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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 2014 and 2014
| Producer |
Vint. |
Wine |
Price |
Qty |
Order |
| | USA Red |
| 21 Grams |
2014 |
Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon  |
$125 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 91 (4/2020): Another late release from the Waters Winery, the 2014 21 Grams offers a sweet nose of macerated cherries and mulled blackberries intermixed with flowery incense and cedar. Nicely balanced on the palate, with medium to full-bodied richness and depth as well as sweet tannin, it's drinking nicely today yet should keep well for a decade. |
|
| Accendo Cellars |
2014 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$215 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 95+ (12/2017): Produced from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon gives a deep garnet-purple color and leaps from the glass with notes of warm black currants and red currants preserves plus touches of sandalwood, cigar box, spice box, licorice and menthol and the faintest hints of forest floor and potpourri. Medium-bodied with a fantastic intensity of red and black fruits and accented with pepper, spice and earthy notions, it has a firm, chewy backbone and great freshness, finishing with lingering mineral notes.
VM 95 (3/2018): A wine of precision, nuance and tension, Accendo's 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon continues to grow in bottle. There is a sense of translucent vibrancy in the 2014 that is especially admirable. Red and purplish-toned fruit, lavender, mint and crushed rocks are all beautifully delineated, but it is the wine's shape and drive that I find most alluring today. This is a fabulous showing. Antonio Galloni.
WS 89 (7/2018): Marked by firm blueberry and currant flavors, with accents of graphite, crushed rock and dusty, loamy soil. Tilts toward the dry and tannic side on the finish, showing the most complexity on the finish. Best from 2020 through 2031. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 540 cases made.
JS 92 (5/2018): Very nicely balanced with ultra-fine tannins and a medium to full body. Fresh and very clean. It shows a very pretty flavors of terracotta and dark berries. Polished and refined. Drink after 2020. |
|
| Alpha Omega |
2014 |
X Cabernet Sauvignon |
$299 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Anakota |
2014 |
Helena Dakota Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$100 |
2 |
|
| |
| VM 92+ (3/2017): The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Helena Dakota is a bit darker, richer and bigger than the Helena Montana, with a bit more savory character, but the two wines are not that different in this vintage. Sweeping and ample in feel, the 2014 shows the more virile side of Knights Valley. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Aperture |
2014 |
Oliver’s Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon Very Lightly Bin-Soiled Label |
$159 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 94+ (3/2017): Deep garnet purple in color, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Oliver's Vineyard offers intense notes of ripe black currants, warm plums, blackberry preserves and cigar boxes with hints of dark chocolate and licorice. Full-bodied with wonderful concentration in the mouth, the generous blackcurrant and spice flavors are supported by firm ripe tannins and just enough freshness, finishing long and layered. Still very useful, give this one another 5 to 7 years in the cellar and enjoy over the next 10 to 15 years. |
|
| Arietta |
2014 |
88 Keys Cabernet Sauvignon |
$139 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 94 (5/2018): Mocha, chocolate, plum, blackberry jam, black cherry and leather infuse Arietta's 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon 88 Keys. Plush and textured, the 2014 exudes depth in a racy, voluptuous style with soft contours and tons of fruit. At times, the 2014 is a touch alcoholic, but the wine has also just been bottled. If experience has taught me anything, it is that the Arietta wines almost always need quite a bit of time post-bottling to show at their best. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| B Cellars |
2014 |
Atlas Peak Cabernet Sauvignon |
$129 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2014 |
Atlas Peak Cabernet Sauvignon Signs of Old Seepage |
$119 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Beau Vigne |
2014 |
Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon Tissue-Stained Label |
$125 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 94+ (12/2016): Probably the most backward of all the wines, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve certainly has its own charm, but it does show more oak tannin. It is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, and at 213 cases, one of their smallest cuvées. This dense purple wine seems more restrained and muted compared to its siblings. It is impressively concentrated and deep, but more of a long distance runner, at least out of the gate. I would put this one away for 2-4 years and drink it over the following two decades. |
|
| Becklyn Cellars |
2014 |
Moulds Vyd. Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon |
$75 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2014 |
Moulds Vyd. Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon |
$80.75 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2014 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon |
$89 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Bergstrom |
2014 |
Le Pre du Col Ribbon Ridge Pinot Noir (1.5 L) |
$189 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 93 (12/2016): Limpid ruby-red. Vibrant, sharply delineated aromas of raspberry, Asian spices and potpourri are lent urgency by a strong mineral flourish. Juicy, spicy and focused on the palate, with showing vibrant cut and mineral lift to the red berry, rose pastille and spicecake flavors. Finishes impressively long and aromatic, with resonating florality and silky tannins sneaking in late to contribute shape. There's a lot of immediate appeal here, but I'd give this sexy Pinot at least a few more years of rest. Josh Raynolds. |
|
| Betz Family Winery |
2014 |
Clos de Betz Proprietary Blend |
$55 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2014 |
Heart of the Hill Cabernet Sauvignon |
$109 |
6 |
|
| |
|
|
2014 |
Pere de Famille Cabernet Sauvignon |
$60 |
4 |
|
| |
|
| Bien Nacido Estate |
2014 |
The Captain Reserve Pinot Noir |
$75 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 97 (9/2017): The 2014 Pinot Noir Bien Nacido Vineyard The Captain is one of the very finest wines I have tasted from Trey Fletcher and Bien Nacido Estate. Silky, floral and nuanced, the Captain is all finesse. The purity of the red-toned fruit is simply remarkable. As striking as the 2014 is today, it best drinking lies in the future. (Drink between 2018-2029). Antonio Galloni.
WA 94 (4/2018): The 2014 Pinot Noir The Captain wafts from the glass with complex aromas of wood smoke, wild berries and savory forest floor. On the palate, it's medium-bodied, cool and racy, with a crunchy core of fruit, fine-grained structuring tannins and lots of sappy energy, concluding with a penetrating finish. Like the 2015 rendition, this will need some time to really open up, but it's a beautiful wine from Bien Nacido's highest-altitute, most windswept plantings.
JD 93 (8/2017): A new cuvée (for me anyways), the 2014 Pinot Noir Bien Nacido The Captain was the standard winemaking and saw 30% whole clusters, native ferments and 18 months in 40% new French oak. It sports a deeper ruby color as well as terrific red and black fruits, leady herbs, underbrush and leather. It's another concentrated, rich and nicely structured effort that has plenty of ripe tannin, solid mid-palate depth and a good finish. Like the other wines here, it's going to keep for a decade, and I suspect will be one of the longer-lived wines in the vintage. There’s just 98 cases. These terrific wines are made by Trey Fletcher, and while the majority come from the namesake vineyard outside of Santa Maria, they make a sensational Pinot Noir from the Solomon Hills Vineyard as well. |
|
| Blankiet |
2014 |
Prince of Hearts Proprietary Blend |
$80.75 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 91 (12/2016): The 2014 Prince of Hearts is fabulous. Soft, open-knit and expressive, the Prince of Hearts is one of the more gracious wines readers will find in this vintage. Expressive floral and red-toned fruit notes give the 2014 its feminine, sensual personality. This is one of the finest Napa Valley wines readers will find in its price range. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Boars' View (Schrader) |
2014 |
The Coast Pinot Noir |
$100 |
1 |
|
| |
| WS 94 (7/2017): Bold, rich and extracted, delivering tiers of dark berry, cedary oak, wild berry, underbrush and wild savory, all leading to a rich, chewy finish and a reverberating aftertaste. Drink now through 2025. 620 cases made. |
|
| Buccella |
2014 |
Cuvee Katrina Eileen Cabernet Sauvignon |
$191.25 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Cameron |
2014 |
Clos Electrique Rouge |
$65 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Cardinale |
2014 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$219 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Caterwaul |
2014 |
Regusci Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$85 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Caymus |
2014 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon (1.0 L) |
$149 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 94 (12/2016): The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley has a dense opaque purple color, a kiss of blackberry and cassis fruit, a full-bodied mouthfeel with ripe tannin and a long finish. It is very Caymus in its immediate accessibility, but has plenty of staying power and depth. This is lush, full, intense and pure. Drink it over the next 15 or so years.
WS 90 (6/2017): Supple and fruit-forward, this is designed to win broad appeal, with easygoing plum, black cherry, loamy earth and blueberry flavors, supported by vanilla bean-accented oak. Features just enough tannins to remind you of its pedigree. Drink now through 2026. 125,665 cases made.
JS 88 (5/2017): Lots of raisin character with berry and vanilla flavors. Full-bodied, slightly fluid and a fruity and off-dry on the finish. Not my style but some may like it. Drink now. |
|
| Cayuse |
2014 |
The Widowmaker En Chamberlin Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$149 |
3 |
|
| |
| WS 93 (7/2017): Plush, expressive and well-structured, with savory black cherry and stony mineral aromas and dense but polished licorice and espresso flavors that linger toward refined tannins. Best from 2019 through 2025. 505 cases made. |
|
| Cobb |
2014 |
Diane Cobb Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$85 |
2 |
|
| |
VM 93 (4/2018): The 2014 Pinot Noir Diane Cobb: Coastlands Vineyard is precise and nuanced, with striking aromatic complexity to play off the dark red cherry fruit. The 50% whole clusters are not especially evident. Medium in body, gracious and lifted, the 2014 has a lot to offer. Cedar, tobacco, dried herbs and dried cherry notes are laced together in this attractive, mid-weight Pinot, with clean, saline notes that support the long, super-expressive finish. (Drink between 2020-2029). Antonio Galloni.
WA 89 (11/2020): The 2014 Pinot Noir Diane Cobb Coastlands Vineyard opens with tar, scorched earth and rubber aromas obscuring a core of blackberry fruits. The medium-bodied palate is firm and somewhat rustic. Time to drink up. |
|
| Constant |
2014 |
Diamond Mountain Vyd. Syrah |
$60 |
4 |
|
| |
|
| G.B. Crane |
2014 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$152.15 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 97+ (6/2018): Composed of 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Merlot and 5% Petite Sirah, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon G.B. Crane Vineyard is deep garnet-purple in color and scented of cassis, black cherries and warm plums with touches of pencil shavings, wood smoke, fertile soil and yeast extract with a waft of menthol. Medium to full-bodied, it has a firm frame of grainy tannins and wonderful freshness with intense flavors, finishing long. 299 cases produced.
VM 90 (4/2018): The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon is an attractive, mid-weight wine. Forward, fruity and open-knit, the 2014 is best enjoyed over the near and medium term. There is plenty of presence, but the 2014 is also clearly a work in progress for Crane Assembly. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2014 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$169 |
3 |
|
| |
WA 97+ (6/2018): Composed of 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Merlot and 5% Petite Sirah, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon G.B. Crane Vineyard is deep garnet-purple in color and scented of cassis, black cherries and warm plums with touches of pencil shavings, wood smoke, fertile soil and yeast extract with a waft of menthol. Medium to full-bodied, it has a firm frame of grainy tannins and wonderful freshness with intense flavors, finishing long. 299 cases produced.
VM 90 (4/2018): The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon is an attractive, mid-weight wine. Forward, fruity and open-knit, the 2014 is best enjoyed over the near and medium term. There is plenty of presence, but the 2014 is also clearly a work in progress for Crane Assembly. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Donelan |
2014 |
Cushing’s Block Barbed Oak Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$69 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 95 (7/2017): Coming from a single block in the Barbed Oak Vineyard located in Bennet Valley, the 2014 Pinot Noir Cushing’s Block is a ripe, sweetly fruited and downright sexy beauty that offers classic Pinot fruit as well as complex forest floor, rose petals and spring flowers aromas and flavors. This medium-bodied, plush, incredibly elegant 2014 has a silky texture, fine tannin and a great finish. While it’s drinking beautifully today it will easily keep for a decade. It’s much more seamless and approachable than either of the 2013s.
WA 94+ (2/2017): Coming from the Calera clone planted to gravelly soil, this vintage of Cushing’s Block was produced with 30% whole cluster and aged in French barrels for 16 months, 25% new. Medium ruby-purple colored, the 2014 Pinot Noir Cushing’s Block gives pronounced earthy notes of forest floor, damp earth and fungi over scents of warm cranberries, pomegranate, red currants and violets. Medium to full-bodied with plenty of opulent red fruits accented by earthy/herbal notes, it has a solid frame of grainy tannins and lively acid, finishing with great length.
VM 93 (3/2017): An addition to the range, 2014 Pinot Noir Cushing's Block emerges from Barbed Oak Vineyard in Bennett County. Dark red cherry, plum, blood orange and exotic spice give the wine its alluring personality. Deep, pliant and expressive, the 2014 is a real beauty. This is an impressive debut. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Doubleback |
2014 |
Walla Walla Cabernet Sauvignon |
$105 |
3 |
|
| |
WA 97 (6/2017): One of the gems in this terrific vintage, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon from is made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from the Walla Walla AVA. It offers fabulous notes of black currants, chocolate, toasted spice and graphite. Full-bodied, deep, layered and gorgeously pure, with plenty of heft, it's an incredibly good, even profound, effort to drink over the coming two decades. Hats off to the team for this beauty, and if you can find it, buy it.
VM 93 (11/2016): Full ruby-red. Very dark scents of blackberry, cassis, bitter chocolate and black licorice. At once sweet, pliant and concentrated; a very ripe, deep, densely packed Cabernet given shape by harmonious acidity. Cassis and dark chocolate flavors display a youthfully medicinal aspect, but there's also terrific sweetness lurking. Really spreads out horizontally to saturate the palate, finishing with major ripe, building, tongue-coating tannins and superb length. Perhaps a bit less refined than the 2014 but this is still a baby. This serious, very concentrated wine should evolve slowly and gracefully and may ultimately merit an even higher rating. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
| L' Ecole No. 41 |
2014 |
Estate Ferguson Vyd. Red Blend |
$55 |
3 |
|
| |
|
| Ehlers Estate |
2014 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$40 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2014 |
1886 Cabernet Sauvignon |
$100 |
4 |
|
| |
|
| Eisele Vineyard |
2014 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$250 |
3 |
|
| |
JS 99 (1/2017): Intensely scented dried flowers on the nose in the rose to lilac spectrum. Raspberry and blackberry undertones. Rose perfumes. It's full-bodied, yet everything's in finesse. Superfine tannins coat your palate and give you incredible length, and it all last for minutes on the palate. Great resonance. Not the power of 2013 but intellect and persistence prevails here. A joy to taste now, but this will improve for decades ahead.
WA 94 (10/2016): The wines from the extremely hot drought year, 2014, were just bottled prior to my visit. The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon reflects the vintage’s precociousness and front-end loaded, flattering style. It is medium to full-bodied, shows beautiful fruit purity, deep black raspberry and blackcurrant fruit, moving toward blacker berries. There is a floral characteristic, spice, and a full-bodied, lush mouthfeel with silky tannin. Drink it over the next 25 years.
WS 91 (11/2017): Young and intense, with pure, rich flavors of dark berry, gravelly earth, cedary oak and savory herbs. Rustic and chewy, yet well-focused. Keeps attention on the core complexity and structure, gaining with each sip. Needs time. Best from 2020 through 2034. 1,700 cases made. |
|
| Far Niente |
2014 |
Estate Cabernet Sauvignon |
$129 |
4 |
|
| |
| VM 90 (12/2016): The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Far Niente Estate Bottled is an excellent choice for drinking now and over the next few years. Wild cherry, smoke, tobacco, licorice and dark spices give the wine much of its considerable appeal. This is a very pretty, mid-weight Cabernet Sauvignon from Far Niente. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Figgins Estate |
2014 |
Proprietary Blend |
$69 |
6 |
|
| |
|
| Gemstone |
2014 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$150 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2014 |
Estate Red Wine |
$89 |
3 |
|
| |
|
| Girasole |
2014 |
Mendocino Pinot Noir |
$16.99 |
10 |
|
| |
|
| Gundlach Bundschu |
2014 |
Vintage Reserve Proprietary Blend |
$75 |
2 |
|
| |
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| Hayfork |
2014 |
Field Select Lewelling Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon |
$75 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2014 |
Lewelling Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon |
$59 |
2 |
|
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| Hendry |
2014 |
Block 13 Merlot |
$30 |
1 |
|
| |
|
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2014 |
Block 14 Malbec |
$20 |
1 |
|
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|
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2014 |
Block 24 Primitivo |
$20 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 90 (12/2016): The 2014 Primitivo Block 24 is one-third new oak with 15 months of aging. This is the strongest of the three wines, has loads of black cherry and strawberry fruit, spice, bramble bush notes, earth, spice and a medium to full body. It should drink well for 5-6 years. |
|
|
2014 |
Block 7 & 22 Zinfandel |
$35 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 89 (12/2016): The 2014 Zinfandel Blocks 7 & 22 spent 15 months in French oak and is a nice, attractive, briary, but classic Zinfandel, with pepper, earth, spice and briary red and black fruits. It is medium-bodied, zesty, and carries its 15.3% natural alcohol well. The color is dark ruby and the wine should drink well for 3-4 years. |
|
| Kapcsandy Family |
2014 |
Grand Vin State Lane Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$320 |
2 |
|
| |
JS 99 (5/2017): Extremely floral and complex on the nose with cedar, blackberries, blueberries, tobacco, stones, mushrooms... I'm simply running out of words here! Full to medium body and a tight and compact center palate. This is complete and dense. Extremely long and energetic. Drink in five years but a joy to taste. One of the best ever.
VM 98 (12/2016): A powerful, tightly-wound wine, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Grand Vin is likely to require the better part of the next decade to come into its own. The most backward and brooding of these wines, the Grand Vin is also quite primary and closed in on itself. Still, the energy, drive and focus of the best vintages is very much in evidence. Today, the 2014 is dense, seamless and utterly impeccable, with no hard edges, beautifully integrated oak (100% new) and exceptional balance. Antonio Galloni.
WA 96 (10/2016): Always an exceptional cuvee, there are 900 cases of the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Grand Vin, which is 95% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Merlot. In 2015 there were 700 cases. This wine is even softer than the 2015, perhaps slightly less concentrated, but still at the top of the qualitative hierarchy in Napa Valley, with its terrific purity, nose of licorice, camphor, forest floor, blackcurrant and cedar wood. It is gorgeously fruited, full-bodied, but super-well-balanced. This is a beauty that can be drunk early, or cellared for another 25-30 years. |
|
|
2014 |
State Lane Vyd. Roberta’s Reserve |
$299 |
1 |
|
| |
JS 98 (5/2017): Love this merlot. Violets, roses, incense, and currants come to the fore on the nose. Full body and ultra-fine tannins that are so polished and integrated they become seamless and incredibly beautiful. Long and flavorful finish. Drink or hold. Long life ahead but who can wait?
VM 96 (12/2016): The 2014 Roberta's Reserve comes across as quite soft and sensual in this vintage, with less of the drive that is such a signature of the other wines here. This is the only 2014 at Kapcsándy that has not grown meaningfully since I last tasted it. Then again, Merlot is a quirky grape, as it often goes through unpredictable periods of being closed, especially in the early going. Today, my impression is that the 2014 will drink well with minimal cellaring, but it has less structure than some of the surrounding vintages as well as the other 2014s. This is an especially laid back, almost translucent wine from Kapcsándy. It will be interesting to see what the future brings. A dollop (3%) of Cabernet Franc rounds out the blend. Antonio Galloni.
WA 94-96 (10/2015): The 2014 Roberta’s Reserve State Lane Vineyard is a blend of 97% Merlot and 3% Cabernet Franc. 650 cases were produced, which is 27% of their total production. This was actually showing more fruit, density and personality than the more closed and reserved 2013. I’m not sure it has the concentration and overall upside potential of the 2013, but it’s beautifully rich, with loads of coffee bean, black chocolate, black cherry and mocha notes, a full-bodied mouthfeel, terrific purity and density. It should drink well for 15-20 years. |
|
| Lail Vineyards |
2014 |
J Daniel Cuvee Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$377.65 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 95 (10/2016): The flagship wines include the 2014 J. Daniel Cuvée Cabernet Sauvignon, which comes from three sources – the family vineyard called Molehill at a 1700-feet elevation on Howell Mountain, the Vine Hill Ranch Vineyard and Heimark Vineyard in Calistoga. A gorgeous 2014, with notes of graphite, mulberry and blackcurrant, this full-bodied, opaque purple wine offers terrific fruit purity, sweet tannin, and a long finish of a good 45+ seconds. It was aged 19 months in 75% new French oak and is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. There are 1,064 cases, and it can be drunk now or cellared for another 25 years.
VM 94+ (5/2019): Bright medium ruby. Youthfully medicinal aromas and flavors of black fruits, licorice and bitter chocolate. Densely packed and fine-grained, conveying terrific purity of fruit framed by harmonious acidity. Quite full but less thick and extractive than the '13, and a bit less port-like than that big boy. Still, this brooding, backward, slightly unsettled wine is difficult to taste today. With its element of reserve and powerful finish, it calls for extended aging. It may well eventually merit an even higher rating. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
|
2014 |
Mole Hill Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$220.15 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2014 |
Mole Hill Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$450 |
1 |
|
| |
|
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2014 |
Mole Hill Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$495.95 |
1 |
|
| |
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| Larkmead Vineyards |
2014 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$125 |
4 |
|
| |
| JD 92+ (12/2017): Leading off the 2014s, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon is a classic release from this estate and it’s a great place to start for readers looking to try out the style of the top cuvees. Aged 19 months in 75% new French oak its deep purple color is followed by classic cassis fruit, cedary spice, graphite and dried herb aromatics. With a firm structured, tannic vibe on the palate, it has plenty of fruit but really needs 4-5 years of bottle age. Located north of Saint Helena and pulling all from their estate vineyard located around the winery, owner Cam Baker and winemaker Dan Petroski have produced some true superstars in 2015. These are ripe, full-bodied, majestic, yet structured wines that are going to age beautifully. There’s been a distinct stylistic shift with the 2016s, which were harvest far in advance of when most were harvesting, and the wines are certainly still beautiful, yet more tannic, backward, and angular. They’ll be beautiful wines, but certainly in a different style than previous vintages. |
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|
2014 |
Dr. Olmo Cabernet Sauvignon |
$149 |
3 |
|
| |
WA 95+ (10/2016): The “Black Label” wines include the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Dr. Olmo, which is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from the clone of Cabernet that is also called Eisele, This wine spent 20 months in 62% new French oak A magnificent wine by any standard of measurement, with notes of scorched earth, lead pencil shavings, charcoal embers, and blackberry and cassis fruit, this dense purple wine has undeniable minerality, a beautiful, full-bodied texture and a voluptuous finish. Drink it over the next 25 years.
JD 95 (12/2017): The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Dr. Olmo (100% Cabernet Sauvignon aged 20 months in 60% new oak) is another awesome wine. Cedary spice, black cherries, currants, scorched earth and ample minerality all emerge from this full-bodied, expansive, structured wine that has sensational purity of fruit, ripe tannin, and a blockbuster finish. It has more structure and depth the most 2014s and will evolve gracefully for another two to three decades. |
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|
2014 |
Firebelle Proprietary Blend |
$100 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 94 (12/2016): The 2014 Firebelle, Larkmead's Merlot-based wine, is terrific. Succulent black cherry, lavender, mint and dark spices infuse this pliant, creamy wine. Expressive savory and mineral-infused notes punctuate the finish. The tannins need time to soften, but there is plenty to like and look forward to. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Lewis Grace |
2014 |
Estate El Dorado Tempranillo |
$15 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Macauley |
2014 |
Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon |
$129 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 94-96 (12/2016): The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve is an assemblage of different top sites in Napa, from the Star Vineyard in Rutherford to the Beckstoffer To Kalon in Oakville. This is still in barrel and awaiting bottling, but it looks to be a killer wine. Inky purple in color, with gloriously ripe blackberry and cassis fruit, some licorice, incense and graphite, the wine is full-bodied, multi-layered, and stunningly rich and long. It should turn out to be a fabulous effort to drink over the next 15-20 years. |
|
| Next of Kyn |
2014 |
Cumulus Vyd. No. 8 Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$635 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 99 (8/2017): Bottled in May of this year, the 2014 Cumulus Vineyard No 8 is a match for the sensational 2013. Made from 38% Syrah, 33% Grenache, 16% Touriga Nacional and the balance Mourvèdre and Petite Sirah, fermented with 43% whole clusters and aged in close to equal parts new and used French oak. There’s only 400 cases of this elixir and it offers killer notes of black raspberries, blueberries, violets, licorice, exotic spices and flowers. Perfumed, complex and nuanced, and dare I say, singular, this full-bodied red has a thick, opulent texture, beautiful freshness and sweet tannin on the finish. While it shows the 2014 vintage’s forward fruit characteristic, this puppy has backbone and length. Drink it anytime over the coming two decades.
WA 98+ (9/2017): Composed of 38% Syrah, 33% Grenache, 16% Touriga Nacional, 7% Mourvèdre and 6% Petite Sirah, using 43% whole clusters, the 2014 Cumulus Vineyard #8 has a deep garnet-purple color and slightly reticent nose to begin of black cherries, mulberries and black soil with suggestions of menthol, tobacco, incense, sandalwood and chocolate box, plus a fragrant undercurrent of violets. Firm, grainy tannins frame the full-bodied, muscular palate with stacks of flavor layers, finishing with great delineation and finesse. Forget this beauty for three to four years and enjoy drinking it over the next 20+.
VM 95 (9/2017): The 2014 Next of Kyn - No. 8 Cumulus Vineyard is a dense, powerful wine. Next to the 2013, the 2014 comes across as quite supple and downright accessible. A blast of dark red cherry, plum, spice, menthol, lavender and licorice infuse the beautifully layered finish. I imagine the 2014 will drink nicely with just a few years in bottle, although if past vintages are an indication, the wine will need longer than that to be at its very best. The blend is 38% Syrah, 33% Grenache, 16% Touriga Nacional, 7% Mourvèdre and 6% Petite Sirah, done with 43% whole clusters. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2014 |
Cumulus Vyd. No. 8 Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$725 |
2 |
|
| |
JD 99 (8/2017): Bottled in May of this year, the 2014 Cumulus Vineyard No 8 is a match for the sensational 2013. Made from 38% Syrah, 33% Grenache, 16% Touriga Nacional and the balance Mourvèdre and Petite Sirah, fermented with 43% whole clusters and aged in close to equal parts new and used French oak. There’s only 400 cases of this elixir and it offers killer notes of black raspberries, blueberries, violets, licorice, exotic spices and flowers. Perfumed, complex and nuanced, and dare I say, singular, this full-bodied red has a thick, opulent texture, beautiful freshness and sweet tannin on the finish. While it shows the 2014 vintage’s forward fruit characteristic, this puppy has backbone and length. Drink it anytime over the coming two decades.
WA 98+ (9/2017): Composed of 38% Syrah, 33% Grenache, 16% Touriga Nacional, 7% Mourvèdre and 6% Petite Sirah, using 43% whole clusters, the 2014 Cumulus Vineyard #8 has a deep garnet-purple color and slightly reticent nose to begin of black cherries, mulberries and black soil with suggestions of menthol, tobacco, incense, sandalwood and chocolate box, plus a fragrant undercurrent of violets. Firm, grainy tannins frame the full-bodied, muscular palate with stacks of flavor layers, finishing with great delineation and finesse. Forget this beauty for three to four years and enjoy drinking it over the next 20+.
VM 95 (9/2017): The 2014 Next of Kyn - No. 8 Cumulus Vineyard is a dense, powerful wine. Next to the 2013, the 2014 comes across as quite supple and downright accessible. A blast of dark red cherry, plum, spice, menthol, lavender and licorice infuse the beautifully layered finish. I imagine the 2014 will drink nicely with just a few years in bottle, although if past vintages are an indication, the wine will need longer than that to be at its very best. The blend is 38% Syrah, 33% Grenache, 16% Touriga Nacional, 7% Mourvèdre and 6% Petite Sirah, done with 43% whole clusters. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Nine Suns |
2014 |
Proprietary Blend |
$259 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 92 (12/2016): The 2014 Proprietary Red comes across as a blend of 2012 and 2013. It has some of the brightness of the 2013 but also the slightly more mid-weight structure of the 2012. Dark cherry, plum, mocha, espresso and menthol shape the nuanced, articulate finish, with floral notes and attractive lift. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| O'Shaughnessy |
2014 |
Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon |
$99 |
4 |
|
| |
VM 95+ (12/2016): The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain is going to be a knock-out once it loses some baby fat and the new oak incorporates a bit more. Deep, powerful and vertical in feel, the 2014 possesses remarkable depth, intensity of color and balance. Inky, deep and creamy, with a real sense of gravitas, the 2014 is pure class through and through. Antonio Galloni.
WA 95 (12/2016): The sensational 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain (which is reasonably priced, given how superb it is) is her largest cuvee of just under 3,300 cases. It is a blend of 79% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest tiny quantities of Malbec, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Carmenère, Petit Verdot, and a real head scratcher, St. Macaire. Inky purple to the rim, with notes of white flowers, licorice, forest floor and graphite, this wine exhibits classic mulberry, blackberry and blackcurrant fruit notes, some background, vague oak, a full-bodied, beautifully proportioned mouthfeel, and a layered finish. Like most 2014s, it can be drunk now, but it has at least two decades of cellaring potential. |
|
|
2014 |
Mt. Veeder Cabernet Sauvignon |
$119 |
3 |
|
| |
VM 96 (12/2016): A superb, brilliant wine, O'Shaughnessy's 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Mount Veeder offers fabulous depth, intensity and pedigree. Bright red stone fruit, iron, scorched earth, tobacco and menthol open up in a beautifully layered, sumptuous wine that deftly balances rich fruit and mountain tannin. Antonio Galloni.
WA 96 (12/2016): The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Mt. Veeder is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon and usually my favorite from Betty O’Shaughnessy. She produces just under 1,200 cases of this wine, which has the classic blueberry, blackberry and acacia flower nose that comes from the high elevations of this wild and backward mountain area in southern Napa Valley. Dense bluish/purple to the rim, with loads of blueberries on the palate, big-time glycerin, sweet tannin, low acidity and a long, layered finish, this is terrific wine to drink now and over the next 20-25 years. |
|
| Ovid |
2014 |
Hexameter Proprietary Blend |
$245 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 97+ (12/2018): Blended of 51% Cabernet Franc, 37% Cabernet Sauvignon and 12% Merlot, the medium to deep garnet-purple colored 2014 Hexameter opens with beautiful redcurrants, kirsch and rose hip tea scents with a core of black raspberries and black cherries plus a waft of cinnamon stick. Medium to full-bodied, it fills the palate with ripe, rich, bold cherry-laced fruit, sparked by red fruits and floral notions and finishing long with a compelling graininess. |
|
| Pali |
2014 |
Huber Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$39 |
12 |
|
| |
| WA 88 (8/2016): Coming from sandy, loamy soils and completely destemmed, the 2014 Pinot Noir Huber Vineyard spent 16 months in 50% new French oak, and there are under 200 cases produced. Medium-bodied, juicy and lively, with a light texture, it offers pretty notes of underbrush, red currants, sour cherries and some gamy meats. It’s a solid Pinot Noir to enjoy over the coming 4-6 years. |
|
| Peacock Family |
2014 |
Spring Mountain District Cabernet Sauvignon |
$55 |
4 |
|
| |
|
| Pepper Bridge |
2014 |
Colombia Valley Merlot |
$55 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Pott |
2014 |
Actaeon Quixote Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$194.65 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 92 (12/2016): The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Actaeon is one of the most complete wines in this tasting. Sweet layered aromatics, pliant fruit and silky tannins are the main signatures. All the elements are nicely balanced throughout. Actaeon is sourced from the Quixote vineyard in Stags Leap. This is very nicely done. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2014 |
Kaliholmanok Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$225.25 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 93 (12/2016): The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Kaliholmanok, from a vineyard on Spring Mountain, is the most complete and deeply satisfying of these Cabernets from Aaron Pott. Pliant, creamy and super-expressive, the 2014 offers terrific depth and intensity through to the finish. A host of dark stone fruit, licorice, leather and mint notes are finely-knit in this expressive Spring Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon. The Kaliholmanok makes its case more with finesse than power. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Pulido-Walker |
2014 |
Panek Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$169 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 96 (10/2016): The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Panek Vineyard (75% new French oak and 14.6% alcohol) has an inky purple color, loads of crème de cassis, blueberry and vanillin with graphite and licorice. It is full-bodied, exhibits terrific texture, low acidity and sweet, round tannin. This is a full-bodied classic that is delicious already, but promises to develop more nuances over the next decade and last for 20-25 years.
VM 94 (12/2016): The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Panek Vineyard is a beautiful wine from this St. Helena vineyard. Dark cherry, plum mocha, menthol and dark spices build nicely as this creamy, voluptuous Cabernet shows off its personality. This is a distinctly brooding, virile expression of Cabernet from this site. Herb, tobacco, chocolate and graphite overtones add the closing nuances. This is a gorgeous wine and a fabulous addition to the range. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2014 |
Panek Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$189 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 96 (10/2016): The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Panek Vineyard (75% new French oak and 14.6% alcohol) has an inky purple color, loads of crème de cassis, blueberry and vanillin with graphite and licorice. It is full-bodied, exhibits terrific texture, low acidity and sweet, round tannin. This is a full-bodied classic that is delicious already, but promises to develop more nuances over the next decade and last for 20-25 years.
VM 94 (12/2016): The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Panek Vineyard is a beautiful wine from this St. Helena vineyard. Dark cherry, plum mocha, menthol and dark spices build nicely as this creamy, voluptuous Cabernet shows off its personality. This is a distinctly brooding, virile expression of Cabernet from this site. Herb, tobacco, chocolate and graphite overtones add the closing nuances. This is a gorgeous wine and a fabulous addition to the range. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Realm |
2014 |
Moonracer Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$650 |
1 |
|
| |
JS 98 (1/2017): Deep and dark with dark chocolate, blueberries, currants and black licorice. Wet earth, too. Full-bodied and extremely velvety. Generosity balanced out by suggestions of austerity. Polished and beautiful. Superb. Stag's Leap soul. Give it three to four years to come together. Super. Try in 2021.
WA 96 (12/2016): Realm's estate wine comes from their new home vineyard, where all the renovation is taking place, at the 22-acre Stags Leap estate. Only 400 cases were made in 2014 of the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon The Estate-Moonracer, a blend of 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Merlot and 4% Petit Verdot from four separate Cabernet clones. While the wine remains the same, each “bottle” is completely different, which is rather amazing. This wine shows plenty of floral notes, white chocolate, red and blackcurrants, cedar wood and loamy soil undertones. It is a beauty – elegant, yet intense and authoritative. Drink it over the next 20+ years. |
|
| Rivers Marie |
2014 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon |
$99 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 97 (10/2016): The Cabernets start with the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, which is from a single block of the Larkmead Vineyard. This is fabulous – 100% Olmo clone that is the same as the Eisele clone. Opaque purple, this wine was aged 20 months in a relatively small percentage of new oak. Blackberry, cassis, spring flowers and vanilla all jump from the glass of this fabulous, concentrated, full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon that is dense, pure and terrific. Alcohol levels are relatively modest at 14.3%. Drink it over the next 20 years.
VM 91 (12/2016): The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon is dark, rich and intense, all qualities that make it an excellent choice for drinking now over the next few years. Sweet red cherry, plum fruit, and chocolate flavors are pushed forward. The soft, polished tannins give this fruit-driven Cabernet Sauvignon tons of near and medium term appeal. (Drink between 2017-2024). Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2014 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon Lightly Wrinkled Label |
$99 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 97 (10/2016): The Cabernets start with the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, which is from a single block of the Larkmead Vineyard. This is fabulous – 100% Olmo clone that is the same as the Eisele clone. Opaque purple, this wine was aged 20 months in a relatively small percentage of new oak. Blackberry, cassis, spring flowers and vanilla all jump from the glass of this fabulous, concentrated, full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon that is dense, pure and terrific. Alcohol levels are relatively modest at 14.3%. Drink it over the next 20 years.
VM 91 (12/2016): The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon is dark, rich and intense, all qualities that make it an excellent choice for drinking now over the next few years. Sweet red cherry, plum fruit, and chocolate flavors are pushed forward. The soft, polished tannins give this fruit-driven Cabernet Sauvignon tons of near and medium term appeal. (Drink between 2017-2024). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Mark Ryan |
2014 |
Dead Horse Cabernet Sauvignon |
$51 |
2 |
|
| |
| VM 91+ (10/2017): Deep medium ruby. Musky black fruits, minerals, cocoa powder and cardamom on the nose. Juicy and stylish if a bit youthfully brooding following the Dissident blend, conveying clear minerality to its black fruit flavors. Quite dry but this blend displays a higher-pH mouth feel (actually 3.84) than the Dissident. Finishes with broad, dusty tannins, a restrained sweetness and a lingering savory quality. The Mark Ryan wines have really moved up in class in recent years. (Drink between 2019-2025). Steven Tanzer. |
|
| Sea Smoke |
2014 |
Southing Pinot Noir |
$99 |
3 |
|
| |
| WS 91 (9/2017): Features an ironclad structure, with lots of graphite and slate accents to the dense dark currant and dried plum flavors, supported by firm tannins. Accents of chocolate nibs show on the finish. Needs some short-term aging in the cellar. Best from 2019 through 2022. |
|
| Seavey |
2014 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$119 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 95+ (10/2016): The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate (880 cases) spends 20 months in about 60% new French oak. It is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon and offers up an opaque dense purple color in a structured, but still essentially beautiful wine with classic mulberry, blackcurrant, licorice and truffle-like notes. Earthiness is present as well and, like most Seavey wines, there is no shortage of structure and tannin. This full-bodied classic is somewhat of an anomaly for a 2014, as it needs 3-5 years of cellaring and will keep 30 or more.
VM 93+ (4/2017): Deep ruby. Musky, slightly reduced aromas of black fruits, licorice, graphite and espresso are a bit mute today but hint at sweetness. Wonderfully plush and fine-grained on the palate; still an infant but more complex and less relentlessly primary and monolithic than the 2013 version. Shows more early sweetness and ripeness than that wine but the huge dusty, drought-year tannins nonetheless will require extended aging. Winemaker Jim Duane noted that 2014 featured generally cooler and more variable temperatures than 2013, as well as fewer grapes per cluster and fewer seeds, and that may be why this wine is a bit less monolithic and a touch sweeter in the early going. But I wouldn't bet against the '13. (Drink between 2025-2039). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| The Setting |
2014 |
Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon |
$89 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Sine Qua Non |
2014 |
Capo dei Putti Syrah (3.0 L) |
$2,900 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 99 (10/2018): Leading off the reds, the extended barrel-aged 2014 Syrah Capo Dei Putti boasts an insane bouquet of cedarwood, white chocolate, caramelized meats, candle way, and assorted red and black fruits. With full-bodied richness, ultra-fine tannins, and an incredible elegance, it changed every time I came back to the glass and is a multi-dimensional, riveting red wine from California. A blend of 90% Syrah and the balance Viognier, Petite Sirah, and Grenache, partially destemmed and aged 38 months in 94% new French oak, give this beauty 2-3 years of bottle age, count yourself lucky, and enjoy bottles over the following 10-15 years.
VM 98 (9/2018): The 2014 Syrah Capo dei Putti, from Eleven Confessions, is another absolutely stunning wine from Elaine and Manfred Krankl. Bright and vibrant in the glass, the 2014 offers tremendous aromatic intensity and freshness to play off the dark Syrah fruit. There is an sense of explosive energy running through the 2014 that adds to the wine's total allure. I would prefer to cellar the Capo dei Putti for at least a few years. I imagine it will always be a wine of gravitas, concentration and power. The 2014 spent 38 months in French oak, 94% new. The blend is 90% Syrah, 3.2% Petite Sirah, 2% Grenache and 4.8% Viognier, done with 43% whole clusters.
WA 96+ (8/2018): The 2014 Syrah Capo dei Putti saw an amazing 38 months in fully 94% new oak, and it was showing superbly when I tasted it, unfurling in the glass with brooding aromas of blackberry preserve, cherries, bay leaf and a remarkably integrated framing of smoky new oak. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied, hyper-concentrated and deep, with an incredibly dense core of fruit that's definitely ripe but avoids overt sucrosity—and is complemented by an impressive degree of savory nuance. It's a blocky, dense Syrah that will merit some time in bottle, but it is sure to make a considerable impact whenever it's opened. 896 cases, 228 magnums and 30 double magnums were produced. |
|
|
2014 |
Piranha Waterdance Syrah |
$329 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 100 (9/2017): Blended of 81% Syrah, 8% Petite Sirah, 6% Mourvèdre, 4% Touriga Nacional and 1% Graciano, sourced from 34% The Third Twin, 35% Eleven Confessions and 31% Cumulus (all estate vineyards), the provocative, inky purple colored 2014 Syrah Piranha Waterdance was made using 26% whole cluster and hits the scent scene with exuberant, pure crème de cassis, blackberry cordial and blueberry coulis notes with hints of espresso, licorice, garrigue and menthol, plus a gorgeous underlying perfume of red roses. The full-bodied palate is oh-so-elegant and pretty, revealing very finely pixelated tannins that beautifully frame the almost electric intensity, culminating in an epically long, licorice and chocolate-laced finish. Too stunning for mere words and rude to even try-just drink it. 1,839 cases and 600 magnums were produced.
VM 95-97 (9/2016): A striking, vibrant wine, the 2014 Syrah Piranha Waterdance is beautifully focused and energetic from start to finish. Plum, blueberry, lavender, mint, violet and sweet spices all take shape in the glass. This is an especially nuanced, sculpted Syrah long on class and personality. There is so much to like here. The 2014 is 81% Syrah, 8% Petite Sirah, 6% Mourvèdre, 4% Touriga Nacional and % Graciano, done with 26% whole clusters, all from Sine Qua Non's estate vineyards: 35% Eleven Confessions, 34% Third Twin and 31% Cumulus. Antonio Galloni.
WS 94 (9/2017): Rich, ripe and powerfully built, with deep and expressive smoky beef, cracked pepper and currant flavors that charge like a bull toward big but polished tannins. Best from 2019 through 2025. 1,800 cases made. |
|
|
2014 |
Shakti Grenache |
$325 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 97 (8/2017): One of the more elegant, ethereal releases from this incredible address, the 2014 Grenache Shakti checks in as blend of 88% Grenache, 6% Mourvèdre, 4% Petite Sirah and the rest Touriga Nacional that was fermented with 42% whole clusters and aged 21 months in just 6% new French oak, with the balance in neutral barrels. Its ruby/purple semi-opaque color is followed by a thrilling bouquet of black raspberries, black olive tapenade, leafy herbs, pepper and spring flowers. It’s not a small wine by any measure, yet it’s graceful, lively and elegant on the palate, with a full-bodied mouthfeel, sweet, polished tannin, no hard edges and a gorgeous finish. Drink this beautiful Grenache anytime over the coming 15+ years. I loved the 2013s from Manfred Krankl, and these are reminiscent of the 2010s (as are the 2015s). The 2014s are more plush and sexy, with a forward style that’s already impossible to resist. The 2015 reds were all tasted as barrel samples, and these show the firm, structured style of the vintage and I suspect are going to require bottle age to show at their best. I’ve also included the “The Third Twin” releases here, and it, like the Next Of Kyn releases, are released under a separate label and focus on the estate The Third Twin vineyard located outside of Los Alamos.
VM 95-96 (9/2016): The 2014 Grenache Shakti wraps around the palate with sumptuous fruit. Dark red cherry, plum, mocha, spice and new leather flesh out as this totally seductive Grenache from Sine Qua Non. Striking aromatics, super-expressive, bright fruit and silky tannins are some of the signatures in a delicious, delicate Grenache that is totally alluring. I suppose the 2014 is not the most structured or complex Grenache ever from Sine Qua Non, but it is a total pleasure bomb. The blend is 88% Grenache, 6% Mourvèdre, 4% Petite Sirah and 2% Touriga Nacional, done with 42% whole clusters. Vineyard sites are 51% Cumulus, 21.5% Eleven Confessions, 18% Third Twin and 9.5% Bien Nacido. I tasted the 2014 from tank just prior to bottling. Antonio Galloni.
WS 90 (7/2017): Dark and brooding, this showcases ripeness and intensity, offering notes of licorice, smoky pepper, beef and dried currant. Tannins frame the finish. Drink now through 2023. 1,150 cases made. |
|
|
2014 |
Shakti Grenache (1.5 L) |
$599 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 97 (8/2017): One of the more elegant, ethereal releases from this incredible address, the 2014 Grenache Shakti checks in as blend of 88% Grenache, 6% Mourvèdre, 4% Petite Sirah and the rest Touriga Nacional that was fermented with 42% whole clusters and aged 21 months in just 6% new French oak, with the balance in neutral barrels. Its ruby/purple semi-opaque color is followed by a thrilling bouquet of black raspberries, black olive tapenade, leafy herbs, pepper and spring flowers. It’s not a small wine by any measure, yet it’s graceful, lively and elegant on the palate, with a full-bodied mouthfeel, sweet, polished tannin, no hard edges and a gorgeous finish. Drink this beautiful Grenache anytime over the coming 15+ years. I loved the 2013s from Manfred Krankl, and these are reminiscent of the 2010s (as are the 2015s). The 2014s are more plush and sexy, with a forward style that’s already impossible to resist. The 2015 reds were all tasted as barrel samples, and these show the firm, structured style of the vintage and I suspect are going to require bottle age to show at their best. I’ve also included the “The Third Twin” releases here, and it, like the Next Of Kyn releases, are released under a separate label and focus on the estate The Third Twin vineyard located outside of Los Alamos.
VM 95-96 (9/2016): The 2014 Grenache Shakti wraps around the palate with sumptuous fruit. Dark red cherry, plum, mocha, spice and new leather flesh out as this totally seductive Grenache from Sine Qua Non. Striking aromatics, super-expressive, bright fruit and silky tannins are some of the signatures in a delicious, delicate Grenache that is totally alluring. I suppose the 2014 is not the most structured or complex Grenache ever from Sine Qua Non, but it is a total pleasure bomb. The blend is 88% Grenache, 6% Mourvèdre, 4% Petite Sirah and 2% Touriga Nacional, done with 42% whole clusters. Vineyard sites are 51% Cumulus, 21.5% Eleven Confessions, 18% Third Twin and 9.5% Bien Nacido. I tasted the 2014 from tank just prior to bottling. Antonio Galloni.
WS 90 (7/2017): Dark and brooding, this showcases ripeness and intensity, offering notes of licorice, smoky pepper, beef and dried currant. Tannins frame the finish. Drink now through 2023. 1,150 cases made. |
|
|
2014 |
Testa dei Cherubini Grenache (3.0 L) |
$2,900 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 99 (10/2018): As with the extended aged Syrah release, the 2014 Grenache Testa Dei Cherubini (80% Grenache, 15.5% Syrah, and the rest Petite Sirah and Viognier) comes all from the estate Eleven Confessions Vineyard in the Sta. Rita Hills and spent just under 38 months in 25% new French oak, with the balance in neutral barrels (varying sizes). Layers of black raspberry, cassis, white chocolate, white flowers, and Asian spices flow to a full-bodied, supple, powerful Grenache that has silky, silky tannins, a seamless texture, no hard edges, and a finish that won’t quit. It’s already approachable, yet in my experience, this extended elevage results in a very stable wine, and I suspect this beauty will have another two decades of longevity.
WA 98+ (8/2018): The 2014 Grenache Testa dei Cherubini saw fully 37.5 months in wood, some 25% new, but its influence is imperceptible; the wine is strikingly pure and vibrant. Krankl commented that the longer the wines spend in barrel, the more slowly they seem to evolve in bottle. Unfurling in the glass with aromas of juicy red cherries, peonies and plums, it's initially quite reserved, becoming more expressive with air. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied, layered and very concentrated, with strikingly fine-grained, revolved tannins, juicy acids and impressive length and depth. Like the 2015 Le Chemin Vers l'Heresie also reviewed in this report, it's remarkably pure and integrated and ranks as one of the finest Grenache bottlings I've tasted from Sine Qua Non. It's also one wine that will clearly benefit from bottle age, no matter how tempting it may be when it's released in November of this year. The blend includes 15.5% Syrah, 4% Petite Sirah and a tiny 0.5% of Viognier, and 895 cases, 228 magnums and 30 double magnums were produced.
VM 98 (9/2018): The 2014 Grenache Testa dei Cherubini, from Sine Qua Non's Eleven Confessions vineyard, is positively explosive on the palate. Even so, the 2014 is precise and beautifully delineated, with striking nuance and terrific freshness to balance things out. The blend is 80% Grenache, 15.5% Syrah, 4% Petite Sirah and 0.5% Viognier that spent 38 months in 600-liter French oak barrels. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Sodhani |
2014 |
Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon |
$169 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 91 (6/2017): This hones in on a tight, rich core of mocha, black licorice, dark berry and cedary oak elements, all well-proportioned. Though firmly tannic, this also shows a measure of finesse and nuance. Drink now through 2028. 280 cases made. |
|
| Sojourn Cellars |
2014 |
Sangiacomo Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$50 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 91 (8/2016): Lastly, the 2014 Sangiacomo Vineyard (a very well-known site) comes from clones 115 and 777. This is the highest-octane of the Sojourn Pinot Noirs, finishing at 14.5%. This is a beautiful Pinot, with black cherry and blackberry fruit as well as some strawberries in its copious display of fruit. The structure is there as well, and the wine floral, earthy, spicy and pure. A classic Pinot Noir from the Sonoma Coast, this medium to full-bodied beauty should drink well for 5-7 years. |
|
| Somnium Cellars |
2014 |
Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$150 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Spring Mountain Vineyard |
2014 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon |
$89 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2014 |
Napa Valley Pinot Noir |
$45 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Ulysses |
2014 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon |
$109 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Upchurch Vineyard |
2014 |
Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$140 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Verite |
2014 |
La Joie Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$568.75 |
1 |
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JD 97+ (12/2017): The estate’s Cabernet Sauvignon dominated release is the 2014 La Joie and it’s an incredible wine based on 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Franc and the balance Petit Verdot. Reminding me of a top vintage of Ducru-Beaucaillou (the 2010?) with it’s incredibly classic Cabernet character, it offers thrilling notes of crème de cassis, exotic flowers, liquid rock-like minerality, and graphite and lead pencil nuances. Deep, concentrated, and backward, it has perfect balance, good acidity, and an undeniable Bordeaux-like weight and texture. It’s nowhere near primetime and needs 5-7 years of cellaring and is going to keep for three decades.
VM 97.5 (3/2017): The 2014 La Joie exudes freshness, energy and intensity. Black cherry, plum, licorice, lavender espresso and expressive spiced notes are all beautifully delineated in the glass. Raspberry jam, wild flowers, mint and gently spiced notes are laced into the super-expressive, silky finish. A final kick of Cabernet Sauvignon intensity adds lift in the 2014 La Joie, Vérité's Cabernet Sauvignon-based blend. Antonio Galloni.
WA 95 (8/2023): Deep ruby-garnet, the 2014 La Joie is alluringly tertiary on the nose with tones of iodine and truffle, old cigars, dried tobacco and blackcurrant. The medium-bodied palate is velvety and seamless, and the wine is showing a structural harmony and ideal balance of fruit and umami character. It's drinking beautifully! |
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2014 |
La Muse Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$632.45 |
2 |
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WA 100 (8/2016): The 2014 La Muse (2,800 cases ) is a legendary effort. The wine offers an opaque purple color and a gorgeous nose of lead pencil shavings, blackberry, incense, Asian spice, cocoa, plum, and a touch of chocolate and barrique. On the palate, more cassis and blackberry come to the forefront. The wine is unctuous, with adequate acidity and a stunning energy underneath the massive fruit and body. This is a spectacularly fragrant and, at the same time, dense wine, with enough structure (somewhat surprising in this vintage) to last 35-45+ years. The final blend was 88% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc and 2% Malbec.
JD 97+ (12/2017): A gorgeous effort as well, the 2014 La Muse is a Merlot-dominated cuvee blended with 10% Cabernet Franc and 2% Malbec. This deep ruby/purple-colored beauty boasts a terrific perfume of black raspberries, cassis, graphite, chocolate, and a beautiful earthy minerality. This isn’t your over the top, opulent Merlot and shows incredible class and purity, as well as full-bodied richness, high, yet integrated tannin, impeccable balance and a great finish. It’s not anywhere close to primetime (which is rare for a 2014) and needs 4-5 years at a minimum. It’s going to be incredibly long-lived.
VM 96 (3/2017): A huge, opulent wine, the 2014 La Muse wraps around the palate with tons of super-ripe dark red fruit, chocolate, spice and menthol. La Muse often shuts down after bottling, but the 2014 is still remarkably intense and voluptuous, with soft contours, silky tannins and exceptional balance. The purity of the flavors here is remarkable. Antonio Galloni. |
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2014 |
Le Desir Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$614.25 |
2 |
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JD 99 (12/2017): A blend of 53% Cabernet Franc, 21% Merlot, 21% Cabernet Sauvignon and the balance Malbec, the 2014 Le Desir is monumental stuff that has a Château Ausone-like character that’s hard to describe. its vibrant purple color is followed by a to-die-for bouquet of blackcurrants, black raspberries, cedar, tobacco leaf, and charcoal. This gives way to a concentrated, rich, yet incredibly delineated wine that has fine, fine tannin, notable freshness and purity, and a great finish. While blockbuster stuff, it’s for consumers with cold cellars and lots of patience. I’d hide bottles for 7-8 years and it’s going to keep for another 3+ decades.
VM 97 (3/2017): The 2014 Le Désir is the most inward of these 2014s from Vérité. Dark raspberry jam, wild flowers, spice, pencil shavings, mocha, lavender and licorice infuse this deep, powerful, structured Cabernet Franc-based blend. The interplay of dense, sumptuous fruit and aromatic freshness makes for an absolutely compelling wine.
WA 98 (10/2016): The 2014 Le Désir (53% Cabernet Franc, 21% Merlot, 21% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Malbec) has an inky purple color and a sweet kiss of chocolate, black truffle, forest floor, black raspberry and black currants. Opulent, but again structured and super-dense and pure, this is another massively concentrated wine meant for the long haul (and for our grandchildren). Give it 4-6 years of cellaring and drink it over the following 35-40 years. Remarkably, Pierre Seillan told me that 2014, while a drought year, was not actually that hot in the micro-terroirs he was working, but in terms of quality, it turned out to be the most surprisingly positive vintage he’s ever witnessed. |
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| Vineyard 29 |
2014 |
Aida Cabernet Sauvignon |
$184 |
1 |
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| WA 96+ (12/2017): Very deep purple-black in color, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Aida Estate Vineyard gives up warm cassis, black berry and black cherry notes with hints of cedar chest, black pepper, black soil and baking spices plus a waft of tapenade. Medium to full-bodied, firm and tautly built, it has a lovely ripe and coarsely grained texture with oodles of freshness giving lift to the muscular fruit. It finishes on a complex earthy note. 750 cases were made. |
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| Vineyard 7 & 8 |
2014 |
Estate Cabernet Sauvignon |
$115 |
1 |
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WA 95 (10/2018): The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate has a deep garnet-purple color and very perfumed nose with violets and lavender over blueberries and mulberries plus mossy bark, forest floor, stewed tea and dried herbs. The medium to full-bodied palate is firm, grainy, fine, fresh and elegantly played, finishing long and mineral tinged.
VM 94 (1/2025): The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate is superb. Deep, rich and explosive, the 2014 captures the essence of the house style. Even with all its opulence, the 2014 has aged well while also retaining a good kick of brightness that extends the nearly seamless finish. A final kick of tannins serves as a reminder of the style of the year. (Drink between 2024-2034). Antonio Galloni.
JD 90+ (12/2017): The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate comes all from the estate vineyard on Spring Mountain, saw 50-60-day maceration and spent 26 months in 100% new French oak. Its deep ruby/purple color is followed by terrific notes of blackcurrants, truffle, chocolate, toasted oak, and licorice. This big, meaty, chunky Cabernet Sauvignon has full-bodied richness, plenty of oak to integrate, and a slightly monolithic style. Give it 3-4 years of cellaring and hope for the best. |
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| Whetstone |
2014 |
Jon Boat Pinot Noir |
$25 |
7 |
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| Williams Selyem |
2014 |
Burt Williams Morning Dew Ranch Pinot Noir Lightly Bin-Soiled Label |
$75 |
1 |
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| VM 93 (8/2016): The 2014 Pinot Noir Burt Williams’ Morning Dew Ranch brings together the depth and raciness that is typical of Anderson Valley with soaring aromatics that add nuance. Sweet tobacco, spice, herb, crushed flowers and dark stone fruits abound in an expressive, beautifully layered Pinot endowed with tons of class and nuance. Next to the Ferrington, Williams-Selyem's other Anderson Valley Pinot, the Morning Dew is more savory and earth-driven in profile. Antonio Galloni. |
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2014 |
Olivet Lane Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$75 |
2 |
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| WA 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. |
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2014 |
Rochioli Riverblock Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$109 |
1 |
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| WA 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+. |
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