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Search Flickinger Wine Inventory
Inventory updated: Sat, Oct 25, 2025 11:02 AM cst
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Regions: USA Red
| Producer |
Vint. |
Wine |
Price |
Qty |
Order |
| | USA Red |
| 00Wines |
2021 |
Pinot Noir Shea Vineyard  |
$125 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 97 (9/2023): Hand destemmed and amphora fermented, the 2021 Pinot Noir Shea pours a ripe ruby and reveals aromas of framboise, wild fresh forest earth, and a hint of menthol. Medium to full-bodied, it has great concentration while remaining focused, with ripe tannins and an elegant mouthfeel. Long on the palate, with outstanding balance and fresh purity of fruit, this is a very elegant expression of this site. Drink 2024-2040. Audrey Frick.
WA 94+ (7/2024): Grapes for the 2021 Pinot Noir Shea were harvested on September 9, underwent carbonic maceration in amphorae and matured in 50% new Damy oak. It opens slowly on the nose to reveal red plums, strawberry, licorice, saline and floral perfume. The light-bodied palate is electric! Its pure, fragrant flavors pleasurably flood the mouth, though its velvety tannins and taut acidity give it a weightless feel, and it has a notably long, detailed finish. Only 77 cases were made.
VM 94 (1/2024): Dusty and floral, the 2021 Pinot Noir Shea wafts up with a whiff of autumnal spice and dusty rose, giving way to vivid black cherry. Cooling and energetic, crisp red fruits and hints of citrus flow across the palate, all motivated by brisk acidity. A gentle tannic tension lingers as the 2021 tapers off long and crunchy with a lasting hard red candy character. Beautiful today, but with a bright future ahead, this is a total pleasure to taste. (Drink between 2024-2033). Eric Guido. |
|
| 12C |
2015 |
Rutherford and Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon |
$75 |
3 |
|
| |
|
| 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. |
|
| Abreu |
2010 |
Howell Mountain Proprietary Blend |
$349 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 100 (11/2013): The 2010 Howell Mountain is simply magnificent. Inky, deep, and full-bodied to the core, the 2010 blasts out of the glass with graphite, pencil shavings, menthol, melted road tar, plum, cassis and licorice notes. The 2010 is an exciting, viscerally thrilling wine that takes hold of the sense and never lets up. Today, it is firing on all cylidners. The Howell Mountain is the only Abreu wine that incorporates Malbec, a variety that seems to work magic here. The 2010 is 63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Cabernet Franc, 8% Petit Verdot, 8% Malbec and 5% Merlot.
WA 94-97 (10/2013): An absolute blockbuster, the 2010 Howell Mountain includes Malbec and Petit Verdot blended with the Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. It boasts an inky/blue/purple color as well as a sumptuous perfume of barbecue smoke, lead pencil shavings and wet rocks. This ripe, smoky, intense, full-bodied wine reveals a boatload of tannins, but also richer fruit and a deeper, multidimensional mouthfeel and finish than the 2009, which appears to be more broodingly backward and structured. This appears to be a great success. Consume it over the next 25-30 years. |
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|
2012 |
Las Posadas Howell Mtn. Proprietary Blend |
$400 |
1 |
|
| |
| JS 97 (5/2016): So much tar with blackberry and blueberry aromas. Perfumed. Black olive. Forest floor. A fabulous Bordeaux blend with complexity and subtlety. Full-bodied yet polished and refined. Incredible length and finish. Wonderful spice. Hard not to drink now. About 300 cases made. March release. |
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|
2013 |
Las Posadas Howell Mtn. Proprietary Blend |
$450 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 98 (12/2016): The 2013 Las Posadas is superb. Graphite, smoke, lavender, exotic spices and inky crème de cassis fruit power a deeply expressive Howell Mountain wine. Beautifully structured and towering on the palate, the 2013 is showing beautifully today. This is a striking Howell Mountain wine. It is also the most giving and expressive of the Abreu 2013s today, which is surprising given its Howell Mountain origins. This is a superb wine. Antonio Galloni. |
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|
2013 |
Las Posadas Howell Mtn. Proprietary Blend Bin-Soiled Label |
$450 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 98 (12/2016): The 2013 Las Posadas is superb. Graphite, smoke, lavender, exotic spices and inky crème de cassis fruit power a deeply expressive Howell Mountain wine. Beautifully structured and towering on the palate, the 2013 is showing beautifully today. This is a striking Howell Mountain wine. It is also the most giving and expressive of the Abreu 2013s today, which is surprising given its Howell Mountain origins. This is a superb wine. Antonio Galloni. |
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|
2013 |
Las Posadas Howell Mtn. Proprietary Blend Lightly Bin-Soiled Label |
$450 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 98 (12/2016): The 2013 Las Posadas is superb. Graphite, smoke, lavender, exotic spices and inky crème de cassis fruit power a deeply expressive Howell Mountain wine. Beautifully structured and towering on the palate, the 2013 is showing beautifully today. This is a striking Howell Mountain wine. It is also the most giving and expressive of the Abreu 2013s today, which is surprising given its Howell Mountain origins. This is a superb wine. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2015 |
Las Posadas Howell Mtn. Proprietary Blend |
$350 |
3 |
|
| |
JD 98 (1/2019): The 2015 Los Posadas comes from an estate vineyard on Howell Mountain that lies at 2,000 feet in elevation, above the fog line. This singular effort has a flamboyant, mineral-laced bouquet of black and blue fruits, forest floor, camphor, chocolate, and exotic flowers, and is an incredible expression of this mountain terroir. With great, great intensity, beautiful purity of fruit, and again, this savory, mineral-driven character, it has enough tannins to warrant 2-4 years of bottle age and will keep for 4-5 decades. This cuvée is 38% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34% Cabernet Franc, 14% Petit Verdot, and the rest Merlot and Malbec. (Drink between 2021-2061).
VM 97 (12/2018): The 2015 Las Posadas is dark, sensual and totally inviting. Plush fruit and silky tannins push the black plum and blackberry fruit forward. Deep and resonant on the palate, the 2015 exudes class from start to finish. Like the rest of the other Abreu 2015s, the Posadas will drink well upon release. Hints of lavender and spice meld into the pliant, inviting finish. There is so much to like here. (Drink between 2023-2040). Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2008 |
Thorevilos Proprietary Blend |
$395 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 98 (12/2011): As Outstanding as all the Abreu wines are, if I had to choose one that stands apart from the others it would be Thorevilos. The 2008 Thorevilos is the most complete and deeply satisfying of Abreu’s 2008s because the balance of fruit and structure is so impeccable. The 2008 literally explodes onto the palate with masses of dark fruit, tar, licorice and smoke. There is a fleshiness and depth of the fruit here that separates the Thorevilos from the other 2008s. Layers of fruit build towards the massive, masculine finish. In 2008 Thorevilos is 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Cabernet Franc and 15% Petit Verdot. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2038.
VM 96-98 (12/2011): As Outstanding as all the Abreu wines are, if I had to choose one that stands apart from the others it would be Thorevilos. The 2008 Thorevilos is the most complete and deeply satisfying of Abreu's 2008s because the balance of fruit and structure is so impeccable. The 2008 literally explodes onto the palate with masses of dark fruit, tar, licorice and smoke. There is a fleshiness and depth of the fruit here that separates the Thorevilos from the other 2008s. Layers of fruit build towards the massive, masculine finish. Antonio Galloni.
WS 94 (6/2013): Ultrarich and gutsy, nuzzling up to syrupy, this is a chewy, extracted style that extends the flavors to kirsch, black licorice, blackberry jam, espresso, hazelnut and toffee. Ends with chewy, grainy tannins that give the flavors traction. Drink now through 2026. 350 cases made. |
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|
2012 |
Thorevilos Proprietary Blend Lightly Bin-Soiled Label |
$475 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 99+ (10/2015): The 2012 Thorevilos is flamboyant, phenomenally concentrated, full-bodied, majestic and totally prodigious. It can be drunk young, but most readers will probably prefer to give it a few years of bottle age and consume it over the following 30+ years.
VM 96 (5/2024): The 2012 Thorevilos is another rich, potent wine in this tasting. There's plenty of depth and persistence, but as with the Madrona Ranch, I wish there was a bit more freshness in the aromatics, as the oak imprint is pretty strong. I would prefer to drink this over the next decade or so. (Drink between 2022-2034). Antonio Galloni. |
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|
2013 |
Thorevilos Proprietary Blend Bin-Soiled Label |
$739 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 100 (5/2024): The 2013 Thorevilos is a wild, exotic wine. Blueberry jam, crème de cassis, lavender, pencil shavings, cloves, licorice and dark chocolate all run through this potent, deep red. Young and vibrant, as all the 2013s are here, the Thorevilos possesses tremendous energy from start to finish. A whole range of savory and floral notes linger on the huge, tannic finish. This is sculpted and delicious, but it still needs time. Antonio Galloni.
WA 100 (10/2016): Probably one of my favorite vineyards in all of Napa Valley, even though it is not entitled to any particular AVA designation, is the steep hillside vineyard behind the luxury resort of Meadowood in St. Helena called Thorevilos. It is co-owned by David Abreu and Ric Forman. I have now tasted 16 vintages of this wine, and six and possibly seven (the 2015) have merited perfect scores, which is just mind-boggling even to someone who has been doing this for 38+ years. This wine contains a considerable quantity of Cabernet Franc (probably 30% or more, although Abreu and Grimes are never specific) and there may even be a small percentage of Petit Verdot included in the blend. This is always the most floral of the Abreu wines, but it also has what the French call je ne sais quoi, a quality that is hard to pin down. The 2013 defines what Thorevilos is all about, with copious quantities of blueberries, black raspberries, truffles, violets, crushed rock, forest floor notes and oodles of glycerin in its full-bodied, incredibly pure and amazing texture and length. It is a spectacular wine, with the cascade of fruit hiding what must be some considerable tannic clout. It’s not showing through just yet, but I suspect it will come as the wine closes down in bottle once it gets into a cold cellar. This is simply other-worldly and a tribute to all things Napa, California, and in a way, America. Drink it over the next 50+ years. |
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|
2013 |
Thorevilos Proprietary Blend Lightly Bin-Soiled Label |
$739 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 100 (5/2024): The 2013 Thorevilos is a wild, exotic wine. Blueberry jam, crème de cassis, lavender, pencil shavings, cloves, licorice and dark chocolate all run through this potent, deep red. Young and vibrant, as all the 2013s are here, the Thorevilos possesses tremendous energy from start to finish. A whole range of savory and floral notes linger on the huge, tannic finish. This is sculpted and delicious, but it still needs time. Antonio Galloni.
WA 100 (10/2016): Probably one of my favorite vineyards in all of Napa Valley, even though it is not entitled to any particular AVA designation, is the steep hillside vineyard behind the luxury resort of Meadowood in St. Helena called Thorevilos. It is co-owned by David Abreu and Ric Forman. I have now tasted 16 vintages of this wine, and six and possibly seven (the 2015) have merited perfect scores, which is just mind-boggling even to someone who has been doing this for 38+ years. This wine contains a considerable quantity of Cabernet Franc (probably 30% or more, although Abreu and Grimes are never specific) and there may even be a small percentage of Petit Verdot included in the blend. This is always the most floral of the Abreu wines, but it also has what the French call je ne sais quoi, a quality that is hard to pin down. The 2013 defines what Thorevilos is all about, with copious quantities of blueberries, black raspberries, truffles, violets, crushed rock, forest floor notes and oodles of glycerin in its full-bodied, incredibly pure and amazing texture and length. It is a spectacular wine, with the cascade of fruit hiding what must be some considerable tannic clout. It’s not showing through just yet, but I suspect it will come as the wine closes down in bottle once it gets into a cold cellar. This is simply other-worldly and a tribute to all things Napa, California, and in a way, America. Drink it over the next 50+ years. |
|
| Adaptation |
2015 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon |
$50 |
3 |
|
| |
|
| Alban Vineyards |
2002 |
Lorraine Alban Estate Syrah Signs of Seepage; Slightly Raised Cork; Very Lightly Nicked Label |
$169.15 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2019 |
Patrina Alban Estate Vyd. Syrah |
$69 |
5 |
|
| |
| JD 93 (9/2022): Moving to the reds, the 2019 Patrina offers lots of smoky red and black fruits as well as violets, pepper, and graphite notes. It's forward, charming, textured, and balanced, with plenty of classic Alban character. I'd be happy to drink it. |
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|
2010 |
Reva Alban Estate Syrah |
$125 |
1 |
|
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| WA 95+ (8/2015): Coming from the coolest vintage on record at the time (before 2011), the 2010 Syrah Reva Alban Estate Vineyard still hit 15.2% natural alcohol, of which it doesn't show a trace. Possessing the telltale Iodine and seaweed character this cuvee always shows, it has lots of darker fruits, smoked herbs, black olive and a touch of floral aromas and flavors. Full-bodied, concentrated, firm and structured, it's a serious, age-worthy wine from John that should be forgotten for 4-5 years. |
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|
2017 |
Reva Alban Estate Syrah Corroded Capsule |
$125 |
2 |
|
| |
| JD 97 (9/2021): The beautiful 2017 Syrah Reva has a more elegant, streamlined, layered style that's already drinking nicely. Ample red and black fruits, bacon fat, olive, violets, and briny mineral nuances all define this classic Alban Syrah, and it's full-bodied, with a seamless mouthfeel, impeccable balance, and ripe tannins. It's certainly the more discrete, understated red in the lineup, yet this is a wine that builds with time in the glass and has perfect tannins, a terrific sense of freshness, and a great finish. It will keep for 15+ years in cold cellars. |
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| Alpha Omega |
2014 |
X Cabernet Sauvignon |
$299 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2016 |
X Cabernet Sauvignon |
$299 |
2 |
|
| |
|
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2017 |
X Cabernet Sauvignon |
$299 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Amici Cellars |
2015 |
Beckstoffer Missouri Hopper Vyd Cabernet Sauvignon |
$139 |
1 |
|
| |
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| Ancillary Cellars |
2017 |
Sangiacomo Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$29 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 92 (1/2020): Lastly, the 2017 Pinot Noir Sangiacomo Vineyard is also from the Sonoma Coast. It’s a sweetly fruited, medium-bodied effort that has classy raspberry and strawberry fruit to go with plenty of floral and spice notes, fine tannins, and outstanding length. It too has a solid 7-8 years of prime drinking. |
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| Anderson's Conn Valley Vineyards |
2006 |
Right Bank Proprietary Blend |
$95 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 94 (12/2009): The unfined, unfiltered 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve spends two years in French oak and another year in the bottle before being released. This cuvee has a long track record of aging (the 1990 and 1991 are still going strong). The dense ruby/purple-tinged 2006 offers notes of new saddle leather, black currants, autumnal vegetation/forest floor, cassis, and cherries, superb richness, and a full-bodied, powerful finish. Cellar it for 5-6 years, and drink it over the following 25 years. |
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2015 |
Signature Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$249 |
1 |
|
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| 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. |
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| Araujo Estate |
2005 |
Eisele Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$249 |
1 |
|
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WA 96 (6/2015): A nose of black raspberries interwoven with floral notes of blackcurrants and spice jump from the glass of this dense ruby/plum/purple wine. This famous vineyard at the northern end of Napa Valley, which in this era was owned by Bart and Daphne Araujo (today owned by François Pinault, the proprietor of Château Latour), can certainly make the argument that it’s one of the first growths of Napa Valley. Sweet, velvety tannin, medium to full body, and extraordinary complexity and elegance characterize this wine, which is seamless and drinking beautifully. While not one of their longest-lived vintages, the balance and purity suggest that, while it may be entering its fully mature stage, it certainly can keep going for another 10-15 years. The finish is easily 40 seconds-plus.
VM 95+ (6/2008): Good full red-ruby color. Wonderful floral lift to the expressive aromas of blackcurrant, black raspberry, tobacco, graphite and nutty oak. Dense, thick and sweet but with perfectly integrated acidity framing the deep flavors of currant, tobacco, mocha and earth. Finishes broad, dusty and very long, with the tannins thoroughly buffered by the wine's mid-palate fruit. This boasts real density of extract without any undue heaviness and offers the balance and backbone for a long and positive evolution in bottle. Very long on personality. Stephen Tanzer.
WS 92 (10/2008): Smooth, rich and savory, with dried currant, wild berry and black cherry fruit that has a dusty, savory herb and underbrush flavor that adds complexity, ending with a pretty burst of ripe fruit. This grows on you. Best from 2011 through 2018. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 2,600 cases made. |
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2007 |
Eisele Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$495 |
2 |
|
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VM 95+ (6/2010): Good full ruby-red. Vibrant aromas of deep black raspberry, licorice and violet; quite expressive considering it was bottled about a month prior to my visit. Then dense, deep and very primary, with powerful yet suave flavors of blackberry, smoke, licorice, minerals, chocolate and earth spreading out to saturate the palate. An infant today but the wine's superb persistence and finishing perfume suggest it will rank among the best vintages of this bottling. If there is ever a classification of Napa Valley cabernet vineyards, the Eisele Vineyard would clearly be a grand cru. Stephen Tanzer.
WA 93 (12/2010): Since last year’s report I have had the 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Eisele Vineyard on three separate occasions, including recently at the winery. It has definitely improved over last year’s report, but it has not lived up to my barrel tasting reviews. There is no explanation for this other than that the Araujos told me that the wine was bottled three months later than normal, which seems like a negligible reason to explain the differences. A beautiful wine by any standards, it is just not one of the great Eiseles. Its deep plum/ruby/purple hue is accompanied by notes of cassis, blueberries and acacia flowers. This medium-bodied effort seems surprisingly reserved and restrained, but it has put on a little weight, revealing sweet tannin as well as a velvety texture. This offering should drink nicely for 12-15 years.
WS 87 (12/2010): Though a very good wine, this is disappointing considering the producer's history. Trim and focused, with full-bodied flavors built around dried currant, herb, mineral and sage, but ending with a clipped finish of dried berry and herb. Tasted four times, with consistent notes. Drink now through 2017. 1,710 cases made. |
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2010 |
Eisele Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (3.0 L) |
$1,200 |
1 |
|
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WA 98 (12/2012): Araujo’s 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Eisele Vineyard is a picture perfect example of the year. Vibrant, precise and beautifully chiseled, the 2010 boasts serious depth and concentration. The aromas and flavors are incredibly vivid in this textured, dazzling Cabernet Sauvignon. Hints of dark blue and black fruit, mocha, espresso and grilled herbs flesh out on the huge finish. Today the 2010 is unusually open, but it is almost certain to shut down in bottle over the next 6-12 months. The 2010 is a super-classic Eisele Cabernet Sauvignon from Araujo. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2035.
VM 95+ (6/2013): Good full, deep red-ruby. More floral and refined on the nose than the Alta Gracia, offering ineffable aromas of blueberry, brown spices, menthol, bay laurel and cedar. Marvelously silky on entry, then opens out dramatically on the back half, showing insidious, savory flavor concentration but also finishing with Outstanding grip and verve. The very fine-grained, building tannins are perked up by notes of pepper and herbs. This wonderfully poised wine, delivering great richness without any undue weight, displays classic Eisele Vineyard character without any signs of roasted fruit. Understated today, this beauty may well merit an even higher score eight or ten years down the road.
WS 94 (11/2013): Pure, rich and delicious, with a sumptuous core of melted black licorice, dark berry, nutmeg-scented spice, loamy earth and dried herb. Shows impressive focus, density and persistence. Tempting now, but should age well. Best from 2014 through 2028. 1,900 cases made. |
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| Arcudi |
2013 |
Black Sears Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$149 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 95 (12/2017): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Black Sears Vineyard, from a site on Howell Mountain aged 20 months in 50% new French oak, is a brilliant example of this terroir, as well as the vintage. A full-bodied, ripe, powerful wine, with awesome notes of smoked meats, currants, licorice, and graphite, it has lots of tannins, a layered mid-palate, and beautiful balance. Winemaker Tony Arcudi commented that if you couldn’t make a good wine in 2013 you should find something else to do. He’s certainly made a sensational wine. These 100% Cabernet Sauvignon cuvees are made by Tony Arcudi, who was formerly in the Navy before working for Michel Chapoutier in the Rhône and later for Heidi Barrett in Napa. Tony launched his own brand in 2012 and is also the consulting winemaker at Kapcsandy. His Cabernets are gorgeous. (Drink between 2018-2043).
WA 95 (12/2016): Coming from the famed Black Sears Vineyard, better known for its black bear as well as old vine Zinfandel, this is an interesting Cabernet Sauvignon from Tony Arcudi, who worked for Michel Chapoutier and Heidi Barrett before starting his own brand. His 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Black Sears Vineyard spent 18 months in 50% new French oak. It is a gorgeous, flowery wine with loads of graphite, mulberry and blackberry followed by some spicy oak, a deep, rich, full-bodied mouthfeel, some supple tannins and a heady, lush finish. Drink it over the next 15 or so years.
VM 94 (12/2016): Arcudi's 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Black Sears Vineyard has really come along nicely. Over the last few years the wine has acquired greater finesse and silkiness while retaining all of the signatures that make this well-known Howell Mountain site so unique. It will be a few years before the aromatics are fully expressive. Today, what comes through is the pure primary intensity of the fruit as expressed in this historic vintage. With time in the glass, attractive scents of rose petal, lavender, sage and menthol gradually make an appearance. (Drink between 2018-2028). Antonio Galloni. |
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| Arietta |
2009 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$65 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 92+ (5/2012): (Blended with 6% cabernet franc and 2% merlot): Good deep ruby-red. Black cherry, cassis, graphite and pepper on the slightly dusty, loamy nose. Moderately dense, concentrated and supple, with blackcurrant fruit enlivened by violet and bitter chocolate notes from the franc and merlot. Best today on the mounting whiplash of a finish, which features very fine tannins and lingering notes of chocolate, tobacco and spices. The pH of 3.7 is lower than normal for this bottling, notes winemaker Andy Erickson.
WA 92 (12/2011): The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon is silky, polished and totally refined. Today it comes across as quite young and in need of further bottle age for the aromatics to fully develop. It is a gorgeous, racy wine to drink over the next few years. The 2009 is 92% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Cabernet Franc and 2% Merlot, predominantly from Coombsville. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2019.
WS 92 (10/2012): Marked by dry, loamy earth and espresso notes, this well-built red unfolds to dark berry and cedar flavors, with firm, fine-grained tannins. Ends with a distinctive game meat and herbal edge. Best from 2013 through 2023. 270 cases made. |
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|
2010 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$109 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 92+ (10/2013): The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa from proprietor Fritz Hatton is another winner. Rich and dense with an inky/blue/purple color, plenty of tannin and graphite, a touch of oak, and attractive spice, purity and texture, this young Cabernet should be forgotten for several more years, and drunk over the following 15-20, perhaps longer. |
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|
2011 |
Cabernet Sauvignon Lightly Wine-Stained Label |
$65 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 92 (5/2022): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon shows the ripe fruit profile of a late harvest with the energy tension and savoriness of a cool year. Still quite fresh, the 2011 will drink well for another 5-10 years. Black plum, sage, mint, tobacco and incense linger. There is a bit of brett, but not to the point of dominating the wine's balance. In 2011, all the fruit was from Meteor. |
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|
2012 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$89 |
2 |
|
| |
| VM 93 (5/2017): Napa Valley Red) Ripe red cherry, plum, spice, tobacco and menthol are front and center in Arietta's 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon. Racy and voluptuous, the 2012 captures the radiance of the vintage in its open-knit, inviting personality. All things considered, this is an especially showy vintage for the Cabernet Sauvignon. Antonio Galloni. |
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2010 |
88 Keys Cabernet Sauvignon |
$125 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 94 (5/2017): Arietta's 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon 88 Keys is a deep, concentrated wine, qualities that are further brought out by extended time in barrel. Chocolate, torrefaction, spice and dark shades of fruit are pushed forward. This is an especially creamy, unctuous Cabernet that will appeal most to readers who like flamboyant wines. Andy Erickson gave the 2010 27 months in barrel. Antonio Galloni. |
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2012 |
88 Keys Cabernet Sauvignon |
$159 |
3 |
|
| |
| VM 96 (5/2017): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon 88 Keys is one of the finest wines I have tasted from Arietta. The 88 Keys is often dark and plush, but the 2012 has an extra element of aromatic lift that plays off the fruit richness nicely. Raspberry, red cherry, pomegranate and a host of floral/spiced notes give the wine its distinctive lifted, aromatically intense personality. The 2012 handled 32 months in barrel effortlessly. Moreover, the wine shows far better than it did a year previously. Antonio Galloni. |
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|
2014 |
88 Keys Cabernet Sauvignon |
$139 |
3 |
|
| |
| 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. |
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2013 |
H Block Hudson Vyd. Proprietary Blend |
$129 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 91 (5/2024): The 2013 H Block Hudson Vineyards has arrived at a plateau of maturity. Worn-in leather, tobacco, spice, dried herbs and mocha are all nicely delineated. Readers who own the 2013 should be thinking about drinking it, as it certainly is not going to get better from this point. Antonio Galloni. |
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2013 |
H Block Hudson Vyd. Proprietary Blend |
$169 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 91 (5/2024): The 2013 H Block Hudson Vineyards has arrived at a plateau of maturity. Worn-in leather, tobacco, spice, dried herbs and mocha are all nicely delineated. Readers who own the 2013 should be thinking about drinking it, as it certainly is not going to get better from this point. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2013 |
H Block Hudson Vyd. Proprietary Blend |
$99 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 91 (5/2024): The 2013 H Block Hudson Vineyards has arrived at a plateau of maturity. Worn-in leather, tobacco, spice, dried herbs and mocha are all nicely delineated. Readers who own the 2013 should be thinking about drinking it, as it certainly is not going to get better from this point. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2015 |
H Block Hudson Vyd. Proprietary Blend |
$109 |
6 |
|
| |
| VM 95 (1/2018): Arietta's 2015 H Block Hudson Vineyards, 75% Cabernet Franc and 25% Merlot co-fermented, is another gorgeous wine from Arietta in this vintage. Resonant, open-knit and seductive, the 2015 has much to offer. I would prefer to give the 2015 at least a few years in bottle to allow the aromatics to open up a bit more. Even so, the 2015 is pretty special today. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Arrow & Branch |
2022 |
Right Bank Bordeaux Blend |
$164.99 |
12 |
|
| |
| JD 96 (3/2025): The 2022 Arrow & Branch Right Bank Blend Napa Valley is gorgeous, offering up a complex bouquet of black cherries, cedar pencil, dried flowers, and chocolate. Medium to full-bodied, this beauty hits the palate with a round, lush, and downright sexy profile that has no hard edges yet still brings impressive density and depth. With ripe, integrated tannins as well as outstanding length, this blend of 63% Cabernet Franc, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 22% Merlot, aged 22 months in French oak (60% new) is going to drink nicely over the coming 15+ years. (Drink between 2025-2040). |
|
| David Arthur |
2018 |
Old Vine Cabernet Sauvignon |
$175 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 96 (1/2021): The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Old Vine is a huge, dramatic wine. Dark and virile in the glass, the 2018 is endowed with terrific presence. My impression is that the Old Vine, like all of these 2018s, has really gained depth in bottle, which bodes quite well for the future. Black cherry, sage, lavender, menthol and licorice are all finely knit. I would give the 2018 at least a few years in the cellar, as the tannins are pretty incisive at this stage. This is a superb showing. (Drink between 2024-2038). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Aubert |
2023 |
Russian River Pinot Noir |
$125 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2020 |
Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir |
$95 |
3 |
|
| |
|
|
2022 |
UV-SL Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$149 |
3 |
|
| |
VM 94 (1/2024): The 2022 Pinot Noir UV-SL Vineyard is laced with dark cherry, menthol, spice, dried flowers and blood orange. Medium in body, with terrific depth, the 2022 is another impeccable wine from Mark Aubert. Time in the glass brings out the wine’s breadth. Clones planted here are Vosne-Romanée, Calera and some Swan. This is the highest-elevation site in the Aubert portfolio. (Drink between 2024-2032). Antonio Galloni.
WA 93+ (7/2024): Aubert's 2022 Pinot Noir UV-SL comes from a site in Occidental but a relatively early one, so it was picked prior to the worst of September's heat. It's even a bit floral and herbal, with those pretty notes accenting cherries and cranberries on the nose. On the palate, it's medium to full-bodied, tight and focused, finishing crisp and silky. Next to the other Pinot offerings, it seems more linear and a bit less complex. |
|
| B Cellars |
2014 |
Atlas Peak Cabernet Sauvignon |
$129 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2014 |
Atlas Peak Cabernet Sauvignon Signs of Old Seepage |
$119 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2017 |
Beckstoffer Georges III Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$195 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 92-94 (10/2019): A barrel sample, the 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Georges III Vineyard is very deep garnet-purple in color and has an exuberant nose of baked plums, raisin cake and crème de cassis with underbrush, pencil lead and fertile loam plus bay leaves hints. The palate is full-bodied, concentrated, firm and chewy with just enough freshness and an herb-laced finish. |
|
|
2018 |
Beckstoffer Georges III Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$225 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2018 |
Beckstoffer Missouri Hopper Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$225 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2018 |
Beckstoffer To-Kalon Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$225 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2018 |
Bridgeline Vyd. Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon |
$155 |
3 |
|
| |
|
|
2016 |
Calesa Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$87 |
3 |
|
| |
|
|
2018 |
Ehrlich Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$155 |
4 |
|
| |
| JD 95 (1/2021): Moving to the single vineyard releases, the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Ehrlich Vineyard comes from a site in Oakville and is 100% varietal that was bottled unfined and unfiltered. Its inky purple color is followed by a gorgeous yet unevolved bouquet of red and blue fruits, graphite, toasted spices, leather, and crushed rock-like minerality. It’s more giving on the palate, offering a full-bodied, expansive texture that carries plenty of ripe, velvety tannins, nicely integrated acidity, and a great finish. Give this exuberant, plush, impressive Cabernet Sauvignon 3-4 years of bottle age and enjoy over the following two decades. (Drink between 2024-2045). |
|
|
2017 |
Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir |
$55 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2018 |
Star Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon |
$155 |
2 |
|
| |
JD 96 (1/2021): Coming from a site in Rutherford, the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Star Vineyard is beautiful, offering lots of ripe blackcurrants, toasted spices, dried violets, leather, and tobacco leaf-like aromas and flavors. These all carry to a full-bodied, beautifully balanced Cabernet Sauvignon with perfectly integrated tannins, no hard edges, and a great, great finish. It’s one of my favorites in the line-up and can be enjoyed any time over the coming 20 years or so. (Drink between 2021-2042).
WA 95+ (11/2020): Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Star Vineyard opens with expressive notions of blackcurrant jelly, chocolate mint, blackberry pie and mulberries with touches of mocha, tilled soil and bay leaves. Medium to full-bodied, the palate has a rock-solid structure of firm, grainy tannins and lively freshness supporting the muscular black fruits, finishing on a persistent minty note. |
|
| Babcock Vineyard |
2004 |
Ocean’s Ghost Pinot Noir |
$30 |
5 |
|
| |
|
| Baldacci Family Vineyards |
2015 |
Heirloom Stags Leap District Cabernet Sauvignon |
$59 |
4 |
|
| |
|
| 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. |
|
| Beaulieu Vineyard |
1984 |
Georges de Latour Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon |
$159 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 82 (6/1995): This wine has shown better on other occasions. At this tasting (February, 1995) it appeared extremely mushroomy and earthy, with attractive ripe fruit, but annoying, off-putting wet dog aromas. The wine is medium to full-bodied, with adequate acidity. It may be maturing slightly faster than the other B.V. Private Reserves. It is not a stellar effort.
WS 72 (7/2004): Dried out, with nutty Sherry-like flavors.--California Cabernet '74/'84/'94 retrospective. Past its prime. 21,800 cases made. |
|
|
1995 |
Georges de Latour Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon |
$165 |
2 |
|
| |
VM 90-93 (6/1999): Bright ruby-red. Aromas of raw currant, coffee and smoked meat. Lush yet somewhat stunted flavors of black cherry and cassis. A substantial wine with plenty of fat and structure, but seems a bit pinched, even short today. The tannins build with aeration. Needs time in bottle.
WA 88 (8/1999): In 1995, the renowned Cabernet Sauvignon Georges de Latour Private Reserve is extremely tannic, with noticeable oak, earth, and spice in the closed, unyielding aromatics. The color is a healthy dark ruby. The wine is medium-bodied with copious cassis buttressed by high tannin, generous oak, and sweet black currant fruit, a firm finish, and a closed personality. Anticipated maturity: 2002-2012.
WS 93 (10/1998): Complex and elegant, with ripe, round, plush, currant, cherry, berry and spice flavors, and a long, rich finish that gains nuances of cedar, anise, tobacco and mineral. Echoes toasty, spicy, vanilla-tinged oak on the aftertaste. Impressive finesse and polish. Best from 1999 through 2007 |
|
|
2005 |
Georges de Latour Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon |
$175 |
3 |
|
| |
| WS 84 (11/2008): A rich, earthy style, with a touch of game meat to the dried currant, spice and wild berry flavors, veering to a dry, almost bitter roasted almond edge on the finish. Best from 2010 through 2017. 12,000 cases made. |
|
| Becklyn Cellars |
2017 |
Beckstoffer Missouri Hopper Cabernet Sauvignon |
$119 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 95 (1/2020): More tobacco, leafy herbs, chocolate, and obvious minerality emerge from the 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Missouri Hopper, which has a ripe, sexy, powerful style that you don’t often find in the vintage. With stunning blue fruits, ripe, building tannins, and terrific balance, it’s going to benefit from short-term cellaring and cruise for 15+ years. |
|
|
2013 |
Moulds Vyd. Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon |
$106.25 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2014 |
Moulds Vyd. Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon |
$80.75 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2015 |
Moulds Vyd. Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon Lightly Scuffed Label |
$72.25 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2013 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon |
$84.15 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 94+ (12/2015): No doubt a major sleeper of the vintage, the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon has a dense, opaque ruby/purple color, beautiful crème de cassis notes, blackberry fruit in the background, judicious use of oak, a full-bodied mouthfeel with no hard edges, sweet tannin and a long, layered mouthfeel. This is a beauty to drink over the next 15-20 years. |
|
| Beckmen Vineyards |
2004 |
Purisima Mountain Vyd. Grenache |
$20 |
4 |
|
| |
WA 90 (8/2006): I immensely enjoyed the kirsch liqueur, peppery, spicy, Cotes du Rhone-like 2004 Grenache Purisima Mountain. It boasts considerable power, a broad, savory mouthfeel, and a fleshy, heady finish. Low acidity, silky tannin, and fleshy fruit suggest it should be consumed over the next 4-5 years.
VM 88 (9/2006): Slightly reduced aromas of dark raspberry, chocolate and spicecake. Creamy-sweet but with an edge of acidity giving shape to its slightly high-toned red fruit flavors. A bit less firm than the Cuvee Le Bec. Finishes with substantial, slightly drying tannins. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
|
2004 |
Purisima Mountain Vyd. Grenache Wrinkled Label |
$20 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 90 (8/2006): I immensely enjoyed the kirsch liqueur, peppery, spicy, Cotes du Rhone-like 2004 Grenache Purisima Mountain. It boasts considerable power, a broad, savory mouthfeel, and a fleshy, heady finish. Low acidity, silky tannin, and fleshy fruit suggest it should be consumed over the next 4-5 years.
VM 88 (9/2006): Slightly reduced aromas of dark raspberry, chocolate and spicecake. Creamy-sweet but with an edge of acidity giving shape to its slightly high-toned red fruit flavors. A bit less firm than the Cuvee Le Bec. Finishes with substantial, slightly drying tannins. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
|
2004 |
Purisima Mountain Vyd. Grenache Lightly Scuffed Label |
$20 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 90 (8/2006): I immensely enjoyed the kirsch liqueur, peppery, spicy, Cotes du Rhone-like 2004 Grenache Purisima Mountain. It boasts considerable power, a broad, savory mouthfeel, and a fleshy, heady finish. Low acidity, silky tannin, and fleshy fruit suggest it should be consumed over the next 4-5 years.
VM 88 (9/2006): Slightly reduced aromas of dark raspberry, chocolate and spicecake. Creamy-sweet but with an edge of acidity giving shape to its slightly high-toned red fruit flavors. A bit less firm than the Cuvee Le Bec. Finishes with substantial, slightly drying tannins. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
| Bedrock Wine Co. |
2012 |
Exposition Two Weill Vyd. Syrah |
$125.10 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 96 (10/2015): The “2012 Proprietary Red Weill Vineyard Exposition Project Trio” is three incredible wines from Sonoma County. This is Twain-Peterson’s take on the three LaLa wines from the Guigal family in Côte-Rôtie. He is emphasizing distinct clonal terroir and exposition differences as well as vinifying the wines separately. All three of the following wines were aged 36 months in 100% new French oak. The 2012 Proprietary Red Weill Vineyard Exposition 2 is 92% Syrah and 8% Viognier, 50% whole-cluster and from a southeast-facing block of the same vineyard. The Viognier was co-fermented, and this might well be Twain-Peterson’s La Turque. Notes of charcoal, burning embers, blackberry, cassis and wonderful, sweet honeysuckle are all present in this full-bodied, concentrated, impressively done wine. |
|
| Behrens & Hitchcock |
2003 |
Kenefick Ranch Cuvee Torn Label |
$40 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 93-95 (2/2005): The 2003 Kenefick Ranch Cuvee (a 400-case lot of 93% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Merlot and Petit Verdot) exhibits an inky/ruby/purple color along with a gorgeous perfume of smoke, blueberry liqueur, creme de cassis, white chocolate, and espresso roast. Dense, opulent, and full-bodied, with a terrific texture as well as palate penetration, and a 40-45 second finish, it is capable of lasting a decade or more.
VM 91+ (6/2005): Medium ruby. Cool, pure aromas of cassis, licorice and violet. Juicy, dry and lively, with excellent flavor intensity and enticing floral lift. I would have guessed this had some cabernet franc. Quite tightly wound after the bottling, and currently showing its tannic side. But this will almost certainly merit a higher rating with four or five years of additional bottle aging. In this vintage, Les Behrens used a mechanical punchdown tank for the Kenefick Ranch cabernet sauvignon-an approach that was used for more wines in 2004. |
|
|
2004 |
Ode To Picasso Proprietary Blend |
$69 |
3 |
|
| |
| WA 93 (12/2006): A 265-case blend of 54% Merlot, 25% Petit Verdot, and the rest Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Syrah, the impressively concentrated 2004 B and H Ode to Picasso offers hints of charcoal, graphite, black raspberries, blueberries, and cherries. The complex aromatics are followed by a wine with terrific fruit, a lush, opulent attack and mid-palate, and a heady finish. This beautiful red should drink nicely for 5-7 years. |
|
|
2004 |
Ode To Picasso Proprietary Blend Nicked Label |
$69 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 93 (12/2006): A 265-case blend of 54% Merlot, 25% Petit Verdot, and the rest Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Syrah, the impressively concentrated 2004 B and H Ode to Picasso offers hints of charcoal, graphite, black raspberries, blueberries, and cherries. The complex aromatics are followed by a wine with terrific fruit, a lush, opulent attack and mid-palate, and a heady finish. This beautiful red should drink nicely for 5-7 years. |
|
|
2005 |
Ode To Picasso Proprietary Blend |
$79 |
3 |
|
| |
| VM 92 (5/2009): (61% cabernet sauvignon and 39% syrah) Red-ruby. Aromas of black fruits, smoked meat and dark chocolate. Sweet and lush, with mouthfilling flavors of black raspberry, wild spices and game. There's decent ripe acidity here to provide shape. Finishes with a fine dusting of sweet tannins. Another 2005 in a distinctly crowd-pleasing style, with a creamy sweetness but also a firm spine. (Incidentally, there will be only one additional 2005 bottling under the Behrens & Hitchcock label.) Stephen Tanzer. |
|
|
2007 |
Ode To Picasso Proprietary Blend |
$50 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 92 (6/2011): (50% cabernet sauvignon, 40% syrah and 10% petit verdot): Bright medium ruby. Wild berries and cherry on the nose, lifted by a floral topnote. At once sweet and juicy, with an intriguing saline quality adding interest to the flavors of dark berries, menthol and spices. Finishes with suave tannins and very good length. The syrah element here brings more flowers than meat.
WS 88 (12/2010): A rustic style that's intense and concentrated, with aromas of graphite, lead pencil, currant, mineral and cedar, adding a touch of game meat. Dry and savory, complex and layered, ending with firm, drying tannins. Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Petit Verdot. Best from 2011 through 2016. 250 cases made. |
|
| Behrens Family (Erna Schein) |
2005 |
Behrens Family Reserve Proprietary Blend |
$55 |
8 |
|
| |
| VM 92-94 (6/2007): Medium ruby. Liqueur-like aromas of cassis, black cherry, smoke and mocha. Large-scaled, thick and sweet, with a distinctly chewy, three-dimensional quality to the black fruit flavors. And yet this big boy is nicely balanced and the tannins are sweet. Very long on the back end. |
|
|
2005 |
Herrick-Moulds Cabernet Sauvignon |
$50 |
14 |
|
| |
| VM 91-94 (6/2007): Medium ruby. Aromatic nose combines currant, iron, mocha and pepper. Sweet, silky and pliant, with a captivating sugar/acid balance. This really vibrates on the palate. Finishes with suave tannins and terrific sappy, peppery length. This has the suavity and balance to age gracefully for a decade or more. |
|
|
2006 |
Homage to Ed Oliveira Alder Springs Vyd. Syrah |
$30 |
3 |
|
| |
| WA 93 (12/2008): Another brilliant effort from Lisa and Les Behrens is the 2006 Homage to Ed Oliviera Alder Sp rings Vineyard. This 300-case cuvee of 84% Syrah and 16% Petite Sirah displays black and blue fruits, raspberries, lead pencil shavings, spring flowers, and wet stones. Dense, full-bodied, lush, and succulent, revealing oodles of fruit and glycerin as well as a hedonistic, blockbuster, fruit-driven style, it should age effortlessly for 5-10 years. |
|
| Bella Oaks |
2017 |
Proprietary Red |
$289 |
6 |
|
| |
| VM 95 (12/2023): The 2017 Proprietary Red Wine is a wine I tasted from barrel that I then missed from bottle, as the estate chose to release the 2018 first, and this wine fell through the cracks. Several recent bottles of the 2017 have all been sublime. Readers will find a wine that shows the mid-weight, approachable style of the year off to great effect. Silky tannins wrap around dark-toned fruit, mocha, spice, licorice and chocolate. The 2017 is an elegant, beautifully balanced Cabernet Sauvignon to drink now and over the next decade or so. If I have any quibble with the 2017, it is that the oak is a bit evident. I suspect much of that has to do with the mid-weight structure of the wine itself. (Drink between 2023-2032). Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2018 |
Proprietary Red (1.5 L) |
$599 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 98+ (1/2021): The 2018 Proprietary Red Wine is a blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Petit Verdot and 8% Cabernet Franc. Deep garnet-purple in color, it slips slowly, sensuously out of the glass with expanding notions of blackcurrant pastilles, fresh, ripe blackberries and preserved black cherries with suggestions of iron ore, garrigue and dusty soil plus a waft of black olives. The full-bodied palate is tightly coiled with tons of black fruit and earthy layers supported by firm, finely grained tannins and bags of freshness, finishing long and mineral laced. A highly energetic wine with an amazing array of bright sparks—this is an absolute jaw-dropper!
JD 98 (12/2023): I loved the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon, a remarkably complex, elegant wine that has so much to love. Cassis, black cherries, hints of black olive, chocolate, and ripe tobacco all define the aromatics, and it hits the palate with a concentrated, multi-dimensional character offering beautiful tannins and a great finish. Coming from a tiny site in Rutherford (east of Staglin) that was made famous by Joe Heitz’s single vineyard releases, this world-class beauty is based on 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Petit Verdot, and the rest Cabernet Franc that was aged in 70% new oak. It’s approachable today yet I wouldn't be surprised to see it evolve for 30+ years if well stored. Nigel Kinsmen has been the winemaker here starting in 2017. (Drink between 2023-2053).
VM 98 (1/2021): A majestic, totally riveting wine, the 2018 Bella Oaks Cabernet Sauvignon soars out of the glass with breathtaking aromatics. The 2018 reveals layer after layer of complexity with time in the glass in a stunning display that is hard to fully describe. Dark cherry/plum fruit, mocha, dried herb and floral notes build into the sensual, utterly riveting finish. This is a mind-blowing debut from proprietor Suzanne Deal Booth and winemaker Nigel Kinsman. Wow!! (Drink between 2026-2043). Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2021 |
Proprietary Red |
$275 |
2 |
|
| |
VM 100 (12/2023): The 2021 Proprietary Red Wine is exquisite. A wine of exceptional balance and class, it hits all the right notes. Specifically, the 2021 shows the finesse of the year, but it also possesses an extra kick of mid-palate resonance that sets it apart from so many other wines in this vintage and places it among the most elite wines of the year. A dollop (5%) of fruit from Ecotone rounds out the blend. Tasted two times. (Drink between 2028-2041). Antonio Galloni.
JD 98+ (12/2023): The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon can perhaps be thought of as a mix of the 2018 and 2019 or a more concentrated 2018. Cassis, darker currants, graphite, crushed stone, and hints of violets all define the aromatics, and it's full-bodied, with a concentrated, deep, layered mouthfeel, beautiful tannins, and outstanding length. This tiny site in Rutherford has again delivered a world-class wine that I think will surpass the 2018, and probably merit a perfect rating at maturity. Hide bottles for 4-5 years and it will evolve for at least two decades. Bravo! (Drink between 2027-2047).
WA 98 (4/2024): The final blend of the Bella Oaks 2021 Proprietary Red Wine ended up at 94% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Petit Verdot and 2% Cabernet Franc. With a compelling nose of dusty earth, dried spices and mixed red and black cherries, this full-bodied wine boasts an elegant texture somewhere between silk and velvet with a gentle wash of silky tannins on the long, mouthwatering finish. |
|
| Belle Glos |
2011 |
Clark & Telephone Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$35 |
3 |
|
| |
|
| 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. |
|
| Beringer |
2009 |
Lampyridae Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$69 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 91 (5/2012): (from a 2001 planting; 85% new oak): Good deep ruby. Slightly medicinal aromas of cherry, licorice, minerals, fresh herbs and bitter chocolate. Very good stuffing and sweetness to the medicinal cassis, blackberry and dark chocolate flavors. Finishes with big, broad, dusty tannins. |
|
|
2003 |
Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon |
$109 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 95 (6/2013): The best wine of this group is the 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon Private Reserve. For statisticians, the composition includes 32% from the St. Helena Home Vineyard, 19% from the Steinhauer Ranch, 12% from Marston Vineyard, 12% from Bancroft Ranch, 8% from the Quarry Vineyard, 6% from Rancho del Oso, 6% from Chabot, 3% from Bancroft, and 2% from Steinhauer Ranch. All these grapes were hand-picked between September 19 and October 28. This is a winner that is seemingly just entering its plateau of full maturity. It boasts a dense ruby/purple color along with a sweet bouquet of black currants, creme de cassis, chocolate fudge, subtle barbecue scents, and hints of lavender, forest floor and tobacco leaf. Full-bodied, rich and dense, it is a classic Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, as it has been in just about every vintage. The acidity is relatively low, and the 14.1% alcohol is average for a ripe Napa Cabernet. The pH is 3.71, which is just above average. This is a full-bodied, multidimensional red wine that should continue to drink well for at least another 10-15 years. |
|
| Betts & Scholl |
2007 |
Napa Valley the 1959’s Syrah |
$20 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Betz Family Winery |
2001 |
Clos de Betz Proprietary Blend |
$65 |
2 |
|
| |
VM 90+ (11/2003): Good full red. Currant, black cherry, licorice, meat, graphite and smoky oak on the nose. Sappy on entry, then tight and minerally in the middle, with the wine's acids and oak currently keeping the fruit under wraps. Densely packed but a bit youthfully awkward today. The firm, persistent finish offers a suggestion of green tea. Stephen Tanzer.
WA 90 (8/2004): Sweet red currant liqueur, cassis, and copious spices make up the nose of the outstanding 2001 Clos de Betz. A suave, densely packed, medium to full-bodied wine, it reveals an intense character of red cherries, blackberries, black currants, and notes of brambleberries. A hint of alcohol was detected in the finish. Anticipated maturity: now-2011. |
|
|
2001 |
Clos de Betz Proprietary Blend Lightly Bin-Soiled Label |
$65 |
2 |
|
| |
VM 90+ (11/2003): Good full red. Currant, black cherry, licorice, meat, graphite and smoky oak on the nose. Sappy on entry, then tight and minerally in the middle, with the wine's acids and oak currently keeping the fruit under wraps. Densely packed but a bit youthfully awkward today. The firm, persistent finish offers a suggestion of green tea. Stephen Tanzer.
WA 90 (8/2004): Sweet red currant liqueur, cassis, and copious spices make up the nose of the outstanding 2001 Clos de Betz. A suave, densely packed, medium to full-bodied wine, it reveals an intense character of red cherries, blackberries, black currants, and notes of brambleberries. A hint of alcohol was detected in the finish. Anticipated maturity: now-2011. |
|
|
2009 |
La Cote Rousse Syrah |
$50 |
3 |
|
| |
| VM 94 (10/2011): (Aged in 50% new and 50% once-used barrels): Good bright medium ruby. Tight, pure aromas of black raspberry, strawberry, white pepper and flowers, complicated by a sexy apricot quality. Suave on entry, then spicy and aromatic in the middle, with firm acidity and a repeating note of white pepper contributing to the impression of sharp definition. This dense, supple wine is very long on the aftertaste. |
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|
2001 |
Pere de Famille Cabernet Sauvignon Nicked Label |
$65 |
1 |
|
| |
WS 94 (7/2004): Rich, densely packed and powerful, a lively mouthful of plum, blueberry and exotic spice flavors that last and last on the aristocratic finish. Has power to burn and plenty of grace to balance the scales. Best from 2006 through 2015. 510 cases made.
WA 92 (8/2004): Smoky oak, freshly laid road tar, and a myriad of dark fruits are found in the nose of the dark-colored 2001 Pere de Famille. A medium to full-bodied wine of wonderful intensity, purity, and great length, it displays a satin-textured core of ripe blackberries, cassis liqueur, and spices. Drink this beauty between 2006 and 2018.
VM 91+ (12/2003): (includes 16% cabernet franc and 14% merlot) Medium red-ruby. Very cabernet on the nose, with currant, graphite, fresh herbs and pepper showing, along with a suggestion of white chocolate. Dense and powerful, with flavors of dark berries, minerals, licorice and herbs. Serious, firmly tannic wine that's not at all overly sweet. Like the Clos de Betz, this was bottled in May and will almost certainly merit a higher score as it harmonizes in bottle. (The fruit component here is even stronger than that of the very suave 2000 bottling.) |
|
| Bevan Cellars |
2018 |
Dr. Crane Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$360 |
5 |
|
| |
JD 100 (1/2021): I always seem to compare great wines from this site with Haut-Brion, and I think the comparison holds here, although it’s a Haut-Brion on steroids! The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Dr. Crane Vineyard reveals a dense purple color as well as a powerful nose of ripe black fruits, tobacco leaf, earth, coffee beans, and gravelly earth. All of these carry over to the palate, where the wine is full-bodied and has a deep, layered mid-palate, sweet tannins, and a blockbuster of a finish. Hats off to the talented Russell Bevans for another brilliant, singular wine that’s going to keep for 20-25 years. (Drink between 2021-2046.)
WA 100 (2/2021): The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard was aged for 19 months in French oak barrels, 100% new. Deep garnet-purple colored, it sashays out of the glass with flamboyant scents of redcurrant jelly, Black Forest cake, blackcurrant pastilles and rose oil with suggestions of cast-iron pan, pencil lead and tilled soil plus a waft of fragrant earth. Full-bodied, rich and concentrated with firm, exquisitely ripe, fine-grained tannins and seamless freshness, it delivers an incredible mineral and perfumed red fruit firework display finish. Fans of Dr. Crane are going to LOVE this expression, masterfully crafted by Russell Bevan—an absolute must-try! |
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|
2016 |
EE Cuvee Tench Vyd. Proprietary Blend |
$159 |
4 |
|
| |
| JD 98 (1/2019): The 2016 Tench Vineyard EE Red Wine checks in as a blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Merlot, which is the smallest amount of Cabernet Franc to date. Brought up in new barrels, it has gorgeous blue fruits, violets, spring flowers, and damp earth. Medium to full-bodied, elegant, and just about as seamless and silky as it gets, this is a magical wine to drink over the coming 15 years or more. |
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|
2016 |
EE Cuvee Tench Vyd. Proprietary Blend |
$169 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 98 (1/2019): The 2016 Tench Vineyard EE Red Wine checks in as a blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Merlot, which is the smallest amount of Cabernet Franc to date. Brought up in new barrels, it has gorgeous blue fruits, violets, spring flowers, and damp earth. Medium to full-bodied, elegant, and just about as seamless and silky as it gets, this is a magical wine to drink over the coming 15 years or more. |
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|
2016 |
EE Cuvee Tench Vyd. Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$349 |
2 |
|
| |
| JD 98 (1/2019): The 2016 Tench Vineyard EE Red Wine checks in as a blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Merlot, which is the smallest amount of Cabernet Franc to date. Brought up in new barrels, it has gorgeous blue fruits, violets, spring flowers, and damp earth. Medium to full-bodied, elegant, and just about as seamless and silky as it gets, this is a magical wine to drink over the coming 15 years or more. |
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|
2023 |
EE Napa Valley Red Wine |
$159 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 97-99 (1/2025): Darker berries, burning embers, leather, graphite, and assorted tobacco and chocolate notes all define the 2023 EE Red Wine, another absolutely sensational wine from Bevan in 2023 that's going to be legendary. Full-bodied, concentrated, and structured, it stays beautifully pure, focused, and seamless. It's another absolute “wow” wine that readers should snatch up.
WA 96-98 (6/2025): Over the past few years, sourcing for Bevan's EE Red Wine has moved from Tench in Oakville to Sugarloaf in southern Napa. Fortunately, quality continues to rule. The 2023 EE Red Wine—a blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Cabernet Franc and 5% Merlot—boasts floral, gently leafy scents alongside hints of violet, folding in mixed red and black cherries and even raspberries. It's full-bodied but also pretty and charming, with a supple, silky mouthfeel and a long finish framed by softly dusty tannins. It's terrific stuff.
VM 95-97 (12/2024): The 2023 Red Blend EE is a blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Cabernet Franc from Sugarloaf. Deeply pitched spice notes, mocha, espresso and rose petal meld into a core of red cherry/plum fruit. It is one of the most harmonious and well-balanced of the wines in the range this year. (Drink between 2027-2038). Antonio Galloni. |
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|
2016 |
Sugarloaf Mountain Proprietary Blend |
$175 |
7 |
|
| |
| JD 97 (1/2019): Based on 55% Cabernet Franc and 45% Merlot, the 2016 Proprietary Red Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard was brought up all in new French oak, which has been absorbed beautifully. With terrific intensity in its blue fruits and floral aromatics, this terrific 2016 is full-bodied, powerful, and layered, with ultra-fine tannins that emerge with time in the glass. It has the purity and elegance of the vintage front and center, yet backs it up with both texture and depth. In short, it’s another rock star wine from this estate. |
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|
2016 |
Sugarloaf Mountain Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$375 |
2 |
|
| |
| JD 97 (1/2019): Based on 55% Cabernet Franc and 45% Merlot, the 2016 Proprietary Red Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard was brought up all in new French oak, which has been absorbed beautifully. With terrific intensity in its blue fruits and floral aromatics, this terrific 2016 is full-bodied, powerful, and layered, with ultra-fine tannins that emerge with time in the glass. It has the purity and elegance of the vintage front and center, yet backs it up with both texture and depth. In short, it’s another rock star wine from this estate. |
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2014 |
Tench Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$325 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 100 (10/2016): Russell has made a killing farming and making wine from Oakville’s Tench Vineyard in the heart of the high-rent district of Rudd, Screaming Eagle, Phelps, Dalla Valle and a few others. The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Tench Vineyard is his third perfect wine of the vintage, which, believe me, is a trifecta of brilliance. Aged three-fourths in Darnajou and one-fourth in Taransaud, the wine is as dark as a moonless night, has the telltale blueberry and blackberry liqueur notes with Asian spice, incense and the perfume of a flower shop. Deep, built like a skyscraper, with multiple levels, well-integrated acidity and tannin, this big, juicy, succulent and intense wine is a tour de force and can be drunk now or cellared for 20-25 years.
VM 93 (12/2016): The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Tench Vineyard is powerful, silky and nuanced, with plenty of bright red stone fruit, spice and floral notes. This is an especially restrained wine for Bevan, yet all the elements are in the right place. Silky, polished tannins and the reddish fruit profile give the 2014 its refined, sensual personality. Best of all, the 2014 will drink well with minimal cellaring. Antonio Galloni.
WS 92 (11/2017): Smoky oak is evident in the introduction, giving way to vibrant dark berry, gravelly earth, road tar and tobacco, maintaining tannic muscle on a long, full, chewy aftertaste. Best from 2020 through 2032. 125 cases made. |
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|
2016 |
Tench Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$175 |
12 |
|
| |
| JD 97 (1/2019): From a steep hillside in Oakville, the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Tench Vineyard offers a more savory, masculine, layered style as well as a huge nose of red and black fruits, dried herbs, chocolate, and earth. It hits the palate with a full-bodied, mouthfilling style that carries plenty of tannins, a deep, concentrated mid-palate, and a great finish. I like it today, yet it’s going to continue drinking brilliantly for two decades. |
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2019 |
Tench Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$179 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 98 (5/2022): The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Tench Vineyard is a stunning example of eastern Oakville Cabernet. It's loaded with scents of cassis and red plum and tinged with faint hints of thyme and sage, and it's full-bodied, rich and relatively open-knit. Ripe, plush and layered, gently framed by cedar and vanilla, it's lovely stuff that should drink well for up to two decades.
JD 97 (3/2022): I loved the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Tench Vineyard. This beauty is a great representation of this terroir, with mineral-drenched aromas and flavors of blueberries, iron, chocolate, graphite, and candied violets. Deep, rich, and full-bodied, it’s another monster of a wine from Bevan that stays beautifully balanced and seamless.
VM 96 (1/2022): The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Tench Vineyard is packed with inky dark fruit, gravel, smoke, licorice, lavender, chocolate incense and spice. This powerful, virile Cabernet needs a few years to unwind, but it is super-impressive, even in the early going. A whole range of bold, savory accents lend character to the searingly intense finish. This is a very typical wine from Tench in its sheer heft. (Drink between 2024-2034). Antonio Galloni. |
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2016 |
Tench Vyd. The Calixtro Cabernet Sauvignon |
$239 |
6 |
|
| |
JD 99 (1/2019): Flirting with perfection and up with the top handful of wines in the vintage, the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Tench Vineyard The Calixtro comes from a single block in the Tench Vineyard that always stands out. Similarly colored to the straight Tench release, it has slightly more freshness, structure, and purity, with thrilling notes of plums, purple fruits, crushed violets, and a liquid rock-like minerality. It got more than a few expletives in my notes and is sensational on the palate as well, with full body, ultra-fine tannins, and world-class purity of fruit. It’s another brilliant, brilliant wine from winemaker Russell Bevan. (Drink between 2019-2039.)
VM 98 (12/2018): The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Tench Vineyard The Calixtro emerges from Block 1B South, which lies next to Harbison. Not unsurprisingly, the Calixtro shares much with its neighbor, specifically a vertical sense of structure and a profile rich in mineral and savory overtones. Explosive and dense on the palate, the Calixtro hits all the right notes. Graphite, scorched earth, licorice, lavender, crème de cassis and spice fill out the wine's huge, massive frame. This is another rock star wine from Russell Bevan. (Drink between 2022-2036.) Antonio Galloni.
WA 98 (10/2018): The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Tench Vineyard The Calixtro is deep garnet-purple colored and has a nose of cassis, violets, roses, tea and earth with touches of cast iron pan and camphor. The palate is medium to full-bodied and firm, with very fine-grained tannins, finishing fresh and long. 135 cases produced. |
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2013 |
Two Dog Knoll Vyd. Proprietary Blend |
$189 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 96+ (10/2015): Another proprietary red wine, in this case a blend of 55% Petit Verdot and 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, is the 2013 Two Dog Knoll, which comes from the Oakville site. Normally with this much Petit Verdot, I would be worried about rustic tannins, but Bevan has handled it brilliantly. Inky bluish/purple, with notes of blueberry liqueur, brioche, acacia flowers, steak tartare as well as roasted meats and herbs, this is a wine of great intensity. Singular and distinct, it should drink well for 20-25 years as well. |
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2016 |
Vixen Block Wildfoote Cabernet Sauvignon |
$200 |
9 |
|
| |
JD 97 (1/2019): Leading off the Cabernets and from a site in the Stags Leap AVA, the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Wildfoote Vineyard offers a thrilling bouquet of blueberries and blackcurrants to go with complex white flowers, violets, and hints of chocolate. With no hard edges, full body, and beautiful fruit, this Cabernet shines for its incredible finesse and elegance yet certainly doesn’t lack for power. It’s a brilliant wine. (Drink between 2019-2039).
VM 96 (12/2018): The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Wildfoote Vineyard Vixen Block is a rich, exotic wine loaded with Stags Leap character. Black cherry, plum, new leather, spice and menthol all flesh out in this potent, dark wine. Dark red and purplish berry fruit and floral notes add brightness. Today, the Wildfoote comes across as quite closed following its bottling, but there is every reason to think it will blossom in a few years' time, as there is quite a bit of energy and persistence. (Drink between 2021-2031.) Antonio Galloni. |
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| Robert Biale Vineyards |
2008 |
Black Chicken Zinfandel |
$45 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 91 (12/2010): Speaking of the 2008 Zinfandel Black Chicken, it has a beautiful nose of sweet, jammy black cherries and raspberries, a dark ruby/purple-tinged color, and an expansive, medium to full-bodied mouthfeel as well as lots of heady glycerin. This full-throttle, lusty, delicious, silky-textured wine cascades over the palate with no hard edges. It should be drunk over the next 3-4 years. |
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2009 |
Black Chicken Zinfandel |
$45 |
2 |
|
| |
| VM 90 (12/2011): The 2009 Zinfandel Black Chicken shows off gorgeous mid-palate richness in its black cherries, menthol, licorice and sweet spices. There is more than enough vibrancy and depth to allow the wine to drink beautifully for at least a handful of years. Antonio Galloni. |
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| Blankiet |
2005 |
Paradise Hills Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$229 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 95+ (12/2007): The 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Paradise Hills Vineyard (1,200 cases) reveals a chocolatey espresso roast note with mocha, blackberry and cassis, high tannins, but full body, superb concentration, purity, and an almost Graves-like scorched earth character. This wine needs 3-4 years of bottle age, and should last 25-30 years.
VM 92+ (6/2008): Good deep, saturated ruby. Aromas of currant, bitter chocolate, violet and tobacco. Juicy and penetrating, with firm-edged, slightly green acidity that has not yet harmonized with the wine's fruit. This very young wine will need extended time in bottle to come together. Claude Blankiet noted that the substantial spring rain in 2005 caused the vines "to go crazy," producing a big crop that required a lot of work to control the ultimate yields. A good bit of 2005 wine was ultimately declassified (the equivalent of about 600 cases), he told me, and when Michel Rolland helped out with the final blends, he added some cabernet sauvignon to the Rive Droite cuvee "to give it more middle." The 3.68 pH of this wine is unusually low. |
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2019 |
Paradise Hills Vyd. Proprietary Blend |
$228.65 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
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. |
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|
2019 |
Prince of Hearts Rose |
$75 |
3 |
|
| |
|
|
2005 |
Rive Droite Proprietary Blend |
$159 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 93 (12/2007): The 2005 Merlot, which is now called Rive Droite (and this is the last one), is an 800-case blend with some Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc added. An elegant, dark ruby/purple-colored wine with a sweet nose of espresso roast, dark black cherries, licorice, underbrush, and truffle in an elegant, full-bodied, rich, concentrated style, this wine should drink nicely for 12-15+ years.
VM 89+ (6/2008): Full medium ruby. Smoky, lower-toned aromas of black raspberry, mocha, earth and tobacco, lifted by a pungent minty quality and a whiff of resin. Here, too, the acidity is quite pronounced today, and with moderate mid-palate flesh and sweetness the current impression is a bit ungenerous. Finishes quite tight, with a slight sharpness to the acidity. These 2005s may well be in an awkward stage today, and my scores may come to look overly conservative, but in any event they should not be opened anytime soon. |
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2006 |
Rive Droite Proprietary Blend Nicked Capsule |
$89 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 92 (5/2009): (a 60/40 blend of merlot and cabernet sauvignon) Good deep, bright ruby-red. Highly aromatic nose combines mulberry, boysenberry, tobacco and flowers. Intensely flavored and sweet, with a scented quality to the fruit-driven flavors of ripe plum, mulberry and flowers. For all its breadth and sweetness this also boasts excellent tannic structure and grip. Beginning with vintage 2007, this wine is likely to include bits of petit verdot and cabernet franc (the Blankiets T-budded some of their merlot vines on rocky soil). Stephen Tanzer. |
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2006 |
Rive Droite Proprietary Blend Lightly Nicked Label |
$89 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 92 (5/2009): (a 60/40 blend of merlot and cabernet sauvignon) Good deep, bright ruby-red. Highly aromatic nose combines mulberry, boysenberry, tobacco and flowers. Intensely flavored and sweet, with a scented quality to the fruit-driven flavors of ripe plum, mulberry and flowers. For all its breadth and sweetness this also boasts excellent tannic structure and grip. Beginning with vintage 2007, this wine is likely to include bits of petit verdot and cabernet franc (the Blankiets T-budded some of their merlot vines on rocky soil). Stephen Tanzer. |
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|
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. |
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|
2015 |
Rive Droite Proprietary Blend |
$195 |
2 |
|
| |
| VM 97+ (3/2018): The 2015 Rive Droite is the most reticent of these 2015s today. In 2015, the Rive Droite has more structure and power than is typically the case, which may be a result of the higher percentage of Cabernet Franc in the blend. I imagine the 2015 is going to need at least a number of years in bottle to be at its best. There is plenty of intrigue, with myriad savory notes that emerge over time. Even so, patience will be rewarded. The 2015 Rive Droite is a fabulous wine by any measure. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Bond Estates (Harlan) |
2019 |
Matriarch Proprietary Blend |
$279 |
3 |
|
| |
JD 94 (2/2023): I loved the 2019 Matriarch, and this full-bodied, round, seamless beauty hits all the right spots. Cassis, graphite, toasted spice, and beautifully integrated oak all define the aromatics, and it has wonderful tannins, a pure, silky, elegant mouthfeel, and a great finish. It’s going to evolve for 15+ years.
WA 94 (3/2023): Assembled from barrels that don't make it into Bond's single-vineyard offerings, the 2019 Matriarch is an excellent wine in its own right. Perhaps a bit more cedary than the other Bond wines, it deftly marries piney, herbal notes with ripe cherries on the nose, while the medium to full-bodied palate is intense but supple, with a slightly grainy texture on the lingering finish.
VM 93 (2/2023): The 2019 Matriarch is gorgeous. Dark red cherry, plum, mocha, licorice and leather infuse the 2019 with striking depth. Medium in body and resonant, the 2019 is so wonderfully expressive today. All the elements meld together nicely here. Best of all, the 2019 will drink well upon release. Antonio Galloni. |
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|
2000 |
Melbury Proprietary Blend |
$295 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 90 (12/2003): The 2000 Melbury displays tremendously fragrant aromas of black cherries, currants, licorice, and toasty oak, medium to full body, luscious fruit on the attack, and a slight narrowing in the finish. While Outstanding, unlike the profound 2001, it needs to be drunk during its first 10-12 years of life.
VM 90 (6/2003): Good saturated ruby. Black raspberry, black cherry and sexy, spicy oak on the nose. Very ripe but a bit less porty than the '99, with supple, sweet flavors of dusty currant, leather and minerals. A more elegantly styled if less dense wine, but still full, broad and rich, finishing with ripe, smooth tannins. |
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2009 |
Melbury Proprietary Blend |
$350 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 94 (12/2012): The estate's 2009 Proprietary Blend Melbury presents an intriguing combination of pure sensuality in its aromas and flavors, but backed up by serious tannins. Dark raspberry jam, flowers, sweet spices and crushed rocks all come to life in this deeply expressive, resonant wine. Sweet floral notes reappear on the finish, adding lift and perfume. In 2009, the Melbury is dazzling. It is also one of the more delicate wines in the lineup
VM 94 (5/2012): Good deep ruby-red. Cool, minerally nose is rather subdued today. Quite backward and unforthcoming, but already showing the sweetness of the vintage. Lovely delicacy of texture here, but not yet showing this bottling's typical early perfume. Most impressive today on the rising, youthful, very pure back end.
WS 93 (10/2012): Firmly tannic, with gutsy earth-laced tannins and a generous mix of red and black licorice notes. Builds momentum and fans out on the finish, where this reveals more nuances of detailed flavor. Best from 2014 through 2028. 490 cases made. |
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|
2014 |
Melbury Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$995 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 96+ (10/2017): Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2014 Melbury is profoundly scented of crushed plums, black cherries and cassis with hints of dark chocolate, black pepper, black soil and licorice plus a hint of iron ore. Full-bodied, rich and earthy in the mouth, it has a lovely fine-grained but firm backbone with plenty of freshness, finishing long and peppery.
JD 95 (12/2017): The 2014 Melbury comes from a site just north of Lake Hennessey that consists of unique, oceanic and clay soils. It’s a pretty, perfumed, seamless beauty offering loads of black cherry and cassis fruit, hints of chocolate and earth, medium to full-bodied richness, no hard edges, and beautiful tannin. Drink it over the coming 15-20 years.
VM 95 (1/2018): The 2014 Melbury is bright, perfumed and wonderfully lifted in the glass. Soft, silky tannins add to the wine's considerable appeal. Medium in body and gracious, the 2014 is absolutely exquisite today. Sweet red cherry, plum, rose petal and mint grace the supple finish. This is a super-refined wine from BOND. Antonio Galloni. |
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|
2008 |
Pluribus Proprietary Blend |
$325 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 95 (12/2011): The 2008 Pluribus is a gorgeous wine laced with black fruit, menthol, minerals, spices and licorice. It shows fabulous density and richness through to the finish. This is a very typical Spring Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2025.
VM 94+ (6/2011): Good deep red-ruby. Brooding aromas of black cherry, minerals, crushed stone and menthol. Thick on entry, then bracing and closed in the middle, conveying an impression of brisk energy to its black fruit, licorice, floral and mineral flavors. The wine's substantial tannic clout calls for extended cellaring. Incidentally, I had the pleasure of retasting the superb 2007 offerings from Bond, and found myself scoring most of them even higher than I did in Issue 150--not surprising as I generally taste the new Bond vintages just a month after they've been bottled.
WS 93 (11/2011): Offers a mix of mocha, loamy earth, espresso, dried currant, blueberry, wild berry and cedary sage-charcoal notes. Full-bodied and drying, complex and concentrated. Best from 2012 through 2022. 487 cases made.
JS 92 (6/2011): Eucalyptus and mint and spices with dark fruits. Hints of wood too. Full-bodied, with a solid core of fruit. Thick and dense. Very soft and juicy. Very approachable. This has a little more Merlot than normal, making it very approachable. |
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|
2012 |
Pluribus Proprietary Blend |
$400 |
1 |
|
| |
JS 98 (7/2015): This is so muscular and juicy with fascinating aromas of hot asphalt, tea leaf, autumn leaf, fresh leather and dark fruits. It’s full-bodied and strong yet pure and handsome. Manly. Great texture. Needs at least five to six years to soften. The best Pluribus ever?
WA 95+ (10/2015): From a 7-acre parcel on Spring Mountain, the 2012 Pluribus Proprietary Red Wine exhibits the white flowers (acacia?), blueberry and black raspberry fruit that comes from this high elevation site. It is full-bodied but very tannic, backward, coiled and relatively tight, behaving in that sense more like a 2013 than a 2012. This wine is set for a long life of 30+ years. Forget it for another 4 or 5 years, then consume it over the following three decades.
VM 95+ (10/2015): The 2012 Pluribus has softened considerably over the last year. White pepper, cranberry, chalk, blood orange and spices are some of the signatures. Precise and finely sculpted, the 2012 is all about finesse. There is plenty to like here. Antonio Galloni.
WS 92 (11/2015): Notes of gravelly earth, graphite and riverbed pebbles give this a distinctive, stony mouthfeel. Ends chewy, with mocha, dark berry, plum, road tar and espresso flavors. Should improve with short-term cellaring. To be released spring 2016. Best from 2017 through 2030. 570 cases made. |
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|
2021 |
Pluribus Proprietary Blend |
$590 |
3 |
|
| |
VM 98 (12/2024): The 2021 Pluribus is just as exceptional as it was from barrel. Complex, dynamic and ever-changing in the glass, the 2021 coveys tons of mountain structure. Graphite, crushed rocks, mint, spice, licorice and lavender are all laced together in a dramatic, dense wine endowed with tremendous pedigree. This site on Spring Mountain yields Cabernets loaded with character. (Drink between 2028-2041). Antonio Galloni.
JD 96+ (1/2025): Usually one of the most structured wines in the lineup, the 2021 Pluribus is more medium to full-bodied and elegant, with a terrific perfume of black and blue fruits intermixed with exotic flowers, violets, and graphite nuances. It has a certain exotic edge, is beautifully balanced, has fine tannins, and a great finish. It's another seamless, elegant, very classically built Cabernet Sauvignon from this team that deserves 4-6 years of bottle age and will be long-lived. (Drink starting 2029). |
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|
2007 |
Quella Proprietary Blend |
$375 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 97 (12/2010): The 2007 Quella performed slightly better than I predicted last year. A magical combination of blueberry liqueur intermixed with crushed rock, spring flowers (violets?), earth, pen ink and burning ember leads to a full-bodied, majestically rich wine with a multilayered texture, silky tannins and a phenomenally long finish of over 50 seconds. This sensational 2007 should drink well for 25-30+ years.
WS 96 (10/2010): A tremendous effort, firm, intense, dense and concentrated, offering a wonderful mix of mineral, fresh earth, dried currant and herb, with touches of tobacco and cedar. Full-bodied, yet at points supple given its youth, but the finish sails on and on. To be released spring 2011. Best from 2013 through 2024. 476 cases made.
VM 93 (6/2010): From an uplifted river bottom rich in cobblestones, in an area behind Phelps and Heitz known as Spring Valley) Deep ruby. Superripe aromas of plum, blueberry and violet. Like liquid silk on the palate, conveying powerful early sweetness and an utterly seamless quality to its dark fruit flavors. Impressively broad wine, finishing with substantial tannins and rising length. But comes across as less complex today than the young Melbury. |
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|
2008 |
Quella Proprietary Blend |
$350 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 94 (6/2011): Full ruby-red color. Very ripe aromas of raspberry, licorice and menthol; this too struck me as claret-like. Sweet and refined in the mouth, already showing superb harmony to its raspberry, redcurrant and graphite flavors. Finishes with suave tannins and Outstanding length. Like the Melbury, this seems balanced to give early pleasure but should have no trouble lasting for 15 to 20 years in bottle. (Incidentally, pHs here were average in 2008 but acids a bit higher, said director of winegrowing Bob Levy, who offered the opinion that 2008 was a bit like 2005 in style.)
WS 94 (11/2011): Firm and structured, with loamy earth, mocha and espresso, this is ripe and lively, with currant, blueberry and wild berry notes that are pleasingly subtle and detailed. Even more expansive and syrupy on the finish. Best from 2012 through 2022. 502 cases made.
WA 93 (12/2011): The 2008 Quella is a dark, brooding wine loaded with super-ripe dark black fruit, smoke, tar and licorice. It is a seriously intense wine that will require bottle age. This is an especially authoritative wine from Bond. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2028.
JS 93 (6/2011): This is the third vintage from this site. Licorice and flowers and lavender aromas. Full body, with super velvety tannins and a medium finish. Lovely wood on the finish. Sandalwood undertone. Give it a year or two to come together more |
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|
2010 |
Quella Proprietary Blend |
$375 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 98 (10/2013): The 2010 Quella is a candidate for perfection. From the lower foothills of Pritchard Hill, it offers up notes of charcoal, graphite, espresso and copious quantities of blueberry and black raspberry liqueur, along with distinctive minerality, a full-bodied mouthfeel, moderately high tannins, gorgeous richness and a long, moderately tannic finish. Forget it for five years and drink it over the following three decades.
JS 97 (6/2014): The sister winery to Harlan made wonderful, distinctive wines in 2010. The Quella is powerful, rich and savoury.
VM 96 (11/2013): BOND's 2010 Quella is all about texture. There is virtually no sensation of tannin whatsoever in this supple, utterly gracious Cabernet Sauvignon. Rose petals, licorice, small red berries, new leather, spices and asphalt all wrap around the juicy, explosive finish. A super-ripe, racy finish rounds things out in style. In 2010, Quella is impeccable.
VM 94+ (5/2013): Good bright ruby-red. Knockout perfume of black raspberry, violet, mocha and raspberry. Sweet, fine-grained and creamy on entry, then a bit drier and more backward on the back end. The wonderfully rising finish features substantial broad tannins but calls for patience.
WS 93 (10/2013): A deceptively subtle, understated style that holds its flavors tight to the vest. Though restrained, this nonetheless offers a lot of everything in smaller doses. Dark berry, dark chocolate, dried herb and savory underbrush notes all add up to something special. Patience required. Best from 2015 through 2028. 550 cases made. |
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|
2012 |
Quella Proprietary Blend |
$395 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 98 (10/2015): The 2012 Quella (from a steep 9-acre vineyard in the eastern Vaca hillsides) has an opaque purple color, a gorgeous nose of white flowers, sweet blackberry and cassis fruit, and a touch of vanilla and graphite. Full-bodied, like its siblings, with great fruit extract, terrific purity and richness, and high but velvety tannins, this wine should also benefit from another 3-5 years of cellaring and keep for 30+ years.
JS 97 (7/2015): Lots of hot stone and slate on the nose with flowers. Dark berries too. Full body, dense mouthfeel. It lasts a long time with a salty, pomace undertone. Tight and muscular. Better in 2018.
VM 94 (10/2015): The 2012 Quella has put on considerable weight over the last year. Dark cherry, plum, hard candy, mint, dark spices and new leather all blossom in the glass. The 2012 is ample and broad on the palate, with superb presence, but perhaps a touch less in the way of finesse relative to the best wines in this range. Today the Quella feels a bit heavy. Antonio Galloni.
WS 89 (11/2015): Bold and ripe, with a touch of dark berry jam, this is structured by dusty gravel nuances and earth-laced tannins. A mishmash of very ripe, intense flavors, but the raw, edgy tannins have a green, stemmy quality. Drink now through 2023. 515 cases made. |
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|
2014 |
Quella Proprietary Blend |
$399 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 96+ (3/2018): The 2014 Quella is showing beautifully. Floral and savory overtones give the wine its energy and tension. The 2014 has really come along over the last six months. Today it is vibrant and full of life, with an understated sense of power that is compelling. The 2014 has developed very nicely since I last tasted it, but it still has room to grow. Antonio Galloni.
WA 96 (10/2017): Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2014 Quella is scented of blackberry preserves, fruitcake and crushed rocks with hints of cigar box, dried Provence herbs and Indian spices. Medium to full-bodied, it has a firm backbone of grainy tannins and great freshness lifting the black fruit and earth layers, finishing on a lingering mineral note.
JD 95 (12/2017): The 2014 Quella is one of the most aromatic and complex in the lineup. Coming from more seabed and volcanic soils (similar to the Melbury) and sporting a deep purple color and lifted notes of spice cake, black cherries, blueberries, violets and iron-like minerality, this beauty is medium to full-bodied, elegant, has bright acidity, and a great finish. Drink it anytime over the coming 20+ years. |
|
|
2014 |
Quella Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$975 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 96+ (3/2018): The 2014 Quella is showing beautifully. Floral and savory overtones give the wine its energy and tension. The 2014 has really come along over the last six months. Today it is vibrant and full of life, with an understated sense of power that is compelling. The 2014 has developed very nicely since I last tasted it, but it still has room to grow. Antonio Galloni.
WA 96 (10/2017): Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2014 Quella is scented of blackberry preserves, fruitcake and crushed rocks with hints of cigar box, dried Provence herbs and Indian spices. Medium to full-bodied, it has a firm backbone of grainy tannins and great freshness lifting the black fruit and earth layers, finishing on a lingering mineral note.
JD 95 (12/2017): The 2014 Quella is one of the most aromatic and complex in the lineup. Coming from more seabed and volcanic soils (similar to the Melbury) and sporting a deep purple color and lifted notes of spice cake, black cherries, blueberries, violets and iron-like minerality, this beauty is medium to full-bodied, elegant, has bright acidity, and a great finish. Drink it anytime over the coming 20+ years. |
|
|
2013 |
St. Eden Proprietary Blend |
$450 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 95 (5/2024): The 2013 St. Eden is starting to show the first signs of aromatic maturity. Dark cherry, plum, espresso, chocolate and licorice are all amplified. This plush, deep Cabernet Sauvignon is striking today. It's a fine choice for drinking now and over the next decade or so, although I do not see it improving from here. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2015 |
St. Eden Proprietary Blend |
$569 |
2 |
|
| |
JD 100 (1/2019): Moving to the 2015s tasted from bottle, this is an incredible vintage for this estate and there are two perfect wines in the lineup. First up, the 2015 St. Eden, from a hillside of red volcanic soils near Oakville, boasts a saturated purple color and heavenly notes of blackcurrants, scorched earth, lead pencil shavings, and huge crushed rock-like minerality. It’s full-bodied, deep, and layered on the palate, with incredible concentration, yet it stays seamless, pure, and perfectly balanced. It’s a magical wine to drink over the coming 2-3 decades. (Drink between 2019-2049).
WA 99 (10/2018): Bottled in early 2018, the deep garnet-purple colored 2015 St. Eden springs from the glass with exuberant blueberry pie, potpourri and spice cake scents followed by a black raspberry, cassis and preserved plums core plus a touch of wild sage. Full-bodied, plush and decadently fruited, it completely packs the palate with layer upon layer of black fruit preserves, finishing very long with those spices coming through.
VM 96 (12/2018): The 2015 St. Eden is another wine in this lineup that is not quite as expressive as it can be. Firm tannins dominate over softer contours that so often make St. Eden such an alluring wine. Time in the glass brings out an attractive set of dark cherry, plum, leather and tobacco notes. Even so, the 2015 is going to need a number of years to be at its very best. (Drink between 2022-2032). Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
1999 |
Vecina Proprietary Blend |
$350 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 92 (6/2003): (like the Melbury, this is from 100% cabernet sauvignon planted in 1990) Ruby-red. Explosive, wild nose combines roasted red berries, grilled meat, tar, brown sugar, mocha and truffle. Dense but juicy, with more power and thrust than the '99 Melbury but not quite the same early appeal. Intriguing notes of smoke, herbs and truffle. Finishes with very smooth, fine tannins.
WS 91 (12/2009): Pleasantly earthy, firm, dry and structured, with dried currant, black cherry, spice and black and green olive flavors folding together nicely. Full-bodied and tannic, yet focused and persistent, gaining depth on the finish. The best of two bottles tasted.—1999 California Cabernet blind retrospective (2009). Drink now through 2015. 225 cases made.
WA 90-92 (12/2002): The 1999 Vecina, a 100% Cabernet Sauvignon offering, exhibits aromas of graphite, tar, coffee, and creme de cassis. It is more austere and less charming and seductive than the 1999 "S". This powerful, muscular Cabernet will be at its best between 2006-2020. |
|
|
2003 |
Vecina Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$600 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 93+ (6/2006): Good medium ruby color. Roasted black fruits and a suggestion of almost port-like ripeness on the nose. Lush, superripe and powerful, with superb density of flavor. With notes ranging from black olive to dark chocolate, this shows a wider range of ripeness than either the highly promising young 2004 or the remarkably lush and sweet 2002 (which I scored 95 on this latest occasion).
WA 93 (12/2006): More difficult to evaluate than its siblings, the 2003 Vecina, which comes from a site near Harlan Estate, is a firm, tannic, backward wine displaying a gravelly, scorched earth, hot rock, black currant, licorice, and herb-scented bouquet. In the mouth, it is tight, rich, and ruggedly constructed with medium to full body as well as a boatload of tannin. Give it 4-5 years of cellaring, and consume it over the following 15. |
|
|
2013 |
Vecina Proprietary Blend |
$525 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 96 (5/2024): The 2013 Vecina is another wine in this tasting that is starting to show early signs of maturity. The tannins remain dominant to the point that the wine feels a bit constricted. Today, the 2013 is not especially expressive, certainly not to the degree it has been in the past. The Vecina may be past the absolute peak of profound beauty it exhibited a few years ago. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2014 |
Vecina Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$895 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 98+ (10/2017): The 2014 Vecina displays a deep garnet-purple color and has a broody, baked blueberries, cassis and anise-laced nose with suggestions of garrigue, dusty earth and bay leaves. Full-bodied, rich, spicy and powerful in the mouth, it offers a lot of latent layers and promises great, great things to come with an incredibly long, layered finish. It needs a bit of time but should cellar beautifully for a good 25 years+.
JD 97 (12/2017): Another awesome wine is the 2014 Vecina and it’s from a vineyard on the western side of the valley, right up next to Harlan Estate. This deep, full-bodied, seriously concentrated 2014 gives up loads of plums, currants, toasty oak, chocolate, and chalky minerality. It picks up a touch of violets with time in the glass, but the theme here is deep, dark fruit and minerality. With the forward, supple style of the vintage, it still has serious concentration and structure, and is going to be long-lived.
VM 97 (3/2018): One of the most expressive wines in this range, the 2014 Vecina is powerful, dense and explosive. Despite its obvious intensity, the 2014 has quite a bit of detail and nuance. Time in the glass unleashes the wine's natural intensity, volume and power. The huge, savory and mineral-drenched finish only adds to the wine's immeasurable beauty. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Booker Vineyard |
2017 |
Fracture Syrah Bin-Soiled Label; Lightly Scuffed Label |
$72 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 96 (2/2020): Shimmering purple. Mineral- and spice-accented black raspberry, boysenberry and candied violet on the highly perfumed nose. Shows superb depth as well as energy to the alluringly sweet red and blue fruit preserve, vanilla, fruitcake and candied violet flavors, which are complemented by smoky bacon and cracked pepper flourishes. Finishes smoky, broad and extremely long, displaying repeating florality and youthful tannic grip. Two-thirds new French oak. Josh Raynolds.
JD 98 (10/2019): Notes of crème de cassis, ground pepper, and crushed flowers emerge from the 2017 Fracture, which, as always, is all Syrah and was brought up in 65% new French oak barrels. Full-bodied, beautifully layered and textured, it has classic Booker power and richness yet shows the pretty, elegant style of the vintage as well. |
|
|
2012 |
Oublie 24 Proprietary Blend Cracked Wax Capsule |
$99 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 93-95 (8/2014): Slightly more savory and rich than the straight Oublie release, the 2012 Oublie 24 gives up more bouquet garni, black fruits and ground herbs to go with a full-bodied, fabulously concentrated feel on the palate. It too has a southern Rhone-like feel and should drink nicely on release and evolve gracefully for 7-8 years.
VM 92-94 (7/2014): Dark red cherry, plum, smoke, mint, tobacco and cedar are some of the many notes that blossom in the 2012 Oublie 24. Pliant, expressive and nuanced, the 2012 is above all else a wine of pure silkiness. There is a lot to like here. Next to the straight Oublie, the 24 is a bit more seamless, vibrant and perfumed. |
|
|
2020 |
Perl Syrah |
$59 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 92 (8/2023): Bottled late, the 2020 Perl is based on 91% Syrah and 9% Grenache that spent 24 months in 50% new oak. Coming from sourced fruit on the west side of Paso, it has a richer, medium to full-bodied style that brings plenty of darker berry fruits, some graphite and iron notes, some firmer, chalky tannins, and a good finish. It's well done and enjoyable.
VM 90 (5/2023): Dark and brooding in the glass, the 2020 Perl opens with savory herbs, ashen stone and black currants. It's soft-textured with crisp minerality and soothingly ripe dark fruits. The 2020 finishes with tension, lightly tannic and a salted licorice note. This is the first vintage of Perl, a blend of 91% Syrah and 9% Grenache from mostly sourced fruit. Eric Guido. |
|
|
2012 |
Ripper Grenache |
$79.20 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2017 |
Ripper Grenache |
$79 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 96 (10/2019): Bottled in February of this year, the 100% Grenache 2017 Ripper has a beautiful perfume of black raspberries, white flowers, licorice, and subtle background oak. Rich and medium to full-bodied, it has wonderful purity, fine tannins, and a great finish. |
|
| J. Bookwalter |
2012 |
Conflict Conner-Lee Vyd. Red Wine |
$25 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 91 (6/2015): In the same ballpark quality-wise as the Protagonist release, with probably a longer drink window, the 2012 Conner Lee Vineyard Conflict is made from 63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Merlot and 5% Syrah. Finishing malo in barrel and aged 20 months in 70% new French oak, it has classic plum, black raspberry, chocolate, lead pencil and spice-laced aromatics. This give way to a full-bodied, nicely concentrated, gorgeously pure 2012 that still has oak to integrate, yet will have over a decade of longevity. |
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| Bovet (Round Pond) |
2007 |
Rutherford Estate Cabernet Sauvignon |
$65 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2008 |
Rutherford Estate Cabernet Sauvignon |
$80 |
1 |
|
| |
| WS 91 (5/2012): Combines richness with restraint, offering bold, loamy earth, dried berry, licorice and tobacco flavors, tightly wound and firming nicely on the finish, where gravelly tannins take hold. Drink now through 2022. 415 cases made. |
|
| Broadley Vineyards |
2015 |
Shea Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$30 |
1 |
|
| |
| BH 92 (1/2018): Deep vivid red. Intensely perfumed red and blue fruit liqueur and rose oil aromas are complemented by suggestions of vanilla and Asian spices. Juicy and sharply focused on the palate, offering sweet black raspberry, cherry cola and floral pastille flavors and a spicy touch of white pepper. Shows very good clarity, strong persistence and spicy lift on the finish, which features velvety tannins and repeating florality. Josh Raynolds. |
|
| Buccella |
2004 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$150 |
1 |
|
| |
WS 95 (6/2007): Smooth, plush and concentrated. A multidimensional expression of Cabernet, with layers of currant, blackberry, plum and spice. Supple-textured, this keeps a focus on the fruit and is supported by firm, ripe tannins. Yet fruit glides through on the finish. Best from 2008 through 2014. 737 cases made.
WA 94 (12/2006): The dense purple-colored 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon’s hefty 15.1% alcohol is well-disguised by classic aromas of white chocolate, black currants, blackberries, licorice, and coffee beans. This dense, medium to full-bodied, opulent, fleshy, powerful effort boasts sweet tannin and low acidity. Drink it over the next 10-15 years.
VM 91 (6/2007): (15.4% alcohol; includes 4% merlot) Bright ruby-red. Roasted dark berries, black cherry, graphite, dark chocolate and nutty oak on the nose. Smooth and sweet in the mouth, with the dark fruit flavors joined by smoke and earth notes. Substantial tannins show a slight dryness. Not the last word in complexity but there's more going on here than just fruit. |
|
|
2006 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$100 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 95 (12/2009): The 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon, a candidate for Cabernet of the vintage, reveals a gorgeous perfume of chocolate, black raspberries, flowers, ink, and graphite, followed by a full-bodied, textured, superbly concentrated wine with terrific purity as well as density. Drink this Outstanding 2006 over the next 15-20 years.
WS 93 (6/2009): Tight, dense and concentrated, with a tight mix of wild and blackberry fruit that's both powerful and restrained, slowly unfolding to offer spice, mineral, sage and iodine. The long, persistent finish is framed by trim tannins. Best from 2010 through 2017. 792 cases made.
VM 91 (6/2009): Saturated ruby. Sexy aromas of cassis, licorice, loam and toasty oak, along with torrefaction notes of bacon, coffee and mocha. Sweet, lush and outsized; a no-holds-barred cabernet with a strong element of chocolatey torrefaction. Has the sheer mid-palate density of material to support its huge, toothfurring tannins. A big boy! Mark Herold was responsible for making these wines through the 2007 vintage, with Celia Masyczek taking over in 2008. Masyczek told me she will seek to make a more refined style. |
|
|
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. |
|
|
2014 |
Cuvee Katrina Eileen Cabernet Sauvignon |
$191.25 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Burgess Cellars |
1997 |
Enveiere Proprietary Blend Signs of Old Seepage |
$30 |
2 |
|
| |
| WS 81 (2/2008): Fading, with a bitter edge to the dried currant and berry flavors. The best of three bottles didn't inspire.--'97 California Cabernet retrospective. Drink now. 800 cases made. |
|
| Butler Nephew and Co. |
2003 |
Port |
$48 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Buty |
2002 |
Columbia Valley 10% Cabernet Franc, 90% Merlot |
$20 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 88 (11/2004): Medium ruby. Very primary aromas of black raspberry, chocolate and smoky oak, with whiffs of earth and menthol; rather Napa-like. Sweet and fat, with an edge of acidity giving shape and grip to the concentrated cherry and raspberry flavors. Slightly tough tannins call for a few years of cellaring. Stephen Tanzer.
WA 88 (8/2004): A blend of 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc, the 2002 Merlot is an oak spice, black cherry, cassis and sweet blackberry-scented wine. Medium to full-bodied, broad, and expansive, it coats the palate with sweet creamy red as well as black fruits with notes of mocha and hints of roasting spices. Its finish is slightly compressed and reveals some firm, dry tannin. Anticipated maturity: now-2011. |
|
|
2002 |
Columbia Valley 10% Cabernet Franc, 90% Merlot Nicked Label; Lightly Bin-Soiled Label |
$20 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 88 (11/2004): Medium ruby. Very primary aromas of black raspberry, chocolate and smoky oak, with whiffs of earth and menthol; rather Napa-like. Sweet and fat, with an edge of acidity giving shape and grip to the concentrated cherry and raspberry flavors. Slightly tough tannins call for a few years of cellaring. Stephen Tanzer.
WA 88 (8/2004): A blend of 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc, the 2002 Merlot is an oak spice, black cherry, cassis and sweet blackberry-scented wine. Medium to full-bodied, broad, and expansive, it coats the palate with sweet creamy red as well as black fruits with notes of mocha and hints of roasting spices. Its finish is slightly compressed and reveals some firm, dry tannin. Anticipated maturity: now-2011. |
|
|
2002 |
Columbia Valley 10% Cabernet Franc, 90% Merlot Lightly Nicked Label; Lightly Bin-Soiled Label |
$20 |
2 |
|
| |
VM 88 (11/2004): Medium ruby. Very primary aromas of black raspberry, chocolate and smoky oak, with whiffs of earth and menthol; rather Napa-like. Sweet and fat, with an edge of acidity giving shape and grip to the concentrated cherry and raspberry flavors. Slightly tough tannins call for a few years of cellaring. Stephen Tanzer.
WA 88 (8/2004): A blend of 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc, the 2002 Merlot is an oak spice, black cherry, cassis and sweet blackberry-scented wine. Medium to full-bodied, broad, and expansive, it coats the palate with sweet creamy red as well as black fruits with notes of mocha and hints of roasting spices. Its finish is slightly compressed and reveals some firm, dry tannin. Anticipated maturity: now-2011. |
|
| Cade |
2015 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon |
$79 |
4 |
|
| |
| WA 91 (10/2017): Composed of 84% Cabernet Sauvignon with 11% Petit Verdot and 5% Malbec, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley shows an inky purple-black color and a crème de cassis, sautéed herbs, black soil, licorice and chargrill nose. Very big, full and high-octane in the mouth with firm, chewy tannins, it finishes long and warming. |
|
| Cadence Winery |
2004 |
Bel Canto Red |
$40 |
2 |
|
| |
VM 93 (11/2006): 50% cabernet franc, 40% merlot and 10% petit verdot, from a blend of vineyards) Good bright red with ruby highlights. Expressive aromas of blackberry, raspberry, rose petal, licorice, mocha and spices. Sweet, broad and concentrated, with lush, primary dark berry flavors lifted by floral notes of lilac and lavender; this offers lovely mid-palate texture and the definition and verve that come from healthy, well-integrated acidity. The seamless finish features substantial broad, dusty tannins, lovely floral lift and a lingering chocolately sweetness. Very impressive. Stephen Tanzer.
WA 90 (8/2007): The 2004 Red Wine “Bel Canto” is a barrel selection of the best lots from the single vineyard cuvees. It is composed of 50% Cabernet Franc, 40% Merlot, and 10% Petit Verdot. Purple-colored, it has a smoky nose with aromas of herbs, clove, cassis, and black currants. Supple-textured, the wine cuts a broad path on the palate with layers of flavor, excellent depth, and a long, pure finish. Cellar this classy wine for 3-5 years and drink it through 2027. |
|
|
2004 |
Ciel du Cheval Vyd. Red |
$40 |
4 |
|
| |
| VM 92 (3/2023): The 2004 Ciel Du Cheval is a mature beauty, wafting up with a cigar and spice box bouquet, as dusty dried flowers and rum-soaked black cherries form its bouquet. This is soft-textured yet juicy in feel, with inner earth tones and minerals giving way to masses of dried red fruits and savory exotic spices. Plum and brown spice linger incredibly long, as the 2004 tapers off with only the slightest hint of fine tannins. At this time, the 2004 is fully mature and resting at its peak, with a number of years of fine drinking to look forward to. (Drink between 2023-2026). Eric Guido. |
|
|
2004 |
Tapteil Vyd. Red |
$40 |
2 |
|
| |
WS 93 (5/2007): Polished, open-textured and refined, this is generous with its red currant, raspberry, black cherry and dusky spice aromas and flavors. The supple texture and graceful structure make this a winner. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Drink now through 2014. 350 cases made.
VM 90 (12/2006): (a blend of 63% cabernet sauvignon, 31% merlot and 6% cabernet franc) Good bright, deep red. Currant, tobacco, minerals, brown spices and a whiff of iodine on the reticent nose. Sweet but firm and youthfully tight, with distinctly wild black fruit and fresh herbal flavors and no excess weight. This, too, is a bit clenched today but the firm tannins are ripe and the finish builds impressively. (A second bottle, decanted for 12 hours, showed a bigger middle palate, with impressive ripeness and silky texture, and rated 91.)
WA 86 (8/2007): The 2004 Red Wine “Tapteil Vineyard" is 63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31% Merlot, and 6% Cabernet Franc. Dark ruby-colored, it delivers a very good perfume of toasty oak, spice box, cassis, and black currants. This is followed by a moderately intense wine with ample ripe fruit, soft tannin, and a medium long finish. Give this solid effort 2-3 years to fill out, and drink it through 2022. |
|
| Cain |
2010 |
Five Proprietary Blend |
$125 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Cakebread Cellars |
2005 |
Carneros Syrah |
$45 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
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. |
|
|
2009 |
Vine Hill Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon |
$100 |
1 |
|
| |
| WS 91 (4/2013): Very appealing, with a pleasant mix of dark berry, mocha, dried herb and underbrush, tightly focused, firmly tannic and persistent. Drink now through 2024. 1,000 cases made. |
|
| Caldwell |
2013 |
Carmenere |
$75 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2008 |
Clone 181 Merlot |
$40 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2008 |
Clone 400 Caldwell Vyd. Petit Verdot |
$40 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2008 |
Clone 595 Malbec |
$40 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2006 |
Estate Grown Block 15 Cabernet Sauvignon |
$50 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2007 |
Rocket Science Red Wine |
$50 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2012 |
Rocket Science Red Wine |
$50 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Carlisle |
2012 |
James Berry Vineyard Syrah |
$50 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 94 (6/2014): (20% whole clusters, 27% new oak and 15.9% alcohol): Inky purple. Sexy aromas of cassis, cherry compote, roasted coffee and incense. Supple, pliant and deep in black and blue fruit and floral pastille flavors. Becomes spicier and more energetic with air and picks up a smoky nuance that lingers on the long, sweet, intensely spicy finish. I was shocked to see that alcohol number as the wine doesn't betray it at all. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
| Carte Blanche (Nicholas Allen) |
2010 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon |
$99 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 94 (12/2012): Another powerful, young wine, the 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon is incredibly dense and virtually impenetrable. Blue and black fruit, grilled herbs, licorice, new leather, menthol and tobacco flow through to an incisive finish layered with graphite and crushed rocks. Today, the 2010 is cool and implosive, suggesting it needs at least another few years to come together. The addition of 10% Petit Verdot seems to give the wine some of its brooding personality. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2016 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon |
$149 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 97 (1/2019): A different beast, the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon (100% Cabernet Sauvignon) is more backward and reticent, and while it needs 4-5 years of bottle age, is packed with potential. Both black and blue fruits, earth, tobacco, and freshly crushed rock notes all flow to a full-bodied 2016 that has plenty of fine tannins, remarkable purity of fruit, and beautiful intensity and length. Do your best to give this some bottle age, and you’ll be rewarded with a phenomenal Napa Valley Cabernet that will keep for 2-3 decades. These Carte Blanche releases are made by superstar winemaker Helen Keplinger. (Drink between 2019-2039).
WA 95+ (10/2018): One-hundred percent Cabernet Sauvignon aged 22 months in 100% French oak, the very deep garnet-purple colored 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon gives quite a meaty nose of chargrilled meats, charcuterie and beef drippings over a core of cassis, preserved plums and black cherries plus touches of cedar, unsmoked cigars and underbrush. Full, rich and seductive in the mouth, it has a soft, super ripe and finely grained texture with layer upon layer of black fruits, finishing long with a spicy kick.
VM 95 (12/2018): Inky black cherry, plum, chocolate, menthol and licorice are some of the many notes that run through Carte Blanche's 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon. Plush and flamboyant, the 2016 retains terrific balance as well as persistence, with layers of flavor that continue to build in the glass. (Drink between 2021-2031). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Carter Cellars |
2004 |
Weitz Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$125 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2016 |
Weitz Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$143.65 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 95 (10/2018): Very deep purple-black in color, the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Weitz Vineyard opens with notions of baked blackcurrants, preserved plums, blackberry compote and licorice plus touches of tar, chargrill, pan fried herbs and iron ore. Full-bodied and laden with taut, muscular fruit, it has a solid line of grainy tannins and just enough freshness, finishing with an herbal lift. |
|
| Caterwaul |
2014 |
Regusci Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$85 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2015 |
Regusci Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$85 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Caymus |
2012 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon (1.0 L) Signs of Old Seepage; Torn Label |
$150 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 96 (10/2014): They appear to be immune to some of winedom’s less than intelligent trends and fads that we see from time to time, and the result is a spectacular 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon 40th Anniversary offering. Its dense purple/black color is followed by copious quantities of crème de cassis and blackberry fruit, silky tannins, a voluptuous texture and stunning purity as well as length. This full-bodied effort is a fabulous example of Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon as well as a tribute to this amazing family. It is so good now, why wait? However, I’m sure that like most vintages of Caymus, it will last for 20-25 years. Amazing!
VM 85 (10/2014): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon 40th Anniversary from Caymus hits the palate with a rush of dark cherry, plum, Coke, chocolate, brandy, spices and sweet new oak. There is good texture, viscosity and immediacy to the fruit at first, but the sickly sweet new oak and vanillin become overpowering soon after, totally covering the fruit and attenuating the mid-palate and finish. Thankfully, the finish is short. Even by today's standards in Napa Valley, this is a decidedly sweet style of Cabernet Sauvignon quite unlike pretty much anything else I tasted this year. (Drink between 2014-2020). Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
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. |
|
|
2001 |
Special Selection Cabernet Sauvignon |
$225 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 96 (6/2011): Caymus has been around for so long there is a tendency to under-estimate their wines. However, they have a brilliant track record as evidenced by the decade old 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon Vintage Selection. Abundant chocolaty, black currant, licorice and coffee aromas soar from the glass of this perfumed wine. It exhibits an opaque ruby/purple color, wonderful opulence, a deep, full-bodied mouthfeel, fabulous depth and not a hard edge to be found. While seemingly fully mature, the supple tannins, expansive fruit and glycerin, depth and overall balance suggest it will keep for another 15+ years.
WS 95 (6/2004): Lots of aromatic complexity, with ripe plum, blackberry, mineral, slate and cedary oak flavors that are rich and concentrated, with ripe, polished tannins and a long, full-bodied finish that echoes mocha and berry flavors. Keeps revealing vivid and thick flavor nuances. Another amazing Caymus Special Selection. Best from 2005 through 2013. |
|
|
2006 |
Special Selection Cabernet Sauvignon |
$169 |
1 |
|
| |
| WS 94 (3/2009): Complex, riveting aromas of spice, cola and sassafras join wild berry, spice, black cherry and sage notes in this full-bodied, intensely flavored, tightly focused and very persistent display of fruit that's long and lingering. Drink now through 2017. 11,900 cases made. |
|
| Cayuse |
2013 |
Camaspelo Proprietary Blend Slightly Raised Cork |
$87.20 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 94 (6/2016): Leading off the 2013s, the 332-case 2013 Camaspelo is made from 81% Cabernet Sauvignon and 19% Merlot that was aged all in puncheons. Notes of iron, red and black currants, licorice and lead pencil characteristics emerge from this medium to full-bodied, elegant, complex Bordeaux blend that would pass undetected in a lineup of Pauillacs. Give it 3-4 years of cellaring and drink through 2033.
VM 93+ (11/2016): Healthy dark red. Very black aromas of cassis, blackberry, black olive, spices and mint. Densely packed and very sweet, boasting a terrific combination of urgent crushed cassis and black cherry fruit and savory complexity. Not yet hugely complex or particularly floral, but this very intense wine is still a baby. Finishes very long and savory, with youthfully edgy tannins and excellent energy and lift. Stephen Tanzer.
WS 93 (8/2016): Broad and expressive, layered with cherry, blackberry, cocoa and floral flavors playing against refined tannins that carry the long finish. Has terrific presence and harmony. Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Best from 2018 through 2023. 332 cases made. |
|
|
2019 |
Impulsivo En Chamberlin Vyd. Tempranillo |
$101.15 |
1 |
|
| |
| JS 95 (2/2022): Rounded aromas of cherries, plums, blackcurrants, nutmeg and violets. Medium-to full-bodied with supple tannins. Rich black fruit turns savory with notes of tobacco and espresso as the palate evolves. Roasted rosemary and thyme, too. Great complexity and balance. A hint of sea salt at the finish. From biodynamically grown grapes. Drink or hold. |
|
|
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. |
|
| Celani Family Vineyards |
2005 |
Ardore Cabernet Sauvignon |
$75 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 92+ (5/2016): (14.8% alcohol): Full red-ruby. Deep, slightly wild aromas of black raspberry, boysenberry, violet, minerals and mint. Sweet, plush and fine-grained, showing terrific intensity to the flavors of dark plum, chocolate and coffee complicated by a meaty nuance. With its medicinal reserve, this very concentrated wine is developing at a snail's pace and still needs another couple years to approach peak drinkability. Finishes with solid, ripe tannins and excellent length.
WS 91 (7/2008): Smooth, rich and polished. Offers a complex mix of spicy oak, ripe currant, black cherry and blackberry, with touches of herb, cedar and nutmeg, veering into earthiness. Best from 2009 through 2014. 600 cases made. |
|
| Chappellet |
2015 |
Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$295 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2012 |
Pritchard Hill Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$575 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 99+ (10/2014): The dense purple-colored 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Pritchard Hill Estate (one of Napa’s fashionable go-to terroirs) exhibits a striking bouquet of spring flowers, blueberries, raspberries and blackcurrants. This is a compelling wine with profound depth and flavor, a full-bodied mouthfeel, and a velvety integration of tannin, acidity and wood. Pushing perfection in Cabernet Sauvignon, this multidimensional, skyscraper-like offering has all the intensity one expects, but it never comes across as heavy. This gives it an ethereal character that is nearly impossible to articulate, but genius is often hard to explain. It is clearly a major superstar of a great vintage.
VM 94+ (12/2014): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Pritchard Hill is rich and explosive, with tons of concentration, depth and structure. Dark blue and black fruit, mocha, smoke, menthol, licorice and spices all burst from the glass as this huge, tannic Cabernet Sauvignon shows off its pure class. Readers will have to be patient with the 2012, a wine that will blow the roof off the house with its unbridled power. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2021 |
Pritchard Hill Cabernet Sauvignon |
$225 |
3 |
|
| |
JD 98+ (12/2023): The flagship 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Pritchard Hill is based on 95% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Petit Verdot. Dense purple-hued, with incredible aromatics of black and blue fruits, camphor, liquid violets, tobacco, and graphite, it has a remarkable sense of opulence in its aromas and flavors and delivers full-bodied richness, a massive mid-palate, building tannins, and a thrilling finish. It reminds me of an improved 2013. This heavenly Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon will evolve for 30-40 years in cold cellars and is another absolutely sensational wine from this estate. Don't miss it. Drink between 2023-2063.
WA 98+ (3/2024): A blend of 95% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Petit Verdot, all aged in new French oak, the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Pritchard Hill appears destined to be another classic. Penetrating aromas of cassis and red berries are joined by hints of violets, dried sage, crushed stones and pencil shavings on the nose, while the full-bodied palate is rich and intensely concentrated, framed by dusty tannins that linger easily on the long, mouthwatering finish. Drink between 2025-2050.
VM 91 (12/2023): The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Pritchard Hill is another huge, brooding wine in this range. Today, the tannins are searing in their intensity. It's hard to know if the fruit will ever emerge here. The 2021 is massiely tannic and forbidding at this stage. Drink between 2024-2033. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2018 |
Pritchard Hill Estate Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$423.15 |
2 |
|
| |
JD 98 (1/2021): Always one of top wines in a vintage, the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Pritchard Hill is another gorgeous wine with a more plush, supple texture that hides solid underlying structure and tannins. Beautiful notes of blueberries, new leather, camphor, violets, and smoked tobacco all flow to a full-bodied, seamless, gorgeously textured beauty that's very much in the style of the vintage. Possessing remarkable purity, flawless balance, and building tannins, give bottles 4-5 years of bottle age, count yourself lucky, and enjoy over the following 25+ years.
VM 96+ (1/2021): The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Pritchard Hill is bright, punchy and structured. Blackberry jam, grilled herbs, lavender, menthol and crushed rocks all come alive in the glass. This searingly tannic, mountain Cabernet needs a good deal of time to open, but when it does, it dazzles. Bright floral notes, blood orange and slightly redder tonalities of fruit develop over time. The Pritchard Hill is a wine for readers who can be patient. Antonio Galloni.
WA 98+ (11/2020): The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Pritchard Hill is composed of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Petit Verdot. It was aged in 100% new French oak for 22 months. The alcohol weighed in at 14.5%. Deep garnet-purple in color, it charges out of the gate with bold expressions of warm cassis, wild blueberries and black raspberries, plus hints of chocolate box, menthol, tapenade, smoked meats and pencil lead. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is bursting with vibrant black fruits, framed by fantastically ripe, fine-grained tannins and lovely freshness, finishing long and mineral laced. |
|
|
2019 |
Pritchard Hill Estate Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$450.45 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 99 (11/2021): A blend of 95% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Petit Verdot, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Pritchard Hill is another wonderfully evocative triumph from this family-owned Pitchard Hill pioneer. Deep garnet-purple colored, it storms out of the glass with profound scents of crème de cassis, blackberry preserves, licorice and mulberries, plus hints of unsmoked cigars, wild sage and tar. The medium to full-bodied palate delivers fantastic intensity and great poise, offering fine-grained, ripe tannins and bold freshness, finishing long and mineral laced.
JD 98+ (3/2022): The flagship from this great estate is the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Pritchard Hill, which checks in as a blend of 95% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Petit Verdot. It has an incredible nose of pure blue fruits as well as flowers, crushed stone, fresh thyme, tobacco, and graphite. Deep, rich, full-bodied, and concentrated, it's nevertheless weightless and light on its feet, with wonderfully integrated acidity, polished tannins, and a great finish. This classic, quintessential Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon will benefit from 2-4 years of bottle age and cruise for 20, 30, if not 40 years if stored correctly. 3800 cases.
VM 92 (1/2022): The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Pritchard Hill is a potent, massively tannic wine. Black fruit, graphite, licorice, spice, menthol, chocolate and dried herbs abound. A huge, tannic beast, the 2019 is all brawn today and not terribly finessed. This is not a particularly distinguished vintage for Chappellet's flagship. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Chimney Rock |
1997 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon |
$63.75 |
4 |
|
| |
| WS 91 (10/2000): (WS #78 wine of 2000) Rich and layered, with ripe blackberry, cherry and mocha flavors that finish with soft tannins framing mellow herbal and coffee notes. Drink now through 2008. 12,017 cases made. |
|
|
1997 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon Lightly Bin-Soiled Label; Writing on Label |
$59 |
1 |
|
| |
| WS 91 (10/2000): (WS #78 wine of 2000) Rich and layered, with ripe blackberry, cherry and mocha flavors that finish with soft tannins framing mellow herbal and coffee notes. Drink now through 2008. 12,017 cases made. |
|
|
2006 |
Stags Leap District Cabernet Sauvignon (6.0 L) |
$750 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Cirq |
2019 |
Russian River Valley Pinot Noir (1.5 L) |
$359 |
2 |
|
| |
| JD 100 (7/2023): The 2019 Pinot Noir is a jeweled ruby hue and has layered aromas of pristine cherry, cardamom, rose petal, and sweet herbs. It has incredible clarity and focus, with and a silky texture in its notes of raspberry liqueur and violets, and somehow seems to have more depth after the wine is gone. It offers fantastic balance and a sunny feel, with great refinement that lasts for ages. This wine is outstanding. Drink 2023-2032.From winemaker Michael Browne, also of CHEV and co-founder of Kosta Browne, CIRQ only produces a single Pinot Noir wine from their home in the Russian River Valley. |
|
|
2021 |
Russian River Valley Pinot Noir |
$189 |
5 |
|
| |
JD 99+ (6/2024): A deep jeweled ruby/magenta hue, the 2021 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley takes things to another level and is likely going to be just as impressive as the last release of 2019, as they made the difficult decision to skip the 2020 vintage due to the fires. On opening, it's layered and refined on the nose, with notes of black raspberries, violets, dark mineral earth, and sweet cardamom spice. The palate boasts a luxurious silky and velvety texture that's completely seamless, with a long, outstanding finish. It will show its best in another 5-6 years. Drink 2027-2040. Audrey Frick.
VM 95 (1/2024): The 2021 Pinot Noir Estate is an elegant, luxurious wine. Plump and juicy but not at all heavy, the 2021 is wonderfully classy from start to finish. Succulent dark red cherry, pomegranate, blood orange and a kiss of new French oak race across the palate. Silky tannins and bright acids frame the long, persistent finish nicely. There’s a bit more restraint in Michael Browne’s wines these days, and that’s not a bad thing at all. This mid-weight Pinot is terrific. (Drink between 2024-2034). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Clark-Claudon |
1995 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$115 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 93 (8/1998): This limited production (300 cases) wine made from a vineyard on the eastern side of Howell Mountain, this brilliantly made Cabernet suggests this winery knows what to do with top quality fruit. While the 1995 will be hard to find, readers who are interested in profound California Cabernet Sauvignons should seek out future releases. This opaque purple-colored wine boasts knock-out aromatics of smoke, charcoal, blackcurrants, lead pencil, minerals, and high quality French oak. Impressive on the palate, with a classy richness married to well-integrated wood, acidity, and tannin, this is a full-bodied, fabulously rich, expressive, impeccably-balanced Cabernet Sauvignon. Anticipated maturity: now-2015. |
|
|
2012 |
Eternity Cabernet Sauvignon |
$109 |
1 |
|
| |
| WS 94 (3/2016): Very dark and dense, rich without being weighty, featuring a complex, focused aroma of mocha, espresso, blackberry, boysenberry and black licorice. This is remarkably accessible, refined and polished. Long and chocolaty on the finish without sacrificing acidity or firm tannins. Drink now through 2026. 390 cases made. |
|
|
2012 |
Eternity Cabernet Sauvignon |
$139 |
1 |
|
| |
| WS 94 (3/2016): Very dark and dense, rich without being weighty, featuring a complex, focused aroma of mocha, espresso, blackberry, boysenberry and black licorice. This is remarkably accessible, refined and polished. Long and chocolaty on the finish without sacrificing acidity or firm tannins. Drink now through 2026. 390 cases made. |
|
| Cobb |
2010 |
Diane Cobb Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$106.25 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 92+ (7/2013): The 2010 Pinot Noir Diane Cobb: Coastlands Vineyard has an extra level of mid-palate juiciness and depth next to the straight Coastlands bottling. Sweet, dense and perfumed, the 2010 is all about texture and perfume, of course in the restrained style of the vintage. Readers who can resist the temptation of opening bottles for at least a few years will be on for a real treat. (Drink between 2013-2031). Antonio Galloni.
WA 92 (11/2020): Pale garnet, the 2010 Pinot Noir Diane Cobb Coastlands Vineyard has an incredible perfume of violets, tea leaves, tangerine and loads of dried, sweet red berry fruits with alluring earth and amaro accents. The light-bodied palate is so elegant, with chocolaty tannins, seamless freshness and delicate, pure sweet berry fruits, finishing long, uplifted and ethereal. Wow! What a gorgeous, mature Sonoma Cost Pinot Noir. |
|
|
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. |
|
|
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. |
|
|
2009 |
Jack Hill Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$50.15 |
2 |
|
| |
| VM 92 (7/2013): The 2009 Pinot Noir Jack Hill Vineyard, from a site south of Occidental, is arguably the most immediate of the 2009 Pinots in this range. Dark red cherries, exotic spices, licorice and cloves all flesh out in a radiant, expressive Pinot that impresses for its accessibility. Even though the Jack Hill is quite open today, there is plenty of underlying structure to support years of positive development in bottle. A creamy, expressive finish rounds things out in style. The Jack Hill was made from fully de-stemmed fruit. (Drink between 2015-2025.) Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2009 |
Rice-Spivak Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$50.15 |
3 |
|
| |
|
|
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. |
|
| Coleman Nicole |
2010 |
Roman’s Lot II Pinot Noir |
$31.50 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2010 |
Roman’s Lot II Pinot Noir |
$45 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Colgin |
2010 |
Cariad Proprietary Blend Bin-Soiled Label |
$509 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 100 (10/2013): The 2010 Proprietary Red Cariad reveals great intensity along with abundant notes of unsmoked tobacco leaf interwoven with blueberry, blackberry and cassis fruit, charcoal and coffee bean nuances as well as a Pauillac-like lead pencil shaving character. This blend of 48% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Merlot, 10% Petit Verdot and 14% Cabernet Franc is one of the finest wines I tasted over the 12 days I spent tasting in Napa Valley in late August and early September. This remarkable 2010 should drink beautifully for 20 or more years.
VM 97 (12/2012): The 2010 Red Wine Cariad is incredibly shut down at this stage. Dark raspberries, flowers, mint and tar emerge over time, but the Cariad remains quite a bit tighter and more introspective than the other wines in this lineup. At the same time, there is a level of purity in the fruit that is striking. This is the tightest of the estate's 2010s. Accordingly, it will require a few years to open up. This is the lowest percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon ever used in Cariad.
VM 95+ (6/2013): (a blend of 48% cabernet sauvignon, 28% merlot, 14% petit verdot and 10% cabernet franc): Saturated, bright ruby-red. Deeper and darker on the nose than the Tychson Hill cabernet, offering vibrant scents of blackcurrant, graphite minerality and bitter chocolate. At once round and delineated in the mouth, with dark berry and mineral flavors displaying Outstanding depth without excess weight. With its very firm tannic structure, this typically Medoc-like wine will need a good eight to ten years to evolve in bottle and may ultimately merit an even higher rating. These vines in Madrona Vineyard in St. Helena were planted on an alluvial fan in the 1980s.
JS 95 (5/2014): Lots of ripe fruit, chocolate and iron. Full body, with loads of velvety tannins and a round and rich palate. It is round and mouthfilling yet fresh and beautiful. Delicious already but will improve with age
WS 92 (10/2013): Notable for its charcoal and graphite woodiness, along with its edgy entry into the core of dark berry fruit. Keeps you at arm's length, with the flavors both concentrated and nuanced. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2024. 550 cases made. |
|
|
2016 |
Cariad Proprietary Blend |
$395 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 100 (10/2018): The 2016 Cariad Proprietary Red Wine is blended of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Cabernet Franc, 12% Merlot and 8% Petit Verdot. Deep garnet-purple colored, it has wonderful purity of black fruits—preserved plums, blackcurrants and black raspberries—with nuances of iron ore, crushed rocks, fertile loam, cedar chest and tobacco leaf. Full-bodied, concentrated, muscular and built like a brick house, it has very firm, grainy tannins and refreshing acidity, finishing incredibly long and mineral. This should be very, very long lived.
VM 100 (12/2018): The highlight in this range today, the 2016 Cariad is utterly magnificent. Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot give the wine soaring aromatic intensity and striking savoriness to play off the racy, forward fruit. Time in barrel has done wonders to meld all the elements together. Today, the Cariad is dense, explosive and super-expressive. And yet my sense is that the 2016 still has quite a bit of room to grow. Even at this early stage, the 2016 is a total stunner. The symbiosis of David Abreu fruit and Allision Tauziet's winemaking makes for an electric, unforgettable 2016. Don't miss it. Antonio Galloni.
JD 98+ (1/2019): Coming from the Madrona Ranch and a blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Cabernet Franc, 12% Merlot, and the rest Petit Verdot, the 2016 Cariad is a more powerful, concentrated, burly effort that has a massive amount of black and blue fruits, charcoal, savory herbs, and graphite-like aromas and flavors. This beauty hits the palate with full-bodied richness, loads of tannins, a deep, stacked mid-palate, and a huge finish. Where the Tychson Hill is power married to elegance, this beauty is more power and structure. It needs at least a decade of cellaring. |
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|
2018 |
Cariad Proprietary Blend |
$425 |
5 |
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| |
VM 100 (1/2022): What a thrill it is to taste the 2018 Cariad again. Last year the 2018 was magnificent. It is all that this year too. Powerful and explosive, the 2018 is captivating from the very first taste. Healthy dollops of Cabernet Franc and Merlot add layers to this deep, wonderfully vibrant Napa Valley red. In a big morning tasting at Colgin spanning more than a dozen wines, the 2018 Cariad was a stand out. Superb. (Drink between 2025-2043). Antonio Galloni.
JD 98 (1/2021): The 2018 Cariad isn’t far off and has a wealth of blue fruits, musky earth, spice, and floral notes as well as a deep, rich, layered style on the palate. As with all the 2018s here, the tannin quality is incredible, and it has a plush, sexy, already complex style that’s hard to resist. It’s going to evolve for 25+ years. The blend is 73% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Cabernet Franc, 8% Merlot, and the rest Petit Verdot. (Drink between 2021-2048)
WA 98 (3/2024): One thing the 2018s from Colgin have in common is a sense of greater tautness and freshness than the 2016s. The 2018 Cariad—a blend of 73% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Cabernet Franc, 8% Merlot and 1% Petit Verdot—adds dried sage and redcurrants to a base of black cherries on the nose, while the full-bodied palate is energetic, framed by fine-grained tannins and hints of pencil shavings on the long, elegant finish. |
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|
2018 |
Cariad Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$1,050 |
2 |
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| |
VM 100 (1/2022): What a thrill it is to taste the 2018 Cariad again. Last year the 2018 was magnificent. It is all that this year too. Powerful and explosive, the 2018 is captivating from the very first taste. Healthy dollops of Cabernet Franc and Merlot add layers to this deep, wonderfully vibrant Napa Valley red. In a big morning tasting at Colgin spanning more than a dozen wines, the 2018 Cariad was a stand out. Superb. (Drink between 2025-2043). Antonio Galloni.
JD 98 (1/2021): The 2018 Cariad isn’t far off and has a wealth of blue fruits, musky earth, spice, and floral notes as well as a deep, rich, layered style on the palate. As with all the 2018s here, the tannin quality is incredible, and it has a plush, sexy, already complex style that’s hard to resist. It’s going to evolve for 25+ years. The blend is 73% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Cabernet Franc, 8% Merlot, and the rest Petit Verdot. (Drink between 2021-2048)
WA 98 (3/2024): One thing the 2018s from Colgin have in common is a sense of greater tautness and freshness than the 2016s. The 2018 Cariad—a blend of 73% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Cabernet Franc, 8% Merlot and 1% Petit Verdot—adds dried sage and redcurrants to a base of black cherries on the nose, while the full-bodied palate is energetic, framed by fine-grained tannins and hints of pencil shavings on the long, elegant finish. |
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2012 |
IX Estate Proprietary Blend |
$425 |
2 |
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| |
WA 99 (10/2015): The 2012 IX Proprietary Red Estate, which comes from their gorgeous hillside vineyards overlooking Lake Hennessey high on Pritchard Hill, is a blend of 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Merlot, 11% Cabernet Franc and 8% Petit Verdot. Absolutely spectacular aromatics of spring flowers, blueberry, blackberry and blackcurrant fruit intermixed with creosote, graphite and floral notes are followed by a wine of great depth, elegance, richness and purity. Simply loaded, but with pristine harmony and equilibrium, this is a sensational tour de force and a great tribute to this spectacular hillside site on Pritchard Hill. Drink it over the next 25-35 years.
JS 98 (7/2015): Fabulous intensity and energy in this young red with wet earth, violets, black currants, black olives, sweet tobacco and blackberries. So complex. Full-bodied with incredible depth and richness. Give it four or five years to come together. Out November 2015.
VM 96 (12/2014): The 2012 IX Estate is the biggest and most powerful of these wines. Firm tannins provide the backdrop for a huge core of fruit as this creamy, voluptuous Cabernet Sauvignon-based blend shows off its considerable personality. Game, smoke and tobacco add nuance on the finish. The IX Estate brings together some of the sensuality of Tychson Hill along with a level of vibrancy that recalls the Cariad. If that sounds appealing, well, it is.
WS 94 (10/2015): Features an expressive mix of flavors built around dried currant, dusty, cedary oak, a gravel pit of newly crushed rock and melted black licorice. Shows impressive finesse and refinement. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2028. 1,400 cases made. |
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2013 |
IX Estate Proprietary Blend |
$525 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 100 (11/2019): An absolute beast of a wine, the 2013 Ix Estate checks in as a mix of 68% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Petit Verdot that’s all from the estate located at the top of Pritchard Hill. Still a primordial wine that reminds me of a barrel sample, its vivid, saturated purple color is followed by an incredible bouquet of black and blue fruits, graphite, spring flowers, and scorched earth. With a deep, full-bodied, massive mid-palate, background oak, and beautiful purity and freshness, it’s a tour de force and may be the most massive yet perfectly balanced wine I’ve ever tasted. It’s incredible today in an academic sort of way, but it won’t start to hit maturity for at least another decade. Hats off to superstar winemaker Allison Tauziet who, in this critic’s opinion, fashions some of the most profound and captivating wines on the planet!
WA 100 (10/2015): Another perfect wine from Ann Colgin and her winemaking team is the 2013 IX Proprietary Red Estate, a blend of 68% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc and 8% Petit Verdot. An absolutely compelling wine, with notes of lead pencil shavings, spring flowers, blueberry, blackberry and cassis, it has the full smorgasbord of black and blue fruits, wonderfully integrated, toasty oak, acidity and tannin, a floral note that is unmistakable, and great richness, density and purity. It is an utterly exceptional wine and a tribute to not only a great vineyard, but impeccable winemaking and upbringing. It should drink well for 30+ years as well.
VM 98 (10/2015): A magnificent, towering wine, the 2013 IX Estate, hits all the right notes. The interplay of opulent fruit, minerality, savory nuances and mountain tannin is utterly captivating. The most structured and backward of Colgin's Cabernet Sauvignon-based 2013s, the IX Estate is going to need a few years to fully come together, but it is stratospheric, even today. Lavender, sage, mint and a host of mineral-inflected notes meld into the deeply satisfying finish. I can't wait to see how this ages. Antonio Galloni.
JS 98 (1/2016): The aromas to this are perfect with black truffle, sage, blueberry and wet earth. Changes all the time. Full body with lots of richness and fruit. The intensity is electric. Chewy tannins yet polished and silky. It lasts for minutes on the palate. A joy to taste (drink) now but it's made for long-term aging. |
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2021 |
IX Estate Proprietary Blend |
$610 |
8 |
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| |
WA 99 (3/2024): Colgin's 2021 IX Estate is a rich, opulent example, with layers of ripe black cherries and dark chocolate punctuated by hints of sage and bay leaf, plus some vaguely floral notes (violets?). Full-bodied, concentrated, velvety and long, it's another terrific wine that showcases the potential of Pritchard Hill, the investment by the owners and the talent of the winemaking team. Drink between 2025-2045.
JD 98+ (12/2023): I’d wager a Napa Valley legend in the making, the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon IX Estate comes from the estate vineyard on Pritchard Hill, and if there was ever a classification of terroirs in the valley, this would check in near the top of the list. Deep purple-hued, with awesome aromatics of pure cassis, graphite, crushed stone, and subtle floral hints, this has that rare mix of power and elegance that defines so many great wines. Full-bodied, concentrated, and flawlessly balanced, it has no shortage of structure and is going to need 7-8 years, if not a decade, to hit full maturity, where it will hold for 2-3 decades. Drink between 2023-2031.
VM 98 (12/2023): The 2021 IX Estate is such an elegant wine. Sleek, aromatic and refined, the 2021 is one of the most polished young wines I have tasted from this site. Red/purplish fruit, lavender, rose petal and mint abound. Silky and delineated, the 2021 is exceptionally beautiful and balanced. Clean saline notes and veins of tannin extend the explosive, sublime finish. Drink between 2027-2041. Antonio Galloni. |
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2021 |
Tychson Hill Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$590 |
2 |
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| |
| WA 100 (3/2024): Supremely rich and concentrated, Colgin's 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Tychson Hill Vineyard nevertheless remains vibrant and energetic. Hints of bay leaf perk up scents of dark chocolate and black cherries on the nose, while the full-bodied, plushly textured palate glides easily into a prolonged finish redolent of loamy earth and red raspberries. Like so many of the world's greatest wines, it's a series of seeming paradoxes—in this case, ripeness and freshness, fruit and earth, density and vibrancy—that complement each other and emerge as an elegant, harmonious whole. |
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| Constant |
2005 |
Diamond Mountain Vyd. Cabernet Franc |
$35 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 89 (12/2007): The 2005 Cabernet Franc Diamond Mountain appears to be a better bet than the 2004. Its deep ruby color is accompanied by notes of mint, white pepper, blue and red fruits, a sweet entry in the mouth, medium body as well as elegance and length. It should drink nicely for 5-7 years. |
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2010 |
Diamond Mountain Vyd. Cabernet Franc |
$50 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 90 (10/2013): The 2010 Cabernet Franc exhibits a dense ruby/purple color along with attractive aromas of spring flowers, lavender, spice box, and blue and red fruits, and a medium-bodied, nicely concentrated style. The wine is long, rich and impressive although the tannins are soft. It should be enjoyed over the next 10-12 years. |
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2011 |
Diamond Mountain Vyd. Cabernet Franc |
$60 |
2 |
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| |
| WA 91 (10/2013): The 2011 Cabernet Franc may turn out to be even better than the 2010, an anomaly given the differences in these two vintages. It offers juicy, crunchy, black currant and black raspberry fruit intertwined with hints of licorice and spring flowers. Medium-bodied with good acidity and minerality as well as a long finish, this is an impressive 2011. Drink it over the next 7-8 years. |
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2012 |
Diamond Mountain Vyd. Cabernet Franc |
$70 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 93 (10/2014): The 2012 Cabernet Franc is a bit compact today, but it nevertheless shows plenty of character. Sweet tobacco, cedar, mint, anise, iron and a host of savory, ferrous notes begin to emerge over time, although the 2012 remains hesitant to show all its cards. This intense, powerful Cabernet Franc is going to need a few years to fully come together, but it is promising. Antonio Galloni.
WA 90-92 (10/2014): The 2012 Cabernet Franc displays the ethereal characteristics of this grape. Intense, focused and complex, but never heavy, this dark ruby/purple-hued, medium-bodied 2012 reveals plenty of blueberry and raspberry notes intermixed with licorice and incense. With medium-bodied power as well as beautiful intensity, it should drink well for 10-15 years. |
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2013 |
Diamond Mountain Vyd. Cabernet Franc |
$75 |
3 |
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| |
| WA 93+ (12/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Franc from Oakville is another strong effort from Constant. This is a tiny production cuvée of only 95 cases. If you can find any, this is 100% Cabernet Franc, inky purple in color with loads of earth, volcanic notes, black fruits and tobacco leaf. It’s full, rich and potentially super-complex as it’s still almost like a barrel sample. This is a full-bodied, multi-dimensional beauty that should drink well for 15-20 years and be a big-time sleeper and surprise give it about 7-8 years time. |
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2014 |
Diamond Mountain Vyd. Cabernet Franc |
$85 |
3 |
|
| |
| WA 92 (12/2016): The 2014 Cabernet Franc is a beauty, dense bluish purple in color with fragrant floral notes, blueberries and black raspberries, the wine is medium-bodied, but intense, complex and compelling. Despite the lack of weight, there is gorgeous fruit, an ethereal elegance and an almost sublime nature to this high-elevation Cabernet Franc from Diamond Mountain. Drink it over the next 10-15 years. |
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2015 |
Diamond Mountain Vyd. Cabernet Franc |
$90 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 95+ (1/2018): In the late fall of 2015, I tasted Diamond Mountain Vineyards' Cabernet Franc out of barrel. From the very first taste, the 2015 was fabulous. Tasted today, from bottle, the 2015 confirms its status as a compelling, alluring wine of the highest level. A rush of black cherry, plum, chocolate, wild flowers and licorice emerges from the glass, but it is the wine's aromatic presence coupled with a palpable sense of mountain structure, that leave the deepest impression. Vinous readers won't want to miss this knock-out effort from Diamond Mountain Vineyards and winemaker Nigel Kinsman. (Drink between 2023-2040). Antonio Galloni. |
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1995 |
Diamond Mountain Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$75 |
2 |
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| |
WA 90 (12/1999): The 1995 Diamond Mountain Vineyard is an outstanding effort. Made with the consultation of Philippe Melka, this blend of 73% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Merlot, and 9% Cabernet Franc offers scents of melted tar, loamy soil, black currants, and minerals. Well-crafted, with moderate tannin, this austere, medium-bodied effort exhibits a sweet mid-palate, excellent overall harmony, and the tell-tale lead pencil, toasty oak, and black currant fruit indicative of a high-class Cabernet. Although not weighty, the emphasis is finesse and complexity. It will benefit from 2-3 years of cellaring, and will last for 15-16 years.
VM 88 (6/2016): Good medium red. Mellow aromas of plum, redcurrant, mocha, sweet butter and woodsmoke. Quite smooth and moderately sweet, with a firm spine of acidity carrying through the wine. A slightly herbal Cabernet Franc element lifts the finish but clashes a bit with the firm, granular tannins, leaving the back end a bit dusty, not to mention green. But there's no shortage of energy here. Stephen Tanzer. |
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1999 |
Diamond Mountain Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$85 |
2 |
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| |
WS 92 (11/2002): Firm and concentrated, a touch green and herbal, with spicy, peppery notes adding complexity to the hard bell pepper and currant flavors. Tightly wound, with dense tannins, wonderful structure and concentration for the cellar. Best from 2005 through 2014. 477 cases made.
VM 90-92 (6/2001): Deep, saturated ruby. Precise, high-pitched aromas of black fruits, licorice and violet. Dense and deep but bright and lively, with floral and minty nuances contributing to the impression of verve. Seems destined to be the purest wine yet from this estate. Finishes with big, chewy, toothfurring tannins and juicy, palate-cleansing acidity.
WA 87 (12/2003): The 1999 possesses a dark garnet/plum/purple color as well as a sweet nose of loamy soil, dried Provencal herbs, red currants, cherries, and spice. Medium-bodied with an austere, tough finish, I doubt aging will be beneficial, although the wine will survive for 10-15 years. Although not as bad as some of its peers, this is a poster child for over-priced Cabernet Sauvignon. This winery tends to turn out hard, tannic Cabernets that are largely deficient in fruit and texture, but are very complex aromatically. |
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2011 |
Diamond Mountain Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$65 |
1 |
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VM 93 (5/2014): Saturated ruby. Expressive aromas of cassis, licorice, wild sage and minerals are accented by a violet topnote. Densely packed and suave, with intense dark berry and mineral flavors complemented by an herbal note. The smooth tannins hit the palate late, allowing the wine's finishing flavors of cassis and milk chocolate to build well. A lovely cabernet for the year. Winemaker Paul Hobbs noted that the conversion of sugars to alcohol was generally low in 2011, resulting in finished wines around 14.5%. Stephen Tanzer.
WA 89-92 (10/2013): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon reveals a similar deep ruby/purple color along with smoky charcoal notes intermixed with blueberry and black currant fruit. Medium-bodied and not quite as substantial as the 2010, it is impressive in this challenging, irregular vintage. Consume it over the next 15+ years. |
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2012 |
Diamond Mountain Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$85 |
3 |
|
| |
| VM 93 (10/2014): Constant's 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon is endowed with tons of inky blue/black fruits, iron, game, smoke, tobacco and licorice. A firm tannic spine gives the wine its structure and support, and while there is plenty of depth, the 2012 is quite open relative to many earlier vintages. I expect the 2012 will offer highly rewarding drinking for the next decade-plus. Antonio Galloni. |
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2014 |
Diamond Mountain Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$100 |
3 |
|
| |
WA 93 (12/2016): The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon is slightly deeper ruby/purple, with lots of cassis, licorice and spice, a medium to full-bodied mouthfeel, rare elegance, finesse, beautiful purity and length. This is another stylish, quintessentially elegant wine that Napa Valley is not supposed to be capable of producing. Drink it over the next 15-20 years.
VM 90 (12/2016): CONSTANT's 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon is aromatic and refined, but also a bit restrained by this estate's standards. Sweet floral and spice aromatics, dark inky fruit and mid-weight structure are some of the signatures. The 2014 is undoubtedly a pretty wine, and it will drink well with minimal cellaring, but I would have liked to see a bit more personality of site here. (Drink between 2018-2029). Antonio Galloni. |
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2015 |
Diamond Mountain Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$100 |
3 |
|
| |
| VM 96 (1/2018): Powerful, deep and exotic in the glass, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon captures the purest essence of this striking hillside site. Intense aromatics, sepia-toned fruit and muscular tannins all give the wine its distinctive personality. The 2015 simply pulses with energy and intensity in all of its dimensions. At times, the 2015 is a bit rustic. Then again, that is Diamond Mountain. This is a decidedly old school-leaning Cabernet from Diamond Mountain Vineyards. (Drink between 2023-2040). Antonio Galloni. |
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2010 |
Diamond Mountain Vyd. Claret Writing on Label |
$70 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 92 (5/2013): Good bright ruby. Slightly wild aromas of cassis, chocolate, mocha, cedar and leather. Sweet, pliant and suave, with dark berry and graphite flavors offering considerable early appeal. Broad, ripe but tame tannins spread out nicely to saturate the palate on the long aftertaste. Very nicely balanced wine. Stephen Tanzer. |
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2011 |
Diamond Mountain Vyd. Claret |
$65 |
3 |
|
| |
| VM 92 (11/2013): The 2011 Claret is gorgeous. Firm mountain tannins provide the backbone for an intense wine with tons of personality. The 2011 needs time to fully integrate, but it is impressive. This is a beautiful, polished wine from Constant. (Drink between 2017-2031). Antonio Galloni. |
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2013 |
Diamond Mountain Vyd. Claret |
$70 |
3 |
|
| |
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2014 |
Diamond Mountain Vyd. Claret |
$70 |
3 |
|
| |
| WA 89 (12/2016): The 2014 Proprietary Red Claret, which comes from both the Napa and Sonoma sides of Diamond Mountain, has fragrant floral notes with raspberry and blueberry notes – clearly cool-climate stuff. The wine has loads of elegance and is a stylish wine with medium body, lovely fruit, nothing out of balance and a soft, silky finish. It won’t make old bones, but for drinking over the next decade this is a delicious, complex blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Cabernet Franc and 10% Merlot from this beautiful site atop Diamond Mountain. |
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2015 |
Diamond Mountain Vyd. Claret |
$70 |
3 |
|
| |
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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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2012 |
Diamond Mountain Vyd. Merlot |
$60 |
2 |
|
| |
| VM 94 (12/2014): Wild flowers, licorice, savory herbs, dried rose petals and cherries are some of the many notes that emerge from the 2012 Merlot, a wine that impresses for its character and personality. A wine more of place than anything else, Constant's Merlot remains compelling. Readers should expect a nuanced, savory mountain Merlot built on complexity and an understated sense of power. (Drink between 2017-2032). Antonio Galloni. |
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2015 |
Diamond Mountain Vyd. Merlot |
$60 |
3 |
|
| |
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2013 |
Diamond Mountain Vyd. Syrah |
$60 |
2 |
|
| |
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2014 |
Diamond Mountain Vyd. Syrah |
$60 |
4 |
|
| |
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2015 |
Diamond Mountain Vyd. Syrah |
$60 |
3 |
|
| |
|
| Continuum |
2017 |
Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$441.35 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 96+ (1/2020): The 2017 Proprietary Red Wine Sage Mountain Vineyard comes across as remarkably primary. Bright red-toned fruit and floral notes give the 2017 striking freshness as well as nuance. Deep and layered on the palate, with superb depth, the 2017 Continuum is easily one of the wines of the year. Even in the early going, it is truly magnificent. Antonio Galloni. |
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2018 |
Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$450.45 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 98 (1/2022): The 2018 Proprietary Red Wine Sage Mountain Vineyard is another magnificent wine from the Mondavi family. Soaring and regal in its intensity, the 2018 possesses breathtaking aromatic presence and tons of the pedigree that have made wines off this site so compelling pretty much since the beginning. Vibrant dark fruit, lavender, sage, mint and mocha build into an impossibly long, silky finish. The 2018 is a flat-out stunner. Antonio Galloni.
JD 97+ (12/2021): Coming all from the Sage Mountain Vineyard on Pritchard Hill, the 2018 Proprietary Red Wine is a blend of 54% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31% Cabernet Franc, 9% Petit Verdot and 6% Merlot. This is classic 2018 with its dense, concentrated, slightly backward, yet full-bodied and incredibly impressive style. Offering lots of ripe black (black cherry, currant) fruits, scorched earth, graphite, and chocolate-like aromatics, it has terrific concentration, ripe, building tannins, a terrific sense of freshness, and a great finish. It's going to need 5-7 years of bottle age but will have upwards of three decades of overall longevity. |
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| Copain Wines |
2003 |
Garys’ Vyd. Syrah Slightly Depressed Cork |
$59 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 91 (12/2005): Guthrie’s ability to access Syrah from different micro-climates and soil bases is apparent with the 2003 Syrah Garys’ Vineyard. An opaque purple color is accompanied by aromas of dried herbs, blackberries, cassis, and smoky charcoal. Full-bodied, pure, and intense as well as elegant, it can be enjoyed over the next 5-7 years. |
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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. |
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| Cornell |
2015 |
Estate Cabernet Sauvignon |
$120 |
2 |
|
| |
| VM 95+ (12/2018): The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon is dense, powerful and explosive. Still very, very young, the 2015 has not budged much since I tasted it last year. Dark red cherry, plum, mocha, iron, new leather, pressed rose petal and spice all run through this deeply textured, explosive Cabernet Sauvignon. A wine of raw power and concentration, the 2015 possesses tremendous richness from start to finish. It is going to need a number of years to develop the full breadth of its aromatics, but it is super-expressive even in the early going. (Drink between 2025-2040). Antonio Galloni. |
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|
2018 |
Estate Cabernet Sauvignon |
$140 |
3 |
|
| |
|
| Coup de Foudre |
2006 |
Cuvee 37.2 Proprietary Blend |
$75 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 87 (12/2009): The 2006 Blend 37.2 Cuvee (91% Merlot and 9% Cabernet Franc) exhibits plenty of mocha, berry, chocolate, and licorice notes as well as a ton of new oak. The tannins are slightly gritty, and that problem is exacerbated by the oaky component. Nevertheless, there is a lot going on in this solidly made red. If the oak dissipates and the tannins fall away, an excellent wine should emerge in 4-5 years. |
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2010 |
Cuvee 37.2 Proprietary Blend |
$50 |
11 |
|
| |
| WA 90 (10/2013): The 2010 Merlot 37.2 Cuvee is composed of 56% Merlot, 36% Cabernet Franc and 8% Petit Verdot. Seductive notes of kirsch, licorice, lavender and lots of juicy fruits characterize this velvety-textured, opulent Merlot that cascades over the palate with no hard edges. This is pure hedonism combined with class and complexity. Enjoy it over the next 5-6 years. |
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| Robert Craig |
2019 |
Howell Mountain Cuvee Red Wine |
$49 |
5 |
|
| |
| VM 92 (1/2022): The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain Cuvée is a new entry-level wine in this range. The addition of Merlot works so well in softening some of the young Howell Mountain contours. Even so, there is plenty of energy underpinning the bright red cherry fruit. Mint, pine and floral accents resonate across the persistent finish. The 2019 is a jewel of a wine and a fabulous value. (Drink between 2024-2034). Antonio Galloni. |
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| 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. |
|
| Dakota Shy |
2018 |
Ten Cabernet Sauvignon |
$89 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Dalla Valle |
2016 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$255 |
5 |
|
| |
|
|
2018 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$245 |
5 |
|
| |
VM 97 (1/2021): The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon is a powerful, explosive wine that is going to need a number of years to be at its finest. The energy and raw intensity are so pronounced. Inky dark fruit, spice, menthol, licorice and cedar add striking aromatic nuance, but it is the wine's phenomenal balance that stands out most. This is the first vintage that includes component wine aged in amphora. This is far from an easygoing 2018. Antonio Galloni.
JD 97 (1/2021): The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon, which always includes a splash of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, is incredible juice and a wine readers should seek out. Showing the quality and style of the vintage beautifully, it offers a captivating bouquet of crème de cassis, unsmoked tobacco, bouquet garni, and violets, with just a touch of foresty, earthy notes in the background. Aged 22 months in barrel (with a small amount in amphora), it’s full-bodied and perfectly balanced, with integrated acidity and a great finish. I love this wine and don't make the mistake of overlooking this while only focusing on the Maya cuvee. |
|
|
2019 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$250 |
5 |
|
| |
|
|
2021 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$255 |
6 |
|
| |
|
|
2007 |
Maya Proprietary Blend |
$525 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 98 (12/2010): The 2007 Maya borders on perfection. Its dense plum/ruby/purple color is followed by abundant aromas of graphite, blueberry liqueur, hoisin sauce, smoked meats and red and black fruits. The extraordinary aromatics give way to a full-bodied, stunningly concentrated wine with everything in balance, fabulous density and richness, and a finish that lasts nearly 60 seconds. This is unquestionably one of the all-time great Mayas. In keeping with the exuberance and flamboyance of this vintage, it is approachable now, but should age effortlessly for 30+ years.
WS 97 (10/2010): A gorgeous wine that features rich, layered flavors of ripe plum, blackberry and currant that are deep and concentrated, yet elegant and stylish. Full-bodied, ending with delicate touches of mineral and spice. Drink now through 2019. 300 cases made.
VM 96 (6/2014): What a difference a year makes. The 2007 Maya is a drop-dead gorgeous beauty. Sexy and racy to the core, the 2007 captures the sensuality of the year in spades. Raspberry jam, white flowers, mint and spices are nicely shaped by silky tannins. Production was tiny, at around 270 cases, partly because 2007 is the vintage in which Dalla Valle introduced their second wine, Collina Dalla Valle. It's great to see Maya back on track after the less than stellar 2006.
VM 94 (5/2010): (includes 30% cabernet franc) Good full ruby-red; brighter than the Napa Valley bottling. Darker, impressively vibrant aromas of blueberry, boysenberry, violet and licorice. A step up in density and verve; quite young today but this really saturates and perfumes the palate. Spreads out and echoes impressively on the very long, subtle back end, where the tannins are currently hidden by bright fruit. I never would have guessed this wine was carrying 15% alcohol. Incidentally, the 2002 Maya was the last vintage from the old plantings; Dalla Valle skipped 2003 and 2004 and then restarted with 2005. |
|
|
2010 |
Maya Proprietary Blend Nicked Label |
$349 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 98+ (10/2013): The 2010 Maya is a less evolved, more backward, brooding wine with a dense opaque blue/purple color, explosive richness, and abundant notes of incense, camphor, charcoal, blackberries, blueberries and hints of violets and forest floor. Full-bodied, pure, deep, structured and powerful, this massive Maya comes across as even bigger and richer than the 2009. Forget it for 3-5 years and drink it over the following 30+ years.
VM 96+ (6/2013): (two-thirds cabernet sauvignon and one-third cab franc): Deep, bright ruby. Crushed blueberry and violet on the perfumed nose. Densely packed and wonderfully aromatic, with terrific floral lift to the sharply delineated dark berry flavors. Almost painful in the early going, but has great energy and class. Finishes with big, broad tannins and Outstanding vibrating persistence. Should turn out to be one of the monuments of the vintage. I've long been a sucker for cabernet franc from this red volcanic soil on the eastern hillside above Oakville.
WS 93 (10/2013): Firm, dense and tannic, offering a potent mix of dried berry, black licorice, dried herb and savory notes, gaining tannic traction and ending with a wonderful push of flavors that bode well for the future. Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Best from 2014 through 2025. 420 cases made. |
|
|
2020 |
Maya Proprietary Blend |
$349 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 97 (3/2023): Perhaps there's a subtle added touch of leafy complexity to the 2020 Maya that the Cabernet Sauvignon doesn't show, but otherwise, this 60-40 blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc is reasonably similar, with black cherries, dark loamy notes, hints of cassis, cedar and vanilla. It's medium to full-bodied, richly textured and tannic but with a slightly open-knit feel and a ripe, softly wooly finish.
JD 96+ (2/2023): Even better, the 2020 Maya Proprietary Red Wine checks in as the usual blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Cabernet Franc, and it's another full-bodied example of this cuvée that has a brilliant core of both red and black fruits as well as dark chocolate, leafy tobacco, spring flowers, and a kiss of chalky minerality. Structured, concentrated, and perfectly balanced, it doesn't get any better in 2020. |
|
| Dana Estates |
2011 |
Helms Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$325 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 95 (5/2022): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Helms Vineyard is bright, aromatic and savory. Lovely energy drives the red berry, pine, cinnamon, spicecake orange peel, mint and rose petal flavors. At times, the aromatics recall Nebbiolo. This mid-weight, lithe Cabernet has aged impeccably. I would prefer to drink it over the next handful of years. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2011 |
Helms Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon Lightly Wine-Stained Label |
$325 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 95 (5/2022): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Helms Vineyard is bright, aromatic and savory. Lovely energy drives the red berry, pine, cinnamon, spicecake orange peel, mint and rose petal flavors. At times, the aromatics recall Nebbiolo. This mid-weight, lithe Cabernet has aged impeccably. I would prefer to drink it over the next handful of years. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2012 |
Helms Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$375 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 96 (12/2017): Deep garnet-purple, the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Helms Vineyard sings of crushed blackberries, cassis and black cherries with touches of Provence herbs, violets and chocolate box plus a hint of dusty earth. Medium-bodied with a firm backbone of grainy tannins and a racy acid line, it has youthful, taut, muscular black fruit and a long, refreshing finish. Should age beautifully! |
|
|
2012 |
Hershey Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon Heavily Wine-Stained Label |
$375 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 98 (10/2014): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Hershey Vineyard comes from an 1,800-foot elevation and is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon harvested October 19-22. This is a sensational superstar from Howell Mountain with an inky purple color, notes of mocha, mulberry, crème de cassis, graphite and spring flowers. It is dense, full-bodied, opulent and concentrated with sweet but moderate tannin. This is a stunner that should drink well for another 25 or so years.
VM 95-98 (12/2014): Graphite, smoke, dark spices, gravel and blue/purplish fruit emerge from the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Hershey Vineyard, Dana's Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon. The flavors are wonderfully vibrant and alive in the glass. A host of spice, menthol, pine and crushed rocks add nuance on the powerful, driving finish. The 2012 Hershey is shaping up to be gorgeous. Tasted from barrel in October 2014, it appears to have a very bright future. This is the first year the See Clone has entered the blend.
VM 93-96 (5/2014): Bright ruby. Tight nose hints at cassis, blueberry, licorice, minerals and menthol. Densely packed and youthfully medicinal, with brooding flavors of black and blue fruits and crushed stone. This classic Howell Mountain cabernet went into a shell in my glass. Finishes with huge, chewy tannins that are well supported by the wine's Outstanding depth. Holds out great potential. |
|
|
2012 |
Hershey Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$695 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 98 (10/2014): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Hershey Vineyard comes from an 1,800-foot elevation and is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon harvested October 19-22. This is a sensational superstar from Howell Mountain with an inky purple color, notes of mocha, mulberry, crème de cassis, graphite and spring flowers. It is dense, full-bodied, opulent and concentrated with sweet but moderate tannin. This is a stunner that should drink well for another 25 or so years.
VM 95-98 (12/2014): Graphite, smoke, dark spices, gravel and blue/purplish fruit emerge from the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Hershey Vineyard, Dana's Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon. The flavors are wonderfully vibrant and alive in the glass. A host of spice, menthol, pine and crushed rocks add nuance on the powerful, driving finish. The 2012 Hershey is shaping up to be gorgeous. Tasted from barrel in October 2014, it appears to have a very bright future. This is the first year the See Clone has entered the blend.
VM 93-96 (5/2014): Bright ruby. Tight nose hints at cassis, blueberry, licorice, minerals and menthol. Densely packed and youthfully medicinal, with brooding flavors of black and blue fruits and crushed stone. This classic Howell Mountain cabernet went into a shell in my glass. Finishes with huge, chewy tannins that are well supported by the wine's Outstanding depth. Holds out great potential. |
|
|
2011 |
Lotus Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon Lightly Wine-Stained Label; Nicked Capsule |
$395 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 94 (5/2022): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Lotus Vineyard is the richest and deepest of the three Dana Cabernets in 2011. It captures all of the exotic beauty of the year in its intensely dark fruit and strong savory character. Firm tannins ensure another 5-10 years of very fine drinking, maybe more. The 2011 has quite a bit of fruit, but is also starting to show the first signs of development as it approaches an early plateau of maturity. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2012 |
Lotus Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$515 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 98 (10/2014): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Lotus, which is 93% Cabernet Sauvignon and 7% Petit Verdot, was harvested much earlier, October 9-18, and aged 25 months in French oak (more than 90% new). There are only 300 cases of this wine, which has a striking floral nose with hints of licorice, burning embers, incense, blueberry and blackberry liqueur. It’s powerful, lightly tannic, extravagantly rich and a great classic from a fabulous terroir and impeccable winemaking and elevage. Drink it over the next 20+ years.
VM 95-97 (11/2013): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Lotus Vineyard is the sweetest and roundest of the 2012s from Dana Estates. Soft, voluptuous and creamy, the Lotus stands out for its racy, exuberant personality. The 2012 sits on the razor's edge of ripeness, with blue/black fruit, sweet spice and mint notes that develop in the glass. There is plenty of early appeal in this beautiful and complete Cabernet Sauvignon. The 2012 includes 8% Petit Verdot, a first for this wine. Fermentations took place in a combination of oak uprights, cement vats, French oak barrels and stainless steel.
VM 94-97 (5/2014): Deep ruby-red. Raspberry, anise and flowers on the perfumed nose. Sappy and penetrating in the mouth, with terrific mineral and floral cut currently restraining the wine's sweetness. But this wine boasts Outstanding intensity and precision to its deep berry flavors. The very pure, palate-staining finish features noble, seamless tanning and great energy. All those who reject wines with 15+% alcohol out of hand should try this one. |
|
|
2013 |
Onda Cabernet Sauvignon |
$169 |
1 |
|
| |
JS 97 (1/2016): This is the best Onda ever. Subtle and perfumed aromas of blackberry, sage, and bramble berry. Plummy. Full-bodied, chewy yet velvety and polished. Layered and delicious. Pretty balance and length. Savory and salty. White pepper too. Wonderful finish. A blend of wines from all the vineyards of Dana with a majority from Crystal Spring and Hershey. So much precision here. Drink or hold. 987 cases.
WA 92 (10/2015): There are three vineyard sites, and the wine they cull out of those vineyards is the least expensive blend, Onda. The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Onda, which is 93% Cabernet Sauvignon and 7% Petit Verdot, sees less new oak than its stablemates. The wine is opaque purple with a beautiful, structured nose of spring flowers, blueberry and blackberry fruit and charcoal, followed by a medium to full-bodied opulence and richness. This is a beauty that should drink well for at least several decades. |
|
| Dancing Hares |
2008 |
Mad Hatter Proprietary Blend |
$35 |
2 |
|
| |
| WS 88 (5/2011): Rustic and rough-hewn, with chunky, cedary, drying oak touches and dried berry, spice, road tar and mineral. Full-bodied and direct at the expense of finesse and refinement. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2019. 1,500 cases made. |
|
|
2011 |
Mad Hatter Proprietary Blend |
$35 |
4 |
|
| |
|
| Delectus |
1998 |
Georges III Beckstoffer Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon Bin-Soiled Label |
$87.20 |
1 |
|
| |
| WS 88 (6/2001): Supple, graceful and elegant, with polished currant, black cherry, herb, cedar and tar flavors, finishing with silky tannins. Drink now through 2007. 325 cases made. |
|
|
1996 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon Signs of Seepage |
$39 |
1 |
|
| |
| WS 88 (10/1999): Tightly framed, with a beam of crisp cherry and currant, picking up spice, anise and a touch of herb. Mildly tannic. Best from 2001 through 2008. 575 cases made. |
|
| Detert |
2018 |
Cabernet Franc (1.5 L) |
$279 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 96 (1/2021): Detert's 2018 Cabernet Franc is fabulous. It may very well be the single most expressive and distinctive Cabernet Franc in the valley. Deep and inky in the glass, the Detert Franc is marked by soaring aromatics and beams of saline minerality that distinguish it from the Cabernet Sauvignon in this range. Inky dark fruit, chocolate, spice, menthol, licorice and cloves build into the huge, resonant finish. (Drink between 2026-2043). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Diamond Creek |
2004 |
Gravelly Meadow Cabernet Sauvignon Signs of Old Seepage |
$199 |
1 |
|
| |
| WS 83 (10/2007): Chewy and concentrated, with earthy tannins that are dry and astringent, showing little fruit character at this point. This typically needs time to come around, so best to cellar. Best from 2012 through 2020. 290 cases made. |
|
|
2005 |
Gravelly Meadow Cabernet Sauvignon Slightly Raised Cork; Lightly Bin-Soiled Label |
$229 |
1 |
|
| |
| WS 81 (10/2008): Lean and drying, with herb, sage, loamy berry and tealike flavors and tannins give it a tired feel. Drink now through 2012. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 366 cases made. |
|
|
1993 |
Red Rock Terrace Cabernet Sauvignon |
$249 |
1 |
|
| |
| WS 85 (12/1995): Medium-bodied, intense and tannic, with a modest core of currant, cedar and berry notes. Comes across as lacking richness and concentration. |
|
|
2003 |
Red Rock Terrace Cabernet Sauvignon |
$225 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 95 (5/2024): The 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon Red Rock Terrace is gorgeous today. Cedar, spice, tobacco, menthol and mocha lend tons of aromatic breadth. The tannins have softened, making this quite approachable today. Star anise, cinnamon and orange peel lend an exotic flair. This is an especially aromatic, mid-weight vintage for the Volcanic Hill. (Drink between 2023-2033). Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
1990 |
Volcanic Hill Cabernet Sauvignon Slightly Depressed Cork |
$289 |
1 |
|
| |
WS 90 (2/2001): Dark, rich and concentrated, yielding a complex array of currant, black cherry, olive, cedar and spice, finishing with supple but firm tannins.--California Cabernet retrospective. Drink now through 2009. 981 cases made.
WA 82 (6/1992): I expected the 1990 and 1991 Cabernets from Diamond Creek to perform better. While they are certainly good, they are much lighter than what one has come to expect from this winery. On several occasions recently I have had the 1978s from Diamond Creek, which are among the greatest Cabernet-based wines I have tasted from anywhere in the world. It is hard to believe these current offerings will ever approach the richness and intensity that this estate's wines exhibited from the seventies to the mid-eighties. Could the wines be going through a temporarily awkward stage, or are they being made in a lighter, more easily accessible style? The 1990 Volcanic Hill is much lighter than the 1991, with an oaky, spicy nose, simple, straightforward, medium-bodied flavors, and a surprisingly short finish. I would opt for drinking it over the next 7-8 years. |
|
|
1990 |
Volcanic Hill Cabernet Sauvignon Bin-Soiled Label |
$289 |
1 |
|
| |
WS 90 (2/2001): Dark, rich and concentrated, yielding a complex array of currant, black cherry, olive, cedar and spice, finishing with supple but firm tannins.--California Cabernet retrospective. Drink now through 2009. 981 cases made.
WA 82 (6/1992): I expected the 1990 and 1991 Cabernets from Diamond Creek to perform better. While they are certainly good, they are much lighter than what one has come to expect from this winery. On several occasions recently I have had the 1978s from Diamond Creek, which are among the greatest Cabernet-based wines I have tasted from anywhere in the world. It is hard to believe these current offerings will ever approach the richness and intensity that this estate's wines exhibited from the seventies to the mid-eighties. Could the wines be going through a temporarily awkward stage, or are they being made in a lighter, more easily accessible style? The 1990 Volcanic Hill is much lighter than the 1991, with an oaky, spicy nose, simple, straightforward, medium-bodied flavors, and a surprisingly short finish. I would opt for drinking it over the next 7-8 years. |
|
|
1992 |
Volcanic Hill Cabernet Sauvignon Signs of Old Seepage; Nicked Label; Bin-Soiled Label |
$209 |
1 |
|
| |
| WS 85 (5/2003): Despite its dark color, this comes across as a bit one-dimensional, with candied cherry, dry herb and earthy-anise flavors that are appealing if lacking in focus and complexity.--'92 California Cabernet retrospective. Drink now through 2006. 1,400 cases made. |
|
| Dominus |
2008 |
Proprietary Blend |
$285 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 99 (12/2010): Made in a more masculine style, the 2008 Dominus has all of that along with bigger body and more structure, fat, density and texture. Both are brilliant wines and they represent the finest back-to-back vintages for Dominus since 2001 and 2002 or 1990 and 1991. Both the 2007 and 2008 Dominus should drink well for 25-30 years.
WS 94 (11/2011): Very Bordeaux-like in its makeup and structure, this firm wine offers good acidity and tight tannins, delivering complex flavors of loamy earth, vivid dried currant and berry, with anise and mineral notes sprinkled in. My favorite young Dominus of late. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2022. 4,500 cases made.
VM 93 (6/2011): (a blend of 83% cabernet sauvignon, 13% cabernet franc and 4% petit verdot): Good full red-ruby. Fresher on the nose than the Napanook, showing raspberry, plum, mocha and tobacco aromas. Round and plummy in the mouth, with a restrained sweetness to the flavors of milk chocolate, mocha and licorice. A wine of moderate ripeness for the vintage, and in a shell today. Finishes with substantial dusty tannins and notes of plum, mocha and chocolate. I don't find quite the structure or grip of the best years. |
|
|
2009 |
Proprietary Blend |
$275 |
1 |
|
| |
JS 98 (4/2012): Stunning nose of lavender and flowers. Currants and raspberries. Subtle and intriguing. Full and dense but wonderfully balanced with firm and silky tannins and a persistent finish. Dusty texture. A wine so balanced that you want to drink it already. Better in 2017.
VM 97+ (12/2011): The 2009 Dominus has closed down quite a bit since I last tasted it. Today, all of the glorious fruit of the vintage is hiding behind a serious wall of tannin. The 2009 still possesses gorgeous inner perfume and plenty of sweetness, but little of the sexiness that will emerge over time. From time to time, the utter genius of the 2009 shows a glimpse of its potential. There is little doubt the 2009 will be a jewel once it awakens from what might very well be a long slumber. This is another wine that begs for patience. The 2009 is 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc and 4% Petit Verdot. Antonio Galloni.
WA 97 (10/2013): The 2009 Dominus saw about 40% new oak compared to the 20% for Napanook. A seamless classic, it offers a symphony of red and black currants, Asian plum sauce, lavender, and underbrush. Sweet Christmas fruitcake characteristics emerge from this magnificent Dominus that finished at 14.5% natural alcohol (slightly higher than usual). The seamless integration of acidity, tannin, wood and alcohol, the brilliant length and overall compelling complexity and richness make it one of the great classics from this historic estate. It should drink well for 20-25 years.
WS 93 (10/2012): Delightfully harmonious given its intensity, with complex aromas of savory herbs, flowers, ripe and dried currant and berry, crushed rock and cedar flavors. Well-proportioned, focused and persistent. Very youthful and vibrant. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Best from 2014 through 2030. 6,000 cases made. |
|
|
2017 |
Proprietary Blend |
$225 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 98+ (1/2020): The 2017 Dominus is one of the truly epic, grand wines of the vintage. Rich, dense and explosive, with tremendous concentration and sheer power, the 2017 Dominus captures all the personality of this site along with the natural opulence of the year. Inky dark fruit, lavender, menthol, licorice, plum, gravel and a host of dark spice notes infuse the 2017 with seemingly endless layers of nuance. Over the last two years I have tasted several hundred Napa Valley Cabernets, both from barrel and bottle. There is no question that Dominus belongs among the elite in 2017; it is simply a breathtaking wine. Certainly readers looking for a Napa Valley Cabernet to cellar should put Dominus at the top of their lists. Antonio Galloni.
WA 97+ (10/2019): There was about 50% of a normal crop this year for the 2017 Dominus, due to strict selection. Grapes were harvested from September 21 to October 3 and the wine was bottled in June 2019. This year the blend is 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot, aged in 40% new French oak barrels. Very deep purple-black in color, it sashays nonchalantly out of the glass with graceful notions of potpourri, forest floor, crushed rocks, Ceylon tea and licorice with a core of black currant cordial, chocolate-covered cherries, mulberries and preserved plums plus a waft of garrigue. Full-bodied, the palate has a beautifully impactful, wonderfully quiet intensity of black and blue fruits with loads of floral and spicy sparks, framed by firm yet plush tannins, finishing with long-lasting earthy notes. 2,800 cases were made.
JS 97 (10/2019): Very intense aromas of fruit, yet complex subtlety. Blue fruit, licorice and blackberries with flowers and perfumes. Full-bodied, round and chewy with black tea, currants and hints of leather and incense. Coffee undertones. Extremely long and exciting. Available April 2020. Drink in 2022.
JD 97 (1/2020): The grand vin is the 2017 Dominus, which is based on 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot, harvested between September 21 and October 3, and aged in 40% new French oak. Chateau Lafite-like notes of blackcurrants, lead pencil shavings, cedary tobacco, and gravelly earth all emerge from the glass, and it's full-bodied, has a terrific sense of elegance, lots of tannins, and a great finish. This tight, powerful, concentrated Dominus will benefit from 4-5 years of bottle age and keep for 25 years or more. 2017 doesn't get much better. |
|
| 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. |
|
|
2016 |
Cushing’s Block Barbed Oak Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$69 |
3 |
|
| |
JD 94 (6/2019): In a completely different style compared to the Tripp's Block Pinot Noir, the 2016 Pinot Noir Cushing's Block comes from the Barbed Oak Vineyard in Bennett Valley and is a mix of Calera, Swan, and Pommard clones. It offers a ripe, exotic bouquet of plums, macerated black cherries, blood orange, sage, and spices. Deep, medium to full-bodied, and ripe, it nevertheless stays pure and beautifully balanced, with considerable elegance. It benefits from a decant and, like Tripp's Block, it will keep for over a decade. (Drink between 2019-2029).
VM 94 (5/2019): The 2016 Pinot Noir Cushing's Block emerges from Barbed Oak Vineyard in Bennett Valley and is the deepest of the three Donelan Pinots. Pliant and inviting, with lovely top notes, the 2016 is super-expressive today, not to mention a real beauty. All the best elements of the Donelan house style are deftly balanced in this impeccable, absolutely delicious wine. (Drink between 2020-2031). Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2011 |
Cuvee Keltie Syrah |
$59 |
7 |
|
| |
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). |
|
|
2010 |
Cuvee Moriah Proprietary Blend |
$50 |
10 |
|
| |
JD 89-91 (12/2011): I was able to taste each component destined for the 2010 Donelan Cuvée Moriah and this cuvee always excels aromatically, and this vintage is no exception. Sporting already complex notions of herbs de Provence, pepper, earth, and meaty characteristics, each component was medium-bodied, well balanced, and possessed an overall fresh, pure character. Lighter styled and elegant, this will most likely benefit from 1-3 years of bottle age, and have upwards of a decade of prime drinking.
VM 88-90 (2/2012): Donelan's 2010 Cuvee Moriah is a blend of 54% Grenache, 26% Mourvèdre and 20% Syrah fermented with 25-50% whole clusters depending on the variety. Mint, licorice, tar, smoke and blackberries are some of the notes that take shape in the glass as this intensely aromatic wine opens up in the glass. Today the tannins are a bit firm and I get a sense the fruit may not have achieved full ripeness. It will be interesting to see how the wine develops after bottling. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2013 |
Cuvee Moriah Proprietary Blend |
$50 |
18 |
|
| |
| JD 93 (7/2017): The 2013 Cuvee Moriah is 87% Grenache and 13% Syrah that’s all from the Dry Stack Vineyard in the Bennett Valley. It has a gorgeous (as well as complex) bouquet of ripe cherries, cranberry, dried flowers and incense. This carries to an ethereally textured, elegant Grenache that that has sweet fruit, medium-bodied richness and a great finish. It’s not going to make old bones, but it’s going to be impossible to resist over the coming 4-5 years. This may be my favorite vintage of this cuvee to date. |
|
|
2014 |
Cuvee Moriah Proprietary Blend |
$55 |
2 |
|
| |
| VM 94 (3/2017): The 2014 Cuvée Moriah is a bit different in this vintage in that there is no Syrah in the blend. As a result, the 2014 is mostly Grenache with about 16% Mourvedre. Not surprisingly, the Grenache is especially expressive. Succulent red berry, tobacco, dried herbs and anise are all nicely pushed forward, while silky tannins add to an impression of total finesse. Pliant yet also medium in body, the 2014 possesses exceptional balance and class. The 50-60% whole clusters are not especially evident, as they are very well integrated into the overall fabric. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2013 |
Kobler Family Vyd. Syrah |
$60 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 95 (7/2017): Coming from the Green Valley region of the Russian River Valley (this is a cooler terroir), the 2013 Syrah Kobler Family Vineyard is always cofermented with a big chunk of Viognier (10% in 2013) and is aged mostly in neutral oak. It offers an ethereal, elegant and seamless style as well as classic notes of black raspberries, white pepper, rose petals and white cherries (no doubt from the Viognier). Nuanced and deep, with a great finish, it’s never the largest scaled wine in the lineup, but it shines for it complexity and incredible elegance. Drink it anytime over the coming decade. |
|
|
2014 |
Kobler Family Vyd. Syrah |
$60 |
8 |
|
| |
VM 96 (3/2017): The 2014 Syrah Kobler Family Vineyard is gorgeous. Inky, powerful and intense, but with striking aromatic lift from the 10% co-fermented Viognier, the 2014 is a total knock-out. Black pepper, sage, violet, lavender and a host of blue/purplish notes infuse the creamy finish. The 50% whole clusters add complexity, but are not overpowering. Put simply, this is a stunning wine from Donelan. (Drink between 2017-2024). Antonio Galloni.
JD 95 (7/2017): The 2014 Syrah Kobler Family Vineyard is another Côte Rôtie look-alike that offers lots of cool-climate, pretty, peppery, and herbal notes as well as medium to full-bodied richness, loads of blackcurrants, black olive and violet nuances, integrated acidity and polished, fine tannin. It’s beautifully balanced and elegant, yet has enough structure to evolve for a decade or more. The 2014 was cofermented with 10% Viognier and brought up in neutral oak. As with all young vintages from this estate, give it a decant if drinking soon. This is cool-climate California Syrah done at its finest. (Drink between 2017-2024).
WA 94+ (3/2017): Blended of 90% Syrah and 10% Viognier and aged in oak for 21 months in entirely used oak, the 2014 Syrah Kobler Family Vineyard has a medium to deep garnet-purple color and nose of crushed black berries, black plums and black currants with underlying hints of tar, licorice, black olives and black pepper. Medium-bodied and quite elegant in the mouth, the perfumed layers have wonderful energy and persistence while the grainy tannins lend savory chewiness to the fruit and spice. |
|
|
2014 |
Obsidian Vyd. Syrah |
$99 |
3 |
|
| |
| JD 97 (6/2018): I was also able to do a small retrospective of the Obsidian Vineyard, which was completely destroyed last year in the fires that ravaged Sonoma and Napa. The 2014 Syrah Obsidian Vineyard is broad and expansive, with a sexy, plush feel that’s in stark contrast to the 2015. Currants, peppery herbs, spice, full body, a stacked mid-palate, and sweet tannin define this sensational Syrah. |
|
|
2011 |
Richards Family Vyd. Syrah |
$49 |
11 |
|
| |
| 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. |
|
|
2017 |
Sonoma County Rose |
$25 |
5 |
|
| |
|
|
2011 |
Two Brothers Pinot Noir |
$50 |
5 |
|
| |
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. |
|
|
2012 |
Two Brothers Pinot Noir |
$55 |
18 |
|
| |
| VM 89 (1/2015): Crushed rose petals, raspberries, mint and cinnamon are some of the notes that lift from the glass in Donelan's 2012 Pinot Noir Two Brothers. I would prefer to drink the 2012 sooner rather than later. Over the last year, some of the radiance and sweetness that was present in barrel has faded. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2013 |
Two Brothers Pinot Noir |
$49 |
4 |
|
| |
| VM 91 (2/2016): The 2013 Pinot Noir Two Brothers is pretty, floral and lifted, all qualities that make it quite appealing for near and medium-term drinking. Crushed flowers, sweet red berries and cinnamon are all given an extra kick of savory lift from the 30% whole clusters. The Two Brothers is now a Sonoma County wine. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2013 |
Walker Vine Hill Syrah |
$59 |
2 |
|
| |
| JD 97+ (7/2017): One of the larger scaled examples of this cuvee I’ve tried, the 2013 Syrah Walker Vine Hill saw only partial destemming and 20 months in 25% new French oak. Reminding me a great vintage of Hermitage Les Bessards from Delas, it boasts phenomenal notes of crème de cassis, graphite, roasted herbs, melted licorice and burning embers. Rich, voluptuous, seriously ripe and decadent, yet with density, tannin and structure, it needs 3-4 years of cellaring (it needs an hour decant or more if drinking today) and will have two decades of overall longevity. This is what great California Syrah tastes like! |
|
| Donum |
2021 |
Anderson Valley Pinot Noir |
$75 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 94 (7/2023): The first of three wines from the Anderson Valley, the 2021 Pinot Noir Anderson Valley brings aromas of preserved wild raspberry, licorice, and pressed flowers. On the palate, it’s medium-bodied and offers fresh alpine herbs, purple flowers, and a hint of blue fruit. With fine tannins and a good lift of refreshing acidity on the finish, it has a bit more cooling nature, as well as good ripeness. Drink 2023-2028. (Drink between 2023-2028). Audrey Frick. |
|
|
2021 |
Carneros Pinot Noir |
$75 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 93 (7/2023): Also pouring a deep but transparent red hue, the 2021 Pinot Noir Carneros is lifted with cracked pepper, cinnamon, and black raspberry. A full-bodied Pinot Noir, it is ripe with meaty richness on the palate, with ripe tannins and notes of black tea, baked black cherry, and woodsy spices. It is a robust and expansive style to drink over the next several years. Audrey Frick. |
|
|
2022 |
Carneros Pinot Noir |
$75 |
4 |
|
| |
| VM 89 (5/2025): The 2022 Pinot Noir (Carneros) is plump, juicy and easy to like. Succulent red cherry, blood orange, cinnamon and sweet oak are front and center. Drink this supple, mid-weight offering over the next few years. (Drink between 2025-2028). Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2022 |
Hypersonic Pinot Noir |
$65 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 90 (5/2025): The 2022 Pinot Noir Hypersonic lives up to its name. A blast of jammy dark blue/purplish fruit, incense, licorice, leather and scorched earth stains the palate. The 2022 is a big wine, that much is clear. It would be great to see more finesse, though. (Drink between 2025-2030). Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2021 |
Russian River Valley Pinot Noir |
$60 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 92 (7/2023): The 2021 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley is a rich ruby with classic ripe cherry, tea leaf, and cola aromas. It has much charm and is medium-bodied, with juicy and attractive fruit up front with vanilla spices. It offers good freshness and will drink well over the next few years. Audrey Frick. |
|
|
2022 |
Russian River Valley Pinot Noir |
$75 |
3 |
|
| |
| VM 89 (5/2025): The 2022 Pinot Noir (Russian River Valley) is another tasty appellation-level wine from Donum. Blue/purplish fruit, lavender and dried herbs confer lovely savory intensity to play off the wine's bold, forward fruit. (Drink between 2025-2028) Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Duckhorn |
2011 |
Monitor Ledge Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$75 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2009 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Franc |
$35 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2011 |
Napa Valley Merlot |
$50 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2007 |
Patzimaro Vyd. Cabernet Franc |
$50 |
3 |
|
| |
| VM 87 (5/2011): Bright red-ruby. Blueberry, black cherry, menthol and licorice on the nose. Offers good energy in the mouth, but there's a slight greenness to the medicinal flavors of cassis and mint. Tails off a bit on the back end. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
|
2011 |
Patzimaro Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$95 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2011 |
Rector Vyd. Estate Grown Cabernet Sauvignon |
$80 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| DuMol |
2022 |
Finn Pinot Noir |
$106.25 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 96 (7/2024): The 2022 Pinot Noir Finn comes from the Occidental Road Vineyard (40%) and Dumol's Bressay Estate Vineyard. Grapes were harvested on August 19, 22 and 24, before the Labor Day heat wave. It has singular aromas reminiscent of sweet-and-sour sauce, with initial brown sugar sparks giving way to crunchy Asian plum and wild berries, and it gains detail and expression with time in the glass. The light-bodied palate is silky and weightless. Its complex, bitters-laced flavors are backlit by bright acidity, and it has a long, detailed finish.
VM 94 (1/2024): The 2022 Pinot Noir Finn is a potent, tightly-wound wine. Strong savory and mineral notes give the 2022 notable verve to play off its mid-weight personality. Crushed rocks, white pepper, slate, orange peel, mint and dried flowers are nicely delineated in this vibrant, chiseled Pinot. There's gorgeous depth and character here. Finn is a blend of fruit from Bressay (58%) and Occidental Road (42%). (Drink between 2025-2034). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Dunn |
1989 |
Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon |
$175 |
1 |
|
| |
| WS 92 (8/1999): Dark and immense, still a youngster, with intense earthy currant, plum and black cherry flavors that are rich, yet for all their weight still quite elegant. Still has tannin to lose. |
|
| Ehlers Estate |
2011 |
Cabernet Franc |
$20 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2013 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$40 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2014 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$40 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2015 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$40 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2016 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$40 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2007 |
Merlot |
$30 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2008 |
Merlot |
$30 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2009 |
Merlot |
$30 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2010 |
Merlot |
$30 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 89 (10/2013): The juicy, sexy, well-made 2010 Merlot (97% Merlot and 3% Cabernet Franc) reveals an attractive dark ruby/purple color in addition to notes of mocha, berry fruit and spice, a generous, opulent mouthfeel and a heady finish |
|
|
2009 |
Petit Verdot |
$30 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2015 |
Petit Verdot |
$30 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2006 |
1886 Cabernet Sauvignon |
$70 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2007 |
1886 Cabernet Sauvignon |
$75 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 92 (12/2010): A beautiful effort, Ehlers Estate’s 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon 1886 is an homage to their founder, Bernard Ehlers, who first planted vines here in 1886. A blend of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Petit Verdot and 3% Merlot, it boasts a deep ruby/purple color along with a broad bouquet of black raspberries, black currants, cherries, spice and even a floral component. Medium to full-bodied with abundant fruit, purity and texture, it should drink well for at least a decade. |
|
|
2009 |
1886 Cabernet Sauvignon |
$79 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2010 |
1886 Cabernet Sauvignon |
$79 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 91 (10/2013): The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon 1886 is composed of 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc, 7% Merlot and 1% Petit Verdot. This brilliant, rich Cabernet boasts a deep blue/purple color as well as admirable ripeness, a touch of toasty oak, and copious blueberry, black currant, licorice and forest floor characteristics. Full-bodied and well-balanced with supple tannins, it can be drunk now or cellared for a decade or more. |
|
|
2011 |
1886 Cabernet Sauvignon |
$85 |
4 |
|
| |
|
|
2012 |
1886 Cabernet Sauvignon |
$100 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 90 (10/2014): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon 1886 recognizes the founding date of Ehlers Estate. While this cuvée may not be as sexy as the Merlot, it exhibits lush blackcurrant fruit, good purity, ripeness, suppleness and seductiveness, and should provide plenty of pleasure over the next 12+ years. |
|
|
2013 |
1886 Cabernet Sauvignon |
$125 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 93 (12/2015): An expensive and impressive bottle is the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon 1886. This is a brilliant example of Cabernet Sauvignon showing deep ruby/purple, loads of crème de cassis, spice box and beautiful purity, the wine is full-bodied, opulent and multi-dimensional. This is a superb 2013 and the packaging is pretty amazing. Drink it over the next decade.
VM 89 (10/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon 1886 is ripe, fleshy and voluptuous, with good-up front intensity and fine overall balance. The style is racy, ripe and intense to the core. Succulent red cherry, raspberry, spice and mint give the 2013 much of its soft, open-knit finish. Drink this soft, forward Cabernet over the next handful of years. (Drink between 2016-2023). Antonio Gallloni. |
|
|
2014 |
1886 Cabernet Sauvignon |
$100 |
4 |
|
| |
|
|
2015 |
1886 Cabernet Sauvignon |
$90 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2016 |
1886 Cabernet Sauvignon |
$90 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2017 |
1886 Cabernet Sauvignon |
$75 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2007 |
One Twenty Over Eighty Cabernet Sauvignon |
$40 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2008 |
One Twenty Over Eighty Cabernet Sauvignon |
$40 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2009 |
One Twenty Over Eighty Cabernet Sauvignon |
$40 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2010 |
One Twenty Over Eighty Cabernet Sauvignon |
$40 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2011 |
One Twenty Over Eighty Cabernet Sauvignon |
$40 |
3 |
|
| |
|
| Eisele Vineyard |
2015 |
Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$905.45 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 100 (10/2017): Medium to deep garnet-purple in color, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon charges from the gate with exuberant red and black cherries notes, black currants and mulberries with a beautiful roses and lavender perfume, plus hints of sandalwood and cinnamon stick. Full-bodied, concentrated and downright explosive in the mouth, it is still wearing loads of gorgeous puppy-fat fruit flavors, offering suggestions of the complex, multilayered blockbuster that it will emerge into. The structure deserves its own mention: wonderful, seamless freshness and oh-so-fine, pixelated tannins, with an extraordinary persistence of fruit and mineral nuances. Wow. |
|
| Etude |
2005 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$85 |
2 |
|
| |
VM 91+ (5/2016): Bright medium ruby. Black cherry, crushed blackberry and licorice aromas are complicated by hints of tar and dried herbs. At once supple and firm, with brisk acidity giving shape to the dark berry, licorice and tar flavors. Still a bit bound-up, even youthfully grapey, but essentially fine-grained, finishing with firm but ripe tannins and noteworthy persistence. A bit suaver and more refined than the 2004 release, this may yet expand with more bottle age. (Drink between 2019-2028). Stephen Tanzer.
WA 90+ (6/2015): The founder of this brand, Tony Soter, is now flourishing as a wine producer in Oregon, but he used to be a prominent producer in Napa. His 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon (98% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Cabernet Franc) has a dense purple color, with restrained notes of oak, black fruits, and loamy soil tones. Youthful firmness and grip suggest this wine is not yet near full maturity. It is concentrated, medium to full-bodied, pure and meticulously well-made. Nevertheless it’s not singing as of yet, although all the component parts are there for a promising future. Give it another 2-3 years and drink it over the next 15 years. |
|
|
2009 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$75 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 91 (7/2019): Saturated medium ruby. Attractive violet lift to the aromas of cassis, black cherry, espresso, menthol, minerals and fruity dark chocolate. Plush and pliant Cabernet, but with a strong spine of acidity and a distinctly herbal element giving definition and lift to the dark fruit and chocolate flavors. A bit porty on the back end but the fresh side of port, not the oxidative aspect. In fact, this juicy wine is still quite youthfully unevolved and is likely to gain in nuance and shape with more cellaring. (Drink between 2021-2033). Stephen Tanzer.
WA 90 (12/2012): Etude's 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley bursts from the glass with juicy dark berries, grilled herbs, menthol, tar, tobacco and licorice. Firm tannins provide the backbone as this powerful, muscular Cabernet opens up in the glass. Raspberry jam, flowers and spices add lift on the finish. Slightly wild notes detract a touch from the wine's overall balance. Otherwise, this is a fine effort. The 2009 needs a few years to settle down, after which it should drink beautifully for another decade. The blend is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2029. |
|
|
2007 |
Deer Camp Pinot Noir |
$40 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 92 (12/2009): The richest effort is the 2007 Pinot Noir Deer Camp. Lots of minerality buttresses the wine’s full-bodied, black cherry, cranberry, and strawberry flavors. It possesses excellent texture, power, depth, and richness as well as moderate tannin. One to two years of cellaring is warranted, and it should evolve for at least a decade.
VM 88 (5/2010): Good medium red. Slightly liqueur-like aromas of cherry, chocolate and cola. Comes across as rather extractive in the mouth, with bitter cherry, licorice, sassafras and fruit skin flavors dominating. A fairly big, broad, almost chocolatey style of pinot that could use more lift despite the impression of slightly tart acidity. Stepehn Tanzer. |
|
|
2009 |
Estate Carneros Pinot Noir |
$40 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 89 (5/2012): Slightly musky, brambly aromas of blueberry, cherry, strawberry and spices, complicated by a hint of dark chocolate. Supple and smooth but firmly built, with the dark fruit flavors joined by an intriguing earthy nuance. Finishes with tongue-dusting tannins and good structure. The cool 2009 growing season brought low yields here due to windy conditions during the flowering. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
|
2012 |
Forte Fiddlestix Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$40 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2008 |
GBR Carneros Red Wine |
$20 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 90 (12/2011): The 2008 GBR is a blend of 83% Merlot and 17% Malbec from the estate's Grace Benoist Ranch. Black fruit, tar, smoke, licorice and scorched earth are some of the notes that flesh out in the glass. This gorgeous wine impresses for its inner palate juiciness and depth. (Drink between 2013-2023). Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2012 |
North Canyon Pinot Noir |
$40 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2008 |
Temblor Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$40 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2012 |
Yamhill Vista Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$40 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Faethm |
2017 |
Fingers Crossed Syrah |
$189 |
2 |
|
| |
| JD 98 (10/2019): The 2017 Syrah Fingers Crossed has lots of Bien Nacido character (although there’s plenty of The Third Twin and Cumulus Vineyard fruit in the blend) in its olive, marine, bloody meat, and violet-laced aromas and flavors. Deep, full-bodied, beautifully concentrated and, as with the Grenache, flawlessly balanced, it stays tight and compact on the palate and is going to benefit from 2-4 years of bottle age. |
|
| Fairchild Estate |
2013 |
G III Cabernet Sauvignon |
$225 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 95 (10/2015): Like the Sigaro, the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Georges III has really come together over the last year. An attractive mélange of minerals, iron, smoke and rose petal adds nuance to the jammy, red-tone fruit. Veins of classic George III tannin give the wine much of its shape, energy and inner tension. This powerful, structured Cabernet needs a few years to come together, but it is firing on all cylinders today. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2015 |
G III Cabernet Sauvignon |
$249 |
3 |
|
| |
|
|
2016 |
G III Cabernet Sauvignon |
$233.75 |
5 |
|
| |
| JD 98 (1/2019): The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Fairchild G-III, which is from a well-known Beckstoffer property in Rutherford, is heavenly juice. Seeing an extended maceration and 20 months in 80% new French oak, it boasts awesome notes of crème de cassis, blueberries, crushed rocks, and violets. This all flows to a blockbuster styled beauty that has fabulous purity, fine, silky tannins, and incredible opulence paired with purity and elegance. This beauty got more than a few “wow” comments in the notes and should keep for two decades or more. |
|
|
2016 |
G III Cabernet Sauvignon |
$275 |
3 |
|
| |
| JD 98 (1/2019): The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Fairchild G-III, which is from a well-known Beckstoffer property in Rutherford, is heavenly juice. Seeing an extended maceration and 20 months in 80% new French oak, it boasts awesome notes of crème de cassis, blueberries, crushed rocks, and violets. This all flows to a blockbuster styled beauty that has fabulous purity, fine, silky tannins, and incredible opulence paired with purity and elegance. This beauty got more than a few “wow” comments in the notes and should keep for two decades or more. |
|
|
2016 |
G III Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$475 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 98 (1/2019): The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Fairchild G-III, which is from a well-known Beckstoffer property in Rutherford, is heavenly juice. Seeing an extended maceration and 20 months in 80% new French oak, it boasts awesome notes of crème de cassis, blueberries, crushed rocks, and violets. This all flows to a blockbuster styled beauty that has fabulous purity, fine, silky tannins, and incredible opulence paired with purity and elegance. This beauty got more than a few “wow” comments in the notes and should keep for two decades or more. |
|
|
2017 |
G III Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$229 |
1 |
|
| |
|
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2010 |
Sigaro Cabernet Sauvignon |
$135.15 |
1 |
|
| |
|
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2010 |
Sigaro Cabernet Sauvignon |
$159 |
1 |
|
| |
|
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2015 |
Sigaro Cabernet Sauvignon |
$159 |
6 |
|
| |
| WA 97 (12/2017): Very deep inky-purple colored, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Sigaro delivers ripe cassis, black plums and fragrant earth notes with touches of bay leaves, mossy bark and tobacco leaf. Medium to full-bodied with a rock-solid frame of wonderfully fine-grained tannins and lovely freshness, it has a great core of vibrant black fruit flavors, finishing long and pure. 210 cases were made. |
|
|
2015 |
Sigaro Cabernet Sauvignon |
$269 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 97 (12/2017): Very deep inky-purple colored, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Sigaro delivers ripe cassis, black plums and fragrant earth notes with touches of bay leaves, mossy bark and tobacco leaf. Medium to full-bodied with a rock-solid frame of wonderfully fine-grained tannins and lovely freshness, it has a great core of vibrant black fruit flavors, finishing long and pure. 210 cases were made. |
|
|
2015 |
Sigaro Cabernet Sauvignon Heavily Bin-Soiled Label |
$269 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 97 (12/2017): Very deep inky-purple colored, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Sigaro delivers ripe cassis, black plums and fragrant earth notes with touches of bay leaves, mossy bark and tobacco leaf. Medium to full-bodied with a rock-solid frame of wonderfully fine-grained tannins and lovely freshness, it has a great core of vibrant black fruit flavors, finishing long and pure. 210 cases were made. |
|
|
2015 |
Sigaro Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$325 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 97 (12/2017): Very deep inky-purple colored, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Sigaro delivers ripe cassis, black plums and fragrant earth notes with touches of bay leaves, mossy bark and tobacco leaf. Medium to full-bodied with a rock-solid frame of wonderfully fine-grained tannins and lovely freshness, it has a great core of vibrant black fruit flavors, finishing long and pure. 210 cases were made. |
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|
2016 |
Sigaro Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$480 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 98 (1/2019): Also thrilling, the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Fairchild Sigaro comes from a site north of Lake Hennessey and is 100% clone 4 Cabernet Sauvignon that spent 20-22 months in 80% new French oak. Black currants, crushed rocks, graphite, and lead pencil notes all flow to a powerful, tight, backward Cabernet that has incredible minerality and depth. It’s in a much more austere, focused style compared to the Fairchild G-III release, but it’s unquestionably at the same level of quality. Hide bottles for 4-5 years and enjoy over the following 2+ decades.
WA 96+ (10/2018): From fruit on Pritchard Hill, aged for 20 months in 85% new 225-liter French oak barrels, the deep garnet-black colored 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Sigaro opens with somewhat shy notes of warm blackcurrants, dried mulberries and wild blueberries with hints of plum pudding, spice box, cardamom, wood smoke, black pepper and hoisin. Full-bodied and tightly wound in the mouth, the fruit vibrates with compelling energy and a firm frame of ripe, grainy tannins with just enough freshness, finishing long and minerally. 640 cases produced.
VM 95 (12/2018): The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Sigaro emerges from Fairchild's estate vineyard in Conn Valley. Racy and pliant, with tremendous intensity, the 2016 is impeccable in it balance. As with all of Larry Fairchild's wines, the Sigaro is quite big, and yet all the elements are impeccably balanced. The Sigaro offers striking aromatic complexity and layered fruit for such a big wine, with tannins that are both prominent and yet very well polished. Antonio Galloni. |
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|
2016 |
Stones No. 1 Perrarus Block 1 Cabernet Sauvignon |
$208.25 |
3 |
|
| |
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2016 |
Stones No. 1 Perrarus Block 1 Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$425 |
1 |
|
| |
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2015 |
Stones No. 2 Perrarus Block 1 Cabernet Sauvignon |
$295.75 |
5 |
|
| |
|
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2015 |
Stones No. 2 Perrarus Block 1 Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$614.25 |
2 |
|
| |
|
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2016 |
Stones No. 2 Perrarus Block 1 Cabernet Sauvignon |
$279 |
1 |
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| |
|
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2016 |
Stones No. 2 Pritchard Hill Cabernet Sauvignon |
$279 |
2 |
|
| |
| JD 97+ (1/2019): The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Stones No. 2 offers more mountain fruit characteristics as well as plenty of tannins to go with a beautiful perfume of spring flowers, spice, earthy minerality, and both blue and black fruits. From a site on Pritchard Hill that spent 20 months in 80% new French oak, give this elegant, layered, full-bodied beauty a good 4-5 years of bottle age and enjoy over the following 2+ decades. |
|
|
2015 |
Stones No. 3 Perrarus Block Tench Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$279 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2015 |
Stones No. 3 Perrarus Block Tench Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$565 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2015 |
Stones No. 3 Tench Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$591.50 |
2 |
|
| |
| VM 95 (1/2018): Fairchild's 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Stones No. 3 emerges from the Tench vineyard, which is the heart of the valley floor in Eastern Oakville. Dark, sumptuous and explosive, with all of the resonance that is typical of the wines from this district in Oakville, the Tench has much to offer. This heady, full-throttle Cabernet is another winner from Larry Fairchild and Philippe Melka. Antonio Galloni. |
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|
2016 |
Stones No. 3 Tench Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$586.95 |
2 |
|
| |
JD 100 (1/2019): This full-bodied, remarkably pure, seamless Napa Cabernet comes from the Tench Vineyard outside St. Helena and reveals a saturated purple color as well as sensational notes of blueberries, currants, camphor, scorched earth, and hints of lavender and violets. Deep, layered, still tight and backward, yet with incredible purity and focus, it’s a monumental beauty that’s going to benefit from at least 4-5 years of bottle age and cruise for 2-3 decades. Hats off to winemaker Philippe Melka and the team at Fairchild Wines for this incredible wine.
VM 97 (12/2018): The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Stones No. 3 is another superb wine from Larry Fairchild. Dense, powerful and explosive, with tremendous depth, the 2016 captures all the magic of this Oakville site. Black cherry, bittersweet chocolate, licorice, spice and menthol infuse this sumptuous, extravagantly rich Cabernet Sauvignon. Sweet, ripe tannins add to the wine's considerable immediacy and sheer appeal. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Fantesca |
2012 |
All Great Things- Duty Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$219 |
1 |
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| |
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2015 |
All Great Things- Freedom Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$225 |
1 |
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| |
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2015 |
All Great Things- Freedom Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$313.95 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Far Niente |
2000 |
Estate Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$191.25 |
1 |
|
| |
|
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2005 |
Estate Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$289 |
1 |
|
| |
| WS 87 (7/2015): The dusty herb and loamy earth notes show a tarry side. Though the structure is Bordeaux-like in terms of restraint and tightness, this ends a little too clipped.—2005 California Cabernet blind retrospective (September 2015). Drink now through 2021. 14,700 cases made. |
|
| Farella Estate |
2003 |
Alta Red Wine |
$25 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 88 (6/2013): The 2003 Alta, a blend of 67% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Merlot and 5% Syrah, reveals a clean, pure, discrete but proper nose, medium to full body, and a rich, impressive style. It is a far more serious wine with better texture, richness and length than its siblings. Close to full maturity, it should continue to drink well for 7-8 years. |
|
|
2007 |
Road Block Syrah Writing on Label |
$25 |
1 |
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| |
| WA 90-93 (12/2009): The least expensive wine, the 2007 Syrah Roadblock could turn out to be a major sleeper of the vintage as well as a super buy. Sweet, jammy blackberry fruit, charcoal, camphor, melted asphalt, and a hint of truffle-like aromas jump from the glass of this dense purple-colored 2007. This layered, intense, richly fruity Syrah will be a hedonistic as well as intellectual turn-on for the next 5-6 years. |
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|
2007 |
West Face Cabernet Sauvignon |
$35 |
2 |
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| |
| WA 93 (12/2010): The 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon West Face boasts an opaque ruby/purple hue as well as an expressive bouquet of creme de cassis, sweet cherries, licorice, earth and spice. Full-bodied and opulent with exuberant purity and outstanding concentration and texture, this beauty should drink well for 10-15+ years. I wouldn’t be surprised if it is stilling performing beautifully in a quarter of a century. |
|
| Faust |
2003 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$30 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Favia |
2008 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon |
$175 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Fe Wines |
2022 |
26 Red Wine |
$190 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 93 (2/2025): Marked by scents of mountain bay, sage and black cherries, Fe's 2022 26 is a blend of 56% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Cabernet Franc, 16% Petit Verdot and 6% Malbec, all aged 20 months in approximately 75% new French oak. It's medium to full-bodied and taut yet velvety, with what seems like ample concentration, but it seems to lose impetus on the finish. I have to admit to being (just) slightly disappointed relative to the barrel sample last year. The wine was bottled in June 2024, so perhaps it was still in a bit of a funk when I tasted the bottled wine in November.
VM 89 (12/2024): The 2022 26 is a soft, plummy wine to drink now and over the next handful of years. Crushed flowers, pipe tobacco, leather, incense and dried flowers build nicely into the open-knit finish. (Drink between 2024-2030). Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2018 |
Spring Mountain District Cabernet Sauvignon |
$265 |
2 |
|
| |
JD 97+ (1/2021): The flagship is the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Fe, and it's 100% Spring Mountain Cabernet. As with the Red Wine Blend, it has a notable freshness in its aromatics and offers impressive blue fruits, cedar, forest floor, bouquet garni, and spring flower-like aromas and flavors. These carry to a concentrated, full-bodied mountain Cabernet that has terrific mid-palate depth, building tannins, flawless balance, and a great, great finish. It's structured and tannic, and needs 4-5 years of bottle age, but this beauty is going to age like a great Bordeaux and keep for 30 years or more. (Drink between 2025-2058).
VM 96+ (1/2021): The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon emerges from a six-acre vineyard on Spring Mountain just outside of St. Helena planted with Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and Petit Verdot. Rich, powerful and structured, with tremendous nuance, the 2018 hits all the right notes. A whole range of feral, savory and floral notes add striking aromatic nuance, with beams of mountain tannin that give the wine energy. Fe is one of the most exciting debuts of the last few years. What a knock-out! (Drink between 2026-2043). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Ferdinand Wines |
2016 |
Tempranillo |
$20 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Fingers Crossed |
2020 |
Head Held High Grenache Nicked Label |
$175 |
1 |
|
| |
|
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2020 |
Head Held High Syrah |
$195 |
1 |
|
| |
|
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2018 |
Just Between Us Syrah |
$245 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 100 (8/2020): Another killer wine, and one that tops out on my scale, the 2018 Syrah Off The Record checks in as 93% Syrah, 2% each of Grenache and Mourvèdre, and the rest 3% Roussanne that saw just 22% stems and spent 20 months in 68% new French oak. Dense purple-hued, with awesome notes of smoked black fruits, smoked game, ground pepper, beef blood, spice, and violets, this beauty is full-bodied and elegant, with a perfect mid-palate and a great, great finish. Only the second release from this winery, this incredible Syrah seemingly has one foot in California with its ripe, sexy fruit and one foot in the Northern Rhone with its gamy, meaty, peppery, and wildly complex style. While it doesn’t have the same weight as say Sine Qua Non, Alban, or Andremily, it’s flawlessly balanced, insanely complex, and has a style all its own. It will ideally be given 2-4 years of bottle age and will cruise for 10-15 years as well. Don’t miss it! |
|
|
2022 |
Life and Death Red Wine |
$199 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 95+ (8/2024): asted prior to its July bottling date, the 2022 White Wine Life And Death is a blend of 69.5% Chardonnay, 26.9% Roussanne and 3.6% Marsanne from the Sanford & Benedict, Bien Nacido and Stolpman Vineyards. It spent 22 months in 85% new French oak. The nose here is a striking combination of waxy and layered aromas of stone fruit, tropical fruits, bright spice tones and an undercurrent of pleasing caramel richness. The palate is lavish and quite full-bodied, displaying impressive power and polish while remaining energetic and focused. It concludes with a succulent, clean acid profile that welcomely braces its otherwise massive frame. This was very enjoyable and should be fascinating to follow through bottling into its aging curve. |
|
|
2022 |
Life and Death Syrah |
$199 |
2 |
|
| |
JD 96-99 (8/2024): Dramatically different from the Red Wine, the 2022 Syrah Life & Death reveals a slightly deeper ruby/plum hue as well as a gamey, classic Syrah perfume of blackberries, bouquet garni, ground black pepper, and smoked bacon fat. It's full-bodied, plush, has a round, sexy mouthfeel, and a blockbuster finish.
VM 92-94 (8/2024): The 2022 Syrah Life and Death is another deep, resonant wine. It's the first pure Syrah for Fingers Crossed, in this case from Bien Nacido and Stolpman. Inky dark fruit, leather, spice, menthol, dried herbs and mocha fill out the layers. This dense, powerhouse Syrah hits all the right notes, but it’s a baby today. (Drink between 2024-2032). Antonio Galloni.
WA 93 (8/2024): Tasted before bottling, the 2022 Syrah Life And Death is the first single-variety bottling from Fingers Crossed. It was sourced from Bien Nacido and Stolpman Vineyards, fermented with 18% whole clusters and aged for 21 months in 61% new French oak. True to the varietal makeup, the nose is darkly fruited and streaked with hints of black pepper, framed with a dusty, herbal quality that melds with touches of alcoholic heat. The palate is ripe, soft and luscious in texture, transitioning to a gritty, slightly hot finish. This was a moving target in the glass and could improve after bottling, although that back-end burn is problematic. |
|
|
2019 |
Til Death Do Us Part Grenache |
$169 |
6 |
|
| |
WA 96 (5/2022): The 2019 Grenache Two Become One comes from four vineyards—The Third Twin, Vogelzang, Bien Nacido and Sebastiano. It is blended with 13% Mourvèdre and 11% Syrah, made with 29% whole clusters, and matured for 20 months in 56% new French oak. Opaque ruby-purple in color, it begins with reticent scents of blackberry jam, tar, licorice, lavender and bouquet garni with touches of coffee beans, taking plenty of time to unfold in the glass. The full-bodied palate surprises with its concentrated, dark berry fruit, framed by seamless acidity and finely grained tannins. It gains complexity over time, offering up more layers as it airs, and it finishes with soaring floral perfume, suggesting it could use a few more years in bottle or a long decant to show at its best. 381 cases were made, and it will be sold as a six-bottle set with one bottle of white wine, two bottles of Syrah and three bottles of Grenache ($685). This was bottled in July of 2021 and tasted May 24, 2022.
JD 96-99 (8/2020): I was able to taste both the 2019 Grenache and Syrah from barrel, both showing beautifully. The 2019 Grenache TBD is slightly more fruit-forward with lots of red and blue fruits as well as sappy flower and violet notes. A finesse-driven Grenache that still brings serious richness and power, it's full-bodied and has silky tannins, terrific balance, and a sensational sense of freshness. |
|
|
2019 |
Til Death Do Us Part Grenache |
$195 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 96 (5/2022): The 2019 Grenache Two Become One comes from four vineyards—The Third Twin, Vogelzang, Bien Nacido and Sebastiano. It is blended with 13% Mourvèdre and 11% Syrah, made with 29% whole clusters, and matured for 20 months in 56% new French oak. Opaque ruby-purple in color, it begins with reticent scents of blackberry jam, tar, licorice, lavender and bouquet garni with touches of coffee beans, taking plenty of time to unfold in the glass. The full-bodied palate surprises with its concentrated, dark berry fruit, framed by seamless acidity and finely grained tannins. It gains complexity over time, offering up more layers as it airs, and it finishes with soaring floral perfume, suggesting it could use a few more years in bottle or a long decant to show at its best. 381 cases were made, and it will be sold as a six-bottle set with one bottle of white wine, two bottles of Syrah and three bottles of Grenache ($685). This was bottled in July of 2021 and tasted May 24, 2022.
JD 96-99 (8/2020): I was able to taste both the 2019 Grenache and Syrah from barrel, both showing beautifully. The 2019 Grenache TBD is slightly more fruit-forward with lots of red and blue fruits as well as sappy flower and violet notes. A finesse-driven Grenache that still brings serious richness and power, it's full-bodied and has silky tannins, terrific balance, and a sensational sense of freshness. |
|
|
2019 |
Til Death Do Us Part Grenache |
$249 |
6 |
|
| |
WA 96 (5/2022): The 2019 Grenache Two Become One comes from four vineyards—The Third Twin, Vogelzang, Bien Nacido and Sebastiano. It is blended with 13% Mourvèdre and 11% Syrah, made with 29% whole clusters, and matured for 20 months in 56% new French oak. Opaque ruby-purple in color, it begins with reticent scents of blackberry jam, tar, licorice, lavender and bouquet garni with touches of coffee beans, taking plenty of time to unfold in the glass. The full-bodied palate surprises with its concentrated, dark berry fruit, framed by seamless acidity and finely grained tannins. It gains complexity over time, offering up more layers as it airs, and it finishes with soaring floral perfume, suggesting it could use a few more years in bottle or a long decant to show at its best. 381 cases were made, and it will be sold as a six-bottle set with one bottle of white wine, two bottles of Syrah and three bottles of Grenache ($685). This was bottled in July of 2021 and tasted May 24, 2022.
JD 96-99 (8/2020): I was able to taste both the 2019 Grenache and Syrah from barrel, both showing beautifully. The 2019 Grenache TBD is slightly more fruit-forward with lots of red and blue fruits as well as sappy flower and violet notes. A finesse-driven Grenache that still brings serious richness and power, it's full-bodied and has silky tannins, terrific balance, and a sensational sense of freshness. |
|
|
2021 |
Unanswered Prayers Syrah |
$184 |
3 |
|
| |
WA 95-97 (8/2023): I tasted the 2021 Syrah Unanswered Prayers on July 7, 2023, a few days before it was due to be bottled. It comes from the Bien Nacido, Rancho Boa Vista and Sanford & Benedict Vineyards. The blend includes 4.7% Grenache, 4.7% Mourvèdre, 4.7% Petite Sirah and 2.9% white wine. It was vinified using 35% whole clusters and matured for 20 months in 63% new French oak. Opaque ruby-purple, it's bursting with youthfully broody scents of blueberry preserves, blackcurrant, lavender, tar, game meats and peppermint patty. Full-bodied, powerful yet balanced, the palate features concentrated floral fruit, detailed, velvety tannins and seamless acidity that carries on through the shimmery finish.
JD 97-99 (8/2023): The 2021 Syrah Unanswered Prayers appears to be ever so slightly more successful than the Grenache (which, given the differences in the vintage, certainly makes sense). It has an incredibly pure, flawlessly balanced, full-bodied style to go with perfumed aromatics of darker berry fruits, ground pepper, smoked game, and iron. With a vibrant spine of acidity, utterly flawless balance, and ripe tannins, it's going to flirt with perfection at maturity.
VM 95-97 (9/2023): Tasted just prior to bottling, the 2021 Syrah Unanswered Prayers is dazzling. There's gorgeous purity in the 2021, even if it is not totally put together at this stage. Inky blue/purplish fruit, cloves, menthol, licorice and mocha race out of the glass. I can't wait to taste this from bottle. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Folded Hills |
2016 |
Ballard Canyon Syrah |
$35 |
3 |
|
| |
| JD 92 (10/2018): The 2016 Syrah Ballard Canyon comes all from the Stolpman Vineyard in Ballard Canyon and was brought up in 25% new French oak. It's deep ruby/purple-tinged color is followed by a lively bouquet of black raspberries, spring flowers, California bay leaf, and white pepper. Like everything here, it's seamless and elegant, with a borderline mid-weight style, yet is about as drinkable as it gets. |
|
|
2020 |
Estate Syrah |
$25 |
2 |
|
| |
| JD 92 (8/2023): The 2020 Syrah Estate is more successful, with ripe mulberry and darker (almost blue) berry fruits as well as peppery herbs, violets, leather, and underbrush nuances. It's incredibly elegant and medium-bodied, with fine tannins and outstanding length. It reminds me of a classy Saint Joseph and is going to evolve for 10-12 years with no issues. It's a beautiful, classy, downright pretty Syrah. |
|
|
2019 |
Santa Ynez Valley Syrah |
$25 |
2 |
|
| |
| VM 90 (8/2024): The 2019 Syrah (Santa Ynez Valley) is a blend of Estella clone Syrah from the estate and Stolpman. It is the one wine in this range that is a touch forward and overt. Then again, this is a five-year-old appellation wine. Succulent dark cherry, plum, licorice, spice and a hint of mocha give this racy Syrah tons of immediacy. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Force Majeure |
2009 |
Ciel du Cheval Collaboration Series I Proprietary Blend |
$60 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 91 (12/2012): The Force Majeure 2009 Ciel du Cheval Vineyard Collaboration Series I is a blend of two-thirds Cabernet Sauvignon with, notes McBride a bit oddly, “healthy doses of P(etit) V(erdot) and Cabernet Franc for our take on ‘Left Bank’.” (That said, there is also a bit of Merlot.) In any case, it’s vinified by Ben Smith of Cadence, for more on whose attraction to Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot consult my notes on recent offerings from that winery. The herbaceous side of these cepages dominates in the nose, though in a pleasantly pungent and reasonably complex way. Mint, arbor vitae, and cassis take on a chocolate coating on the glycerol-rich palate, and this finishes with an admirable counterpoint – somehow avoiding too bifurcated a sense – between bittersweetly herbal and torrefied, confitured character. I wouldn’t have guessed that the barrels were 70% new, and there is what I like to think of as a Washington-typical energetic finishing ping. This ought to be worth following for at least the next half dozen years. |
|
|
2011 |
Ciel du Cheval Collaboration Series II Proprietary Blend |
$65 |
4 |
|
| |
|
|
2009 |
Ciel du Cheval Collaboration Series III Proprietary Blend |
$65 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 91 (12/2012): The Force Majeure 2009 Ciel du Cheval Vineyard Collaboration Series III employs four clones of Syrah and was vinified by Mark McNeilly (with his assistant Mike Macmorran) of the Mark Ryan winery, who chose to utilize just one-third new barriques, in which the wine finished its primary fermentation. Vanilla and marzipan lend a surprisingly confectionary cast on a glycerol-rich palate to an amalgam of cherry preserves and creme de cassis, happily underlain by suggestions of roasted red meats that lend saliva inducement and savory counterpoint in a lingering, luscious finish. I was surprised at the extent to which this reflected its oak component given the stated percentage of new wood; but it was on this occasion that I made the following important discovery: in Washington, when vintners speak of “neutral” barrels, they may well – as in this instance – be referring to barrels that have been used only once previously! My intuition suggests that this will be worth following for at least 5-7 years. |
|
|
2010 |
Ciel du Cheval Collaboration Series III Proprietary Blend |
$65 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 91+ (11/2013): Bright ruby. Sexy, vibrant aromas of black raspberry and blueberry lifted by high notes of flowers, pepper and spices. Very pure, juicy and intense, with strong but integrated acidity giving excellent definition to the flavors of blackberry, blueberry, violet, pepper and spices. I'd like to have seen a bit more syrah funk but there's no denying this wine's intensity, firm tannic spine and excellent length. Nothing overripe or thick about it. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
|
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. |
|
|
2009 |
Ciel du Cheval Collaboration Series IV Proprietary Blend |
$70 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 88 (12/2012): Force Majeure’s 2009 Ciel du Cheval Vineyard Collaboration Series IV is dominated by Merlot (supported by 23% Cabernet Sauvignon plus smaller amounts of other Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot) and vinified by Carolyn Lakewold of Donedei Wines, whose background and inspiration – accordingly to McBride and Johnson – is with Northern Italian wine (though I can’t say I would have detected this). At 13.8% alcohol this is intentionally significantly lighter than its Collaboration Series siblings, and the absence of press wine was evidently intended to enhance textural refinement and relative levity. The nose here, though, is exceedingly spirituous as well as torrefied, for an impression that resembles dried cherries macerated in cognac, kirsch, and chocolate syrup, characteristics that combine for an almost liqueur-like though texturally not notably alluring palate impression. Toasted praline, cocoa powder, and caramelized wood resin (from half-new French and American oak) combine with the desiccated manifestation of cherry for a finish that’s slightly drying despite its superficial sense of sweetness. I wouldn’t want to speculate on this wine’s aging potential except to say that – admittedly in lieu of any directly relevant experience – I am somewhat skeptical on that count. Certainly, though, this is striking stuff, and I’ve no doubt there will be those who find its personality more enticing than do I. |
|
|
2010 |
Ciel du Cheval Collaboration Series IV Proprietary Blend |
$70 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 94 (6/2013): The 2010 Collaboration Series IV is a Merlot-dominated blend that’s made by Carolyn Lakewold of Donedei Wines. The stated goal with this cuvee is to straddle the line between old-world and Nld World in style, and while I’m not sure how close they got to that mark, I can say that it’s certainly a beautiful wine. Possessing an inky purple color as well as an up-front, intense bouquet of black and blue fruits, violets, licorice, leather and liquid flowers, it flows onto the palate with a full-bodied, hedonistically styled texture that carries solid freshness and plenty of framing tannin that emerges on the finish. There’s a smidge of volatile acidity here, yet the wine handles it and is a plush, downright sexy effort that’s hard to resist. It should have over a decade of evolution. Drink now-2023. |
|
|
2009 |
Ciel du Cheval Collaboration Series Sangiovese |
$40 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2010 |
Ciel du Cheval Collaboration Series V Cabernet Sauvignon |
$70 |
2 |
|
| |
| VM 90 (11/2013): Bright, healthy ruby-red. Blueberry, cassis and menthol on the nose, along with a lower-toned whiff of nut skin; smells rather energetically extracted. Then lush and large-scaled on the palate, with sweet currant and raspberry flavors showing noteworthy depth. The huge tannins parch the tongue a bit, but the fruit outlasts them on the long finish. Definitely no-holds-barred! Stephen Tanzer. |
|
|
2009 |
Collaboration Series V Proprietary Blend |
$70 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2010 |
Collaboration Series V Proprietary Blend |
$70 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 96 (6/2013): The most full-throttle of the lineup, the 2010 Collaboration Series V is comprised of 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, from Ciel du Cheval blocks planted in 1975 and 1982, that was aged in 100% new French oak. Made by Chris Gorman, it offers up a decadent array of creme de cassis, smoked herbs, chocolate, roasted meats and freshly sharpened pencil-like qualities on the nose. Full-bodied, seamless and even elegant on the palate, yet with layers of fruit and texture, it has clean, integrated acidity, superb polish to its tannin and big minerality that emerges on the finish. Certainly impressive now, it still needs another 3-4 years of bottle age and will shine for 15 years or more. Drink 2015-2028+ |
|
|
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. |
|
|
2010 |
Collaboration Series VI Proprietary Blend |
$40 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 94+ (6/2013): A brilliant Southern Rhone-like blend of 56% Mourvedre, 38% Syrah and 6% Grenache that was fermented all in concrete and aged in neutral French oak puncheons, the 2010 Collaboration Series VI was made by James Mantone of Syncline Wines. Spectacular, with vividly defined aromas of blackberry, pepper, flowers, underbrush and licorice, it flows onto the palate with lively acidity, polished tannin and an elegant, seamless texture that has no hard edges and an overall classy, refined feel. Already approachable and complex, it will benefit from short-term cellaring and drink nicely for 10-12 years. Drink now-2025.
WS 92 (10/2013): Firm tannins underlie blackberry, currant and roasted meat flavors on a medium-weight frame, coming together on the plush finish. Mourvèdre, Syrah and Grenache. Drink now through 2018. 220 cases made.
VM 91+ (12/2013): (56% mourvedre, 38% syrah and 6% grenache; made by James Mantone of Syncline; fermented in square concrete bins and 500-liter puncheons): Good bright, medium ruby-red. High-toned aromas of red berries, red pepper and licorice, plus a whiff of tree bark. At once sweet and bright, with the red fruit flavors accented by spices and pepper. Lovely energetic, intense mourvedre here. A very successful blend with sound natural acidity. Most of the Force Majeure Vineyard's mourvedre fruit was stolen in 2010, with the thieves leaving only the outside rows intact. |
|
|
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. |
|
|
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. |
|
|
2016 |
Red Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon |
$150 |
2 |
|
| |
JD 99 (4/2019): The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Red Mountain Estate is a thrilling effort from winemaker Todd Alexander that rates with some of the most monumental wines to come out of Washington State. Based on 100% Cabernet Sauvignon sourced from their estate vineyard on Red Mountain, brought up in mostly new barrels, it reveals a saturated purple color that's followed by a rich, primordial bouquet of crème de cassis, espresso roast, crushed rock, and graphite. It needs considerable air to start to show its potential yet is a full-bodied, powerful wine that has subtle oak, plenty of sweet tannins, and a huge, layered finish that won't quit. It's the tannin management that's truly spectacular. This brilliant wine needs to be forgotten for 4-5 years and will keep for 2-3 decades. (Drink between 2023-2048).
WA 93+ (12/2019): Opening with a fresh core of black fruit and minerality on the nose, the 2016 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon wafts with blackberry, crème de cassis and dusty purple flowers. Full-bodied in the mouth, the wine is strict and rigid, with a lingering spice through the mid-palate. It continues to show a mineral tension with dusty black fruit, spiced plum and nuanced oak flavors on the long, thoughtful finish.
VM 93 (11/2018): Saturated bright ruby! Pungent, primary, essence-of-Cabernet aromas of cassis, black cherry, graphite, licorice pastille, tobacco leaf, mint and herbs, lifted by a violet topnote. Wonderful dense, thick, saline and sweet, showing a very ripe, chewy, slightly chocolatey character that reminded me of a Napa Valley cult Cabernet. (I should note that winemaker Todd Alexander previously spent four years as winemaker at Bryant Family Vineyard.) But this wonderfully savory wine may well have more energy than its Napa equivalents. Finishes very long, with huge, thick, totally ripe, palate-saturating tannins but no hard edges. Shows an almost caramelly Pomerol-like creaminess in the mouth, with its green qualities receding into the background. This wine lacks only the refinement for an even higher score. This appears to have been little affected by its recent bottling in August but I wonder if it will shut down in bottle over the coming year or so. (Drink between 2019-2025). Stephen Tanzer. |
|
|
2016 |
Red Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon Bin-Soiled Label |
$150 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 99 (4/2019): The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Red Mountain Estate is a thrilling effort from winemaker Todd Alexander that rates with some of the most monumental wines to come out of Washington State. Based on 100% Cabernet Sauvignon sourced from their estate vineyard on Red Mountain, brought up in mostly new barrels, it reveals a saturated purple color that's followed by a rich, primordial bouquet of crème de cassis, espresso roast, crushed rock, and graphite. It needs considerable air to start to show its potential yet is a full-bodied, powerful wine that has subtle oak, plenty of sweet tannins, and a huge, layered finish that won't quit. It's the tannin management that's truly spectacular. This brilliant wine needs to be forgotten for 4-5 years and will keep for 2-3 decades. (Drink between 2023-2048).
WA 93+ (12/2019): Opening with a fresh core of black fruit and minerality on the nose, the 2016 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon wafts with blackberry, crème de cassis and dusty purple flowers. Full-bodied in the mouth, the wine is strict and rigid, with a lingering spice through the mid-palate. It continues to show a mineral tension with dusty black fruit, spiced plum and nuanced oak flavors on the long, thoughtful finish.
VM 93 (11/2018): Saturated bright ruby! Pungent, primary, essence-of-Cabernet aromas of cassis, black cherry, graphite, licorice pastille, tobacco leaf, mint and herbs, lifted by a violet topnote. Wonderful dense, thick, saline and sweet, showing a very ripe, chewy, slightly chocolatey character that reminded me of a Napa Valley cult Cabernet. (I should note that winemaker Todd Alexander previously spent four years as winemaker at Bryant Family Vineyard.) But this wonderfully savory wine may well have more energy than its Napa equivalents. Finishes very long, with huge, thick, totally ripe, palate-saturating tannins but no hard edges. Shows an almost caramelly Pomerol-like creaminess in the mouth, with its green qualities receding into the background. This wine lacks only the refinement for an even higher score. This appears to have been little affected by its recent bottling in August but I wonder if it will shut down in bottle over the coming year or so. (Drink between 2019-2025). Stephen Tanzer. |
|
| Forge Cellars |
2018 |
Bellows Vyd. Pinot Noir Scuffed Label |
$20 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2018 |
Bellows Vyd. Pinot Noir Lightly Scuffed Label |
$20 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2018 |
Leidnfrost Pinot Noir |
$20 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2018 |
Tango Oaks Pinot Noir |
$20 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Fortunate Son |
2019 |
The Diplomat Red Wine |
$145 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 94 (2/2023): The Merlot-dominated 2019 The Diplomat comes from a handful of sites and would give a great Pomerol a run for its money with its darker red and black fruits, smoky herbs, and earthy goodness on the nose. These carry to a full-bodied, rounded, opulent 2019 with sweet, building tannins and a great finish. Give it a few years. |
|
| Franciscan Estate |
2004 |
Magnificat Proprietary Blend |
$75 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Frank Family |
2007 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$55 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 93 (12/2010): The dense dark plum/purple-tinged 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa is composed of 89% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Merlot and 2% Petit Verdot. The fragrant bouquet of blueberries and flowers is followed by admirable complexity, sweet tannins, a medium to full-bodied, graceful mouthfeel and no hard edges. Drink this Outstanding Napa Cabernet over the next 15+ years.
VM 90 (6/2011): Bright purple. Sexy, oak-spiced aromas of cherry-vanilla, boysenberry and mocha, with a subtle floral quality emerging with air. Plush, juicy dark fruit flavors show very good depth, with vanilla and violet pastille nuances contributing sweetness. Tannins arrive late and are nicely folded into the fruit on the long, smoky finish. This will drink well soon.
WS 87 (5/2011): A rustic style that offers a mix of firm, spicy currant, blackberry, mineral and graphite. Full-bodied and complex, though shy on extra facets and depth. Drink now through 2018. 13,163 cases made. |
|
|
2009 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$39 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 90 (12/2012): Juicy red berries, crushed flowers, cloves and a hint of French oak all come together nicely in the 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon. A gracious, mid-weight wine, the 2009 should drink well pretty much upon release. Sweet floral notes reappear to frame the feminine, expressive finish. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2010 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$49 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 88 (11/2013): The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley opens with scents of cassis, smoke, licorice, violets and melted road tar. An attractive, medium-bodied wine by Napa standards, the 2010 is an excellent choice for drinking over the next few years. Blackberries, blueberries, cloves and menthol all flesh out on the finish. This is a very pretty, entry-level wine from Frank. A dollop of Merlot adds suppleness and softness. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2011 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$35 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2008 |
Zinfandel |
$25 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 88 (12/2011): The 2008 Zinfandel shows excellent depth in its sweet red cherries flowers and licorice. This is a subdued style of Zinfandel, yet the wine’s overall balance is quite good. The blend incorporates 16% Petite Sirah. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2017. |
|
|
2009 |
Zinfandel |
$25 |
4 |
|
| |
| VM 90 (5/2012): Opaque purple. A complex, heady bouquet evokes candied dark berries, vanilla and mocha, with a spicy topnote. Lush and expansive, offering gently sweet, oak-spiced cassis and blueberry flavors that gain energy in the glass. In a plush, polished style, finishing with smooth tannins and lingering spiciness. Josh Raynolds. |
|
|
2011 |
Zinfandel |
$25 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2009 |
Carneros Pinot Noir |
$30 |
3 |
|
| |
VM 88 (12/2011): The 2009 Pinot Noir is an attractive wine laced with a typical Carneros expression of perfumed red fruit, spices and flowers. This fleshy, stylish Pinot will drink nicely for the next few years. (Drink between 2013-2016). Antonio Galloni.
BH 88 (5/2011): Dark ruby. Smoky, oak-spiced cherry and dark berries on the nose, with complicating notes of licorice and dried rose. Sappy and sweet, with slightly warm black raspberry and bitter cherry flavors and a hint of smoked meat. Shows good depth and power but I'm not sure that I'd have guessed that this was pinot. Finishes broad and smooth, leaving a note of bitter chocolate behind. |
|
|
2012 |
Carneros Pinot Noir |
$30 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 88 (5/2014): Bright medium red. Musky, reduced aromas of strawberry, earth, menthol and sassafras. At once juicy and round, with moderate mid-palate weight to the flavors of cranberry, strawberry and spices. This essentially supple, fruit-driven pinot finishes with sweet, soft tannins. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
|
2009 |
Reserve Petite Sirah |
$50 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 89 (12/2011): The 2009 Petite Sirah Reserve virtually oozes from the bottle with massive dark fruit, licorice, new leather and spices. It is a fairly domesticated Petite Sirah, but much of the richness has been achieved with a loss of varietal expression. This ripe, opulent wine should continue to drink well for at least a handful of years. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2010 |
Reserve Petite Sirah |
$50 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2011 |
Reserve Petite Sirah |
$50 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2009 |
Reserve Pinot Noir |
$40 |
2 |
|
| |
| VM 88 (12/2011): The 2009 Pinot Noir Reserve isn't appreciably better or more complex than the straight Pinot bottling, it's just bigger, richer and smokier. Personally I like the regular bottling more. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2010 |
Reserve Pinot Noir |
$40 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 90 (5/2012): Bright ruby. Sexy, oak-spiced aromas of candied blackberry, cherry-cola and mocha, with a sneaky floral quality building in the glass. Sappy and seamless in texture, with very good depth to its red and dark berry preserve flavors. Shows impressive power and energy on the finish, which lingers with resonating spiciness. In a plush, open-knit style and drinking very well right now. Josh Raynolds. |
|
|
2011 |
Reserve Pinot Noir |
$40 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2011 |
Reserve Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon |
$75 |
3 |
|
| |
|
|
2011 |
Reserve Sangiovese |
$40 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2012 |
Reserve Sangiovese |
$40 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2008 |
Reserve Zinfandel |
$20 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2009 |
Reserve Zinfandel |
$20 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 91 (5/2012): Inky purple. Expressive, spice-accented aromas of black raspberry, cherry and sassafras, with smoke and cracked pepper nuances adding complexity. Juicy, open-knit and emphatically fruity, offering intense red and dark berry compote flavors sharpened and lifted by juicy acidity. Closes with good power and focus, leaving sappy blackberry and cherry notes behind. Josh Raynolds. |
|
|
2010 |
Reserve Zinfandel |
$20 |
4 |
|
| |
| VM 90 (6/2014): Dark red. Musky aromas of blackberry and blueberry. Sappy and seriously concentrated, with a lightly saline character to the flavors of black raspberry, truffle and pepper. In a pliant, rather plush style, finishing with sweet tannins and excellent length. |
|
|
2012 |
Reserve Zinfandel |
$20 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Freemark Abbey |
1997 |
Bosche Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$159 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 92 (9/2017): Full, dark red. Sexy, rather claret-like aromas of plum, currant, blackberry, leather, spices and dusty stone show freshness and complexity, as well as a hint of wildness. Wonderfully savory, plush wine with a firm mineral spine giving shape to its very dark berry flavors. The slowly building finish really stains the palate and lingers. Not yet completely open--in fact, there's something still a bit youthfully tough here despite the lovely sweetness--but then this is a magnum. Aeration brought a more pliant back end, but this big mouthful of red wine is still evolving. The tannins mount. (Drink between 2017-2029). Stephen Tanzer. |
|
|
2010 |
Bosche Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$225 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Fuccawee |
2004 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$45 |
3 |
|
| |
|
| Gargantua (Bergstrom) |
2013 |
California Syrah |
$75 |
3 |
|
| |
| VM 93 (1/2017): Deep violet. Heady smoke- and mineral-accented cherry and cassis scents are complemented by suggestions of pipe tobacco, violet and Indian spices. Silky and deeply concentrated yet lively, offering sweet dark berry, cherry compote and floral pastille flavors lifted and sharpened by juicy acidity. Alluringly sweet and pure, finishing with excellent clarity and slow-building, fine-grained tannins. Distinctly Rhône-like in character and balanced to age. Josh Raynolds. |
|
| Garric Cellars |
2005 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$75 |
1 |
|
| |
| WS 87 (7/2008): Big, rich, intense and concentrated, this is a touch gamy, showing savory herb, dried currant and cedary oak notes, with firm, dry tannins. Impressive for its power and vibrancy. Has plenty of tannic muscle. Decant. Best from 2009 through 2014. 494 cases made. |
|
| Gemstone |
2003 |
Proprietary Blend |
$50 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 91 (12/2005): The inky/purple-hued 2003 Proprietary Red Wine, a blend of 84% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Merlot, and the rest tiny portions of Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc, reveals copious notes of chocolate along with hints of melted tar, charcoal, black cherries, and currants. Full-bodied, dense, and well-balanced, it should drink well for 10-15 years. Interestingly, Paul Frank continues to sell much of his production to such high quality wineries as Pahlmeyer. He will undoubtedly do more and more estate bottling as his vineyard ages.
VM 90+ (6/2006): (a Bordeaux blend based on 84% cabernet sauvignon) Bright, deep medium ruby color. Black cherry, cassis, bitter chocolate and mocha on the slightly medicinal, primary nose. Then juicy, spicy and bright, with cooler, high-pitched flavors of black cherry, spices and flowers. Less lush and porty than the 2002 version but fresher and more elegant. Finishes with good sweet tannins and very good length. |
|
| Girasole |
2016 |
Mendocino Cabernet Sauvignon |
$13.99 |
7 |
|
| |
|
|
2014 |
Mendocino Pinot Noir |
$16.99 |
10 |
|
| |
|
|
2019 |
Mendocino Pinot Noir |
$16.99 |
34 |
|
| |
|
| Grace Family Vineyards |
1990 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$350 |
2 |
|
| |
| WS 94 (2/2001): Dark and maturing, with complex black cherry,coffee, wild berry, stewed plum, cedar and anise flavors that are concentrated and elegant.Finishes with mild but sufficient tannins. Drinks exceptionally well now.--California Cabernet retrospective. Drink now through 2010. 154 cases made. |
|
|
1990 |
Cabernet Sauvignon Corroded Capsule |
$350 |
2 |
|
| |
| WS 94 (2/2001): Dark and maturing, with complex black cherry,coffee, wild berry, stewed plum, cedar and anise flavors that are concentrated and elegant.Finishes with mild but sufficient tannins. Drinks exceptionally well now.--California Cabernet retrospective. Drink now through 2010. 154 cases made. |
|
|
2013 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$229 |
1 |
|
| |
JS 97 (1/2016): So perfumed and beautiful in the nose with spearmint, blueberry, and blackberry aromas. Full-bodied yet reserved and refined. Very linear and tight yet gorgeous and long. Compressed mouthfeel. Wonderful minerality with a flinty undertone. A young cab with great length and excitement. Needs at least five or six years to open. Wonderful potential.
WS 87 (9/2016): Wood influence presents strong cedar, clove and herbal flavors that shape the character and texture, making this tough to warm up to now and requiring a measure of faith that more charm will come in the future. Best from 2020 through 2032. |
|
|
2001 |
Blank Cabernet Sauvignon |
$149 |
3 |
|
| |
| VM 88 (6/2004): Red-ruby. Aromas of eucalyptus, smoke and meat. Sweet, supple and fairly fat, with flavors of eucalyptus and tomato. Suggests a rather wide range of ripeness. |
|
|
2001 |
Blank Cabernet Sauvignon |
$83.30 |
5 |
|
| |
| VM 88 (6/2004): Red-ruby. Aromas of eucalyptus, smoke and meat. Sweet, supple and fairly fat, with flavors of eucalyptus and tomato. Suggests a rather wide range of ripeness. |
|
|
2004 |
Blank Cabernet Sauvignon |
$135 |
2 |
|
| |
| VM 90 (6/2007): Good red-ruby. Aromas of redcurrant, cherry, earth, smoke and tobacco. Sweet and plump, with moderately complex flavors of redcurrant, gravel and loam; showing less of the eucalyptus character of past vintages, which winemaker Gary Brookman attributes to the maturing vines (they were planted in 1998), the small crop level, and an element of dehydration in 2004. Finishes with sweet tannins. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
|
2012 |
Blank Cabernet Sauvignon |
$159 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 90 (10/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon is an attractive, mid-weight wine. Sweet red cherry, raspberries mint and eucalyptus flesh out nicely in the glass. The 2012 could use a bit more mid-palate generosity and overall depth, but it is solid nonetheless. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Grand Reve |
2004 |
Collaboration I Proprietary Blend |
$45 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2007 |
Collaboration I Proprietary Blend |
$55 |
2 |
|
| |
JD 94+ (6/2011): A Bordeaux blend of 63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Cabernet Franc, 13% Petit Verdot, and 11% Merlot, the 2007 Grand Reve Vintners Collaboration Series I is made by Ben Smith of Cadence Winery and is aged for 23 months in 70% new French oak and the rest in 1-year-old barrels. The wine boasts full-scaled, complex aromatics of sweet crème de cassis, spice box, sage, tobacco, and hints of mint on the nose. This is followed by a full bodied, beautifully put together wine that has a rounded, soft texture, perfectly ripe fruit, good acidity, and a blockbuster finish that’s loaded with fine grained, polished tannin. Given the fruit and texture, this is superb now, however, it should continue to evolve positively for 3-5 years, and have a solid 15-20 year drink window.
VM 91 (11/2011): Good full red. Strawberry, raspberry, mocha and red licorice on the slightly medicinal nose. Juicy and vibrant, with harmonious acidity giving energy and definition to the cabernet-dominated flavors of red berries, spices, mocha and fresh herbs. Plenty of flavor depth here without any heaviness. Finishes with suave tannins and excellent length. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
|
2008 |
Collaboration II Proprietary Blend |
$65 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 94 (6/2011): Showing even better than a year ago, the 2008 Grand Reve Vintners Collaboration Series II Ciel du Cheval Vineyard, a blend of 40% Grenache, 38% Syrah, 20% Mourvedre, and 1% each of Viognier and Roussanne, aged in 30% new French oak, delivers a stunning array of blackberry and cassis fruit, roasted meats, leafy herbs, and black olive on the nose. This is followed by a medium to full bodied wine that is youthful and fresh, possessing a seamless, pure texture, ripe tannin, and a classy, long finish. Evolving beautifully and gaining in both complexity and palate richness, this should continue to drink beautifully for another 10-12 years.
VM 90 (11/2011): Good deep ruby. Sexy, musky aromas of mulberry, mocha and pepper. Sweet and spicy, with peppery lift and nicely integrated acidity giving clarity and grip to this juicy midweight. Hints of herbs and menthol contribute complexity. Finishes with firm tannins and very good persistence. Nicely understated wine in a rather French style. |
|
|
2006 |
Collaboration IV Proprietary Blend |
$65 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2007 |
Collaboration IV Proprietary Blend |
$65 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 94 (8/2011): The 2007 Collaboration IV was made by Carolyn Lakewold. It is made up of 100% Merlot from free run juice from 1975 and 1994 plantings and was aged in French and American oak. Expressive aromas of dried herbs, spices, violets, cassis, and black currant inform the nose of a savory, ripe, voluminous wine with impeccable balance. It has the structure to evolve for 2-3 years and will be at its best from 2012 to 2022. |
|
|
2006 |
Collaboration Series Reserve Syrah |
$60 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Greer |
2014 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$160 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2015 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$215 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2016 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$205 |
3 |
|
| |
|
|
2016 |
Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$449 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2019 |
Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$449 |
1 |
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| |
JD 99 (12/2021): In contrast, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon is more round and supple, with loads of pure Napa magic in its notes of crème de cassis, toasted spice, smoked tobacco, and cedar pencil. Full-bodied, opulent, and loaded with fruit, it still stays pure, precise, and focused, with ripe tannins, a layered, multi-dimensional texture, and one incredible finish. I finished my notes with “Awesome.” Both the 2018 and 2019 are incredible, singular wines readers should seek out.
VM 97 (1/2022): The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon is a flat out stunner. Rich, ample and explosive, the 2019 possesses tremendous depth and pedigree to burn. Dark red cherry, plum, lavender, spice and menthol race across the palate. Time in the glass brings out a whole range of aromas and flavors that add stunning complexity. Iron, scorched earth, tobacco and incense linger on the potent finish. What a wine! (Drink between 2025-2039). Antonio Galloni. |
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| Grgich Hills |
2003 |
Estate Grown Cabernet Sauvignon |
$35 |
1 |
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| WA 89 (6/2013): The sexy, open-knit 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon exhibits a deep ruby/plum color as well as copious black currant fruit, silky tannins and a lush, consumer-friendly style. Fully mature, but in no danger of falling apart, it is capable of lasting another 5-10 years. The final blend was 93% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot and spent 21 months in French oak, 60% new. It finished at 14.7% natural alcohol. |
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2004 |
Estate Grown Cabernet Sauvignon |
$65 |
1 |
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| VM 87+ (5/2008): Plum, smoke, tobacco, earth and menthol on the nose, with a lightly vegetal aspect. Then moderately dense and tightly wound, with a distinctly herbal quality to the red fruit and tobacco flavors. Offers good palate coverage on the back, but the wine's slightly edgy acids and building tannins call for a few years of patience. Stephen Tanzer. |
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2005 |
Estate Grown Cabernet Sauvignon |
$75 |
2 |
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| WA 92+ (6/2015): From this iconic winery in Napa, the 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon (93% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc, 2% Petit Verdot) was aged 21 months in French oak with 60% new. No shy wine at 14.7% alcohol (the same alcohol content as there more expensive Yountville Selection), it has a youthful, dense purple color, freshness and acidity, medium to full-bodied mouthfeel, and pure crème de cassis and blackberry fruit along with spring flowers. Youthful and still on the ascent, it is capable of lasting another 15 or more years. |
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2006 |
Estate Grown Cabernet Sauvignon |
$75 |
1 |
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| WA 84 (12/2009): The 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon exhibits notes of chocolate, red and black currants, and camphor, but high acids and high tannin give the wine a monochromatic, clipped, lean character that will not age out. Rather, the wine is likely to dry out. |
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2011 |
Estate Grown Cabernet Sauvignon |
$75 |
1 |
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| 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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2015 |
Estate Grown Cabernet Sauvignon Bin-Soiled Label |
$65 |
1 |
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2006 |
Estate Grown Merlot |
$40 |
1 |
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2010 |
Estate Grown Merlot Lightly Bin-Soiled Label |
$40 |
1 |
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WA 88 (10/2013): The attractive, complex 2010 Merlot exhibits plenty of espresso bean, red and black fruit, spice box, sweet cherry and Christmas fruitcake-like notes. This delicious, medium-bodied Merlot should be drunk over the next 5-6 years.
VM 87 (5/2014): Bright red-ruby. Black cherry, mocha and a hint of walnutty oak on the nose. Fat and sweet but a bit simple, with easygoing dark raspberry and blackberry fruit dominating. A little syrupy and in need of more verve. Finishes with substantial, moderately ripe, slightly dry-edged tannins. Stephen Tanzer. |
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2010 |
Estate Grown Zinfandel |
$30 |
1 |
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2008 |
Miljenko’s Old Vine Zinfandel |
$75 |
1 |
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2009 |
Miljenko’s Old Vine Zinfandel |
$75 |
1 |
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2011 |
Miljenko’s Old Vine Zinfandel Slightly Depressed Cork |
$75 |
1 |
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2012 |
Miljenko’s Selection Cabernet Sauvignon Lightly Scuffed Label |
$80 |
1 |
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2007 |
Miljenko’s Vyd. Petit Sirah |
$60 |
1 |
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2010 |
Miljenko’s Vyd. Petit Sirah |
$70 |
1 |
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1997 |
Yountville Selection Cabernet Sauvignon Signs of Old Seepage; Bin-Soiled Label |
$179 |
1 |
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| WS 89 (11/2004): Complex aromas of waxy blackberry, cedar, dill, vanilla and herbs show hints of maturity, as might be expected from this late release. Firm and well-structured, the acidity and tannins give it plenty of support, finishing with richness and concentration. Drink now through 2012. 593 cases made. |
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1997 |
Yountville Selection Cabernet Sauvignon Wine-Stained Label; Bin-Soiled Label |
$189 |
1 |
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| WS 89 (11/2004): Complex aromas of waxy blackberry, cedar, dill, vanilla and herbs show hints of maturity, as might be expected from this late release. Firm and well-structured, the acidity and tannins give it plenty of support, finishing with richness and concentration. Drink now through 2012. 593 cases made. |
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1997 |
Yountville Selection Cabernet Sauvignon Wine-Stained Label |
$189 |
1 |
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| WS 89 (11/2004): Complex aromas of waxy blackberry, cedar, dill, vanilla and herbs show hints of maturity, as might be expected from this late release. Firm and well-structured, the acidity and tannins give it plenty of support, finishing with richness and concentration. Drink now through 2012. 593 cases made. |
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2006 |
Yountville Selection Cabernet Sauvignon |
$70 |
1 |
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| WS 87 (5/2011): Elegant and refined, with complex cedar, currant, dried berry and herbal scents, this is supple in texture, with some mature notes, but drinking well already. Drink now through 2017. 1,110 cases made. |
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| Gundlach Bundschu |
2011 |
Vintage Reserve Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) Scuffed Label |
$85 |
1 |
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2013 |
Vintage Reserve Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) Slightly Depressed Cork |
$100 |
1 |
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2014 |
Vintage Reserve Proprietary Blend |
$75 |
2 |
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2015 |
Vintage Reserve Proprietary Blend |
$85 |
1 |
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| Hall Winery |
2007 |
Cabernet Franc |
$25 |
2 |
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2010 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$65 |
3 |
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| VM 90 (5/2013): Good bright, dark red with ruby highlights. Pure aromas of redcurrant, loam and licorice. Pliant and sweet, offering good texture and extract to its flavors of plum, currant, mocha and brown spices. Finishes with broad, sweet tannins and a drop of milk chocolate. Stephen Tanzer. |
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2015 |
Bergfeld St. Helena Cabernet Sauvignon |
$189 |
1 |
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JD 93-95+ (12/2017): Possessing considerable elegance and purity in its blackberry, black cherry (and even some blueberry) fruit, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Bergfeld opens nicely in the glass and gives up more graphite, spicy oak, and licorice aromatics. It's concentrated, medium to full-bodied, beautifully focused and pure on the palate, with enough structure to warrant 5-6 years of bottle age. One of the eye-opening tastings while working on this report was the lineup from Kathryn Hall’s estate located in St. Helena. There’s a wealth of wines here, yet they all have deep, concentrated, pure profiles as well as singular characters. You could pretty much randomly select from this lineup and be guaranteed to have a brilliant wine. Hats off to winemaker Steve Leveque. All the 2016s, and the majority of the 2015s, were tasted as barrel samples.
WA 93-95 (12/2016): The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Bergfeld is a stunner. Beautiful graphite, spring flowers, blueberry and blackberry fruit, full-bodied opulence, stunning purity and a terrific presence on the palate with no heaviness make for a profound and gorgeous Cabernet Sauvignon to drink over the next 20 years, although it will be absolutely sensational after bottling. |
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2019 |
Bergfeld St. Helena Cabernet Sauvignon |
$175 |
1 |
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2006 |
Darwin Red Wine |
$40 |
2 |
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2018 |
Eighteen Seventy-Three Cabernet Sauvignon |
$99 |
1 |
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| VM 89-92 (1/2020): The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon 1873 is gorgeous. A blend taken mostly from sites in the eastern hillsides of Napa Valley (Atlas Peak, Howell Mountain, Rutherford) the 1873 shows just how appealing the vintage is, even among the more mid-tier bottlings. The 1873 offers an enticing combination of fruit intensity and freshness, all in a mid-weight style that can be enjoyed with minimal cellaring. Antonio Galloni. |
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2012 |
Jack’s Masterpiece Cabernet Sauvignon |
$109.65 |
1 |
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| WS 87 (7/2015): Tannins hold the upper hand in this dusty, savory, cedar-laced effort, overshadowing the core of juicy dark berry, licorice, cassis and kirsch. Should be more complete in a year. Best from 2016 through 2027. 2,700 cases made. |
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2015 |
Jack’s Masterpiece Cabernet Sauvignon |
$134.10 |
2 |
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2015 |
Jack’s Masterpiece Cabernet Sauvignon Nicked Label |
$134.10 |
2 |
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2019 |
Jack’s Masterpiece Cabernet Sauvignon |
$134.10 |
9 |
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2019 |
Kathryn Hall Cabernet Sauvignon |
$149 |
1 |
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JD 95 (2/2023): The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Kathryn Hall is a blend of 95% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Merlot, brought up mostly in new barrels. It’s a killer bottle of wine offering lots of ripe black fruits intermixed with savory herbs, melted chocolate, and tobacco. Medium to full-bodied on the palate, it shows the lush, round, velvety style of the 2019 vintage and is already impossible to resist. It’s going to evolve for 15+ years if well stored. (Drink between 2023-2039).
WA 93 (9/2022): There are 6,500 cases of the flagship 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Kathryn Hall, based largely on fruit from the Sacrashe Vineyard, at the eastern edge of the Rutherford AVA. A blend of 96% Cabernet Sauvignon and 4% Merlot, aged in 75% new barrels (mainly Taransaud), it's cedary on the nose, with plenty of cassis and black cherries in support. Full-bodied and plush, this well-endowed effort finishes long and softly dusty, with just a touch of alcoholic warmth. |
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2016 |
Mt. Veeder Cabernet Sauvignon |
$129 |
1 |
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