardonnays offer abundant power, vivid acidity, and dramatic, laser-like focus.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWA 97-99 (12/2008): The 2007 Chardonnay Lauren Vineyard eclipses its 2006 counterpart. It also reveals a greenish hue to its straw color, in addition to extraordinary intensity, crisp acidity, stunning texture and length, and abundant aromas of quince, citrus blossoms, honeysuckle, poached pears, and tropical fruits. It should drink well for 4-6 years or longer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWA 97-99 (12/2008): The 2007 Chardonnay Lauren Vineyard eclipses its 2006 counterpart. It also reveals a greenish hue to its straw color, in addition to extraordinary intensity, crisp acidity, stunning texture and length, and abundant aromas of quince, citrus blossoms, honeysuckle, poached pears, and tropical fruits. It should drink well for 4-6 years or longer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWA 97 (2/2011): When I am tasting with Mark Aubert, it always seems to be that his personal favorite is the Lauren Vineyard. The 2008 Chardonnay Lauren Vineyard is a big, dense wine that tastes like concentrated lemon and citrus oils intermixed with quince, honeysuckle and white flowers. Drop in a few pebbles and gravel and you have a full-bodied, beautifully textured, dense, powerful Chardonnay that admirably matches finesse with a larger than life size. This 2008 should drink well for a decade. VM 95 (6/2010): (15.8% alcohol) Bright yellow. More leesy complexity on the nose than the Hyde & Sons is showing today, along with aromas of stone and citrus fruits, baking spices and green tea. A step up in richness and depth, but with captivating lemony lift to the glyceral flavors of beeswax and pear. Finishes long and suave, with firm acids giving the wine excellent grip and lift. WS 93 (6/2010): Remarkable for its delicacy, finesse, grace and nuance, medium- to full-bodied, with complex pear, fig, hazelnut and melon flavors that gain depth and nuance, ending with a subtle mix of complex flavors. Drink now through 2014. 722 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWA 97 (2/2011): When I am tasting with Mark Aubert, it always seems to be that his personal favorite is the Lauren Vineyard. The 2008 Chardonnay Lauren Vineyard is a big, dense wine that tastes like concentrated lemon and citrus oils intermixed with quince, honeysuckle and white flowers. Drop in a few pebbles and gravel and you have a full-bodied, beautifully textured, dense, powerful Chardonnay that admirably matches finesse with a larger than life size. This 2008 should drink well for a decade. VM 95 (6/2010): (15.8% alcohol) Bright yellow. More leesy complexity on the nose than the Hyde & Sons is showing today, along with aromas of stone and citrus fruits, baking spices and green tea. A step up in richness and depth, but with captivating lemony lift to the glyceral flavors of beeswax and pear. Finishes long and suave, with firm acids giving the wine excellent grip and lift. WS 93 (6/2010): Remarkable for its delicacy, finesse, grace and nuance, medium- to full-bodied, with complex pear, fig, hazelnut and melon flavors that gain depth and nuance, ending with a subtle mix of complex flavors. Drink now through 2014. 722 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWA 95 (2/2012): The 2009 Chardonnay Lauren Vineyard is one of the more understated wines in this lineup. It also shows a bit more freshness and brightness than the other 2009s. Tangerine, mint, light floral honey and spices are all beautifully layered into the detailed, nuanced finish. The French oak is better balanced here than in the Reuling, which allows the fruit to show the fullest breadth of its personality. Here, too, the finish seems to expand in every direction. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2017. WS 95 (12/2011): Ultrarich and deeply concentrated, this is intense, persistent and graceful, with layers of ripe fig, honeydew melon, anise, sage and melted black licorice. Gets more complex and interesting with every sip. Best from 2012 through 2020. 959 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWA 96 (2/2012): The 2010 Chardonnay Lauren Vineyard brings together all of the elements of the house style. Layers of fruit emerge effortlessly from this textured, totally beautiful Chardonnay. Despite its richness, there is more than enough underlying minerality to buffer the fruit. This is the most nuanced and detailed of the 2010 Chardonnays from Aubert. Dried apricots, flowers and mint are some of the many notes that linger on the finish. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2020. WS 93 (5/2012): Weaving together a tasty mix of smoky tangerine, nectarine, white peach and mineral flavors, this is pure, focused and persistent, elegant and detailed. Shows more toasty oak on the aftertaste. Drink now through 2019.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWA 96 (2/2012): The 2010 Chardonnay Lauren Vineyard brings together all of the elements of the house style. Layers of fruit emerge effortlessly from this textured, totally beautiful Chardonnay. Despite its richness, there is more than enough underlying minerality to buffer the fruit. This is the most nuanced and detailed of the 2010 Chardonnays from Aubert. Dried apricots, flowers and mint are some of the many notes that linger on the finish. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2020. WS 93 (5/2012): Weaving together a tasty mix of smoky tangerine, nectarine, white peach and mineral flavors, this is pure, focused and persistent, elegant and detailed. Shows more toasty oak on the aftertaste. Drink now through 2019.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWA 96 (2/2012): The 2010 Chardonnay Lauren Vineyard brings together all of the elements of the house style. Layers of fruit emerge effortlessly from this textured, totally beautiful Chardonnay. Despite its richness, there is more than enough underlying minerality to buffer the fruit. This is the most nuanced and detailed of the 2010 Chardonnays from Aubert. Dried apricots, flowers and mint are some of the many notes that linger on the finish. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2020. WS 93 (5/2012): Weaving together a tasty mix of smoky tangerine, nectarine, white peach and mineral flavors, this is pure, focused and persistent, elegant and detailed. Shows more toasty oak on the aftertaste. Drink now through 2019.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWA 95 (4/2013): Aubert’s 2011 Chardonnay Lauren Vineyard flows across the palate with hints of butter, marzipan, spices, nectarines and dried apricots. Rich, voluptuous and creamy, the 2011 is another of the more overt wines in this range. Still, there is more than enough underlying minerality to balance the fruit. The old Wente and Montrachet clones work well here, but the vines are only 12 years old, which suggests the best is still very much in the future. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2019. WS 92 (6/2013): Ultrarich and intense, exhibiting waves of smoke, fig, apricot and tangerine flavors, firming and narrowing on the finish. Drink now through 2018. 767 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWA 98-100 (12/2013): We finished the Chardonnay portion of the tasting with Mark Aubert’s favorite wine, the 2012 Chardonnay Lauren Estate, which comes from rich Goldridge soils. There are 1,000 cases of this straw/greenish-colored beauty fashioned from various clones, including the Old Wente, Hyde, Hudson Corton-Charlemagne selection and the Mt. Eden clones. It possesses more of a tannic backbone than its siblings because of its grip. Full-bodied with lots of honeyed citrus, orange marmalade and abundant fruit on the attack and mid-palate, this youthful Chardonnay seems barely touched by its oak aging. All of these 2012s will be irresistible when released in 2014, but should age beautifully for 6-10+ years. WS 95 (7/2014): Rich and graceful, with layers of anise, fig, apricot, pear and honeydew. This picks up a touch of smoke and hazelnut, ending with a long, sustained finish that reverberates with flavor. Drink now through 2021. 875 cases made. VM 95 (2/2014): Almonds, hazelnuts, pastry and green orchard fruit meld together in Aubert's 2012 Chardonnay Lauren Vineyard. One of the more textured, layered wines, the 2012 impresses for its balance and overall sense of harmony. A racy, perfumed finish rounds things out.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWA 98-100 (12/2014): Named after Mark Aubert’s daughter, the 2013 Chardonnay Lauren Estate (1,000 cases produced) is made from Old Wente clones as well as the Mt. Eden clone planted in Goldridge soils. This stony, mineral-laced, crisp yet full-bodied effort comes across as a California version of a Coche-Dury Corton-Charlemagne. Citrus oil, tangerine skin, orange blossom, liquified rock, white flower and quince notes along with great fruit, a full-bodied, stunning texture, and a long finish with no noticeable oak suggest this prodigious Chardonnay will drink well for 10+ years. At the end of our tasting, Mark Aubert conducted a mini-vertical of the Lauren Estate Chardonnay starting with the 2009 and going back to 2003. At 11 years old, I rated the 2003 96 points, and it remains a lively, exuberant, fresh, stunning wine. All of them were fabulous, with my favorite being the 2007, which I rated 99 points. VM 97 (1/2015): Apricot pit, peach, wild flowers and honey meld together in Aubert's 2013 Chardonnay Lauren Vineyard. The soft contours are shaped by 100% new French oak, all of which is already fully integrated. Sweet, voluptuous and layered, the Lauren captures the essence of Mark Aubert's style. Even with all of its obvious opulence and texture, the Lauren needs time in bottle. I also tasted the 2003 and 2005 on this visit, two wines that are peaking right now.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWA 95-97 (12/2006): Nearly perfect, the 2005 Chardonnay Reuling Vineyard boasts fabulous intensity, virtually perfect balance, and remarkable notes of liquid stones intermixed with orange marmalade, honeysuckle, white peaches, and a touch of spice. This extraordinary cuvee, fashioned from a suitcase Montrachet clone, should age for a decade or more.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWA 97-99 (12/2008): Made from a suitcase clone apparently smuggled in from the Montrachet Vineyard (as vineyard myth has it), there are 350 cases of the 2007 Chardonnay Reuling Vineyard, which possesses the most fabulous minerality of any California Chardonnay. Its steely backbone as well as its extraordinary depth of white currants, nectarines, quince, and honeyed citrus are both provocative and lingering. Full in the mouth, with outstanding acidity, this 2007 has the potential to be one of the half dozen or so finest Chardonnays ever made in California.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWA 99 (2/2011): One of my favorite Aubert offerings that typically has a Montrachet-like character emerges from the Reuling Vineyard. Made from a suitcase clone from Burgundy’s most famous vineyard, it is an extraordinary effort. Readers looking for staggering levels of minerality and depth of flavor should check out this Chardonnay. The 2008 Chardonnay Reuling Vineyard offers aromas of crushed rocks, damp soil, honeysuckle, brioche, lemon oil, orange marmalade and buttered citrus. This compelling Chardonnay is full-bodied with great intensity, good acidity and stunning perfume as well as length. It should drink well for 7-8 years. WS 97 (6/2010): Rich and full-bodied, with ripe layers of fig, apricot and melon shaded by toasty, smoky roasted marshmallow flavors that are intense, vibrant and lively with acidity. Long and persistent on the finish. Drink now through 2014. 382 cases made. VM 93 (5/2010): (15.6% alcohol) Pale, green-tinged yellow. Reticent but pure aromas of crushed stone, flowers and herbal tea. Broad, classically dry and powerful, with primary fruit flavors currently overshadowed by soil-driven minerality. This is chewy-verging-on-thick and seems the least expressive of this set of chardonnays today. Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWA 99 (2/2011): One of my favorite Aubert offerings that typically has a Montrachet-like character emerges from the Reuling Vineyard. Made from a suitcase clone from Burgundy’s most famous vineyard, it is an extraordinary effort. Readers looking for staggering levels of minerality and depth of flavor should check out this Chardonnay. The 2008 Chardonnay Reuling Vineyard offers aromas of crushed rocks, damp soil, honeysuckle, brioche, lemon oil, orange marmalade and buttered citrus. This compelling Chardonnay is full-bodied with great intensity, good acidity and stunning perfume as well as length. It should drink well for 7-8 years. WS 97 (6/2010): Rich and full-bodied, with ripe layers of fig, apricot and melon shaded by toasty, smoky roasted marshmallow flavors that are intense, vibrant and lively with acidity. Long and persistent on the finish. Drink now through 2014. 382 cases made. VM 93 (5/2010): (15.6% alcohol) Pale, green-tinged yellow. Reticent but pure aromas of crushed stone, flowers and herbal tea. Broad, classically dry and powerful, with primary fruit flavors currently overshadowed by soil-driven minerality. This is chewy-verging-on-thick and seems the least expressive of this set of chardonnays today. Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWA 99 (2/2011): One of my favorite Aubert offerings that typically has a Montrachet-like character emerges from the Reuling Vineyard. Made from a suitcase clone from Burgundy’s most famous vineyard, it is an extraordinary effort. Readers looking for staggering levels of minerality and depth of flavor should check out this Chardonnay. The 2008 Chardonnay Reuling Vineyard offers aromas of crushed rocks, damp soil, honeysuckle, brioche, lemon oil, orange marmalade and buttered citrus. This compelling Chardonnay is full-bodied with great intensity, good acidity and stunning perfume as well as length. It should drink well for 7-8 years. WS 97 (6/2010): Rich and full-bodied, with ripe layers of fig, apricot and melon shaded by toasty, smoky roasted marshmallow flavors that are intense, vibrant and lively with acidity. Long and persistent on the finish. Drink now through 2014. 382 cases made. VM 93 (5/2010): (15.6% alcohol) Pale, green-tinged yellow. Reticent but pure aromas of crushed stone, flowers and herbal tea. Broad, classically dry and powerful, with primary fruit flavors currently overshadowed by soil-driven minerality. This is chewy-verging-on-thick and seems the least expressive of this set of chardonnays today. Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWS 95 (12/2011): Firm, tight and concentrated, with a beam of ripe pear, anise, honeydew melon, brioche and nutmeg flavors. Firms nicely, unfolding with layers of complexity. Drink now through 2018. 411 cases made. WA 94 (2/2012): The 2009 Chardonnay Reuling Vineyard is the biggest and richest of these 2009 Chardonnays. Pastry crust, spices, tangerine and dried apricot are all woven together beautifully in this large-scaled, expressive Chardonnay. Aubert used 100% new barrels here, which comes through ever so slightly in the texture of the fruit. An exuberant, explosive finish rounds things out in style. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2017.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWS 95 (12/2011): Firm, tight and concentrated, with a beam of ripe pear, anise, honeydew melon, brioche and nutmeg flavors. Firms nicely, unfolding with layers of complexity. Drink now through 2018. 411 cases made. WA 94 (2/2012): The 2009 Chardonnay Reuling Vineyard is the biggest and richest of these 2009 Chardonnays. Pastry crust, spices, tangerine and dried apricot are all woven together beautifully in this large-scaled, expressive Chardonnay. Aubert used 100% new barrels here, which comes through ever so slightly in the texture of the fruit. An exuberant, explosive finish rounds things out in style. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2017.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWA 95+ (2/2012): The exuberant 2010 Chardonnay Reuling Vineyard is another big, big wine bursting with fruit. Caressing the palate from start to finish, this is a decidedly broad shouldered, expansive Chardonnay loaded with power and energy. White flowers, apricots and spices add lift on the finish. The 2010 Reuling bears more than a passing resemblance to some of the greatest white Burgundies, but with that extra volume that is typical of California Chardonnay. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2021.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWA 96 (12/2005): The 2003 Pinot Noir Reuling Vineyard confirms what I tasted from barrel last year. This is obviously a suitcase clone from a renowned Vosne-Romanee vineyard (we all know which one), and the results are remarkably similar. A floral, black cherry, raspberry, plum, and forest floor-scented bouquet is accompanied by extraordinary, savory, broad, rich notes of blueberries, strawberries, and wild flowers. Rich, broad, and beautifully pure, but neither heavy nor over the top, it is a tour de force in Pinot Noir. It should drink well for a decade.VM 93 (6/2005): Bright, deep red-ruby. Sappy, sexy aromas of black cherry, raspberry, black tea, flowers and mint. Dense and rich but with terrific lift and perfume in the middle palate. From a Vosne-Romanee clone, and it shows it in its wild strawberry and black raspberry flavors. A wonderfully viscous pinot noir that somehow manages to avoid coming off as heavy, despite carrying 16% alcohol. This clone survived the heat of 2003 more successfully than the more recent Dijon clones, Aubert claims. Finishes with oak tannins that turned a bit charry as the wine opened in the glass. My score would have been even higher for a bit less oak.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWA 94-96 (2/2010): The 2008 Pinot Noir Reuling Vineyard is packed and stacked with flavor. For those weaned on wimpy, high acid, malnourished, over-cropped Pinots, wines such as this are often a shock. Its dark ruby/purple color is followed by a wine filled with concentrated black currant and black raspberry fruit, spring flower, crushed rock, and mushroom/forest floor notes. This sensational Pinot Noir should evolve for a decade or more.IWC 91 (6/2010): Good deep red. Explosive aromas of crushed cherry and raspberry, sassafras and black tea, lifted by a floral element. Then sappy, spicy and rich in the mouth, with a chewy saline quality, an intriguing iron note and plenty of alcoholic power. This big boy is currently showing more texture and soil character than sweet primary fruit. Finishes with dusty tannins that will require patience.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspVM 96+ (6/2007): Slightly hazy greenish-yellow color. Captivating, highly nuanced nose offers lime zest, lemon candy, nutmeg and crushed stone. Dense, thick and powerful, but for all its intensity this offers a magically light touch. The pineapple and crushed stone flavors are framed and intensified by sappy, perfectly integrated acidity and complicated by a leesy element. Boasts a truly three-dimensional texture that's rare for a dry white wine, not to mention extraordinary sweetness of fruit and length. Still quite young.WA 96 (12/2007): The 2005 Chardonnay Ritchie Vineyard has notes of nectarines, lemon oil, marmalade, roasted pineapple, and a hint of smoky, toasty oak, but a very subtle one. Stunningly rich, full-bodied, opulent, but with zesty acidity (a hallmark of all these 2005s), this wine looks set for 5-7 years of evolution.WS 93 (7/2007): Beautifully crafted, this is rich, intense and focused, with a complex mix of ripe, vibrant green apple, pear, melon and spice, picking up a subtle honeyed edge on the finish. Drink now through 2011. 1,080 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspVM 95 (6/2008): Good full medium yellow with a green tinge. Fruit-driven aromas of pineapple, pear, citrus peel and hazelnut. Fleshy, fat and oily, with a thickness of texture leavened by fresh flavors of pineapple and nectarine. Very densely packed and long. Aubert hasn't missed a beat with his Ritchie bottling, which is consistently one of California's elite chardonnays. WA 93 (12/2008): There are just over 200 cases of the 2006 Chardonnay Ritchie Vineyard. Displaying a more evolved style than usual, it offers up notes of buttered hazelnuts, lemon oil, honeysuckle, and a hint of spice. Drink this full-bodied, rich Chardonnay over the next several years. WS 93 (7/2008): Fresh, fragrant lemon-lime and citrus scents pick up subtle pear, fig and apple flavors that are sleek and refined. Gains richness on the finish, yet remains impeccably elegant. Drink now through 2011.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspVM 95 (6/2008): Good full medium yellow with a green tinge. Fruit-driven aromas of pineapple, pear, citrus peel and hazelnut. Fleshy, fat and oily, with a thickness of texture leavened by fresh flavors of pineapple and nectarine. Very densely packed and long. Aubert hasn't missed a beat with his Ritchie bottling, which is consistently one of California's elite chardonnays. WA 93 (12/2008): There are just over 200 cases of the 2006 Chardonnay Ritchie Vineyard. Displaying a more evolved style than usual, it offers up notes of buttered hazelnuts, lemon oil, honeysuckle, and a hint of spice. Drink this full-bodied, rich Chardonnay over the next several years. WS 93 (7/2008): Fresh, fragrant lemon-lime and citrus scents pick up subtle pear, fig and apple flavors that are sleek and refined. Gains richness on the finish, yet remains impeccably elegant. Drink now through 2011.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspVM 95 (6/2008): Good full medium yellow with a green tinge. Fruit-driven aromas of pineapple, pear, citrus peel and hazelnut. Fleshy, fat and oily, with a thickness of texture leavened by fresh flavors of pineapple and nectarine. Very densely packed and long. Aubert hasn't missed a beat with his Ritchie bottling, which is consistently one of California's elite chardonnays. WA 93 (12/2008): There are just over 200 cases of the 2006 Chardonnay Ritchie Vineyard. Displaying a more evolved style than usual, it offers up notes of buttered hazelnuts, lemon oil, honeysuckle, and a hint of spice. Drink this full-bodied, rich Chardonnay over the next several years. WS 93 (7/2008): Fresh, fragrant lemon-lime and citrus scents pick up subtle pear, fig and apple flavors that are sleek and refined. Gains richness on the finish, yet remains impeccably elegant. Drink now through 2011.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWA 94-96 (12/2008): The 2007 Chardonnay Ritchie Vineyard is a return to the brilliance of the 2005. From 35-year old, old Wente clone vines (preferred by nearly every top Chardonnay producer in northern California), this cuvee exhibits incredible elegance, crisp acidity, noteworthy minerality, and a full-bodied, substantial personality. Notes of quince, nectarines, honeyed citrus, pineapple, and subtle smoke emerge from this rich, opulent Chardonnay that should drink well for 5-8 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWA 94-96 (12/2008): The 2007 Chardonnay Ritchie Vineyard is a return to the brilliance of the 2005. From 35-year old, old Wente clone vines (preferred by nearly every top Chardonnay producer in northern California), this cuvee exhibits incredible elegance, crisp acidity, noteworthy minerality, and a full-bodied, substantial personality. Notes of quince, nectarines, honeyed citrus, pineapple, and subtle smoke emerge from this rich, opulent Chardonnay that should drink well for 5-8 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWA 94-96 (12/2008): The 2007 Chardonnay Ritchie Vineyard is a return to the brilliance of the 2005. From 35-year old, old Wente clone vines (preferred by nearly every top Chardonnay producer in northern California), this cuvee exhibits incredible elegance, crisp acidity, noteworthy minerality, and a full-bodied, substantial personality. Notes of quince, nectarines, honeyed citrus, pineapple, and subtle smoke emerge from this rich, opulent Chardonnay that should drink well for 5-8 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWS 96 (6/2010): (Wine Spectator #27 winbe of 2010) Bold, rich and expressive, layered and complex, offering tiers of ripe citrus and lemon peel, pear and melon, with touches of hazelnut and spice. Ends with a rich, smoky butterscotch flavor that gives this added dimension. Drink now through 2015. 1,303 cases made. WA 95 (2/2011): The 2008 Chardonnay Ritchie Vineyard comes from 30+ year old vines of the Old Wente clone, which was apparently a suitcase clone taken from Louis Latour’s parcels in Corton-Charlemagne, just north of Beaune. It exhibits a beautiful honeyed citrus, nectarine, crushed rock, honeysuckle and tropical fruit blossom-scented bouquet, terrific stuffing, good acidity and wonderful density as well as richness. Because of the tiny yields in that vintage, the 2008s tend to be more concentrated than the 2009s, which are more elegant, lower in alcohol and not quite as dense. VM 93 (6/2010): (15.1% alcohol) Deep, slightly hazy yellow. Vibrant aromas of orange rind, dried lemon, crushed stone and floral oils. Round, sweet and lush but with a firm spine of acidity providing shape. The wine's sexy sweetness and fruit intensity are nicely counterpointed by a saline minerality. More opulent than the Lauren but perhaps not quite as gripping on the finish.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWS 96 (6/2010): (Wine Spectator #27 winbe of 2010) Bold, rich and expressive, layered and complex, offering tiers of ripe citrus and lemon peel, pear and melon, with touches of hazelnut and spice. Ends with a rich, smoky butterscotch flavor that gives this added dimension. Drink now through 2015. 1,303 cases made. WA 95 (2/2011): The 2008 Chardonnay Ritchie Vineyard comes from 30+ year old vines of the Old Wente clone, which was apparently a suitcase clone taken from Louis Latour’s parcels in Corton-Charlemagne, just north of Beaune. It exhibits a beautiful honeyed citrus, nectarine, crushed rock, honeysuckle and tropical fruit blossom-scented bouquet, terrific stuffing, good acidity and wonderful density as well as richness. Because of the tiny yields in that vintage, the 2008s tend to be more concentrated than the 2009s, which are more elegant, lower in alcohol and not quite as dense. VM 93 (6/2010): (15.1% alcohol) Deep, slightly hazy yellow. Vibrant aromas of orange rind, dried lemon, crushed stone and floral oils. Round, sweet and lush but with a firm spine of acidity providing shape. The wine's sexy sweetness and fruit intensity are nicely counterpointed by a saline minerality. More opulent than the Lauren but perhaps not quite as gripping on the finish.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWS 96 (12/2011): A rich yet subtle style that serves up bold fig, honeydew, apricot and savory flavors that are full-bodied and tapered, at points both silky and minerally, ending with a fabulous burst of fruit. Drink now through 2018. 1,553 cases made. WA 95 (2/2012): The 2009 Chardonnay Ritchie Vineyard is precise and articulate, all nuance and detail. Here the aromas and flavors are all beautifully sculpted from start to finish. The wine blossoms with time in the glass, showing quite a bit of power while maintaining significant freshness. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2021.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWA 94+ (2/2012): The 2010 Chardonnay Ritchie Vineyard comes across as implosive and structured. Today the wine is quite reticent, as it is showing just the barest hint of its potential. The 2010 Ritchie impresses for its power and energy. This tightly coiled Chardonnay needs another year or two in bottle to show the full breadth of its potential. These 36-year-old vines are the oldest Aubert works with. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2020. WS 94 (7/2012): Deeply perfumed, with expansive, detailed flavors of ripe pear, green apple, honeysuckle and light toasty oak. Very complete and balanced, ending with a hazelnut and roasted marshmallow note. Drink now through 2019. 926 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWA 94+ (2/2012): The 2010 Chardonnay Ritchie Vineyard comes across as implosive and structured. Today the wine is quite reticent, as it is showing just the barest hint of its potential. The 2010 Ritchie impresses for its power and energy. This tightly coiled Chardonnay needs another year or two in bottle to show the full breadth of its potential. These 36-year-old vines are the oldest Aubert works with. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2020. WS 94 (7/2012): Deeply perfumed, with expansive, detailed flavors of ripe pear, green apple, honeysuckle and light toasty oak. Very complete and balanced, ending with a hazelnut and roasted marshmallow note. Drink now through 2019. 926 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWA 94+ (2/2012): The 2010 Chardonnay Ritchie Vineyard comes across as implosive and structured. Today the wine is quite reticent, as it is showing just the barest hint of its potential. The 2010 Ritchie impresses for its power and energy. This tightly coihttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWA 95-98 (12/2013): Mark Aubert farms 39-year-old vines in the famous Ritchie Vineyard. At 1,200 cases, the 2012 Chardonnay Ritchie Vineyard is the largest production cuvee of these Chardonnays. It reveals a more evolved nose of smoky hazelnuts, honeysuckhttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspVM 97 (1/2015): The 2013 Chardonnay Ritchie Vineyard is translucent and weightless, yet also magnificent in its depth. Graphite, slate, smoke, incense, lemon and white peach emerge from the glass, but only with great reluctance. The Ritchie is the most reticent wine in this range, but it is in many ways the most intriguing. Intensely mineral and nuanced, the 2013 Ritchie will thrill those lucky enough to own it for another decade-plus. I can't wait to see how this develops in bottle. The 2013 was done in 100% new oak, yet there is virtually no trace of oak at all. WA 96-98 (12/2014): From Aubert’s oldest vines, the 2013 Chardonnay Ritchie (1,000 cases produced) is made from the 40-year-old Chardonnay clone called Old Wente. Candied citrus, wet rocks, Granny Smith apples, white peach and honeysuckle notes are found in this full-bodied, prodigious Chardonnay with crisp acidity buttressing the viscous, full-throttle style. All of these 2013s have at least a decade of aging potential.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspVM 96 (2/2016): The 2014 Chardonnay Ritchie Vineyard is one of the most refined, perfumed wines in the range. White flowers, orchard fruit, petrol and mint are some of the signatures in the 2014 Ritchie. Light on its feet yet wonderfully expressive, the 2014 has it all. This is a very pretty Ritchie Chardonnay that will delight readers lucky enough to find it for a decade or more. Mark Aubert adds that this is the smallest crop he has ever had at Ritchie. WA 95-97 (12/2015): The 2014 Chardonnay Ritchie (the vines this year were 42 years of age) displays terrific ripeness, plenty of acidity, fabulous density, a multi-dimensional mouthfeel and a full-bodied finish. It should drink well for a decade as well. WS 92 (6/2016): A gorgeous mouthful, rich and layered, with honey-scented fig, apricot, honeydew, nutmeg, hazelnut and floral spice flavors, delivered in a powerful yet graceful manner. Drink now. 1,100 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspVM 95 (1/2015): The pedigree of site comes through loud and clear in Aubert's 2013 Pinot Noir Ritchie Vineyard, a wine that stands out for its combination of intense fruit and pulsating acidity. Lavender, plums, mint, pine and wild flowers blossom in a dark, extroverted wine that captures the personality of the Calera clone. The 2013 retains striking freshness for such a big wine. I imagine it will be fascinating to follow for the next decade or so, perhaps longer. Antonio Galloni.WA 94 (12/2014): The full-bodied, dense ruby-hued 2013 Pinot Noir Ritchie, which comes from the Calera clone of Pinot Noir, reveals plenty of beet root, forest floor, Asian hoisin sauce, plum, blackcurrant and cherry notes, as well as terrific fruit and richness. Drink 2016-2028.WS 93 (5/2016): Full-bodied, rich and lively, with a mix of currant, blackberry and blueberry framed by tight tannins and acidity, both of which lend this structure. Most impressive on the finish, where the flavors gain depth and nuance. Drink now through 2024.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspVM 93 (1/2015): The 2013 Pinot Noir is fabulous. Pliant, supple and expressive, the Sonoma Coast is a window into this collection of superb Pinots. Dark red cherries, white flowers, mint and spices are some of the notes that caress the palate in this perfumed, exquisite Pinot Noir from Mark Aubert. At many estates, the Sonoma Coast would be the top of the line; here it is the entry-level bottling.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWA 95 (12/2007): The 2005 Pinot Noir UV Vineyard, another wine made from the Calera clone of Pinot Noir, and named after the superb viticultural manager Ulises Valdez, has a deep ruby/purple-tinged color and an exceptional nose of sweet raspberry, pomegranate, and currants intermixed with some spring flowers, underbrush, and forest floor notes. The wine has dazzling stuffing, expansive texture, sensational purity, and well-integrated acidity and tannin. It is a stunningly complex, grand cru Pinot Noir that should drink nicely for 10-15 or more years. Mark Aubert is on the move, leaving Colgin Winery in favor of working for the Bryant Family Vineyard, while at the same time producing some of the world’s greatest Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs. He seems to have a plate filled with both potential and stress. The bad news is that one of his suppliers decided his Chardonnays were just too profound for the Quarry Vineyard, and will no longer sell him fruit from that source, and in 2006, there was so little Reuling available, that cuvee was not made either. In short, there are two fewer Chardonnays for the 2006 vintage! Nevertheless, those who got on the mailing list and secured some of his 2005 Chardonnays have some of the finest Chardonnays ever made in California at their beck and call. Of course, these are made from old Wente clones of Chardonnay, given full malolactic, aged on their lees, and bottled with no clarification. IWC 94 (6/2007): Good deep red-ruby. Knockout nose combines crushed blackberry, black raspberry, licorice and violet. Sappy, densely packed and powerful, with hugely rich, near-confectionery flavors of black fruits, wild strawberry and chocolate. There are complicating soil tones here but this is essentially a wonderfully sweet, creamy California fruit bomb of a pinot. Finishes with superb purity of fruit, fine sweet tannins, and firm balancing acidity.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWA 94-96 (2/2010): The powerful, earthy 2008 Pinot Noir UV Vineyard exhibits more mossy, forest floor, mushroomy notes intermixed with blue and black fruits as well as hints of camphor and smoky barbecued meats. This big, rich, forebodingly intense Pinot requires several years of bottle age, and should last for 10-12 years.IWC 93 (6/2010): Full medium red, less bright than the Rueling. More aromatic nose offers blue fruits and violet. Fat, sweet and broad, with very ripe flavors of blueberry liqueur, black tea and earth. I wanted a bit more verve and floral lift but this very long wine shows better fruit sweetness on the very long finish than the Rueling. Aubert did an extended maceration on the skins in 2008 (up to 45 days), which he believes has given his wines more gras But I wonder if this added textural richness has come at the expense of some verve. Both of these wines are aged in 100% new oak, mostly barrels from Fran c ois Freres, Remond and Damy.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWS 95 (12/2011): Deliciously rich and layered, showing bold fig, honeydew melon and apricot flavors, with more subtle hints of citrus, mineral, crème brûlée and cedar. Deftly balanced, ripe and expressive, without weight. Drink now through 2018. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 378 cases made. WA 94 (2/2012): The 2009 Chardonnay UV-SL Vineyard emerges from the glass with rich apricots, pears, flowers, and tangerine, all of which come together in a dramatic, sweeping expression of Chardonnay. In 2009 the UV-SL has a rich, baritone register that is compelling. The aromas and flavors build effortlessly to the textured, creamy finish. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2019.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspWA 94 (2/2012): The 2010 Chardonnay UV-SL Vineyard boasts remarkable textural depth and finesse. Rich, round and seamless, the UV-SL is all about body and endless layers of flavor. An element of salinity gives a finish laced with white flowers and citrus of considerable freshness. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2020. WS 93 (5/2012): An intense if weighty white, with baked apple, piecrust, spice and honeysuckle flavors. Both bold and vibrant, this is pithy, gaining richness with fig and honeydew melon flavors. Should gain. Best from 2013 through 2022.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspVM 97 (2/2016): The 2014 Chardonnay UV-SL Vineyard is rich, phenolic and intense, with striking interplay of aromas, flavors and textures. Seamless and impeccably layered in the glass, the 2014 speaks to balance and finesse. Today, the UV-SL is creamy, unctuous and absolutely stunning in its beauty. Yields were just one ton per acre at UV-SL, the most coastal of the sites Mark Aubert works with. Antonio Galloni. WA 96 (10/2016): From a cold site, the 2014 Chardonnay UV-SL is from a dry-farmed vineyard. This seems to have been the most closed wine that I tasted of the 2014s. The wine has loads of citrus oil, real crisp, zesty acids (giving it a more compressed feeling that some of the other wines) and a long finish. Tipping the scales at 15.5% natural alcohol, it doesn’t have a trace of heat, but shows the strength, ripeness and intensity he has achieved. This is a long-distance runner of 10-15 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspVM 97 (2/2016): The 2014 Chardonnay UV-SL Vineyard is rich, phenolic and intense, with striking interplay of aromas, flavors and textures. Seamless and impeccably layered in the glass, the 2014 speaks to balance and finesse. Today, the UV-SL is creamy, unctuous and absolutely stunning in its beauty. Yields were just one ton per acre at UV-SL, the most coastal of the sites Mark Aubert works with. Antonio Galloni. WA 96 (10/2016): From a cold site, the 2014 Chardonnay UV-SL is from a dry-farmed vineyard. This seems to have been the most closed wine that I tasted of the 2014s. The wine has loads of citrus oil, real crisp, zesty acids (giving it a more compressed feeling that some of the other wines) and a long finish. Tipping the scales at 15.5% natural alcohol, it doesn’t have a trace of heat, but shows the strength, ripeness and intensity he has achieved. This is a long-distance runner of 10-15 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspVM 96 (1/2015): The 2013 Pinot Noir UV-SL Vineyard is the most opulent and extroverted of these Pinots, but it is also the most compelling. Endowed with huge fruit, and an explosive mid-palate, the UV-SL captures the very best of this style of Pinot. Layers of dark, inky fruit built to a crescendo of intensity and juiciness. Hints of lavender, spices and violets wrap around the finish, with plenty of support from beams of underlying tannin. Antonio Galloni.WA 94+ (12/2014): The 2013 Pinot Noir UV-SL, primarily made from Calera and Vosne-Romanée clonal material, boasts a dense ruby/purple color as well as a big, sweet nose of blackcurrants, black cherries, forest floor and beet root. The complex aromatics are followed by a full-bodied, intensely concentrated, pure, seamlessly constructed red that should drink well for 10-15+ years.WS 94 (5/2016): Offers a racy, zesty expression of spicy raspberry and wild berry fruit that's pleasantly ripe and juicy, offering depth and richness in an elegant style that allows the flavors to gain weight and length without becoming heavy. Drink now through 2022.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.aspVM 96 (1/2015): The 2013 Pinot Noir UV-SL Vineyard is the most opulent and extroverted of these Pinots, but it is also the most compelling. Endowed with huge fruit, and an explosive mid-palate, the UV-SL captures the very best of this style of Pinot. Layers of dark, inky fruit built to a crescendo of intensity and juiciness. Hints of lavender, spices and violets wrap around the finish, with plenty of support from beams of underlying tannin.WS 92 (5/2016): Offers a racy, zesty expression of spicy raspberry and wild berry fruit that's pleasantly ripe and juicy, offering depth and richness in an elegant style that allows the flavors to gain weight and length without becoming heavy. Drink now through 2022.WA 94+ (12/2014): The 2013 Pinot Noir UV-SL, primarily made from Calera and Vosne-Romanée clonal material, boasts a dense ruby/purple color as well as a big, sweet nose of blackcurrants, black cherries, forest floor and beet root. The complex aromatics are followed by a full-bodied, intensely concentrated, pure, seamlessly constructed red that should drink well for 10-15+ years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Aubert.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/AudelssaEstateWinery.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/AudelssaEstateWinery.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Avennia.aspWA 91 (6/2013): Kicking off the reds and the estate’s entry level Bordeaux blend, the 2010 Gravura is a classically styled effort that oozes black currant, pencil shavings, herb and tobacco aromas and flavors. A blend of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 39% Merlot and 6% Cabernet Franc that spent 20 months in 50% new French oak, it is medium to full-bodied and beautifully balanced with awesome purity of fruit, juicy acidity and lots of ripe tannin. It will delight old school Bordeaux lovers and shine for over a decade. Drink now-2020+. VM 91 (11/2012): (an homage to Graves; 54% cabernet sauvignon, 40% merlot and 6% cabernet franc): Good full red-ruby. Spicy aromas of redcurrant and tobacco leaf complicated by garrigue high notes. Juicy, complex and intense, with raspberry, cocoa powder, lead pencil and brushy earth tones that do remind me of Graves. This rather suave wine finishes with refined tannins and very good length. Stephen Tanzer.WS 89 (10/2013): Fresh and vital, featuring a layer of chewy tannins surrounding a vibrant core of blackberry and currant fruit, narrowing to a sharp beam on the finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Best from 2015 through 2020. 300 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Avennia.aspWA 91 (6/2014): A Rhone-style blend of 46% Grenache, 30% Mourvedre and 24% Syrah, the 2011 Justine offers up a peppery, meaty style with notions of spice, dried underbrush, beef blood and dark cherry and currant fruit. Medium-bodied, supple, pure and elegant, with integrated acidity and a focused finish, it’s a superb effort that will drink nicely for 8-10 years. VM 91 (11/2013): (a blend of 46% grenache, 30% mourvedre and 24% syrah; all wild yeasts; no new oak): Bright ruby-red. Black cherry and licorice aromas are accented by black pepper, mint and herbs. Densely packed and thick but youthfully tight and juicy, with very good intensity to the blackberry liqueur and sappy red fruit flavors. The serious but suave tannins arrive late, allowing this fresh, complex wine to express itself. Very long on the aftertaste. Stephen Tanzer. WS 89 (7/2014): Vibrant, polished and distinctive, offering a licorice and tobacco character, centered on black cherry notes as the flavors persist on a medium frame against a refined texture. Grenache, Mourvèdre and Syrah. Drink now through 2017. 315 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Avennia.aspWA 93 (6/2013): More toasty, rich and muscular, the 2010 Sestina has more Cabernet in the blend (73% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Merlot and 9% Cabernet Franc) and saw 70% new oak for 20 months. Coming from both Bacchus and Red Willow Vineyards, it offers up a serious bouquet of black raspberries, graphite, grilled toast, chocolate and wild herbs that flows to a full-bodied, concentrated and powerful 2010 that has outstanding purity of fruit and burly back-end structure that will take some time to integrate. Less approachable at present than the Gravura, it needs 3-4 years of bottle age and will have 15+ years or more of total longevity. Drink 2016-2025+. VM 93 (11/2012): (all from older vines, including a lot of 1972 Bacchus cabernet sauvignon; 73% cabernet, 18% merlot and 9% cabernet franc; aged in 70% new oak): Good full, dark red. Enticing aromas of redcurrant and sandalwood. Generous, pliant and rich, with sweet black raspberry fruit nicely lifted by strong minerality. The sweetest, roundest and fullest of these 2010s, more opulent than the Gravura and impressively broad on the back end. The tannins are serious but sweet on the very broad finish. This was the best set of new wines I tasted in Washington in July, but given their pedigree this should not come as a surprise. Stephen Tanzer.WS 92 (5/2013): Focused, expressive and generous, with cedary blackberry and curry spice flavors that linger on the polished finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Drink now through 2018. 200 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Avennia.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Avennia.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LAventure.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LAventure.aspWA 94 (8/2010): The finest 2008 I tasted is the 2008 Estate Cuvee, a blend of 50% Syrah, 36% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 14% Petit Verdot. Mocha, fudge, blackberry, graphite, cassis, and smoky barbecue scents jump from the glass of this dense purple-colored 2008. Full-bodied, rich, textured, and layered, this terrific effort is surprisingly soft and accessible. Drink it over the next decade. VM 94 (12/2010): (50% syrah, 36% cabernet sauvignon and 14% petit verdot; 15.9% alcohol) Inky purple. Cassis, blueberry and smoky Indian spices on the expansive, heady nose, with a sexy floral quality that gains strength with air. Deep, sappy and palate-coating dark fruit compote flavors show unlikely energy and become spicier with air. Strikingly expressive, potent and compellingly fragrant wine that finishes with remarkable clarity and sweet persistence. This was raised in 100% new French oak, but I'd never have guessed it.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LAventure.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LAventure.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LAventure.aspWS 91 (6/2005): A remarkably complex and successful blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Sangiovese and Petite Sirah. Offers a wonderful range of flavors, from the core of currant and blackberry to hints of cedar, sage, anise and nutmeg. Tightly wound and firmly tannic, with a long, intricate finish. Needs short-term cellaring. Best from 2006 through 2012. 1,548 cases made. WA 89 (2/2005): The deep ruby-hued 2002 Proprietary Red, a blend of 66% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Sangiovese, and 15% Petite Sirah, reveals a sweet perfume of white chocolate, kirsch, licorice, earth, and dried herbs. There is an elegant attack as well as medium-bodied, concentrated flavors, but an angular, austere, tannic finish kept my score from going even higher. I suspect this offering will taste better if drunk with food. Consume it over the next 7-8 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BacioDivino.aspWS 91 (6/2005): A remarkably complex and successful blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Sangiovese and Petite Sirah. Offers a wonderful range of flavors, from the core of currant and blackberry to hints of cedar, sage, anise and nutmeg. Tightly wound and firmly tannic, with a long, intricate finish. Needs short-term cellaring. Best from 2006 through 2012. 1,548 cases made. WA 89 (2/2005): The deep ruby-hued 2002 Proprietary Red, a blend of 66% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Sangiovese, and 15% Petite Sirah, reveals a sweet perfume of white chocolate, kirsch, licorice, earth, and dried herbs. There is an elegant attack as well as medium-bodied, concentrated flavors, but an angular, austere, tannic finish kept my score from going even higher. I suspect this offering will taste better if drunk with food. Consume it over the next 7-8 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BacioDivino.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Banshee.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Banyan.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Banyan.aspWA 88 (8/2007): The Crozes-Hermitage-like 2005 Syrah Colson Canyon reveals notes of tobacco, roasted herbs, new saddle leather, cherries, black currants, and toasty new oak. Even a hint of graphite emerges from this complex, deep, well-made, French-styled wine. Drink it over the next 3-5 years. WS 87 (12/2007): Spicy, peppery aromas join wild berry, huckleberry and sour cherry notes in this sleek, trim red. Ends with spicy fruit and firm tannins. Drink now through 2011. 395 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Barbieri.aspWA 86 (12/2010): Displaying a slightly darker plum/ruby color, the 2009 Pinot Noir Tina Marie Vineyard exhibits more earthy, stemmy, herbal notes in the nose and less of the blue fruit and floral characteristics found in the Savoy Vineyard cuvee. Medium-bodied with good acidity as well as rustic tannins, it is a solid, but less inspiring effort. Consume it over the next 2-4 years. WS 86 (12/2011): There's a racy edge of raspberry balsamic in this full-bodied and complex red, with raspberry and wild berry flavors. The biggest issue is the raciness. The best of three bottles tasted. Drink now through 2016. 510 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BarnettVineyards.aspWA 98+ (10/2014): As great as all these wines are, Beau Vigne’s top wine is the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Cult. From a dry-farmed vineyard, it exhibits an inky/blue/black color as well as beautiful, sweet kirsch liqueur notes intermixed with creme de cassis, unsmoked cigar tobacco, underbrush and loamy soil notes. The complex aromatics are followed by a fabulously rich, full-bodied, voluptuously textured wine revealing terrific purity as well as depth. This stunning 2012 should continue to drink well for 15-20+ years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BeauVigne.aspWA 98+ (10/2014): As great as all these wines are, Beau Vigne’s top wine is the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Cult. From a dry-farmed vineyard, it exhibits an inky/blue/black color as well as beautiful, sweet kirsch liqueur notes intermixed with creme de cassis, unsmoked cigar tobacco, underbrush and loamy soil notes. The complex aromatics are followed by a fabulously rich, full-bodied, voluptuously textured wine revealing terrific purity as well as depth. This stunning 2012 should continue to drink well for 15-20+ years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BeauVigne.aspWA 93 (10/2013): A blend of 98% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Petit Verdot, the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Romeo exhibits a dense purple color, a full-bodied, rich mouthfeel, and abundant notes of espresso roast, white chocolate, creme de cassis and spice box. It spent 16 months in 50% new French oak, but there is little evidence of wood in this rich, full-bodied, evolved, forward Cabernet. Drink it over the next 10-15 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BeauVigne.aspWA 95 (12/2009): The phenomenal 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Private Reserve Georges de Latour is the greatest BV Private Reserve made since the 1970 and 1968. The good news is 11,000 cases were produced. The return of this superb Napa classic is fabulous news, and the brilliance of this wine is evidenced by its opaque purple color and its big, sweet, blackberry, cassis, subtle smoke, graphite, and spicy oak-scented nose. Dense and full-bodied with sweet but substantial tannins, thrilling levels of concentration, texture, and richness, and a heady finish, this wine will benefit from 4-5 years of bottle age, and last three decades or more. It’s time to once again fill your cellars with the BV Private Reserve, one of the historic names in California wine folklore. VM 93 (6/2010): Good full red with ruby highlights. Sexy aromas of redcurrant, cherry, strawberry and cedar. Opulent and thick but very young, with an element of inner-mouth floral lift I did not find in the 2006. Here the substantial, firm tannins are sweeter, allowing the berry and floral flavors to linger and build. Stambor describes this as a better-structured version of the 1997. Certainly the best vintage for this wine in recent years. WS 91 (5/2010): Firm, ripe, rich and concentrated, full-bodied and tightly focused, with a chewy core of dried currant, mineral, fresh earth, spice, black licorice and dried sage, gaining weight, depth and density and ending with a potent, full-bodied finish. Best from 2011 through 2018. 8,905 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BeaulieuVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BeaulieuVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BeauxFreres.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BeauxFreres.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BeauxFreres.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BeauxFreres.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BeauxFreres.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BedrockWineCo.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BedrockWineCo.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BedrockWineCo.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BedrockWineCo.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BedrockWineCo.aspWS 83 (7/2010): Not your typical Russian River Pinot Noir. This is dark and extracted, Syrah-like in its density, with chewy dried plum as well as charry, smoky, toasty oak flavors that dry out on the finish. Drink now through 2014. 192 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BedrockWineCo.aspWA 90-93 (12/2000): The 1999 Merlot Alder Springs Vineyard (350 cases) is superb, but shows a cooler climate, almost jammy, red berry nose, with notes of graphite, toast, and spice. The wine has gorgeous purity, relatively low acidity, and a thick yet superb finish.IWC 90-92 (6/2001): Medium ruby. Perfumed, superripe aromas of black cherry jam, violet pastille and licorice. Supple and very ripe in the mouth; dense and sweet but given shape by strong acidity and firm, chewy tannins. Finishes with a note of dark chocolate. Very distinctive merlot, from clay-rich soil at an altitude of about 2,000 feet. VM 90-92 (5/2001): Medium ruby. Perfumed, superripe aromas of black cherry jam, violet pastille and licorice. Supple and very ripe in the mouth; dense and sweet but given shape by strong acidity and firm, chewy tannins. Finishes with a note of dark chocolate. Very distinctive merlot, from clay-rich soil at an altitude of about 2,000 feet. Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BehrensHitchcock.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BehrensHitchcock.aspWA 94-96 (12/2000): The 1999 Cuvee Lola, a blend dominated by Cabernet Franc (about 75%, with small quantities of Petit Verdot, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon added in) is sensational (375 cases; a "modest" 15.3% alcohol). The wine offers an opaque blue/purple color and an exquisite nose of liquid minerals, black fruits, and spice. Dense, huge, and full-bodied, yet at the same time, remarkably elegant and graceful, it is a tour de force in winemaking, representing a brilliant marriage of power and finesse. Because of the slightly firm tannins in the finish, it will need 2-3 years of cellaring, but should keep 20+ years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BehrensHitchcock.aspWA 93-95 (12/2003): The 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon Kenefick Ranch (which Les Behrens calls, “the poor man’s Araujo") is a fat, expansive, deep, concentrated effort displaying an inky/purple color as well as super aromas of blueberry liqueur, smoke, creme de cassis, and hints of chocolate and espresso. Medium to full-bodied, with super depth in addition to a tremendously persistent finish of 45-50 seconds, it will require 2-3 years of bottle age, and should drink well for 15-16.IWC 90 (6/2005): Saturated bright ruby. Fla mboyantly ripe aromas of black cherry, blackberry, violet, dark chocolate and licorice. Sweet, lush and extremely ripe, with impressive breadth. Big, rich, chocolatey and a bit rustic, but the tannins are rather fine-grained. Still, the young 2003 appears to be a more refined style of wine.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BehrensHitchcock.aspWA 87-88 (1/2000): The dark ruby-colored 1998 Merlot Oakville displays mineral, smoke, black cherry, and spicy oak aromatics. Medium-bodied, round, and easy to drink, it will be a seductive, delicious Merlot to enjoy during its first 5-6 years of life. Sold via a mailing list.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BehrensHitchcock.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BehrensHitchcock.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BehrensHitchcock.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Benoni.aspVM 87+ (5/1998): Tarry, dark berry aromas. Good texture on entry, then rather closed in on itself. In a rather inky style; seems less thoroughly ripe and less complex than the following wine. Firmly tannic. Stephen Tanzer. WS 87 (4/1999): Rugged in texture, with a minty, menthol edge to the currant and berry flavors, it's still a touch green and tannic. Best from 2000 through 2004. 1,640 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Benziger.aspIWC 91 (6/2010): (includes 4% cabernet sauvignon and 3% cabernet franc) Good deep red-ruby. Inviting nose offers plum, chocolate, graphite and nutty oak. Concentrated, sweet and deep; a step up in texture from the foregoing samples. Lush flavors of plum, minerals, tobacco, leather and earth. A big, rich, soil-inflected merlot that finishes with serious tannic clout. I would have scored this even higher had it showed a bit more lift and treble notes. WA 89 (12/2009): Chocolate, berry, bay leaf, and forest floor notes emerge from the 2006 Merlot Bancroft Ranch, a more concentrated, bigger-framed, denser wine with more obvious oak. It needs 1-2 years of bottle age to shed some of its tannin. It should last for 15 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Beringer.aspWA 87 (12/1998): The 1995 Cabernet Sauvignon Knight's Valley reveals a deep ruby color, followed by copious quantities of sweet black currant fruit, good acidity, light tannin, and a round, lush, seductive finish. Enjoy it over the next 7-8 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Beringer.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Beringer.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Beringer.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Beringer.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Beringer.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Beringer.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Beringer.aspWA 97 (6/2011): Production: 9,008 cases; Alcohol: 14.6%; Blend: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon; Harvest Dates: September 10 to October 24. The 2007 Private Reserve is composed of 34% Bancroft Ranch, 33% Steinhauer Ranch, 8% Chabot Vineyard, 8% Lampyridae, and the remainder from St. Helena Home Vineyard, Marston Ranch and Rancho del Oso fruit. A mild spring and summer with only a handful of heat spikes was followed by beautiful weather in September and October. One of the finest Private Reserves made over the last two decades, this phenomenal wine is obviously still an infant in terms of development, but it exhibits a dense purple color as well as an extraordinary nose of blackberries, white chocolate, licorice, tobacco leaf, smoky barbecue, charcoal and a burning ember-like note reminiscent of a Graves from Bordeaux. A dense, luscious, full-bodied, opulent style, with sweet tannin, this locked and loaded, intense, full throttle Private Reserve should be accessible in 5-6 years and last for 25-30. VM 93 (5/2017): (14.8% alcohol): Bright, dark ruby. Knockout nose combines wild blackberry, cassis, kirsch, animal fur, tobacco and leather scents. Plush, opulent and fine-grained but also has a Médoc-like peppery, herbal underpinning that energizes the flavors of black plum, blackberry and tropical dark chocolate. Plush but structured wine from a rich, generous year. Big, ripe tannins spread out to saturate the palate and front teeth. This wine makes the very good St. Helena bottling seem a bit dilute and dry by comparison. Gained in spiciness but also displayed a stronger green character with 24 hours in the recorked bottle. Stephen Tanzer. WS 90 (3/2017): A chewy, rustic, earthy style, rich and layered, with dark berry, licorice and loamy, gravelly earth notes. The fruit works past the tannins and gains on the finish, but this may take time to smooth out. Drink now through 2022. 9,000 cases made. JS 90 (4/2011): This is dense with a velvety texture and a lovely palate of toasted oak, coffee, and blackberries. It’s full and round with plenty of structure. Give it three to four years of bottle age.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Beringer.aspWA 87 (12/2011): The 2010 Chardonnay Private Reserve is a pretty, racy Chardonnay with excellent varietal character and a round, polished personality. Attractive hints of toastiness and vanillin linger on the finish. The Private Reserve was aged in French oak barrels (69% new), with full malolactic fermentation. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2013.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Beringer.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Beringer.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Beringer.aspWS 92 (12/1999): Supple and openly fruity, with rich, appealing, spicy cherry, wild berry and plum notes. Finishes with a touch of earth and cedar and polished tannins. Best from 2000 through 2008. 2,700 cases made.VM 88 (6/1999): Deep ruby-red. Pretty, high-pitched aromas of cassis, flowers, tar and licorice. Juicy, fruity and firmly structured; quite aromatic in the mouth. Finishes with dusty tannins.WA 89 (12/1998): Finesse, elegance, spice, and fruit character can be found in the medium-bodied 1996 Cabernet Franc Howell Mountain. However, its aromatics include a slight touch of menthol/mint. Drink this stylish wine over the next 7-8 years. The single vineyard Cabernet Francs from Howell Mountain are aged in 100% new French oak, which has been soaked up nicely. They are charming, softer, less extracted offering than the single vineyard Merlots or Cabernet Sauvignons. Nevertheless, they are not wimpish wines.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Beringer.aspWS 92 (12/1999): Supple and openly fruity, with rich, appealing, spicy cherry, wild berry and plum notes. Finishes with a touch of earth and cedar and polished tannins. Best from 2000 through 2008. 2,700 cases made.VM 88 (6/1999): Deep ruby-red. Pretty, high-pitched aromas of cassis, flowers, tar and licorice. Juicy, fruity and firmly structured; quite aromatic in the mouth. Finishes with dusty tannins.WA 89 (12/1998): Finesse, elegance, spice, and fruit character can be found in the medium-bodied 1996 Cabernet Franc Howell Mountain. However, its aromatics include a slight touch of menthol/mint. Drink this stylish wine over the next 7-8 years. The single vineyard Cabernet Francs from Howell Mountain are aged in 100% new French oak, which has been soaked up nicely. They are charming, softer, less extracted offering than the single vineyard Merlots or Cabernet Sauvignons. Nevertheless, they are not wimpish wines.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Beringer.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Beringer.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Beringer.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Beringer.aspWA 91 (12/2012): Faintly smoky black tea, resinous green herbs, sweaty salinity and animal allusions as well as an intriguing fish oil note mingle with strawberry jam in the nose of Betz’s 2009 Besoleil. This blend of Grenache with 14% Syrah, 10% Mourvedre, and 9% Cinsault is sappy and plush though less vibrant than the corresponding 2010. A berry seed-like bitterness serves for invigoration and the herbal and animal dimensions ad umbrated in the nose collaborate for a fascinating degree of complexity in a lasting finish. Based on my very limited experience (I found the inaugural 2003 Besoleil, when tasted alongside, sweaty, cooked fruit-dominated and attenuated), I suspect that this will be best enjoyed over the next half dozen years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BetzFamilyWinery.aspWA 94 (10/2009): The 2007 La Cote Patriarche is composed of 80% Syrah, 19% Grenache, and 10% Mourvedre sourced predominantly from Yakima Valley. Purple/black in color, it displays a super-fragrant aromatic array of smoke, spice box, bacon, lavender, black cherry, and blueberry. Already complex on the palate, it has layers of sweet fruit, splendid integration of oak, tannin, and acidity, and a lengthy, pure finish. Drink this powerful effort from 2013 to 2027. WS 93 (2/2010): Aromatic, expressive and beautifully focused to show off its complex, red brick-accented black cherry, blackberry and tar flavors, keeping its impeccable balance through the long finish. Drink now through 2017. 197 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BetzFamilyWinery.aspVM 93+ (11/2010): (from Red Willow Vineyard) Deep, full bright ruby. Very primary aromas of blackberry and cocoa powder. Dense, thick and very intense, with wonderfully pure fruit-driven flavors of blackberry and loganberry. Offers a superb balance of fruit, acids and tannins. Finishes very long and pure, with lovely aromatic lift and nuance. An outstanding wine in the making. These 2008 syrahs aged in 50% new oak, but Betz noted he's now using a higher percentage of slightly larger 300-liter barrels, and more Burgundy barrels. Stephen Tanzer.WA 93 (8/2010): The 2008 Syrah La Cote Patriarche was sourced from the Red Willow Vineyard in Yakima Valley, site of the oldest Syrah planting in Washington dating from 1986. It, too, was aged for 12 months in 50% new French oak. Dense purple in color (like the La Serenne), it sports a nose of brooding black fruits, lavender, Asian spices, smoked meat, blue berry, and plum. This leads to a plush, full-figured Syrah with well-concealed tannins, excellent depth of flavor, and a lengthy, fruit-filled finish. WS 92 (12/2010): Starts off dense and earthy, but gains momentum with each sip. The ripe blackberry and currant fruit comes gurgling up and taking over. This has fine tannins around a juicy balance, lingering impressively. Best from 2012 through 2018. 215 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BetzFamilyWinery.aspIWC 93 (10/2011): (from Red Willow Vineyard vines planted in 1986): Bright red-ruby. Wild, musky aromas of strawberry, flint, roasted meat, bacon fat, iodine and fresh blood. Lush and sweet in the mouth, with a wonderfully fine-grained texture that almost hides the wine's intensity and complexity today. The long, youthfully imploded finish features sweet tannins and a piquant note of white pepper.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BetzFamilyWinery.aspWA 96 (6/2014): A cuvee that’s not produced in every vintage, the 2012 Cote Patriarche comes all from the Red Willow vineyard and mostly from the oldest Syrah vines planted in Washington. Inky purple in color, with mineral-laced blackberry, cassis, crushed flowers, smoked earth and licorice, this beauty hits the palate with full-bodied richness and depth, a seamless texture and an overriding sense of elegance that carries through the finish. Knockout stuff, it too will have 15+ years of longevity.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BetzFamilyWinery.aspWA 93 (10/2009): The 2007 La Serenne is 95% Yakima Valley Syrah from the Boushey Vineyard with the balance coming from the Kiona Vineyard in Red Mountain. A saturated purple in color, it has a brooding but delectable nose of smoked meat, saucisson, spice box, incense, and blueberry. Dense yet suave on the palate, this ripe, intensely flavored Syrah is impeccably balanced with enough structure to evolve for 4-6 years. It will offer a drinking window extending from 2013 to 2022. IWC 92+ (12/2009): Bright ruby. Musky raspberry, smoked meat, violet pastille and charred oak on the nose. Wonderfully fresh and deep, with a distinctly primary quality to its intense dark berry flavors complicated by dried herbs. A seamless and very youthful syrah with lovely purity of fruit and terrific energy. Small-berry tannins are present but perfectly integrated with the wine's fruit. This wine stayed on its gross lees until July of 2008, noted winemaker/proprietor Bob Betz. WS 91 (3/2010): Focused and powerful, but not weighty, delivering a cascade of violet-tinged ripe blackberry, tar and dark plum flavors that extend into the long, vivid finish. Drink now through 2013. 450 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BetzFamilyWinery.aspWA 93 (8/2010): The 2008 Syrah La Serenne is sourced entirely from the Boushey Vineyard in Yakima Valley. It is aged for 12 months in 50% new French oak. A glass-coating opaque purple color, it delivers a brooding bouquet of smoke, Asian spices, incense, lavender, game, blueberry, and plum. Dense, layered, and powerful, it manages to maintain a sense of elegance and balance. It has enough structure to evolve for several years and should drink well through 2023.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BetzFamilyWinery.aspIWC 93 (10/2011): (100% Phelps clone, from Boushey Vineyard; the crop load was low in 2009 due to a poor set): Bright ruby-red. Pungent, musky aromas of blueberry, cocoa powder and flowers. Juicy and light on its feet, with lovely definition and grip to its berry and floral flavors. An intriguing wild streak runs through this wine from start to very long, firmly tannic finish. Not at all a thick style of syrah, but has the backbone to develop more nuance with bottle age.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BetzFamilyWinery.aspVM 94 (12/2012): (from Boushey Vineyard fruit): Bright nose features musky black raspberry, smoke, minerals, chocolate and a whiff of tar. Bright, delineated and intense, conveying terrific acidity for syrah. Proprietor Betz describes 2010 as "a return to structure in syrah" and this wine is also extremely primary, with tarry minerality and a cracked pepper quality adding nuance. Finishes with firm but suave tannins, excellent grip and terrific peppery lift. In texture, this wine is midway between Cote-Rotie and Saint-Joseph, and wonderfully fresh.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BetzFamilyWinery.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BetzFamilyWinery.aspVM 94+ (11/2013): (blended with 9% petit verdot and 3% merlot): Good bright red-ruby. Musky red berries, licorice, thyme, rosemary and pepper on the scented nose. Creamy-sweet, suave and deep but at the same time precise and youthful, offering lovely perfumed flavors of red berries, cocoa powder (from the Taransaud oak?) and anise. Very intensely flavored cabernet with terrific lift and aromatic persistence and remarkably suave, dusty tannins. Betz describes 2011 as a year with lower total polyphenols, higher acidity and lower pHs than 2010. WA 92 (6/2014): Made from 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Petit Verdot and 3% Merlot that comes mostly from Red Mountain, the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Pere de Famille is slightly more reserved and backwards, with notions of dried spices, cured meats, black currant, spring flowers and tobacco leaf reluctantly emerging from the glass. Medium to full-bodied, with solid concentration, especially in the vintage, it has ample tannin that emerge on the mid-palate and focus the finish. It also needs another 2-3 years in the cellar and will have 10-12 years of total longevity at a minimum. WS 91 (6/2014): Soft, velvety and medium-weight, with pretty currant fruit weaving through the smoky, licorice-accented finish. Deft and persistent. Drink now through 2017. 1,350 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BetzFamilyWinery.aspWA 95+ (6/2015): Containing the highest percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon ever, the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Pere de Famille is a blend of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Merlot and 4% Petit Verdot, with is all from Red Mountain, and saw 19 months in new French oak. It's an inky colored, classic Betz Family wine that's loaded with perfectly ripe black fruits, lead pencil shavings, scorched earth and the searing minerality and dusty earth quality that comes only from Red Mountain. Full-bodied, structured and layered, with rockin' purity and focus, give it 7-8 years of bottle age and drink it over the following two decades.VM 94+ (12/2014): (14.5% alcohol; includes 2.5% each Merlot and petit verdot; aged in 70% new oak): Bright red-ruby. Ineffable wild aromas of blackberry, espresso, licorice, pepper, mint tea and cinnamon, complicated by a whiff of game. Boasts an utterly aristocratic texture and great lift but shows little obvious sweetness in the early going. Great incipient complexity to the suave, fine-grained flavors of red fruits, spices, flowers and minerals. More taut and backward on the end than the Clos de Betz but not at all hard, this seriously structured cabernet displays a slow-building, inexorable finish, with tannins buried in flavor. (I also tasted a sample of Betz’s 2012 Le Parrain (“the godfather”) Cabernet Sauvignon shortly before bottling. Made entirely from clone 8 and aged in very expensive Taransaud Quintessence barrels, this beauty offers knockout perfume of black raspberry, blackberry, violet and minerals; a supple, savory, sharply delineated palate with pungent pepper and violet high notes lifting the dark berry, saline mineral and sexy oak flavors; and extremely suave tannins that spread out to saturate the palate on the superb rising finish. This special bottling, previously made in 2005, offers an uncanny combination of density and weightlessness. I rated it 94-96 but note that it will not be released until the autumn of 2015.)WS 93 (7/2015): Fresh and vital, packed with lively blackberry, red plum and delicate herbal flavors, carrying the flavors past a gentle bed of fine tannins into the long, expressive finish. Best from 2017 through 2022. 1,025 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BetzFamilyWinery.aspWS 97 (10/2011): An extraordinary wine, gorgeous from start to finish. Offers captivating character of ripe dark fruits, currant, blackberry, kirsch, mocha, cedar, graphite, tar and more. Full-blown, beautifully structured, pure and persistent, sailing along gracefully, with a tremendous aftertaste. Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Drink now through 2025. 202 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BevanCellars.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BevanCellars.aspWA 95 (10/2015): The 2013 The Impetus is an equal-part blend of Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon, aged in 50% new Taransaud, 25% new Darnajou, and 25% new Gamba. It comes from vineyards in both Sonoma and Napa. The Cabernet Franc is accessed from a relatively cool, high-elevation site in Bennett Valley, while the Cabernet Sauvignon comes from Napa. Bevan told me that the phenolics of this wine are off the charts analytically, as the wine offers loads of mulberry, forest floor, violet, sweet oak and some underbrush and earth tones. Rich, full-bodied, opulent and fleshy, this wine is already drinking well and should continue to do so for another 10-15 years.VM 93 (10/2015): The 2013 The Impetus is a blend of Cabernet Franc from Victoria De Crescenzo's estate vineyard in Bennett Valley and 50% Cabernet Sauvignon from Tench. Rich and explosive to the core, the 2013 exudes depth and concentration. Iron, smoke, white pepper, red cherries, plums and exotic spices meld into the deep, resonant finish. Of all the Bevan 2013s, the Impetus should drink well with minimal cellaring.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BevanCellars.aspWA 98 (10/2015): A blend of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Petit Verdot, the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon McGah Vineyard is pushing toward perfection. A beautiful nose of spring flowers, blueberries, blackberries, licorice, graphite and camphor all jump from the glass of this wine of majestic intensity, a magnificent, full-bodied mouthfeel, and a super-concentrated and pure finish. It should drink well for another three decades. VM 95 (10/2015): A big, ripe, opulent wine, the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon McGah Vineyard races across the palate with layers of blackberry jam, cassis, mocha, plum, cloves and new leather. This is one of the more unctuous, flashy wines in the Bevan range and will appeal most to readers who enjoy the racier side of Cabernet Sauvignon.WS 92 (5/2016): Matches power and ripeness with finesse and nuance, gushing with rich blackberry, licorice, spice and subtle earth notes. Turns elegant and refined midpalate given its size, gliding along on the finish. Drink now through 2026. 100 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BevanCellars.aspWA 97 (12/2010): The stunning 2008 Ontogeny Proprietary Red (a blend of Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot) boasts an opaque purple color along with notes of kirsch, blueberries, boysenberries, mocha and subtle smoke. Expansive on the palate as well as opulent and fleshy with tremendous fruit, depth and richness, there is some tannin lurking in the background, but it is largely concealed by the luxurious fruit component. Already showy and complex, this stunning red can be drunk over the next decade. One of the major fruit sources for Bevan has been the Showket Vineyard in Napa, which was recently sold to Peter Michael. WS 93 (1/2012): Rich and generous, with layers of dark berry, mocha, spice and cedar flavors. Full-bodied and concentrated, with a long, persistent, mouthcoating finish. Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Drink now through 2020. 486 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BevanCellars.aspWA 93+ (10/2013): One of the least expensive wines in this portfolio is the 2011 Ontogeny, a blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Petit Verdot and the rest Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Bevan calls this the oddity or contrarian in his line-up of wines, probably because of the high percentage of Petit Verdot in the blend. More earthy than some of its siblings, with less exuberant and boisterous fruit, it is another over-sized, opaque purple-colored wine with lots of roasted meat, bouquet garni and charcuterie notes backed up by plenty of power, blackberry and cassis characteristics. The striking aromatics are followed by a wonderfully lush, velvety wine to drink over the next 7-10 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BevanCellars.aspWA 99 (10/2014): The nearly perfect 2012 Proprietary Red Ontogeny is Bevan’s least expensive and biggest production cuvée (700 cases). A blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Petit Verdot and 10% Cabernet Franc, it comes from four of Russell Bevan’s favorite vineyard sources – Tench, Tin Box, Two Dogs and Sugarloaf Mountain. A big fruit bomb, it boasts a dense purple color as well as loads of crème de cassis, tobacco leaf, underbrush, graphite, lavender, roasted meats and blackberries. Amazing aromatics and super-intensity make for a powerful, full-bodied wine to drink over the next 10-15 years. WS 94 (5/2015): Features tremendous density, range and depth of flavor, built around cedar- and tobacco-laced blackberry and currant notes. Tightens on the finish and gains a dusty herb and loamy earth edge, which gives the tannins a drying edge, showing traction and definition. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Merlot. Drink now through 2028. 800 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BevanCellars.aspWA 97 (10/2013): From two Oakville vineyards, Tin Box and Tench, the 2011 Curmudgeon is a blend of 66.67% Cabernet Franc and the rest Cabernet Sauvignon. Its opaque purple color is followed by soaring aromas of spring flowers, pen ink, espresso roast, white chocolate, black currants and mulberries. This deep, full-bodied, seamlessly constructed wine reveals perfectly integrated wood, tannin, alcohol and acidity. An amazing effort, it is already delicious, complex and outrageous. Drink it over the next decade. VM 93 (11/2013): Savory herbs, menthol, tar, licorice and plums all come together in the 2011 Curmudgeon, followed by mocha and espresso notes from the Cabernet Franc. A voluptuous, expressive finish rounds things out in style. Curmudgeon is 2/3rds Cabernet Franc and 1/3rd Cabernet Sauvignon, all from Oakville. This is a fabulous showing from Russell Bevan. Production was tiny, just about 25% of the level expected in 2012. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BevanCellars.aspWA 100 (10/2014): Another perfect wine is Bevan’s equal part blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc, the 2012 Proprietary Red Sugarloaf Mountain. Notes of unsmoked cigar tobacco, forest floor, pen ink mulberries, blackberries and spring flowers soar from this inky/purple-colored 2012. The wine possesses great intensity, remarkable unctuosity and thickness, and perfect integration of acidity, alcohol, tannin and wood. Aged in equal parts new Gamba and Darnajou barrels, there are 225 cases of this fabulous wine. Drink now-2032. VM 95 (1/2015): The 2012 Red Blend Sugarloaf Mountain (Cabernet Franc/Merlot) is another drop-dead gorgeous beauty. Savory herbs, smoke, tobacco, menthol, graphite, red cherries and plums blossom in a powerful, intense wine that grips all the senses and never lets up. A crescendo of aromas and flavors builds to the layered, voluptuous finish.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BevanCellars.aspWS 95 (5/2012): A gorgeous effort that offers pure, complex aromas of cassis, kirsch, melted black licorice, spice, cedar and tobacco, all well-distributed, gaining momentum and ending with a long, persistent, layered finish. Cabernet Franc and Merlot. Drink now through 2022. 100 cases made. WA 95 (12/2011): The 2009 Proprietary Red The Whitney Showket Vineyard emerges from the glass with dark red fruit, flowers, licorice, mint and flowers. The wine is full of finesse and understated elegance. Layers of fruit build effortlessly to the radiant finish. This is a fabulous showing. The Whitney is 50% Cabernet Franc and 50% Merlot aged in 100% new French oak barrels. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2024.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BevanCellars.aspWA 96 (10/2014): Aged in Taransaud (75%) and Darnajou (25%) oak, the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Tin Box is more backward than the perfect 2011 was last year, but it reveals similar decadence, opulence and velvety texture. Its opaque blue/black/purple color is followed by a stunning perfume of white chocolate, spring flowers, blueberries, blackberries, and an unctuous, massive mouthfeel. It should age effortlessly for two decades or more.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BevanCellars.aspWA 100 (10/2013): Meriting a three digit score, the 2011 Tin Box is a blend of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Petit Verdot from a hillside vineyard. It boasts a vivid perfume of acacia flowers and blueberry liqueur that bursts from the glass with vibrant purity as well as intensity. A magnificent red wine with unreal richness, full-bodied unctuosity, low acidity, and velvety tannins, this 2011 (aged in 100% new French oak) reveals few wood notes, and because of the vintage characteristics, can be drunk now or cellared for another 10-15 years. VM 94+ (11/2013): Bevan's 2011 Red Wine Tin Box (Cabernet Sauvignon) emerges from a superb site in Oakville. Deeply spiced and layered, the 2011 impresses for its balance and classy, totally supple personality. Pencil shavings, graphite, spices and plums are some of the many notes that flow through to the stunning finish. Quite frankly, the Tin Box is a revelation. I can hardly wait to see what Russell Bevan comes up with here in a more favorable vintage.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BevanCellars.aspWS 97 (5/2015): A remarkably seductive effort, delightfully creamy and chocolaty, plush and layered, with a firm, rich, potent core of dense, earth-laced currant and blackberry flavors. Firm cedary oak is evident, gliding along gracefully on the finish. Drink now through 2029. 200 cases made. VM 95 (1/2015): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Wild Foot Vineyard Vixen Block, from a site in Stags Leap, is loaded with blue and black stone fruits, licorice, cloves, menthol, mocha and espresso, in a super-ripe, voluptuous style that will provide plenty of immediate gratification. Even with all of its obvious richness, expressive floral notes add lift and freshness. This is another gorgeous 2012 from Bevan. WA 95 (10/2015): I tasted one 2012, the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Vixen Block Wildfoote. This nearly 300-case cuvée is made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from clone 7 and aged in equal parts new Taransaud and Darnajou. Flirting with perfection for sure, this is an absolutely riveting wine. It offers a magnificent, room-filling fragrance of red and black currants, blackberries, camphor, incense, truffle and lead pencil shavings. Some toasty oak is followed by an almost never-ending style of wine, with enormous extract and body, gorgeous richness, purity, and equilibrium, and a killer finish of close to a minute. This is amazing stuff that should continue to drink well for another 25-30 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BevanCellars.aspWA 94 (10/2014): A blend of equal parts Merlot and Cabernet Franc (á la a St.-Emilion), the gorgeous 2012 Proprietary Red Paramour offers up notes of Christmas fruitcake, forest floor, mulberries, black cherries and currants. Full-bodied and beautifully fruity without a lot of weight, this is a beautiful example of a complex wine to drink over the next 10-12 years.VM 93+ (12/2014): The Cabernet Franc-based 2012 Paramour is laced with espresso, tobacco, smoke, licorice, incense and sweet herbs. Dense, compact yet also endowed with serious implosive energy, the Paramour is one of the most reticent wines of this generally much more open vintage. Even with quite a bit of Merlot in the blend, the 2012 boasts considerable structure.WS 91 (6/2015): This trim and focused version leads with dusty cedar and dried herb scents, with dark berry, mocha, licorice and spice notes, supported by fine-grained tannins and ending with a tapered finish. Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Drink now through 2028. 840 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BlackbirdVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BlackbirdVineyards.aspWA 96 (12/2006): There are 1,300 cases of the 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Paradise Hills Vineyard. Boasting delicious fudge-like aromas intermixed with blackberry, coffee bean, and pain grille scents, this super-rich, full-bodied effort displays a Graves-like, volcanic, scorched earth/hot stone element in its flavors. With moderately high tannin, it will benefit from 2-3 years of bottle age, and should drink well over the following two decades.VM 94 (6/2007): Deep ruby. Vibrant, pure aromas of black raspberry and violet. Sweet, primary and sophisticated, with a lovely lightness of touch for a 2004. Very fresh cabernet with a building finish featuring suave, rich tannins and outstanding length. From fruit picked under more moderate conditions than the merlot, which came in during the heat spike at the beginning of September.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Blankiet.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Blankiet.aspWA 94 (4/2014): The 2004 Merlot Paradise Hills Estate offers a big, sweet kiss of cassis, kirsch, spice and spring flowers. Rich, medium to full-bodied and seemingly close to full maturity, it is easily capable of lasting 10-15+ years. The aromatics smell just like a great Pomerol. VM 93 (6/2007): includes 10% cabernet franc) Deep, complex nose combines plum syrup, violet, tobacco, licorice, minerals and game; there's something quite Bordeaux-like about this. Dry, broad, suave and seamless, with complicating hints of black olive and smoke. This is wonderfully full without being at all heavy. Finishes long and ripe. This will go truffley with bottle aging. Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Blankiet.aspWA 95+ (12/2009): The real star is the nearly 1,000 case-lot of the Paradise Hills Vineyard Proprietary Red. The dense, opaque plum/purple-hued 2006 Paradise Hills Vineyard exhibits a beautiful, sweet bouquet of melted chocolate, burning embers, blackberries, mocha, espresso roast, cassis, and cherries as well as stunning concentration, and formidable, but velvety, beautifully integrated tannins. This wine comes across like a hypothetical blend of California, a great Graves, and something from further north in Bordeaux, such as a Pauillac. Full-bodied and powerful, it requires 2-4 years of cellaring, and should evolve for 20-25+ years. VM 93+ (5/2015): (60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot): Good dark red, but less deep at the core than the 2005. Plum, game, cocoa, mocha, tobacco and a whiff of leather on the nose; less fruity than the 2005. Fat, silky and sweet, conveying an impression of energetic extraction. A very deep, opulent style but with cool hints of mint and pepper too. Finishes with slightly gritty tannins that are not yet ready for prime time. Quite Graves-like and in need of patience. This was the first vintage in which Blankiet's top red wine did not say Cabernet Sauvignon on the label. Stephen Tanzer. JS 93 (4/2011): Fascinating aromas of dark fruits, souis bois, sweet tobacco and chocolate. Full bodied, with a round and soft tannin structure and lovely chocolate, coffee bean, and spice notes. The finish turns to floral notes of lilacs and violets. Don't touch this until 2014. 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Blankiet.aspWA 97 (12/2010): The 2007 Paradise Hills Vineyard Proprietary Red (60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot) exhibits abundant notes of espresso, chocolate, creme de cassis, blackberry, forest floor and graphite. Full-bodied, dense and rich, it is just beginning to reveal some secondary nuances as well as complexity. There are 940 cases of this big, rich 2007 that should continue to drink well for two decades.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Blankiet.aspWA 97 (12/2010): The 2007 Paradise Hills Vineyard Proprietary Red (60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot) exhibits abundant notes of espresso, chocolate, creme de cassis, blackberry, forest floor and graphite. Full-bodied, dense and rich, it is just beginning to reveal some secondary nuances as well as complexity. There are 940 cases of this big, rich 2007 that should continue to drink well for two decades.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Blankiet.aspWA 95+ (12/2010): Composed of 82.5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Merlot and the rest tiny dollops of Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc, the 2008 Paradise Hills Vineyard Proprietary Red has added considerable richness, weight, texture, nuance and complexity over the last year. Aromas of chocolate, espresso, blackberries, black currants and charcoal/burning embers leads to a full-bodied, expressive, rich wine that is nearly as compelling as the 2007. Dense, full-bodied and already drinkable, it should evolve for 20+ years. VM 94+ (6/2011): (cabernet sauvignon, 16% merlot, 1% petit verdot and 0.5% cabernet franc): Good medium ruby. Knockout nose combines dark berries, licorice, violet, minerals and bitter chocolate. Juicy, minerally and suave in the mouth, with terrific grip and aromatic perfume to the flavors of blackberry, cassis and violet. This wine has a tight spine to support extended aging. Here's a classic version of a wine with the verve and floral lift to hide its 15.2% alcohol. JS 91 (6/2011): This is really juicy on the nose with an explosion of red fruits, such as prunes and cherries. It's a little jammy on the palate, but round and rich. Lots of spicy, vanilla and toasted oak on the finish. A little hot. Best after 2014.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Blankiet.aspWA 95+ (12/2010): Composed of 82.5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Merlot and the rest tiny dollops of Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc, the 2008 Paradise Hills Vineyard Proprietary Red has added considerable richness, weight, texture, nuance and complexity over the last year. Aromas of chocolate, espresso, blackberries, black currants and charcoal/burning embers leads to a full-bodied, expressive, rich wine that is nearly as compelling as the 2007. Dense, full-bodied and already drinkable, it should evolve for 20+ years. VM 94+ (6/2011): (cabernet sauvignon, 16% merlot, 1% petit verdot and 0.5% cabernet franc): Good medium ruby. Knockout nose combines dark berries, licorice, violet, minerals and bitter chocolate. Juicy, minerally and suave in the mouth, with terrific grip and aromatic perfume to the flavors of blackberry, cassis and violet. This wine has a tight spine to support extended aging. Here's a classic version of a wine with the verve and floral lift to hide its 15.2% alcohol. JS 91 (6/2011): This is really juicy on the nose with an explosion of red fruits, such as prunes and cherries. It's a little jammy on the palate, but round and rich. Lots of spicy, vanilla and toasted oak on the finish. A little hot. Best after 2014.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Blankiet.aspWA 95+ (12/2010): Composed of 82.5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Merlot and the rest tiny dollops of Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc, the 2008 Paradise Hills Vineyard Proprietary Red has added considerable richness, weight, texture, nuance and complexity over the last year. Aromas of chocolate, espresso, blackberries, black currants and charcoal/burning embers leads to a full-bodied, expressive, rich wine that is nearly as compelling as the 2007. Dense, full-bodied and already drinkable, it should evolve for 20+ years. VM 94+ (6/2011): (cabernet sauvignon, 16% merlot, 1% petit verdot and 0.5% cabernet franc): Good medium ruby. Knockout nose combines dark berries, licorice, violet, minerals and bitter chocolate. Juicy, minerally and suave in the mouth, with terrific grip and aromatic perfume to the flavors of blackberry, cassis and violet. This wine has a tight spine to support extended aging. Here's a classic version of a wine with the verve and floral lift to hide its 15.2% alcohol. JS 91 (6/2011): This is really juicy on the nose with an explosion of red fruits, such as prunes and cherries. It's a little jammy on the palate, but round and rich. Lots of spicy, vanilla and toasted oak on the finish. A little hot. Best after 2014.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Blankiet.aspVM 96 (5/2015): (82% Cabernet Sauvignon): Good deep red-ruby. Captivating aromas of cassis, plum, mocha, smoke and wild herbs. Plush and seamless on the palate, with an element of soil-driven salinity complicating the rich fruit flavors of red and blackcurrant, mulberry and plum. In a warmer style at 14.9% alcohol but with so much mid-palate stuffing that it does not come off as alcoholic. The building tannins are sweet and even, allowing the wine's fruit to linger. A spectacular result for 2009: wonderfully harmonious, ripe and long. Stephen Tanzer. WA 95 (10/2013): The 2009 Proprietary Red Paradise Hills Vineyard (81.8% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16.7% Merlot and the rest Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot that achieved 14.9% alcohol) exhibits a beautiful perfume of scorched earth, chocolate, espresso beans, creme de cassis, plums and Asian spices. Full-bodied, deep and just beginning to strut its stuff, with formidable tannins in the finish, it has 20-25 years of upside potential. WS 92 (2/2013): Rich and unctuous, with layers of ripe currant, blackberry, espresso and cedar flavors. Offers a mix of power and precision, unfolding to dried herb, cedar and melted black licorice. Not shy about tannins, but the ripe fruit flavors push through nicely. Best from 2014 through 2024. 500 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Blankiet.aspWA 93 (12/2007): The 2005 Merlot, which is now called Rive Droite (and this is the last one), is an 800-case blend with some Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc added. An elegant, dark ruby/purple-colored wine with a sweet nose of espresso roast, dark black cherries, licorice, underbrush, and truffle in an elegant, full-bodied, rich, concentrated style, this wine should drink nicely for 12-15+ years.IWC 89+ (6/2008): Full medium ruby. Smoky, lower-toned aromas of black raspberry, mocha, earth and tobacco, lifted by a pungent minty quality and a whiff of resin. Here, too, the acidity is quite pronounced today, and with moderate mid-palate flesh and sweetness the current impression is a bit ungenerous. Finishes quite tight, with a slight sharpness to the acidity. These 2005s may well be in an awkward stage today, and my scores may come to look overly conservative, but in any event they should not be opened anytime soon.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Blankiet.aspWA 94 (12/2010): Composed of 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, the dark plum/purple/garnet-tinged 2007 Rive Droite Proprietary Red offers kirsch, black currant, coffee bean, cocoa and loamy, earthy notes in its opulent, voluptuously textured personality. Heady, exuberant and flashy, this already irresistible 2007 should continue to drink well for 15+ years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Blankiet.aspWA 93 (12/2010): The 2008 Rive Droite Proprietary Red (68.5% Merlot, 23% Cabernet Franc, 7.5% Petit Verdot and 1% Cabernet Sauvignon; 320 cases produced) offers soaring, complex aromas of barbecue smoke, juicy black currants, chocolate-infused black cherries, mocha, camphor and incense are intense as well as persuasive. This opulent, full-bodied wine possesses good density and abundant complexity. It comes close in quality to the brilliant 2007. The precocious 2008 should continue to offer provocative drinking over the next 12-15 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Blankiet.aspWA 98 (10/2013): One of the finest Merlot-based wines in all of California, the 2009 Rive Droite Paradise Hills Vineyard is a blend of 79.8% Merlot, 11.8% Cabernet Franc and the rest Cabernet Sauvignon. Unfortunately, there are only 200 cases compared to 510 cases of the 2009 Proprietary Red. It finished at 15.2% alcohol, and reminded me of the pre-1975 vintages of Petrus. Robust and full-bodied with abundant notes of kirsch, mocha, mulberry and plum fruit intertwined with grilled meat and charcuterie, new saddle leather and fudge characteristics. This superb, opulent, voluptuously textured 2009 can be drunk now or cellared for 20-25 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Blankiet.aspIWC 92 (6/2014): (92.4% merlot and 7.6% cabernet franc): Good deep red-ruby. Tight, pure, highly perfumed nose combines cassis, lead pencil, licorice and sexy spices, plus a balsamic cedary note. Supple, silky and uncompromisingly dry, showing inviting flavors of cassis, graphite, milk chocolate and cedar. Doesn't have the richness of the best vintages here but there's no shortage of aromatic complexity.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Blankiet.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Blankiet.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BoarsView(Schrader).aspWA 95 (12/2014): For the 2012 Pinot Noir The Coast, the winemaking team went for muscle, structure and density with the Calera, Mt. Eden and Swan clones. It exhibits a dense ruby/purple-tinged color as well as a sweet bouquet of raspberries, black cherries, earth and spring flowers. Juicy and succulent with a medium to full-bodied mouthfeel and terrific acids buttressing and giving delineation to this complex Pinot, it will benefit from 2-3 years of bottle age, will hit its peak in 5-10 years, and last for 12-15. This is a heck-of-a debut offering from Carol and Fred Schrader.VM 94 (1/2015): The 2012 Pinot Noir The Coast is terrific. Ripe, juicy and explosive to the core, the 2012 blossoms with notable depth and texture, all beautifully balanced by the salinity and structure of the coast. The style is bold, ripe and exuberant, with all the elements very nicely balanced. This sumptuous Pinot is going to offer a wide window of fabulous drinking pretty much upon release.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BoarsView(Schrader).aspWA 95 (10/2015): Even more stunning is the 2013 Pinot Noir, which received similar treatment to the 2012. This wine shows complex forest floor notes, damp earth and Asian plum sauce interwoven with blackcurrant and black cherry as well as hints of underbrush and spring flowers. Deep, rich, complex and showing loads of fruit, it should be drunk over the next 5-7 years.VM 87 (2/2016): The 2013 Pinot Noir The Coast is bold, racy, and exuberant at the outset. Black cherry, cola, hard candy, plum, exotic spices, new French oak and leather are front and center. The initial burst of fruit tapers off quickly, subsumed by astringent new oak tannins that attenuate the mid-palate and finish. Sadly, there is very little pleasure to be found here.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BoarsView(Schrader).aspWA 95 (10/2015): Even more stunning is the 2013 Pinot Noir, which received similar treatment to the 2012. This wine shows complex forest floor notes, damp earth and Asian plum sauce interwoven with blackcurrant and black cherry as well as hints of underbrush and spring flowers. Deep, rich, complex and showing loads of fruit, it should be drunk over the next 5-7 years.VM 87 (2/2016): The 2013 Pinot Noir The Coast is bold, racy, and exuberant at the outset. Black cherry, cola, hard candy, plum, exotic spices, new French oak and leather are front and center. The initial burst of fruit tapers off quickly, subsumed by astringent new oak tannins that attenuate the mid-palate and finish. Sadly, there is very little pleasure to be found here.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BoarsView(Schrader).aspWS 86 (6/2005): Focused, with very good intensity to the currant, plum and malt flavors, highlighted by cedary oak, espresso bean, lead pencil and firm tannins. Drink now through 2008. 13,000 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ClosduBois.aspWS 88 (2/2000): Elegant and complex, with ripe, supple plum, currant, herb and berry, framed by soft tannins and herbal notes. Best from 2001 through 2007. 11,400 cases made. WA 86 (12/2000): The single vineyard red wine, the 1996 Marlstone Vineyard, an 8,000 case blend of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot, and 10% Malbec. Dark ruby-colored and medium-bodied, with notes of black cherries, spicy new oak, leather, and earth, it is an elegantly-styled wine to drink over the next 10-12 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ClosduBois.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ClosduBois.aspWA 93 (12/2008): I think the 2004 Matriarch is opulent and impressive. Dark ruby/purple, beautifully exotic and full-bodied, with notes of incense, toasty oak, blackberry, licorice, and chocolate espresso, the wine is round, fleshy, and succulent. Drink it over the next 12-15+ years. VM 92 (6/2007): Good red-ruby. Plum, mocha and chocolate on the nose. Lush and seamless on the palate, with a sappy, liqueur-like raspberry flavor complicated by leather and smoke. There's something Bordeaux-like about this broad but lively wine. Perhaps ultimately less suave than the young 2005 but today this is even longer. WS 91 (10/2007): Rich, almost thick and syrupy, with loamy, savory currant and black olive flavors that are compact and focused, all presented in a supple, graceful style. Finishes long and persistent. Best from 2009 through 2013. 1,481 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BondEstates(Harlan).aspWA 93 (12/2008): The lush, opulent, flamboyant 2005 Matriarch offers copious quantities of black cherry and black currant fruit, lead pencil, and earth. Already delicious, it hits just about every sweet spot on the palate. Enjoy it over the next 12-15+ years. VM 92 (6/2008): Good deep ruby-red. Blackcurrant, minerals, mocha and sexy spices on the musky, slightly gamey nose. Big, lush and sweet but with sneaky acidity giving shape to the creamy flavors. I like this very rich wine's exhilarating high tones in the middle palate. Finishes with substantial dusty tannins and noteworthy energy. A worthy follow-up to the excellent 2004. WS 90 (10/2008): Notes of smoky currant and black and red licorice, with herb and cedar hints, give this a nice range of flavors, firming up on the finish. Best from 2010 through 2017. 1,530 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BondEstates(Harlan).aspWS 92 (11/2009): Delicious, pure, rich and structured, with ripe cherry, plum, blackberry, mineral, anise and sage flavors that gain weight and depth. Full-bodied and firmly tannic, ending on a pleasant earthy note. Drink now through 2016. 1,539 cases made. VM 90 (6/2009): Dark red-ruby. Superripe but vibrant aromas of redcurrant, mocha, minerals and tobacco. Sweet, silky and seamless but not thick, thanks to a medicinal menthol quality that lifts the dark fruit and bitter chocolate flavors. This boasts very good energy and length, finishing with dusty, ripe tannins. WA 90 (12/2009): Starting with the Matriarch, this wine is the easiest to drink young. Dark plum/purple, with plenty of smoke, black currants, espresso roast, oak, and chocolate, the 2006 is dense, round, and best drunk over the next decade.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BondEstates(Harlan).aspWS 92 (11/2009): Delicious, pure, rich and structured, with ripe cherry, plum, blackberry, mineral, anise and sage flavors that gain weight and depth. Full-bodied and firmly tannic, ending on a pleasant earthy note. Drink now through 2016. 1,539 cases made. VM 90 (6/2009): Dark red-ruby. Superripe but vibrant aromas of redcurrant, mocha, minerals and tobacco. Sweet, silky and seamless but not thick, thanks to a medicinal menthol quality that lifts the dark fruit and bitter chocolate flavors. This boasts very good energy and length, finishing with dusty, ripe tannins. WA 90 (12/2009): Starting with the Matriarch, this wine is the easiest to drink young. Dark plum/purple, with plenty of smoke, black currants, espresso roast, oak, and chocolate, the 2006 is dense, round, and best drunk over the next decade.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BondEstates(Harlan).aspJS 98 (7/2015): This is so muscular and juicy with fascinating aromas of hot asphalt, tea leaf, autumn leaf, fresh leather and dark fruits. It’s full-bodied and strong yet pure and handsome. Manly. Great texture. Needs at least five to six years to soften. The best Pluribus ever? WA 95+ (10/2015): From a 7-acre parcel on Spring Mountain, the 2012 Pluribus Proprietary Red Wine exhibits the white flowers (acacia?), blueberry and black raspberry fruit that comes from this high elevation site. It is full-bodied but very tannic, backward, coiled and relatively tight, behaving in that sense more like a 2013 than a 2012. This wine is set for a long life of 30+ years. Forget it for another 4 or 5 years, then consume it over the following three decades. VM 95+ (10/2015): The 2012 Pluribus has softened considerably over the last year. White pepper, cranberry, chalk, blood orange and spices are some of the signatures. Precise and finely sculpted, the 2012 is all about finesse. There is plenty to like here. Antonio Galloni. WS 92 (11/2015): Notes of gravelly earth, graphite and riverbed pebbles give this a distinctive, stony mouthfeel. Ends chewy, with mocha, dark berry, plum, road tar and espresso flavors. Should improve with short-term cellaring. To be released spring 2016. Best from 2017 through 2030. 570 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BondEstates(Harlan).aspWA 98 (10/2015): The 2012 Quella (from a steep 9-acre vineyard in the eastern Vaca hillsides) has an opaque purple color, a gorgeous nose of white flowers, sweet blackberry and cassis fruit, and a touch of vanilla and graphite. Full-bodied, like its siblings, with great fruit extract, terrific purity and richness, and high but velvety tannins, this wine should also benefit from another 3-5 years of cellaring and keep for 30+ years. JS 97 (7/2015): Lots of hot stone and slate on the nose with flowers. Dark berries too. Full body, dense mouthfeel. It lasts a long time with a salty, pomace undertone. Tight and muscular. Better in 2018. VM 94 (10/2015): The 2012 Quella has put on considerable weight over the last year. Dark cherry, plum, hard candy, mint, dark spices and new leather all blossom in the glass. The 2012 is ample and broad on the palate, with superb presence, but perhaps a touch less in the way of finesse relative to the best wines in this range. Today the Quella feels a bit heavy. Antonio Galloni. WS 89 (11/2015): Bold and ripe, with a touch of dark berry jam, this is structured by dusty gravel nuances and earth-laced tannins. A mishmash of very ripe, intense flavors, but the raw, edgy tannins have a green, stemmy quality. Drink now through 2023. 515 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BondEstates(Harlan).aspWA 98 (10/2015): From an 11-acre vineyard just north of the Oakville corridor, the 2012 St. Eden shows gorgeous, cedary Christmas fruitcake notes, black cherry and blackcurrant fruit, spice box, earth, and almost first growth Pauillac-like cassis and lead pencil shavings. Deep, full-bodied, and fabulously concentrated, this stunner flirts with perfection. Slightly more evolved than the Quella or Melbury, this wine may be the most drinkable out of the gate of all the Bond offerings in 2012. It should continue to evolve for at least 30+ years. JS 97 (7/2015): Beautiful fruit definition with blackberries, blueberries, chocolate and burnt orange character. Full body and round, fine powder texture plus dusty, velvety tannins. Long and gorgeous finish. VM 95 (10/2015): The 2012 St. Eden is totally seamless and polished in the glass. Silky tannins add to an overall impression of total voluptuousness. The 2012 isn't quite as expressive as the very best years, but it is a gorgeous wine that won't require more than a few years in bottle to be at its best. Dark, smoky and scorched flavors meld into the powerful finish. WS 93 (11/2015): Pure and graceful, with ripe, delicate red and dark berry flavors, light floral aromas and subtle oak nuances. An easy-drinking style, this is moderately tannic and should be ready to drink now or age short-term. To be released spring 2016. Drink now through 2026. 747 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BondEstates(Harlan).aspWA 100 (10/2015): From an 11-acre vineyard sitting near Bond’s winery and the Harlan estate, the 2012 Vecina Proprietary Red is the perfect Napa version of a hypothetical blend of a La Mission Haut-Brion and Mouton-Rothschild. This is riveting Cabernet Sauvignon with great intensity, a killer fragrance of burning embers, charcoal, gravel, blackberry, cassis and earth. Fabulously intense and full-bodied, with majestic flavor intensity, a skyscraper-like mouthfeel, incredible purity and length, and supple tannins, this magnificent wine comes closest to the great Harlan Estate itself. Drink it over the next 35 years. JS 98 (7/2015): This is a Vecina that really builds on the palate with a chewy and juicy texture that melts away. Lots of dried and dark fruits plus fresh bark and sweet tobacco. Dark tea leafs and citrus too. Great finish. This is a wine that only shows a touch of the greatness it will give in four or five years. WS 95 (11/2015): Deliciously pure and polished, with a juicy mix of blackberry, wild berry, currant and black licorice flavors, supported by firm, fine-grained tannins that give this a gentle texture and nice grip. Ends with a dusty, cedary aftertaste. To be released 2016. Drink now through 2028. 651 cases made. VM 95 (10/2015): The 2012 Vecina is deep, powerful and intense. Scorched earth, smoke, leather, menthol and dark spices are some of the signatures. As always, the Vecina presents a powerful, vertical sense of structure, with more than enough tannin to keep for two decades. This is a decidedly brooding Vecina.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BondEstates(Harlan).asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BonnyDoon.aspWA 92 (8/2012): There is no shortage of depth, power or richness in the 2010 Tempranillo. The 2010 boasts extraordinary purity and complexity, even if it doesn’t quite have the personality of the wines made from Rhone varieties. The 80% new oak has been absorbed masterfully. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2018.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BookerVineyard.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BookerVineyard.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BookerVineyard.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BookerVineyard.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BookerVineyard.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BookerVineyard.aspWA 94 (8/2011): The 2009 Fracture (Syrah) is super-ripe and boisterous in its blackberries, blueberries, creme de cassis and sweet spices. It shows striking inner perfume, layers of radiant fruit and a positively explosive finish punctuated with tar, smoke and a host of dark aromas and flavors. Simply put, this is a striking wine. The 2009 Fracture saw 80% new barrels. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2019.IWC 92 (10/2011): (100% syrah): Deep ruby with a bright rim. Intense, smoke-accented aromas of black and blue fruits, olive tapenade, violet and Indian spices, with a hint of licorice in the background. Lush, creamy and expansive, boasting striking intensity to its sweet blackberry and boysenberry flavors. Stains the palate and finishes with excellent clarity and lingering sappiness.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BookerVineyard.aspWA 99 (8/2015): The 2013 Fracture is an utterly sensational blend of 100% Syrah, all from the estate Booker Vineyard, that exhibits off-the-chart notes of creme de cassis, crushed flowers, licorice, vanilla bean and toasted spice. Possessing perfect integration of its fruit, alcohol, tannin and acidity, it's full-bodied and incredibly seamless, with terrific concentration, a full, layered mid-palate and a blockbuster finish. Paso Robles Syrah at its finest, this incredible wine will benefit from a year or two in the cellar, yet thrill through 2025. Hats off to Eric Jensen for this absolutely killer effort and readers who doubt the quality of wine coming from these rolling hills west of Paso Robles need to try this wine. WS 94 (12/2015): (WS #68 wine of 2015) Bold and downright flamboyant, this manages to stay balanced and focused. Floral aromas of boysenberry, raspberry and roasted coffee open to rich, complex flavors that focus on licorice, smoky pepper beef and loamy mineral. Drink now through 2026. 1,000 cases made. VM 93 (9/2015): Brilliant purple. Sexy, focused mineral- and smoke-accented dark fruit liqueur and potpourri scents are complemented by suggestions of anise and cola. Sweet, seamless and spicy on the palate, with intense boysenberry and cherry-cola flavors becoming livelier with aeration. Really stains the palate and finishes sappy and very long, with smooth tannins. Josh Raynolds.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BookerVineyard.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BookerVineyard.aspWA 93-95 (8/2014): A new cuvee, the 2013 Fulldraw is a GSM blend of 48% Syrah, 35% Grenache and 17% Mourvedre. While it’s from young vines, you wouldn’t know it by tasting it, and it has a serious, mineral-laced profile to go with full-bodied, richness, incredible purity and lots of finely polished tannin. It should easily be an outstanding wine and thrill for 5-8 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BookerVineyard.aspWA 94-96 (8/2012): Booker’s 2010 My Favorite Neighbor bursts from the glass with a heady array of blueberries, dark cherries, spices, violets, mint and licorice. The 2010 stands out for its huge fruit and impeccable balance. Proprietor Eric Jensen planned to give the wine a full 24 months in oak. This is another compelling wine full of promise. The blend is 44% Cabernet Sauvignon, 33% Petit Verdot and 23% Syrah. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2018. IWC 92 (12/2012): (made from 44% cabernet sauvignon, 33% petit verdot and 23% syrah): Bright purple. Spicy cherry, cassis and blueberry aromas are brightened by cracked pepper and rose, with a slow-building vanilla note adding sweetness. Pliant, deeply concentrated dark berry flavors show very good precision and energy, with an exotic building floral pastille note adding vibrancy. Shows impressive power on the finish, which offers a bitter cherry pit character and noteworthy persistence.WS 92 (3/2013): Rich, gutsy and structured, with a firm mix of earthy tannins, road tar, dried dark berry, sage and cedar, showing strong character. Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot and Syrah. Drink now through 2022. 193 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BookerVineyard.aspWA 95 (8/2013): Holding things slightly closer to the vest, the 2011 My Favorite Neighbor (46% Syrah, 40% Petit Verdot and 14% Cabernet Sauvignon) has full-bodied richness and power to go with classic aromas and flavors of cassis, wild herbs, tobacco and cedar. The Cabernet and Petit Verdot really show here, with the Syrah component adding more plushness on the palate. Firming up nicely on the finish, with ripe, yet notable tannin, this serious 2011 should be given another 2-3 years in the cellar. While it will be hard to resist in its youth, I wouldn’t be surprised to see this drinking nicely at age 15 and beyond. Drink 2015-2026. VM 95 (7/2013): The 2011 My Favorite Neighbor is one of the many highlights at Booker this year. Explosive, full-bodied and opulent, the 2011 captures the generous, resonant warmth that is so typical of Paso Robles while at the same time retaining gorgeous balance and proportion. There is so much to like here. What a gorgeous wine! The blend is 46% Syrah, 40% Petit Verdot, and 14% Cabernet Sauvignon.IWC 91+ (12/2013): (46% syrah, 40% petit verdot and 14% cabernet sauvignon): Inky purple. Deeply pitched black and blue fruit scents are lifted by zesty Asian spice and floral nuances. Ripe and fleshy, offering expansive cassis, blueberry and bitter chocolate flavors and a touch of candied licorice. Closes with firm, youthful tannins, lingering smokiness and a hint of black pepper. The most brooding wine in the Booker lineup this year and the only one that I'd insist on stashing away for another few years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BookerVineyard.aspWA 95 (8/2013): Holding things slightly closer to the vest, the 2011 My Favorite Neighbor (46% Syrah, 40% Petit Verdot and 14% Cabernet Sauvignon) has full-bodied richness and power to go with classic aromas and flavors of cassis, wild herbs, tobacco and cedar. The Cabernet and Petit Verdot really show here, with the Syrah component adding more plushness on the palate. Firming up nicely on the finish, with ripe, yet notable tannin, this serious 2011 should be given another 2-3 years in the cellar. While it will be hard to resist in its youth, I wouldn’t be surprised to see this drinking nicely at age 15 and beyond. Drink 2015-2026. VM 95 (7/2013): The 2011 My Favorite Neighbor is one of the many highlights at Booker this year. Explosive, full-bodied and opulent, the 2011 captures the generous, resonant warmth that is so typical of Paso Robles while at the same time retaining gorgeous balance and proportion. There is so much to like here. What a gorgeous wine! The blend is 46% Syrah, 40% Petit Verdot, and 14% Cabernet Sauvignon.IWC 91+ (12/2013): (46% syrah, 40% petit verdot and 14% cabernet sauvignon): Inky purple. Deeply pitched black and blue fruit scents are lifted by zesty Asian spice and floral nuances. Ripe and fleshy, offering expansive cassis, blueberry and bitter chocolate flavors and a touch of candied licorice. Closes with firm, youthful tannins, lingering smokiness and a hint of black pepper. The most brooding wine in the Booker lineup this year and the only one that I'd insist on stashing away for another few years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BookerVineyard.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BookerVineyard.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BookerVineyard.aspWA 94 (8/2016): Checking in as a blend of 46% Grenache, 34% Mourvèdre and 20% Counoise that spent 24 months in barrel, the 2013 Oublie 24 offers an open, sexy style in its mulled red fruits, dried flowers, spice and dried soil aromas and flavors. Sporting a semi translucent ruby color, this full-bodied beauty has no hard edges, a beautiful core of sweet fruit, and an endearing hard to resist personality that will drink well for 5-7 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BookerVineyard.aspWA 92-94 (8/2014): The 2013 Oublie is more Grenache heavy than the 2012, and is 44% Grenache, 36% Mourvedre and 20% Counoise. Showing plenty of black and blue fruits, underbrush, peppery spices and violet nuances, this serious barrel sample hits the palate with full-bodied richness, rock-solid mid-palate depth and a great finish. It will drink well on release and evolve for a decade or more.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BookerVineyard.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BookerVineyard.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BookerVineyard.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BookerVineyard.aspWA 94 (8/2013): Also superb, the 2011 Remnant (formerly known as the Alchemist) is a kitchen sink blend of 55% Syrah, 14% Tempranillo, 11% Petit Verdot, 10% Grenache and 10% Mourvedre that saw 20% new French oak, 40% once-used barrels and the balance neutral oak. It’s a savory, complex 2011 that offers up plenty of spice, toast and cedar that’s balanced by a core of sweet black raspberry fruit that emerges with time in the glass. Medium to full-bodied, balanced and beautifully textured, this totally compelling red has fine tannin, serious richness and depth, and an overall classy profile. It will have upwards of a decade of longevity. Drink 2014-2021. VM 94 (7/2013): The 2011 Remnant is gorgeous. Pomegranate, orange peel, cloves, menthol and licorice all add shades of exotic complexity as this full-bodied, explosive wine opens up in the glass. The style is surprisingly soft and voluptuous for the year. Many producers in California eschew press juice in their blends. Eric Jensen, on he other hand, decided to bottle all of that juice, giving birth to the appropriately and colorfully named Remnant. In 2011, Remnant is 55% Syrah, 14% Tempranillo, 11% Petit Verdot, 10% Grenache and 10% Mourvedre. Antonio Galloni WS 86 (7/2014): Stubbornly tannic, dry, extracted and chewy, with reticent pepper, dried dark berry and cedary notes. Syrah, Tempranillo, Petit Verdot, Grenache and Mourvèdre. Best from 2015 through 2023. 700 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BookerVineyard.aspWA 94 (8/2013): Also superb, the 2011 Remnant (formerly known as the Alchemist) is a kitchen sink blend of 55% Syrah, 14% Tempranillo, 11% Petit Verdot, 10% Grenache and 10% Mourvedre that saw 20% new French oak, 40% once-used barrels and the balance neutral oak. It’s a savory, complex 2011 that offers up plenty of spice, toast and cedar that’s balanced by a core of sweet black raspberry fruit that emerges with time in the glass. Medium to full-bodied, balanced and beautifully textured, this totally compelling red has fine tannin, serious richness and depth, and an overall classy profile. It will have upwards of a decade of longevity. Drink 2014-2021. VM 94 (7/2013): The 2011 Remnant is gorgeous. Pomegranate, orange peel, cloves, menthol and licorice all add shades of exotic complexity as this full-bodied, explosive wine opens up in the glass. The style is surprisingly soft and voluptuous for the year. Many producers in California eschew press juice in their blends. Eric Jensen, on he other hand, decided to bottle all of that juice, giving birth to the appropriately and colorfully named Remnant. In 2011, Remnant is 55% Syrah, 14% Tempranillo, 11% Petit Verdot, 10% Grenache and 10% Mourvedre. Antonio Galloni WS 86 (7/2014): Stubbornly tannic, dry, extracted and chewy, with reticent pepper, dried dark berry and cedary notes. Syrah, Tempranillo, Petit Verdot, Grenache and Mourvèdre. Best from 2015 through 2023. 700 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BookerVineyard.aspWA 97+ (8/2012): I was blown away by the 2010 Ripper, a 100% Grenache done in concrete for the first time. It boasts captivating aromatic complexity, layers of sweet, refined fruit and fabulous overall balance. Vivid red fruit, flowers, mint and spices linger on the sublime finish. The Ripper boasts extraordinary varietal expression. Making pure Grenache in Paso Robles is not easy, but this is a model of what can be achieved here. Although impeccably restrained, the sheer glycerin and richness are pure California. The 2010 Ripper is a modern-day classic from Booker and proprietor Eric Jensen. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2018.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BookerVineyard.aspWA 96+ (8/2013): Starting out the tasting and absolutely rocking, the 2011 The Ripper checks in as a blend of 100% Grenache that was brought up in equal parts concrete and neutral barrel. Offering up layers of kirsch, dried underbrush, white pepper and hints of spring flowers, it flows onto the palate with a medium to full-bodied, vibrant profile that gains richness and depth with air. Leaning towards the more focused, elegant side of the spectrum, this beauty doesn’t lack for texture or length. Give it a year or three and enjoy through 2023. It’s superb and well worth the effort to track down. Drink 2015-2023. VM 94 (7/2013): Eric Jensen has done a fabulous job with the 2011 Ripper, no easy feat after the iconic 2010. Expressive floral notes, mint, spices and kirsch all lift out of the glass. The freshness and crystalline purity of the year come through in spades. Jensen aged the 2011 70% in cement and 30% in neutral oak, an approach that worked beautifully. Over the last few years, Ripper has established itself as one of the most distinctive Grenaches in California.IWC 93 (12/2013): (100% grenache and 14.6% alcohol): Deep ruby. Spicy black raspberry and cherry compote on the highly perfumed nose, with zesty mineral and spice notes adding vibrancy. Deeply pitched but lively red fruit flavors show excellent clarity and sweetness, with a jolt of tangy acidity adding spine. The sappy, broad finish is shaped by smooth and harmonious tannins. This wine was raised entirely in used demi-muids.WS 88 (7/2014): Offers ripe, rich dark berry, graphite and savory herb flavors. Supple midpalate, this ends with touches of cola and violet. Clean and snappy. Drink now through 2022. 725 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BookerVineyard.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BookerVineyard.aspWA 95-98 (8/2014): There should be 466 cases of the 2013 The Ripper to go around. Made from 100% Grenache and aged in neutral oak, it offers off-the-hook aromas and flavors (kirsch, violets and dusty minerality), full-bodied richness and building tannin. It’s has both a decadent and yet elegant style, and should benefit from short-term cellaring once released.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BookerVineyard.aspWA 95-98 (8/2014): There should be 466 cases of the 2013 The Ripper to go around. Made from 100% Grenache and aged in neutral oak, it offers off-the-hook aromas and flavors (kirsch, violets and dusty minerality), full-bodied richness and building tannin. It’s has both a decadent and yet elegant style, and should benefit from short-term cellaring once released.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BookerVineyard.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BookerVineyard.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BookerVineyard.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BookerVineyard.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BookerVineyard.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BookerVineyard.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BookerVineyard.aspVM 95 (7/2013): The 2011 Vertigo is one of the clear highlights of the year in Paso Robles. A rich, resonant wine, the 2011 boasts gorgeous depth and power, especially for the year. The brightness of the vintage comes through on the finish laced with expressive dark Syrah fruit. Floral and spice notes add vibrancy as well as complexity. The 2011 is 69% Syrah, 24% Mourvedre and 7% Grenache. I very much like the sense of purity here.WA 94 (8/2013): More Syrah heavy, with 62% Syrah, 24% Mourvedre and a splash of Grenache, fermented with 30% stems and aged in 20% new French oak, the 2011 Vertigo is red fruit-driven, with plenty of raspberry, licorice and floral notes flowing to a medium to full-bodied, balanced and lively palate. Gaining more minerality and spice in the glass, it, too, is a knockout effort from Eric. Enjoy it over the coming 7-8 years. Drink now-2021. IWC 94 (12/2013): (69% syrah, 24% mourvedre and 7% grenache): Inky ruby. Suave, vanilla-accented blackberry, blueberry and floral pastille aromas show impressive energy and thrust. Surprisingly elegant, even graceful on the palate, with vibrant, violet-tinged dark berry and bitter cherry flavors complicated by slow-building spicecake and cracked pepper nuances. Silky tannins add structure to the long, alluringly sweet finish, with its lasting floral note. Wine lovers familiar with Eric Jensen's past work will be surprised (pleasantly, I hope) by this wine's finesse.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BookerVineyard.aspWA 94-96 (8/2014): The 2013 Vertigo (45% Syrah, 29% Mourvedre and 26% Grenache) has an almost Cornas-like purple fruit, liquid violets and caramelized meat profile that gives way to a layered, seamless and vibrant wine that has excellent concentration and a big finish. Despite being a big, rich wine, it has a pretty, elegant style that should allow it to shine on release.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BookerVineyard.aspWA 94-96 (8/2014): The 2013 Vertigo (45% Syrah, 29% Mourvedre and 26% Grenache) has an almost Cornas-like purple fruit, liquid violets and caramelized meat profile that gives way to a layered, seamless and vibrant wine that has excellent concentration and a big finish. Despite being a big, rich wine, it has a pretty, elegant style that should allow it to shine on release.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BookerVineyard.aspWA 93 (10/2011): The opaque purple-colored 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon (92%) is an 8 vineyard blend containing small amounts of Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Cabernet Franc. It was aged for 32 months in French oak. Enticing aromas of Asian spices, rose petal, incense, pencil lead, and assorted black fruits lead to a medium-bodied, densely packed, layered Cabernet with outstanding volume and concentration. It mandates 5-6 years of cellaring and will be at its best from 2016 to 2027. WS 88 (11/2012): Firm in texture and deftly balanced to keep the spicy, tea-accented red berry flavors feeling relatively light. Finishes with gritty tannins that need time to soften. Best from 2015 through 2019. 1,050 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BoudreauxCellars.aspWA 91+ (6/2013): A classic Cabernet, the 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon checks in as a blend of 92% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Merlot, 3% Petit Verdot and 3% Cabernet Franc that spent 32 months in French oak. Gorgeous with its classy black currant, lead pencil shavings, bay leaf and crushed rock-like minerality on the nose, it flows onto the palate with a medium to full-bodied, elegant and textured mouthfeel that partially conceals sound underlying tannic grip and concentration. Staying fresh and lively, it can be enjoyed now, or cellared for over a decade. Drink now-2024.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BoudreauxCellars.aspWA 93 (6/2015): Another wine that showed significantly better this year, the 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon (92% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, aged 32 months in 40% new French oak) offers slightly more ripeness than the Merlot, with full-bodied aromas and flavors of cassis, chocolate, toasted spice and hints of oak. Possessing loads of texture, silky tannin and a great finish, it will have 20 years of longevity.WS 91 (12/2015): Firm in texture, with moderately grippy tannins around a broad core of ripe, generous cherry compote, coffee and smoke flavors, finishing with a sense of sweetness. Best after 2018. 1,050 cases made.VM 89 (11/2015): (a multi-vineyard blend): Bright, medium red-ruby. High-toned aromas of blackberry, cassis, licorice and black pepper. Still rather bound-up on the palate, showing a restrained sweetness to the black fruit flavors accented by mocha, pepper and herb notes. Savory and deep, with a complicating note of tropical dark chocolate and a slightly roasted quality. Finishes with substantial, slightly drying tannins and very good length. Slightly rustic in an Old World way but I like it. Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BoudreauxCellars.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Boyd.aspVM 93 (7/2014): Bright floral notes, meld into lemon peel, crushed rocks and mint. Energetic and vibrant to the core, the 2012 impresses for its energy, tension and cut, yet remains faithful to the Brewer-Clifton style of textured Chardonnays. The combination of high elevation and heavy sand content yield a wine long on personality and pure class. IWC 93 (11/2013): Bright yellow-gold. Heady aromas of nectarine, pear nectar, candied ginger and toasty lees. Lively and precise on entry, then fleshy and chewy in the mid-palate, with strong cut to its pit fruit and melon flavors and floral notes. Finishes very long and bright, with vivid accents of citrus fruit zest and honeysuckle. WA 88 (8/2014): Beautiful today, it should be consumed over the coming 4-5 years. Also good, the 2012 Chardonnay Gnesa is a steel, fresh and focused effort that yields notions of apple blossom, citrus, lime and hints of rising bread to go with a medium-bodied, pure and clean feel on the palate. The acidity protrudes slightly here, and again, it needs more mid-palate depth and concentration, but it’s nevertheless a classy white to drink over the coming 3-5 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BrewerClifton.aspVM 92 (10/2011): Light gold. Musky, spice-accented aromas of pear, melon and honeysuckle, with a strong note of toasty lees. Smoky and broad but vibrant, with impressive depth to its orchard and citrus fruit flavors. Spicy and precise on the impressively long finish, which strongly echoes the smoke and floral notes. WA 91 (8/2012): The 2010 Chardonnay is gorgeous. Juicy apricots, pears, flowers and a hint of spices are woven together in this beautifully layered Chardonnay. Brewer-Clifton’s 2010 Chardonnay is a great wine for the money and an equally fabulous introduction to the house style. The fruit sources are Mt. Carmel, Sweeney Canyon, 3-D, Gnesa and a touch of Zotovich. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2015.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BrewerClifton.aspBH 89 (10/2005): A ripe mix of mostly primary dark red fruit blends with the beginnings of nicely complex secondary aromas that introduce rich, precise and focused middle weight flavors wrapped in a sappy and persistent finish. This is not an especially dense or powerful wine but the balance and overall elegance are lovely. This could be approached now though I would hold it for another 2 to 3 years first. Drink 2007+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BroganCellars.aspWS 88 (4/2001): Dark, rich and complex, with very ripe black cherry, chocolate, wild berry and floral flavors that are well-proportioned, showing heat and a touch of funkiness. Drink now through 2006. 150 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BroganCellars.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Brooks.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BrowneFamilyVineyards.aspWA 98+ (12/2009): Potentially a candidate for perfection, the 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon is the finest Bryant Family wine since the aforementioned 1997. Striking aromas and flavors of blackberries, blueberries, flowers, smoke, truffles, and sweet berries lead to a wine with profound concentration, a silky, layered mouthfeel, perfect integration of tannin and wood, and remarkable depth, intensity, and balance. The finish lasts nearly a minute. This stunning Cabernet should age nicely for 20-30 years. VM 93-96 (6/2009): Saturated deep ruby. Superripe aromas of musky black raspberry and smoke, lifted by a mineral element; liqueur-like rather than porty. Lush, seamless and powerful, with superb inner-palate energy to the flavors of black raspberry, blackberry, minerals, licorice pastille and smoke. This thick, liqueur-like fruit bomb is huge but not heavy-and classically dry. Finishes with supple, tongue-coating tannins and a building element of graphite minerality. Compared to Melka's practice here, Mark Aubert told me he picks earlier, ferments with only wild yeasts, and racks the wine much less frequently.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BryantFamilyVineyard.aspWA 99 (10/2013): Teasing the taster with a possible three-digit perfection is the 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Pritchard Hill. This beauty shows lots of creme de cassis, blueberry liqueur, spring flower and forest floor notes in an opulent, full-bodied, powerful, dense, rich style buttressed by significant ripe tannins and decent acidity. Again, the striking purity and singular character of this Bryant Cabernet Sauvignon oozes potential as well as pedigree. This spectacular, young Cabernet should turn out to be one of the all-time great Bryant Cabernet Sauvignons, rivaling their 1997, but slightly more structured. Forget this one for 3-4 years and drink it over the following three decades. VM 96+ (11/2013): The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Bryant Family Vineyard is drop-dead gorgeous. A sumptuous, layered wine, the 2010 flows across the palate with stunning depth. The aromas are beautifully vibrant, nuanced and delineated, while the tannins have begun to soften just a touch, revealing superior depth, polish and finesse. Overall, this is an energetic vintage for Bryant's flagship Cabernet Sauvignon, with lovely tension and energy, not to mention tremendous overall balance. Rose petals, sweet red berries and mint wrap around the expressive, textured finish. WS 95 (10/2013): Seductive oak has a smooth vanilla bean edge, leading to a rich yet elegant core of spicy berry, mineral, mocha, gravelly earth and road tar. Most impressive on the finish, where the flavors retain their graceful balance and end with a long, persistent finish. Drink now through 2025. 855 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BryantFamilyVineyard.aspVM 97 (11/2013): The 2010 Bettina impresses for its tremendous energy, polish and vibrancy. Clean, saline notes support layers of expressive dark red fruit, crushed rocks, smoke, wild flowers and tobacco. A delineated, highly expressive wine, the 2010 emphasizes focus and clarity, but with all of the classic Bryant richness. I especially like the way the 2010 turns dark and explosive on the finish. In 2010, the Bettina is 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot, all from David Abreu's Madrona Ranch, Thorevilos and Lucia vineyards. WA 95 (10/2013): The 2010 Bettina exhibits abundant notes of graphite, charcoal, blackberries and espresso roast along with fabulous fruit concentration and an unctuously textured, full-bodied mouthfeel with great definition and richness. This superb Bordeaux blend is more broodingly backward than the 2009, but it demonstrates the potential for at least two decades of longevity. WS 94 (10/2013): Jazzy oak delivers mocha, espresso and vanilla bean up front, with the core flavors centered around vibrant currant, wild berry, cedar and cigar box. Gains all the way, ending with a long, persistent finish that keeps opening doors of flavor. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2028. 396 cases made. VM 93+ (5/2013): (15.6% alcohol; 75.9% cabernet sauvignon, 12.5% each cabernet franc and merlot, and 1.5% petit verdot): Saturated ruby-red color. Darker and more brooding on the nose than the estate bottling, hinting at cassis, bitter chocolate and earth. Then almost surprisingly thick and sweet in the mouth, with harmonious acidity giving shape to the flavors of black and blue fruits, espresso and black pepper. Finishes with slightly tough (Howell Mountain?) tannins and firm minerality. This has gained in texture and sweetness, without any loss of structure, since I tasted it from barrel a year ago.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BryantFamilyVineyard.aspWA 93 (12/2011): The 2009 DB 4 flows across the palate with heady notes of rose petals, sweet red berries and truffles. It is a gorgeous, totally sexy wine that captures the essence of the Bryant house style at a price that is affordable for mere mortals. Finessed, silky tannins grace the exceptional, polished finish. This is a terrific showing from Don Bryant and his team. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2021.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/BryantFamilyVineyard.aspWA 96 (12/2009): The blockbuster 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon is more primary, but it does display enormous fruit concentration, massive body, and wonderful purity, balance, and elegance. It is an extraordinarily promising 2007 with awesome fruit, depth and richness as well as a long finish. This offering will be even better with 5-7 years of bottle age, and should keep for 20+ years. VM 93+ (6/2010): (includes bits of merlot and malbec) Good full, saturated ruby. An essence of Napa cabernet on the nose, with dominant notes of cassis, dark chocolate, minerals and violet. Juicy but youthfully brooding, with a slightly medicinal quality to the intense flavors of cassis, bitter chocolate, graphite and menthol. Not a particularly fleshy style but vibrant and penetrating. This wine's firm acids and tongue-dusting tannins call for at least five or six years of patience. This wine, a blend from 10 or 12 different vineyards all over Napa Valley, was vinified by Mark Herold. Rebecca Weinberg is currently the winemaker here, with Celia Welch consulting. WS 93 (9/2010): A dark, rich, exotic style, this Cabernet is bold and intense, with kirsch, black currant, wild berry and black cherry flavors that are ripe. Full-bodied and well-structured, ending with a long, persistent finish, where red and black licorice commingle. Drink now through 2019. 1,110 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Buccella.aspWA 96 (12/2009): The blockbuster 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon is more primary, but it does display enormous fruit concentration, massive body, and wonderful purity, balance, and elegance. It is an extraordinarily promising 2007 with awesome fruit, depth and richness as well as a long finish. This offering will be even better with 5-7 years of bottle age, and should keep for 20+ years. VM 93+ (6/2010): (includes bits of merlot and malbec) Good full, saturated ruby. An essence of Napa cabernet on the nose, with dominant notes of cassis, dark chocolate, minerals and violet. Juicy but youthfully brooding, with a slightly medicinal quality to the intense flavors of cassis, bitter chocolate, graphite and menthol. Not a particularly fleshy style but vibrant and penetrating. This wine's firm acids and tongue-dusting tannins call for at least five or six years of patience. This wine, a blend from 10 or 12 different vineyards all over Napa Valley, was vinified by Mark Herold. Rebecca Weinberg is currently the winemaker here, with Celia Welch consulting. WS 93 (9/2010): A dark, rich, exotic style, this Cabernet is bold and intense, with kirsch, black currant, wild berry and black cherry flavors that are ripe. Full-bodied and well-structured, ending with a long, persistent finish, where red and black licorice commingle. Drink now through 2019. 1,110 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Buccella.aspWA 95 (12/2010): The 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon, which comes from multiple fruit sources in Rutherford, Oakville, Yountville, Coombsville, Oak Knoll and Carneros, was aged in 100% new French oak. A blend of 95% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, it exhibits an opaque purple color, great intensity and a sweet nose of blue and black fruits intermixed with toasty oak, lead pencil shavings and forest floor. Rich, layered and full-bodied with silky tannins, this broad, savory 2008 should drink well for 15 or more years. WS 94 (10/2011): Remarkable for its complex aromas of roasted coffee, dried herb, dark berry, mocha and sage, yet for all its size this is quite graceful and elegant, even delicate, with a long, tapered finish where the flavors glide along smoothy. Drink now through 2021. 1,185 cases made. VM 93 (5/2011): (15.1% alcohol; includes 2% each cabernet franc and merlot and 1% petit verdot): Dark ruby. Fascinating nose melds dark berries, licorice pastille, violet, coriander, cumin and mint. Fat and sweet for the year, with palate-saturating flavors of crushed black fruits and minerals. The broad, dusty tannins arrive late and build, but there's more than enough mid-palate sweetness to support them. This is riper and deeper in the bottle than a barrel sample I tried a year ago. Rebekah Wineburg makes this wine, with Celia Welch serving in a consulting role.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Buccella.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Buccella.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Buccella.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Buccella.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Buccella.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Buccella.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Bunchgrass.aspWS 85 (10/2005): Walks a fine line between ripe currant and hints of herb and vegetal flavors. Balanced and supple, in the end the flavors combine to give it a measure of complexity. Tasted twice, with this the best bottle. Drink now through 2009. 5,000 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/CakebreadCellars.aspWS 80 (12/2006): Thin and simple, with modest herbal and vegetal notes and little in the way of ripe fruit. Drink now. 5,000 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/CakebreadCellars.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/CakebreadCellars.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/CakebreadCellars.aspWS 80 (12/2005): Aromas of herb, stewed plum and earth turn dry and leathery, making this one tough to swallow and leaving little hope for a future. Drink now through 2009. 500 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/CakebreadCellars.aspWA 88 (12/2003): The 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon Vine Hill Ranch exhibits a saturated purple color in addition to aromas of cassis, licorice, and subtle background wood. Broad, rich, and dense, with high tannin in the finish, it should be cellared for 5-7 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/CakebreadCellars.aspWS 90 (3/2016): A delicate style that relies on subtlety and finesse, capturing the ripe essence of white peach, mandarin orange, pear and citrus flavors, ending clean and refreshing. Long and elegant. Drink now. 13,843 cases made. VM 90 (7/2016): The Calera 2014 Chardonnay (Central Coast) is a gorgeous entry-level offering. Orange blossom, honey, chamomile and wild flowers are all pushed forward, but it is the wine's textural finesse - especially at this level - that makes it one of the very best values readers will find anywhere in the world.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Calera.aspVM 93 (7/2014): One of the more subtle wines in the range, the 2011 Pinot Noir Mills Vineyard impresses for its sense of proportion and balance. Nothing is out of place. Black cherries, plums, crushed flowers, mint and anise develop in the glass, but ultimately the Mills is mostly about sensual, radiant texture. The highly expressive, lifted finish is a thing of beauty. There is so much to admire here. In 2011, these own-rooted vines yielded a wine of true delicacy and finesse.WA 92 (8/2014): The 2011 Pinot Noir Mills comes all from the limestone soils of the Mills Vineyard. Seeing 100% whole cluster inclusion during fermentation, and then aged 18 months in 30% new French oak, it’s a medium-bodied, elegant effort that has notions of Asian spices, dried flowers, sappy underbrush and ripe cherries all emerging from the glass. Showing more rose petal and minerality with time in the glass, it has nicely integrated acidity and a seamless, pure profile that’s ideal for drinking over the coming 5-7 years or more. WS 90 (6/2015): Fresh and snappy, with a vibrantly peppery, earth-laced core of red berry and blackberry flavors that are tightly wound, if a bit clipped on the finish. Ends with hints of anise and black licorice. Needs time. Best from 2015 through 2023. 896 cases made. BH 86 (6/2015): A cool and admirably pure nose is comprised by notes of plum, violet and essence of dark pinot fruit that is trimmed in attractive spice elements. There is both good volume and verve to the plummy medium-bodied flavors that possess a velvety texture before culminating in a firm and lingering finish that displays hints of warmth and dryness. I like the concentration but the balance isn't ideal.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Calera.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Calera.aspVM 92 (5/2012): (Includes the fruit that normally comprises Carlisle's Cardiac Hill syrah bottling, along with fruit from the Steiner vineyard; 35% new French oak): Inky ruby. An explosively perfumed bouquet evokes dark berry preserves, black tea, licorice and smoky Indian spices. Lush, palate-staining black and blue fruit flavors show noteworthy intensity and focus and pick up a floral pastille nuance with air. Finishes broad and sweet, leaving smoke and licorice notes behind. Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Carlisle.aspVM 94 (6/2009): Deep ruby. Captivating aromas of red- and blackcurrant, smoked meat, olive and minerals remind me of a serious Cote-Rotie. Rich black raspberry and cassis flavors are complicated by cracked pepper, olive and candied violet, with silky tannins lending support and focus. The floral qualities gain strength on the finish, which is strikingly focused and very long. For this wine's quality, the price is a steal. Stephen Tanzer.WA 92 (2/2010): The dense purple-hued 2007 Syrah Cardiac Hill reveals sweet aromas of white flowers (acacia), blackberries, and cassis. Elegant, dense, and full-bodied with velvety tannins and a layered, textured mouthfeel, it should drink well for 6-10 years. WS 90 (3/2010): Fresh, vibrant, complex and full-bodied, with a mix of dried berry, bacon fat, sage and savory herb scents. This slowly unfolds to reveal depth, concentration and persistence. Drink now through 2016. 520 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Carlisle.aspVM 94 (6/2009): Deep ruby. Captivating aromas of red- and blackcurrant, smoked meat, olive and minerals remind me of a serious Cote-Rotie. Rich black raspberry and cassis flavors are complicated by cracked pepper, olive and candied violet, with silky tannins lending support and focus. The floral qualities gain strength on the finish, which is strikingly focused and very long. For this wine's quality, the price is a steal. Stephen Tanzer.WA 92 (2/2010): The dense purple-hued 2007 Syrah Cardiac Hill reveals sweet aromas of white flowers (acacia), blackberries, and cassis. Elegant, dense, and full-bodied with velvety tannins and a layered, textured mouthfeel, it should drink well for 6-10 years. WS 90 (3/2010): Fresh, vibrant, complex and full-bodied, with a mix of dried berry, bacon fat, sage and savory herb scents. This slowly unfolds to reveal depth, concentration and persistence. Drink now through 2016. 520 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Carlisle.aspVM 93+ (6/2011): Opaque purple. Smoky red and dark berry aromas are complemented by classic syrah notes of olive tapenade, minerals and black pepper. Tangy, spice-accented black raspberry and bitter cherry flavors are braced by dusty tannins and pick up an exotic violet note on the back end. Taut, focused and very fresh, finishing with excellent cut and peppery persistence. This is still a baby. This was also fermented with 40% whole clusters, said Officer. Stephen Tanzer.WA 93 (2/2012): The 2009 Syrah Cardiac Hill is a gorgeous, thrilling wine laced with bacon fat, tapenade, savory herbs and plums. It possesses gorgeous aromatic delineation and fabulous length. The intense, mineral-drenched finish argues for cellaring the wine for at least another 2-3 years, but readers are going to have a very hard time keeping their hands off this gem. Cardiac Hill is a very cold site. The wine (100% Syrah) was vinified with 40% whole cluster and aged in French oak barrels, 27% new. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2029. WS 91 (2/2012): Tight and backward, with dried berry, cedar, tobacco and roasted herb scents that are very closed now. Needs cellaring, though this wine, the tightest and least forthcoming of the '09 Carlisles, may not rise to the level of the winery's other offerings from this vintage. Best from 2013 through 2022. 496 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Carlisle.aspWS 92 (6/2015): Deeply flavored, this Zin balances a distinctive personality with a plush texture. Aromas of huckleberry and wild sassafras lead to complex flavors of raspberry, allspice and cracked pepper. Drink now through 2023. 434 cases made.WA 91-93 (12/2014): From Mendocino Ridge, the 2013 Zinfandel DuPratt Vineyard is one of the few Carlisle Zins that is 100% Zinfandel. It carries its 15.6% natural alcohol naturally, with no heat or harshness. It is an elegant, nearly Pinot Noir-like red in its delicacy and grace. Medium-bodied with beautiful ripeness, crisp, tart acids, and a refreshing, cool climate-like character, it offers a complete contrast to the Russian River and Sonoma Zinfandels. Drink now-2020.VM 90-92 (1/2015): The 2013 Zinfandel DuPratt Vineyard is one of the most intensely aromatic and eccentric wines in the range. Pine, mint, cinnamon, game, smoke, juniper berries and dark red cherries all lift from the glass as this crystalline, pure Mendocino Zinfandel shows off its compelling personality. This cool-climate vineyard planted in 1920 was the last to be harvested. Anotnio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Carlisle.aspIWC 92 (5/2012): Inky purple. Intense, spice-accented aromas of red and dark berries, violet, olive and cola; smells a lot like a high-end northern Rhone wine. Juicy, penetrating black raspberry and blueberry flavors show serious depth and power but are enlivened by a zesty spice nuance. Clings with excellent tenacity on the finish, with lingering floral and spice notes. This wine weighs in at 16.2% alcohol but there's no way I would have guessed it due to its vivacity and focus. WS 91 (6/2012): Dense and well-structured, with aromas of boysenberry, mineral and aromatic herbs. The flavors are still youthful, with plenty of tannins and crisp acidity, plus appealing notes of cherry, blueberry and anise. Hands off for now. Best from 2015 through 2019. 123 cases made.WA 90-92 (2/2012): The 2010 Zinfandel Fanucchi Wood Road Vineyard is a bit understated today. There is plenty of delineation in the aromas and flavors, yet at the same time the wine comes across as not fully formed from a structural point of view. I imagine the wine will benefit from further aging, and it will be interesting to see the direction it takes after bottling. There is more than enough potential for me to be optimistic about the future. Sweet red cherries, crushed flowers and mint are some of the notes that linger on the finish. The blend is 85% Zinfandel and 15% assorted red grapes from a parcel planted in 1906. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2021.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Carlisle.aspVM 93 (6/2014): (from vines that are reportedly 109 years old; 15.9% alcohol; 30% new French oak): Vivid ruby. Intense, vibrant aromas of red and dark berry preserves, licorice and peppery spices are lifted by a smoky mineral quality. Stains the palate with sappy black raspberry and bitter cherry flavors that put on weight with air. The licorice and mineral notes dominate the finish, which shows outstanding clarity and youthfully gripping tannins. I suspect that this powerful zin will age slowly and positively. Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Carlisle.aspVM 94 (6/2014): (20% whole clusters, 27% new oak and 15.9% alcohol): Inky purple. Sexy aromas of cassis, cherry compote, roasted coffee and incense. Supple, pliant and deep in black and blue fruit and floral pastille flavors. Becomes spicier and more energetic with air and picks up a smoky nuance that lingers on the long, sweet, intensely spicy finish. I was shocked to see that alcohol number as the wine doesn't betray it at all. Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Carlisle.aspWA 94 (10/2015): More sexy and voluptuous than the Santa Lucia Highlands releases, Mike Officer’s 2013 Syrah James Berry Vineyard exhibits a crazy black/blue color as well as sensational notes of crème de cassis, black raspberry, cracked pepper and violets. Full-bodied, forward, sexy and velvety textured, yet with ample concentration and fine tannin, it’s a fabulous Paso Robles Syrah that does everything right. Give it a year or three and drink bottles through 2025.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Carlisle.aspIWC 92 (5/2012): (16.3% alcohol, with a pH of 3.26!): Bright violet. Sexy dark berry aromas are complemented by notes of candied flowers and spicecake, plus an exotic touch of apricot. Lush, palate-staining blackberry and mulberry flavors show unlikely vivacity and delicacy, gaining spiciness with air. Closes with excellent clarity and cut, leaving sappy dark berry and floral notes behind.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Carlisle.aspIWC 92 (6/2013): Deep ruby. Powerful, smoke- and vanilla-accented aromas of candied red fruits and fresh flowers, with a peppery topnote. Rich but juicy and surprisingly animated on the palate, offering intense raspberry and bitter cherry flavors that are lifted and sharpened by tangy acidity. Slow-building tannins give shape to the persistent finish, which strongly echoes the raspberry note.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Carlisle.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Carlisle.aspVM 94 (7/2013): The 2010 Syrah Papa's Block hits the palate with layers of dark fruit. Wonderfully vivid and alive for a wine of its size, the 2010 is absolutely compelling from the first taste. The addition of 33% whole clusters, along with a dollop of Mourvedre and Viognier, gives the 2010 an element of lift that is rare for such a big wine. A huge, concentrated wine, the 2010 is compelling today, but I imagine it will be even better in another few years. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Carlisle.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Carlisle.aspWA 93 (2/2010): From the Knight's Valley, the 2007 Syrah Pelkan Ranch exhibits floral notes intermixed with hints of espresso roast, chocolate, tar, and pepper presented in an inky, dense, full-bodied, velvety style. It can be consumed now and over the next 5-7 years. VM 93 (5/2009): Glass-staining purple. Powerful scents of blackcurrant, cherry preserves and rooty sassafras, with slow-building olive and violet pastille qualities. Broad, fleshy dark berry liqueur flavors are framed by velvety tannins, picking up cracked pepper and herbal notes with air. A serious, chewy wine that develops compelling sweetness and floral character on the long, sappy finish. Officer says that this is the most ageworthy wine in his line-up. Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Carlisle.aspVM 94 (5/2011): Inky purple. Potent aromas of cassis, cherry liqueur, blueberry, exotic spices, violet and graphite. Incredibly deep, powerfully structured wine with sappy dark fruit flavors laced with espresso, violet, cola, star anise and cracked pepper. For all its power this wine comes across as almost racy, with wonderful lift and energy from bright, juicy acidity. The deep, sappy blackcurrant and blueberry flavors refuse to let up on the long, spicy finish. No stems were used here and the wine was raised in 50% new French barriques. Stephen Tanzer.WS 93 (2/2012): Distinctive for its fresh, loamy earth and dried berry flavors, with touches of tobacco leaf, roasted herb, sage and cedar, this takes a while to unfold but is deftly balanced and ends with a focused, persistent finish. Best from 2013 through 2023. 186 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Carlisle.aspVM 93 (6/2010): Glass-staining purple. Complex aromas of singed plum, smoke, Indian spices, olive tapenade and black pepper. Savory and energetic, with excellent peppery definition and inner-mouth perfume to the flavors of dark fruits, olive and spices. This offers the weight, smokiness and mineral grip of an old-style Cornas. I find this expansive, deeply concentrated wine very easy to drink but would bet on it being even better in a few more years. Stephen Tanzer.WA 92-94 (2/2010): Once again, the foggy, windswept terroir of Rosella's Vineyard has resulted in a big, deep, rich 2008 Syrah Rosella's Vineyard with lots of meaty red and black fruit notes, a full-bodied texture, and stunning richness. While not as impressive as the 2007, it is a noteworthy Syrah to enjoy over the next 6-8 years.WS 88 (6/2010): This intense red is marked by loamy earth, pepper, mineral and spice. Full-bodied, with brambly sage and underbrush flavors. Tightly wound. Decant. Drink now through 2016. 171 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Carlisle.aspWA 94 (9/2016): Mike commented that he likes the 2014 Syrahs much more than the 2013s, and he called 2014 a dream season. His 2014 Syrah Rosella's Vineyard, which was raised in 33% new French oak, sports the normal inky purple color as well as Cornas-like notes of olives, violets, flowers and creme de cassis. Polished, full-bodied and packed with fruit on the palate, it has sensational purity of fruit, sweet tannin and an already irresistible profile. It's worth noting that Mike reduced the amount of whole clusters in 2014, going from 35% to roughly 25%. Drink this beauty anytime over the coming decade.VM 88 (2/2016): The 2014 Syrah Rosella's Vineyard offers lovely immediacy. A burst of blue and purplish stone fruits, grilled herbs, smoke and licorice hits the palate first. There is a little less intensity through the mid-palate and finish, which gives the tannins a slightly rough around the edges feel, while hints of spice and leather add the closing shades of nuance. This is a pretty wine from Gary Franscioni's Rosella's Vineyard in the Santa Lucia Highlands. The general awareness of vineyard development in the Santa Lucia Highlands has come a long way since this site was first planted, something that is made abundantly clear by Sierra Mar Syrah tasted alongside it. The 2014 was done with 25% whole clusters.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Carlisle.aspVM 92 (5/2009): Inky ruby color. Exotically perfumed aromas of dark berries, smoked meat, violet and cracked pepper are underscored by tangy minerals. With its fresh red and dark berry flavors and sexy spice and floral character, this reminds me of a Crozes-Hermitage from Alain Graillot. The brisk finish features impressive lift and length. This is a superb value.WS 88 (11/2009): Complex, well-balanced and understated, offering a mix of dried berry, currant, berry jam, anise and sage that are full-bodied and supported by firm tannins. Decant. Drink now through 2012. 502 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Carlisle.aspVM 93 (5/2012): Glass-staining purple. Displays intense blackberry and blueberry aromas, with sexy allspice, anise and floral pastille nuances. Stains the palate with intense blueberry and boysenberry flavors, picking up spiciness and sweetness with air. Finishes with a velvety, sweet quality and excellent tenacity and spiciness. Stephen Tanzer.WA 92 (4/2013): Layers of black fruit jump from the glass in the 2010 Syrah Sierra Mar Vineyard. This is an especially vinous, perfumed Syrah that stands out for its forward juiciness and hugely appealing personality. Frankly, it is hard to put the glass down. The 2010 is the first vintage from a site in the Santa Lucia Highlands developed by Gary Franscioni and planted with Alban clones that is already proving to be a source of remarkable, expressive wines. With time in the glass, the 2010 turns dark, inward and brooding, as hints of graphite and crushed rock frame the finish.WS 90 (7/2012): Rustic and chewy, showing dense dried currant, spice, raspberry and fresh-turned earth flavors. Not as forthcoming as the Papa's Block, but shares its structure. Drink now through 2022. 236 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Carlisle.aspWA 94 (10/2014): Harvested toward the middle of October and 70% destemmed, the 2012 Syrah Sierra Mar Vineyard spent 16 months in 23% new French oak prior to bottling. It has a more broad, textured and full-bodied profile than the Rosella's and knocks it out of the park with its black raspberry, cassis, violets, licorice and crushed flower nuances on the nose. Beautifully concentrated with ripe, sweet tannin, it's another superb Syrah from this estate that will have 8-10 years of overall longevity.WS 89 (7/2014): Firm and well-structured, with lively acidity and tannins wrapped around a core of earth- and mineral-laced dark berry and dried herb flavors. Needs time. Best from 2015 through 2025. 201 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Carlisle.aspWA 93 (10/2015): Another inky, saturated purple/blue colored effort that needs short term cellaring is the 2013 Syrah Sierra Mar Vineyard. It reveals Cornas like notes of cassis and purple fruits, iron, pepper, creamy licorice and violets to go with a medium to full-bodied, nicely concentrated, yet still tight and tannic feel on the palate. Give it 2-3 years and enjoy bottles through 2025.VM 88-90 (1/2015): The 2013 Syrah Sierra Mar Vineyard is quite a bit riper and more fruit-driven than the Rosellas. The inclusion of 30% whole clusters helps, but there is a sense of heaviness that is impossible to miss, while the alcohol is at times noticeable. It will be interesting to see how the 2013 responds to the final phase of aging and then bottling, but today, it seems to lack a bit of focus. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Carlisle.aspWA 93 (2/2005): The 2002 Zinfandel Sonoma County (15.8% alcohol) displays copious amounts of earth, spice, pepper, kirsch, raspberry, and briery fruits in a full-bodied, pedal-to-the-metal style. With wonderful purity, texture, and depth, it will age nicely for 5-6 years. IWC 89+ (5/2004): Good saturated ruby. Bright, high-pitched aromas of black fruits and licorice. Quite tightly wound today and not yet showing much complexity, but offers good density and strong, juicy dark fruit flavors. Distinctly backward, youthfully stunted zinfandel, finishing with strong but ripe tannins and excellent length. Hold this for a year or two or give it an extended aeration prior to pouring it. WS 88 (12/2004): Dark, intense and deeply concentrated, with spicy, racy raspberry, tar and mineral flavors that gush across the palate, finishing with a long, saturated aftertaste. Drink now through 2008. 190 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Carlisle.aspVM 92 (5/2013): Dark purple. Powerful, expansive aromas of dark fruit liqueur, sandalwood, mocha, star anise and potpourri. Stains the palate with intense dark berry and bitter cherry flavors, with a sappy lavender pastille nuance adding an exotic flourish. Chewy tannins slowly come up with air and add shape to an impressively long, spice-accented finish. Stephen Tanzer.WA 90-92 (4/2013): Yet another new wine, the 2011 Syrah Steiner Vineyard presents an intriguing melange of dark fruit, savory herbs, licorice and menthol. This medium-bodied, highly expressive Syrah should be approachable upon release. The 2011 has a gorgeous core of dark red and blue fruit and terrific overall balance without too many of cooler climate, gamier Syrah notes. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2023.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Carlisle.aspIWC 90 (6/2013): (made from 78% grenache, 16% mourvedre and 6% syrah, from 5 different sites): Vivid ruby. Smoky raspberry and candied cherry on the nose, with subtle white pepper and mineral notes adding interest. Sappy red berry flavors gain power and sweetness with air and show a floral nuance on the back end. An immediately appealing, seamless wine that finishes with very good breadth and power.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Carlisle.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Carlisle.aspWA 93+ (2/2011): Those masochists who need a high dosage of resveratrol will adore the 2008 Petite Sirah Yorkville Highlands, which should clear out any clutter in the arteries. A huge, massive wine with abundant black and blue fruits intermixed with licorice, camphor, graphite and spicy background oak, this chewy, unfined/unfiltered Petite Sirah should be forgotten for 4-5 years, and drunk over the following 2+ decades. IWC 90 (6/2010): Inky purple. Blackberry, blueberry, licorice and smoky herbs on the nose. Juicy, sweet and penetrating, with good depth to its dark fruit flavors and a touch of licorice coming up with air. Broad and weighty but also fine and detailed. Hints at serious ripeness, but also possesses good energy. This is a surprisingly lithe rendition of this variety, which leaves me cold more often than not. These grapes were harvested very late, on October 22, according to Officer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Carlisle.aspVM 93 (10/2015): Ruby-red with a bright rim. Musky cherry, black raspberry and floral pastille aromas are lifted by a smoky mineral quality. Sappy and concentrated, offering intense red and dark berry flavors and suggestions of mocha and anise. Rich and fleshy yet vibrant too, finishing with superb; supple tannins come in late to add shape. Josh Raynolds.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JKCarriere.aspVM 92 (1/2017): Pale gold. Pungent, smoke- and mineral-tinged orchard and pit fruit and melon aromas show very good clarity and pick up a sexy floral quality with air. Chewy, focused and smoky in the mouth, offering intense pear nectar and honeysuckle flavors along with suggestions of tarragon and iodine. Shows an exotic nori quality on the incisive finish, which clings with excellent tenacity. Josh Raynolds.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JKCarriere.aspVM 91 (12/2016): Brilliant red. Sexy, high-pitched aromas of raspberry, peppery spices and candied rose carry a zesty mineral overtone. Sweet, incisive and vibrant on the palate, offering spicy red berry and spicecake flavors that slowly gain weight and power with air. Clings with strong tenacity on the nervy finish, leaving juicy berry and floral pastille notes behind. Josh Raynolds.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JKCarriere.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JKCarriere.aspVM 93 (12/2016): Lurid red. Intensely perfumed aromas of fresh red berries, cherry liqueur and a hint of star anise on the deeply perfumed nose. Seamless, broad and open-knit, offering sweet raspberry, spicecake and floral pastille flavors; a suggestion of blood orange adds back-end cut. Closes smooth, floral and impressively long, showing serious persistence and gentle tannins that add shape and grip. Josh Raynolds.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JKCarriere.aspWA 98 (10/2014): The compelling 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard’s stunning bouquet of blueberry pie, ripe black raspberries, cassis, wet stones and spring flowers is followed by an opulent, multidimensional, powerful, rich, concentrated wine that is one of the superstars of the vintage. This is another candidate for perfection after a few years of bottle age. Drink it over the next 15-20 years. WS 95 (10/2015): A gorgeous wine, deep, rich and layered, with tiers of blackberry, currant, black cherry and plum, backed by a solid core of black licorice. The texture is plush and revealing, with a long, soothing aftertaste that keeps going. Drink now through 2029. 101 cases made. VM 92 (12/2014): Dark blue and black fruit, grilled herbs, licorice and smoke meld together in the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Las Piedras. Firm tannins run through the fruit in an intense, structured Cabernet that is going to need time to fully come around. There is a lot to like here, but this is a classic, tightly-wound Las Piedras Cabernet Sauvignon. There is not a lot of the vintage's early appeal, that is for sure. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/CarterCellars.aspWA 100 (12/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard, which comes from St. Helena, has that blueberry, gravelly, wet-pebble note that I often associate with great vintages of La Mission Haut-Brion. The wine has an inky purple color, gorgeous black raspberry, blueberry liqueur notes, licorice and earth. Full-bodied and opulent with silky tannins, this is a tour de force in winemaking and pure perfection. This is absolutely riveting, prodigious wine that has to be tasted to be believed. Drink it over the next 25 years. VM 94 (10/2015): Carter's 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard is deep, dense and unctuous on the palate, with plenty of black cherry jam, smoke and graphite nuances. This is an especially rich, sweet Cabernet, but there is plenty of Las Piedras power lurking beneath the fruit.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/CarterCellars.aspWA 92 (12/2011): The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard comes across as tight and inward at this stage. It offers up black fruit, minerals, grilled herbs and cassis, all wrapped around a powerful, intense frame. The tannins are quite firm and may need time in the cellar to soften. The Carter To Kalon is made from Block B, a parcel planted with the 337 clone that usually yields finessed, silky, aromatic Cabernets. This is one of the darker, more powerful wines from this part of the vineyard. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2024.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/CarterCellars.aspWA 93 (12/2011): The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Coliseum Block is a big wine endowed with considerable richness and structure in its dark black fruit, flowers, minerals and spices. It shows fabulous intensity and drive through to the energetic finish. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2024.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/CarterCellars.aspWA 92 (12/2011): The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard The Grand Daddy is quite a bit richer and deeper, with more tannins than the regular To Kalon bottling, most of which can be attributed to the old clone 4 vines in this part of the vineyard, known as Block A2. Tar, licorice and smoke are some of the nuances that frame the finish. This tannic Cabernet Sauvignon is long on power, but finesse and character prove to be more elusive. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2024.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/CarterCellars.aspWA 97 (10/2013): The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon The Grand Daddy reveals classic, uplifted floral, forest floor and black currant aromatics, a creamy, full-bodied texture with terrific definition and laser-like precision, and remarkable purity, richness and overall gravitas. It can be drunk now or cellared for two decades or more. VM 96 (12/2012): Despite its considerable early appeal, the 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon The Grand Daddy is truly a wine for the future. The Grand Daddy is made in a more overt style than the O.G. Waves of sumptuous dark fruit, mocha, chocolate, sweet spices and violets all flow from the glass as this jammy, rich wine continues to open up in the glass. The 2010 shows off its dazzling richness and sheer concentration with tons of boldness. A total pleasure bomb, the 2010 is delicious today but it will be better in another few years. The Carter wines have proven to age well, and I have no doubt that will be the case here as well. Antonio Galloni. WS 93 (5/2013): A powerful, open-throttle Cabernet, brimming with intense flavors and sturdy tannins. Features lots of locked-down flavors, with hints of mocha, espresso, crushed rock and graphite. Begs for cellaring. Best from 2014 through 2024. 111 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/CarterCellars.aspWA 97 (10/2013): The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon The Grand Daddy reveals classic, uplifted floral, forest floor and black currant aromatics, a creamy, full-bodied texture with terrific definition and laser-like precision, and remarkable purity, richness and overall gravitas. It can be drunk now or cellared for two decades or more. VM 96 (12/2012): Despite its considerable early appeal, the 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon The Grand Daddy is truly a wine for the future. The Grand Daddy is made in a more overt style than the O.G. Waves of sumptuous dark fruit, mocha, chocolate, sweet spices and violets all flow from the glass as this jammy, rich wine continues to open up in the glass. The 2010 shows off its dazzling richness and sheer concentration with tons of boldness. A total pleasure bomb, the 2010 is delicious today but it will be better in another few years. The Carter wines have proven to age well, and I have no doubt that will be the case here as well. Antonio Galloni. WS 93 (5/2013): A powerful, open-throttle Cabernet, brimming with intense flavors and sturdy tannins. Features lots of locked-down flavors, with hints of mocha, espresso, crushed rock and graphite. Begs for cellaring. Best from 2014 through 2024. 111 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/CarterCellars.aspWA 94+ (10/2013): While similar to The Grand Daddy, the 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon The O. G. is slightly less complex and more fruit-driven with floral, black raspberry and black currant notes as well as extraordinary elegance. If the Grand Daddy is more Pauillac-like, The O.G. is reminiscent of a Chateau Margaux. Full-bodied and concentrated, it is capable of 20-25 years of evolution. WS 94 (6/2013): Offers understated black cherry, plum and blueberry at the core, yet its subtlety doesn't sacrifice depth and persistence, as the flavors sail on. Succeeds in a more subtle expression of To Kalon Cabernet. Drink now through 2028. 129 cases made. VM 92+ (5/2013): Good bright, full ruby. Brooding aromas of cassis, blackberry, cranberry, herbs and licorice, lifted by violet and mint topnotes. High-pitched and intense, with blueberry, cassis and licorice flavors supported by a powerful tannic structure. The most powerful and backward of these 2010s--also the most youthfully imploded--and built for the long haul. I would not be surprised if it shut down in bottle in the near future. From grapes picked a week before the heavy rains in October.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/CarterCellars.aspWA 94 (10/2014): The sensational 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard The O.G. boasts classic notes of crème de cassis, licorice, incense and a whiff of new oak. Full-bodied with ripe tannin, adequate acidity and beautiful exuberance and personality, it should be drunk over the next 10-15 years. WS 94 (10/2015): Amazingly complex, dense and structured, with a framework of dusty, mineral-laced tannins and a similarly tight and dense core of flavors that echo the dark berry and earthy elements. Drink now through 2030. 270 cases made. VM 93 (12/2014): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard The O.G. is the most delicate, layered and silky of Mark Carter's three Cabernets from Andy Beckstoffer's To-Kalon vineyard. Floral, lifted and precise, the O.G. captures the essence of Clone 337 in its silky fruit and open, caressing personality. All the elements are very nicely balanced. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/CarterCellars.aspWA 97 (12/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard The Three Kings shows gorgeous blackberry and blueberry fruit, some white floral notes, a full-bodied, multilayered mouthfeel, fabulous precision, purity and balance, an inky mouthfeel, but nothing heavy or out of balance. This is profound Cabernet Sauvignon from a great, great vintage. Drink it over the next 25-30 years. VM 95 (10/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard The Three Kings is the deepest and most savory of Mark Carter's three Cabernets from To Kalon. Iron, smoke, minerals and a host of ferrous notes are pushed forward, while the fruit sits more in the background. With time in the glass the wine opens up beautifully, revealing layers of nuance and pure textural resonance. Tobacco, cedar, smoke and a host of savory/mineral overtones take on greater prominence as the wine continues to flesh out. This is another super-expressive wine from Mark Carter and Mike Smith.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/CarterCellars.aspWS 90 (7/2002): Dark color. Sturdy, rich and concentrated, with complex currant, black cherry, tar and plum flavors. Lacks the finesse and extra dimensions of the Special Selection, but still a very impressive, concentrated wine.--'81/'91 California Cabernet retrospective. Drink now through 2005. 22,000 cases made. WA 87 (10/1994): Dark ruby/purple-colored, with an intriguing nose of spicy new oak, blackcurrants, and a pronounced herbaceousness, this wine exhibits lush, medium to full-bodied, flavors, moderate tannin, fine ripeness, and the lavish oak Caymus Cabernets routinely display. This is a delicious, robust, herbaceous example of Cabernet Sauvignon that will drink well for over a decade.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Caymus.aspWS 90 (1/2000): Attractive creamy, toasty oak up-front, with supple currant and black cherry folding in beneath. Though it remains complex on the finish, it comes up shy in depth and added dimensions compared with previous vintages. Grapes are from the sources normally used for the Special Selection, which was not made in '96. Drink now through 2007. 26,000 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Caymus.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Caymus.aspWS 92 (2/2003): Packs in lots of ripe, rich, complex Cabernet flavors, gushing with ripe currant, plum and wild berry, turning spicy and revealing pretty oak and herb shadings as well. Long, smooth aftertaste. Drink now through 2010. 26,000 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Caymus.aspWS 92 (5/2008): A showy young wine that's smooth, rich and concentrated. Delivers firm, intense yet supple layers of currant, cedar, toasty, cedary oak and tannins that firm up, offering hints of mineral, sage and dusty berry. Best from 2009 through 2013. 32,344 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Caymus.aspWS 99 (4/1995): Another great wine from arguably California's best Cabernet maker. Bold, rich and massive, with tiers of plum, blackberry, vanilla bean, spice and tobacco flavors that unfold to reveal a wine of uncommon depth, complexity, finesse and, yes, even grace. Best from 1998 through 2008. 2,000 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Caymus.aspVM 93 (12/2000): Bright ruby. Cassis, violet and lightly tarry, spicy oak. Ripe, dense and very concentrated; thick and deep. Not at all overly sweet or dominated by the wood. Has superb material and verve. Finishes very long, with thoroughly ripe tannins. The finest vintage for this wine in a long time, and one that avoids the excesses of (American) oak that have plagued so many recent vintages. WS 86 (12/2008): Tasted from magnum. Notable dill and tarry aromas are intense, with vivid blackberry and black cherry fruit, with touches of herb and cedar.--'97 California Cabernet retrospective. Drink now. 2,000 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Caymus.aspVM 93 (12/2000): Bright ruby. Cassis, violet and lightly tarry, spicy oak. Ripe, dense and very concentrated; thick and deep. Not at all overly sweet or dominated by the wood. Has superb material and verve. Finishes very long, with thoroughly ripe tannins. The finest vintage for this wine in a long time, and one that avoids the excesses of (American) oak that have plagued so many recent vintages.WS 86 (12/2008): Tasted from magnum. Notable dill and tarry aromas are intense, with vivid blackberry and black cherry fruit, with touches of herb and cedar.--'97 California Cabernet retrospective. Drink now. 2,000 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Caymus.aspVM 93 (12/2000): Bright ruby. Cassis, violet and lightly tarry, spicy oak. Ripe, dense and very concentrated; thick and deep. Not at all overly sweet or dominated by the wood. Has superb material and verve. Finishes very long, with thoroughly ripe tannins. The finest vintage for this wine in a long time, and one that avoids the excesses of (American) oak that have plagued so many recent vintages.WS 86 (12/2008): Tasted from magnum. Notable dill and tarry aromas are intense, with vivid blackberry and black cherry fruit, with touches of herb and cedar.--'97 California Cabernet retrospective. Drink now. 2,000 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Caymus.aspWS 92 (5/2003): Richly flavored and beautifully crafted, with well-defined currant, cassis, blackberry and plummy Cabernet flavors that are mouthcoating, finishing with intricate coffee, mocha and pencil lead flavors. Big, ripe tannins are firm but polished. Best from 2004 through 2012. 2,600 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Caymus.aspWS 95 (10/2016): (WS #44 wine of 2016) This zeroes in on a rich, hedonistic core of wild berry, blackberry, plum and currant flavors, with a graceful, elegant mouthfeel and supple, caressing tannins. The long and powerful yet refined aftertaste keeps reverberating fruit generosity while maintaining Cabernet's strength of personality. Drink now through 2030. 21,249 cases made.JS 92 (5/2016): The full-throttle character is here as expected with lots of ripe fruit and toasted oak. Sage and mint. Silky tannins; the ripe fruit dominates. But it shows form and juiciness. Try it in 2019 as it mellows with age.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Caymus.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Caymus.aspWA 99 (8/2007): Baron’s last Syrah is the 2003 Syrah “Armada Vineyard" which spent 2.5 years in puncheons obtained from Cote-Rotie’s Rene Rostaing. The Armada Vineyard is the most densely planted in the Walla Walla AVA. The wine itself is beautifully perfumed, plush, super-rich, with layers of sweet black and blue fruits. This Syrah is at a level of quality achieved only by Sine Qua Non and Alban in the United States, by Chris Ringland in the Barossa, and by Guigal and Chave in the northern Rhone. VM 92+ (12/2007): (from a high-density 2000 planting next to the Cayuse winery; aged for two and a half years in 600-liter puncheons that came from Rene Rostaing) Saturated, deep ruby-red. Black plum, licorice, dried herbs and wild flowers on the captivating nose. Offers extraordinary intensity and power of fruit, but this is brooding, even brutal, today, and not yet showing the personality of Baron's more established syrah vineyards. The juicy finish is firmly tannic but not dry. Still, this is extremely hard to taste today. With aeration, though, this took on a pronounced chocolate mint character than reminded me of an Australian shiraz, and put on weight. Some tasters will rate this even higher than I have. Incidentally, Baron describes his 2004 syrahs as more rustic than usual due to their very high alcohol levels. (I tasted another lot of the same fruit, this one aged for 42 months in three new barriques While superconcentrated and massively structured, the wine was extremely oaky and tannic and took on a strong saline, chocolatey quality as it opened in the glass. It showed less obvious varietal character than the "regular" bottling. Baron has not yet named this wine, or, indeed, decided what he will do with it.) WS 83 (12/2007): Firm in texture, with chewy tannins that cover an earthy range of flavors, showing only modest levels of plum as the finish tightens up. Best after 2008. 192 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Cayuse.aspWA 97 (6/2014): Even better, the 2011 Syrah Armada is probably my favorite of the 2011s. Deep, rich and layered, with phenomenal black plum, damp earth, pepper, mushroom, charcuterie and spice-driven aromas and flavors, this beauty tastes like the essence of this unique terroir. Full-bodied, rich and layered, it too should flesh out beautifully with short-term cellaring and have upwards of two decades of longevity. VM 93 (12/2014): (13.5% alcohol): Good full red. Wild, musky, expressive aromas of raspberry, game, woodsmoke, pepper, bacon fat, squid ink and black olive tapenade. Plush and salty on the palate, with raspberry and smoked meat flavors accented by subtle minerality. Finishes with plush tannins and lingering notes of smoke, game and spices. For all its fleshiness, there’s something a bit ungiving about this Syrah: is there more to come? (I should note that an earlier bottle was much more backward and gripping, showing little in the way of easy sweetness to its reticent flavors of singed raspberry, peat and briney olive juice. I rated this one 92+? and thought it needed a good six or seven years in the cellar.)http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Cayuse.aspRR 98+ (6/2012): Deep, meaty, and incredibly savory, the 2009 Cayuse Syrah Bionic Frog is dark ruby/purple and offers up a knockout, textbook northern Rhône bouquet of meaty black cherry fruit, pan drippings, bacon fat, peat moss, ground pepper, and searing minerality. Every bit as good on the palate, this full-bodied, structured Syrah is gorgeously concentrated and rich, while at the same time, staying very light on the palate, with brilliant focus, precision, and length. It’s the most firm and structured of the ‘09s, without much baby fat, and needs lots of air to shows at its best. It will ideally be given 3-5 years of bottle age, and should have two decades of longevity. WA 96 (12/2012): Cayuse’s 2009 Syrah Bionic Frog originates in the Coccinelle Vineyard, planted in 1998, which features iron-rich clay with significant fine earth run-off from the nearby Blue Mountains, and, paradoxically, dries out quickest. In more ways than one, it’s the opposite of En Chamberlin. “This is, 90% of the time, the Syrah that we pick first," notes Baron, “which was September 24 in 2009." Vinification was in concrete (though future vintages will ferment in recently-arrived wooden uprights), and the mix of barrels - all Dominique Laurent’s self-styled “magic barriques" (which until 2011 was the favored medium for this bottling) - was around 20-30% new. Baron and Bourcier explain how they like what these barrels have done for the Bionic Frog, but, adds Baron: “My style of wine should not be based on a cooper, and I don’t want to be dependent on one man’s barrel." Red and black raspberries as well as cherries - seemingly simultaneously in confitured, fresh, and distilled formats - are mingled with nutmeg, cardamom, ginger, black tea and salted caramel on the nose; and then again on a strikingly bright, sappy palate, leading to a finish of rapier penetration and compulsive saliva-inducement. The charm, mystery, and intricacy exhibited by a couple of other splendid wines in the present collection might be missing here, but the sheer energy, persistence, and, for lack of a better word, umami-savor are amazing. It’s a brave man who would want to forsake the “formula" behind this bit of alchemy, even if it depends on barrels whose alleged secret is guarded by an almost eccentrically passionate Burgundian winemaker! Almost unbelievably, Baron informs me that he thinks this wine is “shy and in its shell" right now; but I’m not buying that to the extent of including a plus sign or a plus with question mark after my score! Only around half the fruit was destemmed for this, incidentally; Baron says it was Verset who inspired him to the potential of vendange entier. This should be well worth following for 15 or more years.IWC 94+ (12/2012): Good bright medium red. Enticing, perfumed aromas of medicinal black cherry, mocha, pepper and star anise. Extremely tight and very pure, with a sneaky sweetness to the essentially silky flavors of raspberry, pepper and flowers. Maintains its impressive breadth and silky texture through the very long, rising finish. For all its energy today, this wine strikes me as extremely closed and in need of patience. WS 94 (8/2012): Focused, with nice density to the juicy blueberry and black plum flavors, hinting at black pepper, Lapsang souchong tea and tar as the finish sails on and on. Shows presence and depth, deftly balanced on the finish. Drink now through 2019. 437 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Cayuse.aspWA 96 (6/2014): The 2011 Syrah Bionic Frog is another rocking Syrah from Christophe that does everything right. Creme de cassis, blackberry, smoked earth, toasted spice and violets emerge from the glass, and it flows onto the palate with full-bodied richness, beautiful purity of fruit and brilliant length. Gaining more minerality with time in the glass, it will continue to flesh out nicely with another handful of years in the cellar, and have two decades of ultimate longevity. WS 92 (8/2014): A vaguely gamy character informs the blackberry and licorice flavors in this spicy red, hinting at tomato leaf and dried tomato notes as the finish lingers. This has depth and presence. Best from 2016 through 2021. 487 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Cayuse.aspWA 97 (6/2016): The only wine to see partial aging in foudre (20% new), the 2013 Syrah Bionic Frog has an almost Burgundian flair in its forest floor, olive brine, smoked earth, dried flower and darker fruit-styled personality. One of the more streamlined, elegant examples of this cuvee, it still has a serious, lengthy feel, full-bodied richness and building underlying structure that makes me think 3-5 years of cellaring are warranted. I don’t think it hits the heights of the best vintages, but it’s still a fabulous wine. WS 94 (8/2016): Dark and focused, this is beautifully shaped, with velvety tannins enveloping rich, black olive—laced blackberry and cherry flavors. Smoky notes weave through the long, complex finish. Best from 2017 through 2023. 510 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Cayuse.aspWA 95 (12/2012): Baron’s 2007 Syrah Cailloux Vineyard is unusual for its combination of Cote Rotie-like bacon, smoky black tea, and floral aromatic overtones with rich chocolate and licorice, all of these mingling with sappy confitured dark berries. This is amazingly supple and silken-textured, not because the tannins were baked-out of the fruit on the vine, but instead simply because they’re so fine. After setting you up for a continuation of its incredible richness all the way to a long finish, it introduces tar, black pepper, and an almost horseradish- and mustard green-like bite for an effect of spine- not just tongue-tingling invigoration. At the same time, the mouthwateringly carnal aspects of this multifarious performance are never far below the surface. (While I realize it isn’t “supposed" to show up its Bionic Frog counterpart, when tasted alongside one recognizes that this must be having an exceedingly good day. I suspect this Cailloux will remain well worth revisiting for the better part of a decade.)WS 95 (6/2010): Tar, hot stone and licorice notes weave through the rich, dark plum, mulberry and currant aromas and flavors. A complex, beautifully knit wine that lets its flavors sail through a long, compelling finish. Best from 2012 through 2020. 792 cases made. IWC 94+ (12/2010): Good full ruby-red. Initially reticent nose shows black fruits, black olive, pepper, wild herbs, dried rose and violet face powder as it opens in the glass; I would have picked this as northern Rhone and been shocked to find I was wrong. Sweet, dense and primary, with intense flavors similar to the aromas. Really remarkably energetic and delineated for Washington syrah, offering outstanding grip and inner-mouth perfume. This somehow saturates the palate while coming off as weightless. Finishes very long and fine, with lingering notes of pepper, herbs and spices. A great vintage for Cayuse's flagship bottling.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Cayuse.aspWA 97 (6/2014): The 2011 Syrah Cailloux Vineyard is the only Syrah to incorporate a splash of cofermented Viognier, which in some vintages, can be as much as 10% of the blend. Including 5% in 2011, it has a fabulous perfume of crunchy black fruit, crushed rocks, smoked earth and layers of violets and crushed flowers. Straight-up awesome on the palate, with full-bodied richness and a seamless texture, it opens up in the glass, has superb concentration and blockbuster length. Give it another 2-3 years and enjoy bottles through 2026, although it will certainly evolve longer as well. VM 94+ (12/2014): (13.9% alcohol; the only one of these Syrahs that includes some Viognier—in this case 6%): Bright red-ruby. Vibrant, multidimensional nose offers scents of blackberry, raspberry, cracked pepper, soy sauce, iron and licorice, plus a whiff of game. Boasts superb energy and definition to its raspberry, mineral, black olive, pepper and game flavors and opens spectacularly with air to reveal a plusher texture. The explosive, rising finish leaves the palate echoing with salty black olive and raspberry flavors. This extremely young wine should be even more spectacular in five years’ time.WS 93 (8/2014): Rich, ripe and generous, this red balances its deep blackberry, licorice and black olive flavors on a pinpoint of lively acidity, persisting on the open-textured finish. Drink now through 2021. 740 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Cayuse.aspWA 95-98 (6/2014): The Syrahs are gorgeous across the board. The 2012 Syrah Cailloux Vineyard (5% Viognier) is surprisingly meaty and masculine, with plenty of pepper, smoke, blood and dark-plum fruits. Full-bodied, rich and layered on the palate, with massive minerality that comes out on the finish, it will be a 20-year wine.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Cayuse.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Cayuse.aspWA 95 (10/2009): The Bordeaux-styled reds begin with the 2006 Camaspelo. It is made up of 69% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, and 8% Cabernet Franc. The already complex perfume reveals mineral, graphite, creme de cassis, and black cherry. In the mouth it offers a lovely combination of power and elegance, along with very ripe tannins, leading to a lengthy, fruit-filled finish. Give it 3-4 years of additional cellaring and drink it through 2021. IWC 91 (12/2009): 67% cabernet sauvignon, 25% merlot and 8% cabernet franc) Good deep red. Musk aromas of red berries, leather and smoked meat, plus a whiff of truffle. Velvety yet firm in the mouth, with lovely flavor intensity without weight and surprising lift to the ripe red fruit, smoke and truffle flavors. This spreads out nicely on the back end.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Cayuse.aspWA 95 (10/2009): The Bordeaux-styled reds begin with the 2006 Camaspelo. It is made up of 69% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, and 8% Cabernet Franc. The already complex perfume reveals mineral, graphite, creme de cassis, and black cherry. In the mouth it offers a lovely combination of power and elegance, along with very ripe tannins, leading to a lengthy, fruit-filled finish. Give it 3-4 years of additional cellaring and drink it through 2021. IWC 91 (12/2009): 67% cabernet sauvignon, 25% merlot and 8% cabernet franc) Good deep red. Musk aromas of red berries, leather and smoked meat, plus a whiff of truffle. Velvety yet firm in the mouth, with lovely flavor intensity without weight and surprising lift to the ripe red fruit, smoke and truffle flavors. This spreads out nicely on the back end.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Cayuse.aspWA 97 (8/2010): The Bordeaux-styled reds begin with the 2007 Camaspelo, a blend of 67% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, and 8% Cabernet Franc. The already complex aromatics reveal mineral, Asian spices, incense, violets, black currant and black cherry. In the mouth it offers a lovely combination of power and elegance, along with ripe tannins, leading to a lengthy, fruit-filled finish. Give it 4-6 years of additional cellaring and drink it through 2022. IWC 91 (12/2010): 67% cabernet sauvignon, 25% merlot and 8% cabernet franc) Bright, deep red. Sexy, claret-like aromas of cherry, smoked meat and truffle. At once juicy and silky, with the cherry fruit complicated and enlivened by a lightly leafy quality. Compared to the Flying Pig, this one trades off a bit of lushness for more energy and definition.WS 90 (12/2010): Smooth, round and complex, with black olive and balsamic overtones playing against dark berry and black cherry fruit, lingering effectively on the deft finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Drink now through 2015. 356 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Cayuse.aspIWC 93 (12/2012): (an 80/20 blend of cabernet sauvignon and merlot): Medium red. Sexy aromas of strawberry and high-pitched spices. Juicy and intense, with compelling lift and definition to the penetrating red fruit flavors. A very refined style for this wine, and the best of these 2009s to this point in terms of definition and energy. Finishes very long, with suave tannins and thorough ripeness. Perhaps the best vintage yet for this bottling. Christophe Baron noted that 2009 was "great for the Bordeaux varieties" and this wine certainly makes his case.WS 92 (8/2012): Supple, silky and succulent, focusing its black cherry, black olive, rose petal and spice flavors on a glassy frame, lingering on the expressive finish. Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Drink now through 2019. 307 cases made.WA 92 (12/2012): Cassis, juniper berry, licorice, walnut oil, and a Tempranillo-like ashen smokiness scent and inform the bittersweet, polished palate of Baron’s 2009 Camaspelo (named for a mid 19th Century Cayuse chief), whose as usual dominant Cabernet Sauvignon is blended with 18% Merlot and sourced from the En Cerise and Cailloux vineyards. Bitter hints of huckleberry as well as suggestions of crushed stone and pencil lead add to the complexity of a protracted finish. “Red Mountain gives you, to me, the Mike Tyson of Cabernet Sauvignon," says Baron (as usual!) wryly and provocatively. By contrast, he claims to be searching for something rich yet understated, and notes that “after about five or six years we decided to use less oak for ours." That said, there is a certain sense of opacity and stasis here as opposed to the levity and vibrancy of the very best wines in this same collection. Baron says this bottling routinely picks up an alluring floral nuance with time in bottle. I’d certainly consider giving it at least 6-8 weeks to demonstrate such a trend, and even if it doesn’t, it’s still very impressive stuff.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Cayuse.aspWA 94-97+ (6/2014): Incorporating 16% Merlot, the Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated 2012 Camaspelo exhibits ripe black cherry, cassis, lead pencil shavings, toast and notable minerality in its full-bodied, gorgeously concentrated personality. Showing more meatiness with air, this is a structured 2012 that has serious mid-palate depth, high, yet sweet, tannin and a blockbuster finish. It will be a longer-term prospect than most of Christophe’s 2012s.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Cayuse.aspWA 94 (6/2016): Leading off the 2013s, the 332-case 2013 Camaspelo is made from 81% Cabernet Sauvignon and 19% Merlot that was aged all in puncheons. Notes of iron, red and black currants, licorice and lead pencil characteristics emerge from this medium to full-bodied, elegant, complex Bordeaux blend that would pass undetected in a lineup of Pauillacs. Give it 3-4 years of cellaring and drink through 2033.VM 93+ (11/2016): Healthy dark red. Very black aromas of cassis, blackberry, black olive, spices and mint. Densely packed and very sweet, boasting a terrific combination of urgent crushed cassis and black cherry fruit and savory complexity. Not yet hugely complex or particularly floral, but this very intense wine is still a baby. Finishes very long and savory, with youthfully edgy tannins and excellent energy and lift. Stephen Tanzer.WS 93 (8/2016): Broad and expressive, layered with cherry, blackberry, cocoa and floral flavors playing against refined tannins that carry the long finish. Has terrific presence and harmony. Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Best from 2018 through 2023. 332 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Cayuse.aspWA 94 (6/2016): Leading off the 2013s, the 332-case 2013 Camaspelo is made from 81% Cabernet Sauvignon and 19% Merlot that was aged all in puncheons. Notes of iron, red and black currants, licorice and lead pencil characteristics emerge from this medium to full-bodied, elegant, complex Bordeaux blend that would pass undetected in a lineup of Pauillacs. Give it 3-4 years of cellaring and drink through 2033. VM 93+ (11/2016): Healthy dark red. Very black aromas of cassis, blackberry, black olive, spices and mint. Densely packed and very sweet, boasting a terrific combination of urgent crushed cassis and black cherry fruit and savory complexity. Not yet hugely complex or particularly floral, but this very intense wine is still a baby. Finishes very long and savory, with youthfully edgy tannins and excellent energy and lift. Stephen Tanzer. WS 93 (8/2016): Broad and expressive, layered with cherry, blackberry, cocoa and floral flavors playing against refined tannins that carry the long finish. Has terrific presence and harmony. Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Best from 2018 through 2023. 332 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Cayuse.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Cayuse.aspWS 93 (8/2005): Broad and spicy, a lavish Syrah with bouquets of floral, exotic spice and espresso around a plush core of black cherry and dense plum flavors, which last and last on the expressive finish. Best from 2007 through 2012. 314 cases made.IWC 89 (12/2004): Full ruby-red. Aromas of dark berries, gunflint, dark chocolate and celery seed, with a note of woodsmoke. Concentrated, sweet and expansive, but without quite the complexity or dimension of this winery's other 2002 syrah bottlings. Notes of fresh and roasted berries carry through to the ripe finish.WA 88 (4/2006): Lacking the expanse of the Coccinelle, the dark fruit-scented 2002 Syrah En Chamberlin Vineyard displays loads of tightly wound blackberries. Medium-bodied and focused, it should be drunk between 2007 and 2012.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Cayuse.aspWS 94 (6/2006): Plush and dense with exotic spice and stone overtones to the plum and cherry flavors, a mouthfilling red that coats the palate with soft, silky tannins and then drenches it with flavor. The finish sails on and on. Best from 2007 through 2015. 369 cases made.WA 92 (4/2006): Sadly, there are but 369 cases of the outstanding 2003 Syrah En Chamberlin Vineyard. This wine’s aromas soar from the glass, displaying black raspberries, spicy tangerine skins, and horse sweat. Medium to full-bodied and suave, it coats the taster’s palate with deep layers of satiny cassis and leather-like flavors. In addition, this outstanding effort reveals a lengthy, fruit-filled, silky finish with notes of horse hide and black raspberries. Drink this wonderful Syrah over the next 5-6 years.IWC 92 (12/2006): Ruby-red. Knockout nose combines dark berries, gunflint, coffee, smoked meat and a floral element. Densely packed and tactile, with a slightly salty character to the blackberry and floral flavors. A distinctly Old World style of syrah that conveys a high-pH mouth feel.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Cayuse.aspWA 94 (12/2012): Baron’s as usual Cabernet Franc-dominated 2009 Flying Pig – incorporating 34% Merlot as well as 12% Cabernet Sauvignon; its entirety sourced from the 1998 En Cerise plantings; and assembled around nine months after fermentation – gives a mouthwatering impression of being suffused with savory, carnal, fatty pan drippings. If this libation doesn’t qualify as high umami, I don’t know what would! With that come ripe, succulent, subtly tart-edged cassis and blueberry; bittersweet floral perfume; as well as rich yet piquant toasty walnut and hickory, all of which ally on a polished, soothing palate, leading to a long, vibrantly dynamic and – as already adumbrated – salivary gland-milking finish. This should prove a terrifically memorable table companion over the coming decade if not also beyond. WS 92 (8/2012): Smooth, velvety and rich, with rose petal-accented black cherry, sassafras and tobacco flavors, remaining broad and open-textured as the finish lingers enticingly. Cabernet Franc and Merlot. Drink now through 2017. 163 cases made. VM 91+ (11/2012): (a 60/40 blend of cabernet franc and merlot; 40% new oak): Good full medium red. Blackberry, licorice and tobacco on the nose, lifted by violet and clove; very cabernet franc. Juicy and tight, showing modest complexity today to its raspberry and tobacco leaf flavors. This firmly structured franc has an essential softness but will still need time to unwind. Best today on the rising finish, which offers a blast of red licorice and little in the way of greenness. Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Cayuse.aspWA 97 (6/2015): A blend of 48% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon and 12% Cabernet Franc, the 2012 Flying Pig is one of the Bordeaux blends of the vintage. Offering lots of cassis, graphite, chocolate, violet and floral notes, this beauty hits the palate with full-bodied richness, fine-grained tannin and stunning length. Like the majority of Christoph's 2012s, it's structured, tight and backward, and needs short-term cellaring. WS 90 (6/2015): Soft and fleshy, round and inviting, with peach and apricot overtones to dark berry and chocolate flavors, lingering well against refined tannins. Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. Drink now through 2019. 192 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Cayuse.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Cayuse.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Cayuse.aspWA 96 (6/2015): Structured and backward, the 2012 Grenache God Only Knows Armada Vineyard offers lots of framboise, black cherries, bouquet garni and spice to go with a full-bodied, seamless, elegant feel on the palate. It picks up more and more tannin with time in the glass, and needs 3-4 years of cellaring, but should keep for 15 years or more. WS 93 (8/2016): Supple and ripe, with a strong tapenade note weaving through the cherry and pomegranate flavors, coming together harmoniously on the plush, expressive finish. Not heavy, but has plenty to offer. Drink now through 2022. 493 cases made. VM 92+ (11/2015): (aged in used puncheons from René Rostaing): Medium bright red. Wonderfully perfumed aromas of ripe raspberry, kirsch, garrigue and potpourri, complicated by a saline element. Leanish, penetrating flavors of purple fruits lifted by violet; not at all a red fruit style of Grenache. Quite tightly wound and firmly tannic, with a finishing perfume that struck me as Burgundian. Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Cayuse.aspWA 94 (6/2016): Grenache seemed to handle the heat nicely in 2013 and the 2013 Grenache God Only Knows Armada Vineyard offers a gorgeous, rich, almost masculine style (especially when it’s tasted next to the No Girls Grenache) in its dark fruits, crushed herbs, mineral and leather scented profile. Even showing a touch of game with time in the glass, this beauty has fine tannin, plenty of fruit and a great finish, all suggesting it will drink nicely for another decade. VM 93+ (11/2016): (13.6% alcohol): Moderately saturated bright red. The sexy high-toned scents of cherry liqueur, rose petal, flint, olive tapenade, hot rocks and spices reminded me a bit of a warm-year Châteauneuf du Pape, which is a neat trick considering that the latter wine would probably be carrying two degrees more of alcohol. Boasts terrific inner-mouth lift and purity to its broad, seamless flavors of cherry, raspberry, peony, jasmine, orange peel, olive tapenade and spices complicated by smoky, salty minerality. The seriously saline finish shows fine-grained, tongue-dusting tannins and terrific subtle length. One of the most intriguing Grenache bottlings I've tasted to date from the West Coast and likely to merit an even higher score with a few years of bottle aging. No easy sweetness here, but it already offers considerable sex appeal. Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Cayuse.aspWA 97 (6/2013): A grape variety that normally struggles outside of its home in Spain, the 100% Tempranillo 2010 Tempranillo Impulsivo En Chamberlin Vineyard has no such issues and is an incredible effort that’s up there with the greatest example of this variety I’ve tasted from the US. Deeply colored and awesomely perfumed and complex on the nose, with classic black cherry, cedar, rare steak, spice box and smoked herbs, it carries brilliant levels of fruit and texture on the palate, with juicy acidity and building tannin that remains sweet and polished. Layered, textured and perfectly balanced, it benefits from a decant and will have 15+ years or more of ultimate longevity. Drink now-2025+. WS 94 (6/2013): This vibrant, supple and expressive red is brimming with flavors of blackberry and licorice that are shaded with wafts of smoke and black olive. A stony note chimes in on the lingering finish. Drink now through 2020. 165 cases made.IWC 93 (12/2013): Good dark red-ruby. Raspberry, game, licorice and rose petal on the vibrant nose. Suave and energetic, displaying outstanding floral lift and a light touch to the raspberry, spice and game flavors. Finishes with superb clarity and length. The finest and most complex tempranillo I've tasted to date from Cayuse: this beauty reminded me of a top vintage of Pesquera.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Cayuse.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Cayuse.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Ceritas.aspVM 93 (5/2014): Brilliant ruby-red. Heady, mineral-driven aromas of red fruit preserves, incense and potpourri. Tangy and precise on the palate, offering vibrant raspberry and bitter cherry flavors and a touch of candied rose that builds in the glass. This nervy, weightless pinot finishes with superb clarity and lingering floral pastille and blood orange nuances. Should age well on its balance. VM 91 (2/2014): The 2012 Pinot Noir Hellenthal Vineyard, from a site on the far Sonoma Coast, is an addition to the range. Dark red cherry, plum, spices and tobacco all meld together in the glass. The 2012 is immediate, juicy, expressive and distinctly dark in personality. I imagine the 2012 will drink well for at least a handful of years. Needless to say, it will be interesting to see how things develop here in the coming vintages. Ceritas pulls fruit from the oldest of the five blocks on this hillside site, first planted in 1979 and 1980, with own-rooted Calera clone Pinot. This is a terrific first effort.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Ceritas.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Ceritas.aspVM 94 (7/2013): I am thrilled that the 2010 Chardonnay Porter-Bass Vineyard captures all of the promise I sensed last year. The inherent richness and depth typical of this site comes through loud and clear. Nectarines, dried flowers and pears all flesh out beautifully in the glass. Soft, open and totally beautiful - yet backed with plenty of bracing minerality - the 2010 is superb.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Ceritas.aspVM 94 (1/2015): The 2012 Chardonnay Porter-Bass Vineyard is a real showstopper. Graphite, smoke, slate, lemon peel, white flowers and crushed rocks abound. In 2012, the Porter-Bass presents a distinctly Burgundian profile, with slight elements of reduction (in a good sense) allied to palpable energy. Readers who enjoy focused, tense Chardonnays will adore the 2012 Porter-Bass. VM 93 (5/2014): Greenish yellow. Heady aromas of ripe citrus fruits, pungent flowers, smoky minerals and iodine, with a hint of sweet butter in the background. Rich and expansive but focused as well, offering intense Meyer lemon and pear flavors complemented by notes of anise and toasted grain. Finishes stony and very long, with resonating spiciness and excellent clarity.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Ceritas.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Ceritas.aspVM 94 (3/2017): Lemon oil, white flowers, white pepper and graphite notes are pushed forward in the 2014 Chardonnay Porter-Bass Vineyard. Citrus and mineral notes give the wine its vivid, crystalline personality. This is the most precise and chiseled of the 2014 Chardonnays at Ceritas. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Ceritas.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChalkHill.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Chandon.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DomChandon.aspWA 99+ (10/2014): The dense purple-colored 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Pritchard Hill Estate (one of Napa’s fashionable go-to terroirs) exhibits a striking bouquet of spring flowers, blueberries, raspberries and blackcurrants. This is a compelling wine with profound depth and flavor, a full-bodied mouthfeel, and a velvety integration of tannin, acidity and wood. Pushing perfection in Cabernet Sauvignon, this multidimensional, skyscraper-like offering has all the intensity one expects, but it never comes across as heavy. This gives it an ethereal character that is nearly impossible to articulate, but genius is often hard to explain. It is clearly a major superstar of a great vintage. VM 94+ (12/2014): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Pritchard Hill is rich and explosive, with tons of concentration, depth and structure. Dark blue and black fruit, mocha, smoke, menthol, licorice and spices all burst from the glass as this huge, tannic Cabernet Sauvignon shows off its pure class. Readers will have to be patient with the 2012, a wine that will blow the roof off the house with its unbridled power. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Chappellet.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChatLunatique.aspVM 93+ (11/2011): (60% cabernet sauvignon, 25% syrah, 14% petit verdot and 1% cabernet franc; aged for 30 months in 95% new barriques): Medium red. Lovely Old World earthiness on the nose, along with brown spices and red rose. Then fresh, suave and layered in the mouth, with enticing floral lift to the dark berry, licorice, mocha and mineral flavors. This really spreads out to saturate the palate, but with perfume rather than weight. Finishes very long, with broad tannins, harmonious acidity and hints of mocha and pepper. A beauty. Chester-Kidder is the project of resident Long Shadows winemaker Gilles Nicault. Stephen Tanzer. WA 93 (8/2011): The 2007 Chester-Kidder Red Wine is a blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Syrah, 14% Petit Verdot, and 1% Cabernet Franc aged for 30 months in 100% new French oak. The winemaker is Gilles Nicault, who oversees all seven Long Shadows labels on a daily basis. Aromas of pain grille, mineral, pepper, meat, incense, violets, blueberry, and blackberry inform the nose of a dense, layered, succulent wine that will benefit from 2-3 years of cellaring. This tasty offering will deliver optimum drinking from 2013 to 2023.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChesterKidder.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChimneyRock.aspWA 96 (9/2016): The first vintage from this vineyard, the utterly sensational 694-case 2013 Pinot Noir Bootlegger's Hill was completely destemmed and was brought up in 55% new French oak, with a small part in concrete egg. Offering incredible notes of creme de cassis and black currants, with beautifully integrated oak, it has medium to full-bodied richness, a seamless, layered, ultra-pure texture, fine tannin and a flat out awesome finish. It's certainly one of the superstar Pinot Noirs from California and while it's brilliant today, it should drink well for 10-15+ years. WS 94 (9/2016): (WS #99 wine of 2016) Combining power and finesse, this is rich and extracted, with a supple yet gutsy core of mineral-laced tannins that weave into a mix of gravelly, loamy earth, juicy blackberry and wild berry. Drink now through 2022. 1,748 cases made. VM 93 (8/2016): Ample on the palate and broad in shape, the 2013 Pinot Noir Bootlegger's Hill offers notable depth and intensity to match its decidedly virile personality. A host of black cherry, plum, chocolate, dark spices and new French oak are fused together. This is a decidedly powerful, structured Pinot that needs time to unwind. Tasted next to the Treehouse, the Bootlegger's Hill is a darker and more brooding in style.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Cirq.aspWA 97 (9/2016): The larger production cuvee (1,748 cases) is the 2013 Pinot Noir Treehouse Vineyard, which comes from a higher elevation site that's above the fog line, roughly eight miles from the Pacific Ocean. Its deep ruby color is followed by to-die-for notes of black raspberries, crushed violets, cassis, spice and toasted bread. Utterly perfect on the palate, with medium to full-bodied richness, an ethereal, seamless, multi-dimensional texture, fine tannin and crazy length, hats off to the team at CIRQ for this singular beauty. Give bottles a few years (if you can resist) and enjoy over the following decade or more. WS 95 (9/2016): A thrilling expression of delicate, charming, understated elegance, this captures moderately ripe plum and blueberry flavors with aromatic rose petal aromas. Most impressive is the focus and delivery of flavor, which glides along, touching sweet spots and lingering. Drink now through 2022. 694 cases made. VM 94 (8/2016): The 2013 Pinot Noir Treehouse is rich, bold and super-expressive, with a vibrant, red-fruit character and lifted aromatics that add freshness. Sweet red cherry, pomegranate, lavender and spice notes make a strong first impression. An accent of blood orange on the finish gives the wine just enough brightness to balance things out. In this tasting, the Treehouse is a bit more precise and nuanced than the Bootlegger's Hill. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Cirq.aspWS 86 (5/2001): Lively in the mouth, with flavors of raisins, dried currants and roasted herbs, highlighted by modest tannins. A very good Zin at a hard-to-argue-with price. Drink now through 2005. 86,000 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Cline.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ColdHeaven.aspWA 98 (6/2011): Meriting the same rating I gave it at its release, the 2006 Cariad is composed of 57% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 11% Cabernet Franc and 7% Petit Verdot. One of the stars of the vintage, this thrilling, opaque purple-colored wine offers up sweet espresso, jus de viande, blackberry, blueberry, flower and chocolate aromas. A fabulous texture, tremendous purity, sensational brightness and authoritative flavor intensity allied to striking complexity and elegance are the signature of this creative blend from the David Abreu vineyards of Thorevilos and Madrona Ranch. Six hundred cases were produced. Give this wine another 3-4 years of cellaring and enjoy it over the following 15+. WS 94 (11/2009): Aromas of ripe, complex currant, plum and black cherry show a dry, loamy earth edge on the palate. Full-bodied, deep and focused, this is well-structured, with chewy tannins and a long, lingering finish. Best from 2011 through 2017. 600 cases made. VM 93+ (6/2009): (a blend of 57% cabernet sauvignon, 25% merlot, 11% petit verdot and 7% cabernet franc) Good saturated medium ruby. Complex but reticent nose hints at minerals, dried herbs, sweet spices, hot gravel and tobacco. Quite closed but very deep on the palate, with an exotic spice quality (cardamom?) lifting the powerful dark fruit and menthol flavors. This very broad, classically dry wine reminded me of a top claret from the Medoc-and with its rather powerful tannins it may well age like a Bordeaux. Very unevolved today.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Colgin.aspJS 98 (5/2014): Ripe and rich fruit on the nose with dried berry and dark chocolate character. Full body, with a seamless and stunning texture. It goes on for minutes. Phenomenal texture. Sexy. Drink or hold. WA 94 (10/2013): The 2009 Proprietary Red Cariad is a blend of 59% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc and 9% Petit Verdot. This full-bodied red reveals slightly more forest floor, menthol, bouquet garni, espresso roast, blackberry and black currant characteristics as well as more tannin than the Tychson Hill. It comes across like an elegant hybrid blend of a rich Bordeaux-styled wine from Napa Valley with a focused, structured, French sensitivity. It should age effortlessly for 20-25 years. VM 94+ (5/2012): (15.9% alcohol; 59% cabernet sauvignon, 22% merlot, 10% cabernet franc and 9% petit verdot): Deep ruby-red. High-pitched aromas of blueberry, cherry, wild herbs and minerals. Initially creamy, fat and sweet in the middle but firmed up dramatically with air, ultimately showing a strong graphite minerality and much less lushness and easy sweetness. Finishes with a firm spine of building tannins. The most Medoc-like of this 2009 collection, and in need of at least several years of aging. Stephen Tanzer. JS 92 (10/2012): Very tight and sturdy, firm and muscular, offering extracted blackberry fruit, with notes of black licorice, spice and tar. Ends with chewy tannins and a pleasant edge of ripe fruit. Best from 2014 through 2028. 580 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Colgin.aspWA 100 (10/2013): The 2010 Proprietary Red Cariad reveals great intensity along with abundant notes of unsmoked tobacco leaf interwoven with blueberry, blackberry and cassis fruit, charcoal and coffee bean nuances as well as a Pauillac-like lead pencil shaving character. This blend of 48% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Merlot, 10% Petit Verdot and 14% Cabernet Franc is one of the finest wines I tasted over the 12 days I spent tasting in Napa Valley in late August and early September. This remarkable 2010 should drink beautifully for 20 or more years. VM 97 (12/2012): The 2010 Red Wine Cariad is incredibly shut down at this stage. Dark raspberries, flowers, mint and tar emerge over time, but the Cariad remains quite a bit tighter and more introspective than the other wines in this lineup. At the same time, there is a level of purity in the fruit that is striking. This is the tightest of the estate's 2010s. Accordingly, it will require a few years to open up. This is the lowest percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon ever used in Cariad. VM 95+ (6/2013): (a blend of 48% cabernet sauvignon, 28% merlot, 14% petit verdot and 10% cabernet franc): Saturated, bright ruby-red. Deeper and darker on the nose than the Tychson Hill cabernet, offering vibrant scents of blackcurrant, graphite minerality and bitter chocolate. At once round and delineated in the mouth, with dark berry and mineral flavors displaying outstanding depth without excess weight. With its very firm tannic structure, this typically Medoc-like wine will need a good eight to ten years to evolve in bottle and may ultimately merit an even higher rating. These vines in Madrona Vineyard in St. Helena were planted on an alluvial fan in the 1980s. JS 95 (5/2014): Lots of ripe fruit, chocolate and iron. Full body, with loads of velvety tannins and a round and rich palate. It is round and mouthfilling yet fresh and beautiful. Delicious already but will improve with age WS 92 (10/2013): Notable for its charcoal and graphite woodiness, along with its edgy entry into the core of dark berry fruit. Keeps you at arm's length, with the flavors both concentrated and nuanced. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2024. 550 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Colgin.aspJS 97 (5/2014): Extremely aromatic with lead pencil and hints of currant undertone. Full body, with silky tannins and a very, very long finish. The texture is just right. This is so racy and refined with fabulous texture. I love the savory character. A wine with a solid core of fruit and super silky tannins. It is beautiful and dense yet refined. 49% cabernet sauvignon, 35% merlot, 10% petit verdot and 6% cabernet franc. VM 94+ (5/2014): Saturated deep ruby. Very backward, brooding aromas of blackcurrant, black raspberry and minerals. Richer, denser and sweeter than the Tychson Hill and IX Estate bottlings but youthfully shut down in bottle (these wines were bottled last June and July). Shows outstanding breadth and definition to the flavors of dark berries, menthol and bitter chocolate. Finishes with substantial broad, youthfully drying tannins and a lingering note of bitter chocolate. I would not be surprised if this wine needed at least seven or eight years in bottle to approach peak drinkability. VM 94+ (11/2013): The 2011 Cariad is dark, powerful and intense. Expressive ferrous notes lead to dark red fruit, smoke, licorice, tobacco and orange peel in an exotic, full-bodied wine. There is plenty of stuffing and mid-palate richness, but today the 2011 is raw in its intensity. Ideally the 2011 needs a few more years in bottle. Stylistically, the 2011 is a bit of a departure from past vintages. Because of the challenging weather, Colgin relied more on fruit from David Abreu's Thorevilos more than Madrona Ranch, which gives the wine a distinct sense of Howell Mountain intensity and minerality that is a bit out of character. This is also the first time the Cabernet Sauvignon percentage is under 50%. Readers will have to be patient with the 2011, but there is plenty to look forward to. The blend is 49% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot, 10% Petit Verdot and 6% Cabernet Franc. WA 93 (10/2013): Composed of 49% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot, 10% Petit Verdot and 6% Cabernet Franc, the 2011 Proprietary Red Cariad exhibits a deep ruby/purple color along with aromas of tapenade, barbecue smoke, black currants, sweet cherries, baking spices and licorice. Medium-bodied and fleshy with delicious fruit, it showcases the endearing, upfront charm of this vintage where the wines are well-made. Drink it over the next decade.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Colgin.aspWA 97 (12/2007): My favorite of the 2005 Colgins is the 2005 IX Proprietary Red Estate, a blend of 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Merlot, and the rest Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. The good news is that there are 1,500 cases of this blockbuster wine, which has a Bordeaux framework but the exuberance and richness as well as fruit purity of a great Napa wine. Deep purple in color with an extraordinary nose of scorched earth, blueberries, and black currants intermixed with some subtle charcoal notes, spice, box and spring flowers, it is very full-bodied, but beautifully structured and well-delineated. With good acidity despite what is an extremely high pH (3.9), the total acids are reasonable. This is a beauty of harmony, power, and great intensity, but it is light on its feet, and an exceptional example of what this high-elevation hillside estate vineyard is capable of producing. This wine should hit its prime in 5-6 years and last for three or more decades. VM 94-97 (6/2007): Good medium ruby. Brooding, Medoc-like aromas of black raspberry, licorice, menthol and dark chocolate. Dense and impressively deep, with dark fruit and dark chocolate flavors lifted by a pronounced minerality. The tannins are broad and substantial but quite fine-grained, and the wine's juicy character and minerality give it terrific grip and persistence. Today this seems sweeter in style than the Cariad, while conveying a lower pH feel than that wine (but it's still a high 3.95).http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Colgin.aspWA 100 (10/2013): The 2010 IX Estate is another perfect wine. Its opaque purple color is accompanied by copious aromas of blueberries, cassis, pen ink, asphalt, licorice and subtle oak. Full-bodied and rich but light on its feet, this spectacular effort was created from a blend of 63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, 11% Cabernet Franc and 6% Petit Verdot. Enjoy this profound wine over the next 25+ years. VM 97 (12/2012): Colgin's 2010 Red Wine IX Estate emerges from the glass with super-ripe red cherries, flowers, white truffles, spice box and mint, all in a voluptuous style that captures the very best qualities of the year. In this vintage, the IX Estate boasts a level of generosity that make it slightly more accessible than the Tychson Hill. Sweet, seamless and totally pure, the 2010 is endowed with superb balance and fabulous overall harmony. The 2010 shuts down quickly in the glass and I suspect it may do the same in bottle. Nevertheless, this is a stunning showing. VM 95 (6/2013): (63% cabernet sauvignon, 20% merlot, 11% cabernet franc and 6% petit verdot): Saturated ruby. Intense, rather wild savory aromas and flavors of black raspberry, soy sauce, mocha, tobacco and game, with a hint of chocolatey superripeness. Plush, rich and sweet, conveying lovely fullness without excess weight, with underlying minerality giving the very long finish a firm edge. Silky and elegant wine. These 2010s have pHs of around 3.85, which I gather is a tad lower than average. WS 94 (10/2013): Pleasing for its richness, elegance and finesse, this graceful red presents a delicate mix of dark berry, licorice, light cedar and loamy earth, gliding along on the finish, where the wine is amazingly polished. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2026. 1,100 cases made. JS 94 (5/2014): Aromas of spices, sage, bay leaf and pepper. Medium to full body with juicy tannins and a tangy, orange peel finish. It's balanced and pretty. So drinkable now. Mostly cabernet with merlot, franc and petit verdot.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Colgin.aspVM 94+ (5/2014): (66% cabernet sauvignon, 25% merlot, 7% cabernet franc and 2% petit verdot): Bright ruby-red. Wonderfully scented nose offers dark currant, black olive, licorice, smoke, caramel oak and shoe polish, all lifted by an exhilarating note of tangerine oil. Sappy, sweet and smooth, showing compelling mineral and floral lift to the intense dark berry flavors. Again, this is not a powerhouse but its penetration and lift are remarkable. Ultimately plusher than the Tychson Hill example and more minerally too. Still a baby. WA 92 (10/2013): The 2011 IX Estate (66% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot) possesses surprising density and richness (then again, it-s from a hillside vineyard that was above the fog line in 2011), impressive purity, lots of red, blue and black fruits, and not a trace of herbaceousness. The oak is nicely integrated in this soft, round, generously endowed effort. It should drink nicely for a decade or more. WS 90 (11/2014): Complex fresh earth, dark berry, spice and cedar aromatics unfold on the palate, with a bright display of currant and blackberry flavors, folding into dusty, cedary underbrush notes. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2022. 970 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Colgin.aspWS 96 (3/2008): Intense and concentrated, with tightly wound pepper, spice, wild berry, currant and fresh leather flavors that slowly and gracefully unfold, revealing layers of complexity and depth and finishing with a long, layered, persistent aftertaste. To be released spring 2008. Drink now through 2014. 411 cases made. WA 95 (12/2008): The 2005 IX Syrah Estate is a dense purple-hued wine of polished elegance and finesse, subtle but intense aromatics offering up notes of earth, lard, meat, spring flowers as well as black and blue fruits. It is buttressed by good acidity, and fine, yet sweet tannins. This medium to full-bodied wine should evolve effortlessly for a decade or more. There are less than 400 cases of the estate wine. Ann Colgin and her winemaking team have been making Cabernet Sauvignon from the Herb Lamb Vineyard since 1992, but the production seems to get smaller and smaller every year.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Colgin.aspWA 95 (10/2013): I could have sworn the 2009 IX Estate Syrah had some Viognier in it, but all of these wines are 100% Syrah. Flowery, peppery, blackberry and bacon aromas reminiscent of a Cote Rotie jump from the glass. However, once in the mouth, the masculinity, power, awesome richness and incredible texture come forward. This killer Syrah should drink well for 20 or more years. WS 95 (12/2012): A brilliant expression of dense, rich layers of spice, beef, wild berry, savory and herbal notes, offering intensity, focus, grace and finesse. Should evolve beautifully over the next decade or two. Drink now through 2030. 420 cases made. VM 93+ (3/2013): Saturated medium ruby. Musky nose combines dark berries, crushed rock, game, violet, espresso and tangerine rind. Fresh but youthfully tight and primary, and currently dominated by its structure. The intriguing citrus quality follows through in the mouth, where it perks up the dark fruit, licorice and tar flavors. Finishes classically dry and firmly tannic, with a lightly saline character. I'd forget about this one for four or five years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Colgin.aspVM 97+ (11/2013): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Tychson Hill opens with the most exquisite of aromatics. Sage, rosemary, graphite, tobacco, menthol, black cherries, plums all flesh out in a dark, voluptuous wine loaded with class. The interplay of savory notes with layers of fruit is simply breathtaking. Vivid, nuanced and beautifully structured, the 2011 is firing on all cylinders. There is a level of aromatic lift and pure finesse that is simply striking. Hints of orange peel and white pepper add an exotic flair on the close. Tychson Hill is Cabernet Sauvignon with splashes of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Shades of the 2001 linger in the empty glass. VM 94+ (5/2014): Saturated, bright ruby-red. Black raspberry, blueberry, graphite and a whiff of coffee bean on the nose. Classically dry and polished, showing superb precision to its savory dark berry and mineral flavors. Perhaps less baby fat than a warmer year, but wonderfully pure and delineated wine with the intensity and substantial broad tannins to support a graceful evolution in bottle. This tightened up in the glass. Incidentally, pHs for the Colgin 2011s are in the 3.8 to 3.9 range, which winemaker Allison Tauziet described as slightly lower than average JS 94 (5/2014): Fabulous aromas of blueberry, spice, and iron character. Pure fruit. Full body with wonderfully integrated tannins and a mineral, blackberry and iron undertone. I love the balance with this wine. So delicious now. Fresh. Cabernet sauvignon with splash of petit verdot and cabernet franc. WA 91 (10/2013): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Tychson Hill Vineyard has plenty of blue and black fruit characteristics as well as an endearing, lush opulence. This 2011 is disarming in its charming softness, roundness and medium-bodied, richly fruity style. A hint of lavender is noticeable, but this is not herbaceous, vegetal or astringent. Enjoy it over the next 10-12 years. WS 89 (12/2014): Well-focused on a core of blackberry, mineral, spice, road tar, black licorice and cigar box flavors, this is restrained and balanced, with tannins that are firm without being weighty. Drink now through 2022. 230 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Colgin.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Constant.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Constant.aspWA 98 (12/2010): A glorious blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Cabernet Franc and 18% Petit Verdot, it boasts an inky/purple color as well as an extraordinary perfume of blueberries, blackberries, spring flowers and subtle hints of burning embers and earth. Akin to the seamlessness of haute couture from the likes of Chanel, the integration of acidity, tannin, alcohol and wood has been brilliantly accomplished by Mondavi. This textured, opulent, full-bodied wine cuts a lacy, graceful texture across the palate. A tour de force in winemaking, it is a profound wine from someone who has been front and center during the golden age of California Cabernet Sauvignon as well as the revolution in quality begun by his father. Drinkable now, drinkable in ten years and exquisite in two decades, it is not to be missed. WS 97 (6/2010): Sleek and polished, this is a wonderful expression of Cabernet, with a mix of rich, layered black cherry, currant, wild berry and plum fruit that's intense, concentrated, focused and stylish, turning spicy, with cedary anise and sage notes on the long, persistent finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2020. 1,500 cases made. VM 94 (6/2010): (60% cabernet sauvignon, 22% cabernet franc and 18% petit verdot) Full, deep ruby-red. Perfumed aromas of blackberry, cassis, crushed rock, licorice and bitter chocolate, all lifted by a violet topnote. Supple, pliant and concentrated, and quite graceful for its serious sweetness. I like this suave midweight's floral and menthol reserve. Finishes with sophisticated tannins and lovely length and lift. Very young and built to age.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Continuum.aspWA 98 (12/2010): A glorious blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Cabernet Franc and 18% Petit Verdot, it boasts an inky/purple color as well as an extraordinary perfume of blueberries, blackberries, spring flowers and subtle hints of burning embers and earth. Akin to the seamlessness of haute couture from the likes of Chanel, the integration of acidity, tannin, alcohol and wood has been brilliantly accomplished by Mondavi. This textured, opulent, full-bodied wine cuts a lacy, graceful texture across the palate. A tour de force in winemaking, it is a profound wine from someone who has been front and center during the golden age of California Cabernet Sauvignon as well as the revolution in quality begun by his father. Drinkable now, drinkable in ten years and exquisite in two decades, it is not to be missed. WS 97 (6/2010): Sleek and polished, this is a wonderful expression of Cabernet, with a mix of rich, layered black cherry, currant, wild berry and plum fruit that's intense, concentrated, focused and stylish, turning spicy, with cedary anise and sage notes on the long, persistent finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2020. 1,500 cases made. VM 94 (6/2010): (60% cabernet sauvignon, 22% cabernet franc and 18% petit verdot) Full, deep ruby-red. Perfumed aromas of blackberry, cassis, crushed rock, licorice and bitter chocolate, all lifted by a violet topnote. Supple, pliant and concentrated, and quite graceful for its serious sweetness. I like this suave midweight's floral and menthol reserve. Finishes with sophisticated tannins and lovely length and lift. Very young and built to age.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Continuum.aspWA 98 (12/2010): A glorious blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Cabernet Franc and 18% Petit Verdot, it boasts an inky/purple color as well as an extraordinary perfume of blueberries, blackberries, spring flowers and subtle hints of burning embers and earth. Akin to the seamlessness of haute couture from the likes of Chanel, the integration of acidity, tannin, alcohol and wood has been brilliantly accomplished by Mondavi. This textured, opulent, full-bodied wine cuts a lacy, graceful texture across the palate. A tour de force in winemaking, it is a profound wine from someone who has been front and center during the golden age of California Cabernet Sauvignon as well as the revolution in quality begun by his father. Drinkable now, drinkable in ten years and exquisite in two decades, it is not to be missed. WS 97 (6/2010): Sleek and polished, this is a wonderful expression of Cabernet, with a mix of rich, layered black cherry, currant, wild berry and plum fruit that's intense, concentrated, focused and stylish, turning spicy, with cedary anise and sage notes on the long, persistent finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2020. 1,500 cases made. VM 94 (6/2010): (60% cabernet sauvignon, 22% cabernet franc and 18% petit verdot) Full, deep ruby-red. Perfumed aromas of blackberry, cassis, crushed rock, licorice and bitter chocolate, all lifted by a violet topnote. Supple, pliant and concentrated, and quite graceful for its serious sweetness. I like this suave midweight's floral and menthol reserve. Finishes with sophisticated tannins and lovely length and lift. Very young and built to age.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Continuum.aspWA 97 (10/2013): This has been an impressive, serious wine since the debut vintage, and Tim Mondavi's estate high on Pritchard Hill has fashioned a 2010 blend of 71% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Cabernet Franc, 11% Petit Verdot and 4% Merlot. Gorgeously ripe, intricate and nuanced, with aromas of spring flowers and red and black fruits, a stunning texture, sweet tannin, a full-bodied mouthfeel, and undeniable elegance and finesse, this complex beauty cascades over the palate without a hard edge to be found. It is a tribute to Mondavi-s long resume of skillful winemaking. Black currants, blueberries and a touch of raspberries are all compelling and persistent. Drink this gorgeous Napa red now and over the next 15+ years. VM 96 (12/2014): With a few years in bottle, the 2010 Continuum is starting to show the first signs of complexity. Dark red and purple-hued, the 2010 is laced with violets, lavender, smoke, sage and mint. The late season heat spike give the fruit an extra level of juiciness, but the tannins are those of a cool year and the mountain site. Ideally, readers will be able to cellar the 2010 for another few years. VM 94 (5/2013): (71% cabernet sauvignon, 14% cabernet franc, 11% petit verdot and 4% merlot; this is 92% from estate vines on Pritchard Hill, the highest percentage to date): Dark red-ruby. High-pitched aromas of cassis, blueberry and flowers. Lush, silky and fine-grained, with complex flavors of dark berries and graphite minerality complicated by sweet oak and piquant notes of rose petal and green apple. At once powerful and suave on the long back end, finishing with firm tannins and lingering minerality. I retasted the 2009 next to this wine with Tim Mondavi and although the '09 is a remarkably rich wine (I rated it 93 again), the 2010 is more vibrant and delineated. "The 2010 is more nuanced by virtue of its cool season," noted Mondavi. "Its delicacy and nerve are due to the cool vintage." Mondavi does what he describes as "more of a Burgundy elevage," using 75% oak fermenters (and the rest concrete) to get more breadth, suppler tannins and complex aromas in his wine, with just a light stirring of the lees below the cap. WS 93 (10/2013): An enticing, graceful and seductive style, this succeeds in its deft balance and refined dark berry, cedar and black licorice notes that linger on the finish as the tannins gain traction and grip. Eases back in richness from prior vintages of this wine. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Merlot. Drink now through 2024. 2,700 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Continuum.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/CopainWines.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/CopainWines.aspVM 92 (5/2007): Dark red. Wonderfully perfumed nose features intense sandalwood and patchouli-accented cherry and candied plum scents; reminds me of a ripe Dujac wine. Vibrant, incisive and pure, with impressively balanced red and dark fruit flavors, fine tannins and gentle acidity on the finish. A strong, smoky, almost iodine-y quality comes up with air, adding further complexity. This is really impressive. Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/CopainWines.aspWA 91 (12/2005): Guthrie’s ability to access Syrah from different micro-climates and soil bases is apparent with the 2003 Syrah Garys’ Vineyard. An opaque purple color is accompanied by aromas of dried herbs, blackberries, cassis, and smoky charcoal. Full-bodied, pure, and intense as well as elegant, it can be enjoyed over the next 5-7 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/CopainWines.aspWA 91 (12/2005): Guthrie’s ability to access Syrah from different micro-climates and soil bases is apparent with the 2003 Syrah Garys’ Vineyard. An opaque purple color is accompanied by aromas of dried herbs, blackberries, cassis, and smoky charcoal. Full-bodied, pure, and intense as well as elegant, it can be enjoyed over the next 5-7 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/CopainWines.aspIWC 93+ (5/2006): (50% whole clusters; from soil rich in schist that Guthrie compares to the Cote Brune of Cote-Rotie) Saturated deep ruby. Highly aromatic nose offers crushed raspberry, pepper, woodsmoke and minerals. Densely packed, intense and sweet, with flavors of dark berries, spices and pepper. This boasts terrific, slowly mounting fruit and finishes very long and perfumed, with big, peppery tannins. The crop level here was barely two tons an acre, according to Guthrie. A superb California syrah in a distinctly French style. WA 92+ (12/2006): From a high elevation site (1,400 feet), the 2004 Syrah Hawke’s Butte is planted in pure schist. Seventy-five percent whole clusters were used, and the wine was aged 16 months in French oak, 30% new. Revealing the most minerality of these Syrah cuvees, its liquefied rock character is interwoven with blackberry, cassis, and a peppery earthiness. It should evolve for a decade. WS 87 (12/2007): Tightly wound, firm and compact, with a beam of spicy, peppery blueberry and wild berry flavors that are framed by chewy tannins. Drink now through 2011. 227 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/CopainWines.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/CopainWines.aspIWC 91 (5/2014): Light, bright red. Zesty, mineral-tinged scents of redcurrant and strawberry, with subtle woodsmoke and floral notes adding complexity. Tangy, linear and stony on the palate, offering intense red fruit flavors and a touch of blood orange. A bitter cherry pit quality gives bite to the finish, which is framed by silky, slow-building tannins. No excess fat here but no lack of fruit either.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/CopainWines.aspWA 89 (8/2002): The 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon Cornerstone Vineyard is interesting and complete, with excellent fruit, depth, and texture. Aromas of cedar wood, spice box, leather, and black currants are offered in a medium-bodied, nicely concentrated, rich, heady style. This fine effort has good purity as well as some moderate tannin to shed. Anticipated maturity: now-2012.WS 87 (4/2003): An herbal style, with sage, and earthy flavors commingling with cedary currant and tobacco flavors. Fans of Bordeaux-style blends will find this more appealing than those seeking richer Cabernet fruit. Drink now through 2007. 995 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/CornerstoneCellars.aspWS 96 (5/2010): Deliciously complex, rich, layered, intense and concentrated, offering a dense yet elegant mix of currant, wild berry, black cherry and plum, with touches of cedar, anise and melted chocolate. Full-bodied, focused, pure and persistent, winning points for its graceful texture. Drink now through 2020. 375 cases made. WA 95 (12/2009): Corra’s superb 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon’s opaque blue/purple color is followed by subtle aromas of charcoal, white chocolate, blackberries, black currants, and background oak. Deep and full-bodied with impressive texture and purity, this 2007 is accessible now, but promises to evolve for 20+ years. JS 93 (4/2011): Beautiful strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries on the nose. Incredibly floral as well. Full bodied, with loads of fruit and a firm tannin structure. Long finish. This is big, but in reserve. Pop the cork after 2013. 15+23+22+33. Find the wine VM 90 (5/2017): Bright red-ruby. Expressive aromas of currant, raspberry, smoked meat, mocha, licorice, menthol and roasted herbs. Plump, fine-grained wine with still-fresh cherry and redcurrant fruit lifted by cooler herb and licorice notes. Nicely suave wine with well-managed dusty tannins, repeating herb and menthol notes and a bit of finishing warmth. Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Corra.aspWS 96 (5/2010): Deliciously complex, rich, layered, intense and concentrated, offering a dense yet elegant mix of currant, wild berry, black cherry and plum, with touches of cedar, anise and melted chocolate. Full-bodied, focused, pure and persistent, winning points for its graceful texture. Drink now through 2020. 375 cases made. WA 95 (12/2009): Corra’s superb 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon’s opaque blue/purple color is followed by subtle aromas of charcoal, white chocolate, blackberries, black currants, and background oak. Deep and full-bodied with impressive texture and purity, this 2007 is accessible now, but promises to evolve for 20+ years. JS 93 (4/2011): Beautiful strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries on the nose. Incredibly floral as well. Full bodied, with loads of fruit and a firm tannin structure. Long finish. This is big, but in reserve. Pop the cork after 2013. 15+23+22+33. Find the wine VM 90 (5/2017): Bright red-ruby. Expressive aromas of currant, raspberry, smoked meat, mocha, licorice, menthol and roasted herbs. Plump, fine-grained wine with still-fresh cherry and redcurrant fruit lifted by cooler herb and licorice notes. Nicely suave wine with well-managed dusty tannins, repeating herb and menthol notes and a bit of finishing warmth. Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Corra.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Cristom.aspVM 92 (10/2015): Bright red. Tightly wound red berry and Asian spice aromas pick up a suave floral nuance with air. Silky and precise, offering energetic raspberry and bitter cherry flavors with a touch of star anise. A suave, seamless Pinot with no excess weight. Closes tangy and very long, with silky tannins and lingering spiciness. Josh Raynolds. WS 90 (2/2016): Open-textured, light on balance and appealing for the dark plum and toasty spice flavors, picking up peppery nuances as the finish lingers with intensity. Best from 2017 through 2021. 812 cases made. WA 88 (6/2016): The 2013 Pinot Noir Eileen was picked as soon as it could after the September storm, still 20 days after the Louise Vineyard. It has a clean and fresh red cherry and strawberry scented bouquet that displays fine tension. The palate is fresh on the entry with bright red cherry and strawberry notes, though the mid-palate feels a little hard at the moment and probably lacks the flesh that it might have had in 2012 and 2014. It is still balanced and clean, an achievement given the growing season, but it feels just deprived of some persistence on the finish.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Cristom.aspVM 92 (10/2015): Ruby-red. Highly perfumed scents of dark berries, cola and rose oil. Fleshy, expansive black raspberry and bitter cherry flavors display a suave blend of richness and energy, picking up a spicy character with air. Finishes juicy and very long, with lingering dark fruit flavors and slow-building tannins. Josh Raynolds.WA 91 (6/2016): The 2013 Pinot Noir Jessie Vineyard contains some fruit that was picked before the rain. It has a satisfying red cherry and wild strawberry bouquet, a subtle flinty note underneath, very Burgundian in style. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannin - plenty of sappy red fruit, hints of dried orange peel and a touch of sea-salt, well balanced with a Pommard-like finish. I find this has more to offer than the Eileen Vineyard this year and it comes recommended. WS 88 (7/2016): Light and supple, with an earthy, slightly meaty edge to the restrained black cherry and orange peel flavors, lingering gently against refined tannins. Drink now through 2019. 816 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Cristom.aspVM 94 (10/2015): Deep red. Hugely aromatic bouquet evokes ripe red fruits, incense and Asian spices, along with a bright mineral overtone. Juicy and precise on the palate, offering sweet raspberry preserve, rose pastille and spicecake flavors that deepen and spread out with air. Delivers a suave blend of power and elegance, finishing with harmonious tannins and remarkable clarity and length. Josh Raynolds. WA 88 (6/2016): The 2013 Pinot Noir Louise Vineyard was missing the fruit intensity of the Marjorie Vineyard - airy, stony and perhaps just too reserved. You can imagine these aromas being blown away in a gentle wind. The palate is medium-bodied with grainy tannin, the fruit slightly darker than Cristom's other single vineyard bottlings, with a slightly lean finish. It is still a pleasurable Pinot Noir, but it just lags behind the others this year. WS 87 (7/2016): Light and refreshing, with an edge of clove and pepper to the red berry flavors, lightly veiled with fine tannins as the finish proceeds. Drink now through 2020. 800 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Cristom.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Cristom.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Crossbarn(PaulHobbs).asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/CruseWineCompany.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/CruseWineCompany.aspWA 93 (8/2002): The spectacular, full-bodied 1998 Cabernet Sauvignon (2,000 cases from a blend of 88% Cabernet Sauvignon and 12% Cabernet Franc) possesses great character, richness, and black currant fruit intermixed with licorice, tobacco, and smoke. While not as opulent as some vintages, it is exceptionally concentrated, long, and reminiscent of a ripe Bordeaux from a top vintage. Anticipated maturity: now-2018.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DallaValle.aspWS 94 (10/2012): Fresh, intense and vibrant, rich and chewy, offering a dense core of mineral, currant, blackberry and spice, with touches of road tar and cedar. Tightens on the finish, where the tannins weigh in, yet this is still long and persistent. Best from 2014 through 2028. 500 cases made. WA 93 (10/2013): From the eastern hillsides and red soils above the Oakville Corridor, the 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon (a blend of 79% Cabernet Sauvignon and 21% Cabernet Franc) exhibits lots of ripe black currant, licorice, clove, incense and a hint of menthol. Full-bodied and rich with plenty of spice as well as a sweet, broad, tannic mouthfeel, it can be approached now or drunk over the next 20-25 years. VM 93 (5/2012): (blended with 20% cabernet franc): Red-ruby. Scented nose offers redcurrant, iron and loam. Sweet, fine-grained and energetic, showing lovely juicy definition to its flavors of red berries, spices, licorice and graphite. Superb, varietally precise cabernet with firm tannic spine and excellent persistence. And more accessible today than the Maya.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DallaValle.aspWA 95 (10/2013): The brilliant 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon is slightly richer, revealing more smokiness, graphite and creme de cassis notes as well as a dense purple color, a big, masculine, tannic mouthfeel and a full-bodied, rich finish. This majestic Cabernet Sauvignon should age effortlessly for 25-30 years. It possesses slightly more sucrosity and flesh than the 2009, but both of these are brilliant examples of hillside Cabernet Sauvignon blended with Cabernet Franc. VM 94 (6/2013): (blended with 19% cabernet franc): Bright medium ruby. Sappy, deep aromas of dark raspberry, cassis and graphite. Silky, highly concentrated and seamless, conveying an impression of outstanding density without weight. Wonderfully suave cabernet with a sappy, building finishing featuring sexy floral lift, noble tannins and terrific energy and length. A beauty, and impeccably balanced already. WS 92 (10/2013): Combines richness with finesse and grace, offering ripe dark berry, currant, loamy earth and dusty, cedary oak with firm, gripping tannins that echo the fruit and pleasing earthiness. Best from 2014 through 2024. 580 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DallaValle.aspWA 95 (10/2013): The brilliant 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon is slightly richer, revealing more smokiness, graphite and creme de cassis notes as well as a dense purple color, a big, masculine, tannic mouthfeel and a full-bodied, rich finish. This majestic Cabernet Sauvignon should age effortlessly for 25-30 years. It possesses slightly more sucrosity and flesh than the 2009, but both of these are brilliant examples of hillside Cabernet Sauvignon blended with Cabernet Franc. VM 94 (6/2013): (blended with 19% cabernet franc): Bright medium ruby. Sappy, deep aromas of dark raspberry, cassis and graphite. Silky, highly concentrated and seamless, conveying an impression of outstanding density without weight. Wonderfully suave cabernet with a sappy, building finishing featuring sexy floral lift, noble tannins and terrific energy and length. A beauty, and impeccably balanced already. WS 92 (10/2013): Combines richness with finesse and grace, offering ripe dark berry, currant, loamy earth and dusty, cedary oak with firm, gripping tannins that echo the fruit and pleasing earthiness. Best from 2014 through 2024. 580 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DallaValle.aspVM 95+ (11/2013): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon has really come together over the last six months. Deep, layered and resonant, the 2011 is easily among the top wines of the year. New leather, spices, mocha and plum notes flesh out in the glass. The style is quite textured, especially in comparison with the other great wines of the year. Hints of sage, rosemary, new leather and cloves wrap around a pointed, beautifully articulated finish supported by insistent veins of salinity. WS 91 (11/2014): Offers a rich, focused core of blackberry and dark berry fruit, shaded by light mocha, herb, cedar and cigar box notes. Ends with a long, pure, persistent finish and mildly gripping tannins. Drink now through 2023. 1,000 cases made. WA 88 (10/2013): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon is the most drinkable and precocious of this trio. It offers hints of baking spices, bouquet garni, red and black currants and loamy soil. An endearing, charming, round, savory effort, this lovely 2011 is slightly more herbaceous than its siblings, nor does it possesses the size and substance of either the 2009 or 2010. Drink it during its first decade of life.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DallaValle.aspVM 95+ (11/2013): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon has really come together over the last six months. Deep, layered and resonant, the 2011 is easily among the top wines of the year. New leather, spices, mocha and plum notes flesh out in the glass. The style is quite textured, especially in comparison with the other great wines of the year. Hints of sage, rosemary, new leather and cloves wrap around a pointed, beautifully articulated finish supported by insistent veins of salinity. WS 91 (11/2014): Offers a rich, focused core of blackberry and dark berry fruit, shaded by light mocha, herb, cedar and cigar box notes. Ends with a long, pure, persistent finish and mildly gripping tannins. Drink now through 2023. 1,000 cases made. WA 88 (10/2013): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon is the most drinkable and precocious of this trio. It offers hints of baking spices, bouquet garni, red and black currants and loamy soil. An endearing, charming, round, savory effort, this lovely 2011 is slightly more herbaceous than its siblings, nor does it possesses the size and substance of either the 2009 or 2010. Drink it during its first decade of life.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DallaValle.aspVM 95+ (11/2013): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon has really come together over the last six months. Deep, layered and resonant, the 2011 is easily among the top wines of the year. New leather, spices, mocha and plum notes flesh out in the glass. The style is quite textured, especially in comparison with the other great wines of the year. Hints of sage, rosemary, new leather and cloves wrap around a pointed, beautifully articulated finish supported by insistent veins of salinity. WS 91 (11/2014): Offers a rich, focused core of blackberry and dark berry fruit, shaded by light mocha, herb, cedar and cigar box notes. Ends with a long, pure, persistent finish and mildly gripping tannins. Drink now through 2023. 1,000 cases made. WA 88 (10/2013): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon is the most drinkable and precocious of this trio. It offers hints of baking spices, bouquet garni, red and black currants and loamy soil. An endearing, charming, round, savory effort, this lovely 2011 is slightly more herbaceous than its siblings, nor does it possesses the size and substance of either the 2009 or 2010. Drink it during its first decade of life.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DallaValle.aspVM 93+ (11/2013): The 2011 Collina dalla Valle might even be better than the 2010. Plums, spices, violets, menthol, licorice and lavender jump from the glass in a powerful, vibrant wine loaded with pure class and personality. The 2011 is a bit more tannic and darker than the 2010, with striking aromatics, vibrant fruit and great expression of site. The tannins are going to require a year or two to soften, but there is no denying how absolutely gorgeous the 2011 is. If there is any problem with the 2011, it is that it might be too good. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DallaValle.aspWA 99 (12/2000): Close to perfection, the saturated blue/black-colored 1997 Maya exhibits complex aromatics of creme de cassis, smoke, spice box, iron, and espresso. The wine has a viscous texture, huge, concentrated, ripe fruit, remarkable body, and a seamless, multi-layered finish. The tannin, acidity, and alcohol are all beautifully integrated. This is profound stuff! Anticipated maturity: 2005-2030.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DallaValle.aspWA 100 (6/2012): As stunning as this basic Cabernet Sauvignon is, the 2002 Maya, a proprietary blend of 55% Cabernet Sauvignon and 45% Cabernet Franc, is pure perfection. It boasts an inky purple color as well as an extraordinary perfume of incense, black fruits, charcoal and forest floor. Full-bodied, with monumental intensity, a multidimensional texture/mouthfeel, and a stunning finish, this beauty reveals the brilliant quality of the Dalla Valle Cabernet Franc plantings meshed with their powerful Cabernet Sauvignon. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2040+. VM 95 (6/2014): Rich, ripe and explosive, the 2002 Maya emerges from the glass with layers of dark, voluptuous fruit. There is plenty going on in the glass, although today the 2002 isn't as expressive as it was when I last tasted it, about two years ago. Dark raspberry jam, cloves, mint and flowers are layered into the finish with substantial weight and silkiness. This is one of the great vintages of Maya and as it turns out the last Maya made until 2005.IWC 92+ (6/2005): (a 55/45 blend of cabernet sauvignon and cabernet franc) Good ruby-red. Blueberry, licorice, violet and leather on the perfumed nose. Supple on entry, then sweeter, broader and lusher than the 2002 cabernet, with lovely depth of flavor. Bright and nicely delineated. Finishes with huge, building, horizontal tannins that dust the palate and front teeth and are distinctly finer than those of the basic cabernet bottling, which seems a bit green and dry by comparison. This wine needs several years of patience and should be long-lived. WS 89 (11/2005): Dense, rich and earthy, with tightly wound currant, tobacco, mineral, sage and a touch of leather forming a broad range of flavors. This massive youngster is also quite tannic, so it's hands off for at least five years. Best from 2009 through 2014. 250 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DallaValle.aspWA 98 (12/2010): The 2007 Maya borders on perfection. Its dense plum/ruby/purple color is followed by abundant aromas of graphite, blueberry liqueur, hoisin sauce, smoked meats and red and black fruits. The extraordinary aromatics give way to a full-bodied, stunningly concentrated wine with everything in balance, fabulous density and richness, and a finish that lasts nearly 60 seconds. This is unquestionably one of the all-time great Mayas. In keeping with the exuberance and flamboyance of this vintage, it is approachable now, but should age effortlessly for 30+ years. WS 97 (10/2010): A gorgeous wine that features rich, layered flavors of ripe plum, blackberry and currant that are deep and concentrated, yet elegant and stylish. Full-bodied, ending with delicate touches of mineral and spice. Drink now through 2019. 300 cases made. VM 96 (6/2014): What a difference a year makes. The 2007 Maya is a drop-dead gorgeous beauty. Sexy and racy to the core, the 2007 captures the sensuality of the year in spades. Raspberry jam, white flowers, mint and spices are nicely shaped by silky tannins. Production was tiny, at around 270 cases, partly because 2007 is the vintage in which Dalla Valle introduced their second wine, Collina Dalla Valle. It's great to see Maya back on track after the less than stellar 2006. VM 94 (5/2010): (includes 30% cabernet franc) Good full ruby-red; brighter than the Napa Valley bottling. Darker, impressively vibrant aromas of blueberry, boysenberry, violet and licorice. A step up in density and verve; quite young today but this really saturates and perfumes the palate. Spreads out and echoes impressively on the very long, subtle back end, where the tannins are currently hidden by bright fruit. I never would have guessed this wine was carrying 15% alcohol. Incidentally, the 2002 Maya was the last vintage from the old plantings; Dalla Valle skipped 2003 and 2004 and then restarted with 2005.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DallaValle.aspWA 96 (12/2010): The 2008 Maya boasts an inky/blue/purple color as well as a sumptuous bouquet of blue, black and red fruits, crushed rock, spice box, licorice and subtle wood. Full-bodied, multilayered, pure and deep, this is a striking, seamless wine with flawless balance and great concentration as well as length. Multiple dimensions, incremental richness and a 45-second finish suggest this beauty is one of the top wines of the vintage. IWC 95 (6/2011): (a 60/40 blend of cabernet sauvignon and cabernet franc): Bright ruby-red. Blackberry, blueberry, licorice, violet and graphite on the soil-driven nose. Wonderfully silky and elegant on the palate; dense, lush and concentrated, with superb mouthfilling aromatic character. Terrific fruit intensity here, and already impeccably balanced. Expands and perfumes the mouth on the extremely long, suavely tannic back end. A beauty. WS 95 (10/2011): Strikingly complex, rich and creamy, this is impressive for its subtlety and finesse, with a firm yet fleshy core of currant, blackberry, black licorice, graphite and blueberry. Full-bodied, ending with a long, pure, persistent finish. Drink now through 2022. 500 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DallaValle.aspWA 98 (10/2013): The 2009 Maya (67% Cabernet Sauvignon and 33% Cabernet Franc) has opened-up considerably and is much more showy than I would have expected. It exhibits notes of sweet creme de cassis, camphor, bouquet garni, spice box and a hint of road tar. Full-bodied with remarkable density as well as a multidimensional personality, and abundant, well-integrated tannins, this 2009 can be approached now, but it should be even better in 5-7 years. It should last for three decades or more. VM 97 (1/2015): The 2009 Maya is much less giving today, as the tannins are firm and imposing. Still, the 2009 continues to develop complexity in bottle, which is obviously a great sign for the future. This is one of the best showings yet for the 2009. I suggest giving the 2009 at least a few more years in the cellar. Antonio Galloni.WS 95 (10/2012): A classy effort that delivers richness and density, with layers of dark berry fruit, spice, cedar, espresso and black licorice, firming with fine-grained tannins and a finish that offers elegance, finesse and structure. Best from 2013 through 2028. 500 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DallaValle.aspWA 98+ (10/2013): The 2010 Maya is a less evolved, more backward, brooding wine with a dense opaque blue/purple color, explosive richness, and abundant notes of incense, camphor, charcoal, blackberries, blueberries and hints of violets and forest floor. Full-bodied, pure, deep, structured and powerful, this massive Maya comes across as even bigger and richer than the 2009. Forget it for 3-5 years and drink it over the following 30+ years. VM 96+ (6/2013): (two-thirds cabernet sauvignon and one-third cab franc): Deep, bright ruby. Crushed blueberry and violet on the perfumed nose. Densely packed and wonderfully aromatic, with terrific floral lift to the sharply delineated dark berry flavors. Almost painful in the early going, but has great energy and class. Finishes with big, broad tannins and outstanding vibrating persistence. Should turn out to be one of the monuments of the vintage. I've long been a sucker for cabernet franc from this red volcanic soil on the eastern hillside above Oakville. WS 93 (10/2013): Firm, dense and tannic, offering a potent mix of dried berry, black licorice, dried herb and savory notes, gaining tannic traction and ending with a wonderful push of flavors that bode well for the future. Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Best from 2014 through 2025. 420 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DallaValle.aspWA 98 (10/2014): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Hershey Vineyard comes from an 1,800-foot elevation and is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon harvested October 19-22. This is a sensational superstar from Howell Mountain with an inky purple color, notes of mocha, mulberry, crème de cassis, graphite and spring flowers. It is dense, full-bodied, opulent and concentrated with sweet but moderate tannin. This is a stunner that should drink well for another 25 or so years.VM 95-98 (12/2014): Graphite, smoke, dark spices, gravel and blue/purplish fruit emerge from the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Hershey Vineyard, Dana's Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon. The flavors are wonderfully vibrant and alive in the glass. A host of spice, menthol, pine and crushed rocks add nuance on the powerful, driving finish. The 2012 Hershey is shaping up to be gorgeous. Tasted from barrel in October 2014, it appears to have a very bright future. This is the first year the See Clone has entered the blend.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DanaEstates.aspWA 98 (10/2014): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Hershey Vineyard comes from an 1,800-foot elevation and is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon harvested October 19-22. This is a sensational superstar from Howell Mountain with an inky purple color, notes of mocha, mulberry, crème de cassis, graphite and spring flowers. It is dense, full-bodied, opulent and concentrated with sweet but moderate tannin. This is a stunner that should drink well for another 25 or so years.VM 95-98 (12/2014): Graphite, smoke, dark spices, gravel and blue/purplish fruit emerge from the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Hershey Vineyard, Dana's Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon. The flavors are wonderfully vibrant and alive in the glass. A host of spice, menthol, pine and crushed rocks add nuance on the powerful, driving finish. The 2012 Hershey is shaping up to be gorgeous. Tasted from barrel in October 2014, it appears to have a very bright future. This is the first year the See Clone has entered the blend.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DanaEstates.aspWA 98 (10/2014): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Lotus, which is 93% Cabernet Sauvignon and 7% Petit Verdot, was harvested much earlier, October 9-18, and aged 25 months in French oak (more than 90% new). There are only 300 cases of this wine, which has a striking floral nose with hints of licorice, burning embers, incense, blueberry and blackberry liqueur. It’s powerful, lightly tannic, extravagantly rich and a great classic from a fabulous terroir and impeccable winemaking and élevage. Drink it over the next 20+ years.VM 95-97 (11/2013): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Lotus Vineyard is the sweetest and roundest of the 2012s from Dana Estates. Soft, voluptuous and creamy, the Lotus stands out for its racy, exuberant personality. The 2012 sits on the razor's edge of ripeness, with blue/black fruit, sweet spice and mint notes that develop in the glass. There is plenty of early appeal in this beautiful and complete Cabernet Sauvignon. The 2012 includes 8% Petit Verdot, a first for this wine. Fermentations took place in a combination of oak uprights, cement vats, French oak barrels and stainless steel.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DanaEstates.aspWA 98+ (12/2015): Their flagship wine, the 2013 Proprietary Red Dancing Hares is a blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34% Merlot and the rest Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. The color is a saturated ruby/purple, the nose slightly more restrained than the Mad Hatter, but intense, deep and promising. The wine is extremely full-bodied, with notes of chocolate, espresso, crème de cassis, licorice and blackberry, this has killer intensity, super full-bodied richness, but is relatively light on its feet for this kind of mass and richness. This is a fabulous wine and certainly a great 2013, which is saying something in a vintage that is this incredible. Drink it over the next 15-20 years. VM 94+ (10/2015): The 2013 Dancing Hares is endowed with striking depth and concentration. Blackberry jam, crème de cassis, espresso, mocha and plums are all laced together. A wine of density and power, the 2013 packs a serious punch, but the aromatics still need time to open up post-bottling. There is plenty to look forward to in this intense, virile wine from Dancing Hares. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DancingHares.aspWA 94 (12/2015): The 2013 Proprietary Red Mad Hatter, 69% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc and 10% Petit Verdot, is a big-time winner. It has a gorgeously deep ruby/purple color, a sweet kiss of licorice, blackcurrants, black cherries, camphor and incense. The wine is fragrant, with supple tannins, an opulent lushness and a total hedonistic and intellectual turn-on. Drink it over the next 10-12 years.VM 92 (10/2015): Fleshy, open and seductive, the 2013 Mad Hatter makes a great introduction to the wines of Dancing Hares. Mocha, plum, dark stone fruit and spice flesh out at this succulent Cabernet Sauvignon-based red shows off its inviting personality. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DancingHares.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DavisFamilyVineyards.aspVM 90 (10/2015): Deep red. Aromas of fresh raspberry and peppery spices, with a smoky mineral note in the background. Racy, focused and spicy on the palate, offering an array of red fruit flavors that flesh out in the mid-palate. Clings with very good tenacity on the finish, which is firmed by dusty, slowly building tannins.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DayWines.aspVM 91 (10/2015): Brilliant red. Suave, highly perfumed aromas of black raspberry and cherry-cola, with hints of rose pastille and allspice emerging with aeration. Juicy and precise on the palate, offering bitter cherry and red berry flavors that are given spine by a bright mineral nuance. Closes taut and spicy, with excellent clarity, supple tannins and lingering red fruit character.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DayWines.aspWA 89 (12/2005): The 2003 Pinot Noir Goldridge Vineyard (1,300 cases) exhibits plenty of cherry, plum, spice box, and herb aromas and flavors in addition to crisp acidity, medium body, forward fruit, and a plump, spicy finish. It should last for 4-5 years. Kudos to Tom Dehlinger, a guy who seems to be content to stay under the radar and simply make an assortment of very fine as well as realistically priced wines!IWC 88 (6/2006): Palish red color. Aromas of strawberry, smoke and nutty oak. Supple and sweet, with an attractive silkiness to its strawberry and spice flavors. Nicely concentrated, structured wine, probably best enjoyed in the next three or four years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Dehlinger.aspWA 93 (8/2010): The 2007 Chaleur Estate is composed of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, with the balance Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot sourced from 4 vineyards with 95% of the fruit coming from the Red Mountain AVA. Deep crimson-colored, it offers up an enticing aromatic array of cigar box, Asian spices, mineral, herbs, violets, black currant, and blackberry. Medium to full-bodied, on the palate it is dense, savory, and structured with enough ripe tannin to evolve for another 3-4 years. It has a drinking window extending from 2013 to 2027. VM 93 (12/2010): Full ruby-red. Claret-like nose offers raspberry, tobacco and spices. Broad, sweet, pliant and thick, conveying full ripeness and compelling concentration to its red fruit and coffee flavors. For all its sweetness, this dense wine boasts solid underlying structure for a slow evolution in bottle. WS 92 (6/2011): The tannins are a tad prickly, but this is ripe and generous, striking a compelling balance between dark fruit—mainly black cherry—and roasted red pepper notes, mingling on the focused finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Best from 2012 through 2017. 950 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DeLilleCellars.aspWA 93 (8/2010): The 2007 Chaleur Estate is composed of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, with the balance Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot sourced from 4 vineyards with 95% of the fruit coming from the Red Mountain AVA. Deep crimson-colored, it offers up an enticing aromatic array of cigar box, Asian spices, mineral, herbs, violets, black currant, and blackberry. Medium to full-bodied, on the palate it is dense, savory, and structured with enough ripe tannin to evolve for another 3-4 years. It has a drinking window extending from 2013 to 2027. VM 93 (12/2010): Full ruby-red. Claret-like nose offers raspberry, tobacco and spices. Broad, sweet, pliant and thick, conveying full ripeness and compelling concentration to its red fruit and coffee flavors. For all its sweetness, this dense wine boasts solid underlying structure for a slow evolution in bottle. WS 92 (6/2011): The tannins are a tad prickly, but this is ripe and generous, striking a compelling balance between dark fruit—mainly black cherry—and roasted red pepper notes, mingling on the focused finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Best from 2012 through 2017. 950 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DeLilleCellars.aspIWC 93+ (11/2012): (68% cabernet sauvignon, 23% merlot, 7% cab franc and 2% petit verdot): Good bright ruby-red. Very ripe aromas of black cherry, chocolate, cocoa powder and black pepper. Broad, sweet and very ripe, with a slightly high-toned character to the plum, dark berry and dark chocolate. A powerful yet plush wine whose huge tannins currently cut off its fruit on the back end. This will require patience.WA 93 (12/2012): Comprising 68% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Petit Verdot – sourced from Ciel du Cheval and Klipsun Vineyards – the 2009 Chaleur Estate red is dominated by lusciously ripe morello cherry, with accents of peat, tobacco, licorice, allspice, and tactilely sizzling cinnamon. Plush though with underlying chew, it finishes with an invigoration and energy one scarcely anticipates from these grape varieties much less in such a warm vintage. Upchurch suggests that most of the tannin in a wine like this comes from the seeds and that the proclivity in Washington of seeds to truly ripen to nutty crunchiness (granted that precisely in 2009 this proved challenging) is what makes for wine with this sort of amazingly vibrant and stimulatingly tannic personality. And, he believes, incidentally, that punch-downs as opposed to pump-overs make for more advantageous extraction that preserves these virtues. WS 92 (10/2012): Dense, focused, chewy and explosive in flavor, offering cinnamon-accented red berry, blackberry and spice notes in profusion, coming together tightly on the dark finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Best from 2014 through 2020. 1,000 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DeLilleCellars.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DeLilleCellars.aspWA 92 (6/2013): As to the reds, Delille’s 2010 D2 is billed as the second wine of their Chaleur Estate blend and is comprised of 60% Merlot, 34% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot that spent 18 months in French oak. It displays classic aromas and flavors of black currants, wild herbs, plum sauce and Asian spice to go with a fleshy, full-bodied texture on the palate. Rich, voluptuous and well-constructed, it could certainly be consumed now, yet will be even better in another year or so and shine for over a decade. Drink now-2025. VM 92 (11/2013): (60% merlot, 34% cabernet sauvignon, 4% cabernet franc and 2% petit verdot): Dark red. Sexy aromas and flavors of dark berries, cocoa powder, mocha and brown spices. Sweet and vibrant in the mouth, with terrific flavor definition and lift. The very long finish features sweet tannins and an exhilarating light touch. There are 2,600 cases of this wine. Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DeLilleCellars.aspVM 91 (11/2013): (51% syrah, 43% cabernet sauvignon and 6% mourvedre): Bright red. Aromas of blackberry and licorice are complicated by spicy oak and white pepper. Juicy, spicy and penetrating, with lovely intensity to the youthfully tight red berry flavors. Finishes sweet and long, with firm but harmonious tannins. I'd give this at least a year in the cellar before pulling the cork.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DeLilleCellars.aspVM 91 (11/2013): (51% syrah, 43% cabernet sauvignon and 6% mourvedre): Bright red. Aromas of blackberry and licorice are complicated by spicy oak and white pepper. Juicy, spicy and penetrating, with lovely intensity to the youthfully tight red berry flavors. Finishes sweet and long, with firm but harmonious tannins. I'd give this at least a year in the cellar before pulling the cork.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DeLilleCellars.aspIWC 93 (11/2009): (the cabernet component here, which makes up about two-thirds of the wine, dates back to 1962) Good deep red-ruby. Currant, mocha and cedar on the expressive nose. Sweet, lush and wonderfully fine-grained, with cooler, sharply delineated flavors of black cherry, blackberry, cedar, wild herbs and leather: very cabernet. Sexy lavender and basil notes add nuance on the very broad back end, where the tannins are perfectly integrated with the wine's fruit. This was aged in 100% new Taransaud barriqueshttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DeLilleCellars.aspWA 91 (8/2007): The 2005 Metier Blanc is 70% Viognier from the Ciel du Cheval Vineyard and 30% Chardonnay from the Cold Creek Vineyard. Medium straw-colored, it offers a lovely bouquet of melon, pear, lemon-lime, and pit fruits. This leads to a dry, ripe wine with crisp acidity. With excellent balance and length, it should pair well with Pacific Northwest seafood. Drink it over the next 1-2 years. VM 88 (11/2007): (a blend of 70% viognier and 30% chardonnay) Pale peach skin color. Aromas of peach flesh and peach pit, minerals and charred oak. Juicy, spicy and bright, showing a distinctly saline quality to the mirabelle flavor. This boasts excellent fruit and finishes with a slight phenolic edge that should do well with food. Stephen Tanzer.WS 87 (6/2007): Subtle for a Viognier-based wine, with dusky spice and earth notes underlying the gentle pear and toast flavors. Viognier and Chardonnay. Drink now through 2009. 250 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DeLilleCellars.aspWA 93 (12/2012): Constituting one-third Cabernet Sauvignon; 22% each of Merlot and Syrah; with contributions from Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc, and Sangiovese, the Den Hoed 2006 Marie’s View – second installment of this bottling – mingles candied cherry with carob, dark tobacco, brown spices, and dark-roasted coffee for a sweetly rich yet brooding presence, undertones of crushed stone, pencil lead, and iodine adding to the pensive sense of intrigue and low-toned palate imposition of a wine likely to be well worth following for a decade. WS 91 (12/2010): Smooth and polished, with an earthy edge to the red berry, beet and black olive flavors, harmonizing well and lingering nicely. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc and Sangiovese. Drink now through 2014. 171 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DenHoed.aspWA 94 (12/2012): Whereas I tasted the most recently-released, 2008 installment of Den Hoed’s pure Cabernet known as Andreas, Rob Newsom (for more about whom see under his Boudreaux Cellars in this report), chose, inexplicably, to only show me two earlier vintages of Den Hoed’s other, multi-cepage cuvee – bottlings that had already been reviewed by Jay Miller in issues 196 and 190, but which inspire me to weigh-in, beginning with the 2007 Marie’s View. As usual, this cuvee consists of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc, and Sangiovese, the first two in the present instance each constituting one-third, and the last two fermented together. Cherry preserves, creme de cassis, roasted red meats, tar, and bay laurel are announced in the nose and then dominate an incredibly rich, silken-textured palate whose sweetness avoids superficiality and benefits from the intriguing contrast of set stone and peat-like smoky undertones. Here is one of those surprisingly uncommon yet to my mind predictably successful North American instances of synergy between the great grapes of the Medoc and Northern Rhone. Hints of tar and camphor add to the complexity of a vibrantly tenacious yet at the same time soothing finish. Look for continued excitement over the coming decade. There are 200 cases. VM 92 (11/2011): Good ruby-red. Claret-like aromas of plum, reducrrant, spices and herbs, with higher-pitched suggestions of red cherry and rose petal. Suave and light on its feet, with a youthfully medicinal aspect to the flavors of red fruits, flowers and licorice. Firmly structured but not a bit hard. Finishes with strong fruit and a hint of marzipan. This exciting new project involves brothers Andy and Bill den Hoed, Allen Shoup (CEO of Long Shadows) and winemaker Rob Newsome. (Gilles Nicault was responsible for 2006 vintage of Andreas.) Stephen Tanzer.WS 91 (10/2011): A refined style, lean and spicy, with earthy, floral overtones to the berry flavors. The fruit persists against tobacco notes on the finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc and Sangiovese. Drink now through 2017. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 168 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DenHoed.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DirtyRowdy.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DirtyRowdy.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DirtyRowdy.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DirtyRowdy.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DirtyRowdy.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DirtyRowdy.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DirtyRowdy.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DirtyRowdy.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DirtyRowdy.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DirtyRowdy.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DirtyRowdyEnfield.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DirtyRowdyEnfield.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DirtyRowdyEnfield.aspWA 99 (12/2010): Made in a more masculine style, the 2008 Dominus has all of that along with bigger body and more structure, fat, density and texture. Both are brilliant wines and they represent the finest back-to-back vintages for Dominus since 2001 and 2002 or 1990 and 1991. Both the 2007 and 2008 Dominus should drink well for 25-30 years. WS 94 (11/2011): Very Bordeaux-like in its makeup and structure, this firm wine offers good acidity and tight tannins, delivering complex flavors of loamy earth, vivid dried currant and berry, with anise and mineral notes sprinkled in. My favorite young Dominus of late. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2022. 4,500 cases made. VM 93 (6/2011): (a blend of 83% cabernet sauvignon, 13% cabernet franc and 4% petit verdot): Good full red-ruby. Fresher on the nose than the Napanook, showing raspberry, plum, mocha and tobacco aromas. Round and plummy in the mouth, with a restrained sweetness to the flavors of milk chocolate, mocha and licorice. A wine of moderate ripeness for the vintage, and in a shell today. Finishes with substantial dusty tannins and notes of plum, mocha and chocolate. I don't find quite the structure or grip of the best years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Dominus.aspWA 99 (12/2010): Made in a more masculine style, the 2008 Dominus has all of that along with bigger body and more structure, fat, density and texture. Both are brilliant wines and they represent the finest back-to-back vintages for Dominus since 2001 and 2002 or 1990 and 1991. Both the 2007 and 2008 Dominus should drink well for 25-30 years. WS 94 (11/2011): Very Bordeaux-like in its makeup and structure, this firm wine offers good acidity and tight tannins, delivering complex flavors of loamy earth, vivid dried currant and berry, with anise and mineral notes sprinkled in. My favorite young Dominus of late. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2022. 4,500 cases made. VM 93 (6/2011): (a blend of 83% cabernet sauvignon, 13% cabernet franc and 4% petit verdot): Good full red-ruby. Fresher on the nose than the Napanook, showing raspberry, plum, mocha and tobacco aromas. Round and plummy in the mouth, with a restrained sweetness to the flavors of milk chocolate, mocha and licorice. A wine of moderate ripeness for the vintage, and in a shell today. Finishes with substantial dusty tannins and notes of plum, mocha and chocolate. I don't find quite the structure or grip of the best years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Dominus.aspWA 99 (12/2010): Made in a more masculine style, the 2008 Dominus has all of that along with bigger body and more structure, fat, density and texture. Both are brilliant wines and they represent the finest back-to-back vintages for Dominus since 2001 and 2002 or 1990 and 1991. Both the 2007 and 2008 Dominus should drink well for 25-30 years. WS 94 (11/2011): Very Bordeaux-like in its makeup and structure, this firm wine offers good acidity and tight tannins, delivering complex flavors of loamy earth, vivid dried currant and berry, with anise and mineral notes sprinkled in. My favorite young Dominus of late. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2022. 4,500 cases made. VM 93 (6/2011): (a blend of 83% cabernet sauvignon, 13% cabernet franc and 4% petit verdot): Good full red-ruby. Fresher on the nose than the Napanook, showing raspberry, plum, mocha and tobacco aromas. Round and plummy in the mouth, with a restrained sweetness to the flavors of milk chocolate, mocha and licorice. A wine of moderate ripeness for the vintage, and in a shell today. Finishes with substantial dusty tannins and notes of plum, mocha and chocolate. I don't find quite the structure or grip of the best years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Dominus.aspWA 100 (10/2013): Composed of 95% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Petit Verdot, the stunning, full-bodied 2010 Dominus boasts an exceptional perfume of hoisin sauce, licorice, underbrush, forest floor, plums, black currants and jammy cherries intertwined with hints of cedar, baking spices and oak. Full-bodied and voluptuously textured, the 2010 is on a slightly faster evolutionary track than the 2009 (somewhat of an anomaly for these two vintages). This exquisite as well as prodigious 2010 can be drunk young, but it should age effortlessly for 20-25 years. Bravo! VM 94+ (5/2012): Bright, full ruby. High-pitched aromas of cassis, blackberry and dark chocolate, with more medicinal bitter cherry and mesquite notes emerging with aeration. Rich but youthfully tight, conveying an impression of brooding power. This very dense wine is actually creamy and wonderfully fine-grained in the middle but comes across as quite firm and bracing owing to its sharp definition and restrained sweetness. Communicates an impression of very even fruit ripeness. Finishes with terrific mineral-driven length. Built for long aging: will this eventually surpass the outstanding 2009 bottling? WS 92 (11/2013): Graceful and refined, offering a subtle mix of delicate Cabernet flavors, with dried currant, cherry, herb, cedar, cigar box and graphite notes, ending with smooth, integrated tannins. Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2024. 3,000 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Dominus.aspWA 99 (10/2014): Flirting with perfection, the 2012 Dominus is composed of 93% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Petit Verdot and 2% Cabernet Franc. Five thousand cases were produced, a relatively modest amount from this large vineyard’s big crop. Christian Moueix told me that there was plenty of heat in 2012, but there were no excessive hot spells that can plague Napa Valley vintners during the growing season and harvest. This wine’s opaque plum/purple color is accompanied by a beautiful nose of sweet crème de cassis, a touch of background oak (only 40% new oak is used), spice box, cedarwood, black cherries and a hint of spring flowers. The complex, intense aromatics are followed by a deep, opulent, multidimensional, full-bodied wine with not a hard edge to be found. Everything is seamlessly crafted in this beauty and the vintage’s abundant richness is well-displayed. This 2012 can be drunk in its exuberant youthfulness or cellared for another 20-25 years. JS 98 (4/2015): Fabulous purity and clarity of fruit. Blackcurrants, blackberries and violets. Full body, big soft tannins and a chocolate, hazelnut and dark fruit character. Some hot stones. Fruit at the finish. Ripe and velvety finish. Better in 2020 but delicious to drink now. Wonderful Dominus. VM 97+ (12/2014): A towering, majestic wine, the 2012 Dominus is a real stunner. Opulent and intense, yet backed up by a classic expression of acidity and tannin, the 2012 hits the palate with considerable richness. Graphite, dark red and black stone fruits, tobacco and incense soar from the glass as this voluptuous Cabernet Sauvignon shows off its irresistible sexy personality. Expressive floral notes add lift on the finish. The 2012 has become a bit more tender than it was last year, which is excellent news for Dominus fans, especially with super powerful 2013s lurking right around the corner.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Dominus.aspWA 99 (10/2014): Flirting with perfection, the 2012 Dominus is composed of 93% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Petit Verdot and 2% Cabernet Franc. Five thousand cases were produced, a relatively modest amount from this large vineyard’s big crop. Christian Moueix told me that there was plenty of heat in 2012, but there were no excessive hot spells that can plague Napa Valley vintners during the growing season and harvest. This wine’s opaque plum/purple color is accompanied by a beautiful nose of sweet crème de cassis, a touch of background oak (only 40% new oak is used), spice box, cedarwood, black cherries and a hint of spring flowers. The complex, intense aromatics are followed by a deep, opulent, multidimensional, full-bodied wine with not a hard edge to be found. Everything is seamlessly crafted in this beauty and the vintage’s abundant richness is well-displayed. This 2012 can be drunk in its exuberant youthfulness or cellared for another 20-25 years. JS 98 (4/2015): Fabulous purity and clarity of fruit. Blackcurrants, blackberries and violets. Full body, big soft tannins and a chocolate, hazelnut and dark fruit character. Some hot stones. Fruit at the finish. Ripe and velvety finish. Better in 2020 but delicious to drink now. Wonderful Dominus. VM 97+ (12/2014): A towering, majestic wine, the 2012 Dominus is a real stunner. Opulent and intense, yet backed up by a classic expression of acidity and tannin, the 2012 hits the palate with considerable richness. Graphite, dark red and black stone fruits, tobacco and incense soar from the glass as this voluptuous Cabernet Sauvignon shows off its irresistible sexy personality. Expressive floral notes add lift on the finish. The 2012 has become a bit more tender than it was last year, which is excellent news for Dominus fans, especially with super powerful 2013s lurking right around the corner.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Dominus.aspJS 98 (1/2017): Loads of dark tobacco aromas with blackcurrants and black olives. Boysenberries, too. Full to medium body, ultra-fine tannins and lots of flavors of smoke, dried roasted chillis, black truffles, mushrooms and fruit. Bright acidity on the finish. Sexy and subtle austerity. Alluring. Very approachable now but better in 2021. WA 97 (10/2016): The 2014s, where the production of Napanook was only 2,200 cases and Dominus slightly more than the 2015 at 4,000 cases, was another early harvest, although somewhat later than 2015. The 2014 Dominus, which is 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc and 7% Petit Verdot really struts its stuff. Moueix’s belief in dry farming seems to be paying off with stronger and stronger vintages, each successive year, and the 2014 is a sexy, opulent, layered, multidimensional wine with notes of red and blackcurrant, cedar wood, tobacco leaf , spice box and licorice. The color is a dense plum/ruby/purple, much like the Napanook. This is a beauty that is already drinking gorgeously – as most 2014s are – and will continue to evolve for 25 or so years. VM 96+ (12/2016): The 2014 Dominus is endowed with tons of depth, power and muscle. Black cherry, plum, smoke, menthol, licorice, chocolate, dried herbs and dark spices are all pushed forward. Deep, pliant and exquisitely layered, the 2014 possesses tons of concentration and mid-palate depth. Like so many wines in this vintage, the 2014 comes across as a hybrid of 2013 and 2012. I very much like the energy and focus in this wine. This is a fabulous wine in every way. With time in the glass, the flavors gain in brightness and focus. There is certainly much to look forward to.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Dominus.aspWS 91 (12/2005): Wonderful complex aromas of currant, herb, cedar, tar and tobacco. Smooth, with ripe, integrated tannins. This wine has mellowed nicely and is at an ideal drinking age, with a mix of youthful fruit and a touch of maturity.--1995 California Cabernet retrospective. Drink now through 2009. 338 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Duckhorn.aspWS 91 (12/2005): Wonderful complex aromas of currant, herb, cedar, tar and tobacco. Smooth, with ripe, integrated tannins. This wine has mellowed nicely and is at an ideal drinking age, with a mix of youthful fruit and a touch of maturity.--1995 California Cabernet retrospective. Drink now through 2009. 338 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Duckhorn.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Duckhorn.aspWA 95 (2/2017): Pale ruby-purple in color, the 2014 Pinot Noir Connor opens with alluring potpourri, garrigue and underbrush notes over a core of pomegranate and red currants. Elegantly fruited and medium-bodied, the perfumed red fruit flavors define the palate, supported by harmonious, silky tannins and refreshing acid, finishing softly spoken yet with great resonance. VM 91 (3/2017): The 2014 Pinot Noir Connor Joy Road Vineyard is delicate and finely-knit in the glass. Expressive floral notes and bright, red-toned flavors, along with mid-weight structure, are the signatures. Feminine an gracious, the 2014 will drink well upon release and for at least several years thereafter. WS 91 (2/2017): Firm and juicy, with a core of red plum, blueberry and wild berry flavors. Slow to open but ultimately reveals ample nuance and depth. Drink now through 2022. 340 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DuMol.aspWA 93 (12/2003): The 2001 Syrah Eddie’s Patch (360 cases) is a blockbuster effort from this hillside vineyard. One-hundred percent destemmed, and bottled unfined and unfiltered, it boasts a roasted meat, charcoal-infused, blackberry-scented nose with hints of violets in the background. Dense, full-bodied, and super-rich as well as gorgeously pure with chocolatey, herbal undertones, it needs 1-2 years of cellaring, and should last for 10-12 years.WS 93 (7/2004): Intense and concentrated, almost syrupy. The core wild berry, blackberry, boysenberry, mint and beef scents give it plenty of flavor complexity, and it's focused, with a long, persistent aftertaste. Ripe tannins give it a smooth aftertaste. Drink now through 2009. 468 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DuMol.aspWA 93 (12/2006): The 2004 Syrah Eddie’s Patch (400 cases) shares an opaque purple color in addition to notes of incense, blackberries, truffles, and spicy wood. It is a huge, dense, cool climate Syrah with a Pinot Noir-like sassafras character. Drink this big, earthy, terroir-driven effort over the next 10-12 years. IWC 91 (2/2007): Bright ruby-red. Perfumed, complex nose melds spicy black raspberry, pepper, flowers, minerals and graphite.Suave in texture and quite fine-grained, with enticing berry flavors supported by substantial dusty but sweet tannins that build on the persistent finish.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DuMol.aspWA 96+ (2/2017): The 2014 Chardonnay Estate Vineyard reveals very pretty notes of peach blossoms and candied ginger over a core of nectarines, acacia honey, baking bread and marzipan. Medium-bodied with a silken texture and wonderful intensity of yeasty/savory flavors, it has a great frame of freshness and epic length. A beautiful, truly elegant style. VM 94 (3/2017): As always, the 2014 Chardonnay Estate Vineyard is one of the most phenolic, powerful wines in the range. This high density site produces powerful Chardonnays largely because of less direct sunlight that hits the fruit. Savory herbs, graphite, lemon confit and baked apple are some of the signatures, but, above all else, the Estate is a wine of tension, explosive energy and pure breadth. Accordingly, it is best cellared for at least a few years. Antonio Galloni. WS 89 (3/2017): Spicy, toasty oak adds a kiss of flavor to the citrusy green apple, honeydew and hazelnut notes. Ends with a graceful finish. Drink now through 2021. 710 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DuMol.aspWA 91-93 (12/2005): The 2004 Syrah Jack Robert’s Run, a high elevation, cool climate vineyard, reveals more blueberry and floral characteristics along with marvelous fruit on the attack, an elegant style (in contrast to the more blockbuster, masculine style of the Eddie’s Patch), and an impressive, long finish. It should drink well for a decade.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DuMol.aspWS 89 (3/2012): Pretty, with fragrant and floral notes that are ripe and juicy, highlighting the pear, peach and nectarine flavors with plenty of toasty, smoky details and a long, focused finish. Drink now. 575 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DuMol.aspVM 92 (5/2012): Pale yellow. Fresh pear and nectarine on the nose, with complicating notes of white flowers and ginger. Fleshy but very energetic, with excellent clarity to the bright pit and orchard fruit flavors. Firms up on the finish, picking up minerality and showing very good balance and length. In a distinctly graceful, vibrant style for the variety, with no excess fat. Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DuMol.aspWS 92 (2/2007): Very charming, supple and harmonious, with layers of plum, black cherry and raspberry fruit that's fresh and refreshing. Finishes with a burst of dark fruit flavors, turning delicate. Drink now through 2009. 2,450 cases made. WA 90-93 (12/2005): The 2004 Pinot Noir Russian River is a blend of six different cool climate vineyards. Its dense ruby/purple color is followed by scents of plums, allspice, forest floor, and sassafras. With good acidity, medium to full body, and considerable ripeness, structure, and definition, it should drink well for 5-6 years.IWC 89 (2/2007): Full yellow color. Musky, truffley aromas of mirabelle, peach, caramel and banana skin.Juicy and sweet, with slightly exotic yellow fruit flavors nicely framed by ripe acidity.Finishes firm and attractively sweet.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DuMol.aspWS 90 (3/2012): Firm, intense and chewy, at points rustic and edgy, this manages to deliver a tight, potent, concentrated mix of dried berry, pomegranate, black licorice and cedar flavors. Ends with gritty tannins. Best from 2013 through 2020. 1,360 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DuMol.aspWS 90 (3/2012): Firm, intense and chewy, at points rustic and edgy, this manages to deliver a tight, potent, concentrated mix of dried berry, pomegranate, black licorice and cedar flavors. Ends with gritty tannins. Best from 2013 through 2020. 1,360 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DuMol.aspWA 95 (2/2017): Pale to medium ruby-purple colored, the 2014 Pinot Noir Ryan Widdoes Vineyard has a rather subdued, earthy nose of fungi and fallen leaves over red and black cherries and a waft of lavender. The medium to full-bodied palate is built like a brick house with a solid frame of grainy tannins and lively acid holding the muscular fruit together beautifully, and texturing the long, earthy finish. It needs another 1-2 years in bottle and should cellar for 12+ years thereafter. VM 93+ (3/2017): DuMol's 2014 Pinot Noir Ryan Widdoes Vineyard comes across as quite understated today. Floral and savory notes are nicely pushed forward, while the fruit seems a bit attenuated and in the background. The 2014 needs time to unwind, as the elements aren't fully put together today. Pipe tobacco, herb, dried flowers notes and crushed rose petals are some of the many nuances that meld into the finish. Antonio Galloni. WS 92 (2/2017): Begins with a surge of vibrant, racy wild berry, cherry and blueberry flavors, made lively by gripping tannins and refreshing acidity. Tightens on the finish. Best from 2018 through 2024. 840 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DuMol.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LEcoleNo41.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Eloquence.aspIWC 92 (7/2014): Bright ruby. Deeper and darker in character than the Two Messengers, with intense cherry and black raspberry aromas and notes of cola, violet and woodsmoke. Broad and fleshy on entry, then tighter in the middle, offering intense dark berry flavors lifted by juicy acidity. Shows very good energy and lift on the finish, leaving smoke and floral pastille notes behind. WA 88 (3/2015): The 2012 Attaché, which is a barrel selection of the Two Messengers, is matured in 40% new wood. It has a more precise bouquet with a mixture of red and black fruit, nicely defined with subtle dried rose petal scents. The palate is medium-bodied with fine, sappy red berry fruit and well-judged acidity, harmonious in the mouth with a light bay leaf notes emerging toward the silky finish. Fine.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MaisonlEnvoye.aspVM 93 (11/2011): (36% grenache, 32% mourvedre and 32% syrah, aged in 38% new French barrels and the rest in puncheons; 15.7% alcohol): Bright purple. Intensely perfumed aromas of blackberry, blueberry, anise and violet, with a touch of cinnamon in the background. Juicy, palate-staining red and dark berry flavors show excellent clarity and depth, with a suave floral pastille quality on the back half. The red fruit element carries through on the smooth, very long finish. Josh Raynolds.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/EpochEstateWines.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Estancia.aspWA 91 (12/2010): The least expensive offering, the 2008 Pinot Noir Estate exhibits copious aromas of forest floor, strawberries, black cherries and hints of Allspice and herbs. Medium-bodied, beautifully textured and complex, it is ideal for drinking now and over the next 5-6 years. IWC 88 (5/2011): Medium red. Aromas of strawberry, sandalwood and smoked meat. Juicy and nicely concentrated, with slightly edgy acidity and hints of underbrush and coffee. Showed some strawberry and raspberry with air, but this is more about soil than primary fruit. Finishes with a suggestion of disjointed acidity.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Etude.aspWA 91 (12/2010): The least expensive offering, the 2008 Pinot Noir Estate exhibits copious aromas of forest floor, strawberries, black cherries and hints of Allspice and herbs. Medium-bodied, beautifully textured and complex, it is ideal for drinking now and over the next 5-6 years. IWC 88 (5/2011): Medium red. Aromas of strawberry, sandalwood and smoked meat. Juicy and nicely concentrated, with slightly edgy acidity and hints of underbrush and coffee. Showed some strawberry and raspberry with air, but this is more about soil than primary fruit. Finishes with a suggestion of disjointed acidity.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Etude.aspVM 91+ (5/2000): Fuller red. Fresher, more nuanced but less forthcoming aromas of spicy red fruits, cocoa powder and espresso. Silky and pliant in the mouth, but the wine's firm minerality gives it better grip than the '96. Compelling flavor of cherry liqueur carries through to the long, ripely tannic finish. Stephen Tanzer.WS 89 (9/2000): Firm, tight and intense, with candied cherry, mint, wild berry and cedar flavors, turning tannic and complex. Drink now through 2005. 360 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Etude.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/TyrusEvan.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/EveningLand.aspWA 89 (4/2013): The 2010 Chardonnay Hudson Vineyard wraps around the palate with hints of butter, hazelnut, roasted almonds, dried apricots and savory herbs. A textured, multi-dimensional wine, the 2010 Hudson is the richest and most textured of the 2010 Failla Chardonnays. Warm, resonant notes ring out on the burnished, expressive finish. This is a relatively understated Hudson Chardonnay, but all the vineyard signatures are in the glass. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2016.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Failla.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Failla.aspWA 92 (2/2011): More intense, richer and broader with notions of lard, smoke, roasted herbs, black currants and cassis, the bigger 2009 Syrah Estate is more similar to a full-blooded Hermitage than a Crozes-Hermitage. Give it 1-2 years of cellaring and drink it over the following decade.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Failla.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/FairchildEstate.aspVM 94 (11/2013): Fairchild's 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Sigaro is drop-dead gorgeous. Grilled herbs, smoke, tobacco, licorice and menthol are all woven together in a silky, impeccably polished Cabernet Sauvignon. The 2011 stands out for its pure textural elegance and class. Sweet raspberries, mint and wild flowers linger on a perfumed, fragrant finish that turns increasingly savory and complex over time. This is a fabulous showing for the year. Larry Fairchild purchased his Sigaro vineyard in 1999. There are two plantings; the original 1 acre parcel, and a second parcel measuring 1.25 hectares. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/FairchildEstate.aspWA 100 (10/2015): Absolutely perfect is the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Stones No. 1, which comes from the Beckstoffer/Las Piedras Vineyard in St. Helena. Made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon aged in 80% new French oak for 20 months, the wine has that Mission Haut-Brion/Haut-Brion scorched-earth, gravelly, quarry-stone aromatics intermixed with blueberry, cassis and spring flowers. It is full-bodied with magnificent texture and concentration, stunning freshness, and a terrific finish that goes on for close to a minute. This is surreal and compelling Cabernet Sauvignon to drink over the next 30+ years. VM 93 (10/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Stones No. 1, from the famous Las Piedras vineyard in St. Helena, opens with exquisite aromatics. Silky, nuanced and polished to the core, the 2013 shows the more finessed side of this site. Sweet red cherry, pomegranate, mint and sweet spices are laced into the super-expressive finish. The minerality of Piedras comes through most clearly on the finish. Still, it would be nice to see more site specificity here. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/FairchildEstate.aspWA 98 (10/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Stones No. 2 comes from the G-III and is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from clone 4. This is another near-perfect effort from winemaker Philippe Melka and the Fairchild team. Beautiful, sweet blueberry, blackberry and cassis fruit intermixed with floral notes, earthy soil undertones and forest floor notes are all present in this complex wine, which sports a full-bodied, mega-concentrated mouthfeel, but has no sense of heaviness or awkwardness. Drink it over the next 30+ years.VM 93+ (10/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Stones No. 2, from the Houyi (formerly Chang) vineyard on Pritchard Hill, is the most intense, full-throttle and opulent Cabernet in Larry Fairchild's range. Next to some of the other wines the Stones No. 2 is a bit bombastic in style, with plenty of the richness that is typical of Clone 4 Cabernet. Firm tannins and boisterous, jammy fruit are two of the signatures. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/FairchildEstate.aspVM 88+ (5/2005): Good full ruby. Brooding, medicinal aromas of cassis and mint. Primary and grapey but round, with cassis and licorice flavors along with a light weediness. Fairly dense, even chunky, but could use a bit more sweetness and pliancy. I suspect this rather old-style cabernet will reward cellaring.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/FarNiente.aspWS 89 (10/2009): Sleek and complex, full-bodied and Bordeaux-like, with an earthy mineral edge to the dried berry and currant flavors that are subdued and tightly wound, ending with earthy tannins. Needs time. Best from 2011 through 2017. 12,200 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/FarNiente.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/GaryFarrell.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Favia.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Favia.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Favia.aspWA 92 (8/2011): The 2008 Feather is a multi-regional 100% Cabernet Sauvignon made by Randy Dunn of Napa Valley renown. Sandalwood, licorice, dark chocolate, Asian spices, and black currant aromas set the stage for a tight, structured, well-balanced wine that requires another 4-5 years to fully unwind. This lengthy effort should see its 20th birthday in peak condition.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Feather.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/FerrariCarano.aspWA 90 (6/1995): The outstanding 1991 Cabernet Sauvignon reveals an opaque purple color, a spicy, rich, cassis-scented nose, full body, tremendous density, that chewy unctuosity that winemaker George Bursick routinely obtains in so many wines, and a soft, moderately tannic finish. It should drink well for 10-15 years. The herbaceousness that plagued the Cabernet Sauvignons is no longer present as Ferrari-Carano has begun to manage its vineyards in a manner that minimizes the vegetal aromas and flavors. WS 86 (9/1995): Well oaked, as the currant, herb and berry flavors are just able to balance out; subtle tobacco finish. 13,000 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/FerrariCarano.aspWS 87 (11/1991): Rich and complex, already acquiring a definite sense of maturity, offering interesting chocolate, walnut and smoke overtones to the basic ripe plum and prune flavors. Approaching drinkability. Best now to 1998.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Ficklin.aspWA 86 (12/2003): The 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon Lamb Vineyard reveals the vintage’s dryness, astringency, and hardness. The color is a saturated ruby/purple, and the bouquet reveals notes of toasty oak as well as black fruits. The mid-palate is clipped, and the short finish displays astringent tannin. I would opt for drinking it sooner rather than later, although it may last for 15-20 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Fisher.aspIWC 92 (5/2008): Ruby-red. Musky aromas of currant, black raspberry, espresso, tobacco and dark chocolate. Supple and lush but with a restrained sweetness to the flavors of red and dark berries, minerals and dark chocolate. Ripe acidity gives this suave, nuanced wine plenty of verve. Finishes subtle and long, with a juicy minerality and a late hint of raspberry.WA 90 (12/2007): From a vineyard site situated directly in front of this beautiful winery, on the Sonoma side of Spring Mountain, the 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Wedding Vineyard boasts a dense ruby/purple color followed by notes of earth, blueberries, asphalt, acacia flowers, and graphite. Elegant, medium-bodied flavors display Bordeaux-like freshness and structure. This impeccably well-made Cabernet is not a blockbuster, but it is well-conceived, elegant, and flavorful. Enjoy it over the next 10-15 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Fisher.aspWA 88 (6/2012): Flora Springs’ 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon Holy Smoke Vineyard is a limited production (550 cases), 100% Cabernet Sauvignon cuvee from the Oakville appellation. It exhibits lots of cassis, power and richness as well as a certain rusticity, but an aroma reminiscent of ketchup was off-putting. There are lots of smoke and wood notes even though only two-thirds new French oak is used. This wine seemed disjointed and not as voluptuous and opulent as the finest 2002 Cabernets. WS 84 (11/2005): Generous in its delivery of ripe pomegranate, black cherry, currant and wild berry, it turns smooth and supple on the palate and finishes with a burst of ripe fruit flavors. Best of two bottles. Drink now through 2008. 550 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/FloraSprings.aspWA 90 (2/2005): Restrained and firmly structured, with noticeable tannin is the 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon Out of Sight Vineyard. Possessing a cooler-climate style with deep red and black currant fruit intermixed with tobacco leaf, mint, and spice, this attractive, moderately tannic, firm effort needs 2-3 years of bottle age. It should drink well for 10-15 years. WS 85 (11/2005): Creamy and plush, with a generous wave of ripe plum, black cherry, cola and earth flavors. Cedary oak and herb notes accent the firm, ample tannins on the finish, with lingering intensity. Drink now through 2010. 500 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/FloraSprings.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/FloraSprings.aspWA 92 (12/1997): The 1995 Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Reserve is a backward, tannic wine with an opaque purple color, and copious quantities of sweet black currant fruit, cedar, and spice. Muscular, rich, and full-bodied, with sweet tannin, this is a layered, concentrated, unevolved and youthful Cabernet Sauvignon that requires 4-5 years of cellaring. All the necessary "goodies" are present in this formidably-endowed wine. While it will not provide seductive drinking at an early age, it will last 20 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/FloraSprings.aspWA 90 (12/1997): Trilogy, Flora Springs' proprietary red table wine, is generally a blend of equal proportions of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, with approximately 15%-17% Cabernet Franc included. With its curranty, cedary, tobacco-like sweetness and ripeness, Trilogy may be the Napa Valley wine that most recalls certain St.-Emilions. Approximately 3,500-4,000 cases of this wine are made in a top vintage. The 1995 Trilogy (44% Merlot, 39% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 17% Cabernet Franc) is a spicy, Medoc-styled wine with medium to full body, excellent spice and richness, as well as an overall sense of elegance and equilibrium. It is a delicious wine to drink now and over the next 15+ years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/FloraSprings.aspWA 90 (12/2000): There are 7,500 cases of the outstanding 1999 Trilogy (a blend of 48% Cabernet Sauvignon, 42% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc, and 4% Malbec). Its elegance and finesse are nicely balanced by the wine's considerable richness. A dense ruby/purple color is followed by aromas of malt chocolate, cocoa, black cherries, currants, licorice, and earth. The wine is medium to full-bodied, pure, and ripe, with nicely integrated acidity and tannin. It will drink well for 12-15 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/FloraSprings.aspWA 89 (08/2002): The 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon Wild Boar Vineyard exhibits tons of sweet oak, dense, plum, cassis, and spice box scents, considerable body, weight, and muscle, and a rustic style (a Cabernet for hard-core bikers?). Don't expect pure harmony, but boy, is this wine loaded! Drink it over the next 12-15 years. This big, substantial 100% Cabernet Sauvignon cuvee may lack European-styled finesse, but it is All-American in its blatant oak, luxurious richness, and lavish fruit.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/FloraSprings.aspWA 89 (08/2002): The 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon Wild Boar Vineyard exhibits tons of sweet oak, dense, plum, cassis, and spice box scents, considerable body, weight, and muscle, and a rustic style (a Cabernet for hard-core bikers?). Don't expect pure harmony, but boy, is this wine loaded! Drink it over the next 12-15 years. This big, substantial 100% Cabernet Sauvignon cuvee may lack European-styled finesse, but it is All-American in its blatant oak, luxurious richness, and lavish fruit.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/FloraSprings.aspWA 90 (12/2003): Not surprisingly, the most rustic, balls-to-the-walls offering here is the 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon Wild Boar Vineyard. An inky/ruby/purple color is accompanied by aromas of earth, new saddle leather, and licorice. Plenty of power and body are found in this macho-styled Cabernet along with noticeably high tannin. It is questionable whether all the tannin will fall away, but there is plenty to like in this big, mouth-filling, teeth-staining 2001. It should hit its prime in 2-3 years, and last for 12-15.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/FloraSprings.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/FlowersVineyard.aspWS 93 (4/2011): Offers good richness, intensity, depth and range of flavors, with a mix of blackberry, wild berry, spice and mineral flavors that show touches of licorice. Full-bodied, gaining depth and nuance on the finish, where the flavors build velocity. Drink now through 2018. 340 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/AdrianFog.aspWS 88 (7/2011): Offers a distinct sweet-sour wild blackberry flavor that is spicy and floral, intense and full-bodied, ending with a long, mouthwatering finish. Drink now through 2019. 375 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/AdrianFog.aspWA 95 (2/2005): A classic example of a Bordeaux blend, the 2002 Claret possesses an inky/blue/purple color as well as a fabulous perfume of graphite, creme de cassis, smoke, and licorice. It hits the palate with a full-bodied, unctuous texture, tremendous purity, and moderately high tannin in the 40+ second finish. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2018.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RobertFoleyVineyards.aspWA 98 (12/2009): The extraordinary 2007 Claret, which is a Cabernet Sauvignon-based wine, displays inky notes of lead pencil shavings, pen ink, creme de cassis, blackberry, incense, and licorice. The wine is super-pure and super-rich, an extraordinarily full-bodied powerhouse of a Cabernet Sauvignon that should evolve for 15 or more years. Its sweetness of tannin and headiness already make it accessible.WS 92 (2/2010): Offers a wonderful sense of harmony, balance and finesse. Ripe and rich without being heavy, this is marked by complex currant, black cherry, anise, spice and sage, gaining depth and complexity on the long, lingering finish. Drink now through 2017. 1,000 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RobertFoleyVineyards.aspWA 98 (12/2009): The extraordinary 2007 Claret, which is a Cabernet Sauvignon-based wine, displays inky notes of lead pencil shavings, pen ink, creme de cassis, blackberry, incense, and licorice. The wine is super-pure and super-rich, an extraordinarily full-bodied powerhouse of a Cabernet Sauvignon that should evolve for 15 or more years. Its sweetness of tannin and headiness already make it accessible.WS 92 (2/2010): Offers a wonderful sense of harmony, balance and finesse. Ripe and rich without being heavy, this is marked by complex currant, black cherry, anise, spice and sage, gaining depth and complexity on the long, lingering finish. Drink now through 2017. 1,000 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RobertFoleyVineyards.aspVM 92+ (6/2006): Bright, full ruby. Captivating aromas of blackberry, blueberry, crushed pepper, iron and smoked meat. Densely packed, sweet and chewy, with explosive, juicy fruit of noteworthy purity; a bit less jammy than the nose suggests. Finishes with huge but sweet tannins and a lingering flavor of chocolate truffle. Boasts superb depth of fruit flavor for petite sirah. WA 92 (12/2005): The 2003 Petite Sirah is a classic. Opaque purple to the rim, with a big, sweet nose of blackberries, white flowers, crushed rocks, vanilla, and smoke, ferociously tannic but enormously concentrated and extracted, this wine needs 5-6 years of bottle age and will handsomely repay two decades of aging. WS 92 (11/2005): Lots of exotic spice, wood and hazelnut aromas lead to a rich, supple, polished core of harmonious wild berry and blackberry fruit. It's so refined and elegant you'll be surprised that this is a Petite Sirah, though the tannins on the finish will remind you of this grape's chewy personality. Drink now through 2010. 400 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RobertFoleyVineyards.aspVM 92+ (6/2006): Bright, full ruby. Captivating aromas of blackberry, blueberry, crushed pepper, iron and smoked meat. Densely packed, sweet and chewy, with explosive, juicy fruit of noteworthy purity; a bit less jammy than the nose suggests. Finishes with huge but sweet tannins and a lingering flavor of chocolate truffle. Boasts superb depth of fruit flavor for petite sirah. WA 92 (12/2005): The 2003 Petite Sirah is a classic. Opaque purple to the rim, with a big, sweet nose of blackberries, white flowers, crushed rocks, vanilla, and smoke, ferociously tannic but enormously concentrated and extracted, this wine needs 5-6 years of bottle age and will handsomely repay two decades of aging. WS 92 (11/2005): Lots of exotic spice, wood and hazelnut aromas lead to a rich, supple, polished core of harmonious wild berry and blackberry fruit. It's so refined and elegant you'll be surprised that this is a Petite Sirah, though the tannins on the finish will remind you of this grape's chewy personality. Drink now through 2010. 400 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RobertFoleyVineyards.aspWA 91 (12/2012): The Force Majeure 2009 Ciel du Cheval Vineyard Collaboration Series I is a blend of two-thirds Cabernet Sauvignon with, notes McBride a bit oddly, “healthy doses of P(etit) V(erdot) and Cabernet Franc for our take on ‘Left Bank’.” (That said, there is also a bit of Merlot.) In any case, it’s vinified by Ben Smith of Cadence, for more on whose attraction to Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot consult my notes on recent offerings from that winery. The herbaceous side of these cepages dominates in the nose, though in a pleasantly pungent and reasonably complex way. Mint, arbor vitae, and cassis take on a chocolate coating on the glycerol-rich palate, and this finishes with an admirable counterpoint – somehow avoiding too bifurcated a sense – between bittersweetly herbal and torrefied, confitured character. I wouldn’t have guessed that the barrels were 70% new, and there is what I like to think of as a Washington-typical energetic finishing ping. This ought to be worth following for at least the next half dozen years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ForceMajeure.aspWA 95 (6/2013): Made by Ben Smith of Cadence with the overall intent to show elegance and refinement in a Washington blend, the 2010 Collaboration Series I checks in as a blend of 64% Cabernet Sauvignon and the balance equal parts Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Borderline opaque purple in color, it offers a perfumed, civilized bouquet of fresh black raspberry, damp underbrush, pencil shavings, toast and violets to go with a full-bodied, gorgeously balanced and pure mouthfeel on the palate that carries a light texture and ripe tannin. All from the first-rate Ciel du Cheval vineyard and aged in 70% new French oak, it is an elegant, ethereal and age-worthy blend that will evolve gracefully for 3-4 years and have upwards of 10-12 years or more of ultimate longevity. Drink 2016-2025. VM 92+ (11/2013): (64% cabernet sauvignon, and 12% each cabernet franc, merlot and petit verdot; includes cabernet sauvignon plantings dating back to 1982 and 1975; made by Ben Smith; five of the eight barrels were new): Good dark red. Aromas and flavors of blueberry, coffee, mocha and sexy coconutty oak are lifted by a minty high note. Fine-grained and suave, in a distinctly cooler style for the year. Firm acidity and a pronounced medicinal reserve contribute to the impression of solid structure. Finishes with very smooth tannins and excellent length. Stephen Tanzer. WS 91 (10/2013): Polished, spicy and distinctive, presenting a blackberry and mocha flavor profile on a sleek, seductive frame. Pulls together seamlessly on the finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Merlot. Drink now through 2016. 200 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ForceMajeure.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ForceMajeure.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ForceMajeure.aspWA 92 (12/2012): For Force Majeure’s 2009 Ciel du Cheval Vineyard Collaboration Series II the inspiration is Northern Rhone and vinificateur Ross Mickel (formerly of Betz) co-ferments with dollops of both Viognier and Roussanne. (Johnson says he goes through all of the available fruit to pick, based on flavor-interest, bunches of Viognier and Roussanne specifically for purposes of co-fermentation, though I can’t say he convinced me that this could be anything but overkill given precisely that purpose, and the mere 1% of each employed.) Perhaps not surprisingly given the choice of Rhone clones of Syrah and the Rhone inspiration, this is initially a bit reduced, and as it opens is more meaty and savory in a saline, bloody way than the corresponding Collaboration III. Scents of mint, violet, gentian, black pepper, and cherry in confitured and distilled formats make for both a striking nose and persistent, polished, sappy, and energetic palate impression. This ought to be fascinating and delightful to follow for at least the better part of a decade.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ForceMajeure.aspWA 92 (12/2012): For Force Majeure’s 2009 Ciel du Cheval Vineyard Collaboration Series II the inspiration is Northern Rhone and vinificateur Ross Mickel (formerly of Betz) co-ferments with dollops of both Viognier and Roussanne. (Johnson says he goes through all of the available fruit to pick, based on flavor-interest, bunches of Viognier and Roussanne specifically for purposes of co-fermentation, though I can’t say he convinced me that this could be anything but overkill given precisely that purpose, and the mere 1% of each employed.) Perhaps not surprisingly given the choice of Rhone clones of Syrah and the Rhone inspiration, this is initially a bit reduced, and as it opens is more meaty and savory in a saline, bloody way than the corresponding Collaboration III. Scents of mint, violet, gentian, black pepper, and cherry in confitured and distilled formats make for both a striking nose and persistent, polished, sappy, and energetic palate impression. This ought to be fascinating and delightful to follow for at least the better part of a decade.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ForceMajeure.aspWA 91 (12/2012): The Force Majeure 2009 Ciel du Cheval Vineyard Collaboration Series III employs four clones of Syrah and was vinified by Mark McNeilly (with his assistant Mike Macmorran) of the Mark Ryan winery, who chose to utilize just one-third new barriques, in which the wine finished its primary fermentation. Vanilla and marzipan lend a surprisingly confectionary cast on a glycerol-rich palate to an amalgam of cherry preserves and creme de cassis, happily underlain by suggestions of roasted red meats that lend saliva inducement and savory counterpoint in a lingering, luscious finish. I was surprised at the extent to which this reflected its oak component given the stated percentage of new wood; but it was on this occasion that I made the following important discovery: in Washington, when vintners speak of “neutral” barrels, they may well – as in this instance – be referring to barrels that have been used only once previously! My intuition suggests that this will be worth following for at least 5-7 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ForceMajeure.aspWA 95 (6/2013): More exotic and meaty, with serious coffee bean, roasted herbs, game, smoke and blacker styled fruit, the 2008 Ccollaboration Series Reserve Syrah also comes from the top-class Ciel du Cheval Vineyard in Red Mountain and is 100% Syrah (previous vintages had small amounts of Viognier co-fermented). Made by Ben Smith (Cadence Winery) and aged for 38 months in all-new French oak, it is a serious, age-worthy effort that has full-bodied richness, awesome concentration and a detailed, focused finish. More backwards and dense than normal for this cuvee (both the 2005 and 2006 were much evolved and open-knit on release), it integrated its oak component beautifully over the multiple days I followed the bottle and only improved with air. Give bottles another 3-4 years in the cellar and enjoy over the following 10-15 years. Drink 2016-2026.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ForceMajeure.aspWA 88 (12/2012): The 2009 Ciel du Cheval Vineyard Collaboration Series V represents a self-described attempt by McBride and Johnson – in collaboration with Chris Gorman – to render a “head-turning wine” showcasing this vineyard’s oldest Cabernet vines. It’s all Cabernet Sauvignon, fermented as well as aged in all-new oak, and dominated by scents of flavors of creme de cassis, chocolate, vanilla, caramelized wood resin and banana oil. For as much as its scents are confectionary and torrefied, I expected a more superficially sweet palate impression, but any such tendency is checked by a very prominent mouthful of tannin, and this finishes with a slightly dry spot and considerable gum-numbing and chew. I hope it was just going through a tough patch when I tasted it, and I won’t try to forecast its future evolution on the basis of this one acquaintance, other than to express tentative skepticism.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ForceMajeure.aspWA 92 (6/2014): The estate’s Rhone-styled blend is the Collaboration VI. Comprised of 47% Mourvedre, 42% Syrah and 11% Grenache, the 2011 Collaboration Series VI was fermented in concrete eggs (some whole-cluster inclusion) and aged 20 months in 500-liter French oak puncheons. Made by James Mantone (of Syncline), it offers classic white pepper, ground herbs, earth and assorted dark fruit characteristics to go with a medium to full-bodied, pure and beautifully textured feel on the palate. Elegant, fresh and with a terrific finish, it will evolve gracefully for 10-12 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ForceMajeure.aspWA 92 (6/2014): The estate’s Rhone-styled blend is the Collaboration VI. Comprised of 47% Mourvedre, 42% Syrah and 11% Grenache, the 2011 Collaboration Series VI was fermented in concrete eggs (some whole-cluster inclusion) and aged 20 months in 500-liter French oak puncheons. Made by James Mantone (of Syncline), it offers classic white pepper, ground herbs, earth and assorted dark fruit characteristics to go with a medium to full-bodied, pure and beautifully textured feel on the palate. Elegant, fresh and with a terrific finish, it will evolve gracefully for 10-12 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ForceMajeure.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ForceMajeure.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ForceMajeure.aspWS 90 (7/2016): Firm in texture, with a smoky edge to the dark berry and spice flavors, finishing with a hint of guava. Peppery tannins need cellaring to soften, but the finish doesn't quite. Best from 2017 through 2021. 56 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ForceMajeure.aspWS 90 (7/2016): Firm in texture, with a smoky edge to the dark berry and spice flavors, finishing with a hint of guava. Peppery tannins need cellaring to soften, but the finish doesn't quite. Best from 2017 through 2021. 56 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ForceMajeure.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ForceMajeure.aspWA 89 (12/2012): Like its predecessor (which represented the debut of fruit from their steep estate site), Force Majeure’s 2011 Viognier takes two-thirds of its fruit from neighboring Ciel du Cheval. It was vinified by Mike MacMorran of Mark Ryan Winery in older barriques plus a 25% share in same-sized stainless steel “barrels” (though future installments will employ egg-shaped concrete vessels), with lees stirring and with malolactic transformation blocked on some of them. Scents of acacia and honeysuckle, pear and honeydew melon as well as intimations of cress anticipate inner-mouth florality, juicy fruit, and faint prickle that combine with a glycerol-rich, subtly creamy texture. A bitter note not unfamiliar from this grape is slightly discordantly superimposed over tartness of green apple in an otherwise persistently ripely-fruited finish. My suspicion is that this will be best drunk over the next 12-18 months.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ForceMajeure.aspWA 93 (3/2016): The 2012 Pinot Noir Fort Ross Vineyard has notes of black raspberries, kirsch, baking spices, subtle earth and a hint of gravel-like minerality. The wine has terrific fruit on the attack and mid-palate, medium to full body, and a long finish. This is a beauty to drink over the next decade.WS 88 (4/2014): A rustic style, with a dusty, cedary edge to the vibrant plum and wild berry notes, ending with a mix of loamy rock and black tea nuances. Drink now through 2022. 199 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/FortRossVineyardWinery.aspWA 90 (3/2016): The 2014 Pinot Noir Sea Slopes gets its name from overlooking the Pacific Ocean at an elevation of 1,200 to 1,700 feet. The wine spent nine months in 10% new French oak prior to being bottled unfined and unfiltered. This wine offers loads of Chinese black tea, pomegranate, floral notes and a hint of raspberry in a medium-bodied, fresh, lively, Côte de Beaune style. Drink it over the next 5-7 years.WS 88 (6/2016): Dusty, cedary tannins outline the trim core of dried berry and underbrush flavors. Elegant and refined given the weight, ending with gravelly notes. Drink now through 2020. 2,238 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/FortRossVineyardWinery.aspWA 93 (3/2016): The 2012 Pinot Noir Symposium was aged in 20% new French oak and is actually the only wine that is not 100% Pinot Noir. It is blended with – of all things – 4% Pinotage. There are plenty of sweet cherries, raspberries and floral notes, followed by an earthy, spicy, medium-bodied wine with good structure and finely tuned tannins. The acidity is good and the wine fresh, pure and delicious. WS 91 (3/2016): Crisp acidity and firm, dusty tannins give the core blackberry, black licorice and wild berry notes structure, as this red holds to a tight focus and a long, vibrant aftertaste. Drink now through 2022. 403 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/FortRossVineyardWinery.aspVM 94 (7/2014): The 2012 Pinot Noir La Encantada Vineyard is another of the many highlights in this range. Here the flavors are dark, smoky and gamy. Dark red cherry, plum, tobacco and cured meats flesh out in a resonant, highly expressive Pinot endowed with notable depth, especially within the context of the vintage. Hints of dried rose petal and violets linger on the finish. From start to finish, the Encantada is superb.WA 93 (8/2014): The 2012 Pinot Noir La Encantada Vineyard Sta. Rita Hills is a beautiful effort that spent 16 months in 33% new French oak prior to being bottled un-fined and unfiltered. Showing notions of cherry pits, framboise, mint and spring flowers, it flows onto the palate with a rich, seamless texture, outstanding purity of fruit and a nicely focused, layered finish that keeps you coming back to the glass. Completely destemmed, it shows the prettier side the variety, and will shine for 5-7 years. WS 88 (9/2014): Tight, firm and vibrant, centered on vivid dark berry, mineral, cedar and crushed rock notes, ending with a dusty, earthy aftertaste. Drink now through 2022. 580 cases made.BH 88 (4/2015): Here the nose derives primarily from the red side of the fruit spectrum where top notes of spice and tea add breadth. There is a slight tanginess to the middle weight flavors that possess a lovely sense of verve though the finish is a bit awkward as the tangy character cuts it somewhat short. To be sure this is not without a certain appeal but the overall sense of harmony isn't ideal. Drink 2018+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Foxen.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Franciscan.aspWS 90 (10/1999): Focused and elegant, with notes of leather and game running through the black cherry, plum, cedar, sage and tobacco flavors. Firm on the finish, where the flavors build, turning even more complex. Drink now through 2005. 5,000 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Franciscan.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Franciscan.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Franciscan.aspWA 84-86 (12/2003): The 2002 Merlot (75,000 cases produced) is a round, straightforward, easy-going effort to drink during its first 4-5 years of life.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Franciscan.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Franciscan.aspWA 88 (12/2011): The 2008 Zinfandel shows excellent depth in its sweet red cherries flowers and licorice. This is a subdued style of Zinfandel, yet the wine’s overall balance is quite good. The blend incorporates 16% Petite Sirah. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2017.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/FrankFamily.aspVM 92 (5/2010): Light, vivid red. High-pitched, spicy aromas of strawberry, raspberry, rose and violet. Lush, juicy and gently sweet, offering potent red berry preserve and cola flavors and sexy spice and floral elements. Finishes with refreshing spiciness and lingering floral notes. Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Freeman.aspVM 93 (5/2011): Medium red. Sexy, highly perfumed scents of wild strawberry, raspberry, cola, potpourri and allspice, with a slow-building mineral quality and a hint of white pepper. Stains the palate with sweet red berry and floral pastille flavors and picks up a subtle smoky note on the back half. Shows superb intensity without excess weight, finishing with serious persistence on a suave note of allspice. This should be singing in about three years, not that there's any crime in enjoying it now. Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Freeman.aspVM 92 (3/2017): Freeman's 2014 Pinot Noir (Russian River Valley) is soft, pretty and nicely lifted throughout. Sweet red cherry, blood orange, mint, star anise and exotic spices add striking aromatic nuance. This is an especially restrained, mid-weight style for the Russian River. All the elements fall into place in a super-expressive Pinot to enjoy now and over the next few years. The straight Russian River Pinot is often one of the best wines in the range, as it is again this year. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Freeman.aspVM 92 (3/2017): Freeman's 2014 Pinot Noir (Russian River Valley) is soft, pretty and nicely lifted throughout. Sweet red cherry, blood orange, mint, star anise and exotic spices add striking aromatic nuance. This is an especially restrained, mid-weight style for the Russian River. All the elements fall into place in a super-expressive Pinot to enjoy now and over the next few years. The straight Russian River Pinot is often one of the best wines in the range, as it is again this year. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Freeman.aspWA 91 (4/2013): The 2010 Chardonnay Ryo-Fu comes across as clean, vibrant and tightly wound. Lemon, white flowers and pears all flesh out in a surprisingly broad-shouldered wine for the year. There is plenty of punch and pure depth in the glass, but the 2010 needs more time in bottle to fully open up. Nevertheless, it is quite beautiful. Ryo-fu means cool breeze in Japanese. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2018.IWC 91 (5/2012): (made from fruit grown in the Heintz and Keefer vineyards): Light, hazy yellow. Enticing aromas of orange zest, pear and jasmine, with a touch of smoky minerals. Juicy, spicy and expansive, with very good depth to its dusty, mineral-accented orchard fruit and melon flavors. The bright, impressively persistent finish leaves notes of candied ginger and citrus fruits behind.WS 87 (7/2012): Fresh and snappy, with a narrow range of flavors, offering pithy citrus, green pineapple and fresh pear. Drink now through 2018. 592 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Freeman.aspWA 93 (2/2012): The 2009 Pinot Noir Pastorale Vineyard is all about focus and length. The Pastorale doesn’t quite have the richness of the Quarter Moon, nor the suppleness of the straight Pinot, but it nevertheless impresses for its fabulous overall balance. Bright acidity provides a lively counter to the wine’s highly expressive dark cherries, plums, licorice, mint, tar and sweet herbs. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2019.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/FreestoneVineyards(JosephPhelps).aspWA 93 (2/2012): The 2009 Pinot Noir Quarter Moon Vineyard is a big, rich wine loaded with sweet black fruit. Expressive aromatic nuances are woven throughout, giving the wine much of its lift and vibrancy. Firm tannins frame the long, polished finish. This wonderfully complete wine is firing on all cylinders. Another year in bottle should help some of the power to soften. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2019.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/FreestoneVineyards(JosephPhelps).aspWA 92 (4/2013): The 2010 Pinot Noir Estate Quarter Moon Vineyard comes across as having a bit of the qualities of both the Pastorale and the Freestone. The savory aromatics resemble those of the Pastorale, while the richness of the fruit has more similarities with the Freestone. It all adds up to another beautifully expressive, layered Pinot. My impression is that the Quarter Moon will be the fastest to mature among these three 2010 Pinots. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2018.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/FreestoneVineyards(JosephPhelps).asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/FullPullFriends.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/FullPullFriends.aspWS 96 (10/2011): Complex, ripe and alluring aromatics lead to a tight, firm, vivid mix of dark berry character, with blackberry, wild raspberry and currant. Medium- to full-bodied and remarkably elegant and refined on the palate. There's sufficient tannins, yet the acidity is crisp and refreshing. A stylish Cabernet. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2024. 321 cases made. IWC 93+ (6/2011): (Cabernet sauvignon with 29% cabernet franc and 4% petit verdot; 15.3% alcohol): Good ruby-red. Sexy aromas of crushed black raspberry, licorice pastille and smoked meat, lifted by a floral nuance. Big, ripe and highly concentrated, showing very good energy to the powerful, slightly aggressive black raspberry flavor. Almost too powerful today, with the strong tannins showing a faint dry edge. This seems to be shutting down in the bottle and is in an awkward stage today. WA 95+ (12/2010): The 2008 Futo is a blend of 66% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot, which is slightly modified from the barrel sample I tasted last year. It reveals aromas of blueberries, raspberries, crushed rocks, graphite, black currants and forest floor. The complex aromatics are followed by a wine displaying wonderful sweetness, a medium to full-bodied mouthfeel and admirable depth and power as well as finesse. This deep, promising 2008 is already concentrated and approachable. It should drink well for 15-20 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Futo.aspWA 97 (12/2012): An explosive, captivating wine, the 2009 Futo bursts from the glass with an exotic melange of incense, tobacco, wild flowers, licorice and plums. Full-bodied and racy, the 2009 covers every inch of the palate with stunning depth and purity. The tannins are firm and quite present, but there is so much fruit they are nearly buried. Readers will be tempted to drink the 2009 young, but my impression is that patience will be highly rewarded. This is yet another striking, totally compelling wine. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2029. VM 94 (5/2012): (includes 17% cabernet franc): Full deep ruby. Expressive nose offers blackberry, graphite, licorice pastille, violet and mocha. Plush, large-scaled and rich, with a slight warmth to its sweet flavors of black raspberry, chocolate and licorice. Finishes very long and ripe, with a boatload of building tannins that melt into the wine's fruit. From a "steady season with great acidity," according to winemaker Jason Exposto. WS 94 (10/2012): Pointedly rich and concentrated, this weaves intense blackberry, dark berry fruit and plum notes, with gutsy tannins that impart a chewy edge. Seems to be a more-restrained Futo, true to the milder vintage. Ends with a fresh cigar box taste. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Best from 2014 through 2026. 525 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Futo.aspWA 97 (10/2014): The 2011 Proprietary Red Estate is a blend of 74% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Cabernet Franc, 9% Petit Verdot and 6% Merlot. It offers sweet blackcurrant and blueberry fruit intermixed with hints of toast and white flowers, beautiful body and a savory personality. A top success for the vintage, it should drink well for 10-12 years.VM 96 (11/2013): The 2011 Futo jumps from the glass with juicy dark cherries, plums, cloves, menthol and licorice. I don't expect the 2011 will age as long or as gracefully as some of the other surrounding vintages, but I can't imagine that being an issue at all, as the wine is so breathtaking in its beauty. Hints of cinnamon, orange peel and white pepper add considerable nuance and layers of flavor on the close. Winemaker Jason Exposto did a fabulous job here. The 2011 is 74% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Cabernet Franc, 9% Petit Verdot and 6% Merlot.IWC 93+ (5/2014): (74% cabernet sauvignon, 11% cabernet franc, 9% petit verdot and 6% merlot): Bright, fresh medium ruby. Aromas of blackberry, blueberry, licorice, coffee, minerals, smoke and peat are lifted by a violet topnote. Brisk acidity gives shape and lift to the intense blackberry, cassis and spice flavors ("the grapes began with a lot of malic acidity in 2011," noted winemaker Jason Exposto). A juicy, intense midweight with good definition and a light touch. But still an infant today, and in need of six to eight years for its tannins to be absorbed. The cabernet was picked in October, but the other three varieties came in by the end of September, before the problematic rains began. This has turned out very well, having benefited from the coolness of the year.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Futo.aspWA 99 (10/2015): The original wine from the Oakville Estate Vineyard is a relatively small cuvée of 546 cases. The 2012 Proprietary Red Estate is a blend of 72% Cabernet Sauvignon, 24% Cabernet Franc and 4% Petit Verdot. This is a drop-dead beautiful wine with an absolutely extraordinary nose of white flowers, blueberries, blackcurrants, licorice and camphor. Stunning forest floor notes also make an appearance in this ripe, full-bodied, opulent wine that is begging to be given a three-digit score. The silkiness of the tannins and the stunning purity of fruit of this unfined and unfiltered wine is simply breathtaking. This is just an incredible effort to drink now or over the next 30+ years. VM 96 (10/2015): The 2012 Futo is just as impressive as it has always been. One of the darker, more brooding wines of the vintage, the 2012 exudes radiance and intensity. Dark fleshed fruit, exotic spices, espresso and menthol are some of the notes that flesh out. The 2012 has really opened up since last year, but it still needs at least a few years to truly come together.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Futo.aspWA 99 (10/2015): The original wine from the Oakville Estate Vineyard is a relatively small cuvée of 546 cases. The 2012 Proprietary Red Estate is a blend of 72% Cabernet Sauvignon, 24% Cabernet Franc and 4% Petit Verdot. This is a drop-dead beautiful wine with an absolutely extraordinary nose of white flowers, blueberries, blackcurrants, licorice and camphor. Stunning forest floor notes also make an appearance in this ripe, full-bodied, opulent wine that is begging to be given a three-digit score. The silkiness of the tannins and the stunning purity of fruit of this unfined and unfiltered wine is simply breathtaking. This is just an incredible effort to drink now or over the next 30+ years. VM 96 (10/2015): The 2012 Futo is just as impressive as it has always been. One of the darker, more brooding wines of the vintage, the 2012 exudes radiance and intensity. Dark fleshed fruit, exotic spices, espresso and menthol are some of the notes that flesh out. The 2012 has really opened up since last year, but it still needs at least a few years to truly come together.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Futo.aspWA 97+ (10/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon 5500 is 92% Cabernet Sauvignon and 8% Merlot, but production was smaller at 375 cases. This is more coiled, reserved and tightly knit, but again, a wine of great intensity. It has a burgeoning complexity with a floral note intermixed with creme de cassis, creosote, subtle background earth and barrique aromas. Multidimensional and with a finish of close to a minute, this is an amazing wine, but oh so young and in need of 4-6 years of bottle age. It is another 35- to 40-year effort. VM 97 (10/2015): The 2013 5500, from Tom Futo's Stags Leap estate, emerges from the glass with a mélange of blackberry jam, crème de cassis, smoke, lavender cloves, licorice and mocha. Dark, sensual and totally inviting, the 2013 possesses off the charts richness and intensity, but also a crystalline sense of purity. As the tannins continue to soften, the fruit has taken on a demi-glace-like unctuousness that is hard to resist. Underlying veins of salinity give the flavors an extra kick of brightness on the classic, slightly linear Stags Leap inflected finish.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Futo.aspWA 97+ (10/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon 5500 is 92% Cabernet Sauvignon and 8% Merlot, but production was smaller at 375 cases. This is more coiled, reserved and tightly knit, but again, a wine of great intensity. It has a burgeoning complexity with a floral note intermixed with creme de cassis, creosote, subtle background earth and barrique aromas. Multidimensional and with a finish of close to a minute, this is an amazing wine, but oh so young and in need of 4-6 years of bottle age. It is another 35- to 40-year effort. VM 97 (10/2015): The 2013 5500, from Tom Futo's Stags Leap estate, emerges from the glass with a mélange of blackberry jam, crème de cassis, smoke, lavender cloves, licorice and mocha. Dark, sensual and totally inviting, the 2013 possesses off the charts richness and intensity, but also a crystalline sense of purity. As the tannins continue to soften, the fruit has taken on a demi-glace-like unctuousness that is hard to resist. Underlying veins of salinity give the flavors an extra kick of brightness on the classic, slightly linear Stags Leap inflected finish.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Futo.aspVM 94 (11/2013): The 2011 OV has turned out beautifully. Espresso, mocha, red plums, sweet spices, licorice and rose petals jump from the glass in an impeccable drop-dead gorgeous wine loaded with Oakville character. The aromatics are bright and precise, which gives the 2011 a level of aromatic lift that is beguiling. Some of that is the vintage, but the high amount of Cabernet Franc in the blend is also very much felt. Ideally the 2011 needs another year or two in bottle for the tannins to soften, but it is drop-dead gorgeous. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Futo.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Galleron.aspWA 99 (12/2010): And speaking of flowery wines, the 2007 Gallica (96% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot) is a tiny production from a vineyard slightly above the Dalla Valle Vineyard in Oakville. Blended with 45% fruit from further south in the cooler area of Coombsville, as well as a small amount from a St. Helena vineyard. The wine was aged 21 months in two-thirds new French oak and bottled without filtration. Outrageously seamless in its opulence, this fragrant, dense purple Cabernet Sauvignon boasts a glorious nose of blueberries, black currants, licorice, lead pencil shavings, and spring flowers (violets perhaps, rather than roses?). Medium to full-bodied, powerful yet elegant, fabulously pure, textured, and layered, this is wine that builds incrementally in the mouth and finishes with a resounding intensity and purity. A classic and prodigious Cabernet Sauvignon, it should drink well for 20+ years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Gallica.aspWA 94+ (12/2010): The 2008 Gallica is slightly more structured and restrained. A blend of 89% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Petit Verdot, and the rest Cabernet Franc, production is 50% higher than it was in 2007 (165 cases). This deep purple wine exhibits some notes of subtle barbecue smoke intermixed with black currants, blackberries, licorice, a hint of white chocolate, and some crushed rocks. Impressively endowed and full-bodied, with the tannins slightly more elevated, this wine will benefit from several years of bottle age and again last 20-25 years. Kudos to Rosemary Cakebread!http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Gallica.aspWA 91 (12/2005): The inky/purple-hued 2003 Proprietary Red Wine, a blend of 84% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Merlot, and the rest tiny portions of Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc, reveals copious notes of chocolate along with hints of melted tar, charcoal, black cherries, and currants. Full-bodied, dense, and well-balanced, it should drink well for 10-15 years. Interestingly, Paul Frank continues to sell much of his production to such high quality wineries as Pahlmeyer. He will undoubtedly do more and more estate bottling as his vineyard ages.IWC 90+ (6/2006): (a Bordeaux blend based on 84% cabernet sauvignon) Bright, deep medium ruby color. Black cherry, cassis, bitter chocolate and mocha on the slightly medicinal, primary nose. Then juicy, spicy and bright, with cooler, high-pitched flavors of black cherry, spices and flowers. Less lush and porty than the 2002 version but fresher and more elegant. Finishes with good sweet tannins and very good length.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Gemstone.aspWA 91 (12/2005): The inky/purple-hued 2003 Proprietary Red Wine, a blend of 84% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Merlot, and the rest tiny portions of Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc, reveals copious notes of chocolate along with hints of melted tar, charcoal, black cherries, and currants. Full-bodied, dense, and well-balanced, it should drink well for 10-15 years. Interestingly, Paul Frank continues to sell much of his production to such high quality wineries as Pahlmeyer. He will undoubtedly do more and more estate bottling as his vineyard ages.IWC 90+ (6/2006): (a Bordeaux blend based on 84% cabernet sauvignon) Bright, deep medium ruby color. Black cherry, cassis, bitter chocolate and mocha on the slightly medicinal, primary nose. Then juicy, spicy and bright, with cooler, high-pitched flavors of black cherry, spices and flowers. Less lush and porty than the 2002 version but fresher and more elegant. Finishes with good sweet tannins and very good length.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Gemstone.aspWA 93 (12/2008): The superb 2006 Gemstone Proprietary Red (an 890-case blend of 98% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Petit Verdot) is from the cooler Oakville / Yountville sector of Napa. It exhibits a dense ruby/purple color as well as a beautiful bouquet of subtle new oak interwoven with black currants, smoke, licorice, and a hint of spring flowers. The wine is full-bodied, with excellent density, admirable balance, and fine purity, a hallmark of this estate. It should drink nicely for two decades. IWC 90+ (5/2009): (15.3% alcohol; 98% cabernet sauvignon with 2% petit verdot) Saturated deep ruby. Crushed rock, blackberry, blueberry, violet, menthol and espresso on the brooding nose. In a cooler, rather medicinal style, but with a smooth texture to the flavors of black cherry, minerals, hot rocks, bitter chocolate, shoe polish, menthol and fresh herbs. This distinctly masculine, backward wine possesses a big structure, finishing with notes of gravel and toast and serious, slightly drying tannins that will require time to soften. This Yountville vineyard was harvested between October 23 and 27 in 2006; in 2007 the harvest stretched from September 6 through October 10! I will hold off on publishing a note on the 2007 until next year, as my barrel sample was painfully tannic and tough and may not have been representative.)http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Gemstone.aspWA 94 (12/2010): The flagship wine, the 2008 Gemstone (100% Cabernet Sauvignon even though it is a proprietary red) is a flamboyant, opulent, medium to full-bodied effort revealing stunning concentration, purity and balance. Aged 22 months in 100% new French oak, it reveals elegance, perfume and richness along with a layered mouthfeel. Already drinking well, it should evolve for 15 or more years. WS 93 (11/2011): Offering an impressive mix of ripe, intense plum, currant and blackberry fruit, shaded by mineral and cedar notes, this is full-bodied, well-focused and persistent, long and vibrant. Cabernet Sauvignon. Drink now through 2022. 575 cases made.IWC 92+ (5/2011): (66% cabernet sauvignon, 31% merlot and 3% cabernet franc): Deep ruby-red. Distinctly more mineral-driven than the Facets bottling, offering lovely lift and delicacy to the aromas of black cherry, blueberry, licorice and rock. Juicy, shapely and suave, if in a rather masculine style. A strong element of warm crushed stone energizes the mid-palate. This intense, harmonious wine struck me as rather Pauillac in style. Today I don't find the porty element shown by a barrel sample a year ago. Structured to age slowly and gracefully.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Gemstone.aspWA 90 (12/2007): The 2005 Facets is elegant, austere by the standards of California, and almost a dead-ringer for a Medoc from Bordeaux. The wine is dark ruby/purple-tinged with a floral, restrained nose of sweet cherries and soil and undertones of underbrush and barrique. The wine is medium-bodied, pretty, pure, and represents an attractive, French-styled blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Merlot, 17% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Petit Verdot. It should drink nicely for 10-12 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Gemstone.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/GeorgeWineCompany.aspWA 86 (12/2015): Their basic Cabernet Sauvignon is a generic blend - the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon is a nice, commercial, soft, easygoing Cabernet Sauvignon with a dark ruby/plum color, light tannin, moderate intensity in an up-front, seemingly mature style. Drink it over the next 4-5 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Girard.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Girasole.aspWS 92 (12/2008): Big and broad, delivering a powerful mouthful of black cherry, plum and spice flavors that explode through the long, raucous finish. The tannins are nicely submerged, but this is a bit hot and needs time to settle into itself. Best from 2009 through 2015. 250 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Gorman.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/GramercyCellars.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/GramercyCellars.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/GramercyCellars.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/GrandReve.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Greer.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Greer.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Greer.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Greer.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Greer.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Greer.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Greer.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Greer.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/GrgichHills.aspWS 88 (10/2000): A bit rustic, with sharp, chewy tannins, but it works its way into riper, juicier plum, black cherry and wild berry flavors that slowly turn supple. Needs time to soften. Best from 2001 through 2009. 4,461 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Guenoc.aspVM 93 (1/2015): The 2013 Chardonnay Cahill Lane is another beautiful, precise wine loaded with class and personality. As is the case in this vintage, the flavors are bright, but there is plenty of the signature Hansel texture underpinning the fruit. Lemon, pastry and brioche are some of the notes that meld into the racy, beautifully textured finish. Antonio Galloni.WA 91 (10/2016): A few late-released wines include the 2013 Chardonnay Cahill Lane, which is 100% from the Old Wente clone. Hansel always claims these are tiny berries and the result in 2013 is that the wine is just starting to show well, with notes of white peach, honeysuckle, a touch of pineapple and pear in an elegant, fleshy, but crisp zesty style with subtle background oak. This full-bodied Chardonnay should drink well for 5-7 years, if not longer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WalterHansel.aspWA 95 (10/2015): The top Chardonnay every year is named after Stephen Hansel’s mother. The 2014 Chardonnay Cuvée Alyce is a field blend of a Hyde and Hudson Old Wente. This vineyard always produces the smallest clusters and tiniest berries and, hence, the richest offering. It’s a stunner in 2014, with a light straw/gold color and terrific notes of pineapple, white peach, honeysuckle and citrus oil. Full-bodied and rich with great acidity, beautiful purity and subtle oak, this is a stunner to drink over the next 7-10 years. VM 93 (2/2016): The 2014 Chardonnay Cuvée Alyce is the most exuberant of the Hansel Chardonnays. Crème brulee, candied orange peel, apricot jam, spices and butter hit the palate in a deep, exotic wine loaded with personality and class. The Alyce emerges from a parcel planted with Wente and Clone 95 Chardonnay. The new oak here is at the upper end of the range for Hansel. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WalterHansel.aspWA 95 (10/2015): The top Chardonnay every year is named after Stephen Hansel’s mother. The 2014 Chardonnay Cuvée Alyce is a field blend of a Hyde and Hudson Old Wente. This vineyard always produces the smallest clusters and tiniest berries and, hence, the richest offering. It’s a stunner in 2014, with a light straw/gold color and terrific notes of pineapple, white peach, honeysuckle and citrus oil. Full-bodied and rich with great acidity, beautiful purity and subtle oak, this is a stunner to drink over the next 7-10 years. VM 93 (2/2016): The 2014 Chardonnay Cuvée Alyce is the most exuberant of the Hansel Chardonnays. Crème brulee, candied orange peel, apricot jam, spices and butter hit the palate in a deep, exotic wine loaded with personality and class. The Alyce emerges from a parcel planted with Wente and Clone 95 Chardonnay. The new oak here is at the upper end of the range for Hansel. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WalterHansel.aspVM 93 (6/2011): Deep ruby-red. Deep, pungent aromas of black raspberry, cherry-cola, vanilla bean and potpourri. Sappy, palate-coating red and dark berry compote flavors are complicated by an exotic floral pastille quality and hints of clove and mocha. A distinctly rich and fleshy but energetic pinot, with the depth and structure to age. The finish hangs on with noteworthy tenacity and grip. WA 92+ (2/2012): The 2009 Pinot Noir Cuvee Alyce is the most intriguing of the 2009 Pinots. It boasts highly expressive, nuanced aromatics that meld into layers of fruit. Subtle earthy notes appear later, adding a deep, baritone register to the fruit. Today the tannins are a bit firm, but this is the most promising of the estate’s 2009 Pinots. This is a great showing. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2021.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WalterHansel.aspWA 92 (12/2014): Fashioned from yields of 2 to 2.5 tons of fruit per acre, the 2013 Chardonnay North Slope sees 30% new and 70% used barrels. It has nowhere near the generosity of its 2012 counterpart, but it exhibits beautiful nectarine, tangerine and other assorted tropical fruit notes, crisp, zesty acidity and a hint of wet stones that provide unmistakable minerality. Drink now-2018.VM 90 (2/2016): Hansel's 2013 Chardonnay The North Slope Vineyard has come together nicely over the last year. Honey, orange peel, spice and butter are all pushed forward in an attractive Chardonnay that has a lot to offer. Drink this open knit, super-classic Russian River Chardonnay over the next handful of years. The slight hint of reduction that was once present is still there, and it slightly masks the fruit, but otherwise, the North Slope is quite attractive.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WalterHansel.aspVM 93+ (2/2016): In this range, the 2014 Pinot Noir The North Slope Vineyard comes across as quite reticent and tightly wound. The dark, intense flavor profile of the vintage is very much in evidence, but the 2014 needs time to come together. That should not be much of an issue, as the North Slope probably won't be released before 2017. Antonio Galloni. WA 92-94 (10/2015): The 2014 Pinot Noir North Slope is fabulous, has a huge upside to it and probably will benefit from several years of bottle age. All of these were scheduled to be bottled in 2015. This is 100% clone 115 and Stephen Hansel says it’s the most fruit-forward of the wines. It is certainly seductive, hedonistic, with a dense ruby/purple color, beautiful black raspberry and black cherry fruit, a big medium to full-bodied mouthfeel, loads of glycerin and hedonism. It should turn out to be exceptional, but I do think it needs some time after it’s bottled to start its full potential.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WalterHansel.aspWA 100 (5/2011): This wine, which first debuted in 1990, has probably garnered more perfect scores than any other Napa Cabernet Sauvignon. The 2001 is just entering a young adolescent stage of development, exhibiting extraordinary nuances such as sweet, loamy soil and earthy minerality intermixed with some background smoke, black currant liqueur, plum, Asian spice and new saddle leather. Full-bodied, it possesses great intensity, with stunning flavors that are viscous enough to coat the mouth, but never become heavy or overbearing. The wine has a remarkable purity, concentration and intensity that should carry it for another 30+ years. This is already very promising, and for those who own it, I would suggest a good two to three hours of decanting prior to service. WS 97 (7/2011): Firm and intense, with gripping tannins wrapped around dark berry, black licorice, graphite, cedar and tar. Slow to unfold but does so impressively, gaining strength, depth and vitality; appears a great candidate to go another 10 to 15 years with ease.—2001 California Cabernet blind retrospective (June 2011). Drink now through 2025. 1,250 cases made. VM 96 (5/2004): Deep ruby. Roasted black fruits, leather, licorice, bitter chocolate and mint on the complex, youthfully medicinal nose. Hugely sweet, fat and pliant, with solid structure currently covered by baby fat. The wine's brilliant vinosity became more apparent as it opened in the glass. Finishes with noble, sweet tannins and superb palate-staining persistence. A compellingly layered, deep wine that's likely to develop in bottle for 15 or 20 years. I kept raising my score as I went back for yet another taste, and yet it's possible that the 2002 will be even better. Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HarlanEstate.aspVM 100 (11/2013): The 2010 Harlan Estate is magnificent. One of the very best wines I have ever tasted at Harlan, the 2010 brings together richness and volume, but with a level of energy and sheer precision I don't think I have ever seen in a young Harlan Estate. Layers of deeply expressive dark red/black fruit, cloves, menthol and new leather flesh out in a seamless wine endowed with stunning balance and class. Iron, melted road tar, tobacco and incense add shades of complexity on the finish. The 2010 has turned out even better than I had originally expected. Today it is epic. JS 100 (5/2014): Fascinating aromas of rock and dark fruits such as blueberries and blackberries. Transparency is fascinating. Full body, with wonderfully formed tannins that give tension and form to a perfect wine of incredible layers and depth. Reminds me of something like 1961 Latour - not that I tasted it young, but there's a classicism to it. Unmitigated purity to this wine. This will be so much better in 2020. Get the chance to try it. WA 98+ (10/2013): I wouldn’t be surprised to see the 2010 Harlan Estate inch closer to perfection over the next decade. Surprisingly supple for this vintage, while this cuvee is not usually that flamboyant or exuberant in its youth, the 2010 is sensual and performing remarkably well. Its deep purple color is accompanied by notions of charcoal, graphite, camphor, creme de cassis, barbecue smoke and blackberries. As usual, this complex effort reminds me of a hypothetical blend of a great Pauillac and Graves (such as La Mission Haut-Brion). Rich, full-bodied and softer than I would have expected in this vintage, it is a prodigious, multidimensional, compelling wine. It requires 3-5 years of bottle age and should drink well over the following 30+ years. WS 96 (10/2013): A serious wine that commands attention, from its initial rustic earth, crushed rock and dense berry flavors to its push of concentrated dark berry, dried herb, dried licorice, road tar and dried flowers. Never loses purpose or direction. Patience required. Best from 2015 through 2030. 1,550 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HarlanEstate.aspWA 94 (12/2005): Sweet, deep black currant fruit, espresso, licorice, graphite, and earth aromas emerge from the dense, ruby/purple-colored 2002 The Maiden, which cascades over the palate without a hard edge. Like its bigger sibling, it’s impossible to resist at present, but promises to age well for 15 years. WS 96 (11/2005): An amazing wine, dark and rich with a supple, polished texture. Deeply concentrated,with a great range of flavors, offering tiers of blackberry, black cherry, wild berry and plum, and it holds a tight focus on a long, plush, mouthcoating finish, where subtle oak shadings add yet another flavor dimension. Best from 2007 through 2012. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 800 cases made. VM 93 (6/2005): Good full ruby-red. Superripe aromas of sweet, sappy berries; not roasted. Lush, sweet and sappy, with compelling freshness and depth of sappy fruit. This has terrific early appeal as well as a firm structure to support further development in bottle. Finishes with big, chewy, tongue-dusting tannins and superb lingering sweetness of dark berry fruit. The best Maiden vintage yet.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HarlanEstate.aspWS 93 (11/2009): Tightly wound, firm and concentrated, with a chewy core of dried currant, cedar, anise and mineral, yet for all its austerity there's a wonderful beam of ripe dark fruit that gains depth, nuance and length. Impressive for its structure and depth. Best from 2010 through 2017. 1,319 cases made. WA 91 (12/2009): The 2006 The Maiden is a supple, forward, lush, full-bodied effort revealing notes of cedar, spice box, loamy soil, red and black fruits, and earth. It can be consumed now and over the next 12-14 years. VM 91 (6/2009): Good saturated ruby-red. High-pitched aromas of black cherry, licorice, violet and menthol. Thicker than the Bond Matriarch offering from the same winemaking team, but impressively vibrant for all its sweetness. Complex flavors of blackberry, raspberry, licorice, tobacco, smoke and iron are nicely framed by substantial firm-edged tannins.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HarlanEstate.aspWA 93 (12/2012): The 2009 Proprietary Blend The Maiden wraps around the palate with dark cherries, plums, cinnamon, cloves and new leather. This is a surprisingly muscular style for the year, with quite a bit less of the early appeal than is found in many other wines. The aromas and flavors remain dark, powerful and brooding from start to finish. Flowers, cinnamon and mint add further complexity on the finish. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2024. VM 92+ (5/2012): Full ruby. Very expressive aromas of black cherry, cassis, minerals and wild herbs. Sweet and vibrant but youthfully closed, conveying an impression of coiled energy. Finishes very long, with vibrant black fruit flavors and tannins that coat the front teeth. This impressively long wine is balanced from the start. WS 92 (10/2012): Intense and richly tannic, with notes of dried currant, smoke, dried flowers, licorice and graphite. Impressive for its density and concentration, both of which bode well for the future. Best from 2014 through 2025. 1,400 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HarlanEstate.aspWA 94 (12/2007): The vineyard with the best view, I suppose, is the 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Lakeview Vineyard. This is the most supple, sensual, and sexiest of the Cabernet Sauvignons. It comes across like a French Pomerol, but bigger and broader. Sadly, there are only 100 cases of it. Dense, opulent, flamboyant, but at the same time elegant and pure, with intense notes of earth, espresso roast, chocolate, licorice, sweet black currants, and cherries, it should be drunk over the next 10-15 years. IWC 92 (6/2008): Bright ruby. Reticent aromas of cassis and licorice, with coffee and mocha notes emerging with air. Begins juicy and tightly wound, with acidity dominating, but gains fat as it opens in the glass, ultimately showing sweet, penetrating flavors of dark berries, flowers and spices. At once silky and powerful, with greater dimension and nuance than the Jake's Creek. Finishes with substantial fine-grained tannins and a tangy quality.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HarrisEstateVineyards.aspWA 95 (10/2014): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Lakeview Vineyard is another massively concentrated Cabernet Sauvignon with a dense purple color, lots of blueberry and blackberry fruit, along with floral notes, sweet tannins, lush opulent mouthfeel and a full-bodied personality puts it right in the wheel-house of the Treva’s in terms of quality. Stylistically, it’s much closer than dissimilar. The wine is very broad, rich and impressive with a velvety finish that argues for immediate gratification, but this one will last 15 or more years.VM 92 (12/2014): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Lakeview Vineyard is riper, sweeter and more obvious than the Jake's Creek. Black stone fruits, iron, smoke and tobacco wrap around the powerful mid-palate and finish in an ample, textured Cabernet Sauvignon built on breadth and intensity.IWC 91-94 (5/2014): (blended with 2% petit verdot, which winemaker Thomas Brown says brings power and structure): Deep ruby-red. Expressive aromas of blueberry, blackberry, cassis, licorice and musky coffee. Concentrated and very ripe, with the black and blue fruit flavors carrying a full coating of baby fat. Finishes long and ripely tannic, with good sappy grip. This is usually the highest in alcohol of the Harris wines and in 2012 weighs in at about 15%.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HarrisEstateVineyards.aspWA 94 (2/2005): The only 2002 I tasted here was the 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon Treva’s Vineyard VSR. This stunning effort possesses a Bordeaux-like structure, but the extraordinary ripeness and richness that only comes from Napa fruit. Its dense purple color is followed by sweet aromas of creme de cassis, smoke, coffee, and chocolate. With loads of flavor, a voluptuous palate, supple tannin, and a sensational finish with notes of scorched earth, flowers, licorice, and spice box, this stunning Cabernet should be at its peak between 2007-2018. This is an impressive newcomer that merits serious attention.IWC 92 (6/2005): Bright medium ruby. Superripe but fresh aromas of black cherry, black raspberry, cappuccino, sassafras and bitter chocolate. Sweet, concentrated, creamy berry flavors are nicely framed by sound acidity and complicated by spice notes of cardamom and nutmeg. Very sexy oak here. The juicy, very long finish features dusty, fine tannins.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HarrisEstateVineyards.aspIWC 92 (11/2010): Glass-staining ruby. Captivating aromas of blackberry, cherry-cola, licorice, potpourri and smoky oak. Full and complex, with lovely sappiness to its flavors of dark berries, violet pastille and spicecake. Finishes nuanced and sweet, with silky tannins and suave minerality. I prefer this wine's energy to the richness of the basic 2008 Estate syrah.VM 89 (8/2011): The 2008 Syrah Cuvee Charlotte was made from tiny yields of just one ton per acre. Opulence and sheer depth take precedence over varieal character in this super-ripe, opulent Syrah. Here the 50% new barrels mark the wine quite noticeably. The Cuvee Charlotte is a well-made wine from a technical standpoint, but it also highlights one of the issues of Central Coast Syrah. The words 'Ballard Canyon' on a label should mean something. Instead, this is a wine that could have been made in any number of places.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HarrisonClarke.aspIWC 92-93 (5/2012): Bright yellow. Sexy, highly perfumed nose combines citrus and tropical fruits and notes of wet stone and iodine. Sharply delineated and penetrating, with firm minerality giving spine to the pear, orange and honeysuckle flavors. Wonderfully vibrant chardonnay, finishing with lingering notes of candied lemon and talc.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HartfordCourt.aspWA 92 (2/2011): From Goldridge soils known for their ability to support high quality Pinot Noir as well as Chardonnay, the 2008 Pinot Noir Fog Dance Vineyard (made from Dijon clone 667) exhibits a deep ruby color along with sweet aromas of black cherries, black and red currants, crushed rocks, loamy soil and underbrush. With abundant minerality, silky tannins and an unexpected floral note, it should drink well for 4-6 years. It was fashioned from tiny yields because of the spring frosts. IWC 89+ (5/2010): Deep red. Ripe aromas of spicy dark berries, cherry liqueur and licorice. Supple, sweet and pretty powerful, with gentle minerality giving the bitter cherry and black raspberry flavors lift and precision. Finishes long, chewy and gripping. I'd give this a couple years to loosen up.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HartfordCourt.aspWA 90 (12/2013): The 2011 Pinot Noir Fog Dance Vineyard exhibits sweet berry fruit intermixed with notions of raspberries, underbrush, vanillin and spice. Medium-bodied, supple and charming, it can be enjoyed over the next 4-5 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HartfordCourt.aspWA 89 (4/2013): The 2010 Pinot Noir Jennifer’s is distinguished for its layered, subtle personality. In 2010, the Jennifer’s is a wine of texture above all else. Structured yet beautifully expressive, the Jennifer’s is another wine in this range that needs time to show the full breadth of its personality. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2020.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HartfordCourt.aspWA 90-92 (12/2008): The 2007 Chardonnay Laura’s is still in barrel, but it almost came across as tannic. However, it is loaded with crisp white peach, white currant, and quince aromas accompanied by strong mineral undertones. It is medium-bodied and more backward than its siblings. All of these Chardonnays have 4-6 years of aging potential, perhaps even longer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HartfordCourt.aspWA 88 (4/2013): A big, bombastic wine, the 2010 Pinot Noir Maclean’s Block is one of the few wines in this range that never seems to come together. There is plenty of richness in the glass, but at the same time, the wine feels heavy and overly extracted. Black cherries, plums, mocha, chocolate, cola and spices are some of the many notes that emerge over time. Today, the MacLean’s Block comes across as not totally put together. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2018.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HartfordCourt.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HartfordCourt.aspWA 93+ (2/2010): The lemon and orange blossom-scented 2007 Chardonnay Seascape Vineyard (an incredibly cold, windswept site) offers up copious notes of caramelized citrus, marmalade, crushed rock, and subtle wood, along with high acidity, and impressive layers of concentration. This vineyard is normally harvested in November because it is such a cold, windy zone. All three of these Chardonnays are best drunk in their first 3-4 years of life, although my instincts suggest they will last longer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HartfordCourt.aspIWC 93 (5/2010): Pale, hazy gold. Pungent aromas of pear, grapefruit peel, saffron and smoky minerals. Juicy, intense and mineral-driven, with impressive extract to the flavors of lemongrass, orchard fruits and citrus pith. The wine's vibrant acidity adds delineation to a long, juicy, intensely stony finish. I really like this wine's interplay of richness and energy.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HartfordCourt.aspIWC 92 (5/2009): Medium red. Exotically perfumed bouquet of black raspberry, cherry compote, smoked meat and incense. Fresh, spicy red and dark berry flavors complemented by a sexy rose pastille quality. Sweeter on the finish, leaving behind suave black and blue fruits and a hint of blood orange.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HartfordCourt.aspIWC 92 (5/2012): Bright gold. Fresh melon and peach pit scents are brightened by suggestions of smoky minerals and white flowers. Fleshy and deep in pit fruit and floral flavors but also lively and minerally, with a zesty orange pith note on the back half. Finishes with striking persistence, leaving honeydew and peach notes behind. -http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HartfordCourt.aspIWC 92 (5/2012): Bright gold. Fresh melon and peach pit scents are brightened by suggestions of smoky minerals and white flowers. Fleshy and deep in pit fruit and floral flavors but also lively and minerally, with a zesty orange pith note on the back half. Finishes with striking persistence, leaving honeydew and peach notes behind. -http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HartfordCourt.aspWA 93 (12/2016): The exciting 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon from the respected Lewelling Ranch in St. Helena is a blend of 96% Cabernet Sauvignon and 4% Petit Verdot. Aged 20 months in 70% new French oak, this has a relatively realistic price point for Napa. There are 700 cases of this opaque purple wine, which exhibits classic Pauillac notes of Christmas fruitcake, allspice, cedar wood, black and red currants as well as hints of underbrush and earth. It is medium to full-bodied, deliciously fruity and pure, with light to moderate tannin in the finish. Drink it over the next 15+ years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Hayfork.aspWS 88 (7/2011): There's much to admire in this young Martha's, though it lacks the accessibility of the 2005. The core mint-chocolate-covered cherry and berry flavors are tight and structured, true to the vintage, so it's best to cellar this one and see what happens. The wait is usually worth it. Best from 2013 through 2021. 2,708 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Heitz.aspWS 90 (4/2014): Presents a firm mix of dried dark berry, crushed rock, dried herb and cedary cigar box notes, eventually turning to a pleasing, chocolate-covered cherry and dried herb complexity. The tannins are gripping. Drink now through 2023. 820 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Heitz.aspWS 88 (5/1997): Clean and crisp, it then opens to reveal riper flavors, with currant, chocolate, berry and cedar notes. The finish comes up a bit short and shows an earthy note. Best to cellar into 2000. 16,000 cases made.IWC 86+ (6/1998): Deep ruby color. Port-like aromas of cassis and chocolate; showed a raisiny quality with aeration. Juicy flavors of crushed blackberry, cassis and mint, but the slight raisin note lurks just beneath the surface. Finishes with slightly dry tannins and a suggestion of greenness. A rather disjointed wine currently showing an underripe/overripe quality. WA 86 (8/1998): This dark ruby-colored wine reveals a heavy vanillin/toasty oak character. Although dominated by wood, it offers compact, ripe black currant fruit in a medium-bodied format. Like its younger sibling, the muscular, tannic 1993 Reserve is technically flawless, but hedonistically, it is uninspiring. It should be consumed between now and 2005.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HessCollection.aspWS 92 (7/2007): Intense, rich and concentrated, with ripe, well-defined fruit built around ripe currant, blackberry and wild berry and framed by firm, chewy tannins. Shows off spicy, toasty oak. Best from 2008 through 2013. 980 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HiddenRidge.aspWA 94 (8/2013): Focusing on old vines, the 2011 Chardonnay Old Guard is Chablis-like with it green-tinged color, searing oyster shell-like minerality, citrus blossom and lime aromas and flavors. It, too, is laser-focused on the palate and needs another year or two to unwind. Incredibly impressive, few wines show this level of tension and energy. Drink 2014-2019. VM 92 (12/2014): (made from fruit grown in Sanford & Benedict and Solomon Hills vineyards; raised in neutral oak and stainless steel tanks; no malo): Light, bright gold. Fresh lime, nectarine and mineral aromas show very good clarity, with a floral nuance providing lift. Taut citrus and green apple flavors pick up a gingery nuance with air, along with hints of quinine and agave. Dry, tightly focused and pure, finishing with impressive clarity and stony persistence.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/TheHilt.aspVM 95 (8/2015): Dark, pliant and seductive, the 2013 Pinot Noir Vanguard wraps around the palate with striking depth and pure textural richness. Smoke, tobacco, licorice and spices inform the super-expressive aromatics. With time in the glass, the 2013 shows a deeper, darker register. Drink this bold, racy Pinot over the next decade or so. The 2013 is 100% Sanford & Benedict, done with fully destemmed fruit and aged in 40% new oak. WA 91+ (8/2015): Slightly backwards, tight and racy, the 2013 Pinot Noir Vanguard's ruby, semi-opaque color is followed by outstanding notes of rose petals, mint, sappy herbs and lively raspberry and strawberry-scented fruit. Medium-bodied and racy on the palate, with bright acidity, it needs a year or two in the cellar to fill out, but should have a long life. The elevage here is 11 months in 40% new French oak, with the balance in neutral oak.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/TheHilt.aspWA 93 (12/2010): This is a winner! Slightly better is the 4,000 case 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa cuvee. It offers up complex aromas of tobacco leaf, graphite, damp earth, blackberries and black currants, full-bodied power and more density, depth and structure than the Cross Barn. Already drinkable, it should age effortlessly for two decades. WS 92 (6/2011): Firm, tight and compact, with a trim mix of dried currant, berry and red and black licorice. This unfolds gracefully, showing a mineral and sage edge, before firming on the finish. Drink now through 2019. 4,045 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PaulHobbs.aspWS 97 (10/2008): Amazingly complex, with great structure, depth, richness and concentration. A young and powerful expression of Cabernet, with tiers of dried currant, wild berry, fresh earth and toasty, smoky oak, ending with a long, persistent finish. Drink now through 2013. 601 cases made. WA 95+ (12/2007): From the back streets of St. Helena, the 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard exhibits earthy, graphite, and scorched rock-like aromas (the latter nuance reminiscent of top-notch Bordeaux Graves) as well as dense, full-bodied creme de cassis and floral notes. An impressive effort, it reminds me of a cross between a great Pomerol and a Graves. With a sumptuous texture as well as a full-bodied, long finish, this beauty should drink well for two decades. VM 92+ (6/2008): Dense ruby-red. Powerfully scented, smoky nose of cherry, tobacco and incense. Deeply concentrated, chewy cherry and cassis flavors are firmed by juicy acidity and complicated by bitter chocolate and licorice. Sweet oak spice builds with air and carries through the finish. A serious, ageworthy cabernet that will require patience.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PaulHobbs.aspWS 97 (6/2010): Wonderfully exotic, with complex aromas of spice, cedar, currant, kirsch and blackberry that fold over to the rich, firm and full-bodied palate. Elegantly styled, layered and persistent. Simply a joy to drink. Drink now through 2017. 586 cases made. WA 96 (12/2009): The 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard exhibits a rocky, stony, gravelly, hot pebble-sort of nose that I often associate with wines such as Haut-Brion and La Mission Haut-Brion. Beautifully sweet blueberry and blackberry fruit along with a note of lead pencil shavings jump from the glass of this opaque purple-colored, full-bodied, intense wine. This brilliant Cabernet Sauvignon should evolve gracefully for 25-30+ years. VM 93 (5/2010): Vivid ruby. Inviting, sexy aromas of black raspberry, bitter chocolate and smoky oak, plus a hint of rose oil. Wonderfully sweet and dense, with a liqueur-like quality to its dark berry flavors buffered by a nervy spine of acidity. This shows an almost liqueur-like quality but doesn't come off as heavy; really stains the palate on the smoky, lingering aftertaste. Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PaulHobbs.aspWS 97 (6/2010): Wonderfully exotic, with complex aromas of spice, cedar, currant, kirsch and blackberry that fold over to the rich, firm and full-bodied palate. Elegantly styled, layered and persistent. Simply a joy to drink. Drink now through 2017. 586 cases made. WA 96 (12/2009): The 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard exhibits a rocky, stony, gravelly, hot pebble-sort of nose that I often associate with wines such as Haut-Brion and La Mission Haut-Brion. Beautifully sweet blueberry and blackberry fruit along with a note of lead pencil shavings jump from the glass of this opaque purple-colored, full-bodied, intense wine. This brilliant Cabernet Sauvignon should evolve gracefully for 25-30+ years. VM 93 (5/2010): Vivid ruby. Inviting, sexy aromas of black raspberry, bitter chocolate and smoky oak, plus a hint of rose oil. Wonderfully sweet and dense, with a liqueur-like quality to its dark berry flavors buffered by a nervy spine of acidity. This shows an almost liqueur-like quality but doesn't come off as heavy; really stains the palate on the smoky, lingering aftertaste. Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PaulHobbs.aspWA 91 (10/2013): One of my personal favorites, the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard possesses flinty, wet stone-like characteristics, more rugged tannins and an overall more masculine personality than the Las Piedras. Its concentration is impressive for a 2011, the tannins are ripe, and the wine is beefy and mouthfilling. Although it may lack some of the nuances typical for this site, it is definitely a star of the vintage. It should drink well for 10-15 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PaulHobbs.aspWA 95+ (12/2008): A first-growth quality offering is consistently produced from the Beckstoffer To-Kalon Vineyard. The 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To-Kalon Vineyard (579 cases) offers aromas of tobacco leaf, creme de cassis, graphite, flowers, and licorice in its full-bodied, powerful personality. There are layers of concentration, a multidimensional mouthfeel, and beautiful purity as well as nobility in this stunner. It should drink well for 20-25 years. WS 94 (10/2007): This pushes ripeness to the edge, yet it's balanced, with spicy currant, cedary oak and hints of anise and cassis that are complex and deep without being heavy. The tannins are ripe and polished. Best from 2008 through 2015. 534 cases made. VM 93 (6/2007): Deep red. Powerful dark berry aromas are complicated by cured tobacco, licorice, cedar and incense. Very sweet but poised, with expressive red and dark berry flavors supported by gentle acidity and framed by silky tannins. Gains weight with air, finishing lush and chewy, with outstanding length. As I went back to this it seemed to grow fresher.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PaulHobbs.aspWA 95 (12/2014): The 2012 Chardonnay Ellen Lane Estate, from the Russian River, is an exuberant, nearly flamboyant, rich, honeyed white revealing hazelnut, peach cobbler, caramelized citrus and delicate pineapple notes. Full-bodied, fresh and concentrated, this is a superb expression of Chardonnay from estate vineyards in Russian River. Like the Edward James Estate cuvée, it is a limited production wine of under 350 cases produced.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PaulHobbs.aspIWC 87 (6/1998): Good medium-deep red. Black cherry, licorice and herbs on the nose. Good texture and intensity in the middle palate, but seems a bit pinched. Slightly dry and hard-edged on the finish. WS 83 (12/2004): Drying out, with fading plum and currant flavors being replaced by herb, earth and cedary flavors, finishing with dry tannins. Drink now.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PaulHobbs.aspWA 91 (12/2000): The classic 1997 Cabernet Sauvignon Hyde Vineyard (1,020 cases) boasts an opaque black/purple color as well as a gorgeously sweet bouquet of cassis, licorice, and toasty new oak. Full-bodied, with gobs of black fruit, plenty of glycerin, and excellent symmetry, this seamless effort has well-integrated acidity, tannin, and alcohol. It should drink well for 15+ years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PaulHobbs.aspWA 94 (12/2008): Another knock-out effort is the 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Hyde Vineyard, one of the finest Cabernet Sauvignons to come out of the Carneros area. Aromas of flowers, charcoal, blackberries, cassis, and pain grille characterize this full-bodied wine. With sweet tannin, a broad, expansive mouthfeel, and a long finish, this superb effort is about as good as Carneros Cabernet Sauvignon can be. It should drink well for 15-20 years. IWC 93 (5/2009): Bright ruby. Intensely perfumed nose offers black raspberry, cherry-cola and a strong spiciness. Brighter red berries in the mouth, with an exotic note of candied rose adding interest. A zesty mineral quality lends urgency to the long, strikingly sappy finish. This wine's clarity is excellent.WS 87 (12/2009): There's much to admire in this rich, intense, savory wine, bold and fleshy, firm and concentrated. Dried currant and berry fruit is herbal, tightening up with a tannic finish. The best of two bottles tasted. Best from 2010 through 2015. 207 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PaulHobbs.aspWA 95 (12/2009): The saturated ruby/purple-hued 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Hyde Vineyard exhibits subtle smoky, bay leaf notes intermixed with scents of burning embers, charcoal, blackberries, and cassis. The finest red wine I have tasted from this vineyard, it is a beautifully proportioned, full-bodied Cabernet with a hint of a cool climate character as well as impressive precision and purity. It will benefit from 2-3 years of bottle age, and last for 25+ years. VM 93 (6/2010): Glass-staining ruby. Seductive, high-pitched aromas of blackberry, cherry, minerals, Indian spices and dried flowers. Ripe and silky, combining sweetness with enticing spiciness of cabernet fruit and a mounting floral quality. Finishes sappy and very long, with a dusting of ripe tannins and a lingering hint of vanilla.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PaulHobbs.aspWA 92 (12/2014): The 2012 Chardonnay Richard Dinner Vineyard (451 cases) reveals copious notes of nectarines, apricots and honeyed citrus along with a medium to full-bodied mouthfeel, and a long, rich finish. Although it does not reveal the complexity of some of its siblings, it is an outstanding Chardonnay that appears to be more reserved and holding back some of its character. Drink 2015-2023.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PaulHobbs.aspWS 92 (6/2006): A rich, unctuous style, with smooth, concentrated pear, smoke, citrus and hazelnut flavors that turn silky, finishing with an engaging smoked nut edge. Drink now through 2008. 3,119 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PaulHobbs.aspWA 91 (12/2013): The 2011 Pinot Noir Russian River (5,000 cases produced) offers plenty of bright, rich, cherry fruit, a luscious, medium-bodied mouthfeel, and impressive purity, texture and length. This 2011 is already performing well and should continue to do so for 5-6 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PaulHobbs.aspWA 94+ (12/2005): From an Oakville hillside vineyard, the 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon Stagecoach Vineyard possesses a dense purple color, a scorched earth/broodingly backward, volcanic style, and extraordinary concentration as well as richness. A tightly-knit personality and a tannic structure suggest patience will be required. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2022. WS 91 (10/2006): This wine grows and grows on you. Elegant and stylish, with a mix of vivid blackberry and black cherry fruit and a light touch of creamy oak and lavender. The intensity builds, revealing extra facets of depth and concentration, with firm tannins and hints of mineral and herb. Best from 2008 through 2014. 584 cases made.IWC 91 (6/2006): Good medium ruby. Tight aromas of black cherry liqueur, dark chocolate, iron and minerals. Suave and lush if not hugely concentrated, but this conveys an impression of refinement and offers very good life in the mouth. The tannins hit the palate later, offering the flavors a chance to expand.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PaulHobbs.aspIWC 94 (6/2009): Dark purple. Dark berry and mineral scents are complicated by iron, tobacco and dried rose. Livelier red fruits join the dark berries on the palate, which is velvety in texture and seems tannin-free (which it isn't). Luscious red and dark berry compote qualities dominate the long, supple finish. You could easily drink this seductive wine right now, but I wouldn't.WA 90+ (12/2008): The tannins are noticeable in the extracted, concentrated, broodingly backward, inky/purple-colored 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Stagecoach Vineyard. This austere, tannic wine has not yet resolved all its issues with tannin, but it is so concentrated that I think everything is there, it will just require patience. Give it 4-5 years of bottle age, and drink it over the following 25 years. WS 88 (12/2009): Backward, rustic and earthy, with a core of dried currant, blackberry, anise, graphite and mineral. Chewy throughout, ending with drying, cedar-laced tannins. Best from 2010 through 2017. 567 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PaulHobbs.aspWA 93 (12/2014): The 2012 Chardonnay Ulises Valdez Vineyard possesses notes of crisp acids, tropical fruits, medium to full body, and an elegant, steely style. Drink now-2021.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PaulHobbs.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Holdredge.aspIWC 91 (5/2014): Vivid ruby. Highly perfumed bouquet evokes red fruit compote, potpourri and Asian spices, with a vibrant mineral quality adding lift. Shows darker fruit character on the palate, with black raspberry and cherry-cola flavors putting on weight with air. Closes supple and long, with intense red and dark fruit notes lingering.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Holdredge.aspIWC 90 (5/2014): Bright ruby-red. Dark berries, cherry pit and licorice on the pungent nose and in the mouth. Densely packed, chewy blackberry and bitter cherry flavors show good depth and grip, with juicy acidity providing lift. Finishes firm and long, with an echo of bitter cherry and building florality.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Holdredge.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Hollis.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HootOwlCreekVineyards.aspWA 97 (6/2014): The 2011 Grenache Sur Echalas Vineyard is a sensational blend of 100% Grenache that comes all from a vineyard located just to the west of Cayuse’s Armada Vineyard. Planted to 4,840 vines per acre, it’s farmed completely by horse. Showing every bit as well from bottle as from barrel, it offers up layers of pepper, smoked herbs, gunpowder and black fruits to go with a deep, structured style on the palate. Incredibly concentrated, especially in the vintage, it has a gracefully, balanced feel before firming up substantially on the finish. Give this beauty 2-3 years of bottle age and enjoy over the following decade. Unfortunately, there are only 131 cases of it to go around, so if you get the opportunity to grab some bottles, don’t miss it.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HorsepowerVineyards.aspWS 96 (6/2015): Dark, dense and focused, yet surprisingly light-footed, layering chalk and wet rock minerality through the ripe and meaty cherry and clotted cream flavors. Complex and inviting, this is long as a midsummer day. Drink now through 2025. 203 cases made. WA 95 (6/2015): Sporting a transparent ruby color, the 2012 Grenache Sur Echalas Vineyard is Rayas-like in its perfume (I served this blind to a great taster and they guessed 2001 Rayas) of kirsch, blackberry, ground pepper, gunpowder and floral-laced nuances. Full-bodied, elegant and layered, I thought it showed more flesh and texture from barrel, but it's still a gorgeous Grenache. Drink it anytime over the coming decade or more. VM 94 (11/2015): (13.1% alcohol): Moderately saturated medium red. Mesmerizing aromas of raspberry, peony, garrigue, smoke and earth; would anyone not pick this blind as a French wine? Dry, saline and superconcentrated, with raspberry and earth flavors conveying superb penetration and energy. Finishes with big, dusty tannins and outstanding length and spicy lift. A great American Grenache. Christophe Baron's biodynamically farmed Sur Echalas Vineyard, planted in 2008, is the densest in Walla Walla Valley, with 4,840 vines per acre (i.e., three feet by three feet spacing). Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HorsepowerVineyards.aspWA 95 (6/2015): Aged in puncheon and neutral oak and bottled in August of 2014, the 2013 Grenache Sur Echalas Vineyard sports a transparent ruby color to go with classic Grenache notes of wild strawberries, peppery herbs, licorice, hints of iron and good minerality that comes out more on the finish. Similar in style to the 2012, with a savory edge, this medium to full-bodied beauty has fine tannin, a supple, sexy texture and a great finish. It should hit prime time around age 4-6 and drink nicely through 2028.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HorsepowerVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HorsepowerVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HorsepowerVineyards.aspWA 97 (6/2015): Another wine I was able to taste multiple times, the 2012 Syrah Sur Echalas Vineyard is the most voluptuous, sexy and textured of the lineup. Giving up classic, Old World Syrah notes of blackcurrants, black olives, smoked meats, ground pepper and violets, this beauty hits the palate with full-bodied richness and is gorgeous, concentrated and expansiveness on the palate, with plenty of of mid-palate depth and length. The tannin becomes more and more apparent with time in the glass. This needs 3-4 years to round into form, and will keep for 15-20 years. As with all of these 2012s, decant if drinking anytime soon. VM 93+ (11/2015): Dark ruby. Black raspberry, cassis, smoked meat, white pepper, lavender and brown spices on the nose; very aromatic Syrah in a Côte Blonde style. Dense, savory, superconcentrated dark fruit and meat flavors unsullied by new oak. Wonderfully supple, balanced wine but not yet forthcoming. Finishes with big but very suave tannins. This needs some time in the cellar to express its underlying fruit. Stephen Tanzer. WS 92 (6/2015): Starts off aromatic and generous, with plum and currant flavors, but turns steely and tight as the mineral notes overstep the fruit, coming together in a savory, sinewy style that keeps up the intensity without great weight. Drink now through 2022. 242 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HorsepowerVineyards.aspWA 97 (6/2015): Up with the top three or four Syrahs in the vintage, the 2013 Syrah Sur Echalas Vineyard, which was bottled in August of last year, offers a complex, savory, mineral-laced style to go with a complex bouquet of ground herbs, pepper, beef blood, dried flower and cured meats. This is a full-bodied Syrah that has considerable mid-palate density, fine tannin and good overall freshness (although I'm sure the pH is 4 or higher). Like the 2012, it needs 2-3 years of bottle age and will drink well for 15 years or more.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HorsepowerVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HorsepowerVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HorsepowerVineyards.aspWA 97 (6/2015): More gamy, bloody and meaty than the Sur Echalas Vineyard Syrah, the 2012 Syrah The Tribe Vineyard is a full-bodied, elegant, concentrated and structured effort that gives up complex notes of savory dark fruits, beef blood, dried herbs, pepper and olives. It's another incredible Syrah that needs short-term cellaring, but will have two decades of evolution.WS 93 (6/2015): Supple and expressive, with plum and currant flavors and stony overtones combining with hints of black olive and white pepper, adding depth to a distinctive profile on a medium-weight frame that punches above its weight. The deft balance plays against nubby tannins. Drink now through 2025. 463 cases made.VM 93+ (11/2015): (14.1% alcohol; as with the Echalas Vineyard, the Tribe is cultivated with draft horses): Dark ruby. Aromas of black cherry, liquefied lamb tartare, paprika and black licorice, plus a note of medicinal reserve. Hugely sweet and concentrated but carrying a good bit of unabsorbed CO2 and showing less finesse today than the Cayuse Syrah bottlings from the 2012 vintage. Inky and primary, with strong underlying minerality. This is distinctly Brune while the Echalas Syrah is more Blonde. Finishes with substantial ripe tannins and a slight bitter edge that will require cellaring. Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HorsepowerVineyards.aspWA 96 (6/2015): More straight and focused than the Sur Echalas Vineyard, the 2013 Syrah The Tribe Vineyard is slightly darker in color, with lots of gunpowder, blackberry, blueberry, smoked game and beef blood aromas and flavors. Full-bodied, yet elegant and silky, with a great finish, it's a gorgeously complex, balanced and complete Syrah that has lots of Rocks character, as well as 15 years of more of longevity. I have a slight preference for the Sur Echalas Vineyard Syrah, but these share lots of similarities and are both brilliant wines.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HorsepowerVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HorsepowerVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HorsepowerVineyards.aspWA 94 (6/2011): A beautiful opaque purple color is accompanied by equally attractive notes of spring flowers, charcoal, creme de cassis and blueberry liqueur. Richly fruity, pure, full-bodied and layered, this voluptuously textured, dramatic, flamboyant Cabernet Sauvignon needs 2-4 more years of cellaring to hit its prime and should keep for two decades thereafter. IWC 91 (6/2004): Good full medium ruby. High-pitched aromas of violet, mint and bitter chocolate, with a hint of eucalyptus. Fat and sweet on entry, then quite lively in the middle, with distinctly rocky flavors of blackberry, shoe polish and black licorice, plus a whiff of fennel. From vines planted in 1992 on a southeast-facing knoll rich in boulders and shale; the fruit used to be sold to Duckhorn. Strong on personality.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Hourglass.aspWA 93 (6/2012): A dark opaque plum/garnet/purple color is followed by a beautiful, fully evolved bouquet of spring flowers, black currant jam, blackberries and hints of dark raspberries, camphor and acacia flowers. Silky, full-bodied and voluptuously textured, this opulent, expansive, generously endowed, fully mature Cabernet Sauvignon should be consumed over the next 5-6 years. VM 92 (6/2005): Saturated red-ruby color. Superripe, liqueur-like aromas of candied berries, iron, fennel and black licorice. Sweet, thick flavors of currant, blackberry and licorice. A big, rich, youthfully aggressive wine that needs a year or two to harmonize. Finishes with ripe, dusty, very broad tannins that coat the palate. From a vineyard just off the valley floor, planted on fractured shale over bedrock. Stephen Tanzer.WS 92 (11/2005): Dark, ripe, rich and concentrated, with a tight beam of cedar, currant, lead pencil and wild berry that fans out nicely on the finish, showing a firm band of tannins. Best from 2007 through 2013. 550 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Hourglass.aspWS 97 (5/2009): A stunning, seductive style that features layers of creamy oak, dried currant, plum and mocha. Turns smooth and polished, unlocking doors of hazelnut and spice and ending with a long, fullblown finish. Drink now through 2017. WA 95 (12/2008): The 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Hourglass has a dense purple color and a sweet nose of licorice, black currants, smoke, cedar, and some high-class subtle oak in the background. The wine is full-bodied, avoids some of the harder tannins that sometimes arise in this vintage, and has a very layered, multi-dimensional mouthfeel and finish. This is a beauty that can be drunk now or cellared for 20 or more years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Hourglass.aspWA 98-100 (12/2009): The three vintages of Cabernet Sauvignon Deep Time include the just bottled 2005, which spent four years in an assortment of barrels. It was the best tasting I have had of that wine. These wines have a more chocolate, espresso roast character as well as tons of fruit, and a natural, concentrated character. They are very thick and rich, yet the oak seems less noticeable than it does in wines scheduled for earlier bottling. Altogether, this is a remarkable winery with a highly personalized vision that is producing extraordinary wines, and we’re all the better for it.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HundredAcreWinery.aspWA 100 (10/2013): The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Few and Far Between has a minerality that is also found in the Howell Mountain cuvee as well as deep, luxurious, beautiful black currant and blackberry fruit intermixed with hints of jammy black cherries, licorice, camphor and charcoal embers. Exceptionally full-bodied with sweet tannin, surreal richness and remarkable purity as well as delineation, this pushes ripeness and intensity to nearly over-the-top levels, but it pulls back to simply create a wine of genius. This 2010 should age effortlessly for two to three decades, but there is no reason to delay your enjoyment. IWC 95 (6/2013): (the only one of these cabernets that includes some cabernet franc): Bright ruby-red. Lovely floral lift to the aromas of black raspberry, blueberry, smoky minerals and musky brown spices, with a note of coconutty oak emerging with air. Large-scaled, chewy and rich, showing compelling early sweetness to its dark berry and saline mineral flavors. Wonderfully velvety, palate-staining wine with enough minerality to maintain its shape and balance. I found this a step up in concentration from the 2009 release.WS 94 (11/2013): Matches power with finesse, offering an amazing mix of ripe, zesty, vibrant blackberry, raspberry, black licorice, espresso and kitchen spices. This gains momentum and holds focus, revealing a touch of heat on the finish. Extremely well done in a superripe style. Drink now through 2026. 300 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HundredAcreWinery.aspWA 94-96 (10/2013): Another great success that escaped the insidious spread of botrytis on the valley floor is the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Few and Far Between. One of the top wines of the vintage, the Cabernet Franc component gives the wine a multidimensional aromatic display of forest floor, blueberries, mulberries, black raspberries, plums, black currants and a wet rock-like minerality. The rich, full-bodied flavors seem almost an anomaly in this vintage given its extraordinary irregularity and frequent disappointments. This prodigious 2011 is a candidate for the wine of the vintage. WS 93 (4/2015): A rich, powerful expression of Cabernet, deep, dense and brimming with expressive blackberry, wild berry, mocha, cedar, licorice and tea flavors, ending with a long, graceful finish that keeps the focus on the fruit. Drink now through 2026. 250 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HundredAcreWinery.aspWA 94-96 (10/2013): Another great success that escaped the insidious spread of botrytis on the valley floor is the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Few and Far Between. One of the top wines of the vintage, the Cabernet Franc component gives the wine a multidimensional aromatic display of forest floor, blueberries, mulberries, black raspberries, plums, black currants and a wet rock-like minerality. The rich, full-bodied flavors seem almost an anomaly in this vintage given its extraordinary irregularity and frequent disappointments. This prodigious 2011 is a candidate for the wine of the vintage. WS 93 (4/2015): A rich, powerful expression of Cabernet, deep, dense and brimming with expressive blackberry, wild berry, mocha, cedar, licorice and tea flavors, ending with a long, graceful finish that keeps the focus on the fruit. Drink now through 2026. 250 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HundredAcreWinery.aspWA 100 (10/2016): Obviously, the Eisele Vineyard next door is a first-growth quality vineyard, and so is Jayson Woodbridge’s 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Few and Far Between. This has some Cabernet Franc (5%-15%), and spends 32 months in barrel. It is an absolutely outrageously great wine from the volcanic rocks and white volcanic ash of these soils in this northeast sector of Napa to the south of Calistoga. The finish goes on for over a minute, as this wine has layers and layers of fruit. If anything, it reminded me of a Château Latour on steroids. A magnificent example, it is one of the prodigious wines of this great vintage for Bordeaux varietals in Napa. The 2013 Few and Far Between already drinks well, but will still be reveling its purchasers 35-40 years from now. The sad thing about the Few and Far Between Vineyard is that it is only a five-acre parcel. WS 93 (11/2016): Plump and juicy, with ripe plum, cherry and blueberry flavors. The dense backbone of oak, herb and tannins gives this a sense of power, as well as finesse, structure, charm and length. Drink now through 2032. 450 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HundredAcreWinery.aspWA 94 (10/2013): The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Fortunate Son, which is defined as selections from the cellar, is a beauty. Woodbridge considers this wine to be a completely separate project. It appears to be virtually all Cabernet Sauvignon in its aromatic and flavor profiles, offering a deep, full-bodied, intense, powerful style with the purity, richness and appeal that his other wines display. Of course, 2010 was a remarkable vintage in Napa, and this wine reflects that.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HundredAcreWinery.aspWA 99 (12/2010): The 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Kayli Morgan Vineyard (1,000 cases from the home estate) reveals a dense plum/purple color along with a beautiful nose of mulberries, boysenberries, blueberries, black cherries and cedar. Fragrant, seductive and silky, it possesses the luxurious qualities of a top Pomerol made from 100% Merlot rather than a wine made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. I have asked about this a number of times and apparently it is this vineyard’s clay soils that give this wine a strikingly silky character. Already approachable (as are most 2007s), it should drink well for two decades.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HundredAcreWinery.aspWA 99 (12/2010): The 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Kayli Morgan Vineyard (1,000 cases from the home estate) reveals a dense plum/purple color along with a beautiful nose of mulberries, boysenberries, blueberries, black cherries and cedar. Fragrant, seductive and silky, it possesses the luxurious qualities of a top Pomerol made from 100% Merlot rather than a wine made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. I have asked about this a number of times and apparently it is this vineyard’s clay soils that give this wine a strikingly silky character. Already approachable (as are most 2007s), it should drink well for two decades.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HundredAcreWinery.aspWA 99 (12/2010): The 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Kayli Morgan Vineyard (1,000 cases from the home estate) reveals a dense plum/purple color along with a beautiful nose of mulberries, boysenberries, blueberries, black cherries and cedar. Fragrant, seductive and silky, it possesses the luxurious qualities of a top Pomerol made from 100% Merlot rather than a wine made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. I have asked about this a number of times and apparently it is this vineyard’s clay soils that give this wine a strikingly silky character. Already approachable (as are most 2007s), it should drink well for two decades.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HundredAcreWinery.aspWA 99 (8/2015): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Kayli Morgan Vineyard, which Woodbridge thinks may be the greatest he has made to date, is locked and loaded, with silky tannins and an inky blue/purple color, a gorgeous nose of spring flowers intermingled with crème de cassis, blackberry, lead pencil shavings and spice box, This is a full-throttle, concentrated, stunningly well-balanced wine, with terrific fruit intensity and palate presence. It is fat, it is opulent, it is delicious, but it pulls back from going over the edge, as all great wines tend to do. Drink it over the next 20-25 years. VM 95 (6/2016): (15.5% alcohol): Bright ruby-red. Black cherry, cassis, raspberry, dark chocolate and licorice pastille on the nose, accented by dusty herbs. Boasts great depth to its intense, dark flavors of black cherry, menthol, dried herbs, flowers and licorice pastille. A classic powerful-yet-elegant wine with great texture and finesse and no undue weight. Finishes with firm but ripe tannins and outstanding length. This will repay patience but even in the early going its suavity of texture gives it great appeal. Stephen Tanzer. WS 92 (10/2015): Offers a complex array of dark berry, mocha, dried herb and toasty, mocha-scented oak, framed by dusty, earth-laced tannins. Ends with a long, full finish that echoes notes of black licorice and dried flowers. Drink now through 2029. 900 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HundredAcreWinery.aspWA 99 (8/2015): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Kayli Morgan Vineyard, which Woodbridge thinks may be the greatest he has made to date, is locked and loaded, with silky tannins and an inky blue/purple color, a gorgeous nose of spring flowers intermingled with crème de cassis, blackberry, lead pencil shavings and spice box, This is a full-throttle, concentrated, stunningly well-balanced wine, with terrific fruit intensity and palate presence. It is fat, it is opulent, it is delicious, but it pulls back from going over the edge, as all great wines tend to do. Drink it over the next 20-25 years. VM 95 (6/2016): (15.5% alcohol): Bright ruby-red. Black cherry, cassis, raspberry, dark chocolate and licorice pastille on the nose, accented by dusty herbs. Boasts great depth to its intense, dark flavors of black cherry, menthol, dried herbs, flowers and licorice pastille. A classic powerful-yet-elegant wine with great texture and finesse and no undue weight. Finishes with firm but ripe tannins and outstanding length. This will repay patience but even in the early going its suavity of texture gives it great appeal. Stephen Tanzer. WS 92 (10/2015): Offers a complex array of dark berry, mocha, dried herb and toasty, mocha-scented oak, framed by dusty, earth-laced tannins. Ends with a long, full finish that echoes notes of black licorice and dried flowers. Drink now through 2029. 900 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HundredAcreWinery.aspWA 96-100 (12/2007): Made from his vineyards and harvested grape by grape rather than bunch by bunch, the 2005 Precious borders on perfection. A wine of great depth, symmetry, layered complexity, and opulence, the wine boasts stunning concentration, richness, and length. It is similar to the 2005 Kayli Morgan. VM 94 (6/2009): (15.5% alcohol; this was made from press wine from Kayli Morgan vineyard, bottled after a full three years in barrel) Good deep red. Deeper, oakier aromas of musky redcurrant, licorice and graphite. Bigger and even lusher than the regular 2005 Kayli Morgan, but with a more exotic character and less energy. Somehow, this mellow, polished wine avoids coming off as heavy. Finishes with fairly serious tannins and suggestions of dried fruits. Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HundredAcreWinery.aspWA 98 (12/2010): Similarly soft and silky, the 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Precious (100 cases) is made from Jayson’s favorite barrels. It exhibits a deep plum/purple color as well as a beautiful perfume of graphite, burning embers, charcoal, sweet kirsch, black currants and hints of licorice and cedar. This complex, sexy, full-bodied, opulent wine should drink well for 15-20 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HundredAcreWinery.aspWA 94 (12/2012): The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Precious is rich, textured and quite pretty. Dark plums, cherries, menthol and spices are layered into this attractive medium-bodied wine. Firm tannins support a textured, inviting finish laced with tar, smoke and licorice. Deceptively medium in body, the 2009 fleshes out beautifully with time in the glass, turning quite powerful and intense. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2024. VM 94+ (12/2012): Good full, deep red. Elegant, floral aromas of raspberry, loam and cola. Then surprisingly tight on the palate, with ripe acids framing and energizing the reticent raspberry, floral and mineral flavors. Youthfully penetrating cabernet, finishing with terrific red berry intensity and firm but harmonious tannins.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HundredAcreWinery.aspWA 96+ (8/2015): The 2012 Precious is firmer, with the oak showing more than in any of the other cuvées. The wine is very intense and had just been blended, so I suspect it is not completely all together. It should drink well for 20-25 years as well.WS 94 (10/2015): Features a core of red cherry and raspberry flavors, with touches of dusty earth, anise and underbrush. Gains depth and nuance on the finish, where the tannins flex their muscles and lend traction to the mix of red fruit notes. Drink now through 2030. 100 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HundredAcreWinery.aspWA 98 (12/2008): The 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Ark Vineyard (the debut vintage of this cuvee) reveals an inky/blue/purple color as well as a sumptuous nose of loamy soil, licorice, graphite, espresso, sweet blackberries, and forest floor. It is a gorgeously proportioned, full-bodied effort with plenty of minerality as well as definition. Already accessible, this big wine should evolve for two decades.WS 93 (12/2008): Graceful, ripe and fleshy, with supple plum, blackberry, black cherry and wild berry fruit that reminds me of a berry pie. Unfolds to reveal subtle spicy, cedary oak flavors, and the finish is long and luxurious, with layers of berry flavors. Best from 2010 through 2017. 700 cases made.IWC 93 (6/2008): Bright, full ruby. Enticing aromas of black raspberry, licorice and melted chocolate. Sweet, lush and superripe; in fact, this is downright massive, with an almost porty, lower-toned quality perked up by complex mineral and red licorice elements. Wonderfully fat, sweet wine with extravagant chocolate, mocha and nutty oak tones. Finishes with rich, broad tannins and a wave of chocolatey dark fruits. This is the first release from Jayson Woodbridge's home vineyard, which features nine separate blocks of vines and six clones, and which was picked in multiple passes and fermented in 500-liter puncheons.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HundredAcreWinery.aspWA 94 (8/2015): Slightly better is the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Arc Vineyard from Howell Mountain. This wine offers even denser fruit, loads of graphite, mulberry, and blackberry fruit, an enticing minerality, a full-bodied mouthfeel, and again, nothing missing in it. It’s the whole package – rich, concentrated, fleshy and again, quite evolved and supple. Drink it over the next 20+ years. WS 88 (7/2015): Shows a creamy mocha and glazed brown sugar edge, with savory herb and dried cherry notes, accented by loamy earth, black olive tapenade and sage hints. Tastes a little tired and ends with espresso details. Drink now through 2024. 800 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HundredAcreWinery.aspWA 94 (8/2015): Slightly better is the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Arc Vineyard from Howell Mountain. This wine offers even denser fruit, loads of graphite, mulberry, and blackberry fruit, an enticing minerality, a full-bodied mouthfeel, and again, nothing missing in it. It’s the whole package – rich, concentrated, fleshy and again, quite evolved and supple. Drink it over the next 20+ years. WS 88 (7/2015): Shows a creamy mocha and glazed brown sugar edge, with savory herb and dried cherry notes, accented by loamy earth, black olive tapenade and sage hints. Tastes a little tired and ends with espresso details. Drink now through 2024. 800 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HundredAcreWinery.aspWA 94 (8/2015): Slightly better is the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Arc Vineyard from Howell Mountain. This wine offers even denser fruit, loads of graphite, mulberry, and blackberry fruit, an enticing minerality, a full-bodied mouthfeel, and again, nothing missing in it. It’s the whole package – rich, concentrated, fleshy and again, quite evolved and supple. Drink it over the next 20+ years. WS 88 (7/2015): Shows a creamy mocha and glazed brown sugar edge, with savory herb and dried cherry notes, accented by loamy earth, black olive tapenade and sage hints. Tastes a little tired and ends with espresso details. Drink now through 2024. 800 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HundredAcreWinery.aspWA 100 (8/2015): A perfect wine is the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Arc Vineyard from Woodbridge’s property on Howell Mountain. This is an amazingly deep, rich, blueberry, blackberry and mulberry scented and flavored wine with skyscraper-like texture, remarkable intensity, again great, great purity, and the new oak completely concealed by the lavish and extravagant amounts of fruit. One hundred percent Cabernet Sauvignon, as are all these wines, the Ark Vineyard is certainly another blockbuster wine with no hard edges that comes across like a flawlessly constructed dress from an haute couture house in Paris. It should drink well for 25-30 years as well.WS 93 (10/2015): A deliciously pure and juicy style, capturing the currant and blackberry essence of Cabernet in a supple, graceful manner. Texturally harmonious, with just the right amount of sage details and dusty, earth-laced tannins. Ends on a tart note. Drink now through 2027. 1,100 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HundredAcreWinery.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HundredAcreWinery.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Husic.aspWS 93 (6/2009): Tight and focused, delivering a beam of lime, citrus and green apple fruit that's crisp and lively, gaining depth and a minerally nuance on the long finish. Drink now through 20123. 1,562 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HydedeVillaine(HDV).asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Inglenook.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JohnsonEstate.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JohnsonEstate.aspVM 88 (12/2007): Ruby-red. Smoky plum and cherry on the nose, with complicating botanical herb and underbrush qualities. A bit tightly wound, with tangy red berry flavors, firm tannins and a dusty finish. The 2005 is a major step up in terms of sheer fruit and freshness.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JonataWinery.aspWA 95 (6/2008): Perhaps the greatest Cabernet Franc being made in California is Jonata’s El Alma de Jonata. The amazing 2006, a blend of 95% Cabernet Franc and the balance Cabernet Sauvignon and a dollop of Merlot, tastes like a liquid version of haute couture from Chanel. It possesses nobility, grace, and remarkable complexity. An inky/blue/purple color is accompanied by an extraordinary bouquet of blueberries, black raspberries, and graphite. In the mouth, it reveals wonderful elegance, precision, and laser-like focus along with noteworthy density and intensity for a wine dominated by Cabernet Franc. The varietal character is obvious, and the wine’s superb balance, purity, and well-integrated oak, acidity, and tannin are admirable. This beauty should hit its prime in 2-4 years, and last for 15-20. IWC 92 (12/2008): (95% cabernet franc, 4% cabernet sauvignon and 1% merlot) Vivid ruby-red. Spicy, intensely perfumed bouquet of redcurrant, dark cherry, pipe tobacco, dried rose and licorice. Chewy red and dark berry flavors are firmed by dusty tannins and gain sweetness with air, picking up a sexy set of baking spices. Leaves candied floral notes behind on the long, sappy finish. I'd give this at least five years in the cellar.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JonataWinery.aspWA 96+ (8/2015): California's Cheval Blanc (or maybe Le Dome is a better comparison), the Cabernet Franc dominated 2012 El Alma de Jonata incorporates 13% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Merlot and 6% Petit Verdot and is brought up in 80% new French oak. It has an incredible bouquet of tobacco leaf, lead pencil shavings, sweet currants, crushed rock and violets that come screaming from the glass. This is followed by a full-bodied red that shows a sensational purity of fruit, a full, layered mid-palate and building structure and tannic grip. While it's not an outright powerhouse, it certainly doesn't lack for concentration or depth. Give it 4-5 years and drink it over the following two decades. VM 95 (8/2015): The 2012 El Alma de Jonata has gained considerable power and structure since I last tasted it a year ago. An exotic, alluring melange of mocha, espresso, raspberry jam and wild flowers proves to be totally captivating. The Cabernet Franc character really screams out in the 2012. Ideally, readers should give the 2012 a few years in bottle for the tannins to soften, but it is impressive, even today. The 2012 was aged in French oak, 80% new.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JonataWinery.aspVM 96+ (9/2016): Silky, aromatic and expressive, the 2013 El Alma de Jonata graces the palate with exquisite finesse. The Cabernet Franc notes dominate, of course, but it is the wine's exceptional balance that is most remarkable. Sweet red cherry, plum, rose petal and mint shape the silky, perfumed finish. What a striking wine this is. The 2013 is 81% Cabernet Franc, 16% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Merlot and 1% Petit Verdot. Antonio Galloni. WA 94+ (8/2016): Leading off the bottled releases, the 2013 El Alma de Jonata (81% Cabernet Franc, 16% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Merlot and Petit Verdot) is still tight and closed, yet loaded with potential. Giving up notes of iron, dark chocolate, liquid smoke, lead pencil and tobacco leaf, this full-bodied, concentrated, downright serious beauty needs 4-6 years of cellaring and will keep for 10-15 years after that. JS 94 (1/2017): Wet earth and dried fruits with hints of chalk, chocolate flakes and berries. Full body, yet balanced and refined. Very long and full of place. A beauty. Mostly cabernet franc. Drink now.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JonataWinery.aspWA 91 (8/2007): A blend of 92% Cabernet Sauvignon and 8% Merlot, the 2004 El Desafio de Jonata’s dark ruby/purple hue is followed by aromas of mocha, creme de cassis, pain grille, and a touch of espresso, superb fruit on the attack, a deep, full-bodied mouthfeel, good underlying acidity, and sweet, seamlessly integrated tannin. It should age easily for 10-15 years.VM 88+ (12/2007): Ruby-red. Pungent herbs and leather complement ripe plum and cherry on the nose. Currently a bit compressed, with slow-to-open dark fruit flavors and youthfully firm tannins adding grip. Showing a sullen personality today, but there appears to be well-delineated dark fruit in there.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JonataWinery.aspWA 94+ (6/2008): Made from a classic northern Medoc blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (93%) and Merlot as well as Petit Verdot, the 2005 El Desafio de Jonata boasts an inky/purple color as well as a moderately intense nose of forest floor, earth, blackberries, creme de cassis, licorice, and incense. Full-bodied and powerful, with high but sweet, well-integrated tannins, this cuvee builds incrementally on the palate (it is full-bodied), but displays wonderful freshness, vibrancy, and precision. Another tour de force in winemaking, it should drink effortlessly for 15+ years.IWC 92 (12/2007): Opaque ruby. Pungent cherry and blackcurrant aromas are complicated by exotic floral and Indian spice qualities. Bitter cherry and dark chocolate flavors gain sweetness with air, fleshing out and carrying through a long, sappy finish. Manages to be lush and sweet but also poised, offering an impressive balancing act of tannins and ripeness. This has excellent hang time. This, too, is much more impressive than the maiden 2004 release. WS 88 (2/2008): Generous ripe plum, black cherry, herb and sage notes are balanced and supple, ending with a complex finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2012. 700 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JonataWinery.aspWA 95-97 (8/2009): The profound 2007 El Desafio de Jonata (a 500-case blend of 95% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot, aged in 85% new French oak and 15% old wood) is the reference point for Cabernet Sauvignon in Santa Ynez. Blueberry liqueur, graphite, acacia flower, and creme de cassis aromas are followed by a wine with great stature, medium to full-bodied power, awesome layers of flavor, and a finish that lasts nearly 60 seconds. The tannins are substantial, but well-integrated and velvety, and the wine is impressively long and layered.IWC 93 (12/2010): (95% cabernet sauvignon, with cabernet franc, merlot and petit verdot) Inky ruby. Pungent dark fruit preserves, cherry-cola and vanillin oak on the nose, with hints of woodsmoke and violet adding complexity. Lush cassis and cherry compote flavors stain the palate, with exotic candied flower and Indian spice qualities gaining strength in the glass. Dusty tannins add grip to a long, sweet, and penetrating finish. For such a rich wine there's very impressive energy and delineation as well. WS 91 (11/2010): Dense, rich and extracted, this powerful, tightly focused Cabernet shows notable dried currant, tobacco leaf, mineral, cedar and sage. Full-bodied and firming, this ends with drying tannins. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Best from 2012 through 2020. 520 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JonataWinery.aspWA 95 (8/2015): Probably the longest-lived wine in the vintage from Santa Barbara, Jonata's 630-case 2012 El Desafio de Jonata checks in as a blend of 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Cabernet Franc, 15% Petit Verdot and 5% Merlot that saw 80% new French oak. It reveals a masculine, meaty, structured personality as well as rockin' notes of blackcurrants, wood smoke, lead pencil shavings and crushed rock. Full-bodied, balanced and with building tannic grip, it still shows the suppleness of the vintage, but needs 2-3 years to even start to be drinkable. It will have 2-3 decades of longevity. VM 94 (8/2015): The Cabernet Sauvignon-based 2012 El Desafio de Jonata graces the palate with its sensual personality. Raspberry jam, pomegranate, leather, smoke, spice and tobacco all blossom in the glass. Big, rich and inviting, the 2012 boasts superb intensity and resonance, although it doesn't quite have the visceral thrill of the very best wines in this range. Shades of rose petal and mint add the closing shades of nuance. The 2012 was aged in French oak, 80% new.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JonataWinery.aspWA 95+ (8/2015): There are roughly 200 cases of the sensational 2012 Fenix. A blend of 69% Merlot, 22% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Cabernet Franc and the balance Petit Verdot, it reveals a Bordeaux-like perfume of black cherries, plums, tobacco leaf, leather and damp soil. Full-bodied, supple and more elegant than powerful, it still has terrific density and length on the palate, with ample sweet tannin. I'd happily drink it today, but savvy readers would ideally give it 2-4 years of bottle age and drink bottles through 2032. VM 94 (8/2015): The 2012 Fenix, Jonata's Merlot-based red has turned out beautifully. Explosive and full-bodied, the 2012 hits the palate with serious intensity. Dark cherry, plum, wild flowers, spices and savory herbs are laced into the finish. The Fenix appears to have put on considerable weight over the last year, some of which is attributable to the addition of press wines, which have given the wine more backbone. The Fenix was aged in French oak barrels, 80% new.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JonataWinery.aspVM 92 (11/2012): (67% sauvignon blanc and 33% semillon): Pale yellow. Deep, powerful aromas of pear skin, melon, green almond and smoky lees, with a bright mineral topnote. At once rich and energetic, offering zesty lemon pith and orchard fruit flavors complicated by anise and honeysuckle. Closes on a refreshingly bitter note, with strong thrust and lingering citrus and herbal character. Josh Raynolds.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JonataWinery.aspVM 93 (9/2016): The 2014 Flor is a powerful, intense wine with a real sense of phenolics and power. White flowers, mint, sage and lemon meld into a deep core of fruit. This is one of the most structured vintages of the Flor I can recall tasting. As such, it should be cellared for at least a few years. Antonio Galloni. WA 92 (8/2016): Crazily perfumed and exotic, with notes of grated lemon, crushed mint, exotic flowers and orange blossom, the 2014 La Flor de Jonata (90% Sauvignon Blanc and 10% Semillon) is layered and rich on the palate, with good acidity and a great finish. It doesn't come cheap, but it's a beautiful, singular white that evolves nicely for 3-4 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JonataWinery.aspVM 93 (12/2008): Green-tinged gold. Expansive, exotically perfumed bouquet of mango, pineapple, coconut and caramel, with a zesty floral undertone. Spicy tropical and pit fruit flavors are sweetened by caramel and floral honey qualities, with a jolt of orange pit on the back end. An endlessly complex wine that finishes with strong echoes of coconut and caramel.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JonataWinery.aspVM 94 (12/2007): Opaque violet. Explosively perfumed nose offers a wild array of red and dark berry liqueur, floral oils and pungent herbs, all underscored by crackling minerality. Deep and sweet, with powerful cassis and black raspberry, candied licorice and violet pastille flavors. This reminded me of a big-ticket, single-site Chapoutier Hermitage. The sweetness is reined in by firm mineral and bitter chocolate, but returns on the remarkably long, juicy finish. Pretty amazing for a sophomore effort.WS 87 (2/2008): Ripe and zesty, with vibrant black cherry and wild berry fruit that's elegant and refined, ending with a juicy fruit aftertaste. Drink now through 2011. 174 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JonataWinery.aspWA 94 (8/2007): The 2004 La Sangre de Jonata (100% Syrah) was aged 19 months in 60% new French oak and 40% two-year old French wood. It offers beautiful chocolate, blackberry, charcoal, acacia flower, and roasted meat characteristics, rich, full-bodied flavors, lovely purity, refreshing acids, and ripe tannin. Drink this powerful yet graceful Syrah over the next 10+ years.VM 94 (12/2007): Glass-staining purple. Sexy raspberry and kirsch aromas are deepened by musky floral and herbal qualities, gaining strong licorice and cola qualities with air. Sweet dark fruit liqueur flavors are complicated by sultry bacon fat and graphite, giving this a Cornas-like character. This syrah impresses with its depth, sweetness and complexity, and finishes with outstanding clarity and sweetness.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JonataWinery.aspWA 93 (8/2007): The 2005 La Tierra de Jonata (93% Sangiovese and 7% Cabernet Sauvignon) continues Jonata’s penchant for producing the finest Sangiovese in California. A deep ruby/purple hue is accompanied by a sumptuously rich nose of strawberries, new saddle leather, licorice, roasted herbs, and spice. Expansive, round, and medium-bodied with terrific fruit purity and intensity, this amazing wine should drink beautifully for 5-6 years. IWC 90 (12/2007): Dark red. Peppery red berry and cherry aromas are complicated by dried rose and vanilla, with pungent herbs and roasted coffee coming up with aeration. Fleshy raspberry and cherry flavors are firmed by dusty tannins but offer a suave, sweet personality. Finishes with an elegant, almost restrained bitter cherry and floral pastille qualities. This benefited enormously from being open for a while.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JonataWinery.aspVM 91 (11/2012): (a wild blend based on 64% syrah, with sangiovese, merlot, cabernet sauvigon, grenache, viognier, cabernet franc, petit verdot, sauvignon blanc and semillon): Inky ruby. Dark berries, cured meat, smoky herbs, minerals and dried flowers on the fragrant nose. A sexy anise quality adds complexity to the powerful blackberry and boysenberry flavors, with tangy acidity adding focus and grip. This interesting blend finishes with very good complexity, firm tannins and lingering smokiness. Josh Raynolds.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JonataWinery.aspVM 91 (11/2012): (a wild blend based on 64% syrah, with sangiovese, merlot, cabernet sauvigon, grenache, viognier, cabernet franc, petit verdot, sauvignon blanc and semillon): Inky ruby. Dark berries, cured meat, smoky herbs, minerals and dried flowers on the fragrant nose. A sexy anise quality adds complexity to the powerful blackberry and boysenberry flavors, with tangy acidity adding focus and grip. This interesting blend finishes with very good complexity, firm tannins and lingering smokiness. Josh Raynolds.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JonataWinery.aspWA 95 (8/2013): Looking at the entry level effort, and almost making me wonder why you would pony up the money for the La Sangre when you can get this level of quality at less than half the price, the 2010 Todos, which is over 75% Syrah, offers up knockout aromas and flavors, full-bodied richness and a seamless, layered profile that is hard to resist. Blackberry liqueur, caramelized beef, chocolate and flowers are just some of the nuances here and this pure, polished 2010 can be enjoyed now or cellared for a decade. Drink now-2020.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JonataWinery.aspWA 89 (10/1993): This is a harmonious, elegant yet rich Cabernet Sauvignon with a deep purple color, medium body, a supple texture, impressive richness, and a sense of grace and balance. The velvety finish possesses moderate tannin that is largely concealed by the wine's rich fruit. Drink it over the next 12-15 years.WS 87 (12/2002): Solid, raw and tannic. Mint, black cherry, iron, earth and nutty licorice flavors, turning firmly tannic and dry on the finish, with a slight metallic edge.--'81/'91 California Cabernet retrospective. Drink now through 2006.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JuddsHill.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JuddsHill.aspWA 92 (4/2014): A beautifully elegant wine from Juslyn, this blend of 97% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3% Cabernet Franc (most from Oakville and Spring Mountain) is the brainchild of Perry and Carolyn Butler, who have done a fine job of resurrecting this estate. Quintessentially elegant with significant richness and intensity, it possesses a deep ruby/purple color, a delicate texture and savory finesse and con centration. This silky smooth 2004 is approaching full maturity, but is capable of lasting another decade or more.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Juslyn.aspWS 86 (11/2003): Well-made, showing complex herb, currant, plum and berry flavors that are ripe and vibrant, with firm yet integrated tannins and a fruity aftertaste. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot. Drink now through 2009. 11,000 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Justin.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Justin.aspWS 91 (9/2003): Dark, ripe and generous, a remarkably elegant mouthful of plum, pepper and exotic spice flavors, finishing with a wee touch of olive and game, all with some refinement to the tannins. Best after 2005. 138 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KVintners.aspWA 91 (8/2011): The 2008 Syrah Northridge lacks the density and depth of the preceding wines, but is still a first-class effort.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KVintners.aspWA 94-97 (6/2014): Aptly named, the 2012 Syrah The Beautiful is 97% Syrah and 3% co-fermented Viognier that was fermented with 100% whole cluster and aged mostly in neutral larger barrels. Getting a few expletives in the notes, it offers gorgeous aromas and flavors of kirsch liqueur, red licorice, crushed flowers and crushed rock-like minerality to go with a full-bodied, seamless and textured profile on the palate that’s hard to resist. Give it a handful of years once released, and enjoy it over the following decade.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KVintners.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KVintners.aspWA 100 (12/2009): Absolutely riveting, and even better than I predicted last year is the 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon - Grand Vin State Lane Vineyard. Made from 92% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Merlot, and the rest tiny dollops of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot (400 cases produced), in two weeks of tastings, this wine stood out as one of those singular efforts that it is impossible to get out of your mind and off of your palate. A flawless, seamless, profound example of Napa Cabernet, it exhibits an opaque purple color along with a gorgeous perfume of lead pencil shavings, cedar, creme de cassis, ink, flowers, and espresso roast. With phenomenal depth, a multidimensional personality, unbelievable length, and an impeccable integration of all its component parts, this stunning wine lasts and lasts, with a finish approaching a full minute. Give this profound wine 3-5 years of cellaring, and drink it over the following 25-30 years. JS 95 (4/2011): This is a very powerful and structured wine from the Kapcsandy's. Tannic and rich, with flavors of licorice, blueberries, and blackberries. Long and rich finish, give this at least five years. 93% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Merlot, 1% Cabernet Franc, 1% Petite Verdot. 300 cases.WS 94 (10/2010): Tightly wound and Bordeaux-like in its structure and mix of earth, graphite and dried currant flavors. Full-bodied and slow to unfold, but keeps revealing extra layers of depth and complexity only to be reigned in by gripping tannins. Best from 2012 through 2022. 300 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KapcsandyFamily.aspWA 100 (12/2010): Another perfect wine (identical to the 2007) is the 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Grand Vin State Lane Vineyard. Composed of 87% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot (430 cases produced), this is an exquisite wine of great precision and profound concentration and complexity. It possesses an inky/purple color in addition to an ethereal nose of cassis, chocolate, burning embers, espresso and forest floor. Sweet tannins, a multidimensional mouthfeel, full-bodied power and good structure as well as freshness make for a prodigious example of wine that will benefit from 4-5 years of cellaring, but will keep for 25-30 years. This is an awesome effort, particularly after what the Kapcsandy family achieved in 2007. VM 94+ (5/2011): (87% cabernet sauvignon, 5% each merlot and cabernet franc, and 3% petit verdot): Bright medium ruby. Crushed cassis, blackberry, bitter chocolate and menthol on the nose, along with a pronounced rocky minerality. Densely packed and energetic, with powerful dark berry, crushed stone and saline flavors enlivened by a lavender element. Finishes very long and firm. This uncompromisingly dry wine shut down in the glass and gives every sign of needing a good eight to ten years of cellaring.JS 94 (6/2011): Notes of blueberry and cassis on the nose and palate. This is chewy and rich with a full body that gives hints of minerals, mint, and spices. Don't touch this for five or six years. 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc, 3% Petite Verdot. 430 cases.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KapcsandyFamily.aspWA 100 (12/2010): Another perfect wine (identical to the 2007) is the 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Grand Vin State Lane Vineyard. Composed of 87% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot (430 cases produced), this is an exquisite wine of great precision and profound concentration and complexity. It possesses an inky/purple color in addition to an ethereal nose of cassis, chocolate, burning embers, espresso and forest floor. Sweet tannins, a multidimensional mouthfeel, full-bodied power and good structure as well as freshness make for a prodigious example of wine that will benefit from 4-5 years of cellaring, but will keep for 25-30 years. This is an awesome effort, particularly after what the Kapcsandy family achieved in 2007. VM 94+ (5/2011): (87% cabernet sauvignon, 5% each merlot and cabernet franc, and 3% petit verdot): Bright medium ruby. Crushed cassis, blackberry, bitter chocolate and menthol on the nose, along with a pronounced rocky minerality. Densely packed and energetic, with powerful dark berry, crushed stone and saline flavors enlivened by a lavender element. Finishes very long and firm. This uncompromisingly dry wine shut down in the glass and gives every sign of needing a good eight to ten years of cellaring.JS 94 (6/2011): Notes of blueberry and cassis on the nose and palate. This is chewy and rich with a full body that gives hints of minerals, mint, and spices. Don't touch this for five or six years. 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc, 3% Petite Verdot. 430 cases.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KapcsandyFamily.aspWA 95+ (10/2013): The more closed but potentially greater 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Grand Vin State Lane Vineyard is a 480-case blend of 96% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Its dense ruby/purple color is followed by notes of licorice, creme de cassis, camphor and subtle toast. Full-bodied and concentrated, it represents 15% of the total Kapcsandy production. The wine finished with 13.7% alcohol, which in these days is relatively low, although the alcohol levels were down in 2009 through 2011 because of the cooler, less ripe years.VM 95 (5/2012): (includes 3% merlot and 1% cabernet franc): Good bright medium ruby. Spectacular nose offers crushed blackberry, cassis, licorice, violet and minerals complicated by leather and game. Lush, silky and deep, with enticing floral lift for the vintage. Big, powerful but very fine tannins are thoroughly coated by fruit on the extremely long finish. Conveys a somewhat higher-pH mouth feel than the more gripping 2010 version but this vintage may have even riper tannins.WS 93 (11/2012): A substantial effort that weaves together dense, earthy, clay-laced currant, dark berry, sage and cedar. Slow to unfold, but does so gracefully and gets better with each sip. Best from 2013 through 2028. 480 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KapcsandyFamily.aspWA 95+ (10/2013): The more closed but potentially greater 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Grand Vin State Lane Vineyard is a 480-case blend of 96% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Its dense ruby/purple color is followed by notes of licorice, creme de cassis, camphor and subtle toast. Full-bodied and concentrated, it represents 15% of the total Kapcsandy production. The wine finished with 13.7% alcohol, which in these days is relatively low, although the alcohol levels were down in 2009 through 2011 because of the cooler, less ripe years.IWC 95 (5/2012): (includes 3% merlot and 1% cabernet franc): Good bright medium ruby. Spectacular nose offers crushed blackberry, cassis, licorice, violet and minerals complicated by leather and game. Lush, silky and deep, with enticing floral lift for the vintage. Big, powerful but very fine tannins are thoroughly coated by fruit on the extremely long finish. Conveys a somewhat higher-pH mouth feel than the more gripping 2010 version but this vintage may have even riper tannins.WS 93 (11/2012): A substantial effort that weaves together dense, earthy, clay-laced currant, dark berry, sage and cedar. Slow to unfold, but does so gracefully and gets better with each sip. Best from 2013 through 2028. 480 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KapcsandyFamily.aspVM 99 (6/2015): Kapcsándy's 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Grand Vin State Lane Vineyard is truly special. Supremely polished and refined, the 2010 is absolutely gorgeous right out of the gate. The 2010 is so beautiful, it is one of the few wines I chose not to decant for this tasting, as I did not want to disturb the fruit. Tasted over several hours, the 2010 just kept getting better and better. I revisited an unfinished bottle the day after the tasting, and it was still magnificent. Perhaps a bit less focused in its aromatics, with air, the 2010 became darker and more voluptuous. Overall, the 2010 Grand Vin stands out for its precision and focus, both qualities that are rare in a vintage that generally produced much more explosive wines.WA 96 (10/2013): The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Grand Vin State Lane Vineyard is a 275-case blend of 95% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Merlot and Petit Verdot. It reveals intense red and black currant fruit, good acidity, hints of camphor and graphite, superb purity, a full-bodied texture and an extremely youthful (almost like a barrel sample) freshness and focus. This is a remarkably young yet promising, full throttle, beautifully made Cabernet Sauvignon that should be cellared for 5-7 years and drunk over the following two to three decades. WS 93 (7/2013): A classy, Bordeaux-like red from Napa, with ripe, rich fruit and tiers of currant, spice, cigar box and tobacco leaf. Well-built, showing a measure of restraint, this delivers fine-grained tannins and a long, tapered finish. Best from 2014 through 2026. 275 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KapcsandyFamily.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KapcsandyFamily.aspWA 100 (10/2014): The bottled 2012s are all performing brilliantly. It was a large, but not excessive crop with a consistently warm growing season that never suffered the heat spikes Napa often experiences. The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Grand Vin State Lane Vineyard is the greatest example of this cuvée since the 2007. Bottled without fining or filtration, this blend of 99% Cabernet Sauvignon and 1% Merlot tips the scales at 14.1% natural alcohol. There are 320 cases. The Kapcsandys have hit the bull’s eye with this beauty. A stunning set of aromatics consisting of white chocolate, blackcurrant liqueur, cedarwood, graphite, incense and melted licorice is followed by a beautifully integrated, seamless, full-bodied classic. With terrific fruit purity, a touch of spice, and a voluptuously textured, super-pure, extravagant mouthfeel, this well-balanced 2012 can be drunk young because of the stylistic precociousness of this vintage or cellared for two decades. VM 97+ (12/2014): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Grand Vin is a real stunner. The Grand Vin has all the richness and texture of the Roberta's but with a little more verve, energy and overall structure. Beams of tannin and acidity provide the backdrop in a Grand Vin that brings together the raciness of the vintage with a fabulous sense of vibrancy. The 2012 is going to be very hard to resist young, but it also clearly has the capacity to age for decades. VM 96-99 (5/2014): (13.9% alcohol; includes 2% merlot; 100% new French oak): Bright medium ruby. Urgent crushed blackcurrant, licorice and wild herb aromas are lifted by violet and iris notes. Superconcentrated and utterly seamless in the mouth but with a magically light touch to the blueberry, licorice and mineral flavors. This really spreads out to saturate the mouth and echoes and resounds on the mounting back end. Tannins are completely buffered by extract. A monumental wine in the making.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KapcsandyFamily.aspWA 100 (10/2016): Little can be added to the greatness of the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Grand Vin, a blend of 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Merlot and 1% Petit Verdot. The wine (600 cases) is truly stunning in its dense, crème de cassis and blackberry-scented nose with a hint of barbecue smoke and forest floor. Tasting like a ripe vintage of Château Latour from Pauillac, the wine has amazing richness and a savory, expansive mouthfeel, but tiptoes across the palate like a ballerina. A wine of magnificent richness and intensity, but vibrancy, purity and overall equilibrium, this is a staggeringly great wine and another tribute to the Kapcsándy family’s extraordinary professionalism and meticulous attention to detail in their vineyard. JS 98 (4/2016): Incredible black currant, blueberry, stone, oyster shell and violet. Subtle and complex. Sweet tobacco. Full body, superb density and flavor. Great length and structure. A wine that is complete and complex. So much aging potential. Linear and dense. Better in 2022.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KapcsandyFamily.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KapcsandyFamily.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KapcsandyFamily.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KapcsandyFamily.aspWA 98 (6/2017): A great effort and a showcase for Cabernet Franc is the 2012 Rapszodia. This is a blend of 90% Cabernet Franc from the heavy clay soils of their vineyard blended with 10% Merlot aged in 100% new French oak for 20 months and bottled without filtration. A stunning nose of acacia flowers, blueberry liqueur and blackberry is followed by a medium to full-bodied wine that’s amazingly intense, rich and concentrated, but surprisingly light on its feet weight-wise. The wine is full-bodied, but stunningly ethereal and sublime. This is a stunner, and a great example of what Cabernet Franc can do from a terrific terroir, great winemaking and élevage. Sadly, only 175 cases were produced. Look for this wine to continue to drink well for up to two decades. JS 96 (5/2016): Extremely subtle aromas with stone, blackberry and fresh mushroom. Full body, very silky. Stone and chocolate. Cool fruit; lots of blue fruits here. Fabulous length and softness. Mostly cabernet franc with a tiny amount of merlot. Gorgeous now, but wait and see. VM 95 (10/2015): The 2012 Rapszodia speaks to finesse above all else. In this vintage, the Cabernet Franc is the highest ever (90%), which gives the wine much of its aromatic freshness, nuance and delineation. Sublime and finely-knit in the glass, the 2012 is a strikingly beautiful wine from the team at Kapcsándy. The blend is 90% Cabernet Franc and 10% Merlot. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KapcsandyFamily.aspWA 99 (10/2016): Another Cheval Blanc-like blend of 65% Cabernet Franc and 35% Merlot is the 2013 Rapszodia Proprietary Red, which has mind-blowing aromatics of blueberries, white flowers, raspberries and foresty notes in a fragrant, compelling scent of explosive perfume. Deep, concentrated, multidimensional, yet vibrant and super-concentrated, this is another tour de force, although only 150 cases were made of this superstar that finished at 13.8% natural alcohol. Drink it over the next 25-35 years. JS 98 (5/2016): This is 65% cabernet franc and 35% merlot with super tension and beauty plus mineral, stone, blueberry, salt, and chalk. Full-bodied, silky and chewy, yet exciting tannins. The energy and zen to this wine are amazing. I love tasting it now but it will be superb for decades ahead. Drink or hold.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KapcsandyFamily.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KapcsandyFamily.aspWA 95 (12/2007): A blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Merlot and Cabernet Franc, the opaque purple-hued 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon State Lane Vineyard is a rich, full-bodied effort displaying notes of cedar, truffles, black currants, coffee, chocolate, and spice. With sweet tannin, full-bodied power, and impressive purity and length, this rich, backward, Bordeaux-styled wine does not ignore the wealth and extravagant fruit of Napa Valley. In short, the best of both worlds. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2030.IWC 92-94 (6/2007): Highly perfumed aromas of currant, blackberry, tobacco, violet and wild lavender. Sweet and silky but penetrating, with good density leavened by superb acidity. Ultimately lusher and a bit more chocolatey than the Roberta's but still not a particularly fleshy style. Here the juicy finish features suaver tannins and subtle persistence. Promises to be the best vintage yet for this new producer, where improvement has been rapid in just three years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KapcsandyFamily.aspWA 98 (12/2012): The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Grand Vin opens with the most beguiling bouquet imaginable. Freshly cut flowers, mint, cinnamon and licorice all make an appearance as this vivid, beautifully delineated wine opens up in the glass. A model of total finesse and elegance, the 2009 wraps around the palate with what feels like endless layers of aromas and flavors. This totally seamless, polished Cabernet Sauvignon is virtually impossible to resist today, but it will be even better in another few years. The 2009 is 96% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Merlot and 1% Cabernet Franc. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2039. IWC 95 (5/2012): (includes 3% merlot and 1% cabernet franc): Good bright medium ruby. Spectacular nose offers crushed blackberry, cassis, licorice, violet and minerals complicated by leather and game. Lush, silky and deep, with enticing floral lift for the vintage. Big, powerful but very fine tannins are thoroughly coated by fruit on the extremely long finish. Conveys a somewhat higher-pH mouth feel than the more gripping 2010 version but this vintage may have even riper tannins.WS 93 (11/2012): A substantial effort that weaves together dense, earthy, clay-laced currant, dark berry, sage and cedar. Slow to unfold, but does so gracefully and gets better with each sip. Best from 2013 through 2028. 480 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KapcsandyFamily.aspIWC 91 (5/2007): (a blend of 60% cabernet sauvignon and 40% merlot) Bright, deep ruby. Pungent aromas of blackberry, black licorice, tar, bitter chocolate and lead pencil. Sweeter than the 2003 but also quite juicy; this possesses a strong spine of acidity but the acids are more successfully integrated than in the 2003 thanks to more supporting flesh. Silky in the middle but the tannins are a bit tough. The merlot was affected by the heat spike in early September, noted Lou Kapcsandy.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KapcsandyFamily.aspIWC 91 (5/2007): (a blend of 60% cabernet sauvignon and 40% merlot) Bright, deep ruby. Pungent aromas of blackberry, black licorice, tar, bitter chocolate and lead pencil. Sweeter than the 2003 but also quite juicy; this possesses a strong spine of acidity but the acids are more successfully integrated than in the 2003 thanks to more supporting flesh. Silky in the middle but the tannins are a bit tough. The merlot was affected by the heat spike in early September, noted Lou Kapcsandy.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KapcsandyFamily.aspWA 95 (12/2012): The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Cuvee is pure, seamless and totally beautiful. Hints of chocolate, cloves and gingerbread appear on the nose, followed by rich, deep layers of fruit. There is a baritone-like expression in the 2009 that is striking. Sweet floral notes appear later, adding lift, vibrancy and freshness. In other words, all the elements are perfectly in balance. This is a gorgeous 2009. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2029. WS 92 (11/2012): Smooth and richly flavored, offering supple currant, black berry and beef carpaccio. Firms up on the finish, with the flavors gaining traction and detail. Drink now through 2023. 300 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KapcsandyFamily.aspWA 96 (10/2015): The 2012 Estate Cuvee State Lane Vineyard, which is 80% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Merlot aged in a combination of mostly new French oak, but some Hungarian oak as well, represents 1,190 cases, or 50% of the production from their estate vineyard. This wine shows beautiful floral notes along with hints of earth, chocolate, espresso, licorice and blackcurrants. It is elegant, medium to full-bodied, with impressive purity, texture and length. The wine shows relatively sweet tannin, but then so do most of the top 2012s. It should drink nicely for 15-20 more years. VM 94+ (10/2015): A dark, powerful wine, the 2012 Estate Cuvée possesses gorgeous depth and textural richness. Open and large on the palate, the 2012 delivers plenty of pleasure today. Next to the best wines from the estate, the 2012 Estate Cuvée lacks a touch of freshness - especially in its aromatics - but it is incredibly appealing today. My sense is that the 2012 is going through a period of dullness, as the bouquet is not as expressive as it has been in the past. A closing note of rose petal and mint adds the final layer of nuance. The blend is 80% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Merlot. WS 93 (11/2015): Pure and focused on a dense core of extracted currant, crushed rock, espresso, plum and wild berry. The tannins are firm and gripping but also ripe, giving this a long, tapered finish. Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Best from 2018 through 2030. 800 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KapcsandyFamily.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KapcsandyFamily.aspWA 98+ (12/2009): Nearly as extraordinary, and a wine that may turn out to be pure perfection in a few years is the 2007 Roberta’s Reserve State Lane Vineyard. Composed of 92% Merlot and 8% Cabernet Franc (only 100 cases produced), this dense purple-hued Merlot offers up an exotic nose of mocha, cocoa, orange blossoms, cassis, and cherries. Its elegance combined with tremendous substance, power, and richness is exhilarating. This compelling wine possesses an extraordinary deep mid-palate as well as aromatic fireworks. It can be drunk now, but it promises to be even better in 4-5 years, and last for three decades. IWC 95 (5/2010): (merlot with 8% cabernet franc; just 100 cases made) Good deep red-ruby. Compelling nose combines cassis, blackberry, licorice, tropical dark chocolate, orange peel and violet. Then broad, round and sweet in the way of a top Pomerol but with terrific inner-palate lift and minerality. This wonderfully fine-grained and utterly palate-saturating wine finishes with outstanding breadth and rising persistence. A great Napa Valley merlot, but there are just 100 cases of this elixir, the lowest quantity to date, due to strict selection of the merlot in 2007.JS 95 (4/2011): Beautiful aromas of blackberry, licorice, coffee bean, and black olives open up to a full body with firm chewy tannins. This is a powerful wine, give this four or five years still. 92% Merlot and 8% Cabernet Franc. 100 cases. Find the wineWS 91 (12/2010): Rich and complex, but tight as a drum, with bright red currant and dark cinnamon aromas and black cherry, toasty sage and Asian spice flavors that finish with ripe but dense tannins. Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Best after 2012. 100 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KapcsandyFamily.aspWA 98+ (12/2009): Nearly as extraordinary, and a wine that may turn out to be pure perfection in a few years is the 2007 Roberta’s Reserve State Lane Vineyard. Composed of 92% Merlot and 8% Cabernet Franc (only 100 cases produced), this dense purple-hued Merlot offers up an exotic nose of mocha, cocoa, orange blossoms, cassis, and cherries. Its elegance combined with tremendous substance, power, and richness is exhilarating. This compelling wine possesses an extraordinary deep mid-palate as well as aromatic fireworks. It can be drunk now, but it promises to be even better in 4-5 years, and last for three decades. IWC 95 (5/2010): (merlot with 8% cabernet franc; just 100 cases made) Good deep red-ruby. Compelling nose combines cassis, blackberry, licorice, tropical dark chocolate, orange peel and violet. Then broad, round and sweet in the way of a top Pomerol but with terrific inner-palate lift and minerality. This wonderfully fine-grained and utterly palate-saturating wine finishes with outstanding breadth and rising persistence. A great Napa Valley merlot, but there are just 100 cases of this elixir, the lowest quantity to date, due to strict selection of the merlot in 2007.JS 95 (4/2011): Beautiful aromas of blackberry, licorice, coffee bean, and black olives open up to a full body with firm chewy tannins. This is a powerful wine, give this four or five years still. 92% Merlot and 8% Cabernet Franc. 100 cases. Find the wineWS 91 (12/2010): Rich and complex, but tight as a drum, with bright red currant and dark cinnamon aromas and black cherry, toasty sage and Asian spice flavors that finish with ripe but dense tannins. Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Best after 2012. 100 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KapcsandyFamily.aspWA 96 (12/2010): The 2008 Roberta’s Reserve State Lane Vineyard (96% Merlot and 4% Cabernet Franc) is virtually perfect. This offering is just as strong as the 2007, but slightly more forward and irresistible than the backward 2007. It boasts a dense inky/purple color as well as an extraordinary nose of blackberry liqueur intermixed with cocoa, forest floor, graphite and subtle hints of smoke as well as camphor. The wine reveals fresh acids, laser-like precision and an extraordinary plump, fleshy mouthfeel. Already approachable, it should evolve for 20-25+ years. VM 96 (5/2011): (96% merlot with 5% cabernet franc): Deep ruby-red. Powerful mineral-driven aromas of crushed blackberry, black cherry and bitter chocolate. Dense, thick and sweet, and almost painfully intense, with uncommon structure for merlot. With a moderate pH of 3.57, 6.7 g/l total acidity and 14.3% alcohol, this has the balance for a couple decades of evolution in the bottle. Most impressive today on the explosive whiplash of a finish. From merlot vines planted on volcanic rock and clay. JS 96 (4/2011): Notes of sweet tobacco, blackberry, coffee, and chocolate fill the nose. On the palate this wine is full bodied and serious, yet maintaining a high degree of freshness. This is gorgeous and intense, but leave this alone for five years. Pull the cork in 2015. 96% Merlot and 4% Cabernet Franc. 125 cases. Find the winehttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KapcsandyFamily.aspVM 97 (12/2012): Kapcsandy's 2009 Roberta's Reserve is one of the most polished and refined wines of the vintage by a mile. A core of insistent minerality layered with sweet floral notes form the backbone as this delineated, vibrant wine continues to open up beautifully in the glass. The 2009 Roberta's is all about finesse. The overall sensation is one of total seamlessness and silkiness. At the same time, there is more than enough tension and sheer power for the 2009 to drink beautifully for years. The 2009 Roberta's is 96% Merlot and 4% Cabernet Franc. Antonio Galloni. WA 96 (10/2013): The 2009 Roberta’s Reserve (14.2% alcohol), a luxury Merlot-based wine, is composed of 96% Merlot and 4% Cabernet Franc. It possesses copious amounts of melted chocolate, fudge, espresso roast, black cherry, plum and Asian spice characteristics that hit the palate with a full-bodied crescendo, wonderful opulence and a juicy, succulent, voluptuous texture. This beauty is hard to resist. Unfortunately, they only made 260 cases, or 8% of the total production.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KapcsandyFamily.aspVM 98+ (5/2013): (95% merlot with 5% cabernet franc): Good medium ruby. High-pitched aromas of blackberry, blueberry, minerals and licorice. Wonderfully intense but youthfully imploded on the palate, offering electric flavors of black fruits, cocoa powder, bitter chocolate and minerals. Utterly seamless considering that it's so backward today. Finishes with noble tannins, great class and energy and endless lingering perfume. This gained steadily in complexity during the 45 minutes or so I was able to follow it, but its steely structure suggests it will evolve gracefully for two or three decades. It's perhaps the single greatest merlot-based wine I have ever tasted from California. (Winemaker Denis Malbec, who literally grew up at Chateau Latour, also makes the great merlot-based Rive Droite bottling at Blankiet, which means that he is responsible for California's two greatest merlots, in the opinion of this taster.)VM 98 (12/2012): Whereas the 2009 is round and seamless the 2010 Roberta's Reserve is a huge, vertical wine endowed with stunning depth and richness. Violets, tar, graphite and sweet spices jump from the glass in this powerful, structured wine. Brisk saline notes give the finish its sense of energy and tension. This is a dazzling effort. The 2010 is 95% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc.WA 97 (10/2013): Much more luxurious, voluptuous and in-your-face is the 2010 Roberta’s Reserve, which is a typical blend of 95% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc with 14.5% alcohol. It boasts a saturated ruby/purple color along with lots of Asian plum sauce, white chocolate, kirsch and a subtle smoky note. With superb richness and a full-bodied mouthfeel, despite its tannic framework it can be drunk in several years or cellared for several decades. WS 91 (7/2013): Firm and tightly wound, with a rich and complex core, offering flavors of black currant and dried herbs, plus accents of tomato leaf, olive and tart cherry. Needs time. Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Best from 2015 through 2020. 200 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KapcsandyFamily.aspVM 95 (6/2014): (Includes 4% cabernet franc): Deep red-ruby. Sappy aromas of redcurrant, lavender and minerals, plus a balsamic cedary quality. Like liquid velvet in the mouth, boasting a remarkably glossy texture to the flavors of dark fruits, mocha, brown spices and minerals. Not as opulent as the 2010 (or 2012) version but this wine boasts outstanding lift and slowly building length. The finish features firm, well-integrated tannins and an impression of weightlessness. Merlot was obviously particularly successful here in 2011, as it also comprised a majority of the Estate Cuvee.WA 91 (10/2013): The finest two wines of this vintage include the 2011 Roberta’s Reserve, which is more reserved and austere than usual. Nevertheless, it still reveals an attractive sweet chocolate and black currant-scented nose with hints of espresso, spicy oak and fruit, and a medium-bodied, supple mouthfeel. In 2011, 500 cases were produced.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KapcsandyFamily.aspWA 100 (10/2016): At 100% Merlot, the 2013 Merlot Roberta’s Reserve is off the charts and could easily eclipse a great vintage of Pétrus in a blind tasting. Fabulous notes of sweet cocoa and chocolate intermixed with black cherry and blackberry soar from the glass of this full-bodied wine that has a deep, rich, profound core of fruit and density. It is a great example of possibly the finest vintage Napa has ever produced for Bordeaux varieties. This wine has greatness all over it, with a minute-plus finish, yet is accessible enough to be drinkable now or cellared for another 30+ years. JS 100 (9/2016): The aromas to this are mind-blowing. Pure violets, lilacs, blueberries, blackberries, licorice, and flowers. Full body and superb tannin tension with polish and balance. Harmony. The layers and texture to this are phenomenal. The greatest American merlot ever made. Ranks among the best in the world. Only about 300 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KapcsandyFamily.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KapcsandyFamily.aspVM 96+ (12/2014): A dark, sumptuous beauty, the 2012 Kata is a real heat-turner. Mocha, espresso, plums, black cherry jam and sweet spices are woven into a luxurious, super-expressive fabric of pure explosive energy. Wild flowers, violets, mint and lavender add the final layers of nuance.JS 96 (5/2016): The lavender, blackberry and currant aromas and flavors come through beautifully. A full and weighted red yet remains agile and bright. Polished and seamless tannins. Needs another year or two to soften but all ready so clean and beautiful.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kata.aspWS 87 (12/2008): Savory aromas of herb, tea and red currant, with tobacco, sage, dusty berry and light oak. Complex and balanced. Better than previously reviewed. Drink now through 2011. 200 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Keever.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KenefickRanch.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KenefickRanch.aspWS 88 (12/1999): Tight and on the austere side, with earthy cedar, clay and tobacco flavors dominating the currant and dried cherry fruit underneath. Needs time to grow into its flavors, as the tannins are firm. Best from 2001 through 2010. 3,200 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kenwood.aspWA 96 (12/2007): The 2005 Pinot Noir Kistler Vineyard Cuvee Catherine Occidental Station boasts a dark ruby/purple-tinged color as well as gorgeous aromas reminiscent of a DRC Grands Echezeaux. Spring flower, blueberry, raspberry, cherry, and forest floor aromas soar from the glass of this medium to full-bodied Pinot. With superb finesse, elegance, and the grace of a ballerina, this beauty can be enjoyed over the next 10-12 years. VM 94 (5/2008): Deep ruby. Explosive perfumed aromas of black raspberry, cassis, mocha, tarragon and fresh rose. Intense dark fruit flavors are surprisingly lithe and admirably precise. Mineral and floral pastille character builds dramatically with air and carries through a long, strikingly sappy finish. Stephen Tanzer.BH 86 (10/2008): Opaque. An extremely ripe nose features a mix of blue and black pinot fruit, menthol and a touch of cough syrup that leads to concentrated, powerful and impressively scaled flavors that culminate in a noticeably warm, edgy, awkward and distinctly toasty finish. I would age this only long enough for the wood to better integrate though it will certainly be capable of a long life though I suspect that the alcohol will come to dominate the finish and it will dry out from excessive wood tannins. Drink 2010+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspWA 96 (12/2007): The 2005 Pinot Noir Kistler Vineyard Cuvee Catherine Occidental Station boasts a dark ruby/purple-tinged color as well as gorgeous aromas reminiscent of a DRC Grands Echezeaux. Spring flower, blueberry, raspberry, cherry, and forest floor aromas soar from the glass of this medium to full-bodied Pinot. With superb finesse, elegance, and the grace of a ballerina, this beauty can be enjoyed over the next 10-12 years. VM 94 (5/2008): Deep ruby. Explosive perfumed aromas of black raspberry, cassis, mocha, tarragon and fresh rose. Intense dark fruit flavors are surprisingly lithe and admirably precise. Mineral and floral pastille character builds dramatically with air and carries through a long, strikingly sappy finish. Stephen Tanzer.BH 86 (10/2008): Opaque. An extremely ripe nose features a mix of blue and black pinot fruit, menthol and a touch of cough syrup that leads to concentrated, powerful and impressively scaled flavors that culminate in a noticeably warm, edgy, awkward and distinctly toasty finish. I would age this only long enough for the wood to better integrate though it will certainly be capable of a long life though I suspect that the alcohol will come to dominate the finish and it will dry out from excessive wood tannins. Drink 2010+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspWA 96 (12/2007): The 2005 Pinot Noir Kistler Vineyard Cuvee Catherine Occidental Station boasts a dark ruby/purple-tinged color as well as gorgeous aromas reminiscent of a DRC Grands Echezeaux. Spring flower, blueberry, raspberry, cherry, and forest floor aromas soar from the glass of this medium to full-bodied Pinot. With superb finesse, elegance, and the grace of a ballerina, this beauty can be enjoyed over the next 10-12 years. VM 94 (5/2008): Deep ruby. Explosive perfumed aromas of black raspberry, cassis, mocha, tarragon and fresh rose. Intense dark fruit flavors are surprisingly lithe and admirably precise. Mineral and floral pastille character builds dramatically with air and carries through a long, strikingly sappy finish. Stephen Tanzer.BH 86 (10/2008): Opaque. An extremely ripe nose features a mix of blue and black pinot fruit, menthol and a touch of cough syrup that leads to concentrated, powerful and impressively scaled flavors that culminate in a noticeably warm, edgy, awkward and distinctly toasty finish. I would age this only long enough for the wood to better integrate though it will certainly be capable of a long life though I suspect that the alcohol will come to dominate the finish and it will dry out from excessive wood tannins. Drink 2010+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspWA 94-96 (12/2007): The dark ruby/purple-hued 2006 Pinot Noir Kistler Vineyard Cuvee Catherine Occidental Station offers notes of raspberries, kirsch, plums, Allspice, and damp forest. Although full-bodied with excellent fruit and richness, I do not believe it will be as superb as the 2005.VM 95 (6/2009): Vivid red. Strikingly vibrant aromas of red berries, blood orange, flowers and minerals reminded me of a suave Chambolle-Musigny. Fleshy, succulent strawberry and raspberry preserve flavors are enlivened by zesty minerality and given depth by a slow-building cola quality. Becomes more tangy as well as more powerful on the finish, which leaves fresh redcurrant and raspberry notes behind. This absolutely refused to let go of my palate. One of the most memorable wines of my North Coast tastings this year, and I tried a lot. Stephen Tanzer.BH 87 (10/2009): A very ripe nose of oak and red berry fruit that displays menthol and cough syrup nuances, all of which are picked up by the rich, full-bodied and serious flavors that possess fine mid-palate concentration as there is plenty of dry extract which does a good job of buffering the solid and mouth coating tannins. This is a dense and oaky wine that is a bit monolithic at present. While this won't win any awards for elegance, it is a dramatic wine that will best please fans of power pinot.Drink 2014+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspWA 95-97 (12/2008): The compelling 2007 Pinot Noir Cuvee Catherine from the Occidental Station Vineyard on the Sonoma Coast is made entirely from the Calera clone. Deep ruby/purple with crushed raspberries, violets, Chinese black tea, and chalky, almost wet stone-like notes, the wine is rich, full-bodied, multi-dimensional, with superb depth and length, and a remarkable finish. VM 93 (5/2010): Vibrant ruby. Aromatic, high-pitched nose combines black raspberry, cherry, violet pastille and smoky minerals. Juicy, spicy and sweet, with a supple texture and excellent complexity to the flavors of dark berries, minerals and candied flowers. As densely packed as this is, it's extremely fresh as well, finishing with a fine dusting of tannins and incisive, spicy length. BH 88 (10/2010): An extremely ripe nose redolent of menthol, wood spice and fruit compote is less obviously pinot in character than the Sonoma Coast. The big-bodied flavors are dense, powerful and relatively extracted with ample mid-palate sap that buffers the firm tannic spine on the solidly long finish. This is not an elegant wine, in fact it's robust to the point of overt rusticity but it's certainly a dramatic effort. For fans of power pinot. Drink 2014+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspWA 95+ (2/2011): The backward, tight, but super-rich 2008 Pinot Noir Occidental Station Cuvee Catherine has put on considerable weight over the last year. Abundant black raspberry, black cherry, blueberry, spring flower and foresty notes intertwined with a touch of oak in the background emerge from this prodigious Pinot Noir. Enjoy it over the next decade or more. VM 94 (5/2011): Glass-staining ruby. Highly perfumed, precise aromas of cherry, blackberry, licorice, herbs and violet; much darker in character than the preceding wines. Sweet and firm on entry, then fresh and aromatic in the mouth, with strong cherry and dark berry fruit supported by a firm spine of minerality. Finishes sweet and long. This is built to age. Stephen Tanzer.BH 89 (10/2011): A ripe and spicy nose of both red and dark berry fruit, plum and an herbal nuance leads to rich, round and suave medium weight plus flavors that possess good mid-palate density as well as excellent length. Like the '08 Natalie, the finish also displays a mild edginess but overall, this is very good.Drink 2014+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspWA 96-98 (12/2005): Bordering on perfection, the 2004 Pinot Noir Bodega Headlands (from Kistler’s new vineyard planted on the Sonoma Coast) offers up sweet plum, forest floor, and violet scents along with a La Tache-like, ethereal, floral, and black raspberry-like character. This prodigious, deep ruby/purple-colored Pinot possesses fabulous concentration as well as a layered, multidimensional palate, wonderful fruit, sweet tannin, and good acidity. It should age beautifully for 10-12 years. Interestingly, Steve Kistler planted this vineyard with the old Calera clone, which is rumored to be a suitcase clone pulled out of the Domaine de la Romanee-Conti grand cru vineyards.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspWA 96-98 (12/2007): The 2006 Pinot Noir Bodega Headlands Cuvee Elizabeth is undeniably a grand cru effort. Black raspberry, spring flower (violets), and kirsch aromas soar from the glass of this dark ruby/purple-tinged wine. Medium to full-bodied with zesty acidity, beautiful penetration, and a soaring mid-palate as well as length result in a prodigious example of Pinot Noir that should drink well for a decade or more.VM 94 (6/2009): Deep red. Energetic red and dark berries on the nose, with sexy notes of potpourri and blood orange adding complexity. Lively raspberry and blackberry flavors stain the palate, taking on a richer mocha quality on the back. The red fruit repeats strongly on the strikingly pure and precise finish. An impressively tangy, pure expression of pinot, with the balance and intensity to reward cellaring. Stephen Tanzer.BH 89 (10/2009): This is every bit as ripe and also has the same menthol character to the liqueur-like nose of red pinot fruit that introduces rich but very serious, indeed even somewhat somber big-bodied flavors that are underpinned by firm and dusty tannins, all wrapped in a notably firm and admirably long finish. This isn't my style as there is a certain monolithic quality to the fruit but the balance is solid and this may very well age out gracefully. Drink 2014+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspWA 96-98 (12/2007): The 2006 Pinot Noir Bodega Headlands Cuvee Elizabeth is undeniably a grand cru effort. Black raspberry, spring flower (violets), and kirsch aromas soar from the glass of this dark ruby/purple-tinged wine. Medium to full-bodied with zesty acidity, beautiful penetration, and a soaring mid-palate as well as length result in a prodigious example of Pinot Noir that should drink well for a decade or more.VM 94 (6/2009): Deep red. Energetic red and dark berries on the nose, with sexy notes of potpourri and blood orange adding complexity. Lively raspberry and blackberry flavors stain the palate, taking on a richer mocha quality on the back. The red fruit repeats strongly on the strikingly pure and precise finish. An impressively tangy, pure expression of pinot, with the balance and intensity to reward cellaring. Stephen Tanzer.BH 89 (10/2009): This is every bit as ripe and also has the same menthol character to the liqueur-like nose of red pinot fruit that introduces rich but very serious, indeed even somewhat somber big-bodied flavors that are underpinned by firm and dusty tannins, all wrapped in a notably firm and admirably long finish. This isn't my style as there is a certain monolithic quality to the fruit but the balance is solid and this may very well age out gracefully. Drink 2014+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspWA 96-98 (12/2007): The 2006 Pinot Noir Bodega Headlands Cuvee Elizabeth is undeniably a grand cru effort. Black raspberry, spring flower (violets), and kirsch aromas soar from the glass of this dark ruby/purple-tinged wine. Medium to full-bodied with zesty acidity, beautiful penetration, and a soaring mid-palate as well as length result in a prodigious example of Pinot Noir that should drink well for a decade or more.VM 94 (6/2009): Deep red. Energetic red and dark berries on the nose, with sexy notes of potpourri and blood orange adding complexity. Lively raspberry and blackberry flavors stain the palate, taking on a richer mocha quality on the back. The red fruit repeats strongly on the strikingly pure and precise finish. An impressively tangy, pure expression of pinot, with the balance and intensity to reward cellaring. Stephen Tanzer.BH 89 (10/2009): This is every bit as ripe and also has the same menthol character to the liqueur-like nose of red pinot fruit that introduces rich but very serious, indeed even somewhat somber big-bodied flavors that are underpinned by firm and dusty tannins, all wrapped in a notably firm and admirably long finish. This isn't my style as there is a certain monolithic quality to the fruit but the balance is solid and this may very well age out gracefully. Drink 2014+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspWA 96-98 (2/2010): The Cuvee Cathleen is amazing stuff, only to be eclipsed by the 2007 Pinot Noir Cuvee Elizabeth Bodega Headlands. Sweet black raspberries, camphor, and forest floor notes intermixed with a cocktail of spring flowers all jump from the glass of this full-bodied, gorgeously proportioned, rich wine that is about as compelling as California Pinot Noir is capable of being. It has a Burgundy-like structure, but its great purity of fruit and dazzling texture and length are awesome. This wine should drink well young but hit its stride in 5-6 years and last for 15-20 years. VM 94 (5/2010): Glass-staining ruby. Aromas of raspberry, licorice, sexy potpourri and Asian spices are lifted by a smoky mineral topnote. Dense, sappy and penetrating, with a deep sweetness and lovely inner-mouth perfume to the red berry, floral and spice flavors. Impressively large-scaled yet suave and vibrant owing to its superb balance and intense minerality. Finishes with striking aromatic persistence and lingering floral notes. Stephen Tanzer. BH 88 (10/2010): This is also extremely ripe with spiced poached plum and menthol aromas that do not make the wine's "pinot noir-ness" especially evident. This is also a dramatic wine that lacks elegance but here the amount of extract is genuinely impressive and it renders the supporting tannins almost invisible on the reasonably long finish. The problem is that, while difficult to easily convey, this feels somewhat forced and a bit over extracted but as with the Catherine, fans of power pinot will love this. Drink 2014+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspWA 96-98 (2/2010): The Cuvee Cathleen is amazing stuff, only to be eclipsed by the 2007 Pinot Noir Cuvee Elizabeth Bodega Headlands. Sweet black raspberries, camphor, and forest floor notes intermixed with a cocktail of spring flowers all jump from the glhttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspWA 96 (2/2011): From the coldest parcel of four cool terroirs, the stunning 2008 Pinot Noir Bodega Headlands Cuvee Elizabeth boasts copious aromas of boysenberries, black raspberries, spring flowers, sweet earth and hints of graphite as well as spice box. Broad, savory and full-bodied with impressive purity, this 2008 Pinot should drink well for a decade or more. VM 95 (5/2011): Lurid ruby. Complex, deeply spicy aromas of raspberry, fresh flowers, white pepper and Asian spices; showing a really exotic character. Then impressively concentrated and rich, but with energetic lift to its sweet red fruit preserve and floral pastille flavors. Wonderfully suave and high-pitched pinot with a vibrant, very persistent finish that refuses to let up. Stephen Tanzer.BH 87 (10/2011): A very ripe nose also reflects hints of menthol on the dark berry fruit, cassis and plum aromas that introduce round and solidly well-concentrated flavors that, like the Natalie Silver Belt are more refined than what I'm typically used to seeing from Kistler. I like the mouth feel and delivery but here the finish is warm enough to detract from the overall sense of balance. Drink 2014+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspVM 96 (1/2015): Both 2009 Pinots are striking. The Pinot Noir Silver Belt Vineyard Cuvée Natalie is lifted, savory and aromatic, while the Bodega Headlands Vineyard Cuvée Elizabeth is more overt and fruit-driven in style. Both wines remain quite primary, though, so readers who prefer more tertiary nuances will want to give the 2009s a few more years in the cellar. I am down to my last few bottles, and hope to have the patience to wait for the wines to enter their sweet spot. Antonio Galloni.WA 95+ (2/2012): The 2009 Pinot Noir Bodega Headlands Cuvee Elizabeth comes across as a bit firmer and less expressive than the Cuvee Catherine. There is a salty, saline quality that runs through the fruit in this powerful, structured wine. Waves of fruit crescendo on the explosive finish. This is a dazzling Pinot Noir, but it will require at least another year or two in bottle to reveal its pedigree. I loved it. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2021. WS 92 (9/2012): Austere, with a pleasant briny, flinty, oyster shell texture. Underneath, there's trim ripe berry flavors that gain richness and dimension. Quite tannic. Needs time. A strikingly distinctive Kistler. Best from 2013 through 2023. 780 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspVM 94 (6/2009): Deep red color. Loamy red berry and cherry aromas expand with air, picking up strong floral and smoky mineral qualities. The floral note gains strength with air and carries onto the palate, adding complexity to the wine's deep, chewy cherry and dark berry flavors. This is like two wines in one, with a high-pitched nose and a deeper, weightier palate. The finish strongly echoes the cherry and mineral notes and refuses to let up. This wine has more Swan clone than the other pinots. Stephen Tanzer. WS 88 (6/2009): Firm and complex in aroma, this is tighter and more compact on the palate, showing dried currant and berry fruit, with touches of sage, underbrush and mineral. The tannins are chewy. Decant for now. Drink now through 2013. 990 cases made. BH 88 (10/2009): Here the nose is both riper and more complex though the fruit profile is quite similar as it complements textured, pure and robust medium weight plus flavors that culminate in a tangy and edgy finish that is presently mildly bitter and shorter than the mid-palate would otherwise suggest. Drink 2013+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspVM 94 (6/2009): Deep red color. Loamy red berry and cherry aromas expand with air, picking up strong floral and smoky mineral qualities. The floral note gains strength with air and carries onto the palate, adding complexity to the wine's deep, chewy cherry and dark berry flavors. This is like two wines in one, with a high-pitched nose and a deeper, weightier palate. The finish strongly echoes the cherry and mineral notes and refuses to let up. This wine has more Swan clone than the other pinots. Stephen Tanzer. WS 88 (6/2009): Firm and complex in aroma, this is tighter and more compact on the palate, showing dried currant and berry fruit, with touches of sage, underbrush and mineral. The tannins are chewy. Decant for now. Drink now through 2013. 990 cases made. BH 88 (10/2009): Here the nose is both riper and more complex though the fruit profile is quite similar as it complements textured, pure and robust medium weight plus flavors that culminate in a tangy and edgy finish that is presently mildly bitter and shorter than the mid-palate would otherwise suggest. Drink 2013+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspWA 95 (2/2011): The 2008 Pinot Noir Cuvee Natalie Silver Belt, all from the Joseph Swan clone of Pinot Noir, offers rich forest floor, raspberry, spice box and earthy notes in a style that reminds me of a Burgundy premier cru from Volnay. This beautiful Pinot can be drunk now or cellared for a decade. VM 95 (6/2011): Bright ruby-red. Heady bouquet of black raspberry, cherry-cola, star anise and potpourri. Vibrant and light on its feet, offering sweet red and dark berry flavors that deliver liqueur-like power but carry no excess fat. Candied rose and cola notes linger on the long, incisive finish, which also features strong mineral character. Stephen Tanzer.WS 94 (10/2011): This fresh, ripe and pure red delivers vivid plum, wild berry, black licorice and mineral notes. Full-bodied, firming on the finish, where the tannins have a slight grainy quality, ending with a supple edge. Drink now through 2018. 1,046 cases made. BH 89 (10/2011): This is notably more elegant than its '07 counterpart with soft menthol nuances adding breadth if not typicity to the perfumed and ripe red berry fruit suffused nose. There is good richness and concentration to the relatively refined medium-bodied flavors that possess a slightly edgy but persistent finish. I confess that I like the new style much better than the old one. Drink 2014+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspWA 95 (2/2011): The 2008 Pinot Noir Cuvee Natalie Silver Belt, all from the Joseph Swan clone of Pinot Noir, offers rich forest floor, raspberry, spice box and earthy notes in a style that reminds me of a Burgundy premier cru from Volnay. This beautiful Pinot can be drunk now or cellared for a decade. VM 95 (6/2011): Bright ruby-red. Heady bouquet of black raspberry, cherry-cola, star anise and potpourri. Vibrant and light on its feet, offering sweet red and dark berry flavors that deliver liqueur-like power but carry no excess fat. Candied rose and cola notes linger on the long, incisive finish, which also features strong mineral character. Stephen Tanzer.WS 94 (10/2011): This fresh, ripe and pure red delivers vivid plum, wild berry, black licorice and mineral notes. Full-bodied, firming on the finish, where the tannins have a slight grainy quality, ending with a supple edge. Drink now through 2018. 1,046 cases made. BH 89 (10/2011): This is notably more elegant than its '07 counterpart with soft menthol nuances adding breadth if not typicity to the perfumed and ripe red berry fruit suffused nose. There is good richness and concentration to the relatively refined medium-bodied flavors that possess a slightly edgy but persistent finish. I confess that I like the new style much better than the old one. Drink 2014+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspVM 95 (1/2015): Both 2009 Pinots are striking. The Pinot Noir Silver Belt Vineyard Cuvée Natalie is lifted, savory and aromatic, while the Bodega Headlands Vineyard Cuvée Elizabeth is more overt and fruit-driven in style. Both wines remain quite primary, though, so readers who prefer more tertiary nuances will want to give the 2009s a few more years in the cellar. I am down to my last few bottles, and hope to have the patience to wait for the wines to enter their sweet spot. Antonio Galloni.WS 90 (9/2012): Focused on ripe, vivid and firm black cherry and wild berry flavors, while crushed rock and subtle fresh-turned earth notes provide a nice foundation. Tannic. Best from 2013 through 2023. 530 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspVM 94 (6/2013): Deep ruby. Mineral-accented red berry and cherry aromas are complemented by hints of fresh rose and anise. Focused and energetic on entry, then deeper in the middle, offering spicy redcurrant and bitter cherry flavors and showing excellent mineral spine. Finishes with impressive clarity and cut and lingering smoky mineral and floral notes. Stephen Tanzer.WA 92 (4/2013): The 2010 Pinot Noir Silver Belt Cuvee Natalie is a pretty, aromatic wine endowed with gorgeous lift and a gracious personality, with none of the wilder notes found in the Kistler Vineyard. The Cuvee Natalie is quite delicate, at times even a bit frail, but it nevertheless impresses with its superb purity and fine overall balance. There is a sense of energy in the Cuvee Natalie that is highly appealing. My impression is that the Cuvee Natalie is not built for the long haul, but it will drink nicely for at least the next few years. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2020. WS 90 (9/2013): A firm, intense and vibrant red, with zesty wild berry and raspberry notes. Pure, young and tightly strung, this needs time to develop. Ends with gripping tannins. Best from 2014 through 2023. 915 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspVM 94 (6/2013): Deep ruby. Mineral-accented red berry and cherry aromas are complemented by hints of fresh rose and anise. Focused and energetic on entry, then deeper in the middle, offering spicy redcurrant and bitter cherry flavors and showing excellent mineral spine. Finishes with impressive clarity and cut and lingering smoky mineral and floral notes. Stephen Tanzer.WA 92 (4/2013): The 2010 Pinot Noir Silver Belt Cuvee Natalie is a pretty, aromatic wine endowed with gorgeous lift and a gracious personality, with none of the wilder notes found in the Kistler Vineyard. The Cuvee Natalie is quite delicate, at times even a bit frail, but it nevertheless impresses with its superb purity and fine overall balance. There is a sense of energy in the Cuvee Natalie that is highly appealing. My impression is that the Cuvee Natalie is not built for the long haul, but it will drink nicely for at least the next few years. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2020. WS 90 (9/2013): A firm, intense and vibrant red, with zesty wild berry and raspberry notes. Pure, young and tightly strung, this needs time to develop. Ends with gripping tannins. Best from 2014 through 2023. 915 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspVM 96 (1/2015): A wine of real intrigue and finesse, the 2012 Pinot Noir Silver Belt Cuvée Natalie boasts marvelous detail and nuance. Sweet red cherry, plum and spice open up gradually, but the 2012 is not showing a lot of near-term accessibility at this stage. Instead, it is the wine's energy and tension that are front and center. A brilliant, crystalline finish rounds things out very nicely. Readers should give the 2012 at least a few years in bottle to fully come together. Antonio Galloni.WA 90 (1/2015): Another Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir, the 2012 Cuvée Natalie Silver Belt exhibits more beet root, red sweet and sour cherries and berry fruit, earth, spice and incense. Very Côte de Beaune-like, round and lush once it hits the palate, it should be drunk over the next 4-5 years. As usual, these wines from Steve Kistler and Mark Bixler are top-flight efforts and have been so for nearly three decades.WS 90 (9/2015): This is refreshingly elegant and refined, with a delicate mix of pebbly earth, raspberry, blackberry and anise notes, firming nicely on the finish, where the flavors tighten. Drink now through 2021. 1,030 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspWA 95+ (3/2016): The 2013 Pinot Noir Silver Belt Cuvée Natalie, from another Sonoma Coast site, shows darker fruits, more meat, black cherries and black raspberries with underbrush and spice. This should drink well for 5-7 years. VM 93 (2/2016): Gracious and pliant, Kistler's 2013 Pinot Noir Silver Belt Cuvée Natalie is quite inviting. Expressive aromatics give the 2013 a lovely sense of lift, yet there is plenty of palate presence as well. Dark cherry, plum, spice and cola are some of the notes that are pushed forward. The Cuvée Natalie has come along nicely since I tasted it last year. WS 92 (5/2016): Weaves together a savory mix of dried herb, cherry and wild berry flavors. Supple in texture, graceful in balance and refined in delivery. Drink now. 1,070 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspWA 95+ (3/2016): The 2013 Pinot Noir Silver Belt Cuvée Natalie, from another Sonoma Coast site, shows darker fruits, more meat, black cherries and black raspberries with underbrush and spice. This should drink well for 5-7 years. VM 93 (2/2016): Gracious and pliant, Kistler's 2013 Pinot Noir Silver Belt Cuvée Natalie is quite inviting. Expressive aromatics give the 2013 a lovely sense of lift, yet there is plenty of palate presence as well. Dark cherry, plum, spice and cola are some of the notes that are pushed forward. The Cuvée Natalie has come along nicely since I tasted it last year. WS 92 (5/2016): Weaves together a savory mix of dried herb, cherry and wild berry flavors. Supple in texture, graceful in balance and refined in delivery. Drink now. 1,070 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspWA 92-94 (2/2005): Why is it that I always find buttery popcorn, tropical fruit, creme caramel, and almost roasted hazelnuts in the Chardonnays from the Dutton Ranch? The 2003 Chardonnay Dutton Ranch has that and a lot more fruit than is typical. Perhaps the low yields from a vineyard that is known for relatively abundant crops have produced a bit more intensity than usual. This is in-your-face Chardonnay that is not the most subtle wine by any means but Meursault premier cru-like, ripe and heady. Drink it over the next 3-4 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspWA 94-96 (12/2006): More weight and power along with notes of roasted hazelnuts, peach, and smoky, almost clarified butter smells emerge from the 2005 Chardonnay Dutton Ranch. More extroverted and exuberant than the McCrea cuvee, it is an unusually elegant effort (because the acids are crisp and refreshing) that should drink beautifully for 7-8 years. Kistler Vineyards, undeniably one of the world’s finest winemaking estates, is run with passionate dedication to detail and quality by Steve Kistler and Mark Bixler. It is wines like these that keep an old critic like me inspired and energized. VM 92 (5/2008): Yellow-gold. Chalky citrus, quince and apple aromas are complicated by smoky lees, minerals and lemon pith. Bracing lime and pink grapefruit flavors gain weight with air, taking a turn to orange and tangerine. A firm, light-bodied chardonnay that offers intensity without excess weight, finishing with tangy mineral grip and great persistence. "On this soil, which is low in clay, this Wente clone is all about minerals," noted Kistler. WS 88 (7/2008): Smells rich and smoky, with exotic fig and cut apple scents followed by a raw woody character on the palate. Best to cellar short term, which should allow the wood to flesh out. Best from 2009 through 2012. 3,638 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspWA 90-93 (12/1998): The opaque black/purple-colored 1997 Pinot Noir Hirsch Vineyard looks more like Syrah than Pinot Noir. However, the nose offers up aromas of blackberries, cherries, and smoke intermixed with pain grille, roasted herbs, and meat. Medium to full-bodied, with light to moderate tannin, and an exuberant style with firm acidity, this is a classic. Anticipated maturity: 2000-2014.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspWA 91-94 (2/2005): Sophisticated yet somewhat closed aromatically is the 2003 Chardonnay Hyde Vineyard. This can be a show stopper, so I was surprised that it didn’t jump from the glass. Orange blossom, crushed rock, lemon zest, and tropical fruit all make an appearance in this impeccably well-made, medium to full-bodied wine that is more generous in the mouth than the reticent aromatics suggest. It should drink well for 5-7 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspWA 95 (3/2016): The 2013 Chardonnay Hyde Vineyard has fabulous fruit concentration, great acidity, discreet use of oak as well as notes of white peach and honeysuckle, currants and a touch of quince. Drink it over the next 4-6 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspWA 95 (12/2003): The 2001 Chardonnay Kistler Vineyard is a tightly-knit offering. Light gold-colored with considerable glycerin and power, it exhibits a liquid minerality, and a big, rich, textured style with huge concentration. Most of the wine’s character is at the back of the palate. This offering reminds me of a Batard-Montrachet from the likes of Louis Latour. With extraordinary length, richness, precision, and purity, this sensational Chardonnay will drink well for 6-8 years. VM 94+ (6/2004): Rich yellow color. Rather full-blown, expressive aromas of peach, apricot, minerals, licorice and mint. Fat with peachy fruit and complicated by notes of white flowers and vanillin oak. A sweet, pliant fruit bomb with less of the mineral and sulfidey character shown by some of the other Kistler 2001s. And yet this is still rather unevolved; a few years in bottle should bring even more complexity. Very long on the aftertaste.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspWA 97 (3/2016): The 2013 Chardonnay Kistler Vineyard, planted in 1979 with Old Wente in red volcanic soils, is a stunner. Deep, concentrated, full-bodied notes of white currants, lemon oil, apple blossom, white peach and honeysuckle are all present in this beautiful wine that will drink nicely for the next seven or so years. VM 95+ (2/2016): The 2013 Chardonnay Kistler Vineyard, which emerges from a steep hillside site, is another highlight in this range. White flowers and orchard fruits abound in this very pretty, delicate, lifted Chardonnay. The Mount Eden clone Steve Kistler planted here on St. George rootstock yields an especially lifted, almost ethereal Chardonnay that is quite different from the rest of the wines in the line up. The 2013 KV has really come along well since I tasted it prior to bottling. WS 92 (10/2016): A rich, creamy, seamless style, with a vibrant core of honeydew melon, nectarine and white peach, shaded by light oak. A well-balanced wine of dimension and complexity. Drink now. 1,810 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspWA 94-96 (12/1998): The 1997 Pinot Noir Kistler Vineyard (500 cases) is made from the Dijon clone 777, and two California clones, Pommard and Calera. It boasts a dense, saturated dark ruby/purple color, as well as an exceptionally sweet nose of roasted herbs and black cherry jam intermixed with raspberries, truffles, and toasty oak. Sweet and expansive, this full-bodied wine possesses fabulous concentration and purity, a grand cru-like level of potential complexity, and a 30+-second finish. It must be tasted to be believed. Look for this wine to be drinkable upon release, and last for at least a decade. VM 90 (6/2000): Deep red-ruby color. Sappy, floral aromas of crushed red fruits, cola, bitter chocolate and pungent oak. Concentrated, clean and deep on the palate; a substantial, rich wine whose new oak scents currently mute its flamboyant raspberry and cherry flavors. I'd be a bit more confident about the future of this bottle if the oak had not turned a bit tarry with aeration.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspWA 92 (2/2005): The 2002 Pinot Noir Kistler Vineyard offers wonderful sweet raspberry and cherry fruit with a hint of framboise, a deep plum/ruby/purple color, medium body, and good vibrancy in a medium to full-bodied, feminine style. Drink it over the next 5-7 years. VM 91 (6/2005): Ruby-red. High-toned aromas of blueberry, raspberry, strawberry and baking spices, along with a hint of rhubarb. Sweet, spicy and high-toned, with notes of crushed berries, dark plum, baking spices, mocha and forest floor. Very concentrated, rich pinot with strong fruit and intriguing soil tones. WS 89 (12/2006): Offers a trim yet concentrated band of spicy black cherry, plum and wild berry fruit that's sharply focused and at times shows restraint, yet gains richness and depth. Admirable for its structure. Drink now. 1,660 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspWA 93-95 (12/2006): Steve Kistler has backed off extraction for his Pinot Noirs, resulting in more ethereal (but not light) Pinots that are less burdened down by tannin in their youth, with each vineyard’s distinctive fruit and terroir coming through with much greater intensity. After experimenting with some Dijon clones, Kistler became convinced that the best clone for cool climate vineyards is the Calera Clone from California, and based on what he has achieved, I can’t argue. The deep ruby/purple-hued 2005 Pinot Noir Kistler Vineyard possesses sweet blueberry, raspberry, and forest floor notes, zesty acidity, elegance, and finesse, and a medium-bodied finish.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspIWC 92 (6/2010): Bright ruby. Intensely perfumed bouquet of red and dark berries, potpourri, mocha and sandalwood. Sappy, palate-coating red and dark berry flavors possess serious depth but don't come off as heavy. On the contrary, this is lively and precise, with very good finishing clarity and gently sweet mineral-driven persistence. BH 87 (10/2010): Here there is better integration of the wood and while this is also quite ripe, there is less menthol in evidence on the red liqueur and plum compote aromas. The big, rich and lush, indeed even opulent flavors possess excellent underlying material, which coats the mouth on the moderately toasty, warm and edgy finish. Like all of these '07s, this is a dramatic wine and while one cannot fault the concentration, the absence of elegance is a handicap in terms of the overall sense of harmony. Again, fans of power pinot will not be disappointed. Drink 2013+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspVM 92 (5/2010): Bright ruby. Intensely perfumed bouquet of red and dark berries, potpourri, mocha and sandalwood. Sappy, palate-coating red and dark berry flavors possess serious depth but don't come off as heavy. On the contrary, this is lively and precise, with very good finishing clarity and gently sweet mineral-driven persistence. Stephen Tanzer.BH 87 (10/2010): Here there is better integration of the wood and while this is also quite ripe, there is less menthol in evidence on the red liqueur and plum compote aromas. The big, rich and lush, indeed even opulent flavors possess excellent underlying material, which coats the mouth on the moderately toasty, warm and edgy finish. Like all of these '07s, this is a dramatic wine and while one cannot fault the concentration, the absence of elegance is a handicap in terms of the overall sense of harmony. Again, fans of power pinot will not be disappointed. Drink 2013+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspVM 92 (5/2010): Bright ruby. Intensely perfumed bouquet of red and dark berries, potpourri, mocha and sandalwood. Sappy, palate-coating red and dark berry flavors possess serious depth but don't come off as heavy. On the contrary, this is lively and precise, with very good finishing clarity and gently sweet mineral-driven persistence. Stephen Tanzer.BH 87 (10/2010): Here there is better integration of the wood and while this is also quite ripe, there is less menthol in evidence on the red liqueur and plum compote aromas. The big, rich and lush, indeed even opulent flavors possess excellent underlying material, which coats the mouth on the moderately toasty, warm and edgy finish. Like all of these '07s, this is a dramatic wine and while one cannot fault the concentration, the absence of elegance is a handicap in terms of the overall sense of harmony. Again, fans of power pinot will not be disappointed. Drink 2013+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspVM 92 (5/2010): Bright ruby. Intensely perfumed bouquet of red and dark berries, potpourri, mocha and sandalwood. Sappy, palate-coating red and dark berry flavors possess serious depth but don't come off as heavy. On the contrary, this is lively and precise, with very good finishing clarity and gently sweet mineral-driven persistence. Stephen Tanzer.BH 87 (10/2010): Here there is better integration of the wood and while this is also quite ripe, there is less menthol in evidence on the red liqueur and plum compote aromas. The big, rich and lush, indeed even opulent flavors possess excellent underlying material, which coats the mouth on the moderately toasty, warm and edgy finish. Like all of these '07s, this is a dramatic wine and while one cannot fault the concentration, the absence of elegance is a handicap in terms of the overall sense of harmony. Again, fans of power pinot will not be disappointed. Drink 2013+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspVM 93 (5/2011): Vivid red. Drop-dead gorgeous perfume of raspberry preserves, Asian spices and fresh rose, with a deeper suggestion of violet. Sappy, penetrating and pure, with strikingly intense red fruit flavors underpinned by tangy minerality. Finishes with resonating spiciness and a lingering floral note. This wine's clarity is striking. Stephen Tanzer.WA 93 (2/2011): The 2008 Pinot Noir Kistler Vineyard exhibits lots of wild berry fruit intermixed with graphite, herb and spring flower notes in its medium-bodied, luscious style. The 2008 is more open-knit and richer than the 2009 from this site. WS 93 (10/2011): Offers a trim, complex beam of intense dark berry fruit, which joins a mix of wild berry and raspberry notes. Medium- to full-bodied, showing good acidity and a clean, fruity finish. Drink now through 2019. 2,084 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspVM 93 (5/2011): Vivid red. Drop-dead gorgeous perfume of raspberry preserves, Asian spices and fresh rose, with a deeper suggestion of violet. Sappy, penetrating and pure, with strikingly intense red fruit flavors underpinned by tangy minerality. Finishes with resonating spiciness and a lingering floral note. This wine's clarity is striking. Stephen Tanzer.WA 93 (2/2011): The 2008 Pinot Noir Kistler Vineyard exhibits lots of wild berry fruit intermixed with graphite, herb and spring flower notes in its medium-bodied, luscious style. The 2008 is more open-knit and richer than the 2009 from this site. WS 93 (10/2011): Offers a trim, complex beam of intense dark berry fruit, which joins a mix of wild berry and raspberry notes. Medium- to full-bodied, showing good acidity and a clean, fruity finish. Drink now through 2019. 2,084 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspWA 93 (4/2013): Ash, game, tar, licorice, incense and dark cherries are some of the notes that emerge from the 2010 Pinot Noir Kistler Vineyard. A pretty, soft, understated wine, the 2010 also has a hint of wildness running through it. At present, the 2010 is a bit compact, but I very much like the sense of grace here. Sweet floral notes reappear on the finish, adding a burst of freshness and vivacity to a finish underpinned by lovely streaks of saline minerality. In 2010 yields were too low for Kistler to bottle the Cuvee Elizabeth Pinot. The little fruit that came in was blended into the Kistler Vineyard Pinot. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2020. VM 93 (5/2013): Bright ruby. Spicy cherry, dark berry and black cardamom aromas show very good energy and impressive precision. Chewy bitter cherry and black raspberry flavors are given lift and spine by a tangy minerality that adds back-end cut. Gains power and sweetness on the finish along with dusty tannins, but not at the expense of suave pinot fruit. Stephen Tanzer.WS 90 (9/2013): Intense and full-bodied, with creamy oak, dark berry, cedar and spice flavors, this is a powerful expression of Pinot Noir. Best served by cellar time, this will only gain and hold from here. Not shy on tannins. Best from 2014 through 2024. 2,135 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspWA 93 (4/2013): Ash, game, tar, licorice, incense and dark cherries are some of the notes that emerge from the 2010 Pinot Noir Kistler Vineyard. A pretty, soft, understated wine, the 2010 also has a hint of wildness running through it. At present, the 2010 is a bit compact, but I very much like the sense of grace here. Sweet floral notes reappear on the finish, adding a burst of freshness and vivacity to a finish underpinned by lovely streaks of saline minerality. In 2010 yields were too low for Kistler to bottle the Cuvee Elizabeth Pinot. The little fruit that came in was blended into the Kistler Vineyard Pinot. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2020. VM 93 (5/2013): Bright ruby. Spicy cherry, dark berry and black cardamom aromas show very good energy and impressive precision. Chewy bitter cherry and black raspberry flavors are given lift and spine by a tangy minerality that adds back-end cut. Gains power and sweetness on the finish along with dusty tannins, but not at the expense of suave pinot fruit. Stephen Tanzer.WS 90 (9/2013): Intense and full-bodied, with creamy oak, dark berry, cedar and spice flavors, this is a powerful expression of Pinot Noir. Best served by cellar time, this will only gain and hold from here. Not shy on tannins. Best from 2014 through 2024. 2,135 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspVM 95 (1/2015): The 2012 Pinot Noir Kistler Vineyard comes across as quite supple and voluptuous today, with tons of upfront juiciness. Racy and opulent from the outset, the Kistler Vineyard blossoms with notable depth and layers of enveloping fruit. Dark red cherry, plum, spice and lavender add the final notes of complexity in a racy, perfumed Pinot to drink over the next decade. Antonio Galloni.WS 92 (9/2015): Offers fresh, juicy, snappy raspberry and wild berry flavors, shaded by spice and wilted rose. The delicate, minerally finish shows understated elegance. Drink now through 2021. 2,100 cases made.WA 91 (1/2015): The 2012 Pinot Noirs display much less extraction, tannin and body than vintages from 10 or 12 years ago reveal. The 2012 Pinot Noir Kistler Vineyard, which comes primarily from the Calera clone, has oodles of strawberries and floral blueberries in a soft, round, medium-bodied style. Pure, pretty and elegant, this is a Pinot Noir to drink over the next 5-6 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspVM 95 (1/2015): The 2012 Pinot Noir Kistler Vineyard comes across as quite supple and voluptuous today, with tons of upfront juiciness. Racy and opulent from the outset, the Kistler Vineyard blossoms with notable depth and layers of enveloping fruit. Dark red cherry, plum, spice and lavender add the final notes of complexity in a racy, perfumed Pinot to drink over the next decade. Antonio Galloni.WS 92 (9/2015): Offers fresh, juicy, snappy raspberry and wild berry flavors, shaded by spice and wilted rose. The delicate, minerally finish shows understated elegance. Drink now through 2021. 2,100 cases made.WA 91 (1/2015): The 2012 Pinot Noirs display much less extraction, tannin and body than vintages from 10 or 12 years ago reveal. The 2012 Pinot Noir Kistler Vineyard, which comes primarily from the Calera clone, has oodles of strawberries and floral blueberries in a soft, round, medium-bodied style. Pure, pretty and elegant, this is a Pinot Noir to drink over the next 5-6 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspVM 95 (1/2015): The 2012 Pinot Noir Kistler Vineyard comes across as quite supple and voluptuous today, with tons of upfront juiciness. Racy and opulent from the outset, the Kistler Vineyard blossoms with notable depth and layers of enveloping fruit. Dark red cherry, plum, spice and lavender add the final notes of complexity in a racy, perfumed Pinot to drink over the next decade. Antonio Galloni.WS 92 (9/2015): Offers fresh, juicy, snappy raspberry and wild berry flavors, shaded by spice and wilted rose. The delicate, minerally finish shows understated elegance. Drink now through 2021. 2,100 cases made.WA 91 (1/2015): The 2012 Pinot Noirs display much less extraction, tannin and body than vintages from 10 or 12 years ago reveal. The 2012 Pinot Noir Kistler Vineyard, which comes primarily from the Calera clone, has oodles of strawberries and floral blueberries in a soft, round, medium-bodied style. Pure, pretty and elegant, this is a Pinot Noir to drink over the next 5-6 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspVM 95 (1/2015): The 2012 Pinot Noir Kistler Vineyard comes across as quite supple and voluptuous today, with tons of upfront juiciness. Racy and opulent from the outset, the Kistler Vineyard blossoms with notable depth and layers of enveloping fruit. Dark red cherry, plum, spice and lavender add the final notes of complexity in a racy, perfumed Pinot to drink over the next decade. Antonio Galloni.WS 92 (9/2015): Offers fresh, juicy, snappy raspberry and wild berry flavors, shaded by spice and wilted rose. The delicate, minerally finish shows understated elegance. Drink now through 2021. 2,100 cases made.WA 91 (1/2015): The 2012 Pinot Noirs display much less extraction, tannin and body than vintages from 10 or 12 years ago reveal. The 2012 Pinot Noir Kistler Vineyard, which comes primarily from the Calera clone, has oodles of strawberries and floral blueberries in a soft, round, medium-bodied style. Pure, pretty and elegant, this is a Pinot Noir to drink over the next 5-6 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspVM 91 (6/2005): Full yellow. Slightly reduced aromas of orange oil and lemon peel. Then firm-edged, citric and stony, with lively acidity and good floral lift giving the wine a refreshing character. Finishes dry in a positive way. WA 90-93 (12/2003): The full-bodied 2002 Chardonnay McCrea Vineyard exhibits a distinctive composty/earthy component along with notes of liquid minerals, grapefruit, buttered citrus, and a steely, green-tinged flavor profile reminiscent of a full-bodied French Chablis on steroids. This impressive yet austere, intense Chardonnay should age nicely for 7-8 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspWA 93 (4/2013): The 2010 Chardonnay McCrea Vineyard is laced with lovely precision and class. White flowers, crushed rocks, yellow stone fruits and apricots emerge from this pretty, expressive Chardonnay. The McCrea is one of the more open 2010s here today. Its essential understated elegance comes through in spades. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2018.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspWA 91-93 (12/2003): The light straw/greenish-colored 2002 Chardonnay Durell Vineyard offers up aromas of lemon oil and vanilla custard in a clean, crisp, tart manner. The wine opens in the glass to reveal lemons, orange rind, pineapple, and plenty of rocks and minerals. Fresh, zesty, and exceptionally well-delineated, it is a candidate for 5-8+ years of ageability.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspWA 91-93 (12/2003): The light straw/greenish-colored 2002 Chardonnay Durell Vineyard offers up aromas of lemon oil and vanilla custard in a clean, crisp, tart manner. The wine opens in the glass to reveal lemons, orange rind, pineapple, and plenty of rocks and minerals. Fresh, zesty, and exceptionally well-delineated, it is a candidate for 5-8+ years of ageability.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspWA 91-93 (12/2003): The light straw/greenish-colored 2002 Chardonnay Durell Vineyard offers up aromas of lemon oil and vanilla custard in a clean, crisp, tart manner. The wine opens in the glass to reveal lemons, orange rind, pineapple, and plenty of rocks and minerals. Fresh, zesty, and exceptionally well-delineated, it is a candidate for 5-8+ years of ageability.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspWS 87 (12/2006): Mature, with dried cherry, plum and cedary oak flavors. The anise and fruit flavors are appealing, yet it ends with a tannic aftertaste. Drink now. 2,048 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspWS 87 (12/2006): Mature, with dried cherry, plum and cedary oak flavors. The anise and fruit flavors are appealing, yet it ends with a tannic aftertaste. Drink now. 2,048 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspWA 91-93 (2/2010): The 2008 Pinot Noir (made from a Calera clone) exhibits a dark ruby hue as well as notes of plums, blueberries, brioche, flowers, raspberries, and pomegranate. Medium-bodied, fresh, and lively, it should drink nicely for a decade. Bhttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspWS 88 (9/2014): A dash of dusty-cedary oak runs through the core, framed by dried berry, herb, sage and tobacco notes, gaining length on the finish. Drink now through 2022. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 1,932 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspWA 94 (3/2016): As for the Pinot Noirs, the 2013 Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast shows fresh kirsch liqueur, lavender and forest floor notes and medium body in a sexy, upfront style. This should drink well for 5-7 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspWA 94 (3/2016): As for the Pinot Noirs, the 2013 Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast shows fresh kirsch liqueur, lavender and forest floor notes and medium body in a sexy, upfront style. This should drink well for 5-7 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.aspWA 96 (3/2016): A wine I adored was the 2013 Chardonnay Trenton Road House. Crisp acidity, notes of white currants, apple butter, white peach and honeysuckle are all present in this full-bodied wine that shows zesty acidity and terrific minerality. Drink it over the next 4-6 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kistler.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KokomoWines.aspWA 94+ (12/2012): The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon explodes from the glass with juicy dark cherries, tobacco, plums, spices and grilled herbs. Despite its considerable concentration, the 2010 is quite compact. Today, the wine is much less expressive than it was when I tasted it from barrel. According to John Kongsgaard, the cold vintage produced small berries with high skin to juice ratios, great for firm, cellar worthy wines, but not exactly the conditions that make wines accessible when young. Readers who can be a little patient will be rewarded with a superb wine. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2030. VM 94 (11/2013): The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon is dark, rich and explosive. Mocha, plums, dark cherries, tobacco, new leather and licorice all jump from the glass. The 2010 is intense and powerful, but it is also a bit closed in on itself, with less overall exuberance and a greater impression of structure than it has shown in the past, a kind of in between stage wines can enter when they are best left alone for a few years.IWC 92+ (5/2013): (Kongsgaard blends 10% merlot into his cabs): Deep red, more saturated than the 2011. Sweeter and more open on the nose, offering complex scents of black raspberry, brown sugar, truffle and underbrush. Rich, sweet and lush, but with lovely minerality energizing the flavors of blueberry and brown spices. The slowly building finish shows serious, youthfully sullen tannins that will require at least several years of bottle aging.WS 92 (5/2013): A smooth style, with espresso, dried currant, cedary oak, anise and loamy earth, ending with a long, tannic finish that offers notes of dried herb, sage and black tea. Best from 2014 through 2024. 280 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kongsgaard.aspVM 92 (11/2014): (15% alcohol; blended with 10% merlot; from 30+-year-old vines on Atlas Peak): Full red-ruby. Complex, expressive aromas of cassis, black raspberry, licorice, shoe polish, fresh herbs and leather. Not as deep as the best recent vintages of this wine but supple and nuanced, with plum and dark berry flavors complicated by bitter chocolate and spices. Nothing weedy about this 2011. Finishes juicy and firmly tannic, with lingering flavors of black fruits and minerals. I'd give this three or four years in the bottle to absorb some of its tannins. This cabernet was harvested on November 2!WA 89-91 (10/2013): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa is much more compact and linear without the intensity of the 2012, but still a very good effort for the vintage.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kongsgaard.aspVM 93-96 (6/2007): Pale yellow. Lemon drop, pineapple and crushed stone aromas lifted by herbal and floral highlights. Juicy, nervy and bright, with vibrant acids and firm minerality giving this unusual sappiness for Napa chardonnay. The lemon drop and pineapple fruit elements carry through in the mouth. The very long, vibrant finish comes across as cool and a bit minty, with some tannins contributing to an impression of grip.WA 92-94 (12/2006): The 2005 Chardonnay shows ripe poached pear, citric acid, a hint of orange blossom, some smoky terroir-like earthiness, terrific acidity, and laser-like precision. I suspect this wine is going to put on weight over the next year, and land in the upper end of my projected range of scores. It should drink well for 7-10 years in a cold cellar as well.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kongsgaard.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kongsgaard.aspWA 96 (12/2003): The 2001 Syrah may be the finest yet produced by Kongsgaard. It is a dead ringer for a more exotic version of Chapoutier’s great Le Pavillon (from 80+ year old vines planted in granite soils on the Hermitage Hill). Aromas of white chocolate, ground pepper, blackberries, cassis liqueur, and flowers (lilacs?) is followed by a wine of great density, a certain exoticism, and powerful, thick, huge flavors oozing with extract, glycerin, and personality. There is also considerable tannin as well as decent acidity. This is about as close to a northern Rhone as Kongsgaard Syrahs get. Look for this 2001 to tighten up considerably, and be at its finest between 2007-2020.IWC 94+ (6/2004): Saturated ruby. Knockout Northern Rhone-like aromas of raspberry, bacon fat, minerals, cocoa powder, pepper and licorice. Superconcentrated, saline and distinctly dry, with flavors of berry liqueur, dark chocolate and licorice. Almost painfully intense and a bit clenched today. But this expanded impressively with extended time in the open bottle. In its flavors, texture and structure, this is midway between Cote-Rotie and Hermitage.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kongsgaard.aspWA 95 (2/2005): There are 400+ cases of Kongsgaard’s distinctive Syrah. Aged in 50% new French oak, it is fashioned from a special parcel of Hudson Vineyard vines planted in volcanic soils. The last three vintages have all been extraordinary, with perhaps the 2001 Syrah Hudson Vineyard my overall favorite. However, the 2002 is close in quality. The wine possesses striking blackberry, ground pepper, fried bacon fat, barbecue spice, and underbrush/composty characteristics that are also meaty and primordial. The volcanic soils may give this wine a more smoky, scorched, meaty character than other Northern California Syrahs. As the wine sits in the glass, notes of melted licorice also emerge. The 2002 is extremely layered and long. This cuvee always benefits from 2-3 hours of decanting, and a young vintage might even be better if decanted 24 hours in advance. This wine should easily last 10-15 years. It is unquestionably the most singular expression of Syrah in Northern California.VM 93 (5/2016): (15.7%; 3.9 pH with 6.8 total acidity): Bright red-ruby. The nose shows an almost roasted ripeness compared to the 2001, offering deep, primary dark fruits, black olive, saddle leather, spices and a hint of truffle. Plush, sweet and deep; by far the richest wine to this point. Horizontal, tactile and very ripe yet bone-dry. This is remarkably young, dark and brooding and still a bit aggressive with alcohol. Needs to lose some of its baby fat. "Now we're into new wines that don't yet show any tertiary character," noted Kongsgaard.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kongsgaard.aspWA 95 (2/2005): There are 400+ cases of Kongsgaard’s distinctive Syrah. Aged in 50% new French oak, it is fashioned from a special parcel of Hudson Vineyard vines planted in volcanic soils. The last three vintages have all been extraordinary, with perhaps the 2001 Syrah Hudson Vineyard my overall favorite. However, the 2002 is close in quality. The wine possesses striking blackberry, ground pepper, fried bacon fat, barbecue spice, and underbrush/composty characteristics that are also meaty and primordial. The volcanic soils may give this wine a more smoky, scorched, meaty character than other Northern California Syrahs. As the wine sits in the glass, notes of melted licorice also emerge. The 2002 is extremely layered and long. This cuvee always benefits from 2-3 hours of decanting, and a young vintage might even be better if decanted 24 hours in advance. This wine should easily last 10-15 years. It is unquestionably the most singular expression of Syrah in Northern California.VM 93 (5/2016): (15.7%; 3.9 pH with 6.8 total acidity): Bright red-ruby. The nose shows an almost roasted ripeness compared to the 2001, offering deep, primary dark fruits, black olive, saddle leather, spices and a hint of truffle. Plush, sweet and deep; by far the richest wine to this point. Horizontal, tactile and very ripe yet bone-dry. This is remarkably young, dark and brooding and still a bit aggressive with alcohol. Needs to lose some of its baby fat. "Now we're into new wines that don't yet show any tertiary character," noted Kongsgaard.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kongsgaard.aspWA 95 (2/2005): There are 400+ cases of Kongsgaard’s distinctive Syrah. Aged in 50% new French oak, it is fashioned from a special parcel of Hudson Vineyard vines planted in volcanic soils. The last three vintages have all been extraordinary, with perhaps the 2001 Syrah Hudson Vineyard my overall favorite. However, the 2002 is close in quality. The wine possesses striking blackberry, ground pepper, fried bacon fat, barbecue spice, and underbrush/composty characteristics that are also meaty and primordial. The volcanic soils may give this wine a more smoky, scorched, meaty character than other Northern California Syrahs. As the wine sits in the glass, notes of melted licorice also emerge. The 2002 is extremely layered and long. This cuvee always benefits from 2-3 hours of decanting, and a young vintage might even be better if decanted 24 hours in advance. This wine should easily last 10-15 years. It is unquestionably the most singular expression of Syrah in Northern California.VM 93 (5/2016): (15.7%; 3.9 pH with 6.8 total acidity): Bright red-ruby. The nose shows an almost roasted ripeness compared to the 2001, offering deep, primary dark fruits, black olive, saddle leather, spices and a hint of truffle. Plush, sweet and deep; by far the richest wine to this point. Horizontal, tactile and very ripe yet bone-dry. This is remarkably young, dark and brooding and still a bit aggressive with alcohol. Needs to lose some of its baby fat. "Now we're into new wines that don't yet show any tertiary character," noted Kongsgaard.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kongsgaard.aspIWC 90 (5/2008): Dark purple. Explosively perfumed aromas of ripe red and dark berries, baking spices, incense and smoky minerality. Round, sappy and sweet, with deep raspberry and cherry jam flavors, supple texture and gentle mineral lift. Picks up blackberry and cassis on the long, juicy finish. This is all about fruit today, and the tannins are completely absorbed, leaving no hard edges to get in the way of early enjoyment.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KostaBrowne.aspWA 95 (10/2015): From the Russian River Valley and the newest single vineyard from this team (the first vintage was 2012), the 2013 Pinot Noir Giusti Vineyard is another big, rich, full-flavored Pinot Noir that gives up slightly lifted notes of dark fruits, graphite and peppery spice. Almost completely destemmed and aged 16 months in 40% new French oak, it’s a sensational Pinot Noir with terrific purity in its concentrated, layered and textured personality. It's superb today, but will cruise through at least 2023.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KostaBrowne.aspWA 95 (10/2015): From the Russian River Valley and the newest single vineyard from this team (the first vintage was 2012), the 2013 Pinot Noir Giusti Vineyard is another big, rich, full-flavored Pinot Noir that gives up slightly lifted notes of dark fruits, graphite and peppery spice. Almost completely destemmed and aged 16 months in 40% new French oak, it’s a sensational Pinot Noir with terrific purity in its concentrated, layered and textured personality. It's superb today, but will cruise through at least 2023.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KostaBrowne.aspWA 93 (10/2014): A gorgeous Chardonnay, the 2012 One Sixteen offers both incredibly classy elegance, as well as building richness and texture. Ripe stone fruits, lemon curd, white flowers, liquid mineral, brioche and toast all emerge from the glass, and this beauty has a medium to full-bodied, elegant, taut and energetic profile on the palate that keeps you coming back to the glass. Staying lively and refreshing, with vibrant acidity, this beauty will age gracefully for over a decade (although bottles would not last that long at my house).http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KostaBrowne.aspVM 91 (6/2011): Vivid ruby. Vibrant nose suggests candied cherry, rose petal and smoky minerals. A pliant, sweet fruit bomb in the mouth, with fresh flavors of red fruit preserves and flowers. A refreshingly bitter herbal note adds complexity to the persistent, penetrating finish. This is already delicious. WS 91 (6/2011): Fresh, bright, ripe black cherry, raspberry and light floral scents lead off in this supple, fleshy, full-bodied red, which is complex and layered on the palate, maintaining its core fruitiness and gaining subtle touches of dark berry and spice. Drink now through 2018.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KostaBrowne.aspWS 93 (8/2012): (WS #91 wine of 2012) Rich and expressive, with bold layers of ripe blueberry, plum and wild berry flavors that show touches of spice and espresso. At points open-knit, yet tightening on the finish. Best from 2013 through 2023. 4,742 cases made. VM 91 (5/2012): Bright ruby. Pungent, highly aromatic red berry and cherry aromas show an array of floral, Asian spice and herb nuances. Ripe but energetic black raspberry, cherry-cola flavors show a subtle smoky earthiness and gain sweetness with air. Finishes sappy and long, with a strong whiplash of bitter cherry. WA 90 (4/2013): The 2010 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley is juicier, richer and rounder than the Sonoma Coast bottling tasted alongside it. Here it's the immediacy of the fruit that speaks loudest. Cinnamon, cherries, plums and mint are some of the notes that flesh out on a juicy, exuberant finish that captures the essence of Russian River Pinot. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2016. BH 87 (9/2012): This possesses the highest-toned nose of the range with a ripe cherry, raspberry and cranberry-infused aromatic profile. This is very round and suave with plenty of palate coating dry extract that imparts a seductive mouth feel though unfortunately, there is distinct warmth on the finish and the only antidote for this is to maintain a cooler than normal serving temperature. This is definitely pretty but the warmth will be enough to bother those who are sensitive to it. Drink 2013+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KostaBrowne.aspWS 93 (8/2012): (WS #91 wine of 2012) Rich and expressive, with bold layers of ripe blueberry, plum and wild berry flavors that show touches of spice and espresso. At points open-knit, yet tightening on the finish. Best from 2013 through 2023. 4,742 cases made. VM 91 (5/2012): Bright ruby. Pungent, highly aromatic red berry and cherry aromas show an array of floral, Asian spice and herb nuances. Ripe but energetic black raspberry, cherry-cola flavors show a subtle smoky earthiness and gain sweetness with air. Finishes sappy and long, with a strong whiplash of bitter cherry. WA 90 (4/2013): The 2010 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley is juicier, richer and rounder than the Sonoma Coast bottling tasted alongside it. Here it's the immediacy of the fruit that speaks loudest. Cinnamon, cherries, plums and mint are some of the notes that flesh out on a juicy, exuberant finish that captures the essence of Russian River Pinot. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2016. BH 87 (9/2012): This possesses the highest-toned nose of the range with a ripe cherry, raspberry and cranberry-infused aromatic profile. This is very round and suave with plenty of palate coating dry extract that imparts a seductive mouth feel though unfortunately, there is distinct warmth on the finish and the only antidote for this is to maintain a cooler than normal serving temperature. This is definitely pretty but the warmth will be enough to bother those who are sensitive to it. Drink 2013+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KostaBrowne.aspVM 92 (5/2013): (made from fruit grown in eleven different vineyards and picked between September 16 and October 20; 48% new oak): Deep ruby. Heady scents of raspberry, cherry-cola, floral oil, Asian spices and vanilla. Juicy and penetrating, with superb inner-mouth perfume to its sweet red fruit and candied rose flavors. Becomes spicier with air and finishes with excellent clarity, breadth and persistence WA 91 (8/2013): Offering up a supple, perfumed and delicate array of kirsch, crushed berries, spice and forest floor, the 2011 Pinot Noir (Santa Lucia Highlands) flows onto the palate with a light, deft texture, bright acidity and a clean, nicely focused finish. This isn’t a heavy weight and excels on its aromatics and balance more than power or richness. Enjoy it over the coming 4-6 years. Drink now-2019. JS 90 (6/2012): A fruity and juicy red with dried strawberry and lemon rind character that follows through to a medium body, with fine tannins. Fresh finish. Drink now. WS 87 (12/2013): The ripe plum and cherry flavors ease back and turn simple, but this remains complete, with touches of gravel and cedar on the finish. Drink now through 2019. 4,525 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KostaBrowne.aspVM 92 (5/2013): (made from fruit grown in eleven different vineyards and picked between September 16 and October 20; 48% new oak): Deep ruby. Heady scents of raspberry, cherry-cola, floral oil, Asian spices and vanilla. Juicy and penetrating, with superb inner-mouth perfume to its sweet red fruit and candied rose flavors. Becomes spicier with air and finishes with excellent clarity, breadth and persistence WA 91 (8/2013): Offering up a supple, perfumed and delicate array of kirsch, crushed berries, spice and forest floor, the 2011 Pinot Noir (Santa Lucia Highlands) flows onto the palate with a light, deft texture, bright acidity and a clean, nicely focused finish. This isn’t a heavy weight and excels on its aromatics and balance more than power or richness. Enjoy it over the coming 4-6 years. Drink now-2019. JS 90 (6/2012): A fruity and juicy red with dried strawberry and lemon rind character that follows through to a medium body, with fine tannins. Fresh finish. Drink now. WS 87 (12/2013): The ripe plum and cherry flavors ease back and turn simple, but this remains complete, with touches of gravel and cedar on the finish. Drink now through 2019. 4,525 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KostaBrowne.aspWA 93 (10/2014): The straight 2012 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley is a gorgeous Pinot. Subtle and nuanced, yet no lightweight, it offers layers of mulled red and black fruits, cinnamon, loamy earth and dried flowers on the nose. Every bit as good on the palate, with a medium to full-bodied, supple and layered profile, it has excellent mid-palate depth, a fabulous texture and a clean finish. It's already hard to resist, but it will evolve nicely through 2022.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KostaBrowne.aspWA 93 (10/2014): The straight 2012 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley is a gorgeous Pinot. Subtle and nuanced, yet no lightweight, it offers layers of mulled red and black fruits, cinnamon, loamy earth and dried flowers on the nose. Every bit as good on the palate, with a medium to full-bodied, supple and layered profile, it has excellent mid-palate depth, a fabulous texture and a clean finish. It's already hard to resist, but it will evolve nicely through 2022.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KostaBrowne.aspVM 92 (5/2015): The 2013 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley comes across as a bit restrained, with lovely energy to balance the expressive Russian River fruit. Dark cherry, plum, spice, cedar and cinnamon flesh out on a perfumed, sensual finish with attractive rose petal and lavender overtones. WS 92 (8/2015): Combines a tight, firm framework and a complex mix of dark berry, anise, gravel, road tar and savory herb notes, finishing with a long, clean, layered aftertaste. Should reward short-term cellaring. Drink now through 2020. 5,709 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KostaBrowne.aspWS 92 (3/2017): Lightly perfumed floral and raspberry scents gain depth, weight and dimension, layering blackberry, raspberry, spice and sandy earth notes that are agreeable and refined. Drink now through 2022. 5,914 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KostaBrowne.aspWS 92 (3/2017): Lightly perfumed floral and raspberry scents gain depth, weight and dimension, layering blackberry, raspberry, spice and sandy earth notes that are agreeable and refined. Drink now through 2022. 5,914 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KostaBrowne.aspWS 92 (3/2017): Tight and spicy, with a sassafras edge to the wild berry and raspberry flavors, offering a hint of anise and licorice. Lively acidity keeps this fresh and zesty. Drink now through 2023. 1,251 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KostaBrowne.aspVM 90 (6/2010): Deep red. Vibrant aromas of raspberry, spicecake and white pepper, with building florality. Sappy and sweet, with palate-caressing red and dark berry preserve flavors and good spicy snap. The floral quality repeats on the long, juicy finish, adding an exotic touch. This is already drinking well. WS 90 (8/2010): Intense, with charry, toasty, cedary oak notes that fold into ripe plum and wild berry fruit. Full-bodied, spicy and delicate, yet ending with firm tannins and a minerally note. Drink now through 2015. 3,554 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KostaBrowne.aspWS 90 (6/2013): Fresh and vibrant, with zesty, snappy raspberry and wild berry that’s tight and well-balanced, this gains richness and depth on the licorice-accented finish. Drink now through 2020http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KostaBrowne.aspWS 90 (6/2013): Fresh and vibrant, with zesty, snappy raspberry and wild berry that’s tight and well-balanced, this gains richness and depth on the licorice-accented finish. Drink now through 2020http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KostaBrowne.aspWS 92 (9/2014): Focused on pure, ripe plum and black cherry flavors, this is supple and structured, ending with a mix of baking spices, anise, mocha and black tea notes. Drink now through 2022. 7,203 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KostaBrowne.aspWS 92 (9/2014): Focused on pure, ripe plum and black cherry flavors, this is supple and structured, ending with a mix of baking spices, anise, mocha and black tea notes. Drink now through 2022. 7,203 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KostaBrowne.aspWS 93 (8/2015): Delivers a pure, focused core of wild berry, raspberry, gravel, anise, dried herb and savory notes that are pleasantly tannic. The fruit pushes through in the end, finishing in a juicy, mouthwatering manner. Drink now through 2022. 6,581 cases made. VM 90 (5/2015): Red-fleshed stone fruits, crushed flowers and sweet spices are some of the notes that are pushed forward in the 2013 Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast. Overall, this is a decidedly forward, juicy Sonoma Coast Pinot built on opulent fruit and near-term appeal. The 2013 is mostly Gap's Crown fruit, which is now an estate vineyard for KB.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KostaBrowne.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KostaBrowne.aspWS 91 (12/2008): Firmly tannic, yet rich and flavorful, with zesty wild berry, spice, pepper and blackberry fruit. Tightly wound and structured, with a long, persistent finish. Best from 2010 through 2016. 695 cases made.WA 88 (12/2009): The dense ruby/purple-tinged 2006 Syrah Stagecoach Vineyard Black Bart reveals lots of floral, blackberry, and cassis fruit intermixed with a hint of subtle oak, a soft, round style, and good fruit, but a heavy-handed use of oak. Drink it over the next 5-6 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KruppBrothersEstates.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kutch.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kutch.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kutch.aspBH 89 (1/2013): This is also exceptionally pretty with a noticeable floral component characterizing the ripe and fresh cherry, raspberry and subtle plum aromas. There is an alluring mouth feel to the delicious and refined middle weight flavors thanks to the fine grain of the supporting tannins. I like the complexity and persistence of the attractively voluminous finish that displays fine focus and overall balance. Lovely. Drink 2016+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kutch.aspBH 89 (1/2013): This is also exceptionally pretty with a noticeable floral component characterizing the ripe and fresh cherry, raspberry and subtle plum aromas. There is an alluring mouth feel to the delicious and refined middle weight flavors thanks to the fine grain of the supporting tannins. I like the complexity and persistence of the attractively voluminous finish that displays fine focus and overall balance. Lovely. Drink 2016+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kutch.aspBH 90 (6/2014): A deeply pitched nose of dark cherry, plum, spice and a hint of earth precedes supple, round and utterly delicious medium bodied flavors that possess a dusty and palate coating finish that also offers very solid depth and length. I like both the delivery and the overall style. In a word, lovely. Drink 2016+. Outstanding!http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kutch.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Kutch.aspWA 90 (4/2014): The final blend that Chris Carpenter fashioned was 84% Cabernet Sauvignon and 16% Merlot. Lastly, and an outstanding wine, is the 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, 100% estate fruit, the 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Anniversary. This is the best block of the entire vineyard and has produced some great wines (the 1992 and 1993 made by Helen Turley were fabulous wines). This shows plenty of creme de cassis fruit, notes of wet rocks, graphite, vanilla and berries, especially black raspberry and black currants. It is medium to full-bodied with light tannin and is close to full maturity, where is should hold for 7-10 more years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LaJota.aspWS 86 (11/2003): Tough-edged, with earthy, leathery flavors dominating, giving it a gritty quality. Shows hints of mint and currant, turning even drier on the finish. Best from 2004 through 2012. 1,831 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LaJota.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HerbLambVineyards.aspWA 85 (10/2008): The 2006 Pinot Noir Freedom Hill Vineyard is a blend of four clones. Earthy, gamy notes make for an unusual aromatic display leading to a slightly compact mid-palate. The wine has good depth but ultimately lacks complexity.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Lange.aspWA 90 (12/2009): Talented winemaker Sean Larkin has produced an outstanding 2007 Cabernet Franc filled with richness as well as finesse. Its dense ruby/purple color is followed by notes of white chocolate, raspberries, blueberries, and spice. Medium to full-bodied with an ethereal lightness as well as intense flavors (characteristics of top-flight Cabernet Francs), it should be consumed over the next 10-12 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Larkin.aspWA 91+ (12/2007): A dense, burly, muscular effort is the dark purple-colored 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon. Full-bodied with plenty of fruit, structure, tannin, and potential, it should be cellared for 2-3 years, and consumed over the following two decades.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Larkin.aspWA 94 (12/2011): The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon bursts from the glass with a rush of black fruit, smoke, licorice, graphite and tar. All the elements flow together gracefully towards the big, fleshy finish. There is plenty of tannin to support the fruit, suggesting the wine will drink well for a number of years. I especially like the way the wine keeps growing in the glass. This is one of the firmer, more vibrant 2009s readers will come across. Simply put, it is fabulous. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2029. VM 93 (5/2012): (blended with 12% petit verdot and 8% cabernet franc): Ruby-red. Blackberry, licorice, minerals and chocolate on the nose, plus a whiff of shoe polish. Dense, spicy and nicely delineated, with excellent intensity to the dark cherry and mineral flavors. Firmly structured cabernet with granular tannins and a suggestion of medicinal reserve. This will need at least four or five years of bottle aging. Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LarkmeadVineyards.aspWA 95+ (12/2012): Larkmead’s entry-level 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate captivates all of the senses from the very first taste. A huge, opulent yet structured Cabernet, the 2010 shows off tons of richness, power and structure, all while maintaining considerable detail and nuance. Black currants, melted road tar and asphalt blast thorough to the intense, palate-staining finish. I can’t imagine this being ready to drink before its 10th birthday. The 2010 is 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Merlot, 7% Petit Verdot, 7% Cabernet Franc and 3% Malbec. This is a great 2010. Anticipated maturity: 2020-2030.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LarkmeadVineyards.aspWA 94 (12/2010): The 2008 Firebelle (55% Merlot, 27% Cabernet Sauvignon and 18% Malbec; 1,050 cases produced) exhibits a dense opaque purple color as well as a sweet bouquet of creme de cassis, white chocolate and cocoa, great fruit, purity and intensity, a full-bodied, layered mouthfeel and elegance and finesse. Already evolved, complex and delicious, it should continue to drink well for a decade or more. This is an estate where the 2008 may actually eclipse the 2007. VM 92 (5/2011): (55% merlot, 27% cabernet sauvignon and 18% malbec): Ruby-red. Plum, dark chocolate and licorice on the nose, plus a whiff of woodsmoke. Lush and sweet, with a distinctly glyceral texture and attractive gravelly lift to the dark raspberry and tobacco flavors. The tannins arrive late, allowing the wine to expand on the aftertaste. I like this. Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LarkmeadVineyards.aspWA 94 (10/2015): The 2013 Firebelle Proprietary Red is a blend of 76% Merlot, 19% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Petit Verdot. This wine shows loads of roasted espresso notes mixed with white chocolate, plum, black cherry and currant. The wine is ripe, opulent, full-bodied and a very sexy, lush example of 2013 to drink over the next 15 or more years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LarkmeadVineyards.aspWA 97 (12/2009): A prodigious effort is the 2007 LMV Salon (a 1,000-case blend of 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Cabernet Franc, 10% Merlot, and the rest Malbec and Petit Verdot). A proprietary red of this quality with a Napa appellation usually sells for $200 or more. A dense purple color is followed by a beautiful perfume of spring flowers, ink, espresso roast, creme de cassis, and black cherries, a full-bodied, voluptuous texture, staggering depth and purity, and a 50-second finish. This exceptional Napa Cabernet Sauvignon should drink well for 20-25+ years. JS 95 (6/2011): Lots of graphite and lead pencil to the nose and palate. Full yet racy and long with a beautiful backbone of acidity and ultra-fine tannins. Almost a saltiness. Savory at the end. I like this slightly better than 2007. Wonderful length. 530 cases. VM 92+ (5/2017): (14.5% alcohol): Bright full ruby. Slightly high-toned aromas of blueberry pastille, licorice and violet. Very concentrated and rich but clearly tougher than the last two Larkmead bottlings, with dark berry, licorice and herb flavors firmed by a solid mineral underpinning. Finishes with strong but fine-grained tannins and resounding notes of licorice and bitter chocolate. This still needs time. Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LarkmeadVineyards.aspWA 95+ (12/2012): Larkmead’s 2009 Proprietary Red Wine LMV Salon is distinguished for its centeredness, focus and minerality. Graphite, smoke, plums, red cherries and tobacco are all woven together beautifully here. The 2009 is rich, layered and sensual, but with more than enough structure to support aging. Sweet floral notes and a burst of juicy red berries add complexity on the finish. The 2009 is 63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Cabernet Franc, 16% Malbec and 5% Merlot. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2029. VM 94 (5/2012): (63% cabernet sauvignon, 16% each cabernet franc and malbec, and 5% merlot; aged in 77% new oak): Bright ruby-red. Minerally, gravelly aromas of blackcurrant, graphite, licorice and sexy toasty oak. Sweet, suave and utterly seamless on the palate but at the same time juicy and well-delineated. Very long, building, chocolatey finish shows powerful but well-integrated dusty tannins. Both this wine and the 2009 Solari were made from crop levels in the range of two tons per acre, according to winemaker Andy Smith. Stephen Tanzer. WS 94 (5/2013): Features bold, rich flavors that are dense and layered, with dark berry, mocha, subtle herb, black licorice and crushed rock, firming and gripping on the strong and persistent finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Merlot. Drink now through 2024. 736 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LarkmeadVineyards.aspVM 94+ (5/2013): (78% cabernet sauvignon, 13% cabernet franc and 9% petit verdot; 69% new oak): Bright medium ruby. Very ripe but pure aromas of cassis, licorice and beefsteak tomato lifted by dried thyme and a floral note. Very full, dense and fine-grained but perfumed and gripping too, with subtly complex, very fine-grained flavors of sweet dark berries, flowers, tobacco and fresh herbs Most impressive today on the slowly mounting, very long finish, which displays substantial but noble tannins and terrific verve. Smith noted the "effortless vine balance" of the fruit that went into this wine and the Solari. WA 94 (10/2013): The 2010 Proprietary Red LMV Salon (78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Cabernet Franc and 9% Petit Verdot) possesses a European-styled structure imposed on its white chocolate, black currant, cedarwood and Christmas fruitcake notes. This classic Cabernet Sauvignon-based wine reveals abundant aromas, rich fruit and a medium to full-bodied, youthful, firmly structured finish. Drink it over the next 15-20 years. WS 87 (9/2013): Chewy and raw, featuring extracted dark berry flavors. In a tight phase now. Should gain, but may never lose its tannic texture. Best from 2014 through 2024. 718 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LarkmeadVineyards.aspVM 94+ (5/2013): (78% cabernet sauvignon, 13% cabernet franc and 9% petit verdot; 69% new oak): Bright medium ruby. Very ripe but pure aromas of cassis, licorice and beefsteak tomato lifted by dried thyme and a floral note. Very full, dense and fine-grained but perfumed and gripping too, with subtly complex, very fine-grained flavors of sweet dark berries, flowers, tobacco and fresh herbs Most impressive today on the slowly mounting, very long finish, which displays substantial but noble tannins and terrific verve. Smith noted the "effortless vine balance" of the fruit that went into this wine and the Solari. WA 94 (10/2013): The 2010 Proprietary Red LMV Salon (78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Cabernet Franc and 9% Petit Verdot) possesses a European-styled structure imposed on its white chocolate, black currant, cedarwood and Christmas fruitcake notes. This classic Cabernet Sauvignon-based wine reveals abundant aromas, rich fruit and a medium to full-bodied, youthful, firmly structured finish. Drink it over the next 15-20 years. WS 87 (9/2013): Chewy and raw, featuring extracted dark berry flavors. In a tight phase now. Should gain, but may never lose its tannic texture. Best from 2014 through 2024. 718 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LarkmeadVineyards.aspVM 94+ (5/2013): (78% cabernet sauvignon, 13% cabernet franc and 9% petit verdot; 69% new oak): Bright medium ruby. Very ripe but pure aromas of cassis, licorice and beefsteak tomato lifted by dried thyme and a floral note. Very full, dense and fine-grained but perfumed and gripping too, with subtly complex, very fine-grained flavors of sweet dark berries, flowers, tobacco and fresh herbs Most impressive today on the slowly mounting, very long finish, which displays substantial but noble tannins and terrific verve. Smith noted the "effortless vine balance" of the fruit that went into this wine and the Solari. WA 94 (10/2013): The 2010 Proprietary Red LMV Salon (78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Cabernet Franc and 9% Petit Verdot) possesses a European-styled structure imposed on its white chocolate, black currant, cedarwood and Christmas fruitcake notes. This classic Cabernet Sauvignon-based wine reveals abundant aromas, rich fruit and a medium to full-bodied, youthful, firmly structured finish. Drink it over the next 15-20 years. WS 87 (9/2013): Chewy and raw, featuring extracted dark berry flavors. In a tight phase now. Should gain, but may never lose its tannic texture. Best from 2014 through 2024. 718 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LarkmeadVineyards.aspWA 96 (12/2010): Made from 92% Cabernet Sauvignon and 8% Petit Verdot (550 cases), the prodigious 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Solari Reserve is an opaque purple-colored, multidimensional wine displaying silky sweet tannin along with copious quantities of blackberry, creme de cassis, crushed rock, licorice and camphor characteristics. Powerful yet elegant with layers of depth, this is a wine of great nuance, complexity and nobility. A dead-ringer for the compelling 2007, the 2008 should drink well for 20-25 years or more.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LarkmeadVineyards.aspWA 96 (12/2012): The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Solari is super-refined and polished. There is a pure sensuality and finesse to the Solari in 2009 that is striking. Expressive floral spices and red fruit notes form the layered, totally sublime finish. The 2009 isn’t as powerful or structured as the 2010, but then again, that is probably a good thing, as the wine will drink well earlier. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2029. VM 95+ (5/2012): (100% cabernet sauvignon, from a single block on the estate's rockiest soil; this fruit is also the main component in the Solari bottling): Good full ruby. Powerful rocky minerality on the nose, along with a brooding black fruit perfume. Like liquid silk in the mouth, with flavors of cassis, menthol, licorice, spices and crushed rock. Showing captivating sucrosite today; will this shut down in the bottle? Finishes with huge, broad tannins and superb rising length to its blue fruit, licorice and rocky flavors. This may be even better with seven or eight years in bottle and should enjoy a very long and slow evolution. Stephen Tanzer. WS 91 (8/2013): A handsome, richly flavored bottling that shows an edge of roasted coffee, chicory and ripe berry, with a dense, plush midpalate and finish that's still a bit rough and tumble. But this is a good bet to reward. Drink now through 2020. 884 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LarkmeadVineyards.aspJS 98 (10/2014): This is like Mouton 1982 on the nose with lead pencil, blackberry, mint and asphalt. Iodine, iron and blood, too. Toasted oak and coffee. Full body with an incredible depth of fruit and structure to this red. The texture of velvet is compelling and makes you contemplate all great wines. A pinnacle of pure Napa cabernet. Reserved opulence. Please give this at least three to five years to soften with bottle age: Try in 2018. VM 96+ (6/2015): Black fruit, smoke, lavender, graphite, tobacco and incense are some of the many notes that appear in Larkmead's 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Solari. A massive, hulking wine, the 2010 comes across as imposing, with huge tannins and tons of pure density. Here, alongside fifteen other first-class Napa Cabernets, the Solari comes across as a bit rustic in its tannin profile. That may just be the wine's youthful period in which the tannins have yet to fully soften, as the 2010 was a bit more polished from barrel and just after bottling. Time will tell. Antonio Galloni. WA 96 (10/2013): The compelling 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Solari (100% Cabernet Sauvignon) boasts an opaque purple color as well as notes of black currants, licorice, graphite and charcoal, sweet black fruits on the entry, and hints of pen ink and toast. The terrific aromatics are followed by a textured, multidimensional wine with a 45-second finish. As the wine sits in the glass, aromas of crushed rock and spice box also emerge. This complex, intriguing effort should drink well for 25+ years. WS 88 (12/2013): A powerful mix of ripe, rich, extracted dark berry, mocha, cedary oak and licorice flavors, with heat from the alcohol lending the tannins a coarse, biting edge. Best from 2014 through 2024. 723 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LarkmeadVineyards.aspJS 98 (10/2014): This is like Mouton 1982 on the nose with lead pencil, blackberry, mint and asphalt. Iodine, iron and blood, too. Toasted oak and coffee. Full body with an incredible depth of fruit and structure to this red. The texture of velvet is compelling and makes you contemplate all great wines. A pinnacle of pure Napa cabernet. Reserved opulence. Please give this at least three to five years to soften with bottle age: Try in 2018. VM 96+ (6/2015): Black fruit, smoke, lavender, graphite, tobacco and incense are some of the many notes that appear in Larkmead's 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Solari. A massive, hulking wine, the 2010 comes across as imposing, with huge tannins and tons of pure density. Here, alongside fifteen other first-class Napa Cabernets, the Solari comes across as a bit rustic in its tannin profile. That may just be the wine's youthful period in which the tannins have yet to fully soften, as the 2010 was a bit more polished from barrel and just after bottling. Time will tell. Antonio Galloni. WA 96 (10/2013): The compelling 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Solari (100% Cabernet Sauvignon) boasts an opaque purple color as well as notes of black currants, licorice, graphite and charcoal, sweet black fruits on the entry, and hints of pen ink and toast. The terrific aromatics are followed by a textured, multidimensional wine with a 45-second finish. As the wine sits in the glass, aromas of crushed rock and spice box also emerge. This complex, intriguing effort should drink well for 25+ years. WS 88 (12/2013): A powerful mix of ripe, rich, extracted dark berry, mocha, cedary oak and licorice flavors, with heat from the alcohol lending the tannins a coarse, biting edge. Best from 2014 through 2024. 723 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LarkmeadVineyards.aspJS 98 (10/2014): This is like Mouton 1982 on the nose with lead pencil, blackberry, mint and asphalt. Iodine, iron and blood, too. Toasted oak and coffee. Full body with an incredible depth of fruit and structure to this red. The texture of velvet is compelling and makes you contemplate all great wines. A pinnacle of pure Napa cabernet. Reserved opulence. Please give this at least three to five years to soften with bottle age: Try in 2018. VM 96+ (6/2015): Black fruit, smoke, lavender, graphite, tobacco and incense are some of the many notes that appear in Larkmead's 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Solari. A massive, hulking wine, the 2010 comes across as imposing, with huge tannins and tons of pure density. Here, alongside fifteen other first-class Napa Cabernets, the Solari comes across as a bit rustic in its tannin profile. That may just be the wine's youthful period in which the tannins have yet to fully soften, as the 2010 was a bit more polished from barrel and just after bottling. Time will tell. Antonio Galloni. WA 96 (10/2013): The compelling 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Solari (100% Cabernet Sauvignon) boasts an opaque purple color as well as notes of black currants, licorice, graphite and charcoal, sweet black fruits on the entry, and hints of pen ink and toast. The terrific aromatics are followed by a textured, multidimensional wine with a 45-second finish. As the wine sits in the glass, aromas of crushed rock and spice box also emerge. This complex, intriguing effort should drink well for 25+ years. WS 88 (12/2013): A powerful mix of ripe, rich, extracted dark berry, mocha, cedary oak and licorice flavors, with heat from the alcohol lending the tannins a coarse, biting edge. Best from 2014 through 2024. 723 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LarkmeadVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PaulLato.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PaulLato.aspWS 92 (9/2000): Supple and polished, with a rich core of leathery currant, anise, sage, tea and wild berry flavors that fan out nicely, turning elegant and finishing with firm tannins. Best from 2002 through 2010. 860 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KarlLawrenceCellars.aspWS 92 (9/2000): Supple and polished, with a rich core of leathery currant, anise, sage, tea and wild berry flavors that fan out nicely, turning elegant and finishing with firm tannins. Best from 2002 through 2010. 860 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KarlLawrenceCellars.aspWS 87 (10/2001): Concentrated and supple, with coffee notes from toasty oak that frame fresh herb, plum and tart cherry flavors.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KarlLawrenceCellars.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KarlLawrenceCellars.aspWA 93 (12/2006): From a vineyard made famous by Colgin, the 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve Herb Lamb Vineyard offers lovely aromas of graphite, blueberries, blackberries, cassis, and background oak. Full-bodied with silky tannin and good underlying acidity, this stylish effort should drink well for 15 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KarlLawrenceCellars.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LazyRiverWinery.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LazyRiverWinery.aspWA 94 (10/2001): The medium to dark ruby-colored 1998 Merlot possesses an immensely appealing spice and dark fruit-scented perfume. While it would be perceived as extroverted, even boisterous from another producer, it is reserved for Leonetti. Medium to full-bodied and hugely ripe, it is crammed with Asian spices, chocolate, blackberry juice, and a cascade of cherries. This expansive, rich, lively Merlot is unquestionably great stuff! There are no hard edges in its sultry character or exceptionally long, fruit-filled finish. Enjoy it over the next 7-9 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LeonettiCellars.aspWA 97 (6/2008): The 2005 Reserve is made up of 63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Petit Verdot, and 17% Merlot. It was aged in new French barriques and a large oval botti for 22 months. Deep purple-colored, the wine presents aromas of pain grille, pencil lead, scorched earth, black currant, plum, and blackberry liqueur. The wine makes a powerful entry onto the palate with great concentration, serious depth, and opulence. The flavors reveal spicy, savory black fruits with a note of chocolate in the background. Long and complex, this superb Reserve is another tour de force for Leonetti Cellar. Give it 5-7 years in the cellar and drink it from 2015 to 2030. VM 95 (12/2008): Bright ruby-red. Deep, multidimensional aromas of cassis, licorice, violet, bitter chocolate and black pepper. Wonderfully sweet and deep on the palate, but with superb ripe acidity and a floral element giving lift and definition to the wine's flavors. The wine's uncanny mouth-saturating concentration and sweetness thoroughly hides its wine's 15% alcohol. Still a baby today but built for a long evolution in bottle. The pH here is 3.65, whereas the '06 cabernets are more like 3.8. From a crop level of about 2.2 tons per acre, according to Chris Figgins. Stephen Tanzer. WS 93 (12/2008): Rich and distinctive in flavor, offering raspberry, cherry and pomegranate fruit that keep floating effectively over the refined structure, which shapes the tannins and acidity beautifully to support, not overwhelm, the flavors. Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot and Merlot. Best from 2009 through 2015. 906 cases madehttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LeonettiCellars.aspWA 97 (6/2008): The 2005 Reserve is made up of 63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Petit Verdot, and 17% Merlot. It was aged in new French barriques and a large oval botti for 22 months. Deep purple-colored, the wine presents aromas of pain grille, pencil lead, scorched earth, black currant, plum, and blackberry liqueur. The wine makes a powerful entry onto the palate with great concentration, serious depth, and opulence. The flavors reveal spicy, savory black fruits with a note of chocolate in the background. Long and complex, this superb Reserve is another tour de force for Leonetti Cellar. Give it 5-7 years in the cellar and drink it from 2015 to 2030. VM 95 (12/2008): Bright ruby-red. Deep, multidimensional aromas of cassis, licorice, violet, bitter chocolate and black pepper. Wonderfully sweet and deep on the palate, but with superb ripe acidity and a floral element giving lift and definition to the wine's flavors. The wine's uncanny mouth-saturating concentration and sweetness thoroughly hides its wine's 15% alcohol. Still a baby today but built for a long evolution in bottle. The pH here is 3.65, whereas the '06 cabernets are more like 3.8. From a crop level of about 2.2 tons per acre, according to Chris Figgins. Stephen Tanzer. WS 93 (12/2008): Rich and distinctive in flavor, offering raspberry, cherry and pomegranate fruit that keep floating effectively over the refined structure, which shapes the tannins and acidity beautifully to support, not overwhelm, the flavors. Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot and Merlot. Best from 2009 through 2015. 906 cases madehttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LeonettiCellars.aspWA 96 (8/2010): The 2007 Reserve is composed of 69% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Merlot, 11% Petit Verdot, and 9% Cabernet Franc aged for 23 months in new and seasoned French oak. Deep purple colored, it displays aromas of pain grille, earth notes, espresso, violets, black currant, and blackberry. Dense and rich on the palate with restraint and elegance, this lengthy effort will reward 5-7 years of patience from those who buy it. VM 93+ (12/2010): Good deep ruby-red. Cabernet-dominated aromas of currant, red cherry, licorice, graphite and minerals. Juicy, powerful and penetrating, with bright red berry and mineral flavors. With a few minutes in the glass, this blend showed a much plusher texture and a building sweetness without going at all over the top. This very young and refined wine did not knock me out in the early going quite like the 2006 had last year, but it's long on potential and will need another look in seven or eight years. WS 93 (10/2010): Despite the obvious power, this finishes with a welcome open texture that lets the dark berry, tar, mineral and savory herb flavors emerge untrammeled by much tannins. Polished and round, this has style and real refinement. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. Drink now through 2017. 1,066 cases made. -http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LeonettiCellars.aspWA 96 (8/2010): The 2007 Reserve is composed of 69% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Merlot, 11% Petit Verdot, and 9% Cabernet Franc aged for 23 months in new and seasoned French oak. Deep purple colored, it displays aromas of pain grille, earth notes, espresso, violets, black currant, and blackberry. Dense and rich on the palate with restraint and elegance, this lengthy effort will reward 5-7 years of patience from those who buy it. VM 93+ (12/2010): Good deep ruby-red. Cabernet-dominated aromas of currant, red cherry, licorice, graphite and minerals. Juicy, powerful and penetrating, with bright red berry and mineral flavors. With a few minutes in the glass, this blend showed a much plusher texture and a building sweetness without going at all over the top. This very young and refined wine did not knock me out in the early going quite like the 2006 had last year, but it's long on potential and will need another look in seven or eight years. WS 93 (10/2010): Despite the obvious power, this finishes with a welcome open texture that lets the dark berry, tar, mineral and savory herb flavors emerge untrammeled by much tannins. Polished and round, this has style and real refinement. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. Drink now through 2017. 1,066 cases made. -http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LeonettiCellars.aspWA 95 (12/2012): The wine known simply as Leonetti 2009 Reserve is, in fact, 92% Cabernet Sauvignon (the rest Merlot), a major departure from the norm of two-thirds to three quarters established in its previous eleven vintages (other exceptions being 2000 and 2001 when the Cabernet share dipped to less than half). Interestingly, too, Petit Verdot vines have contributed a significant share of each earlier Reserve bottling since their first crop, 2000, but this year dropped out on account of having been hit by the late frost. While at 14.7% virtually identical in alcohol to the corresponding Cabernet Sauvignon bottling, this 2009 Reserve comes off as significantly fuller-bodied. It also misses the vibrancy of its ostensibly lesser sibling. "For the reserve," notes Chris Figgins, "we look for lots that are more backward and brooding," and he certainly was rewarded this year. Ripe, lightly-confitured cassis and mulberry are mingled with toasted nuts, peat, and dark Burley tobacco. High-toned suggestions of camphor, mint, and gentian distillate emerge with aeration. The amplitude and sheer fruit intensity here comes along with a palpable if well-coated tannic undergirding; and the finish splendidly soothes and sustains. The longer this was open to the air, the greater its appeal; and I'm only sorry I could not follow it for a second day. Look for at least 15 years of profound pleasure not to mention persistent contrast with the corresponding Cabernet bottling. VM 94 (11/2012): (includes 8% merlot): Bright red-ruby. Cassis, chocolate, cocoa powder and enticing oak tones on the nose. Opulent and layered on the palate, with a hint of chocolatey merlot adding sweetness to the creamy dark berry flavors. Most impressive today on the very long finish, which features thoroughly ripe, very broad tannins that are already in harmony with the wine's lush fruit. This will be a knockout early and has the stuffing and balance for a graceful evolution in bottle. It's hard to imagine that a wine like this will ever go through a dumb stage. WS 92 (10/2012): Supple, lithe and distinctive for its red berry and fresh red pepper flavors, weaving in mint and dried herb notes as the finish persists against fine tannins. This has an aristocratic feel. Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Best from 2013 through 2017. 1,060 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LeonettiCellars.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LeonettiCellars.aspWA 94 (8/2010): The 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon (76%) also contains 17% Merlot, 4% Carmenere, and 3% Malbec. It was aged for 22 months in a mix of new and used French oak. The nose displays herbs, olives, Asian spices, coffee/mocha, a hint of balsamic, black currant, and blackberry. This leads to a savory, intense, incipiently complex Cabernet that will benefit from 5-7 years of additional cellaring to show its full potential. It will be in its prime from 2015 to 2027. IWC 92+ (12/2010): Bright, deep medium ruby. Complex nose offers cassis, mocha, minerals, licorice and menthol, lifted by pepper and herb nuances. Sweet, suave, rich and smooth but initially unforthcoming, with flavors of cassis, chocolate, herbs and licorice; a distinct minerality contributes to the wine's backward impression. The broad, long finish features strong building tannins and a serious backbone for aging. A very tricky wine: I tasted two different bottles in Walla Walla that lacked the normal verve of this bottling, but I was unable to follow them with extended aeration. This third bottle, tasted in New York, got better and better with air, becoming more harmonious and sophisticated while gaining in energy. This should be cellared for at least five or six years. WS 91 (10/2010): Firm in texture, with orange-scented red berry and red pepper flavors mingling effectively and persisting nicely against the tannins. This develops a sense of refinement on the long, medium-weight finish. Best from 2012 through 2017. 2,953 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LeonettiCellars.aspWA 96 (6/2016): Leading off the 2013s, the 2013 Walla Walla Cabernet Sauvignon comes all from estate vineyard and is 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Merlot, 9% Petit Verdot and 7% Malbec, all of which spent 22 months in new and once used French oak. It’s vibrant purple color is followed by classic notes of crème de cassis, violets, tobacco leaf, lead pencil shavings and graphite. This full-bodied, ripe, yet still elegant Cabernet (which checks in at 14.7% alcohol) has terrific purity, ripe, polished tannin and a great finish. It has the purity and finesse to drink beautifully today, but it will have 20-25 years of overall longevity.VM 93 (11/2016): (70% new French oak): Bright red-ruby. Very sexy aromas of blueberry, dark raspberry, pomegranate, mocha, cola and top-quality oak, lifted by violet and mint high tones. Very rich, deep, creamy wine, with its intense, vibrant red and darker berry flavors accented by spices. Slightly edgy acidity and youthfully clenched tannins call for patience; I would not be at all surprised if this seriously structured but plush and very long wine eventually merited an even higher rating.WS 92 (8/2016): Broad and expressive, with a sense of elegance to the savory-accented black cherry, berry and underbrush aromas and flavors, wrapped in fine, firm tannins. Best from 2018 through 2023. 2,876 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LeonettiCellars.aspWS 93 (6/2011): (WS #66 wine of 2011) Starts understated, building depth and dimension, featuring bright, rich black currant, anise, sage and black licorice character. A full-bodied orchestration of flavors at the end weave together into a tapered finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah and Cabernet Franc. Drink now through 2022. 2,300 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Leviathan.aspWA 95+ (12/2008): Levy and McClellan's 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon, which spent 26 months in new oak (mostly Taransaud), is developing at an incredibly slow rate. Its opaque ruby/purple color is accompanied by beautiful aromas of roasted coffee, melted chocolate, creme de cassis, burning embers, camphor, and a hint of cedar. On the palate, the wine combines considerable substance, power, and extract with a sense of harmony as well as elegance. Black currant, blackberry, and gamy, meaty notes are also present in this full-bodied effort with an incredibly long finish. The wine is just beginning to shed some tannin and become accessible. It will benefit from another 4-5 years of bottle age, and will easily last for three decades or more. VM 94 (6/2008): Deep medium ruby. Complex, expressive nose offers black raspberry, licorice, brown spices, mocha, smoke, minerals and nutty oak. Wonderfully lush and creamy-sweet for the year, with Graves-like mineral, gravel and smoky notes (from barrel this wine struck me as brooding and Latour-like but today its fruit character is more red). Ripe, harmonious acidity and broad, lush tannins make this cabernet remarkably presentable-not to mention long on personality-for a 2005, but it also has the structure for an extended evolution in bottle. Even in 2005, this young vineyard on volcanic soil produced just over two tons of fruit per acre, according to Bob Levy.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LevyMcClellan.aspWA 95 (12/2009): The classic 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon tastes like proprietor Alfred Tesseron’s over-achieving 5th growth Pauillac, Chateau Pontet Canet moved to Napa. Bursting with creme de cassis, flower, lead pencil, and spice characteristics, it is a dense, pure, full-bodied wine with a terrific texture. This is a gorgeously harmonious, seamless Cabernet Sauvignon with awesome concentration as well as aging potential. Drink it now and over the next 25 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LewellingVineyards.aspWA 96 (12/2010): I would love to taste the spectacular 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon in a blind tasting with recent vintages of the famed Pauillac, Pontet-Canet. After spending 16 months in 100% new French oak, it offers an opaque purple color along with classic notes of creme de cassis intermixed with subtle burning ember, charcoal and oak aromas. The glorious perfume is accompanied by a full-bodied, stunningly concentrated, multilayered wine with spectacular length as well as a silky personality. It can be drunk now or cellared for two decades or more. It’s a tour de force!http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LewellingVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LewellingVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LewellingVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LewellingVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LewellingVineyards.aspWA 98 (12/2009): Even more profound is the nearly perfect 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Wight Vineyard. The finest Cabernet I have ever tasted from this estate, it has everything the Napa Cabernet possesses, along with a few more layers, slightly more aromatic and flavor intensity, and a finish that goes on for close to a minute. The tannins are just as sweet, but there are more of them. This is a prodigious Napa Cabernet Sauvignon with all the creme de cassis one could ever want intermixed with charcoal, acacia flowers, licorice, and a hint of background oak. Give it 2-3 years of bottle age, and drink it over the following 2-3 decades. Kudos!http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LewellingVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LillianWinery.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LillianWinery.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LillianWinery.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LillianWinery.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LillianWinery.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LinneCalodo.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LinneCalodo.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LinneCalodo.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LinneCalodo.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LinneCalodo.aspWA 87 (12/1997): Hopefully, this wine will turn out well, but I am concerned about the excruciatingly painful level of tannin. The wine possesses a dark ruby/purple color, and a clean, earthy, sweet black currant-scented nose. On the palate, it is dense, powerful, and angular with toughness and astringency in the finish. Patience, approximately 5-8 years of it, is warranted.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LivingstonMoffett.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/LivingstonMoffett.aspWS 92 (9/2002): Impeccably balanced, ripe, rich and concentrated, tightly wound and jam packed with rich earthy currant, coffee, mineral and blackberry flavors. Tightens up on the finish, where the tannins bite and don't let go. Best from 2004 through 2012. 645 cases made. VM 90-93 (6/2001): Full medium ruby. Slightly medicinal aromas of blackberry, cassis, and mint, plus a whiff of game. Fat, lush and supple but uncompromisingly dry, with a large underlying structure. A more elegantly styled wine than the Howell Mountain cabernet. The substantial, building tannins spread out to coat the entire palate. WA 88 (8/2002): The dark ruby/purple-colored 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon Diamond Mountain, from a vineyard high up Diamond Mountain, exhibits a dense, austere, Bordeaux-like structure, rich, sweet cassis fruit intermixed with earth, licorice, and roasted herbs, medium body, and abundant tannin. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2015. Will it ever achieve harmony and finesse? Will it ever be enjoyable enough to actually drink?http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Lokoya.aspWS 92 (9/2002): Impeccably balanced, ripe, rich and concentrated, tightly wound and jam packed with rich earthy currant, coffee, mineral and blackberry flavors. Tightens up on the finish, where the tannins bite and don't let go. Best from 2004 through 2012. 645 cases made. VM 90-93 (6/2001): Full medium ruby. Slightly medicinal aromas of blackberry, cassis, and mint, plus a whiff of game. Fat, lush and supple but uncompromisingly dry, with a large underlying structure. A more elegantly styled wine than the Howell Mountain cabernet. The substantial, building tannins spread out to coat the entire palate. WA 88 (8/2002): The dark ruby/purple-colored 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon Diamond Mountain, from a vineyard high up Diamond Mountain, exhibits a dense, austere, Bordeaux-like structure, rich, sweet cassis fruit intermixed with earth, licorice, and roasted herbs, medium body, and abundant tannin. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2015. Will it ever achieve harmony and finesse? Will it ever be enjoyable enough to actually drink?http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Lokoya.aspWA 94 (6/2011): From the Reverie Vineyard, the 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon Diamond Mountain (475 cases produced) displays a dense purple color (that has not changed since I tasted it eight years ago) along with wonderful notes of graphite, burning embers, charcoal and sweet cassis as well as licorice. Full-bodied with excellent fruit purity, it is the most evolved and fragrant of these three wines. Drink it now or cellar it for another 15-20 years. VM 92 (6/2004): Full ruby-red. Musky aromas of currant, espresso, chocolate and tobacco. Generous, lush and sweet, with a flavor of blackcurrant but also a slight greenness. Offers a distinctly creamy texture. Finishes with solid but nicely supported tannins and a strong element of baking spices.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Lokoya.aspWA 96 (10/2014): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Diamond Mountain tastes like a first-growth Pauillac. Notes of licorice, crème de cassis, graphite, beef blood and forest floor are all present in this full-bodied, extraordinarily pure, majestic wine that coats the palate, but is neither heavy nor harsh. This magnificent, dramatic Cabernet should continue to drink well for 20-25 years. VM 93 (12/2014): Iron, tobacco, incense, graphite and smoke all open up in the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Diamond Mountain. Rich, ample and layered on the palate, the 2012 boasts tons of depth and plenty of personality. This is the most intensely mineral and savory of the four Lokoya Cabernets. It is also one of the more open wines in this range today. With time in the glass, the fruit takes on distinctly more red-hued tones of expression, along with distinctive floral and spice nuances that add complexity.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Lokoya.aspWA 99 (6/2011): Absolutely prodigious, the 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain was fashioned from the Keyes Vineyard (formerly known as the Liparita Vineyard) owned by the Jackson family. A fabulous perfume of crushed rocks, a liqueur of raspberries, black currants and cherries, and a background floral note emerges from this intense, full-bodied Cabernet. It possesses impressive equilibrium, a skyscraper-like texture and a finish that goes on for nearly a minute. There is plenty of tannin remaining in this youthful 2001. It is a stunning, statuesque, compelling Cabernet Sauvignon from a high elevation, cool climate Howell Mountain vineyard that should age effortlessly for another quarter of a century. IWC 88 (6/2004): Bright ruby. Deep, smoky aromas of berry liqueur, violet, spice cake and bitter chocolate. Lush on entry, then rather penetrating but slightly green in the middle palate, with dry flavors leading to rather tough, drying tannins. I recall that the 2000 version of this wine also seemed tougher in bottle than it did from barrel.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Lokoya.aspWA 99 (6/2011): Absolutely prodigious, the 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain was fashioned from the Keyes Vineyard (formerly known as the Liparita Vineyard) owned by the Jackson family. A fabulous perfume of crushed rocks, a liqueur of raspberries, black currants and cherries, and a background floral note emerges from this intense, full-bodied Cabernet. It possesses impressive equilibrium, a skyscraper-like texture and a finish that goes on for nearly a minute. There is plenty of tannin remaining in this youthful 2001. It is a stunning, statuesque, compelling Cabernet Sauvignon from a high elevation, cool climate Howell Mountain vineyard that should age effortlessly for another quarter of a century. IWC 88 (6/2004): Bright ruby. Deep, smoky aromas of berry liqueur, violet, spice cake and bitter chocolate. Lush on entry, then rather penetrating but slightly green in the middle palate, with dry flavors leading to rather tough, drying tannins. I recall that the 2000 version of this wine also seemed tougher in bottle than it did from barrel.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Lokoya.aspWA 99 (12/2009): The nearly perfect, inky/purple-colored 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Mt. Veeder boasts abundant aromas of blueberry pie, ink, violets, burning embers, and camphor. The staggeringly intense, provocatively complex aromatics are followed by a full-bodied wine with exquisite concentration as well as a stunningly pure texture. One of the most prodigious 2007 Cabernets I tasted, it should provide magical drinking in 5-6 years, and last for three decades or more. VM 91+ (5/2010): Good medium ruby. Distinct medicinal cast to the aromas of black cherry, violet, licorice and menthol. Juicier, tighter and more imploded than the Keyes Vineyard example, with an element of fruity peppercorn giving lift to the middle palate. The substantial dusty tannins arrive late, allowing this very primary young wine to unwind a bit.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Lokoya.aspWA 97+ (12/2010): Another blockbuster, the 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Mt. Veeder, which has the largest production, exhibits a deep blue/purple color along with notes of burning embers, charcoal, sweet black currant liqueur, licorice and scorched earth. It possesses fabulous fruit along with full-bodied power, a voluptuous texture and beautiful density as well as richness. It is not far off the quality of the brilliant 2007.WS 94 (11/2012): Beautifully crafted, rich and explosive, with a push of plush plum, blackberry, cherry, herb and mocha flavors that are tight and focused, ending chewy. Best from 2014 through 2028. IWC 93+ (6/2011): Medium ruby. Reticent but very pure aromas of blueberry, cassis, licorice and menthol. Shockingly rich and sweet but very young, showing superb concentration to its cassis flavor complemented by sexy oak tones. This really vibrates on the very long finish, where the wine's powerful mountain tannins are buried in fruit. Less showy today than the Howell Mountain cabernet but with outstanding long-term potential.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Lokoya.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Loxton.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Lynmar.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Lynmar.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Marcassin.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Marcassin.aspWA 98 (12/2013): The prodigious 2009 Pinot Noir Blue Slide Ridge reminds me of one of the great vintages of the DRC Vosne-Romanee. Notes of forest floor, jammy raspberries, blueberries, boysenberries and spring flowers are followed by a full-bodied, textured, layered mouthfeel, and great intensity, precision and freshness. This stunning 2009 is already showing considerable complexity, and should age effortlessly for 10-15 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Marcassin.aspWS 94 (5/2003): The 1997 Chardonnay Lorenzo Vineyard is compelling, offering liquid slate/petroleum-like notes. Full-bodied, powerful, and expansive, with laser-like focus, the Lorenzo possesses lemony, peach, apricot, steely flavors crammed into a full-bodied, powerful, impressively concentrated personality. It is simply sensational, so excuse the verbose wine speak. Anticipated maturity: 2000-2007http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Marcassin.aspWA 97 (8/2015): The 2011 is a great Chardonnay Marcassin Vineyard from a much-maligned and sometimes excessively criticized vintage. 2011 has its low points, but there are many producers who got it right, and survived the challenging growing and harvest conditions. This wine has phenomenal intensity, with plenty of crushed rock, pineapple, honeysuckle, orange and tangerine blossom in an elegant, medium to full-bodied style, with terrific intensity, good acidity and freshness. This is more evolved than either the 2009 or 2010, and probably will be a candidate for 7-8 years of aging, rather than 10 or more.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Marcassin.aspWA 97+ (12/2013): More backward and brooding with an equally high ceiling is the 2009 Pinot Noir Marcassin Estate. Notes of forest floor, freshly sliced porcini mushrooms, black currants, sweet compost, raspberry, blueberry and kirsch are present in this full-bodied wine that has beautiful length and purity as well as a palate that builds incrementally. Slightly more tannic, backward and reserved than the more exuberant and flamboyant Blue Slide Ridge, this loaded 2009 should be forgotten for another 1-2 years and drunk over the following 15+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Marcassin.aspWA 95 (8/2015): The 2010 Pinot Noir Marcassin Vineyard is a slightly tighter style of Pinot Noir, and lighter than the 2009. There is more acidity showing through, the fruit offering up various red and black fruits from pomegranate to plum to cassis, dark sweet cherries as well as foresty underbrush notes. It is developing quickly, without the intensity of flavor of the 2009. Anticipated maturity: now-2025.VM 91 (5/2015): Crushed flowers, herbs, dried cherries, tobacco and anise abound in the 2010 Pinot Noir Marcassin Vineyard. I am a bit surprised by how forward the flavors are. A distinctly floral/savory character dominates, while fruit expression, freshness and textural richness are much less evident. It's hard to see the 2010 drinking well for more than a handful of years based on the bottle I tasted.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Marcassin.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Marcassin.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Marcassin.aspWA 91 (2/2011): The 2007 Pinot Noirs will undoubtedly shut down with another year of bottle age, but for now, the 2007 Pinot Noir Three Sisters Vineyard reveals an intense fruit presence. Lots of plum sauce, fig, black cherry, Asian spice and floral notes make for a complex wine. In the mouth, it is medium to full-bodied with an unexpectedly high acid profile, which gives the wine a more compressed mouthfeel. It should age nicely for 8-10 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Marcassin.aspWS 93 (5/2014): Fragrant, with enticing anise, black licorice and red berry scents, this is firm, focused and vibrant on the palate. Gains depth and subtle nuances on the finish, ending with a hint of charred oak. Drink now through 2024. 220 cases made. WA 90 (12/2013): The soft, dark ruby-hued 2009 Pinot Noir Three Sisters exhibits notes of Asian soy, ripe plums and sweet cherries. Fruit-forward and medium-bodied with good acidity, it is an excellent, but not outstanding Pinot Noir to drink over the next 6-10 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Marcassin.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Marilyn.aspWS 88 (12/1997): Young, tight and intense, with a range of herb, currant, black cherry and spice, finishing with cedary oak and chewy tannins. Needs time. Best after 2001. 2,700 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MartinRay.aspWS 88 (10/1999): Ripe and flavorful, with a tarry, earthy edge to the olive, plum and currant flavors. Smooth tannins, toasted oak and sage notes mark the finish. Drink now through 2004. 1,883 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MartinRay.aspWA 95 (2/2005): The 2002 Pinot Noir Blue Slide Ridge is a notable effort. It is dark ruby/plum in color, with elegant floral, DRC-like notes of raspberries, forest floor, and violets. Medium to full-bodied, broad, fleshy, complex, and provocative, this is truly a grand cru Burgundy-styled wine to drink now and over the next 7-10 years. WS 94 (6/2004): A smooth, rich, multifaceted wine with layers of fruit complexity and a long, persistent finish, ending with supple tannins. The core flavors feature zesty ripe plum, raspberry and blackberry (with a hint of jam) and a touch of strawberry rhubarb pie. Drink now through 2009. 450 cases made. VM 94 (6/2004): Dark red. Vinous aromas of black fruits, strawberry, tobacco and milk chocolate. Sappy, sweet and thick, with dense flavors of red berries, wild plum and smoke. A suave, seamless wine with the airy texture that characterizes Helen Turley's winemaking. A superb California pinot noir.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.aspVM 93 (6/2006): Good full red. Complex nose melds cherry, plum, spices, nuts and smoky oak. Concentrated, suave and sophisticated, with a slightly wild blue and black fruit character complicated by spices. Dense and fine-grained pinot, finishing with silky tannins and noteworthy complexity. Similar in style to the superb 2003 example.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.aspWA 95 (12/2006): A real knock-out Pinot Noir in 2005 is the Blue Slide Ridge. This is always the most Richebourg-like of the wines, with a classic floral, herbal, blueberry nose intermixed with crushed rocks, a deep ruby/purple-tinged color, full body, wonderful sweetness, and moderate tannin in the finish. Unfortunately, there are only 175 cases. VM 94 (6/2007): Brilliant ruby-red. Intense raspberry, rose and licorice aromas, with a tangy mineral accent. Seamless red and dark berry flavors show impressive depth and sweetness, gaining depth with air and taking a turn toward cherry without any loss of energy or focus. The tannins are completely absorbed by the suave fruit. Very creamy and sweet on the finish, with compelling depth and length. This simply refuses to quit.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.aspVM 90 (6/2006): Medium red. Lower-toned aromas of strawberry, underbrush and earth. Sweet but dry; big, broad and very ripe, but showing less lift-and more earthy low tones-than the Moonshine Ranch bottling. A bit subdued for this cuvee at this early stage, with red fruit and earth flavors dominating. Finishes with fairly substantial tannins.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.aspWS 92 (7/2012): A hint of sautéed morel mushroom adds an aromatic note to the generous ripe plum and black cherry flavors. A nice loamy earth, forest floor and cedary edge marks the finish. Drink now through 2020. 624 cases made. VM 91 (5/2012): Bright red. Intense, oak-spiced aromas of raspberry preserves and cherry-cola, with a floral topnote. Rich and firm on the palate, offering intense red fruit flavors sweetened by a strong vanilla quality. Shows impressive power on the broad, lush, persistent finish.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.aspWA 92 (8/2002): The 600-case cuvee of 2000 Zinfandel Guiseppe and Luisa admirably conceals its 17.2% alcohol (unless someone is foolish enough to drink the entire bottle). Its knock-out aromas of plum liqueur, prunes, leather, chocolate, espresso beans, Asian spices, underbrush, and pepper are followed by a dense, unctuously-textured, full-bodied, large-scaled, mouth-staining Zinfandel to drink over the next 5-10 years. VM 89 (6/2002): Dark, slightly dull red. Roasted red berries, dried fruits, licorice, tar, eucalyptus and exotic spices on the nose. Superripe and concentrated, with a port-like quality, but quite uncompromisingly dry. Could use a bit more brightness. Finishes with big, dusty tannins.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.aspVM 92 (6/2005): Good medium red. Brambly raspberry, currant and tobacco aromas complicated by hints of dill and dried flowers; almost pinot-like. Wonderfully sweet and velvety-deep, with a pliant texture given shape and verve by lively acidity. This is already delicious but should be even better for a year of two of additional cellaring. WA 90 (2/2005): There are 756 cares of the 2003 Zinfandel Giuseppe & Luisa, which, believe it or not, tops the scales at 17.4%. At this point, some heat and the high alcohol does become noticeable on the palate. There are plenty of sweet currants and loads of pepper, but the raisiny fruit needs to calm down. Roasted meats and a liqueur of mincemeat and spice box are part of this package, and the wine is impressive, full-bodied, but obviously controversial. It possesses an evolved, medium ruby/garnet color. This one I would opt for drinking over the next 3-4 years, but certainly that high alcohol is going to keep it stable. WS 83 (12/2005): A touch of sweetness and the high alcohol level make it hard to identify this as Zinfandel. Zesty wild berry and cranberry notes are ripe, but lacking focus, clarity and concentration. Drink now. 856 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.aspWA 95 (2/2005): The 2003 Zinfandel Jackass Vineyard (554 cases at 16.5% alcohol) has a classic dark plum/purple color, a huge nose of dates, figs, brandy-macerated blueberries, blackberries, soy, smoke, and barbecue spice. A full-bodied, exotic, opulent wine and a total hedonistic and intellectual turn-on, it should drink well for 7-8 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.aspWA 93 (6/2006): Martinelli’s Zindfandel is a rich, high-octane wine of considerable intensity, fragrance, and richness. The 2004 Zinfandel Jackass Vineyard (690 cases) offers copious quantities of espresso roast, overripe figs, coffee, cola, strawberry and cherry jam, a hint of mincemeat and spice box, and a monstrously rich, full-bodied palate that just oozes fruit, glycerin, and alcohol. This wine should drink well for up to a decade.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.aspWS 90 (9/1999): Wonderful ripe, rich, focused plum, cherry, strawberry and spice flavors are wrapped in firm but supple tannins, finishing with a burst of fruitiness. Impressive. Drink now through 2006. 600 cases made. -JLhttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.aspWS 90 (9/1999): Wonderful ripe, rich, focused plum, cherry, strawberry and spice flavors are wrapped in firm but supple tannins, finishing with a burst of fruitiness. Impressive. Drink now through 2006. 600 cases made. -JLhttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.aspWA 90 (12/2013): The 2011 Pinot Noir Moonshine Ranch (you can guess what this site was used for during Prohibition) uses several clones including the Pisoni clone, which was apparently a suitcase clone from a famous vineyard in Vosne-Romanee. This wine displays deep raspberry aromas intermixed with roasted herbs, bouquet garni, licorice, and smoke as well as ripe, medium-bodied, attractive plum and black cherry flavors. It is on a fast evolutionary track, so consume it over the next 3-4 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.aspWA 91 (2/2005): Strawberry and cherry jam in addition to some flowers and subtle background oak make an impression in the spicy, rich, seductive 2002 Pinot Noir 7 Mules Vineyard. This is no shy wine with 14.8% alcohol, but that is well-concealed by all the fruit, glycerin, and concentration. Drink it over the next 4-5 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.aspWA 90 (12/2005): The 2004 Pinot Noir Zio Tony Ranch shows plenty of raspberry, soy, and fig notes along with hints of pomegranate and cherry. This spicy, full-bodied Pinot reveals nicely integrated oak, a savory, expansive palate, and a heady finish.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Martinelli.aspVM 96 (10/2015): The 2014 Chardonnay is brilliant. Lemon oil, white flowers, mint, almonds and smoke are all beautifully delineated in this transparent, super-finessed Chardonnay built on total finesse. The decision to pick a touch earlier plus the blocked malo style result in a focused, energetic Chardonnay that hits all the right notes. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Mayacamas.aspWA 94+ (10/2013): The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Amoenus, which I previously tasted from barrel when it was a lot more open, has shut down completely (as a lot of 2009s seem to be doing). Full-bodied and rich, it reveals notes of damp earth, blackberries and creme de cassis as well as a distinctive terroir character. Although there are elevated tannins, they seem relatively sweet and not the least astringent. Nevertheless, this cuvee has gone into a firm, closed state and several years of bottle age is recommended. It should keep for 15-25 years. VM 92 (5/2012): Bright, dark ruby. Aromas of black cherry, licorice and minerals. A very rocky style in the mouth, with distinctly black flavors of dark berries, violet and minerals. Less pliant and deep than the Materium but in a more powerful style, finishing with serious tannic spine and lingering violet perfume. A rather cool site that's open to afternoon breezes from the west. Well worth following. WS 91 (10/2012): A dry, earthier expression of dried currant, sage and cedar notes, this gains depth, richness and dimension, yet remains focused on the core flavors of crushed rock and dried berry. Best from 2014 through 2024. 194 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Maybach.aspWA 95 (10/2014): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Amoenus exhibits that Calistoga earthiness along with fabulously rich blackcurrant fruit intermixed with darker berries, loamy soil notes and high-quality, unsmoked cigar tobacco. Deep, full-bodied and opulent, this terrific Cabernet Sauvignon has some upfront drinkability, but also the structure and muscle to last 15-20 years. JS 95 (7/2015): A rich and flamboyant red with dark berry, chocolate and spice character. Verges on jammy. Full, round and rich. Long finish. Tannin tension holds it together. Drink or hold. WS 94 (10/2015): Brimming with firm, rich and juicy blackberry, wild berry, black cherry, crushed rock and cedary oak notes, this gains depth and richness, ending with a long, juicy finish. Drink now through 2028. 265 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Maybach.aspWA 98+ (10/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Amoenus comes from a completely different terroir, a western hillside vineyard near Calistoga that averages 10-15 degrees cooler than the eastern part of the valley in what is known as the Black Mountain Gap. The wine shows incredible minerality, beautiful notes of forest floor, floral scents, blackcurrant liqueur, licorice and graphite. The wine is dense, full-bodied and seems even more backward and broodingly powerful than the Materium. This 100% Cabernet Sauvignon is a long-distance runner that should age beautifully for 30-40 years. Production of this is much less, usually averaging under 300 cases of wine per year.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Maybach.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Maybach.aspWS 88 (7/2013): Tight-knit, with a trim core of citrus-laced green apple and pear. Maintains a tight focus, ending on an elegant, delicate note. Drink now through 2019. 60 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Maybach.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Maybach.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Maybach.aspVM 91 (6/2008): Lovely perfume to the slightly exotic aromas of smoky raspberry, plum and spices. Sweet, dense, chewy and broad, but with firm acidity giving shape and aromatic lift to the berry, spice and floral flavors. Winemaker Thomas Brown noted that it was necessary to let the fruit hang for a long time to get thorough ripeness, even at the risk of picking a few raisins. And yet this retains a juicy quality and displays lovely lingering perfume. WS 87 (8/2008): Taut yet ripe, with rich currant, blackberry and black cherry fruit that's well-structured, with cedary oak and firm tannins that grip and hold. Decant. Drink now through 2012. 614 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Maybach.aspWA 99 (12/2009): The prodigious 2007 Materium exhibits an even more opaque purple color, and ratchets up the level of intensity and aromatic complexity. Blackberry, black raspberry, blueberry, and cassis aromas intermixed with notes of crushed rocks, spring flowers, and toasty new oak are found in this beauty. Outstanding intensity along with full-bodied power and beautifully integrated acids, tannins, alcohol, and wood suggest this 2007 should hit its peak in 5-7 years, and evolve for three decades or more. WS 98 (10/2010): (Wine Spectator #24 wine of 2010) A riveting wine, notably rich and sophisticated, with layers of plush yet firm mocha, blackberry, plum and wild berry flavors that are full-blown. A dash of lavender and mineral, with floral scents, give this great depth, persistence and range of flavor, followed by a grand finish. Best from 2012 through 2024. 460 cases made. VM 94 (6/2010): Good full ruby. Sweet, ripe aromas of dark berries, graphite and flowers. Creamy and lush, with an almost confectionery sweetness leavened by exotic floral lift and perfectly integrated acidity. This wine, which comes from a vineyard above Dalla Valle and Showket in the eastern hills of Oakville, has a relatively low 3.5 pH and was harvested in mid-October. Sexy soil tones add complexity. Finishes with broad tannins, excellent grip and length, and lingering sweetness. This is seamless in the way of many 2007s but not at all heavy. Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Maybach.aspWA 99 (12/2009): The prodigious 2007 Materium exhibits an even more opaque purple color, and ratchets up the level of intensity and aromatic complexity. Blackberry, black raspberry, blueberry, and cassis aromas intermixed with notes of crushed rocks, spring flowers, and toasty new oak are found in this beauty. Outstanding intensity along with full-bodied power and beautifully integrated acids, tannins, alcohol, and wood suggest this 2007 should hit its peak in 5-7 years, and evolve for three decades or more. WS 98 (10/2010): (Wine Spectator #24 wine of 2010) A riveting wine, notably rich and sophisticated, with layers of plush yet firm mocha, blackberry, plum and wild berry flavors that are full-blown. A dash of lavender and mineral, with floral scents, give this great depth, persistence and range of flavor, followed by a grand finish. Best from 2012 through 2024. 460 cases made. VM 94 (6/2010): Good full ruby. Sweet, ripe aromas of dark berries, graphite and flowers. Creamy and lush, with an almost confectionery sweetness leavened by exotic floral lift and perfectly integrated acidity. This wine, which comes from a vineyard above Dalla Valle and Showket in the eastern hills of Oakville, has a relatively low 3.5 pH and was harvested in mid-October. Sexy soil tones add complexity. Finishes with broad tannins, excellent grip and length, and lingering sweetness. This is seamless in the way of many 2007s but not at all heavy. Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Maybach.aspWA 96 (12/2010): The 2008 Materium comes from a single block called the Weitz Vineyard at a 1,000-foot elevation on the eastern hillsides of Oakville. It would be hard to improve upon the virtually perfect 2007, but the 2008 is not far behind. Notes of graphite, blueberry, charcoal, spring flowers, and some background oak are followed by a dense, purple-colored wine with full-bodied power, great elegance, precision, and purity. This is again an extraordinary effort from Maybach. It should drink well for 20-25 years. VM 92-95 (6/2010): Good bright ruby. Penetrating, focused, highly perfumed aromas of dark berries, minerals and flowers. Then quite tightly coiled and primary in the mouth, but already showing an exhilarating combination of sweetness and energy. Not at all an opulent style and yet this conveys a real impression of afternoon sun. Finishes with slow-mounting, very ripe flavors and plenty of sap.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Maybach.aspWA 96 (12/2010): The 2008 Materium comes from a single block called the Weitz Vineyard at a 1,000-foot elevation on the eastern hillsides of Oakville. It would be hard to improve upon the virtually perfect 2007, but the 2008 is not far behind. Notes of graphite, blueberry, charcoal, spring flowers, and some background oak are followed by a dense, purple-colored wine with full-bodied power, great elegance, precision, and purity. This is again an extraordinary effort from Maybach. It should drink well for 20-25 years. VM 92-95 (6/2010): Good bright ruby. Penetrating, focused, highly perfumed aromas of dark berries, minerals and flowers. Then quite tightly coiled and primary in the mouth, but already showing an exhilarating combination of sweetness and energy. Not at all an opulent style and yet this conveys a real impression of afternoon sun. Finishes with slow-mounting, very ripe flavors and plenty of sap.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Maybach.aspWA 94 (12/2011): The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Materium is a gorgeous, polished wine graced with exquisite detail, clarity and focus. Tobacco, cedar and sweet spices add complexity to the fruit in this powerful, expressive 2009. Layers of dark red fruit, mocha and mint wrap around the striking, seamless finish. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2019. VM 92-95 (6/2011): Full ruby-red. Reticent, subtle nose hints at cassis, tar, licorice pastille and smoke; conveys a darker quality than the 2008. Dense, backward and deep, with black fruit and licorice flavors showing an almost grapey primary character today. Focused, structured and tannic wine, extremely unevolved today. Seems less sweet than the 2008. Hard to taste now but this is likely to be long-lived. Winemaker Thomas Brown told me that the wine has been racked just twice to this point and will be bottled in June.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Maybach.aspWA 98 (10/2014): From the red soils near Dalla Valle in the eastern part of the Oakville Corridor, the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Materium is a killer wine. It possesses a striking, intense, rocky minerality, an opaque purple color, and deep, beautiful aromas of camphor, spring flowers, blueberries and black raspberry fruit. There is a cool climate character (even though this is not a cool climate viticultural area) as well as superb richness, a full-bodied mouthfeel, great delineation and a mindboggling finish that lasts nearly a full minute. This outrageous Cabernet Sauvignon can be drunk now and over the next 25 years.VM 93-95 (5/2014): Medium ruby-red. Perfumed aromas of cassis, blueberry, licorice and violet show a lightly exotic character. Silky-sweet and creamy on the palate, but with lovely harmonious acidity enlivening and framing the dark fruit flavors. Suave tannins saturate the finish on the intense, long, pliant back end. This compellingly rich cabernet will merit a rating at the top end of my projected range if it develops more complexity during its final months in barrel. This estate did not bottle any 2011s owing to a high percentage of underripe and rotten grapes, electing instead to sell off the vintage in bulk. Stephen Tanzer.WS 95 (10/2015): A beauty, rich and pure in flavor, structured by firm tannins and acidity and showing a tight focus to the dusty, mineral-tinged dark berry, plum and currant flavors. Ends with fine-grained tannins. A good candidate for cellaring. Drink now through 2028. 595 cases made.JS 94 (7/2015): A fruit-forward style with plum and light jam character plus hints of chocolate. Full body, round tannins and a savory finish. Delicious. Excellent intensity. Retro Napa. Drink now.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Maybach.aspWA 100 (10/2015): There are roughly 600 cases of the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Materium, all of which comes from the Weitz Vineyard on the eastern Vaca Mountain hillside of Oakville at an elevation of about 1,000 feet above the Silverado Trail. This is shallow soil interspersed with loads of pebbles and stones. This wine is incredible first-growth material – a magical Cabernet Sauvignon with an opaque purple color, an extraordinary nose of blackberry and cassis, white flowers, crushed rock and minerality followed by a full-bodied majestic mouthfeel with phenomenal balance, purity and overall equilibrium. Stunningly rich and impressive, this wine will hit its peak in 8-10 years and has the potential to last 40-50 years. For those who keep track of such things, the wine was completely aged in 100% new Darnajou and Taransaud barrels.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Maybach.aspWA 100 (10/2016): The flagship, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Materium, represents 560 cases and achieved 14.8% alcohol after aging in 90% new Taransaud and Darnajou casks. Remarkably, the wine matches the perfect 2013, with extraordinary fragrance of blueberry, blackberry, forest floor, truffle, spring flowers and background barbecue smoke followed by a thick, unctuously textured, juicy, but incredibly well-balanced, intense wine. This is built like a skyscraper with enormous quantities of blueberry, blackberry and cassis fruit, well-integrated acidity and sweet, gentle tannins. This is an extraordinary effort from Maybach that can be drunk now or cellared for up to 30 or more years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Maybach.aspWA 100 (10/2016): The flagship, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Materium, represents 560 cases and achieved 14.8% alcohol after aging in 90% new Taransaud and Darnajou casks. Remarkably, the wine matches the perfect 2013, with extraordinary fragrance of blueberry, blackberry, forest floor, truffle, spring flowers and background barbecue smoke followed by a thick, unctuously textured, juicy, but incredibly well-balanced, intense wine. This is built like a skyscraper with enormous quantities of blueberry, blackberry and cassis fruit, well-integrated acidity and sweet, gentle tannins. This is an extraordinary effort from Maybach that can be drunk now or cellared for up to 30 or more years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Maybach.aspWA 100 (10/2016): The flagship, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Materium, represents 560 cases and achieved 14.8% alcohol after aging in 90% new Taransaud and Darnajou casks. Remarkably, the wine matches the perfect 2013, with extraordinary fragrance of blueberry, blackberry, forest floor, truffle, spring flowers and background barbecue smoke followed by a thick, unctuously textured, juicy, but incredibly well-balanced, intense wine. This is built like a skyscraper with enormous quantities of blueberry, blackberry and cassis fruit, well-integrated acidity and sweet, gentle tannins. This is an extraordinary effort from Maybach that can be drunk now or cellared for up to 30 or more years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Maybach.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Mazzocco.aspWS 91 (7/2014): Delivers a rich allure to the dark berry, black licorice, loamy earth, and tobacco-cigar box edges. Tilts toward extracted fruit and tannins, which will appeal to those who like to chew on young wines. Drink now through 2023. 392 cases made.IWC 89 (5/2014): Bright ruby-red. Cool aromas of blackcurrant, pepper and mocha. Fairly dense in texture, showing an attractive sweetness to the flavors of dark berries, pepper and leafy herbs. Quite Medoc-like in its slightly peppery green character but boasts good intensity and concentration to its flavors of currant, plum and mocha. Finishes with rather suave tannins. I like this style.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/McGahFamilyVyd.aspWA 91 (8/2006): The dense purple-colored, ripe, medium to full-bodied 2004 Syrah Les Galets Vineyard (produced from fruit purchased from Laetitia Vineyard) offers beautiful black currant, blackberry, floral, crushed rock, and subtle wood aromas. With lovely layers of fruit as well as a superb finish, it can be enjoyed over the next 5-8 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/McPriceMyers.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MedlockAmes.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MedlockAmes.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MedlockAmes.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MedlockAmes.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MedlockAmes.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MedlockAmes.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MedlockAmes.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MedlockAmes.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MedlockAmes.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MedlockAmes.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MedlockAmes.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MedlockAmes.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MedlockAmes.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MedlockAmes.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MedlockAmes.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MedlockAmes.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MedlockAmes.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MedlockAmes.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MedlockAmes.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MedlockAmes.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MedlockAmes.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MedlockAmes.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MedlockAmes.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MedlockAmes.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MedlockAmes.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MedlockAmes.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MedlockAmes.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MedlockAmes.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MedlockAmes.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MedlockAmes.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MedlockAmes.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MedlockAmes.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MedlockAmes.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MedlockAmes.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MedlockAmes.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MedlockAmes.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MedlockAmes.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MedlockAmes.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MedlockAmes.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MedlockAmes.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MedlockAmes.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MedlockAmes.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MedlockAmes.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MedlockAmes.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MedlockAmes.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MedlockAmes.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MedlockAmes.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Melville.aspWA 98 (12/2016): This was reviewed highly by my Colleague Robert Parker on release, and he nailed this wine. The 2008 Syrah Donna's is a true powerhouse that has incredible amounts of fat, texture and glycerol while staying fresh, light and even elegant. Still youthful and lively, with black and blue fruits, graphite, camphor, roasted herbs and spice, it has remarkable purity, sweet, polished tannin and a great finish. There's certainly no harm in drinking this today, but it has another 10-15 years of longevity as well. VM 93 (11/2010): Opaque purple. A complex, highly aromatic nose melds wild dark berries, tobacco, black olive, smoke and violet. Suave, sweet and fine-grained, with ripe balancing acidity giving the broad dark fruit and floral flavors a sappy quality and excellent clarity. The finishing tannins are firm but fine and come on late then fade quickly into the extremely persistent fruit. In a very cool style; this will be great with any dish that involves bacon. Josh Raynolds.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Melville.aspWA 90 (8/2015): The 2013 Chardonnay Estate Verna's Vineyard is another outstanding release of this cuvee that represents a terrific value. Giving up classic apple tart, melon, spice and a touch of honey, it's medium to full-bodied, rounded and nicely textured, with lots to like. Barrel fermented and aged six months in neutral oak, drink it over the coming 2-3 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Melville.aspWS 88 (5/2010): A racy, earthy style, with a streak of wild berry, black cherry, anise, sage and dusty cedar notes. Full-bodied and complex if a tad rustic and unbridled, but slowly comes together, gaining focus and showing depth and complexity. Drink now through 2015. 4,525 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MerryEdwards.aspWA 92+ (12/2008): Although closed at present, Merus’ inky/purple-colored 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon displays enormous power and richness. It is a massive, blockbuster-styled effort possessing black fruits, plenty of spicy oak, hints of licorice and graphite, and mouth-staining tannins and extract in the finish. Forget it for 4-5 years, and drink it over the following 20-25. VM 92+ (6/2009): (blended with 3% malbec and 2% petit verdot) Saturated ruby. Dusty black raspberry, blackberry, spices and licorice pastille on the nose, with hints of meat, dark chocolate and eucalyptus. Less sweet and harmonious than the young 2007 sample, showing a rather tightly wound quality and a medicinal aspect to its dark fruit flavors. Finishes with serious, even somewhat tough tannins. In a disjointed stage now and in need of patience. WS 91 (11/2009): Intense and rustic, with chewy mineral, anise, dried currant and earth notes. Full-bodied, this is concentrated and long on the finish, but needs time to soften. Best from 2011 through 2017. 1,200 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Merus.aspWA 92+ (12/2008): Although closed at present, Merus’ inky/purple-colored 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon displays enormous power and richness. It is a massive, blockbuster-styled effort possessing black fruits, plenty of spicy oak, hints of licorice and graphite, and mouth-staining tannins and extract in the finish. Forget it for 4-5 years, and drink it over the following 20-25. VM 92+ (6/2009): (blended with 3% malbec and 2% petit verdot) Saturated ruby. Dusty black raspberry, blackberry, spices and licorice pastille on the nose, with hints of meat, dark chocolate and eucalyptus. Less sweet and harmonious than the young 2007 sample, showing a rather tightly wound quality and a medicinal aspect to its dark fruit flavors. Finishes with serious, even somewhat tough tannins. In a disjointed stage now and in need of patience. WS 91 (11/2009): Intense and rustic, with chewy mineral, anise, dried currant and earth notes. Full-bodied, this is concentrated and long on the finish, but needs time to soften. Best from 2011 through 2017. 1,200 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Merus.aspIWC 92 (5/2012): Hazy yellow color. Candied orange and pear on the pungent, intensely perfumed nose. Lush and creamy on entry, then tighter in the mid-palate, offering palate-staining citrus and pit fruit flavors with complicating notes of honeysuckle and chalky minerals. Finishes broad and chewy, with excellent thrust and lingering spiciness. The most exotic of this set of chardonnays today and the one that I would drink first.WS 92 (7/2012): There is much to admire in this complex mix of anise, fig, citrus, tangerine, hazelnut and melon flavors. The texture is what separates the 2010s, and here it is a bit raw and coarse. The intense finish shows a dash of smokiness. Needs time. Best from 2013 through 2020. 1,915 cases made. WA 91-94 (2/2012): The 2010 Chardonnay Belle-Cote is a gorgeous, symmetrical wine with no beginning and no end. Sweet floral notes, licorice, mint and lemon are some of the nuances that emerge from this textured, graceful wine. The finish turns intensely aromatic and expressive. Here, too, there is considerable weight in the glass. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2030.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PeterMichaelWinery.aspWA 94 (12/2013): Another gorgeous, perfectly balanced wine, although not quite as rich as the 2010, is the 2011 Pinot Noir Clos de Ciel. Lots of forest floor, underbrush, cola and red and black currant characteristics are present in this more evolved yet surprisingly powerful and dense 2011. Production was 530 cases, which is significantly more than in either 2009 or 2010. It should drink well for 6-7 years. IWC 93 (6/2013): Vivid ruby. A heady, exotic perfume presents of candied red berries, cola, lavender and woodsmoke, with a spicy topnote. Fresh and focused but densely packed, offering sweet raspberry and cherry-cola flavors that pick up a deeper cherry pit quality with air. A powerful finish emphatically repeats the red berry note. WS 92 (9/2013): An elegant, graceful style, this is youthful, with vibrant, snappy blueberry, wild berry and anise flavors, enlivened by zesty acidity and ending with a long, persistent finish. Drink now through 2024. 530 cases made.VM 90 (2/2014): A supple, pretty wine, the 2011 Pinot Noir Clos du Ciel is laced with plum, black cherry, cola, menthol, hard candy and sweet spices. Layers of dark, racy fruit build to the textured, voluptuous finish. The Clos du Ciel is the most open and accessible of the 2011 Pinots, and should be drunk sooner rather than later. This is one of the more overt 2011 Pinots from the Fort Ross-Seaview AVA readers are likely to come across. Clos du Ciel emerges from the warmest of the three estate Pinot vineyards Peter Michael owns. The 2011 was much more impressive from barrel than in bottle.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PeterMichaelWinery.aspWA 98 (12/2014): The amazing 2012 Pinot Noir Clos de Ciel (575 cases) boasts a deep ruby color as well as a sweet perfume of black cherries, damp earth, forest floor, new saddle leather, and raspberries. Rich and medium to full-bodied with a floral component in addition to some tannins in the finish, the result is a slight compression and edginess to the wine as it finishes. This 2012 appears to need more time. I suspect it will hit its apogee in 7-8 years and last 25 or more.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PeterMichaelWinery.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PeterMichaelWinery.aspIWC 90 (5/2008): Full, deep ruby-red. Wilder aromas of plum, flint and smoky oak, with a cooler suggestion of menthol. Sweeter on first blush than the Pavots but with less depth to the flavors of cherry and brown spices. Finishes broad and rich, but with rougher tannins than the suaver flagship Bordeaux blend. (Incidentally the tasting note published for the L'Esprit des Pavots in Issue 132 should have been for the 2004 vintage.)http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PeterMichaelWinery.aspWA 95-97 (12/2003): I was blown away by the 1,480-case cuvee of 2002 Chardonnay La Carriere. This French-styled offering is made from a vineyard planted in soils filled with white volcanic ash, and is aged completely in Louis Latour barrels. It possesses an exquisite liquid minerality as well as gorgeous aromas of citrus oils intermixed with such exotic tropical fruits as guava and passion fruit. Full-bodied, with dazzling palate penetration, fine balance, and an extraordinary, layered, multidimensional feel, this is one of the single greatest Chardonnays I have recently tasted. It is a brilliant blend of French finesse with California power that should drink well for 5-7 years, possibly longer.VM 93 (6/2004): Subdued, cool aromas of peach, orange rind and crushed stone. Dense, thick, chewy and very ripe, with a strong minerality that's not currently showing in the Mon Plaisir. Very expansive chardonnay with deep spice and mineral flavors and an exotic citrus oil component. Impressively broad and persistent on the back end. WS 92 (6/2004): Green apple and green pear and a touch of mint, cedar and tobacco combine in the flavor makeup, with no shortage of rich, complex, concentrated flavors. It's just a bit tight on the finish. A bit more restrained than the other Peter Michael '02s. Drink now through 2008. 1,439 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PeterMichaelWinery.aspVM 92+ (6/2004): (aged in 50% new and 50% once-used barrels) Good bright ruby-red. Sappy aromas of crushed raspberry, blueberry, minerals, violets, Oriental spices, soy sauce and sweet oak. Superrich, broad and dry, with penetrating, highly complex flavors of raspberry, wild strawberry, mint, violet, graphite and Earl Grey tea, along with some high-toned oak. The very long finish repeats the note of tea. More raspberry in character than the blacker 2001. This seems rounder and more delicate than the earlier vintage (it's 14.8% alcohol, vs. 15.1% for the '01), and will merit an even higher score if it can absorb more of its oak. WA 91 (2/2005): The 2002 Pinot Noir Le Moulin Rouge (325 cases) displays the same floral characteristics as the 2001 along with striking elegance. Although more superficial on the palate, without the depth and power of the 2001, it is still an elegant, complex beauty that should drink well for 5-6 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PeterMichaelWinery.aspWA 93 (12/2005): The dark ruby/purple-colored 2003 Pinot Noir Le Moulin Rouge offers a gorgeous perfume of forest floor, creme de cassis, blackberries, and plums. Full-bodied with lovely purity, good underlying acidity, and a distinctive floral/forest floor character reminiscent of some Domaine de la Romanee-Conti grand crus, it will drink well for 7-8 years. VM 93 (6/2005): Good medium ruby. Sappy aromas of raspberry, strawberry, black cherry, black tea, rose petal and graphite, complicated by mint and tarry oak. Superconcentrated, creamy and sweet, with superb depth of crushed berry flavor. Finishes with substantial, broad tannins and terrific persistence. This remained on its lees without being racked until it was assembled for the bottling, which took place without fining or filtration in January of 2005.WS 93 (8/2005): A wonderful presentation of ripe, supple, polished Pinot Noir, centered on a rich, vibrant core of black cherry, plum and wild berry fruit flavors. It picks up tasty notes of nutmeg, fresh earth and sage on the finish. September 2005 release. Drink now through 2010. 426 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PeterMichaelWinery.aspWA 95 (12/2006): The 2004 Pinot Noir Le Moulin Rouge, which has put on considerable weight since last year, reveals incredible aromas of forest floor, black raspberries, cherries, and sweet currants. A beautiful texture, broad, savory mouthfeel, and stunning finish suggest this will be a profound Pinot to drink over the next decade. VM 93 (6/2006): Deep red-ruby color. Knockout nose combines raspberry, earth, meat, flowers and crushed stone. Ripe, fine-grained and wonderfully smooth but not soft, with intriguing flavors of wild strawberry, chocolate, minerals, graphite and Earl Grey tea. This reminded me of a Marcassin pinot but with more primary fruit showing. Finishes very long and minerally. The 2004 growing season was quite hot at Pisoni Vineyard, noted Luc Morlet, who added that the Pisoni family was the first in the area to pick. WS 92 (11/2006): Bold, rich and concentrated, bordering on syrupy, with dense boysenberry, blueberry and huckleberry fruit that's intense and succulent. Shows a hint of heat on the finish. Excellent balance for a wine this size. Drink now through 2010. 550 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PeterMichaelWinery.aspWA 91 (12/1997): The black/ruby/purple-colored 1995 Les Pavots (a 73% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Merlot, and 13% Cabernet Franc blend), which achieved 13.9% alcohol naturally, reveals a sweet, tobacco, lavender, and cassis-scented nose, medium-bodied, tannic, elegant flavors, outstanding purity, ripeness, and length, yet a measured, restrained style. Less forthcoming than either the 1996 or 1994, this rich, nicely proportioned proprietary red is California's answer to a graceful Medoc. Anticipated maturity: 2001-2020.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PeterMichaelWinery.aspWA 96 (1/2000): The powerhouse, opaque purple/blue-colored 1996 Les Pavots is a blend of 74% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, and 6% Cabernet Franc. The nose offers up blackberry, licorice, cassis, and pain grille aromas. The superb extract, well-defined personality, and smoky, licorice, Asian spice, and blackberry flavors provide a thrilling tasting experience. It was bottled with neither fining nor filtration. There are approximately 2,800 cases of this fabulous effort. Anticipated maturity: now-2025.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PeterMichaelWinery.aspWA 97 (2/2010): The 2007 Les Pavots, a Bordeaux varietal blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Cabernet Franc, 10% Merlot, and 3% Petit Verdot, is brilliant. Its opaque purple color is accompanied by gorgeously complex aromas of melted chocolate, espresso roast, blackberries, and cassis. Full-bodied with a superb texture, a subtle note of oak, and fabulous concentration, it is more reminiscent of a Right Bank Bordeaux than one expects with this much Cabernet Sauvignon in the blend. A thirty-year wine, its impeccable balance and the sweetness of its tannins make it accessible already. WS 95 (11/2010): Bordeaux-like in structure, this is pure, rich and focused on ripe, plush blackberry, wild berry, currant and cedar. Full-bodied, layered and structured, firming on the finish, where the cedary and minerally notes take hold. Ends with drying tannins. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Best from 2011 through 2022. 3,060 cases made. VM 93+ (6/2010): (70% cabernet sauvignon, 17% cabernet franc, 10% merlot and 3% petit verdot) Vivid ruby. Youthfully backward aromas of cassis, violet, licorice and tobacco. Chewy dark berry and bitter cherry flavors are framed by solid tannins and complemented by smoky mineral and sweet chewing tobacco elements. Tough to read but highly concentrated, showing a strong finishing licorice and smoky mineral character and a lingering cherry pit note. Give this at least a few more years of bottle aging.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PeterMichaelWinery.aspWA 94 (12/2003): There are 1,240 cases of the 2002 Chardonnay Mon Plaisir. Produced from fruit grown in Jess Jackson’s Alexander Mountain estate vineyard, it is a full-bodied, beautifully textured, opulent effort revealing notes of honeyed pineapple, orange marmalade, and oily flavors backed up by zesty acidity. This big, rich, exuberant Chardonnay is already purring on all cylinders. Drink it over the next 3-5 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PeterMichaelWinery.aspWA 100 (12/2014): Remarkably, both vintages of Peter Michael’s top Chardonnay selection, the Point Rouge, may merit perfect scores. A selection of the best barrels, it is meant to age for 30 or more years. It represents the crème de la crème essence of what this estate is about. Helen Turley first coined the term by putting red dot stickers on the best barrels in the cellar, hence the name Point Rouge. This cuvée is made from Old Wente selections and some of the estate’s oldest vines, particularly the 25-year-old vines in Belle Côte.The 2012 Chardonnay Point Rouge is slightly more ostentatious and flamboyant than the 2013, with lots of orange marmalade, a full-bodied texture, creamy crème brûlée notes, exotic pineapple and a mind-boggling finish. In my 36-year career, this is one of the single greatest Chardonnays I have ever tasted. It should drink well for 10-15 years, although Peter Michael thinks it has 30 years of aging potential.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PeterMichaelWinery.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChSteMichelle.aspVM 92 (11/2007): Deep ruby with a light amber rim. Deep, raisiny dark berry and kirsch aromas are complicated by exotic chestnut honey, toffee and roasted coffee. Deep and sweet, with rich cherry and plum liqueur flavors and a wild array of confectionary qualities: candied fig, dates, ambrosia salad and toffeed nuts. Finishes with good acid grip and lift (the malo apparently stalled), which helps to enliven the exotic qualities. Reminds me of a 30-year-old Graham's Tawny Port, but with more vivid red fruit. The grapes for this were harvested at 33.3o brix, with a pH of 3.94. It was bottled with 33 grams per liter residual sugar, reportedly after spending four years in a seven-year-old French barrique This would be magical with an aged Comte or serious cheddar, such as Montgomery's or one of the fantastic cloth-wrapped versions coming out of Vermont. Josh Raynolds.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ClosMimi.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Minimus.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Minimus.aspWS 92 (6/2015): Dense, rich and concentrated, with layers of chewy blackberry, wild berry, black licorice and fresh-turned earth, accented by cedary details. This style requires patience but may always be on the tannic side. Best from 2016 through 2030. 250 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Mithra.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Modicum.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMontelena.aspWA 98 (12/2000): There are 10,200 cases of the remarkable 1997 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate. Opaque purple-colored with a dense, chewy, full-bodied personality, it displays abundant cassis, mineral, and earth notes. This brilliantly made, super-concentrated, pure, blockbuster possesses sweet tannin as well as a terrific finish. Having added additional weight since last year, this sumptuous, multilayered, profoundly concentrated Cabernet contains 14% alcohol. It is a candidate for 25-30 years of longevity. Anticipated maturity: 2003-2030. WS 95 (10/2000): This California Cab serves up lots of ripe, supple black cherry, currant and plum-laced flavors, as well as pretty touches of earth, anise and mineral. Turns smooth and supple, finishing with polished tannins. Best from 2001 through 2015. 11,700 cases made. VM 93+ (5/2000): Good deep medium ruby. Very complex nose combines cassis, black cherry, plum, smoked meat, dark chocolate, Cuban tobacco and a hint of menthol. Youthfully unevolved and primary yet broad and pliant; offers impressive texture and stuffing for a young Montelena cabernet. Superripe hints of smoked meat and leather. Finishes with very lush tannins and strong dark berry flavor. The pH here is higher than average, an indication of the thorough ripeness of the vintage. The yield in this generous year was a reasonable 3.1 tons per acre, which Barrett described as huge. Still, this appears to be an outstanding vintage for this classic Napa cabernet. Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMontelena.aspVM 93+ (6/2004): Saturated, deep ruby-red. Quintessential cabernet aromas of blackcurrant, black cherry, dark chocolate, licorice, black olive, mint and earth, sweetened by some roasted oak tones. Dense, supple and seamless; much more concentrated than the basic Napa Valley bottling but also more pliant from the outset, even if it will need a good six to eight years of cellaring. Old-style, classic Napa cabernet with a powerful, building finish. WA 91+ (6/2011): Montelena’s backward, elegant, complex 2001 Estate reveals a dense ruby/purple color along with foresty, earthy notes intermixed with black currant characteristics as well as sweet tannin. Always a less ripe outlier (although it contains 14% natural alcohol), it will benefit from 2-3 more years of cellaring and should keep for at least 20 more years based on the extraordinary longevity Montelena Cabernet Sauvignons possess. WS 69 (11/2004): Hard-edged dill and cedary oak precede this green, lean, herbal wine with gritty, chalky tannins. 7,800 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMontelena.aspIWC 94+ (5/2013): (14.2% alcohol, vs. 13.9% for the Calistoga bottling): Bright, saturated ruby-red. Deep, complex nose offers cassis, blueberry, mocha, espresso, menthol, bitter chocolate and tobacco. Densely packed and vibrant, with layered, seamless flavors of cassis, licorice and minerals. Shows an almost chocolatey ripeness yet retains outstanding verve. This chewy, superconcentrated wine finishes with ripe, pliant tannins and outstanding length and mineral reserve. Should be long-lived.VM 94 (11/2013): The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate is immediate, juicy and expressive in this vintage. At the same time, it seems pretty clear that the 2010 needs at least a few more years in bottle. Today, it is a bit disjointed as it is neither primary, nor showing too many tertiary notes or complexity. Sweet tobacco, leather, licorice, menthol and spices emerge over time, but the 2010 is a wine built for the cellar. There is plenty of density, but it needs time to emerge.JS 93 (5/2014): Extremely attractive aromas of asphalt, blueberry and rose petal. Full body with very well-integrated tannins and a long, long finish. Montelena estate shows a refinement and balance one expects in traditional Napa cabernet sauvignon. Better in 2016.WS 91 (7/2014): This red combines a sleek, rich core of dark berry, black licorice, roasted coffee and cedar flavors with a black licorice underpinning. The texture is firm, but the tannins have a fleshy side, with a long, clean finish. Shows a more supple, graceful, accessible style of Montelena Cabernet Drink now through 2028.WA 91 (10/2013): Chateau Montelea’s flagship wine, the 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Montelena Estate possesses a dense ruby/purple color as well as beautiful black currant and blueberry fruit, soft tannins, medium to full body, and a harmonious, supple mouthfeel. This classic, old style California Cabernet has been tweaked somewhat as evidenced by its sweeter tannins and more upfront fruit. Enjoy it over the next 15+ years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMontelena.aspIWC 92 (5/2014): (30% new oak): Bright ruby-red. Captivating, high-pitched aromas of cassis, licorice pastille, bitter chocolate, violet, rose petal and mocha. Juicy and tightly wound, with fresh acidity energizing the middle palate but keeping the wine's dark berry flavors restrained today. There's a lightly peppery quality that gives away the vintage, but this highly aromatic wine is a big success for the year and very well made.VM 91 (12/2014): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate is a pretty wine from Chateau Montelena. Expressive floral and savory notes add complexity to the dark, pliant fruit in a soft, open Cabernet that is already quite tasty. I expect the 2011 will drink well early, but then again, these wines can be deceptively age worthy. That said, there are no hard edges or vegetal notes at all. Montelena's 2011 Estate impresses for its balance and overall sense of harmony.JS 91 (5/2014): A red with blueberry and cherry character, plus hints of bark. Medium body with fine tannins and a savory finish. Fine wine for the vintage. Drink now.WS 86 (10/2014): Shows a burnt, charry oak character, especially in the aroma. Firm and pleasant, with snappy red berry, cedar, gravel and spice flavors. A bit rough-and-tumble now. Best from 2015 through 2020.WA 85 (10/2013): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon exhibits a lighter ruby color as well as more diluted aromatics, and a pleasant, short, round mouthfeel that tails off. There is no herbaceous or vegetal character, but the wine reveals the vintage’s lack of intensity. Drink it over the next 5-7 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChMontelena.aspWA 98 (12/2010): The inky/purple-tinged 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Coeur de Vallee is a 250-case blend of 76% Cabernet Sauvignon and 24% Cabernet Franc. It offers up complex notes of unsmoked high class cigar tobacco, creme de cassis, subtle barbecue smoke, licorice and pen ink. Full-bodied with outstanding texture, purity and length, this awesome Cabernet Sauvignon can be enjoyed over the next 25-30 years. WS 96 (7/2011): Ultrarich and concentrated, syrupy in extract, but nonetheless balanced in this style, offering a smorgasbord of flavors, with tiers of black licorice, kirsch, blackberry and dark berry jam that show notes of cedar and tobacco. Yet for all its up-front gush and burst of fruit, this sails along nicely on the finish. Best from 2012 through 2022. 250 cases made. VM 94 (5/2011): (15.8% alcohol; from Beckstoffer To Kalon vineyard, pruned to one shoot per cluster): Multidimensional nose combines black cherry, graphite, licorice, bitter chocolate and espresso lifted by flowers and exotic spices. Lush, seamless and superconcentrated, with a slight fruit compote aspect but enough acidity to give it life. Finishes with building but suave tannins and outstanding length. This should be long-lived but it won't hurt your mouth today. From my memory, this is fruitier than the 2007 was at the same stage of its life in bottle.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MorletFamilyVineyards.aspWA 100 (12/2015): Luc Morlet's three-digit wine is the 2013 Cabernet Franc Force de la Nature, 100% Cabernet Franc from the incredible Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard. This is an ethereal wine that goes beyond just being majestic. Aged in 100% new Darnajou oak, the wine offers a flowery, blueberry and blackberry-scented nose along with forest floor, some sweet, subtle toast and lead pencil shavings. Remarkably rich, full-bodied, but light on its feet and on the palate, the wine builds incrementally to a majestic, full-throttle, seamless work that is rather remarkable. This is an amazing wine, and Luc Morlet has certainly proven once again his incredible talents and knowledge of great vineyard sites. Drink it over the next 15-20 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MorletFamilyVineyards.aspWS 86 (10/2001): Ripe, juicy cherry and plum flavors counterbalance the earthy tannins. Turns simple on the finish. Drink now through 2006.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MountVeeder.aspWS 88 (4/2003): Deft balance, an elegant, integrated style with a pretty mix of blackberry, mocha, black cherry, mineral and anise flavors, firming up on the finish, where the tannins are chewy. Drink now through 2008. 10,808 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MountVeeder.aspWS 88 (4/2003): Deft balance, an elegant, integrated style with a pretty mix of blackberry, mocha, black cherry, mineral and anise flavors, firming up on the finish, where the tannins are chewy. Drink now through 2008. 10,808 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MountVeeder.aspWS 87 (12/2009): Dense, rich and firm, with loamy earth, dried currant, mineral and sage, showing hints of pepper and spice. Ends with dry, rustic tannins. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot.—1999 California Cabernet blind retrospective (2009). Drink now through 2013. 1,478 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MountVeeder.aspWS 87 (12/2009): Dense, rich and firm, with loamy earth, dried currant, mineral and sage, showing hints of pepper and spice. Ends with dry, rustic tannins. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot.—1999 California Cabernet blind retrospective (2009). Drink now through 2013. 1,478 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MountVeeder.aspWS 87 (11/2000): Dense and beefy, well structured, if a bit dry and leathery, with sage and cactus, leaving little breathing room for the stewed plum and dried cherry flavors. Drink now through 2007. 1,000 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/AndrewMurray.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Myriad.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Myriad.aspWA 97 (12/2010): The 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard exhibits a rich creme de cassis-filled nose, less minerality than the 2008 revealed (but I’m sure it’s lurking under the surface), a healthy, impressive blue/purple color, juicy, succulent fruit, a multidimensional mouthfeel and great purity and depth. Everything suggests this guy, Mike Smith, knows a thing or two about what great wine is all about. This beauty should evolve for 20+ years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Myriad.aspVM 93 (5/2012): (a blend of four Darnajou and two Taransaud barrels): Bright deep ruby. Aromas of cassis, blackberry, licorice and cocoa powder. Extremely primary and dense, with a salty complexity to the rich flavors of crushed berries, violet and bitter chocolate. Big, rich and tactile wine, finishing with serious but noble tannins and a lingering note of dark chocolate. A bit lower in pH than the Georges III but every bit as sexy today in spite of its youth.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Myriad.aspWA 96+ (10/2014): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard (a separate cuvée is the Elysian Reserve from the same source) has first-growth blueberry, blackberry and an almost a celestial floral note combined with forest floor and uncommon concentration and purity. Stunningly seamless, full-bodied, rich, and a brilliant wine, this should drink effortlessly for 15-20 years. JD 95 (7/2017): I loved the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard and it offers sensational purity and elegance in its crème de cassis, lead pencil, graphite and smoked earth aromas and flavors. One of the deeper, richer and more concentrated wines in the lineup, yet still with the telltale 2014 suppleness and elegance, this full-bodied beauty has polished tannin, no hard edges and is pure class all the way. As with all the 2014s from Mike, it already offers pleasure today, yet will cruise in the cellar on it balance, purity and freshness. JS 94 (7/2015): This is tight and intense with blackberry and black currant character. Full and powerful. Layered and amazing. Try it in 2017. WS 92 (8/2015): The initial mix of loamy earth, road tar, cedar and tobacco notes makes way for a dense core of dark berry fruit, with touches of dried herb, licorice, mocha and toasty oak, showing some heat as well. Big and angular now, but should reward with time in the cellar. Drink now through 2028. 200 cases made. VM 91 (12/2014): Dark red cherries, plums, flowers, mint and spices meld together in Myriad's 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane. The typical Dr. Crane succulence comes through in spades in a soft, beautifully textured Cabernet Sauvignon that is open and expressive today. The 2012 should drink well for another decade or so. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Myriad.aspWA 98 (12/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard tastes like a California version of a La Mission Haut-Brion. Blueberry and blackberry fruit, wet gravel, crushed-rock notes and white flowers are followed by a full-bodied, elegant wine - with not the level of concentration of the Georges III, but with seemingly more ethereal and sublime subtleties and nuances. This is a stunner with sweet tannin that is beautifully, rich full and long. It should drink well for 20-25 years. VM 92 (10/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane is one of the most seamless, polished wines in the Myriad lineup. Sweet floral and spice notes meld into a core of dark red fruit. Supple and open-knit, the 2013 offers plenty of near and medium-term appeal along with silkiness that is perhaps the single most specific signature of Dr. Crane Cabernets. JS 92 (1/2016): A soft, full-throttle style with lots of dried fruits, blackberries and viscous texture. Chewy tannins. Old school Napa red but shows some form. Drink now. WS 91 (11/2016): A robust yet charming effort, with dark berry, mocha, licorice, cedary oak, dried herb and graphite flavors. Turns supple and caressing midpalate before the tannins weigh in. Drink now through 2032. 200 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Myriad.aspWA 98 (12/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard tastes like a California version of a La Mission Haut-Brion. Blueberry and blackberry fruit, wet gravel, crushed-rock notes and white flowers are followed by a full-bodied, elegant wine - with not the level of concentration of the Georges III, but with seemingly more ethereal and sublime subtleties and nuances. This is a stunner with sweet tannin that is beautifully, rich full and long. It should drink well for 20-25 years. VM 92 (10/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane is one of the most seamless, polished wines in the Myriad lineup. Sweet floral and spice notes meld into a core of dark red fruit. Supple and open-knit, the 2013 offers plenty of near and medium-term appeal along with silkiness that is perhaps the single most specific signature of Dr. Crane Cabernets. JS 92 (1/2016): A soft, full-throttle style with lots of dried fruits, blackberries and viscous texture. Chewy tannins. Old school Napa red but shows some form. Drink now. WS 91 (11/2016): A robust yet charming effort, with dark berry, mocha, licorice, cedary oak, dried herb and graphite flavors. Turns supple and caressing midpalate before the tannins weigh in. Drink now through 2032. 200 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Myriad.aspWA 100 (12/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard Elysian Reserve has a black/bluish purple color, extraordinary suppleness and velvety integration of tannin, copious quantities of blueberry and blackberry liqueur, graphite and white flowers. It’s amazing wine and would be the equivalent of a great vintage of a Mission Haut-Brion on steroids. Whether it lasts 20 years or 30 or 40 is still up for speculation, but this is a profound Cabernet Sauvignon and one of the most compelling examples of this remarkable vintage. This is an utterly compelling, prodigious effort. Here’s to you, Mike Smith! JS 94 (1/2016): Plenty of blueberry, blackberry, fresh herb and sweet tobacco aromas follow through to a full body, velvety tannins and a long and flavorful finish. Full-throttle yet the breaks are on with a bit chewy tannins.VM 93 (10/2015): A fabulous, open-knit, hedonistic wine, the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Elysian captures the more exotic, flashy side of this famous St. Helena site. Mocha, espresso, black cherries, smoke, licorice and tobacco flesh out in a totally effortless, unctuous Cabernet. Layers of flavors blossom through to the exuberant finish. There is so much to like and admire here.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Myriad.aspWA 95-97 (12/2015): The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard Elysian Reserve still seems like a youngster, dense bluish/purple in color with loads of blueberry liqueur, white flowers, graphite and pen ink, it’s full-bodied, stunningly rich and a killer example of this fabulous vineyard that would be a first-growth if there were such a thing in Napa. Drink it over the next 15-20 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Myriad.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Myriad.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Myriad.aspVM 92 (1/2015): An intense, dark wine, the 2013 Syrah Las Madres Vineyard races from the glass with blue/purplish fruit, game, smoke and tobacco, all in a broad, resonant style that emphasizes texture. The flavors are deep, inky and generous, with remarkable balance for such a big wine. Readers may want to give the 2013 a year or two for the tannins to soften, but that will be quite hard to do as the wine is incredibly delicious today.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Myriad.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Myriad.aspWA 92 (12/2012): The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Vineyard Georges III (F Block) is all about pure power and muscle. A blast of dark fruit hits the palate as this immediate, juicy wine shows off its open, accessible personality. As good as this is, it doesn’t have the polish of the best wines here. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2025.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Myriad.aspWA 97 (10/2014): From the famous George III vineyard, the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Georges III Vineyard has a haunting bouquet of cedar wood, juicy blackcurrant jam and forest floor. A soil note enhances the overall picture. The wine has gorgeously sweet well-integrated tannins, no evidence of new oak (as it’s so well-integrated), a plush, voluptuously textured full-bodied mouthfeel and a knockout finish. This is sensational wine that can easily be a modern-day version of one of the great BV Private Reserves from decades ago, although in this case it’s aged in French oak, not American. Kudos to Mike Smith. Look for this to drink well for 20 or more years. JD 94 (7/2017): The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Georges III Vineyard is a deeper, richer example of the base Napa Valley release and offers fabulous notes of blackcurrants, graphite, charcoal and licorice. It’s a big, sexy beast of a Cabernet that has full-bodied power, a ripe, unctuous texture, and sweet tannin which are completely cover by fruit at the moment. Drink it anytime over the coming two decades. JS 93 (7/2015): A red with blackberry and mineral character. Some phenolics too. Full and silky. Very stylish. Handmade. WS 92 (8/2015): Centered on a rich, vibrant, lively core of juicy blackberry. The ripeness and acidity complement the raw and coarse texture, with the fruit providing plenty of power and expression. The tannins lean toward the rowdy side. Drink now through 2028. 170 cases made. VM 89 (12/2014): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Georges III is a relatively ripe, forward wine from this Rutherford site. Dried cherries, tobacco and earthiness flow through to the energetic finish. This is the most overtly ripe and flashy of the Myriad 2012 Cabernets. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Myriad.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Myriad.aspIWC 88 (6/2013): Bright medium ruby. Aromas of raspberry, licorice and peppery herbs. A spicy, saline midweight, with a hint of green-peppery acidity giving the dark raspberry fruit a rather skinny character. Nicely made wine with modest depth of material. (A 100% whole-cluster version of the Sugarloaf Mountain syrah showed distinctly raw pepper and eucalyptus notes and came across as rather meager and dry; it did not appear to have the material to support its stem component.)http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Myriad.aspIWC 88 (6/2013): Bright medium ruby. Aromas of raspberry, licorice and peppery herbs. A spicy, saline midweight, with a hint of green-peppery acidity giving the dark raspberry fruit a rather skinny character. Nicely made wine with modest depth of material. (A 100% whole-cluster version of the Sugarloaf Mountain syrah showed distinctly raw pepper and eucalyptus notes and came across as rather meager and dry; it did not appear to have the material to support its stem component.)http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Myriad.aspIWC 90 (6/2014): Deep red-ruby. The nose shows a medicinal peaty character and a strong spiciness. Supple and tangy, with a restrained sweetness and very good intensity to its bitter cherry flavor. This chewy, soil-driven syrah is still a bit youthfully shut down.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Myriad.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Myriad.aspVM 89 (5/2012): (the first commercial release from these Conn Valley vines planted on pebbly tufa soil): Good deep ruby. Sexy aromas of cassis and violet; as floral as Mike Smith's syrahs! Fairly rich and sweet but a bit monolithic; shows more fat and give than the syrahs but less complexity and definition. Finishes with firm, slightly gritty tannins.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Myriad.aspWA 95 (10/2014): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Three Twins Vineyard has a dense ruby/purple color, beautiful nose of crème de cassis and spring flowers in a rather classic, full-bodied, very ripe, pure and layered style. This is top-flight Napa Cabernet Sauvignon with wonderful texture and knockout aromatics; soft enough (as most 2012s are) to be drunk now or cellared for 15 or more years.VM 91 (12/2014): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Three Twins emerges from Rick Talmage's Conn Valley site, where Talmage makes his Stone the Crows Cabernet. Myriad's wine from this site is a bit more savory, with pretty notes of iron, smoke, tobacco and leather that add complexity to the succulent fruit. Racy and expressive through to the finish, the Three Twins is a classic 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon built to deliver pretty much immediate gratification. Antonio Galloni.WS 90 (9/2015): Exhibits a rich, potent, elegant core of mocha-laced blackberry, wild berry, mineral, anise and cedary oak, finishing with a crushed rock minerality and a dash of dried mocha. Drink now through 2027. 250 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Myriad.aspWA 95 (10/2014): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Three Twins Vineyard has a dense ruby/purple color, beautiful nose of crème de cassis and spring flowers in a rather classic, full-bodied, very ripe, pure and layered style. This is top-flight Napa Cabernet Sauvignon with wonderful texture and knockout aromatics; soft enough (as most 2012s are) to be drunk now or cellared for 15 or more years. VM 91 (12/2014): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Three Twins emerges from Rick Talmage's Conn Valley site, where Talmage makes his Stone the Crows Cabernet. Myriad's wine from this site is a bit more savory, with pretty notes of iron, smoke, tobacco and leather that add complexity to the succulent fruit. Racy and expressive through to the finish, the Three Twins is a classic 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon built to deliver pretty much immediate gratification. Antonio Galloni. WS 90 (9/2015): Exhibits a rich, potent, elegant core of mocha-laced blackberry, wild berry, mineral, anise and cedary oak, finishing with a crushed rock minerality and a dash of dried mocha. Drink now through 2027. 250 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Myriad.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/NavarroVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/NealFamilyVineyard.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Neiman.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Neiman.aspWA 93 (12/2016): A blend of 92% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Malbec and Merlot, Newton’s 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Unfiltered has a dense ruby/purple color, a beautiful nose of blackcurrants, licorice, camphor and incense. There’s some spice box and subtle background oak as well. It is medium to full-bodied, elegant, and like most of Newton’s wines, seems to represent a beautiful crossover between the elegance and finesse of a great Bordeaux and the ripeness, power and exuberance of a Napa Cabernet Sauvignon. Drink it over the next 20+ years. JS 93 (1/2017): This Newton underlines the finesse and tension of the 2014 vintage in Napa with a full to medium body, ultra-fine tannins and a bright and energetic finish. Plenty of subtle blackcurrant, tobacco and forest-floor undertones. Drink or hold. VM 89 (12/2016): Newton's 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Unfiltered is a solid, tasty wine to drink now and over the next handful of years, while the flavors remain fresh and vibrant throughout. Sweet red cherry, floral and spice overtones are nicely delineated. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Newton.aspWA 93 (12/2016): Newton’s unfiltered Chardonnay has been a consistent winner since it was first launched in the early 1980s, when the fruit was coming from what is today John Kongsgaard’s Judge cuvée. Newton is still making this wine unfiltered, and the 2014 Chardonnay Unfiltered is rich and displays beautiful white peach, honeysuckle and tropical fruit, some nice, crisp wet pebble minerality in the background and a full-bodied mouthfeel. Deep, layered and complete, this is a big-time winner.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Newton.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Neyers.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/NiebaumCoppola.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/NiebaumCoppola.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/NoGirls.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/NoGirls.aspWA 94 (6/2014): The 2011 Grenache La Paciencia Vineyard is 100% Grenache that was harvested on October 23 and aged 22 months in neutral puncheons. Elegant and finesse driven, with a sweet bouquet of wild strawberries, mint, game, rose petal and dried flowers, it is medium to full-bodied, seamless and silky on the palate, with no hard edges. Already delicious, it will drink beautifully over the coming decade or more. VM 92+ (12/2014): (13.8% alcohol; made entirely in neutral puncheons; a project involving Cayuse’s Christophe Baron and several of his employees; Baron’s assistant winemaker Elizabeth Bourcier has essentially assumed winemaking responsibilities for the No Girls wines): Good medium red. Musky strawberry, raspberry, black truffle and black pepper on the nose; a bit higher-pitched than the God Only Knows Grenache Christophe Baron also makes under his Cayuse label. Concentrated and saline, offering piquant peppery lift to the extremely primary red berry flavors. Sharply delineated, very elegant Grenache made without any new oak. Less rich than the God Only Knows (these vines, mostly from Alban clones, were planted between 2003 and 2005) but with more early punch. Finishes firm and smoky, with savory tannins and excellent verve. Baron recommends serving this wine with white meats or with Asian-style hardshell crab. The La Paciencia Vineyard is located just north of the very stony, high-density Armada Vineyard. The only significant difference between the two parcels is that the rows in La Paciencia are angled differently and get less direct sunlight. Stephen Tanzer. WS 92 (8/2015): Sensationally complex and subtle, with spicy, savory and smoky nuances around a core of pure currant and plum fruit. The aftertaste reveals a bitter radish bite, but the overall effect is warm, deft and inviting. Drink now through 2019. 236 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/NoGirls.aspWA 94 (6/2014): The 2011 Grenache La Paciencia Vineyard is 100% Grenache that was harvested on October 23 and aged 22 months in neutral puncheons. Elegant and finesse driven, with a sweet bouquet of wild strawberries, mint, game, rose petal and dried flowers, it is medium to full-bodied, seamless and silky on the palate, with no hard edges. Already delicious, it will drink beautifully over the coming decade or more. VM 92+ (12/2014): (13.8% alcohol; made entirely in neutral puncheons; a project involving Cayuse’s Christophe Baron and several of his employees; Baron’s assistant winemaker Elizabeth Bourcier has essentially assumed winemaking responsibilities for the No Girls wines): Good medium red. Musky strawberry, raspberry, black truffle and black pepper on the nose; a bit higher-pitched than the God Only Knows Grenache Christophe Baron also makes under his Cayuse label. Concentrated and saline, offering piquant peppery lift to the extremely primary red berry flavors. Sharply delineated, very elegant Grenache made without any new oak. Less rich than the God Only Knows (these vines, mostly from Alban clones, were planted between 2003 and 2005) but with more early punch. Finishes firm and smoky, with savory tannins and excellent verve. Baron recommends serving this wine with white meats or with Asian-style hardshell crab. The La Paciencia Vineyard is located just north of the very stony, high-density Armada Vineyard. The only significant difference between the two parcels is that the rows in La Paciencia are angled differently and get less direct sunlight. Stephen Tanzer. WS 92 (8/2015): Sensationally complex and subtle, with spicy, savory and smoky nuances around a core of pure currant and plum fruit. The aftertaste reveals a bitter radish bite, but the overall effect is warm, deft and inviting. Drink now through 2019. 236 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/NoGirls.aspWA 94 (6/2014): The 2011 Grenache La Paciencia Vineyard is 100% Grenache that was harvested on October 23 and aged 22 months in neutral puncheons. Elegant and finesse driven, with a sweet bouquet of wild strawberries, mint, game, rose petal and dried flowers, it is medium to full-bodied, seamless and silky on the palate, with no hard edges. Already delicious, it will drink beautifully over the coming decade or more. VM 92+ (12/2014): (13.8% alcohol; made entirely in neutral puncheons; a project involving Cayuse’s Christophe Baron and several of his employees; Baron’s assistant winemaker Elizabeth Bourcier has essentially assumed winemaking responsibilities for the No Girls wines): Good medium red. Musky strawberry, raspberry, black truffle and black pepper on the nose; a bit higher-pitched than the God Only Knows Grenache Christophe Baron also makes under his Cayuse label. Concentrated and saline, offering piquant peppery lift to the extremely primary red berry flavors. Sharply delineated, very elegant Grenache made without any new oak. Less rich than the God Only Knows (these vines, mostly from Alban clones, were planted between 2003 and 2005) but with more early punch. Finishes firm and smoky, with savory tannins and excellent verve. Baron recommends serving this wine with white meats or with Asian-style hardshell crab. The La Paciencia Vineyard is located just north of the very stony, high-density Armada Vineyard. The only significant difference between the two parcels is that the rows in La Paciencia are angled differently and get less direct sunlight. Stephen Tanzer. WS 92 (8/2015): Sensationally complex and subtle, with spicy, savory and smoky nuances around a core of pure currant and plum fruit. The aftertaste reveals a bitter radish bite, but the overall effect is warm, deft and inviting. Drink now through 2019. 236 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/NoGirls.aspWA 95 (6/2015): There are 298 cases of the 2012 Grenache La Paciencia Vineyard and it’s unquestionably the best vintage of this wine to date. Offering fabulous intensity in its strawberry, raspberry, spice, pepper and floral bouquet, this beauty hits the palate with medium to full-bodied richness, a supple, elegant texture and a seamless, lengthy finish. This wows with its purity and finesse-driven style more than for weight or richness, and it should evolve nicely given its overall balance. Drink 2016-2024VM 92 (11/2015): (done entirely in neutral barrels and concrete): Moderately saturated pale red. Old World nose offers scents of raspberry, cranberry, smoke, flint, peony, rose petal and pink peppercorn. A juicy, pure wine with lovely precision and finesse, with the red berry flavors complicated by saline minerality; the mouthfeel here is distinctly Burgundian. Finishes with slightly edgy tannins and acidity but still offers considerable early appeal for its sheer verve. A fascinating Washington Grenache. Elizabeth Bourcier, who is "assistant vigneronne" at Cayuse, has recently taken over responsibility for the No Girls wines. She noted that the crop level here was just 1.2 tons per acre; the Paciencia vineyard is situated just north of Armada, in the Rocks district.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/NoGirls.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/NoGirls.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/NoGirls.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/NoGirls.aspWA 95 (6/2013): Also brilliant and a superb example of Syrah from the Rocks region of the Walla Walla Valley, the 2010 Syrah La Paciencia Vineyard delivers classic aromas and flavors of ground pepper, steak tartar, wild herbs and assorted dark berry-styled fruit. A 100% Syrah that comes from a high density planting located just behind Cayuse’s Armada Vineyard, it is medium to full-bodied, rich and supple on the palate, with an elegant, seamless feel that’s hard to resist. Count me as a fan and this beauty will continue to shine for upwards of another decade. Drink now-2022.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/NoGirls.aspWA 95 (6/2014): In the same mold, with the buzzwords being finesse and elegance, the 2011 Syrah La Paciencia Vineyard offers textbook pepper, olive tapenade, smoke and crunchy berry fruits in its medium to full-bodied, seamless and beautifully textured profile. Showing impressive complexity and already hard to resist, I-d lean towards drinking bottles over the coming decade as well.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/NoGirls.aspWA 95 (6/2014): In the same mold, with the buzzwords being finesse and elegance, the 2011 Syrah La Paciencia Vineyard offers textbook pepper, olive tapenade, smoke and crunchy berry fruits in its medium to full-bodied, seamless and beautifully textured profile. Showing impressive complexity and already hard to resist, I-d lean towards drinking bottles over the coming decade as well.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/NoGirls.aspWA 95+ (6/2015): The 2012 Syrah La Paciencia Vineyard sports a darker ruby color to go with lots of savory dark fruits, crushed rock-like minerality, smoke and violets. One of the meatier, masculine Syrahs from Elizabeth, this full-bodied, layered, nicely concentrated beauty will drink well over the coming decade. Drink 2015-2025. VM 93 (11/2015): (13.3% alcohol): Bright, moderately saturated medium ruby. Compelling floral lift to the aromas of dark raspberry and smoke; shows Côte-Rôtie-like finesse and perfume. Firm acidity and underlying mineral energy give lift to the wine's raspberry fruit, but the palate feel is essentially soft. The pH here is close to 4.0 but the wine's saline minerality keeps the wine alive. Finishes with notes of dusty crushed basalt and wet stone, and a subtle hint of raw meat. This singular Washington Syrah should be accessible relatively early.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/NoGirls.aspWA 96 (6/2015): A new cuvee that I absolutely loved from barrel last year, the 2012 Tempranillo La Paciencia Vineyard is brilliantly done and gives up a crazy bouquet of blackberries, black cherries, bouquet garni, roasted meats and dried violets. Full-bodied, seamless and elegant, with silky tannin and fabulous precision and length, it’s slightly more approachable than Cayuse’s Impulsivo, yet should still benefit from 2-3 years of bottle age and evolve for 10-15 years after that. Drink 2017-2032 VM 93 (11/2015): (La Pacienza was planted in 2005, 2006 and 2007 at a density of nearly 9,000 vines per hectare): Bright medium ruby. Sexy aromas of earthy purple berries and dark chocolate. Penetrating, inky purple fruit flavors convey lovely sweetness and terrific fruit intensity. Finishes firmly tannic and gripping, with serious tongue-dusting tannins and bright minerality. I can't recall having tasted a more characterful Tempranillo from Washington, with the exception of the Impulsivo bottling that Christophe Baron makes under his Cayuse label. Winemaker Elizabeth Bourcier suggests pairing this wine with a goat on a spit. (Needless to say, we do this all the time in our New York kitchen.)http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/NoGirls.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/NoGirls.aspWA 90 (12/1995): Oakford Cellars is a tiny Cabernet Sauvignon producer with an 8-acre vineyard strategically located above the Oakville Grade near the Harlan Estate Vineyard and Heitz's Martha's Vineyard. Proprietor Charles Ball first produced a wine in 1987. In 1994 he hired the immensely fashionable, in demand Heidi Barrett, to assist in the wine-making. The wine is aged in 50% French oak casks and 50% American oak casks (one-third of each type is new) for 18-20 months and is bottled with minor clarification. These are tannic, large-scaled, dense, mountain Cabernet Sauvignons that are not flattering in their youth, but possesses considerable promise and aging potential. This is another winery where readers are advised to get on the mailing list if they want an opportunity to purchase the wines as only 1000 cases are produced. WS 89 (11/1996): Complex aromas, an array of cherry, currant, anise and earthy notes, that follow through onto the palate. Finishes with firm, crisp tannins; cellaring into 1998 or '99 is advised. 1,000 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/OakfordVineyards.aspWS 91 (6/2008): Dark and intense, deeply concentrated and tightly focused, showing a complex mix of dried currant, wild berry, savory herb and spice notes, with a dash of cedary, smoky, toasty oak. Firmly tannic. Drink now through 2015. 533 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Oberon.aspWA 98 (1/2015): As good as the Cuvée Catherine is, there is another Occidental Pinot that is profound. There are 2,000 cases of the 2012 Pinot Noir Bodega Headlands Cuvée Elizabeth. This wine reminded me of my earlier days in Burgundy tasting the Grand Cru Musigny. Incredible floral notes, sweet raspberries and blueberries as well as wet rocks soar from the glass of this profound, medium to full-bodied, gorgeous Pinot Noir made from 100% Calera clone. Stunning ripeness, great acids, and terrific delineation are all present in this super-intense, fragrant, modern classic from Steve Kistler. It should drink well for at least a decade, possibly a lot longer. VM 97 (1/2015): Darker tonalities of red and purplished hued fruits emerge from the 2012 Pinot Noir Bodega Headlands Cuvée Elizabeth. Lavender, violets, cloves, new leather and spices blossom in the glass as this sensual, layered Pinot shows off its compelling personality. As is often the case, the Cuvée Elizabeth is all about texture and resonance. The 2012 is a model of total finesse.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Occidental.aspWA 96 (3/2016): The 2013 Pinot Noir Bodega Headlands Cuvee Elizabeth displays black raspberries, black and red currants, beautiful purity, a deep, almost DRC-like complexity because of the forest floor, and ethereal lightness in spite of rather intense fruit notes. This beauty should age gracefully for a decade. VM 96 (2/2016): The Pinot Noir Bodega Headlands Cuvée Elizabeth is dark and pliant, with terrific underlying energy that gives the wine its dynamic, vibrant personality. Dark cherry, plum, violet and spice all flesh out in the glass. A wine of pedigree and nuance, the Cuvée Elizabeth is super-expressive today, not to mention a real joy to taste.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Occidental.aspWA 97 (2/2017): Medium ruby-purple colored, the 2014 Pinot Noir Bodega Headlands Cuvee Elizabeth has a compelling black pepper, garrigue and bay leaves laced nose over a core of Bing cherries, fresh raspberries and crushed cranberries, plus a waft of fertile earth. The medium-bodied palate fills the mouth with a wonderful intensity of pure red berry and earth-inspired flavors, with tons of spices and a great frame of grainy tannins, finishing very long and with moreish vibrancy.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Occidental.aspWA 97 (2/2017): Medium ruby-purple colored, the 2014 Pinot Noir Bodega Headlands Cuvee Elizabeth has a compelling black pepper, garrigue and bay leaves laced nose over a core of Bing cherries, fresh raspberries and crushed cranberries, plus a waft of fertile earth. The medium-bodied palate fills the mouth with a wonderful intensity of pure red berry and earth-inspired flavors, with tons of spices and a great frame of grainy tannins, finishing very long and with moreish vibrancy.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Occidental.aspVM 94 (6/2014): Bright ruby. A heady, complex bouquet evokes black raspberry and boysenberry preserves, smoky Indian spices and cola. Lush, palate-staining dark berry fruit flavors show liqueur-like depth and power, with notes of star anise and candied flowers adding complexity and lift. The sweet, seamless finish goes on and on, leaving spicecake, mineral and rose pastille notes behind. WA 93 (12/2013): The 2011 Pinot Noir Occidental Station Cuvee Catherine reminded me of a grand cru Musigny from Burgundy. Elegant floral, raspberry, red and black cherry, forest floor and crushed rock aromas soar from the glass of this medium-bodied, beautifully knit, surprisingly concentrated Pinot. Made from yields of no more than one ton of fruit per acre, the intensity and depth of flavor were easy to obtain. It should drink well for 8-12+ years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Occidental.aspVM 94 (6/2014): Bright ruby. A heady, complex bouquet evokes black raspberry and boysenberry preserves, smoky Indian spices and cola. Lush, palate-staining dark berry fruit flavors show liqueur-like depth and power, with notes of star anise and candied flowers adding complexity and lift. The sweet, seamless finish goes on and on, leaving spicecake, mineral and rose pastille notes behind. WA 93 (12/2013): The 2011 Pinot Noir Occidental Station Cuvee Catherine reminded me of a grand cru Musigny from Burgundy. Elegant floral, raspberry, red and black cherry, forest floor and crushed rock aromas soar from the glass of this medium-bodied, beautifully knit, surprisingly concentrated Pinot. Made from yields of no more than one ton of fruit per acre, the intensity and depth of flavor were easy to obtain. It should drink well for 8-12+ years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Occidental.aspVM 96 (1/2015): The 2012 Pinot Noir Occidental Station Cuvée Catherine has closed down significantly since I last tasted it a few months back, which is probably good news for its long-term potential. Deep veins of underlying minerality give the Cuvée Catherine its structure, power and energy. At the same time, the 2012 is not a huge or obvious wine, at least not today. The flavor profile is distinctly red-toned, with hints of iron and mint that add nuance. WA 93 (1/2015): 2012 is the second vintage for Steve Kistler’s personal project. The 2012 Pinot Noir Occidental Station Cuvée Catherine represents 1,000 cases, aged in about 30% new oak. Beautiful strawberry, red cherry and blueberry notes jump from the glass of this dark ruby wine. Attractive aromatics are followed by a medium-bodied, luscious wine with elegance, minerality, and plenty of blue and red fruits, good acidity and a long, long finish. This beauty can be drunk over the next 5-10 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Occidental.aspVM 96 (1/2015): The 2012 Pinot Noir Occidental Station Cuvée Catherine has closed down significantly since I last tasted it a few months back, which is probably good news for its long-term potential. Deep veins of underlying minerality give the Cuvée Catherine its structure, power and energy. At the same time, the 2012 is not a huge or obvious wine, at least not today. The flavor profile is distinctly red-toned, with hints of iron and mint that add nuance. WA 93 (1/2015): 2012 is the second vintage for Steve Kistler’s personal project. The 2012 Pinot Noir Occidental Station Cuvée Catherine represents 1,000 cases, aged in about 30% new oak. Beautiful strawberry, red cherry and blueberry notes jump from the glass of this dark ruby wine. Attractive aromatics are followed by a medium-bodied, luscious wine with elegance, minerality, and plenty of blue and red fruits, good acidity and a long, long finish. This beauty can be drunk over the next 5-10 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Occidental.aspVM 95 (2/2016): The 2013 Pinot Noir Occidental Station Cuvée Catherine is gracious, inviting and deeply expressive. Sweet red cherry, blood orange, white flowers and mint are seamlessly melded together. The Cuvée Catherine is the most succulent and overt of the single vineyard Pinots from Occidental. WA 95 (3/2016): The 2013 Pinot Noir Occidental Station Cuvée Catherine, which like its sibling sees about 33% new oak, is made mostly from Calera clonal material. The wine offers up loads of beautiful strawberry, kirsch liqueur notes, a medium ruby color, forest floor and floral notes. A beauty, this wine should drink nicely for at least a decade.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Occidental.aspWA 98+ (2/2017): Medium ruby-purple colored, the 2014 Pinot Noir Occidental Station Cuvee Catherine has a youthfully subdued yet staggeringly beautiful perfume of lavender, moss-covered bark, fallen leaves and rose hip tea over a core of pomegranate, kirsch and black raspberries with a waft of wild thyme. Medium-bodied with a taut, very well-structured palate, it has firm, ripe, exquisitely fine-grained tannins and a lively backbone of freshness supporting the intensely fragrant fruit and earth layers, finishing with some mineral hints. It really needs another year or two in bottle and should drink over the next 15+ years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Occidental.aspWA 98 (1/2015): As good as the Cuvée Catherine is, there is another Occidental Pinot that is also profound. The 2012 Pinot Noir SWK Vineyard also comes from his 65 acres planted in Occidental. This is a 1,000-case cuvée from a site that sits above the Bodega Headlands Vineyard. With a dark ruby color like its siblings, it is made from 100% Calera and sees only about 30% new French oak. This wine offers a copious mouthful of red, blue and black fruits, medium to full body, terrific acidity, and intense black raspberry and black cherry fruit along with spring flowers, forest floor and spice box. This is a stunning, super-complex, compelling Pinot Noir to drink over the next decade or more. VM 97+ (1/2015): The 2012 Pinot Noir SWK Vineyard, from a parcel just above Bodega Headlands, is the wine where all of the concepts Kistler is developing at Occidental converge. Vertical, structured and explosive on the palate, the SWK is built on a serious core of minerality. Graphite, smoke, violets and a host of mineral-inflected notes hit the palate in an intense, saline Pinot that is going to need time to fully come together. Today, the SWK is totally crystalline and nuanced, but it is also very, very young and in need of time in bottle.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Occidental.aspVM 96+ (2/2016): The 2013 Pinot Noir SWK Vineyard is the most tannic and structured of these Pinots from Occidental. As such, it is going to need at least a few years in bottle to unwind. Beams of chalky tannin underpin a deeply expressive Pinot endowed with intensely mineral and savory overtones. Vivid and beautifully sculpted throughout, the 2013 is impressive, even in the early going.WA 90+ (3/2016): The 2013 Pinot Noir SWK Vineyard, is 100% destemmed, ripe but more restrained, spicy and well-made, with good upside, but needs another 1-2 years of bottle age.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Occidental.aspVM 96+ (2/2016): The 2013 Pinot Noir SWK Vineyard is the most tannic and structured of these Pinots from Occidental. As such, it is going to need at least a few years in bottle to unwind. Beams of chalky tannin underpin a deeply expressive Pinot endowed with intensely mineral and savory overtones. Vivid and beautifully sculpted throughout, the 2013 is impressive, even in the early going. WA 90+ (3/2016): The 2013 Pinot Noir SWK Vineyard, is 100% destemmed, ripe but more restrained, spicy and well-made, with good upside, but needs another 1-2 years of bottle age.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Occidental.aspVM 96+ (3/2017): The 2014 Pinot Noir SWK Vineyard is the most reticent of these Pinots, as it was last year. Intense fruit and structure come together, but the wine is not at all ready to give everything it has. Dark red and purplish fruit overtones are lifted by the wine's bright acidity and tannic underpinnings. This nervous, taut Pinot needs a few years to settle down, but it has tremendous promise. Antonio Galloni. WA 94+ (2/2017): Medium ruby-purple in color, the 2014 Pinot Noir SWK Vineyard appears to playing it close to the chest at this early stage, offering subtle suggestions of red cherries, raspberry leaves, Provence herbs and fragrant earth with a hint of Sichuan pepper. Medium-bodied, elegant, fine and tightly-knit on the palate, it has a wonderfully lively backbone and persistent earth and herb layers on the finish. Not giving quite as much as the other two vineyard-designate wines, I’ve been cautious with my scoring and look forward to seeing what this wine can do over the next decade.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Occidental.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/TheOjaiVineyard.aspWA 94 (8/1998): This is a wine of exceptional extraction, richness, and depth. The color is an opaque black/purple, and the wine offers up classic tar, cassis, and bacon fat aromas. Full-bodied, with no hard edges, this profoundly concentrated, mouthfilling, voluptuously-textured Syrah possesses all the necessary components to age beautifully for a decade or more. However, the wine's explosive richness and enticing aromatics will insure that much of it is drunk within hours of purchase.WS 87 (12/1998): Dark, but not as concentrated as the color suggests, with stewed plum and cherry flavors, beefy notes and a flash of mineral. Best from 2000 through 2004.VM87 (11/1998): Saturated bright ruby. Port-like aromas of dark berries, chocolate, fruitcake, damp earth and herbs. Supple, lush and superripe on the palate; stuffed with fruit but a bit deficient in acidity. Undeniably impressive, but easier to taste than to drink. Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/TheOjaiVineyard.aspWA 94 (8/1998): This is a wine of exceptional extraction, richness, and depth. The color is an opaque black/purple, and the wine offers up classic tar, cassis, and bacon fat aromas. Full-bodied, with no hard edges, this profoundly concentrated, mouthfilling, voluptuously-textured Syrah possesses all the necessary components to age beautifully for a decade or more. However, the wine's explosive richness and enticing aromatics will insure that much of it is drunk within hours of purchase.WS 87 (12/1998): Dark, but not as concentrated as the color suggests, with stewed plum and cherry flavors, beefy notes and a flash of mineral. Best from 2000 through 2004.VM87 (11/1998): Saturated bright ruby. Port-like aromas of dark berries, chocolate, fruitcake, damp earth and herbs. Supple, lush and superripe on the palate; stuffed with fruit but a bit deficient in acidity. Undeniably impressive, but easier to taste than to drink. Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/TheOjaiVineyard.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/TheOjaiVineyard.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/TheOjaiVineyard.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/TheOjaiVineyard.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/TheOjaiVineyard.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/TheOjaiVineyard.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/TheOjaiVineyard.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/TheOjaiVineyard.aspWA 94 (1/2000): This is one of the finest Opus Ones to date, offering a dark ruby/purple color, as well as a striking, intense bouquet of sweet licorice intermixed with blackberries, cassis, plums, and saddle leather. This seamless, full-bodied wine is more velvety-textured, opulent, and succulent than past vintages. The mid-palate is expansive and chewy. The long finish is filled with glycerin, ripe fruit, and sweet tannin. Drink this impressive, user-friendly yet richly concentrated effort over the next 15 years. VM 90 (6/2013): A total opposite of the 1995, the 1996 Opus One blasts from the glass with massive dark fruit, iron, scorched earth, graphite and new leather. The 1996 is one of the more virile, bombastic wines in this vertical. Plums, cloves, leather and tar all flesh out on the huge, imposing finish. Although a bit rustic and brooding, the 1996 is an outstanding wine if taken on its own terms. The finish is framed by substantial tannins and an element of burliness that is likely the result of a succession of heat spikes. In 1986 Opus One is 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Cabernet Franc, 3% Merlot and 3% Malbec. Antonio Galloni. WS 88 (7/2007): Dark, rich and intense, with layers of currant, blackberry, cedar and spice. The flavors are still youthful, yet this turns drier and earthier from midpalate on, with a brambly sage edge on the finish. The best of four bottles. Drink now through 2012.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/OpusOne.aspWA 96 (10/2014): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon is a 650-case, 100% Cabernet Sauvignon aged 20 months in 75% new French oak and 25% in older oak. True to the vintage, it is dramatic, ostentatious, savory and opulent. Its dense purple color is accompanied by sweet blackberry and blackcurrant fruit intermixed with notions of graphite, chocolate and vanillin. Lush, pure and voluptuously textured, it is an irresistible Cabernet to drink over the next 12-15+ years. VM 93 (12/2014): A dark, sumptuous beauty, the 2012 is primary and quite seamless for a Howell Mountain wine. Dark blue and black fruit, grilled herbs, menthol, sweet tobacco and licorice are all layered into the gracious finish. There is a lot to like in 2012, especially its fleshiness and early accessibility. This mid-weight Cabernet Sauvignon should drink well for the next 10-15 years or so.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Outpost.aspWA 95+ (10/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon (100% Cabernet Sauvignon aged 20 months in 75% new French oak prior to bottling) demonstrates the vintage’s great intensity, purity, structure and potential high ceiling. Opaque blue/purple with notes of graphite, blueberry and blackberry fruit, charcoal, incense and a full-bodied mouthfeel, the wine has noticeable, but sweet, well-integrated tannins, acidity and wood. This wine is young and promises to be even better in another 5-6 years and keep for 20-30 or more years. VM 92 (10/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain is bold, inky and powerful to the core. Crème de cassis, blackberry jam, mint, licorice and cinnamon meld together as this extroverted, powerful wine shows off its Howell Mountain pedigree. The 2013 is going to need at least a few years in the cellar to fully come together, but it is pretty special, even at this early stage. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Outpost.aspWA 95+ (10/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon (100% Cabernet Sauvignon aged 20 months in 75% new French oak prior to bottling) demonstrates the vintage’s great intensity, purity, structure and potential high ceiling. Opaque blue/purple with notes of graphite, blueberry and blackberry fruit, charcoal, incense and a full-bodied mouthfeel, the wine has noticeable, but sweet, well-integrated tannins, acidity and wood. This wine is young and promises to be even better in another 5-6 years and keep for 20-30 or more years. VM 92 (10/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain is bold, inky and powerful to the core. Crème de cassis, blackberry jam, mint, licorice and cinnamon meld together as this extroverted, powerful wine shows off its Howell Mountain pedigree. The 2013 is going to need at least a few years in the cellar to fully come together, but it is pretty special, even at this early stage. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Outpost.aspWA 94+ (12/2010): An outstanding value in Napa Cabernet, the 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon’s opaque ruby/purple hue is followed by copious notes of crushed rock, blueberry pie, pen ink and black fruits. Full-bodied, opulent and fleshy with impressive purity and a long finish, this terrific Cabernet can be drunk now or cellared for 15+ years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Outpost.aspWA 93 (10/2013): Just how terrific the 2011 vintage was on the high elevation of Howell Mountain is evidenced by the 2011 Zinfandel. Made from 100% Zinfandel, this beauty spent 16 months in French oak (34% new). It exhibits the briery, peppery, meaty side of Zinfandel, a dense ruby/plum color, full-bodied richness and loads of fruit and character. Enjoy it over the next 3-4 years. IWC 91 (5/2014): (aged in one-third new oak): Deep red. Aromas of licorice, plum and nutty oak. Sweet, ripe plum fruit is lifted by flowers, pepper and spices. Briary and intensely flavored and not at all green. At this point in my tasting with Thomas Brown at Outpost, he expressed his opinion that the Howell Mountain AVA was very successful in 2011.WS 90 (2/2014): Dense and muscular, yet layered and complex, with black currant and toasted herb aromas leading to dried cherry, mineral and white pepper flavors. Needs time. Best from 2015 through 2020. 1,090 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Outpost.aspWA 98 (12/2009): From a single 9-acre parcel, the 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon True Vineyard exhibits extraordinary aromas of acacia flowers and violets along with an irrefutable minerality, an abundance of blueberry and blackberry fruit, outstanding texture, full-bodied richness, great depth, and ripe tannin. This Cabernet will benefit from 4-6 years of cellaring, and should evolve for 40 years. VM 93+ (6/2010): Full ruby. Precise aromas of dark berries, crushed rock, licorice and violet, plus a whiff of white flowers. Sweet, intensely flavored and deep, with a slightly exotic cast to its ripe fruit flavors. A serious wine from a relative cool site, unusually voluptuous in 2007 but with a strong underlying tannic spine calling for considerable patience. From vines planted on bedrock.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Outpost.aspWA 96 (10/2013): Even better is the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon True Vineyard, one of the candidates for wine of the vintage. It, too, is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon and is given the same basic elevage as the other wines except the percentage of new French oak increases to 90%. There are 375 cases of this beauty, which may be the greatest Cabernet Sauvignon Outpost has made to date. Abundant notes of creme de cassis, blueberry, acacia flowers (or is it violets?), licorice and wet stones are followed by a full-bodied, superbly concentrated, multidimensional, endearingly textured wine with low acidity and ripe tannin. Drink it over the next 15-20 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Outpost.aspWA 99 (10/2015): Absolutely as close to perfection as one probably can get is the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon True Vineyard. This 100% Cabernet Sauvignon is a selection of their very best material. This cuvée represents 375 cases aged 20 months in 90% new French oak. Opaque purple in color and more packed and concentrated than its sibling, it is full-bodied, with blackberry and blueberry fruit, perhaps a slight suggestion of charcoal and volcanic earth and burning embers. The wine has huge structure, massive extract and is as packed and stacked as a Cabernet Sauvignon can be. Forget it for 7-10 years and drink it over the following 40-50. VM 95+ (10/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon True Vineyard is every bit as impressive as it has been on the several occasions I have tasted it from cask. An exotic concoction of smoke, graphite, black cherries and lavender makes a strong impression in a towering, distinctive Howell Mountain wine that is going to need a good few years in bottle to truly come together. This is a fabulous showing from Outpost.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Outpost.aspWA 94 (10/2013): A new cuvee that represents an homage to Frank Dotzler’s parents is the 2011 True Vineyard Immigrant, a 175-case blend of 39% Cabernet Sauvignon, 33% Cabernet Franc and 28% Merlot that was aged 20 months in 60% new French oak. Spectacular aromatics offer up forest floor, mulberry, plum, cassis, white chocolate, crushed rock and spring flowers notes. Medium to full-bodied, sensual, intensely rich but pure, and almost surreal in its elegance and finesse combined with such authoritative intensity, it should drink well for a decade or more. VM 93+ (11/2013): The 2011 Immigrant True Vineyard is a blend of Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, all co-fermented. Savory herbs, mint, licorice, plum and black cherry notes all meld together in a wine of distinction and class. Mocha, spices, grilled herbs and floral notes become more prominent over time. Ideally, readers will be able to give the 2011 a few years in bottle. This is a fabulous first effort from Outpost and winemaker Thomas Rivers Brown. The 2011 Immigrant is 39% Cabernet Franc, 33% Merlot and 28% Cabernet Sauvignon.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Outpost.aspVM 95+ (10/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon True Vineyard is every bit as impressive as it has been on the several occasions I have tasted it from cask. An exotic concoction of smoke, graphite, black cherries and lavender makes a strong impression in a towering, distinctive Howell Mountain wine that is going to need a good few years in bottle to truly come together. This is a fabulous showing from Outpost. WA 94 (10/2015): An intriguing blend, the 2013 True Vineyard Immigrant is composed of 38% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Cabernet Franc and 32% Merlot aged in 67% new French oak for 20 months. This is a great showing in a complex wine, with notes of white chocolate, forest floor, blueberry and black raspberry. It’s intense and full without being heavy, attributable to the Cabernet Franc component. This wine has great color, already burgeoning complexity, and gorgeous texture and length. Drink it over the next 10-15 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Outpost.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Pahlmeyer.aspWS 95 (12/2003): A magnificent Merlot, with gorgeous fruit that's ripe, rich and distinctive. The bounty of complex flavors includes enticing black cherry, currant, blackberry and spice, with a smooth chocolaty aftertaste. Drink now through 2012. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 2,510 cases made.WA 94 (12/2003): A spectacular Merlot from proprietor Jim Richards, Paloma’s full-bodied 2001 offers up a gorgeous display of black currant and mocha-infused fruit that cuts a large swath across the palate. Unctuously textured, with no hard edges, gorgeous aromatics, and loads of flavor, it will provide immense enjoyment over the next 7-8 years.IWC 92 (6/2004): Deep ruby-red. Captivating nose combines black fruits, violet, brown spices, chocolate and earth. Sweet and creamy but not heavy; a near-confectionery, milk-chocolatey wine with a texture like liquid silk. Finishes sweet and lush, with very ripe tannins and a whiplash of dark berries and milk chocolate. Very sexy merlot.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Paloma.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Paloma.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Paradigm.aspVM 90 (6/2000): Deeper ruby-red. More vibrant aromas of currant, cassis, black raspberry, tobacco, graphite and a hint of dill. Bigger, lusher and sweeter than the winery's '97 merlot, with more texture and depth. Here the tannins seem sweeter, allowing the wine's finishing flavors to linger longer. Beginning with this vintage, the Harrises have been able to blend in a bit of cabernet franc (from vines planted in 1994 after a "vegetal clone" of franc had been pulled out): to fill in the middle palate and provide another aromatic component in both their cabernet and merlot releases.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Paradigm.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Paradigm.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Paradigm.aspVM 89 (6/2000): Medium red. Inviting aromas of raspberry, currant, milk chocolate, loam, earth and tobacco. Medium-bodied, ripe and smooth, with burnished berry and chocolate flavors and moderate depth. Finishes with a slight edge of acidity. The winery sold off numerous barrels with high alcohol and low acidity, says Harris.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Paradigm.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Parallel.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Pax.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Pax.aspWA 94+ (12/2005): Notes of bacon fat, flowers, creme de cassis, blackberries, and charred wood jump from the glass of the 2003 Syrah Cuvee Keltie. No new oak is utilized, but 100% stems are used in the production of this big, tannic monster (14.9% alcohol). It comes across as a hybrid version of a ripe northern Rhone and a classic, rich, concentrated Syrah from California. This beauty is best cellared for another 1-3 years, and drunk over the following 10-12. IWC 92+ (5/2005): (14.8% alcohol; a blend of lots from multiple vineyards, all vinified with 100% whole clusters, and aged in a very low percentage of new oak) Good medium ruby. Sappy, spicy aromas of fruity chocolate and violet; offers terrific floral lift but without the benefit of any viognier. Then dense and almost painfully concentrated, with black fruit, bitter chocolate and spice flavors framed by firm acids. Finishes with gripping (stem) tannins that really call for four or five years of patience. "An un-California wine," Mahle notes.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Pax.aspWA 95-97 (12/2005): The 2004 Syrah Cuvee Keltie (100% Syrah) displays classic licorice, asphalt, new saddle leather, blackberry liqueur, white chocolate, and pepper characteristics. This dense, full-bodied, superb Syrah possesses considerable structure and tannin. Give it 1-3 years of bottle age and consume it over the following 10-12.IWC 92-94 (6/2006): Medium ruby-red. Blackberry and blueberry jam enlivened by flowers and exotic spices on the nose. Sweet, lush and generous; there's nothing hard about this pliant wine, which was made without any new oak. Finishes with broad tannins and lovely lingering fruit. This had been racked to tank the day before my visit but was showing very well.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Pax.aspRR 91 (4/2009): Sporting a very northern rhone’esk profile, the 2007 Pax Syrah Kobler Family Vineyard (a blend of 95% Syrah and 5% Viognier made with 100% stem inclusion) possesses a great aromatics of blackberry and cassis fruit intermixed with tapenade, peppered steak and mineral notes. Bright, complex and lifted on the nose, it’s medium to full bodied on the palate with a deep, rich texture, crisp acids and a long finish. This wine sees very little new oak with ~35% being aged in Puncheons (500 L Barrels.)http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Pax.aspVM 92+ (5/2004): Saturated ruby. Cooler, high-pitched aromas of black raspberry, blackberry, cassis and mint. Juicy and lively; less lush than the Vine Hill bottling as the wine is more dominated by its firm tannic spine (this was vinified with a high percentage of whole clusters.) Densely packed but tightly wound, with lively notes of licorice and minerals. Whereas most of the Pax 2002s offer considerable immediate appeal, this wine really needs two or three years of cellaring. Stephen Tanzer. WS 92 (4/2004): Tight and concentrated, with a firm band of beefy wild berry, floral, earthy and minerally character. This is the most austere yet perhaps best-structured of the Pax offerings, yet it's complex and offers lots of flavor and is more than worth following to see how it evolves in the next few years. Drink now through 2012. 275 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Pax.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Pax.aspWA 92-94 (12/2005): The 2004s look very strong, with unexpected Rhone-like personalities, especially the 2004 Cuvee Moriah. A blend of 69% Grenache and 31% Mourvedre, Counoise, Roussanne, and Syrah, it exhibits aromas of garrigue, tapenade, kirsch liqueur, and blackberries. A full-throttle, California-styled southern Rhone-like cuvee, it is a big, meaty, juicy fruit and spice bomb to consume over the next 5-7 years. VM 91-92 (5/2006): (a Chateauneuf du Pape-inspired, grenache-dominated blend that contains a lower percentage of syrah than the 2003 version) Medium red-ruby color. Highly distinctive nose features exotic dark berry and cherry liqueur aromas complicated by tar, black pepper and dried flowers. Powerful and liqueur-like but not at all overly sweet. This chewy, saline, slightly jammy wine expands impressively in the middle palate, throwing off notes of dark fruits, brown spices and pepper. Finishes with ripe, building tannins. As superripe as this is, it avoids coming across as roasted. Very impressive for North Coast grenache. Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Pax.aspWA 90 (2/2010): The dark ruby/garnet-hued 2007 Pax Cellars Cuvee Moriah (80% Grenache and the rest Syrah, Mourvedre, and Counoise) exhibits kirsch liqueur, pepper, lavender, licorice, and damp earth characteristics. This medium-bodied, Rhone-styled red should drink nicely for another 4-5 years. WS 90 (3/2010): Firm and focused, with a tight beam of spicy berry, mineral, sage and tea. Full-bodied and well-structured, ending with tannins that give the flavors traction. Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Counoise. Drink now through 2017. 450 cases made. RR 87 (11/2009): A blend of 80% Grenache, 8% Mourvédre, 8% Syrah and a splash of counoise, the 2007 Pax Cuvée Moriah has a spicy, underbrush driven nose with subtle spice, earth and candied cherry and kirsch fruit. The palate is medium bodied with rich fruit, nice acidity and a firm, tannic core. This lacks a bit of charm at the moment but there’s nice fruit, the wine is balanced and shows nice length. Give this a couple years in the cellar and hope for the best.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Pax.aspIWC 93 (6/2008): Deep ruby. Sexy, exotic perfume of dark berries, candied cherry, sandalwood and Asian spices. Almost shockingly delicate in the mouth, with vibrant black raspberry and cassis flavors complicated by candied violet and smoky minerals. Becomes spicier on the long, energetic finish, which echoes the dark berries. This is really compelling. WA 88 (12/2008): Another cool climate offering is the 2006 Syrah Nelessen Vineyard. More herbal, a bit lighter, and neither as complete nor interesting as the Kobler cuvee, it is northern Rhone-like, but reveals a certain leanness and austerity that will only become more exaggerated with age.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Pax.aspVM 95+ (12/2012): The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon is typical of the year in this part of Napa Valley, where the wines are rich, broad and voluminous. Less floral and refined today than the 2008, the 2009 is built on a serious core of deep, expressive fruit. Juicy dark raspberries, flowers, spices and mint are layered into the generous finish. The 2009 could use another year in bottle to shed some baby fat, but it is exceptionally beautiful and polished, even today. There is so much hidden potential here.WA 88 (10/2013): The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon exhibits the vintage’s chunky, monolithic, tannic style with notes of dark fruits, white chocolate and earthy undertones. It will be even better with a few more years of bottle age, and should keep for 12-15 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PeirsonMeyer.aspWS 91 (10/2013): Surprisingly dark for the vintage, with firm tannins giving way to light-weight flavors, offering berry and black tea notes that linger enticingly against velvety texture. Drink now through 2017. 281 cases made. IWC 90 (8/2013): Vivid ruby-red. Dark berries and cherry pit on the fragrant nose. Sappy and nicely focused, offering bitter cherry and black raspberry flavors, with a touch of orange zest lending a tangy edge. Closes smooth and gently sweet, with very good clarity and fine-grained tannins. WA 89 (10/2013): Tart-edged plum and black raspberry are laced with orange rind and smoky black tea on the nose and frisky, firm palate of Penner-Ash’s 2011 Pinot Noir Zena Crown Vineyard. There is a bit of gum-numbing to the tannins here, and it’s possible that the limited use of whole clusters here accentuated them, while not (or not yet noticeably) adding floral or spice nuances of the sort I more positively associate with that technique. But there’s certainly serious grip and energy here, and it should be fascinating to follow the wine’s evolution through at least 2018.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Penner-Ash.aspWA 95 (12/2007): The 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Backus (96% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Petit Verdot and Malbec) is absolutely fabulous. The wine has a bluish purple color to the rim and an extraordinary nose of graphite, spring flowers, blackberries, cassis, and espresso roast. A savory, full-bodied, powerful wine with great fruit, low acidity, and abundant tannin, it cuts a broad swath across the palate. This is a classic Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon. It should drink well for at least 20 years.WS 94 (10/2007): A deep, rich, profound Cabernet, with ripe, plush currant, black cherry and ripe plum fruit that's well-focused, supple and harmonious. This is intense and powerful, yet elegant and refined, with amazing structure, depth and length. Best from 2008 through 2017. 1,500 cases made.IWC 94 (6/2007): Deep ruby. Inviting nose combines black cherry, licorice, tar, mocha and lead pencil. Lush, silky and compellingly sweet, with harmonious acidity for the year. Classic currant and cedar flavors are broad and thoroughly ripe without going over the top. Huge but shapely wine, finishing with captivating sweetness and noble tannins. A great vintage for this property. This was bottled in December of 2006, a bit earlier than recent vintages and obviously a good idea.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JosephPhelps.aspWA 94 (12/2008): The dense 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Backus Vineyard (93% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Petit Verdot and Malbec) offers sweet creme de cassis aromas interwoven with scorched earth, espresso roast, and licorice. Full-bodied as well as elegant with sweet tannin, gorgeous purity, and admirable depth, this effort has developed beautifully since I tasted it last year. It appears to have 25 or more years of aging potential. IWC 92+ (6/2008): Cool but sweet aromas of medicinal black fruits, licorice, menthol and graphite; today this comes across as sweeter than the Insignia. Then massive and pliant for the year, showing a distinctly warmer character than the Insignia. With aeration, this exuded lovely inner-palate perfume, thanks to bright acidity, which gives lift to the fruit. But this very young wine finishes with substantial tannic clout.WS 92 (10/2008): Shows off a distinctive minty herbal character and is dry and firmly structured on the palate, with glimpses of red currant and black cherry peaking through. Yet this is tight, focused, concentrated and balanced, and once it's past this phase, it should provide plenty of excitement. Best from 2011 through 2017. 1,600 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JosephPhelps.aspWA 94+ (12/2009): The single vineyard 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Backus Vineyard from the Oakville Corridor is a monster. A 1,100-case blend of 94% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Petit Verdot and Malbec, it is bursting with aromas of charcoal, scorched earth, barbecue smoke, lead pencil shavings, graphite, cassis, blackberries, and oak. Dense purple to the rim and very closed, this is a big, muscular, full-bodied effort meant for serious long-term aging. Its potential is extraordinary, but I wouldn’t want to touch a bottle for 5-8 years. It should last for three decades or more.IWC 92+ (6/2009): (bottled in January of '09) Bright ruby. Superripe aromas of cassis, graphite and mint. Sweeter and more aromatic in the mouth than the Insignia, showing a finer-grained texture and more early finesse. A rocky character and enticing violet perfume lift the middle palate, but the substantial tannins currently cut off the wine's finishing fruit. This will need patience. WS 87 (11/2009): An elegant style, with understated plum and berry fruit that gains richness and depth before turning drier and more herbal. The finish is marked by loamy earth flavors. Needs time. Best from 2010 through 2016. 1,128 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JosephPhelps.aspWA 97 (12/2010): The 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Backus Vineyard boasts a stunningly pure nose of blueberries and blackberries with notions of toast and flowers in the background. Thefloral nature of the fruit only adds to the wine’s complexity. Full-bodied but civilized, this wine’s tannins can be borderline rustic, but that’s not an issue with this glorious, full-bodied, opulent 2007 Napa Cabernet Sauvignon. Drink it over the next three decades.. JS 96 (2/2011): A complex nose of flowers, grilled meats, currants, and dark fruits. Truly intense and thought provoking. Full bodied, with powerful polished tannins. This is elegant and solid, notes of sandalwood and blue slate on the finish. 1,000 cases made and only available at the winery.WS 96 (10/2010): A stylish, elegant youngster, with vivid mocha-covered raspberry, blackberry, red and black licorice flavors. Full-bodied and notably complex, tight and focused, ending with a persistent beam of flavors and firm tannins, with a dash of tobacco and cedar. Best from 2011 through 2022. 1,200 cases made.IWC 92+ (5/2010): Full ruby. Plum liqueur and chocolate on the nose. Supple on entry, then quite backward in the middle, showing a restrained sweetness and a distinctly savory character. Finishes with substantial toothcoating tannins. Essentially suave wine but in need of at least five or six years of cellaring.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JosephPhelps.aspWA 97 (12/2011): The 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Backus is a beautifully delineated wine endowed with tons of personality and sheer class. The wine comes alive in the glass, with crushed rose petals, dark raspberry jam, licorice and spices. There is an exotic element to the fruit that is highly appealing. Today the tannins are quite firm, suggesting the wine needs at least a few more years in the cellar. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2038.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JosephPhelps.aspWS 86 (12/2002): Notable mint and bay leaf aromas--the signature for this wine in this era. It's nicely balanced, if dry and fading. Avoids being too tannic and offers enough ripe, tart, plum and anise flavors to hold your interest.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JosephPhelps.aspWA 86 (11/2013): The 1982 exhibits a medium to dark plum/garnet color, along with a spicy, spearminty, earthy set of aromatics that are sweet and attractive, but very mature. The wine is elegant and lighter-weight than most Insignia's with attractive sassafras and red and black plum and currant fruit. This interesting, good, fully mature wine should be drunk over the next 3-4 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JosephPhelps.aspWA 86 (11/2013): The 1982 exhibits a medium to dark plum/garnet color, along with a spicy, spearminty, earthy set of aromatics that are sweet and attractive, but very mature. The wine is elegant and lighter-weight than most Insignia's with attractive sassafras and red and black plum and currant fruit. This interesting, good, fully mature wine should be drunk over the next 3-4 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JosephPhelps.aspWS 90 (11/1987): A real mouthful of Cabernet, rich, full-bodied and tannic without being overdone. It's minty with cedar, chocolate and cassis flavors that have depth and intensity. Very well balanced. WA 85 (11/2013): Muted and monolithic, it displays a dark plum/garnet color, a touch of reduction, mulberry, dusty, loamy soil, tobacco leaf, sweet cherry and dark currant notes, and a clipped finish. While capable of lasting another 5-6 years, it is best drunk up. Do not expect anything compelling.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JosephPhelps.aspWA 100 (11/2013): An inky/plum/purple color is accompanied by a stunning bouquet of violets, charcoal, creme de cassis and a hint of toast. Prodigious when it hits the palate with a full-bodied expansiveness, there is not a hard edge to be found in the 1997, only velvety tannins, compelling depth and fruit intensity, and stunning purity. It is a perfect expression of Napa viticulture and wine that should continue to age effortlessly for two decades or more. WS 97 (12/2008): Dense, rich and focused, youthful and concentrated, with hints of maturity on the edge of the core currant, mineral and spicy berry flavors. Wonderful vibrancy and intensity for a wine this age, which only bodes well for the future. A classic. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot. VM 94 (5/2000): Full ruby. Supersweet aromas of blackberry, cassis, bitter chocolate, espresso and tobacco. Thick and seamless yet bright and sharply defined. Very long and spicy on the aftertaste, with excellent grip. Sweet tannins coat the teeth. Williams says the selection for Insignia is based on quality and concentration rather than on a particular flavor profile.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JosephPhelps.aspWS 94 (7/2002): Dark, rich and intensely concentrated, with a firm, tightly wound core of currant, black cherry, mineral, anise, sage and mocha-laced oak. Well-focused, with firm acidity and firm yet supple tannins. A young blockbuster in need of cellaring. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec. Best from 2004 through 2016. 15,000 cases made. VM 93+ (6/2002): ( a blend of 71% cabernet sauvignon, 21% cabernet franc, 6% merlot and 1% each petit verdot and malbec) Deep ruby. Roasted aromas of currant, black cherry syrup, licorice and grilled nuts. Powerful but smooth and sweet, with superb, extremely unevolved dark berry flavors and a strong mineral note of graphite. Excellent acidity contributes to the impression of intensity. Very long, mounting finish features firm tannins and lively dark berry flavors. This bottling has been consistently superb in recent years, even in the difficult 1998 vintage. WA 91 (8/2002): There are 15,000 cases of the 1999 Insignia, a blend of 71% Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Merlot, 6% Petit Verdot, 1% Cabernet Franc, and 1% Malbec. The core of this offering tends to come from Rutherford-grown fruit. The saturated dense purple-colored 1999 offers a tight but promising nose of incense, spice box, black fruits, and vanilla. This elegant, stylish, and medium to full-bodied offering is made in a more French-like, finesse style than such blockbusters as 1997, 1996, 1995, and 1994. Give it 3-4 years of cellaring and consume it over the following 15-18.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JosephPhelps.aspWA 98+ (11/2013): Still a young wine at age 12, the 2001 Insignia exhibits a dense purple color along with a sweet bouquet of camphor, blackberries, cassis, incense and spring flowers. Full-bodied, rich and heady with sweet tannin, stunning concentration and a fabulous finish, this remarkable Insignia has 25 or more years of life ahead of it. VM 95+ (4/2016): (from an early harvest, like 2015; the first vintage of a ten-year spell without any Cabernet Franc): Dark red with ruby highlights. The aromas of currant, graphite minerality and dark chocolate convey an inviting warmth. Wonderfully suave, fleshy and sweet, especially for its 13.9% alcohol. Deep, broad flavors of raspberry, sandalwood and soy are energized by a subtle mineral quality and harmonious acidity. Outstanding intensity and tight grain here. Finishes with serious but integrated tannins that spread out horizontally on the very long finish. This wonderfully balanced, still-young wine has clearly benefited from the firming influence of its 8% Petit Verdot element, the highest to this point. Incidentally, this was the last vintage of the Insignia with measurable brettanomyces--but it works for me! WS 88 (6/2011): Enticing aromas of mixed berries, mocha, cedar and tobacco. Full-bodied, focused and intense, with touches of mature flavors that turn simpler and fade on the finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot and Malbec. Drink now. 18,000 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JosephPhelps.aspWA 98+ (11/2013): Still a young wine at age 12, the 2001 Insignia exhibits a dense purple color along with a sweet bouquet of camphor, blackberries, cassis, incense and spring flowers. Full-bodied, rich and heady with sweet tannin, stunning concentration and a fabulous finish, this remarkable Insignia has 25 or more years of life ahead of it. VM 95+ (4/2016): (from an early harvest, like 2015; the first vintage of a ten-year spell without any Cabernet Franc): Dark red with ruby highlights. The aromas of currant, graphite minerality and dark chocolate convey an inviting warmth. Wonderfully suave, fleshy and sweet, especially for its 13.9% alcohol. Deep, broad flavors of raspberry, sandalwood and soy are energized by a subtle mineral quality and harmonious acidity. Outstanding intensity and tight grain here. Finishes with serious but integrated tannins that spread out horizontally on the very long finish. This wonderfully balanced, still-young wine has clearly benefited from the firming influence of its 8% Petit Verdot element, the highest to this point. Incidentally, this was the last vintage of the Insignia with measurable brettanomyces--but it works for me! WS 88 (6/2011): Enticing aromas of mixed berries, mocha, cedar and tobacco. Full-bodied, focused and intense, with touches of mature flavors that turn simpler and fade on the finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot and Malbec. Drink now. 18,000 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JosephPhelps.aspWA 98+ (11/2013): Still a young wine at age 12, the 2001 Insignia exhibits a dense purple color along with a sweet bouquet of camphor, blackberries, cassis, incense and spring flowers. Full-bodied, rich and heady with sweet tannin, stunning concentration and a fabulous finish, this remarkable Insignia has 25 or more years of life ahead of it. VM 95+ (4/2016): (from an early harvest, like 2015; the first vintage of a ten-year spell without any Cabernet Franc): Dark red with ruby highlights. The aromas of currant, graphite minerality and dark chocolate convey an inviting warmth. Wonderfully suave, fleshy and sweet, especially for its 13.9% alcohol. Deep, broad flavors of raspberry, sandalwood and soy are energized by a subtle mineral quality and harmonious acidity. Outstanding intensity and tight grain here. Finishes with serious but integrated tannins that spread out horizontally on the very long finish. This wonderfully balanced, still-young wine has clearly benefited from the firming influence of its 8% Petit Verdot element, the highest to this point. Incidentally, this was the last vintage of the Insignia with measurable brettanomyces--but it works for me! WS 88 (6/2011): Enticing aromas of mixed berries, mocha, cedar and tobacco. Full-bodied, focused and intense, with touches of mature flavors that turn simpler and fade on the finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot and Malbec. Drink now. 18,000 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JosephPhelps.aspJS 96 (1/2011): I really like the mint and floral notes on the nose that opens up to dark fruits. Full bodied and rich, with plums, berries, and currants. This starts off slow, then takes off with a bang. A stylish wine with wonderful potential. This will be bottled in January 2011. WS 94 (11/2011): Dense and chewy, this is very tight and closed, but the glimpses of fruit offer tight mineral, crushed rock, graphite, dried currant, cedar and anise. Full-bodied and way too young to drink now, this needs time, but should provide years of rewarding drinking. Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot and Merlot. Best from 2014 through 2026. 16,650 cases made. VM 93+ (6/2011): Full medium ruby. Black fruits, minerals, licorice, tar, menthol and sweet oak on the nose. Sweet and creamy on entry, then quite penetrating and tight in the mid-palate, showing a medicinal reserve for the vintage. A backward and rather powerful Insignia with the structure to require, and reward, considerable aging. This was a good quantity year for this flagship bottling, with about 16,000 cases produced. WA 93 (11/2013): The 2008 reveals an opaque purple color in addition to blueberry and blackberry fruit notes intermixed with incense and violets. Barely approaching adolescence, it is still a grapy, primary, full-bodied beauty that will benefit from another 4-5 years of cellaring. It should drink well for 20-25 years. The weather in May was unusually hot, and the grape bunches seemed relatively irregular and loose, with lighter than normal clusters. However, this proved to be an advantage with good air flow promoted by the loose clusters. The summer was warm, but never terribly hot, and the Indian Summer Napa enjoyed allowed for a stress-free harvest. The 2008 (16,650 cases produced), which achieved 14.7% natural alcohol, is composed of 89% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Petit Verdot and 4% Merlot, all from estate fruit.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JosephPhelps.aspVM 95+ (4/2016): (a growing season with a late bloom and late veraison but more consistent temperatures than either 2009 or 2011): Bright, dark ruby. Very young, brilliantly pure aromas of dark fruits and strong minerality. Then wonderfully juicy but youthfully imploded, conveying an impression of weightlessness to its penetrating flavors of cassis, blackberry, minerals, dark chocolate and flowers. Savory, sappy, rather masculine wine with terrific precision and energy but still folded in on itself today. Finishes suave, vibrant and very long, with sophisticated fine-grained tannins in perfect harmony with the wine's fruit. Very little Suscol fruit went into the blend as it was too green, according to Hepworth. Stephen Tanzer. WA 95 (11/2013): A gorgeously intense bouquet of lead pencil shavings, spring flowers, black currants, blackberries, and subtle smoke and foresty aromas jumps from the glass of this full-bodied, rich, concentrated wine with soft tannins, a multidimensional mouthfeel, and a long, rich finish displaying well-integrated acidity, tannin, alcohol and wood. This beauty is one of the top Insignias produced over recent years. It should age easily for 20+ years. WS 94 (11/2013): Firm, dense and deeply concentrated, this offers a powerful thrust of flavors, with mocha- and espresso-laced blackberry, black licorice and cedar notes, revving up on the finish. Long, pure, driven and persistent, this seems set for a long life. Best to cellar. Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Merlot and Malbec. Best from 2015 through 2028. 11,060 cases made. JS 93 (5/2014): Aromas of blueberries, chocolate and licorice follow through to a full body, with soft tannins and a fresh finish. This is a luscious, delicious JP Insignia. Harmonies and forward now. Drink now or hold.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JosephPhelps.aspVM 93 (12/2014): The 2011 Insignia is impressive, no doubt about it. In this vintage, it is the wine's length and persistence that stand out most. This is a decidedly Old World style of Insignia with less raciness than is customary. Grilled herbs, smoke, dried rose petal, tobacco and cedar are some of the notes that add complexity. Readers should give the 2011 another few years in bottle for the tannins to soften. This is the first vintage of Insignia that incorporates both Cabernet Franc and Malbec.JS 92 (5/2014): A balanced, delicious Insignia for early drinking. Aromas of currants, blueberries and licorice follow through to a full to medium body, fine tannins and a clean finish. Yummy. Drink or hold. IWC 91 (6/2014): (13,000 cases made; 82% cabernet sauvignon, 11% petit verdot, 4% malbec, 2% merlot and 1% cabernet franc): Good bright medium ruby. Nicely perfumed nose offers scents of currant, plum, tobacco, mocha and dark chocolate. Plush and sweet on the palate; perhaps smaller-scaled than the top vintages of Insignia but there's plenty of texture and depth here. Dark berry flavors are complicated by subtle tobacco leaf, menthol and dried herb nuances. Finishes plummy and sweet, with big building tannins and lots of sexy oak; largely avoids the dryness of the Napa Valley version. This is the first vintage of Insignia to include all five of the major Bordeaux red varieties. WA 90-93 (11/2013): The 2011’s deep ruby/purple color is followed by sweet aromas of bouquet garni, mint, red and black currants, tobacco leaf and licorice, and a surprisingly intense, full-bodied mouthfeel with more richness and intensity than I would have expected from this vintage. It is also precocious and can be drunk upon release or cellared for 15 or more years. Although it has not yet been bottled, the 2011 Insignia is composed of 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Petit Verdot and the rest Malbec, Merlot and a dollop of Cabernet Franc, and represents 13,000 cases. It achieved a slightly lower alcohol of 14.1%.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JosephPhelps.aspJS 97 (7/2015): Amazing aromas of blueberry, blackberry, mineral and bark. Complex nose. Full body plus super integrated tannins with superb balance and depth. Coffee and chocolate too. Very long and mind-bending. A tribute to the vintage. Drink or hold. A long life ahead of it. A blend of 75% cabernet sauvignon, 10% merlot, 10% petit verdot, 3% malbec, and 2% cabernet franc. WA 96-100 (10/2014): Joseph Phelps’ flagship wines include the incredibly ageworthy Insignia. The 2012 Insignia Proprietary Red is composed of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Petit Verdot, 10% Merlot, 3% Malbec and 2% Cabernet Franc, all aged 24 months in 100% new French oak. The vintage was of such high quality and quantity that 17,500 cases were produced. A magnificent Insignia that will be bottled in several months, it boasts an opaque purple color as well as fabulous notes of graphite, blackberries, blackcurrant liqueur, camphor, barbecue smoke and spice box. Rich, full-bodied and opulent with plenty of tannin and structure lurking beneath the extravagant generosity of fruit, this stunning 2012 should drink well for 25-30+ years. VM 94-96 (12/2014): The 2012 Insignia is one of the most intense, powerful wines of year. Dark red and black fruit, smoke, mocha, French oak, spices and leather burst from the glass in an explosive red built on texture and structure. Readers will find very little of the early appeal of 2012 here. VM 92-95 (5/2014): (based on 75% cabernet sauvignon): Deep medium ruby. Multifaceted aromas of blackberry syrup, musky tobacco, game, chocolate and coffee are lifted by exotic flowers. Silky and seamless but at the same time vibrant and sharply delineated, with intense blue and black fruit flavors leavened by terrific floral grip. Finishes with serious, building tannins and outstanding energy and length. Very strong potential here. WS 93 (3/2015): Packs a wallop, perhaps overly so, with extracted dark berry flavors and tannic muscle. The drying sensation on the finish distracts from the ripe blackberry, earth, cedar and gravel notes. Aromas of cassis, currant and blackberry offer more promise. Either way, this is built to cellar. Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Merlot, Malbec and Cabernet Franc. Best from 2017 through 2030. 15,000 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JosephPhelps.aspWA 88 (12/1998): The dark ruby-colored 1996 Le Mistral is a gutsy, bistro red with an exotic nose of incense, peppers, red and black fruits, and perfume. While it is not complex, and is displaying less fat than when I tasted it last year, it remains a fun, delicious wine to enjoy over the next 7-8 years. VM 88 (6/1999): Bright ruby color. Perfumed, expressive aromas of blackberry, black cherry, flowers, licorice and tar, plus a faint liqueur-like aspect. Smooth and peppery in the mouth; juicy but not especially fleshy. Finishes with dusty tannins.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JosephPhelps.aspWA 88 (12/1998): The dark ruby-colored 1996 Le Mistral is a gutsy, bistro red with an exotic nose of incense, peppers, red and black fruits, and perfume. While it is not complex, and is displaying less fat than when I tasted it last year, it remains a fun, delicious wine to enjoy over the next 7-8 years. VM 88 (6/1999): Bright ruby color. Perfumed, expressive aromas of blackberry, black cherry, flowers, licorice and tar, plus a faint liqueur-like aspect. Smooth and peppery in the mouth; juicy but not especially fleshy. Finishes with dusty tannins.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JosephPhelps.aspWA 94 (12/2012): The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon is beautiful. Scents of pain grille, mocha, black currants, spices and plums emerge from this deep, resonant wine. The 2010 possesses stunning textural depth and richness, not to mention phenomenal overall balance. Readers who want to get a sense of the 2010 vintage without spending a huge amount of money may want to start here. This is a dazzling wine, especially within its price range. The 2010 is 92% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Merlot and 2% Petit Verdot. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2025.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JosephPhelps.aspWS 87 (12/2012): Ripe peach and tangy green apple flavors are focused and tasty, with plenty of juicy acidity and details of fresh herbs and spice on the finish. Drink now. 2,150 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JosephPhelps.aspWS 87 (12/2012): Ripe peach and tangy green apple flavors are focused and tasty, with plenty of juicy acidity and details of fresh herbs and spice on the finish. Drink now. 2,150 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JosephPhelps.aspWS 89 (9/2000): Dark, rich and chocolaty, with ample black cherry, blackberry, pepper, sage and cedary oak all folding together. Turns quite tannic on the finish. Best from 2002 through 2012. 1,500 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PineRidge.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RoyPiper.aspWA 93+ (8/2010): The 2007 Pirouette is produced by Agustin Huneeus, Sr. and Philippe Melka. It is a Bordeaux-style blend of 59% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc with the balance Petit Verdot and Malbec. It was aged in 70% new French oak for 22 months. Medium purple in color, it sports an incipiently complex nose of Asian spices, incense, violets, mineral, black currant, and blackberry. This leads to a medium to full-bodied, mouth-filling wine with ample ripe tannin, excellent balance, and 4-6 years of aging potential. Drink this pleasure-bent offering from 2014 to 2027.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Pirouette.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PisoniEstate.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/FaussePiste.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PorterCreekVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PorterCreekVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PorterCreekVineyards.aspVM 93 (11/2013): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Actaeon Quixote Vineyard, from the Quixote vineyard in Stags Leap, is full of detail, nuance and juiciness. Blackberries, grilled herbs, licorice and new leather meld together in a supple, inviting Cabernet loaded with Stags Leap character. Sweet spice and violet notes wrap around the juicy, generous finish. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Pott.aspVM 93 (11/2013): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Actaeon Quixote Vineyard, from the Quixote vineyard in Stags Leap, is full of detail, nuance and juiciness. Blackberries, grilled herbs, licorice and new leather meld together in a supple, inviting Cabernet loaded with Stags Leap character. Sweet spice and violet notes wrap around the juicy, generous finish. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Pott.aspWA 92 (10/2014): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Actaeon Quixote Vineyard comes from a site previously owned by Carl Doumani. (The Quixote Vineyard was recently sold to the Chinese.) This tightly knit, complex 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon exhibits notes of forest floor, damp earth, truffles, white chocolate and red and blackcurrants. This complete, refined wine will benefit from several years of cellaring and age nicely for 12-15 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Pott.aspWS 92 (10/2012): Attractive floral, perfumed dark berry, red berry and red licorice aromas lead to an elegant stylish effort, with touches of fresh-cut flowers and fine-grained tannins. Drink now through 2026. 195 cases made. IWC 90 (5/2012): Bright medium ruby. Currant, spicecake, tobacco and loam on the complex, musky nose. At once smooth and juicy, rich and saline, with strong soil tones complicated by dark berry fruit. Lovely sophisticated claret-like texture and weight. The broad finish features dusty, fine-grained tannins and excellent subtle length.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Pott.aspWA 91 (10/2104): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Her Majesty’s Secret Service is another offering from Dr. Krupp’s Stagecoach Vineyard. It exhibits chocolaty, cedary, fruitcake notes, not the density and power of Pott’s other Cabernet Sauvignons, but good spice box and unsmoked cigar tobacco characteristics. Medium to full-bodied and slightly tannic, it is a beautiful wine that I may have underrated. Drink now-2027.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Pott.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Pott.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Pott.aspWS 93 (11/2013): Pure, ripe and spicy, this classy version offers a core of dark berry, with hints of chocolate, dried herb, hot brick and floral. Finishes with gripping, fine-grained tannins. Bodes well for cellaring. Best from 2014 through 2025. 69 cases made. IWC 91 (5/2013): (a 70/30 blend of cabernet franc and merlot; usually it's the other way around): Good dark ruby-red. Youthfully tight aromas of blackberry, currant, minerals, bitter chocolate and violet. Densely packed and fine-grained, with harmonious acidity giving shape and lift to the cassis and bitter chocolate flavors. The pH is a high 3.9 but this Cheval Blanc blend does not lack for energy.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Pott.aspWA 95 (10/2014): Aaron Pott’s affection for English soccer is found in the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon The Arsenal Greer Vineyard, a two-acre site on Manley Lane sandwiched between two prodigious producers, Scarecrow and Staglin. This is pure, gravel-dominated, loose, loamy soil. This spectacular Cabernet boasts an opaque purple color, abundant aromas of pen ink, damp, sweet red dirt, rich blackcurrants, licorice and cedarwood. Opulent, full-bodied and irresistible already, this is a sensational, complex, multidimensional Cabernet Sauvignon to drink over the next 15-20 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Pott.aspWA 94+ (10/2015): A big-time wine is the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon The Arsenal from the Greer Vineyard in Rutherford. I believe this is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. It is dense purple, with loamy soil undertones interwoven with créme de cassis, blackberry, spice box and cedar wood. The wine is deep, rich opulent and a big-time winner with sweet tannins. This wine should drink well for two decades as well.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Pott.aspWA 96 (10/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Turf War Bisagno Vineyard flirts with perfection. This comes from a parcel of 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from a hillside near Ann Colgin’s Tychson Hill Vineyard. Opaque purple, with floral notes intermixed with graphite, blackcurrant, blueberry and licorice, the wine is rich, full-bodied, with stunning purity, texture and length. This is a beauty to drink over the next 20-25 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Pott.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Presquile.aspIWC 91 (12/2013): Brilliant ruby-red. High-pitched aromas of candied red fruits, fresh rose and blood orange. Tangy and precise, offering vibrant raspberry and cherry flavors that become sweeter with air. Weightless but deep in flavor, finishing with excellent clarity and silky tannins.WA 89 (8/2013): Coming from estate vineyards and 10-year-old vines located just outside the winery, the 2011 Pinot Noir Presqu’ile Vineyard also saw 100% whole cluster and was aged in 30% new French oak for 17 months. In this case though, the stems are more integrated with the wine showing quality cherry, crushed flowers, rose petal and spice as well as a medium-bodied, elegant, supple feel on the palate. Nicely textured, balanced and with juicy acidity, it’s a delicious 2011 that will drink nicely for another 3-5 years. Drink now-2018.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Presquile.aspWS 94 (4/2000): (WS #45 wine of 2000) Dark and intense, with a solid, plush core of ripe, rich currant, black cherry, blackberry and light cedar notes. Jam-packed with flavors, it's an immense wine but beautifully balanced. Best from 2002 through 2012. 3,742 cases made. VM 93 (5/2000): Black ruby to the rim. Vibrant aromas of blueberry, blackberry, black cherry, violet, espresso and cedary oak. Huge, lush and sweet; thick and mouthfilling, with very strong extract and firm supporting spine. A classic mountain-style fruit bomb, but with remarkably fine, sweet tannins. Very long and ripe on the aftertaste. Stephen Tanzer. WA 91-93 (8/1999): The opaque black/purple-colored 1997 Cabernet Sauvignon (3,472 cases) offers sensational notes of black currants, minerals, smoke, licorice, and new oak. Full-bodied, with fabulous extract and power, the acidity, tannin, and potentially harsh components are well-meshed with the wine's personality. This is a large, ripe, impeccably balanced Cabernet Sauvignon that achieved 14.1% alcohol naturally. Anticipated maturity: 2003-2020. This is a spectacular wine that must be tasted to be believed.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PrideMountainVineyards.aspWS 93 (12/2004): A polished, seductive style, offering rich black cherry and blackberry fruit that's ripe and well-defined, with an overlay of smoky, toasty oak, folding together nicely on the finish. For all its richness and complexity, this is a graceful wine that's already fun to drink. Drink now through 2011. 6,500 cases made. WA 92 (2/2005): The 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon (5,000 cases made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon) is a supple, flamboyant, and more accessible version of the 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon. Deep ruby/purple-colored, with a classic nose of tobacco leaf, black currant, licorice, and smoke, the wine is medium to full-bodied, has a supple texture, an attractive textural mouthfeel in addition to a plush, heady finish. Drink it over the next 8-10 years. VM 90+ (6/2005): Deep, smoky nose combines currant, graphite, tobacco and leather, plus greener notes of currant leaf and green olive. Quite backward and firmly structured, with flavors of currant, tobacco leaf, mineral, coffee and herbs. Finishes with a light dusting of tannins. The only one of these Pride 2002s that struck me as a bit green and dry in the sense of traditional Bordeaux. But this is also quite closed and minerally. I'd give it five or six years of additional cellaring.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PrideMountainVineyards.aspWA 93 (8/1999): The 1997 Merlot might be called liquified Viagra. An incredibly sexy nose of smoke, black fruits, cappuccino, and toasty wood is followed by an expansive, terrifically concentrated wine with a sumptuous texture, no hard edges, beautifully integrated acidity and tannin, and a long, 35 second finish. According to the back label, about 5% Cabernet Sauvignon was added in the blend of this stunningly aromatic, multi-dimensional wine. It should drink well for 12-15 years. This is a spectacular wine that must be tasted to be believed.WS 92 (8/1999): Wonderful ripe fruit is the hallmark of this lovely California Merlot, which displays rich and complex cherry, currant, anise, cedar and spice flavors. Gains in depth and nuance through the finish, where it keeps pumping out the flavors. Drink now through 2006. 5,208 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PrideMountainVineyards.aspWS 93 (11/2003): Beautifully crafted, exquisitely balanced and rich in currant, exotic spice and ripe blackberry fruit. Turns spicy and exhibits pretty mocha-scented oak, with a long, broad, rich aftertaste. Drink now through 2010. 5,320 cases made. WA 92 (12/2003): A good introduction to the Pride Mountain style is the 2001 Merlot (4,000 cases) made from their vineyard that straddles the Napa and Sonoma county line. Hence this cuvee is composed of 55% Napa and 45% Sonoma fruit. A big, structured, inky/purple-colored offering, it possesses gorgeous aromas of creosote, damp earth, sweet black cherry as well as currant fruit, and a chocolatey aftertaste. Rich and intense, with the wood well in check, this sumptuous Merlot is top-notch. VM 92 (6/2004): Good dark red. Smoky aromas of black raspberry, coffee and nutty oak. Lush, fat and sweet, with layered flavors of black raspberry and sweet oak. Quintessential Pride merlot, with strong fruit complemented but not overwhelmed by 100% new oak.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PrideMountainVineyards.aspWA 87 (12/2000): The ripe, straightforward, medium to full-bodied 1999 Viognier reveals that varietal's tell-tale apricot, honeysuckle, jammy characteristics along with notes of minerals and spice. Consume it over the next year to take advantage of its forward fruit.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PrideMountainVineyards.aspWA 89 (2/2002): Pride Mountain, which is justifiably revered for their sensational Cabernet Sauvignons, Cabernet Francs, and Reserve cuvees, also fashions one of northern California's finest Viogniers. The light gold-colored 2000 boasts an excellent nose of tropical fruits, honeysuckle, apricots, and a hint of minerals. This medium to full-bodied, finely-tuned 2000 will drink well for 1-2 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PrideMountainVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PrideMountainVineyards.aspWA 99 (2/2005): A potentially perfect wine, which is in bottle after having spent 30 or so months in a combination of old and new oak. The practice under Bob Foley is to first keep the wines in neutral wood as the selections are made for the different cuvees and then, once made, move the wines into new oak until bottling. The 2001 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon (a 1,300-case blend of 100% Cabernet Sauvignon aged 27 months in oak) offers gorgeously fresh, lively, but super-concentrated fruit. Inky blue/purple to the rim, with a spectacular nose of creme de cassis, licorice, camphor, and a hint of vanilla, this wine is sensationally rich, has remarkable intensity, a multi-dimensional palate, and fabulous concentration and depth. It needs another 1-3 years of bottle-age, and should easily and effortlessly evolve for 20 or more years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PrideMountainVineyards.aspWA 95+ (12/2010): The 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve is a slightly more brooding and formidably endowed effort displaying more extract, tannin and structure. In spite of its massive size, concentration and extract, it possesses gorgeously sweet tannins as well as a sense of equilibrium. This powerhouse will benefit from another 1-3 years of bottle age and should keep for 15 or more years. WS 94 (1/2011): A rich, savory style, thick and concentrated, offering firm cedar, black licorice, mineral and graphite, with a touch of espresso and tar. Full-bodied, chewy and complex, very backward now but sure to reward. Drink now through 2018. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 1,225 cases made. VM 93+ (5/2017): (15% alcohol): Deep ruby. Liqueur-like aromas of black cherry, cassis, blackberry, bitter chocolate and slightly tarry oak are accented by a minty nuance. Wonderfully broad, fine-grained wine with shocking inner-mouth lift thanks to its balance of sweetness and urgent acidity. Still amazingly primary in a classic mountain style--in fact, almost simple today. Penetrating black fruit, violet and licorice flavors carry impressively on the firmly tannic, chocolatey finish, which shows no dryness. This infant is evolving at a snail's pace.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PrideMountainVineyards.aspWA 95+ (12/2010): The 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve is a slightly more brooding and formidably endowed effort displaying more extract, tannin and structure. In spite of its massive size, concentration and extract, it possesses gorgeously sweet tannins as well as a sense of equilibrium. This powerhouse will benefit from another 1-3 years of bottle age and should keep for 15 or more years. WS 94 (1/2011): A rich, savory style, thick and concentrated, offering firm cedar, black licorice, mineral and graphite, with a touch of espresso and tar. Full-bodied, chewy and complex, very backward now but sure to reward. Drink now through 2018. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 1,225 cases made. VM 93+ (5/2017): (15% alcohol): Deep ruby. Liqueur-like aromas of black cherry, cassis, blackberry, bitter chocolate and slightly tarry oak are accented by a minty nuance. Wonderfully broad, fine-grained wine with shocking inner-mouth lift thanks to its balance of sweetness and urgent acidity. Still amazingly primary in a classic mountain style--in fact, almost simple today. Penetrating black fruit, violet and licorice flavors carry impressively on the firmly tannic, chocolatey finish, which shows no dryness. This infant is evolving at a snail's pace.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PrideMountainVineyards.aspVM 94 (6/2011): Deep medium ruby. Pure, lively aromas of blackberry, licorice, dark chocolate and smoked meat. Dense and lush, but with lovely energy and lift to the flavors of currant, licorice and herbs. Really lovely fruit here, with suave, ripe acidity and firm but sweet tannins giving the finish a juicy sweetness not currently displayed by the 2007, which is bigger and more powerful but less showy today. WS 93 (4/2012): This fresh, rich and juicy red features layered flavors of black cherry, red and black licorice, cedar, spice and floral scents. Full-bodied and firming midpalate, this ends with fine-grained, detailed tannins. Drink now through 2024. 531 cases made. WA 92 (12/2011): The 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve is a big, powerful wine loaded with fruit. The tannins are equally imposing. Today the wine comes across as painfully young, but the Reserve has a track record of aging beautifully in bottle, so it will be interesting to see where the 2008 goes over the coming years. Sweet mint, new leather and licorice are some of the nuances that add complexity on the focused, articulate finish. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2028.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PrideMountainVineyards.aspVM 94 (6/2011): Deep medium ruby. Pure, lively aromas of blackberry, licorice, dark chocolate and smoked meat. Dense and lush, but with lovely energy and lift to the flavors of currant, licorice and herbs. Really lovely fruit here, with suave, ripe acidity and firm but sweet tannins giving the finish a juicy sweetness not currently displayed by the 2007, which is bigger and more powerful but less showy today. WS 93 (4/2012): This fresh, rich and juicy red features layered flavors of black cherry, red and black licorice, cedar, spice and floral scents. Full-bodied and firming midpalate, this ends with fine-grained, detailed tannins. Drink now through 2024. 531 cases made. WA 92 (12/2011): The 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve is a big, powerful wine loaded with fruit. The tannins are equally imposing. Today the wine comes across as painfully young, but the Reserve has a track record of aging beautifully in bottle, so it will be interesting to see where the 2008 goes over the coming years. Sweet mint, new leather and licorice are some of the nuances that add complexity on the focused, articulate finish. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2028.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PrideMountainVineyards.aspWA 96 (12/2012): There is no question the 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve is the most backward and brooding of the wines I tasted from Pride. Firm tannins frame an expressive core of dark red berries, licorice, scorched earth, tobacco, smoke and incense. Today, the 2009 is far too young to offer true pleasure, but it is unquestionably striking. Hints of iron, graphite and smoke add complexity on the finish supported by huge mountain tannins. The 2009 is super distinctive and loaded with personality. Anticipated maturity: 2019-2029. VM 94 (5/2012): Good ruby-red. Aromas of black raspberry and dark chocolate punched up by pungent minerality. Less opulent and obviously sweet than the Claret Reserve but higher-pitched and even more intense, with urgent dark berry fruit character dominating. This extremely primary wine shows a powerful rising finish and the structure for a slow and eventful evolution in bottle. WS 93 (12/2012): Offering a generous display of loamy earth, currant, blackberry and baking spice elements, this is nicely structured, with just the right amount of firmness in the tannins and acidity. Elegant and graceful. Drink now through 2023. 1,243 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PrideMountainVineyards.aspWA 100 (10/2015): The incredible 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve is 96% Cabernet Sauvignon and 4% Petit Verdot treated identically to the Reserve Claret (40% new French oak aged in wood for 22 months prior to bottling). There are nearly 1,500 cases of this wine, with 60% coming from the Sonoma side and 40% from Napa. An absolutely amazing nose of camphor, lead pencil shavings, blackberry and cassis, some new saddle leather, a touch of spicy oak followed by a profoundly concentrated, multi-dimensional mouthfeel with gorgeous integration of acidity, tannin, wood and alcohol. This is a fabulous, seamlessly constructed Cabernet Sauvignon to drink now and over the next 15+ years. Kudos to Pride! VM 95+ (10/2015): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve wraps around the palate with serious depth and intensity. Huge, broad swaths of tannin provide the backbone. Dark and intense to the core, the 2012 possesses magnificent intensity as well as considerable structure. Readers will have to be patient, as the Reserve is not forthcoming today, especially within the context of the year. Pride fans won't want to miss the 2012, as it is superb. VM 94+ (6/2015): (14.8% alcohol): Saturated bright ruby. Knockout nose combines crushed blackberry, blueberry, gingerbread, fresh nutmeg, chocolate, mocha and menthol. Almost painfully dense and youthfully shut-down today, in a closed stage just three months after its bottling. But this very powerful mountain Cabernet boasts highly concentrated dark berry and spicecake flavors and already hints at superb chocolatey depth. Finishes with very broad, serious, palate-saturating tannins and terrific length. Ws 93 (10/2015): Features lots of extra facets, from the core of dark berry, licorice, gravel and dust to the pure red berry and spicy oak flavors that peek through midway. The tannins clamp down nicely on the finish. Drink now through 2028. 1,471 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PrideMountainVineyards.aspWA 95 (12/2010): The two most expensive offerings include the 2007 Reserve Claret. Its opaque purple color is followed by a beautiful flowery nose revealing notions of blueberry pie, blackberries, cassis and a hint of vanillin in the background. An opulent, full-bodied red with great depth, purity and richness, it is a blend of 82% Sonoma fruit and 18% Napa fruit. The texture is like a skyscraper and the wine is plush, opulent and ideal for drinking over the next 10-15 years. WS 94 (7/2011): Rich, lush and complex, with red currant and toasty bitter mocha aromas that lead to layered black raspberry, anise and fresh earthy loam flavors. The tannins are big but fleshy. Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Drink now through 2016. 441 cases made. VM 93 (6/2011): (this 60/40 blend of merlot and cabernet sauvignon includes a bit more merlot than usual; there's also a small percentage of 2008 juice in this wine): Good deep ruby-red. Captivating aromas of redcurrant, plum, cedar and tobacco; about as claret-like as mountain fruit can be. Then opulent, round and smooth in the mouth, but with nicely restrained sweetness. Turns more serious on the back end, finishing with suave but firm tannins and building sweetness. This is excellent.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PrideMountainVineyards.aspWA 95 (12/2010): The two most expensive offerings include the 2007 Reserve Claret. Its opaque purple color is followed by a beautiful flowery nose revealing notions of blueberry pie, blackberries, cassis and a hint of vanillin in the background. An opulent, full-bodied red with great depth, purity and richness, it is a blend of 82% Sonoma fruit and 18% Napa fruit. The texture is like a skyscraper and the wine is plush, opulent and ideal for drinking over the next 10-15 years. WS 94 (7/2011): Rich, lush and complex, with red currant and toasty bitter mocha aromas that lead to layered black raspberry, anise and fresh earthy loam flavors. The tannins are big but fleshy. Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Drink now through 2016. 441 cases made. VM 93 (6/2011): (this 60/40 blend of merlot and cabernet sauvignon includes a bit more merlot than usual; there's also a small percentage of 2008 juice in this wine): Good deep ruby-red. Captivating aromas of redcurrant, plum, cedar and tobacco; about as claret-like as mountain fruit can be. Then opulent, round and smooth in the mouth, but with nicely restrained sweetness. Turns more serious on the back end, finishing with suave but firm tannins and building sweetness. This is excellent.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PrideMountainVineyards.aspWA 95 (12/2010): The two most expensive offerings include the 2007 Reserve Claret. Its opaque purple color is followed by a beautiful flowery nose revealing notions of blueberry pie, blackberries, cassis and a hint of vanillin in the background. An opulent, full-bodied red with great depth, purity and richness, it is a blend of 82% Sonoma fruit and 18% Napa fruit. The texture is like a skyscraper and the wine is plush, opulent and ideal for drinking over the next 10-15 years. WS 94 (7/2011): Rich, lush and complex, with red currant and toasty bitter mocha aromas that lead to layered black raspberry, anise and fresh earthy loam flavors. The tannins are big but fleshy. Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Drink now through 2016. 441 cases made. VM 93 (6/2011): (this 60/40 blend of merlot and cabernet sauvignon includes a bit more merlot than usual; there's also a small percentage of 2008 juice in this wine): Good deep ruby-red. Captivating aromas of redcurrant, plum, cedar and tobacco; about as claret-like as mountain fruit can be. Then opulent, round and smooth in the mouth, but with nicely restrained sweetness. Turns more serious on the back end, finishing with suave but firm tannins and building sweetness. This is excellent.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PrideMountainVineyards.aspVm 94+ (12/2012): The Merlot-based 2009 Claret Reserve is gorgeous. Juicy dark cherries, tobacco, smoke and cloves jump out of the glass. The Merlot gives the wine much of its suppleness, while the Cabernet adds the structure and pure mountain tannin. Even with all of its richness, the 2009 remains light on its feet for such a big wine. The 2009 boasts striking balance and tons of harmony. The blend is two-thirds Merlot and one-third Cabernet Sauvignon. Naturally, the Claret doesn't have the personality of the estate's variety wines, but it is compelling just the same. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2029. IWC 93 (5/2012): (a 63/37 blend of merlot and cabernet sauvignon): Bright ruby-red. Inviting aromas of plum, mocha and lead pencil. Lush, sweet, ripe berry flavors display good verve and definition. At once serious and juicy wine, finishing with plush, building tannins and outstanding length. Terrific mountain intensity here.WS 93 (11/2012): A knockout blend that combines the finesse of Merlot with the power of mountain Cabernet fruit. Aromas of red currant, loamy earth and mocha lead to focused and layered black cherry, dried herb and cedar flavors wrapped in dense, fleshy tannins. Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Best from 2014 through 2019. 508 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PrideMountainVineyards.aspVm 94+ (12/2012): The Merlot-based 2009 Claret Reserve is gorgeous. Juicy dark cherries, tobacco, smoke and cloves jump out of the glass. The Merlot gives the wine much of its suppleness, while the Cabernet adds the structure and pure mountain tannin. Even with all of its richness, the 2009 remains light on its feet for such a big wine. The 2009 boasts striking balance and tons of harmony. The blend is two-thirds Merlot and one-third Cabernet Sauvignon. Naturally, the Claret doesn't have the personality of the estate's variety wines, but it is compelling just the same. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2029. IWC 93 (5/2012): (a 63/37 blend of merlot and cabernet sauvignon): Bright ruby-red. Inviting aromas of plum, mocha and lead pencil. Lush, sweet, ripe berry flavors display good verve and definition. At once serious and juicy wine, finishing with plush, building tannins and outstanding length. Terrific mountain intensity here.WS 93 (11/2012): A knockout blend that combines the finesse of Merlot with the power of mountain Cabernet fruit. Aromas of red currant, loamy earth and mocha lead to focused and layered black cherry, dried herb and cedar flavors wrapped in dense, fleshy tannins. Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Best from 2014 through 2019. 508 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PrideMountainVineyards.aspWA 96 (10/2013): The 2010 Claret Reserve, 56% Merlot, 43% Cabernet Sauvignon and 1% Petit Verdot aged 22 months in 40% new French oak, boasts a stunning perfume of lead pencil shavings, charcoal, incense, blackberries, cassis and forest floor aromas. This full-bodied, concentrated, multidimensional red fills the mouth and coats the palate, but never comes across as heavy or unruly. The tannins are velvety and well-integrated in this spectacular, classic Napa red. Drink it over the next 12-15 years. VM 94+ (5/2014): (15% alcohol; made up of 56% Vintner Select merlot, 43% Reserve cabernet sauvignon and 1% petit verdot): Bright ruby-red. Highly complex, vibrant aromas of raspberry, strawberry, exotic spices, dried herbs and sexy oak. Powerful briary mountain berries (more red than black) dominate the palate, which displays a captivating balance of acidity and sweetness. Finishes with serious but ripe tannins and terrific length. Goes well beyond the 2011s in complexity and verve. A beauty. VM 91 (11/2013): The 2010 Claret Reserve (Merlot/Cabernet Sauvignon) is round, supple and very, very pretty. Dark red berries, flowers, mint, sweet tobacco and anise meld together in the glass. The 2010 stands out for its juicy personality and near-term appeal. Fine, silky tannins support a finish laced with spice and floral notes. WS 91 (4/2014): Deep and densely structured, with toasty red currant and dried herb aromas, leading to deep flavors of cherry, cedar and mocha. Finishes with dusty tannins. Needs time. Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot. Best from 2016 through 2021. 569 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PrideMountainVineyards.aspWA 94 (10/2014): The 2011 Claret Reserve is a blend of 65% Merlot and 35% Cabernet Sauvignon aged 22 months in 40% new French oak (472 cases produced). It finished at 14.3% natural alcohol. A dense plum/purple color is followed by wonderful notes of cedarwood, tobacco leaf, Christmas fruitcake, blackcurrants and black cherries. Sumptuous, medium to full-bodied and velvety textured, it can be drunk now and over the next 7-10 years. VM 93 (12/2014): The 2011 Claret Reserve is a gorgeous wine today, but it also has more than enough depth to drink well for a number of years. Pliant and expressive, the 2011 Claret Reserve embodies the very best qualities of this tricky vintage. Red cherry, plum, smoke, leather and cedar flesh out on the expressive, resonant finish. This is a terrific showing from Pride.IWC 92 (5/2014): Good deep red. Slightly high-toned aromas of plum, spices, mocha, fig, vanilla and milk chocolate, lifted by a floral nuance. Then creamy-sweet yet savory and penetrating too, with surprisingly healthy acidity giving elegance and sappiness to the silky middle palate. I like the blend of sweetness and vinosity here. Finishes lightly saline and long, with ripe tannins nicely covered by fruit.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PrideMountainVineyards.aspWA 98 (10/2015): The 2012 Claret Reserve is a blend of 66% Merlot, 29% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Petit Verdot aged in 40% new French oak for 22 months. The bulk of the fruit comes from the Sonoma side of their vineyards, with about 28% from Napa. There are 586 cases of this red, which is one of the more potent wines in the Pride lineup at 14.9% alcohol. The wine has great intensity, a full-bodied mouthfeel, and loads of créme de cassis, chocolate, plum, licorice and foresty undertones. Full-bodied, with oodles of glycerin, a highly extracted, silky mouthfeel, terrific purity, and length of a good 45 to 50 seconds, this fabulous effort can be drunk now or cellared for 12-15+ years. VM 95 (10/2015): The 2012 Claret Reserve is a gorgeous wine that captures the essence of the Pride house style. Sweet dark cherries, tobacco, hard candy, mint, cola and mocha all open up nicely in the glass. Round, succulent and deeply expressive, the 2012 hits all the right notes. Floral and savory notes add lift, but the style remains classic 2012, which is to say racy and voluptuous. The 2012 can be drunk now or cellared for 10-15 years. WS 93 (10/2015): A blockbuster, powerful, rich and well-structured. Floral red currant, mocha and bay leaf aromas give over to focused and supple flavors of black cherry and spicy toast. The finish lingers, with ripe and persistent tannins. Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2024. 586 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PrideMountainVineyards.aspWA 98 (10/2015): Absolutely prodigious is the 100% Cabernet Sauvignon 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Vintner’s Select. Aged in 40% new French oak for 20 months prior to bottling, just under 600 cases of this wine were made. This is a stunner, made primarily from clone 337 with a little of clone 15. A wine of incredible intensity with an inky purple color, its notes of pen ink, graphite, blackberry and blueberry fruit as well as classic cassis are followed by a full-bodied, voluptuously textured, terrific wine with a multi-layered mouthfeel and incredible length. It should drink well for 15 or more years. Two other wines representing the pinnacle of mountain vineyards and great winemaking are the 2012 Reserve Claret and the compelling 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve. WS 93 (10/2015): This is notably graceful for the vintage, featuring a supple core of plum, currant and blackberry flavors that are easy to approach and enjoy. Offers a core of berry fruit, with fine-grained tannins. Drink now through 2027. 592 cases made. VM 92+ (10/2015): Like the Merlot Vintner Select, the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Vintner Select is racy, but not quite as overt or flashy. Dark cherry jam, plums, rose petals and mint open up first, followed by a kick of Cabernet tannin that puts the exclamation point on the finish. Today, the 2012 is a bit compact and in need of time for the tannins to soften a bit more, which will also help release the wine's underlying richness.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PrideMountainVineyards.aspWA 93 (2/2005): Ratcheting up the level of concentration, complexity, and persistence in the mouth is the 2002 Merlot Vintner’s Select (400 cases). An opulent, heady wine that reveals gorgeously melted toffee notes intermixed with blackberry and cherry liqueur, a hint of smoke, underbrush, and fabulous power and richness, this is extraordinarily pure, dense wine that is about as good as Merlot can be in California. Drink it over the next decade.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PrideMountainVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PrimeCellars.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PriveVineyard.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PriveVineyard.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PriveVineyard.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PriveVineyard.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PriveVineyard.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PriveVineyard.aspWA 98+ (10/2013): The 2010 Promontory appears to be a killer wine. It ratchets up the level of concentration, but does not reveal as much of the La Mission Haut-Brion personality as the 2009. It exhibits more creme de cassis, sweet earth, truffle, new saddle leather and background vanilla and barbecue notes. Full-bodied, rich, pure and multidimensional, this wine is a kissing cousin of the great Harlan Estate located five to six miles due north on a similar latitude in the lower Mayacamas Mountains overlooking the Oakville Corridor, whereas Promontory overlooks Yountville. This is another 25-30-year wine from the winemaking team of Harlan Estate and Bond. VM 96+ (10/2015): A big, explosive wine, the 2010 opens with a captivating mélange of graphite, smoke, licorice, gravel and crushed rocks. Firm, incisive tannins give the 2010 much of its sense of gravitas and pure, unbridled energy. The 2010 still needs a few years to soften, as it remains massively structured and tannic, but it has long been a personal favorite.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Promontory(Harlan).aspWS 94 (12/2011): A gorgeous wine through and through, with youthful complex aromatics of ripe plum and black cherry, anise, green olive, loamy earth, melted chocolate and black licorice, a smooth texture and tannins that are ripe and firm, giving excellent structure.—2001 California Cabernet blind retrospective (June 2011). Drink now through 2020. 2,800 cases made. WA 87 (2/2005): The 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville is more structured, tannic, and backward than its Merlot siblings. A deep ruby color is followed by copious quantities of licorice, black currant, and cherry characteristics, medium body, and an elegant finish. I generally adore Oakville Cabernets, but this cuvee is neither as complete nor as complex as the Merlots. That is unusual. Drink it over the next 7-8 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Provenance.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Quady.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Quady.aspWA 100 (4/2006): Unlike some minuscule production “cult" wines or luxury cuvees culled from a winery’s primary product that have earned perfect scores over the years, Quilceda Creek’s Cabernet Sauvignon is the winery’s raison d’etre and is produced in significant quantities (3,400 cases in 2002, 3,425 in 2003). For accomplishing this feat the Golitzens should be doubly proud. Dark ruby-colored and sporting a nose of violets, sweet blueberries, dark cherries, and slight undertones of asphalt, the 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon blossoms on the palate to expose a wine of ethereal delicacy yet immense power. Medium to full-bodied, it expands to reveal concentrated layers of cassis, blackberries, red cherries, raspberries, violets, spices, and touches of candied plums. This rich, exquisitely balanced, sweet, and broad wine is harmonious, graceful, and awesomely long. Projected maturity: now-2022. Congratulations Alex and Paul, welcome to the big leagues. VM 93+ (12/2005): Bright ruby-red. Superripe aromas of cassis, black raspberry, minerals and chocolate. Rich, lush and expressive; superconcentrated but not at all heavy. In fact, this broad, suave wine offers a compellingly silky texture. Finishes impressively rich, dry and long, with firm but fine-grained tannins. Wait until 2010 before drinking this superb cabernet, by which time it may merit an even higher rating. WS 93 (11/2005): Firm and taut, with dusky spice and freshly ground pepper nuances to the dark berry, currant and cherry aromas and flavors, lingering impressively on the chewy finish. Doesn't have the pure fruit of previous vintages, but it should soften and broaden, developing more depth with cellaring. Best from 2008 through 2015. 3,400 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuilcedaCreek.aspWA 100 (4/2006): Unlike some minuscule production “cult" wines or luxury cuvees culled from a winery’s primary product that have earned perfect scores over the years, Quilceda Creek’s Cabernet Sauvignon is the winery’s raison d’etre and is produced in significant quantities (3,400 cases in 2002, 3,425 in 2003). For accomplishing this feat the Golitzens should be doubly proud. Dark ruby-colored and sporting a nose of violets, sweet blueberries, dark cherries, and slight undertones of asphalt, the 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon blossoms on the palate to expose a wine of ethereal delicacy yet immense power. Medium to full-bodied, it expands to reveal concentrated layers of cassis, blackberries, red cherries, raspberries, violets, spices, and touches of candied plums. This rich, exquisitely balanced, sweet, and broad wine is harmonious, graceful, and awesomely long. Projected maturity: now-2022. Congratulations Alex and Paul, welcome to the big leagues.IWC 93+ (12/2005): Bright ruby-red. Superripe aromas of cassis, black raspberry, minerals and chocolate. Rich, lush and expressive; superconcentrated but not at all heavy. In fact, this broad, suave wine offers a compellingly silky texture. Finishes impressively rich, dry and long, with firm but fine-grained tannins. Wait until 2010 before drinking this superb cabernet, by which time it may merit an even higher rating. WS 93 (11/2005): Firm and taut, with dusky spice and freshly ground pepper nuances to the dark berry, currant and cherry aromas and flavors, lingering impressively on the chewy finish. Doesn't have the pure fruit of previous vintages, but it should soften and broaden, developing more depth with cellaring. Best from 2008 through 2015. 3,400 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuilcedaCreek.aspWA 100 (6/2013): Another wine I’ve had multiple times recently, the 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon (97% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3% Merlot) is pure perfection in a glass and yields off-the-hook aromatics of cassis, black raspberries, tobacco leaf, pepper and licorice. Deep, layered and even elegant, with a seamless texture that conceals the sheer wealth of material present, it builds through the mid-palate, possesses huge amounts of extract and masses of polished tannin on the finish. Despite the overall size, it never loses its Cabernet Sauvignon soul and has an almost Bordeaux-like savoriness and tannic frame. Still young (yet gorgeous none the less), it can be enjoyed now or cellared for another 10-15+ years. Drink now-2028. IWC 95+ (12/2006): (includes 2% merlot and 1% cabernet franc; mostly from Champoux Vineyard) Deep medium ruby. Very deep aromas of currant, minerals, meat and smoke, with complicating notes of chocolate, tar and pastry dough. Tightly wound, penetrating and powerful, with terrific precision to the flavors of dark fruits, graphite and minerals. A very firmly structured wine that finishes with superb length, verve and grip. A stunning Washington cabernet. Paul Golitzin says to start drinking this in 2010.WS 95 (6/2006): Richly layered with gorgeous, focused currant, plum and blackberry fruit, shaded with touches of dusky spice and smoky notes from oak, but it's almost subliminal to the harmonious, seamless fruit character. The wine glides over the palate, submerging its tannins to let the flavors soar. Best from 2008 through 2020. 3,400 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuilcedaCreek.aspWA 99 (8/2007): The 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon contains 3% Merlot and 1% Cabernet with the wine sourced from the Champoux, Klipsun, and Taptiel Vineyards. It was aged for 22 months in 100% new French oak. There are 3400 cases produced, most of it sold through the winery’s mailing list and the rest in a handful of markets. Opaque purple-colored, it delivers a remarkable array of aromas including pain grille, violets, pencil lead, truffle, Asian spices, black currant, and blueberry. This leads to a lustrous, layered, velvet-textured wine with gobs of spicy, ripe black fruits and beautifully integrated oak, tannin, and acidity. The long, pure finish goes on for well over a minute. It will evolve for a decade and drink well through 2045. I was able to retaste the 2001, 2002, and 2003 vintages and can only say that Monsieur Rovani’s notes and scores are right on the bulls-eye. WS 95 (6/2007): Velvety and generous. A supple, insinuating style, with coffee and bittersweet chocolate accents around a beautifully contained core of ripe currant, plum and cherry fruit. Has great presence, balance and harmony. The finish expands impressively against a veil of firm tannins and well-integrated oak flavors. Best from 2010 through 2020. 3,400 cases made.IWC 93-96 (12/2006): (with 3% merlot and 1% cabernet franc) Medium ruby. Aromas of cassis, black rasperry, smoke, mocha, coffee and tobacco; still a bit suppressed by SO2 Sweeter and fatter today than the 2003, with a distinct chocolatey flavor, but in its muted state this lacks the high notes of the earlier vintage and shows less obvious spine. But the terrific breadth of the wine is already obvious, and the finish is pliant and long, with building, ripe tannins.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuilcedaCreek.aspWA 99 (10/2009): The flagship 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon comes predominantly from the famous Champoux Vineyard in which the winery is a partner. It was aged in 100% new oak. It sports a deep purple-color with a captivating nose of spice box, sandalwood, truffle, Asian spices, incense, black cherry, and black currant. Opulent on the palate (but elegant as well), it already reveals serious complexity, density, and succulence of fruit. Enjoyable now but with at least 8-10 years of cellaring potential, this marvelous effort should have a 30 year lifespan. VM 95+ (12/2009): Good deep ruby-red. Cassis, licorice pastille, violet, incense and sexy smoky oak on the nose. Densely packed, intense and sweet but the most backward and primary of these 2006s. Wonderfully full, chocolatey fruit saturates the palate. Quilceda Creek's flagship bottling has become more of a competition wine lately than this producer's examples in the '80s and '90s, but this very powerful wine boasts greater vibrancy and focus than recent vintages and seems as much Pauillac in character as Napa Valley cult wine. Finishes ripe but classically dry, with terrific medicinal reserve and slowly building tannins that reach the front teeth. A bit youthfully monolithic now, this really demands cellaring. WS 94 (7/2009): Very ripe and generous. Not a big wine, but brims with plum, currant, black olive, cedar and roasted meat flavors, all playing against crisp tannins and lingering on the tight finish. Needs time in the cellar in order to open and flourish. Best from 2012 through 2020. 3,200 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuilcedaCreek.aspWA 99 (10/2009): The flagship 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon comes predominantly from the famous Champoux Vineyard in which the winery is a partner. It was aged in 100% new oak. It sports a deep purple-color with a captivating nose of spice box, sandalwood, truffle, Asian spices, incense, black cherry, and black currant. Opulent on the palate (but elegant as well), it already reveals serious complexity, density, and succulence of fruit. Enjoyable now but with at least 8-10 years of cellaring potential, this marvelous effort should have a 30 year lifespan. VM 95+ (12/2009): Good deep ruby-red. Cassis, licorice pastille, violet, incense and sexy smoky oak on the nose. Densely packed, intense and sweet but the most backward and primary of these 2006s. Wonderfully full, chocolatey fruit saturates the palate. Quilceda Creek's flagship bottling has become more of a competition wine lately than this producer's examples in the '80s and '90s, but this very powerful wine boasts greater vibrancy and focus than recent vintages and seems as much Pauillac in character as Napa Valley cult wine. Finishes ripe but classically dry, with terrific medicinal reserve and slowly building tannins that reach the front teeth. A bit youthfully monolithic now, this really demands cellaring. WS 94 (7/2009): Very ripe and generous. Not a big wine, but brims with plum, currant, black olive, cedar and roasted meat flavors, all playing against crisp tannins and lingering on the tight finish. Needs time in the cellar in order to open and flourish. Best from 2012 through 2020. 3,200 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuilcedaCreek.aspWA 99 (10/2009): The flagship 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon comes predominantly from the famous Champoux Vineyard in which the winery is a partner. It was aged in 100% new oak. It sports a deep purple-color with a captivating nose of spice box, sandalwood, truffle, Asian spices, incense, black cherry, and black currant. Opulent on the palate (but elegant as well), it already reveals serious complexity, density, and succulence of fruit. Enjoyable now but with at least 8-10 years of cellaring potential, this marvelous effort should have a 30 year lifespan. VM 95+ (12/2009): Good deep ruby-red. Cassis, licorice pastille, violet, incense and sexy smoky oak on the nose. Densely packed, intense and sweet but the most backward and primary of these 2006s. Wonderfully full, chocolatey fruit saturates the palate. Quilceda Creek's flagship bottling has become more of a competition wine lately than this producer's examples in the '80s and '90s, but this very powerful wine boasts greater vibrancy and focus than recent vintages and seems as much Pauillac in character as Napa Valley cult wine. Finishes ripe but classically dry, with terrific medicinal reserve and slowly building tannins that reach the front teeth. A bit youthfully monolithic now, this really demands cellaring. WS 94 (7/2009): Very ripe and generous. Not a big wine, but brims with plum, currant, black olive, cedar and roasted meat flavors, all playing against crisp tannins and lingering on the tight finish. Needs time in the cellar in order to open and flourish. Best from 2012 through 2020. 3,200 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuilcedaCreek.aspWA 100 (6/2013): A monumental wine in the making, the 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon is one of those wines that presents such an over the top array of aromas and flavors that it’s hard to figure out what you think about it with just a quick glance. It’s only with the second or third sip that you really start to see how special this effort truly is. Offering up perfumed, intense aromas of plum, violets, ink, licorice and black currants, it flows onto the palate with a massive, incredibly full-bodied texture that builds through the mid-palate and carries layers of polished tannins, awesome purity of fruit and blockbuster length. Most likely not for everyone given the sheer size, it is an incredible wine in my opinion. Still tasting like a barrel sample, it will have 30+ total years of longevity. Drink 2017-2037. VM 95+ (11/2010): (includes 3% merlot; 15.2% alcohol) Dark medium ruby. Lovely vibrancy to the aromas of blackcurrant, plum, licorice and cocoa powder, with a strong impression of minerality. Like liquid silk on the palate and yet powerful at the same time, with strong minerality contributing to the impression of lift and inner-mouth perfume. The dark berry, violet and cocoa powder flavors offer compelling early sweetness, and this wine's wonderfully lush tannins will not get in the way of early enjoyment. A great example of the new generation of Quilceda Creek cabernet. Based on its superb length and balance, I'd cellar this for even more fireworks ahead. WS 94 (10/2010): Firm, with a light grip of tannins around a core of dark berry, currant, smoke and tobacco flavors. This has elegance and depth, with a welcome sense of reticence that doesn't push the flavors too strong. Finishes very long, with a silky texture. Drink now through 2017. 4,250 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuilcedaCreek.aspWA 100 (6/2013): A monumental wine in the making, the 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon is one of those wines that presents such an over the top array of aromas and flavors that it’s hard to figure out what you think about it with just a quick glance. It’s only with the second or third sip that you really start to see how special this effort truly is. Offering up perfumed, intense aromas of plum, violets, ink, licorice and black currants, it flows onto the palate with a massive, incredibly full-bodied texture that builds through the mid-palate and carries layers of polished tannins, awesome purity of fruit and blockbuster length. Most likely not for everyone given the sheer size, it is an incredible wine in my opinion. Still tasting like a barrel sample, it will have 30+ total years of longevity. Drink 2017-2037. VM 95+ (11/2010): (includes 3% merlot; 15.2% alcohol) Dark medium ruby. Lovely vibrancy to the aromas of blackcurrant, plum, licorice and cocoa powder, with a strong impression of minerality. Like liquid silk on the palate and yet powerful at the same time, with strong minerality contributing to the impression of lift and inner-mouth perfume. The dark berry, violet and cocoa powder flavors offer compelling early sweetness, and this wine's wonderfully lush tannins will not get in the way of early enjoyment. A great example of the new generation of Quilceda Creek cabernet. Based on its superb length and balance, I'd cellar this for even more fireworks ahead. WS 94 (10/2010): Firm, with a light grip of tannins around a core of dark berry, currant, smoke and tobacco flavors. This has elegance and depth, with a welcome sense of reticence that doesn't push the flavors too strong. Finishes very long, with a silky texture. Drink now through 2017. 4,250 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuilcedaCreek.aspWA 100 (6/2013): A monumental wine in the making, the 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon is one of those wines that presents such an over the top array of aromas and flavors that it’s hard to figure out what you think about it with just a quick glance. It’s only with the second or third sip that you really start to see how special this effort truly is. Offering up perfumed, intense aromas of plum, violets, ink, licorice and black currants, it flows onto the palate with a massive, incredibly full-bodied texture that builds through the mid-palate and carries layers of polished tannins, awesome purity of fruit and blockbuster length. Most likely not for everyone given the sheer size, it is an incredible wine in my opinion. Still tasting like a barrel sample, it will have 30+ total years of longevity. Drink 2017-2037. VM 95+ (11/2010): (includes 3% merlot; 15.2% alcohol) Dark medium ruby. Lovely vibrancy to the aromas of blackcurrant, plum, licorice and cocoa powder, with a strong impression of minerality. Like liquid silk on the palate and yet powerful at the same time, with strong minerality contributing to the impression of lift and inner-mouth perfume. The dark berry, violet and cocoa powder flavors offer compelling early sweetness, and this wine's wonderfully lush tannins will not get in the way of early enjoyment. A great example of the new generation of Quilceda Creek cabernet. Based on its superb length and balance, I'd cellar this for even more fireworks ahead. WS 94 (10/2010): Firm, with a light grip of tannins around a core of dark berry, currant, smoke and tobacco flavors. This has elegance and depth, with a welcome sense of reticence that doesn't push the flavors too strong. Finishes very long, with a silky texture. Drink now through 2017. 4,250 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuilcedaCreek.aspWA 100 (6/2013): A monumental wine in the making, the 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon is one of those wines that presents such an over the top array of aromas and flavors that it’s hard to figure out what you think about it with just a quick glance. It’s only with the second or third sip that you really start to see how special this effort truly is. Offering up perfumed, intense aromas of plum, violets, ink, licorice and black currants, it flows onto the palate with a massive, incredibly full-bodied texture that builds through the mid-palate and carries layers of polished tannins, awesome purity of fruit and blockbuster length. Most likely not for everyone given the sheer size, it is an incredible wine in my opinion. Still tasting like a barrel sample, it will have 30+ total years of longevity. Drink 2017-2037. VM 95+ (11/2010): (includes 3% merlot; 15.2% alcohol) Dark medium ruby. Lovely vibrancy to the aromas of blackcurrant, plum, licorice and cocoa powder, with a strong impression of minerality. Like liquid silk on the palate and yet powerful at the same time, with strong minerality contributing to the impression of lift and inner-mouth perfume. The dark berry, violet and cocoa powder flavors offer compelling early sweetness, and this wine's wonderfully lush tannins will not get in the way of early enjoyment. A great example of the new generation of Quilceda Creek cabernet. Based on its superb length and balance, I'd cellar this for even more fireworks ahead. WS 94 (10/2010): Firm, with a light grip of tannins around a core of dark berry, currant, smoke and tobacco flavors. This has elegance and depth, with a welcome sense of reticence that doesn't push the flavors too strong. Finishes very long, with a silky texture. Drink now through 2017. 4,250 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuilcedaCreek.aspWA 97+ (6/2013): More pure and focused than the 2009, with a slightly closer to the vest feel, the 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon shows the cooler nature of the vintage and has incredible detail, purity and freshness to its aromas and flavors. A blend of 98% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Merlot that spent 22 months in 100% new French oak, it offers classic black currant, spice box, coffee bean, violets and exotic spices to go with an ethereal, layered and seamless palate that delivers massive amounts of fruit and texture without any apparent weight. I thoroughly enjoyed it now, yet it will age for decades. Drink now-2033. VM 96 (11/2011): (cabernet sauvignon blended with 2% merlot): Good full red-ruby. Complex, slightly high-toned aromas of plum and brown sugar. Wonderfully sweet but firmly built; dense, smooth and complex, with the terrific definition of the 2008 vintage at its best. A hint of nutty ripeness is countered by a lively suggestion of eucalyptus. This is harmonious from day one. Comes across as less sweet than the Palengat, finishing with great length and breadth but no undue weight, and spreading out to coat the mouth with flavor. WS 94 (8/2011): Firm in texture, with sandy tannins around a supple core of ripe, plush cherry, tobacco and tar flavors. Finishes with persistence and flashes of sage and bay leaf. Long and inviting, this is built for the cellar. Best from 2014 through 2020.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuilcedaCreek.aspWA 97+ (6/2013): More pure and focused than the 2009, with a slightly closer to the vest feel, the 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon shows the cooler nature of the vintage and has incredible detail, purity and freshness to its aromas and flavors. A blend of 98% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Merlot that spent 22 months in 100% new French oak, it offers classic black currant, spice box, coffee bean, violets and exotic spices to go with an ethereal, layered and seamless palate that delivers massive amounts of fruit and texture without any apparent weight. I thoroughly enjoyed it now, yet it will age for decades. Drink now-2033. VM 96 (11/2011): (cabernet sauvignon blended with 2% merlot): Good full red-ruby. Complex, slightly high-toned aromas of plum and brown sugar. Wonderfully sweet but firmly built; dense, smooth and complex, with the terrific definition of the 2008 vintage at its best. A hint of nutty ripeness is countered by a lively suggestion of eucalyptus. This is harmonious from day one. Comes across as less sweet than the Palengat, finishing with great length and breadth but no undue weight, and spreading out to coat the mouth with flavor. WS 94 (8/2011): Firm in texture, with sandy tannins around a supple core of ripe, plush cherry, tobacco and tar flavors. Finishes with persistence and flashes of sage and bay leaf. Long and inviting, this is built for the cellar. Best from 2014 through 2020.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuilcedaCreek.aspWA 99 (6/2013): The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon (98% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Merlot) is a ripe, flamboyant and brilliantly proportioned effort that oozes kirsch, licorice, lead pencil shavings and dried spice on the nose. Showing the perfume and headiness of the vintage, it nevertheless stays vibrant and lively on the palate while delivering layers of fruit and texture. While formidably structured and tannic, it can be enjoyed now due to the overall tannin quality and purity of fruit. It will evolve and drink well for over two decades. Drink now-2029. WS 96 (9/2012): Pure and impressively expressive, with focused currant, plum, blackberry and black olive aromatics turning on the palate to a more complex profile, weaving in coffee, crème brûlée and chai tea notes, all wrapped in a polished texture. The finish doesn’t want to quit. Best from 2015 through 2024. VM 95 (12/2012): (includes 2% merlot; 90% estate grown fruit from Champoux, the rest from Klipsun and Tapteil): Deep ruby-red. Black fruits, licorice and sandalwood on the nose. Offers uncanny sweetness and depth, not to mention great breadth of texture to the plush flavors of dark berries, chocolate and expensive oak. At once chewy and seamless cabernet, finishing extremely long and smooth, with big but thoroughly suave tannins.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuilcedaCreek.aspWA 99 (6/2013): The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon (98% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Merlot) is a ripe, flamboyant and brilliantly proportioned effort that oozes kirsch, licorice, lead pencil shavings and dried spice on the nose. Showing the perfume and headiness of the vintage, it nevertheless stays vibrant and lively on the palate while delivering layers of fruit and texture. While formidably structured and tannic, it can be enjoyed now due to the overall tannin quality and purity of fruit. It will evolve and drink well for over two decades. Drink now-2029. WS 96 (9/2012): Pure and impressively expressive, with focused currant, plum, blackberry and black olive aromatics turning on the palate to a more complex profile, weaving in coffee, crème brûlée and chai tea notes, all wrapped in a polished texture. The finish doesn’t want to quit. Best from 2015 through 2024. IWC 95 (12/2012): (includes 2% merlot; 90% estate grown fruit from Champoux, the rest from Klipsun and Tapteil): Deep ruby-red. Black fruits, licorice and sandalwood on the nose. Offers uncanny sweetness and depth, not to mention great breadth of texture to the plush flavors of dark berries, chocolate and expensive oak. At once chewy and seamless cabernet, finishing extremely long and smooth, with big but thoroughly suave tannins.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuilcedaCreek.aspWA 98+ (6/2013): Rich, backwards, structured and massively concentrated, the 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon comes mostly from the Champoux Vineyard (also from Galitzine, Klipsun, Palengat and Tapteil) and is comprised of 99% Cabernet Sauvignon and 1% Merlot that spent 22 months in all new French oak. Offering up plenty of creme de cassis, coffee bean, toasted spice, pencil shavings and violet-like qualities on the nose, it has palate staining levels of extract and tannin that come through on the mid-palate and finish. Gorgeously full-bodied, layered and textured, with perfect balance, this awesome Cabernet needs to be forgotten for 5-6 years and will have two to three decades of longevity. Drink 2018-2030. WS 95 (7/2013): Polished, vibrant and distinctive, with coffee and jasmine tea accents around a supple core of cherry and red plum fruit. The nubby tannins rub gently against the long finish. Displays tremendous depth while holding its power in check. Best from 2015 through 2025.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuilcedaCreek.aspWA 99 (6/2016): I think the wine of the vintage, the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon from the Columbia Valley is flat out sensational, and flirts with perfection. Its inky ruby/purple color is followed by incredible notes of cassis, black currants, smoked herbs, licorice and graphite. These give way to a full-bodied, utterly seamless Cabernet that has full-bodied richness, ultra-fine tannin and a killer finish. While it possesses the elegance and purity of the vintage, it has a stacked mid-palate, and deserves 4-5 years of cellaring. It will have two decades or more of overall longevity. VM 96 (11/206): (100% new oak, including a high percentage of Taransaud barrels): Dark red-ruby. Sensational, very ripe nose combines wild raspberry, mocha, cocoa powder, licorice, minerals and exotic spices, with an intriguing suggestion of alpine berries introducing a pungent topnote. At once creamy and intense, offering compelling inner-mouth perfume to its raspberry, spice and tropical dark chocolate flavors. Finishing with a serious spine of big, enveloping tannins and outstanding spicy persistence and perfume, this utterly complete wine is built for a long and eventful evolution in bottle. One of my candidates for wine of the 2013 vintage. Stephen Tanzer. WS 94 (9/2016): Broad and expressive, layering black cherry, plum, pear and black tea flavors into a beam that focuses the finish against well-managed but present tannins. Has depth, marvelous expression and length. Best from 2018 through 2025. 3,705 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuilcedaCreek.aspWA 96-98 (6/2015): One of the most impressive barrels samples I was able to taste during my trip through the region, the Galitzin's 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon (100% Cabernet Sauvignon) has a classic, structured feel, as well as sensational purity of fruit. Giving up lots of cassis, currants, spicy oak and bouquet garni, with subtle violet qualities with air, it hits the palate with serious richness, a full, layered mid-palate and masses of sweet tannin. Like most of Paul's wines, I think they have the fruit and texture to offer plenty of pleasure in their youth, yet they don't hit their stride until at least 5-7 years after the vintage.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuilcedaCreek.aspWA 93 (8/2010): The 2007 Red Wine is composed of 72% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, with the balance Cabernet Franc and Malbec. As always, it is a great value offering a fragrant, already complex nose of confiture of black fruits, incense, and Asian spices. On the palate it is savory and elegant with a plush texture. It is likely to evolve for several years but there is no compelling reason to defer gratification.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuilcedaCreek.aspWA 91 (6/2014): The 2011 Columbia Valley Red Wine offers the classic creme de cassis, graphite, toasted spice and hints of licorice that seems to be present in all of the estate’s Cabernets. Medium to full-bodied, supple and already approachable, it nevertheless has the back-end stuffing to evolve gracefully for upwards of a decade.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuilcedaCreek.aspWA 91 (6/2014): The 2011 Columbia Valley Red Wine offers the classic creme de cassis, graphite, toasted spice and hints of licorice that seems to be present in all of the estate’s Cabernets. Medium to full-bodied, supple and already approachable, it nevertheless has the back-end stuffing to evolve gracefully for upwards of a decade.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuilcedaCreek.aspWA 91 (6/2014): The 2011 Columbia Valley Red Wine offers the classic creme de cassis, graphite, toasted spice and hints of licorice that seems to be present in all of the estate’s Cabernets. Medium to full-bodied, supple and already approachable, it nevertheless has the back-end stuffing to evolve gracefully for upwards of a decade.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuilcedaCreek.aspWA 97 (6/2008): The 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Galitzine Vineyard comes from the fifth leaf of this estate vineyard and in this vintage contains 4.5% Merlot. The wine was aged for 22 months in 100% new French oak. Opaque purple-colored, its distinctive aromatics leap from the glass. Toasty oak, scorched earth, a hint of truffle, black cherry, black raspberry, and blackberry liqueur aromas are quite mesmerizing. On the palate, this sizable effort is firm, full-bodied, and structured, demanding 6-8 years of cellaring. It falls a bit short of the flagship Cabernet Sauvignon in terms of complexity but bear in mind that this is still a very young vineyard. It should be hitting its stride by 2015 and remain at that level through 2035. VM 93+ (12/2008): Bright, deep red-ruby. Slightly higher-toned on the nose than the estate cabernet, with aromas of dark cherry, minerals, smoky oak and sweet butter, complicated by a musky meaty quality. Not quite as dense as the flagship cabernet (this represents a selection of the best barrels from vines planted in 2001 and 2002), but conveys a more immediate sense of energy and back-end lift, with firm blueberry and mineral flavors. Finishes with big, ripe tannins that coat the teeth. Whereas the estate cabernet seemed to tighten up with extended aeration and show more grip, this one gained in breadth.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuilcedaCreek.aspWA 96 (10/2009): The 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Galitzine Vineyard, located in the Red Mountain AVA, is 100% varietal. Dark ruby/purple in color, it delivers an enticing nose of pain grille, pencil lead, earth notes, spice box, violets, and assorted black fruits. On the palate it is dense, ripe, full-bodied, and structured. Still a bit tightly wound, it will reveal its full potential with another 5-7 years of cellaring. It will provide much pleasure from 2015 to 2026 at the least.IWC 94 (12/2009): Deep ruby-red. Sweet blackberry, cassis, licorice pastille and violet on the nose, plus a whiff of mocha. Very fresh flavors of crushed blackberry, bitter chocolate and menthol boast excellent definition and lift, with exotic floral and spice notes adding nuance. The most complete vintage yet for this bottling, finishing with suave, building tannins and complex notes of cocoa powder, dried flowers and incense. Not at all overly sweet. Especially remarkable in light of the fact that these vines were planted in 2001 and 2002.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuilcedaCreek.aspWA 96 (10/2009): The 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Galitzine Vineyard, located in the Red Mountain AVA, is 100% varietal. Dark ruby/purple in color, it delivers an enticing nose of pain grille, pencil lead, earth notes, spice box, violets, and assorted black fruits. On the palate it is dense, ripe, full-bodied, and structured. Still a bit tightly wound, it will reveal its full potential with another 5-7 years of cellaring. It will provide much pleasure from 2015 to 2026 at the least.IWC 94 (12/2009): Deep ruby-red. Sweet blackberry, cassis, licorice pastille and violet on the nose, plus a whiff of mocha. Very fresh flavors of crushed blackberry, bitter chocolate and menthol boast excellent definition and lift, with exotic floral and spice notes adding nuance. The most complete vintage yet for this bottling, finishing with suave, building tannins and complex notes of cocoa powder, dried flowers and incense. Not at all overly sweet. Especially remarkable in light of the fact that these vines were planted in 2001 and 2002.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuilcedaCreek.aspWA 98 (8/2011): The 2008 Galitzine Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon contains 1% Merlot. It proffers a brooding aromatic array of toasty oak, Asian spices, incense, a hint of sage, violets, and assorted black fruits. More structured than the preceding wines, “No doubting it’s Red Mountain" say the Golitzins, it has plenty of ripe tannin more than balanced by loads of succulent fruit, exceptional density, richness and power. Give it 5-6 years and drink it from 2016 to 2033.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuilcedaCreek.aspWA 97 (6/2013): Even more concentrated, structured and dense than the Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Galitzine Vineyard (99% Cabernet Sauvignon and 1% Merlot all from the Red Mountain AVA) delivers an incredible array of black currant, dark chocolate, cedar, tobacco and assorted spring flower-like nuances that give way to a massively concentrated, tannic and structured 2010 that has brilliant mid-palate depth, integrated acidity and a pure, detailed and energetic texture that carries through the finish. As with the 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon, this is more fun to taste than to drink presently and needs 5-6 years or more of bottle age to round into form. It too will have two to three decades or more of ultimate longevity. Drink 2018-2035.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuilcedaCreek.aspWA 97 (6/2013): Even more concentrated, structured and dense than the Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Galitzine Vineyard (99% Cabernet Sauvignon and 1% Merlot all from the Red Mountain AVA) delivers an incredible array of black currant, dark chocolate, cedar, tobacco and assorted spring flower-like nuances that give way to a massively concentrated, tannic and structured 2010 that has brilliant mid-palate depth, integrated acidity and a pure, detailed and energetic texture that carries through the finish. As with the 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon, this is more fun to taste than to drink presently and needs 5-6 years or more of bottle age to round into form. It too will have two to three decades or more of ultimate longevity. Drink 2018-2035.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuilcedaCreek.aspWA 95 (6/2014): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Galitzine Vineyard comes all from the Golitzin’s Red Mountain vineyard and is almost all Cabernet Sauvignon. One of the richest and most concentrated wines in the vintage, it offer fabulous creme de cassis, black raspberry, graphite, toast and licorice aromas and flavors to go with a full-bodied, seamless and beautifully balanced profile on the palate. As expected, it doesn’t have the sheer wealth of material that’s present in the prior vintages, yet everything is perfectly proportioned, it has excellent mid-palate depth and notable, sweet tannin. It benefits from a decant and will have upwards of two decades of longevity.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuilcedaCreek.aspVM 94+ (11/2015): (15.2% alcohol; 3% of this Cabernet comes from Wallula): Bright, dark ruby. Very refined, high-pitched aromas of blackberry, cassis, boysenberry and violet; smells lighter than the flagship Cabernet and more peppery. Dense, silky and weightless in the mouth, conveying a refined texture to its very intense flavors of cassis, licorice pastille and dark chocolate. Less fleshy and sweet today than the Cabernet but this wine is still youthfully imploded. Big, building tannins are less suave than those of the Cabernet, despite the fact that both wines are made with the same Cabernet Sauvignon clone. Finishes with a sexy cocoa powder quality that must be from the Taransaud barrels.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuilcedaCreek.aspVM 94+ (11/2015): (15.2% alcohol; 3% of this Cabernet comes from Wallula): Bright, dark ruby. Very refined, high-pitched aromas of blackberry, cassis, boysenberry and violet; smells lighter than the flagship Cabernet and more peppery. Dense, silky and weightless in the mouth, conveying a refined texture to its very intense flavors of cassis, licorice pastille and dark chocolate. Less fleshy and sweet today than the Cabernet but this wine is still youthfully imploded. Big, building tannins are less suave than those of the Cabernet, despite the fact that both wines are made with the same Cabernet Sauvignon clone. Finishes with a sexy cocoa powder quality that must be from the Taransaud barrels.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuilcedaCreek.aspWA 98 (6/2016): An utterly prodigious effort that would most likely be the wine of the vintage if not for its big brother, the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Galitzine Vineyard comes all from Red Mountain and was raised in 100% new French oak. Revealing a healthy ruby/purple color and classic notes of sage brush, graphite, black cherries, currants and chocolate, it hits the palate with full-bodied richness; building, present, yet ripe and polished tannin; perfect integration of its fruit, alcohol and oak; and awesome length. This is a powerhouse Cabernet Sauvignon that still holds onto a sense of elegance and finesse. Forget it for 4-5 years and drink bottles over the following two decades. VM 94+ (11/2016): Deep ruby-red color. High-pitched aromas of blackberry, cassis and violet lifted by a pungent licorice note that may come from the very expensive, long-seasoned, tight-grained Taransaud T5 barrels. Tighter and less pliant in the early going than the flagship Cabernet Sauvignon but with a remarkably juicy intensity and superb inner-mouth perfume to the flavors of dark berries, wild rose and Belgian dark chocolate. Still youthfully imploded but boasts uncanny energy for this warm year. The tannins saturate the front teeth. This wonderfully cerebral wine is Lafite to the more powerful, densely packed flagship wine's Latour. Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuilcedaCreek.aspWA 97 (8/2011): The 2008 Palengat Proprietary Red Wine is made up of 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Cabernet Franc, with the balance Merlot and Petit Verdot. The fruit was sourced entirely from the Palengat Vineyard. Pain grille, pencil lead, Asian spices, incense, violets, dried herbs, black currant, and blackberry aromas compose the bouquet of this impeccably balanced offering. It opens in the glass to reveal plush, succulent flavors, superb concentration, plenty of ripe tannin, and at least 4-5 years of aging potential. It will deliver optimum drinking from 2015 to 2028. VM 94 (10/2011): (76% cabernet sauvignon, 14% cabernet franc, 7% merlot and 3% petit verdot; this used to be a single-vineyard wine but Palengat is now used as the name for a proprietary Bordeaux blend): Expressive aromas of cassis, cocoa powder and brown spices. Sweet and smooth on entry, then intensely flavored and tactile in the middle, with a plush creme de cassis flavor framed and intensified by mounting graphite minerality. Wonderfully suave wine with terrific back-end volume, very smooth tannins and lingering spiciness. Paul Golitzin describes 2008 as "focused and complex," while the 2009s, he says, are "ripe and fruity, like the 2005s." He says that he may prefer 2009 at this stage.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuilcedaCreek.aspWA 97 (6/2013): Refined, elegant and supple, yet also rich and concentrated, the Merlot-dominated 2010 Palengat has 22% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc and 7% Petit Verdot in the blend and spent 20 months in 100% new French oak. Gorgeous on the nose, with notions of creme de cassis, violets, graphite and mint, it flows onto the palate with full-bodied richness and depth that’s paired with a seamless, incredibly elegant and polished texture. Firming up on the finish with masses of tannin, mineral and juicy acidity, this incredible 2010 needs 3-5 years of bottle age and will have upwards of 15-20 years of ultimate longevity. Drink now-2030. IWC 91+ (11/2013): (15.2% alcohol; 64% merlot, 22% cabernet sauvignon and 7% each cabernet franc and petit verdot): Good dark ruby-red. Superripe aromas of blackberry, licorice and espresso. High-toned and a bit liqueur-like in the mouth, with round, primary dark fruit flavors joined by licorice, milk chocolate and graphite. A somewhat unrefined if serious blend that finishes with chewy, chocolatey tannins that coat the front teeth and a slight impression of warmth. This was previously a cabernet-driven wine.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuilcedaCreek.aspWA 97 (6/2013): Refined, elegant and supple, yet also rich and concentrated, the Merlot-dominated 2010 Palengat has 22% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc and 7% Petit Verdot in the blend and spent 20 months in 100% new French oak. Gorgeous on the nose, with notions of creme de cassis, violets, graphite and mint, it flows onto the palate with full-bodied richness and depth that’s paired with a seamless, incredibly elegant and polished texture. Firming up on the finish with masses of tannin, mineral and juicy acidity, this incredible 2010 needs 3-5 years of bottle age and will have upwards of 15-20 years of ultimate longevity. Drink now-2030. IWC 91+ (11/2013): (15.2% alcohol; 64% merlot, 22% cabernet sauvignon and 7% each cabernet franc and petit verdot): Good dark ruby-red. Superripe aromas of blackberry, licorice and espresso. High-toned and a bit liqueur-like in the mouth, with round, primary dark fruit flavors joined by licorice, milk chocolate and graphite. A somewhat unrefined if serious blend that finishes with chewy, chocolatey tannins that coat the front teeth and a slight impression of warmth. This was previously a cabernet-driven wine.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuilcedaCreek.aspWA 95 (6/2014): A blend of 61% Merlot, 26% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Cabernet Franc and the balance Petit Verdot, the 2011 Palengat Vineyard has a great bouquet of sweet plum liqueur, blackberry, graphite, lead pencil shavings and toast. This is followed by a full-bodied effort that has beautiful concentration (especially in the vintage), loads of texture and ripe underlying tannic structure. Reasonably approachable now, it will nevertheless evolve gracefully on its overall balance. Enjoy bottles over the coming 10-15 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuilcedaCreek.aspWA 95 (6/2014): A blend of 61% Merlot, 26% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Cabernet Franc and the balance Petit Verdot, the 2011 Palengat Vineyard has a great bouquet of sweet plum liqueur, blackberry, graphite, lead pencil shavings and toast. This is followed by a full-bodied effort that has beautiful concentration (especially in the vintage), loads of texture and ripe underlying tannic structure. Reasonably approachable now, it will nevertheless evolve gracefully on its overall balance. Enjoy bottles over the coming 10-15 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuilcedaCreek.aspWA 94 (6/2015): A single-vineyard blend of 59% Merlot, 29% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot, the 2012 Palengat Vineyard offers a deep, decadent style to go with classic blackberry liqueur, blueberry, graphite, toasted spices and licorice. A big, beefy, layered and full-bodied effort, it has building tannin, a supple mid-palate and terrific length. It should evolve nicely for 2-4 years and hold for a decade or more after that. VM 93 (11/2015): (100% new oak): Inviting aromas of blackcurrant, black raspberry, plum, Belgian chocolate and graphite minerality. Plump, round and mouthfilling; seriously dense and silky, showing enticing lift to the flavors of dark berries, licorice, graphite, lavender and cocoa powder. Finishes very long and vibrant, with big but fine-grained tannins and a repeating note of cocoa powder. Incidentally, the Palengat vineyard features the Golitzins' densest planting, at 2,410 vines to the acre.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuilcedaCreek.aspWA 97 (12/2015): A real killer effort is the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard. This shows nice, gravelly, earthy notes intermixed with a floral component, blackberry and blueberry, a sensationally saturated purple color and fabulous opulence and richness. Once again, this is a great effort and a pretty fair price point for a Beckstoffer Vineyard-sourced wine. This should drink well for 15-20 years. JS 95 (1/2016): So much eucalyptus in the nose with blackberry and white pepper. Full body, round and silky tannins and a bright and fresh finish. Chewy and serious. Fantastic finish. A super wine with focus from the Las Piedras Vineyard. Better in 2019. WS 91 (11/2016): A sophisticated effort, with rich, creamy oak and dark berry notes that are full-bodied and caressing even as the tannins gain presence. Hints of licorice, sage, crushed rock and herb add flavor and textural dimension. Drink now through 2030. 125 cases made. VM 87 (10/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Las Piedras is rich, dark and intense. The style is opulent, ripe and full-throttle, with plenty of intensity. I don't see much of the typical Las Piedras energy or minerality here, while the distinctly sweet finish is distracting. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuivetCellars.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuivetCellars.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuivetCellars.aspIWC 90+ (5/2012): Bright red-ruby. Complex, sexy, varietally expressive nose offers blackberry, raspberry, violet face powder, smoked meat and bacon fat: a real essence of the northern Rhone. Supple on entry, then firmer in the middle, with dark berry flavors framed by an edge of acidity and lifted by a floral element. A bit youthfully ungiving, and less pliant than the Kenefick Ranch syrah, but not hard. The pronounced acidity carries through on the persistent finish, which leaves behind notes of black raspberry, spices and wild herbs. Winemaker Mike Smith has crafted two wonderfully perfumed syrahs that lack only the pliancy for even higher scores. But I should note that my sample expanded with air without losing its verve.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuivetCellars.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuivetCellars.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuivetCellars.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuivetCellars.aspIWC 91 (5/2012): Bright red-ruby. Captivating, slightly candied perfume of blackberry, violet pastille, licorice, woodsmoke, bacon fat and orange peel; very northern Rhone-like. Then densely packed if initially a bit clenched, offering lovely inner-mouth aromatic character to its bright blackberry and violet flavors. Finishes with smooth tannins and very good length. Quite compelling on the nose but will it expand in the mouth with some bottle age?http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuivetCellars.aspIWC 88+ (6/2013): Bright medium red-ruby. Black raspberry, violet pastille, mocha and exotic flowers on the nose, along with a faint weedy element. Sexy and sappy on entry, then a bit clenched in the middle, with a distinctly herbal quality to the sour cherry and licorice flavors. Not as expressive or ripe as the very good 2010 version. I was bothered by a streak of green acidity running through the wine.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuivetCellars.aspVM 88 (1/2015): Quivet's 2013 Syrah Kenefick Ranch, from a warm site in Calistoga, hits the palate with masses of intense, dark fruit. Game, smoke, tobacco, licorice and leather add complexity, but the wine remains marked by its intense heaviness and ripeness, which ultimately convey a one-dimensional view of what this vineyard has to offer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuivetCellars.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuivetCellars.aspWA 93 (10/2014): A beautiful deep bluish/purple color, the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Pellet Vineyard offers up notes of blueberry and blackberry, incense and floral notes. Medium to full-bodied, opulent and quite rich and luscious, this delicious consumer-friendly, yet seriously endowed, Cabernet Sauvignon can be drunk now or cellared for a decade or more.VM 93 (12/2014): Violets, lavender, smoke, plums and licorice are all laced together in the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Pellet Vineyard. This is an especially lifted, aromatic wine for this part of St. Helena, where vineyards sites are generally quite warm. Even with all of its obvious ripeness and raciness, the Pellet remains precise, nuanced and strikingly beautiful. This is a terrific showing from Quivet and winemaker Mike Smith.WS 90 (9/2015): Ripe, rich and intense, with a notable black licorice accent to the dark berry, cedar and spice notes. Acidity and ripeness give this a bit of rawness and heat. Eases into gear midpalate on. Drink now through 2020. 125 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/QuivetCellars.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Qupe.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Ramey.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Ramey.aspWA 95 (12/2007): The final vintage for this cuvee, the 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Jericho Canyon offers a Graves-like personality of scorched earth, chocolate, charcoal, and black currants as well as a sumptuous, full-bodied palate, and a layered, multi-dimensional finish. Drink this remarkable Cabernet Sauvignon over the next two decades.IWC 94+ (6/2008): Inky violet. Ripe cherry and blackcurrant aromas become spicier with air, taking on black pepper and musky underbrush character. Deep and chewy, with ripe dark berry liqueur flavors and a lightly singed quality arriving on the close. Powerful stuff, with deep, admirably sweet fruit, chewy texture and a long, velvety finish. I'd give this big boy some serious cellar time. WS 89 (10/2008): Offers creamy oak in the aroma and texture, with subtle dried currant, herb and hints of cedar and spice, showing depth and richness on the finish, where the currant and blueberry flavors gain complexity. Drink now through 2012. 1,250 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Ramey.aspWA 96 (12/2007): Readers looking for a Screaming Eagle look-alike should check out David Ramey’s 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Pedregal (85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Petit Verdot), a wine that has put on amazing richness and intensity since last year. Beautifully pure creme de cassis fruit interwoven with notions of spring flowers, espresso roast, and truffles jump from the glass of this wine. Wonderfully sweet, expansive fruit flavors, a massive, full-bodied palate, and superb elegance as well as purity suggest this stunner should drink well for 20-25+ years.IWC 95 (6/2008): Opaque ruby. Exotic perfume of dark berries, kirsch, bitter chocolate and espresso. Deep, supple and sweet, with impressively concentrated cassis and cherry compote flavors. The tannins are substantial but are buried beneath the massive fruit. Sticks to the palate like glue, eventually finishing with strong echoes of bitter cherry and high-octane chocolate. I'm not sure what you'd serve this with as its sheer depth and intensity will overwhelm all but the most full-flavored foods. That said, there's nothing heavy about it whatsoever. Pretty remarkable wine.WS 86 (11/2008): Very rich, intense and concentrated, though notably herbal and cedary as well, which leaves the currant, mineral, pebble and sage flavors in the background. Best from 2010 through 2015. 750 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Ramey.aspWA 98 (12/2013): As usual, the 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Pedregal Vineyard is a fabulous effort. The debut vintage of this cuvee was 2004, which is still quite young (I recently rated it 95). From the Oakville appellation, it is aged in 100% new Taransaud barrels, but sadly, only about 260 cases are made. The 2010 boasts beautiful notes of fruitcake, espresso roast, chocolate and black currants in its complex, full-bodied, concentrated, multi-dimensional personality. There is a huge up-side to this beauty as the tannins have not yet fully resolved. Give it another few years of bottle age and drink it over the following two decades or more. VM 93 (5/2014): (includes 15% petit verdot; 100% new oak): Inky ruby. Pungent black and blue fruit aromas show an exotic peaty quality and suggestions of incense, violet and Indian spices. Deeply pitched cassis and blueberry flavors are braced by juicy acidity and pick up a suave floral pastille nuance with aeration. The spice and blue fruit notes dominate the finish, which is firmed by youthful but harmonious tannins. While I have no doubt that this wine is built to age it's pretty showy already. WS 92 (11/2013): Bold and expressive, featuring loads of deep flavors, with a fine measure of restraint and balance. The core flavors are keyed into dried dark and red berry, cedary oak, crushed rock and loamy earth, ending on the dry side. Best from 2014 through 2024. 260 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Ramey.aspWA 94 (6/2013): A step up, the 2010 In Order to Form a More Perfect Union is a decadent blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc that was aged in 60% new French oak. Offering up a hedonistically bent bouquet of black currant, smoked herbs, espresso, black olive and lead pencil shavings, it bursts onto the palate with a full-bodied, thick and voluptuous texture that partially conceals sound back-end concentration and structure. Give it 2-4 years and enjoy over the following decade or longer. Drink now-2025. VM 92+ (11/2013): (43% cabernet sauvignon, 41% merlot and 16% cabernet franc): Good bright, deep red. Red berries, cherry, cocoa powder and licorice on the scented nose. Supple, saline and balanced but youthfully backward, offering red berry and floral flavors complicated by sexy spice notes (from the Allier oak barrels?). No easy sweetness here. Finishes with building, serious tannins that will require at least a few years of cellaring. Stephen Tanzer. WS 90 (12/2013): Smooth, open-textured and expressive, modest in scope but intriguing, with red berry, cinnamon, black pepper and floral flavors, lingering gently. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Drink now through 2017. 295 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RasaVineyards.aspWA 95 (2/2010): The 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard (92% Cabernet Sauvignon and 8% Petit Verdot) comes from a gravelly site on the west side of Highway 29. Gun flint, crushed rock, blueberry, black currant, violet, and subtle wood characteristics are accompanied by a deep, full-bodied, stunningly rich, well-proportioned Cabernet with well-integrated tannin. It should evolve for two decades or more. WS 94 (9/2010): An elegant style, firm, ripe, intense and vibrant, this is well-focused on a beam of blackberry and wild berry flavors, with touches of mineral and black licorice, ending with subtle, detailed pockets of flavor. Drink now through 2019. 210 cases made. VM 93+ (5/2010): (with 8% petit verdot) Good bright red-ruby. Highly soil-inflected aromas of cassis, licorice, clove and minerals, with floral and herbal nuances adding complexity. A step up in intensity from the foregoing samples, showing a classic claret-like profile of cassis, licorice, graphite and stony minerality. Densely packed and very long, finishing with sweet but serious tannins. From Clone 6 planted in gravelly soil. Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Realm.aspWA 94+ (12/2010): A brilliant wine (as one might expect, given the source for the raw material) is the 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard, a blend of 96% Cabernet Sauvignon and 4% Petit Verdot, with the Cabernet Sauvignon coming from the famed Clone 6. This wine (like so many wines from this parcel that is basically a gravel pit) has a very flinty/hot rocks sort of character to the cassis and blackberry fruit, a common element no matter who makes wine from this site. This wine from Realm is like Napa Valley’s version of La Mission Haut-Brion in Bordeaux. It is full-bodied, powerful, flowery, and at the same time, thick, rich and powerful. Giver it 3-4 years of cellaring and drink it over the next 25+ years. VM 92+ (5/2011): (96% cabernet sauvignon with 4% petit verdot): Good medium ruby. Black- and redcurrant, licorice, bitter chocolate and a musky cedary note on the nose. Juicy, intense and fruit-driven, with complicating smoke and mineral nuances. Offers subtle sweetness but comes across as a bit medicinal and bound-up today. Broadened nicely with aeration but this cabernet needs time. Today the dusty tannins are less refined than those of the To Kalon. Stephen Tanzer. WS 92 (8/2011): Firm and intense, yet gushing with rich blueberry, blackberry, plum and cassis flavors. Shows great density and concentration, along with a supple lining in texture, finishing with hot stone and pebble notes and a burst of fruit. Best from 2013 through 2022. 145 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Realm.aspWA 100 (12/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard is another perfect wine. A blend of 95% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Petit Verdot (400 cases produced) aged in 100% new French oak, this gravelly site produced a wine with notes of wet pebbles, Haut Brion-like scorched earth and volcanic notes, some smoke, dark chocolate, forest floor, and massive amounts of blueberry and blackberry fruit. A wine of great intensity, depth and richness, if somehow Bordeaux's Haut Brion were injected with steroids, it might taste like this monumental effort from Napa. This is pure perfection and should drink well young as well as 30 years from now. Bravo! JS 99 (1/2016): So intense and aromatic with spices, blueberries and blackberries. Incredible nose. Then turns to dried mushrooms. Full body, extremely layered and beautiful. Powerful. Turns to iodine and oyster shell. Goes on for minutes. Superb. Try this in 2020, but so irresistible already. 225 cases. VM 96 (10/2015): One of the signature wines here, the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard is one of the more voluptuous, racy wines in this lineup. Deep, powerful and intense, the Dr. Crane captures the silkiness and spherical creaminess that is such a signature of this great site. Racy, voluptuous and totally seamless on the palate, the Dr. Crane captures the best of the Realm style. Raspberry jam, sweet spices, mocha and licorice add shades of nuance, but the Crane is all about texture and feel. The 2013 shuts down quickly in the glass, which is probably a good thing for the future, but something readers should keep in mind if opening the wine young, which, by the way, I do not recommend. Antonio Galloni. WS 93 (11/2016): Delightfully rich and layered, with savory herb and underbrush aromas amid the dark, extracted berry, mocha, anise and cedary flavors. Thick and persistent on the finish. Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2030. 225 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Realm.aspWA 96 (2/2010): The first-growth quality 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To-Kalon Vineyard (100% Cabernet Sauvignon) is pure creme de cassis, cedarwood, and blueberry fruit intermixed with notions of roasted coffee and high quality French oak. Deep, full-bodied, and backward with velvety tannin as well as an expansive, substantial mouthfeel as well as length, this Cabernet should easily age for 20+ years. VM 93+ (6/2010): (100% cabernet sauvignon) Good deep ruby-red. Pure, high-pitched aromas of blackberry, licorice, violet and minerals. Densely packed but light on its feet, with a captivating juicy sweetness to the flavors of cassis and graphite. More backward and primary today than the Dr. Crane, showing less finishing sweetness and considerable building tannins. This has gone into a shell since I tasted it from barrel and will need at least five or six years of patience. WS 93 (10/2010): Weaves together a wonderful tapestry of flavors, built around rich, elegant, blackberry, black licorice, spice and mineral flavors that are pure, focused, spicy and refined, ending with a long, delicate, mineral-laced finish. Drink now through 2020. 160 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Realm.aspWA 94+ (12/2010): From Clone 4 and Clone 337, the 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To-Kalon Vineyard (100% Cabernet Sauvignon) is the equivalent of a Bordeaux first or second growth. Sweet creme de cassis notes intermixed with some white chocolate, cedar wood, fruitcake and spice box are all present in this deep bluish/purple-colored wine, which also has hints of lead pencil shavings and tobacco leaf. Deep, rich, full-bodied, and intense, this wine should drink well for at least another 20-25 years. VM 93+ (5/2011): (like the Farella bottling, this is 100% cabernet sauvignon): Bright medium ruby. Deep, soil-driven aromas of currant, smoke, mocha, milk chocolate and nutty oak. Like liquid silk in the mouth but with enticing minerally lift. Boasts terrific depth but this rich, tactile wine is still a baby and is not yet showing its inherent complexity. Spreads out to dust the entire palate, finishing long, subtle and very suave, with serious but thoroughly ripe tannins. There's nothing heavy or overly sweet about this beauty. Really reverberates on the aftertaste. Stephen Tanzer. WS 89 (7/2011): Pure and focused, featuring a complex mix of ripe plum and black cherry flavors, with a touch of anise and black licorice notes. Full-bodied, firming on the finish, this shows a chalky edge. Best from 2012 through 2021. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 225 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Realm.aspWA 97+ (10/2014): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon emerges from another first-growth vineyard that was acquired by Andy Beckstoffer in 1993, and planted with multiple clones of Cabernet Sauvignon and a small amount of Cabernet Franc. The original vineyard was planted in 1868, but the present one consists of nearly 90 acres. The 2012 reveals incredible complexity and density with notes of Christmas fruitcake, baking spices, licorice, crème de cassis and forest floor. Full-bodied with the vintage’s opulence and drama, this 100% Cabernet Sauvignon was fashioned from Clones 4 and 337. It should age effortlessly for 25-30 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Realm.aspJS 100 (9/2016): This is extraordinary on the nose with cold stones, minerals, wet earth and fresh spices. Full body, incredible backbone of tannins, and great length. It really lasts for minutes. When you taste it, it brings you down to the root and soul of the wine. Extraordinary. This is what To Kalon is supposed to taste like. Pure cabernet sauvignon. 450 cases. WA 98+ (12/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon and again aged in 100% new oak. The production is slightly higher than the Dr. Crane at 500 cases. This opaque colored wine offers up blueberry liqueur, crème de cassis, coffee bean, roasted meats, and a floral note. It is rich, powerful, dense and primordial, but wow, is it spectacular! Produced from clones 4 and 337 of Cabernet, this is another 30-year effort and a great classic. WS 94 (11/2016): A bold, rich, layered expression of cedary oak—shaded Cabernet, with powerful loamy earth, dark berry and spice notes that are deftly balanced but a long way from full maturity. The finish opens to reveal tightfisted black and green olive flavors. Best from 2020 through 2033. 350 cases made. VM 91 (10/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer to Kalon Vineyard is an example of where ripeness and intensity are pushed too far. There is a good amount of To-Kalon character here, but the bitter tannins suggest overextraction while the alcohol is elevated. This is a rare miss from Realm. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Realm.aspWA 96+ (10/2014): The single-vineyard 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Farella Vineyard comes from a hillside, cool-climate site in the Coombsville AVA in the eastern Vaca Mountains. In the past, much of this fruit went into early vintages of Opus One. This is a tannic, opulent, backward, primary effort displaying an inky/purple color along with notes of incense, camphor, toast and abundant black fruits. Full-bodied, dramatic, slightly tannic and structured, this masculine-styled 2012 will benefit from several years in the cellar, and should drink well for two decades. A true first-growth vineyard is the Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard, which is located in the heart of St. Helena just off Route 29. The vineyard is planted primarily with Cabernet Sauvignon and two small parcels of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. For whatever reason, anyone who gets fruit off this vineyard tends to make wines that hit every sweet spot on the palate.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Realm.aspWA 98 (12/2015): From the southeastern AVA Coombsville in the Vaca Mountains, the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Farella Vineyard is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from white tufa and decomposed red volcanic sedimentary soils. For whatever reason, it seems that people who buy from this vineyard make better wine than the actual owners, which I'm sad to say, is not exactly what proprietors Tom and Frank Farella would like to hear. This is a terrific Cabernet Sauvignon made from clones 4 and 8, offering a rich nose of blackberries, dark earth, a touch of barrique, and some baking spices. The wine is rich, full-bodied, tannic and backward. Deep and super-concentrated, it needs another 2-3 years of cellaring, but should last another 25-30 years. JS 97 (1/2016): Aromas of citrus rind and dark fruits with spices such as clove and green peppercorns. Turns to mint. Full body, with lovely texture and density. Shows richness and poise. Energetic and sexy. Try in 2020 but so good now! 475 cases. VM 95 (10/2015): A total knock out, the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Farella Vineyard is deep, inky and explosive, with superb energy to back up the pure power in the glass. The most intensely mineral and savory of the Realm Cabernets, the 2013 Farella Vineyard offers up a compelling mélange of graphite, sage, menthol, tobacco and inky blue/purplish fruit. Like all of the 2013s, the Farella has plenty of medium-term appeal, but with an extra edge of tannin underpinning the fruit. I would prefer to give the 2013 at least a few years in barrel to fully come together, as the acidity and tannins are searing at the moment. The cool climate of Coombsville is a good foil for the Realm style. WS 93 (11/2016): A taut, muscle-bound mix of extracted dark berry, licorice, gravel, graphite and cedary oak flavors, all balanced in terms of weight and proportion. The tannins take hold and hang on. Cabernet Sauvignon. Best from 2020 through 2032. 475 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Realm.aspWA 100 (12/2015): Another perfect wine (but very limited in production at 200 cases) is the 2013 The Absurd, a blend of 17 components dominated by 83% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Merlot and 6% Cabernet Franc. Winemaker Benoit Touquette told me that this wine is produced with no rules and no restrictions, and is considered their super-blend of the best they have in any given vintage. (I guess I would look stupid if I didn't give it 100 points, given the fact that two other Realm wines already hit that maximum score.) There is something different in this wine, with an opaque purple color for sure, but then there's the cassis, the blackberries, the roasted meats, some spicy pepper, and then an extravagantly rich, cascading palate that seems to be built like a skyscraper, but without one hard edge. This is a seriously endowed, super-rich, incredibly well-balanced wine that should drink well for 25 or more years. VM 95 (10/2015): A dark, unctuous Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2013 Absurd is a terrific example of the Realm style at its best. Surprisingly open for such a young wine, the 2013 offers gorgeous textural richness and voluptuousness. Sweet dark cherry, blackberry, mocha, spices and crushed rocks are laced into the powerful yet seamless finish. The Absurd is remarkably nuanced for a wine with this much intensity. Antonio Galloni. WS 93 (11/2016): Smoky, toasty oak provides the framework and an alluring flavor, yet the emergence and presence of riveting blackberry, wild berry, black cherry and plum add flavor nuances, joined by dusty, cedary oak and loamy earth scents that are tightly focused. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2030. 200 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Realm.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Realm.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Realm.aspWA 95 (12/2016): The 2014 The Tempest, a blend of 62% Merlot, 33% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Petit Verdot is a 500-case cuvée aged in about 65% new Taransaud and Darnajou French oak cooperage. A beautiful nose of cedar wood, chocolate, spice box, forest floor and black and red fruits jumps from the glass of this dense, opulent, voluptuously textured and full-bodied wine with terrific purity, can be drunk now, or cellared for up to another 15 or more years. JS 95 (1/2017): Wonderful aromas of blackberries, blueberries, tar and walnuts. Full-bodied yet tight and focused with lots of polished tannins. Extremely well-crafted wine. Sexy. Black velvet. Better in 2020.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Realm.aspWA 92 (6/2005): The 2003 Syrah All Night Radio (from both the Colson Canyon and Thompson vineyards) reveals Syrah’s alluring acacia flower and blackberry aromas along with an opulent, full-bodied personality with high glycerin, well-concealed alcohol, and loads of fruit, length, and purity. This savory, mouthfilling, well-balanced, personality-filled 2003 will drink well for 5-7 years.WS 88 (2/2005): This is a big, ripe, rich and expressive wine, with dense, high-extract earthy currant, blackberry and wild berry fruit. The tannins are a bit rough-hewn and take on a leathery edge on the finish. Not for the faint of heart. Best from 2006 through 2012. 486 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RedCar.aspWA 92 (6/2005): The 2003 Syrah All Night Radio (from both the Colson Canyon and Thompson vineyards) reveals Syrah’s alluring acacia flower and blackberry aromas along with an opulent, full-bodied personality with high glycerin, well-concealed alcohol, and loads of fruit, length, and purity. This savory, mouthfilling, well-balanced, personality-filled 2003 will drink well for 5-7 years.WS 88 (2/2005): This is a big, ripe, rich and expressive wine, with dense, high-extract earthy currant, blackberry and wild berry fruit. The tannins are a bit rough-hewn and take on a leathery edge on the finish. Not for the faint of heart. Best from 2006 through 2012. 486 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RedCar.aspWA 91 (8/2003): The saturated black/purple-colored 2001 The Dreaming Detective Thompson Vineyard offers muted aromas of blackberries, pepper, licorice, chocolate, vanilla, and espresso roast. Playing it closer to the vest than its two siblings, it is a full-bodied, dense, rich, promising effort. Give it 1-2 more years of bottle age, and consume it over the following decade.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RedCar.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RedCar.aspWA 94 (8/2004): Red Car’s outstanding 2002 Syrah Sugar Daddy is a blend of fruit from three vineyards, Colson Canyon, Thompson, and Rolling Hills. It spent 11 months in French oak, of which 60% was new. A dense ruby/purple-colored beauty, it reveals layers of flavors along with considerable elegance as well as complexity, a gorgeous bouquet of creme de cassis, violets, toast, and espresso, tremendous texture, full body, impressive purity, and a long, heady, concentrated finish. I was knocked out by it!http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RedCar.aspWA 94 (8/2004): Red Car’s outstanding 2002 Syrah Sugar Daddy is a blend of fruit from three vineyards, Colson Canyon, Thompson, and Rolling Hills. It spent 11 months in French oak, of which 60% was new. A dense ruby/purple-colored beauty, it reveals layers of flavors along with considerable elegance as well as complexity, a gorgeous bouquet of creme de cassis, violets, toast, and espresso, tremendous texture, full body, impressive purity, and a long, heady, concentrated finish. I was knocked out by it!http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RedCar.aspWA 94 (8/2004): Red Car’s outstanding 2002 Syrah Sugar Daddy is a blend of fruit from three vineyards, Colson Canyon, Thompson, and Rolling Hills. It spent 11 months in French oak, of which 60% was new. A dense ruby/purple-colored beauty, it reveals layers of flavors along with considerable elegance as well as complexity, a gorgeous bouquet of creme de cassis, violets, toast, and espresso, tremendous texture, full body, impressive purity, and a long, heady, concentrated finish. I was knocked out by it!http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RedCar.aspWS 92 (2/2010): Very distinctive, intense, spicy and aromatic, with scorched rock, dried berry, tobacco, cedar and savory herb flavors that fan out on the palate, maintaining a very tight focus on the long, persistent finish. Drink now through 2016. 514 cases made. IWC 90 (12/2009): ( includes 1% viognier) Saturated ruby. Exotically perfumed bouquet of candied dark berries, cherry pie, smoked meat and incense. Lush black and blue fruit flavors show very good concentration and are supported by velvety tannins. Pliant and already approachable, finishing with strong sweetness and good clarity. It wouldn't be a crime to drink this now but I'll bet that it will be even better in a few years. WA 89 (8/2010): My favorite wine of this group (although it is overpriced for what it delivers) is the 2007 Syrah The Fight. It offers more juicy black currant and black cherry fruit, crunchy, crisp acids, and a deep, medium-bodied mouthfeel. While some tart acidity is noticeable, there is enough flesh for balance. Drink this 2007 over the next 4-5 years. Given their past track record, this is a disappointing group of wines.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RedCar.aspWS 93 (2/2005): Smooth-textured, with a wealth of flavor, offering tiers of raspberry, wild berry, cassis, currant and sage, picking up hints of white pepper, spice and finishing with a long, intricate aftertaste. Drink now through 2010. 198 cases made.WA 92 (8/2004): The 2002 The Fight (100% Syrah from the cool Coombesville site called Richard Perry Vineyard) is an impressive unfined/unfiltered 197-case offering that spent 18 months in 100% new French oak. Boasting an opaque ruby/purple color as well as a big, sweet nose of blackberry liqueur intermixed with licorice, roasted meats, underbrush, and vanilla, it is a big, juicy, backward red that needs 1-2 more years of cellaring. It will drink well over the following decade.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RedCar.aspWA 90 (8/2007): The 2005 Syrah The Fight Round 3 Continues reveals more licorice, underbrush, and pepper notes along with copious quantities of blackberries and cassis. Although it is not as long or powerful as the Twenty-Two, it is more elegant, with additional finesse as well as balance. Drink it over the next 7-8 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RedCar.aspWS 90 (2/2009): Fans of this very ripe and flavorful style will enjoy the vivid black cherry, wild berry fruit, hints of balsamic raspberry and savory notes. Full-bodied and potent, this ends with a juicy burst of dark berry fruit. Drink now through 2013. 427 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RedCar.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RedCar.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RedCar.aspWA 93 (8/2004): The 2002 The Table (100% Syrah from the Thompson Vineyard) represents the current rendition of the marvelous 2001 The Dreaming Detective. There are 188 cases of thick, juicy The Table. Its inky/ruby/purple color is accompanied by a big, floral bouquet revealing notes of creme de cassis, blackberries, and cherries, medium to full body, sweet tannin, an unctuous texture, and a long, heady finish. More open-knit than The Fight, this beauty should drink well for 10-12 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RedCar.aspWS 91 (2/2009): Dense and chewy, showing exotic earth, tar, wild berry and pebble flavors that are intense and concentrated, still echoing hints of fermentation aromas. Ends with full-bodied, chewy tannins. Best from 2010 through 2016. 647 cases made.IWC 89+ (6/2009): Deep ruby-red. Classic syrah aromas of red and dark berries, smoked meat, incense and licorice. Chewy dark berry and cherry skin flavors are youthfully clenched on entry, then gain sweetness in the middle. The cherry skin note resonates through the very long, slightly bitter finish. This needs patience.WA 87 (8/2010): The 2007 Syrah Tomorrowland reveals a similar dark ruby/purple color along with gamy red currant fruit and tart acids. While there is decent fruit and purity as well as a hint of complexity, there is little texture or depth, and the wine finishes in a clipped, abrupt manner. Drink it over the next few years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RedCar.aspWS 91 (2/2009): Dense and chewy, showing exotic earth, tar, wild berry and pebble flavors that are intense and concentrated, still echoing hints of fermentation aromas. Ends with full-bodied, chewy tannins. Best from 2010 through 2016. 647 cases made.IWC 89+ (6/2009): Deep ruby-red. Classic syrah aromas of red and dark berries, smoked meat, incense and licorice. Chewy dark berry and cherry skin flavors are youthfully clenched on entry, then gain sweetness in the middle. The cherry skin note resonates through the very long, slightly bitter finish. This needs patience.WA 87 (8/2010): The 2007 Syrah Tomorrowland reveals a similar dark ruby/purple color along with gamy red currant fruit and tart acids. While there is decent fruit and purity as well as a hint of complexity, there is little texture or depth, and the wine finishes in a clipped, abrupt manner. Drink it over the next few years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RedCar.aspIWC 91 (6/2009): Glass-staining purple. A brooding bouquet of cassis, kirsch and blood sausage is enlivened by fresh violet and cracked pepper. Midweight red and dark berry compote flavors stain the palate, with dusty tannins providing shape. The peppery note repeats on the finish, which is tightly focused and impressively persistent. I'd give this a few years in the cellar, but there'd be no crime in drinking it now.WS 90 (3/2010): Spicy, ripe, rich and layered, with dark red and black fruits, black cherry, wild berry and huckleberry. Full-bodied and intense, turning to mineral and graphite, with firming tannins on the finish. Drink now through 2016. 444 cases made. WA 84 (8/2010): The least impressive effort is the 2007 Syrah Cuvee 22. Unnatural levels of high acidity marred this offering, which exhibits an emaciated, austere feel on the palate, and no charm or intensity. It is difficult to know what the objective was, but this is a wine that assaults rather than pleases the palate.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RedCar.aspIWC 88 (11/2001): Medium red. Sweet, jammy aroma of raspberry preserves. Creamy, fat and sweet in the mouth, with exotic flavors of raspberry and orange peel. This has plenty of fat. Finishes with dusty, fine tannins.WS 87 (2/2002): Firm, with good concentration to vanilla, dill, dried raspberry and kirsch flavors wrapped within firm tannins. Drink now through 2004. 5,115 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Renwood.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ReynvaanFamilyVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ReynvaanFamilyVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ReynvaanFamilyVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ReynvaanFamilyVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ReynvaanFamilyVineyards.aspIWC 94 (6/2014): Green-tinged yellow. An intense, mineral-dominated bouquet evokes fresh orchard and citrus fruits, iodine, anise and white flowers. Stains the palate with densely packed pear and Meyer lemon flavors; picks up a smokiness with air. Chalky, penetrating and pure on the finish, which refuses to let up.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rhys.aspWA 96 (10/2015): The star of the whites was the 2013 Chardonnay Alpine Vineyard. Tasting like a Grand Cru Chablis with its incredibly pure lemon curd, flinty minerality, brioche and white flowers, it's medium to full-bodied, laser focused, crisp and crystalline on the palate. It's a stunning Chardonnay that will compete with the creme de la creme of Chardonnays.VM 93 (7/2015): The 2013 Chardonnay Alpine Vineyard is gorgeous from the very first taste. Chiseled and finely cut, the 2013 boasts considerable energy, tension and focus. Lemon oil, white flowers, mint and white pepper are all given an extra kick of brightness. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rhys.aspVM 94 (7/2015): Sweet red cherry, plum, mint, spice and expressive floral notes form a super-appealing backdrop of aromas and flavors in the 2013 Pinot Noir Alpine Vineyard. Open-knit and super-expressive, the 2013 boasts superb textural balance and finesse. A final burst of red stone fruit and pomegranate hits the finely-knit, delicate finish.WA 94 (10/2015): The 2013 Pinot Noir Alpine Vineyard has a touch of darker fruit in its strawberry, cassis, dusty soil and earthy bouquet. This flows to a beautifully textured, seamless Pinot Noir that has sound underlying structure, medium plus-bodied richness and a great finish. Possessing both fruit and structure, it should be accessible for all of its life.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rhys.aspVM 95 (7/2015): The 2014 Pinot Noir Alpine Vineyard bristles with energy. Rose petal, mint, white pepper and blood orange give the Alpine its super-appealing aromatic upper register, but there is plenty of depth lurking beneath. Here the flavors are bright and nicely focused, while the richness of the vintage is mostly felt in the dense, potent finish. Antonio Galloni. WA 94 (10/2016): Another complete, broad and layered red that delivers on all accounts, the 2014 Pinot Noir Alpine Vineyard reveals a healthy ruby color as well as a darker core of red and black raspberry fruits, peppery spice and forest floor in its medium to full-bodied, balanced personality. I love its mid-palate, and while it certainly offers pleasure today, it should be at its best from 2019-2029.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rhys.aspWA 90 (1/2016): There's 500 cases of the 2014 Chardonnay Anderson Valley, which represents a fabulous value. Fermented and aged in 20% new French oak, on lees, with no battonage, it has a touch of tropical characteristics as well as citrus blossom, crushed rocks and ample toasted bread and nuttiness that emerges more on the palate. Clean, classy, impeccably balanced and elegant, buy it by the case and drink bottles over the coming 3-4 years. VM 88 (7/2016): The 2014 Chardonnay (Anderson Valley) is a tasty, entry-level Chardonnay from Rhys. Orange blossom, mint, honey and lightly tropical notes inform the open-knit finish. Although not especially complex, the 2014 is delicious. Drink it over the next few years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rhys.aspVM 92 (8/2012): From a recently purchased site in the Anderson Valley, the 2010 Pinot Noir Bearwallow Vineyard stands apart from all of the other wines in the Rhys lineup. It possesses precise, brilliant aromatics and finely sculpted fruit. Overall, the Bearwallow is a subtle, refined Pinot built on finesse, with gorgeous underlying minerality and tons of class. Proprietor Kevin Harvey bought this site in 2008, and subsequently planted an additional 25 acres of vineyards to the existing six on this property. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2018. Antonio Galloni.BH 90 (1/2013): (Anderson Valley, 13.4%) Here the nose reminds me somewhat of the Skyline in that it is very restrained and similar in composition with its floral, spice and mostly dark berry fruit aromas. By contrast, while there is a lovely sense of refinement to the medium-bodied flavors there isn't the same level of concentration or depth of material, particularly on the otherwise balanced and very pretty finish. This is certainly lovely but good as it is it's clearly not at the same level as the best here. Drink 2016+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rhys.aspBH 91 (1/2014): This is less obviously floral than the Alpine but slightly more aromatically complex with its elegant aromas of violets, plums and red currants. There is really lovely intensity to the delicious middle weight flavors that possess a bit more volume before culminating in a structured, serious and clearly built-to-age finish. Good stuff. Drink 2019+. Outstanding!VM 90 (7/2013): Sweet tobacco, herbs, licorice and dried black cherries lift out of the glass in the 2011 Pinot Noir Bearwallow Vineyard. Subtle floral and savory notes are woven throughout. The 2011 shows lovely energy and depth, but also the modest structure typical of Anderson Valley Pinots in this vintage. I expect the Bearwallow 2011 will drink well pretty much upon release and for at least a handful of years to follow. This is a terrific showing in a vintage that was very tough in the Anderson Valley. The 2011 was made with 35% whole clusters. Antonio Galloni.WA 90 (4/2015): Like in 2012, the 2011 Pinot Noir Bearwallow Vineyard is distinctly different than the Santa Cruz Mountain releases in both its aromatics and texture. Giving up loads of underbrush, juniper berry, lavender, currants and sweet kirsch, it hits the palate with medium-bodied depth and richness, nicely integrated acidity and tannin, and a clean, focused finish that lacks length compared to the 2012. Elegant, upfront, complex and classy, drink it over the coming 4-5 years.WS 90 (3/2015): A dusty mix of dried herb and savory berry is at the core of this balanced effort. Turns dry, with persistent savory-graphite—crushed rock minerality, lending this a juicy aftertaste. Drink now through 2022.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rhys.aspWA 93 (10/2015): The 2013 Pinot Noir Bearwallow Vineyard is as sexy and fruit driven as the wines from this estate get. Giving up tons of strawberries, blueberries, crushed violets and assorted floral notes, it's upfront and layered on the palate, with plenty of fruit, good concentration and a big finish. Shining for its mouth filling fruit and texture, it's still far from blowsy or soft, and should evolve nicely. VM 93 (7/2015): From the coolest part of Anderson Valley, the 2013 Pinot Noir Bearwallow Vineyard hits the palate with a rush of dark fruit. Round, supple and pliant through to the finish, the 2013 is all about texture. Bright saline notes add energy to the creamy, beautifully layered finish. Today my impression is that the Bearwallow will drink well sooner than many of the other wines in the range. BH 91 (4/2016): A slightly riper nose offers notes of violet, plus, dark currant and black cherry that are trimmed in discreet spice and floral elements. There is a bit more volume and richness to the medium-bodied flavors that are generously proportioned and almost lush yet they tighten up on the delicious, dusty and sneaky long finish. This is texturally much different from the two Alpine cuvées with more flesh but less delicacy. Drink 2020+. Outstanding! WS 88 (7/2015): Dusty, fresh-turned earth scents lean toward a trim, well-balanced mix of loam and gravel-laced dried berry flavors, ending with taut, fresh, damp earth notes. Drink now through 2021. 1,000 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rhys.aspWA 93 (10/2015): The 2013 Pinot Noir Bearwallow Vineyard is as sexy and fruit driven as the wines from this estate get. Giving up tons of strawberries, blueberries, crushed violets and assorted floral notes, it's upfront and layered on the palate, with plenty of fruit, good concentration and a big finish. Shining for its mouth filling fruit and texture, it's still far from blowsy or soft, and should evolve nicely. VM 93 (7/2015): From the coolest part of Anderson Valley, the 2013 Pinot Noir Bearwallow Vineyard hits the palate with a rush of dark fruit. Round, supple and pliant through to the finish, the 2013 is all about texture. Bright saline notes add energy to the creamy, beautifully layered finish. Today my impression is that the Bearwallow will drink well sooner than many of the other wines in the range. BH 91 (4/2016): A slightly riper nose offers notes of violet, plus, dark currant and black cherry that are trimmed in discreet spice and floral elements. There is a bit more volume and richness to the medium-bodied flavors that are generously proportioned and almost lush yet they tighten up on the delicious, dusty and sneaky long finish. This is texturally much different from the two Alpine cuvées with more flesh but less delicacy. Drink 2020+. Outstanding! WS 88 (7/2015): Dusty, fresh-turned earth scents lean toward a trim, well-balanced mix of loam and gravel-laced dried berry flavors, ending with taut, fresh, damp earth notes. Drink now through 2021. 1,000 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rhys.aspWA 93 (10/2015): The 2013 Pinot Noir Bearwallow Vineyard is as sexy and fruit driven as the wines from this estate get. Giving up tons of strawberries, blueberries, crushed violets and assorted floral notes, it's upfront and layered on the palate, with plenty of fruit, good concentration and a big finish. Shining for its mouth filling fruit and texture, it's still far from blowsy or soft, and should evolve nicely. VM 93 (7/2015): From the coolest part of Anderson Valley, the 2013 Pinot Noir Bearwallow Vineyard hits the palate with a rush of dark fruit. Round, supple and pliant through to the finish, the 2013 is all about texture. Bright saline notes add energy to the creamy, beautifully layered finish. Today my impression is that the Bearwallow will drink well sooner than many of the other wines in the range. BH 91 (4/2016): A slightly riper nose offers notes of violet, plus, dark currant and black cherry that are trimmed in discreet spice and floral elements. There is a bit more volume and richness to the medium-bodied flavors that are generously proportioned and almost lush yet they tighten up on the delicious, dusty and sneaky long finish. This is texturally much different from the two Alpine cuvées with more flesh but less delicacy. Drink 2020+. Outstanding! WS 88 (7/2015): Dusty, fresh-turned earth scents lean toward a trim, well-balanced mix of loam and gravel-laced dried berry flavors, ending with taut, fresh, damp earth notes. Drink now through 2021. 1,000 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rhys.aspWA 93 (10/2015): The 2013 Pinot Noir Bearwallow Vineyard is as sexy and fruit driven as the wines from this estate get. Giving up tons of strawberries, blueberries, crushed violets and assorted floral notes, it's upfront and layered on the palate, with plenty of fruit, good concentration and a big finish. Shining for its mouth filling fruit and texture, it's still far from blowsy or soft, and should evolve nicely. VM 93 (7/2015): From the coolest part of Anderson Valley, the 2013 Pinot Noir Bearwallow Vineyard hits the palate with a rush of dark fruit. Round, supple and pliant through to the finish, the 2013 is all about texture. Bright saline notes add energy to the creamy, beautifully layered finish. Today my impression is that the Bearwallow will drink well sooner than many of the other wines in the range. BH 91 (4/2016): A slightly riper nose offers notes of violet, plus, dark currant and black cherry that are trimmed in discreet spice and floral elements. There is a bit more volume and richness to the medium-bodied flavors that are generously proportioned and almost lush yet they tighten up on the delicious, dusty and sneaky long finish. This is texturally much different from the two Alpine cuvées with more flesh but less delicacy. Drink 2020+. Outstanding! WS 88 (7/2015): Dusty, fresh-turned earth scents lean toward a trim, well-balanced mix of loam and gravel-laced dried berry flavors, ending with taut, fresh, damp earth notes. Drink now through 2021. 1,000 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rhys.aspWA 93 (10/2015): The 2013 Pinot Noir Bearwallow Vineyard is as sexy and fruit driven as the wines from this estate get. Giving up tons of strawberries, blueberries, crushed violets and assorted floral notes, it's upfront and layered on the palate, with plenty of fruit, good concentration and a big finish. Shining for its mouth filling fruit and texture, it's still far from blowsy or soft, and should evolve nicely. VM 93 (7/2015): From the coolest part of Anderson Valley, the 2013 Pinot Noir Bearwallow Vineyard hits the palate with a rush of dark fruit. Round, supple and pliant through to the finish, the 2013 is all about texture. Bright saline notes add energy to the creamy, beautifully layered finish. Today my impression is that the Bearwallow will drink well sooner than many of the other wines in the range. BH 91 (4/2016): A slightly riper nose offers notes of violet, plus, dark currant and black cherry that are trimmed in discreet spice and floral elements. There is a bit more volume and richness to the medium-bodied flavors that are generously proportioned and almost lush yet they tighten up on the delicious, dusty and sneaky long finish. This is texturally much different from the two Alpine cuvées with more flesh but less delicacy. Drink 2020+. Outstanding! WS 88 (7/2015): Dusty, fresh-turned earth scents lean toward a trim, well-balanced mix of loam and gravel-laced dried berry flavors, ending with taut, fresh, damp earth notes. Drink now through 2021. 1,000 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rhys.aspWA 94 (10/2016): The 2014 Pinot Noir Bearwallow Vineyard is a solid step up over the Anderson Valley release and has more tension, elegance and precision. Offering up classic notes of strawberries, spice, black cherries and a touch of sous bois, it has medium to full-bodied richness, terrific purity of fruit and integrated acidity. Give bottles a year or two and drink through 2026.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rhys.aspWA 94 (10/2016): The 2014 Pinot Noir Bearwallow Vineyard is a solid step up over the Anderson Valley release and has more tension, elegance and precision. Offering up classic notes of strawberries, spice, black cherries and a touch of sous bois, it has medium to full-bodied richness, terrific purity of fruit and integrated acidity. Give bottles a year or two and drink through 2026.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rhys.aspWA 94 (10/2016): The 2014 Pinot Noir Bearwallow Vineyard is a solid step up over the Anderson Valley release and has more tension, elegance and precision. Offering up classic notes of strawberries, spice, black cherries and a touch of sous bois, it has medium to full-bodied richness, terrific purity of fruit and integrated acidity. Give bottles a year or two and drink through 2026.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rhys.aspVM 91 (7/2013): The 2011 Pinot Noir Family Farm Vineyard is one of the wilder wines in this range of 2011 Pinots. Game, tar, licorice and dark fruits all take on an intensely mineral personality with distinct volcanic overtones reminiscent of Aglianico and Taurasi. The layered, exotic finish is compelling and full of character. Antonio Galloni.WA 90 (4/2015): Still showing its oak elevage, with some char and vanilla in its sweet cherry, old hearth, roasted herbs and licorice aromas and flavors, the 2011 Pinot Noir Family Farm Vineyard is medium-bodied, nicely textured and has notable acidity that comes through on the finish. This is one of the few wines from Kevin where the oak sticks out (it does integrate more with air), nevertheless, it's still outstanding and has lots to love. I suspect it will evolve nicely for another 5-7 years.WS 89 (3/2015): Aromas of damp clay and wet earth join dried herb and savory dried berry notes in this taut, distinctive wine. The tannins are earth-laced and gritty, so this may be best after a few years in the cellar. Best after 2016.BH 88 (1/2014): This is completely different as there is plenty of wood toast and even a hint of tar that fights somewhat with the black raspberry and plum aromas. There is good vibrancy to the concentrated and extract-rich flavors that are overtly robust, all wrapped in a muscular finish where the tar character resurfaces. This is impressively scaled but awkward today as the style is not consistent with the other wines in the range. Drink 2019+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rhys.aspVM 91-93 (7/2014): A rush of cranberry, blood orange, white pepper and spice notes race across the palate in the 2013 Pinot Noir Family Farm Vineyard. Pretty floral and spice overtones from inclusion of 60% whole clusters add he final layers of complexity. Re-tasted: October 2014.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rhys.aspVM 94 (6/2011): Bright yellow. Lively, assertive aromas of orange zest, jasmine, mint, iodine and smoky minerals. Pure and incisive, with energetic, mineral-accented citrus and green apple flavors that gain weight with air. Finishes with excellent clarity and spicy cut, strongly echoing the orange and iodine notes. I suspect this vivacious wine will put on weight with a few more years of bottle age. Stephen Tanzer.WA 92 (8/2011): The 2009 Chardonnay Horseshoe Vineyard emerges from the glass with layers of sweet fruit supported by the clean vibrancy that is the hallmark of the Santa Cruz Mountains. This is an attractive, layered wine made in fairly forward, fruit-driven style. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2017.WS 90 (4/2013): A graceful, subtle and juicy style, with aromas of white flowers, ripe peach, honeysuckle and melon. Medium-weight, delicate and persistent. Drink now through 2019.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rhys.aspIWC 94 (5/2012): Green-tinged gold. Complex, highly fragrant aromas of peach pit, melon and candied orange, with intense mineral and iodine qualities gaining power with air. Sappy and expansive, offering vibrant pit fruit, pear and anise flavors lifted by zesty minerality. Rich but lithe and stony, finishing with excellent clarity and a persistent note of bitter citrus pith. I was strongly reminded of a serious Chablis.VM 94 (7/2013): It is amazing to witness just how much freshness and vibrancy the 2010 Chardonnay Horseshoe Vineyard has acquired over the last year. Bright, floral, mineral-infused notes have developed, adding considerable nuance and understated finesse to layers of deeply expressive, exotic fruit. This is a fabulous showing from Rhys. WA 92 (8/2012): The 2010 Chardonnay Horseshoe Vineyard comes across as surprisingly tropical for Rhys. Pineapple, passion fruit, mint, flowers and honey wrap around the palate in this juicy, expressive Chardonnay. Mineral notes appear later to frame the finish. The 2010 harvest produced the lowest alcohols yet for Chardonnay at Rhys. I also tasted the 2007, which was never commercially released. That wine has acquired quite a bit of complexity, with notes of smokiness and graphite that round out the fruit. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2020.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rhys.aspIWC 94 (6/2014): Bright greenish yellow. Intensely perfumed bouquet of fresh orchard and citrus fruits, with complex iodine, mineral and jasmine qualities building with air. Concentrated but lithe and precise, offering slow-to-unfold bitter pear skin and quinine flavors that pick up sweetness and a hint of gingery spices with air. The mineral element dominates the finish, which shows excellent clarity and lingering florality.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rhys.aspIWC 94 (6/2014): Bright greenish yellow. Intensely perfumed bouquet of fresh orchard and citrus fruits, with complex iodine, mineral and jasmine qualities building with air. Concentrated but lithe and precise, offering slow-to-unfold bitter pear skin and quinine flavors that pick up sweetness and a hint of gingery spices with air. The mineral element dominates the finish, which shows excellent clarity and lingering florality.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rhys.aspWA 94 (10/2015): My favorite of the latest release Chardonnays, the 2013 Chardonnay Horseshoe Vineyard is a screaming effort that got a few wows in the notes. More ripe and rounded than the Alpine Vineyard (at the moment anyways, as Kevin commented that this cuvee continues to pick up more and more focus with bottle age), its light/medium gold color is followed by tons of ripe white peach and orchard fruits, toasted nuts, crushed rock and white flowers. Rounded, concentrated and rich on the palate, yet with vibrant underlying acidity that cuts through the finish, give it a year or two in the cellar and enjoy bottles through 2025+. VM 93 (7/2015): The 2013 Chardonnay Horseshoe Vineyard is quite opulent and open for this wine. Hints of tropical fruit, butter, white truffle, pastry and apricot jam fill out the wine's ample, broad-shouldered frame with ease. This is an unusually open, young Chardonnay from Rhys, where the Chards often need at least a few years in bottle to truly blossom.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rhys.aspWA 94 (10/2015): My favorite of the latest release Chardonnays, the 2013 Chardonnay Horseshoe Vineyard is a screaming effort that got a few wows in the notes. More ripe and rounded than the Alpine Vineyard (at the moment anyways, as Kevin commented that this cuvee continues to pick up more and more focus with bottle age), its light/medium gold color is followed by tons of ripe white peach and orchard fruits, toasted nuts, crushed rock and white flowers. Rounded, concentrated and rich on the palate, yet with vibrant underlying acidity that cuts through the finish, give it a year or two in the cellar and enjoy bottles through 2025+. VM 93 (7/2015): The 2013 Chardonnay Horseshoe Vineyard is quite opulent and open for this wine. Hints of tropical fruit, butter, white truffle, pastry and apricot jam fill out the wine's ample, broad-shouldered frame with ease. This is an unusually open, young Chardonnay from Rhys, where the Chards often need at least a few years in bottle to truly blossom.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rhys.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rhys.aspVM 91 (6/2014): Bright ruby. Pungent dark berries and cherry on the nose, with smoky mineral and rose nuances adding complexity. On the palate, juicy blackberry and bitter cherry flavors are complicated by suggestions of licorice and candied rose. Spreads out nicely on the finish, which is framed by supple, well-knit tannins. This sexy pinot is delicious right now.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rhys.aspIWC 91 (6/2014): Bright ruby. Pungent dark berries and cherry on the nose, with smoky mineral and rose nuances adding complexity. On the palate, juicy blackberry and bitter cherry flavors are complicated by suggestions of licorice and candied rose. Spreads out nicely on the finish, which is framed by supple, well-knit tannins. This sexy pinot is delicious right now.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rhys.aspWA 92 (10/2015): Much more fruit loaded and rounded than the Santa Cruz Mountains release, the 2013 Pinot Noir San Mateo County comes mostly from the Family Farm vineyard, with a touch from Horseshoe. It gives up lots of strawberry, Bing cherry, spice, and floral nuances to go with beautiful fruit and texture on the palate. It's one of the most approachable Pinots in the lineup, but I suspect it will still have another 5-7 years of longevity. VM 91 (7/2015): The 2013 Pinot Noir San Mateo County is bright and decidedly citrus-laced in its profile. Bright red cherry, orange peel, white pepper and savory herbs. The 50% whole clusters add lift, but are also impeccably balanced throughout. With time in the glass, distinctly sweet, kirsch-inflected notes are pushed forward. Delicate and lithe in the glass, the 2013 San Mateo will drink well pretty much upon release. The 2013 is mostly Family Farm with a touch of Horseshoe.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rhys.aspWA 92 (10/2015): Much more fruit loaded and rounded than the Santa Cruz Mountains release, the 2013 Pinot Noir San Mateo County comes mostly from the Family Farm vineyard, with a touch from Horseshoe. It gives up lots of strawberry, Bing cherry, spice, and floral nuances to go with beautiful fruit and texture on the palate. It's one of the most approachable Pinots in the lineup, but I suspect it will still have another 5-7 years of longevity. VM 91 (7/2015): The 2013 Pinot Noir San Mateo County is bright and decidedly citrus-laced in its profile. Bright red cherry, orange peel, white pepper and savory herbs. The 50% whole clusters add lift, but are also impeccably balanced throughout. With time in the glass, distinctly sweet, kirsch-inflected notes are pushed forward. Delicate and lithe in the glass, the 2013 San Mateo will drink well pretty much upon release. The 2013 is mostly Family Farm with a touch of Horseshoe.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rhys.aspWA 93 (10/2015): The 2013 Pinot Noir Santa Cruz Mountains is a terrific expression of mountain fruit, especially when tasted beside the San Mateo release. Firm red fruits, dusty stone-like minerality, white flowers and a touch of rose all emerge from this medium-bodied, silky, lively and elegantly styled Pinot Noir. Possessing solid underlying tannin and integrated acidity, it will have 10-12 years of overall longevity.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rhys.aspWA 93 (10/2015): The 2013 Pinot Noir Santa Cruz Mountains is a terrific expression of mountain fruit, especially when tasted beside the San Mateo release. Firm red fruits, dusty stone-like minerality, white flowers and a touch of rose all emerge from this medium-bodied, silky, lively and elegantly styled Pinot Noir. Possessing solid underlying tannin and integrated acidity, it will have 10-12 years of overall longevity.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rhys.aspBH 94 (10/2011): (from Santa Cruz Mountains fruit that is planted to an incredible density of 7,000 vines per acre or the equivalent of 17,500 vines per ha; 12.6%). A reserved and notably cooler nose of crystalline purity offers up notes of spicy diverse red berry fruit aromas that complement to perfection the exceptionally elegant and refined medium weight flavors that are shaped and supported by very firm but ripe tannins, all wrapped in a dusty and stunningly long finish. This is a wine of harmony, indeed this strikes me as quite Zen-like as the structure is very fine grained. Drink 2016+. Outstanding! VM 94 (6/2011): Bright ruby. Intensely perfumed, assertive bouquet evokes redcurrant, raspberry and spicecake complemented by smoky minerals and building florality. Pure, precise and deeply concentrated but shockingly lithe, offering sweet red fruit flavors and a steely mineral spine. Unwinds with air to offer deeper cherry and black raspberry qualities while maintaining energy and focus. The finish is racy, subtly sweet and very persistent. Definitely give this a few years of bottle age. WA 92 (8/2011): The 2009 Pinot Noir Skyline Vineyard comes across as rich, round and sensual, with layers of ripe fruit that caress the palate. It is a pretty, juicy Pinot with good up-front fruit and perhaps a shade less minerality and aromatic complexity than the finest wines in this lineup. The aromas and flavors build towards the powerful finish. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2019+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rhys.aspWA 94 (4/2015): I loved the 2011 Pinot Noir Home Vineyard, and this is a wonderfully complete, classic and classy Pinot Noir that has everything. Loaded with notions of sweet cherries, currants, mulling spices, wood smoke and forest floor, this beauty hits the palate with no hard edges, a silky, layered, multidimensional texture and a great finish that still has some tannic grip. Like all of the 2011s, it's more evolved than the 2012 and already drinking nicely. Nevertheless, it should evolve gracefully going forward and I'd drink this beautiful Pinot Noir anytime over the coming decade. VM 91 (7/2014): Iron, red stone fruits, mint, leather and game meld together in the 2011 Syrah Skyline Vineyard. A powerful, intense Syrah with distinctly ferrous overtones, the 2011 Skyline boasts terrific balance and plenty of personality, especially within the context of the year. The 2011 was done entirely in neutral oak with 100% whole clusters. Sadly, 2012 will be the last vintage of Syrah in the Skyline Vineyard, as the plants have been ripped out in favor of Pinot Noir. WS 88 (7/2015): The attractive plum and raspberry notes have a peppery, floral edge, picking up a pleasant meatiness midpalate and gliding along on the finish. Ends with moderate tannins and good length. Drink now through 2025.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rhys.aspBH 93 (10/2008): (from Santa Cruz Mountains fruit; 14% alcohol). A notably ripe nose that has a menthol and cranberry liqueur character plus a subtle touch of crushed herb that can also be found on the rich, full, naturally sweet and admirably detailed middle weight flavors underpinned by a fire core of ripe tannins and fine length. At present this is youthfully austere and will require 4 to 6 years to really display fully of what it's ultimately capable. Impressive. Drink 2012+. Outstanding! VM 92 (12/2008): Saturated red. Strawberry and raspberry aromas are complicated by exotic Asian spices and gain sweetness with air. Sexy stuff, with deep, pure red and dark berry flavors, seamless texture and excellent finishing clarity. Leaves a lingering cherry skin note behind. You could drink this now for its suave fruit, but there's ample depth to reward another five-plus years of patience. WS 89 (12/2008): Tightly structured, firm and spicy, with wild berry, black cherry and hints of sage and mineral. Those who favor their Pinots on the sleek, minerally side will find this especially appealing. Drink now through 2011. 125 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rhys.aspWA 96 (10/2015): Coming from a small, east-facing parcel in the Alpine Vineyard, the sensational 2013 Pinot Noir Swan Terrace has a searing, gunpowder-like minerality to go with more subtle peppery spice, rose petal, liquid rock and perfumed red fruits. One of the most structured and firm 2013s, its defined by its tight tannic structure on the palate and needs 2-3 years of cellaring. It's another terrific 2013 that will see its 15th birthday in fine form.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rhys.aspWA 96 (10/2016): Coming from a small, east-facing section of the Alpine Vineyard and very chalky soils, the 2014 Pinot Noir Swan Terrace is an impeccably balanced, complete Pinot Noir that has everything you could want from the grape. Gorgeous red and black fruits, roasted herbs, smoked earth and spice all jump from the glass of this seamless red that has polished tannin (and plenty of them), a layered, balanced profile and no shortage of length. Like all of these 2014s, it needs short-term cellaring and will have two decades of overall longevity.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rhys.aspVM 96+ (7/2015): The 2013 Monte Bello is super-ripe, exotic and flashy. Dark blue and purplish stone fruits, sweet spices and licorice meld together as the 2013 opens up in the glass. There is plenty of supporting acidity and tannin, but the 2013 is likely to always remain flamboyant within the framework of Monte Bello. In 2013 the inversion layer moved around quite a bit, which resulted in warmer days and cooler nights than is the norm at Ridge, where diurnal shifts typically occur within a narrower range. The drought conditions and a blast of late season heat yielded tiny berries, a small crop and an unusually dark, concentrated Monte Bello that is going to require considerable patience. This is another Cabernet Sauvignon-heavy year, with less Merlot than is often the case. Ridge fans can look forward to Monte Bello Old Vines and Monte Bello Steep Terraces Cabernets that had not yet been bottled when I stopped by the winery this past June. Tasted from barrel, those two limited production wines are both shaping up to be magnificent. Antonio Galloni. WS 91 (3/2017): Well-constructed, with firm tannins and acidity framed by a tight core of dusty blackberry and wild berry, showing cedary oak and woody touches. Slowly eases into a dusty black licorice and anise center. Best to let this aerate or cellar. Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc and Merlot. Best from 2021 through 2031. 5,000 cases made. WA 88 (8/2016): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Monte Bello Vineyard Estate is a blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot and the rest Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. It tips the scales at 13.8% alcohol. (Newly retired winemaker Paul Draper said on the back label that it was the first time in nearly 50 years that harvest took place in September rather than October.) Deep briary blackcurrant and black cherry fruit, with some light to moderate tannin are present in this dark ruby/purple-hued wine. It is medium-bodied and shows good structure, freshness and purity, with the oak clearly pushed to the background. This excellent Cabernet Sauvignon should age nicely for 10-12+ years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RidgeVineyards.aspVM 92+ (6/2002): Bright ruby-red. Vibrant aromas of boysenberry, iron and mocha. Dense but tightly wound and not overly sweet; has a silky texture despite possessing a strong acid spine. Finishes with palate-cleansing acids and a late spicy character. This very young wine will need a good decade of cellaring, but even today there are no rough edges. Stephen Tanzer. WS 92 (10/2002): A wine of great balance, finesse and grace. Well-focused, the ripe, tart, rich blackberry and currant fruit is intense yet elegant, picking up earth, mineral and sage notes, and finishing with fine, well-integrated tannins. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2012. 5,679 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RidgeVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RidgeVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RidgeVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RidgeVineyards.aspWA 92 (12/2012): The estate’s 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley is an excellent choice for drinking over the next few years. Juicy dark berries, flowers, mint and cloves all come together nicely in the glass. Today, the 2010 is open and expressive, with soft, silky tannins and tons of near-term appeal, all qualities entry-level Cabernets should have. The 2010 is mostly valley floor fruit, with dollops of Panek, Corona and GIII. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2022.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RiversMarie.aspWA 90-92 (12/2012): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley is gorgeous in this vintage. In 2011, the straight Napa Valley bottling also included the Corona, which Brown didn’t feel was strong enough on its own, although it adds considerable mid-palate pliancy here. The 2011 boasts striking depth, radiance and balance, all in the mid-weight style of the year. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2021.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RiversMarie.aspIWC 92 (6/2010): Full yellow. Stone fruits, lemon drop, lime and minerals on the nose, perked up by a note of nutmeg. At once sweet and brisk, with lovely acidity framing the flavors of peach, citrus peel, flowers and minerals. Has the intensity of material to wear its 100% new oak gracefully. Carrying a low 3.25 pH and moderate alcohol of 13.5%. This is Thomas Brown's second vintage from these vines (Clone 4, from Burgundy), which were planted in 1990.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RiversMarie.aspVM 90 (6/2011): (13.9% alcohol): Good deep, full gold. Candied aromas of quince, orange and honey. Honey and butterscotch flavors suggest a bit of botrytis, but a firm spine of acidity keeps the wine from cloying. This rounded out nicely with time in the glass. In fact, says winemaker/proprietor Thomas Brown, the pH of 3.35 is on the high side for this wine, which is made with natural yeasts and no lees stirring.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RiversMarie.aspWA 94 (10/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Calistoga, which comes from the so-called Olmo clone (the same as the Eiesle clone), exhibits an opaque purple color, sweet créme de cassis and blackberry fruit as well as licorice, wet pebbles giving it minerality, and a long, full-bodied, opulent texture. This stunning wine comes from a single block of the Larkmead Vineyard. Drink it over the next 20-25 years. VM 94 (10/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Calistoga emerges from the most historic portion of Larkmead, where the Olmo clone (said to be the precursor to Eisele clone) and pure Cortina soils yield wines of tremendous pedigree. That is exactly what comes through here. Dense and powerful, with distinctly earthy, savory notes, the 2013 delivers serious intensity and explosiveness. Readers will have to be patient, however, as the 2013 needs time to be at its best. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RiversMarie.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RiversMarie.aspWA 93 (12/2011): The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Roberto Corona Vineyard, from a site on the Oakville bench, is the richest of these 2009 Cabernets from Rivers-Marie. It bursts from the glass with jammy, opulent fruit and a big, full-bodied personality. Blue and black fruit, mint, licorice and sweet spices wrap around the finish. The 100% new oak comes through here. I am not sure this wine needs all the oak and makeup. There is plenty of pedigree already. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2021.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RiversMarie.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RiversMarie.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RiversMarie.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RiversMarie.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RiversMarie.aspWA 97+ (10/2015): Another killer effort from Rivers-Marie is the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Lore Vineyard, from a steep and rocky single vineyard in the Vaca foothills of eastern Napa above the Rudd Winery. The wine comes across with fabulous intensity and loads of blackberry, blueberry and cassis fruit, licorice, camphor and incense. This is great stuff, backward, as all of these 2013s tend to be. It’s the smallest of these cuvées, with about 250 cases, or ten barrels produced. This wine is another one to benefit from 4-6 years of cellaring and should keep for three decades or more. VM 97 (10/2015): The undisputed crown jewel in this lineup, the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Lore Vineyard is every bit as fabulous in bottle as it was from barrel. Here the impression is of explosive energy and pure verticality. A rush of dark red and black fruit, melted road tar, cloves, licorice and leather punctuates the explosive, creamy finish. All the magic of eastern Oakville comes through in spades. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RiversMarie.aspVM 90+ (6/2008): Bright deep red, the darkest of these three pinots. Enticing aromas of raspberry, mocha and earthy underbrush. A bit more firm and less pliant than the Sonoma Coast bottling, but with more intensity to the raspberry and spice flavors. This boasts excellent acidity and the highest alcohol (14.3%) of this trio of pinots. Not surprisingly, it's tightly wound today; more vertical while the Summa is more horizontal. BH 90 (10/2008): A really pretty set up of moderately deeply pitched red and dark berry fruit aromas that carry a whiff of underlying earth precedes round and relatively forward middle weight flavors that possess good if not exceptional depth plus a very subtle hint of minerality and fine length. While this will certainly age, it is already accessible and with the right foods, could easily be enjoyed now.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RiversMarie.aspWA 93 (12/2012): The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Panek Vineyard bursts from the glass with juicy dark red fruit. Supple, silky and easygoing, the 2010 nevertheless possesses plenty of underlying acidity and structure. Hints of cinnamon, cloves and dried flowers add lift on the dense, intense finish. The 2010 is ripe, juicy and totally irresistible. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2025.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RiversMarie.aspWA 98+ (10/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Panek Vineyard comes from a five-acre, valley-floor vineyard just north of St. Helena near Vineyard 29's Aida. There are 450 cases of this magnificent Cabernet Sauvignon. Notes of Mediterranean herbs intermixed with licorice, blackberry and cassis jump from the glass of this opaque purple wine. Stunningly proportioned, full-bodied, super-intense, with great purity, structure and depth, this wine will benefit from 4-5 years of cellaring and keep for three decades. VM 93 (10/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Panek Vineyard, from a site on the valley floor, shows all the voluptuousness and raciness that is typical of this sector in the northern reaches of St. Helena. Dark red cherry, plum, pomegranate and spice blossom as this full-bodied, racy Cabernet shows off its personality. There is just enough acidity to give the aromatics enough lift to balance the super-ripe fruit. As always, the Panek is a very showy wine. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RiversMarie.aspWA 93 (2/2012): The 2010 Pinot Noir Silver Eagle Vineyard is a rich, deep wine endowed with considerable depth in its black cherries, exotic spices and licorice. This is an especially juicy, dark wine from Rivers-Marie. A final burst of fruit intermingled with floral and spiced notes inform the finish. This is the second vintage for the Silver Eagle, one of the warmer sites near Occidental. The principal clones are Calera, 828 and a Vosne-Romanee suitcase clone. Only 7 of the 12 barrels made it into the vineyard designate bottling, the rest of the wine was blended into the Sonoma Coast Pinot. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2018.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RiversMarie.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RiversMarie.aspVM 90 (6/2011): (includes the young vines from Summa): Good deep red. Aromas of raspberry liqueur, spices and lively orange zest. Broad but with a firm edge of acidity accentuated by the wine's tart orange fruit note. Like the B. Thieriot chardonnay, this also expanded nicely in the glass. Plenty in reserve here: I'd wait a year or two for the wine's components to harmonize. Fresher than the 2008 bottling. BH 89 (10/2011): A perfumed and pretty nose speaks of essence of red pinot fruit and subtle spice hints that carry over to the delicious, generous and quite fleshy medium-bodied flavors that possess mouth coating extract, all wrapped in a long and balanced finish. This isn't overly complex at present but given the depth of underlying material present that additional complexity will arrive with a few years of bottle age. Drink 2014+http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RiversMarie.aspWA 90 (4/2013): The 2011 Pinot Noir (Sonoma Coast) doesn’t suffer at all from being placed right in the middle of the vineyard designates. If anything, that just highlights what a fabulous wine it is! Juicy dark cherries, flowers, mint tobacco and sweet spies all come to life in a Pinot that is racy, sexy and just plain gorgeous. There is a lot to like - no, love - in this deeply expressive, Pinot Noir. For the money, Rivers Marie’s Sonoma Coast Pinot is one of the best values in domestic wine. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2019.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RiversMarie.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RiversMarie.aspBH 92 (10/2008): A wonderfully complex nose is highly expressive, offering notes of black cherry and spiced raspberry that lead to equally complex middle weight flavors that possess good detail and a lovely layering effect on the solidly persistent finish. This is not especially dense in the manner of the 2004 and 2005 versions though the extract confers the sense of concentration on the delicious backend. A study in balance and grace.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RiversMarie.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RiversMarie.aspBH 91 (10/2008): An admirably fresh and beautifully complex nose features spicy deep red cherry and ripe red pinot fruit aromas that complement perfectly the rich, mouth coating and balanced medium weight flavors that benefit from fine levels of dry extract and solid length. While the alcohol is the same as the Willow Creek, there is no undue warmth either. Lovely and absolutely worth a look at this understated, stylish and classy offering. Drink 2010+. VM 91 (6/2008): Pungent aromas of wild berries, herbs, underbrush and smoke lifted by an enticing lavender perfume. Less fruity but more minerally and bright than the basic bottling, offering a rather silky texture and some attractive high-toned notes of perfumed red fruits. I like this pinot's restrained sweetness and its classically dry finish. Owner/winemaker Thomas Brown told me that the tiny quantities of fruit he had to work with in 2005 were difficult to manage, and that the 2006s were easier to make. Still, yields in the latter year were in the modest 1 to 2.5 tons-per-acre range.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RiversMarie.aspIWC 89 (6/2013): (just 12.4% alcohol; from a tiny crop level and a late harvest): Dullish red. Aromas of strawberry, brown spices and earth. Sweet, supple and rather glyceral, but with strong acidity running through the red berry and earth flavors. Finishes with a saline quality. Good smooth pinot but a bit diffuse and in need of more definition and cut. There's just this one bottling of the Summa pinot in 2011 due to the very low yield. Incidentally, Brown and his wife Genevieve Marie Welsh purchased this vineyard in 2010. WA 88 (4/2013): The 2011 Pinot Noir Summa Vineyard emerges from the glass with autumn leaves, tobacco, dried cherries and savory herbs. Although made from fully de-stemmed fruit, the 2011 has a stemmy character in its aromas and flavors. High-toned floral and herbs notes add lift on the finish. Sadly, there is no Summa Old Vines in 2011. The best fruit went into this, the straight Sonoma bottling. Today, the 2011 comes across as a bit fragile, so it is best enjoyed sooner rather than later. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2016.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RiversMarie.aspVM 93 (6/2008): Bright red. Vibrant strawberry and raspberry on the nose, with exotic spices and fresh rose adding complexity. Juicy and lively, with brisk red berry flavors, silky texture and building ripeness. More dark fruits than red on the finish, which delivers terrific flavor impact without unnecessary weight. Leaves a wide swath of raspberry and blackberry in its wake. WA 92-95 (12/2007): The 2006 Pinot Noir East Block (one of Rochioli’s cooler vineyard sites) reveals pure cherry and raspberry aromas interwoven with floral and crushed rock characteristics. Medium-bodied with some tannin to be resolved, it possesses outstanding ripeness, purity, and overall texture. BH 89 (10/2009): A layered, pure, pretty and ripe nose of primarily red pinot fruit trimmed in subtle hints of spice and wood leads to delicious, round and intense flavors that possess good freshness and energy, all wrapped in a sappy but moderately awkward finish where a touch of acidity sticks out. This may come together but at the moment it's a bit of a question mark. Drink 2013+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.aspWS 93 (4/2015): A rich, full-bodied style, with smoky notes wrapped around a core of vibrant green apple, pear, honeydew and subtle citrus. Ends with an accent of toasty oak. Drink now through 2019. 1,232 cases made.VM 92 (1/2014): The 2013 Chardonnay Estate is gorgeous, as well as a fabulous introduction to Tom Rochioli's wines. Lemon zest, spices, pear and brioche all meld together in a supple, textured Chardonnay long on class and polish. There is so much to like here.WA 87 (12/2014): The 2013 Chardonnay Estate, their biggest white wine cuvée, displays notes of assorted citrus and a subdued oak component, which give the wine a Chablis-like minerality and crispness. Medium-bodied, fresh and lively with zesty acidity, it should be drunk in its first several years of life.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.aspWS 92 (6/2008): A fragrant, delicate style, with pretty plum, black cherry and wild berry scents that are both rich and elegant. This is sharply focused and displays excellent balance, with a long, persistent finish that reveals extra measures of depth. Drink now through 2012. 3,580 cases made. VM 90 (6/2008): Bright red. Vibrant red berry aromas are complicated by baking spices and minerals, picking up fresh rose with air. Sweet black raspberry and candied cherry flavors offer very good purity and focus, with silky tannins adding grip to the finish. A distinctly fresh and lively style of pinot that is completely fat-free. WA 89-91 (12/2007): The medium ruby-hued 2006 Pinot Noir Estate possesses soft, strawberry and kirsch-like aromas, abundant sweet berry fruit on the palate, good acidity, and a soft, round style meant to be consumed over the next several years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.aspWA 93-95 (12/2006): There are 500 cases of the 2005 Pinot Noir Little Hill Vineyard. Reminiscent of a Russian River version of a top-notch Richebourg, it exhibits a dense ruby/purple hue along with scents of roasted meats, kirsch liqueur, blackberries, spring flowers, and spice. About 50% new French oak is used, but it is completely absorbed by the wine’s wealth of fruit and texture. Kudos to Tom Rochioli, one of the wine world’s great guys who, without any fanfare, continues to turn out world-class wines of extraordinary aromatic and flavor dimensions. Pure and full-bodied with supple tannin as well as terrific acidity, this stunning Pinot is only exceeded by its sibling, the 2005 Pinot Noir West Block. IWC 92 (6/2007): Dark red. Suave red berry-dominated nose hints at clove, cinnamon and vanilla bean. Lush and filled in, with deep, sweet raspberry and strawberry liqueur flavors and light, dusty tannins. Finishes on a vibrant red fruit note, with outstanding breadth and length. I'd drink this on the young side although I'm sure it will keep. WS 86 (4/2008): A loamy, savory style, with more aromatics than generous flavors, with sage, dried cherry, anise and smoky earth and mushroom flavors. Drink now through 2011. 496 cases made. BH 84 (10/2008): In contrast to the beauty of the East Block, here the nose is troubled. A bizarre nose features a mix of floral notes that are marred by reduction, onion and garlic notes and while the round, rich and slightly edgy middle weight flavors are attractive enough, the overall impression is not what it should be. Drink 2010+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.aspVM 92 (6/2008): Vivid red color. Vibrant red and dark berry scents offer striking clarity and gain a seductive floral quality with air. Fresh and juicy, with energetic raspberry and blackberry flavors, silky texture and a blast of smoky minerals on the back. Extremely suave pinot with outstanding finishing sweetness and cling. This is already drinking wonderfully. BH 89 (10/2009): A spicy, pure and equally ripe nose of lilting pinot fruit complements rich, intense and moderately firm middle weight flavors that are underpinned by firm but slightly dry tannins on the finish that is a bit awkward at present. Given how well this typically ages, my score offers the benefit of the doubt. Drink 2013+. WA 90-92 (12/2007): The 2006 Pinot Noir Little Hill Vineyard ratchets up the level of concentration. Dark cherries, pomegranate, kirsch, herbs, and meaty characteristics emerge from this medium to full-bodied, lightly tannic Pinot. Consume it over the next 10-12 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.aspVM 92 (6/2008): Vivid red color. Vibrant red and dark berry scents offer striking clarity and gain a seductive floral quality with air. Fresh and juicy, with energetic raspberry and blackberry flavors, silky texture and a blast of smoky minerals on the back. Extremely suave pinot with outstanding finishing sweetness and cling. This is already drinking wonderfully. BH 89 (10/2009): A spicy, pure and equally ripe nose of lilting pinot fruit complements rich, intense and moderately firm middle weight flavors that are underpinned by firm but slightly dry tannins on the finish that is a bit awkward at present. Given how well this typically ages, my score offers the benefit of the doubt. Drink 2013+. WA 90-92 (12/2007): The 2006 Pinot Noir Little Hill Vineyard ratchets up the level of concentration. Dark cherries, pomegranate, kirsch, herbs, and meaty characteristics emerge from this medium to full-bodied, lightly tannic Pinot. Consume it over the next 10-12 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.aspVM 94 (6/2009): Vivid red. Sweet aromas of blackberry, Asian spices and minerals, with a gentle smoky undertone. Red and dark berry flavors are strikingly pure and precise, with an exotic candied rose quality adding complexity. The finish repeats the mineral and floral notes and is pretty much endless. Wow! This wine is made from a West Block selection and includes some suitcase vines that reportedly came from Richebourg. WA 92-94 (2/2010): This is another beautiful portfolio of wines from Tom Rochioli. Since they all possess a similar style, one can quibble over just how much difference there is between all the different cuvees of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. However, there are subtle differences that I will do my best to articulate. With respect to his Pinot Noirs, Rochioli completely destems his grapes, does a cold soak for 4-5 days, and keeps the wines in 100% Francois Freres French cooperage for 14-16 months or less. The wines are racked directly from barrel to tank, and are bottled without fining or filtration. BH 89 (10/2010): Discreet wood hints set off notably ripe floral notes along with a mélange of different pinot fruit expressions that precede the round yet nicely detailed middle weight flavors that possess an attractive mouth feel but deliver neither the same depth nor length as the best in the range. In sum, this is perfectly good but not really distinguished. Drink 2014+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.aspWA 94 (2/2011): As for the single vineyard wines, the 2009 Chardonnay River Block comes from a vineyard situated near the Russian River planted with old Wente and Hanzell clones. Medium to full-bodied with extraordinary minerality, abundant white peach, popcorn, pear and citrus oil notes, copious fruit, zesty acidity and a refreshing, savory style, it will provide enjoyment over the next 5-6 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.aspIWC 92 (6/2013): Vivid ruby. High-pitched aromas of strawberry, raspberry and Asian spices are complemented by a subtle floral pastille element. Zesty and precise, with tangy red berry and candied rose flavors that show very good focus and pick up a touch of allspice in the mid-palate. Finishes juicy and long, with resonating spiciness and subtle tannins.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.aspWA 93 (12/2013): The 2012 Chardonnay River Block is made from the Old Wente clone as well as Dijon clone 95. It offers up notes of buttered tangerine oil, lemon grass, white peach, an underlying stony character, and a fresh, full-bodied, rich mouthfeel displaying terrific texture and length. This superb Chardonnay should drink well for 6-8 years. VM 92 (5/2014): Pale yellow-gold. Mineral-laced citrus and orchard fruit aromas are complicated by a sexy floral nuance. Tightly wound orange and pear skin flavors deliver impressive depth and power, with no excess weight. The mineral quality dominates the finish, which features a subtle iodine flourish. Stephen Tanzer. WS 91 (7/2014): Brimming with intense fruit flavors, this offers a mix of fig, pear, honeydew melon, smoky oak and cedar notes, ending with a zesty aftertaste. Drink now through 2018. 223 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.aspVM 90 (6/2010): Vivid yellow-gold. Musky pear skin and quince aromas are complemented by iodine and smoky minerals. Powerful orchard fruit flavors are braced by zesty minerality and pick up a bitter lime pith quality with air. Dense and chewy chardonnay with strong finishing grip and lingering minerality. Rochioli told me that this bottling "has a lot of Hanzell clone in it and more Wente is going into the blend every vintage."http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.aspVM 89 (6/2002): Bright, deep red. Spicy red fruits, violet and vanillin oak on the enticing nose. Sweet, silky and full, with spicy oak sweetening the wine without overwhelming the fruit. Not especially complex but pure and fresh, with captivating fruit. WA 88 (8/2002): The medium ruby-colored 2000 Pinot Noir Estate exhibits a sweet perfume of dusty cherries intermixed with plum, loamy soil, and mineral notes. The wine is medium-bodied and impeccably clean, with excellent length as well as ripeness, and enough acidity to provide definition and uplift. It will drink well for 4-5 years. WS 86 (9/2002): Marked by leathery, beefy, dry leaf flavors. It veers into spicy cherry and anise notes, gaining complexity and depth, though it's a tad green and lacks fruit purity. Drink now through 2005. 2,041 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.aspWA 91 (12/2006): The 2005 Pinot Noir Estate offers delicious raspberry and black cherry fruit along with a hint of flowers, and crisp underlying acidity to buttress the beautiful texture and rich, heady mouthfeel. There are 4,000 cases of this cuvee, which was aged in one-third new Francois Freres barrels. Tom Rochioli told me considerable crop-thinning had to be done in 2005 to keep the Pinot Noir yields manageable. A blend of Dijon Clones 115 and 777 in addition to some of the old Pommard Clone, this stunning effort is the finest regular Pinot Noir Rochioli has yet produced. Drink it over the next 7-10 years. Kudos to Tom Rochioli, one of the wine world’s great guys who, without any fanfare, continues to turn out world-class wines of extraordinary aromatic and flavor dimensions. WS 90 (6/2007): Shows aromas of floral, cherry, wild berry and raspberry fruit. Compact and delicate on the palate, ending with an earthen floor and mushroom note that adds complexity. Drink now through 2010. 4,030 cases made. VM 90 (6/2007): Light red. Vibrant strawberry and raspberry on the nose, with an earthy rhubarb accent. Fine-grained and silky, with bright red berry flavors, good depth and a refreshing mineral quality on the finish. The suave texture and sweet red fruits reminded me of Volnay, as did the lush, harmonious tannins. BH 86 (10/2007): A very candied nose reminds me of sweet fruit, indeed even somewhat like some of the more commercial examples of Beaujolais. The round, easy and supple flavors carry a hint of dill weed and the finish is as sweet as the nose. In sum, this is quite a particular effort and not for me. Drink 2009+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.aspWA 91 (12/2006): The 2005 Pinot Noir Estate offers delicious raspberry and black cherry fruit along with a hint of flowers, and crisp underlying acidity to buttress the beautiful texture and rich, heady mouthfeel. There are 4,000 cases of this cuvee, which was aged in one-third new Francois Freres barrels. Tom Rochioli told me considerable crop-thinning had to be done in 2005 to keep the Pinot Noir yields manageable. A blend of Dijon Clones 115 and 777 in addition to some of the old Pommard Clone, this stunning effort is the finest regular Pinot Noir Rochioli has yet produced. Drink it over the next 7-10 years. Kudos to Tom Rochioli, one of the wine world’s great guys who, without any fanfare, continues to turn out world-class wines of extraordinary aromatic and flavor dimensions. WS 90 (6/2007): Shows aromas of floral, cherry, wild berry and raspberry fruit. Compact and delicate on the palate, ending with an earthen floor and mushroom note that adds complexity. Drink now through 2010. 4,030 cases made. VM 90 (6/2007): Light red. Vibrant strawberry and raspberry on the nose, with an earthy rhubarb accent. Fine-grained and silky, with bright red berry flavors, good depth and a refreshing mineral quality on the finish. The suave texture and sweet red fruits reminded me of Volnay, as did the lush, harmonious tannins. BH 86 (10/2007): A very candied nose reminds me of sweet fruit, indeed even somewhat like some of the more commercial examples of Beaujolais. The round, easy and supple flavors carry a hint of dill weed and the finish is as sweet as the nose. In sum, this is quite a particular effort and not for me. Drink 2009+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.aspWS 92 (6/2008): A fragrant, delicate style, with pretty plum, black cherry and wild berry scents that are both rich and elegant. This is sharply focused and displays excellent balance, with a long, persistent finish that reveals extra measures of depth. Drink now through 2012. 3,580 cases made. BH 90 (10/2008): Interestingly, this is the most elegant wine of this group with a spicy, airy and pure red pinot fruit nose that leads to rich, full and finely detailed medium-bodied flavors that are at present a bit awkward, especially on the finish yet the underlying elements are clearly here to allow this to come together successfully. Promising. Drink 2012+. WA 89-91 (12/2007): The medium ruby-hued 2006 Pinot Noir Estate possesses soft, strawberry and kirsch-like aromas, abundant sweet berry fruit on the palate, good acidity, and a soft, round style meant to be consumed over the next several years. VM 90 (6/2008): Bright red. Vibrant red berry aromas are complicated by baking spices and minerals, picking up fresh rose with air. Sweet black raspberry and candied cherry flavors offer very good purity and focus, with silky tannins adding grip to the finish. A distinctly fresh and lively style of pinot that is completely fat-free.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.aspWS 92 (6/2008): A fragrant, delicate style, with pretty plum, black cherry and wild berry scents that are both rich and elegant. This is sharply focused and displays excellent balance, with a long, persistent finish that reveals extra measures of depth. Drink now through 2012. 3,580 cases made. BH 90 (10/2008): Interestingly, this is the most elegant wine of this group with a spicy, airy and pure red pinot fruit nose that leads to rich, full and finely detailed medium-bodied flavors that are at present a bit awkward, especially on the finish yet the underlying elements are clearly here to allow this to come together successfully. Promising. Drink 2012+. WA 89-91 (12/2007): The medium ruby-hued 2006 Pinot Noir Estate possesses soft, strawberry and kirsch-like aromas, abundant sweet berry fruit on the palate, good acidity, and a soft, round style meant to be consumed over the next several years. VM 90 (6/2008): Bright red. Vibrant red berry aromas are complicated by baking spices and minerals, picking up fresh rose with air. Sweet black raspberry and candied cherry flavors offer very good purity and focus, with silky tannins adding grip to the finish. A distinctly fresh and lively style of pinot that is completely fat-free.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.aspWA 90-92 (2/2010): The delicious 2008 Pinot Noir Estate (just under 4,000 cases produced) is one of the finest generic Pinots one can find from Russian River. It exhibits sweet pomegranate, raspberry, cherry, roasted herb notes along with a hint of smoky oak in its seductive, round, opulent personality. It should drink well for 7-8 years. VM 90 (6/2010): Bright medium red. Fresh red berries and flowers on the nose, with spice and smoky notes emerging with air. Deep in red fruit flavor but light on its feet, offering zesty strawberry and cherry flavors and a touch of cola. The smoky note returns on the long, gently sweet finish. This is drinking well now. WS 88 (11/2010): Intense, vibrant and racy, showing a chewy side to the wild berry, black cherry, plum, spice and mineral flavors that are raw, rustic, and in need of cellaring. Best from 2011 through 2017. 1,456 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.aspVM 90 (6/2013): Bright ruby-red. Intense, spice- and floral-accented aromas of candied red fruits, with a hint of smokiness in the background. Taut and focused on the palate, offering lively strawberry and raspberry flavors that gain weight with aeration. Closes on a sweet note, with very soft tannins and lingering berry and rose notes. WS 86 (12/2013): Offers a trim mix of loamy earth, dried berry, sage and cedar, gaining a little on the finish. Drink now through 2020. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 780 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.aspVM 90 (6/2013): Bright ruby-red. Intense, spice- and floral-accented aromas of candied red fruits, with a hint of smokiness in the background. Taut and focused on the palate, offering lively strawberry and raspberry flavors that gain weight with aeration. Closes on a sweet note, with very soft tannins and lingering berry and rose notes. WS 86 (12/2013): Offers a trim mix of loamy earth, dried berry, sage and cedar, gaining a little on the finish. Drink now through 2020. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 780 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.aspWA 95 (2/2011): The 2009 Chardonnay South River is also fashioned from the Hanzell and old Wente clones. It exhibits more roasted hazelnut and tropical fruit characteristics intermixed with a hint of peaches and a stony component that adds to the wine’s minerality. This full-bodied, floral Chardonnay should drink well for 5-6 years or longer. VM 94 (6/2011): Greenish yellow. Smoky, leesy pear and nectarine aromas are complicated by notes of iodine and jasmine and turn spicier with air. Stony, chewy orchard fruit flavors are firmed by dusty minerality, which adds back-end cut. This is about far more than fruit, in an Old World manner. The iodine element recurs on the gripping, very long finish. I love this style of chardonnay.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.aspIWC 93 (5/2012): Light gold. Fresh citrus and orchard fruit aromas are complicated by intense mineral and spice notes. Penetrating orange and quince flavors gain flesh and weight with air, displaying excellent clarity. Closes nervy and clean, with lingering spiciness and impressive length.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.aspWA 94 (2/2012): The 2010 Pinot Noir Sweetwater is a large-scaled, dramatic wine. It boasts huge black fruit and notable intensity from start to finish. Sweet, perfumed aromatics develop in the glass, but the Sweetwater remains tannic and in need of at least another 1-2 years in bottle. The wine literally sizzles on the palate with energy, and my impression is it will be magnificent with time. The clones in this parcel are Dijon, 777 and Rochioli. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2020. VM 92 (5/2012): Bright ruby-red. Aromas of redcurrant, strawberry and blood orange are complemented by subtle cola and anise accents. Shows deep, sappy red fruit and floral character on the palate, with high-pitched spice and rose notes adding energy. Closes spicy and very long, with resonating white pepper and star anise qualities. WS 91 (9/2012): Offers a savory, herbal underbrush side to the ripe plum and wild berry flavors, firming midpalate and ending with tighter tannins. Drink now through 2022. 351 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.aspWA 94 (2/2012): The 2010 Pinot Noir Sweetwater is a large-scaled, dramatic wine. It boasts huge black fruit and notable intensity from start to finish. Sweet, perfumed aromatics develop in the glass, but the Sweetwater remains tannic and in need of at least another 1-2 years in bottle. The wine literally sizzles on the palate with energy, and my impression is it will be magnificent with time. The clones in this parcel are Dijon, 777 and Rochioli. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2020. VM 92 (5/2012): Bright ruby-red. Aromas of redcurrant, strawberry and blood orange are complemented by subtle cola and anise accents. Shows deep, sappy red fruit and floral character on the palate, with high-pitched spice and rose notes adding energy. Closes spicy and very long, with resonating white pepper and star anise qualities. WS 91 (9/2012): Offers a savory, herbal underbrush side to the ripe plum and wild berry flavors, firming midpalate and ending with tighter tannins. Drink now through 2022. 351 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.aspWA 94 (2/2012): The 2010 Pinot Noir Sweetwater is a large-scaled, dramatic wine. It boasts huge black fruit and notable intensity from start to finish. Sweet, perfumed aromatics develop in the glass, but the Sweetwater remains tannic and in need of at least another 1-2 years in bottle. The wine literally sizzles on the palate with energy, and my impression is it will be magnificent with time. The clones in this parcel are Dijon, 777 and Rochioli. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2020. VM 92 (5/2012): Bright ruby-red. Aromas of redcurrant, strawberry and blood orange are complemented by subtle cola and anise accents. Shows deep, sappy red fruit and floral character on the palate, with high-pitched spice and rose notes adding energy. Closes spicy and very long, with resonating white pepper and star anise qualities. WS 91 (9/2012): Offers a savory, herbal underbrush side to the ripe plum and wild berry flavors, firming midpalate and ending with tighter tannins. Drink now through 2022. 351 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.aspWA 93+ (2/2012): The 2009 Pinot Noir Three Corner presents an intriguing combination of sumptuous fruit and a nuanced, totally finessed personality. Dark red cherries, mint and freshly cut flowers are some of the many notes that flesh out in the glass. There is plenty of acidity to give the wine a distinct element of freshness and acidity. A huge, explosive finish rounds out this compelling Pinot. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2021.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.aspVM 92 (6/2008): Ruby-red. Ripe red and dark berry aromas are complicated by cracked pepper, bitter chocolate and fresh rose. Round and sappy, offering juicy raspberry and blackcurrant flavors, with silky tannins contributing shape and grip. Gains sweetness on the long, spicy, raspberry-suffused finish. The fruit here is wonderfully pure and energetic, and I couldn't find any rough edges. WA 91-94 (12/2007): Revealing intense black raspberry, kirsch liqueur, forest floor, and spring flower-like aromas and flavors, the deep, medium to full-bodied 2006 Pinot Noir West Block possesses good acidity and silky tannins. This intense, elegant 2006 should drink nicely for 7-8 years. BH 90 (10/2009): The West Block possesses the ripest nose of the group with an elegant and expressive nose of both red and blue pinot fruit set off by subtle spice and earth hints that continue onto the mouth coating flavors blessed with excellent dry extract and better overall balance. Lovely and understated. Drink 2013+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.aspVM 92 (6/2008): Ruby-red. Ripe red and dark berry aromas are complicated by cracked pepper, bitter chocolate and fresh rose. Round and sappy, offering juicy raspberry and blackcurrant flavors, with silky tannins contributing shape and grip. Gains sweetness on the long, spicy, raspberry-suffused finish. The fruit here is wonderfully pure and energetic, and I couldn't find any rough edges. WA 91-94 (12/2007): Revealing intense black raspberry, kirsch liqueur, forest floor, and spring flower-like aromas and flavors, the deep, medium to full-bodied 2006 Pinot Noir West Block possesses good acidity and silky tannins. This intense, elegant 2006 should drink nicely for 7-8 years. BH 90 (10/2009): The West Block possesses the ripest nose of the group with an elegant and expressive nose of both red and blue pinot fruit set off by subtle spice and earth hints that continue onto the mouth coating flavors blessed with excellent dry extract and better overall balance. Lovely and understated. Drink 2013+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.aspVM 92 (6/2008): Ruby-red. Ripe red and dark berry aromas are complicated by cracked pepper, bitter chocolate and fresh rose. Round and sappy, offering juicy raspberry and blackcurrant flavors, with silky tannins contributing shape and grip. Gains sweetness on the long, spicy, raspberry-suffused finish. The fruit here is wonderfully pure and energetic, and I couldn't find any rough edges. WA 91-94 (12/2007): Revealing intense black raspberry, kirsch liqueur, forest floor, and spring flower-like aromas and flavors, the deep, medium to full-bodied 2006 Pinot Noir West Block possesses good acidity and silky tannins. This intense, elegant 2006 should drink nicely for 7-8 years. BH 90 (10/2009): The West Block possesses the ripest nose of the group with an elegant and expressive nose of both red and blue pinot fruit set off by subtle spice and earth hints that continue onto the mouth coating flavors blessed with excellent dry extract and better overall balance. Lovely and understated. Drink 2013+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/JRochioliVineyards.aspWS 80 (12/1995): Simple with light spice and berry notes of modest proportion. Picks up a trace of herb on the finish. Ready now. 600 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RosenblumCellars.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RoyEstate.aspWA 99 (12/2010): The finest Rudd Estate Proprietary Red Rudd has yet made is the 2008. A blend of 49% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Cabernet Franc, 14% Petit Verdot and 14% Malbec, it offers up aromas of blue and black fruits, charcoal, white chocolate and flowers. The soaring aromatics are followed by a wine with fabulous concentration, a seamless integration of acidity, tannin, alcohol and wood, a brilliant texture, a fabulous personality and loads of complexity as well as full-bodied richness. This potentially legendary proprietary red already possesses remarkably sweet tannin. It will be drinkable early (because of its density, ripeness and velvety texture), but it should age effortlessly for 20-25 years. Bravo!http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rudd.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rudius.aspVM 90 (6/2008): Dark, hazy red. Smoky black raspberry, cured meat, exotic flowers and candied licorice on the nose. Fleshy and round, offering sappy red and dark berry flavors and impressive juicy lift. Seductively sweet and balanced wine with very good finishing clarity and fruity, peppery persistence.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rudius.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rudius.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rudius.aspIWC 88 (6/2014): (75% grenache, 23% mourvedre and 2% syrah): Medium red. Good peppery, herbal lift to the aromas of strawberry, raspberry and spices. Supple, savory and dry, in a rather gentle style, with a slightly intrusive greenness to the red berry, licorice and spice flavors; could use a bit more definition and verve. Finishes with dusty, even tannins.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rudius.aspIWC 90 (6/2014): Full bright yellow. Perfumed aromas of peach, fresh apricot, soft citrus fruits, flowers, nutmeg and iodine. Intensely flavored and savory, with stone fruit and spice flavors complicated by a musky leesy element. Not hugely intense or penetrating today but gracefully made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rudius.aspWA 95+ (12/2015): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Kaley Elizabeth is sourced exclusively from the Tierra Roja Vineyard in eastern Oakville. It sits below and adjacent to Dalla Valle and is in the same neighborhood as the Backus Vineyard of Joseph Phelps and the Rudd estate. This is a high-priced zip code for sure. Jeff Ames produced this wine and named it after his daughter. And it's a tiny cuvée, of only about four barrels, or 100 or so cases. Bottled unfined and unfiltered after 18 months in oak, the wine has beautiful, earthy/loamy soil and forest floor notes intermixed with blueberry and blackberry fruit, true terroir character, a full-bodied mouthfeel and beautiful purity of fruit and depth. The wine is rich, full and capable of evolving for 20 to 25+ years. This wine builds incrementally, and while at first there seems to be incredibly delicate and well-integrated sweet tannin, as the wine sits in the glass the big structure of this wine comes forth. This is a beauty and should age magnificently. WS 90 (12/2015): Dense and dusty, with loamy earth elements and crushed rock minerality to the cedar, herb and dark berry flavors. Ends with a cedary oak aftertaste and a raw texture, but also good length. You will have to adjust to the tannins. Drink now through 2024. 102 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rudius.aspWA 90 (12/2015): As for the four cuvées of Cabernet Sauvignon from Jeff Ames, the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa is sourced from three vineyards: Larkmead in Calistoga, Panek in St. Helena and Tierra Roja in Oakville. It sees about 60% new French oak and, like all of the red wines from Ames, bottled without fining or filtration. A perfumed style of Cabernet Sauvignon, which is in keeping with one of the hallmarks of the 2012s. This wine shows supple, round tannins, nice blackcurrant and black cherry fruit, a judicious touch of toasty oak and a round, juicy, rather succulent medium to full-bodied mouthfeel. It's seductive Napa Cabernet Sauvignon priced realistically, and should drink beautifully for at least another 10-15 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rudius.aspWA 90 (12/2015): As for the four cuvées of Cabernet Sauvignon from Jeff Ames, the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa is sourced from three vineyards: Larkmead in Calistoga, Panek in St. Helena and Tierra Roja in Oakville. It sees about 60% new French oak and, like all of the red wines from Ames, bottled without fining or filtration. A perfumed style of Cabernet Sauvignon, which is in keeping with one of the hallmarks of the 2012s. This wine shows supple, round tannins, nice blackcurrant and black cherry fruit, a judicious touch of toasty oak and a round, juicy, rather succulent medium to full-bodied mouthfeel. It's seductive Napa Cabernet Sauvignon priced realistically, and should drink beautifully for at least another 10-15 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rudius.aspWS 88 (7/2016): Both rich and deeply fruited, this delivers competing messages, with extracted licorice, dark berry, plum and currant notes met head-on by chewy gravel- and road tar-driven tannins. Best from 2020 through 2028. 250 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rudius.aspWS 92 (11/2014): Exhibits a gorgeous array of rich, plump, juicy blackberry, currant, wild berry and licorice notes, showing a smooth, supple texture that lets the flavors glide along the palate, ending with a long, persistent finish that echoes the core elements. Drink now through 2023. 150 cases made. VM 90+ (5/2013): (15.3% alcohol): Good red-ruby. Aromas of black raspberry, bitter chocolate and sexy oak spices. Ripe and rich but leavened by a saline element and good juicy acidity. Less obviously sweet and a bit more medicinal than the Oakville bottling but with plenty of flavor intensity, length and lift. A touch less pliant today and in need of patience. This was done in 70% new oak, mostly Darnajou. Stephen Tanzer. WA 90 (10/2013): The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Panek Vineyard is more supple and accessible than its 2009 counterpart. While not the biggest, richest Cabernet by any means, it offers elegance and freshness as well as attractive notes of black currants, barrique and forest floor. Drink this medium-bodied 2010 over the next decade.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rudius.aspWA 94+ (10/2016): A vineyard made famous by Thomas Rivers Brown, the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Panek Vineyard is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from clone 337 in St. Helena. This is a stunner with a beautiful floral fragrance interwoven with blueberry and blackberry fruit, graphite and incense. It is dense, full-bodied with the blue and black fruits continuing across the full-bodied palate. The wine has superb purity and moderate tannin. This wine should drink well for 20-25 years. WS 88 (7/2016): A solid red, if uneasy in the delivery, with fruit that is ripe and juicy but also herbal and dilly, and tannins that are edgy. Time may work to smooth things out. Drink now. 225 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rudius.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rudius.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rudius.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Rudius.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RutherfordHill.aspWS 88 (11/2004): Rich, with currant, cedar, coffee, bay leaf and black cherry flavors that have a hint of caramel and mocha. Deep and concentrated, its power comes through on the finish, giving it a long, persistent aftertaste that's dominated by toasty oak. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Best from 2005 through 2012. 460 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/RutherfordHill.aspBH 89 (10/2008): (from Carneros fruit bottled at 14.5%.)The most complex nose in the range with a sublime mix of dark red cherry, violets, blueberry and anise that merges gracefully into fresh, round and generous medium-bodied flavors that are delicious and also notably complex but lack the same fine detail of the Cerise, all wrapped in a sappy and mouth coating finish where a noticeable if discreet touch of warmth is felt. This is certainly pretty but not quite as well balanced as its Anderson Valley sibling. Drink 2011+.WS 85 (12/2008): Floral, wild berry, huckleberry and black cherry scents are trim and balanced. Gains depth and complexity on the finish, though still leaves you hoping for a shade more depth. Drink now through 2011. 1,546 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saintsbury.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saintsbury.aspWA 91 (8/2010): The third white I tasted is the 2007 Acromion, which I previously reviewed in issue #184. A killer wine, this blend of 92% Roussanne and 8% Viognier spent 20 months in barrel, and had full malolactic fermentation. It possesses abundant notes of waxy, honeysuckle, orange marmalade, and tropical fruits intertwined with a buttery richness, and complex, full-bodied flavors. While it may be too much of a good thing for some readers, it is a distinctive, singular white wine to drink over the next 2-3 years although I suspect it has the potential to last longer. IWC 88 (12/2009): ( 92% roussanne and 8% viognier) Bright gold. Exotic aromas of peach, passion fruit and melon, with a hint of talc. Slightly warm melon and pit fruit flavors are underscored by a dusty mineral note and take a dry turn on the back end. Finishes with good mineral snap and a bit of heat. Serve this well-chilled.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Sanguis.aspWA 90 (8/2011): The 2007 Red Wine Backseat Betty is a big, racy wine loaded with bright red fruit, raspberry jam, flowers and spices. It shows tons of depth and textural richness along with silky tannins and excellent balance. Backseat Betty is 83% Syrah, 14% Grenache and 3% Viognier, aged predominantly in new French oak barrels. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2017.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Sanguis.aspWA 92 (8/2011): The 2009 Chardonnay Ode to Sunshine, from the Bien Nacido Vineyard, wraps around the palate with layers of tropical fruit. Despite its textural richness and volume, the wine shows plenty of acidity and fabulous overall balance. This racy, sleek wine from Sanguis is best enjoyed while the fruit is vibrant. Ode to Sunshine spent 22 months in French oak barrels, 50% new. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2015. IWC 91 (10/2011): (100% chardonnay from the Bien Nacido vineyard): Hazy gold. Wild, complex bouquet evokes pear skin, nectarine, macadamia nut and marzipan, with an oak spice note that gains strength with air. Ripe and broad but lively, with deep orchard and pit fruit flavors showing very good clarity and spiciness. Finishes long and sappy, with very good cut.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Sanguis.aspWA 97 (8/2009): The other experimental cuvee is the 2006 “32" James Berry Vineyard. A blend of 43% Syrah, 38% Grenache, and 19% Mourvedre aged 32 months in small barrels and demi-muids, it boasts loads of kirsch liqueur, lavender, pepper, spice box, and earth characteristics along with a voluptuous texture and stunning richness. Sadly, there are fewer than 100 cases of this gorgeous wine.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 95 (8/2004): The 2002 Syrah James Berry Vineyard Bone Rock, which had been bottled several weeks before my tasting, was not displaying any ill effects from its recent bottling. More primordial (of course, it’s a year younger), it exhibits a saturated plum/purple color along with a spectacular nose of blackberries, licorice, kirsch, and flinty/crushed stones. Full-bodied, with a spectacular texture as well as a massive finish, it possesses a slightly later harvest sur-maturite character than its siblings. A blend of 88% Syrah and 12% Grenache, it spent 18 months in French oak, was never racked, and was bottled unfined and unfiltered. This is the best recent trilogy I’ve experienced since Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings!WS 75 (12/2005): A curious concoction, with a syrupy, slightly balsamic flavor that veers to dry and leathery, ending with a touch of bitterness. Tasted three times, with two bottles showing off characteristics and one that was more impressive. 300 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 96-100 (6/2008): The 2006 Bone Rock, a blend of 76% Syrah, 18% Mourvedre, and 6% Grenache, is another exceptional wine that has expanded, and developed even more texture, nuance, and complexity than it displayed last year. It is a full-bodied red of prodigious intensity, richness, and complexity. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2018.IWC 95 (12/2008): Inky ruby. Exotically perfumed bouquet of red berries, fruitcake, Asian spices and white flowers. Impressively fresh, with vibrant raspberry, blackcurrant and floral pastille flavors. Zesty minerality adds urgency to the deep, almost sweet fruit, with fine-grained tannins adding grip. The endless finish strongly echoes the spice and minerality of this suave knock-out. WS 92 (3/2009): A tasty mouthful of Syrah, this is full-bodied and concentrated, rich and plush, with layers of ripe blackberry, wild berry, mineral and graphite, ending with a long, persistent finish that keeps repeating the dark berry themes. Syrah, Mourvèdre and Grenache. Drink now through 2014. 450 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 98+ (8/2014): Decidedly cool climate in character, the 2011 James Berry Vineyard Bone Rock comes from steep, terraced plots of old head trained Syrah vines that, in 2011, wasn’t harvested until November. Co-fermented with a splash of Roussanne and Mourvedre, it’s a spectacular effort that makes the most of the cool, long growing season. It’s also the most long term prospect in the lineup. Offering up a tight, Cornas-like bouquet of black and blue fruits, white pepper, spring flowers and salty minerality, it is full-bodied, beautifully concentrated and seamless on the palate, with ultra-fine tannin and building richness that only starts to develop with a healthy decant. It’s a gorgeous wine, yet needs to be forgotten for at least 4-5 years. It should drink nicely through 2031. VM 95 (11/2013): (Mostly syrah, with a bit of roussanne; made with 50% whole clusters and 15.6% alcohol): Inky purple. Heady, floral- and spice-accented scents of black and blue fruits, incense and licorice. Stains the palate with intense cassis and blueberry flavors that are lifted by vibrant spice and floral pastille nuances. Becomes sweeter and more energetic with air and finishes with superb clarity and length and smooth, fully absorbed tannins. This is on the short list of the best wines that I tasted from California this year.WS 93 (2/2014): Classic notes of pepper and wild berry give this sturdy red plenty of backbone and tension. The tannins are more muscular and gripping than in recent vintages, giving the flavors traction and length. Drink now through 2026. 460 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 98+ (8/2014): Decidedly cool climate in character, the 2011 James Berry Vineyard Bone Rock comes from steep, terraced plots of old head trained Syrah vines that, in 2011, wasn’t harvested until November. Co-fermented with a splash of Roussanne and Mourvedre, it’s a spectacular effort that makes the most of the cool, long growing season. It’s also the most long term prospect in the lineup. Offering up a tight, Cornas-like bouquet of black and blue fruits, white pepper, spring flowers and salty minerality, it is full-bodied, beautifully concentrated and seamless on the palate, with ultra-fine tannin and building richness that only starts to develop with a healthy decant. It’s a gorgeous wine, yet needs to be forgotten for at least 4-5 years. It should drink nicely through 2031. VM 95 (11/2013): (Mostly syrah, with a bit of roussanne; made with 50% whole clusters and 15.6% alcohol): Inky purple. Heady, floral- and spice-accented scents of black and blue fruits, incense and licorice. Stains the palate with intense cassis and blueberry flavors that are lifted by vibrant spice and floral pastille nuances. Becomes sweeter and more energetic with air and finishes with superb clarity and length and smooth, fully absorbed tannins. This is on the short list of the best wines that I tasted from California this year.WS 93 (2/2014): Classic notes of pepper and wild berry give this sturdy red plenty of backbone and tension. The tannins are more muscular and gripping than in recent vintages, giving the flavors traction and length. Drink now through 2026. 460 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 99 (8/2015): The 2012 Syrah James Berry Vineyard Bone Rock is the star of the show in 2012. Borderline perfection, it has straight up awesome notes of black and blue fruits, pepper, crushed violets and searing chalky minerality that shows on both the nose and palate. Full-bodied, seamless and elegant, it's a stacked, concentrated, layered Syrah that never puts a foot wrong. Give it 2-4 years and enjoy bottles through 2032.VM 94 (9/2015): Vivid purple. Intensely perfumed cherry and blueberry aromas are complemented by suggestions of potpourri, licorice and smoky Indian spices. On the palate, dense, sweet dark berry liqueur and floral pastille flavors are sharpened by zesty mineral and white pepper notes. Elegant for such a rich wine, finishing with supple tannins and excellent floral persistence. This wine was made with 50% whole clusters. Josh Raynolds.WS 91 (3/2015): Exhibits a powerful core of rich dark berry, graphite, chocolate, dusty earth and tobacco flavors. Slowly unfolds to reveal more nuances, suggesting that this may develop for some time. Prominent tannins. Best from 2016 through 2029. 462 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 96 (8/2014): Beautifully done, and probably the most elegant, seamless version of this cuvee I’ve tasted, the 2011 Booker Vineyard offers terrific aromas and flavors of liquid violets, sappy underbrush, smoked , exotic spices and plenty of crushed rock-like minerality that are all carried by layers of sweet cassis and black raspberry. There’s a northern Rhone-like character here, but it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, fantastic mid-palate concentration, and a seamless, layered and multi-dimensional mouthfeel that’s hard to resist. Made from 67% Syrah and 33% Mourvedre and aged in 300- and 350-liter hogsheads (and fermented with varying degrees of whole cluster), this beautifully pure, polished and complex effort will benefit from short-term cellaring and have over 15 years of overall longevity. VM 94 (12/2013): Dark purple. Potent aromas of cassis, cherry liqueur, blueberry, Moroccan spices, violet and smoky minerals. Impressively deep but energetic, offering sappy dark fruit flavors laced with notes of mocha, violet, cola, five-spice powder and cracked pepper. Decidedly rich but this comes across as almost elegant, with impressive lift and energy thanks to bright, juicy acidity. The deep, sappy black and blue fruit flavors refuse to let go on the long, spicy finish. VM 94 (7/2014): Pomegranate, plum, exotic spices, smoke and graphite are some of the many notes that are found in the 2011 Booker Vineyard. An exceptionally beautiful wine, the 2011 possesses remarkable depth and intensity. Expressive floral and citrus overtones develop in the glass, adding considerable brightness and aromatic nuance. Even though the 2011 is gorgeous today, my sense is it is holding back much of its potential. WS 88 (2/2014): Ruggedly tannic, with ripe dark berry, dried herb, sage, stemmy and cedar notes, this tannic style begs for patience. Syrah and Mourvèdre. Drink now through 2023. 500 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 96 (8/2014): Beautifully done, and probably the most elegant, seamless version of this cuvee I’ve tasted, the 2011 Booker Vineyard offers terrific aromas and flavors of liquid violets, sappy underbrush, smoked , exotic spices and plenty of crushed rock-like minerality that are all carried by layers of sweet cassis and black raspberry. There’s a northern Rhone-like character here, but it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, fantastic mid-palate concentration, and a seamless, layered and multi-dimensional mouthfeel that’s hard to resist. Made from 67% Syrah and 33% Mourvedre and aged in 300- and 350-liter hogsheads (and fermented with varying degrees of whole cluster), this beautifully pure, polished and complex effort will benefit from short-term cellaring and have over 15 years of overall longevity. VM 94 (12/2013): Dark purple. Potent aromas of cassis, cherry liqueur, blueberry, Moroccan spices, violet and smoky minerals. Impressively deep but energetic, offering sappy dark fruit flavors laced with notes of mocha, violet, cola, five-spice powder and cracked pepper. Decidedly rich but this comes across as almost elegant, with impressive lift and energy thanks to bright, juicy acidity. The deep, sappy black and blue fruit flavors refuse to let go on the long, spicy finish. VM 94 (7/2014): Pomegranate, plum, exotic spices, smoke and graphite are some of the many notes that are found in the 2011 Booker Vineyard. An exceptionally beautiful wine, the 2011 possesses remarkable depth and intensity. Expressive floral and citrus overtones develop in the glass, adding considerable brightness and aromatic nuance. Even though the 2011 is gorgeous today, my sense is it is holding back much of its potential. WS 88 (2/2014): Ruggedly tannic, with ripe dark berry, dried herb, sage, stemmy and cedar notes, this tannic style begs for patience. Syrah and Mourvèdre. Drink now through 2023. 500 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 98 (8/2015): A candidate for the wine of the vintage, the 2012 Booker Vineyard is a blend of 73% Syrah and 27% Mourvedre that was aged 20-26 months in 60% new French oak. It's a classic expression of the vineyard and offers up lots of smoked meats, cracked pepper, wild herbs and tons of dark fruit. Big, full-bodied, thick and chewy, it has gorgeous purity and sweetness of fruit. It shows surprising finesse and elegance with time in the glass, but make no mistake, it's a big, rich and decadent beauty that will benefit from short-term cellaring and age for 15+ years. VM 93 (9/2015): Inky purple. Smoky blackcurrant and blueberry aromas show excellent clarity, with building Asian spice and floral pastille qualities adding complexity. Seamless and sweet in the mouth, offering lively dark berry preserve and candied violet flavors and a bright, spicy kick on the back half. Finishes with supple tannins and lingering floral and blue fruit notes. Stephen Tanzer. WS 93 (3/2015): Presents a massive core of earth- and dark berry—driven flavors, with dense mineral, graphite, crushed berry and rock, mocha and raspberry accents. Ends with a sturdy wall of tannins. Syrah and Mourvèdre. Best from 2016 through 2028. 389 cases made. VM 91-94 (7/2014): The 2012 Booker Vineyard is extremely raw and unformed at this stage. Still on its gross lees, the 2011 is in need of a racking. This site typically delivers big, bold wines. I expect that will be the case here as well, but time will tell. It will be interesting to see how things turn out after bottling.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWS 95 (12/2007): Shows wonderful aromas of rich, chocolatey blackberry and boysenberry, with a touch of huckleberry. Dense, concentrated and sharply focused, this finishes with a long, layered, persistent aftertaste. Syrah and Grenache. Drink now through 2013. 350 cases made. WA 92-94 (8/2007): The 2005 Booker Vineyard (a new offering from a hillside vineyard closer to Highway 101) is a 400-case blend of 92% Syrah and 8% Grenache. This is quite full-bodied, powerful wine with loads of structure, unmistakable minerality, and moderately high tannin. The wine has sweet cassis, black cherry, and currant fruit, some hints of wet rocks, and firm tannins in the finish. Perhaps the most backward of all these wines, it seems to merit 3-4 years of bottle age and should evolve for possibly up to two decades.VM 93 (12/2007): (92% syrah and 8% grenache) Bright purple. Powerfully scented nose offers smoky cassis and bitter cherry aromas, along with cured meat, violet and cigarbox; really smells like Cote-Rotie! Sweet and round, displaying intense red and dark berry preserve flavors and a strong mineral undertone, finishing with building tannins. Balances depth and energy as well as earth and fruit. A fascinating wine.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 93-95 (6/2005): Exquisite from the barrel, the opaque ruby/purple-colored 2004 Broken Stones (75% Syrah and 25% Grenache) exhibits crisp underlying acidity, a sweet perfume of raspberries, blackberries, garrigue, pepper, and spice box, full body, and tremendous length, richness, and balance. It should easily age for 12+ years. I highly recommend that wine enthusiasts who love Rhone Ranger wines pay a visit to the James Berry Vineyard, one of the true grand cru sites in the region.VM 91 (10/2006): (75% syrah, 22% grenache and 3% mourvedre; 15.6% alcohol) Good bright ruby. Highly complex, perfumed aromas of raspberry, blackberry, violet, bitter chocolate, tobacco, flowers, pepper and underbrush. Sweet and juicy, with a gentle texture and concentrated flavors of blackberry and dark chocolate. Very suave, silky wine, finishing with lush tannins and subtle length.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 94 (8/2007): The 2005 Broken Stones, a blend of 74% Syrah, 24% Grenache, and the rest Mourvedre, is a beauty. Notes of licorice, forest floor, pepper, spice box, and loads of black and red fruits jump from the glass as well as saturate the palate. This full-bodied, opulent wine has crisp acidity, some heady alcohol, and loads of flavor, depth, and richness. It is a savory wine to drink now and over the next 7-10 years. VM 91 (12/2007): Ruby-red. Spicy boysenberry and kirsch on the nose, with subtle baking spice and musky underbrush adding complexity. Fleshy red and dark berry flavors are plump and sweet but reined in by zesty acidity, which enlivens the long, juicy finish. The spice notes linger impressively and contribute an impression of vivacity. But this needs some time in bottle.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWS 96 (3/2009): Offers waves of ripe, exotic dark berry fruit, with wild berry, raspberry and blackberry jam notes that are full-bodied, rich and intense, pure and focused, ending with a long, complex, persistent finish. Syrah, Grenache and Mourvèdre. Drink now through 2015. 800 cases made. WA 94-96 (6/2008): The sensational, full-bodied 2006 Broken Stones (63% Syrah, 24% Grenache, and 13% Mourvedre) reveals terrific cassis and raspberry fruit interwoven with hints of charcoal, roasted meats, and underbrush. This complex, opulent, full-bodied 2006 should drink well for a decade or more.VM 94 (12/2008): Ruby with a bright rim. Wild, pungent aromas of spicy red and dark berries, olive, incense and fruitcake. Surprisingly lithe on the palate, conveying an almost pinot-like silkiness. Sweet black raspberry and kirsch flavors are brightened by dusty minerals, becoming livelier with aeration. A strikingly elegant, focused wine that finishes with outstanding tangy lift, cut and persistence. This was raised in 50% new barriques.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 96 (8/2011): The 2009 Broken Stones is sourced from all of the estate’s vineyards, which in this vintage includes Padereweski fruit for the first time, although most of the fruit was sourced from James Berry. Today it comes across as rather tightly wound and implosive, although with air the wine’s potential becomes more evident. Dark cherries, licorice and smoke wrap around the intense finish. Floral notes add the final layers of complexity and nuance. This is another fabulous effort. In 2009 the blend is 60% Syrah, 20% Mourvedre, 12% Petite Sirah and 8% Grenache. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2021.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 96 (8/2011): The 2009 Broken Stones is sourced from all of the estate’s vineyards, which in this vintage includes Padereweski fruit for the first time, although most of the fruit was sourced from James Berry. Today it comes across as rather tightly wound and implosive, although with air the wine’s potential becomes more evident. Dark cherries, licorice and smoke wrap around the intense finish. Floral notes add the final layers of complexity and nuance. This is another fabulous effort. In 2009 the blend is 60% Syrah, 20% Mourvedre, 12% Petite Sirah and 8% Grenache. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2021.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspRR 96 (12/2012): Even more perfumed and upfront aromatically, the 2010 Saxum Broken Stones is a brilliant effort. A multi-vineyard blend of 63% Syrah, 19% Mourvedre, 15% Grenache, and 3% Petite Sirah that was aged mostly in new French oak, it offers up a gorgeously pure array of black raspberry, charcoal, licorice, lavender, and assorted floral qualities on the nose. This flows to a full-bodied, deft, and elegant palate that has no hard edges, a weightless feel, and masses of fine, yet firm tannin on the finish. Give bottles another year or three, and then drink over the following 12-15 years. VM 94 (12/2012): (63% syrah, 19% mourvedre, 15% grenache and 3% petite sirah; 15.3% alcohol): A complex, smoky bouquet evokes red and dark berry liqueur, candied flowers and Asian spices. Supple and juicy on the palate, with zesty acidity giving spine and lift to the powerful black raspberry and mulberry flavors. The smoky note comes back on the strikingly long, mineral-driven finish, which is focused, sweet and extremely long.WS 93 (3/2013): Deceptively understated, offering a profile of crushed rock and mineral joined by dark berry and spice, with a beefy note on the finish. Firmly tannic. Syrah, Mourvèdre, Grenache and Petite Sirah. Drink now through 2024. 1,500 cases made.WA 92-94 (8/2012): A rush of dark Syrah fruit announces the 2010 Broken Stones. Menthol, tar and sweet spices develop with time in the glass, adding considerable complexity and nuance. This is a seriously rich, intense wine endowed with deep layers of fruit and a huge, muscular finish. Here, too, I sense the wine is a bit tight, but it should be ready to go in another 6 months or so. The blend is 63% Syrah, 19% Mourvedre, 15% Grenache and 3% Petite Sirah. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2020.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspRR 96 (12/2012): Even more perfumed and upfront aromatically, the 2010 Saxum Broken Stones is a brilliant effort. A multi-vineyard blend of 63% Syrah, 19% Mourvedre, 15% Grenache, and 3% Petite Sirah that was aged mostly in new French oak, it offers up a gorgeously pure array of black raspberry, charcoal, licorice, lavender, and assorted floral qualities on the nose. This flows to a full-bodied, deft, and elegant palate that has no hard edges, a weightless feel, and masses of fine, yet firm tannin on the finish. Give bottles another year or three, and then drink over the following 12-15 years. VM 94 (12/2012): (63% syrah, 19% mourvedre, 15% grenache and 3% petite sirah; 15.3% alcohol): A complex, smoky bouquet evokes red and dark berry liqueur, candied flowers and Asian spices. Supple and juicy on the palate, with zesty acidity giving spine and lift to the powerful black raspberry and mulberry flavors. The smoky note comes back on the strikingly long, mineral-driven finish, which is focused, sweet and extremely long.WS 93 (3/2013): Deceptively understated, offering a profile of crushed rock and mineral joined by dark berry and spice, with a beefy note on the finish. Firmly tannic. Syrah, Mourvèdre, Grenache and Petite Sirah. Drink now through 2024. 1,500 cases made.WA 92-94 (8/2012): A rush of dark Syrah fruit announces the 2010 Broken Stones. Menthol, tar and sweet spices develop with time in the glass, adding considerable complexity and nuance. This is a seriously rich, intense wine endowed with deep layers of fruit and a huge, muscular finish. Here, too, I sense the wine is a bit tight, but it should be ready to go in another 6 months or so. The blend is 63% Syrah, 19% Mourvedre, 15% Grenache and 3% Petite Sirah. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2020.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 96 (8/2014): The brilliant 2011 Syrah Broken Stones comes from a cooler block of the James Berry Vineyard and checks in as a blend of 78% Syrah, 18% Mourvedre and 4% Petit Sirah. Relatively forward (especially when compared to the locked up Bone Rock), with fabulous purity and freshness, it exudes notions of creme de cassis, blueberry, pepper, crushed flowers and sweet oak on the nose. Full-bodied, seamless and elegant, yet with building richness and rock star length, it’s an elegant version of the cuvee to drink over the coming 15 years or more. VM 95 (7/2014): A dark, mysterious beauty, the 2011 Broken Stones is laced with expressive dark red and black stone fruits, iron, smoke and French oak. This is one of the more explosive wines in Saxum's range of 2011s. The Broken Stones finishes with substantial depth and power. While oak levels have come down quite a bit here in recent years, Broken Stones is one wine in this range where the oak influence is noticeable. The blend is 78% Syrah, 18% Mourvèdre and 4% Petite Sirah.Antonio Galloni. WS 88 (12/2014): Trim and tannic, with a narrow mix of dried berry and loamy earth flavors, this wine will benefit from some short-term cellaring. The cool-weather, savory flavors are framed by dry, gripping tannins. Syrah, Mourvèdre and Petite Sirah. Drink now through 2024. 1,230 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 96 (8/2014): The brilliant 2011 Syrah Broken Stones comes from a cooler block of the James Berry Vineyard and checks in as a blend of 78% Syrah, 18% Mourvedre and 4% Petit Sirah. Relatively forward (especially when compared to the locked up Bone Rock), with fabulous purity and freshness, it exudes notions of creme de cassis, blueberry, pepper, crushed flowers and sweet oak on the nose. Full-bodied, seamless and elegant, yet with building richness and rock star length, it’s an elegant version of the cuvee to drink over the coming 15 years or more. VM 95 (7/2014): A dark, mysterious beauty, the 2011 Broken Stones is laced with expressive dark red and black stone fruits, iron, smoke and French oak. This is one of the more explosive wines in Saxum's range of 2011s. The Broken Stones finishes with substantial depth and power. While oak levels have come down quite a bit here in recent years, Broken Stones is one wine in this range where the oak influence is noticeable. The blend is 78% Syrah, 18% Mourvèdre and 4% Petite Sirah.Antonio Galloni. WS 88 (12/2014): Trim and tannic, with a narrow mix of dried berry and loamy earth flavors, this wine will benefit from some short-term cellaring. The cool-weather, savory flavors are framed by dry, gripping tannins. Syrah, Mourvèdre and Petite Sirah. Drink now through 2024. 1,230 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 97 (8/2015): The 2012 Syrah Broken Stones is a beauty. Made from 79% Syrah, 7% Petite Sirah and the rest Grenache, Mourvedre and Roussanne, it offers up full-bodied, decadent, yet incredibly pure notes of creme de cassis, smoked earth, pepper and violets. Seamless and silky, yet with a great mid-palate and notable tannin, it needs 2-3 years of bottle age and will have 15 years or more of overall longevity. VM 95 (9/2015): Saturated purple. Spectactular perfume of fresh blueberry, boysenberry, incense, vanilla and smoky minerals, with suave allspice and star anise nuances coming up as the wine stretches out. Sweet, incisive and pure on the palate, offering an array of dark fruit liqueur and floral pastille flavors, along with suggestions of cola and spicecake. Leaves sexy lavender and blue fruit notes behind on an extremely long, vibrant finish that's firmed and focused by silky, fully integrated tannins. Josh Raynolds. WS 92 (3/2015): A tour de force that's dense, powerful and chunky, with a rich, extracted core of dark berry, graphite, crushed rock, tar and cedar notes. Gripping but engaging on the finish. Syrah, Petite Sirah, Grenache, Mourvèdre and Roussanne. Best from 2016 through 2028. 1,112 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 97 (8/2015): The 2012 Syrah Broken Stones is a beauty. Made from 79% Syrah, 7% Petite Sirah and the rest Grenache, Mourvedre and Roussanne, it offers up full-bodied, decadent, yet incredibly pure notes of creme de cassis, smoked earth, pepper and violets. Seamless and silky, yet with a great mid-palate and notable tannin, it needs 2-3 years of bottle age and will have 15 years or more of overall longevity. VM 95 (9/2015): Saturated purple. Spectactular perfume of fresh blueberry, boysenberry, incense, vanilla and smoky minerals, with suave allspice and star anise nuances coming up as the wine stretches out. Sweet, incisive and pure on the palate, offering an array of dark fruit liqueur and floral pastille flavors, along with suggestions of cola and spicecake. Leaves sexy lavender and blue fruit notes behind on an extremely long, vibrant finish that's firmed and focused by silky, fully integrated tannins. Josh Raynolds. WS 92 (3/2015): A tour de force that's dense, powerful and chunky, with a rich, extracted core of dark berry, graphite, crushed rock, tar and cedar notes. Gripping but engaging on the finish. Syrah, Petite Sirah, Grenache, Mourvèdre and Roussanne. Best from 2016 through 2028. 1,112 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 95-97+ (8/2016): Up there with the great vintages of this cuvee, the 2014 Syrah Broken Stones offers incredible purity and elegance paired with blockbuster richness and depth. Giving up lots of sweet black raspberry fruit, crushed rock, a hint of chocolate and toasted spice, this beauty is full-bodied, unctuous and layered. I never find this cuvee to have quite as many layers as the other Syrahs, but this is beautiful. This is the only cuvee from Justin that comes from multiple vineyards.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 97 (9/2016): Tasted just after bottling and a final blend of 58% Mourvedre and 42% Grenache, the 2014 G2 Vineyard comes from a site just to the southeast of James Berry (this was formerly known as Gravity Hills Vineyard) that was planted in the late 1990s. The first release from Justin from this site, this beauty sports a deep ruby/purple color as well as a gorgeous, layered bouquet of cured meats, spice, mulled dark fruits, graphite and loads of this chalky minerality that also emerges on the palate. Rich, full-bodied, ultra-pure and impeccably balanced, this seamless, full-bore beauty will need 2-3 years to really shine, and keep for a decade or more after that.VM 94 (9/2016): Inky purple. Powerful, deep-pitched aromas of ripe dark fruits, violet, incense, Indian spices and smoky minerals. Stains the palate with intense blackberry, bitter cherry and floral pastille flavors that open up and become sweeter with aeration. Extremely young and highly promising; the strikingly long, youthfully tannic finish leaves sappy blue fruit and spicecake qualities behind. Josh Raynolds.WS 94 (2/2017): Distinctive, combining polish with appealing earthiness. Aromas of raspberry, mineral and smoky meat lead to structured and focused flavors of dried cherry, licorice and ground ginger. Finishes with refined tannins. Mourvèdre and Grenache. Drink now through 2028. 625 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 92 (8/2006): The dark ruby-hued 2004 Heart Stone Vineyard (a 200-case blend of 60% Syrah, 30% Mourvedre, and 10% Grenache) boasts a stunning perfume of flowers, blueberries, and briery, wild berry fruit. The distinctive aromatics are followed by a wine with soft tannins, medium to full body, and well-integrated acidity, tannin, and wood. It should evolve for 12 or more years.IWC 90 (10/2006): Medium ruby. Expressive aromas of licorice, smoked meat, spicecake, tree bark and tar, with plenty of dark fruits in the background. Then sweet, creamy and expansive, with juicy dark berry flavors nicely framed by peppery spices and ripe acidity. The long finish features sweet, dusty tannins and lingering blackberry and boysenberry fruit.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 94 (6/2008): The northern Rhone-like 2005 Heart Stone Vineyard is a blend of 44% Syrah, 33% Grenache, and 23% Mourvedre. A meaty nose with roasted Provencal herbs, cassis, blackberry, licorice, and smoke emerges from this Hermitage-styled effort. Structured and firm, it will benefit from 1-2 years of bottle age, and should evolve effortlessly for a decade or more. The bottled 2005s are all performing well. VM 92 (12/2007): Deep ruby. Room-filling bouquet of red and black fruits, Asian spices, fresh violet and lavender and suave vanillin oak. Vibrant, palate-staining raspberry and blackberry flavors deliver sweet depth, with zesty minerality adding energy. Silky tannins slowly build on the long, spicy finish. Seamless and elegant; this is more open than the Broken Stones today. WS 90 (3/2008): Offers subtlety and finesse. A charming style, with rich layers of dried currant, sage, fresh earth, mineral and light cedary oak. Holds its focus and ends with a complex aftertaste. Syrah, Grenache and Mourvèdre. Drink now through 2011. 500 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 94 (6/2008): The northern Rhone-like 2005 Heart Stone Vineyard is a blend of 44% Syrah, 33% Grenache, and 23% Mourvedre. A meaty nose with roasted Provencal herbs, cassis, blackberry, licorice, and smoke emerges from this Hermitage-styled effort. Structured and firm, it will benefit from 1-2 years of bottle age, and should evolve effortlessly for a decade or more. The bottled 2005s are all performing well. IWC 92 (12/2007): Deep ruby. Room-filling bouquet of red and black fruits, Asian spices, fresh violet and lavender and suave vanillin oak. Vibrant, palate-staining raspberry and blackberry flavors deliver sweet depth, with zesty minerality adding energy. Silky tannins slowly build on the long, spicy finish. Seamless and elegant; this is more open than the Broken Stones today.WS 90 (3/2008): Offers subtlety and finesse. A charming style, with rich layers of dried currant, sage, fresh earth, mineral and light cedary oak. Holds its focus and ends with a complex aftertaste. Syrah, Grenache and Mourvèdre. Drink now through 2011. 500 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 93 (8/2009): A blend of 38% Syrah, 36% Grenache, and 26% Mourvedre, the 2006 Heart Stone Vineyard offers up scents of flowers, lavender, black cherries, raspberries, blackberries, underbrush, and forest floor. Justin Smith uses a lot of whole clusters in his fermentation, which seems to give his wines structure as well as nuance. This is the most French-like of Saxum’s 2006s, and it comes across like a restrained, northern Rhone-like effort that is only hinting at its ultimate potential. It will benefit from 1-3 years of cellaring, and should evolve for 10-15 years. WS 93 (3/2009): Intense and powerful, with ripe, focused plum, blackberry and wild berry fruit that's shaded by pepper and nutmeg flavors. Full-bodied, dense and chewy, with pleasantly earthy tannins. Syrah, Grenache and Mourvèdre. Drink now through 2014. 390 cases made. VM 92 (12/2008): ( 38% syrah, 36% grenache and 26% mourvedre) Bright red. Sexy, strongly floral aromas of strawberry, black raspberry and candied flowers, with a suave Christmas spice quality. Sappy and sweet, with vivid red fruit and floral pastille flavors and a seductive overlay of cinnamon and mace. Bright minerals add lift and cut to the sappy finish. This was fermented with about 35% whole clusters.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 98 (8/2010): The late-released 2007 Heart Stone, which spent 28 months in a combination of barrels, demi-muids, and pungeons, turned out to be a final blend of 65% Syrah, 21% Grenache, and 14% Mourvedre. Like all of Justin Smith’s 2007s, it is a riveting, sensational wine that carries its heavy weight, profound richness, and intensity very gracefully. That is no doubt an effect of the limestone soils of this region. Blackberry and smoked meats as well as some garrigue and floral notes are followed by a dense, rich, pure, multi-layered wine that just screams for grilled poultry or meats! Bottled unfined and unfiltered (and as I recall, 25-35% stems/whole clusters were used during fermentation), this is a fabulous wine that combines power and elegance. It should drink well for at least a decade or more. JD 98 (11/2010): The lightest and most vibrant of the ‘07s, the 2007 Saxum Heart Stone Vineyard is a blend of 65% Syrah, 21% Grenache, and 14% Mourvedre, from limestone soils, which saw close to 30% whole cluster and spent 26 months in oak. The Grenache really shows and the wine exhibits exceptional aromatics of spiced red fruits, underbrush, flowers, and graphite on the nose. This develops beautifully in the glass and shows awesome purity and precision. Silky and elegant on the palate, the wine is medium to full bodied and perfectly balanced, possessing a layered, rich, yet light texture, vibrant acidity, and a very long, focused finish that highlights fine-grained, ripe tannin. I love the delineation this shows, and while superb right now, I think this will benefit from 2 to 3 years in the cellar and then drink beautifully for 12 to 15 years. WS 97 (2/2011): There's amazing harmony and range of flavor in this red, which offers richness, elegance and finesse, with blackberry, wild berry, plum and cherry fruit that's full-bodied, smooth-textured and layered, opening doors of flavor on an amazingly long, intricate finish. Syrah, Grenache and Mourvèdre. Drink now through 2022. 475 cases made. VM 93+ (11/2010): (65% syrah, 21% grenache and 14% mourvedre) Opaque purple. Explosive aromas of black raspberry, cherry pit, pomegranate molasses and Asian spices. Densely packed red and dark fruit flavors show intense spiciness and unfurl slowly to offer sexy floral character. Dense but with unlikely energy and finesse; this is just hinting at its potential. Josh Raynolds.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 98 (8/2010): The late-released 2007 Heart Stone, which spent 28 months in a combination of barrels, demi-muids, and pungeons, turned out to be a final blend of 65% Syrah, 21% Grenache, and 14% Mourvedre. Like all of Justin Smith’s 2007s, it is a riveting, sensational wine that carries its heavy weight, profound richness, and intensity very gracefully. That is no doubt an effect of the limestone soils of this region. Blackberry and smoked meats as well as some garrigue and floral notes are followed by a dense, rich, pure, multi-layered wine that just screams for grilled poultry or meats! Bottled unfined and unfiltered (and as I recall, 25-35% stems/whole clusters were used during fermentation), this is a fabulous wine that combines power and elegance. It should drink well for at least a decade or more. JD 98 (11/2010): The lightest and most vibrant of the ‘07s, the 2007 Saxum Heart Stone Vineyard is a blend of 65% Syrah, 21% Grenache, and 14% Mourvedre, from limestone soils, which saw close to 30% whole cluster and spent 26 months in oak. The Grenache really shows and the wine exhibits exceptional aromatics of spiced red fruits, underbrush, flowers, and graphite on the nose. This develops beautifully in the glass and shows awesome purity and precision. Silky and elegant on the palate, the wine is medium to full bodied and perfectly balanced, possessing a layered, rich, yet light texture, vibrant acidity, and a very long, focused finish that highlights fine-grained, ripe tannin. I love the delineation this shows, and while superb right now, I think this will benefit from 2 to 3 years in the cellar and then drink beautifully for 12 to 15 years. WS 97 (2/2011): There's amazing harmony and range of flavor in this red, which offers richness, elegance and finesse, with blackberry, wild berry, plum and cherry fruit that's full-bodied, smooth-textured and layered, opening doors of flavor on an amazingly long, intricate finish. Syrah, Grenache and Mourvèdre. Drink now through 2022. 475 cases made. VM 93+ (11/2010): (65% syrah, 21% grenache and 14% mourvedre) Opaque purple. Explosive aromas of black raspberry, cherry pit, pomegranate molasses and Asian spices. Densely packed red and dark fruit flavors show intense spiciness and unfurl slowly to offer sexy floral character. Dense but with unlikely energy and finesse; this is just hinting at its potential. Josh Raynolds.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWS 95 (2/2011): Impresses with its finesse, serving up a supple, generous mix of up-front plum, huckleberry and blueberry fruit that's elegant, delicate and polished. Full-bodied, seamless and refined, ending with a long, detailed finish. Syrah, Grenache and Mourvèdre. Drink now through 2017. 450 cases made.WA 93 (8/2010): The 2008 Heart Stone, a blend of 47% Syrah, 39% Grenache, and 14% Mourvedre, is very elegant but evolved and supple, with beautiful kirsch and black currant fruit intermixed with licorice, camphor, pepper, and a hint of lavender. More evolved than the 2007 was at a similar stage, but with slightly lower alcohols, its velvety tannins stand out in this rich, plush, opulent, voluptuously textured wine. Drink it over the next 7-10 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 95-97 (8/2012): The 2010 Heart Stone Vineyard opens with a dark, brooding nose redolent of smoke, tar, incense and licorice. Elements of dark, inward fruit continue to build in the glass. There is an exotic element in the Heart Stone that is undeniably appealing. Layers of fruit crescendo to the huge, towering finish. The 2010 is 51% Syrah and 49% Grenache aged in small new French oak barrels, an approach that works extremely well here. Justin Smith seems to know exactly what each of his wines needs. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2020. RR 95 (12/2012): More dense and rich, the 2010 Heart Stone Vineyard is a co-fermented blend of 51% Syrah and 49% Grenache that comes from a small 7-acre, south facing vineyard located on the western side of Paso Robles. Aged mostly in large oak puncheons for 20-28 months, it offers up a savory, complex bouquet of kirsch and blackberry-like fruit, meat juice, Provencal herbs, dried licorice, and dusty minerality. Gorgeous on the palate as well, with a deft, elegant texture, building richness, and layers of chewy tannin, this beauty is reasonably approachable now, yet will be even better in 2-3 years. It will drink well for 12-15 years. VM 94 (12/2012): (51% syrah and 49% grenache; 15.7% alcohol): Inky ruby. Powerful aromas of cherry-cola, blackberry, smoky minerals and violet, with a sexy oak spice nuance in the background. Lush and creamy on the palate, offering sweet, deeply concentrated dark berry flavors and a refreshing jolt of smoky minerals. Finishes bright and delineated, with lingering notes of cinnamon and candied flowers. WS 94 (3/2013): Offers a broad range of dense, earth- and mineral-laced cranberry, raspberry and wild berry, touching on berry pie and black licorice. Ends chewy. Syrah and Grenache. Drink now through 2024. 400 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 95 (8/2014): The 2011 Heart Stone Vineyard is a blend of 58% Syrah, 37% Grenache and 5% Mourvedre that was brought up in mostly concrete, with 20% in puncheons. Showing beautifully from barrel, it didn’t disappoint from bottle and has a perfumed, elegant feel to its purple fruits, lavender, violets, white pepper and underbrush-like aromas and flavors. The whole cluster inclusion shows here, yet it has fantastic purity, fine tannin and integrated acidity. Give it another year in the cellar and enjoy bottles through 2025. VM 93-95 (8/2012): The 2011 Heart Stone Vineyard comes across as a bit more ethereal than some of the other 2011s here, but there is plenty of understated depth and resonance to be found in the dark cherries, sweet herbs, flowers and spices. The 2011 is 41% Syrah, 39% Grenache and 20% Mourvèdre. The use of 60% whole clusters gives the 2011 much of its aromatic lift. This is very, very beautiful. The 2011 was all done in concrete. VM 93 (12/2013): (58% syrah, 37% grenache and 5% mourvedre; no new oak and 14.8% alcohol, which is quite low by Saxum standards): Opaque purple. Highly perfumed aromas of dark fruit preserves, violet, olive tapenade and cracked pepper, with an exotic blood orange nuance emerging with aeration. Weighty but surprisingly lithe on the palate, offering sweet blueberry and mulberry flavors and strong floral and spicecake accents. Closes spicy and long, with supple tannins making a late appearance and adding gentle grip. WS 88 (7/2014): A rustic, chewy version that puts tobacco, dried herb, dark berry and black licorice notes on display, The tannins cling and hang on, driving the flavors. Syrah, Grenache and Mourvèdre. Best from 2015 through 2024. 250 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 96 (8/2014): The 2012 Heart Stone Vineyard is 43% Syrah, 41% Grenache and 16% Mourvedre that was aged mostly in concrete (the ’11 was aged 100% in concrete) yet also saw some new and neutral puncheons. Fermented with 40% whole clusters, it’s a big, burly effort that has beautiful creme de cassis, black raspberry, crushed violets, vanilla bean and exotic flower-like qualities all emerging from the glass. It too has a structured feel, with high, yet ripe tannin, so short-term cellaring is also advised here. VM 92+ (9/2015): Opaque purple. Smoky, deeply pitched black raspberry, gingerbread and floral pastille scents show excellent clarity. Sweet and palate-staining, with intense red and dark berry liqueur flavors stretching out slowly. Finishes with outstanding thrust and length, chewy tannins coming up quickly to add grip. Josh Raynolds. WS 91 (3/2015): Offers a potent expression of loamy earth—infused dark berry, sage, bay leaf, espresso, black tea and black licorice flavors, all deep and persistent, cloaked in chewy tannins. Syrah, Grenache and Mourvèdre. Best from 2016 through 2028. 410 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 95 (8/2016): Checking in as a final blend of 54% Syrah, 35% Grenache and 11% Mourvedre, the 2013 Heart Stone Vineyard shows the class and purity of the vintage in its complex, floral-laced aromas of dark fruits, spice and minerality. Full-bodied, seamless and silky, with no hard edges and terrific purity, it's another 2013 from Smith that will open up with another year in bottle. VM 95 (9/2016): Vibrant purple. Intensely perfumed scents of ripe black and blue fruits, incense and cola gain vivacity from a smoky mineral nuance. Deeply concentrated, palate-staining blueberry, spicecake and floral pastille flavors are accompanied by suggestions of licorice and Indian spices that emerge on the back half. Finishes with a suave echo of candied violet, displaying slowly building tannins, outstanding energy and dark-fruit-driven persistence. Josh Raynolds. WS 92 (2/2016): Distinctive and densely constructed, with aromas of blackberry, black tea and olive leading to tightly focused, personality-filled flavors of wild berry, licorice and smoky peppered sage. Offers a firm, loamy structure and a tannic frame on the finish. Syrah, Grenache and Mourvèdre. Best from 2018 through 2027. 650 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 95 (8/2016): Checking in as a final blend of 54% Syrah, 35% Grenache and 11% Mourvedre, the 2013 Heart Stone Vineyard shows the class and purity of the vintage in its complex, floral-laced aromas of dark fruits, spice and minerality. Full-bodied, seamless and silky, with no hard edges and terrific purity, it's another 2013 from Smith that will open up with another year in bottle. VM 95 (9/2016): Vibrant purple. Intensely perfumed scents of ripe black and blue fruits, incense and cola gain vivacity from a smoky mineral nuance. Deeply concentrated, palate-staining blueberry, spicecake and floral pastille flavors are accompanied by suggestions of licorice and Indian spices that emerge on the back half. Finishes with a suave echo of candied violet, displaying slowly building tannins, outstanding energy and dark-fruit-driven persistence. Josh Raynolds. WS 92 (2/2016): Distinctive and densely constructed, with aromas of blackberry, black tea and olive leading to tightly focused, personality-filled flavors of wild berry, licorice and smoky peppered sage. Offers a firm, loamy structure and a tannic frame on the finish. Syrah, Grenache and Mourvèdre. Best from 2018 through 2027. 650 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 95 (8/2016): Checking in as a final blend of 54% Syrah, 35% Grenache and 11% Mourvedre, the 2013 Heart Stone Vineyard shows the class and purity of the vintage in its complex, floral-laced aromas of dark fruits, spice and minerality. Full-bodied, seamless and silky, with no hard edges and terrific purity, it's another 2013 from Smith that will open up with another year in bottle. VM 95 (9/2016): Vibrant purple. Intensely perfumed scents of ripe black and blue fruits, incense and cola gain vivacity from a smoky mineral nuance. Deeply concentrated, palate-staining blueberry, spicecake and floral pastille flavors are accompanied by suggestions of licorice and Indian spices that emerge on the back half. Finishes with a suave echo of candied violet, displaying slowly building tannins, outstanding energy and dark-fruit-driven persistence. Josh Raynolds. WS 92 (2/2016): Distinctive and densely constructed, with aromas of blackberry, black tea and olive leading to tightly focused, personality-filled flavors of wild berry, licorice and smoky peppered sage. Offers a firm, loamy structure and a tannic frame on the finish. Syrah, Grenache and Mourvèdre. Best from 2018 through 2027. 650 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 95 (8/2016): Checking in as a final blend of 54% Syrah, 35% Grenache and 11% Mourvedre, the 2013 Heart Stone Vineyard shows the class and purity of the vintage in its complex, floral-laced aromas of dark fruits, spice and minerality. Full-bodied, seamless and silky, with no hard edges and terrific purity, it's another 2013 from Smith that will open up with another year in bottle. VM 95 (9/2016): Vibrant purple. Intensely perfumed scents of ripe black and blue fruits, incense and cola gain vivacity from a smoky mineral nuance. Deeply concentrated, palate-staining blueberry, spicecake and floral pastille flavors are accompanied by suggestions of licorice and Indian spices that emerge on the back half. Finishes with a suave echo of candied violet, displaying slowly building tannins, outstanding energy and dark-fruit-driven persistence. Josh Raynolds. WS 92 (2/2016): Distinctive and densely constructed, with aromas of blackberry, black tea and olive leading to tightly focused, personality-filled flavors of wild berry, licorice and smoky peppered sage. Offers a firm, loamy structure and a tannic frame on the finish. Syrah, Grenache and Mourvèdre. Best from 2018 through 2027. 650 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 97 (9/2016): A classic Paso Robles Syrah (57% Syrah, 24% Grenache and the rest Mourvedre) that delivers on all accounts, the 2014 Heart Stone Vineyard is a big, rich, decadently styled beauty that offers tons of upfront spice, dark fruits, licorice and smoked earth aromatics, with more floral, violets and sappy underbrush notes coming through with air that keep it far for simple or straightforward. Utterly seamless on the palate, with full-bodied richness, a big, rich mid-palate and the chalky tannin that's the hallmark of these limestone hills on the west side of Paso Robles, this riveting, powerful, yet weightless beauty just begs to be drunk today, yet it will evolve easily for a decade or more.VM 94 (9/2016): (raised entirely in French oak puncheons, 60 percent of them new) Brilliant violet. Bright, intensely perfumed aromas of red and blue preserves, Asian spices and potpourri are given vivacity by a smoky mineral nuance. Juicy and pure, displaying deeply concentrated boysenberry and cherry liqueur flavors along with hints of candied violet and star anise. Strongly echoes the floral and spicy notes on the strikingly long, penetrating finish, which features velvety tannins and a hint of candied licorice. Josh Raynolds.WS 94 (2/2017): Potent and powerfully built, with a distinctive backbone of crushed stone minerality, plus complex flavors of licorice, black olive, dark berry and bittersweet chocolate. The tannins are big but polished. Syrah, Grenache and Mourvèdre. Best from 2018 through 2028. 450 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspVM 93 (10/2006): Deep ruby-red. Slightly high-toned aromas of cherry, truffle, cotton candy and smoked meat. Silky-sweet and seductive on entry, then sappy and spicy in the middle, with terrific acidity framing and lifting the blueberry and violet flavors. Wonderfully sweet wine, finishing with smooth tannins and lovely perfume. A superb example of the captivating blends being made in Paso Robles from Rhone Valley grapes. Stephen Tanzer.WA 91 (8/2006): The deep ruby/purple-hued 2004 James Berry Vineyard (500 cases) is a blend of 38% Syrah, 36% Grenache, and 26% Mourvedre. Sweet kirsch, licorice, cassis, and floral notes are found in this supple, round, tasty effort. Reminiscent of a 2003 Cotes de Nuits grand cru red Burgundy, it is complex as well as surprisingly forward. However, I suspect there is plenty in reserve. It will be interesting to follow this wine’s evolution. I do not think it will be one of Proprietor Justin Smith’s blockbusters, but it’s a beauty.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspVM 93 (10/2006): Deep ruby-red. Slightly high-toned aromas of cherry, truffle, cotton candy and smoked meat. Silky-sweet and seductive on entry, then sappy and spicy in the middle, with terrific acidity framing and lifting the blueberry and violet flavors. Wonderfully sweet wine, finishing with smooth tannins and lovely perfume. A superb example of the captivating blends being made in Paso Robles from Rhone Valley grapes.Stephen Tanzer.WA 91 (8/2006): The deep ruby/purple-hued 2004 James Berry Vineyard (500 cases) is a blend of 38% Syrah, 36% Grenache, and 26% Mourvedre. Sweet kirsch, licorice, cassis, and floral notes are found in this supple, round, tasty effort. Reminiscent of a 2003 Cotes de Nuits grand cru red Burgundy, it is complex as well as surprisingly forward. However, I suspect there is plenty in reserve. It will be interesting to follow this wine’s evolution. I do not think it will be one of Proprietor Justin Smith’s blockbusters, but it’s a beauty.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 97 (6/2014): Starting off the more southern Rhone-inspired blends, the 2005 James Berry Vineyard is a brilliant effort that’s drinking perfectly. Made from 70% Syrah, 20% Mourvedre and 10% Grenache, it gives up incredible aromas of sweet blackcurrants, blackberry liqueur, spiced meats, licorice and roasted meats that are just now starting to show hints of evolution. Sweetly fruited and with full-bodied richness, this beauty is hard to resist and has fabulous concentration, sweet tannin and a seamless finish. It will have another decade of longevity, yet there is no harm in drinking it now. VM 93 (12/2007): Deep ruby. Intense raspberry and blackberry aromas are underscored by suave minerality and fresh violet, with a gentle tobacco quality adding depth. Medium in weight but packed with rich, sweet berry fruit and exotic floral pastille flavors. Seems to gain energy on the finish, which echoes the mineral and floral character. Very impressive and sure to reward at least four or five years of cellaring. Josh Raynolds.WS 86 (3/2008): Spicy, talc like berry and fresh earth scents fold over to the palate. Medium-bodied, with good balance, leaving you hoping for a little more depth and flavor. Syrah, Mourvèdre and Grenache. Drink now. 600 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 97 (6/2014): Starting off the more southern Rhone-inspired blends, the 2005 James Berry Vineyard is a brilliant effort that’s drinking perfectly. Made from 70% Syrah, 20% Mourvedre and 10% Grenache, it gives up incredible aromas of sweet blackcurrants, blackberry liqueur, spiced meats, licorice and roasted meats that are just now starting to show hints of evolution. Sweetly fruited and with full-bodied richness, this beauty is hard to resist and has fabulous concentration, sweet tannin and a seamless finish. It will have another decade of longevity, yet there is no harm in drinking it now. VM 93 (12/2007): Deep ruby. Intense raspberry and blackberry aromas are underscored by suave minerality and fresh violet, with a gentle tobacco quality adding depth. Medium in weight but packed with rich, sweet berry fruit and exotic floral pastille flavors. Seems to gain energy on the finish, which echoes the mineral and floral character. Very impressive and sure to reward at least four or five years of cellaring.Josh Raynolds.WS 86 (3/2008): Spicy, talc like berry and fresh earth scents fold over to the palate. Medium-bodied, with good balance, leaving you hoping for a little more depth and flavor. Syrah, Mourvèdre and Grenache. Drink now. 600 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 95 (8/2009): An unfined/unfiltered blend of 45% Syrah, 38% Grenache, and 17% Mourvedre, aged 32 months in a combination of wood vessels, the prodigious 2006 James Berry Vineyard Proprietary Red exhibits beautiful sweet creme de cassis, black raspberry, blackberry, truffle, smoke, and herb notes. This spicy, rich, full-bodied effort should drink beautifully for a decade. VM 93 (12/2008): Bright ruby-red. Deeper dark berries and ripe cherry on the nose, complicated by dark chocolate and licorice. The cherry and chocolate qualities build with air and carry onto the palate, adding depth to the sweet blackberry and cassis flavors. Smoother and more dense than the Heart Stone, with a strong finishing jolt of candied licorice and black olive. Really showing its syrah today.WS 92 (3/2009): Pushes the pedal on ripeness, touching on jammy, full-blown and concentrated. Blackberry, graphite, plum jam and wild berry fruit is mouthcoating, as are the tannins. With air, gains a measure of finesse. Syrah, Grenache and Mourvèdre. Drink now through 2014. 900 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 95 (8/2009): An unfined/unfiltered blend of 45% Syrah, 38% Grenache, and 17% Mourvedre, aged 32 months in a combination of wood vessels, the prodigious 2006 James Berry Vineyard Proprietary Red exhibits beautiful sweet creme de cassis, black raspberry, blackberry, truffle, smoke, and herb notes. This spicy, rich, full-bodied effort should drink beautifully for a decade. VM 93 (12/2008): Bright ruby-red. Deeper dark berries and ripe cherry on the nose, complicated by dark chocolate and licorice. The cherry and chocolate qualities build with air and carry onto the palate, adding depth to the sweet blackberry and cassis flavors. Smoother and more dense than the Heart Stone, with a strong finishing jolt of candied licorice and black olive. Really showing its syrah today.WS 92 (3/2009): Pushes the pedal on ripeness, touching on jammy, full-blown and concentrated. Blackberry, graphite, plum jam and wild berry fruit is mouthcoating, as are the tannins. With air, gains a measure of finesse. Syrah, Grenache and Mourvèdre. Drink now through 2014. 900 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 100 (8/2009): Utter perfection, and one of the most profound Rhone Ranger wines I have ever tasted is the 2007 James Berry Vineyard Proprietary Red, a blend of 41% Grenache, 31% Mourvedre, and 28% Syrah (15.8% alcohol). It would be an amazing wine to insert in a tasting of the most profound 2007 Chateauneuf du Papes. As with many prodigious wines, the extraordinary freshness, purity, equilibrium, and singularity of this effort is breathtaking. Its dense purple color is accompanied by an extraordinary, incredibly pure, all enveloping, intense, sweet nose of black raspberries, kirsch, spring flowers, spice box, and pepper. Full-bodied with not a hard edge to be found, it is stunningly concentrated with unreal purity, a voluptuous texture, and remarkable freshness for a wine of such power, depth, and concentration. This 2007 will be approachable young, although I would not be surprised to see it close down given the relatively elevated proportion of Mourvedre, and it should drink well for 12-15 years. WS 98 (2/2010): (2010 Wine Spectator Wine of the Year) An amazing wine, dense, rich and layered, offering a mix of power and finesse, with concentrated dark berry fruit, mineral, sage, herb and cedar notes that are pure, intense, focused and persistent. Grenache, Mourvèdre and Syrah. Drink now through 2018. 950 cases made. VM 97 (12/2009): 41% grenache, 31% mourvedre and 28% syrah) Inky purple color. Spectacular nose combines black and blue fruit preserves, cola, smoky Indian spices and potpourri, with a vibrant mineral underpinning. Juicy, vibrant and focused, offering sweet boysenberry and blueberry flavors and suave floral pastille and allspice qualities. Deeply concentrated but lithe, with superb finishing clarity and a spicy, endless finish. I also retasted the 2006 James Berry Vineyard and it is in a highly expressive, juicy phase right now, with strong, sweet red and dark berry flavors and excellent clarity. I suspect that my score of 94 last year was low by a point. And the 2008 version, tasted from barrel, looks at least as good as this 2007.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 100 (8/2009): Utter perfection, and one of the most profound Rhone Ranger wines I have ever tasted is the 2007 James Berry Vineyard Proprietary Red, a blend of 41% Grenache, 31% Mourvedre, and 28% Syrah (15.8% alcohol). It would be an amazing wine to insert in a tasting of the most profound 2007 Chateauneuf du Papes. As with many prodigious wines, the extraordinary freshness, purity, equilibrium, and singularity of this effort is breathtaking. Its dense purple color is accompanied by an extraordinary, incredibly pure, all enveloping, intense, sweet nose of black raspberries, kirsch, spring flowers, spice box, and pepper. Full-bodied with not a hard edge to be found, it is stunningly concentrated with unreal purity, a voluptuous texture, and remarkable freshness for a wine of such power, depth, and concentration. This 2007 will be approachable young, although I would not be surprised to see it close down given the relatively elevated proportion of Mourvedre, and it should drink well for 12-15 years. WS 98 (2/2010): (2010 Wine Spectator Wine of the Year) An amazing wine, dense, rich and layered, offering a mix of power and finesse, with concentrated dark berry fruit, mineral, sage, herb and cedar notes that are pure, intense, focused and persistent. Grenache, Mourvèdre and Syrah. Drink now through 2018. 950 cases made. VM 97 (12/2009): 41% grenache, 31% mourvedre and 28% syrah) Inky purple color. Spectacular nose combines black and blue fruit preserves, cola, smoky Indian spices and potpourri, with a vibrant mineral underpinning. Juicy, vibrant and focused, offering sweet boysenberry and blueberry flavors and suave floral pastille and allspice qualities. Deeply concentrated but lithe, with superb finishing clarity and a spicy, endless finish. I also retasted the 2006 James Berry Vineyard and it is in a highly expressive, juicy phase right now, with strong, sweet red and dark berry flavors and excellent clarity. I suspect that my score of 94 last year was low by a point. And the 2008 version, tasted from barrel, looks at least as good as this 2007.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 100 (8/2009): Utter perfection, and one of the most profound Rhone Ranger wines I have ever tasted is the 2007 James Berry Vineyard Proprietary Red, a blend of 41% Grenache, 31% Mourvedre, and 28% Syrah (15.8% alcohol). It would be an amazing wine to insert in a tasting of the most profound 2007 Chateauneuf du Papes. As with many prodigious wines, the extraordinary freshness, purity, equilibrium, and singularity of this effort is breathtaking. Its dense purple color is accompanied by an extraordinary, incredibly pure, all enveloping, intense, sweet nose of black raspberries, kirsch, spring flowers, spice box, and pepper. Full-bodied with not a hard edge to be found, it is stunningly concentrated with unreal purity, a voluptuous texture, and remarkable freshness for a wine of such power, depth, and concentration. This 2007 will be approachable young, although I would not be surprised to see it close down given the relatively elevated proportion of Mourvedre, and it should drink well for 12-15 years. WS 98 (2/2010): (2010 Wine Spectator Wine of the Year) An amazing wine, dense, rich and layered, offering a mix of power and finesse, with concentrated dark berry fruit, mineral, sage, herb and cedar notes that are pure, intense, focused and persistent. Grenache, Mourvèdre and Syrah. Drink now through 2018. 950 cases made. VM 97 (12/2009): 41% grenache, 31% mourvedre and 28% syrah) Inky purple color. Spectacular nose combines black and blue fruit preserves, cola, smoky Indian spices and potpourri, with a vibrant mineral underpinning. Juicy, vibrant and focused, offering sweet boysenberry and blueberry flavors and suave floral pastille and allspice qualities. Deeply concentrated but lithe, with superb finishing clarity and a spicy, endless finish. I also retasted the 2006 James Berry Vineyard and it is in a highly expressive, juicy phase right now, with strong, sweet red and dark berry flavors and excellent clarity. I suspect that my score of 94 last year was low by a point. And the 2008 version, tasted from barrel, looks at least as good as this 2007.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspVM 98 (8/2011): Simply put, the 2009 James Berry Vineyard is one of the greatest young wines I have ever tasted from California, or anywhere for that matter. Bright, floral aromatics lead to expressive red fruit in this impossibly elegant, dazzling wine. A melange of rose petals, mint and licorice follows as the James Berry shows off its breathtaking clarity and finesse. Fine-grained, chalky tannins frame the exceptional finish. Frankly, I am surprised this is the first wine of the tasting. Where does one go from here? The 2009 James Berry is a bit of departure from previous vintages. This is the highest percentage of Grenache ever used in the blend, and a large portion of the Grenache was aged in concrete, an approach Smith has borrowed from producers in the Rhone. Originally Smith had intended to age less of the Grenache components in concrete, but the low yields of the vintage forced him to age about two-thirds of the Grenache in concrete. Call it a happy coincidence, but it certainly looks like things turned out well. Readers should do whatever they can to taste this fabulous wine. In 2009 the James Berry Vineyard is 57% Grenache, 31% Mourvedre and 12% Syrah. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2021. JS 97 (10/2011): Beautiful aromas of violets and sandalwood. Bright fruit too, with citrus, zest and mineral notes. Full, yet compacted and dense. Long and spicy yet minerally and fruity. Warm finish. So wonderful now but will age beautifully. Amazing elegance. The bulk of the Grenache was aged in concrete vats of about 17.8 hectolters. 57% Grenache, 31% Mourvedre, and 12% Syrah. WS 97 (1/2012): Strikingly complex, rich and fruity, this beautifully proportioned red shows an initial burst of red berry fruit that echoes red and black licorice. This quickly gains traction and depth, with firm, layered tannins that give the spicy berry flavors a perfect foundation. Grenache, Mourvèdre and Syrah. Drink now through 2024. 820 cases made. VM 96 (10/2011): (57% grenache, 31% mourvedre and 12% syrah): Deep, bright violet. Intensely perfumed black raspberry and blueberry on the nose, with seductive Asian spice, lavender and incense qualities emerging with air. Sappy red and dark berry liqueur flavors are lifted by juicy acidity picking up suave spice and floral pastille notes on the back end. Velvety tannins provide shape but are absorbed by the lush fruit, which carries through an extremely long, sappy, incisive finish.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 94-96 (8/2013): The 2011 James Berry Vineyard is a lithe, lively and energetic example of this cuvee. Made from 69% Grenache, 13% Mourvedre, 13% Syrah, 2% Counoise (first vintage to have this variety) and a splash of Roussanne, with the Grenache brought up in concrete and everything else in puncheon, it offers up stunningly pure raspberry, blackberry, pepper, violets, flowers and spice to go with a full-bodied, elegant mouthfeel that builds on the palate. Seamless, pure and with fine tannin framing the finish, it will need short-term cellaring and drink beautifully through 2026. Drink 2015-2026. VM 94 (12/2013): (69% grenache, 15% mourvedre, 13% syrah, 2% counoise and 1% roussanne; 15.5% alcohol): Inky ruby. Sexy, highly perfumed aromas of red fruit liqueur, lavender and Asian spices, with a bright mineral overtone. Rich and fleshy but lively, offering intense raspberry and cherry-cola flavors and exotic star anise and floral pastille accents. Silky tannins sneak in late and add shape to a long, smooth and alluringly sweet finish. The grenache in this blend was raised in a large concrete vat. WS 93 (2/2014): Pure, rich and deeply flavored, this muscular effort centers around penetrating blackberry, black licorice, charcoal and loamy earth notes. Ends with rustic, chewy tannins that will need a few years of cellaring to subside. Grenache, Mourvèdre, Syrah, Counoise and Roussanne. Best from 2015 through 2026. 1,300 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 94-96 (8/2013): The 2011 James Berry Vineyard is a lithe, lively and energetic example of this cuvee. Made from 69% Grenache, 13% Mourvedre, 13% Syrah, 2% Counoise (first vintage to have this variety) and a splash of Roussanne, with the Grenache brought up in concrete and everything else in puncheon, it offers up stunningly pure raspberry, blackberry, pepper, violets, flowers and spice to go with a full-bodied, elegant mouthfeel that builds on the palate. Seamless, pure and with fine tannin framing the finish, it will need short-term cellaring and drink beautifully through 2026. Drink 2015-2026. VM 94 (12/2013): (69% grenache, 15% mourvedre, 13% syrah, 2% counoise and 1% roussanne; 15.5% alcohol): Inky ruby. Sexy, highly perfumed aromas of red fruit liqueur, lavender and Asian spices, with a bright mineral overtone. Rich and fleshy but lively, offering intense raspberry and cherry-cola flavors and exotic star anise and floral pastille accents. Silky tannins sneak in late and add shape to a long, smooth and alluringly sweet finish. The grenache in this blend was raised in a large concrete vat. WS 93 (2/2014): Pure, rich and deeply flavored, this muscular effort centers around penetrating blackberry, black licorice, charcoal and loamy earth notes. Ends with rustic, chewy tannins that will need a few years of cellaring to subside. Grenache, Mourvèdre, Syrah, Counoise and Roussanne. Best from 2015 through 2026. 1,300 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 97+ (8/2014): There are 1,580 cases of the 2012 James Berry Vineyard and it reminds me of the 2009 Janasse Chaupin (which is one of Justin’s favorite wines). Incorporating more Mourvedre than normal, it’s made from 43% Grenache, 29% Mourvedre, 18% Syrah and 10% Counoise that’s aged in a combination of concrete and barrel. Rock star stuff, with fabulous black raspberry, cassis, spring flowers and charred meat aromas and flavors, this beauty hits the palate with full-bodied richness and depth, yet stays lively, incredibly pure and elegant, with lots of fine tannin emerging on the finish. It will benefit from 2-3 years in the cellar and have 15-20 years of ultimate longevity. VM 94+ (7/2014):The 2012 James Berry Vineyard stands out for its textural finesse, sweetness and overall balance. Sweet spices, red berries and flowers all meld together in a decidedly silky James Berry. The 2012 is 42% Grenache, 29% Mourvèdre, 18% Syrah and 10% Counoise. More expressive today on the palate than in its aromatics, the 2012 remains a baby.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 97+ (8/2014): There are 1,580 cases of the 2012 James Berry Vineyard and it reminds me of the 2009 Janasse Chaupin (which is one of Justin’s favorite wines). Incorporating more Mourvedre than normal, it’s made from 43% Grenache, 29% Mourvedre, 18% Syrah and 10% Counoise that’s aged in a combination of concrete and barrel. Rock star stuff, with fabulous black raspberry, cassis, spring flowers and charred meat aromas and flavors, this beauty hits the palate with full-bodied richness and depth, yet stays lively, incredibly pure and elegant, with lots of fine tannin emerging on the finish. It will benefit from 2-3 years in the cellar and have 15-20 years of ultimate longevity. VM 94+ (7/2014):The 2012 James Berry Vineyard stands out for its textural finesse, sweetness and overall balance. Sweet spices, red berries and flowers all meld together in a decidedly silky James Berry. The 2012 is 42% Grenache, 29% Mourvèdre, 18% Syrah and 10% Counoise. More expressive today on the palate than in its aromatics, the 2012 remains a baby.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 97 (8/2016): The 2013 James Berry Vineyard Proprietary Red is made from 45% Grenache, 29% Mourvedre, 18% Syrah and 8% Counoise (which Justin commented was a blend that was put together relatively late). It saw a big chunk of whole cluster (the Grenache was mostly destemmed though) and was brought up all in puncheons and foudre (the normal concrete component went to the Rocket Block). It offers up gorgeous notes of black raspberries, cherries, cassis, ground herbs and flowers. This beauty hits the palate with incredible purity, fine tannin and an overriding sense of elegance and finesse, backed up by full-bodied richness and depth. It needs to be forgotten for 3-4 years and it will drink beautifully through 2028. VM 93-95 (9/2015): Deep violet with a bright rim. Heady, smoke-accented aromas of red and dark berry liqueur, floral pastilles and minerals, with a strong Asian spice topnote. Fresh, expansive and pure in the mouth, offering palate-staining black raspberry, cherry-cola and violet flavors. At once weighty and energetic, this very promising blend finishes with outstanding focus and sappiness and insistent florality. Josh Raynolds.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 95 (8/2012): The 2010 Paderewski Vineyard caresses the palate with layers of expressive, sensual fruit. Zinfandel plays the leading role in the Paderewski, and that comes through loud and clear in the wine's inner perfume and sweetness. The 2010 boasts gorgeous length and purity, even if it is a bit tight from its recent bottling. Paderewski is a little warmer than some of the other sites Saxum works with, which seems to give the wine a note of softness that is immensely appealing, especially with some time in the glass. The 2010 is 35% Zinfandel, 26% Mourvedre, 19% Tempranillo, 11% Syrah and 9% Petite Sirah. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2020.IWC 94 (12/2012): (35% zinfandel, 26% mourvedre, 19% tempranillo, 11% syrah and 9% petite sirah; 16.1% alcohol): Opaque purple. An exotically perfumed bouquet displays scents of spice-accented black raspberry, cherry, violet and incense, with a bright mineral quality gaining power with air. Densely packed but impressively vibrant, offering sweet red and dark berry flavors that show iqueur-like depth and intensity. Floral pastille and raspberry notes carry through a long, sappy, seamless finish.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspVM 95 (7/2013): The 2010 Paderewski Vineyard is firing on all cylinders today. The Zinfandel is very much front and center in a big, boisterous wine full of personality. Mocha, chocolate, spice and plum notes caress the palate in a succulent, highly expressive wine to drink now and over the next handful of years. This is without question the biggest and most exuberant of the Saxum wines. Today it is stunning. The 2010 is 35% Zinfandel, 26% Mourvèdre, 19% Tempranillo, 11% Syrah and 9% Petite Sirah.WA 95 (8/2012): The 2010 Paderewski Vineyard caresses the palate with layers of expressive, sensual fruit. Zinfandel plays the leading role in the Paderewski, and that comes through loud and clear in the wine's inner perfume and sweetness. The 2010 boasts gorgeous length and purity, even if it is a bit tight from its recent bottling. Paderewski is a little warmer than some of the other sites Saxum works with, which seems to give the wine a note of softness that is immensely appealing, especially with some time in the glass. The 2010 is 35% Zinfandel, 26% Mourvedre, 19% Tempranillo, 11% Syrah and 9% Petite Sirah. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2020.IWC 94 (12/2012): (35% zinfandel, 26% mourvedre, 19% tempranillo, 11% syrah and 9% petite sirah; 16.1% alcohol): Opaque purple. An exotically perfumed bouquet displays scents of spice-accented black raspberry, cherry, violet and incense, with a bright mineral quality gaining power with air. Densely packed but impressively vibrant, offering sweet red and dark berry flavors that show iqueur-like depth and intensity. Floral pastille and raspberry notes carry through a long, sappy, seamless finish.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 97 (8/2014): Kicking off the 2011s and about as seductive and sexy as they come in the vintage, the 2011 Paderewski Vineyard is an eclectic blend of 34% Zinfandel, 31% Mourvedre, 16% Tempranillo, 10% Syrah and 9% Petite Sirah that comes from a warmer terroir of chalky, calcareous soils. Full-bodied, seamless and perfectly balanced, it offers brilliant aromas and flavors of black raspberry, rose petal, bramble and violets that are to die for. A big wine to be sure, yet it stays remarkably elegant, poised and fresh on the palate, with no hard edges and an approachable, utterly impossible-to-resist profile that keeps you pouring another glass. Enjoy this gorgeous wine anytime over the coming 10-12 years. VM 94 (12/2013): (34% zinfandel, 31% mourvedre, 16% tempranillo and 10% syrah; 15.7% alcohol): Inky purple. Powerful, expansive aromas of dark berry compote, cola, dark chocolate and licorice, with a smoky mineral quality adding vivacity. Sappy, deeply pitched blackberry and cassis flavors are sharpened by juicy acidity and gain sweetness with air. Shows outstanding clarity and power on the finish, which features supple tannins and sweet, clinging dark berry preserve and floral pastille notes. VM 94 (7/2014): One of the more immediate wines in this range of the 2011s, the Paderewski Vineyard, is voluptuous and textured to the core, with huge dark red/black fruit, spice and leather notes. The Paderewski is dense and powerful, with plenty of immediacy but a touch less overall complexity than some of the other wines in the range. Still, the marriage of varieties in this Zinfandel-based red is terrific. In 2011, the Paderewski is 34% Zinfandel, 31% Mourvèdre, 16% Tempranillo, 10% Syrah and 9% Petite Sirah. - WS 92 (2/2014): A bruiser, muscular and ripe, with floral boysenberry and chunky chocolate aromas that lead to rich huckleberry flavors, accented by notes of licorice and smoky, savory herb. Shows a touch of heat on the finish. Zinfandel, Mourvèdre, Tempranillo, Syrah and Petite Sirah. Best from 2015 through 2021. 480 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 97 (8/2014): Kicking off the 2011s and about as seductive and sexy as they come in the vintage, the 2011 Paderewski Vineyard is an eclectic blend of 34% Zinfandel, 31% Mourvedre, 16% Tempranillo, 10% Syrah and 9% Petite Sirah that comes from a warmer terroir of chalky, calcareous soils. Full-bodied, seamless and perfectly balanced, it offers brilliant aromas and flavors of black raspberry, rose petal, bramble and violets that are to die for. A big wine to be sure, yet it stays remarkably elegant, poised and fresh on the palate, with no hard edges and an approachable, utterly impossible-to-resist profile that keeps you pouring another glass. Enjoy this gorgeous wine anytime over the coming 10-12 years. VM 94 (12/2013): (34% zinfandel, 31% mourvedre, 16% tempranillo and 10% syrah; 15.7% alcohol): Inky purple. Powerful, expansive aromas of dark berry compote, cola, dark chocolate and licorice, with a smoky mineral quality adding vivacity. Sappy, deeply pitched blackberry and cassis flavors are sharpened by juicy acidity and gain sweetness with air. Shows outstanding clarity and power on the finish, which features supple tannins and sweet, clinging dark berry preserve and floral pastille notes. VM 94 (7/2014): One of the more immediate wines in this range of the 2011s, the Paderewski Vineyard, is voluptuous and textured to the core, with huge dark red/black fruit, spice and leather notes. The Paderewski is dense and powerful, with plenty of immediacy but a touch less overall complexity than some of the other wines in the range. Still, the marriage of varieties in this Zinfandel-based red is terrific. In 2011, the Paderewski is 34% Zinfandel, 31% Mourvèdre, 16% Tempranillo, 10% Syrah and 9% Petite Sirah. - WS 92 (2/2014): A bruiser, muscular and ripe, with floral boysenberry and chunky chocolate aromas that lead to rich huckleberry flavors, accented by notes of licorice and smoky, savory herb. Shows a touch of heat on the finish. Zinfandel, Mourvèdre, Tempranillo, Syrah and Petite Sirah. Best from 2015 through 2021. 480 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 97 (8/2014): Kicking off the 2011s and about as seductive and sexy as they come in the vintage, the 2011 Paderewski Vineyard is an eclectic blend of 34% Zinfandel, 31% Mourvedre, 16% Tempranillo, 10% Syrah and 9% Petite Sirah that comes from a warmer terroir of chalky, calcareous soils. Full-bodied, seamless and perfectly balanced, it offers brilliant aromas and flavors of black raspberry, rose petal, bramble and violets that are to die for. A big wine to be sure, yet it stays remarkably elegant, poised and fresh on the palate, with no hard edges and an approachable, utterly impossible-to-resist profile that keeps you pouring another glass. Enjoy this gorgeous wine anytime over the coming 10-12 years. VM 94 (12/2013): (34% zinfandel, 31% mourvedre, 16% tempranillo and 10% syrah; 15.7% alcohol): Inky purple. Powerful, expansive aromas of dark berry compote, cola, dark chocolate and licorice, with a smoky mineral quality adding vivacity. Sappy, deeply pitched blackberry and cassis flavors are sharpened by juicy acidity and gain sweetness with air. Shows outstanding clarity and power on the finish, which features supple tannins and sweet, clinging dark berry preserve and floral pastille notes. VM 94 (7/2014): One of the more immediate wines in this range of the 2011s, the Paderewski Vineyard, is voluptuous and textured to the core, with huge dark red/black fruit, spice and leather notes. The Paderewski is dense and powerful, with plenty of immediacy but a touch less overall complexity than some of the other wines in the range. Still, the marriage of varieties in this Zinfandel-based red is terrific. In 2011, the Paderewski is 34% Zinfandel, 31% Mourvèdre, 16% Tempranillo, 10% Syrah and 9% Petite Sirah. - WS 92 (2/2014): A bruiser, muscular and ripe, with floral boysenberry and chunky chocolate aromas that lead to rich huckleberry flavors, accented by notes of licorice and smoky, savory herb. Shows a touch of heat on the finish. Zinfandel, Mourvèdre, Tempranillo, Syrah and Petite Sirah. Best from 2015 through 2021. 480 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 97 (8/2014): Kicking off the 2011s and about as seductive and sexy as they come in the vintage, the 2011 Paderewski Vineyard is an eclectic blend of 34% Zinfandel, 31% Mourvedre, 16% Tempranillo, 10% Syrah and 9% Petite Sirah that comes from a warmer terroir of chalky, calcareous soils. Full-bodied, seamless and perfectly balanced, it offers brilliant aromas and flavors of black raspberry, rose petal, bramble and violets that are to die for. A big wine to be sure, yet it stays remarkably elegant, poised and fresh on the palate, with no hard edges and an approachable, utterly impossible-to-resist profile that keeps you pouring another glass. Enjoy this gorgeous wine anytime over the coming 10-12 years. VM 94 (12/2013): (34% zinfandel, 31% mourvedre, 16% tempranillo and 10% syrah; 15.7% alcohol): Inky purple. Powerful, expansive aromas of dark berry compote, cola, dark chocolate and licorice, with a smoky mineral quality adding vivacity. Sappy, deeply pitched blackberry and cassis flavors are sharpened by juicy acidity and gain sweetness with air. Shows outstanding clarity and power on the finish, which features supple tannins and sweet, clinging dark berry preserve and floral pastille notes. VM 94 (7/2014): One of the more immediate wines in this range of the 2011s, the Paderewski Vineyard, is voluptuous and textured to the core, with huge dark red/black fruit, spice and leather notes. The Paderewski is dense and powerful, with plenty of immediacy but a touch less overall complexity than some of the other wines in the range. Still, the marriage of varieties in this Zinfandel-based red is terrific. In 2011, the Paderewski is 34% Zinfandel, 31% Mourvèdre, 16% Tempranillo, 10% Syrah and 9% Petite Sirah. - WS 92 (2/2014): A bruiser, muscular and ripe, with floral boysenberry and chunky chocolate aromas that lead to rich huckleberry flavors, accented by notes of licorice and smoky, savory herb. Shows a touch of heat on the finish. Zinfandel, Mourvèdre, Tempranillo, Syrah and Petite Sirah. Best from 2015 through 2021. 480 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 96+ (8/2014): Surprisingly tannic and structured for a wine that’s normally the most approachable and sexy, the 2012 Paderewski Vineyard checks in as a blend of 45% Zinfandel, 36% Mourvedre, 12% Tempranillo and 7% Petite Sirah. It possesses the classic chalky minerality of the vineyard to go with exotic perfumed notes of black raspberry, plums, brambly underbrush and assorted background meatiness. This all flows to a full-bodied, elegant and polished wine that has solid mid-palate depth and chewy, firm tannin on the finish. Give this a year or more in the cellar and enjoy bottles through 2024. VN 92+ (7/2014): Zinfandel is especially prominent in the 2012 Paderewski Vineyard. Dark red cherries, kirsch, sweet spices and wild flowers are all laced together in a silky, gracious wine. The Paderewski is quite pretty, but also a bit subdued, perhaps because of its recent bottling. It will be interesting to see if the 2012 fleshes out in bottle. The blend is 45% Zinfandel, 36% Mourvèdre, 12% Tempranillo and 7% Syrah.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 96+ (8/2014): Surprisingly tannic and structured for a wine that’s normally the most approachable and sexy, the 2012 Paderewski Vineyard checks in as a blend of 45% Zinfandel, 36% Mourvedre, 12% Tempranillo and 7% Petite Sirah. It possesses the classic chalky minerality of the vineyard to go with exotic perfumed notes of black raspberry, plums, brambly underbrush and assorted background meatiness. This all flows to a full-bodied, elegant and polished wine that has solid mid-palate depth and chewy, firm tannin on the finish. Give this a year or more in the cellar and enjoy bottles through 2024. VN 92+ (7/2014): Zinfandel is especially prominent in the 2012 Paderewski Vineyard. Dark red cherries, kirsch, sweet spices and wild flowers are all laced together in a silky, gracious wine. The Paderewski is quite pretty, but also a bit subdued, perhaps because of its recent bottling. It will be interesting to see if the 2012 fleshes out in bottle. The blend is 45% Zinfandel, 36% Mourvèdre, 12% Tempranillo and 7% Syrah.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 96+ (8/2014): Surprisingly tannic and structured for a wine that’s normally the most approachable and sexy, the 2012 Paderewski Vineyard checks in as a blend of 45% Zinfandel, 36% Mourvedre, 12% Tempranillo and 7% Petite Sirah. It possesses the classic chalky minerality of the vineyard to go with exotic perfumed notes of black raspberry, plums, brambly underbrush and assorted background meatiness. This all flows to a full-bodied, elegant and polished wine that has solid mid-palate depth and chewy, firm tannin on the finish. Give this a year or more in the cellar and enjoy bottles through 2024. VN 92+ (7/2014): Zinfandel is especially prominent in the 2012 Paderewski Vineyard. Dark red cherries, kirsch, sweet spices and wild flowers are all laced together in a silky, gracious wine. The Paderewski is quite pretty, but also a bit subdued, perhaps because of its recent bottling. It will be interesting to see if the 2012 fleshes out in bottle. The blend is 45% Zinfandel, 36% Mourvèdre, 12% Tempranillo and 7% Syrah.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 96+ (8/2014): Surprisingly tannic and structured for a wine that’s normally the most approachable and sexy, the 2012 Paderewski Vineyard checks in as a blend of 45% Zinfandel, 36% Mourvedre, 12% Tempranillo and 7% Petite Sirah. It possesses the classic chalky minerality of the vineyard to go with exotic perfumed notes of black raspberry, plums, brambly underbrush and assorted background meatiness. This all flows to a full-bodied, elegant and polished wine that has solid mid-palate depth and chewy, firm tannin on the finish. Give this a year or more in the cellar and enjoy bottles through 2024. VN 92+ (7/2014): Zinfandel is especially prominent in the 2012 Paderewski Vineyard. Dark red cherries, kirsch, sweet spices and wild flowers are all laced together in a silky, gracious wine. The Paderewski is quite pretty, but also a bit subdued, perhaps because of its recent bottling. It will be interesting to see if the 2012 fleshes out in bottle. The blend is 45% Zinfandel, 36% Mourvèdre, 12% Tempranillo and 7% Syrah.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 97 (8/2016): One of the more accessible 2013s is the 2013 Paderewski Vineyard, which checks in as a blend of 34% Mourvedre, 33% Zinfandel, 13% Petite Sirah, 12% Syrah and the rest Tempranillo. Its deep ruby, vibrant color is followed by sensational notes of caramelized black cherries, spice box, peppery herbs and chalky minerality. Rich, full-bodied, utterly seamless and gorgeous on the palate, it's an incredible expression of this higher elevation, warm site that readers shouldn't miss.VM 94 (9/2015): Bright violet color. The nose displays a complex array of black and blue fruit and floral scents, along with suggestions of incense, mocha and licorice. Stains the palate with powerful blueberry and violet pastille flavors sharpened and lifted by juicy acidity. Concentrated, sappy and pure, finishing with outstanding thrust and smooth tannins that are overwhelmed by the wine's dense fruit. Josh Raynolds.WS 92 (3/2016): Powerful and loaded with personality, this features aromas of smoky dried berry and black licorice that open to dense, rich flavors of plum, cracked pepper beef and grilled herb. The tannins are ripe but muscular. Mourvèdre, Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Syrah and Tempranillo. Best from 2018 through 2027. 700 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 97 (8/2016): One of the more accessible 2013s is the 2013 Paderewski Vineyard, which checks in as a blend of 34% Mourvedre, 33% Zinfandel, 13% Petite Sirah, 12% Syrah and the rest Tempranillo. Its deep ruby, vibrant color is followed by sensational notes of caramelized black cherries, spice box, peppery herbs and chalky minerality. Rich, full-bodied, utterly seamless and gorgeous on the palate, it's an incredible expression of this higher elevation, warm site that readers shouldn't miss.VM 94 (9/2015): Bright violet color. The nose displays a complex array of black and blue fruit and floral scents, along with suggestions of incense, mocha and licorice. Stains the palate with powerful blueberry and violet pastille flavors sharpened and lifted by juicy acidity. Concentrated, sappy and pure, finishing with outstanding thrust and smooth tannins that are overwhelmed by the wine's dense fruit. Josh Raynolds.WS 92 (3/2016): Powerful and loaded with personality, this features aromas of smoky dried berry and black licorice that open to dense, rich flavors of plum, cracked pepper beef and grilled herb. The tannins are ripe but muscular. Mourvèdre, Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Syrah and Tempranillo. Best from 2018 through 2027. 700 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 97 (8/2016): One of the more accessible 2013s is the 2013 Paderewski Vineyard, which checks in as a blend of 34% Mourvedre, 33% Zinfandel, 13% Petite Sirah, 12% Syrah and the rest Tempranillo. Its deep ruby, vibrant color is followed by sensational notes of caramelized black cherries, spice box, peppery herbs and chalky minerality. Rich, full-bodied, utterly seamless and gorgeous on the palate, it's an incredible expression of this higher elevation, warm site that readers shouldn't miss.VM 94 (9/2015): Bright violet color. The nose displays a complex array of black and blue fruit and floral scents, along with suggestions of incense, mocha and licorice. Stains the palate with powerful blueberry and violet pastille flavors sharpened and lifted by juicy acidity. Concentrated, sappy and pure, finishing with outstanding thrust and smooth tannins that are overwhelmed by the wine's dense fruit. Josh Raynolds.WS 92 (3/2016): Powerful and loaded with personality, this features aromas of smoky dried berry and black licorice that open to dense, rich flavors of plum, cracked pepper beef and grilled herb. The tannins are ripe but muscular. Mourvèdre, Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Syrah and Tempranillo. Best from 2018 through 2027. 700 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 97 (8/2016): One of the more accessible 2013s is the 2013 Paderewski Vineyard, which checks in as a blend of 34% Mourvedre, 33% Zinfandel, 13% Petite Sirah, 12% Syrah and the rest Tempranillo. Its deep ruby, vibrant color is followed by sensational notes of caramelized black cherries, spice box, peppery herbs and chalky minerality. Rich, full-bodied, utterly seamless and gorgeous on the palate, it's an incredible expression of this higher elevation, warm site that readers shouldn't miss. VM 94 (9/2015): Bright violet color. The nose displays a complex array of black and blue fruit and floral scents, along with suggestions of incense, mocha and licorice. Stains the palate with powerful blueberry and violet pastille flavors sharpened and lifted by juicy acidity. Concentrated, sappy and pure, finishing with outstanding thrust and smooth tannins that are overwhelmed by the wine's dense fruit. Josh Raynolds. WS 92 (3/2016): Powerful and loaded with personality, this features aromas of smoky dried berry and black licorice that open to dense, rich flavors of plum, cracked pepper beef and grilled herb. The tannins are ripe but muscular. Mourvèdre, Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Syrah and Tempranillo. Best from 2018 through 2027. 700 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 95-97 (8/2016): The 2014 Paderewski Vineyard comes from a warm site located high up off of Peachy Canyon Road (I wasn't able to get the exact blend but it's normally a mix of Mourvèdre, Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, and Syrah, with a splash of Tempranillo). It offers sexy, full-bodied, broad, rounded and powerful notes of candy corn, black raspberry, chocolate and chalky minerality. The 2014s in general show concentrated, rich profiles as well as broad, supple tannins, and this has both in spades.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 96 (8/2016): Lastly, the 2013 Terry Hoage Vineyard is a forward, exotic effort that's made from 57% Syrah, 29% Grenache and 14% Mourvedre. It is one of the more fresh and lively wines in the lineup, with notes of passion fruits, jolly rancher, plums, spice and green herbs (Justin always finds a touch of watermelon rind from this site). This beauty is full-bodied, silky and beautifully textured on the palate, with impeccable balance and a great finish. Drink this puppy anytime over the coming decade or so. WS 94 (2/2016): Intensely structured yet balanced and richly textured. Floral blueberry and violet aromas are paired with complex, exuberant flavors of boysenberry, raspberry, cracked pepper and loamy mineral. Syrah, Grenache and Mourvèdre. Drink now through 2026. 300 cases made. VM 93 (9/2015): Inky ruby. A wild, highly perfumed bouquet evokes ripe red fruits, sandalwood, vanilla and smoky minerals, with a suave floral pastille nuance coming up with air. Broad, seamless and sweet on the palate, offering intense black raspberry and lavender flavors and a deeper suggestion of bitter chocolate. Energetic and deep, with no excess fat. Finishes with superb clarity and persistence, leaving a sweet red fruit liqueur note behind. Josh Raynolds.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 96 (8/2016): Lastly, the 2013 Terry Hoage Vineyard is a forward, exotic effort that's made from 57% Syrah, 29% Grenache and 14% Mourvedre. It is one of the more fresh and lively wines in the lineup, with notes of passion fruits, jolly rancher, plums, spice and green herbs (Justin always finds a touch of watermelon rind from this site). This beauty is full-bodied, silky and beautifully textured on the palate, with impeccable balance and a great finish. Drink this puppy anytime over the coming decade or so. WS 94 (2/2016): Intensely structured yet balanced and richly textured. Floral blueberry and violet aromas are paired with complex, exuberant flavors of boysenberry, raspberry, cracked pepper and loamy mineral. Syrah, Grenache and Mourvèdre. Drink now through 2026. 300 cases made. VM 93 (9/2015): Inky ruby. A wild, highly perfumed bouquet evokes ripe red fruits, sandalwood, vanilla and smoky minerals, with a suave floral pastille nuance coming up with air. Broad, seamless and sweet on the palate, offering intense black raspberry and lavender flavors and a deeper suggestion of bitter chocolate. Energetic and deep, with no excess fat. Finishes with superb clarity and persistence, leaving a sweet red fruit liqueur note behind. Josh Raynolds.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Saxum.aspWA 98 (12/2006): Any debut wine that is this impressive requires research. The story goes as follows: In 1945, the famed John Daniel, Jr., who made so many historically great wines at Inglenook, convinced a neighbor of his, J. J. Cohn, to plant 80 acres of Cabernet vines, and the fruit became a component of Inglenook’s series of great Cabernet Sauvignons. Cohn, who owned the property and planted the vineyard at the insistence of John Daniel, had a prominent career in Hollywood as chief of production at MGM, where he played a role in the making of such movies as “Ben Hur," “Mutiny on the Bounty," and his favorite movie apparently, “The Wizard of Oz," to which the Scarecrow label pays tribute. The 2003 Scarecrow (471 cases, all from the Rutherford area of Napa) was bottled unfined and unfiltered. The man behind this wine today is the grandson of J. J. Cohn, Bret Lopez, and his winemaker is Celia Masyczek, who first became well-known working at Staglin. Much of this blend still comes from the old dry-farmed Cabernet Sauvignon vines planted in 1945 by J. J. Cohn. This inky purple-colored wine has an extraordinary nose of sweet black cherry jam intermixed with licorice, spice box, and cedar. It has sensational richness, but the purity, elegance, and overall nuance of this wine are what set it apart and give it a very distinctive character all its own. This is a fabulous Cabernet Sauvignon and another terrific 2003 that can be drunk now or cellared for 15-20 or more years. WA 91 (7/2013): Presents a rich, potent mix of espresso, mocha, dark berry, dried herb and melted licorice notes, ending with rich, gripping tannins and a push of youthful fruit. The better of two bottles tasted.—2003 California Cabernet blind retrospective (July 2013). Drink now through 2020. 400 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Scarecrow.aspWA 99 (4/2014): A staggeringly great wine from this iconic property in Rutherford, Scarecrow’s 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon (100% Cabernet Sauvignon) boasts a dense ruby/purple color, a deep, rich, full-bodied style with perfect balance/equilibrium, stunning purity, lots of creme de cassis, minerality and floral notes, a persistent finish, and a staggering personality that is a sign of singularity as well as greatness. The finesse of the tannins is fabulous. Drink it over the next 15-20 years. WS 96 (11/2007): Beautifully crafted, ripe and spicy, with juicy currant and black cherry fruit that's supple and well-defined. Plush, smooth and complex, offering depth, range of flavor, texture and length. Drink now through 2015. 312 cases made. VM 94 (6/2015): (15% alcohol): Saturated bright ruby. Sexy, very ripe, high-toned aromas of blackberry, plum, licorice, tobacco and hot rocks. Like liquid velvet on the palate--hugely rich and deep, superripe but not roasted or tired. No rough edges here! Conveys a strong impression of Rutherford dust. The outstanding, slowly building finish indicates that there's more to come; I'd hate to have drunk up my stock of this wine several years ago. Very long and still a bit youthfully warm. Superb. Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Scarecrow.aspWA 98 (6/2015): A candidate for one of the wines of the vintage, this stunning 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon from Rutherford includes in its blend some of the oldest Cabernet vines in existence in Napa Valley. It tips the scales at a lofty 15.4% alcohol, but believe it or not, it is strikingly elegant and pure, with laser-like precision. Inky, dark ruby/purple, with a stunning nose of forest floor, creme de cassis and a subtle, earthy minerality, the wine is built like a skyscraper, with a multidimensional mouthfeel and incredible complexity and richness, yet it never comes close to tasting heavy or overwrought. This is just a great terroir, great winemaking, and the results are profound. It seems to be drinkable now, but is capable of at least another 10-20 years of full-throttle pleasure. This is a superstar and a remarkable effort. Bravo! VM 95+ (6/2008): Good deep ruby. Pungent aromas of liqueur-like cassis and blackberry, violet, bitter chocolate and camphor; a real essence of cabernet sauvignon. Juicy, pure and penetrating, with a mouthwatering quality to the crushed berry, violet and bitter chocolate flavors thanks to lively acidity and firm underlying minerality. This extremely young wine really coats the mouth with flavor. Began quite closed but showed increasing density and sweetness as it opened in the glass. The finish features superb palate-saturating tannins and an uncanny vibrating quality. A wonderfully aromatic wine that should improve in bottle for many years. WS 93 (9/2015): Aging gracefully, this is very rich, complex and expansive, with broad layers of blackberry, currant, loamy earth and licorice. Ends with dense, chewy tannins and a clean finish. Close to its peak, but maintains the extract and concentration to go for another decade. Sooner is probably better than later, however.—2005 California Cabernet blind retrospective (September 2015). Drink now through 2025. 850 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Scarecrow.aspWA 94+ (12/2008): The full-bodied 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon does not possess any of the hard, foreboding tannins found in some 2006 Cabernets, but rather, it displays a silky, velvety personality. Although not as nuanced or complex as the 2005, it is a brilliant wine offering generous levels of black currant fruit intermixed with graphite, scorched earth, and a hint of underlying smoke. It will be surprisingly delicious early in its life but capable of lasting two-plus decades.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Scarecrow.aspJS 99 (6/2011): Like listening to cool mellow rock 'n' roll. Extraordinary aromas of violets and dark fruits such as blueberries and currants. I can't get over the aromas here. Then it goes to minerals with just a hint of bay leaf. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins with a beautiful softness and beautifulness. I love the balance and harmony to this with bright acidity. I would drink this before the 2007. Just under 1,000 cases of 12 but all sold in threes. Reminds me of Leoville Las Cases but with Napa brightness. Enjoy or hold for a long time. WS 96 (7/2011): This beautifully crafted red combines power with finesse, serving up layers of dense, intense currant, mineral, mocha, espresso, graphite and cedary oak flavors that are full-throttled and focused, with a deep, churning base of smoky tannins that give this a wonderful finish. Best from 2013 through 2023. 950 cases made. VM 94+ (5/2011): Deep ruby-red. Wonderfully deep aromas of black raspberry, dark cherry, mint, minerals, anise and flowers. Thick on entry, then expands in the middle palate, displaying a suave texture and a weightless impression for such a dense, chewy wine. Boasts a tight, concentrated core of black cherry fruit complicated by dark chocolate, thyme and tarragon. The rising, extremely long finish features black cherry, raspberry and licorice flavors and even, palate-saturating tannins. Stephen Tanzer. WA 93+ (12/2010): After a perfect wine in 2007, I suppose the 2008 is something of a letdown. A hundred percent Cabernet Sauvignon (800 cases), this is still an outstanding wine, with classic graphite, creme de cassis, blueberry and floral notes all well-presented in the perfumed aromatics of this full-bodied, rich, concentrated wine. It has some noticeable tannins to be resolved and is not as seamless and flawless as the monumental 2007. Nevertheless, this is a gorgeous wine to drink over the next 20+ years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Scarecrow.aspJS 99 (6/2011): Like listening to cool mellow rock 'n' roll. Extraordinary aromas of violets and dark fruits such as blueberries and currants. I can't get over the aromas here. Then it goes to minerals with just a hint of bay leaf. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins with a beautiful softness and beautifulness. I love the balance and harmony to this with bright acidity. I would drink this before the 2007. Just under 1,000 cases of 12 but all sold in threes. Reminds me of Leoville Las Cases but with Napa brightness. Enjoy or hold for a long time.WS 96 (7/2011): This beautifully crafted red combines power with finesse, serving up layers of dense, intense currant, mineral, mocha, espresso, graphite and cedary oak flavors that are full-throttled and focused, with a deep, churning base of smoky tannins that give this a wonderful finish. Best from 2013 through 2023. 950 cases made.VM 94+ (5/2011): Deep ruby-red. Wonderfully deep aromas of black raspberry, dark cherry, mint, minerals, anise and flowers. Thick on entry, then expands in the middle palate, displaying a suave texture and a weightless impression for such a dense, chewy wine. Boasts a tight, concentrated core of black cherry fruit complicated by dark chocolate, thyme and tarragon. The rising, extremely long finish features black cherry, raspberry and licorice flavors and even, palate-saturating tannins. Stephen Tanzer.WA 93+ (12/2010): After a perfect wine in 2007, I suppose the 2008 is something of a letdown. A hundred percent Cabernet Sauvignon (800 cases), this is still an outstanding wine, with classic graphite, creme de cassis, blueberry and floral notes all well-presented in the perfumed aromatics of this full-bodied, rich, concentrated wine. It has some noticeable tannins to be resolved and is not as seamless and flawless as the monumental 2007. Nevertheless, this is a gorgeous wine to drink over the next 20+ years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Scarecrow.aspWA 98 (10/2014): The classic 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon included fruit from the 2-acre, old vine parcel that is nearly 70 years of age. It boasts an opaque purple color as well as copious notes of spring flowers, blackberries, black raspberries and wet rocks. The wine’s gravelly minerality and spectacular opulence and density make it an instant classic. This massive, full-bodied 2012 should drink beautifully for 15-20+ years. It showed incredibly well last year, and it still reveals the potential to possibly merit a 3-digit score – it’s that special. VM 96 (12/2014): A compelling, exotic beauty, the 2012 Scarecrow impresses for its power and intensity. White flowers, spices and new leather wrap around a core of dark fruit as this imposing, structured Cabernet Sauvignon opens up in the glass. The 2012 needs time in bottle to drop some baby fat and develop more aromatic nuance, but it is absolutely captivating, even today. WS 95 (10/2015): Smoky, dusty tannins give the earth-laced dark berry, raspberry and floral notes definition, accented by espresso, dark chocolate, licorice and anise hints. The density and richness promise a long life, though this is certainly a delight to drink now. Drink now through 2030. 2,000 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Scarecrow.aspWA 94 (10/2014): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon M. Etain is in essence a second wine, but it sure doesn’t taste like one. Its deep purple color is followed by pure black raspberry and blackcurrant fruit, dusty, loamy soil notes, extraordinary depth of fruit, ripeness and good acidity. This opulent, round beauty is ideal for drinking over the next decade or more.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Scarecrow.aspIWC 91-94 (6/2007): Good medium ruby. Very primary black fruit nose shows a slightly porty aspect without loss of brightness. Then sweet, dense, sappy and vinous in the mouth, with black fruit and chocolate flavors displaying impressive intensity and power. As ripe as this is, there's also lovely balancing acidity. Finishes very long and intensely fruity, with serious tannins and a suggestion of Tellicherry pepper.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ErnaSchein.aspIWC 91 (6/2008): (a blend of 46% syrah, 34% merlot, 13% cab franc and 7% petit verdot, mostly from Alder Springs fruit) Good full red-ruby. Musky raspberry, mocha and chocolate on the nose. Sweet, intense and firmly structured, with saline, meat and earth elements lifted by a firm spine of acids and tannins. Finishes slightly dry but long. I like the gamey syrah and complex soil tones here. "The 2006 and 2005 vintages have more similarities than differences," noted Les Behrens, adding that both years feature high acidity levels. This was the only 2006 in bottle as of early March. WA 88 (12/2008): The Erna Schein offerings start with the 2006 Jersey Boy, an innovative blend of 46% Syrah, 34% Merlot, and the rest Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. It displays a deep ruby/purple color, earthy, meaty, black currant notes, and a slightly austere finish. Overall, it is an exuberant, fruity, straightforward style of wine to drink over the next 5-6 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ErnaSchein.aspIWC 93 (5/2007): Saturated medium ruby. Wild, reduced nose offers liqueur-like black fruits, licorice and meat. Superconcentrated, chewy and sweet, with syrah-like saline and game qualities to the intense dark fruit, violet and chocolate flavors. Very densely packed if a bit youthfully aggressive wine, finishing with serious tannic clout and persistent flavors of meat and raspberry liqueur. Is it possible these old vines are actually syrah?http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ErnaSchein.aspIWC 91+ (5/2009): (blended with 8% cabernet sauvignon) Bright medium ruby. Perfumed, rocky aromas of blackberry, blueberry, licorice, tar and pepper. Juicy and tight, with a slatey, flinty minerality currently dominating black fruit, violet and licorice flavors. Very closed today; give this plenty of aeration if you plan to pop a cork anytime soon. Possesses a firm spine for aging.WA 90 (12/2008): The 2006 Petite Sirah Spring Mountain is a tannic, backward effort exhibiting notes of incense, acacia flowers, and blueberries along with some sweet tannins. The color is a nearly impenetrable purple, and the wine will benefit from 2-3 years of bottle age. It should keep for 15 or more. WS 91 (7/2009): Charming and fragrant, with pepper and lavender notes and full-bodied flavors of blackberry, licorice and huckleberry that are dark, intense and chewy. Despite the concentration of flavors, this retains an air of elegance, with a long finish. Drink now through 2014. 300 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ErnaSchein.aspVM 89 (2/2014): Dark red cherry, plums, smoke, chalk, tobacco and dried flowers are some of the many notes that inform the 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon. As always, the style is medium in body, floral and pretty feminine for Cabernet Sauvignon. My preference would be to drink the 2010 sooner rather than later, while the fruit remains vibrant, even though today it shows a solid backbone of tannin.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ScherrerWinery.aspVM 89 (1/2015): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon is a pretty, mid-weight wine to drink now and over the next 7-10 years or so. Grilled herbs, rose petals, mint and sage add nuance to a core of expressive red-toned fruits. The 2011 is delicate, savory and mediuhttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ScherrerWinery.aspWS 89 (8/2015): Delicate and pretty, with pert notes of watermelon, blood orange and mineral. Syrah and Grenache. Drink now. 400 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ScherrerWinery.aspWS 91 (8/2016): Zesty and crisp, with a supple texture and layered flavors of smoked pepper, watermelon and orange zest. Syrah and Grenache. Drink now. 220 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ScherrerWinery.aspWS 90 (4/2017): Sleek and crisp, with a sense of pizzazz, offering watermelon, smoky pepper and peach notes. Syrah and Grenache. Drink now. 340 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ScherrerWinery.aspIWC 91 (5/2014): Light yellow. Complex, perfumed scents of poached pear, nectarine and honey, with smoky oak and iodine accents. Deeply pitched pit and orchard fruit flavors show very good vivacity, with dusty minerality adding back-end lift. The smoky note carries through the long, penetrating finish, with the pear note echoing. WS 89 (6/2014): Intense, with an edgy texture and ripe pear, fig and honeydew melon notes, gaining depth and complexity and ending with a touch of anise. Drink now through 2021. 126 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ScherrerWinery.aspVM 93 (1/2015): White flowers, white pepper, orchard fruit and smoke are all laced together in the 2012 Chardonnay Helfer Vineyard, a wine that shows elements of Burgundian-like reduction and tension. Slate, lime and graphite notes are laced into the super-expressive finish. I recommend opening the Helfed an hour or two in advance and giving a brief decant, especially for readers who may find some of the reductive elements distracting. Antonio Galloni.WS 88 (3/2015): A cedary oak presence is prominent, giving this a woody edge and a raw texture that overshadows the core apple, pear and citrus fruit for now. Drink now through 2021. 110 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ScherrerWinery.aspWA 93 (10/2016): The 2013 Chardonnay Helfer Vineyard is put through full malolactic, aged in about 50% new oak and bottled with neither fining nor filtration. This is a combination of Old Wente and Dijon clones. This is a hell of a bottle of Chardonnay – cutting a broad swath across the palate, but with no heaviness just precision, plenty of honeysuckle, tangerine oil, white peach and tropical fruit such as subtle pineapple. Crisp, elegant and full-bodied, but pure and rich, with the oak playing a minor role, this is a beauty to drink over the next 5-7 years.VM 89 (2/2016): High-toned aromatics and a host of orchard fruit, spice, mint and white flowers are all found in the 2013 Chardonnay Helfer Vineyard. Next to the Scherrer Vineyard, the Helfer is brighter and lighter on its feet, but also a bit more diffuse, all of which contribute to its slightly eccentric personality. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ScherrerWinery.aspWS 90 (9/2016): A tender, delicate style, showing some softness and mature plum and rose petal flavors. The anise, dusty earth and sage notes are persistent. Drink now. 340 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ScherrerWinery.aspVM 93 (2/2016): The Zinfandel Old & Mature Vines Scherrer Vineyard is once again one of Fred Scherrer's most distinctive wines in 2013. A wine of real character and personality, the 2013 is endowed with superb depth. Leather, smoke, spice, dried herb and tobacco add an attractive savory element. Antonio Galloni.WA 93 (10/2016): From a vineyard planted in 1912, with subsequent plantings in the 1970s and 1980s, the 2013 Zinfandel Old & Mature Vines was aged totally in French oak. A juicy, outrageously delicious Zinfandel, with full-bodied terrific black raspberry and black cherry fruit, pepper, earth and underbrush. Its opulence and lusciousness are pure hedonism at its best. Moreover, the alcohol is relatively tame by Zinfandel standards these days coming in at 14.5%. This should drink nicely for another 7-8 years.WS 90 (6/2016): Bright and briary cherry and dill aromas lead to layered and zesty flavors of tart plum, smoky sweet anise and cracked pepper. Drink now through 2022. 1,200 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ScherrerWinery.aspWA 89 (12/2008): One of the forgotten varietals from Alexander Valley is Cabernet Sauvignon, and Scherrer does an excellent job with it. The 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Scherrer Vineyard Estate reveals attractive, dusty, black currant, and licorice notes with a hint of spicy oak in the background. Medium to full-bodied with sweet tannin, excellent concentration, and a nicely textured mouthfeel, it can be enjoyed now and over the next decade or more.Fred Scherrer continues to turn out reasonably priced, consistently well-made reds and whites.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ScherrerWinery.aspIWC 91 (6/2010): Vivid red. Expressive aromas of cassis, licorice, pipe tobacco and rose. There's a restrained sweetness and alluring subtlety to the flavors of cassis, candied flowers, licorice and herbs. Seamless and broad but nicely delineated, finishing with very good clarity, silky tannins and lingering sweetness.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ScherrerWinery.aspIWC 91 (5/2012): Bright ruby-red. Intensely perfumed aromas of red fruit preserves, licorice and herbs, with a suave floral nuance building with air. Offers an array of red fruit flavors and suggestions of anise and candied rose, picking up a spicy character on the back end. The licorice note carries through on the sharply focused, very long finish.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ScherrerWinery.aspIWC 92 (5/2014): Deep ruby. Complex, seductively perfumed aromas of blueberry, cassis, tobacco and potpourri, along with a smoky overtone. Sweet, spicy and penetrating, showing very good clarity to its dark fruit compote and floral pastille flavors. The intensely spicy, smoke-tinged finish clings with excellent tenacity, a hint of black pepper and building tannins. I'd hold off on opening this one for at least another few years.WA 91 (4/2013): The 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Scherrer Vineyard is another wine that is first and foremost about balance. Fleshy, radiant and deeply expressive, the 2008 is just singing today. I imagine the 2008 will drink well right out of the gate and for years thereafter. Cedar, cloves, crushed rocks and menthol add complexity on the finish. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2018.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ScherrerWinery.aspVM 93 (2/2014): The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Scherrer Vineyard is even better today than it was last year. Dark red cherry, plum, licorice, wild flowers and savory herbs form a core of huge fruit as the wine opens up in the glass. A deep, rich wine, the 2009 is hugely appealing today, but it also clearly has the stuffing to drink well for a number of years. Mocha, violets and sweet herbs linger on a powerful finish supported by grippy tannins.WA 92 (4/2013): The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Scherrer Vineyard is pure silk on the palate. This is one of the rare Scherrer Cabernets where the fruit is very much front and center. Dark raspberries, mint, crushed flowers and tobacco are all woven together nicely in the glass. There is a lot to like in the 2009. Sweet, floral notes add lift on the finish. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2024.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ScherrerWinery.aspVM 92+ (2/2014): Rose petals, violets, mint, new leather and black cherries are some of the many nuances that flow across the palate in the 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Scherrer Vineyard. The 2010 is less overt and fruit-driven than the 2009, at least today. Ihttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ScherrerWinery.aspVM 91 (1/2015): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Scherrer Vineyard has turned out quite a bit better than I had expected based on my tasting from barrel last year. Then again, Scherrer handles the wine minimally in the cellar, which can lead to awkward showings. No matter, the 2011 is quite pretty. Plum, pomegranate, mocha, spice, savory herbs and ferrous notes are laced together in a super-attractive fabric. The 2011 has put on considerable weight since last year, but it remains a quintessentially mid-weight Scherrer Cabernet. Hints of tobacco, lavender and spice add the final nuances of complexity.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ScherrerWinery.aspVM 92 (1/2015): The 2012 Chardonnay Scherrer Vineyard is deep, powerful and explosive. Yellow stone fruits, smoke, graphite and melon open up in the glass, but this is a tightly-wound, powerful Chardonnay with a real sense of phenolic intensity. The 2012 offers plenty of mid-palate depth as well as focus.WS 88 (3/2015): Bold and intense, this rich, powerful, oak-driven expression of Chardonnay offers a raw texture and hints of creaminess amid the raw apple and citrus notes. Drink now. 140 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ScherrerWinery.aspVM 90 (2/2016): The 2013 Chardonnay Scherrer Vineyard is pretty, soft and nuanced throughout. Yellow orchard fruit, spice, pear and vanilla are laced together in a creamy yet understated wine endowed with grace and lovely overall balance.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ScherrerWinery.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ScherrerWinery.aspWA 98+ (12/2010): The 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Schrader, which comes from Clones 4, 6 and 337, is slightly more structured and perhaps not as velvety as the CCS or RBS. Again, blue fruits, black fruits, camphor, charcoal and burning ember characteristics are presented in a full-bodied, powerful style that balances intensity with elegance and an uncanny equilibrium. This is another stunning wine that should benefit from 4-5 years of cellaring and keep for 25-30+ years. WS 98 (10/2011): Deep, rich, pure and extracted, exhibiting focused plum, crème de cassis and wild raspberry flavors that dance, with more fruit, a shade less earth and lots of finesse and polish. Ends with a long finish. Drink now through 2024. 225 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspWA 95 (12/2011): The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Schrader Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard is one of the more plush, overt wines in this lineup. There is tremendous depth in the fruit in this massive, sweeping wine. The aromas and flavors build towards the cascading finish. The Schrader is a decidedly big, muscular wine that emphasizes power over detail. The Schrader is predominantly clone 4 from the D2 block, with a dollop of clone 6 from the D2 block and clone 337 from the B2 block. Anticipated maturity: 2019-2029. WS 95 (9/2012): Intense and multifaceted, exhibiting dense, detailed currant, spice, chocolate brownie, crème de cassis and mocha flavors. Focused and persistent, building depth and gaining length. Best from 2014 through 2030. 375 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspWA 98 (10/2014): Nearly as prodigious is the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer to Kalon Vineyard, which is Clone 4 and Clone 6 blended together from the Beckstoffer to Kalon Vineyard, this is the highest in alcohol of the 2012s at 14.6%. It was aged in a combination of 50% new Darnajou and 50% new Taransaud barrels. This wine is one of the tighter, more backward of the 2012s, with more structure, tannin, muscle, a masculine personality, oodles of black and blue fruits and a massive mouthfeel, but is somehow much more primary and younger tasting than the other wines. Forget it for a few years and drink it over the following 20-25 years. WS 95 (5/2015): Sleek, refined and elegant, showing rich layers of spicy oak, blackberry and wild berry, with cedar and herb nuances. Ends with a long, full finish that gains depth and detail, firming nicely on the finish. Drink now through 2029. 370 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspWA 95 (10/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon from clone 4, but a different block of the Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard, shows great fruit, but not nearly the complexity of the CCS. It is one of those micro-examples that is a fabulous wine, but somehow never seems to be up to the quality of the CCS, which is made from the same clone in an adjacent block. Nevertheless, this wine is full-bodied, rich and dense, with classic tobacco leaf, graphite, blackcurrant and licorice, and some toasty, smoky oak in the background. Drink it over the next 30 years. WS 95 (11/2016): Pure, clean crushed berry and floral aromas are the introduction to this vibrant, robust and deeply flavored effort, with cascading blackberry, wild berry, anise, cedar, tobacco leaf and melted licorice notes, ending with a long, sustained aftertaste that keeps echoing the core themes. Best from 2020 through 2035. 252 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspWA 95 (10/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon from clone 4, but a different block of the Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard, shows great fruit, but not nearly the complexity of the CCS. It is one of those micro-examples that is a fabulous wine, but somehow never seems to be up to the quality of the CCS, which is made from the same clone in an adjacent block. Nevertheless, this wine is full-bodied, rich and dense, with classic tobacco leaf, graphite, blackcurrant and licorice, and some toasty, smoky oak in the background. Drink it over the next 30 years. WS 95 (11/2016): Pure, clean crushed berry and floral aromas are the introduction to this vibrant, robust and deeply flavored effort, with cascading blackberry, wild berry, anise, cedar, tobacco leaf and melted licorice notes, ending with a long, sustained aftertaste that keeps echoing the core themes. Best from 2020 through 2035. 252 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspVM 95 (11/2013): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon CCS Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard is classic Schrader. Layers of dark blue/black fruit, smoke, licorice, mocha, mint, violets and orange peel gradually unfold in a striking wine endowed with superb balance, class and nuance. Everything is wonderfully delineated, yet the 2011 has plenty of the richness Schrader fans are used to. Here it is the Clone 4 Cabernet Sauvignon that speaks with great eloquence. WA 95 (10/2013): Usually my favorite cuvee, the Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard CCS is a beauty in 2011. Made in a showy, flamboyant style, it boasts a dense ruby/purple color as well as sweet notes of creme de cassis, violets, licorice, forest floor and new oak. This supple, round effort is one of the superstars of this challenging vintage. It should drink well for 10-15 years or longer. WS 93 (10/2014): Offers enticing aromas of plum and red berry, with edgy tannins framing the tight, dense core of red berry, black licorice, cedar and gravel. Ends with gutsy, chewy tannins. Drink now through 2022. 235 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspVM 95 (11/2013): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon CCS Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard is classic Schrader. Layers of dark blue/black fruit, smoke, licorice, mocha, mint, violets and orange peel gradually unfold in a striking wine endowed with superb balance, class and nuance. Everything is wonderfully delineated, yet the 2011 has plenty of the richness Schrader fans are used to. Here it is the Clone 4 Cabernet Sauvignon that speaks with great eloquence. WA 95 (10/2013): Usually my favorite cuvee, the Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard CCS is a beauty in 2011. Made in a showy, flamboyant style, it boasts a dense ruby/purple color as well as sweet notes of creme de cassis, violets, licorice, forest floor and new oak. This supple, round effort is one of the superstars of this challenging vintage. It should drink well for 10-15 years or longer. WS 93 (10/2014): Offers enticing aromas of plum and red berry, with edgy tannins framing the tight, dense core of red berry, black licorice, cedar and gravel. Ends with gutsy, chewy tannins. Drink now through 2022. 235 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspVM 95 (11/2013): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon CCS Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard is classic Schrader. Layers of dark blue/black fruit, smoke, licorice, mocha, mint, violets and orange peel gradually unfold in a striking wine endowed with superb balance, class and nuance. Everything is wonderfully delineated, yet the 2011 has plenty of the richness Schrader fans are used to. Here it is the Clone 4 Cabernet Sauvignon that speaks with great eloquence. WA 95 (10/2013): Usually my favorite cuvee, the Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard CCS is a beauty in 2011. Made in a showy, flamboyant style, it boasts a dense ruby/purple color as well as sweet notes of creme de cassis, violets, licorice, forest floor and new oak. This supple, round effort is one of the superstars of this challenging vintage. It should drink well for 10-15 years or longer. WS 93 (10/2014): Offers enticing aromas of plum and red berry, with edgy tannins framing the tight, dense core of red berry, black licorice, cedar and gravel. Ends with gutsy, chewy tannins. Drink now through 2022. 235 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspVM 95 (11/2013): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon CCS Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard is classic Schrader. Layers of dark blue/black fruit, smoke, licorice, mocha, mint, violets and orange peel gradually unfold in a striking wine endowed with superb balance, class and nuance. Everything is wonderfully delineated, yet the 2011 has plenty of the richness Schrader fans are used to. Here it is the Clone 4 Cabernet Sauvignon that speaks with great eloquence. WA 95 (10/2013): Usually my favorite cuvee, the Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard CCS is a beauty in 2011. Made in a showy, flamboyant style, it boasts a dense ruby/purple color as well as sweet notes of creme de cassis, violets, licorice, forest floor and new oak. This supple, round effort is one of the superstars of this challenging vintage. It should drink well for 10-15 years or longer. WS 93 (10/2014): Offers enticing aromas of plum and red berry, with edgy tannins framing the tight, dense core of red berry, black licorice, cedar and gravel. Ends with gutsy, chewy tannins. Drink now through 2022. 235 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspVM 95 (11/2013): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon CCS Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard is classic Schrader. Layers of dark blue/black fruit, smoke, licorice, mocha, mint, violets and orange peel gradually unfold in a striking wine endowed with superb balance, class and nuance. Everything is wonderfully delineated, yet the 2011 has plenty of the richness Schrader fans are used to. Here it is the Clone 4 Cabernet Sauvignon that speaks with great eloquence. WA 95 (10/2013): Usually my favorite cuvee, the Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard CCS is a beauty in 2011. Made in a showy, flamboyant style, it boasts a dense ruby/purple color as well as sweet notes of creme de cassis, violets, licorice, forest floor and new oak. This supple, round effort is one of the superstars of this challenging vintage. It should drink well for 10-15 years or longer. WS 93 (10/2014): Offers enticing aromas of plum and red berry, with edgy tannins framing the tight, dense core of red berry, black licorice, cedar and gravel. Ends with gutsy, chewy tannins. Drink now through 2022. 235 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspWA 100 (10/2014): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer to Kalon Vineyard CCS is Clone 4 from another block, and always seems to hit all the sweet spots on my palate. It’s aged 20 months in 100% new Darnajou barrels. The good news is there are 520 cases of it. Just a prodigious wine, this spectacular Cabernet Sauvignon is inky bluish/purple with a gorgeous nose of spring flowers, blueberry, blackberry and cassis fruit, a touch of background toast and graphite. It has a very full-bodied, multidimensional mouthfeel and a skyscraper-like finish. It is fabulously open, sexy and a total thrill to smell and taste. This should continue to drink well for two decades. VM 96 (12/2014): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon CCS Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard is gorgeous. Often one of the more open-knit, silky wines in the range, the CCS plays in an upper register of sweet perfumed aromatics, bright red fruit and super-finessed tannins. A long, polished finish rounds things out in style. Even though the CCS is one of the more delicate wines in the Schrader lineup, the new oak is totally integrated. In the end, great wine are all about balance, and the 2012 CCS has that in spades. This is a magnificent showing. JS 96 (7/2015): This is very rich and bright with loads of fruit and spice character. Some fresh berry too. Full-bodied, very firm and chewy, yet bright and intense. Muscular and powerful. A beauty. Better in 2018. WS 94 (5/2015): While big and chewy, this offers an intriguing mix of dark berry, plum and black cherry, shaded by black licorice, cedar and berry jam on the finish. The flavors push through gracefully on the finish. Best from 2016 through 2029. 520 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspWA 100 (10/2015): There is something ethereal about the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon CCS, a wine that I tend to give more perfect scores to than of the other Schrader offerings. This is clone 4 from a special block of the Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard in Oakville, and it always seems to have these incredible, explosive aromatics ranging from blueberry to blackberry to cassis to spring flowers and lead pencil shavings. It’s always one of the more seductive wines early on, with sweet, velvety tannins, a plush, succulent mouthfeel, full-bodied splendor and majestic texture. This is a killer effort of great intensity and presence. Drink it over then next 25-30 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspWA 98+ (10/2015): Close to perfection is the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard Colesworthy, which is clone 337. This is aged in 100% new Darnajou and soaks up the new oak beautifully. Notes of lead pencil shavings, forest floor, vanilla, blackberry and cassis jump from the glass of this opaque purple, full-bodied, magnificent Cabernet Sauvignon, which is super-rich, fabulously pure and just a killer wine on the palate.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspWA 94 (10/2016): Slightly less impressive, but still a brilliant wine, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Colesworthy comes across as more backward and closed with a Graves-like minerality. This also hails from the Las Piedras Vineyard and was aged 20 months in 100% new Darnajou. This was the most reserved of all of the 2014s from Schrader, will probably benefit from several years of bottle age, and keep for 15 or more years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspWA 97+ (12/2009): The 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer George III Vineyard comes from clone 337, from a Beckstoffer-owned vineyard in Rutherford. Its dense purple color is followed by a big, sweet nose of black cherries, black currants, cedar, spice box, and subtle oak. Enormously concentrated and full-bodied with superb minerality as well as tannic structure, it will benefit from 4-5 years of bottle age, and should evolve for three decades. WS 96 (10/2010): A tremendous effort, broad, rich and layered, with creamy oak woven in with ripe currant and blackberry fruit. Full-blown and persistent, offering green olive, cedar and spice notes that gain intensity, depth, elegance and finesse. Drink now through 2019. 300 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspWA 97 (12/2010): The 2008s were bottled in early summer, 2010. From the Beckstoffer Vineyard, the opaque blue/purple-colored 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon George III Clone 337 rocks out of the glass with brilliant aromas of creme de cassis, Christmas fruitcake, cedarwood, licorice and incense. The wine is deep, full-bodied, dense and concentrated with outstanding purity, texture and length. It is approachable now (one of the seductive characteristics of these wines) yet is capable of lasting 25 or more years. WS 97 (8/2011): Offers ripe, rich, opulent plum, wild berry, black cherry and spice attributes that are dense and pure, deep and polished, yet with grip and traction. Shows amazing length. Best from 2013 through 2027.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspWS 97 (9/2012): A seductive style that's ripe and perfumed, with layers of rich flavors and uncommon complexity, extending from wilted rose, cassis, smoky oak, ripe plum, blackberry and wild berry. Ends with jazzy mocha and exotic spice nuances. Best from 2013 through 2030. 190 cases made. WA 95 (12/2011): The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon GIII Beckstoffer Georges III Vineyard Clone 337 is a gorgeous, dark wine bursting with black fruit, leather, licorice and tar. The Georges III is dark, plush and totally inviting, with a seamless quality to the tannin that is striking for such a young wine. This is the most suave and accessible of the 2009s. If I were tempted to open a very young 2009 Schrader, this would be the bottle. The 2009 GIII is 100% clone 337 from the F Block. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2024.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspWA 96 (10/2013): The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer George III Vineyard, made from clone 337, had a total production of 110 cases (compared to 260+ for the 2012). Its gorgeous nose reveals aromas of creme de cassis, blueberries, raspberries, vanillin and notions of cedarwood as well as incense. Deep and full-bodied with fabulous purity, a hallmark of all these wines, this spectacular 2010 has plenty of structure, but the fruit intensity and richness largely obscure the wine’s tannic profile. This beauty will be drinkable in several years and keep for 30 years. VM 96 (12/2012): Schrader's 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon GIII Beckstoffer Georges III Vineyard bursts from the glass with explosive dark blue and black fruit, exotic spices, flowers and menthol. There is an inner energy and tension in the GIII that makes this bottling stand out. Readers will want to give the 2010 a few years in the cellar, but it is strikingly beautiful even today. Over time, as I followed it, the wine continued to open up in the glass and put on considerable weight. In 2010, the GIII is a true standout. The GIII is clone 337 from the F block. Antonio Galloni.WS 95 (6/2013): A powerful yet graceful Cabernet that's big, rich, chewy and chunky, with tiers of mocha, dark berry, spice and cedar flavors. This packs a wallop and isn't shy about tannins, so best to be patient. Best from 2014 through 2030. 110 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspWA 96 (10/2014): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Georges III Vineyard, from this famous vineyard in Rutherford, is made from Cabernet Sauvignon Clone 337, and 90% new Darnajou and 10% new Taransaud was used. One of the smaller cuveés, the wine has great intensity, with chocolaty cassis notes, fruitcake and forest floor along with licorice and spice. This is a big full-bodied, powerful, rich, yet accessible style of wine, as most 2012s tend to be. Drink it over the next 15-20 years. WS 95 (5/2015): Bold, rich and focused on a core of blackberry, currant, plum and spicy, cedary oak. Gains a dusty, loamy textural nuance and ends a bit trim, without losing its potent personality. Best from 2017 through 2022. 260 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspWA 96 (10/2014): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Georges III Vineyard, from this famous vineyard in Rutherford, is made from Cabernet Sauvignon Clone 337, and 90% new Darnajou and 10% new Taransaud was used. One of the smaller cuveés, the wine has great intensity, with chocolaty cassis notes, fruitcake and forest floor along with licorice and spice. This is a big full-bodied, powerful, rich, yet accessible style of wine, as most 2012s tend to be. Drink it over the next 15-20 years. WS 95 (5/2015): Bold, rich and focused on a core of blackberry, currant, plum and spicy, cedary oak. Gains a dusty, loamy textural nuance and ends a bit trim, without losing its potent personality. Best from 2017 through 2022. 260 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspWA 97 (10/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer George III Vineyard, which comes from the Beckstoffer-owned vineyard in Rutherford and clone 337, exhibits an opaque purple color and a beautiful nose of creosote, graphite, charcoal, blackberry and blueberry. It’s dense, full-bodied and opulent, with great acidity and sweet, well-integrated tannins. It is approachable now, but promises to be at its best with another 7-8 years of bottle age and last 25-30 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspWA 93 (10/2013): Schrader’s newest offering is the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard LPV, which comes from clone 337 of the Las Piedras site. This is a west side valley floor vineyard with a foundation of alluvial river pebbles and rocks as well as gravelly loam. The Schraders have a long-term lease on 5 acres, which, added to their 16 acres of Beckstoffer To Kalon and 5 acres of Beckstoffer George III, gives them some pretty serious leases on some of the finest terroirs in Napa Valley. The softest wine of this portfolio, there are 350 cases of the 2011 LPV, far less than the 600 cases produced in 2012. Given its warm micro-climated, these grapes were picked before the rains descended. The wine exhibits a dark ruby/purple color, supple tannins, and sweet red and black currants, licorice, Christmas fruitcake, incense and forest floor. This beautiful, medium-bodied 2011 is already complex and evolved. Drink it over the next 10-15 years VM 91 (11/2013): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon LPV Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard is the most open and accessible of these 2011s from Schrader. A deep, inky wine, the 2011 emerges from the glass with black fruit, menthol, cloves and new leather. When it was in barrel, the 2011 had more energy, tension and minerality, but over time it has lost most of those qualities and today it is rich and powerful to the point of being heavy. My sense is that the 2011 is best enjoyed sooner rather than later. The LPV Cabernet emerges from a parcel in the vineyard planted with Clone 337 Cabernet Sauvignon. Antonio Galloni. WS 90 (10/2014): A new addition to the Schrader Cabernet portfolio, this is a rich, gutsy style, with a dense charcoal presence overshadowing the tight mix of dried dark berry, loamy earth and graphite notes. Pulls together on the finish, ending tannic and chewy, but complete. Drink now through 2023. 350 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspWA 93 (10/2013): Schrader’s newest offering is the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard LPV, which comes from clone 337 of the Las Piedras site. This is a west side valley floor vineyard with a foundation of alluvial river pebbles and rocks as well as gravelly loam. The Schraders have a long-term lease on 5 acres, which, added to their 16 acres of Beckstoffer To Kalon and 5 acres of Beckstoffer George III, gives them some pretty serious leases on some of the finest terroirs in Napa Valley. The softest wine of this portfolio, there are 350 cases of the 2011 LPV, far less than the 600 cases produced in 2012. Given its warm micro-climated, these grapes were picked before the rains descended. The wine exhibits a dark ruby/purple color, supple tannins, and sweet red and black currants, licorice, Christmas fruitcake, incense and forest floor. This beautiful, medium-bodied 2011 is already complex and evolved. Drink it over the next 10-15 years VM 91 (11/2013): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon LPV Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard is the most open and accessible of these 2011s from Schrader. A deep, inky wine, the 2011 emerges from the glass with black fruit, menthol, cloves and new leather. When it was in barrel, the 2011 had more energy, tension and minerality, but over time it has lost most of those qualities and today it is rich and powerful to the point of being heavy. My sense is that the 2011 is best enjoyed sooner rather than later. The LPV Cabernet emerges from a parcel in the vineyard planted with Clone 337 Cabernet Sauvignon. Antonio Galloni. WS 90 (10/2014): A new addition to the Schrader Cabernet portfolio, this is a rich, gutsy style, with a dense charcoal presence overshadowing the tight mix of dried dark berry, loamy earth and graphite notes. Pulls together on the finish, ending tannic and chewy, but complete. Drink now through 2023. 350 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspJS 97 (5/2016): Amazing aromas of hot stone, iodine, black currants and blackberries. Full body, super polished tannins that highlight the dark fruits, plus white pepper, salt and fruit character. Precise and focused. Better in 2020. WS 94 (11/2016): Offers a powerful, extracted, high-torque core of zesty blackberry, wild berry, anise, licorice and crushed rock flavors. Sails a steady course once underway, ending where it starts, with a dense mix of complex earth and berry notes. Best from 2020 through 2033. 650 cases made. WA 94 (10/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard Lpv comes from clone 337. This is a rather earthy style for a Schrader wine, with less drama and flamboyance, but great fruit, a more meaty, dusty style with underbrush as well as blackcurrants, with spicy oak. It’s dense, full-bodied and promises to age nicely for 20 more years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspWA 93 (10/2013): Schrader’s newest offering is the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard LPV, which comes from clone 337 of the Las Piedras site. This is a west side valley floor vineyard with a foundation of alluvial river pebbles and rocks as well as gravelly loam. The Schraders have a long-term lease on 5 acres, which, added to their 16 acres of Beckstoffer To Kalon and 5 acres of Beckstoffer George III, gives them some pretty serious leases on some of the finest terroirs in Napa Valley. The softest wine of this portfolio, there are 350 cases of the 2011 LPV, far less than the 600 cases produced in 2012. Given its warm micro-climated, these grapes were picked before the rains descended. The wine exhibits a dark ruby/purple color, supple tannins, and sweet red and black currants, licorice, Christmas fruitcake, incense and forest floor. This beautiful, medium-bodied 2011 is already complex and evolved. Drink it over the next 10-15 years.VM 91 (11/2013): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon LPV Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard is the most open and accessible of these 2011s from Schrader. A deep, inky wine, the 2011 emerges from the glass with black fruit, menthol, cloves and new leather. When it was in barrel, the 2011 had more energy, tension and minerality, but over time it has lost most of those qualities and today it is rich and powerful to the point of being heavy. My sense is that the 2011 is best enjoyed sooner rather than later. The LPV Cabernet emerges from a parcel in the vineyard planted with Clone 337 Cabernet Sauvignon. Antonio Galloni.WS 90 (10/2014): A new addition to the Schrader Cabernet portfolio, this is a rich, gutsy style, with a dense charcoal presence overshadowing the tight mix of dried dark berry, loamy earth and graphite notes. Pulls together on the finish, ending tannic and chewy, but complete. Drink now through 2023. 350 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspWA 93 (10/2013): Schrader’s newest offering is the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard LPV, which comes from clone 337 of the Las Piedras site. This is a west side valley floor vineyard with a foundation of alluvial river pebbles and rocks as well as gravelly loam. The Schraders have a long-term lease on 5 acres, which, added to their 16 acres of Beckstoffer To Kalon and 5 acres of Beckstoffer George III, gives them some pretty serious leases on some of the finest terroirs in Napa Valley. The softest wine of this portfolio, there are 350 cases of the 2011 LPV, far less than the 600 cases produced in 2012. Given its warm micro-climated, these grapes were picked before the rains descended. The wine exhibits a dark ruby/purple color, supple tannins, and sweet red and black currants, licorice, Christmas fruitcake, incense and forest floor. This beautiful, medium-bodied 2011 is already complex and evolved. Drink it over the next 10-15 years. VM 91 (11/2013): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon LPV Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard is the most open and accessible of these 2011s from Schrader. A deep, inky wine, the 2011 emerges from the glass with black fruit, menthol, cloves and new leather. When it was in barrel, the 2011 had more energy, tension and minerality, but over time it has lost most of those qualities and today it is rich and powerful to the point of being heavy. My sense is that the 2011 is best enjoyed sooner rather than later. The LPV Cabernet emerges from a parcel in the vineyard planted with Clone 337 Cabernet Sauvignon. WS 90 (10/2014): A new addition to the Schrader Cabernet portfolio, this is a rich, gutsy style, with a dense charcoal presence overshadowing the tight mix of dried dark berry, loamy earth and graphite notes. Pulls together on the finish, ending tannic and chewy, but complete. Drink now through 2023. 350 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspWA 93 (10/2013): Schrader’s newest offering is the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard LPV, which comes from clone 337 of the Las Piedras site. This is a west side valley floor vineyard with a foundation of alluvial river pebbles and rocks as well as gravelly loam. The Schraders have a long-term lease on 5 acres, which, added to their 16 acres of Beckstoffer To Kalon and 5 acres of Beckstoffer George III, gives them some pretty serious leases on some of the finest terroirs in Napa Valley. The softest wine of this portfolio, there are 350 cases of the 2011 LPV, far less than the 600 cases produced in 2012. Given its warm micro-climated, these grapes were picked before the rains descended. The wine exhibits a dark ruby/purple color, supple tannins, and sweet red and black currants, licorice, Christmas fruitcake, incense and forest floor. This beautiful, medium-bodied 2011 is already complex and evolved. Drink it over the next 10-15 years. VM 91 (11/2013): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon LPV Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard is the most open and accessible of these 2011s from Schrader. A deep, inky wine, the 2011 emerges from the glass with black fruit, menthol, cloves and new leather. When it was in barrel, the 2011 had more energy, tension and minerality, but over time it has lost most of those qualities and today it is rich and powerful to the point of being heavy. My sense is that the 2011 is best enjoyed sooner rather than later. The LPV Cabernet emerges from a parcel in the vineyard planted with Clone 337 Cabernet Sauvignon. WS 90 (10/2014): A new addition to the Schrader Cabernet portfolio, this is a rich, gutsy style, with a dense charcoal presence overshadowing the tight mix of dried dark berry, loamy earth and graphite notes. Pulls together on the finish, ending tannic and chewy, but complete. Drink now through 2023. 350 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspJS 98 (7/2015): A very rich and dense red with blueberry and chocolate character. Full-bodied, very silky and refined. Wonderful depth and length. Held back and pretty. Elegance and beauty for a Schrader. Better in 2017.WS 95 (5/2015): Starts out bold and assertive, with rich dark berry, cedar and nutmeg flavors, revealing touches of espresso, mocha and melted black licorice. Well-built, tight and persistent, this will benefit from short-term cellaring. Best from 2017 through 2029. 620 cases made. WA 94 (10/2014): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard LPV is black/ruby, shows lots of charcoal, scorched earth and an almost Graves-on-steroids personality. Deep blueberry and blackberry fruit, a hint of coffee and chocolate are all present in this impressive, very different style of Cabernet Sauvignon from Schrader. This is Clone 337, planted in a St. Helena vineyard. VM 92 (12/2014): Schrader's 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon LPV Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard is laced with blueberry jam, cassis, new leather, cloves and violets. Most of the site's inherent minerality has been baked out, either by the vintage or by some of the farming/winemaking choices, and what comes through is a very ripe, oaky Las Piedras with relatively soft contours and plenty of near term appeal. As good as the 2012 is, I am not sure what the point is of making a wine like this in Las Piedras. In fact, Schrader's Las Piedras is one of the least site-specific wines from this vineyard I have tasted. I would give the 2012 a few years to lose some of its baby fat and see what happens.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspJS 98 (7/2015): A very rich and dense red with blueberry and chocolate character. Full-bodied, very silky and refined. Wonderful depth and length. Held back and pretty. Elegance and beauty for a Schrader. Better in 2017.WS 95 (5/2015): Starts out bold and assertive, with rich dark berry, cedar and nutmeg flavors, revealing touches of espresso, mocha and melted black licorice. Well-built, tight and persistent, this will benefit from short-term cellaring. Best from 2017 through 2029. 620 cases made. WA 94 (10/2014): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard LPV is black/ruby, shows lots of charcoal, scorched earth and an almost Graves-on-steroids personality. Deep blueberry and blackberry fruit, a hint of coffee and chocolate are all present in this impressive, very different style of Cabernet Sauvignon from Schrader. This is Clone 337, planted in a St. Helena vineyard. VM 92 (12/2014): Schrader's 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon LPV Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard is laced with blueberry jam, cassis, new leather, cloves and violets. Most of the site's inherent minerality has been baked out, either by the vintage or by some of the farming/winemaking choices, and what comes through is a very ripe, oaky Las Piedras with relatively soft contours and plenty of near term appeal. As good as the 2012 is, I am not sure what the point is of making a wine like this in Las Piedras. In fact, Schrader's Las Piedras is one of the least site-specific wines from this vineyard I have tasted. I would give the 2012 a few years to lose some of its baby fat and see what happens.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspWA 94 (10/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard Lpv comes from clone 337. This is a rather earthy style for a Schrader wine, with less drama and flamboyance, but great fruit, a more meaty, dusty style with underbrush as well as blackcurrants, with spicy oak. It’s dense, full-bodied and promises to age nicely for 20 more years. WS 94 (11/2016): Offers a powerful, extracted, high-torque core of zesty blackberry, wild berry, anise, licorice and crushed rock flavors. Sails a steady course once underway, ending where it starts, with a dense mix of complex earth and berry notes. Best from 2020 through 2033. 650 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspWA 94 (10/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard Lpv comes from clone 337. This is a rather earthy style for a Schrader wine, with less drama and flamboyance, but great fruit, a more meaty, dusty style with underbrush as well as blackcurrants, with spicy oak. It’s dense, full-bodied and promises to age nicely for 20 more years. WS 94 (11/2016): Offers a powerful, extracted, high-torque core of zesty blackberry, wild berry, anise, licorice and crushed rock flavors. Sails a steady course once underway, ending where it starts, with a dense mix of complex earth and berry notes. Best from 2020 through 2033. 650 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspWA 94 (10/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard Lpv comes from clone 337. This is a rather earthy style for a Schrader wine, with less drama and flamboyance, but great fruit, a more meaty, dusty style with underbrush as well as blackcurrants, with spicy oak. It’s dense, full-bodied and promises to age nicely for 20 more years. WS 94 (11/2016): Offers a powerful, extracted, high-torque core of zesty blackberry, wild berry, anise, licorice and crushed rock flavors. Sails a steady course once underway, ending where it starts, with a dense mix of complex earth and berry notes. Best from 2020 through 2033. 650 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspWA 94 (10/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard Lpv comes from clone 337. This is a rather earthy style for a Schrader wine, with less drama and flamboyance, but great fruit, a more meaty, dusty style with underbrush as well as blackcurrants, with spicy oak. It’s dense, full-bodied and promises to age nicely for 20 more years. WS 94 (11/2016): Offers a powerful, extracted, high-torque core of zesty blackberry, wild berry, anise, licorice and crushed rock flavors. Sails a steady course once underway, ending where it starts, with a dense mix of complex earth and berry notes. Best from 2020 through 2033. 650 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspWA 99 (10/2016): The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon LPV is from clone 337 from the Las Piedras Vineyard in St. Helena. This shows Mission Haut-Brion-like characteristics as it has in the past, with crushed rock, wet gravel, scorched earth, blackberry and blueberry fruit. It is clearly one of my favorites of this entire tasting. It has 14.5% natural alcohol and was aged in 90% new Darnajou and 10% new Taransaud barrels. This is a killer effort.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspWA 98 (10/2013): The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard Old Sparky, made from clone 4, 6 and 337, displays a dense opaque purple color as well as an incredible nose of graphite, cedarwood, incense, licorice, Christmas fruitcake, vanillin and abundant blackberry and black currant liqueur. Gorgeously rich and textured with a nearly endless finish, this super intense, full throttle wine needs 5-7 years of bottle age and should drink well over the following 25-30 years. It was aged 20 months in 100% new oak barrels. VM 98 (12/2012): The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Old Sparky Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard is the biggest and most powerful of these wines. It possesses serious depth and power. Layers of dark red and black fruit are woven together in this full-bodied, intense wine. In 2010 Sparky balances intensity with elegance and a totally seamless expression of fruit. Gorgeous, perfumed notes linger on the structured virile finish. This is a great way to end the tasting at Schrader. Old Sparky is built on a core of clone 6, with complementary amounts of clone 4 and clone 337. Anticipated maturity: 2020-2030. WS 97 (4/2013): Impeccably balanced, with powerful currant, dark berry, mocha, floral and understated cedar notes, this wine begs for cellaring as it is just beginning to reveal its depth and dimensions. Ends with chewy, gripping, ripe, flavorful tannins. Best from 2015 through 2032. 200 cases madehttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspWA 95 (10/2013): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard Old Sparky reveals lots of cassis, spring flower, graphite and spice characteristics along with good minerality. Medium to full-bodied and strikingly rich, it, too, is a great success for the vintage. It should drink well for 15 or more years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspWA 100 (10/2014): Another compelling, perfect wine is the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer to Kalon Vineyard Old Sparky. This is Clone 4 and Clone 6, as well as Clone 337, blended together from the Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard, aged in 100% new Darnajou barrels. For whatever reason, this wine seems to show more chocolate, espresso roast, barbecue smoke, dense blackberry and blueberry fruit and enormous body with not a touch of heaviness or astringency. This is a fabulous offering. It should drink well for 20-25 years. WS 96 (3/2015): Very tight, featuring a beam of spice-laced blackberry, currant, dried herb and jazzy oak. The laser focus is most evident on the finish, which slowly unravels to highlight this wine’s density, elegance and grace. The flavors reverberate in the end. Best from 2017 through 2023. 200 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspWA 100 (10/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Old Sparky, which is essentially made from clone 4 from two separate blocks, clone 6 and clone 337, is another perfect wine from the Schraders. I suppose it’s a little boring to say, and perhaps I can be accused of creating unrealistic expectations on the part of readers, but this is as great as Cabernet can be. Tasting like a first-growth Pauillac, the wine is opaque purple and has a fabulous nose of lead pencil, spring flowers, blueberry and blackberry and the telltale cassis. There is also some licorice and sweet oak, the tannins are ripe, and the wine full-bodied. Built like a skyscraper, with an incredible finish (like most of these wines) going on for 50 seconds to a minute, this amazing wine should still be drinking splendidly well at age 25 or 30.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspWA 98 (10/2016): The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Old Sparky, Fred Schrader’s favorite selection, is clone 4 from the To Kalon Vineyard aged in 100% new Darnajou and seems closest in personality and overall style to the CCS. This is a beautiful wine with great intensity and seems to be one of the superstars of this vintage. Smoky barbecue notes intermix with charcoal embers, blackberry, cassis, Christmas fruitcake, licorice and camphor. This is a complex 2014 that is showing beautifully at the moment and will continue to drink well for another 20 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspWA 98 (10/2016): The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Old Sparky, Fred Schrader’s favorite selection, is clone 4 from the To Kalon Vineyard aged in 100% new Darnajou and seems closest in personality and overall style to the CCS. This is a beautiful wine with great intensity and seems to be one of the superstars of this vintage. Smoky barbecue notes intermix with charcoal embers, blackberry, cassis, Christmas fruitcake, licorice and camphor. This is a complex 2014 that is showing beautifully at the moment and will continue to drink well for another 20 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspWA 98 (10/2016): The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Old Sparky, Fred Schrader’s favorite selection, is clone 4 from the To Kalon Vineyard aged in 100% new Darnajou and seems closest in personality and overall style to the CCS. This is a beautiful wine with great intensity and seems to be one of the superstars of this vintage. Smoky barbecue notes intermix with charcoal embers, blackberry, cassis, Christmas fruitcake, licorice and camphor. This is a complex 2014 that is showing beautifully at the moment and will continue to drink well for another 20 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspWA 96 (12/2011): The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon RBS Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard comes across as dark, plush and inviting, but with greater inner focus and minerality than some of the other wines here. Graphite, smoke, tar and licorice are some of the notes that wrap around the intense, juicy finish. I especially admire the way the RBS grows in the glass as it turns more explosive over time, yet never loses its more refined shades of expression. The RBS is 100% clone 337 from the B1 and B2 blocks. According to winemaker Thomas Rivers Brown, it is the addition of fruit from B2 (new this year) that gives the 2009 much of its personality. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2024. WS 95 (9/2012): Deeply extracted, with dense, ripe tannins that are mouthcoating. Intense dried dark berry, currant, melted chocolate, roasted herb and sage give this an expansive range of flavors, ending with chewy tannins. Best from 2014 through 2032. 410 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspWA 96 (12/2011): The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon RBS Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard comes across as dark, plush and inviting, but with greater inner focus and minerality than some of the other wines here. Graphite, smoke, tar and licorice are some of the notes that wrap around the intense, juicy finish. I especially admire the way the RBS grows in the glass as it turns more explosive over time, yet never loses its more refined shades of expression. The RBS is 100% clone 337 from the B1 and B2 blocks. According to winemaker Thomas Rivers Brown, it is the addition of fruit from B2 (new this year) that gives the 2009 much of its personality. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2024. WS 95 (9/2012): Deeply extracted, with dense, ripe tannins that are mouthcoating. Intense dried dark berry, currant, melted chocolate, roasted herb and sage give this an expansive range of flavors, ending with chewy tannins. Best from 2014 through 2032. 410 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspVM 93 (11/2013): Schrader's 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon RBS Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard is pure silk on the palate. The aromas, flavors and textures are incredibly refined and lifted. A soft, seamless wine that stands out for its gorgeous balance, the 2011 is showing beautifully today. Freshly cut flowers, mint and red berries all flow through to the impeccably refined finish. It is fascinating to taste the RBS next to Las Piedras. Both wines are Clone 337 Cabernet Sauvignon, but here we are in To Kalon, where the flavors seem to have a little more defintion. WA 91 (10/2013): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard RBS is lighter than usual, but still very attractive, forward and endearing ... one of the positives in 2011. The color is a healthy dark ruby/purple and the wine is clean, with no herbaceous or mean green characteristics. This elegant, medium-bodied 2011 is ideal for drinking over the next 10-12 years. WS 91 (10/2014): Dense and powerful, with potent fresh earth and rocky, gravel pit touches, overshadowing the dried dark berry, licorice and spice notes. Ends with depth and length even as the tannins apply the brakes. Drink now through 2023. 290 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspVM 93 (11/2013): Schrader's 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon RBS Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard is pure silk on the palate. The aromas, flavors and textures are incredibly refined and lifted. A soft, seamless wine that stands out for its gorgeous balance, the 2011 is showing beautifully today. Freshly cut flowers, mint and red berries all flow through to the impeccably refined finish. It is fascinating to taste the RBS next to Las Piedras. Both wines are Clone 337 Cabernet Sauvignon, but here we are in To Kalon, where the flavors seem to have a little more defintion. WA 91 (10/2013): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard RBS is lighter than usual, but still very attractive, forward and endearing ... one of the positives in 2011. The color is a healthy dark ruby/purple and the wine is clean, with no herbaceous or mean green characteristics. This elegant, medium-bodied 2011 is ideal for drinking over the next 10-12 years. WS 91 (10/2014): Dense and powerful, with potent fresh earth and rocky, gravel pit touches, overshadowing the dried dark berry, licorice and spice notes. Ends with depth and length even as the tannins apply the brakes. Drink now through 2023. 290 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspWA 98 (10/2014): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard RBS, which is also from Clone 337 but from different blocks on the Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard, saw oak with 90% new Darnajou and 10% new Taransaud. This wine seems slightly more expansive, shares the black ruby/purple color with all of it siblings, and has a boatload of crème de cassis, incense, licorice, graphite and vanilla along with plenty of spice box and forest floor. This is a killer, full-bodied, super-duper, opulent Cabernet Sauvignon to drink over the next 20 years. VM 96 (12/2014): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon RBS Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard is another wine endowed with fabulous overall balance. Hints of blueberry pie, jam, mocha, sweet spices, violets and lavender open up in the glass. Even with all of its obvious intensity, there is a translucence and weightlessness to the 2012 that is utterly mesmerizing. The RBS is rich and powerful, but never heavy. Schrader's RBS is Clone 337 Cabernet, which often yields perfumed, supple Cabernets. JS 94 (7/2015): A big and rich wine with blueberry, spice and green coffee bean. Full body, chewy tannins and a fresh finish. Very extracted. Yet intense and rich. Better in 2017. WS 92 (5/2015): Taut, detailed and tightly wound, with a firm band of cedar, herb, green olive and gravelly earth, accented by dark berry and cedary oak. Tasted twice with consistent notes. Drink now through 2026. 625 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspWA 98 (10/2014): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard RBS, which is also from Clone 337 but from different blocks on the Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard, saw oak with 90% new Darnajou and 10% new Taransaud. This wine seems slightly more expansive, shares the black ruby/purple color with all of it siblings, and has a boatload of crème de cassis, incense, licorice, graphite and vanilla along with plenty of spice box and forest floor. This is a killer, full-bodied, super-duper, opulent Cabernet Sauvignon to drink over the next 20 years. VM 96 (12/2014): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon RBS Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard is another wine endowed with fabulous overall balance. Hints of blueberry pie, jam, mocha, sweet spices, violets and lavender open up in the glass. Even with all of its obvious intensity, there is a translucence and weightlessness to the 2012 that is utterly mesmerizing. The RBS is rich and powerful, but never heavy. Schrader's RBS is Clone 337 Cabernet, which often yields perfumed, supple Cabernets. JS 94 (7/2015): A big and rich wine with blueberry, spice and green coffee bean. Full body, chewy tannins and a fresh finish. Very extracted. Yet intense and rich. Better in 2017. WS 92 (5/2015): Taut, detailed and tightly wound, with a firm band of cedar, herb, green olive and gravelly earth, accented by dark berry and cedary oak. Tasted twice with consistent notes. Drink now through 2026. 625 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspWA 98 (10/2014): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard RBS, which is also from Clone 337 but from different blocks on the Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard, saw oak with 90% new Darnajou and 10% new Taransaud. This wine seems slightly more expansive, shares the black ruby/purple color with all of it siblings, and has a boatload of crème de cassis, incense, licorice, graphite and vanilla along with plenty of spice box and forest floor. This is a killer, full-bodied, super-duper, opulent Cabernet Sauvignon to drink over the next 20 years. VM 96 (12/2014): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon RBS Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard is another wine endowed with fabulous overall balance. Hints of blueberry pie, jam, mocha, sweet spices, violets and lavender open up in the glass. Even with all of its obvious intensity, there is a translucence and weightlessness to the 2012 that is utterly mesmerizing. The RBS is rich and powerful, but never heavy. Schrader's RBS is Clone 337 Cabernet, which often yields perfumed, supple Cabernets. JS 94 (7/2015): A big and rich wine with blueberry, spice and green coffee bean. Full body, chewy tannins and a fresh finish. Very extracted. Yet intense and rich. Better in 2017. WS 92 (5/2015): Taut, detailed and tightly wound, with a firm band of cedar, herb, green olive and gravelly earth, accented by dark berry and cedary oak. Tasted twice with consistent notes. Drink now through 2026. 625 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspWA 98 (10/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon RBS, also from clone 337, but in this case from the Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard, shows an absolutely perfect 100-point nose of red, black and blue fruits, charcoal, graphite and forest floor. It hits the palate with a seamless integration of wood, tannin, acidity and alcohol and has tremendous opulence and palate presence in its full-bodied, long finish. On aromatics alone, it rates a perfect score, but I ended up being somewhat conservative I suppose. It should drink well for three decades as well.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspWA 98 (10/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon RBS, also from clone 337, but in this case from the Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard, shows an absolutely perfect 100-point nose of red, black and blue fruits, charcoal, graphite and forest floor. It hits the palate with a seamless integration of wood, tannin, acidity and alcohol and has tremendous opulence and palate presence in its full-bodied, long finish. On aromatics alone, it rates a perfect score, but I ended up being somewhat conservative I suppose. It should drink well for three decades as well.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspWA 96 (10/2016): The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon RBS is made from the same clone (337) as the Georges III, but comes from the To Kalon Vineyard in Oakville and not the Rutherford Georges III. This was aged in 85% new Darnajou and 15% new Taransaud. It has fabulous concentration, notes of incense, licorice, blackcurrants, blackberries, as well as spring flowers. The wine is juicy, savory and full-bodied, with wonderful underlying energy and freshness. This wine is a more forward style than we saw with the 2013s, and is best drunk over the next 16-20 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspWA 96 (10/2016): The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon RBS is made from the same clone (337) as the Georges III, but comes from the To Kalon Vineyard in Oakville and not the Rutherford Georges III. This was aged in 85% new Darnajou and 15% new Taransaud. It has fabulous concentration, notes of incense, licorice, blackcurrants, blackberries, as well as spring flowers. The wine is juicy, savory and full-bodied, with wonderful underlying energy and freshness. This wine is a more forward style than we saw with the 2013s, and is best drunk over the next 16-20 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspVM 97 (12/2011): The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon T6 Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard is another big, implosive wine bursting with dark blackberries, blueberries, tar, smoke, licorice and graphite. Layers of fruit build effortlessly to the huge, polished finish. The T6 has it all - fruit and structure. This is a marvelously complete wine that should drink well out of the gate, yet also appears to have the stuffing to last for years. The T6 is clone 6 from the D2 block. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2029. Antonio Galloni.WS 97 (9/2012): Pure, rich, dense and structured, with a mix of loamy earth, cedar, gravel and dark berry fruit that echoes mocha, melted black licorice, anise and espresso. Tightens nicely on the finish, where the tannins flex their strength. Best from 2014 through 2031. 290 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspVM 96+ (12/2012): Violets, mint, blueberries, cassis and tar all come to life in the glass as the 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon T6 Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard shows off its considerable pedigree. The T6 is the first Cabernet in this tasting where the structure of the vintage is indelibly stamped into the wine. Today, the 2010 is incredibly backward. A long, cool growing season stretching 130 days from bud break to harvest yielded loose clusters with small, thick-skinned grapes. As the name implies, the T6 is clone 6 Cabernet from block D2. This is another totally striking wine from Schrader. WS 96 (6/2013): Tightly wound, intense and potent, with explosive dark berry, spice, cedar and mocha flavors. Among the most closed and backward of the 2010 Schraders, this nonetheless delivers Napa Cabernet's proverbial iron fist in a velvet glove. Best from 2015 through 2030. 162 cases made. WA 93 (10/2013): The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard T6 is a small step down from the George III and RBS, although it is still an outstanding wine. Rich, smoky and pretty, but slightly less impressive without the enormous stuffing, multiple dimensions and richness of its siblings. Nevertheless, this beauty offers lots of spring flower, licorice, black currant, forest floor, cedarwood and unsmoked cigar tobacco-like characteristics. From clone 6, it was aged 20 months in 90% new Darnajou barrels and 10% new Taransaud barrels. There are only 162 cases compared to 420 cases in 2012.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspVM 96+ (12/2012): Violets, mint, blueberries, cassis and tar all come to life in the glass as the 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon T6 Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard shows off its considerable pedigree. The T6 is the first Cabernet in this tasting where the structure of the vintage is indelibly stamped into the wine. Today, the 2010 is incredibly backward. A long, cool growing season stretching 130 days from bud break to harvest yielded loose clusters with small, thick-skinned grapes. As the name implies, the T6 is clone 6 Cabernet from block D2. This is another totally striking wine from Schrader. WS 96 (6/2013): Tightly wound, intense and potent, with explosive dark berry, spice, cedar and mocha flavors. Among the most closed and backward of the 2010 Schraders, this nonetheless delivers Napa Cabernet's proverbial iron fist in a velvet glove. Best from 2015 through 2030. 162 cases made. WA 93 (10/2013): The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard T6 is a small step down from the George III and RBS, although it is still an outstanding wine. Rich, smoky and pretty, but slightly less impressive without the enormous stuffing, multiple dimensions and richness of its siblings. Nevertheless, this beauty offers lots of spring flower, licorice, black currant, forest floor, cedarwood and unsmoked cigar tobacco-like characteristics. From clone 6, it was aged 20 months in 90% new Darnajou barrels and 10% new Taransaud barrels. There are only 162 cases compared to 420 cases in 2012.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspWA 93 (10/2013): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard T6 is slightly riper and richer than the RBS with plenty of toasty oak intermixed with lead pencil shavings, cedarwood, baking spices, plums and black currants. Medium to full-bodied, ripe and delicious with 14.6% alcohol (slightly higher than the 2010), it should drink well for 10-12 years. WS 93 (10/2014): Tight, dense and layered, with red berry, blackberry, anise, floral, cedar and mineral notes that lend this a wide range of lingering flavors. Perhaps the most complex and aromatic of the 2011 Schraders. Drink now through 2023. 160 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspWA 93 (10/2013): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard T6 is slightly riper and richer than the RBS with plenty of toasty oak intermixed with lead pencil shavings, cedarwood, baking spices, plums and black currants. Medium to full-bodied, ripe and delicious with 14.6% alcohol (slightly higher than the 2010), it should drink well for 10-12 years. WS 93 (10/2014): Tight, dense and layered, with red berry, blackberry, anise, floral, cedar and mineral notes that lend this a wide range of lingering flavors. Perhaps the most complex and aromatic of the 2011 Schraders. Drink now through 2023. 160 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspWA 93 (10/2013): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard T6 is slightly riper and richer than the RBS with plenty of toasty oak intermixed with lead pencil shavings, cedarwood, baking spices, plums and black currants. Medium to full-bodied, ripe and delicious with 14.6% alcohol (slightly higher than the 2010), it should drink well for 10-12 years. WS 93 (10/2014): Tight, dense and layered, with red berry, blackberry, anise, floral, cedar and mineral notes that lend this a wide range of lingering flavors. Perhaps the most complex and aromatic of the 2011 Schraders. Drink now through 2023. 160 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspWA 95 (10/2014): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard T6, which is from Clone 6 in a different block of Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard, is aged in 86% new Darnajou and 14% new Taransaud. This wine is not terribly different, but Clone 6 is believed to be old Bordeaux clones brought over to Napa Valley and propagated. The wine has terrific fruit intensity, blackcurrants, blackberry, licorice, creosote and espresso roast. Deep, full-bodied, powerful and rich, this, again, shows the vintage’s voluptuous texture, full-bodied power and richness. WS 96 (5/2015): Steadily builds from a tight, rich core of mocha-laced currant and blackberry to a broader, more expansive mix that folds in creamy, toasty, mocha-laced oak, unfolding to reveal tiers of flavor and nuance. Drink now through 2030. 420 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspWA 95 (10/2014): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard T6, which is from Clone 6 in a different block of Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard, is aged in 86% new Darnajou and 14% new Taransaud. This wine is not terribly different, but Clone 6 is believed to be old Bordeaux clones brought over to Napa Valley and propagated. The wine has terrific fruit intensity, blackcurrants, blackberry, licorice, creosote and espresso roast. Deep, full-bodied, powerful and rich, this, again, shows the vintage’s voluptuous texture, full-bodied power and richness. WS 96 (5/2015): Steadily builds from a tight, rich core of mocha-laced currant and blackberry to a broader, more expansive mix that folds in creamy, toasty, mocha-laced oak, unfolding to reveal tiers of flavor and nuance. Drink now through 2030. 420 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspWA 95 (10/2014): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard T6, which is from Clone 6 in a different block of Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard, is aged in 86% new Darnajou and 14% new Taransaud. This wine is not terribly different, but Clone 6 is believed to be old Bordeaux clones brought over to Napa Valley and propagated. The wine has terrific fruit intensity, blackcurrants, blackberry, licorice, creosote and espresso roast. Deep, full-bodied, powerful and rich, this, again, shows the vintage’s voluptuous texture, full-bodied power and richness. WS 96 (5/2015): Steadily builds from a tight, rich core of mocha-laced currant and blackberry to a broader, more expansive mix that folds in creamy, toasty, mocha-laced oak, unfolding to reveal tiers of flavor and nuance. Drink now through 2030. 420 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspWA 98 (10/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon T6, which is clone 6, offers more barbecue smoke, roasted meats and oodles of cr?me de cassis and blackberry. It is rich, full-bodied, intense, and stunningly pure and well-balanced. This is another tour de force from the Schraders and Thomas Rivers Brown. It should drink well for 25-30 years as well.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Schrader.aspWA 98 (12/2012): Once again, the 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon pays homage to the 2007, but the aromas and flavors seems to be just a touch brighter, which might just be a function of the wine’s age. A wine of remarkable precision, the 2009 is totally dialed in from start to finish. Layers of intensely sweet, perfumed fruit are woven together with remarkable elegance and sheer polish. Today, the 2009 isn’t quite as radiant as it has been in the past, and seems headed for a stubborn phase. It is still striking, though. Even if a bit less exotic than the 2007, the two wines share a silkiness and overall sense of textural finesse. A translucent, weightless finish rounds things out in style. The 2009 is 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Cabernet Franc and 5% Merlot. Anticipated maturity: 2019-2029. WS 97 (10/2012): A stunningly seamless effort, rich and elegant, this delivers perfumed black currant aromas that are supple and graceful, building and gaining with subtle tannins, laced with loamy earth. A dash of black licorice marks the long finish. Drink now through 2028. 750 cases made. VM 96+ (5/2012): (87% cabernet sauvignon, 8% cabernet franc and 5% merlot): Good bright ruby-red. Vibrant aromas of crushed cassis, ripe redcurrant, licorice, bitter chocolate, tobacco and spearmint. Smooth and impressively concentrated, with a hint of medicinal austerity to the flavors of black fruits, violet, bitter chocolate and menthol. Penetrating, gripping wine with great flavor intensity. Powerfully structured too, finishing with firm tannins and outstanding, slowly building, juicy length. The pH here is 3.8, according to estate manager Armand de Maigret, but the wine boasts outstanding lift.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ScreamingEagle.aspWA 98 (12/2012): Once again, the 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon pays homage to the 2007, but the aromas and flavors seems to be just a touch brighter, which might just be a function of the wine’s age. A wine of remarkable precision, the 2009 is totally dialed in from start to finish. Layers of intensely sweet, perfumed fruit are woven together with remarkable elegance and sheer polish. Today, the 2009 isn’t quite as radiant as it has been in the past, and seems headed for a stubborn phase. It is still striking, though. Even if a bit less exotic than the 2007, the two wines share a silkiness and overall sense of textural finesse. A translucent, weightless finish rounds things out in style. The 2009 is 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Cabernet Franc and 5% Merlot. Anticipated maturity: 2019-2029. WS 97 (10/2012): A stunningly seamless effort, rich and elegant, this delivers perfumed black currant aromas that are supple and graceful, building and gaining with subtle tannins, laced with loamy earth. A dash of black licorice marks the long finish. Drink now through 2028. 750 cases made. VM 96+ (5/2012): (87% cabernet sauvignon, 8% cabernet franc and 5% merlot): Good bright ruby-red. Vibrant aromas of crushed cassis, ripe redcurrant, licorice, bitter chocolate, tobacco and spearmint. Smooth and impressively concentrated, with a hint of medicinal austerity to the flavors of black fruits, violet, bitter chocolate and menthol. Penetrating, gripping wine with great flavor intensity. Powerfully structured too, finishing with firm tannins and outstanding, slowly building, juicy length. The pH here is 3.8, according to estate manager Armand de Maigret, but the wine boasts outstanding lift.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ScreamingEagle.aspWA 98 (12/2012): Once again, the 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon pays homage to the 2007, but the aromas and flavors seems to be just a touch brighter, which might just be a function of the wine’s age. A wine of remarkable precision, the 2009 is totally dialed in from start to finish. Layers of intensely sweet, perfumed fruit are woven together with remarkable elegance and sheer polish. Today, the 2009 isn’t quite as radiant as it has been in the past, and seems headed for a stubborn phase. It is still striking, though. Even if a bit less exotic than the 2007, the two wines share a silkiness and overall sense of textural finesse. A translucent, weightless finish rounds things out in style. The 2009 is 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Cabernet Franc and 5% Merlot. Anticipated maturity: 2019-2029. WS 97 (10/2012): A stunningly seamless effort, rich and elegant, this delivers perfumed black currant aromas that are supple and graceful, building and gaining with subtle tannins, laced with loamy earth. A dash of black licorice marks the long finish. Drink now through 2028. 750 cases made. VM 96+ (5/2012): (87% cabernet sauvignon, 8% cabernet franc and 5% merlot): Good bright ruby-red. Vibrant aromas of crushed cassis, ripe redcurrant, licorice, bitter chocolate, tobacco and spearmint. Smooth and impressively concentrated, with a hint of medicinal austerity to the flavors of black fruits, violet, bitter chocolate and menthol. Penetrating, gripping wine with great flavor intensity. Powerfully structured too, finishing with firm tannins and outstanding, slowly building, juicy length. The pH here is 3.8, according to estate manager Armand de Maigret, but the wine boasts outstanding lift.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ScreamingEagle.aspJS 100 (1/2016): Breathtaking aromas of blueberry, wet earth, black truffle, vine bark and lavender undertones. Full-bodied, yet tight and compressed with fabulous savory and dark fruit flavors. It lasts for minutes on the finish. The classicism in this wine is second to none. Incredible subtlety. Lovely austerity. Beauty in simplicity. Glorious to taste, yet a wine for decades ahead. 76% cabernet sauvignon, 13% merlot, and 11% cabernet franc. 800 cases made. VM 98+ (10/2015): Continuing along a similar theme, the 2013 Screaming Eagle is incredibly concentrated and powerful. Today, the 2013 tastes like a concoction of liquefied rocks, crème de cassis, blackberry jam and lavender. Deep, dense and beautifully layered in the glass, the 2013 captivates all the senses with its majestic complexity. With time in the glass, the 2013 gets better and better, to the point I would have liked to follow it over several hours and perhaps days, which was not practical. Screaming Eagle fans will not want to miss the 2013s, although these wines will not be ready to deliver maximum pleasure for a number of years. WA 97+ (10/2015): The 2013 Screaming Eagle flagship wine is a blend of 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Merlot and 11% Cabernet Franc. As one might expect, the purity of the cassis, which is always a hallmark of this estate and wine, is well-displayed in this beauty. Dense purple in color, it offers up some floral notes intermixed with damp earth, blackcurrant jam, blackberry and hints of licorice and incense. This reminds me somewhat of the 2010 Screaming Eagle. Full-bodied, rich, but perfectly balanced, it’s another terrific example of this iconic estate. It should drink well for 30 or more years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ScreamingEagle.aspJS 99 (1/2017): Extremely perfumed with blackberries, currants and flower. Rose petals, too. Seductive. Medium to full body. It grows on the palate with an extremely long finish that goes on for minutes. The tannins are ultra-fine and polished. Purity and essence to this. Feminine yet wild and unpredictable. Available in March. Better in 2021. WA 97 (10/2016): The 2014 Screaming Eagle is an 880-case blend of 79% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Merlot and the rest Cabernet Franc. The telltale sign of this iconic wine is its extraordinary purity of crème de cassis fruit, which is displayed abundantly in the 2014. It doesn’t quite have the structure and mass of the 2013, but this sexy, up-front, opaque ruby/purple-colored wine is seamlessly constructed, full-bodied, and has a long finish with silky tannins. This seems to float across that palate with that great fruit purity that is a characteristic of Screaming Eagle. Drink it over the next 25+ years. VM 97 (12/2016): The 2014 Screaming Eagle looks like it is going to need a good few years at a minimum to really show its true colors. Although Screaming Eagle can be quite seductive in its youth, there is little of that in 2014. Virile and imposing, the 2014 possesses tremendous depth and equally formidable tannins. Graphite, gravel, smoke and herb notes give the 2014 its persistent, mineral/savory-infused profile. Screaming Eagle is less affected by its recent bottling than Second Flight. Still, I would not plan on opening a bottle anytime soon. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ScreamingEagle.aspWA 93 (12/2012): A beautiful expression of the year, the 2009 Second Flight emerges from the glass with intense layers of fruit in a style that very much recalls Screaming Eagle. Today, the 2009 comes across as a bit more structured and tannic than previous efforts. Some of that may be the vintage, but I imagine the addition of 9% Cabernet Franc over Merlot to the blend is also a contributing factor. Either way, the 2009 is a striking Second Flight endowed with serious depth, purity and finesse. Sweet red berries, crushed flowers and sweet spices are some of the many nuances that are woven together in this appealing, totally delicious wine. The 2009 is 59% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Merlot and 9% Cabernet Franc. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2027.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ScreamingEagle.aspVM 94 (11/2013): Screaming Eagle's 2010 Second Flight opens with exquisite aromatics that are the hallmarks of this superb Oakville estate. Sweet red berries, mint, raspberries, violets and lavender emerge from the glass in a silky, polished wine that is all about grace. Even though Cabernet Sauvignon plays a greater role in the 2010 than the 2011, the 2010 is incredibly sweet, refined and polished. In 2010 Second Flight is power and finesse. The 2010 is 61% Cabernet Sauvignon, 26% Merlot and 13% Cabernet Franc. VM 93 (6/2013): Deep ruby. Lovely floral lift to the aromas of blackberry, minerals, graphite, bitter chocolate and licorice. Lush, broad and silky-smooth, with enticing sweetness and terrific verve to the black fruit flavors. Finishes very long, with serious tannic spine and subtle sweetness. This wine is built from the bottom up, beginning with the estate's merlot and cabernet franc, notes winemaker Nick Gislason. "The ranch is 60% cabernet sauvignon by acreage, so that leaves the question of what to do with the merlot and franc." Interestingly, estate manager Armand de Maigret noted that "so far we have been happier with our merlot on gravel, near the Silverado Trail, rather than on clay-rich soils toward the river." WA 92 (10/2013): The impressive 2010 Second Flight is composed of 61% Cabernet Sauvignon, 26% Merlot and the rest Cabernet Franc. Its deep ruby/purple color is accompanied by notes of black currants, forest floor, bouquet garni and licorice. Medium to full-bodied with surprising richness and density as well as sweet tannin, this serious wine can be drunk now or cellared for 15+ years. WS 91 (10/2013): Supple at points, young and herbal, this shows dried currant, herb and cedar notes that have a firm tannic grip. Second Flight, Screaming Eagle's second bottling, flies below the primary label, but shares some attributes. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Best from 2015 through 2025. 640 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ScreamingEagle.aspJS 97 (4/2015): This is very structured with ripe and silky tannins that show a dense and compacted fruit character. It's full and racy. Impressive tone and form. A blend of 43% merlot, 48% cabernet sauvignon and 9% cabernet franc. Try in 2019.WA 96 (10/2014): The 2012 Second Flight may be the highest scoring second wine I have ever reviewed. A blend of 48% Cabernet Sauvignon, 43% Merlot and 9% Cabernet Franc, it is completely different from the Screaming Eagle since the latter wine is at least 75% or more Cabernet Sauvignon and the balance Merlot with only a tiny dollop of Cabernet Franc. The 2012 Second Flight offers up floral, blue and black fruit, mocha and white chocolate characteristics. It possesses full-bodied, silky flavors, and a finish that lasts 50+ seconds. It can be drunk now, but should evolve effortlessly for 12-15+ years.VM 94+ (12/2014): The 2012 Second Flight kicks things up a notch. Dense, layered and voluptuous in the glass, the Second Flight impresses for its breadth and volume. Although only recently bottled, the 2012 nevertheless shows superb depth and tons of pure personality.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ScreamingEagle.aspJS 97 (1/2016): Very bright and aromatic with dark purple fruits on the nose. Mint, floral and vine bark. Spearmint. Full body, very firm tannins, wonderful savoriness. Flavorful finish. A fabulous mouthfeel. Very, very long. Mostly merlot with cabernet sauvignon and cabernet franc. Drink or hold. 710 cases made.VM 95 (10/2015): The 2013 Second Flight is dark, powerful and incisive, with layers of graphite-infused minerality that are pushed forward. This is perhaps the most intense, brooding Second Flight I have tasted so far. Unctuous and deep to the core, the 2013 possesses magnificent concentration to match its spherical texture. Lavender, rose petal, mint and a host of savory notes wrap around the deep, somber finish. What a gorgeous wine the 2013 is shaping up to be. This is a total knock-out from the team at Screaming Eagle. Antonio Galloni.WA 90 (10/2015): The 2013 Second Flight is 65% Merlot, 22% Cabernet Franc and the rest Cabernet Sauvignon. This wine displays the energy, vibrancy and tension of 2013, and is not nearly as dramatic and flamboyant, nor as sexy as the 2012, but the wine is outstanding, very Bordeaux-like and well-made, with loads of red and black currant fruit, some licorice and underbrush as well as loamy soil notes. It should drink well for 10-15 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ScreamingEagle.aspJS 97 (1/2016): Very bright and aromatic with dark purple fruits on the nose. Mint, floral and vine bark. Spearmint. Full body, very firm tannins, wonderful savoriness. Flavorful finish. A fabulous mouthfeel. Very, very long. Mostly merlot with cabernet sauvignon and cabernet franc. Drink or hold. 710 cases made.VM 95 (10/2015): The 2013 Second Flight is dark, powerful and incisive, with layers of graphite-infused minerality that are pushed forward. This is perhaps the most intense, brooding Second Flight I have tasted so far. Unctuous and deep to the core, the 2013 possesses magnificent concentration to match its spherical texture. Lavender, rose petal, mint and a host of savory notes wrap around the deep, somber finish. What a gorgeous wine the 2013 is shaping up to be. This is a total knock-out from the team at Screaming Eagle. Antonio Galloni.WA 90 (10/2015): The 2013 Second Flight is 65% Merlot, 22% Cabernet Franc and the rest Cabernet Sauvignon. This wine displays the energy, vibrancy and tension of 2013, and is not nearly as dramatic and flamboyant, nor as sexy as the 2012, but the wine is outstanding, very Bordeaux-like and well-made, with loads of red and black currant fruit, some licorice and underbrush as well as loamy soil notes. It should drink well for 10-15 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ScreamingEagle.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ScriptSeal.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SeaSmoke.aspWA 92 (8/2015): The more supple, elegant and silky Pinot Noir of the two releases, the 2012 Pinot Noir Southing was completely destemmed, saw a 3-5 day cold soak, fermented in stainless steel and then aged 16 months in 55% new French oak, with no racking. It offers terrific notes of black raspberries, cassis, subtle oak and a touch of rose petal to go with a medium-bodied, silky, elegant, yet still textured and sexy profile on the palate. Just a joy to drink, it will nevertheless evolve gracefully on its balance.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SeaSmoke.aspWA 92 (8/2015): The more supple, elegant and silky Pinot Noir of the two releases, the 2012 Pinot Noir Southing was completely destemmed, saw a 3-5 day cold soak, fermented in stainless steel and then aged 16 months in 55% new French oak, with no racking. It offers terrific notes of black raspberries, cassis, subtle oak and a touch of rose petal to go with a medium-bodied, silky, elegant, yet still textured and sexy profile on the palate. Just a joy to drink, it will nevertheless evolve gracefully on its balance.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SeaSmoke.aspWS 90 (4/2016): Elegantly styled, with spicy earth and floral-scented plum and raspberry flavors, offering delicate, understated notes that linger and gain depth. Drink now through 2020.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SeaSmoke.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SeaSmoke.aspWA 97 (10/2013): The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate exhibits a dark purple color along with a pungent, earthy nose displaying hints of new saddle leather, roasted meats, cedarwood, barbecue smoke, creme de cassis and blackberries. Full-bodied and rich with sweet tannins, great focus and delineation, and a finish that lasts 50 seconds, this killer wine should age effortlessly for 25-30 years. (Keep in mind that the 1990 and 1991 are just hitting their stride where well-stored.) VM 96 (4/2017): (15.2% alcohol; includes 10% Petit Verdot): Full ruby-red. Wonderfully scented, subtle perfume of cassis, dark raspberry, minerals and violet face powder are complemented by musky notes of tobacco and mocha. Utterly smooth on entry, then silky and fine-grained in the middle, with sweet berry fruit enlivened by subtle spiciness and complicated by a saline quality. This remarkably classy, pliant wine is perfectly ripe and and nobly dry in an Old World way. The long, resounding finish features utterly suave tannins and a compelling light touch. The estate sold off a lot of less-ripe material in 2010, noted winemaker Jim Duane, and this wine was aged in just 30% new oak. Yet another great example from this superb vintage. Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Seavey.aspWS 84 (12/2010): Tight, focused and firm, even raw, with a core of spicy ginger, wild berry and red plum. Full-bodied, showing cedary, toasty oak notes that fold in on the finish. Drink now through 2015. 1,460 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Sebastiani.aspIWC 92 (6/2009): Green-gold color. Fresh citrus and apple aromas are complicated by smoky minerals and dried flowers. Broad and fleshy in texture but at the same time lively, offering zesty Meyer lemon and orange flavors and a late note of pear skin. Manages to be both rich and vibrant, with excellent finishing cut and spicy persistence.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.aspBH 93 (4/2015): An elegant, beautifully complex and spicy nose of blue pinot fruit, violet and exotic tea aromas introduces delicious, opulent and vibrant medium-bodied flavors that possess a seductive mouth feel. There is good volume to the mid-palate that carries over to the clean, balanced and equally complex finish. This is lovely juice and while it's not as complex as it eventually will be, the underlying material is clearly present to allow more to develop. Drink 2019+. Outstanding!VM 94 (5/2014): Brilliant ruby-red. Explosive aromas of red fruit liqueur, Asian spices, rose pastille and smoky minerals. Pure, incisive and subtly sweet, offering intense raspberry and cherry flavors and a jolt of peppery spices. The mineral note comes back emphatically on the powerful finish, which is shaped by supple, even tannins. This very suave and focused pinot displays a compelling blend of power and finesse.WA 87 (12/2014): From another Russian River site, the 2012 Pinot Noir Allen Vineyard is tart, crisp and medium-bodied with notes of dark cherries and pomegranate. This is a good Pinot Noir, but I do not see much difference between it and its siblings. Drink now-2022.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.aspVM 93+ (6/2011): Bright ruby-red. Highly complex nose evokes dried red berries, cherry and potpourri, with exotic spice and herb notes emerging as the wine opens in the glass. Takes on depth with air, showing bitter cherry and black raspberry on the palate. Dusty tannins add grip to very long, intense finish, which features a late note of refreshingly bitter blood orange. This definitely deserves patience.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.aspBH 89 (6/2017): A notably ripe (though not jammy) nose features notes of cherry liqueur, plum and pretty spice elements. There is good volume to the delicious, round and caressing middle weight flavors that possess good if not special depth on the nicely persistent finish. This seductive effort should both drink well young but be capable of repaying 6 to 10 years of cellaring if that's your preference. Drink 2021+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.aspVM 94 (5/2014): Bright ruby. Aromas of fresh red berries, rose pastille, blood orange and smoky minerals, along with a hint of Asian spices. Fresh, penetrating and pure, offering gently sweet strawberry and raspberry flavors that put on weight and become spicier with aeration. Shows very good intensity with no excess weight. Finishes silky and extremely long, with subtle tannins coming on late.BH 92 (4/2015): In contrast to the prior two wines this is much more somber and brooding in character with dark pinot fruit, plum and soft humus nuances. The middle weight flavors are lush to the point of opulence with a velvety texture that coats the mouth on the dusty, firm and ever-so-mildly austere finale. This is an interesting wine of contrasts as the mid-palate is borderline soft yet the backend is tight, serious and clearly built-to-age. Moreover it's a wine that could be enjoyed now thanks to the inviting texture of the mid-palate yet the firm tannic spine argues for time in bottle. Drink 2020+. Outstanding!WA 89 (12/2014): The 2012 Pinot Noir Burt Williams’ Morning Dew Ranch reveals a dark fruit spectrum of black cherries, raspberries, currants and loamy soil undertones. Medium-bodied with fresh acids as well as light tannins, its acid profile should ensure 8-10 years of longevity.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.aspBH 91 (4/2016): There is a vaguely liqueur-like quality to the essence of red cherry and dark raspberry suffused nose that evidences a background nuance of menthol. The suave, round and seductively textured medium weight flavors possess solid mid-palate density while offering reasonably good depth and persistence on the balanced and sappy finish. Note that while this should be capable of rewarding mid-term cellaring it is sufficiently forward such that it could also be enjoyed young. Drink 2019+. Outstanding!http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.aspBH 91 (6/2017): An attractively perfumed and overtly spicy nose combines notes of sandalwood, anise, Asian-style tea and an array of both red and dark pinot fruit aromas. Once again the mouth feel of the medium-bodied flavors is quite sleek while displaying fine definition on the delicious, complex and less obviously structured finish that also flashes a touch of youthful austerity. While not quite as firm, I would still advise allowing this at least 5 to 7 years of bottle age as it's presently fairly tightly wound. Drink 2021+. Outstanding!http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.aspIWC 90 (6/2010): Deep red. Sexy aromas of strawberry, raspberry, minerals and rose, along with a high-pitched minty nuance. Tight and youthfully structured, but at the same time displaying pliant red berry character and a hint of smoky minerality. Finishes with subtle aromatic persistence and lingering spiciness. This 900-acre property near Hollister, owned by Williams-Selyem, includes 750 planted acres, so expect plenty of this wine to be available in future vintages. WS 88 (11/2010): Firm and well-structured, offering dried berry, cola, sassafras, spice and cedar notes that are full-bodied and complex, with a citrusy finish. Drink now through 2015. 1,208 cases made. BH 87 (10/2010): A moderately curious nose exhibits a touch of what strikes me as sauerkraut along with red and blue pinot fruit plus violet notes that merge into rich, textured and nicely dense middle weight flavors that culminate in a mildly tangy if persistent finish. An odd showing that isn't bad so much as atypical. Drink 2012+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.aspWA 92 (12/2003): The brilliant 2001 Pinot Noir Coastlands Vineyard (planted with the Martini clone, Dijon clones and the well-known Oregon clone known as Wadensvil) is a rich, Volnay-like effort. Its deep ruby/purple color is accompanied a sumptuous bouquet of juicy black fruits intermixed with earth, wood, and flowers. Pure, vibrant, and medium to full-bodied, it should drink well for 7-8 years. WS 89 (3/2004): Very complete, with a fresh array of earth, mineral, black cherry, plum and a hint of mocha, displaying a tight focus, revealing extra flavor facets that show depth and richness. Best from 2005 through 2012. 445 cases made. VM 89 (6/2003): Good full ruby-red. Perfumed, precise aromas of wild strawberry, raspberry, cassis and violet; an essence of Sonoma Coast pinot. Then juicy and urgent but tightly wound, with notes of cola and spice. A rather powerful, oaky, slightly aggressive wine, finishing with big but sweet tannins and good length. The large crop level of the vintage may have had the effect of softening the tannins, but the wine does not quite deliver in the mouth what it promises on the nose.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.aspVM 91 (5/2014): Full ruby. Deeper and darker in character than the Westside Neighbors bottling, displaying scents of dark berries, cherry compote and licorice, with a smoky note building in the glass. Bitter cherry and black raspberry flavors show very good depth and a spicy element, along with a hint of candied flowers. Tightens up on the chewy, youthfully tannic finish, which is lifted by a zesty spine of minerality. Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.aspVM 91 (5/2014): Full ruby. Deeper and darker in character than the Westside Neighbors bottling, displaying scents of dark berries, cherry compote and licorice, with a smoky note building in the glass. Bitter cherry and black raspberry flavors show very good depth and a spicy element, along with a hint of candied flowers. Tightens up on the chewy, youthfully tannic finish, which is lifted by a zesty spine of minerality. Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.aspVM 90 (8/2016): The 2013 Pinot Noir Eastside Road Neighbors is plump, juicy and forward, all qualities that make it a delicious wine to drink now and over the next handful of years. Sweet red plum and cherry fruit fill out the wine's supple frame effortlessly. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.aspBH 90 (6/2017): Notes of black raspberry, dark cherry, plum and a vaguely exotic character serve as a very pretty introduction to the supple, round and delicious flavors that don't possess quite the same mid-palate density of the best in the range, all wrapped in a focused, balanced and solidly persistent finish where a hint of asperity surfaces. This is certainly attractive but the quality of the underlying material isn't quite at the same level. Drink 2020+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.aspBH 90 (6/2017): Notes of black raspberry, dark cherry, plum and a vaguely exotic character serve as a very pretty introduction to the supple, round and delicious flavors that don't possess quite the same mid-palate density of the best in the range, all wrapped in a focused, balanced and solidly persistent finish where a hint of asperity surfaces. This is certainly attractive but the quality of the underlying material isn't quite at the same level. Drink 2020+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.aspVM 90 (6/2006): Bright ruby. Crushed dark berries, minerals and tar on the nose. Sweet, fat and high-toned, with boysenberry and raspberry flavors perked up by the addition of some alicante bouschet, which has the effect of adding acidity. Finishes with dusty, slightly dry-edged tannins. Not in the same quality league as the amazing 2003. Cabral used no new barrels for zinfandel in 2004, opting for two- and three-year-old pinot barrels instead.WA 87 (12/2006): The 2004 Zinfandel Feeney Vineyard, which shows better than it did last year, exhibits some herbal notes, tart acids, medium to full body, but it still has a somewhat jagged, disjointed feel to it. I don’t suspect this wine is ever really going to age that well, but if you like it, drink it now. WS 85 (12/2006): Ripe, with vivid wild berry, plum and black cherry fruit that's juicy and refreshing. Clean, berry aftertaste. Drink now. 375 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.aspVM 94 (6/2011): Vivid ruby. High-pitched, seductive aromas of strawberry preserves, Asian spices, smoke and anise, with a strong mineral overtone. Juicy, tight and youthfully imploded but minerally and strikingly intense, with zesty red berry and bitter cherry flavors and solid tannic spine. Showing more minerality than sweet fruit today, this is built to age. Finishes with excellent length and resonating spice and floral notes.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.aspBH 90 (6/2017): This is also aromatically pure, cool and airy with a similar if slightly spicier mix of aromas. There is more volume and richness to the generously proportioned middle weight flavors that don't possess quite the same refinement on the dusty, delicious and well-balanced finale that exhibits a bit of youthful austerity. This needs to develop more depth in order to rival the best in the range so I would suggest cellaring the Foss for at least a few years first. Drink 2022+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.aspBH 90 (6/2017): This is also aromatically pure, cool and airy with a similar if slightly spicier mix of aromas. There is more volume and richness to the generously proportioned middle weight flavors that don't possess quite the same refinement on the dusty, delicious and well-balanced finale that exhibits a bit of youthful austerity. This needs to develop more depth in order to rival the best in the range so I would suggest cellaring the Foss for at least a few years first. Drink 2022+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.aspIWC 91 (6/2011): Green-gold. Aromas of lemon curd and poached pear, with a hint of candied ginger. Ripe, broad and smooth in texture, with weighty orchard fruit and melon flavors that display serious heft and power, picking up a lively note of orange zest in the mid-palate. Shows very good finishing breadth and a refreshing, slightly tart bitter touch of lemon zest, which keeps the rich fruit in line.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.aspIWC 91 (6/2013): Vivid yellow-gold. Pungent aromas of orange zest, toasted almond and white flowers. Plush and broad on entry, then tighter in the mid-palate, with very good energy and freshness to its peach, citrus fruit and honey flavors. Finishes chewy and long, with subtle spiciness and slow-building minerality. This wine usually shows more exotic character according to Cabral, but I welcome its vivacity.WA 86 (12/2013): The light gold-colored 2011 Chardonnay Heintz Vineyard possesses a big nose of beeswax and honeysuckle, crisp acidity, a hollowness in the mid-palate, but an attractive attack as well as finish. I'm not sure it will fill in out the middle, especially given the vintage conditions, but it is a solidly made white to consume over the near-term. WS 85 (12/2013): Features ripe apple, melon and light cedary oak, turning simple on the finish. Drink now through 2017. 309 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.aspBH 93 (4/2016): Here the cool and restrained nose only grudgingly offers up its beautifully layered aromas of spice, tea, lilac, red currant and pomegranate. There is excellent verve and delineation to the medium-bodied, caressing and seductive yet entirely serious flavors that are like a coiled spring before concluding in a wonderfully long if mildly austere finish. This is very Zen-like in its understated sense of harmony and refinement yet there is no lack of underlying material that should easily see this amply rewarding up to a decade of cellar time, indeed it will need at least 4 to 5 as this is very tightly wound at present. Drink 2021+. Outstanding!http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.aspBH 92 (6/2017): There is a background hint of reduction that is just enough to shave the top notes from the otherwise well-layered red and dark pinot fruit aromas that are liberally laced with both spice and floral nuances; if you're going to try a bottle upon release, I would advise allowing this 30 minutes or so in a decanter. There is excellent volume and in particular mid-palate concentration to the rich and velvet-textured flavors that coat the palate with dry extract that also serves to buffer the moderately firm tannic spine shaping the impressively long if mildly austere finale where a hint of asperity appears. Like several of the wines in the range this built-to-age effort needs to develop more depth but everything appears to be in place such that this eventuality will likely occur. Drink 2024+. Outstanding!http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.aspVM 95 (6/2011): Bright red. Explosively perfumed and pure on the nose, showing mineral-laced red berry and cherry qualities complicated by sexy spices and flowers. Really heady pinot, with exotic red fruit compote and floral pastille flavors and a silky, seamless texture. The spiciness dominates the very long, sappy, incisive finish. This will be a beauty in a few years and should age gracefully. There are only 191 cases of this wine, the first Olivet Lane bottling for Williams-Selyem since the 1997. Cabral said that he was thrilled to be able to work with this fruit again, "even if there wasn't much, because it's a return to a vineyard that put the winery on the map, which makes this feel like coming full circle." WS 91 (4/2012): This fragrant, delicate style exhibits a rich black cherry and blueberry core of flavors that lend a measure of finesse and refinement. Ends with a subtle mineral, loamy earth note. Drink now through 2020. 191 cases made.WA 90 (2/2012): The 2009 Pinot Noir Olivet Lane Vineyard is one of the more gracious, mid-weight wines in this lineup. It floats across the palate with sweet dark cherries, crushed, flowers, mint, licorice and spices. The Olivet Lane is all about subtlety, and there is plenty of that here. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2019.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.aspWA 92 (4/2017): The 2014 Pinot Noir Olivet Lane has a medium ruby-purple color and expressive black raspberry, mulberry and black cherry notes with hints of anise and tilled earth. The medium-bodied palate is generously fruited with intense red and black berry layers and a satiny texture, finishing with a lively lift.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.aspVM 93 (6/2011): Glass-staining ruby. Seductively scented, expansive bouquet of smoky blackberry, boysenberry and resinous herbs. Cola and vanilla qualities gain power with aeration and carry onto the palate, which features sappy dark berry and candied cherry flavors. Tannins build slowly with air but not at the expense of the densely packed fruit. Impressively juicy and concentrated pinot with outstanding thrust and cling. As much as I admire the power and depth of this wine, I have a slight preference for the litheness of the Hirsch right now. It would be a treat to be able to compare them down the road.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.aspVM 94 (5/2014): Bright ruby. Heady floral aromas of raspberry, cherry-cola, lavender and Asian spices. Stains the palate with juicy red fruit liqueur flavors complemented by deeper notes of licorice and black cardamom. Smooth, seamless and focused on the youthfully, very long tannic finish. Bet on this pinot to repay at least a decade of patience. WS 89 (4/2015): Tight and firm, this broad-shouldered effort offers a dense core of red and dark berry, accented by floral scents and supported by chewy tannins and good length. Drink now through 2022. 527 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.aspVM 95 (6/2011): Vivid ruby. Christmas spices, red berries and incense on the nose, with an exotic note of orange peel adding complexity. Sappy strawberry and raspberry preserve flavors are brightened by tangy minerality and complicated by a vanilla bean quality, with fine-grained tannins adding grip. Gains weight with air but remains lively and precise. The clean, nervy finish boasts outstanding clarity and spicy persistence. WS 92 (4/2012): Very rich and concentrated, this delivers layered flavors built around ripe plum, wild berry and black cherry, joined by wilted rose and spicy aromatics that are still a little diffuse, yet offer plenty of depth and complexity. Best from 2013 through 2022. 562 cases made.WA 88 (2/2012): The 2009 Pinot Noir Rochioli Riverblock Vineyard is a big, burly wine loaded with dark fruit. This is one of the richer wines in this lineup, and needs at least another year in bottle for some of the baby fat to melt off. Spices, licorice and dried flowers wrap around the dense, muscular finish. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2019.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.aspVM 94 (5/2014): Vivid ruby-red. Pungent aromas and flavors of black raspberry, mulberry, anise and candied rose are accented by a minerally topnote. Sweet, dense and focused, offering intense red and dark berry flavors and a hint of smoked meat. Becomes sweeter and broader with air, picking up a spicecake nuance that carries through a strikingly long, gently tannic finish. Very complex already but history suggests that this pinot will be shutting down soon, after which it should be forgotten about for at least another six years or so. WA 88+ (12/2014): There are four Pinot offerings from the Russian River, including the 2012 Pinot Noir Rochioli Riverblock Vineyard. This wine offers blueberry, boysenberry and wet rock-like characteristics, medium body, nicely integrated acidity, pure blue and red fruits, and an attractive mouthfeel as well as finish. Moderately endowed and medium-bodied, it should drink well for a decade. WS 82 (3/2015): Features a dusty, earthy, overripe mushroom flavor that is rustic and out of sync. Ends dry and gritty. Drink now. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 587 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.aspWA 95 (3/2016): The 2013 Pinot Noir Rochioli Riverblock Vineyard has a very dense ruby/purple color and a beautiful nose of gun flint, raspberries, black cherries and blackcurrants. The wine displays full-body, super-duper richness and ripeness, beautiful minerality, and a long, long finish. This is a superb Pinot Noir and one of the best I tasted from this vintage in the Russian River. Drink it over the next 10+ years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.aspWA 93 (4/2017): Medium ruby colored, the 2014 Pinot Noir Rochioli Riverblock Vineyard offers notes of baked cherries, warm cranberries, herbs and earth with a savory / stems character in the undercurrent. Medium-bodied, the palate has lovely lift and energy to it with a chewy edginess that really works. It should age gracefully over the next 12 years+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.aspVM 90+ (6/2011): Bright ruby. Rather brooding aromas of deep dark berries and cherry, with hints of sassafras and licorice. Juicy and broad in the mouth, offering densely packed cherry-cola and black raspberry flavors and a chewy texture. Finishes with solid grip and very good thrust, with the cola note repeating. This one will require some patience. BH 89 (10/2011): A perfumed and attractively nuanced nose of diverse red berries is trimmed in subtle spice hints that also appear on the rich, round and textured flavors that are delicious and generous before culminating in a lingering if somewhat rustic finish. This is not an elegant wine but I like the character. Drink 2014+.WA 88 (2/2012): The 2009 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley is a tasty, straightforward offering with plenty of character. This delicious, fruit-driven Pinot is best enjoyed over the next 2-3 years, while the aromatics and fruit retain their freshness. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2015.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.aspBH 88 (4/2015): Here the nose is slightly more elegant than the Central Coast and while it is compositionally similar there is better complexity. The medium weight flavors are very supple and seductive, indeed this is already accessible though the supporting tannins do finally appear on the dusty, mouth coating and nicely complex finish. This could easily be enjoyed now though more depth is almost certainly in the offing if this is held for another 3 to 5 years. Drink 2019+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.aspVM 88 (5/2015): The 2013 Pinot Noir (Sonoma Coast) is the most inward of the three appellation-level Pinots I tasted. Expressive floral notes meld into sweet red cherries, chalk, mint and white flowers in a high-toned, taut Pinot to drink over the next few years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.aspIWC 91 (6/2013): (made from fruit that was harvested at between 22 and 23 Brix): Bright ruby-red. Assertive aromas of raspberry, cherry and rose oil, with Asian spice and anise accents building with air. Juicy and precise, offering gently sweet red berry flavors and a hint of candied flowers. Shows very good energy on the long finish, which features a flash of white pepper.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.aspVM 88 (3/2017): The 2015 Pinot Noir (Sonoma County) is ripe, plump and supple, all qualities that make it a terrific choice for drinking now and over the next few years. Sweet red cherry, plum and hard candy all meld together. There is lovely depth and energy to the flavors, not to mention considerable near term appeal. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.aspVM 94 (5/2015): A virile, imposing wine, the 2013 Pinot Noir Terra de Promissio Vineyard is quite backward today, but the wine's energy and overall intensity are compelling. Crushed rocks, smoke, graphite, black cherries and spices open up in the glass, but the 2013 is at least a few years away from being ready to drink and it should cellar nicely for some time. Saline notes give the persistent finish an extra kick of intensity. This is a striking Pinot from Williams-Selyem. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.aspVM 92 (3/2017): Sweet dark cherry, tobacco, earthiness, new leather and licorice are some of the notes that give the 2015 Pinot Noir Terra De Promissio Vineyard its distinctly savory personality. The interplay of ripe 2015 fruit and some of the more floral/earthy nuances that develop in the glass make for a highly appealing Pinot. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.aspBH 91 (6/2017): This is also notably restrained with its aromas of spiced plum, violet and various dark berry scents. There is excellent volume to the velvety and attractively vibrant medium weight flavors that once again coat the palate with sappy dry extract, all wrapped in a complex, dusty and compact finale. This is fairly tightly wound at present and should definitely benefit from at least 6 to 8 years of cellaring and may even reward a decade or more. Very solid quality fashioned in a robust and muscular style. Drink 2022+. Outstanding!http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.aspVM 93 (6/2011): Vivid ruby-red. Heady, intensely perfumed scents of raspberry and cherry preserves, sandalwood, dried rose and gingerbread. At once precise and deep, offering sweet red and dark fruit flavors lifted by tangy acidity, with silky tannins providing support. This tactile, palate-staining, lively midweight finishes with excellent definition and lingering spiciness.WS 91 (10/2011): Very complete, complex and balanced, with subtle cherry, plum and raspberry fruit that's supple and graceful. Medium- to full-bodied, gaining depth and richness on the finish, where the flavors linger. Drink now through 2020. 968 cases made. WA 88 (2/2012): The 2009 Pinot Noir Westside Road Neighbors is made from a collection of vineyards along Westside Road, including Allen, Bacigalupi, Rochioli Riverblock and the estate’s own vineyard. Dark red cherries, spices and flowers flow effortlessly from this plump, juicy wine. A soft, textured finish rounds out this pretty Pinot. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2017.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.aspVM 92 (5/2015): Sweet red cherries, plums, mint, sweet spices and hard candy meld together in the 2013 Pinot Noir Westside Road Neighbors. The 2013 is quite ripe, racy and bold, yet all the elements are in the right place. Hints of rose petal and lavender grace the silky finish. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.aspVM 92 (5/2015): Sweet red cherries, plums, mint, sweet spices and hard candy meld together in the 2013 Pinot Noir Westside Road Neighbors. The 2013 is quite ripe, racy and bold, yet all the elements are in the right place. Hints of rose petal and lavender grace the silky finish. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.aspWA 92 (4/2017): Pale to medium ruby colored, the 2014 Pinot Noir Westside Neighbors reveals aromas of raspberry leaves, Bing cherries, lavender and fragrant earth with a waft of potpourri. The palate is beautifully harmonious with soft, silky tannins and a refreshing line of acid, finishing fine and elegant.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.aspWA 92 (4/2017): Pale to medium ruby colored, the 2014 Pinot Noir Westside Neighbors reveals aromas of raspberry leaves, Bing cherries, lavender and fragrant earth with a waft of potpourri. The palate is beautifully harmonious with soft, silky tannins and a refreshing line of acid, finishing fine and elegant.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.aspVM 93 (3/2017): The 2015 Pinot Noir Westside Road Neighbors is wonderfully lifted and finessed, with plenty of sweet red cherry, pomegranate and blood orange overtones. Surprisingly delicate for the year, the Westside Road Neighbors offers terrific aromatic freshness, precision and class. The oak needs time to fully integrate, but there is certainly much to look forward to. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.aspWA 88 (12/2014): The 2012 Pinot Noir Estate Vineyard exhibits notes of wild strawberries, cranberries and cherries along with tart acids, a medium-bodied mouthfeel, light tannins, and a crisp, zesty finish. Consume it over the next 7-8 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.aspBH 93 (4/2016): There is plenty of spice character to the Asian-style tea and various dark berry fruit scents. The palate feel of the medium weight flavors is also notably pliant and forward with good volume and reasonably good density on the dusty, focused and detailed finish that delivers sneaky good depth and length. This is a highly understated wine at present and other than just to satisfy one's curiosity it would be pointless to open a bottle now. Patience required. Drink 2023+. Outstanding!http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WilliamsSelyem.aspWA 91 (10/2011): The 2009 Chardonnay Clos de Soleil displays a perfume of minerals, poached pear, and melon. In the glass it opens to reveal a supple texture, spicy flavors, good depth and balance, and a medium-long finish.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DomSerene.aspWS 92 (2/2015): Lithe and refined, light but generous, with black cherry, balsamic and delicate spice flavors, finishing with harmony and persistence. Drink now through 2019. 280 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/DomSerene.aspWA 94 (2/2010): Although extremely limited in availability, the 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon boasts an inky/ruby/purple color as well as gorgeous aromas of cedar, spice box, black currants, licorice, and a touch of wood spice. Medium to full-bodied with silky tannins, superb concentration, and a beautiful texture, this impressive St.-Julien-styled Napa Cabernet should drink well for 20+ years. WS 94 (6/2008): Rich and expressive, with ripe, potent, concentrated tiers of spicy currant, fresh earth, mineral, sage and dried berry flavors that are tight, focused and concentrated, ending with a long, persistent finish. Drink now through 2011. 236 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SevenStones.aspWA 96 (12/2010): The 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon is the most seamless, aromatic and concentrated wine of this trio. It reveals flawless integration of acidity, tannin, alcohol and wood. Its opaque purple color is accompanied by lots of minerality interspersed with extravagant, luxurious notes of creme de cassis, blueberries and camphor. Full-bodied and plush with a rare opulence and purity, this beauty can be drunk now and over the next 12-15+ years. WS 95 (12/2010): Combines power with finesse, offering dense, rich layers of currant and blackberry, with touches of herb, sage, mineral, espresso and cedar. This full-bodied red turns supple midpalate before firming on the finish. Best from 2011 through 2022. 239 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SevenStones.aspWA 95 (12/2011): The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon is a huge wine bursting with dark fruit, licorice, scorched earth, tar and grilled herbs. This is an especially big, hulking 2009 that is likely to require a measure of patience. Massive tannins frame the fruit through to the virile finish. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2029. WS 95 (5/2012): This striking Cabernet weaves together an impressive array of black licorice, gravel, dried berry, currant, cedar and wild flowers. Dense, concentrated, tight yet persistent, with a long, focused finish that keeps the flavors on point. Best from 2013 through 2024. 307 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SevenStones.aspVM 95+ (12/2012): Aaron Pott crafts these beautiful wines at Seven Stones, a tiny estate perched atop St. Helena on property that once belonged to Bill Harlan when the Meadowood resort was originally developed. The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon is striking in its beauty. A warm, resonant bouquet redolent of espresso, mocha, French oak, sweet herbs and tobacco leads to an expressive core of fruit in this rich, sumptuous wine. Full-bodied, rich and intense, yet supported by veins of incisive minerality, the 2010 impresses for its exceptional balance. The combination of finesse and overall harmony is nothing short of compelling. The estate's Cabernet Sauvignon remains one of the most distinctive wines in Napa Valley. I can hardly wait to see how the 2010 develops in bottle over the coming years. The blend is 95% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cabernet Franc. WS 92 (11/2013): Plump, rich and fleshy, featuring a ripe edge of plum jam, with touches of cherry, anise, cedar and loamy earth woven in. Gains depth and plushness on the finish. Drink now through 2024. 322 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SevenStones.aspVM 95+ (12/2012): Aaron Pott crafts these beautiful wines at Seven Stones, a tiny estate perched atop St. Helena on property that once belonged to Bill Harlan when the Meadowood resort was originally developed. The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon is striking in its beauty. A warm, resonant bouquet redolent of espresso, mocha, French oak, sweet herbs and tobacco leads to an expressive core of fruit in this rich, sumptuous wine. Full-bodied, rich and intense, yet supported by veins of incisive minerality, the 2010 impresses for its exceptional balance. The combination of finesse and overall harmony is nothing short of compelling. The estate's Cabernet Sauvignon remains one of the most distinctive wines in Napa Valley. I can hardly wait to see how the 2010 develops in bottle over the coming years. The blend is 95% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cabernet Franc. WS 92 (11/2013): Plump, rich and fleshy, featuring a ripe edge of plum jam, with touches of cherry, anise, cedar and loamy earth woven in. Gains depth and plushness on the finish. Drink now through 2024. 322 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SevenStones.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SeventyFiveWineCo.aspWA 98 (12/2000): Since 1991, Shafer's Hillside Select Cabernet Sauvignon has unquestionably been one of the top dozen or so California Cabernets. Made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon and aged 32 months in 100% French oak casks (the majority Taransaud), it possesses the elegance and finesse one would expect from the Stag's Leap area, but also monumental power, richness, and intensity.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ShaferVineyards.aspWA 98 (12/2000): Since 1991, Shafer's Hillside Select Cabernet Sauvignon has unquestionably been one of the top dozen or so California Cabernets. Made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon and aged 32 months in 100% French oak casks (the majority Taransaud), it possesses the elegance and finesse one would expect from the Stag's Leap area, but also monumental power, richness, and intensity.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ShaferVineyards.aspWA 95 (12/2014): The 2003 is a singular style of wine, but by no means wimpy or undernourished. The 2003 Shafer Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select has a dense, purple color, notes of creosote, graphite, blackberry and cassis fruit, charcoal and scorched earth. It has a full-bodied mouthfeel and excellent purity, while some rather noticeable tannins kick in on the finish. This wine seems to be moving from adolescence to that early mature stage, where I would expect it to hold for at least another 10-15 or more years. Clearly not one of the superstars in what was a rather astonishing qualitative lineup, but it’s outrageously good Cabernet Sauvignon, and I expect myself, as well as any of my readers, would drink this 24/7. WS 93 (10/2006): A big, rich, bold and expansive style, with tiers of dense currant, mineral, earth, black cherry, anise and cedary oak flavors that are intense and concentrated, with the tannins showing a raw edge. Young and rambunctious. Needs lots of air or a little time in the cellar. To be released September 2007. Best from 2008 through 2013. 2,200 cases made. VM 89 (7/2016): Good dark red. The nose conveys an herbaceous element not shown by the 2002 or 2001, offering scents of plum, milk chocolate, tobacco leaf and wild herbs; I might have picked this blind as Merlot. Thick and chunky on the palate but slightly angular. I find this concentrated wine a bit medicinal, even brutal, on the back end. Suggests a wide range of ripeness. Following a disrupted flowering, the estate did a lot of vineyard work to attempt to even out the ripeness. "But we had too much canopy for too little fruit and had to pick quickly during warm conditions at the end," noted Doug Shafer. Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ShaferVineyards.aspWA 99 (12/2014): This vintage shocked me when I did my retrospective earlier this year, and the 2004 Shafer Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select acquitted itself brilliantly in the vertical of Hillside Selects. It was a hot year, a relatively early harvest and there were worries that the heat had stressed the grapes, and there would be a lack of physiological ripeness and nuance. Those worries have not manifested themselves in this great Cabernet Sauvignon. Inky/purple-colored with notes of blueberry, blackberry, cassis, spring flowers, and a touch of toast, the wine is opulent, voluptuous and full-bodied with sweet tannin, just enough acidity to provide freshness, vibrancy and delineation, and a spectacular finish that goes on 40+ seconds. This is a killer, a showy and flamboyant style of Hillside Select that’s already drinking beautifully and should continue to do so for another 15-20 years. WS 96 (8/2014): This remains a bold, opulent, fleshy style, with explosive layers of spice, blackberry, cedar and crushed rock, ending with firm, ripe tannins and touches of mocha. Tannins lock in the finish and hold the flavors in place.—2004 California Cabernet blind retrospective (August 2014). Drink now through 2026. 2,200 cases made. VM 95 (6/2015): (14.5% alcohol): Bright, saturated dark ruby. Brilliantly pure aromas of blackberry, kirsch, minerals, bitter chocolate and cocoa powder. Plush, sweet, superconcentrated and very ripe, with sexy mineral and earth nuances adding interest to the intense dark fruit flavors. This utterly seamless Cabernet also boasts terrific mid-palate energy and lift. The superb, ripely tannic, slowly building finish goes on and on. A time-capsule California Cabernet that saturates every square millimeter of the palate. Impeccably balanced right now, but should easily go on for another decade or more.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ShaferVineyards.aspWA 99 (12/2014): This vintage shocked me when I did my retrospective earlier this year, and the 2004 Shafer Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select acquitted itself brilliantly in the vertical of Hillside Selects. It was a hot year, a relatively early harvest and there were worries that the heat had stressed the grapes, and there would be a lack of physiological ripeness and nuance. Those worries have not manifested themselves in this great Cabernet Sauvignon. Inky/purple-colored with notes of blueberry, blackberry, cassis, spring flowers, and a touch of toast, the wine is opulent, voluptuous and full-bodied with sweet tannin, just enough acidity to provide freshness, vibrancy and delineation, and a spectacular finish that goes on 40+ seconds. This is a killer, a showy and flamboyant style of Hillside Select that’s already drinking beautifully and should continue to do so for another 15-20 years. WS 96 (8/2014): This remains a bold, opulent, fleshy style, with explosive layers of spice, blackberry, cedar and crushed rock, ending with firm, ripe tannins and touches of mocha. Tannins lock in the finish and hold the flavors in place.—2004 California Cabernet blind retrospective (August 2014). Drink now through 2026. 2,200 cases made. VM 95 (6/2015): (14.5% alcohol): Bright, saturated dark ruby. Brilliantly pure aromas of blackberry, kirsch, minerals, bitter chocolate and cocoa powder. Plush, sweet, superconcentrated and very ripe, with sexy mineral and earth nuances adding interest to the intense dark fruit flavors. This utterly seamless Cabernet also boasts terrific mid-palate energy and lift. The superb, ripely tannic, slowly building finish goes on and on. A time-capsule California Cabernet that saturates every square millimeter of the palate. Impeccably balanced right now, but should easily go on for another decade or more.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ShaferVineyards.aspWA 97 (12/2008): The 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select continues to put on weight, and displays a Bordeaux-like personality because of the vintage’s cool growing season. A black purple color, stunningly sweet fruit, and a gorgeous bouquet of underbrush, forest floor, creme de cassis, lead pencil shavings, and toasty barrique are found in this ripe, full-bodied, deep, stunningly well-balanced, substantial wine with undeniable complexity as well as richness. It is approachable now, but promises to evolve for 25 or more years.VM 94-97 (6/2007): Bright ruby-red. Pure, vibrant aromas of blackberry, cassis, lead pencil, violet, licorice and minerals. Wonderfully fine-grained and deep, with sharp definition and lovely floral high notes to the flavors of blueberry, cassis and spice. Finishes with noble, suave tannins and outstanding slow-building length. This 100% cabernet wine has all the elements to make an outstanding bottle. Winemaker Fernandez, who rates it with the 2002 and 2001 as his favorites among recent vintages, described the crop level of 2.5 tons per acre as "on the high side" and the largest since the '97, which came in at over 3.0.WS 92-94 (8/2006): Thick and racy, with zesty wild berry, blackberry and boysenberry fruit that's ripe and well-structured, with firm tannins and a long, intense aftertaste that keeps the emphasis on the fruit.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ShaferVineyards.aspWA 100 (12/2014): One of the perfect wines from Shafer is the 2007 Shafer Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select. Think it over - in the first decade of the 21st century, Shafer scored three perfect scores and two 99s - that’s about as high a praise as I can give any producer in the world. Opaque purple in color, the 2007 has a stunning nose of sweet crème de cassis, black cherries, licorice, and toasty oak, a multilayered, full-throttle personality, and a texture that builds and builds. Great purity, fabulous fruit intensity and a richness without heaviness characterize this massive, prodigious effort from Shafer. It’s still very young, despite this vintage, which seems to be maturing precociously. I don’t believe this wine will hit its stride for at least another 5-10 years and drink well for at least 2-3 decades. JS 97 (2/2011): This won't be out until next year and will mark 25 years of Hillside Select. Nice aromas of mint, mineral, dark fruits, and delicious currants. Full bodied, with a soft beginning that just builds and builds. This is muscular and toned, very impressive. Save your money to get plenty of this. Thought provoking wine. Don't drink this for four or five years. VM 94+ (7/2016): (15.5% alcohol): Deep red with ruby tones. Classic Stags Leap nose combines dark plum, black cherry, currant, mocha, dried herbs, cigar box, leafy underbrush and cocoa powder; I thought of a fresh-baked doughnut. Very densely packed and youthful but showing considerably more personality--and more consistent ripeness--than the 2006 edition. This seriously structured wine finishes with substantial but ripe tannins and excellent length. I wouldn't pull the cork for at least another few years. From a vintage featuring small clusters and small berries. Stephen Tanzer. WS 92 (11/2011): Impressive for its richness, elegance and grace, this is spicy and supple, with full-bodied plum, currant and black licorice notes, gaining momentum and ending with a silky aftertaste of loamy earth. Drink now through 2020. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 2,200 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ShaferVineyards.aspWA 96 (12/2012): The estate’s 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select is one of those rare wines that looks like it will be absolutely delicious pretty much at any point in its life. Super-refined and silky, the 2008 caresses the palate with layers of deeply expressive dark fruit. The 2008 is a wine of exceptional textural finesse and pedigree. According to Doug Shafer, cool weather in the spring resulted in small clusters with high skin to juice ratios, always a plus for high quality wines. Today the 2008 does not look like a huge Hillside Select, but is rather a wine built on polish and elegance. It will be interesting to see if the 2008 fills out in bottle, or it remains more restrained in its personality. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2038. WS 96 (10/2012): Muscular and tightly wound, yet beautifully focused and proportioned, dense and chewy, delivering rich layers of dried currant, blackberry, spice and licorice flavors. Demands cellaring. Best from 2014 through 2028. 2,400 cases made. VM 93+ (6/2013): (15.5% alcohol; 100% cabernet sauvignon): Good bright, full ruby. Blackberry, black cherry, mocha and chocolatey oak on the almost liqueur-like nose. Plush, densely packed and slightly high-toned, but with surprising acidity to energize the very ripe flavors of black raspberry, licorice, coffee, mocha and spices. Finishes with substantial ripe, dusty tannins and compelling early sweetness. Still, I'd want to hold this for at least a few years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ShaferVineyards.aspWA 96 (12/2012): The estate’s 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select is one of those rare wines that looks like it will be absolutely delicious pretty much at any point in its life. Super-refined and silky, the 2008 caresses the palate with layers of deeply expressive dark fruit. The 2008 is a wine of exceptional textural finesse and pedigree. According to Doug Shafer, cool weather in the spring resulted in small clusters with high skin to juice ratios, always a plus for high quality wines. Today the 2008 does not look like a huge Hillside Select, but is rather a wine built on polish and elegance. It will be interesting to see if the 2008 fills out in bottle, or it remains more restrained in its personality. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2038. WS 96 (10/2012): Muscular and tightly wound, yet beautifully focused and proportioned, dense and chewy, delivering rich layers of dried currant, blackberry, spice and licorice flavors. Demands cellaring. Best from 2014 through 2028. 2,400 cases made. VM 93+ (6/2013): (15.5% alcohol; 100% cabernet sauvignon): Good bright, full ruby. Blackberry, black cherry, mocha and chocolatey oak on the almost liqueur-like nose. Plush, densely packed and slightly high-toned, but with surprising acidity to energize the very ripe flavors of black raspberry, licorice, coffee, mocha and spices. Finishes with substantial ripe, dusty tannins and compelling early sweetness. Still, I'd want to hold this for at least a few years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ShaferVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SheaWineCellars.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SheaWineCellars.aspWA 89 (12/2000): The 1999 Pinot Noir Muirfield Vineyard comes from both Dijon clones and the well-known Oregon clone called Wadenswil. Yields were only 1.5 tons per acre, and the wine is to be released in nine months. The color is a dense ruby/purple. The wine is thick, quite rich, medium to full-bodied, and impressively pure, with a thick, black cherry component the distinguishing characteristic. There were 180 cases produced. WS 89 (9/2001): Rich in blueberry, plum and spice flavors and firm in texture, with a sense of refinement that animates the lively flavors as they echo on the finish. Drink now through 2007. 182 cases made. IWC 88+ (5/2001): Bright, saturated ruby. Vibrant aromas of cassis, wild berries, smoked meat and roast coffee. Dense but quite closed and uncompromisingly dry; flavor suggests tiny dark berries. Dominated today by its sizable, almost cabernet-like structure. Finishes with granular, substantial tannins that will require patience.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Siduri.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SilverOak.aspWS 90 (10/2001): A rich, beefy, complex style, with a wide range of earthy currant, black cherry, plum, herb, cedar and wild berry fruit. Offers depth and complexity, with a long, concentrated finish. Drink now through 2008. 4,900 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Simi.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Simi.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Simi.aspWS 93 (11/1999): Remarkably complex and concentrated, with a dark, plush, focused core of ripe plum, black cherry, blackberry and spice. Turns rich on the long finish. Best from 2000 through 2008. 4,100 cases made. VM 89 (12/1999): Full red-ruby. Raspberry, mint and fresh herbs on the nose; showed a slight dill note with aeration. Supple and lush, with intriguing hints of charred meat, smoke and leather to go with the currant and raspberry flavors. Rather stylish wine, with satisfying sweetness and a layered texture like right-bank Bordeaux. Quite ripe for '95, but with plenty of underlying structure. Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Simi.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Simi.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Simi.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Simi.aspWA 95 (8/2003): The 2001 Albino (46% Chardonnay, 40% Roussanne, and 14% Viognier) emerged primarily from John Alban’s vineyard in Arroyo Grande as well as the Stolpman Vineyard. Possessing fabulous intensity (it actually should be decanted 30-45 minutes prior to serving), it is a full-bodied white offering aromas of lychee nuts, citrus oils, honeysuckle, and rose petals. Fabulously rich and well-delineated in spite of its large size (15.1% natural alcohol), it is surprisingly light on its feet, and finishes with considerable zestiness. Enjoy it over the next 5-6 years.WS 91 (4/2004): A rich, full-bodied, hearty rendition. Ripe, plush and well-oaked, with scents of hazelnut, roasted peanuts, citrus and pretty fresh earth and flowers. Chardonnay, Roussanne and Viognier. Drink now through 2007. 513 cases made.VM 89 (2/2004): Perfumed aromas of tropical fruits, honey, oatmeal and nutty oak. Sweet and silky in the mouth, with apricot, peach and nutty oak flavors along with more exotic hints of mango and pineapple. Quite oaky on the back end, with a slightly dry, cyanic edge and a flavor of toasted almond. More dominated by its wood than most recent vintages of the Sine Qua Non white blend.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 100 (6/2008): The perfect 2005 Syrah Atlantis Fe 203-1a,b,c is a blend of 93% Syrah, 5% Grenache, and 2% Viognier, with 25% whole clusters. Whereas the Ode to E is all from the Eleven Confessions Vineyard, this cuvee is a combination of 43% from the estate vineyard, 28% from the White Hawk Vineyard, 21% from the Alban Vineyard, and 8% from the Bien Nacido Vineyard. The good news is there are nearly 1,500 cases of this recently released offering. An extraordinarily flowery nose interwoven with scents of blueberries, blackberries, incense, and graphite soars from the glass. Although not the biggest or most concentrated Syrah Krankl has made, it is one of the most nuanced, elegant, and complex. It remains full-bodied, but builds incrementally on the palate, and comes across as elegant and delicate, especially when compared to many California Syrahs. Nevertheless, the intensity is mind-boggling, and the finish lasts for nearly a minute. Drink this amazing effort over the next 10-15+ years. VM 94-95 (12/2008): Opaque ruby color. Powerful, impressively concentrated black raspberry and boysenberry aromas are complicated by smoky minerals, candied licorice, incense and cured tobacco. Pliant dark berry flavors stain the palate and are energized by zesty minerals. A big, sweet palate-stainer that somehow manages to be graceful as well. Sweet black and blue fruit flavors linger endlessly on the finish, which is refreshingly spicy and focused.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 97 (6/2008): The 2005 Atlantis Fe 203-3e Roussanne Vin de Paille is a 100% Roussanne cuvee possessing 352 grams of residual sugar per liter. While it is a stunning effort, when tasted next to the two Mr. K. whites, it comes in slightly below those two out-of-this-world offerings. Incredible aromas of honeysuckle and marmalade are classic late-harvest Roussanne, and the wine’s sweet style is beautifully balanced by terrific acidity (12.5 grams of acid per liter).VM 94 (12/2008): Deep gold color. Hugely aromatic, gaudy bouquet of peach, apricot, blond tobacco, mint and dried flowers. Spicy pit fruit flavors stain the palate, gaining depth and sweetness with air. Finishes with a degree of lift and cut that I would never expect from such a rich, sugar-laden wine. These grapes came from the Alban vineyard.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 98 (8/2011): The 2007 Syrah Dangerous Birds, from Eleven Confessions, includes 4.5% Grenache and 2.5% Viognier, all fully destemmed. It is a seamless, show stopper of the highest level. The fruit is decidedly opulent in the 2007, while the high percentage of new oak barrels (84%) contributes to the wine’s shape and volume. An impeccable, eternal finish rounds things out in style. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2022. VM 95 (12/2010): (includes 4.5% grenache and 2.5% viognier; 15.8% alcohol) Dark purple. Powerful blackberry and cassis fruit aromas are complicated by licorice, woodsmoke and exotic Asian spices. Juicy, concentrated and sharply focused, with impressive intensity to its pure dark berry and spice flavors. This very youthful, densely packed wine manages to be both broad and light on its feet, with outstanding clarity and appealing spiciness. Finishes with lovely lingering florality and mineral-driven persistence.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 99 (8/2011): 2007 Grenache Dangerous Birds: This wine, which is scheduled to be released in several months, is 88% Grenache, 10% Syrah and 2% Viognier (36% whole clusters utilized), all from the 11 Confessions Vineyard. A whopper at 15.6% alcohol, this is the extended barrel-aged Grenache, spending 32 months in a combination of small oak casks as well as larger demi-muids. Absolutely magnificent, with incredible uplifted aromatics and great raspberry and black cherry fruit intermixed with blackberry, camphor, licorice and lavender, this wine is full-bodied, with super purity and a huge, massive mouthfeel as well as stunning texture and length. How Krankl was able to combine almost unbridled power with such extraordinary purity, definition and elegance is mind-boggling. This wine should drink well for at least 15+ years. VM 97 (8/2011): The 2007 Grenache Dangerous Birds, from the Eleven Confessions Vineyard, is a big, huge wine loaded with dark cherries, plums, licorice and smoke, all of which come together in a sensual, captivating wine of the highest level. This shows gorgeous inner perfume and fabulous overall balance. The silkiest of tannins frame the long finish. If forced to choose, I have a slight preference for the 2008 among the Estate Grenaches, but both wines are beautiful. Dangerous Birds is 88% Grenache, 10% Syrah and 2% Viognier. A portion of the Grenache (36% of the total blend) was fermented with whole clusters. The wine spent 34 months in oak and was bottled in August 2010.IWC 94+ (11/2010): (includes 10% syrah and 2% viognier) Inky ruby. High-pitched aromas of raspberry, cherry pit, allspice and clove, with a slow-building smoky quality. Powerful but light on its feet, offering sweet red fruit flavors and notes of licorice and rose pastille. More clenched than the Pictures today, with impressive latent power and a tangy, mineral-driven finish.WS 94 (3/2012): A rich, graceful mix of dark berry, charcoal, subtle cedar and spice notes joins shades of dried berry. This is medium- to full-bodied and elegantly styled, ending with a pleasing lift. Drink now through 2020. 172 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 97 (8/2014): The 2011 Grenache Dark Blossom is probably the best Grenache-based blend in the vintage. A blend of 75% Grenache, 12.5% Syrah, 11.5% Mourvedre and a splash of Roussanne (fermented with 11% whole clusters), it has a perfumed, complex style, with notions of black raspberry, cassis, dried flowers, white pepper and licorice giving way to a full-bodied, layered and seamless mouthfeel. There’s no shortage of fruit here, and while it’s hard to resist now, it has enough tannin to warrant short-term cellaring. It should knock it out of the park through 2029. VM 97 (7/2014): The 2011 Grenache Dark Blossom emerges from the glass with darker tonalities of fruit and firmer tannin compared to the 2012. Vivid, complex and nuanced, the 2011 is flat-out stunning today. Grilled herbs, smoke, sage, mint and black cherries linger on the explosive, structured finish. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 97 (8/2014): The 2011 Grenache Dark Blossom is probably the best Grenache-based blend in the vintage. A blend of 75% Grenache, 12.5% Syrah, 11.5% Mourvedre and a splash of Roussanne (fermented with 11% whole clusters), it has a perfumed, complex style, with notions of black raspberry, cassis, dried flowers, white pepper and licorice giving way to a full-bodied, layered and seamless mouthfeel. There’s no shortage of fruit here, and while it’s hard to resist now, it has enough tannin to warrant short-term cellaring. It should knock it out of the park through 2029. VM 97 (7/2014): The 2011 Grenache Dark Blossom emerges from the glass with darker tonalities of fruit and firmer tannin compared to the 2012. Vivid, complex and nuanced, the 2011 is flat-out stunning today. Grilled herbs, smoke, sage, mint and black cherries linger on the explosive, structured finish. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 96 (8/2010): The days of the Mr. K wines are gone forever with the tragically premature death of Austrian Alois Kracher, who had partnered with Manfred Krankl in this intriguing homage to sweet nectars. Krankl continues on his own, and in Spring, 2011, he will release the 2008 Jinete Bajo Roussanne Vin de Paille, which is named after his wife's favorite horse. Made from 100% estate fruit, with a finished alcohol level of 11.8%, a whopping 240 grams per liter of residual sugar, and 8.7 grams of acidity, this is a pure nectar of honeyed marmalade, waxy, syrupy honeysuckle, exotic creme brulee, and citrus. The remarkable acidity cuts through the extraordinary sweetness, so the impression is fresh and vibrant. Krankl has pulled off a marvelous balancing act with this cuvee. How long will it last? I have no idea - maybe 50-100 years, but given the fact there are only 235 cases of half bottles, most of it will be consumed before 2020.VM 95 (12/2010): Deep gold. A highly aromatic, pungent bouquet of orange marmalade, apricot nectar and yellow plum, with exotic honey and spice notes. Lush and creamy in texture, with deeply concentrated, sweet pit and tropical fruit flavors and a strong note of candied citrus. There's surprising energy and lift to the finish, which leaves juicy peach and orange notes behind. I'd serve this as a dessert, by itself. This clocks in at 11.8% alcohol, with 240 g/l of residual sugar.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 98+ (8/2010): The recently released 2007 Syrah Labels (89% Syrah, 7% Grenache, and 4% Viognier) comes from the 11 Confessions Estate Vineyard (57%), a small amount from the home estate vineyard in Oak View called Cumulus, and the rest from purchased fruit grown in the White Hawk Vineyard in Los Alamos and the Bien Nacido Vineyard in Santa Maria. A sensational effort, it is performing even better out of bottle than it did from barrel. An opaque purple color is accompanied by beautiful notes of charcoal, acacia flowers, blueberries, blackberries, graphite, and subtle smoke. With great fruit, tremendous texture, and full-bodied power, it is locked and loaded. This cuvee should provide great drinking in addition to some provocative discussions over the next 10-15 years. VM 94 (11/2010): (includes 7% grenache and 4% viognier) Opaque purple. Sexy, expansive aromas of blackberry, kirsch, potpourri, sandalwood and black pepper. Sweet and rich, but juicy, with superb floral lift to the flavors of bitter cherry, dark berries and fruity pepper. A real essence of syrah: this is all dark berries, flowers and spice, but no game, with plenty of fruit to support the oak (64% new) element. Harmonious, ripe acidity and velvety tannins give shape to a long, sweet finish. Josh Raynolds. WS 92 (6/2010): Fresh, intense, firm and vibrant, with a touch of suppleness midpalate, focused on spice, pepper, sour blackberry and wild berry, holding its focus and ending with drying tannins. Drink now through 2016. 1,421 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 98+ (8/2010): The recently released 2007 Syrah Labels (89% Syrah, 7% Grenache, and 4% Viognier) comes from the 11 Confessions Estate Vineyard (57%), a small amount from the home estate vineyard in Oak View called Cumulus, and the rest from purchased fruit grown in the White Hawk Vineyard in Los Alamos and the Bien Nacido Vineyard in Santa Maria. A sensational effort, it is performing even better out of bottle than it did from barrel. An opaque purple color is accompanied by beautiful notes of charcoal, acacia flowers, blueberries, blackberries, graphite, and subtle smoke. With great fruit, tremendous texture, and full-bodied power, it is locked and loaded. This cuvee should provide great drinking in addition to some provocative discussions over the next 10-15 years. VM 94 (11/2010): (includes 7% grenache and 4% viognier) Opaque purple. Sexy, expansive aromas of blackberry, kirsch, potpourri, sandalwood and black pepper. Sweet and rich, but juicy, with superb floral lift to the flavors of bitter cherry, dark berries and fruity pepper. A real essence of syrah: this is all dark berries, flowers and spice, but no game, with plenty of fruit to support the oak (64% new) element. Harmonious, ripe acidity and velvety tannins give shape to a long, sweet finish. Josh Raynolds. WS 92 (6/2010): Fresh, intense, firm and vibrant, with a touch of suppleness midpalate, focused on spice, pepper, sour blackberry and wild berry, holding its focus and ending with drying tannins. Drink now through 2016. 1,421 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 98+ (8/2010): The recently released 2007 Syrah Labels (89% Syrah, 7% Grenache, and 4% Viognier) comes from the 11 Confessions Estate Vineyard (57%), a small amount from the home estate vineyard in Oak View called Cumulus, and the rest from purchased fruit grown in the White Hawk Vineyard in Los Alamos and the Bien Nacido Vineyard in Santa Maria. A sensational effort, it is performing even better out of bottle than it did from barrel. An opaque purple color is accompanied by beautiful notes of charcoal, acacia flowers, blueberries, blackberries, graphite, and subtle smoke. With great fruit, tremendous texture, and full-bodied power, it is locked and loaded. This cuvee should provide great drinking in addition to some provocative discussions over the next 10-15 years. VM 94 (11/2010): (includes 7% grenache and 4% viognier) Opaque purple. Sexy, expansive aromas of blackberry, kirsch, potpourri, sandalwood and black pepper. Sweet and rich, but juicy, with superb floral lift to the flavors of bitter cherry, dark berries and fruity pepper. A real essence of syrah: this is all dark berries, flowers and spice, but no game, with plenty of fruit to support the oak (64% new) element. Harmonious, ripe acidity and velvety tannins give shape to a long, sweet finish. Josh Raynolds. WS 92 (6/2010): Fresh, intense, firm and vibrant, with a touch of suppleness midpalate, focused on spice, pepper, sour blackberry and wild berry, holding its focus and ending with drying tannins. Drink now through 2016. 1,421 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 97 (8/2016): Starting with the whites and a rich, thrillingly concentrated and unctuous wine from Manfred, the 2014 White Wine Lightmotif is made from 47% Roussanne, 21% Chardonnay, 14% Petite Manseng, 11% Viognier and 7% Marsanne that spent 19 months in a combination of concrete eggs, new French oak, neutral barrels and a tiny portion in stainless steel. Coming from close to equal parts Eleven Confessions, Cumulus and Bien Nacido vineyards, this beauty sports a medium gold color to go with a rich, layered profile that carries tons of ripe peach, honeycomb, pineapple, flowers and citrus. Pure, elegant and silky on the palate, with full-bodied richness, it never puts a foot wrong, is ethereally textured and has a great finish. Drink it anytime over the coming decade. VM 94 (9/2016): The 2014 White Wine Lightmotif is striking. Gorgeous, captivating aromatics meld into yellow orchard fruit, peach, mint and apricot jam. Rich, layered and voluptuous, but with notable energy, the 2014 exudes freshness. With air, the 2014 can be enjoyed young, but these wines have a way of developing beautifully in bottle. This is one of the more restrained young whites I have tasted at Sine Qua Non. The blend is 47% Roussanne, 21% Chardonnay, 14% Petite Manseng, 11% Viognier and 7% Marsanne, from 41% Eleven Confessions, 30% Cumulus and 29% Bien Nacido.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 98 (5/2016): The 2013 Syrah Male is an elegant, seamless Syrah that exudes class in its creme de cassis, black raspberry, smoked meats, graphite and asphalt-laced bouquet. This is a blend of 80% Syrah, 7% Petite Sirah, 6% Mourvèdre, 3.5% Touriga National and 3.5% Viognier, fermented with 28% whole clusters and aged 25 months in 65% new French oak. It's full-bodied, beautifully layered, silky and seamless, with no hard edges and wonderful freshness in both the aromatics and palate. Give bottles 3-4 years and enjoy over the following 10-15.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 96 (8/2004): The 2002 Mr. K The Iceman (made from Gewurztraminer from the Babcock Vineyard) tastes like a wonderfully rich yet crisp beerenauslese with a sweet, honeyed personality, tremendous richness, great delineation, and an amazing finish. These wines look like motor oil, but they possess superb underlying acidity, freshness, and purity. The residual sugar is 272 grams per liter, and the finished alcohol is 12%, all with 7.6 grams per liter of acidity!http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 94 (6/2005): The 2002 Mr. K The Nobleman (321 grams per liter of residual sugar and 10.25 grams per liter of acidity) is made from 100% botrytised Chardonnay. Its medium gold color is followed by a wine with honeyed complexity, and huge body, sweetness, and thickness. This effort is never as complex or focused as its siblings, but it is still a phenomenal sweet wine that can stand on its own merits against any great sweet wine made in the world.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 95 (8/2009): The 2006 Mr. K. The Nobleman Chardonnay (200 grams of residual sugar per liter) reveals phenomenal fresh, lively acidity as well as wonderful honeyed peach, marmalade, tropical fruit, and creme brulee characteristics. It is a Trockenbeerenauslese-styled wine that is a fitting tribute to the effusive and much revered Alois Kracher. VM 94 (12/2009): (200 grams per liter residual sugar with 10.2 g/l (!) acidity) Bronze-gold color. Smoky pit fruit and orange marmalade aromas are complemented by spicecake and white pepper. Deep, sweet and creamy in texture, offering weighty pit fruit liqueur flavors and mounting spiciness. Clings to the palate with impressive sweetness but the overall impression is of spice and energy.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 96 (8/2003): This is an absolutely amazing wine, and must be tasted to be believed. The 2000 The Nobleman botrytis wine is 12.2% alcohol, 22.7% residual sugar, and 100% Viognier from the Alban Vineyard. It was harvested at 42o brix. Sadly, this wine can only be purchased via the winery’s mailing list.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 99 (2/2002): The 1998 Mr. K. Semillon Vin de Paille is a low alcohol (7.5%) effort whose grapes were pressed when they ranged between 57-59 brix, almost unheard of numbers. It was fermented on indigenous yeasts for 15 months, and then bottled.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 99 (8/2016): A wine that flirts with perfection, the 2012 Cumulus Vineyard #6 is an interesting blend of 38% Syrah, 37% Grenache, 17.4% Petite Sirah and the rest Mourvedre that saw 33 months in 54% new French oak. There’s a tiny 191 cases made, and it’s one of the most singular, exotic wines I’ve tasted. Spice, cedar, chocolate, exotic flowers and an assortment of dark fruits all emerge from this full-bodied, layered blend that hits the palate with serious richness and depth. Yet, like all truly great wines, it’s light, ethereal and never, ever heavy. There’s big structure here as well, so forget bottles for 3-4 years and enjoy over the following 15+ years. VM 98 (9/2016): The 2012 No. 6 - Cumulus Vineyard might very well be my favorite of Manfred and Elaine Krankl's 2012s, including naturally the wines of Sine Qua Non. This is the warmest site the Krankls work with and the need to harvest on the earlier side seems to also preserve a bit more verve than is often found in some of the other Sine Qua Non wines. A host of cherry jam, pomegranate, sweet spice, rose petal and mint open up effortlessly, all with striking energy that keeps the wine vibrant and wonderfully alive. The blend is 38% Syrah, 37 % Grenache, 17.4% Petite Sirah and 7.6% Mourvèdre, done with 36% whole clusters and aged in 54% new oak. Sold in cases of 3 bottles and 1 magnum at the price of $1,200.00 per case. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 99 (8/2016): A wine that flirts with perfection, the 2012 Cumulus Vineyard #6 is an interesting blend of 38% Syrah, 37% Grenache, 17.4% Petite Sirah and the rest Mourvedre that saw 33 months in 54% new French oak. There’s a tiny 191 cases made, and it’s one of the most singular, exotic wines I’ve tasted. Spice, cedar, chocolate, exotic flowers and an assortment of dark fruits all emerge from this full-bodied, layered blend that hits the palate with serious richness and depth. Yet, like all truly great wines, it’s light, ethereal and never, ever heavy. There’s big structure here as well, so forget bottles for 3-4 years and enjoy over the following 15+ years. VM 98 (9/2016): The 2012 No. 6 - Cumulus Vineyard might very well be my favorite of Manfred and Elaine Krankl's 2012s, including naturally the wines of Sine Qua Non. This is the warmest site the Krankls work with and the need to harvest on the earlier side seems to also preserve a bit more verve than is often found in some of the other Sine Qua Non wines. A host of cherry jam, pomegranate, sweet spice, rose petal and mint open up effortlessly, all with striking energy that keeps the wine vibrant and wonderfully alive. The blend is 38% Syrah, 37 % Grenache, 17.4% Petite Sirah and 7.6% Mourvèdre, done with 36% whole clusters and aged in 54% new oak. Sold in cases of 3 bottles and 1 magnum at the price of $1,200.00 per case. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 97 (8/2015): While I reviewed the 2011 Cumulus Vineyard #5 last year, I was thrilled to be able to retaste it this go around. Showing consistently, with tons of savory, meaty characteristics in its currants, cassis, ground herbs and wood smoke-like aromas and flavors, this is a full-bodied, gorgeously concentrated 2011 that shows the freshness and purity of the vintage, yet backs it up with plenty of texture and length. Give it a few years and enjoy bottles through 2032. VM 95 (8/2015): A dark, beguiling beauty, the 2011 Next of Kyn - No. 5 is just as compelling as it was last year. A host of blue/black-fleshed fruit, violet, spice, mint, licorice and chocolate nuances meld together effortlessly in the glass. The 2011 is going to need at least a few years to lose some of its baby fat and develop more aromatic nuance but it is compelling, even today. The No. 5 is 42% Syrah, 32% Grenache, 16% Mourvèdre, 7% Petite Sirah and 3% Touriga Nacional, done with 8% whole clusters. Next of Kyn is sold as a box set of three bottles and one magnum. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 97 (8/2015): While I reviewed the 2011 Cumulus Vineyard #5 last year, I was thrilled to be able to retaste it this go around. Showing consistently, with tons of savory, meaty characteristics in its currants, cassis, ground herbs and wood smoke-like aromas and flavors, this is a full-bodied, gorgeously concentrated 2011 that shows the freshness and purity of the vintage, yet backs it up with plenty of texture and length. Give it a few years and enjoy bottles through 2032. VM 95 (8/2015): A dark, beguiling beauty, the 2011 Next of Kyn - No. 5 is just as compelling as it was last year. A host of blue/black-fleshed fruit, violet, spice, mint, licorice and chocolate nuances meld together effortlessly in the glass. The 2011 is going to need at least a few years to lose some of its baby fat and develop more aromatic nuance but it is compelling, even today. The No. 5 is 42% Syrah, 32% Grenache, 16% Mourvèdre, 7% Petite Sirah and 3% Touriga Nacional, done with 8% whole clusters. Next of Kyn is sold as a box set of three bottles and one magnum. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 97 (8/2015): While I reviewed the 2011 Cumulus Vineyard #5 last year, I was thrilled to be able to retaste it this go around. Showing consistently, with tons of savory, meaty characteristics in its currants, cassis, ground herbs and wood smoke-like aromas and flavors, this is a full-bodied, gorgeously concentrated 2011 that shows the freshness and purity of the vintage, yet backs it up with plenty of texture and length. Give it a few years and enjoy bottles through 2032. VM 95 (8/2015): A dark, beguiling beauty, the 2011 Next of Kyn - No. 5 is just as compelling as it was last year. A host of blue/black-fleshed fruit, violet, spice, mint, licorice and chocolate nuances meld together effortlessly in the glass. The 2011 is going to need at least a few years to lose some of its baby fat and develop more aromatic nuance but it is compelling, even today. The No. 5 is 42% Syrah, 32% Grenache, 16% Mourvèdre, 7% Petite Sirah and 3% Touriga Nacional, done with 8% whole clusters. Next of Kyn is sold as a box set of three bottles and one magnum. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 99 (8/2016): A wine that flirts with perfection, the 2012 Cumulus Vineyard #6 is an interesting blend of 38% Syrah, 37% Grenache, 17.4% Petite Sirah and the rest Mourvedre that saw 33 months in 54% new French oak. There’s a tiny 191 cases made, and it’s one of the most singular, exotic wines I’ve tasted. Spice, cedar, chocolate, exotic flowers and an assortment of dark fruits all emerge from this full-bodied, layered blend that hits the palate with serious richness and depth. Yet, like all truly great wines, it’s light, ethereal and never, ever heavy. There’s big structure here as well, so forget bottles for 3-4 years and enjoy over the following 15+ years. ($1200 per 3 bottles/1 magnum). VM 97+ (8/2015): The 2012 Next of Kyn - No. 6 is a step up from the 2011. Among other things, the higher level of Grenache is quite evident in a flavor profile that is brighter and distinctly more red-toned than has been the case with prior vintages. Sweet raspberry, pomegranate and spice are all pushed forward in a powerful, super-expressive wine loaded with energy, nuance and the potential to develop beautifully for years to come. The blend is 38% Syrah, 37% Grenache, 17% Petite Sirah and 7% Mourvèdre, done with 36% whole clusters, also a big increase over 2011. Next of Kyn is sold as a box set of three bottles and one magnum. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 97 (8/2015): While I reviewed the 2011 Cumulus Vineyard #5 last year, I was thrilled to be able to retaste it this go around. Showing consistently, with tons of savory, meaty characteristics in its currants, cassis, ground herbs and wood smoke-like aromas and flavors, this is a full-bodied, gorgeously concentrated 2011 that shows the freshness and purity of the vintage, yet backs it up with plenty of texture and length. Give it a few years and enjoy bottles through 2032. VM 95 (8/2015): A dark, beguiling beauty, the 2011 Next of Kyn - No. 5 is just as compelling as it was last year. A host of blue/black-fleshed fruit, violet, spice, mint, licorice and chocolate nuances meld together effortlessly in the glass. The 2011 is going to need at least a few years to lose some of its baby fat and develop more aromatic nuance but it is compelling, even today. The No. 5 is 42% Syrah, 32% Grenache, 16% Mourvèdre, 7% Petite Sirah and 3% Touriga Nacional, done with 8% whole clusters. Next of Kyn is sold as a box set of three bottles and one magnum. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 98-100 (8/2016): Possessing an uncommon purity and freshness, the 2013 Cumulus Vineyard #7 is 45% Syrah, 29% Grenache, 15% Petite Sirah and the rest Mourvedre, Touriga Nacionale and Roussanne. It has a perfumed, floral character as well as killer notes of cassis, exotic spice and violets, full-bodied density and depth, and building, polished tannin that emerge on the finish. It’s as seamless and pure as they come, and while I’m sure I’d crack a bottle the night I received it, it will benefit from short term cellaring. VM 98+ (9/2016): The 2013 No. 7 - Cumulus Vineyard is remarkably vivid for such a big, powerful wine. Stylistically, the 2013 is more tannic and virile than the 2012 tasted alongside it, along with that extra kick of energy that is such a signature of the vintage. The flavors are dark, bold and intense throughout, with plenty of dark cherry, plum, violet, graphite, new leather and licorice overtones. Still an infant, the 2013 should come into its own with another few years in bottle. Even today, it is superb. The blend is 45% Syrah, 29% Grenache, 15% Petite Sirah, 5 % Mourvèdre, 4.5% Touriga Nacional and 1.5% Roussanne, done with 58% of whole clusters were used, the rest was destemmed and aged in 44% new oak barrels. Sold in cases of 3 bottles and 1 magnum. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 94-96 (8/2009): The debut release from the new home vineyard on the steep hillsides of Ventura is the 2007 Next of Kyn Syrah Cumulus Vineyard. Composed of 96.5% Syrah and 3.5% Viognier, it sees only 20% new oak in its upbringing. From a six-acre parcel of vines, it may be sold under a different label than Sine Qua Non. Krankl had not made up his mind at the time of writing. In any event, it is a very impressive debut release that should be bottled after 25 months of barrel aging. Sweet notes of creme de cassis, camphor, acacia flowers, licorice, pepper, and meat are followed by a wine with fabulous intensity and purity, a full-bodied texture, and a long finish. Unfortunately, only 125 cases were produced ... from six acres!.IWC 93-95 (12/2009): (includes 3.5% viognier; this is sourced entirely from Krankl's Cumulus vineyard) Glass-staining purple. Exotically perfumed scents of raspberry and mulberry, violet oil, Tellicherry pepper and incense. Deeply concentrated and sweet but energetic, offering luscious dark fruit flavors and a refreshing note of bitter cherry skin. Fine-grained tannins add support to the broad, sweet, penetrating finish. Extremely primary right now, this will be interesting to follow into bottle.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 96 (8/2012): The 2008 Syrah Cumulus Vineyard is impeccably silky and refined. Dark fruit, camphor, licorice, smoke and mocha flesh out in this gorgeous, delineated wine. The 2008 impresses for its length and persistence. Today, the 2008 is more refined and elegant than when I tasted it a year ago. The 2008 is 82% Syrah, 13.5% Grenache and 4.5% Roussanne (all destemmed) that spent approximately 32 months in French oak. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2023. ($1,100.00 per box of 3 bottles and 1 magnum)These are two gorgeous wines from Next of Kyn’s proprietors, Manfred and Elaine Krankl. The Next of Kyn wines are made exclusively from the Cumulus Vineyard, which surrounds the Krankls’ newly built winery in Oak View. Readers might want to take a look at the Sine Quan Non reviews for Manfred Krankl’s views on current and upcoming vintages.IWC 94 (10/2011): (includes 13.5% grenache and 4.5% roussanne): Glass-staining purple. Hypnotic, intensely perfumed scents of fresh red and dark berries, fruitcake, cola and patchouli, with sexy floral and Indian spices notes gaining power with air. Lush, creamy and expansive, boasting superb precision to its raspberry and mulberry flavors. Closes on a sweet floral pastille note, with excellent focus and sweet persistence.WS 94 (5/2012): A dark, rich, gutsy effort, with firm, muscular notes of dark berry, smoked meat, soy, hot brick, pepper and bacon fat. All in all, this is a striking panoply of flavors beautifully proportioned, yet it is so dense and concentrated, it’s best to cellar and decant for sure. New from Manfred Krankl of Sine Qua Non. Syrah, Grenache and Roussanne. Best from 2013 through 2026.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 96+ (8/2012): A burst of black fruit, mocha, espresso and licorice hits the palate as the 2009 Syrah Next of Kyn shows off its inimitable personality. There is a pure voluptuousness in the 2009 that is striking. The immense purity of the fruit gives the 2009 tons of elegance and character. At the same time, big, rich, silky tannins form a backbone that allows the wine to show its expressiveness and pedigree. The 2009 is shaping up to be a jewel of a wine. In 2009, the blend is 80% Syrah, 14% Grenache and 6% Roussanne, all destemmed. The wine spent 30 months in French oak. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2024.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 96+ (8/2012): A burst of black fruit, mocha, espresso and licorice hits the palate as the 2009 Syrah Next of Kyn shows off its inimitable personality. There is a pure voluptuousness in the 2009 that is striking. The immense purity of the fruit gives the 2009 tons of elegance and character. At the same time, big, rich, silky tannins form a backbone that allows the wine to show its expressiveness and pedigree. The 2009 is shaping up to be a jewel of a wine. In 2009, the blend is 80% Syrah, 14% Grenache and 6% Roussanne, all destemmed. The wine spent 30 months in French oak. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2024.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspVM 94 (11/2011): (48% roussanne, 34% chardonnay and 18% viognier): Vivid gold. Intense, floral-accented scents of orange zest, pit fruit and candied ginger. Powerful and broad but surprisingly energetic, offering sappy, palate-staining citrus marmalade and peach flavors lifted by tangy acidity. A suave honey note comes up with air and carries through the long, spicy finish.WA 93 (8/2011): The 2009 On the Lam is a blend of 48% Roussanne, 34% Chardonnay and 18% Viognier from the Eleven Confessions and Bien Nacido vineyards. Tangerine peel, white peaches, mango, lychee and passion fruit are some of the nuances that emerge from this beautifully layered white. Weekly lees stirring gives the wine much of its depth. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2015.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 97 (8/2015): Coming all from Manfred's Eleven Confessions Vineyard in the Sta. Rita Hills and a blend of 77% Grenache, 22% Syrah and 1% Viognier (fermented with 25% whole clusters), the 2011 Grenache Patine spent a full 33 months in almost all neutral oak, with just 11% being new. It offers perfumed and spice-laced notes of white pepper, black raspberry, blackberry and ground herbs that flow to a full-bodied, elegant, nicely concentrated 2011 that has nicely integrated acidity, no hard edges and a terrific finish. It's certainly one of the fresher, more elegant Grenaches from Manfred, yet it still has rocking levels of fruit. Give it 2-3 years of cellaring and enjoy bottles over the following decade. VM 97 (8/2015): The 2011 Grenache Patine has turned out beautifully. Dark red cherry, plum, mocha, spice and leather meld together in the glass as this savory, beautifully layered wine opens up. Herb, graphite, smoke, sage and tobacco add shades of nuance in a delineated Grenache that captures the best of this cool, late-ripening year. Patine is 77% Grenache, 22% Syra and 1% Viognier, all from Eleven Confessions, done with 25% whole clusters and aged for 33 months in French oak barrels, 11% new.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 98 (8/2015): A wine that needs to be forgotten in the cellar for 5-6 years, the 2011 Syrah Patine checks in as a blend of roughly 97% Syrah and the balance Roussanne and Viognier. It too comes all from the estate's Eleven Confessions Vineyard and saw 39 months in 63% new French oak. Backward, tight, concentrated and structured, with full-bodied richness and depth, it gives up Guigal La Landonne like aromas and flavors of graphite, sweet oak, smoked meats, pepper and black raspberry and cassis-like fruit. While it shows the vintage's cooler nature, it has a stacked mid-palate and will evolve gracefully for 15-20 years. VM 96 (8/2015): The 2011 Syrah Patine is deep, powerful and intense, with huge fruit and texture, especially within the context of the year. Mocha, plums, violets, bittersweet chocolate and dark spice meld into the deep, voluptuous finish. As good as the 2011 is, it could use another few years to fully meld together. The 2011 is 97% Syrah, 2% Roussanne and 1% Viognier, all from Eleven Confessions, done with 22% whole clusters and aged for 39 months in French oak barrels, 63% new.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 98 (8/2015): A wine that needs to be forgotten in the cellar for 5-6 years, the 2011 Syrah Patine checks in as a blend of roughly 97% Syrah and the balance Roussanne and Viognier. It too comes all from the estate's Eleven Confessions Vineyard and saw 39 months in 63% new French oak. Backward, tight, concentrated and structured, with full-bodied richness and depth, it gives up Guigal La Landonne like aromas and flavors of graphite, sweet oak, smoked meats, pepper and black raspberry and cassis-like fruit. While it shows the vintage's cooler nature, it has a stacked mid-palate and will evolve gracefully for 15-20 years. VM 96 (8/2015): The 2011 Syrah Patine is deep, powerful and intense, with huge fruit and texture, especially within the context of the year. Mocha, plums, violets, bittersweet chocolate and dark spice meld into the deep, voluptuous finish. As good as the 2011 is, it could use another few years to fully meld together. The 2011 is 97% Syrah, 2% Roussanne and 1% Viognier, all from Eleven Confessions, done with 22% whole clusters and aged for 39 months in French oak barrels, 63% new.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 97 (6/2014): Starting off the Syrah-based wines, the 2004 Poker Face (Syrah) is aging beautifully. A blend of 96% Syrah, 2.5% Mourvedre and 1.5% Viognier (from the Eleven Confessions, White Hawk, Alban, Bien Nacido, and Alta Mesa vineyards) that was aged in 80% new French oak, it offers up a perfumed, fresh bouquet of sweet blackberry liqueur, creme de cassis, spring flowers and licorice that gives way to a full-bodied, seamless, gorgeously textured feel on the palate. Rich and decadent, it has notable, yet beautifully integrated acidity and stays remarkably fresh, detailed and even elegant. It still needs a lengthy decant to shine, and will continue to thrill over the coming decade or so. VM 96 (8/2015): The 2004 Syrah Poker Face remains deep, inky and powerful, even at eleven years of age. A host of black cherry, chocolate, licorice and smoke meld together in this dark, voluptuous Syrah. As good as the 2004 is, it's also quite clear just how far Sine Qua Non has come since the Poker Face was made. The blend is 96% Syrah, with drops of Mourvèdre and Viognier. Vineyard sources are 33% Eleven Confessions, 27% White Hawk, 22% Alban, 16% Bien Nacido and 3% Alta Mesa. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 97 (6/2014): Starting off the Syrah-based wines, the 2004 Poker Face (Syrah) is aging beautifully. A blend of 96% Syrah, 2.5% Mourvedre and 1.5% Viognier (from the Eleven Confessions, White Hawk, Alban, Bien Nacido, and Alta Mesa vineyards) that was aged in 80% new French oak, it offers up a perfumed, fresh bouquet of sweet blackberry liqueur, creme de cassis, spring flowers and licorice that gives way to a full-bodied, seamless, gorgeously textured feel on the palate. Rich and decadent, it has notable, yet beautifully integrated acidity and stays remarkably fresh, detailed and even elegant. It still needs a lengthy decant to shine, and will continue to thrill over the coming decade or so. VM 96 (8/2015): The 2004 Syrah Poker Face remains deep, inky and powerful, even at eleven years of age. A host of black cherry, chocolate, licorice and smoke meld together in this dark, voluptuous Syrah. As good as the 2004 is, it's also quite clear just how far Sine Qua Non has come since the Poker Face was made. The blend is 96% Syrah, with drops of Mourvèdre and Viognier. Vineyard sources are 33% Eleven Confessions, 27% White Hawk, 22% Alban, 16% Bien Nacido and 3% Alta Mesa. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 100 (8/2016): A perfect wine any way you look at it, the 2012 Grenache Rattrapante comes all from the Eleven Confessions Vineyard in the Sta. Rita Hills and spent 33 months in 27% new French oak. My notes start - and end - with “Wow.” Giving up tons of black raspberries, peppery herbs, licorice, dried flowers and cured meats, it’s a massively concentrated, rich and layered Grenache that somehow manages to stay graceful, lively and fresh on the palate. There are roughly 800 cases of this elixir and any Grenache lover should do their best to latch onto a bottle (or two). It’s also worth noting that this cuvee saw 26% whole clusters, which is a small change from past vintages. VM 97 (9/2016): The 2012 Grenache Rattrapante, from Eleven Confessions, is deep, powerful and voluptuous, with a striking interplay of fruit, structure and overall intensity. Thus is another wine that is going to need time to fully come together. Hints of smoke, licorice, new leather, cherry jam and pomegranate meld into the huge, creamy finish. Dollops of Syrah and Petite Sirah round out the blend. The 2012 was done with about 26% whole clusters and aged for 33 months in French oak, around 27% new. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 96 (8/2009): The 2006 Raven Series Syrah, a blend of 93% Syrah, 5% Grenache, and 2% Viognier that spends just under two years in French oak. Offering a dense purple color, gorgeous fruit, and a sweet perfume of graphite, blackberries, blueberries, charcoal, licorice, tar, and new oak, it is a dense, full-bodied, well-endowed, beautifully layered, pure Syrah that should drink well for 10-15 years.RR 96 (12/2011): A brilliant Syrah, the 2006 Sine Qua Non Syrah Raven Series benefits greatly from a decant and boast awesome aromatics of smoked meats, bacon fat, sage, and pepper that are balanced by a deep, pure core of black berry and raspberry fruit. Full-bodied on the palate, with a substantial, yet seamless, elegant texture, gorgeous integration, and no shortage of length on the finish, this youthful red showed even better on the second day where it gained a ever so slight northern Rhone similarity. This beauty should continue to drink fantastically for another 12-15 years. WS 95 (6/2009): A delightful mix of big aromas and a gentler texture, this shows rich, bold blackberry jam, pepper, mineral and sage notes that are elegant and supple on the palate, ending with a chicory edge. Drink now through 2014. From California.VM 94 (12/2009): ( includes 5% grenache and 2% viognier) Opaque purple. Succulent, mineral-driven dark berry and kirsch, with strong graphite, iron and black olive notes arriving with air. Vibrant mineral qualities add urgency to deep, sweet black and blue fruit flavors and lend an incisive character to the long, spicy finish. Picked up silky tannins with air but not at the expense of the suave fruit.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 96 (8/2009): The 2006 Raven Series Syrah, a blend of 93% Syrah, 5% Grenache, and 2% Viognier that spends just under two years in French oak. Offering a dense purple color, gorgeous fruit, and a sweet perfume of graphite, blackberries, blueberries, charcoal, licorice, tar, and new oak, it is a dense, full-bodied, well-endowed, beautifully layered, pure Syrah that should drink well for 10-15 years. WS 95 (6/2009): A delightful mix of big aromas and a gentler texture, this shows rich, bold blackberry jam, pepper, mineral and sage notes that are elegant and supple on the palate, ending with a chicory edge. Drink now through 2014. From California. VM 94 (12/2009): ( includes 5% grenache and 2% viognier) Opaque purple. Succulent, mineral-driven dark berry and kirsch, with strong graphite, iron and black olive notes arriving with air. Vibrant mineral qualities add urgency to deep, sweet black and blue fruit flavors and lend an incisive character to the long, spicy finish. Picked up silky tannins with air but not at the expense of the suave fruit.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 97 (8/2015): Scheduled to be released in November 2015, the 2013 White Wine Resiste is a sensational white from California that's made from 45% Roussanne, 26% Chardonnay, 14% Petite Manseng, 10% Viognier and 5% Marsanne that spent 19 months in 46% new French oak and the balance in concrete eggs and used barrels. Possessing rock-star levels of richness and texture on the palate, with full-bodied depth and power that never seems heavy or cumbersome, it has classic SQN white notes of buttered golden fruits, honeysuckle, honeycomb, toast and white flowers. Unctuous, full-flavored and still lively and fresh, it needs 2-3 years of cellaring and will keep for two decades. VM 92 (8/2015): A rich, voluptuous white, the 2013 White Wine Résisté is built on pure texture. Honey, apricot pit, succulent peaches and mint all race from the glass. The high acidity of the Petite Manseng adds a kick of brightness on the finish. The blend is 45% Roussanne, 26% Chardonnay, 14% Petite Manseng, 10% Viognier and 5% Marsanne; 40% from Eleven Confessions, 29% Cumulus and 31% Bien Nacido.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 97 (8/2015): Starting with the Grenache release, the 2012 Grenache Stein is a blend of 76% Grenache, 16% Syrah and 8% Mourvedre, aged in 14% new French oak (15% was in concrete), that comes mostly from the estate's Eleven Confessions Vineyard in the Sta. Rita Hills, but also includes grapes from the Cumulus, Third Twin (Syrah) and Bien Nacido vineyards. Checking in at 15.7% alcohol, it's no lightweight, yet it has considerable elegance in its sweet blackcurrants, white pepper, licorice, baking spices and hints of violet-like aromas and flavors. Possessing the hallmark purity of the estate, it's full-bodied, concentrated, rich and textured, with sweet tannin barely noticeable on the finish. I don't think it's one of the greatest Grenaches from the estate, yet it's still an incredible effort that will benefit from short-term cellaring and have 15-20 years or more of overall longevity. VM 95-97 (8/2015): The 2012 Grenache Stein is incredibly refined, silky and pure, with bright red and blue-hued fruits. Today, the flavors are primary, so readers will have to be patient get the full breadth of aromas, flavors and textures. The Stein is a decidedly feminine, gracious Grenache that impresses for its textural beauty and nuance. I imagine it will provide a long and broad drinking window of pure pleasure over the next 15-20 years. This is an absolutely gorgeous wine from Sine Qua Non. The final blend is 76% Grenache, 16% Syrah and 8% Mourvèdre; 53% from Eleven Confessions, 29% from Cumulus, 9% The Third Twin and 9% Bien Nacido. The 2012 was done with 29% whole clusters and will spend around 22 months in French oak (14%) prior to its scheduled bottling this summer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 98 (8/2015): A step up from the Grenache, the blockbuster-styled 2012 Syrah Stock checks in as a blend of 84% Syrah, 7% Grenache, 6% Petit Sirah, and the rest Viognier and Mourvedre, that was fermented with 32% whole clusters and aged in just over half new French oak. It offers stunning notes of blackcurrants, cassis, smoked meats, ground pepper and wild herbs to go with a full-bodied, unctuous, layered, yet always graceful and elegant feel on the palate. Nicely structured, with perfect overall balance, it still has the open-knit character of the vintage, yet has plenty of underlying structure, which at the moment is slightly hidden by the wine's lavish fruit. It will be better in 2-3 years, and have two decades of overall longevity.VM96+ (8/2015): The 2012 Syrah Stock has come together beautifully since I last tasted it a year ago. In particular, the Stock seems to have gained a measure of focus and precision I did not see back then. The inclusion of 32% whole clusters is felt in the wine's floral, savory aromatics and overall sense of freshness. The spherical, creamy finish alone is simply stunning. This is a fabulous showing. The 2012 is 84% Syrah, 7% Grenache, 6% Petite Sirah, 1% Mourvèdre and 2% Viognier, done with 32% whole clusters. The wine spent about 21 months in French oak, 52% new. Vineyard sources are 47% Eleven Confessions, 27% Cumulus, 17% Third Twin and 9% White Hawk.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 100 (8/2014): The current release of the estate vineyard (a.k.a. the extended barrel-aged cuvee), the 2010 Grenache Stockholm Syndrome is an incredible effort that I couldn’t find a fault with. A blend of 75% Grenache, 22% Syrah, 2% Roussanne and 1% Viognier, all from the Eleven Confession Vineyard, it spent just under 30 months in 22% new and 78% used French oak prior to bottling. Locked and loaded, it knocks it out of the park with its cassis, licorice, smoked duck, spice-box and exotic herb-styled bouquet. The palate follows suit and while it has the expected depth and richness of the estate, it’s seamless, elegant and lively, with perfect balance, ultra-fine tannin and a finish that just won’t quit. It doesn’t get any better and count yourself lucky if you can latch onto a couple of these. It will thrill for 15-20 years. VM 96 (7/2014): The 2010 Grenache Stockholm Syndrome has an explosive energy to it that takes hold of the senses and never lets up. A distinctly dark side of Grenache comes through in an intense, opulent, full-throttle wine endowed with superb intensity and tons of fruit. Hints of over ripeness appear, especially on the finish, but that isn't enough to detract from the pure pleasure the 2010 delivers.IWC 94 (12/2013): (made from fruit grown in the Krankl's Eleven Confessions vineyard; 75% grenache, 22% syrah, 2% viognier and 1% roussanne; 15.7% alcohol): Brilliant ruby. Vibrant aromas of fresh blueberry, smoky Indian spices and minerals, with a sexy floral overtone. Then rich and pliant in the mouth, with sappy blue fruit and floral pastille flavors that come off surprisingly lithe for the wine's power. Finishes spicy and very long, with fine-grained tannins fading into the wine's plush fruit.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 100 (8/2014): The current release of the estate vineyard (a.k.a. the extended barrel-aged cuvee), the 2010 Grenache Stockholm Syndrome is an incredible effort that I couldn’t find a fault with. A blend of 75% Grenache, 22% Syrah, 2% Roussanne and 1% Viognier, all from the Eleven Confession Vineyard, it spent just under 30 months in 22% new and 78% used French oak prior to bottling. Locked and loaded, it knocks it out of the park with its cassis, licorice, smoked duck, spice-box and exotic herb-styled bouquet. The palate follows suit and while it has the expected depth and richness of the estate, it’s seamless, elegant and lively, with perfect balance, ultra-fine tannin and a finish that just won’t quit. It doesn’t get any better and count yourself lucky if you can latch onto a couple of these. It will thrill for 15-20 years. VM 96 (7/2014): The 2010 Grenache Stockholm Syndrome has an explosive energy to it that takes hold of the senses and never lets up. A distinctly dark side of Grenache comes through in an intense, opulent, full-throttle wine endowed with superb intensity and tons of fruit. Hints of over ripeness appear, especially on the finish, but that isn't enough to detract from the pure pleasure the 2010 delivers.IWC 94 (12/2013): (made from fruit grown in the Krankl's Eleven Confessions vineyard; 75% grenache, 22% syrah, 2% viognier and 1% roussanne; 15.7% alcohol): Brilliant ruby. Vibrant aromas of fresh blueberry, smoky Indian spices and minerals, with a sexy floral overtone. Then rich and pliant in the mouth, with sappy blue fruit and floral pastille flavors that come off surprisingly lithe for the wine's power. Finishes spicy and very long, with fine-grained tannins fading into the wine's plush fruit.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 95 (2/2002): Krankl's 1999 Tarantella is one of the finest white wines he has made. It possesses outstanding underlying acidity, a terrific, citrusy, honeyed perfume (flower, mango, and tangerine aromas dominate) that roars from the glass, full body, and brilliant balance. Given past examples of this blend of Roussanne, Viognier, and Chardonnay, the 1999 should age nicely for 7-8 years. VM 92 (12/2001): Slightly hazy pale gold color. Captivating, soil-inflected, but rather restrained nose combines gunflint, nuts, smoke and stone. Then wonderfully aromatic, rich and vibrant in the mouth, with intense yellow fruits and musky, leesy and mineral nuances. Thick but utterly succulent thanks to lively, perfectly integrated acids. Long, palate-saturating finish. Potentially Manfred Krankl's best dry white wine since his 1995 The Bride.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspVM 92 (12/2002): Slightly reduced but flamboyant aromas of smoke, gunpowder, oatmeal, spices and dried fruits. Then very rich but uncompromisingly dry, with terrific fruit intensity and brisk but harmonious acidity. Very dense yet light on its feet; hides its alcohol but not its power. Mounting yellow fruit flavors really stain the palate on the back end. Has length and flavor authority rare for California white wine.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 97 (8/2012): Sine Qua Non’s 2008 Grenache Estate The Duel boasts extraordinary richness, power and sheer depth. Tobacco, leather, mint and spices are woven together in this large-scaled Grenache. There is plenty of intensity here, but the 2008 has just a touch less aromatic definition than the very finest wines at Sine Qua Non. I imagine some of that may be the result of extended aging in oak. The 2008 is 82% Grenache, 14% Syrah, 2% Viognier and 1% Roussanne, all from the Eleven Confessions Vineyard in Santa Rita Hills. A portion of the Grenache was fermented using whole clusters. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2023. VM 94-96 (10/2011): (includes 17% syrah, 2% viognier and 1% roussanne; all estate fruit, from the Krankls' Eleven Confessions vineyard): Glass-staining purple. Deeply pitched black and blue fruit aromas are complemented by mocha, potpourri and musky herbs. Very rich but lively as well, with intense dark berry compote, cherry-cola and spicecake flavors that show no rough edges. A sexy note of candied flowers comes up with air and carries through an extremely long, sappy, spice-accented finish.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 99 (8/2013): A prodigious effort that possesses overflowing richness and depth, the 2008 Syrah The Duel (88% Syrah, 6% Grenache and 6% Viognier, all from the Eleven Confessions Vineyard) delivers an off-the-hook drinking experience with decadent cassis, blackberry, smoked meats, crushed flowers and hints of spice all soaring from the glass. A full-bodied, unctuous Syrah that stays fresh and elegant, with vibrant acidity, it needs a solid decant if drinking anytime soon and will see its 20th birthday in fine form. Drink now-2028.VM 96 (1/2015): The 2008 Syrah The Duel, from Manfred and Elaine Krankl’s Eleven Confessions Vineyard, is also impossibly young, with little in the way of flavor development. I typically enjoy the Sine Qua Non reds either upon release or around age ten, so I probably should have followed my own advice. The 2008 is beautiful, but it will clearly be even better in another few years’ time. This is one of the most reticent bottles of the 2008 I have tasted. Antonio Galloni.WS 94 (3/2013): Pure, rich and deeply flavored, centered around ripe, restrained plum and blueberry flavors, with touches of spice, cedar, tobacco and crushed rock. Ends with a subtle, detailed aftertaste. Drink now through 2021. 389 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 99 (8/2013): A prodigious effort that possesses overflowing richness and depth, the 2008 Syrah The Duel (88% Syrah, 6% Grenache and 6% Viognier, all from the Eleven Confessions Vineyard) delivers an off-the-hook drinking experience with decadent cassis, blackberry, smoked meats, crushed flowers and hints of spice all soaring from the glass. A full-bodied, unctuous Syrah that stays fresh and elegant, with vibrant acidity, it needs a solid decant if drinking anytime soon and will see its 20th birthday in fine form. Drink now-2028.VM 96 (1/2015): The 2008 Syrah The Duel, from Manfred and Elaine Krankl’s Eleven Confessions Vineyard, is also impossibly young, with little in the way of flavor development. I typically enjoy the Sine Qua Non reds either upon release or around age ten, so I probably should have followed my own advice. The 2008 is beautiful, but it will clearly be even better in another few years’ time. This is one of the most reticent bottles of the 2008 I have tasted. Antonio Galloni.WS 94 (3/2013): Pure, rich and deeply flavored, centered around ripe, restrained plum and blueberry flavors, with touches of spice, cedar, tobacco and crushed rock. Ends with a subtle, detailed aftertaste. Drink now through 2021. 389 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 98 (8/2011): 2008 The Line: This wine was just released in April of this year, and is a blend of 87.5% Grenache, 11% Syrah, and 1.5% Viognier, with 21% whole clusters used in the Grenache component. Seventy-eight percent of it came from the 11 Confessions Vineyard and the balance from Bien Nacido and the White Hawk. It is no measly wine at 15.5% alcohol, but it displays extraordinary berry fruit and kirsch notes intermixed with lavender and other floral components. Intense, full-bodied, voluptuously textured, and stunningly pure, with no real noticeable oak (21% new French oak was used, most of it the larger demi-muids), this beauty has put on weight and is showing additional complexity since I first tasted it. Anticipated maturity: now-2023. WS 95 (7/2011): Smooth, rich, complex and layered, offering juicy, racy red currant, raspberry and boysenberry notes, with shades of pepper and spice. Full-bodied, deep and focused, ending with a long, pure, elegant, engaging finish that keeps the fruit front and center. Drink now through 2020. 778 cases made. VM 94 (12/2010): ( includes 11% syrah and 1.5% viognier) Opaque ruby. An intensely perfumed bouquet displays aromas of black raspberry, Asian spices, rose oil and lavender, with a bright suggestion of white pepper. Juicy and penetrating red and dark fruit flavors reach every corner of the palate and show very impressive depth and clarity. Rich but energetic on the finish, which repeats the sweet berry and floral notes. Wild stuff and surprisingly approachable already.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 92 (8/2012): The 2010 White Wine The Monkey captures a nice stylistic middle ground between the richer, creamier style typical of the Sine Qua Non whites and the brighter minerality of years like 2011. Tangerine, mint, honeysuckle, truffles and honey wrap around the expansive, creamy finish. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2020.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 95 (8/2012): The 2009 Syrah The Thrill Of impresses for its poise and underlying energy. Dark fruit, spices, licorice and violets sit on a core of firm tannin as this powerful wine opens up in the glass. Today, The Thrill OfYcomes across as very, very young. The intensity of the fruit and the oak are dominant at present. In another few years the wine should be spectacular. The Thrill Of... is 90% Syrah, 6% Grenache and 4% Viognier, all destemmed and mostly from estate owned vineyards. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2024.VM 95 (12/2012): (includes 6% grenache and 4% viognier; 15.5% alcohol): Inky purple. A wild, heady bouquet evokes candied black and blue fruits, smoky Indian spices and cola. Lush, palate-staining dark fruit flavors show a suave blend of richness and vivacity, picking up floral pastille and licorice nuances with air. Shows superb energy on the finish, which features chewy tannins and a sexy violet pastille quality.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 97-100 (8/2014): The 2012 Petite Sirah The Writing on the Wall should be the greatest Petite Sirah to ever come out of California (or the world?). Made from 94% Petite Sirah and 6% Viognier and aged in 80% old hogsheads and 20% in new French oak, it’s bottled only in magnum and will be sold along with the new Sine Qua Non label art book. A massive, full-bodied effort that offers incredible depth and richness without ever seeming heavy or cumbersome, it offers up blockbuster-styled aromas and flavors of blackberry, cassis, crushed rocks, beef blood and licorice. It should age for decades.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 97 (8/2013): An extended barrel-aged release, the 2009 Syrah This Is Not An Exit is 100% from the Santa Rita Hills Eleven Confessions Vineyard and checks in as a blend of 80% Syrah, 12% Grenache, 7% Roussanne and 1% Viognier that saw 41.5 months in 65% new French oak. Slightly exotic, with notions of kirsch, flower oil, smoked meats, licorice and graphite, it hits the palate with full-bodied richness and depth, loads of fruit and a blockbuster finish. More approachable than the 2010 extended barrel age Syrah, this beauty will still have 15+ years of longevity. Drink now-2024. VM 95 (12/2013): (80% syrah, 12% grenache, 7% roussanne and 1% viognier; 15.6% alcohol and 65% new French oak): Opaque purple. Intensely perfumed scents of black raspberry, cherry preserves, potpourri and smoky minerals. Brisk, tightly wound dark berry and floral pastille flavors are underscored by intense minerality and show excellent clarity. Closes smooth, sweet and very long, with slow-building tannins and lingering florality. Josh Raynolds.WS 95 (3/2014): Offers exciting aromas of black licorice, ground coffee, anise, mocha and dark berry that are explosive on the palate. Deep, dense and persistent, with gripping tannins that give the flavors traction. Best from 2015 through 2029. 579 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 97 (8/2013): An extended barrel-aged release, the 2009 Syrah This Is Not An Exit is 100% from the Santa Rita Hills Eleven Confessions Vineyard and checks in as a blend of 80% Syrah, 12% Grenache, 7% Roussanne and 1% Viognier that saw 41.5 months in 65% new French oak. Slightly exotic, with notions of kirsch, flower oil, smoked meats, licorice and graphite, it hits the palate with full-bodied richness and depth, loads of fruit and a blockbuster finish. More approachable than the 2010 extended barrel age Syrah, this beauty will still have 15+ years of longevity. Drink now-2024. VM 95 (12/2013): (80% syrah, 12% grenache, 7% roussanne and 1% viognier; 15.6% alcohol and 65% new French oak): Opaque purple. Intensely perfumed scents of black raspberry, cherry preserves, potpourri and smoky minerals. Brisk, tightly wound dark berry and floral pastille flavors are underscored by intense minerality and show excellent clarity. Closes smooth, sweet and very long, with slow-building tannins and lingering florality. Josh Raynolds.WS 95 (3/2014): Offers exciting aromas of black licorice, ground coffee, anise, mocha and dark berry that are explosive on the palate. Deep, dense and persistent, with gripping tannins that give the flavors traction. Best from 2015 through 2029. 579 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 97 (8/2013): An extended barrel-aged release, the 2009 Syrah This Is Not An Exit is 100% from the Santa Rita Hills Eleven Confessions Vineyard and checks in as a blend of 80% Syrah, 12% Grenache, 7% Roussanne and 1% Viognier that saw 41.5 months in 65% new French oak. Slightly exotic, with notions of kirsch, flower oil, smoked meats, licorice and graphite, it hits the palate with full-bodied richness and depth, loads of fruit and a blockbuster finish. More approachable than the 2010 extended barrel age Syrah, this beauty will still have 15+ years of longevity. Drink now-2024. VM 95 (12/2013): (80% syrah, 12% grenache, 7% roussanne and 1% viognier; 15.6% alcohol and 65% new French oak): Opaque purple. Intensely perfumed scents of black raspberry, cherry preserves, potpourri and smoky minerals. Brisk, tightly wound dark berry and floral pastille flavors are underscored by intense minerality and show excellent clarity. Closes smooth, sweet and very long, with slow-building tannins and lingering florality. Josh Raynolds.WS 95 (3/2014): Offers exciting aromas of black licorice, ground coffee, anise, mocha and dark berry that are explosive on the palate. Deep, dense and persistent, with gripping tannins that give the flavors traction. Best from 2015 through 2029. 579 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 98 (8/2009): The 2006 To the Rescue Roussanne Vin de Paille has 290 grams of residual sugar per liter. Despite its aging in 100% new oak, there is not a hint of wood to be found in the aromas or flavors. This remarkable sweet white exhibits abundant aromas of orange marmalade, rose petals, honeysuckle, brown sugar, and spice. It looks like 10W40 motor oil, but its ample acidity provides uplift and vibrancy to its enormously endowed, sweet personality. Who knows how long it will last, but it definitely has 15-20 years of longevity, and it may surprise us all by living for 40-50 years.VM 93 (12/2009): (for 375 ml.; 290 g/l r.s.) Orange-gold. Rich, pungent aromas of peach, apricot, floral honey and orange peel, plus a strong note of candied fig. Weighty, palate-staining pit fruit and date flavors are complicated by notes of honey and brown spices. Becomes sweeter with air while maintaining vivacity and focus, no doubt thanks to the 9.7 grams of acidity. The finish clings tenaciously and repeats the floral and honey notes. WS 91 (6/2010): Extremely viscous, rich, ripe and unctuous, with intriguing fig, honeyed fruitcake, dried citrus peel and marmalade flavors that glide on the palate with enough acidity to keep this lush and not cloying. Drink now through 2016. 139 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 100 (8/2016): Lastly, the utterly perfect 2012 Syrah Touche reminds me of a great vintage of Guigal’s Cote Rotie La Landonne. A blend of 93% Syrah, 5% Petite Sirah and 2% Viognier, all from the Eleven Confessions Vineyard in the Sta. Rita Hills, it spent 40 months in 78% new French oak. Deep, concentrated, full-bodied and layered, with a multidimensional texture and to-die-for notes of camphor, cured meats, violets, smoke and assorted dark fruits, this beauty has fine, perfectly ripe tannin and blockbuster length. Give it 3-4 years and drink over the following two decades. VM 98 (9/2016): A quintessential Sine Qua Non wine, the 2012 Syrah Touché is off the charts. Rich, seamless and voluptuous, the 2012 exudes concentration and flamboyance. Red cherry jam, plum, spice, licorice, pomegranate and new leather flesh out in an effortless, radiant wine bursting at the seams with personality. The 2012 is 93% Syrah, 5% Petite Sirah and 2% Viognier, done with 36% whole clusters, all from Eleven Confessions. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 98 (6/2005): There is one barrel of the Sine Qua Non cuvee, the 2001 Vin de Paille Inamorata, which spent 42 months in oak, resulting in 350 grams per liter of residual sugar, and a whopping 12.8 grams per liter of acidity. Tasting notes are inadequate to describe this profound sweet 100% Roussanne. A medium amber color is accompanied by a honeyed perfume revealing scents of marmalade, espresso, maple syrup, and flowers. Unctuously-textured yet incredibly fresh and lively (because of high acidity), this phenomenal wine should age effortlessly. Amazingly, the alcohol is only 7.8%. The fruit was air-dried on straw mats for over a month prior to pressing. VM 94-95 (7/2005): (for 375 ml.; made from air-dried grapes from Alban Vineyard; 350 grams per liter of r.s., 12.8 grams of acidity and 7.8% alcohol) Deep orange-gold. Aromas of orange peel, clove, menthol and white raisin, with a whiff of Benedictine. Thick and spicy but less glyceral than the chardonnay owing to its huge acidity. And yet I find this less bright than the chardonnay. flavors dominated by the cherry/almond/marzipan family, with hints of honey, raisin, caramel and nuts. Finishes extremely long, with saline and white raisin hints. Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 95 (8/2004): The 2002 Proprietary White called Whisperin’ E is a concoction of 50% Roussanne, 31% Viognier, and 19% Chardonnay, most from the Alban Vineyard with a tiny dollop of Stolpman fruit. There are 524 cases of this light gold-colored 2002. A superb perfume of smoky hazelnuts intermixed with exotic lychee, honeysuckle, peach, and beeswax notes is followed by a full-bodied wine with a multilayered texture that pulls back in the finish to reveal surprising uplift, acidity, and lightness ... an amazing feat given a wine of this power, dimension, and intensity. It should drink well for another 5-7 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.aspWA 95 (8/2004): The 2002 Proprietary White called Whisperin’ E is a concoction of 50% Roussanne, 31% Viognier, and 19% Chardonnay, most from the Alban Vineyard with a tiny dollop of Stolpman fruit. There are 524 cases of this light gold-colored 2002. A superb perfume of smoky hazelnuts intermixed with exotic lychee, honeysuckle, peach, and beeswax notes is followed by a full-bodied wine with a multilayered texture that pulls back in the finish to reveal surprising uplift, acidity, and lightness ... an amazing feat given a wine of this power, dimension, and intensity. It should drink well for another 5-7 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SineQuaNon.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Sineann.aspWA 93 (6/2015): Of the three Sixto Chardonnay releases, the 2012 Chardonnay Frenchman Hills Vineyard comes from the highest elevation site and cool, north-facing slopes and broken basalt soils. Seeing a scant 17% new French oak, it has lively, crisp notes of green citrus, toasted bread and buttered apple to go with a medium to full-bodied, balanced, fresh, yet also rich style on the palate. One of the top Chardonnays coming out of Washington, it should drink nicely for at least 2-3 years. WS 93 (12/2015): Bright and vital, with passion fruit—accented pear and floral flavors, wrapped in a smooth blanket of creamy notes as the finish lingers effortlessly. Has presence and persistence. Drink now through 2020. 179 cases made. VM 92 (12/2014): (from 18-year-old vines planted to a Wente clone on a north slope at an altitude of 1,650 feet; aged in 15% new French oak, all puncheons): Bright greenish gold. Inviting aromas of apple, apricot, lime and butterscotch. Plush, velvety and sweet on the palate, boasting excellent fullness and breadth but with a limey edge giving shape to the mouth. This silky wine is long on personality. Finishes firm and long. Sixto is Charles Smith’s new Chardonnay project, with Brennon Leighton, who was responsible for many superb white wines during his years at Efesté, in charge of the winemaking. None of these wines were acidified, according to Leighton, as natural acidity levels were high. Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SIXTO.aspWA 93 (6/2015): The 2012 Chardonnay Moxee Vineyard comes from a site that lies at 1,400 feet in elevation and a mix of basalt and limestone soils. More exotic than the Frenchman Hills Chardonnay, with lots of chamomile, lemon, spice and toasty notes, it has lively acidity, plenty of texture and a clean, brilliantly focused finish. It's another terrific Chardonnay to enjoy over the coming couple of years. WS 93 (12/2015): Bright gold in color, with finesse to the spicy pear and citrus flavors, coming together seamlessly on the harmonious, persistent finish. Drink now through 2020. 257 cases made. VM 90 (12/2014): (from a Wente clone planted in 1979 at an altitude of 1,400 feet; this fruit previously went into Chateau Ste. Michelle’s sparkling wine program; aged for 15 months in 25% new French puncheons): Bright yellow-gold. Sexy, ripe stone fruits, ginger, hay and spices on the nose, plus a suggestion of camomile tea. Fat, sweet and deep if a bit aggressive with alcohol and closed today. This very broad wine showed increasing definition with air and really calls for a year or two of patience. My score may turn out to be overly conservative. Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SIXTO.aspWA 92 (12/2003): An impressive effort in a troublesome vintage, the 2000 Sloan (310 cases) is a sign of things to come from this budding superstar. An opaque blue/purple color is accompanied by beautiful aromas of smoky cassis, high quality cigar tobacco, melted licorice, and roasted espresso. This dense, full-bodied, rich 2000 exhibits a creamy texture, well-integrated tannin, and remarkable unctuosity, a characteristic found in few 2000s. Notes of chocolate emerge as the wine sits in the glass. Obvious tannin suggests 2-3 years of cellaring is warranted; it is capable of lasting 15-16 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Sloan.aspWA 96+ (12/2008): The 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon has an almost La Mission Haut-Brion-like, scorched earth nose intermixed with cassis, coffee, and subtle hints of chocolate and balsamic. The wine is rich, full-bodied, but with great elegance and palate presence, without being heavy. Every wine to date has displayed considerable tannin, but even more concentration and fruit, so it is not an issue of the wines drying out, but rather requiring some patience before the complexity, which is already showing promise, emerges and the wines soften. This is a brilliant 2005 that is certainly one of the top wines of the vintage but needs some time in the bottle. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2030+. VM 95 (6/2008): Good full medium ruby. Knockout nose combines superripe black raspberry, minerals, tobacco and brown spices. Then wonderfully sweet and lush in the mouth, with an almost liqueur-like ripeness to the flavors of cassis, tobacco, chocolate, coffee and loam. As dense and thick as this is, though, it's also quite suave and juicy. Finishes with palate-staining sweetness of fruit and outstanding breadth. WS 94 (10/2009): A bold, rich and ripe style, with black cherry, plum and wild berry fruit and a cedary graphite edge. Plush, concentrated and full-bodied, coating the palate, yet for all its size and chewiness this remains elegant, balanced and supported by firm tannins, showing a trace of heat on the finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Best from 2010 through 2016. 500 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Sloan.aspWA 96+ (12/2008): The 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon has an almost La Mission Haut-Brion-like, scorched earth nose intermixed with cassis, coffee, and subtle hints of chocolate and balsamic. The wine is rich, full-bodied, but with great elegance and palate presence, without being heavy. Every wine to date has displayed considerable tannin, but even more concentration and fruit, so it is not an issue of the wines drying out, but rather requiring some patience before the complexity, which is already showing promise, emerges and the wines soften. This is a brilliant 2005 that is certainly one of the top wines of the vintage but needs some time in the bottle. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2030+. VM 95 (6/2008): Good full medium ruby. Knockout nose combines superripe black raspberry, minerals, tobacco and brown spices. Then wonderfully sweet and lush in the mouth, with an almost liqueur-like ripeness to the flavors of cassis, tobacco, chocolate, coffee and loam. As dense and thick as this is, though, it's also quite suave and juicy. Finishes with palate-staining sweetness of fruit and outstanding breadth. WS 94 (10/2009): A bold, rich and ripe style, with black cherry, plum and wild berry fruit and a cedary graphite edge. Plush, concentrated and full-bodied, coating the palate, yet for all its size and chewiness this remains elegant, balanced and supported by firm tannins, showing a trace of heat on the finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Best from 2010 through 2016. 500 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Sloan.aspWA 100 (12/2010): The 2007 Sloan, now in bottle, has lived up to the extraordinary quality it exhibited from barrel. A world-class, perfumed nose of charcoal, espresso roast, white chocolate, black currants, sweet plums, Asian soy and a Grave-like scorched earth aroma soars from the glass of this dense purple-colored wine. Full-bodied and seamlessly constructed with a multidimensional mouthfeel as well as a phenomenal finish, this 2007 carries considerable tannin, but at present it is concealed by the wine’s luxurious levels of fruit, glycerin and intensity. This spectacular 2007 should drink well for 25-30+ years. VM 96 (6/2010): Good bright ruby-red. Sexy, highly aromatic nose melds cassis, black raspberry, violet, minerals, bitter chocolate and cedar. Tightly wound and minerally, with strong acidity intensifying the flavors of black fruits, licorice, violet and tobacco. The elements of cabernet franc and petit verdot give additional lift to this slightly high-toned and very energetic wine. The very long, firm finish boasts terrific grip. A great example of the 2007 vintage.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Sloan.aspJS 98 (12/2010): I am loving the structure to this wine. Exotic fruit with flowers, and lots going on. The tannins are very velvety, and have a super refined texture and a long, long finish. A fascinating wine. WA 96+ (12/2011): The 2008 Sloan Estate is racy and totally elegant from start to finish. It shows gorgeous freshness and vibrancy in its expressive dark red fruit, flowers, licorice and tobacco. Today the 2008 comes across as a relatively understated, subdued vintage for this wine. It should be absolutely fabulous in another few years. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2028. VM 95 (5/2011): (80+% cabernet sauvignon, the rest merlot, cabernet franc and a bit of petit verdot; bottled in February of 2011): Deep ruby-red. Explosive, downright sexy aromas of black raspberry, cassis, violet, tobacco, mocha, menthol and licorice; this has not shut down since the recent bottling. Lush and sweet but with terrific inner-mouth energy to the black raspberry and floral flavors. Wonderfully full but not heavy, with thoroughly ripe tannins buried in fruit. Finishes extremely long and floral. Not as massive and superripe as the 2007, which I retasted next to this wine and once again rated 96 points, but this is a beauty. Winemaker Martha McClellan told me she racked this wine just once before putting the blend together. She described 2008 as "a pretty easy year. It wasn't necessary to let the fruit hang, as in 2006. The vintage is actually a bit like 2005, and the tannins are definitely sweeter than those of 2006." Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Sloan.aspJS 98 (12/2010): I am loving the structure to this wine. Exotic fruit with flowers, and lots going on. The tannins are very velvety, and have a super refined texture and a long, long finish. A fascinating wine. WA 96+ (12/2011): The 2008 Sloan Estate is racy and totally elegant from start to finish. It shows gorgeous freshness and vibrancy in its expressive dark red fruit, flowers, licorice and tobacco. Today the 2008 comes across as a relatively understated, subdued vintage for this wine. It should be absolutely fabulous in another few years. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2028. VM 95 (5/2011): (80+% cabernet sauvignon, the rest merlot, cabernet franc and a bit of petit verdot; bottled in February of 2011): Deep ruby-red. Explosive, downright sexy aromas of black raspberry, cassis, violet, tobacco, mocha, menthol and licorice; this has not shut down since the recent bottling. Lush and sweet but with terrific inner-mouth energy to the black raspberry and floral flavors. Wonderfully full but not heavy, with thoroughly ripe tannins buried in fruit. Finishes extremely long and floral. Not as massive and superripe as the 2007, which I retasted next to this wine and once again rated 96 points, but this is a beauty. Winemaker Martha McClellan told me she racked this wine just once before putting the blend together. She described 2008 as "a pretty easy year. It wasn't necessary to let the fruit hang, as in 2006. The vintage is actually a bit like 2005, and the tannins are definitely sweeter than those of 2006." Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Sloan.aspWA 98 (10/2013): The 2009 Sloan possesses lots of espresso roast, chocolate fudge, baking spice, cedarwood, incense, creme de cassis, blackberry and subtle smoke characteristics. Surprisingly soft tannins are atypical for this vintage, but they work well and frame this full-bodied, concentrated, multidimensional wine. One of the finest Sloans made to date, it can be drunk now or cellared for 25-30 years. VM 96 (12/2012): The 2009 SLOAN ESTATE has fleshed out beautifully since last year. Exciting and totally voluptuous, the 2009 covers every inch of the palate with layers of mocha-infused dark fruit. The 2009 boasts striking inner perfume and sweetness, with generous plum, cinnamon, melted road tar and Christmas cake notes that wrap around the highly expressive finish. I imagine the 2009 is a vintage that will enjoy a broad window of drinkability starting pretty much upon release. The 2009 is 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc and 3% Petit Verdot. SLOAN fans will note the Merlot is a little higher than normal in 2009. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Sloan.aspWA 99 (10/2013): The 2010 Sloan may ultimately eclipse the 2009 as it appears to have greater longevity. Dense blackberry, cedar, lead pencil shavings, cassis, espresso, white chocolate and forest floor notes are incredibly complex and inviting. Full-bodied and virtually perfect in all senses with flawlessly integrated acidity, tannin, alcohol and wood, this is a tour de force and one of the superstars of the vintage. It, too, can be drunk now or cellared for 30+ years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Sloan.aspVM 93 (12/2014): The 2011 Sloan Estate has turned out beautifully. Readers will find more of an Old World flavor profile and sense of structure in the 2011, yet all the elements are very nicely balanced. Savory herbs, crushed flowers, lavender, mint and mocha all add lift to the perfumed dark red cherry fruit in this gracious, super-expressive Cabernet Sauvignon-based wine. The great sites always come through, even in the most difficult of vintages. I remember visiting Sloan Estate during the 2011 harvest and seeing first hand the attention to detail here. It's no surprise the 2011 has turned out quite nicely.IWC 92 (5/2014): (90% cabernet sauvignon, 7% merlot and the rest petit verdot and cabernet franc): Bright ruby-red. Sexy aromas and flavors of black raspberry, brown spices and bitter chocolate torrefaction; slightly truffley but not green. Elegant and sharply focused, with lovely spicy intensity and fresh acidity giving the wine lovely inner-mouth perfume. Not a particularly full or deep wine but subtle and refined. The smooth, powdery tannins here are rare for the vintage. The team made a particularly strict selection for the flagship wine in 2011 and "took a long time to finalize the blend," noted winemaker Martha McClellan.WA 89-92 (10/2013): The soft, slightly herbaceous but charming 2011 Sloan does not possess the concentration, depth or richness of its two older siblings, but it is a pretty wine revealing good freshness as well as lots of underbrush, red and black currant, licorice and toasty oak characteristics. Enjoy it over the next 10-15 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Sloan.aspVM 97 (12/2016): The 2012 Sloan is dark, sensual and voluptuous to the core. Soft edges and radiant, luxurious fruit add to the wine's undeniably raciness. Absolutely impeccable, the 2012 Sloan is also a fabulous example of the year at its best.WA 96 (10/2014): Owned by the Chinese Pan family, but still featuring Michel Rolland as its winemaking consultant, the 2012 Proprietary Red Blend Sloan has turned out beautifully. The vintage gives it a precocious silkiness that is atypical. A blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, it showcases this fabulous terroir on the steep hillsides of the Vaca mountains, behind the luxury resort of Auberge du Soleil. The 2012 offers up beautiful notes of blueberries, blackberries, cedarwood, graphite, espresso, licorice and chocolate along with copious quantities of glycerin and fruit. This is a big, surprisingly savory and fleshy effort from Sloan that comes closest stylistically to their magnificent 2002. It can be drunk now but will be even better in 7-8 years, and should keep for 25-30 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Sloan.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Sloan.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Sloan.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Sloan.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Sloan.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Sloan.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Sloan.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Sloan.aspVM 91 (11/2013): Dark red cherry, plum, mocha, tobacco, licorice and spices flesh out in the 2010 Asterisk. Rich, round and creamy, the Asterisk shows plenty of Sloan Estate personality in a juicy, approachable style. The tannins could use another year or two to soften, but the wine's balance is terrific. The blend is 58% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot and drops of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Sloan.aspVM 92 (11/2013): The 2011 Asterisk is a drop-dead gorgeous wine, especially for a year that was so challenging. Freshly cut flowers, mint, super-ripe red berries and crushed rocks are totally alive in the glass in a wine that stands out for its energy, vibrancy and delineation. Fine grained tannins support the polished, impeccable finish. The 2011 Asterisk is a bit medium in body by Sloan standards, but it is notable for its balance and class. Sweet tobacco, licorice and savory herbs linger on the intensely aromatic, high-toned finish.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Sloan.aspVM 91 (11/1999): Good full dark red. Knockout nose combines raspberry fruitiness with exotic spices (sandalwood, nutmeg) and espresso: really compelling aromatics. Sweet, thick and layered in the mouth, with flavors following through on the aromas. Almost confectionery but has firm underlying structure. Long, ripe back end. Stephen Tanzer. WS 91 (6/2000): A very impressive '98. Rich, earthy and pleasantly decadent, with lots of plum, black cherry, anise, leather, mineral and sage unfolding on the long, rich, complex aftertaste. Drink now through 2007. 488 cases made. WA 90 (1/2000): Five hundred cases of this saturated dark ruby-colored wine have been produced. Enticing notes of smoke, black cherry jam, minerals, and toast emerge from the glass. Full-bodied, with loamy, earthy, soil scents intermixed with gobs of jammy cherry/strawberry fruit, this may be the finest Pinot Noir made by Joan Smith under the W. H. Smith label. It possesses copious glycerin, a full-bodied texture, and heady alcohol. A hedonistic, sumptuous Pinot Noir, it should be consumed over the next 5-7 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WHSmith.aspVM 91 (5/2013): Bright, dark red. Very ripe aromas of raspberry, chocolate, licorice and earth. Supple and plush, with good floral lift to the redcurrant, truffle, herb and complex soil flavors. Very subtle, attractive, classy merlot with solid tannic support for aging--and little sign of its 15% alcohol. Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Snowden.aspWA 94 (12/2014): The 2013 Pinot Noir Wohler Vineyard reveals beautiful, sweet, Volnay-like strawberry and wild berry fruit, a lush, hedonistic texture, medium to full body and good purity. It was made from clones 115, 828 and the Wadenswil clone planted in deep Goldridge soils as it is the only Russian River selection in the Sojourn portfolio. With excellent depth and medium to full body, this big-time winner should drink well for 6-9 years.WS 88 (9/2015): A big, expressive style, with loads of dense, chewy tannins. Packs a wallop of flavor but comes up shy on suppleness, ending with a raw, edgy aftertaste. Drink now through 2021. 525 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SojournCellars.aspWA 95 (8/2015): Made from 100% Syrah that's from the Laetitia Vineyard and aged 16 months in 20% new French oak, the inky colored 2013 Cuvee Jean has terrific, voluptuous and layered notes of black raspberries, creamy licorice, peppery herbs and vanilla bean. Full-bodied, concentrated and textured, with lots of sweet tannin, it's a blockbuster-styled effort from Guillaume that still shows the house purity, elegance and suppleness. It will drink well for a decade.VM 93 (9/2015): Bright purple. Bitter cherry and blackcurrant on the pungent mineral- and spice-accented nose. Fresh and precise in the mouth, conveying a subtle floral character to the dark fruit and spicecake flavors. Shows excellent clarity and thrust on the long, fruit-driven finish, which features fine-grained tannins and a seductive echo of candied violet. Josh Raynolds.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ClosSolene.aspWA 93 (8/2015): Made from 62% Grenache, 28% Syrah and 10% Mourvedre that spent 16 months in mostly neutral puncheons (roughly 15% new), the 2013 Harmonie is another full-bodied, beautifully pure and impeccably put together wine from Guillaume. Creme de cassis, licorice, mint and olive notes all emerge from the glass and it has a hedonistic, voluptuous slant that's just hard to resist. Drink it anytime over the coming 5-8 years.VM 92 (9/2015): Opaque purple. A highly fragrant bouquet evokes red and blue fruit liqueur, potpourri and incense, with a peppery quality adding lift. Supple, expansive raspberry and cherry compote flavors put on weight with air and pick up a suave lavender pastille quality. Silky tannins build on the finish, which clings with excellent fruit-driven tenacity.WS 88 (7/2016): Dark and brooding, with rose petal and raspberry aromas and deep flavors of smoky plum, toasty oak and pepper. Tannins frame the finish. Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre. Drink now through 2022. 130 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ClosSolene.aspWA 95 (8/2015): A small step back from the stunning 2012, the 2013 Hommage A Nos Pairs Reserve is a Syrah-dominated cuvee that includes 4% Grenache and 2% Roussanne. Fermented and aged 17 months in 65% new French oak, this glass-stainer offers awesome notes of creme de cassis, crushed violets, peppered meat and licorice in a full-bodied, ripe, rich, polished and perfectly balanced profile. Never over the top or clumsy in anyway, with a full mid-palate and fine tannin, it's offers immense pleasure today (like all of Guillaume's wines) yet will age gracefully on its balance, purity and concentration.VM 94 (9/2015): Dark purple. Powerful, deeply pitched black and blue fruit aromas are accented by allspice, vanilla and violet. Sweet, broad and concentrated, offering intense boysenberry and cherry liqueur flavors and a sexy floral nuance. Fine-grained tannins build very slowly on the finish, which clings with superb tenacity and resonating floral character.WS 90 (11/2016): Dense and well-structured, with black raspberry, grilled pepper and herb aromas and deep flavors of blackberry, dark chocolate and citrus zest, finishing with big, chunky tannins. Syrah, Grenache and Roussanne. Best from 2018 through 2027. 140 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ClosSolene.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Soliste.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Soliste.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Soliste.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Soliste.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/CasadeSonoma.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/CasadeSonoma.aspWS 89 (11/2016): Taut and crisp, with a lean texture and lively pineapple and grapefruit flavors that persist on the focused, spicy finish. Drink now through 2019. 900 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Soter.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SparrowLane.aspWA 93 (12/2005):The 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate also reveals tremendous ripeness, but is lighter and not as seamless or persistent as the 2002. The bouquet offers loads of licorice, creme de cassis, and violets followed by a full-bodied palate, and wonderful finesse and richness, but the wine is neither heavy nor overdone. The wood is beautifully integrated and the finish long and stunning. It should drink well for 15+ years.IWC 91-94 (6/2005): Good medium ruby. Youthfully medicinal aromas of black cherry, blackberry and menthol. Juicy, dense and sweet, with a seamless texture and a note of bitter chocolate. Showing a bit more inner-palate lift today than the 2002, but this is wonderfully lush as well. Finishes with substantial but supple, sweet tannins. The crop here was slightly bigger than in 2002, but Cakebread noted that September heat was not as much of an issue in '03 as it was in 2002 or 2004.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Spottswoode.aspWA 95 (12/2009): The 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon, which has taken on much greater complexity and intensity since I tasted it right after bottling, is largely all Cabernet Sauvignon with just a small amount of Cabernet Franc in the blend. The owner’s daughter, Beth Novak, and her assistants, Rosemary Cakebread and Jennifer Williams, made an intelligent decision in bottling this wine later than normal to resolve some of the tannin issues, and they have certainly succeeded. This wine, which I believe will evolve for 25 or more years, has a gorgeous nose of violets, black currants, licorice, camphor, and a hint of graphite. Layered, rich, and full-bodied, the wine has an opaque purple color as well as wonderful purity and balance. It could be considered the wine world’s version of haute couture at a top address in Paris. It’s a beauty, perfectly balanced and as flawless and seamless as a 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa can be. Drink it over the next 25 years. WS 92 (4/2010): Drying herb, mineral and graphite join grilled meat and dried currant in this taut, tannic, structured and backward youngster. Firmly tannic and chewy, very concentrated and tightly wound. Best from 2011 through 2018. 2,743 cases made. VM 90 (6/2009): Deep ruby-red. Superripe aromas of black fruits, licorice, mocha and espresso; not currently showing the classic floral character of this wine, despite the presence of 12% cabernet franc. Big, broad, chewy and dry, with cassis and boysenberry fruit flavors currently in the background. Finishes quite tannic and a tad dry. This was bottled late, in December of '08, owing to its tannic structure and its tightness in barrel, according to winemaker Williams. (I once again scored the wonderfully fleshy yet suave 2005 estate cabernet 93 points. This wine may yet shut down in bottle but was smooth, sweet and captivating in March.)http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Spottswoode.aspWA 99 (12/2010): Retasting the 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon was a treat as I believe it is the greatest Cabernet Sauvignon Spottswoode has ever produced. Wonderful aromas of black raspberries, blueberries, black currants and flowers jump from the glass of this dark ruby/purple-tinged Cabernet. As I have stated before, if Chateau Margaux were in Napa Valley, it would be Spottswoode. The purity, balance and delicacy of this wine are impressive. Perhaps slightly less dense and powerful than the 2008, the 2007 is flawlessly put together with nothing out of place. It, too, should age effortlessly for 20-30+ years. WS 95 (10/2010): Smooth, rich and understated, offering a subtle mix of ripe, full-bodied currant, blackberry and wild berry flavors that are deftly balanced, with a dash of cedary dill-laced oak. Slow to unfold, but in doing so offers great depth, concentration and complexity. Best from 2012 through 2022. 1,729 cases made. VM 91-94 (6/2009): (includes 5% cabernet franc) Good bright ruby-red. Vibrant aromas of boysenberry, blackberry and violet, lifted by a minty note. Sweet, dense and minerally, conveying a sense of power as well as a distinctly light touch. Captivating dark fruit flavors really saturate the palate. This has a terrific backbone for aging. According to winemaker Jennifer Williams, the cool, dry spring of 2007 limited canopy growth through June, resulting in a moderate crop size.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Spottswoode.aspWA 99 (12/2010): Retasting the 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon was a treat as I believe it is the greatest Cabernet Sauvignon Spottswoode has ever produced. Wonderful aromas of black raspberries, blueberries, black currants and flowers jump from the glass of this dark ruby/purple-tinged Cabernet. As I have stated before, if Chateau Margaux were in Napa Valley, it would be Spottswoode. The purity, balance and delicacy of this wine are impressive. Perhaps slightly less dense and powerful than the 2008, the 2007 is flawlessly put together with nothing out of place. It, too, should age effortlessly for 20-30+ years. WS 95 (10/2010): Smooth, rich and understated, offering a subtle mix of ripe, full-bodied currant, blackberry and wild berry flavors that are deftly balanced, with a dash of cedary dill-laced oak. Slow to unfold, but in doing so offers great depth, concentration and complexity. Best from 2012 through 2022. 1,729 cases made. VM 91-94 (6/2009): (includes 5% cabernet franc) Good bright ruby-red. Vibrant aromas of boysenberry, blackberry and violet, lifted by a minty note. Sweet, dense and minerally, conveying a sense of power as well as a distinctly light touch. Captivating dark fruit flavors really saturate the palate. This has a terrific backbone for aging. According to winemaker Jennifer Williams, the cool, dry spring of 2007 limited canopy growth through June, resulting in a moderate crop size.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Spottswoode.aspWA 95+ (12/2010): The 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon exhibits a glorious perfume of spring flowers, blueberries and black currants, good acidity and serious tannins as well as concentration. It is slightly more restrained and backward than the seamless, compelling 2007, but the 2008 possesses lots of stuffing as well as elegance married with purity, power and rare equilibrium. Drink it over the next 2-3 decades. IWC 90-92 (6/2010): (includes 6% cabernet franc) Good medium ruby. Blackberry and bitter chocolate aromas perked up by violet, mint and a hint of pepper. A fruity, supple midweight with precise cabernet character and excellent purity of flavor. The tannins begin quite fine but mount with air, ultimately cutting off the wine's lingering dark fruit flavors. Still, this young cabernet has the edge over the estate's 2006 today. Winemaker Jennifer Williams extended the skin contact during the vinification by 7 to 10 days in 2008 (up to 41 days for some lots) and believes that this approach resulted in a softening of the tannins in the tank. The big challenge in 2008, said Williams, was to pick in multiple passes and then sort carefully.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Spottswoode.aspWA 100 (10/2013): The brilliant 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon boasts an inky/purple color as well as glorious aromas of spring flowers, lead pencil shavings, licorice and a multitude of wild mountain fruits, in particular black raspberry, blackberry and cassis reminiscent of a French Pauillac (although I always think of Spottswoode as the Chateau Margaux of Napa). With a flawless integration of tannin, wood and acidity, it comes across like a liquid version of haute couture from the house of Chanel. It should drink well young yet age for 25 years. WS 93 (10/2013): Notably rich and generous, with a complex array of dark berry, currant and cassis flavors, delivering subtle herb, spice and cedar notes and ending with a dash of loamy earth. Most impressive on the finish, which sails on and on. Best from 2014 through 2024. 2,586 cases made. VM 96+ (11/2013): The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon is drop-dead gorgeous. Over the last 12 months the 2010 has fleshed out beautifully. Today, the 2010 is rich, full-bodied and intense. The structure is that of a cold vintage, but the fruit and density are those of a year marked by three heat spikes. I imagine the 2010 will enjoy a long drinking window, starting in another few years, even if today the fruit is really popping. The 2010 is 92% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot. This is a dazzling wine from Spottswoode.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Spottswoode.aspWA 90 (10/2013): A surprisingly strong effort, the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon exhibits hints of black olives and tapenade as well as copious notes of creme de cassis, licorice and forest floor. Medium to full-bodied and atypically concentrated for a 2011, this is another tour de force from Spottswoode that boasts beautiful fruit and a long finish. It should drink well for 8-12 years. Kudos to the Novack family!http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Spottswoode.aspWA 90 (10/2013): A surprisingly strong effort, the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon exhibits hints of black olives and tapenade as well as copious notes of creme de cassis, licorice and forest floor. Medium to full-bodied and atypically concentrated for a 2011, this is another tour de force from Spottswoode that boasts beautiful fruit and a long finish. It should drink well for 8-12 years. Kudos to the Novack family!http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Spottswoode.aspJS 98 (7/2015): Incredible blueberry, blackberry, black walnut, mineral, black licorice and flowers. Full-bodied, very tight and structured with hints of hazelnut, fine chocolate, mineral and spice. Layered and very fine. A solid and classic-styled Napa Valley cab. WA 96+ (10/2014): The opaque purple-hued 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon exhibits a glorious bouquet of crème de cassis, spring flowers, a Pauillac-like lead pencil note, and background new oak. The overall impression is one of restraint combined with richness. This full-bodied effort possesses good acidity and ripe tannin. It has been crafted for the long-term. The hallmarks of great Spottswoode wines are their purity and elegance combined with serious power. The 2012 has that in abundance. This youthful, reserved Cabernet will benefit from 3-5 years of cellaring, and will keep for two decades or more. VM 95 (12/2014): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon comes across as surprisingly medium in body and not as explosive as I had expected, perhaps a reflection of its recent bottling. Today the 2012 shows the more suave, silky side of the year, with considerable early appeal and pure radiance, butt less in the way of structure. Hints of mocha, spices and crushed flowers add nuance on the finish. All things considered, today the 2012 performs in line with the vintage, but does not appear to be the overachiever it has been in recent years. WS 87 (3/2015): Offers a trim mix of red and dark berry fruit, dusty cedary oak, gravel and tobacco leaf accents and stalky tannins. Ends dry and clean, yet clipped. Drink now. 4,000 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Spottswoode.aspJS 98 (7/2015): Incredible blueberry, blackberry, black walnut, mineral, black licorice and flowers. Full-bodied, very tight and structured with hints of hazelnut, fine chocolate, mineral and spice. Layered and very fine. A solid and classic-styled Napa Valley cab. WA 96+ (10/2014): The opaque purple-hued 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon exhibits a glorious bouquet of crème de cassis, spring flowers, a Pauillac-like lead pencil note, and background new oak. The overall impression is one of restraint combined with richness. This full-bodied effort possesses good acidity and ripe tannin. It has been crafted for the long-term. The hallmarks of great Spottswoode wines are their purity and elegance combined with serious power. The 2012 has that in abundance. This youthful, reserved Cabernet will benefit from 3-5 years of cellaring, and will keep for two decades or more. VM 95 (12/2014): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon comes across as surprisingly medium in body and not as explosive as I had expected, perhaps a reflection of its recent bottling. Today the 2012 shows the more suave, silky side of the year, with considerable early appeal and pure radiance, butt less in the way of structure. Hints of mocha, spices and crushed flowers add nuance on the finish. All things considered, today the 2012 performs in line with the vintage, but does not appear to be the overachiever it has been in recent years. WS 87 (3/2015): Offers a trim mix of red and dark berry fruit, dusty cedary oak, gravel and tobacco leaf accents and stalky tannins. Ends dry and clean, yet clipped. Drink now. 4,000 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Spottswoode.aspVM 89 (10/2015): Spottswoode's 2014 Sauvignon Blanc is bright and aromatic in style, with chiseled fruit and plenty of citrus overtones. Drink this floral, refreshing Sauvignon Blanc over the next year or two. The Sauvignon is mostly done in steel, which keeps the flavors bright throughout. Antonio Galloni. WA 88 (3/2016): This iconic Napa Cabernet Sauvignon producer from St. Helena now produces greater quantities of Sauvignon Blanc, which is a cross-county Napa/Sonoma blend. The 2014 Sauvignon Blanc exhibits grassy fig, honeysuckle and melon notes that seem to suggest a hypothetical blend of the Bordeaux and Loire Valley styles of Sauvignon Blanc. With crisp acidity, medium body and terrific fruit, this is one of the benchmarks for Sauvignon Blanc in Northern California. This particular cuvée seems to show a bit more grassiness than previous vintages. Drink it over the next 1-3 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Spottswoode.aspWS 88 (9/2004): Has a bright, laser-sharp focus, showing currant, cherry and exotic spice character on a lively frame, finishing with a light layer of tannins. Best from 2006 through 2009. 250 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SpringValleyVyd.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChStJean.aspWA 90-91 (12/1997): The most noticeable improvements at St. Jean can be seen in the Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon program. The Merlot Reserve bottlings spend 36 months in barrel, of which 50% are new. I thought all four vintages I tasted of the Merlot Reserve were potentially outstanding wines. The 1995 Merlot Reserve exhibits less aromatic and flavor dimension when compared to the 1994, but it is still a superbly concentrated, thick, juicy wine that may end up having slightly more tannin. With more of a monolithic personality, it tastes slightly muted and more backward in its development than the other vintages. The Reserve Merlots are all made in limited quantities of about 400 cases.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChStJean.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ChStJean.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/StSupery.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/StSupery.aspWA 94 (12/2015): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Fay Vineyard boasts loads of black cherry and black raspberry fruit, a floral characteristic common to this terroir, a beautiful deep ruby/purple color, sweet tannin and a dramatic, lush, Margaux-like finish. This is sexy, lush, full-throttle wine to drink over the next 10-15 years.WS 93 (11/2015): Impressive, with a rich, juicy core of black currant, blackberry, dusty earth and savory underbrush, giving this an expansive, well-focused range of flavors. Persistent overall, with ripe, tobacco-scented tannins. Drink now through 2028. 4,400 cases made.VM 92 (10/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon FAY is a supple, sexy wine that will drink well with minimal cellaring. Crème de cassis, blueberry jam, licorice, cloves and mint are all pushed forward in a creamy, expressive Cabernet built on opulence, depth and resonance. I can't think of too many 2013 Cabernets that are this enjoyable right now, although the flavors are naturally intensely primary.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/StagsLeapWineCellars.aspJS 94 (5/2014): Aromas of walnut, dark berries and blueberries. Some mint. Full body with silky, refined tannins and an orange-peel, berry and Thai-mint aftertaste. Better in a year or two but beautiful now.IWC 94 (5/2013): (14.9% alcohol): Saturated bright medium ruby. Ripe, expressive nose combines blackberry, cassis, mocha, minerals, licorice, sexy oak tones and Rutherford dust. Plush, sweet and fine-grained, with firm underlying minerality giving class and clarity to the dark fruit flavors. Wonderfully silky, concentrated cabernet with a very long, building finish featuring noble tannins and noteworthy energy. It's possible to enjoy this now owing to its lush texture and sweetness but this knockout cabernet should also age gracefully.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/StaglinFamilyVineyards.aspWS 96 (10/2015): An elegant style, with complex aromatics of ripe plum, blackberry, floral, mocha and espresso. Firm and full-bodied, with smooth, fine-grained tannins that hold the flavors for a long, lingering, layered finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot. Drink now through 2011. 240 cases made.WA 93+ (12/2010): The 2007 Ineo Proprietary Red (a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot) exhibits more of an opaque ruby/purple color than its 2008 counterpart as well as more multidimensional aromatics consisting of graphite, blueberries, black currants and spice. Full-bodied, exuberant and pure with considerable intensity as well as a graciousness and elegance that follow through from the beginning to the finish. This sensational Ineo is the finest example Staglin has yet made of this cuvee.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/StaglinFamilyVineyards.aspWA 93 (7/2010): The colour is very deep garnet-brick. Complex, evolved aromas of warm cassis, tobacco, leather, cinnamon and spice emerge with just a touch of hung meat. After a few minutes some menthol and smoky bacon scents come through. The medium bodied palate is very elegant with nice concentration of fruit supported by medium to high acidity and a medium level of silt-textured tannins. Long in the finish, this wine still has 6-8 years of life left. WS 90 (8/1999): Smooth, ripe and spicy, with a pretty array of anise, plum, cherry and strawberry tones, finishing with a focused core of flavors and firm tannins. Best from 2000 through 2008. 7,000 cases made. VM 89+ (5/1999): Red-ruby. Slightly high-toned aromas of cassis, cherry cough syrup, chocolate and mint. Juicy, firm and intensely flavored; a bit hot but not at all roasted. Tannins coat the teeth. As with so many '96 cabernets, I get an impression of somewhat uneven ripening. But this is built to age. Stephen Tanzer.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/StaglinFamilyVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/StagsLeapWinery.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Stolpman.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Stolpman.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Stolpman.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Stolpman.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Stolpman.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Stolpman.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Stolpman.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Stolpman.aspVM 94 (11/2010): Glass-staining ruby. High-pitched aromas of black raspberry, Asian spices, violet and vanilla, with a strong mineral overtone. Juicy, focused and sweet, offering pure red and dark berry flavors and sexy allspice and floral pastille qualities. Silky tannins add shape to the expansive fruit and help to focus the long, gently smoky finish. This is at once the most powerful and most lithe of this year's set of syrahs here. WA 92 (8/2010): The 2008 Syrah Hilltops High Density (3,000 vines per acre) exhibits a less opaque dark ruby/purple color in addition to a strong mineral component with the chalky limestone soils pushing their terroir characteristics to the foreground of the wine's perfume. Abundant wood, tannin, depth, richness, and density characterize this young, backward Syrah. Nevertheless, there is plenty of sweet fruit, and everything is present for a successful evolution. Cellar it for 2-3 more years, and drink it over the next decade.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Stolpman.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Stolpman.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Stolpman.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Stolpman.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Stolpman.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Stolpman.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Stolpman.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Stolpman.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Stonestreet.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/StonyHill.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HermanStory.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HermanStory.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/HermanStory.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SturinoTrotta.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MiSueno.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Swanson.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Swanson.aspWA 98 (12/2003): The other-worldly 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon Peterson Family Vineyard is ... to die for! Given its quality, the price is surprisingly realistic, considering how many California North Coast mediocrities fetch three digit prices. This opaque purple-colored Cabernet exhibits wonderfully sweet aromas of melted licorice intermixed with cedar wood, black currant liqueur, chocolate, and spice box. This full-throttle, unctuously-textured, dense, broad, pure, impeccably balanced, expansive 2001 is mouth-coating in its richness and intensity. It can be drunk with great pleasure, or cellared for 15-20 years. Wow!WS 94 (11/2003): A fabulous young wine. Ultrarich and harmonious, with ripe, supple tannins wrapped around a delicious core of currant, blackberry, vanilla, espresso bean and mocha, gliding to a long, sensual finish with lots of rich, intricate flavors. Best from 2005 through 2012. 314 cases made.IWC 90+ (6/2004): Medium ruby. Superripe, brooding aromas of cassis and espresso; less expressive today than the merlot. Then sweet, fat and supple in the mouth, with powerful cassis and chocolate flavors and a light herbal component. Comes across as more roasted and a bit less vibrant today than the merlot, with tougher tannins. But this, too, is impressively concentrated, and a few years of additional bottle aging should bring it into better harmony. (My early look at the 2002 suggests that this wine will be more pliant than the 2001, with more consistent ripeness of fruit.)http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SwitchbackRidge.aspWA 98 (12/2003): The other-worldly 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon Peterson Family Vineyard is ... to die for! Given its quality, the price is surprisingly realistic, considering how many California North Coast mediocrities fetch three digit prices. This opaque purple-colored Cabernet exhibits wonderfully sweet aromas of melted licorice intermixed with cedar wood, black currant liqueur, chocolate, and spice box. This full-throttle, unctuously-textured, dense, broad, pure, impeccably balanced, expansive 2001 is mouth-coating in its richness and intensity. It can be drunk with great pleasure, or cellared for 15-20 years. Wow!WS 94 (11/2003): A fabulous young wine. Ultrarich and harmonious, with ripe, supple tannins wrapped around a delicious core of currant, blackberry, vanilla, espresso bean and mocha, gliding to a long, sensual finish with lots of rich, intricate flavors. Best from 2005 through 2012. 314 cases made.IWC 90+ (6/2004): Medium ruby. Superripe, brooding aromas of cassis and espresso; less expressive today than the merlot. Then sweet, fat and supple in the mouth, with powerful cassis and chocolate flavors and a light herbal component. Comes across as more roasted and a bit less vibrant today than the merlot, with tougher tannins. But this, too, is impressively concentrated, and a few years of additional bottle aging should bring it into better harmony. (My early look at the 2002 suggests that this wine will be more pliant than the 2001, with more consistent ripeness of fruit.)http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SwitchbackRidge.aspWA 98 (12/2003): The other-worldly 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon Peterson Family Vineyard is ... to die for! Given its quality, the price is surprisingly realistic, considering how many California North Coast mediocrities fetch three digit prices. This opaque purple-colored Cabernet exhibits wonderfully sweet aromas of melted licorice intermixed with cedar wood, black currant liqueur, chocolate, and spice box. This full-throttle, unctuously-textured, dense, broad, pure, impeccably balanced, expansive 2001 is mouth-coating in its richness and intensity. It can be drunk with great pleasure, or cellared for 15-20 years. Wow!WS 94 (11/2003): A fabulous young wine. Ultrarich and harmonious, with ripe, supple tannins wrapped around a delicious core of currant, blackberry, vanilla, espresso bean and mocha, gliding to a long, sensual finish with lots of rich, intricate flavors. Best from 2005 through 2012. 314 cases made.IWC 90+ (6/2004): Medium ruby. Superripe, brooding aromas of cassis and espresso; less expressive today than the merlot. Then sweet, fat and supple in the mouth, with powerful cassis and chocolate flavors and a light herbal component. Comes across as more roasted and a bit less vibrant today than the merlot, with tougher tannins. But this, too, is impressively concentrated, and a few years of additional bottle aging should bring it into better harmony. (My early look at the 2002 suggests that this wine will be more pliant than the 2001, with more consistent ripeness of fruit.)http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SwitchbackRidge.aspWS 94 (10/2010): Rich and flavorful, with tiers of ripe plum, black cherry, mocha, herb, cedar and dill. Full-bodied, focused, pure and well-structured, gaining nuance and substance on the finish, where the flavors sail on and on, ending with black licorice and raspberry touches. Best from 2011 through 2021. 1,079 cases made. WA 92+ (12/2009): No such issues emerge with the 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Peterson Family Vineyard. Opaque purple with lots of creme de cassis, creosote, charcoal, blackberry, and espresso roast, this wine again has a chocolatey edge, full-bodied flavors, and loads of fruit, depth, and power. Drink it over the next 15+ years. VM 91 (6/2010): Saturated bright ruby. Livelier on the nose than the merlot, with showy aromas of crushed cassis, black cherry, licorice and violet. Then juicy and energetic in the mouth, offering captivating sweetness and good grip to the dark berry and dark chocolate flavors. I find much more definition and structure here than in the 2007 merlot. Finishes with substantial tongue-dusting, building tannins. Serious wine for aging.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SwitchbackRidge.aspWA 92 (2/2005): A beautiful effort is the deep purple-colored 2002 Merlot Peterson Family Vineyard. A big, sweet, chocolate, toffee, caramel, and dried herb-scented bouquet is followed by a round, generous Merlot exhibiting silky tannin as well as a sweet, rich finish. It can be enjoyed over the next 5-8 years.WS 91 (12/2005): Tightly focused on a core of vivid blackberry and wild berry fruit. Intense, complex and concentrated, it never veers from its core fruitiness. On the finish the tannins offer a fruity character. Drink now through 2009. 355 cases made.IWC 88 (6/2005): Good red-ruby. Cool aromas of blue fruits, tobacco and charred oak, with some advanced nutty notes. Sweet on entry, then firm-edged in the middle, with flavors of redcurrant and graphite. Finishes with toothdusting, slightly rustic tannins and lingering sweetness. My enthusiasm was tempe red by some advanced notes.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SwitchbackRidge.aspWA 96 (8/2003): One of the most extraordinary Petite Sirahs I have ever tasted, this offering, fashioned by Pride Mountain’s winemaker, Bob Foley, boasts a saturated purple color as well as a gorgeous perfume of lilacs, graphite, creme de cassis, blackberries, and scorched earth. It is viscous, layered, and thick, with a tremendous wealth of fruit and glycerin concealing what must be lofty tannin. Drink it over the next 15-20 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SwitchbackRidge.aspWA 96 (8/2003): One of the most extraordinary Petite Sirahs I have ever tasted, this offering, fashioned by Pride Mountain’s winemaker, Bob Foley, boasts a saturated purple color as well as a gorgeous perfume of lilacs, graphite, creme de cassis, blackberries, and scorched earth. It is viscous, layered, and thick, with a tremendous wealth of fruit and glycerin concealing what must be lofty tannin. Drink it over the next 15-20 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/SwitchbackRidge.aspWS 83 (12/1998): Simple cherry and herb flavors and soft tannins make this a pleasant, easy-drinking wine. Drink now. 2,000 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/TablasHills.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/FrancisTannahill.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Thomas.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Thomas.aspWA 94 (1/2000): The glorious 1997 Cabernet Sauvignon (a blend of 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot, and 3% Cabernet Franc) is the most opulently-textured Togni offering since his 1992. It possesses a saturated purple color in addition to a thrilling but still reticent nose of blackberries, cassis, minerals, dried herbs, and smoky oak. Full-bodied, pure, thick, and creamy-textured, this wine's superb concentration conceals its lofty, but sweet tannin. Togni's wines possess exceptional aging potential, but it will be hard to keep your hands off this one after it has had another 2-4 years of bottle age. Anticipated maturity: 2003-2025+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PhilipTogni.aspVM 92 (6/2009): Good full ruby. Sexy aromas of plum, truffle, mocha and musky coffee, plus a suggestion of old wood. Still quite dense, even young, with complex flavors of minerals, spices and underbrush. Boasts lovely silky sweetness but at the same time comes across as aromatic and nicely delineated, finishing with suave tannins and lovely persistence. I suspect Togni's barrels are better today but this ten-year-old library release possesses a firm spine and is in fine shape. WA 91 (8/2002): There are 1,500 cases of the 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon. Its dense purple color is followed by a big, spicy nose of black currant liqueur, licorice, and foresty/fern-like scents. It is sweet, medium to full-bodied, and deep, as well as structured, and a Bordeaux-like tannic profile in the finish. It will require patience. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2026+. WS 90 (10/2001): A wine with a potent personality. Dark and intense, with a massive core of tannins lining the racy, herbaceous bell pepper, currant, earth, mineral and tar flavors. Has a good dose of cedary oak. Finishes with firm tannins and the need to rest, chained in a dark, cool space for a few years. Best from 2003 through 2012. 1,378 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PhilipTogni.aspWA 93 (12/1996): There will not be a 1995 Ca Togni. However, the 1994 Ca Togni has just been released, and it is a marvelous, dark purple-colored, sweet, jammy wine made from black Muscat. The wine is full-bodied, silky, moderately sweet, and ideal to drink by itself, or with an assortment of flavorful cheeses. It is available only in half bottles.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PhilipTogni.aspWA 93 (12/1996): There will not be a 1995 Ca Togni. However, the 1994 Ca Togni has just been released, and it is a marvelous, dark purple-colored, sweet, jammy wine made from black Muscat. The wine is full-bodied, silky, moderately sweet, and ideal to drink by itself, or with an assortment of flavorful cheeses. It is available only in half bottles.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PhilipTogni.aspWA 93 (12/1996): There will not be a 1995 Ca Togni. However, the 1994 Ca Togni has just been released, and it is a marvelous, dark purple-colored, sweet, jammy wine made from black Muscat. The wine is full-bodied, silky, moderately sweet, and ideal to drink by itself, or with an assortment of flavorful cheeses. It is available only in half bottles.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/PhilipTogni.aspVM 95 (5/2012): Dark ruby-red. Wonderfully pure aromas of cassis, blackberry, flowers, spices, cedar and graphite. Lush, thick and sweet; this wonderfully elegant, creamy wine really glides down the throat. No rough edges here! Very sexy and complex cabernet with terrific breadth, noble tannins and outstanding length. It's hard to imagine a wine like this ever really shutting down in the bottle.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Tor.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Tor.aspIWC 89 (6/2005): (includes 7% petit verdot) Good full ruby-red. Cassis, blackberry, mint and baking spices on the nose, with hints of violet and licorice. Creamy-sweet but lively, with juicy flavors of blackberry and tarry oak. A smaller-scaled cabernet with a fairly low pH (3.4), but easy to drink owing to its rather light tannins.WA 88 (2/2005): The 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon Oak Knoll Clone 4 is not as impressive as the 2001. Leaner, with dry tannin, a distinctive herbaceousness, medium body, and red/black currant flavors, this correct, pleasant Cabernet lacks the depth found in Tor Kenward’s other cuvees. Drink it over the next 7-10 years. WS 87 (12/2005): Pushes ripeness to the max, with high-toned ripe cherry and wild berry flavors that are plush and concentrated. Hints of licorice, cedar and fresh earth. Tannins are also ripe. Best from 2006 through 2012. 300 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Tor.aspWA 93+ (6/2013): Two brilliant efforts from the longtime employee of Beringer Vineyards, Tor Kenward, the 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon Mast Vineyard is a sexy, open-knit wine aged 22 months in 100% new Taransaud barrels. Its dense purple color is accompanied by sweet aromas of blueberry liqueur, creme de cassis, incense and hints of licorice as well as spice box. Full-bodied, opulent and stunningly proportioned, this irresistible Cabernet can be drunk now and over the next decade.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Tor.aspWA 87 (6/2016): The 2007 Pinot Noir Olson Estate Vineyard was a huge crop that was apparently not quite as ripe as they wanted it to be. It has a more rustic bouquet than the 2008, lighter and earthier than subsequent vintages, but still with freshness. The palate is medium-bodied with tart red cherry fruit, not as much depth as the 2008 with a piquant finish. Not bad, though I would drink this over the next 2-3 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ToriiMor.aspWA 90 (10/2008): The 2006 Pinot Noir Deux Verres is a regional blend from nine vineyards. It was aged for 13 months in 29% new French oak. Dark ruby-colored, it reveals aromas of damp earth, tobacco, spice box, and cherry. Supple textured with good depth and concentration, it has gobs of savory, spicy fruit and a lengthy finish. Drink it over the next four years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ToriiMor.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/ToriiMor.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/MarimarTorres.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Torrin.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Torrin.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Torrin.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Trefethen.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Trefethen.aspWA 88+ (12/2005): Blended with small amounts of Cabernet Franc and Merlot, the 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon exhibits a deep ruby/purple color, a rustic structure, good tannin, and fine purity, richness, and balance. Consume it over the next 10-12 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Trespass.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/TudalWinery.aspWA 96-98 (6/1999): The 1997 Zinfandel Black-Sears Vineyard (81-year old vines; 17% alcohol) is the finest Black-Sears Turley has yet produced. Flirting with perfection, it is one of the most extraordinary Zinfandels I have ever tasted. This vineyard, located high on Howell Mountain, in a wilderness area inhabited by mountain lions, bobcats, and wild pigs, has turned out a saturated black/purple-colored wine with fabulous aromas of creme de cassis, minerals, cold steel, Asian spices, violets, and licorice. The wine possesses unbelievable fruit richness, layers of extract and glycerin, phenomenal purity, and a 40+-second finish. Somehow, some way, the 17% alcohol has been concealed beneath the wine's extraordinary richness. This offering should drink beautifully for 7-8 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/TurleyWineCellars.aspWA 91-93 (12/2003): For the second year in a row, Larry Turley has turned the dogs loose for the 2002 Zinfandel Dogtown Vineyard, the finest Zinfandel I have ever tasted from Lodi. This 750-case offering tips the scales at a whopping 16.5% alcohol, all of it well-hidden beneath extravagantly rich fruit. This deep ruby/purple-tinged Zin smells like brandy-macerated jammy black cherries intermixed with dried Provencal herbs, ground pepper, and other exotic spices. An exceptionally powerful, mouthfilling, palate staining effort with enormous richness and purity as well as a blockbuster finish, it is clearly not a Zinfandel for those who enjoy wimpy wines. It should be consumed over the next 4-5 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/TurleyWineCellars.aspWA 86-89 (2/2005): The spicy, earthy, berry-scented 2003 Zinfandel Duarte (450 cases; 16.7% alcohol) exhibits aromas of seaweed, particularly the wrap-around sushi called nori. The distinctive bouquet leads to a garrigue, southern Rhone sort of personality, with kirsch and cherry fruit, firm earthiness, and a certain austerity. There is also a monolithic quality to the Duarte Vineyard Zinfandel in 2003. Drink it over the next 4-5 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/TurleyWineCellars.aspVM 91 (11/2013): The 2011 Zinfandel Fredericks Vineyard comes across as a bit compact and unyielding today. It has plenty of length and persistence, but the flavors and texture aren't fully developed just yet. Dark red cherries, plums, mint and licorice emerge, but only with great reluctance. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/TurleyWineCellars.aspWA 93-96 (12/2007): Never disappointing, and usually one of the finest Petite Syrahs made in California, the 2006 Petite Sirah Hayne Vineyard once again hits on all cylinders. A blockbuster Petite Sirah, inky purple in color with a glorious nose of charcoal, black raspberry, blueberry, creme de cassis, licorice, and crushed rocks, it is very full-bodied, powerful, with sweet tannin, decent acidity, and a 45+-second finish. This is an infantile wine that will benefit from 5-7 years of bottle age and last 25-30+ years.VM 92-93 (6/2008): Saturated ruby. Exotic berries, fruity peppercorn, bitter chocolate, flowers, mocha and wet slate on the nose. Wonderfully sappy and fruity in the mouth, with terrific definition to the flavors of crushed dark berries, pepper and spices, along with a suggestion of exotic apricot. The pepper and spice elements linger impressively on the seriously tannic finish.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/TurleyWineCellars.aspIWC 93-96 (5/2012): (15.8% alcohol; tasted from tank): Good full ruby. Blackberry and crushed pepper aromas are lifted by an exotic nuance. Creamy and lush but with excellent verve, already conveying a strong impression of personality. The intense blackberry, black cherry and licorice flavors are lifted by lovely violet perfume. Wonderfully floral, elegant zinfandel with superb sappy thrust. Stains the palate on the finish, offering suave tannins, a magically light touch and penetrating black cherry and floral flavors. WA 93 (12/2012): From vines planted in 1902, 2010 Zinfandel Hayne Vineyard is pure refinement in the glass. Subtle and gracious, the 2010 caresses the palate with layers of sweet red-hued fruit. The Hayne is an easy wine to underestimate, as its qualities aren’t quite as obvious as those of other wines, but make no mistake about it, this super polished wine has a lot going for it. A finessed, silky finish rounds things out in style. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2025. WS 91 (1/2013): An excellent Zin in a difficult vintage. Lacks plushness but remains focused, with bright tannins and acidity. This is jammed with dense boysenberry, rosemary and licorice flavors and aromatic black cherry and cracked pepper aromas. Best from 2014 through 2020. 500 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/TurleyWineCellars.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/TurleyWineCellars.aspVM 92 (12/2012): A decidedly more rustic wine, the 2010 Zinfandel Heminway is endowed with serious depth and power. Black cherries, smoke, incense, melted road tar and licorice inform this dark, brooding wine. Despite its considerable depth and power, structurally the Heminway isn't quite as polished as the very best wines in this lineup.WS 88 (12/2012): Offers floral boysenberry and licorice aromas, with deep, elegant raspberry and spice flavors that are ripe and rather soft. Drink now through 2018. 200 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/TurleyWineCellars.aspWA 92 (10/2001): The 1999 Zinfandel Juveniles (previous called Young Vines) (450 cases, 15.2% alcohol) was made from tiny parcels of replanted vines in the Hayne, Moore, and Duarte vineyards. Turley Cellars does not want to blend these younger vines with wine from the older vines. A sensational effort, it exhibits a dense ruby/purple color as well as a knock-out nose of blackberries and spice, an opulent texture, and a superb finish. It should drink well for a minimum of 5-7 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/TurleyWineCellars.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/TurleyWineCellars.aspWA 90-92 (12/2003): The 2002 Zinfandel Juvenile (a blend of the vineyards’ younger vines) could easily be confused with a big, full-throttle, Grenache-based Cotes du Rhone from Chateauneuf du Pape or Rasteau. A big, earthy, peppery, licorice, cherry liqueur, and spice-scented perfume soars from the glass of this deep ruby-colored, fleshy, fat offering. Sumptuous on the palate, with high levels of glycerin as well as a silky texture, it’s a steal at $20 a bottle. Enjoy it over the next 5-6 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/TurleyWineCellars.aspWA 90-92 (2/2005): One of the great values from Turley, the 2003 Juvenile Zinfandel is an 800-case blend loaded with power (15.5% alcohol). A big, fruity, spicy, briery wine with low acidity, ripe fruit, and plenty of cherries and kirsch, this medium ruby-hued, sexy Zinfandel is ideal for drinking over the next 2-3 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/TurleyWineCellars.aspWA 88-90 (12/2005): One of the finest buys in this portfolio is the 2004 Zinfandel Juvenile, an 800- to 1,000-case blend made from younger vines. It offers plenty of jammy black cherry and briery fruit, low acidity, a plump, heady mouthfeel, good texture, and a seductive, lush finish with abundant alcohol as well as glycerin. Drink it over the next 3-4 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/TurleyWineCellars.aspWA 92 (10/2003): From a vineyard planted high on Atlas Peak, the saturated ruby/purple-colored 2001 Zinfandel Mead Ranch (16% alcohol) offers up aromas of acacia flowers, blueberries, graphite, and a hint of black currants. Perhaps the finest wine I have ever tasted from Atlas Peak, it is a full-bodied, opulent, gorgeously textured wine with tremendous purity, richness, and fruit. Enjoy it over the next 5-6 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/TurleyWineCellars.aspWA 88-90 (12/2006): From a high elevation vineyard, the 2005 Zinfandel Mead Ranch Atlas Peak reveals a deep ruby/purple color as well as soft, spicy, herbal, forest floor notes interwoven with cherry, red and black currant, crushed rock, and earth characteristics. It should drink well for 4-5 years. http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/TurleyWineCellars.aspVM 89-92 (6/2008): Bright medium red. Cherry, pepper and smoke, along with an intriguing flinty quality, on the slightly reduced nose. Moderately sweet and fat, with the smoke and flint nuances carrying through on the palate. Currently a rather atypical Moore, as it doesn't yet show the explosive fruit this bottling often displays. This is 15% alcohol "at the most," notes winemaker Jordan, adding that the fruit was harvested very late.WS 91 (12/2008): Young and untamed, but that’s the appeal. Offers lively aromas of wild berry, smoky oak and spice aromas that open to layered, zesty plum, pomegranate and licorice notes. The tannins are ripe but rustic. Best from 2010 through 2015.WA 88-90 (12/2007): One of my favorite Zinfandels is the Zinfandel Moore Earthquake Vineyard, but the 2006 was just not singing. It is an elegant style, with high acidity, and restrained and somewhat understated when comparing it with previous examples from this vineyard. We’ll see how it behaves.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/TurleyWineCellars.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/TurleyWineCellars.aspWA 92-94 (12/2003): The 2002 Zinfandel Pesenti Estate, from a 50-year old site planted on pure limestone, tastes like a classic Chateauneuf du Pape made from Grenache. The 16% alcohol is well-concealed in this 700-case cuvee. A deep ruby color is accompanied by sumptuous aromatics of kirsch liqueur kissed with melted licorice, pepper, and spice. There is tremendous precision, surprisingly good acidity (thanks to the limestone soils), and a heady, rich, full-bodied, impressive finish. This is the finest example yet fashioned from the Pesenti Estate. It will drink well for 5-8 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/TurleyWineCellars.aspWA 92-94 (12/2003): The 2002 Zinfandel Pesenti Estate, from a 50-year old site planted on pure limestone, tastes like a classic Chateauneuf du Pape made from Grenache. The 16% alcohol is well-concealed in this 700-case cuvee. A deep ruby color is accompanied by sumptuous aromatics of kirsch liqueur kissed with melted licorice, pepper, and spice. There is tremendous precision, surprisingly good acidity (thanks to the limestone soils), and a heady, rich, full-bodied, impressive finish. This is the finest example yet fashioned from the Pesenti Estate. It will drink well for 5-8 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/TurleyWineCellars.aspWA 93 (8/2002): My favorite Turley Zin tends to be the Zinfandel Pringle Family Vineyard from high up Howell Mountain. This vineyard is usually harvested in November, particularly in such cool years as 1998 or 2000. The 2000 Zinfandel Pringle Family Vineyard's whopping 16.2% alcohol is hidden beneath its exceptionally concentrated blackberry, plum, prune, and licorice characteristics. It is medium to full-bodied, with more tannin than its peers. This wine clearly emerged from a cooler climate vineyard.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/TurleyWineCellars.aspWA 92-95 (2/2005): The hardest wine in this portfolio to figure out was the 2003 Petite Syrah Rattlesnake Ridge. It is a monster, but its tannins are so severe and the wine so painfully concentrated and extracted as to be so totally unevolved. It tasted as if it were only several months old. There are 175 cases (14.7% alcohol) of this blockbuster. It will undoubtedly settle down, with the tannins becoming more integrated, but certainly it is a huge wine that needs to be forgotten for at least a decade. I wouldn’t be surprised to see it drink well 30-50 years from now.VM 89 (6/2005): Bright, saturated ruby. Syrah-like aromas of black cherry, violet, gunflint, licorice and smoked meat. Dense and plush but with good peppery lift. Much brighter than the Napa Valley bottling. Finishes a bit youthfully tight, with substantial but very fine tannins.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/TurleyWineCellars.aspWA 92-94 (2/2005): A stunning effort, the 2003 Zinfandel Rattlesnake Ridge (a 350-case cuvee with 15% alcohol) comes from a vineyard adjacent to the Howell Mountain Black Sears Vineyard that the Turleys made so famous. From volcanic soils with a lot of iron and compressed ash, known in California as “tufa," this is another Rhone Valley-inspired wine offering notes of garrigue, pepper, earth, and kirsch liqueur. Dense and full-bodied with loads of fruit and a cool climate character, it should drink well for 5-6 years or longer.VM 89 (6/2005): Red-ruby. Superripe aromas of red fruits, black plum, chocolate, spice cake and earth. Dense, thick and supersweet, but kept firm by an edge of acidity. flavors of dried fruits are supplemented by a peppery quality on the back end. Finishes with substantial chewy tannins and very good length.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/TurleyWineCellars.aspWA 91-93 (12/2000): Turley's 1999 Charbono Tofanelli Vineyard (109 cases, 13.5% alcohol) is analogous to a full-throttle Dolcetto. An intense black/purple color is accompanied by blueberry, cranberry liqueur, cherry, and chocolate aromas and flavors. It should drink well for 7-8 years.VM 90 (6/2001): Opaque, bright purple-ruby to the rim. Aromas of blackberry, violet, leather and pepper. Vibrant, fresh and precise in the mouth; not overly sweet or especially powerful, but offers enticingly juicy blueberry and mineral flavors. Finishes with chewy tannins and good length. Carrying a relatively low 13.8% alcohol; this must be the breakfast wine at the Turley residence.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/TurleyWineCellars.aspWA 90 (8/2002): The medium-bodied 2000 Charbono Tofanelli Vineyard (sadly, only 250 cases produced) reveals a meaty, earthy, damp forest, and black cherry-scented perfume. As the wine sits in the glass, a floral (acacia?) note emerges. It should drink well for 10-15 years. It is a curiosity, although a wonderful one.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/TurleyWineCellars.aspWA 86-88 (12/2006): The 2005 Charbono Tofanelli Vineyard possesses a generic, Cotes du Rhone-like character with a dark ruby/purple hue, crisp, tangy acidity, and an earthy, loamy soil note intermixed with red and black fruits. The finish falls off a bit, but remember, this is Charbono, not Cabernet Sauvignon. Drink it over the next several years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/TurleyWineCellars.aspWA 92-95 (12/2003): There are 250 cases of the 2002 Petite Syrah Estate (14% alcohol). Made from cuttings taken from the Hayne Vineyard, this fabulous effort is one of the finest examples of this varietal I have recently tasted. Inky/blue/black/purple-colored to the rim, with a stunning bouquet of creosote, melted licorice, celestial black fruits, espresso roast, and white chocolate, this enormously-endowed wine possesses surprisingly ripe tannin. As it sits in the glass, violet and acacia flower-like scents also emerge. It has huge structure, but is oh, so backward. Do not touch a bottle for 8-9 years unless you want to do a roto rooter job on your upper GI tract. Fabulous! Anticipated maturity: 2011-2030+.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/TurleyWineCellars.aspVM 88 (12/2016): The 2015 Sauvignon Blanc, from, head-trained, dry-farmed vines on the Turley Estate in St. Helena, is a sort of homage to Larry Turley's early days at Frog's Leap. Bright and floral, with plenty of citrus notes and a kick of richness from the warm year are some of the signatures. Antonio Galloni.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/TurleyWineCellars.aspWA 93 (8/2002): The dark ruby/purple-colored 2000 Zinfandel Estate reveals an undeniable Chateauneuf du Pape-like character. Notes of pepper, dried Provencal herbs, earth, black currants, and kirsch liqueur soar from this full-bodied, moderately tannic, dense, chewy, savory 2000. The wine possesses exceptional complexity as well as length. Its 15.1% alcohol is hidden beneath a cascade of glycerin and extract. Drink this beauty over the next 5-7 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/TurleyWineCellars.aspWA 95 (10/2003): The 2001 Zinfandel Estate (15.6% alcohol) offers a dense plum/ruby/purple color in addition to full-bodied, chewy, viscous flavors, great palate presence, and a tremendous concentration of briery, black cherry, raspberry, and currant fruit intermixed with earth, pepper, and licorice. Long and powerful yet well-balanced, it should be consumed over the next 5-7 years. It is a compelling Zinfandel!http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/TurleyWineCellars.aspWA 91-93 (2/2005): There are 200 cases of the 2003 Zinfandel Turley Estate (15.2 % alcohol). Grown on an old river bed filled with cobbles, this supple-textured, round, easygoing, hedonistic Zinfandel offers loads of briery, peppery, berry fruit and leafy, herbal notes, a succulent style, and a gorgeous glycerin- and fruit-endowed finish. Far less powerful and concentrated than the epic 2002, it should drink well for 4-5 years.VM 90 (6/2005): Dark red. Redcurrant, fruity black pepper and an exotic hint of apricot on the nose. Lush and peppery, with a nicely restrained sweetness and a pliant, layered texture. I'd drink this on the early side before it loses its fruit.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/TurleyWineCellars.aspWA 90-92 (12/2005): The 2004 Zinfandel Turley Estate reveals aromas of seaweed wrapper (nori) intermixed with jammy cherries, loamy soil, pepper, and Chateauneuf du Pape-like garrigue characteristics. With wonderful sweetness and richness (it has one of the lowest alcohol contents of these Zins - 14.9%), it will provide plenty of pleasure over the next 4-5 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/TurleyWineCellars.aspWA 97 (12/2000): One of the most compelling Cabernet Sauvignons Nils Venge has produced (and there have been many over the last 30 years) is his 1997 Venge Family Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon. Sadly, there are only 300 cases of this 100% new oak-aged effort. Tipping the scales at 14+% alcohol, it is a super-extracted, black/purple-colored effort displaying a gorgeous nose of creme de cassis intermixed with licorice, spice box, cedar, and smoke. Huge layers of glycerin, fat, and fruit caress the palate of this formidable effort. The wine has marvelous balance for its size as well as a long, impressive finish. While there is tannin to be shed, it is still primary, so 4-6 years of cellaring is suggested. It will keep for 25-30 years!http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Venge.aspWA 87 (12/2008): The 2006 Syrah Gladys- Vineyard from Dry Creek possesses aromas and flavors of black olives, roasted meats, sweet cherries, and black currants in a medium-bodied, straightforward, good, but hardly inspiring style.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Venge.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Venge.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Venge.aspWA 96 (12/2003): I was thrilled by the awesome quality of the 2001 La Joie, a blend of 71% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, and 9% Cabernet Franc. Aromas and flavors of roasted espresso, grilled herbs, scorched earth, blackberries, and cassis liqueur are accompanied by an unctuously-textured, full-bodied, expansive, dense, phenomenally concentrated, pure blockbuster. It should be at its finest between 2005-2020+. This is an out and out brilliant wine!http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Verite.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Verite.aspWA 100 (6/2011): 2001 was the first truly great vintage for Jess Jackson and Pierre Seillan, and that is evidenced by the utterly perfect 2001 La Muse, a blend of 87% Merlot, 12% Cabernet Franc, and 1% Malbec. Over three-fourths of it came from the Alexander Mountain estate of Jess Jackson, and the rest from Chalk Hill, Knights Valley, and a tiny bit from Bennett Valley. This dense purple-colored effort exhibits notes of licorice, creme de cassis, plum sauce, violets and truffles. Full-bodied with magnificent density, overall equilibrium, stunning purity, sweet but abundant tannin and a fabulous finish, this profound wine remains a baby at age ten. Give it another 5-6 years of bottle age and drink it over the following 35-40+ years. It is very French in style even though one could argue that this level of concentration can only be achieved by a handful of wines from Pomerol and St.-Emilion. VM 92 (6/2004): Bright ruby-red. Roasted red berries, tobacco, game, coffee and animal fur on the nose. Lush, layered and sweet, with sexy flavors of roasted berries and game. Finishes uncompromisingly dry, with building, ripe tannins.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Verite.aspVM 94 (6/2007): Bright red-ruby. Enticing aromas of plum, licorice, iron, mocha, tobacco and sexy nutty oak. Plush, spicy and sweet, with a lovely light touch to the silky flavors. Very suave wine, finishing long and firm, with noble tannins and lively acidity. Balanced to age but already accessible. Winemaker Pierre Seillan notes that the cabernet sauvignon component is to add "shoulders" to the wine, while the malbec contributes a spicy element. WA 93 (12/2006): The inky/ruby/plum/purple-tinged 2004 La Muse, primarily Merlot with a bit of Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon from Bennett Valley, Alexander Valley, and Knight’s Valley, is meant to be a Pomerol-styled effort. Notions of mocha, sweet espresso roast, plum, anise, and black cherries jump from the glass of this aromatic 2004. Abundant spice, subtle notes of French oak, and a full-bodied, fleshy personality result in an enjoyable as well as accessible wine to drink over the next 12-15+ years. WS 87 (11/2008): The Old and New Worlds meet in this massively structured yet agile and balanced blend, which shows aromas of black currant, fresh earth and leather, with lean flavors of blackberry, cedar and mineral that finish with chewy tannins. Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec. Best from 2011 through 2016. 942 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Verite.aspVM 94 (6/2007): Bright red-ruby. Enticing aromas of plum, licorice, iron, mocha, tobacco and sexy nutty oak. Plush, spicy and sweet, with a lovely light touch to the silky flavors. Very suave wine, finishing long and firm, with noble tannins and lively acidity. Balanced to age but already accessible. Winemaker Pierre Seillan notes that the cabernet sauvignon component is to add "shoulders" to the wine, while the malbec contributes a spicy element. WA 93 (12/2006): The inky/ruby/plum/purple-tinged 2004 La Muse, primarily Merlot with a bit of Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon from Bennett Valley, Alexander Valley, and Knight’s Valley, is meant to be a Pomerol-styled effort. Notions of mocha, sweet espresso roast, plum, anise, and black cherries jump from the glass of this aromatic 2004. Abundant spice, subtle notes of French oak, and a full-bodied, fleshy personality result in an enjoyable as well as accessible wine to drink over the next 12-15+ years. WS 87 (11/2008): The Old and New Worlds meet in this massively structured yet agile and balanced blend, which shows aromas of black currant, fresh earth and leather, with lean flavors of blackberry, cedar and mineral that finish with chewy tannins. Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec. Best from 2011 through 2016. 942 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Verite.aspWA 95 (12/2003): The 2001 Le Desir (50% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Franc, 9% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 1% Malbec) is an enormously concentrated, sweet yet elegant, medium to full-bodied effort revealing intense notes of red, black, and blue fruit intermixed with camphor, lead pencil shavings, and spice box characteristics. Rich and intensely flavored yet remarkably light on its feet for such power, with beautifully integrated wood, acidity, alcohol, and tannin in the long finish, it will provide immense pleasure if drunk between 2004-2025. This is an out and out brilliant wine!http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Verite.aspWA 94+ (12/2005): The dark, foreboding 2003 Le Desir (44% Merlot, 41% Cabernet Franc, 11% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 4% Malbec) exhibits an opaque purple color along with scents of incense, fruitcake, black currants, mocha, and berries. Rich, concentrated, tannic, and dense, it appears to be even more backward than La Joie. Nevertheless, it possesses tremendous upside potential. Cellar it for 3-4 years and enjoy it over the following three decades.IWC 93+ (6/2006): Ruby-red. Brooding, perfumed aromas of dark fruits, violet and chocolate. Sweet and intensely flavored, with lively acids framing the currant, black raspberry, mineral and dark chocolate flavors. Very densely packed wine, with the sheer material to support its big, ripe tannins. Give this plenty of aeration if you plan to open a bottle anytime soon. Or, better yet, lay it down for six to eight years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Verite.aspWS 94 (10/2008): Offers wonderful richness and purity of flavor, with dense, concentrated, sharply focused currant, black cherry, plum and wild berry fruit that's elegant and stylish, ending with a burst of flavor and lots of spicy currant notes. Best from 2009 through 2017. 317 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/VineCliff.aspWA 89 (8/2002): The 1999 exhibits cassis and licorice characteristics, along with considerable smoky new oak. Although the finish is angular and tough, everything else is impressive, including pure, ripe, concentrated fruit, medium body, Bordeaux-like, austere tannin, and good density, sweetness, and richness. Give it 2-3 years of cellaring and enjoy it over the following decade.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Vineyard29.aspVM 94 (11/2013): ineyard 29's 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon 29 Estate impresses for its creamy, generous personality, something that is quite rare in this vintage. Sweet tobacco, cinnamon, savory herbs, menthol, licorice and plums wrap around the palate in an explosive wine loaded with depth and volume. The balance of fruit intensity with the more savory notes typical of the year makes for a wonderfully expressive Cabernet Sauvignon. The 2011 is 96% Cabernet Sauvignon and 4% Petit Verdot.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Vineyard29.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Vineyard29.aspWA 98 (10/2014): Stunning, but a more classic and elegant wine without any of the scorched earth , Graves-like character of the Aida Vineyard is the classic 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon 29 Estate. This is a fabulous property on the lower hillsides of the Mayacamas Mountains. A blend of 96% Cabernet Sauvignon and 4% Petit Verdot aged in 100% new French oak, the 2012 is inky purple, with a gorgeous nose of lead pencil shavings, spring flowers, blackberry and blueberry fruit, cedar wood and baking spices. Dense, multi-layered, full-bodied and beautifully pure, this is a stunner to drink over the next 20-25 years. There are 760 cases. VM 94+ (12/2014): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon 29 Estate is going to thrill readers who appreciate the opulent full-throttle side of Napa Valley. Exotic, rich and beguiling to the core, the 2012 races across the palate with super-ripe fruit, white truffles, flowers and spices. Drink this voluptuous, intense Cabernet Sauvignon over the next 10-15 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Vineyard29.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Vinoce.aspWA 90 (12/2003): A blend of 39% Petit Verdot, 39% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Merlot, and 11% Cabernet Franc (an unusual combination), the inky ruby/purple-colored 1999 Reserve is a full-bodied, chewy, massive red with huge muscle and depth as well as excruciatingly high levels of tannin. It reminded me of some of the old Mt. Veeder wines from the mid-seventies. It should last ... survive may be a better word ... for 30+ years, but whether it will ever develop harmony is anyone’s guess. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2030?http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/VonStrasser.aspWA 90 (8/2009): Dense black cherry and earthy black currant fruit intermixed with hints of underbrush and herbs result in a sweet, fragrant bouquet. This wine exhibits excellent ripeness, outstanding depth, and plenty of upside potential. Accessible at present, it should evolve nicely for 5-8 years or more.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/AugustWest.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KevinWhiteWinery.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KevinWhiteWinery.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KevinWhiteWinery.aspWS 90 (9/1997): Dark, ripe, intense and concentrated. Well oaked but with the fruit depth and concentration to match. Finishes with a rich core of black cherry, chocolate and wild berry flavors, even a dash of charred oak. Best to cellar into 1999. 600 cases made.WA 88 (12/1997): Merlot lovers will enjoy Whitehall Lane's two fine examples of this varietal. The more ambitiously-styled 1995 Merlot Reserve Leonardini Vineyard reveals an opaque ruby/purple color, less expressiveness aromatically than the regular Merlot (it's more closed), and more toasty new oak. In the mouth, this wine possesses an extra dimension of richness and concentration. It is not as accessible as the regular Merlot, and over the next several years most readers will probably prefer the latter wine. Nevertheless, the Reserve Merlot is an excellent effort that should age well for 7-8 years.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WhitehallLane.aspWS 91 (11/2003): Still showing ample oak, with rich dill, kirsch, blackberry and black cherry fruit that's intense and concentrated, if short on polish and finesse. Ruggedly tannic, but the fruit works through.--1993 California Cabernet retrospective. Drink now through 2006. 1,200 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WhitehallLane.aspWS 92 (7/2015): This firm, chewy style glows within, offering cherry and cinnamon flavors on a taut frame, finishing with a light step but real intensity. Best from 2017 through 2020. 800 cases made. WA 86 (3/2015): The 2012 Pinot Noir Jory Hills Vineyard has an uncomplicated bouquet with clean lines: pointed dark cherry and red plum fruit with clearly much more fruit intensity than the 2011. The palate is medium-bodied with slightly chewy tannin, dark red fruit and plenty of tobacco and tertiary notes, the finish just a little too austere for my liking and cuts away too quickly.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WillakenzieEstate.aspVM 93 (1/2015): The 2013 Pinot Noir Chenoweth Vineyard is the first of these 2013s I would drink, as the style is soft, forward and inviting. Crushed flowers, orange peel, white pepper and dried cherries are given a little bit of extra lift from the 100% whole clusters. Rosewater, mint and savory herbs are some of the notes that are woven throughout the finish. This is the warmest Pinot site Wind Gap works with. The 2013 Chenoweth was aged in 500 liter barrels to help preserve a measure of freshness.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WindGap.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WindGap.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WindGap.aspVM 94+ (1/2015): The 2013 Pinot Noir Sun Chase Vineyard is the most intensely mineral of the 2013 Pinots I tasted, much of that coming from the use of 100% whole clusters, which seems to add quite a bit of energy, especially when comparing the 2013 to the 2012. Graphite, slate, crushed rocks and bright red fruit are all supported by beams of firm tannin. The 2013 finishes with substantial energy and tension, but it is also going to need time to soften.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WindGap.aspWS 85 (12/2006): Taut and firm, with aromas of cedar, currant, mocha and mineral. On the palate it's tight and tannic, well-balanced and veering toward dryness, ending with a metallic lead pencil edge. Best showing of three tastings. Decant. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2009. 5,000 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/Worthy.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/WrenHop.aspWS 88 (7/2015): Fresh and raw, with ripe pear and spice flavors on a taut frame. Drink now through 2018. 512 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KenWrightCellars.aspWS 85 (3/2016): Taut, with spicy pear and a hint of raisin in the mix, finishing soft and dry. Drink now. 866 cases made.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KenWrightCellars.aspIWC 86 (4/2002): Moderately saturated medium red. Musky aromas of roasted red fruits, earth and underbrush. Sweet, lush and easygoing, with strawberry and raspberry flavors framed by some edgy acids. A wine of modest structure. Finishes with soft tannins and hints of oak and lead pencil, but the fruit flavors seem a bit flat and washed-out on the end.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KenWrightCellars.aspIWC 88 (3/2003): Medium, amber-tinged red. Aromas of redcurrant, gunflint, mocha, leather and milk chocolate, along with a light leafy element. Concentrated flavors of red berries and smoke; fresher in the mouth than on the nose and perked up by some unabsorbed CO2, but this could still use a bit more lift and cut. Lingering, building finish features rather suave tannins.http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KenWrightCellars.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KenWrightCellars.aspWA 89 (10/2002): Armed with an intensely spicy nose, the 2000 Pinot Noir McCrone Vineyard bursts with black fruits. This thick, medium-bodied offering will merit an outstanding review provided that its firm finish softens with time. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2009. WS 89 (6/2002): On the lean side, a lithe red with tar, black cherry and smoke flavors that linger among the crisp tannins on the finish. Best from 2004 through 2007. 230 cases made. IWC 88 (3/2002): Full ruby-red. Cool, aromatic nose combines blackberry, maraschino cherry and peppery spices. Nicely focused, tight and precise in the mouth, with ripe, intense red fruit flavors. Finishes ripely tannic and persistent, with a note of menthol and a hint of heat. -http://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/KenWrightCellars.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/YamhillValleyVineyards.asphttp://www.flickingerwines.com/growers/YamhillValleyVineyards.asp