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Inventory updated: Fri, Jul 24, 2026 04:02 PM cst
2004 Calera Jensen Vyd. Pinot Noir
Vintage: 2004
Region: USA Red
Color/Type: Red
Size: 750 ML
Tasting Notes:
WA 94 (8/2007): This venerable winery, which has thirty years of history (long by California standards), has turned out a bevy of new releases. The dark ruby/purple-tinged, spicy, full-bodied 2004 Pinot Noir Jensen Vineyard reveals a stunningly complex nose of roasted meat, sweet red and black currants, cherries, earth, and spice. With excellent structure, acidity, and length, it should be another terrific example of this vineyard. Exceptionally long and rich, it should be cellared for 2-3 years and enjoyed over the following 15.
| Producer |
Vint. |
Wine |
Price |
Qty |
Order |
| | USA Red |
| Calera |
2004 |
Jensen Vyd. Pinot Noir  |
$75 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 94 (8/2007): This venerable winery, which has thirty years of history (long by California standards), has turned out a bevy of new releases. The dark ruby/purple-tinged, spicy, full-bodied 2004 Pinot Noir Jensen Vineyard reveals a stunningly complex nose of roasted meat, sweet red and black currants, cherries, earth, and spice. With excellent structure, acidity, and length, it should be another terrific example of this vineyard. Exceptionally long and rich, it should be cellared for 2-3 years and enjoyed over the following 15. |
|
|
2014 |
Jensen Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$109 |
6 |
|
| |
| WA 95-97 (12/2016): Even inkier-colored than the Sabarotte, the 2015 Cornas les Eygats is another single vineyard release that comes from a site located on the northern edge of the appellation. Aged in 50% new French oak (the balance is in once-used barrels), it offers sensational notes of plums, blueberries, crushed violets, pen ink and barbecue smoke in an utterly profound, decadent, layered, heavenly profile. There's ample tannin here, but they're sweet and polished, and it has an awesome finish. Don't miss it! |
|
|
2004 |
Mills Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$75 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 93 (8/2007): This venerable winery, which has thirty years of history (long by California standards), has turned out a bevy of new releases. The 2004 Pinot Noir Mills Vineyard boasts a deep ruby/purple color along with seductive, sweet aromas of black raspberries, black cherries, spring flowers, and spice. It possesses beautiful red and black fruits, good acidity, full body, and more tannin, but less spice than the Reed cuvee. This complex, fruit-driven Pinot Noir will benefit from 1-3 years of cellaring, and should drink well for 10-15 years. |
|
| Producer |
Vint. |
Wine |
Price |
Qty |
Order |
| | USA Red |
| Abreu |
2004 |
Thorevilos Red Wine Bin-Soiled Label |
$325 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 98 (12/2007): The 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Thorevilos (800 cases) has a sensational nose of a spring flower garden intermixed with volcanic scorched earth, sweet blueberry, blackberry, and espresso bean notes. It exhibits fabulous fruit, a full-bodied mouthfeel, with great purity, depth, and overall harmony. The acidity and tannins are present but nicely integrated along with the new oak. This is a sensational wine that should come close to perfection. It should age nicely for 25-30+ years. |
|
| Agharta |
2004 |
Black Label Syrah |
$115 |
3 |
|
| |
WA 98 (2/2010): Proprietors Pam and Pax Mahle have fashioned a 2004 Syrah called Agharta. Aged 58 months (that’s not a typo) in French oak casks (the 2005, 2006, and 2007 vintages will spend 45-48 months in cask), the extraordinary 2004 is a 475-case blend of 92% Syrah, 5% Grenache, and the rest Viognier, Marsanne, and Roussane. Most of the Syrah comes from the Alder Springs Vineyard in Mendocino. This profound wine’s inky/purple color is followed by aromas of smoky barbecue meats, grilled Provencal herbs, and exotic tropical fruits intermixed with blackberry, cassis, blueberry, and graphite. This super-rich effort tastes like the nectar of Syrah, yet it is dry, elegant, and remarkably fresh and precise. In the mouth, the impression is like that of a multilayered cake - everything is there. This is an amazing, very multi-dimensional wine that must be tasted to be believed. It can be drunk now or cellared for two decades.
VM 92 (6/2010): Dark ruby. A complex, expansive bouquet displays smoky herbs, dark berry liqueur, red- and blackcurrant, potpourri and an exotic apricot pit quality. Lush, pungent dark fruit and floral pastille flavors are complemented by smoky herbal and floral qualities and framed by supple tannins. Leaves spice and licorice notes behind on the long, sappy finish. |
|
| L' Aventure |
2004 |
Optimus Proprietary Blend Scuffed Label |
$65 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Beaux Freres |
2004 |
The Beaux Freres Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$85 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 91 (5/2006): Medium red color. Intense, well-focused aromas of wild strawberry, red plum, fresh rose, sassafras and cola. Sweet and poised, with an impressive delicacy to the red fruit flavors. Offers a silky texture and a sappy, clinging quality. Spicy, elegant and long, displaying seductive floral and spicy tones on the finish. Josh Raynolds. |
|
| 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 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. |
|
| Behrens & Hitchcock |
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. |
|
| Blankiet |
2004 |
Paradise Hills Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$149 |
3 |
|
| |
WA 96 (12/2006): There are 1,300 cases of the 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Paradise Hills Vineyard. Boasting delicious fudge-like aromas intermixed with blackberry, coffee bean, and pain grille scents, this super-rich, full-bodied effort displays a Graves-like, volcanic, scorched earth/hot stone element in its flavors. With moderately high tannin, it will benefit from 2-3 years of bottle age, and should drink well over the following two decades.
VM 94 (6/2007): Deep ruby. Vibrant, pure aromas of black raspberry and violet. Sweet, primary and sophisticated, with a lovely lightness of touch for a 2004. Very fresh cabernet with a building finish featuring suave, rich tannins and Outstanding length. From fruit picked under more moderate conditions than the merlot, which came in during the heat spike at the beginning of September. |
|
| Cadence |
2004 |
Tapteil Vyd. Red |
$40 |
2 |
|
| |
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. |
|
| 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. |
|
| Calera |
2004 |
Mills Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$75 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 93 (8/2007): This venerable winery, which has thirty years of history (long by California standards), has turned out a bevy of new releases. The 2004 Pinot Noir Mills Vineyard boasts a deep ruby/purple color along with seductive, sweet aromas of black raspberries, black cherries, spring flowers, and spice. It possesses beautiful red and black fruits, good acidity, full body, and more tannin, but less spice than the Reed cuvee. This complex, fruit-driven Pinot Noir will benefit from 1-3 years of cellaring, and should drink well for 10-15 years. |
|
| Camaraderie Cellars |
2004 |
Grace Proprietary Blend |
$30 |
4 |
|
| |
|
| JK Carriere |
2004 |
Anderson Family Pinot Noir |
$65 |
3 |
|
| |
| WA 92 (10/2007): The 2004 Pinot Noir “Anderson Family” seems to fit Jim Prosser’s profile of what he is attempting to achieve. Medium ruby-colored, the wine has a lovely bouquet of rose petal, toast, spice box, cherry, and black raspberry. On the palate the wine is elegant with uplifting acidity and a solid core of racy, sweet fruit. This harmonious effort is beautifully balanced and long. Give it 3-4 years in the cellar and drink it through 2024. It is one of the stars of the vintage. |
|
| Carter Cellars |
2004 |
Coliseum Block Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$125 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 91 (4/2014): The 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Coliseum Block exhibits a chunkier, but still impressive, black fruited style with cassis, blackberries, licorice and a touch of asphalt. Deep, rich and concentrated, it is not as complex as the Beckstoffer, but is very satisfying and mouth-staining. Drink it over the next decade. |
|
|
2004 |
Weitz Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$125 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Colgin |
2004 |
Cariad Proprietary Blend |
$309 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 99 (6/2011): I was tempted to give the 2004 a perfect score as it jumped out in this tasting as one of the truly great Cariads. A 600-case blend of 54% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Merlot, 10% Petit Verdot and 8% Cabernet Franc, it boasts extraordinarily complex aromas of chocolate, espresso roast, Asian spice, sweet meat, blackberries and cassis along with super intensity, a full-bodied, concentrated mouthfeel and a long finish with no hard edges. This is clearly a high fashion, flawlessly made wine that, while approachable now, is capable of lasting another 15+ years. My initial rating was also 99 points. |
|
|
2004 |
IX Estate Proprietary Blend |
$359 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 97 (4/2014): The same could be said for the 2004 IX Estate Proprietary Red, a blend of 59% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Merlot, 13% Cabernet Franc and the rest Petit Verdot. Deep purple to the rim with sweet blackberry, creosote, camphor, forest floor and fruitcake notes, sweet tannin and a layered mouthfeel, this wine builds incrementally offering up power, but also elegance. It is a spectacular wine from a great site. Drink it over the next 10-15 years.
VM 93 (6/2015): Good deep red. Rather exotic nose combines scents of hard candy, wild sage, iron, burning embers, cayenne and tangerine; more red than black in character.Lush, seamless and sweet in the mouth but not as deep as the Cariad. Finishes broad and a bit soft, with substantial dusty tannins. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
| Constant |
2004 |
Diamond Mountain Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$70 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 92 (4/2014): Constant’s youthful 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Diamond Mountain Vineyards reveals a deep ruby/purple-tinged color as well as lots of raspberry and blueberry fruit. From a 2,100-foot elevation, this elegant, cool climate Cabernet Sauvignon (which includes small amounts of Cabernet Franc and Merlot) shows no hint of herbaceousness or the earthy underbrush character high elevation vineyards can produce when they do not achieve full ripeness. With medium body as well as outstanding concentration and purity, should continue to evolve and drink well for another 15-20 years, developing even more fragrance as it ages. It is filled with finesse, a characteristic Napa is often accused of not being able to produce.
VM 88+ (3/2015): Bright medium ruby. Aromas of cassis, kirsch and graphite minerality are lifted by violet and menthol notes. Supple on entry, then chewy and primary in the mid-palate, with rather gritty tannins arriving early and giving the wine a toughness. Will this distinctly medicinal Cabernet blossom in the bottle? Certainly it still needs time in the cellar. (Drink between 2020-2028). Stephen Tanzer. |
|
| Corliss |
2004 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$55 |
3 |
|
| |
VM 93+ (11/2008): Deep ruby-red. Classic cabernet-dominated aromas of currant, minerals, herbs and pepper. Then gripping and precise in the mouth, with terrific cut and perfume to its berry and mineral flavors. Finishes with firm but fine tannins and superb lingering perfume. A very solidly structured cabernet that should gain in complexity and texture for a decade or two. Stephen Tanzer.
WA 90 (10/2009): The 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon is composed of 75% Cabernet with the balance made up of four other Bordeaux grapes. It, too, was aged for 28-32 months in 60% new French oak. It displays an alluring bouquet of pain grille, pencil lead, spice box, violets, and black currant. In the mouth, it is a bit more structured than the Red Wine cuvee while also revealing a Bordeaux-like personality. Give it 4-6 years of additional bottle age and drink it from 2013 to 2021. |
|
|
2004 |
Red Wine |
$65 |
3 |
|
| |
VM 91+ (11/2008): Good deep ruby-red. Fruit-driven aromas of cassis and blueberry. Sweet and lush but much less approachable today than the 2003 version, with its dark berry fruit in the background. Finishes with substantial, slightly tough tannins that will call for a good five or six years of cellaring. But then this wine won't be released until the fall of 2009. Stephen Tanzer.
WA 90 (10/2009): The 2004 Red Wine is made up of equal parts Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot aged in 60% new oak for 28-32 months. It offers up an enticing nose of spice box, tobacco, cassis, and black cherry. Made in an elegant style with soft tannins, this flavorful, Bordeaux-like effort will evolve for 2-3 years and drink well from 2011 to 2019. |
|
| Dancing Hares |
2004 |
Proprietary Blend |
$75 |
3 |
|
| |
| WA 94 (4/2014): A blend of 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 36% Merlot and 24% Cabernet Franc that spent 22 months in 100% new French oak, this small boutique project boasts the well-known Bordeaux oenologist, Michel Rolland, as their consultant. The 2004 boasts lots of black currant and black cherry fruit intermixed with spicy notes in a medium to full-bodied, opulent, well-balanced style. Even though the color is still youthful, the wine appears to be close to full maturity. With soft tannins, decent acidity and a plump, round, generous mouthfeel, this seductive red can be enjoyed over the next decade. |
|
| Diamond Creek |
2004 |
Gravelly Meadow Cabernet Sauvignon Signs of Old Seepage |
$199 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Donum |
2004 |
Carneros Pinot Noir |
$55 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 89 (12/2007): The 2004 Pinot Noir has a gorgeously sweet and ripe nose of black cherries and currants intermixed with some spring flowers and undergrowth. Medium-bodied, straightforward, but pure and reminiscent of a premier cru from the Cotes de Beaune, this wine should drink nicely for 4-5 years. |
|
| DuMol |
2004 |
Russian River Valley Syrah |
$65 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 90-92 (12/2005): The 2004 Syrah Russian River exhibits abundant notes of black fruits, asphalt, and pepper in a deep, chewy, rich style. It should drink well young, and keep for 7-8 years. |
|
|
2004 |
Ryan Pinot Noir |
$55 |
2 |
|
| |
VM 91+ (2/2007): Good medium red. Subdued but nuanced aromas of dark cherry, blood orange, smoke, meat and a whiff of white pepper. Round and broad but not at all sweet; offers very good depth and considerable sap and complexity. Finishes with suave tannins and very good structure. Very interesting, youthful pinot.
WA 91 (12/2006): There are 600 cases of the 2004 Pinot Noir Ryan, which offers wonderful sweet black cherry fruit intertwined with sassafras, Allspice, forest floor, and fresh mushrooms. This rich, medium to full-bodied Pinot should drink well for 7-8 years. |
|
| Dunn |
2004 |
Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon |
$205 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 94+ (12/2007): I don’t know whether it’s me, the vintage character, or whether Randy Dunn and his son have intentionally softened their wines, but these 2004s are more opulent and up-front than previous renditions. Yet, they lack neither concentration nor richness. Those of us who have been cellaring Dunn’s wines for twenty years, waiting for them to reach maturity should be thrilled by this new development. The Howell Mountain is denser and richer with blacker fruits as well as more body. Both are full-bodied, powerful Cabernets very much in keeping with his style. However, the tannins are softer and the wines reveal surprisingly developed aromatics. The 2004 Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon should last for 20-25 years. It is a brilliant achievement.
VM 93+ (6/2008): Bright ruby. Urgent, high-pitched aromas of crushed cassis, minerals and licorice. Juicy, bright and pure, with sharply delineated flavors of cassis, bitter chocolate and licorice. Very lively wine with a firm underlying spine. Finishes with subtle building length and a fine dusting of tannins. Still quite tight and primary but not hard. |
|
| Robert Foley Vineyards |
2004 |
Claret |
$95 |
4 |
|
| |
WA 95 (12/2006): The inky/purple-hued, seamless 2004 Claret boasts gorgeous aromas of creme de cassis, blackberries, smoke, licorice, espresso roast, and spring flowers. With sensational concentration, full body, a voluptuous mouthfeel, decent acidity, and sweet tannin, it can be drunk now and over the next 10-15 years.
VM 92+ (6/2007): (90% cabernet sauvignon and 10% merlot) Saturated medium ruby. Very dark aromas of blackberry, licorice, minerals, tar and molten chocolate. Wonderfully ripe, thick and supple but not overly sweet. In fact, this tannic, brooding, youthfully backward wine is distinctly clenched today and not yet expressing its inherent complexity. Finishes with a medicinal austerity and big, dusty tannins. This boasts terrific fruit but needs four or five years of cellaring. |
|
|
2004 |
Petite Sirah |
$50 |
3 |
|
| |
WA 95 (12/2006): The 2004 Petite Sirah is one of the most compelling examples of this varietal that I have ever tasted from California. As longtime readers know, I believe this is the most underrated varietal in California, but it’s not exactly a fun wine to drink young. After 10-15 years of age, it often reveals more character than many more expensive reds. Bob Foley has fashioned a true blockbuster that should age for three decades, but should be accessible when young given its abundant extraction and richness. The softness of the tannins and the wine’s silky, voluptuous character suggest it can be consumed over the next 2-3 years, but it will not reveal many secondary nuances for 5-6 more years. An inky/black/ruby color is accompanied by notes of incense, fruit cake, blackberries, chocolate, and roasted coffee. Although it has huge body as well as massive concentration, nothing is out of place in this tour de force that takes Petite Sirah to a mythical level of quality. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2025+.
VM 93 (5/2007): Black-ruby to the rim. Very dark, vibrant aromas of mountain blackberry, violet and licorice. Lush, thick and outsized; saturates the entire palate with an essence of black fruits. This boasts huge volume but does not come across as overly sweet. A superb example of petite sirah. |
|
| Force Majeure (Grand Reve) |
2004 |
Collaboration I Red Wine |
$45 |
1 |
|
| |
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| Franciscan Estate |
2004 |
Magnificat Proprietary Blend |
$75 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Frank Family |
2004 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$30 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Fuccawee |
2004 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$45 |
3 |
|
| |
|
| Grace Family Vineyards |
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. |
|
|
2004 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$239 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 89 (8/2007): Deep red-ruby. Intriguing aromas of botanical herbs, dried flowers, mint and shiso leaf, with some intrusive nutty oak; this reminded me of a old-style Italian red.Then suave in texture, with good richness but also a firm edge to the flav |
|
| Grgich Hills |
2004 |
Estate Grown Cabernet Sauvignon |
$65 |
1 |
|
| |
| 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. |
|
| Hoopes Vineyard |
2004 |
Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon |
$50 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Jaffurs |
2004 |
Ampelos Vyd. Syrah |
$35 |
6 |
|
| |
VM 91 (9/2006): Deep, saturated ruby. Wild aromas of blackberry, blueberry, flowers and game. Sweet, lush and suave in the mouth, with superconcentrated fruit showing an almost liqueur-like ripeness. Very dense and very sweet syrah, finishing long and ripely tannic. Stephen Tanzer.
WA 91 (8/2006): A big wine, the inky/blue/purple-tinged 2004 Syrah Ampelos Vineyard reveals plenty of black currant and black cherry fruit along with smoky, graphite notes, nicely integrated oak, terrific full-bodied intensity, and a long, heady finish. Consume it over the next 7-8 years. |
|
|
2004 |
Thompson Vyd. Petite Sirah |
$50 |
5 |
|
| |
|
| Juslyn |
2004 |
Perry’s Blend Proprietary Blend |
$55 |
8 |
|
| |
| WA 94 (12/2007): The 2004 Perry’s Blend, which is mostly Cabernet Sauvignon with a touch of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, emerges from fruit on Spring Mountain as well as Howell Mountain. There are 500 cases of this wine, which is showing better than it did from barrel last year. The wine has beautiful up-front notes of lead pencil shavings, sweet black currant and black cherry fruit intermixed with hints of licorice, underbrush, and spice. The wine is long, rich, beautifully textured, medium to full-bodied, and supple, with silky tannins in the finish. It should drink beautifully for 10-15 years. |
|
| Kapcsandy Family |
2004 |
State Lane Vyd. Proprietary Blend |
$250 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 95 (12/2006): A breakthrough effort, the 2004 Proprietary Red Wine State Lane Vineyard is a combination of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot. Its dense ruby/purple color is accompanied by lovely, evolved aromas of blueberries, black currants, white chocolate, licorice, and pain grille. Medium to full-bodied, elegant, finely etched, and impeccably well-balanced, with abundant amounts of sweet fruit, it should evolve for another 15-20 years.
VM 90 (6/2007): (a blend of 60% cabernet sauvignon and 40% merlot) Bright, deep ruby. Pungent aromas of blackberry, black licorice, tar, bitter chocolate and lead pencil. Sweeter than the 2003 but also quite juicy; this possesses a strong spine of acidity but the acids are more successfully integrated than in the 2003 thanks to more supporting flesh. Silky in the middle but the tannins are a bit tough. The merlot was affected by the heat spike in early September, noted Lou Kapcsandy. |
|
| Kistler |
2004 |
Kistler Vyd. Cuvee Catherine Pinot Noir Very Heavily Bin-Soiled Label |
$119 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 93 (5/2007): Dark violet. Intensely aromatic nose offers powerful blackberry and plum compote aromas. Very fresh in the mouth (the pH is 3.4, Kistler says), with vibrant red and dark berry flavors and taut minerality. Dry, focused and pure on the finish, with outstanding persistence and lingering dark berry flavors. Serious pinot: a great marriage of sweet fruit and soil tones. Josh Raynolds.
BH 88 (10/2007): A very ripe and moderately expressive nose of menthol, mocha, cherry cough syrup and blueberry fruit aromas introduce more restrained and nicely detailed full-bodied flavors that manage to keep all of the weight and extract reasonably well focused. While I wouldn't call this exactly light on its feet, the balance is better and though I believe there are many better ways to spend $90 on fine pinot, this offers solid if not better quality. (Drink starting 2010). |
|
| Kosta Browne |
2004 |
Amber Ridge Vyd. Syrah |
$59 |
2 |
|
| |
| VM 88+ (6/2006): Ruby-red. Musky aromas of black cherry, blackberry, tar, pepper and game. Sweet and dense if a bit youthfully reduced, with solid, chunky fruit lifted by spice and pepper notes. Finishes with rather powerful but slightly dry tannins. I suspect this will be more harmonious by the time it's released in the spring of 2007. |
|
|
2004 |
Kanzler Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$69 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 89+ (6/2006): Good full red. Exotic blackberry, raspberry, minerals, spicy oak and earth on the nose. Dense but tight on the palate, with sappy red berry flavors offering very good intensity and lift. This, too, is almost liqueur-like but retains good freshness of red fruit flavor. In a rather masculine style, finishing with solid tannic structure. From a late-ripening spot, notes Browne. I'd give this one a good two or three years in the cellar.
BH 88 (7/2006): A very ripe nose with hints of cola, mocha and briar folds into very rich and impressively concentrated flavors that possess a cherry-liqueur like quality to them. This is quite forward and while not soft, there is velvety quality to the finish that presently masks what are firm tannins on the pepper-infused and again, youthfully tangy and noticeably warm finish. Drink: 2009+ |
|
| Lagier Meredith |
2004 |
Mt. Veeder Syrah |
$55 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 92 (12/2006): This serious, complex, dark ruby/purple-tinged 2004 Syrah reveals a lovely perfume of licorice, acacia flowers, ground pepper, cassis, and blackberries. A beautiful integration of wood gives the wine elegance as well as a savory character. With loads of fruit, an expansive mouthfeel, a silky texture, and fine balance, this lovely, nuanced Syrah should drink nicely for 5-7 years. |
|
| Herb Lamb Vineyards |
2004 |
E II Red Proprietary Blend |
$65 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Levy & McClellan |
2004 |
Ampersand Proprietary Blend |
$159 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 96 (12/2007): Their debut vintage, the 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon, which was bottled earlier this year, is a fabulous effort. This 350-case cuvee boasts an opaque purple color as well as an expressive nose of scorched earth, blackberries, cassis, and hints of espresso, melted chocolate, licorice, and spice box. Rich and full-bodied, with silky tannin, tremendous texture, and a profound, multilayered mouthfeel, this sensational Cabernet should drink well for two decades or more.
VM 93 (6/2007): (cabernet sauvignon with 5% merlot) Deep medium ruby. Complex, pure aromas of cassis, mocha, brown spices, licorice and menthol. Chewy, lush and aromatic in the mouth, with remarkable intensity and depth for a vineyard planted in 1999. Thoroughly ripe flavors of dark berries and spices. What I like best about this wine is its layered texture and very sweet, ripe, fine-grained tannins. This is the new venture of husband-and-wife team Bob Levy (winemaker at Harlan Estate and Bond) and Martha McClellan (Sloan and Blankiet), from a vineyard leased from McClellan's parents. The budbreak in this site on Franz Valley School Road, at an altitude of 600 to 700 feet, occurs later than in Oakville, and afternoon wind routinely cools things down during the peak of summer, according to Levy. |
|
|
2004 |
Proprietary Blend |
$259 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 96 (12/2007): Their debut vintage, the 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon, which was bottled earlier this year, is a fabulous effort. This 350-case cuvee boasts an opaque purple color as well as an expressive nose of scorched earth, blackberries, cassis, and hints of espresso, melted chocolate, licorice, and spice box. Rich and full-bodied, with silky tannin, tremendous texture, and a profound, multilayered mouthfeel, this sensational Cabernet should drink well for two decades or more.
VM 93 (6/2007): Deep medium ruby. Complex, pure aromas of cassis, mocha, brown spices, licorice and menthol. Chewy, lush and aromatic in the mouth, with remarkable intensity and depth for a vineyard planted in 1999. Thoroughly ripe flavors of dark berries and spices. What I like best about this wine is its layered texture and very sweet, ripe, fine-grained tannins. This is the new venture of husband-and-wife team Bob Levy (winemaker at Harlan Estate and Bond) and Martha McClellan (Sloan and Blankiet), from a vineyard leased from McClellan's parents. The budbreak in this site on Franz Valley School Road, at an altitude of 600 to 700 feet, occurs later than in Oakville, and afternoon wind routinely cools things down during the peak of summer, according to Levy. |
|
|
2004 |
Proprietary Blend Scuffed Label |
$259 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 96 (12/2007): Their debut vintage, the 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon, which was bottled earlier this year, is a fabulous effort. This 350-case cuvee boasts an opaque purple color as well as an expressive nose of scorched earth, blackberries, cassis, and hints of espresso, melted chocolate, licorice, and spice box. Rich and full-bodied, with silky tannin, tremendous texture, and a profound, multilayered mouthfeel, this sensational Cabernet should drink well for two decades or more.
VM 93 (6/2007): Deep medium ruby. Complex, pure aromas of cassis, mocha, brown spices, licorice and menthol. Chewy, lush and aromatic in the mouth, with remarkable intensity and depth for a vineyard planted in 1999. Thoroughly ripe flavors of dark berries and spices. What I like best about this wine is its layered texture and very sweet, ripe, fine-grained tannins. This is the new venture of husband-and-wife team Bob Levy (winemaker at Harlan Estate and Bond) and Martha McClellan (Sloan and Blankiet), from a vineyard leased from McClellan's parents. The budbreak in this site on Franz Valley School Road, at an altitude of 600 to 700 feet, occurs later than in Oakville, and afternoon wind routinely cools things down during the peak of summer, according to Levy. |
|
| Long Shadows Wineries |
2004 |
Feather Cabernet Sauvignon |
$75 |
3 |
|
| |
|
| Miura |
2004 |
Talley Vyd. Pinot Noir Slightly Depressed Cork |
$49 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Ch. Montelena |
2004 |
Estate Cabernet Sauvignon |
$139 |
7 |
|
| |
WA 94+ (12/2008): The 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, all from their old vineyards in Calistoga. This is a dense, ruby/purple-tinged wine with full body, and despite the softness of the general vintage, Montelena has plenty of structure. Like nearly every vintage of their top Cabernet Sauvignon, it will last for 25 or more years. The wine has sweet tannin in a broad, flavorful, concentrated style with plenty of black currant, licorice, and spice. The wine is beautifully textured, slightly more forward than most Montelena Cabernets tend to be. It is another beauty from probably the most consistent winery for Cabernet Sauvignon over the last three decades.
VM 93 (6/2007): Good bright ruby-red. Aromas of cassis, licorice, dark chocolate and menthol. Dense, thick and powerful, with a chewy texture and impressive concentration to the plummy fruit. This has a silky texture but no shortage of inner-mouth energy. Finishes long and aromatic, with late-arriving tannins. In spite of Barrett's description of the ""Aussie-like surmaturite"" that figured in the harvest of 2004, I am not put off by a hot-vintage character. (However, I retasted the 2003 this year and found it in a very tough stage, with the tannins cutting off the fruit; on this occasion I scored the wine 89+?. My impression is that the 2004 was made from more consistently ripe fruit.). This wine weighs in at 14.2% alcohol, making it the first Montelena estate cabernet to surpass 14% since the '78, which was 14.4%. |
|
| O'Shaughnessy |
2004 |
Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon |
$119 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 95 (4/2014): The 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain displays a classic Howell Mountain personality of graphite, plums, black currants, forest floor as well as good minerality. A beautiful texture, full-bodied mouthfeel, terrific purity and a long finish make for a sensational, showy, flamboyant Cabernet Sauvignon. Drink it over the next 10-15 years.
VM 93 (4/2018): Dark red with ruby highlights. Maturing scents of plum, currant, cranberry, tobacco and loam are complicated by caramel and iron nuances. Plush, densely packed and compellingly rich, with moderate sweetness nicely countered by saline minerality. Finishes quite long, with a solid backbone of ripe, broad tannins; this wine is evolving nicely and already makes a very satisfying drink. This was the first vintage of this bottling to include seven of the estate's Bordeaux varieties--but not the Gros Verdot, which has never been used in the blend. (Drink between 2018-2030). Stephen Tanzer. |
|
| Pax |
2004 |
Kobler Family Syrah |
$55 |
2 |
|
| |
VM 91+ (5/2006): Good bright, deep ruby. High-pitched aromas of red berries, white pepper, brown spices and wild herbs, lifted by a note of rose petal. Juicy and penetrating; not a fleshy style but intensely flavored and light on its feet, with almost pinot-like floral lift to its berry, spice and pepper flavors. This wine, from a cold spot, is one of the lowest in alcohol of Pax's 2004 releases, at 14.6%. Finishes juicy and firmly tannic. Stephen Tanzer.
WA 90+ (12/2005): The 2004 Syrah Kobler Family Vineyard (90% Syrah and 10% Viognier) reveals a fragrant, northern Rhone-like perfume of rose petals and creme de cassis, tart acidity, and a big, rich, chewy finish. It could easily pass for a Cote Rotie in a blind tasting. |
|
|
2004 |
The Emerald Pool Alder Springs Vyd. Syrah Cracked Wax Capsule |
$55 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 94-96+ (12/2005): The 2004 Syrah Alder Springs The Emerald Pool, from a new block of the Alder Springs Vineyard, was fashioned from fruit grown in pure volcanic/gravel soils. The result is a wine offering notes of scorched earth, smoked meats, blackberries, cassis, and flowers. With more than 16% alcohol, superb stuffing, texture, and intensity, this beauty possesses tremendous power interwoven with considerable elegance and definition. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2020.
VM 92+ (6/2006): Saturated ruby. Tarry, raw cassis and kirsch complicated by star anise, pepper and a whiff of white fruit on the nose. Highly concentrated and densely packed, with powerful dark fruit flavors complicated by spices, pepper, minerals, burnt cinders and sexy woodsmoke. Distinctly feral wine ("the evil side of syrah," comments Mahle). Finishes with outsized tannins. |
|
|
2004 |
The Terraces Alder Springs Vyd. Syrah |
$65 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 93 (12/2006): The 2004 Syrah Alder Springs Vineyard The Terraces exhibits beautiful, pure blueberry and blackberry fruit intermixed with smoke and toasty oak. Rich, broad, and savory with light to moderate tannin, it will drink well for 7-8 years.
VM 90+ (6/2006): Saturated medium ruby. Extremely unevolved nose features some exotic suggestions of apricot, peach and spice. Powerful, firmly built and superripe, with penetrating acidity and a distinct peppery element from the fermentation with the stems. Strong in tannic acidity, notes Mahle. As ripe as this is, there's nothing heavy about it. Still, this very juicy, tight wine is distinctly edgy today and is dominated by its spine. Needs patience. |
|
| Plumpjack |
2004 |
St. Helena Cuvee Cabernet Sauvignon |
$119 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Realm |
2004 |
The Tempest Proprietary Blend |
$100 |
6 |
|
| |
WA 91 (12/2006): The impressive 2004 The Tempest, a 524-case blend of 60% Merlot, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 5% Petit Verdot, exhibits an inky/ruby/purple color as well as a big, rich nose of melted licorice, white chocolate, espresso, blackberries, and cherries. Super-pure, intense, and silky-textured, this stunning wine will drink beautifully for 8-12 years.
VM 89 (6/2007): Ruby-red. Aromas of plum, redcurrant, tobacco and minerals. Sweet and plump, with sound acids framing the black plum and spice flavors. Finishes with dusty tannins and good juicy persistence. |
|
| Rhys |
2004 |
Family Farm Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$55 |
1 |
|
| |
| BH 88 (7/2006): Harvey indicated that the oak regimen on this wine was an experiment and I can see why as the impact on the wine is distinctly different from any of the others reviewed here. The reason is that there is noticeable oak toast framing the violet and red berry fruit aromas and it continues onto the sweet, round and delicious flavors that offer good concentration and plenty of depth on the admirably long finish. If you're not sensitive to oak in general, you will undoubtedly find this more to your taste than mine but the wine is unquestionably marked by its oak. This is also solidly structured and will be capable of up to a decade of improvement. |
|
| Saxum |
2004 |
Bone Rock James Berry Vyd. Proprietary Blend |
$109 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 94 (9/2006): (85% syrah, with 12% grenache and 3% mourvedre; 15.8% alcohol) Deep, bright ruby-red. Deeply pitched aromas of black raspberry, violet, gunflint, tobacco, tar and cola. Lush and sweet but firm and imploded; deeper and more concentrated than the "regular" James Berry bottling but less evolved. Finishes with superb breadth and viscosity, but has the ripe acids-not to mention the rocky minerality-to maintain its shape and balance. Wonderfully deep wine. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
|
2004 |
Broken Stones Proprietary Blend Lightly Bin-Soiled Label |
$79 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 94 (6/2008): The 2004 Saxum Broken Stones needs some air time to show well and even showed a slight sprits at first. There's tons of ripe, high toned and candied red fruit aromas on the nose but with air, it picked up more dark fruit, exotic spice and subtle herb notes. A couple hours into the evening and this had really smoothed out and improved. The palate is impressive with fantastic fruit, a mouth filling, lush texture and a clean, long finish. Soft, lush and ripe, this is drinking great.
WA 92 (8/2006): The 2004 Broken Stones is a 600-case blend of 75% Syrah, 22% Grenache, and 3% Mourvedre. Its deep ruby/purple color is followed by a sweet perfume of black cherries, cassis, and flowers. Medium to full-bodied and savory, with sweet tannin and a supple, approachable style, this fleshy, well-balanced red should age nicely for a decade or more.
VM 91 (10/2006): (75% syrah, 22% grenache and 3% mourvedre; 15.6% alcohol) Good bright ruby. Highly complex, perfumed aromas of raspberry, blackberry, violet, bitter chocolate, tobacco, flowers, pepper and underbrush. Sweet and juicy, with a gentle texture and concentrated flavors of blackberry and dark chocolate. Very suave, silky wine, finishing with lush tannins and subtle length. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
|
2004 |
James Berry Vyd. Proprietary Blend |
$109 |
2 |
|
| |
VM 93 (10/2006): Deep ruby-red. Slightly high-toned aromas of cherry, truffle, cotton candy and smoked meat. Silky-sweet and seductive on entry, then sappy and spicy in the middle, with terrific acidity framing and lifting the blueberry and violet flavors. Wonderfully sweet wine, finishing with smooth tannins and lovely perfume. A superb example of the captivating blends being made in Paso Robles from Rhone Valley grapes. Stephen Tanzer.
WA 91 (8/2006): The deep ruby/purple-hued 2004 James Berry Vineyard (500 cases) is a blend of 38% Syrah, 36% Grenache, and 26% Mourvedre. Sweet kirsch, licorice, cassis, and floral notes are found in this supple, round, tasty effort. Reminiscent of a 2003 Cotes de Nuits grand cru red Burgundy, it is complex as well as surprisingly forward. However, I suspect there is plenty in reserve. It will be interesting to follow this wine’s evolution. I do not think it will be one of Proprietor Justin Smith’s blockbusters, but it’s a beauty. |
|
| Selene |
2004 |
Chesler Proprietary Blend |
$59 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 92 (12/2007): Displaying even more style and elegance, the 2004 Chesler exhibits a deeper ruby/purple color along with opulent, full-bodied flavors of creme de cassis, sweet cherries, licorice, and spice box. It is a broad, savory, rich, full-bodied red that retains the hallmark elegance and purity for which Mia Klein’s winemaking is known. It should drink well for 10-15 years. |
|
| Dom. Serene |
2004 |
Jerusalem Hill Pinot Noir |
$89 |
2 |
|
| |
BH 91 (10/2007): (bottled unfiltered and unfined at 14.5%) Relatively discreet oak spice adds nuance to the ripe and seductive essence of red berry liqueur aromas that are picked up by the round, supple and forward middle weight flavors that culminate in a sappy and tangy finish of fine length. This is still youthfully awkward but should come around in time to deliver fine quality in a somewhat modern style. Drink 2010+.
WA 83 (10/2007): The 2004 Pinot Noir “Jerusalem Hill” comes from an estate-owned vineyard planted in 1999. The wine currently exhibits more oak than fruit aromatically as well as damp earth with some dark fruit aromas in the background. That leads to a firmly structured wine with a compact mid-palate and a slightly hard finish. Drink it near-term. |
|
| Silver Oak |
2004 |
Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon |
$75 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Sine Qua Non |
2004 |
Covert Fingers Pinot Noir Cracked Wax Capsule |
$379 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 95 (8/2006): The knockout, deep ruby/purple/plum 2004 Covert Fingers Pinot Noir exhibits a slightly restrained nose revealing sweet cranberry and cassis aromas interwoven with hints of flowers, charcoal, and oak, a savory, broad texture, and an opulent, voluptuous finish. This beauty should drink well for a decade or more.
VM 93 (10/2006): Bright red-ruby. Pure, pungent aromas of raspberry and spices; very pinot! Densely packed, supple and sweet, with pure red berry, spice and earth flavors. Has a thickness of texture while retaining verve. Finishes with fine, supple tannins and lovely subtle length. Not as complex as Krankl's top syrahs, but this is delicious, and as graceful a pinot as I recall tasting from this producer. My sample showed even more intense raspberry and spice flavors the second day, without any loss of freshness. (I must note, however, that my first two bottles were corked.) |
|
|
2004 |
Ode to E Grenache (1.5 L) |
$1,399 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 100 (6/2014): Leading off with the Grenache-driven efforts, and easily the greatest expression of the variety I’ve ever tasted from California, the 2004 Ode to E (Grenache) is mind-blowing stuff that will stand toe-to-toe with the greatest Grenache-based wines ever made. Coming from Manfred’s Eleven Confessions Vineyard and comprised of 88% Grenache, 10% Syrah and 2% Viognier, it sports a still vibrant purple color to go with off-the-hook aromas and flavors of creme de cassis, melted licorice, graphite, smoked herbs and assorted meaty nuances. Full-bodied, seamless and elegant, with incredible purity and a perfect texture, it can be consumed anytime over the coming decade.
VM 97 (8/2015): The 2004 Grenache Ode to E is absolutely stellar. There's not too much more to say. Still young, fresh and vibrant, the 2004 is incredibly impressive. Exotic spice, rose petals, raspberry jam all open up in an effortless, nuanced wine bursting at the seams with personality. Exquisitely nuanced and balanced, the 2004 is a gem. Readers who own the 2004 should be thrilled; as it is a magnificent wine by any measure. My favorite age to drink Sine Qua Non wines is around ten years. The Ode to E Grenache delivers the goods, and then some. The blend is 88% Grenache, 10% Syrah and 2% Viognier, all from Eleven Confessions. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Stags' Leap Winery |
2004 |
The Leap Cabernet Sauvignon Scuffed Label |
$70 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 93 (12/2007): A terrific effort is the 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Leap Estate Reserve. This beautiful Cabernet possesses all the elegance one expects from the Stags Leap District in addition to notes of mulberries, black cherries, cedar, and loamy soil. Medium to full-bodied and fragrant, with a Margaux-like delicacy and finesse, and endearing purity and depth, it should drink well for 12-15+ years. |
|
| Teachworth |
2004 |
Estate Blend Cabernet Sauvignon |
$59 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2004 |
Manzanita Hill Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$59 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Turley Wine Cellars |
2004 |
Dragon Vyd. Zinfandel |
$89.99 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 92 (6/2006): Good ruby-red. Aromatic nose combines blueberry and blackberry liqueur, licorice and flowers. Dense, peppery and sweet, with briary berry flavors complemented by dark chocolate. Finishes with chewy, building tannins and a flavor of black cherry. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
|
2004 |
Dusi Vyd. Zinfandel |
$59.99 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 91 (6/2006): Good full ruby. Aromas of black raspberry, blackberry, espresso and pepper show an almost liqueur-like ripeness. Fat, velvety and broad, with very ripe flavors of roasted fruits and licorice. A saline character contributes to the wine's impression of thickness. Not hugely fruity, but finishes with sweet tannins and excellent length.
WA 89-91 (12/2005): The 2004 Zinfandel Dusi Vineyard is well-made, but not one of the top wines of this portfolio. |
|
|
2004 |
Mead Ranch Zinfandel |
$69.99 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 90+ (6/2006): Turley has taken over the farming of the vines in his block of this vineyard) Bright ruby. Quite primary on the nose, with a pronounced rocky character to the cool blackberry and mint aromas. Juicy and densely packed, with impressive concentration and breadth. Roasted raspberry and chocolate flavors are still a bit youthfully unevolved, and the wine's substantial building tannins argue for a year or so of patience. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
| Twomey Cellars (Silver Oak) |
2004 |
Merlot |
$30 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 86-87 (12/2005): The 2004 Merlot (93% Merlot and 7% Cabernet Franc) exhibits plenty of earth, herb, mocha, and sweet cherry and currant fruit in its ripe, oaky style. The impressive attack is followed by a dry, austere finish without the necessary depth of fruit and texture to back up the wood and structure. |
|
| Woodward Canyon |
2004 |
Old Vines Cabernet Sauvignon |
$89 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 94 (8/2007): The 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon – Old Vines (35 years of age) elevates the bar. Composed of 95% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Petit Verdot, it is opaque purple-colored and delivers a superb perfume of pain grille, scorched earth, espresso, black currants, and blueberries. This is followed by an extracted wine with richly flavored dark fruits, outstanding concentration, and great balance leading to a 60-second, pure finish. Give this powerful wine 4-6 years of additional bottle age and drink it through 2035. |
|
| Producer |
Vint. |
Wine |
Price |
Qty |
Order |
| | Germany |
| Weingut Hermann Donnhoff |
2005 |
Niederhauser Hermannshohle Riesling Auslese (375 ML) |
$69 |
3 |
|
| |
| VM 93+ (2/2007): Rich golden yellow. Bright, crisp nose dominated by candied peach, lemon oil and acacia honey. The lusciously sweet tropical-fruit palate maintains a remarkable delicacy in spite of the wine's richness and depth. The long, glossy finish is underscored by a refined spiciness. |
|
|
2006 |
Niederhauser Hermannshohle Riesling Auslese (6x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$836.98 |
3 |
|
| |
|
|
2006 |
Niederhauser Hermannshohle Riesling Auslese (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$429.98 |
5 |
|
| |
|
|
2007 |
Niederhauser Hermannshohle Riesling Auslese (12x375ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$432.97 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 95 (10/2009): Donnhoff's 2007 Niederhauser Hermannshohle Riesling Auslese leads with an unusually floral aromatic display, and the palate impression is so honeyed you'd think it were Bienenauslese (selected by bees). There is remarkable density here, with site-typical layering of flowers, orchard fruits, citrus, berries, along with smoky, peat-like, stony mineral suggestions that become more prominent as the wine takes on air. The finish is almost luxuriantly rich by Hermannshohle standards. But I am sure this wine will find more to say with time and not fall silent for 30 years or more. |
|
|
2010 |
Niederhauser Hermannshohle Riesling Auslese (375 ML) |
$50 |
4 |
|
| |
VM 94 (2/2012): Rich golden yellow. Luscious aromas of candied pineapple, lemon oil and acacia honey on a bed of smoky botrytis. The succulent weight of papaya fruit is levitated by crisp minerality on the palate. A fine balance of creamy fruit and herbal spice on the seductive, very long finish.
WA 93 (12/2011): Smoky black tea wafts over quince preserves and almost overripe pear on the nose and the glossy, subtly creamy, yet bright palate of Donnhoff's 2010 Niederhauser Hermannshohle Riesling Auslese Gold Capsule. Nut paste and a savory smoked meat dimension contribute complexity to this lusciously lingering Auslese, but one that " like its Brucke counterpart' does not capture the dynamic spirit of the 2010 vintage to quite the extent of its Spatlese siblings, and would benefit (might well, in time) from a bit more focus. Still, this will impress regardless for at least two decades. |
|
|
2012 |
Niederhauser Hermannshohle Riesling Auslese (375 ML) |
$45 |
4 |
|
| |
| VM 91 (12/2013): Rich golden yellow. Luscious aromas of candied pineapple, lemon oil and acacia honey. The succulent weight of papaya fruit levitates with crisp minerality on the palate. Finishes with a fine balance of creamy lingering fruit and herbal spices. Joel B. Payne. |
|
|
2015 |
Niederhauser Hermannshohle Riesling Auslese (375 ML) AP 77530102016 |
$39 |
3 |
|
| |
| VM 93 (11/2017): Headily decadent aromas of overripe peach and musk melon, peony and lily set the tone for a creamy, enveloping, lusciously fruit-saturated palate. There is enough fresh fruit acidity and salinity to lend the long finish animation and mouthwatering savor, though for now this misses the dynamic or the focus of its Spätlese counterpart, let alone of the Brücke Auslese. (Drink between 2017-2036). David Schildknecht. |
|
|
2018 |
Niederhauser Hermannshohle Riesling Auslese (375 ML) AP 7753010 24 19 |
$45 |
3 |
|
| |
| VM 95 (6/2020): Like its Brücke counterpart, this Auslese reflects genuinely botrytis-free grapes, said Dönnhoff, but ones that were too numerous and too high in sugar to use elsewhere, “and certainly not in the Grosses Gewächs, which would then have ended up with 14% alcohol.” Sea breeze on the nose intimates the sweet-saline savor of raw scallop that emerges on this wine’s lusciously lingering, mouthwateringly umami-rich finish. White peach and quince preserves feature throughout, reinforced on the soothingly creamy palate by nougat-like nut essences. There is an animating, juicy fresh-fruit aspect as well, and a wonderful sense of both focus and transparency to stony and ore-like nuances. (Drink between 2020-2050). Dvid Schildknecht. |
|
|
2007 |
Niederhauser Hermannshohle Riesling Auslese Goldkapsel (12x375ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$429.98 |
3 |
|
| |
|
|
2022 |
Niederhauser Hermannshohle Riesling Auslese Goldkapsel (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$712.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2006 |
Niederhauser Hermannshohle Riesling Beerenauslese (12x375ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,208.98 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2016 |
Niederhauser Hermannshohle Riesling Grosses Gewachs (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$676.97 |
1 |
|
| |
|
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2017 |
Niederhauser Hermannshohle Riesling Grosses Gewachs (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$826.99 |
1 |
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2021 |
Niederhauser Hermannshohle Riesling Grosses Gewachs (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$823.99 |
1 |
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2022 |
Niederhauser Hermannshohle Riesling Grosses Gewachs (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$714.99 |
1 |
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2007 |
Niederhauser Hermannshohle Riesling Spatlese (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$750.97 |
1 |
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WA 96 (10/2009): Gardenia, peony, and resinous herbs in the nose of Donnhoff's 2007 Niederhauser Hermannshohle Riesling Spatlese give way to a palpably extract-rich palate of vibratory intensity, suffused with stony, saline, and tactile suggestions of mineral matter, yet at the same time rich orchard fruits. If the Krotenpfuhl was painted with water colors, the medium here is definitely oil, exhibiting both dynamic and intricate brush work as well as dense layering. This masterpiece - picked simultaneously with the corresponding Grosses Gewachs - was only beginning to show its depth in the spring and needed almost six months in bottle to really shine forth. Take as long as fate permits you to savor this; I can't imagine it disappointing a quarter century or more from now.
VM 93+ (2/2009): Tantalizing aromas of papaya, sweet herbs and incense. Discreet but intense black cherry fruit rises from the mid-palate, accompanied by brilliant acidity. Animated and finely spiced, with a deep, long finish. I may be underrating this. |
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2012 |
Niederhauser Hermannshohle Riesling Spatlese |
$55 |
6 |
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2019 |
Niederhauser Hermannshohle Riesling Spatlese (1.5 L) |
$149 |
1 |
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| JS 100 (8/2020): All of nature's springtime joy and the epitome of autumnal ripeness somehow combine with summer-morning dew to offer one of the greatest off-dry German wines made in modern times. Breathtaking finish, so wonderfully light and filigree. From organically grown grapes with Fair'n Green certification. Drink or hold. |
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2013 |
Norheimer Dellchen Riesling Auslese (375 ML) AP 77530102214 |
$49 |
5 |
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| WA 93 (1/2015): Only made in vintages with a high ripeness (a pre-selection of the GG) the 2013 Norheimer Dellchen Riesling Auslese offers ripe and shortly cooked apple as well as pineapple aromas along with some volcanic rocks on the nose leading to a sweet, rich and piquant Riesling which shows its great talents not before the finish which is pure and salty but again sweet and sensual. The finish displays citric flavors and black bread but there is no heaviness or botrytis opulence at all in this wine. |
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2016 |
Norheimer Dellchen Riesling Grosses Gewachs (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$540.97 |
1 |
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2012 |
Norheimer Kirschheck Riesling Spatlese |
$49 |
6 |
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2019 |
Norheimer Kirschheck Riesling Spatlese (3x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$304.97 |
3 |
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2019 |
Norheimer Kirschheck Riesling Spatlese (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$256.97 |
5 |
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2021 |
Norheimer Kirschheck Riesling Spatlese (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$276.97 |
6 |
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2005 |
Oberhauser Brucke Riesling Auslese (375 ML) AP 7753010 14 06 |
$59 |
6 |
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| VM 92 (2/2007): Rich golden- yellow color.The nose offers l uscious yellow plum, honeysuckle and sweet spice, layered with a delicate hint of botrytis.Smoky pineapple jam and an elevated minerality animate the palate. Dense, juicy and long on the finish. Joel B. Payne. |
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2006 |
Oberhauser Brucke Riesling Auslese (6x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$786.98 |
2 |
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2007 |
Oberhauser Brucke Riesling Auslese (12x375ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$750.99 |
4 |
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WA 98 (9/2009): Incredible nose of candied orange peel, preserved ginger and honeysuckle with a touch of wet pebbles. The palate is packed with minerals and spiced fruits. A high level of lively acidity perfectly balances the seductive sweetness. Very long, minerally finish.
VM 94 (2/2009): Rich golden yellow. Passion fruit, a floral nuance and a bit of licorice on the nose. Pineapple and honey give way to brisk spicy acidity on the palate. A well-balanced, vivid auslese that finishes smoky and long, with an almost salty minerality. |
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2010 |
Oberhauser Brucke Riesling Auslese (375 ML) |
$50 |
5 |
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| WA 94 (12/2011): Picked-out, like its Hermannshohle counterpart, in the last, early-November days of harvest, Donnhoff's 2010 Oberhauser Brucke Riesling Auslese gold capsule was, he estimates, "perhaps 50% affected by botrytis, and dry botrytis, no mere rot." Candied lime rind and marzipan; lily and honeysuckle; white peach and salted caramel inform this wine's haunting nose and rich yet buoyant palate, with the mouthwatering savor that characterized the corresponding Spatlese undiminished. This needs some time in bottle to better focus, and it will be interesting to see whether it develops more sense of cut and brightness. But it's already irresistible, and almost sure to prove worth following for a quarter century or more. |
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2013 |
Oberhauser Brucke Riesling Auslese AP 77530102114 |
$99 |
3 |
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| WA 94+ (1/2015): The 2013 Oberhäuser Brücke Riesling Auslese has a very clear and precise bouquet of slightly cooked apples and lemons. Piquant on the palate this is a very bright, firmly structured and salty wine with a great and complex length. It is precise and very juicy but always piquant and salty. A great and stimulating Auslese. |
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2006 |
Oberhauser Brucke Riesling Auslese Goldkapsel (12x375ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$592.97 |
1 |
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| VM 92 (1/2008): Rich golden yellow. Luscious aromas of passion fruit, pineapple and sweet lime mingle with a delicate hint of botrytis. A bright spiciness along with elevated minerality enliven the palate. Finishes smoky and long. Joel B. Payne. |
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2007 |
Oberhauser Brucke Riesling Auslese Goldkapsel (12x375ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$545.97 |
4 |
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| WA 98 (9/2009): Incredible nose of candied orange peel, preserved ginger and honeysuckle with a touch of wet pebbles. The palate is packed with minerals and spiced fruits. A high level of lively acidity perfectly balances the seductive sweetness. Very long, minerally finish. |
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2006 |
Oberhauser Brucke Riesling Beerenauslese (12x375ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,125.98 |
3 |
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2019 |
Oberhauser Brucke Riesling Beerenauslese (3x375ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$917.99 |
2 |
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2019 |
Oberhauser Brucke Riesling Beerenauslese (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$3,344.99 |
1 |
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2009 |
Oberhauser Brucke Riesling Spatlese (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$249.98 |
2 |
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2011 |
Oberhauser Brucke Riesling Spatlese (3.0 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$440.97 |
1 |
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| WA 96 (2/2013): High-toned, distillate-like herbal extracts along with ripe fresh strawberry, apple and quince inform the scintillating nose and electrical charged palate of Donnhoff’s 2011 Oberhauser Brucke Riesling Spatlese. “We were able to just keep waiting on this site," he explains, “so that even this lightest wine from the Brucke was picked only in the last days of (regular) harvest." Hints of pits and seed, along with black tea, nut oils, zesty citrus, and myriad mineral impingements add to a sense of quickening that goes well beyond mere invigoration in this gem’s strikingly persistent, shimmeringly vibrant finish. I was left with salivary glands palpitating and arms covered in gooseflesh. It will probably be hard to resist such a wine at any point over the next quarter century, but those with the requisite remaining life expectancy should make an effort to defer for the duration the pleasure of at least the last bottle or two. |
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2012 |
Oberhauser Brucke Riesling Spatlese |
$49 |
6 |
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2019 |
Oberhauser Brucke Riesling Spatlese (6x750ML) |
$330 |
1 |
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| JS 97 (8/2020): If you dream of the great German rieslings of the 1970s and 1980s, then this is a wine for you, even though it is riper and more concentrated than those icons of the past. In spite of the abundant generosity, this has a very long, distinctly cool finish. From organically grown grapes with Fair'n Green certification. Drink or hold. |
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2019 |
Oberhauser Brucke Riesling Spatlese |
$55 |
4 |
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| JS 97 (8/2020): If you dream of the great German rieslings of the 1970s and 1980s, then this is a wine for you, even though it is riper and more concentrated than those icons of the past. In spite of the abundant generosity, this has a very long, distinctly cool finish. From organically grown grapes with Fair'n Green certification. Drink or hold. |
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2022 |
Oberhauser Brucke Riesling Spatlese (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$332.99 |
4 |
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2011 |
Oberhauser Leistenberg Riesling Kabinett (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$908.99 |
1 |
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2021 |
Schlossbockelheim Felsenberg Riesling Auslese Goldkapsel (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$617.97 |
1 |
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2007 |
Schlossbockelheim Felsenberg Riesling Beerenauslese (12x375ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,125.98 |
2 |
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WA 99 (10/2009): The over-ripe pear and quince featured in other nobly sweet wines of this collection are very much present in Donnhoff's 2007 Schlossbockelheimer Felsenberg Riesling Beerenauslese, along with aromas of distilled gentian, gardenia, lemon oil, freshly baked bread, and white truffle. The intensity of inner-mouth perfume here - orchard fruit, floral, and herbal distillates - is nearly beyond belief. Pear nectar, quince preserves, apple jelly, liquid gardenia, brown spices, and a certain saline and smoky suggestions of things mineral inform a finish of trance-inducing duration. This amazing elixir - harvested largely in the Turmchen section of the site - should be worthy of 40 years cellaring. When Donnhoff laughingly referred to this as the year of Felsenberg, he was not in fact kidding, nor was he referring just to the sheer number of bottlings!
VM 97 (1/2009): Rich golden yellow. Sublime aromas of candied citrus fruits, lemon oil and acacia honey. The succulent weight of papaya fruit levitates over the wine's understated minerality. The palate-staining finish boasts an impeccable balance of creamy fruit, smoky botrytis and herbal spices. An Outstanding effort for the vintage! |
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2018 |
Schlossbockelheim Felsenberg Riesling Spatlese (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$431.99 |
4 |
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2022 |
Schlossbockelheimer Felsenberg Riesling Grosses Gewachs (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$395.99 |
5 |
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2007 |
Schlossbockelheimer Kupfergrube Riesling Spatlese (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$354.99 |
3 |
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2018 |
Weingut Hermann Donnhoff Niederhauser Hermannshohle Riesling Grosses Gewachs |
$119 |
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2019 |
Weingut Hermann Donnhoff Niederhauser Hermannshohle Riesling Spatlese |
$69 |
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2018 |
Weingut Hermann Donnhoff Norheimer Dellchen Riesling Grosses Gewachs |
$119 |
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