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Search Flickinger Wine Inventory
Inventory updated: Mon, Jan 26, 2026 04:02 PM cst
Your search criteria:
Regions: USA Red
Vintages: Between 2011 and 2011
| Producer |
Vint. |
Wine |
Price |
Qty |
Order |
| | USA Red |
| Alban Vineyards |
2011 |
Reva Alban Estate Syrah  |
$95 |
3 |
|
| |
WA 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. |
|
| Antica Terra |
2011 |
Botanica Pinot Noir (1.5 L) |
$325 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 93 (7/2013): Vivid ruby-red. A heady, complex bouquet evokes black raspberry, cherry-cola, Asian spices and dried rose. Sweet and penetrating, with impressively pure red and dark berry flavors lifted by zesty acidity and a hint of allspice. Intensely flavored but surprisingly elegant, with strong finishing punch and smooth, even tannins adding shape. This sexy pinot has great upfront appeal, especially for fruit freak, but I'd be stashing mine away for a few more years, at a minimum. Josh Raynolds. |
|
|
2011 |
Ceras Pinot Noir (1.5 L) |
$275 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 92 (7/2013): Bright ruby-red. Sexy, floral- and spice-accented aromas of red berry liqueur and potpourri, with a hint of vanilla in the background. Silky and precise, offering energetic raspberry and floral pastille flavors and a touch of dusty minerals. Finishes lively, focused and long, with resonating spiciness, a hint of anise and slow-building tannins. Josh Raynolds. |
|
| Araujo Estate |
2011 |
Eisele Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$225 |
3 |
|
| |
VM 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. |
|
|
2011 |
Eisele Vyd. Syrah |
$75 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 94 (11/2013): The 2011 Syrah Eisele Vineyard is rich, dense, textured and also incredibly primary. Smoke, tar, game, black pepper, plum and licorice notes emerge, but only with great reluctance. The 2011 remains intense and resonant in its fruit, but also very young, somber and almost raw. Readers will have to give the 2011 at least a few years in bottle. Once again, Araujo's Eisele Syrah is incredibly distinctive and intense. The 2011 was fermented with 10-15% whole clusters, with a splash of Viognier. According to vineyard manager Caleb Mosley Syrah was the least problematic variety in 2011, as all the fruit came in before the rains. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Belle Glos |
2011 |
Clark & Telephone Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$35 |
3 |
|
| |
|
| Betz Family Winery |
2011 |
Clos de Betz Proprietary Blend |
$55 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 93 (11/2013): (67% merlot, 28% cabernet sauvignon and 5% petit verdot; aged in 65% new oak): Good bright, deep red. Redcurrant, cocoa powder and musky tobacco on the nose. Gentle and creamy in the mouth for 2011, with harmonious ripe acidity framing the sweet red berry, cherry and cocoa powder flavors. This floral merlot-based wine is supported by firm acids and tannins but comes across as quite feminine in style. Betz notes that 2011 was a very good year for merlot. Stephen Tanzer.
WA 91 (6/2014): Moving to the Bordeaux blends, the 2011 Clos de Betz (67% Merlot, 28% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Petit Verdot) shows the vintage profile with its mid-weight, lively and overall fresh feel. Black currants, spring flowers, mint and hints of lead pencil and cedar flow from the glass and this medium-bodied, lively and balanced red has bright acidity that’s balanced by good concentration and depth. Give it another 2-3 years in the cellar and enjoy bottles through 2023.
WS 90 (6/2014): This lighter style wraps fine tannins around a vibrant core of raspberry, cherry, tobacco and spice, lingering with finesse on the refined finish. Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot. Best after 2015. 1,186 cases made. |
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|
2011 |
Clos de Betz Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) Signed Bottle |
$115 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 93 (11/2013): (67% merlot, 28% cabernet sauvignon and 5% petit verdot; aged in 65% new oak): Good bright, deep red. Redcurrant, cocoa powder and musky tobacco on the nose. Gentle and creamy in the mouth for 2011, with harmonious ripe acidity framing the sweet red berry, cherry and cocoa powder flavors. This floral merlot-based wine is supported by firm acids and tannins but comes across as quite feminine in style. Betz notes that 2011 was a very good year for merlot. Stephen Tanzer.
WA 91 (6/2014): Moving to the Bordeaux blends, the 2011 Clos de Betz (67% Merlot, 28% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Petit Verdot) shows the vintage profile with its mid-weight, lively and overall fresh feel. Black currants, spring flowers, mint and hints of lead pencil and cedar flow from the glass and this medium-bodied, lively and balanced red has bright acidity that’s balanced by good concentration and depth. Give it another 2-3 years in the cellar and enjoy bottles through 2023.
WS 90 (6/2014): This lighter style wraps fine tannins around a vibrant core of raspberry, cherry, tobacco and spice, lingering with finesse on the refined finish. Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot. Best after 2015. 1,186 cases made. |
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|
2011 |
La Cote Patriarche Syrah (1.5 L) Autographed Bottle |
$145 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2011 |
La Cote Rousse Syrah (1.5 L) Autographed Bottle |
$119 |
1 |
|
| |
|
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2011 |
La Serenne Syrah (1.5 L) Autographed Bottle |
$89 |
1 |
|
| |
|
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2011 |
Pere de Famille Cabernet Sauvignon |
$59 |
2 |
|
| |
VM 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. |
|
|
2011 |
Pere de Famille Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) Signed Bottle |
$135 |
2 |
|
| |
VM 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. |
|
| Blankiet |
2011 |
Rive Droite Proprietary Blend |
$103.20 |
2 |
|
| |
| VM 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. |
|
| Brittan Vineyards |
2011 |
Basalt Block Pinot Noir |
$55 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 91+ (6/2016): The 2011 Pinot Noir Basalt Block has a pretty bouquet with red berry fruit, cranberry and wild strawberry, a touch of flint and gravel developing with time. The palate is medium-bodied, taut and linear in the mouth, quite masculine and austere. It has a coolness to it, yet well balanced with decent depth on the finish, though I find more energy and delineation on the 2013. I suspect this might repay a couple more years in bottle, hence my plus sign. |
|
| Buccella |
2011 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$148.75 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 93 (10/2014): A blend of 90-95% Cabernet Sauvignon with the balance tiny quantities of Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec, the dense purple-colored 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon possesses sweet blackberry and cassis fruit, a deep, full-bodied, opulent, precocious, showy style, and 10 years of evolution ahead of it.
VM 91 (12/2014): Buccella's 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon has turned out beautifully. Dark red cherry, plum, spice, new leather and licorice meld together in a surprisingly plump, juicy wine for the year. Naturally, the 2011 is a bit lighter than most recent vintages, but the overall balance here is terrific. Winemaker Rebekah Weinburg and consultant winemaker Celia Welch have done a terrific job with their 2011.
WS 90 (4/2016): Aromas of charcoal, graphite, spice, blackberry and black licorice introduce this robust effort, which trims down to a firmer expression, with fine-grain, dusty tannins. Drink now through 2024. 842 cases made. |
|
| Bunnell Family Cellars |
2011 |
Snipes Mtn. Fete Proprietary Blend |
$20 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2011 |
Wine O’Clock Boushey Vyd. Sangiovese |
$15 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Cakebread Cellars |
2011 |
Napa Valley Carneros Syrah |
$45 |
1 |
|
| |
| WS 87 (1/2014): Dry and savory, with gripping tannins amid the dried dark berry, tobacco leaf, spice and cedar notes. Best to aerate or cellar short-term, but this will likely be tannic either way. Best from 2016 through 2027. 1,500 cases made. |
|
| Caymus |
2011 |
Special Selection Cabernet Sauvignon Lightly Bin-Marked Label |
$165 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 95 (10/2013): A brilliant wine, and one of the stars of the vintage, the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Special Selection boasts aromas of blueberry pie, blackberries, cassis and white flowers. This full-bodied, velvety textured, delicious 2011 is already drinking well, and should continue to do so for 10-12 years. It is a terrific success for the vintage. |
|
| Cobb |
2011 |
Emmaline Ann Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$50.15 |
4 |
|
| |
WA 92 (11/2020): The 2011 Pinot Noir Emmaline Ann Vineyard opens with tar and scorched earth aromas that flesh out to dried red berries and citrus peel notes. The medium-bodied palate maintains a core of dark, broody fruit in a firm frame, and it finishes long and detailed. It's in a great spot for drinking right now.
VM 90 (6/2014): Bright red. Fresh raspberry and cherry-cola on the deeply scented nose and in the mouth. Supple and less tangy than its siblings this year, showing good breadth and a hint of building smokiness. Closes sweet and long, with building floral and spice notes and youthfully gripping tannins. There's a good amount of clay in this vineyard, which gives the wine a roundness virtually every vintage, notes Ross Cobb. Josh Raynolds. |
|
|
2011 |
Rice-Spivak Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$38.25 |
4 |
|
| |
| WA 91 (11/2020): The 2011 Pinot Noir Rice Spivak Vineyard has a pale ruby color and takes time to open to aromas of saline, dried red berries, iodine and wafts of floral potpourri. The palate is medium-bodied and firm, with a slow flourish of spicy red fruits, and it finishes long, delicate and lifted. It’s a very pretty, mature expression of Rice Spivak. |
|
| Constant |
2011 |
Diamond Mountain Vyd. Merlot |
$60 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 91 (5/2014): Bright deep ruby. Aromas of currant, milk chocolate, mocha and truffle. Plush and pliant in the mouth; sweeter than the cabernet franc, with rich mocha and chocolate flavors complicated by a slightly herbaceous truffley character. Finishes with serious ripe tannins and building savory length. Very good merlot. Stephen Tanzer.
WA 84 (10/2013): The 2011 Merlot exhibits a certain lightness and dilution, and lacks substance. |
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| Copain Wines |
2011 |
Kiser "En Haut" Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$38.50 |
3 |
|
| |
| VM 90 (5/2014): Dark red. Powerful spice-accented aromas of black raspberry, floral pastilles and licorice, with a bright mineral overtone. Then livelier in the mouth, offering tangy blackberry and bitter cherry flavors that put on weight with air. Structured, focused pinot with strong finishing punch, chewy tannins and a late jolt of peppery spices adding bite. Stephen Tanzer. |
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|
2011 |
Wentzel Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$44.80 |
2 |
|
| |
| VM 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. |
|
| Culler |
2011 |
Cortese Vyd. Syrah |
$50 |
2 |
|
| |
| VM 92 (11/2013): Sage, rosemary, black olives, earthiness and tobacco all take shape in the 2011 Syrah Cortese Vineyard, a dark, savory wine loaded with personality. The long, energetic finish is particularly of note. There is a lot to like in this medium-bodied, polished Syrah. Antonio Galloni. |
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2011 |
Sawi Vyd. Syrah |
$40 |
1 |
|
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| VM 90 (11/2013): Mocha, cloves, black cherries and plums all meld together in the 2011 Sawi Vineyard. This is a fairly juicy, up-front Syrah with considerable near-term appeal. I would prefer to drink it over the next few years, while the fruit remains vibrant. Antonio Galloni. |
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| Dalla Valle |
2011 |
Maya Proprietary Blend |
$279 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 94 (6/2014): One of the wines of this challenging Napa Valley harvest, the 2011 Maya is impressive. Textural beauty is front and center, but it will be at least another few years before the aromas and flavors start to show the full breadth of complexity and nuance that has always been present in barrel. The deep, intense finish is simply dazzling in a magnificent Maya that should drink well for many, many years.
VM 93+ (5/2014): (65% cabernet sauvignon and 35% cabernet franc): Bright ruby-red. Higher-pitched on the nose than the cabernet bottling and tighter today, offering hints of dark berries, violet, minerals and licorice. Then big, rich and mouthfilling, conveying a texture of liquid silk and a powerful impression of the site's red soil. Saline mocha and graphite flavors display terrific definition and underlying spine. Finishes with substantial building, sweet tannins and Outstanding length. Zero impression of underripeness here. This classy, highly concentrated wine may yet merit an even higher score. An exciting 2011.
WS 91 (11/2014): Supple and creamy, especially for the vintage, with rich, vivid blackberry, currant, cedar and loamy earth notes. The crushed rock minerality keeps the flavors in check on the finish. Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Drink now through 2024. 500 cases made. |
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| Dancing Hares |
2011 |
Mad Hatter Proprietary Blend |
$35 |
4 |
|
| |
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| Donelan |
2011 |
Cuvee Keltie Syrah |
$59 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 93 (12/2013): The 2011 Cuvee Keltie, which came in under 14% alcohol, spent 22 months in neutral wood, and 100% whole stems were used. The wine reveals a chocolaty, smoky, bacon-scented nose that at first suggests a French Cote Rotie, but as it hits the palate with its full-bodied creme de cassis, blackberry, charcoal and graphite personality, it moves more toward a single vineyard Hermitage from the likes of Chapoutier. This supple, rich 2011 can be drunk now or cellared for a decade.
VM 92+ (2/2014): The 2011 Syrah Cuvée Keltie is a selection of the best barrels in the cellar from Walker Vine Hill, Obsidian, Richards and Steiner. One of the darker 2011s here, the Cuvée Keltie boasts terrific depth, power and raciness. Black fruit, smoke, licorice and incense flow through to the finish. This resonant, expressive Syrah could use another year or two in bottle to fully assimilate the 80% whole clusters. Today the 2011 is deep, dense and a bit compact, yet full of promise. (Drink between 2015-2023). Antonio Galloni.
JD 91 (6/2019): While the 2011 Syrah Cuvee Keltie isn’t at the same level as the other vintages here, it’s nevertheless a beautiful wine. Medium-bodied notes of cracked pepper, smoked earth, graphite, and sweet black fruits all emerge from this fresh, elegant Syrah that has terrific balance, moderate depth and richness, and outstanding length. It’s drinking nicely today yet is still youthful and lively, and I’m sure will continue drinking nicely for another decade. (Drink between 2019-2029). |
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2011 |
Richards Family Vyd. Syrah |
$49 |
11 |
|
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| VM 89 (1/2015): The 2011 Syrah Richards Family Vineyard comes across as compact and dried out, especially on the mid-palate. Attractive savory notes develop in the glass, but the 2011 lacks freshness and depth. Sweet tobacco, crushed flowers, mint and dried cherries add a measure of nuance, but that is not enough to compensate for an overall faded feeling that runs through the wine. I can't help the 2011 may have ultimately spent too much time in barrel. Antonio Galloni. |
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2011 |
Two Brothers Pinot Noir |
$50 |
5 |
|
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VM 92 (2/2014): Dark red/black cherries, wild flowers, mint and licorice meld together in the 2011 Pinot Noir Two Brothers. Savory notes develop in the glass, adding nuance and aromatic complexity. Hints of sage, sweet tobacco, anise and earthiness meld into a juicy finish supported by firm yet well-integrated tannins that should allow the wine to age nicely for a number of years. The 2011 was fermented with 40% whole clusters and spent 18 months in barrel, 20% new. The sites are Steiner Ranch, Perli, Goldrock Ridge, Walker Vine Hill and a dollop of Gap's Crown. (Drink between 2014-2021). Antonio Galloni.
WA 92 (12/2013): The red wines include the 2011 Pinot Noir Two Brothers which comes from four relatively high elevation sources, three in Sonoma and one in Mendocino. It was aged 18 months in 20% new French oak and finished with 14.4% alcohol. Its medium ruby color is followed by seductive aromas of kirsch, strawberries, loamy soil and a hint of oak in the background. A remarkably successful 2011, it is a medium-bodied, velvety, long Pinot Noir to consume over the next 5-7 years. |
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| Duckhorn |
2011 |
Monitor Ledge Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$75 |
1 |
|
| |
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2011 |
Napa Valley Merlot |
$50 |
1 |
|
| |
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2011 |
Patzimaro Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$95 |
1 |
|
| |
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2011 |
Rector Vyd. Estate Grown Cabernet Sauvignon |
$80 |
1 |
|
| |
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| L' Ecole No. 41 |
2011 |
Estate Ferguson Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$55 |
1 |
|
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| Ehlers Estate |
2011 |
1886 Cabernet Sauvignon |
$85 |
4 |
|
| |
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2011 |
One Twenty Over Eighty Cabernet Sauvignon |
$40 |
3 |
|
| |
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| Force Majeure |
2011 |
Ciel du Cheval Collaboration Series II Proprietary Blend |
$65 |
4 |
|
| |
|
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2011 |
Ciel du Cheval Collaboration Series III Proprietary Blend |
$65 |
2 |
|
| |
| VM 91 (12/2014): Bright red-ruby. Aromas of black raspberry, cassis, licorice, brown spices and smoky oak show a liqueur-like quality. At once lush and lively, with enticing inner-mouth violet perfume framing and lifting the flavors of black fruits, licorice and mint. An edge of harmonious acidity restrains the wine’s sweetness today. Finishes with tongue-dusting tannins and a note of exotic smoky oak. Stephen Tanzer. |
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2011 |
Collaboration Series V Proprietary Blend |
$70 |
2 |
|
| |
| VM 91+ (12/2014): Bright, medium red-ruby. Subdued, pure aromas of crushed blackberry, blueberry, licorice pastille and violet, complicated by leather and bitter chocolate nuances. Tightly wound and youthfully backward, with an insidious liquid velvet character currently hidden by strong inner-mouth tension. Finishes with serious tongue-dusting tannins, very good grip and verve, and lingering notes of cassis, smoked meat, leather and exotic oak. Stephen Tanzer. |
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2011 |
Collaboration Series VI Proprietary Blend |
$40 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 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. |
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2011 |
Force Majeure Vyd. Collaboration Series Cabernet Sauvignon |
$60 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 93-95+ (6/2013): Coming all from the new, incredibly steep estate vineyard located high up near the top of Red Mountain, the 2011 Collaboration Series Cabernet Sauvignon is distinct in the lineup for its deep black currant, tobacco, underbrush, violets and mineral-loaded profile. More rounded and supple on the palate than some of the Ciel du Cheval bottlings, it has a rich, weighty mouthfeel, knockout purity of fruit and enough silky tannin to allow it to evolve gracefully for at least a decade. This is only the fourth leaf for the vineyard and hats off to the Force Majeure crew for having the vision to push the envelope on where grape vines can be planted and for the perseverance to work those steep hillsides. Drink now-2021. |
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| Frank Family |
2011 |
Zinfandel |
$25 |
2 |
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| |
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2011 |
Reserve Petite Sirah |
$50 |
1 |
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| |
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2011 |
Reserve Pinot Noir |
$40 |
2 |
|
| |
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2011 |
Reserve Sangiovese |
$40 |
1 |
|
| |
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2011 |
Reserve Zinfandel |
$20 |
2 |
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| Grgich Hills |
2011 |
Estate Grown Cabernet Sauvignon |
$75 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 89 (5/2014): Bright medium red-ruby. Tight aromas and flavors of dark berries and licorice complicated by tobacco, spicecake and flowers. Bright and juicy in the mouth, with a touch of sweetness counterpointed by sound acidity. Nicely avoids the greenness of the vintage and finishes with a fine dusting of tannins, good energy and moderate length. Stephen Tanzer. |
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2011 |
Miljenko’s Old Vine Zinfandel Slightly Depressed Cork |
$75 |
1 |
|
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| Gundlach Bundschu |
2011 |
Vintage Reserve Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) Scuffed Label |
$85 |
1 |
|
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| Hendry |
2011 |
Block 28 Zinfandel Very Lightly Bin-Soiled Label |
$25 |
3 |
|
| |
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2011 |
Block 7 & 22 Zinfandel |
$35 |
1 |
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2011 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon |
$35 |
1 |
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| Janzen Estate |
2011 |
Cloudy’s Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$75 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 91 (5/2014): Cabernet Sauvignon Cloudy Vineyard Napa Valley) (from a vineyard in Dutch Henry Canyon between Switchback Ridge and Hourglass): Saturated ruby-red. Aromas of cassis, crushed blackberry and licorice. Densely packed, very ripe and sweet, with a distinctly chocolatey quality to the black fruit flavors. Quite pliant and silky in texture but has good energy too. Finishes with substantial, dusty tannins and noteworthy breadth and length. Stephen Tanzer.
WA 88 (10/2014): Janzen made a very good 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Cloudy’s Vineyard, which comes from the Dutch Henry Canyon sector of Napa Valley. This dark ruby/purple-tinged wine shows more density and richness than the Beckstoffer Vineyards as well as more blackcurrant, cedarwood and licorice notes. Drink it over the next 7-8 years, as none of these 2011s are meant for long-term aging. |
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| Kistler |
2011 |
Cuvee Natalie Silver Belt Pinot Noir Lightly Bin-Soiled Label |
$85 |
1 |
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| |
VM 94 (5/2014): Brilliant ruby. High-pitched aromas of raspberry, cherry-cola, incense and fresh rose, with a zesty mineral nuance adding lift. Juicy, sharply delineated red berry and floral pastille flavors are given spine by tangy acidity. Expands with air, leaving sexy floral pastille and spicecake notes behind on the strikingly long finish. This suave, energetic pinot is already delicious.
WA 91 (12/2013): The 2011 Pinot Noir Silver Belt Vineyard Cuvee Natalie includes more of the Joseph Swan clone than the Kistler Vineyard. It offers hints of strawberries, pomegranate, clove and cinnamon along with crisp, tart acidity, and less texture and depth than the Kistler.
WS 89 (9/2014): An intense version, brimming with rich, vivid dark berry and peppery, spicy stem notes. Raw and chewy, with a seam of suppleness midpalate on. Should reward short-term cellaring. Drink now through 2022. 1,070 cases made. |
|
| Larkmead Vineyards |
2011 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$73 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 90 (10/2013): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate (100% Cabernet Sauvignon) offers up notes of mulberries, licorice, plums and tobacco leaf in its medium-bodied, surprisingly concentrated, well-made personality. There are over 3,000 cases produced, and it is one of the top wines made on the valley floor in 2011. The healthy deep ruby/purple color is accompanied by lots of fruit, soft tannins and low acidity. Consume it over the next 8-10 years.
VM 89 (11/2013): Mocha, espresso, licorice, tobacco, dried herbs and leather are some of the many notes that emerge from the glass in the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate, a wine with distinct Old World overtones. Savory herbs, cedar and dried flowers continue to develop in the glass, adding complexity to the fruit. The 2011 is best enjoyed sooner rather than later. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2011 |
Firebelle Proprietary Blend |
$75 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 89 (5/2014): Bright, full red-ruby. Musky currant, cherry, menthol and tobacco leaf aromas are slightly dulled by a whiff of nutty oak. More vibrant in the mouth than on the nose, offering currant, plum, mocha, milk chocolate and tobacco leaf flavors accented by a peppery herbal quality that runs through the wine. Shows a rather suave texture and a light dusting of tannins. Larkmead did not bottle its "reserve" wines in 2011 (LMV Salon and Solari) owing to the difficult vintage conditions here. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
|
2011 |
Firebelle Proprietary Blend Nicked Capsule |
$75 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 89 (5/2014): Bright, full red-ruby. Musky currant, cherry, menthol and tobacco leaf aromas are slightly dulled by a whiff of nutty oak. More vibrant in the mouth than on the nose, offering currant, plum, mocha, milk chocolate and tobacco leaf flavors accented by a peppery herbal quality that runs through the wine. Shows a rather suave texture and a light dusting of tannins. Larkmead did not bottle its "reserve" wines in 2011 (LMV Salon and Solari) owing to the difficult vintage conditions here. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
|
2011 |
Napa Valley Red Wine |
$79 |
3 |
|
| |
|
| Leonetti Cellars |
2011 |
Reserve Proprietary Blend |
$125 |
2 |
|
| |
VM 94+ (12/2014): (14.1% alcohol; 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Merlot and 7% each petit verdot and Cabernet Franc): Bright, dark ruby-red. I might have identified this as a white wine from the nose, which offers citrus and gooseberry aromas lifted by a floral topnote. Then pure and intense in the mouth, with an element of citrus zest, suggestions of tropical fruits and a strong sour cherry candy quality that reminded me of a top Pomerol. Very densely packed, savory and dry, with strong acidity giving it a light touch. The wine’s serious tannic spine calls for extended cellaring. A singular wine with great eclat—but will it ever surpass the estate’s flagship cabernet bottling?
WS 94 (10/2014): Refined, elegant and expressive, popping with juicy currant and blackberry fruit and shaded with hints of allspice, black pepper and bay leaf, lingering harmoniously on an open texture. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. Drink now through 2026. 1,028 cases made.
WA 93 (6/2014): The 2011 Reserve is 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Merlot, 7% Petit Verdot and 7% Cabernet Franc that spent 20 months in once-filled French oak barrels. Offering more black cherry, black currant, licorice, tobacco and spring flower-like qualities on the nose, this serious 2011 has fantastic mid-palate depth, integrated acidity and a medium to full-bodied, seamless and elegant personality that’s hard to resist. It too will drink beautifully through 2031. |
|
| Mount Eden Vineyards |
2011 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$110 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Next of Kyn |
2011 |
Cumulus Vyd. No. 5 Proprietary Blend |
$325 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 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 (8/2017): The 2011 Next of Kyn - No. 5, from one of the most maligned California vintages in recent memory, is quite attractive, if a bit compact. Although very much light to medium in body next to the other wines in this tasting, the 2011 is full of perfume, freshness and bright fruit. If anything, the 2011 still needs time to develop the full breadth of its aromatic complexity. In this tasting, the 2011 is more reticent than it has been in the past. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Alexandria Nicole |
2011 |
Destiny Ridge Vineyards Jet Black Syrah |
$25 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2011 |
Destiny Ridge Vineyards Rock Star Red |
$25 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Onward Wines |
2011 |
Hawkeye Ranch Pinot Noir |
$29 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Pfeiffer |
2011 |
Blue Dot Reserve Pinot Noir Loose Capsule |
$19 |
4 |
|
| |
|
| Joseph Phelps |
2011 |
Insignia Proprietary Blend |
$205 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 91+ (4/2016): (from a very late growing season in which the harvest took place in October): Dark ruby. Cool aromas of blackberry, dried sage and thyme, Kona coffee, black olive and peppery herbs. Boasts good density and intensity to its cassis and cherry flavors but also a distinctly green element of mint, pepper and herbs. Finishes juicy and firmly tannic: will this expand in bottle? This was the first Insignia vintage since 2000 with all five Bordeaux varieties, as a bit of Cabernet Franc found its way back into the blend--in this case, from three-year-old vines in Suscol vineyard. Hepworth believes that the wine's green notes will diminish over time and that it will evolve gracefully. Stephen Tanzer.
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.
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%. |
|
| Pride Mountain Vineyards |
2011 |
Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon |
$99 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 94 (10/2014): There are 1,374 cases of the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve, which spent 22 months in 40% new French oak. It exhibits classic notes of new saddle leather, unsmoked cigar tobacco, red and blackcurrants, and loamy soil undertones in a full-bodied, intense, opulent, fleshy style. 85% came from Sonoma County and 15% from Napa County. This beauty is on a fast evolutionary track, so drink it during its first 7-8 years of life.
VM 93+ (12/2014): Pride's 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve is another exceptional wine from this vintage. The cool, late harvest yielded a slightly restrained wine, yet the 2011 Reserve impresses for its balance and overall harmony. Grilled herbs, tobacco and lavender flesh out on the super-expressive, pliant finish. The 2011 could use another year in bottle, but I wouldn't plan on cellaring it for more than a decade give or take. Once the tannins soften, the 2011 will drink nicely for at least a handful of years.
VM 90 (6/2015): (14.4% alcohol; the fruit was picked until November 28 "without botrytis," said Steve Pride, adding that 2011 was "the coldest year in our history"): Bright, saturated medium ruby. Precise aromas and flavors of blackberry, licorice, spices, menthol and espresso accented by flinty minerality, pepper and fresh herbs. Juicy, tight and on the lean side, given a distinctly savory character by slightly peppery acidity. Boasts very good definition, grip and underlying structure--not to mention good length--but will this very cool Cabernet gain in complexity with bottle aging?
WS 88 (7/2015): Offers an initial burst of ripe, supple plum, cherry and wild berry, firming and flexing tannic strength on the finish. In line with the 2011 vintage in terms of austerity, but ends pleasantly, returning to the core fruit theme. Drink now through 2026. 1,374 cases made. |
|
| Raymond |
2011 |
District Collection St. Helena Cabernet Sauvignon |
$60 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Realm |
2011 |
The Falstaff Proprietary Blend |
$99 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 91+ (11/2013): The 2011 Falstaff wraps around the palate with plum, mocha, espresso, licorice and menthol. A decidedly rich, voluptuous wine for the year, the 2011 stands out for its pure texture, immediacy and grace. There are no angular contours whatsoever in this supremely inviting Cabernet Franc-based red. Today, the 2011 is a bit tight, but it should soften with further time in bottle. In 2011, the blend is 60% Cabernet Franc (from Englehard) and 40% Cabernet Sauvignon (from Blair and Dr. Crane). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Round Pond |
2011 |
Rutherford Estate Cabernet Sauvignon |
$35 |
5 |
|
| |
| VM 87 (5/2014): Dark ruby-red. Musky aromas of tobacco leaf, eucalyptus, black olive and anise; at once green and a bit tired. Smooth in texture, with red berry flavors joined by spices, licorice and fresh herbs. Not quite as green in the mouth as on the nose but still slightly tart. Tannins are a bit dry. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
|
2011 |
Rutherford Proprietary Blend |
$35 |
3 |
|
| |
|
|
2011 |
Rutherford Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon |
$65 |
2 |
|
| |
| VM 90 (5/2014): Bright red-ruby. Distinctly riper on the nose than the regular release, offering scents of plum, blackberry, flowers and licorice, plus a gravelly nuance. Juicy and energetic on the palate, showing good density of material but coming across as youthfully tight today. Red fruit flavors are complicated by graphite and mocha notes. Finishes juicy and persistent, with substantial dusty tannins. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
| Rudius |
2011 |
Fion Bainise Proprietary Blend |
$27.20 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 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. |
|
| Mark Ryan |
2011 |
Dead Horse Cabernet Sauvignon |
$51 |
3 |
|
| |
| WA 93 (6/2014): Made from 81% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the rest Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Dead Horse Ciel du Cheval Vineyard offers beautiful purity and freshness to go with classic aromas of blackberry, blueberry, charcoal, crushed rock and burnt toast. Full-bodied, fleshy, balanced, with ample tannin, it-s a serious Bordeaux blend that will have upwards of two decades of longevity. |
|
|
2011 |
Lonely Heart Cabernet Sauvignon |
$51 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 93 (6/2014): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Lonely Heart is 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc that spent 21 months in 74% new French oak. Possessing rock star concentration and depth (which is not common in the vintage), with aromas and flavors of black currants, licorice, crushed rock and charcoal, this full-bodied effort has fantastic polish to its tannin, perfect balance and overall classic, age-worthy feel. It too will have two decades or more of longevity. |
|
|
2011 |
Long Haul Merlot |
$51 |
3 |
|
| |
| WA 92 (6/2014): Another outstanding effort from this estate, the Merlot-dominated 2011 Long Haul incorporates 13% Cabernet Franc 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and 1% Petit Verdot, all of which were aged 21 months in 73% new French oak. It gives up ripe black fruits, currants, licorice, singed herbs and chocolate to go with a full-bodied, rounded and voluptuous style the palate. Nicely focused, with excellent purity of fruit, it-s already approachable and should be consumed over the coming decade. |
|
| Sass Winery |
2011 |
Vieux Amis Pinot Noir |
$19 |
3 |
|
| |
|
| School House |
2011 |
Spring Mountain District Pinot Noir |
$60 |
20 |
|
| |
|
|
2011 |
Spring Mountain District Pinot Noir Scuffed Label |
$60 |
4 |
|
| |
|
| Sea Smoke |
2011 |
Ten Pinot Noir |
$95 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Sine Qua Non |
2011 |
Patine Grenache |
$295 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 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. |
|
| Sojourn Cellars |
2011 |
Spring Mtn. District Cabernet Sauvignon |
$30 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Somnium Cellars |
2011 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$75 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Spoiled Dog Winery |
2011 |
Malbec |
$10 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2011 |
Pinot Noir |
$10 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Spring Mountain Vineyard |
2011 |
Syrah |
$30 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Stags' Leap Winery |
2011 |
Block 20 Merlot |
$40 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2011 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon |
$60 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2011 |
Napa Valley Merlot |
$25 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2011 |
Ne Cede Malis Petite Sirah |
$40 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 91 (10/2014): The sensational 2011 Petite Sirah Ne Cede Malis Estate comes from a plot of old vines planted in 1929. A superstar in 2011, it boasts a dense blue/purple color as well as copious aromas of blueberries, black raspberries, licorice, camphor and incense. Deep, pure and impressively endowed, it is best consumed over the next 10-15 years. |
|
|
2011 |
The Leap Cabernet Sauvignon |
$70 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Stone the Crows |
2011 |
Three Twins Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$130 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 89 (5/2014): (from a vineyard located in Conn Valley): Good dark red. Redcurrant, red plum, woodsmoke, tobacco leaf, herbs and menthol on the rather Graves-y nose. Juicy, spicy and tight, with a strong tobacco leaf quality joined by a slightly inky quality on the end. Boasts good intensity but the tannins come off as a bit green and tough. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
| Orin Swift |
2011 |
The Abstract Proprietary Blend |
$45 |
4 |
|
| |
| JD 92 (12/2012): A voluptuous, hedonistic, and pleasure bent blend that is mostly Grenache, the 2011 Orin Swift Abstract delivers loads of creamy red and blackberry fruit, sweet spice, licorice, bramble, and hints of white chocolate-like aromas and flavors to go with a full-bodied, decadent, yet gorgeously proportioned and balanced palate. A crowd pleaser for sure, yet even better, with real class and depth, this knockout effort benefits from a decant, and should be consumed over the coming 4-6 years. |
|
|
2011 |
The Prisoner Proprietary Blend |
$65 |
9 |
|
| |
|
| Tensley Wines |
2011 |
Colson Canyon Vyd. Syrah |
$55 |
3 |
|
| |
|
| Terlato Vineyards |
2011 |
Galaxy Proprietary Blend |
$50 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Turley Wine Cellars |
2011 |
Hayne Vyd. Zinfandel |
$65 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 93-95 (12/2012): Turley’s 2011 Zinfandel Hayne Vineyard, the product of a very late harvest, is another drop-dead gorgeous wine. Dark red fruit, cinnamon and mocha are some of the layers of aroma and flavor that blossom to fill out the wine’s big, broad-shouldered frame. Vibrant, rich and intense, the Hayne is one of the clear standouts in this lineup of 2011s. It is a dazzling wine in every way. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2021. |
|
| Twomey Cellars (Silver Oak) |
2011 |
Russian River Valley Pinot Noir |
$30 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 89 (5/2014): Pale-medium red. Pungent, precise, high-pitched aromas of raspberry, cranberry, spices, herbs and pepper. A fresh, juicy midweight, with brisk red berry flavors accented by spices, herbs and pepper. On the light side and quite dry but nicely done. Delivers good energy and lift. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
| Vineyard 7 & 8 |
2011 |
Correlation Cabernet Sauvignon |
$69 |
3 |
|
| |
WA 91 (8/2016): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Correlation displays a clean, pure nose of camphor, crème de cassis and licorice followed by an opulent, medium to full-bodied mouthfeel and a long finish. Clearly showing significantly better than when I first tasted it, it should continue to evolve for another 10-12+ years.
VM 90 (5/2014): Bright ruby-red. Highly aromatic, inviting nose offers scents of cassis, licorice, brown spices, tobacco leaf and fresh herbs. Supple and surprisingly sweet in the middle, with good concentration and floral lift to the flavors of currant, plum and cola spices. Easygoing and open-knit for the vintage, with the flavor intensity to support its dusty, spicy, peppery tannins. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
|
2011 |
Estate Cabernet Sauvignon |
$100 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 94 (5/2022): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Vineyard 7 & 8 Estate has turned out beautifully. At age ten, the 2011 is endowed with tremendous depth. Moreover, it remains very, very young. Blackberry jam, chocolate, spice, new leather and cloves saturate the palate. There are no hard edges or green notes here, just a very young Spring Mountain Cabernet that still needs time. Harvest took place in early November, meaning very, very late. (Drink between 2023-2036). Antonio Galloni.
WA 94 (10/2018): Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate sings of warm plums, cassis and violets with touches of bay leaves, black soil, pepper and cedar chest. The palate is full-bodied, firm and grainy with a lively line cutting through the intense black and blue berry flavors, finishing long with an herbal lift. |
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