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Inventory updated: Wed, Sep 09, 2026 04:02 PM cst
We are sorry, but that item has sold out. Please see other wines from this grower and region/vintage below.
| Producer |
Vint. |
Wine |
Price |
Qty |
Order |
| | USA Red |
| Anderson's Conn Valley Vineyards |
2005 |
Eloge Proprietary Blend  |
$99 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 96 (12/2008): The 2005 Eloge is a staggering wine that is utterly profound. Its extraordinary aromas of incense, cedar wood, creme de cassis, kirsch, spice box, and gamey smokiness as well as forest floor make for one of the most complex wines I smelled over the two weeks I spent in Napa. Full-bodied flavors are followed by a wine with sweet tannins, beautifully deep, concentrated layered fruit flavors, and a long, heady finish. This is gorgeous stuff that should evolve nicely for 15 or more years. |
|
| Araujo Estate |
2005 |
Eisele Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$219 |
1 |
|
| |
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. |
|
| Aubert |
2005 |
Reuling Vyd. Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir |
$150 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 95 (12/2007): The 2005 Pinot Noir Reuling Vineyard reminds me of a top DRC Richebourg. Of course, this is made from the famed Calera clone of Pinot Noir, which was suitcased in from one of the most renowned vineyards in Burgundy. The wine exhibits that beautiful sweet black currant, flowery nose, with sweet black raspberry and very ripe cherry notes intermixed with spring flowers and some spice from the wood. A wine of considerable opulence, complexity, and tremendously savory, expansive texture, this wine should drink beautifully for at least a decade. Mark Aubert is on the move, leaving Colgin Winery in favor of working for the Bryant Family Vineyard, while at the same time producing some of the world’s greatest Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs. He seems to have a plate filled with both potential and stress. The bad news is that one of his suppliers decided his Chardonnays were just too profound for the Quarry Vineyard, and will no longer sell him fruit from that source, and in 2006, there was so little Reuling available, that cuvee was not made either. In short, there are two fewer Chardonnays for the 2006 vintage! Nevertheless, those who got on the mailing list and secured some of his 2005 Chardonnays have some of the finest Chardonnays ever made in California at their beck and call. Of course, these are made from old Wente clones of Chardonnay, given full malolactic, aged on their lees, and bottled with no clarification.
VM 93+ (6/2007): (from a Calera clone) Deep ruby-red. Deeply pitched aromas of blackberry, smoked meat and underbrush. Dense and thick but with lovely energy to its complex, deep, soil-inflected flavors of dark fruits, smoked meat and black tea. This is about much more than just fruit. Finishes with substantial but essentially gentle tannins. Interestingly, the Vosne-Romanee clones used for the UV have produced an essence of California pinot in '05, while these Calera clones have yielded a wine in a more Burgundian style. |
|
|
2005 |
UV Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$100 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 95 (12/2007): The 2005 Pinot Noir UV Vineyard, another wine made from the Calera clone of Pinot Noir, and named after the superb viticultural manager Ulises Valdez, has a deep ruby/purple-tinged color and an exceptional nose of sweet raspberry, pomegranate, and currants intermixed with some spring flowers, underbrush, and forest floor notes. The wine has dazzling stuffing, expansive texture, sensational purity, and well-integrated acidity and tannin. It is a stunningly complex, grand cru Pinot Noir that should drink nicely for 10-15 or more years. Mark Aubert is on the move, leaving Colgin Winery in favor of working for the Bryant Family Vineyard, while at the same time producing some of the world’s greatest Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs. He seems to have a plate filled with both potential and stress. The bad news is that one of his suppliers decided his Chardonnays were just too profound for the Quarry Vineyard, and will no longer sell him fruit from that source, and in 2006, there was so little Reuling available, that cuvee was not made either. In short, there are two fewer Chardonnays for the 2006 vintage! Nevertheless, those who got on the mailing list and secured some of his 2005 Chardonnays have some of the finest Chardonnays ever made in California at their beck and call. Of course, these are made from old Wente clones of Chardonnay, given full malolactic, aged on their lees, and bottled with no clarification.
VM 94 (6/2007): Good deep red-ruby. Knockout nose combines crushed blackberry, black raspberry, licorice and violet. Sappy, densely packed and powerful, with hugely rich, near-confectionery flavors of black fruits, wild strawberry and chocolate. There are complicating soil tones here but this is essentially a wonderfully sweet, creamy California fruit bomb of a pinot. Finishes with superb purity of fruit, fine sweet tannins, and firm balancing acidity. |
|
| Beau Vigne |
2005 |
Juliet Cabernet Sauvignon |
$65 |
6 |
|
| |
|
| Beaulieu Vineyard |
2005 |
Georges de Latour Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon |
$175 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Beaux Freres |
2005 |
The Upper Terrace Pinot Noir |
$65 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 90+ (5/2007): Ruby-red. Dark, musky plum, cherry and blackberry and cola on the nose, with complicating notes of underbrush, dried flowers and licorice. Dried dark berry flavors are braced by zesty minerality and gentle tannins, with an exotic twist of sassafras on the back. Alluringly earthy, floral and sweet on the precise, understated finish. |
|
| Behrens & Hitchcock |
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. |
|
| Behrens Family (Erna Schein) |
2005 |
Behrens Family Reserve Proprietary Blend |
$55 |
7 |
|
| |
| 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. |
|
| Benziger |
2005 |
Dry Creek Valley Port (375 ML) |
$20 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Blankiet |
2005 |
Paradise Hills Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$125 |
3 |
|
| |
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. |
|
|
2005 |
Prince of Hearts Proprietary Blend |
$65 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2005 |
Rive Droite Proprietary Blend |
$159 |
1 |
|
| |
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. |
|
| Boudreaux Cellars |
2005 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$65 |
4 |
|
| |
| WA 93 (10/2022): Dark, extracted and dense, the 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon is lush yet slightly closed down on the nose. It is full-bodied, with hints of volatility in the mouth, flavors of blackberry liqueur and hints of herbs. It ends with a somersaulting finish that should remain food-friendly for the next seven to eight years. |
|
|
2005 |
Merlot |
$55 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 87 (6/2008): The red wines begin with the 2005 Merlot (100% varietal) which is purple-colored with a fragrant perfume of spice box, toasty oak, red currants, and kirsch. Firm and structured on the palate, the wine leans out in the finish. |
|
|
2005 |
Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon |
$75 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 94 (10/2022): Rich, round and generous, the 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve is focused, dark-fruited and layered with oak spices. Full-bodied and tannic, the palate reveals a full-throttle wine with an incredibly complex flavor profile layered with blackberry essence, dark plum and roasted cherry skins that unwind across the blockbuster finish. Drink over the next decade. Bravo! |
|
|
2005 |
Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon Wrinkled Label |
$75 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 94 (10/2022): Rich, round and generous, the 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve is focused, dark-fruited and layered with oak spices. Full-bodied and tannic, the palate reveals a full-throttle wine with an incredibly complex flavor profile layered with blackberry essence, dark plum and roasted cherry skins that unwind across the blockbuster finish. Drink over the next decade. Bravo! |
|
| Brewer Clifton |
2005 |
Cargasacchi Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$45 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 93 (11/2013): From a high yielding year, the 2005 is evolved and fully mature. Stunning aromatics of pomegranate, black cherries, porcini mushrooms and jus de viande are enticing and evolved. In the mouth, the wine is medium to full-bodied (15.5% alcohol) with sweet, velvety tannins. Drink this round, delicious 2005 Pinot Noir now and over the next 5-7 years.
VM 92 (11/2007): Pale red. Exotic head shop aromas suggest red fruits, bayberry, cinnamon and patchouli, with a suave blood orange character building with air. Spicy redcurrant and strawberry flavors are seductively perfumed and pure, with dusty minerality contributing grip and focus. Reminds me of a top Dujac wine with its heady bouquet, sharply focused red berry flavors and silky texture. Josh Raynolds. |
|
| Cavus |
2005 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$75 |
3 |
|
| |
|
| Col Solare |
2005 |
Proprietary Red |
$59 |
6 |
|
| |
VM 90 (12/2008): Good medium ruby. Sexy, complex, very ripe aromas of blackberry, minerals, tar and nutty oak. Suave, lush and fine-grained, with ripe acidity framing the red and black fruit flavors and a note of tobacco leaf providing lift. At once intense and pliant. Finishes broad, long and dry, with substantial oak-driven tannins that call for some patience. (Incidentally, the current set of high-end reds from sister winery Columbia Crest-the 2005 Reserve Merlot, Reserve Cabernet and Walter Clore Private Reserve-were all crushed by oak; the cabernet was the best of them, at 85 points.)
WA 87 (3/2013): Its Cabernet Sauvignon blended solely with 25% Merlot, the 2005 Col Solare is disappointingly drying in finish and was surely far more pleasurable some years ago. It spend 26 months in barrel, a length of elevage that has since not been approached and which, in Notaro’s words, “I have never found that the wine needed." That said, there are certainly interesting scents and flavors here including autumn foliage, cedar, tobacco, and dried cherry, which - just as in the corresponding 2006 - hold most fascination and sense of savor on the mid-palate. This should certainly be enjoyed soon. (Similar reservations to those just mentioned apply in spades to a 2002 tasted alongside.) |
|
| Copain Wines |
2005 |
James Berry Vyd. Syrah |
$35 |
2 |
|
| |
VM 93+ (5/2006): (50% whole clusters; from soil rich in schist that Guthrie compares to the Cote Brune of Cote-Rotie) Saturated deep ruby. Highly aromatic nose offers crushed raspberry, pepper, woodsmoke and minerals. Densely packed, intense and sweet, with flavors of dark berries, spices and pepper. This boasts terrific, slowly mounting fruit and finishes very long and perfumed, with big, peppery tannins. The crop level here was barely two tons an acre, according to Guthrie. A superb California syrah in a distinctly French style.
WA 92+ (12/2006): From a high elevation site (1,400 feet), the 2004 Syrah Hawke’s Butte is planted in pure schist. Seventy-five percent whole clusters were used, and the wine was aged 16 months in French oak, 30% new. Revealing the most minerality of these Syrah cuvees, its liquefied rock character is interwoven with blackberry, cassis, and a peppery earthiness. It should evolve for a decade. |
|
| Corliss |
2005 |
Red Wine |
$65 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 93 (8/2010): The 2005 Corliss Red is a blend of 66% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, 9% Malbec, 8% Cabernet Franc, and 7% Petit Verdot aged in 73% new French oak for 33 months. The fruit was sourced from some of the finest sites of the Columbia Valley. Purple in color with an inviting perfume of pain grille, pencil lead, violets, spice box, black cherry, and blackberry, on the palate it is full-bodied with outstanding volume and concentration. Savory black fruits and spice emerge from this smooth-textured offering leading to a lengthy, pure finish. It has the structure to evolve for at least 3-4 years and will deliver a drinking window extending from 2014 to 2025. |
|
| Dalla Valle |
2005 |
Maya Proprietary Blend (3X750ML) 3-bottle OWC |
$1,200 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 95+ (12/2007): The 2005 Maya Proprietary Red Wine is a blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon and 35% Cabernet Franc. Many experienced observers believe that the Cabernet Franc grown in the red soils of Dalla Valle’s vineyards is the finest in California, and this cuvee has always reflected that. The dense ruby/purple-hued 2005 reveals a lovely, sweet perfume of scorched earth, black and red fruits, truffles, and a whiff of pain grille. The flavor profile possesses notions of chocolate and smoky oak along with rich, layered fruit, an enticing texture, and a long finish. This Outstanding red wine will age well for 20-25 years. It is one of the most graceful, approachable Mayas made recently.
VM 93+ (6/2008): Deep ruby-red. Brooding aromas of bitter cherry, licorice and minerals, with the wine's classic floral perfume in the background. Then lush, sweet and seamless if a bit medicinal and backward today. Conveys an impression of serious thickness without weight. With aeration, the wine's floral character came through. Still a bit youthfully grapey, with the big, broad tannins calling for a good eight to ten years of cellaring. An impressive return for Maya, which was not made in 2003 and 2004. This is the last vintage to include some of the estate's oldest cabernet franc vines, dating back to the mid-'80s. Phylloxera exacerbated by leaf roll virus and oak root fungus has required wholesale replanting of vines here in recent years. Total production of the estate's two red wines in 2005 was just 700 cases, vs. 4,500 in the early '90s. |
|
| Dancing Hares |
2005 |
Proprietary Blend |
$119 |
3 |
|
| |
|
| DeLille Cellars |
2005 |
Chaleur Estate |
$75 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 93 (9/2016): The only vintage to include Cabernet Sauvignon from the Grand Ciel vineyard on Red Mountain, the 2005 Chaleur Estate is a structured, firm, straight and age-worthy Bordeaux blend from this estate that offers lots of black fruits, lead pencil shavings, chocolate and toasted bread aromas and flavors. Medium to full-bodied, with good richness and chewy tannin, it will have 20-25 years of overall longevity.
VM 91+ (11/2008): Bright ruby-red. Cassis, boysenberry, tar and brown spices on the nose. Sweet and sexy on entry, then powerful and a bit youthfully aggressive in the middle, with a bit of alcohol (actually 14.9%) currently muting the black fruit flavors. This solidly structured wine finishes with excellent tannic grip but is currently a bit clenched. I'd give it five years of cellaring, at which time I suspect it will merit a higher score. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
|
2005 |
Grand Ciel Cabernet Sauvignon |
$150 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 93+ (11/2008): (represents a "cherry picking" of the vines planted here in 2000) Good ruby-red. Brambly aromas of currant, spices, herbs and licorice. Sweet, lush and chewy, with terrific ripeness and intensity of fruits and spices. Impressively broad and structured wine that needs aging. This one is wearing its 14.9% alcohol more gracefully today than the Chaleur Estate bottling but I wouldn't bet against the Chaleur wine in the long run.
WA 94 (10/2009): The 2005 Grand Ciel Cabernet Sauvignon is 100% varietal from the Grand Ciel Vineyard owned by DeLille in the Red Mountain AVA. A saturated purple color, it has a superb aromatic array of pain grille, pencil lead, cinnamon, allspice, sage, violets, blackberry, and black currant. Full-bodied, youthful, and voluptuous on the palate, it has layers of succulent black fruit, chocolate and espresso notes, lots of spice, and an exceptionally long, 60-second finish. It will offer a drinking window extending from 2013 to 2025. |
|
| Diamond Creek |
2005 |
Gravelly Meadow Cabernet Sauvignon Slightly Raised Cork; Lightly Bin-Soiled Label |
$229 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| 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. |
|
| Robert Foley Vineyards |
2005 |
Claret |
$95 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 92 (12/2008): A gorgeous nose of creme de cassis, spring flowers, and sweet black cherries emerges from the full-bodied, opulent 2005 Claret. Revealing more concentration, sweeter tannins, and more nuances and complexity than the 2006, this elegant beauty can be enjoyed over the next 10-15 years. |
|
| Futo |
2005 |
Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon |
$250 |
3 |
|
| |
|
|
2005 |
OV Proprietary Blend |
$69 |
4 |
|
| |
|
| Garric Cellars |
2005 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$75 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Gemstone |
2005 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$99 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Ghost Block |
2005 |
Estate Cabernet Sauvignon Very Lightly Scuffed Label |
$50 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Grgich Hills |
2005 |
Estate Grown Cabernet Sauvignon |
$75 |
2 |
|
| |
| 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. |
|
| Hoopes Vineyard |
2005 |
Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon |
$50 |
6 |
|
| |
|
| Juslyn |
2005 |
Perry’s Blend Proprietary Blend |
$55 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 95 (12/2008): The full-bodied 2005 Perry’s Blend (88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Merlot, and the rest Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot) is a combination of estate fruit and purchased grapes. It is a wine of extraordinary elegance and precision, displaying a sweet, expansive nose of spring flowers, black currants, and hints of blueberries as well as crushed rocks. An ethereal lightness and overall harmony give the wine a Bordeaux-like framework. It possesses terrific purity and depth, and a sweetness to the tannin that suggests it can be drunk now or cellared for 15+ years. |
|
|
2005 |
Spring Mountain Estate Cabernet Sauvignon |
$59 |
11 |
|
| |
WA 95+ (12/2008): More backward, but also revealing the noble sweetness of tannin that is so important for this varietal, the 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Spring Mountain Estate exhibits a dense ruby/purple hue as well as sweet aromas of black currants, white chocolate, camphor, and spring flowers. Beautiful purity, ripe tannins, full body, and a 45-second finish result in a dazzling example of Spring Mountain Cabernet. However, patience is warranted. Give this wine 2-3 years of bottle age, and drink it over the following 15+ years.
VM 88 (5/2016): Medium red-ruby. Wild aromas of black cherry, mocha, truffle, leather and game. Sauvage and savory in the mouth, conveying moderate concentration but a pliant texture to its dark fruit and animal flavors. Dusty tannins will not get in the way of enjoying this rather easygoing wine 2016. Perhaps a bit dry on the aftertaste but there's little in the way of Spring Mountain rigidity here. (Drink between 2016-2020). Stephen Tanzer. |
|
| Kapcsandy Family |
2005 |
State Lane Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$179 |
3 |
|
| |
WA 95 (12/2007): A blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Merlot and Cabernet Franc, the opaque purple-hued 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon State Lane Vineyard is a rich, full-bodied effort displaying notes of cedar, truffles, black currants, coffee, chocolate, and spice. With sweet tannin, full-bodied power, and impressive purity and length, this rich, backward, Bordeaux-styled wine does not ignore the wealth and extravagant fruit of Napa Valley. In short, the best of both worlds. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2030.
VM 92-94 (6/2007): Highly perfumed aromas of currant, blackberry, tobacco, violet and wild lavender. Sweet and silky but penetrating, with good density leavened by superb acidity. Ultimately lusher and a bit more chocolatey than the Roberta's but still not a particularly fleshy style. Here the juicy finish features suaver tannins and subtle persistence. Promises to be the best vintage yet for this new producer, where improvement has been rapid in just three years. |
|
|
2005 |
State Lane Vyd. Estate Cuvee |
$245 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 94 (12/2007): The 2005 Estate Cuvee State Lane Vineyard is a 750-case blend of 56% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, and 4% Cabernet Franc aged 20 months in new French oak. It exhibits incredible refinement, dark, medium to full-bodied flavors (earth, black currants, sweet cherries, licorice, truffles, and cedar), beautiful ripeness and purity, and a long, silky finish with no hard edges. Approachable now, it will last for 15 or more years. It is reminiscent of one of my favorite Bordeaux wines, Haut-Brion.
VM 88-90 (6/2007): Full medium ruby. Aromas of cassis, violet, loam and bitter chocolate, plus a suggestion of sour cherry. Suave and penetrating, on the lean side but with a supple texture in spite of the rather strong impression of acidity. Finishes firmly tannic and persistent, with good energy. |
|
| Kosta Browne |
2005 |
Amber Ridge Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$69 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 90+ (6/2007): Ruby-red. Brooding aromas of kirsch, blackcurrant and cured tobacco are brightened by suggestions of iron and dried violet. Focused dark berry and cherry flavors show impressive concentration and a chewy texture and are nicely firmed by youthful tannins. The solid finish features strikingly sweet cherry and mocha flavors. This needs some time. |
|
|
2005 |
Kanzler Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$95 |
2 |
|
| |
| VM 91 (6/2007): Deep red. Intense, primary red and dark berry aromas are brightened by fresh rose, minerals and cinnamon. Weighty but focused, with sweet kirsch and mulberry flavors, chewy texture and a building floral pastille element. Turns sweeter still on the finish, which features a strong raspberry flavor and superb persistence. There's a seamless, creamy quality to this pinot that makes it really appealing even now. |
|
|
2005 |
Koplen Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$69 |
2 |
|
| |
| VM 92 (6/2007): Bright red. Intensely floral aromas of vibrant raspberry, wild strawberry, candied cherry, cola and violet, plus an exotic dose of Asian spices. Silky and sweet, with vibrant red fruit character and suave, harmonious tannins. Picks up a zesty mineral note with air, finishing with elegant, sweet suggestions of wild strawberry and orange (!) liqueur. Pretty alluring stuff. |
|
|
2005 |
Rosella’s Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$89 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 91 (6/2007): Light red. Perfumed redcurrant and wild strawberry scents are precise and impressively energetic, with a zesty mineral note adding to the impression of vibrancy. Brisk but also nicely filled in, with strong red berry and cherry flavors lifted by exotic Asian spices. Taut, refreshingly bitter cherry and pomegranate notes on the finish carry impressively and are joined by an intriguing, vaguely numbing white pepper tone.
WA 85 (8/2007): The well-made 2005 Pinot Noir Rosella’s Vineyard (15.3% alcohol) is somewhat puzzling as it possesses very ripe fruit, but not the concentration of most of its peers. It offers some weedy spice and earth characteristics as well as tart acidity. |
|
|
2005 |
Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir |
$59 |
3 |
|
| |
VM 89 (6/2007): Bright red. Spicy cherry and wild strawberry aromas, with dark chocolate and licorice accents. Supple red and dark berry jam flavors show good depth and are accented by cracked pepper and mace. Finishes broad and sweet, with very good length and a refreshingly bitter cherry skin tone.
BH 85 (12/2007): An expressive nose combines notes of cherry cough syrup a hint of menthol that can also be picked up on the round, supple and textured flavors that are attractively silky but culminate in a bitter and unbalanced finish where the warmth from the elevated alcohol dominates. While I for clearly stated reasons do not debate the merits of style in my evaluations because everyone should, and for the most part happily does, prefer different things, high alcohol is not a style question, it’s a balance question and this wine’s balance suffers because of its elevated alcohol and backend bitterness. The finishing bitterness of course is not from the alcohol but suffice it to say that this isn’t for me and I certainly wouldn’t recommend aging it. Drink now. |
|
|
2005 |
Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir Heavily Scuffed Label |
$59 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 89 (6/2007): Bright red. Spicy cherry and wild strawberry aromas, with dark chocolate and licorice accents. Supple red and dark berry jam flavors show good depth and are accented by cracked pepper and mace. Finishes broad and sweet, with very good length and a refreshingly bitter cherry skin tone.
BH 85 (12/2007): An expressive nose combines notes of cherry cough syrup a hint of menthol that can also be picked up on the round, supple and textured flavors that are attractively silky but culminate in a bitter and unbalanced finish where the warmth from the elevated alcohol dominates. While I for clearly stated reasons do not debate the merits of style in my evaluations because everyone should, and for the most part happily does, prefer different things, high alcohol is not a style question, it’s a balance question and this wine’s balance suffers because of its elevated alcohol and backend bitterness. The finishing bitterness of course is not from the alcohol but suffice it to say that this isn’t for me and I certainly wouldn’t recommend aging it. Drink now. |
|
| Lamborn Family |
2005 |
Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon |
$69 |
4 |
|
| |
|
| Cliff Lede |
2005 |
Stags Leap District Cabernet Sauvignon Lightly Scuffed Label |
$100 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 92 (12/2007): There are 5,800+ cases of the 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Stags Leap District. A blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Merlot, and the rest a dash of Malbec and Petit Verdot, it is a beauty. It shows the elegance and finesse of the cooler southern end of Napa with beautiful floral, black raspberry, and currant notes mixed with some cedar, a whiff of tobacco leaf, spring flowers, and well-integrated wood. The wine is medium to full-bodied and cuts a nice, deep, rich, but delicate feel in the mouth. This is a stunner that should drink gracefully for 15 or more years.
VM 89 (6/2008): Good deep ruby-red. Roasted plum, tobacco, earth and licorice on the nose, complicated by dried flowers, underbrush and brown spices. Broad, supple and rich; began dry and a tad warm but turned sweeter with air. Ultimately suave and nutty, with subtle notes of plum, flowers and smoky herbs. Finishes with dusty tannins and very good length. |
|
| Levy & McClellan |
2005 |
Proprietary Blend |
$239 |
3 |
|
| |
WA 95+ (12/2008): Levy and McClellan's 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon, which spent 26 months in new oak (mostly Taransaud), is developing at an incredibly slow rate. Its opaque ruby/purple color is accompanied by beautiful aromas of roasted coffee, melted chocolate, creme de cassis, burning embers, camphor, and a hint of cedar. On the palate, the wine combines considerable substance, power, and extract with a sense of harmony as well as elegance. Black currant, blackberry, and gamy, meaty notes are also present in this full-bodied effort with an incredibly long finish. The wine is just beginning to shed some tannin and become accessible. It will benefit from another 4-5 years of bottle age, and will easily last for three decades or more.
VM 94 (6/2008): Deep medium ruby. Complex, expressive nose offers black raspberry, licorice, brown spices, mocha, smoke, minerals and nutty oak. Wonderfully lush and creamy-sweet for the year, with Graves-like mineral, gravel and smoky notes (from barrel this wine struck me as brooding and Latour-like but today its fruit character is more red). Ripe, harmonious acidity and broad, lush tannins make this cabernet remarkably presentable-not to mention long on personality-for a 2005, but it also has the structure for an extended evolution in bottle. Even in 2005, this young vineyard on volcanic soil produced just over two tons of fruit per acre, according to Bob Levy. |
|
| Lewelling Vineyards |
2005 |
Wight Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$50 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 94+ (12/2007): Boasting even more intensity, aromatic complexity, and a fuller, longer mouthfeel and finish, is the 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Wight Vineyard. Sharing the same black/purple color, purity, and personality of its sibling, it should have 20-25 years of longevity. If Pontet Canet were making Cabernet Sauvignon in Napa Valley, it might taste like this. |
|
| Lewis Cellars |
2005 |
Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon |
$125 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Linne Calodo |
2005 |
Rising Tides |
$30 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 93 (8/2007): A blend of 51% Syrah, 38% Grenache, and the rest Mourvedre, the 2005 Rising Tides (700 cases) is dark ruby/purple, and has almost explosive garrigue-like notes interwoven with blackberry and cassis. The wine is firmly structured, very beautifully pure, dense, and expansive. This beauty should age nicely for 5-7 more years. |
|
|
2005 |
Slacker |
$30 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 90+ (11/2007): (65% syrah and 35% grenache) Deep red. Fresh, lively scents of spicy cherry, dark berries and exotic licorice. Brisk, sharply-focused cherry and anise flavors are sweetened by vanilla and firmed by a bitter chocolate quality. Tannins build on the finish but don't detract from the impressively vibrant fruit. I'd hold onto this for another few years. The laconic Trevisan told me that he was the slacker for whom the wine was named. Josh Raynolds. |
|
| Long Shadows Wineries |
2005 |
Feather Cabernet Sauvignon |
$65 |
6 |
|
| |
| WA 92 (6/2008): The 2005 Feather is a 100% Cabernet Sauvignon cuvee made by Randy Dunn of Napa Valley fame. The wine was sourced from three vineyards and aged for 22 months in 90% new French oak. The nose gives up aromas of toasty oak, scorched earth, Asian spices, black currant, and blackberry. Firm and structured on the palate, there are layers of fruit and enough tannin to evolve for another 4-6 years. The wine will be at its best from 2014 to 2030.
Long Shadows is the brainchild of Alan Shoup, longtime CEO of Chateau Ste-Michelle. It is a consortium of seven different labels, each with its own star winemaker who has a 25% share in the brand. The concept is that each is dedicated to producing a single Columbia Valley wine representing a ‘best of type’ that reflects the winemaker’s signature style. For the second straight year, every wine in this portfolio has achieved an Outstanding rating. For this, the credit goes to Alan Shoup who put it all together. |
|
|
2005 |
Pedestal Merlot |
$60 |
3 |
|
| |
WA 94 (6/2008): The 2005 Pedestal features the peripatetic Michel Rolland. His wine is 80% Merlot, 13% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 7% Cabernet Franc aged for 22 months in 85% new French oak. Deep crimson-colored, it offers an enticing perfume of toasty new oak, pencil lead, spice box, clove, allspice, red currants and black cherry. Seamless on the palate, the wine has gobs of ripe, savory flavors, well-concealed tannin, excellent aging potential, and a long, pure finish. It will provide much pleasure between 2012 and 2025.
VM 91+ (11/2008): Michel Rolland's project, consisting of 80% merlot, 13% cabernet sauvignon and 7% cabernet franc) Bright ruby. Aromas of blackberry, cocoa powder and flowers. Lush, smooth dark fruit flavors are complemented by sexy sweet oak tones. I love this dense, fat wine's restrained sweetness, its almost medicinal reserve, and its slow-mounting finish. Highly concentrated but still youthfully tight today and in need of time to resolve its substantial tannins. Vinification featured a good percentage of whole berries. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
|
2005 |
Pirouette Red Wine |
$65 |
3 |
|
| |
| WA 91 (6/2008): The 2005 Pirouette features winemakers Agustin Huneeus and Philippe Melka. It is composed of 57% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, 14% Syrah, 5% Malbec, and 4% Cabernet Franc aged for 22 months in 75% new French oak. Saturated purple in color, it offers aromas of wood smoke, earth notes, spice box, plum, black currant, and blueberry. The wine is seamless upon entry but a bit short in the finish. Perhaps a few years of bottle aging will fill it out. |
|
| Maybach |
2005 |
Materium Cabernet Sauvignon |
$175 |
7 |
|
| |
| VM 91 (6/2008): Lovely perfume to the slightly exotic aromas of smoky raspberry, plum and spices. Sweet, dense, chewy and broad, but with firm acidity giving shape and aromatic lift to the berry, spice and floral flavors. Winemaker Thomas Brown noted that it was necessary to let the fruit hang for a long time to get thorough ripeness, even at the risk of picking a few raisins. And yet this retains a juicy quality and displays lovely lingering perfume. |
|
| Meteor Vineyard |
2005 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$85 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 92 (5/2016): Bright ruby-red. Crushed cassis, blackberry, fresh herbs, dark chocolate, mocha, and licorice on the sexy, highly aromatic nose. Suave, sweet, pliant wine with nicely concentrated dark berry and dark cherry flavors. Still youthful but without any hardness. Finishes very long, with sweet, firm tannins and noteworthy incipient complexity. A superb showing: a very sexy wine with no corners. (This bottling has been called Perseid since vintage 2007.) (Drink between 2016-2024). Stephen Tanzer. |
|
| Peter Michael Winery |
2005 |
Les Pavots Proprietary Blend |
$179 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 95 (12/2007): The 2005 Les Pavots (3,600 cases of 63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Cabernet Franc, 12% Merlot, and the rest Petit Verdot) is a sensational wine, with a style that suggests a hypothetical blend of a great St.-Emilion and Pomerol. Chocolatey cassis notes intermixed with incense, licorice, and a hint of black olive are present in this wine. When it hits the palate, it comes across as very Pomerol-like, with lushness, full body, and opulence. The tannins are sweet, the pH high, and the wine gorgeously full, pure, dense, and long. It’s a terrific example of non-interventionalist winemaking that has turned out a beautiful, silky-textured wine that should age effortlessly for 15+ years. Like so many 2005s, this wine has really put on weight since I tasted it last year. |
|
| Ch. Montelena |
2005 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon Bin-Soiled Label |
$95 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 90 (12/2007): The winery continues to turn out a strong Cabernet Sauvignon from vineyards in the Calistoga area. This is a big production item (10,000 cases), and tends to be a good value for a high-class Napa Cabernet. The 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon (22,000 cases) is a beauty. Savory black currant fruit notes intermixed with some licorice, underbrush, and spice jump from the glass of this medium to full-bodied, smoothly textured, beautifully elegant wine meant to be served and drunk in its first 10-12 years of life. This clearly has the fingerprints of Chateau Montelena’s Bo Barrett and his father Jim Barrett, but at a much lower price point, and for that reason seems an ideal steakhouse Cabernet that gives both value and pleasure.
VM 87 (6/2008): Good deep ruby-red. Wild aromas of cassis, game, leather and licorice, plus a whiff of band-aid. The distinct wildness carries through on the palate, where the dark berry and game flavors are framed by juicy acidity. This is pretty sauvage, and the finish is a bit edgy with acids and tannins. |
|
| Outpost |
2005 |
Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon |
$55 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 89 (6/2008): Good full medium ruby. Dark plum, flint, mocha and smoke on the nose. Less fleshy than the zinfandel, with juicy acidity giving shape to the flavors of plum liqueur, chocolate and earth; a saline quality contributes to the impression of restrained sweetness. Finishes with substantial, slightly drying tannins. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
|
2005 |
True Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$139 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 91+ (6/2008): (blended with 5% cabernet franc) Deep, saturated ruby. Highly aromatic nose combines red fruits, lilac and crushed rocks. Juicy and bright in the mouth, with a distinctly rocky minerality and bright acidity giving terrific lift and verve to the flavors of red fruits, flowers and spices. The tannins are serious but arrive late. A strongly mineral-driven, highly aromatic wine, the first commercial release under this label. |
|
| Ovid |
2005 |
Proprietary Blend |
$199 |
4 |
|
| |
|
|
2005 |
Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$399 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Pahlmeyer |
2005 |
Proprietary Blend |
$149 |
6 |
|
| |
WA 95 (6/2015): As for the 2005 Proprietary Red, it is a blend of 84% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc and 1% each Petit Verdot and Malbec. While this might not be the blockbuster one would expect, there is Outstanding depth, purity and overall texture and ripeness. Again, terrific acidity gives the wine vigor and precision, despite a lofty 15.2% alcohol. The wine is fresh and pure, with black raspberry and blackcurrant fruit, some white floral notes, and the telltale forest floor. This is a wine to drink over the next 10-15+ years. Pahlmeyer’s wines age well, as I am still working off the 1995 and 1996 Proprietary Reds, which remain in great shape.
VM 94 (6/2008): 84% cabernet sauvignon with 10% merlot, 4% cab franc and 1% each petit verdot and malbec) Good saturated red-ruby. Pungent aromas of cassis and violet, with a whiff of smoked meat. Densely packed, layered and thick; a step up in depth from the merlot. This boasts a chocolatey richness to its sweet dark fruit flavors. Finishes supple, lush, broad and long, with substantial sweet tannins and a lingering note of chocolate. |
|
| Plumpjack |
2005 |
Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon Screwcap |
$219 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 94+ (12/2007): The backward 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve Estate (390 cases) reminds me of a hypothetical blend of a top Pauillac and Napa Cabernet Sauvignon. Notes of creosote, charcoal, black currant liqueur, pain grille, and graphite are all present in this dense purple-colored, rich, full-bodied wine. With moderately high tannin and good acidity, it will benefit from 2-4 years of cellaring, and should keep for three decades. |
|
| Prager Winery & Port Works |
2005 |
Royal Escort Napa Valley Paladini Vyd. Port |
$65 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Quilceda Creek |
2005 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$189 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 100 (6/2013): From a hot vintage and incredible any way you look at it, the 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon has that laser-like focus of a cooler year, yet the voluptuousness and richness of a warmer year. Smoked black fruits, coffee, truffle and pen ink-like aromas and flavors all emerge from this massive, incredibly full-bodied effort and on the palate, it carries itself perfectly with a weightless, yet decadent texture, masses of polished tannin and blockbuster length. More classic and textbook than the 2007, it is every bit as good. Enjoy it over the coming two decades or more. Drink now-2033.
VM 94+ (11/2008): (includes 3% merlot) Bright, saturated medium ruby. Sexy aromas of cassis, black raspberry, minerals, mocha and smoky oak. Juicy, layered and intense, with superb depth of fruit and an impression of breadth rare for Washington cabernet. This superripe wine shows considerably more finesse of tannins than the estate's red blend. This began with a slightly roasted quality but with time in the recorked bottle it appeared to gain in energy and sheer density. This was a vintage that yielded very small berries, noted Alex Golitzin. |
|
|
2005 |
Columbia Valley Proprietary Blend |
$55 |
6 |
|
| |
WA 93 (6/2008): The 2005 Red Wine is the winery’s second label for declassified lots. It consists of 84% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Cabernet Franc, and 7% Merlot. Purple-colored, it reveals an expressive bouquet of cedar, pencil lead, spice box, black currant, and blackberry. This is followed by a full-bodied, plush wine with ample ripe tannins and layers of sweet fruit. The wine has serious weight, excellent length, and will profit from several years of additional cellaring. It should be at its best from 2011 through 2020. The wine is true to the house style and is a superb value.
VM 90 (12/2008): Bright ruby-red. Very ripe, rich aromas of currant, plum, smoke and mocha, lifted by spice and floral nuances. Plush and slightly candied in the mouth, with dried fruit and roasted, smoky oak notes perked up by the spice component. The sweet finish features substantial dusty tannins. |
|
|
2005 |
Galitzine Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$125 |
4 |
|
| |
WA 97 (6/2008): The 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Galitzine Vineyard comes from the fifth leaf of this estate vineyard and in this vintage contains 4.5% Merlot. The wine was aged for 22 months in 100% new French oak. Opaque purple-colored, its distinctive aromatics leap from the glass. Toasty oak, scorched earth, a hint of truffle, black cherry, black raspberry, and blackberry liqueur aromas are quite mesmerizing. On the palate, this sizable effort is firm, full-bodied, and structured, demanding 6-8 years of cellaring. It falls a bit short of the flagship Cabernet Sauvignon in terms of complexity but bear in mind that this is still a very young vineyard. It should be hitting its stride by 2015 and remain at that level through 2035.
VM 93+ (12/2008): Bright, deep red-ruby. Slightly higher-toned on the nose than the estate cabernet, with aromas of dark cherry, minerals, smoky oak and sweet butter, complicated by a musky meaty quality. Not quite as dense as the flagship cabernet (this represents a selection of the best barrels from vines planted in 2001 and 2002), but conveys a more immediate sense of energy and back-end lift, with firm blueberry and mineral flavors. Finishes with big, ripe tannins that coat the teeth. Whereas the estate cabernet seemed to tighten up with extended aeration and show more grip, this one gained in breadth. |
|
| Ramey |
2005 |
Pedregal Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (6.0 L) |
$925 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 96 (12/2007): Readers looking for a Screaming Eagle look-alike should check out David Ramey’s 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Pedregal (85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Petit Verdot), a wine that has put on amazing richness and intensity since last year. Beautifully pure creme de cassis fruit interwoven with notions of spring flowers, espresso roast, and truffles jump from the glass of this wine. Wonderfully sweet, expansive fruit flavors, a massive, full-bodied palate, and superb elegance as well as purity suggest this stunner should drink well for 20-25+ years.
VM 95 (6/2008): Opaque ruby. Exotic perfume of dark berries, kirsch, bitter chocolate and espresso. Deep, supple and sweet, with impressively concentrated cassis and cherry compote flavors. The tannins are substantial but are buried beneath the massive fruit. Sticks to the palate like glue, eventually finishing with strong echoes of bitter cherry and high-octane chocolate. I'm not sure what you'd serve this with as its sheer depth and intensity will overwhelm all but the most full-flavored foods. That said, there's nothing heavy about it whatsoever. Pretty remarkable wine. |
|
| Realm |
2005 |
The Absurd The Birdwatcher Proprietary Blend |
$525 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2005 |
The Absurd The Gardener Proprietary Blend |
$525 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2005 |
The Absurd The Magician Proprietary Blend |
$525 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Rivers Marie |
2005 |
Summa Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$79 |
4 |
|
| |
| BH 91 (10/2007): Here the nose is, not surprisingly, quite similar to that of the Old Vines Summa if perhaps not quite as complex and nuanced that leads to balanced, intense and pure flavors brimming with dry extract and excellent length on the youthfully austere finish. This is quite impressive as well and like the Occidental, it should age well. Drink 2011+. |
|
| Ch. Rollat |
2005 |
Edouard de Rollat Cabernet Sauvignon |
$59 |
3 |
|
| |
VM 92+ (11/2007): Bright ruby-red. Aromas of black cherry and herbs, with a brooding soil pungency and very suave use of oak. Richer, denser and more energetic than the regular bottling. This one boasts greater sweetness of fruit but it also has terrific acidity and comes across as tightly wound today. Finishes very long, with a succulence achieved by only a handful of Washington State cabernets. These two wines are made entirely from Walla Walla fruit, from the Pepper Bridge and Seven Hills vineyards. Stephen Tanzer.
WA 92 (6/2008): The 2005 Edmond de Rollat Cabernet Sauvignon is made up of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, and 5% Cabernet Franc aged in 70% new French oak. It offers a more saturated color, a slighting brooding perfume with elements of pain grille, earth notes, and an amalgam of black fruits. Layered, with superb depth and grip, the wine is reminiscent of a top level Pauillac (Christian LeSommer worked for many years at Chateau Latour). The wine has enough structure to develop for another 4-6 years. The finish is long and fruit-filled. |
|
| Round Pond |
2005 |
Rutherford Estate Cabernet Sauvignon |
$35 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Saxum |
2005 |
Booker Vyd. Syrah |
$109 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 92-94 (8/2007): The 2005 Booker Vineyard (a new offering from a hillside vineyard closer to Highway 101) is a 400-case blend of 92% Syrah and 8% Grenache. This is quite full-bodied, powerful wine with loads of structure, unmistakable minerality, and moderately high tannin. The wine has sweet cassis, black cherry, and currant fruit, some hints of wet rocks, and firm tannins in the finish. Perhaps the most backward of all these wines, it seems to merit 3-4 years of bottle age and should evolve for possibly up to two decades.
VM 93 (12/2007): (92% syrah and 8% grenache) Bright purple. Powerfully scented nose offers smoky cassis and bitter cherry aromas, along with cured meat, violet and cigarbox; really smells like Cote-Rotie! Sweet and round, displaying intense red and dark berry preserve flavors and a strong mineral undertone, finishing with building tannins. Balances depth and energy as well as earth and fruit. A fascinating wine. |
|
|
2005 |
Heart Stone Vyd. Proprietary Blend |
$109 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 94 (6/2008): The northern Rhone-like 2005 Heart Stone Vineyard is a blend of 44% Syrah, 33% Grenache, and 23% Mourvedre. A meaty nose with roasted Provencal herbs, cassis, blackberry, licorice, and smoke emerges from this Hermitage-styled effort. Structured and firm, it will benefit from 1-2 years of bottle age, and should evolve effortlessly for a decade or more. The bottled 2005s are all performing well.
VM 92 (12/2007): Deep ruby. Room-filling bouquet of red and black fruits, Asian spices, fresh violet and lavender and suave vanillin oak. Vibrant, palate-staining raspberry and blackberry flavors deliver sweet depth, with zesty minerality adding energy. Silky tannins slowly build on the long, spicy finish. Seamless and elegant; this is more open than the Broken Stones today. |
|
| Sea Smoke |
2005 |
Botella Pinot Noir |
$100 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 90 (12/2007): Deep red. Spicy cherry and raspberry on the nose, with exotic cola and cinnamon qualities adding complexity. Sweet red berry and kirsch flavors are open-knit, juicy and lightly firmed by silky tannins. Gains a peppery, spicy quality on the finish, which is smoky, sweet, broad and long. "The lots for this bottling are chosen for being fruit-driven and requiring less time to open," said winemaker Kris Curran.
BH 88 (10/2007): (from Santa Rita Hills fruit, 40% new oak and bottled at 14.7%). A lush and opulent nose redolent of a spice bazaar features very ripe red, blue and violet aromas that are in keeping with the silky and round medium weight plus flavors that are really quite stylish if not nearly as concentrated as those of its two stable mates, all wrapped in a delicious, pure and tangy finish that carries the considerable alcohol with more grace than one might guess. Drink 2009+. |
|
|
2005 |
Southing Pinot Noir |
$125 |
5 |
|
| |
VM 91 (12/2007): Dark red. Zesty raspberry and cherry aromas are complicated by cinnamon, black cardamom and violet. The perfume built with air, gaining depth and power. Lush kirsch and blackcurrant flavors seem vaguely syrah-like, but there's excellent mineral tang keeping things in check. Finishes with impressively sweet red fruit flavors, supple tannins and striking persistence.
BH 88 (10/2007): This is also notably ripe with an attractive breadth of spice and dark and blue berry fruit aromas including cola and coffee that complement the concentrated flavors blessed with ample dry extract and a nicely intense if somewhat edgy and slightly warm finish that is not at present as well integrated as it might be. There is clearly good material here but the youthful awkwardness has yet to pass. Drink 2009+. |
|
|
2005 |
Ten Pinot Noir |
$125 |
2 |
|
| |
VM 93 (12/2007): Deep red. Exotically perfumed nose offers a wild array of dark berry, cherry, incense and floral scents. Spicy red and dark berry flavors are refreshingly bitter but became sweeter with air, gaining a white pepper and baking spice character. Really stains the palate, finishing with Outstanding cling and length. I was looking for oakiness but didn't find it. Curran noted that she's as meticulous as possible with her winemaking, leaving as little as possible to chance. As she put it: "Spontaneity isn't a good idea when you're making red expensive wine."
BH 90 (10/2007): A distinctly ripe yet not surmature nose features hints of spice, black currant and noticeable but not dominant wood influence that continues onto the big, rich, bold and sweet flavors that possess excellent volume on the delicious, sappy and chocolaty finish that has both a subtle tang and more than a touch of warmth. What elevates this beyond the ordinary though is the fine sense of underlying complexity as well as the much better than average length. In sum, this is no ballerina and it's not my style but it does make a statement. Drink: 2010+ |
|
| Seven Stones |
2005 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$275 |
3 |
|
| |
| WA 94 (2/2010): Although extremely limited in availability, the 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon boasts an inky/ruby/purple color as well as gorgeous aromas of cedar, spice box, black currants, licorice, and a touch of wood spice. Medium to full-bodied with silky tannins, superb concentration, and a beautiful texture, this impressive St.-Julien-styled Napa Cabernet should drink well for 20+ years. |
|
| Sine Qua Non |
2005 |
Strapless Rose |
$1,450 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Sineann |
2005 |
Resonance Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$65 |
3 |
|
| |
|
| Sloan |
2005 |
Proprietary Blend |
$312 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 96+ (12/2008): The 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon has an almost La Mission Haut-Brion-like, scorched earth nose intermixed with cassis, coffee, and subtle hints of chocolate and balsamic. The wine is rich, full-bodied, but with great elegance and palate presence, without being heavy. Every wine to date has displayed considerable tannin, but even more concentration and fruit, so it is not an issue of the wines drying out, but rather requiring some patience before the complexity, which is already showing promise, emerges and the wines soften. This is a brilliant 2005 that is certainly one of the top wines of the vintage but needs some time in the bottle. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2030+.
VM 95 (6/2008): Good full medium ruby. Knockout nose combines superripe black raspberry, minerals, tobacco and brown spices. Then wonderfully sweet and lush in the mouth, with an almost liqueur-like ripeness to the flavors of cassis, tobacco, chocolate, coffee and loam. As dense and thick as this is, though, it's also quite suave and juicy. Finishes with palate-staining sweetness of fruit and Outstanding breadth. |
|
| Sojourn Cellars |
2005 |
Home Ranch Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$55 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2005 |
Mountain Terraces Vyd. Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon |
$55 |
2 |
|
| |
| VM 89 (5/2009): Full ruby-red. Pungent aromas of plum, currant, eucalyptus and spices, complicated by a medicinal rocky element. Dense and juicy, offering more stuffing than the basic cabernet. The wine's spice, herb and eucalyptus notes provide lift and complexity throughout. Finishes juicy and spicy, with fine-grained tannins. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
|
2005 |
Sangiacomo Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$55 |
2 |
|
| |
BH 89 (10/2007): An elegant and high-toned red pinot fruit nose with subtle hints of sandalwood and spice complements the rich, detailed and very fresh middle weight flavors that possess a seductive texture as the mouth feel is quite silky, all wrapped in a nicely long finish with real style and grace. The only nit that holds this back from ascending to the next level is noticeable backend warmth and while I hasten to add that it is definitely not intrusive, it is also not invisible. Still, all in all a lovely effort and worth a look as this is very pinot in character, not to mention utterly delicious. In sum, save for the warmth, I quite liked this. (Drink starting 2009).
VM 88 (1/2007): Dark red. Dark cherry, dark chocolate, smoke and underbrush on the nose. Broad and rich, with a glyceral texture and flavors of cherry, spices and earth.A supple, sweet, rather full-bodied pinot that struck me as a bit old-fashioned. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
|
2005 |
Sonoma Valley Cabernet Sauvignon |
$55 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2005 |
Sonoma Valley Cabernet Sauvignon Slightly Raised Cork |
$45 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Stags' Leap Winery |
2005 |
The Leap Cabernet Sauvignon Heavily Nicked Label |
$70 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2005 |
The Leap Cabernet Sauvignon Lightly Scuffed Label |
$70 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Teachworth |
2005 |
Estate Blend Cabernet Sauvignon |
$59 |
3 |
|
| |
|
| Thomas |
2005 |
Dundee Hills Pinot Noir Lightly Bin-Soiled Label |
$175 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 93 (5/2008): Light red. Intensely perfumed bouquet displays wild strawberry, raspberry, dried rose, minerals and cinnamon. Red berry flavors offer power without any impression of weight, picking up floral pastille and baking spice flavors with air. Suave finishing notes of red berries and candied cherry linger impressively. Delicious now, but my past experience with Thomas's wines tells me that this will easily repay a decade of cellaring. Josh Raynolds. |
|
| Tournesol |
2005 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon |
$60 |
21 |
|
| |
| WA 93 (6/2015): From a vineyard at the southern end of Napa Valley, at 300-foot elevation, planted in fractured volcanic bedrock, this 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon is a major sleeper of the vintage. Gorgeously dense and vibrant, an opaque blue/purple color and floral notes mixed with subtle earth, creme de cassis and blueberry liqueur are present in the provocative and complex aromatics. The wine is medium to full-bodied, but has terrific acidity and minerality. This attractive and intriguing, well-crafted, full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon (14.5% alcohol) merits serious attention. It is young, but certainly accessible, yet I envision another 4-5 years of bottle age would be beneficial. This wine is certainly capable of lasting 15 or more years. Bravo! |
|
|
2005 |
Napa Valley Proprietor’s Blend |
$60 |
18 |
|
| |
|
| Turley Wine Cellars |
2005 |
Mead Ranch Zinfandel Torn Capsule; exposed cork |
$64.99 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 88-90 (12/2006): From a high elevation vineyard, the 2005 Zinfandel Mead Ranch Atlas Peak reveals a deep ruby/purple color as well as soft, spicy, herbal, forest floor notes interwoven with cherry, red and black currant, crushed rock, and earth characteristics. It should drink well for 4-5 years. |
|
|
2005 |
Turley Estate Petite Sirah |
$67.99 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 89 (6/2007): Deep medium ruby. Sappy, nuanced nose combines black fruits, pepper, licorice and tar. A bit brutal today, with strong acidity and a peppery character currently dominating the wine's savory fruit. Comes across as tight, even youthfully tough, with no easy sweetness. Not my favorite style of petite sirah.
WA 88-90 (12/2006): Turley produces limited quantities of five impressive Petite Syrahs. The dense purple-hued 2005 Petite Syrah Turley Estate reveals strong tannins along with hints of incense, licorice, and blue as well as black fruits. It is a powerful red, but the tannin seems to be jagged at present. |
|
| Vice Versa |
2005 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon |
$109 |
5 |
|
| |
| VM 87+ (12/2008): Bright ruby-red. Cassis, licorice and spices on the nose, plus a suggestion of dried berries. Supple on entry, then juicy and firm in the middle, with a floral nuance and a slightly green flavor. Turns a bit leaner on the back half. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
| White Rock Vineyards |
2005 |
Laureate Cabernet Sauvignon |
$75 |
5 |
|
| |
|
| Winter Estate |
2005 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$89 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 95+ (12/2007): The 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon may be even better than the 2004. A striking, inky/ruby/purple color offers up notes of black currants, licorice, graphite, forest floor, and spice box. Flawlessly constructed with sweet tannin, good acidity, and superb purity, this is a tour de force in winemaking. Possessing both elegance and authoritative flavors, it should drink effortlessly for two decades. |
|
| Wolf Family Vineyards |
2005 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$69 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 92 (12/2008): The three red wines include the impressive 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon (539 cases of 100% Cabernet Sauvignon). Offering classic creme de cassis, licorice, scorched earth, and new oak characteristics, this nicely structured, medium to full-bodied red is built for 15-20 years of evolution.
VM 91 (5/2009): Full, bright ruby-red. Expressive aromas of dark berries, mocha, truffle, licorice, smoke and tobacco. Sweet, lush and creamy but not at all sloppy, with a truffley note complicating the berry and tobacco flavors. Broad, ripe tannins won't get in the way of drinking this rather forward wine now, but it's balanced to age. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
| Woodward Canyon |
2005 |
Special Selection Red |
$125 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 95 (10/2009): The 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Special Selection (a cuvee made only in the finest years) is a blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon from the Champoux Vineyard and 13% Petit Verdot and 12% Merlot from the Estate vineyard. Opaque purple/black in color, it delivers a brooding bouquet of pain grille, pencil lead, crushed stone, incense, black currant, and blackberry, Layered and thick on the palate, it has tons of fruit and structure but remains tightly wound. Stylistically, it is reminiscent of a high level Pauillac from a top vintage. Give it 10-12 years of cellaring and drink it from 2020 to 2040. |
|
| Producer |
Vint. |
Wine |
Price |
Qty |
Order |
| | Bordeaux Red |
| Baron de Brane |
2019 |
Margaux Ex-Negociant |
$32.99 |
29 |
|
| |
VM 92 (2/2022): The 2019 Baron de Brane is a gorgeous second wine. Succulent black cherry, plum, spice and leather are front and center. This racy Margaux offers a compelling interplay of bright red-toned fruit and silky contours. Drink it over the next handful of years. Tasted two times.
JA 89 (10/2026): Inky plum colour, deep and rich damson and raspberry fruits, with touches of peony aromatics. This is good quality, confident stuff. An upscore from En Primeur.
JD 88 (4/2022): The second wine of Brane-Cantenac, the 2019 Baron De Brane is more Merlot-dominated and has a fleshy, medium-bodied, supple style as well as rock-solid aromatics of black cherries, cedar pencil, and chocolaty herbs. It's already drinking nicely yet should keep for a decade. |
|
|
2023 |
Margaux ex-Negociant |
$35.99 |
55 |
|
| |
JA 92 (4/2024): Baron de Brane once again sets the bar high once again in terms of 2nd wines, with fragrant floral aromatics, nuance and depth from the attack and continuing through the mid palate, firm tannins and concentrated black fruits. 20% new oak.
Decanter 92 (4/2024): Ripe and floral notes on the nose, really quite expressive and open aromatically. There’s a richness to the scents with ripe blackcurrants, cherries and touches of rose and violets too with some milk chocolate. Supple and tart, high acidity, juicy and ripe fruit, with crunchiness, quite lean but there’s great length with freshly picked mint and some cedar and herbal aspects. Crisp and clean, lovely purity and precision. Not so layered or plush but it’s fresh and inviting with lift and a lovely mineral undertone. Accessible. Ageing 12 months, 20% new oak. 14.5 press wine. Almost 100 IPT. 40% of production. (Drink between 2027-2038) |
|
| Ch. Boyd-Cantenac |
2020 |
Margaux |
$49 |
58 |
|
| |
| JA 95 (11/2025): Inky purple in colour with a fist of toasted oak on the aromatics, but here it is skilfully coupled with a punch of cassis and blueberry fruits, and a lift of violet flowers, and creamy smoked caramel. It's exceptionally good, for me the best of the lineup, with clear precision on show. One to look out for, easy to recommend. 80% new oak. Lucien Guillemet owner and winemaker. No external consultant. |
|
| Ch. Capbern |
2019 |
St. Estephe Ex-Negociant |
$32 |
32 |
|
| |
JD 94 (4/2022): I love the nose on the 2019 Château Capbern, a medium to full-bodied, spicy, rich, tobacco and cedar pencil-filled beauty with ripe yet building tannins, a great mix of richness and freshness, and a blockbuster of a finish. It's incredibly impressive, and while it offers pleasure even today, it deserves 5-6 years of bottle age, and I can't imagine it not evolving for two decades. (Drink between 2027-2042).
VM 89 (2/2023): The 2019 Capbern has improved since I tasted it just after bottling. Finally, it has developed a more elegant bouquet, mainly black fruit fused with cedar and undergrowth scents. It has mustered more classicism. The palate is medium-bodied with a strong graphite element on the entry, fine depth, quite fresh with a structured, gritty finish. Fine. Tasted blind at the Southwold annual tasting. (Drink between 2025-2045). Neal Martin. |
|
| Ch. Cos Labory |
2018 |
St. Estephe ex-Negociant |
$49 |
16 |
|
| |
VM 93 (3/2021): The 2018 Cos Labory is fabulous. An extra kick of richness from the warm year and a bit more Petit Verdot than usual result in a Cos Labory that is wonderfully savory, powerful and layered. Black cherry, plum, cloves, chocolate and dried herbs build as this potent, exotically ripe Saint-Estèphe opens in the glass. Today, the 2018 is dark, brooding and in need of cellaring. Cos Labory is a bit wild, but that just adds to its considerable allure. (Drink between 2025-2043). Antonio Galloni.
WA 93 (3/2021): The 2018 Cos Labory has a deep garnet-purple color, bursting from the glass with bold notes of warm cassis, blackberry compote and Morello cherries, plus suggestions of roses, unsmoked cigars and tree bark. The medium-bodied palate has a very sturdy frame of firm, grainy tannins and tons of freshness supporting the rather delicately played fruit, finishing long and earthy/minerally. The structure stands out a little now, which I enjoy, but for those preferring softer, rounder expressions, give this a good 3-5 years in the cellar and drink it over the next 15-20 years.
JD 90 (3/2021): Lots of rich red and black currants, tobacco, savory spice, and new leather notes emerge from the 2018 Château Cos Labory, a medium-bodied Saint-Estèphe with terrific overall balance, ripe, velvety tannins, lots of character, and outstanding length. It's well worth cellaring and drinking any time over the coming 15+ years. |
|
| Ch. de Francs |
2018 |
Francs Cotes de Bordeaux |
$20 |
12 |
|
| |
| JD 88 (3/2021): Bright cherry and mulberry fruits, a touch of cedary oak, and tobacco all emerge from the 2018 Château De Francs. Medium-bodied, with good overall balance and a clean finish, this is a solid, bistro-style drinker to enjoy over the coming 4-6 years. (Drink between 2021-2027) |
|
| Ch. de Pez |
2019 |
St. Estephe |
$44.99 |
18 |
|
| |
JD 93 (4/2022): Currants, plums, new leather, and cedar pencil notes all emerge from the 2019 Château De Pez, a nicely balanced, medium to full-bodied Saint-Estèphe that has plenty of classic character as well as class. With ripe, polished tannins and terrific purity, it can be drunk any time over the coming 20-25 years. (Drink between 2022-2047)
VM 92 (2/2022): The 2019 de Pez has gained tremendously in weight, power and substance. A wine of breadth and pure power, Pez possesses tremendous resonance and intensity, right out of the gate. Scorched earth, incense, plum, menthol and tar hit the palate. This rich, heady Saint-Estèphe has a ton to offer. Antonio Galloni.
WA 92-94 (6/2020): This year's blend is 56% Cabernet Sauvignon, 42% Merlot, 1% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot. Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2019 de Pez comes tumbling out of the glass with an astonishingly beautiful perfume of lilacs, black cherries and black raspberries over a core of stewed plums, clove oil, dark chocolate and Sichuan pepper. The medium-bodied palate is jam-packed with energetic black fruits, supported by a firm foundation of ripe, grainy tannins and lovely freshness, finishing long and perfumed. I love where this once-malingering château is headed—bravo to winemaker Nicolas Glumineau from Pichon Lalande! |
|
| Ch. Fonbadet |
2019 |
Pauillac (375 ML) Ex-Negociant |
$22.99 |
22 |
|
| |
JD 93 (4/2022): Blackcurrants, smoked tobacco, chocolate, and some cedary, spicy, lead pencil notes all emerge from the 2019 Château Fonbadet, a medium to full-bodied, rich, mouth-filling Pauillac with plenty of tannins, a balanced, layered mouthfeel, good concentration, and outstanding length. It will evolve for 20+ years if stored properly. (Drink between 2022-2044).
VM 93 (2/2022): The 2019 Fonbadet, impressive from barrel, has a delineated bouquet of blackberry, bilberry and touch of licorice that gains intensity with aeration; this is a Pauillac with ambition. The palate is medium-bodied with grip and density, broad shoulders and a very saline finish. This should age supremely well. (Drink between 2025-2050). Neal Martin.
WA 90 (4/2022): From a 12-hectare estate sandwiched in between Pontet Canet, Pédesclaux and Lafite, the 2019 Fonbadet offers up aromas of cassis, plums, cocoa nib and cigar wrapper. Medium to full-bodied, lively and creditably concentrated, it's built around powdery tannins that assert themselves on the youthfully chewy finish. |
|
| Ch. Haut Simard |
2012 |
St. Emilion ex-Negociant |
$39.99 |
60 |
|
| |
| VM 91 (1/2016): The 2012 Haut-Simard offers good mid-palate depth for the vintage, with a distinctly gamy, pleasantly rustic personality that distinguishes it in the Vauthier family's range of wines. Tobacco, savory herbs, leather and dark-fleshed fruits open into the finish. The tannins are a bit rough around the edges, but otherwise this is a fine effort. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Ch. Joanin Becot |
2018 |
Castillon Cotes de Bordeaux ex-Negociant |
$29.99 |
60 |
|
| |
JD 93 (3/2021): Emerging from the team of Beau-Séjour Bécot, the 2018 Château Joanin Bécot is based on 75% Merlot and 25% Cabernet Franc coming from the limestone soils of the Côtes de Castillon region. Lots of black cherry and redcurrant fruit as well as leafy herbs, dried flowers, chalky minerality, and camphor emerge on the nose. This carries to a medium-bodied, seamless 2018 with terrific overall balance, ripe yet present tannins, and outstanding length on the finish. Tasting like a topflight Saint-Emilion, it will benefit from a year or so in the cellar and impress for at least a decade. Readers looking for a brilliant Right Bank wine to put in the cellar should jump on this beauty. (Drink between 2021-2033).
WA 92 (4/2023): A blend of 75% Merlot and 25% Cabernet Franc, the 2018 Joanin Bécot exhibits delicate aromas of blueberries, flowers and violets with touches of tobacco. Medium to full-bodied, it’s a lively, rather delicate wine with a fleshy core of fruit and a crystalline texture overlaid with a fresh, penetrating finish that has racy acidity. The wine will offer a broad tasting window.
VM 89 (3/2021): The 2018 Joanin Bécot has retained the earthy, cedar-tinged bouquet that takes a few swirls of the glass to emerge. There is crisp black fruit here, pine fresh. The medium-bodied palate delivers fine grip on the entry and dusky black fruit mixed with tobacco and sage. Almost Left Bank in style toward the graphite-tinged finish. This is fine Joanin that should drink well for 8–10 years. (Drink between 2021-2030). Neal Martin. |
|
| Ch. La Gurgue |
2016 |
Margaux |
$39 |
26 |
|
| |
| JS 93-94 (4/2017): Tight and chewy with currant and blueberry character. Medium body, a lovely center palate and a subtle finish. Pretty continuation to the 2015. |
|
| Ch. Labegorce |
2016 |
Margaux ex-Negociant |
$42.99 |
60 |
|
| |
JA 94 (3/2023): Concentrated but restrained with old school charm and an abundance of muscular tannins, it's easy to feel the heart of this wine, packed with liqourice, slate, black chocolate, cassis, brambled hedgerow, aniseed and fennel, with plenty of grip. Years ahead of it, an impressive wine in this exceptional vintage, offering good value. Harvest September 4 to October 21. 50% new oak, technical director Marjolaine de Coninck.
JD 94 (2/2019): From an estate on the uptick and showing beautifully on two separate occasions, the 2016 Château Labégorce is a head-turner of a Margaux that’s based on 52% Merlot, 38% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the rest Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot that was brought up in 45% new oak, with the balance in once-used barrels. Sexy notes of blackcurrants, black raspberries, crushed flowers, sandalwood, and incense all flow to a medium to full-bodied, fabulously textured Margaux that carries ripe tannins, loads of fruit and richness, and a great finish. Since arriving in 2009, Marjolaine de Coninck has resurrected this estate and the wines now play with the top in the appellation. Give bottles 3-5 years and enjoy over the following two decades or more. (Drink between 2022-2042)
WA 93+ (11/2018): The 2016 Labégorce is composed of 52% Merlot, 38% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Cabernet Franc and 4% Petit Verdot, aged in 45% new and 55% one-year-old French oak barrels. Deep garnet-purple colored, it leaps out of the glass with gregarious cassis, kirsch and black raspberries, candied violets, dark chocolate and spearmint. Medium-bodied, elegant, fresh and with exciting intensity, it delivers a fantastically long, fragrant finish. 12,000 cases produced.
VM 93 (4/2026): The 2016 Labégorce has a very pretty nose with blackberry, briar, cedar and well-integrated oak. The palate is medium-bodied with quite firm tannins, a little more acidity than its peers, segueing into a savoury, black pepper-tinged finish that shows admirable persistence and sapidity. This is a classy Margaux that is ageing with style. Tasted blind at the Southwold 10-Year-On tasting. (Drink between 2027-2042). Neal Martin. |
|
| Ch. Lilian Ladouys |
2018 |
St. Estephe ex-Negociant |
$27.50 |
60 |
|
| |
JA 93 (7/2021): Owed by Jacky Lorenzetti (new owner also of Ch Lafon Rochet in the same appellation), this is one of those surefire estates that delivers St Estèphe power with a touch of luxury. There are layers of ripe black fruits and chewy tannins here, so it will benefit from a few more years in bottle or a serious carafing before drinking. 48hl/h yield, 35% new oak with both 225l and 400l barrels. Converting to organic farming as of 2020.
VM 92 (3/2021): The 2018 Lilian Ladouys is showing nicely now that the wine is in bottle. It has a riper bouquet compared to, say, the Calon-Ségur, more lush – a 2018 with wider appeal, featuring blueberry and cassis scents that soar from the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins that disguise the backbone of this Saint-Estèphe. It is not the most powerful Lilian Ladouys in recent years, safeguarding its linearity and strictness all the way through to the finish. But it conveys a sense of classicism and has abundant freshness that should see it age well over the next two decades. (Drink between 2023-2040). Neal Martin.
JD 92 (3/2021): A year-in, year-out value, the 2018 Château Lilian Ladouys checks in as 59% Cabernet Sauvignon, 37% Merlot, and the rest Petit Verdot that was brought up in 35% new oak. Jammy blueberries, ripe cherries, damp earth, tobacco, and spicy wood notes define the bouquet, and it's medium to full-bodied, with a plump, rounded texture, opulent aromas and flavors, and a great finish. (Drink between 2021-2036) |
|
| Ch. Marsau |
2019 |
Francs Cotes de Bordeaux |
$29.95 |
60 |
|
| |
| Decanter 93 (1/2022): A svelte, seductive and seriously appealing 100% Merlot grown atypically on clay-dominant soils on one of the highest points of the Francs Côtes de Bordeaux. Wild strawberries, Morello cherries and subtle spices on the nose and palate, softly sweet, generous, round, plump, juicy and mouth filling, all harmoniously packaged and carefully balanced with freshness from start to finish. Complete and evocative with purity of expression. Seek it out. (Drink between 2023-2031) |
|
|
2022 |
Francs Cotes de Bordeaux 2023 en Primeur Release |
$29.95 |
12 |
|
| |
WA 92-94 (5/2023): This medium to full-bodied 2022 Marsau is an attractive wine produced from 100% Merlot. It has a delightfully pure bouquet of peony, violet, iris, menthol and cassis, followed by a crunchy and juicy yet fresh texture and then by a mineral-driven finish of remarkable purity, expressing elegant notes of licorice and pencil lead. Anne-Laurence and Mathieu Chadronnier have produced a red wine that punches above its weight. Bravo!
JA 92 (5/2023): Floral notes on the aromatics, shows the heavy spice of the vintage with black pepper, rosemary and turmeric notes, begins to lift through the palate as it opens. An unusual spot in Franc Côtes de Bordeaux with a lot of clay in the soils, and this is powerful and concentrated, with a flash of heat on the finish. 12ha vineyard, entirely clay, entirely Merlot, organic since 2018, no till farming, 25hl/h yield. Harvest September 7 to 12, to be aged 80% large oak casks (no new oak), 10% one year old, 10% neutral oak and amphora. |
|
| Ch. Pibran |
2020 |
Pauillac Ex-Negociant |
$39 |
18 |
|
| |
JD 93 (3/2023): Based on 55% Merlot and 45% Cabernet Sauvignon that saw 50% new oak, the 2020 Château Pibran is a classic wine in the vintage that has a pure, layered, medium to full-bodied style as well as textbook notes of darker berries, cassis, irone, and tobacco. With ripe tannins, a good spine of acidity, and plenty of texture, it's going to evolve for 15-20 years in cold cellars. (Drink between 2023-2043).
VM 93 (2/2023): The 2020 Pibran is a potent wine. Black cherry, plum, mocha, licorice and chocolate are nicely dialed up in this rich, heady Pauillac. Soft, plush and exuberant, Pibran is a total charmer. Best of all, it will be ready to drink with minimal cellaring. Bright acids and floral notes lift the finish. (Drink between 2025-2035). Antonio Galloni.
WA 90+ (4/2023): Aromas of cassis, raw cocoa, licorice and loamy soil introduce the 2020 Pibran, a medium to full-bodied, layered and velvety wine framed by powdery tannins that assert themselves on the finish. |
|
| Ch. Sociando Mallet |
2020 |
Haut Medoc |
$38 |
48 |
|
| |
JS 94 (12/2022): This has a pretty nose with dark spices, nut shell and cedar notes with a dark fruit backbone, following through to a medium body with firm and finely polished tannins that go on and on. Refined and nicely balanced with velvety texture. Lingering and chalky finish. Try after 2026.
VM 93 (2/2023): The 2020 Sociando Mallet has retained its impressive aromatics from its showing in barrel with beautifully defined blackberry and raspberry fruit, pressed violet and light cedar aromas. The palate is medium-bodied with firm backbone, a little powdery in texture, fine backbone with ample freshness and tension towards its graphite-infused finish. Bravo! Neal Martin. |
|
| Clos Sainte Anne |
2018 |
Cadillac Cotes de Bordeaux ex-Negociant |
$16.99 |
40 |
|
| |
|
| Esprit de Chevalier |
2020 |
Pessac Leognan ex-Negociant |
$28.99 |
26 |
|
| |
VM 92 (11/2024): The 2020 L'Esprit de Chevalier has a tad too much wood influence on the nose, but there is sufficient fruit to absorb it. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins, fleshy, lively and detailed, with a dash of white pepper toward the finish. This is another delicious, classically styled Pessac-Léognan. Tasted blind at the annual Southwold tasting. (Drink between 2026-2042). Neal Martin.
JD 91 (3/2023): The 2020 L'Esprit De Chevalier is more restrained aromatically, yet has outstanding purity in its red and black fruits as well as notes of dried herbs, tobacco, chocolate, and damp earth. It's a medium-bodied, elegant, balanced, and certainly delicious second wine that will benefit from just a year or two of bottle age and shine for a decade. (Drink between 2023-2033)
WA 90 (4/2023): Fleshy and demonstrative, the 2020 L'Esprit de Chevalier bursts with aromas of sweet berries, plums and petals. Medium to full-bodied, rich and layered, with polished tannins and an expansive finish, it will drink well young. |
|
| Fleur de Pedesclaux |
2019 |
Pauillac ex-Negociant |
$32.95 |
25 |
|
| |
| VM 90 (2/2022): The 2019 Fleur de Pédesclaux, matured in 30% new oak, has been increasing its Cabernet Sauvignon since 2009, when it was pure Merlot (and also undergoing organic conversion since 2013). Raspberry, blackberry, cedar and light tobacco scents unfurl in the glass. The palate is still quite fleshy and rounded, and lightly spiced, retaining that hint of Chinese five-spice toward the tender finish. A lovely second wine. (Drink between 2023-2033). Neal Martin. |
|
| G. d' Estournel |
2020 |
Medoc ex-Negociant |
$32.99 |
39 |
|
| |
JA 92 (1/2023): So interesting tasting this against a wide range of AOC Médoc wines. It's a more expensive bottle than many of them, but it is confident, crafted and full of personality. Cocoa bean, espresso, plentiful berry fruit, touches of mandarin peel and lemongrass to lift things on the finish, slate texture tannins, good stuff.
JD 89 (2/2023): A terrific wine, the 2020 Goulee By Cos D'Estournel sports a healthy ruby/purple hue as well as ripe aromatics of currants, sandalwood, damp earth, and leafy tobacco. This medium-bodied, silky, juicy, ready-to-go Médoc is perfect for enjoying over the coming 7-8 years. (Drink between 2023-2031)
VM 89 (2/2023): The 2020 Goulée by Cos d'Estournel is very pretty and aromatic. Élevage has filled out the layers nicely, but this remains a decidedly aromatic, mid-weight vintage for the château's Médoc. Sweet pipe tobacco, leather, mint, cinnamon and dried cherry build nicely in the glass. The 2020 has come together nicely. (Drink between 2024-2035). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Le C des Carmes Haut Brion |
2022 |
Pessac Leognan ex-Negociant |
$44.95 |
60 |
|
| |
WA 94 (3/2025): The 2022 Le C des Carmes Haut-Brion is punching above its weight this year. Unfurling in the glass with a gourmand, lively and vibrant bouquet of raspberry, mulberries, rose, violet and cassis, it's medium to full-bodied, seamless and layered with refined, velvety tannins and a deep core of fruit, concluding with a harmonious, elegant profile that avoids any excess, enhancing its distinctive personality. Guillaume Pouthier, Guillaume Deschepper and their team have done a fantastic job at this address, delivering an exceptional wine.
JD 94 (2/2025): The 2022 C Des Carmes Haut-Brion is 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 39% Merlot, and the rest 1% Petit Verdot that was fermented with 30% whole clusters and aged 12 months in a new foudre (there's a small part in used barrels) followed by four months all in concrete tanks. There are fewer stems in this cuvée as the vines are younger, and it has a higher percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon. Its deep ruby/purple hue is followed by a spicy, peppery, complex perfume of darker berry and plum fruits, spring flowers, tobacco leaf, and a beautiful sense of minerality. Medium to full-bodied, nicely concentrated, elegant, and loaded with character, it's a singular Pessac-Léognan that will have two decades of longevity. (Drink between 2025-2045).
VM 92 (2/2025): The 2022 Le C des Carmes Haut-Brion, mainly Cabernet Sauvignon (60%) from gravelly soils, will be kept for one year in bottle before release. It has 13.3% alcohol, reduced by the 30% whole cluster contribution with infusion rather than maceration, using a coffee plunger concept to push down the cap in the vat. It aged for one year in barrel and one year on foudres. The nose presents blackberry, clove and curry leaf aromas, with a touch more mint than before. The medium-bodied palate has slightly chalky tannins and is fresh thanks to the whole bunch contribution. Quite linear and a little Syrah-like towards the finish, this lovely wine will age well over the next 12 to 20 years. (Drink between 2028-2048). Neal Martin. |
|
| Les Fiefs de Lagrange |
2010 |
St. Julien (375 ML) |
$32 |
58 |
|
| |
| WA 89-91 (5/2011): A blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31% Merlot and 9% Petit Verdot, this has a very fine nose of blackberry, briary and a touch of black tea. Good definition and purity. The Petit Verdot add a little edginess to this wine that has fine tension if lacking a little length on the saturated, slightly chewy finish. Very good purity and precision though. |
|
| Les Griffons de Pichon Baron |
2019 |
Pauillac Ex-Negociant |
$49 |
20 |
|
| |
JD 94 (4/2022): The second wine of this great estate, the 2019 Les Griffons De Pichon Baron is a more Merlot-dominated release and is 59% Merlot and 41% Cabernet Sauvignon that saw 40% new oak. It has a gorgeous nose of ripe blackcurrant and darker cherry fruits as well as tobacco, smoked herbs, violets, and freshly sharpened pencils. Vibrant, pure, and complex aromatically, it's medium to full-bodied on the palate, has the vintage's pure, elegant character, terrific depth on the mid-palate, and outstanding length. It's a wonderful, already approachable Pauillac that will deliver the goods over the coming 20+ years. (Drink between 2022-2044).
VM 90 (2/2023): The 2019 Les Griffons de Pichon Baron has a slightly evolved nose, red fruit mixed with melted tar and mixed herbs. The palate is better with firm tannins, fine acidity, quite a solid wine with admirable grip on the finish. Enjoy this over the next 10 to 12 years. Tasted blind at the Southwold annual tasting. (Drink between 2025-2035). Neal Martin. |
|
| | Bordeaux White |
| Baron de Brane |
2023 |
Bordeaux Blanc ex-Negociant |
$25.95 |
32 |
|
| |
|
| Ch. de Rayne-Vigneau |
2014 |
Sauternes (375 ML) ex-Negociant |
$34.99 |
60 |
|
| |
VM 95 (2/2017): A rich, exotic Sauternes, the 2014 de Rayne Vigneau exudes class. A mélange of apricot jam, wild flowers, mint and lemon confit fills out the wine's frame effortlessly. Ample, powerful and super-inviting, the 2014 shows beautifully today. This is one of the more over, extroverted Sauternes of the vintage. (Drink between 2017-2029). Antonio Galloni.
WA 94-96 (4/2015): The Château Rayne-Vigneau 2014 could be one of the standouts of the vintage. It was showing a little new oak on the nose, though readers should note that this sample was taken from a new Burgundy barrel. There are touches of vanilla infusing the honeyed fruit. The palate is fresh and vibrant on the entry. This is very balanced and poised with superb tension, energetic but classy, a sophisticated Sauternes that feels persistent and long in the mouth. Talented winemaker Anne Le Naour has crafted another beauty from this estate that deserves more respect. |
|
| Ch. Rieussec |
2024 |
"R" de Rieussec Bordeaux Blanc Sec ex-Negociant |
$39.99 |
60 |
|
| |
| JA 94 (4/2025): This is succulent and precise, definitely one to look out, plenty of energy and lift through the palate, elderflower, citrus, white pepper, sage, lime zest, apricot, nectarine, saffron, steel and slate. Great stuff from Rieussec in this vintage. 3.15ph. |
|
| | Burgundy Red |
| Dom. Michele and Patrice Rion |
2023 |
Bourgogne Bons Batons ex-Domaine |
$39.95 |
22 |
|
| |
VM 88-90 (1/2025): The 2023 Bourgogne Rouge Bon Baton comes from a parcel adjacent to Ghislaine Barthod's on stonier soils, aged mostly in one-year-old barrels. Lightly perfumed on the nose, this conjures raspberry, strawberry and wild hedgerow scents, more complex than your common or garden Bourgogne Rouge. The palate is medium-bodied with satisfying concentration, not weighty or dense but light on its feet with commendable purity and grip on the finish. Traces of tobacco emerge on the aftertaste. Village Cru in quality. (Drink between 2026-2031). Neal Martin.
JM 87-89 (10/2024): An even purple colour. A very attractive stylish perfumed floral nose, with a little more body than the regular. Not massively concentrated but distinguished in its length. Sound acidity. The flavours stay with you. Drink from 2026-2030.
BH 86-89 (1/2025): A slightly riper and more deeply pitched nose features aromas of dark cherry, poached plum and freshly turned earth. The delicious if not especially dense flavors do possess a lovely sense of underlying tension before culminating in a youthfully austere, lingering and mildly austere finale. This is also very good for its level and worth checking out. Drink 2027+. Outstanding! |
|
| Dom. Patrick Javillier |
2023 |
Pernand Vergelesses Rouge ex-Domaine |
$39.99 |
50 |
|
| |
BH 89 (4/2025): Here too there is a mentholated top note to the fresh and more deeply pitched nose of poached plum, dark berries and more subtle earth nuances. There is better volume to the solidly concentrated middle weight flavors that possess both a finer texture and a discreet bead of minerality on the balanced, youthfully austere and slightly firmer finale. This is a quality Pernand villages. (Drink starting 2028).
JM 87-89 (12/2024): An even light crimson colour. While there is less fruit evident on the nose, there is more concentration than expected on the palate, with a certain density towards the back, in a crunchy strawberry raspberry style. Once the bouquet develops this will, become an interesting wine. |
|
| Patrice Rion |
2023 |
Bourgogne Pinot Noir ex-Domaine |
$32.99 |
44 |
|
| |
JM 86-87 (10/2024): A fine red to crimson colour, with an agreeable immediate red fruit nose, no great concentration but nicely made. Perfumed with some cherries, a slight hardness at the finish still needing time to soften – recently racked – and good acidity. Some young vines in this. Drink from 2026-2028.
BH 86-89 (1/2025): (from Chambolle vines.) An expressive and fresh nose offers up notes of red and blue pinot fruit laced with earth and discreet spice nuances. The supple, delicious and fleshy middle weight flavors conclude in a refreshing and long finish where a touch of rusticity eventually surfaces. Solid quality here. Outstanding! |
|
|
2023 |
Cotes de Nuits Villages Vieilles Vignes ex-Domaine |
$39.95 |
32 |
|
| |
VM 89-91 (1/2025): The 2023 Côte de Nuits-Villages comprises two-thirds fruit purchased from Clombanchien, and the rest Domaine fruit from En Luret lieu-dit. Blackcurrant and raspberry combine nicely on the nose, not concentrated per se, yet showing decent clarity and purity. The palate is medium-bodied with a slightly granular texture on the entry, lightly peppered though there are no stems in the blend. Focused and harmonious toward the finish, this is a worthy follow-up to the 2022. (Drink between 2027-2037). Neal Martin.
JM 89-90 (10/2024): A mix of their own vines, one third from Au Leurey, and the rest purchases in Comblanchien. There is more depth to the purple colour here. A perfumed nose with a more sensual and floral bouquet redolent of the sunshine. Good acidity behind, medium density, some length. Drink from 2027-2030.
BH 88-91 (1/2025): (mostly from Belle-Vue in Comblanchien with small amounts of Les Loges, Les Leurey and Vaucrains.) This is aromatically similar to the Bon Bâtons but with notably more spice influence. The supple, delicious and energetic medium weight flavors possess a highly seductive, even velvety, texture while displaying very good length and depth on the balanced bitter pit fruit-inflected finish. Drink 2028+. |
|
| Pierre Boisson |
2023 |
Hautes Cotes de Beaune Rouge |
$39.99 |
12 |
|
| |
|
| | Burgundy White |
| Anne Boisson |
2023 |
Bourgogne Aligote |
$33.95 |
24 |
|
| |
|
|
2023 |
Bourgogne Blanc Les Clous Perrons |
$47.99 |
12 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. Bessin-Tremblay |
2023 |
Chablis ex-Domaine |
$37.99 |
47 |
|
| |
BH 89-91 (10/2024): Cool and airy aromas include those of Granny Smith apple, citrus rind and ample Chablis character, especially seaweed. The delicious middle weight flavors possess a lovely texture, especially for a villages Chablis, while displaying a subtle materiality on the youthfully austere and lingering finale. Lovely. (Drink starting 2027).
JM 88 (6/2025): Bottled in March 2025. Pale lime green. Fresh and chiselled nose, some lime blossom all as minerals, Plenty of energy, not at all too fleshy, backward. Drink from 2025-2027. |
|
| Dom. des Malandes |
2023 |
Chablis 1er Cru Mont de Milieu Ex-Domaine |
$49.95 |
60 |
|
| |
VM 91 (7/2025): The 2023 Chablis Mont de Milieu 1er Cru has a well-focused, quite animated bouquet that unfolds in the glass with touches of orchard fruit and grassy meadow. The palate is balanced with a fine bead of acidity. This is lightly spiced but just needs a little more tension on the finish. Overall, it's a very well-made Mont de Milieu that should age nicely in bottle. Tasted blind at the BIVB offices in Chablis. Neal Martin.
BH 88-90 (10/2024): (from a parcel of .26 ha). A funky nose of leesy reduction and lactic character. By contrast there is good freshness to the rich, generously proportioned and succulent medium-bodied flavors that culminate in a delicious if somewhat short finish. This should improve once it’s racked but it’s awkward today. Drink 2027+ |
|
|
2023 |
Chablis 1er Cru Vau de Vey Ex-Domaine |
$46.99 |
60 |
|
| |
VM 90 (7/2025): The 2023 Chablis Vau de Vey 1er Cru, aged 50% in used oak, has a light, fresh apple blossom- and pear-scented nose with hints of pressed white flowers. The palate is well balanced with slightly honeyed citrus fruit and modest weight, though it needs more Neal Martin.
BH 89-91 (10/2024): (from a 3.52 ha parcel aged in 30% wood). A fresh, ripe and expressive nose reflects good Chablis typicity that includes quinine, sea breeze, lemon rind and cool white fleshed fruit. There is fine density to the delicious, intense and solidly voluminous flavors that offer better depth and persistence on the youthfully austere finale. Drink 2028+ |
|
| Dom. Patrick Javillier |
2022 |
Bourgogne Cuvee des Forgets ex-Domaine |
$43.99 |
60 |
|
| |
BH 87 (6/2024): Bright aromas of just sliced citrus, white peach and pretty floral nuances are complemented by delicious middleweight flavors that are supported by lemon-tinged acidity on the vibrant, lingering and refreshing finale. Moreover, this is not your usual 'pop and pour' Bourgogne as it has the legs to repay 4 to 7 years of keeping. Worth checking out. Drink 2027+. Outstanding Top Value!
JM 87-89 (10/2023): A similar colour, pale primrose perhaps. A little bit crisper and more classic in bouquet. Delicious white fruit, very balanced, feel the limestone, enough flesh yet with precision as well. A longer and more mineral finish than Forgets. |
|
|
2023 |
Bourgogne Cuvee des Forgets ex-Domaine |
$41.99 |
60 |
|
| |
JM 89-91 (12/2024): To bottle in the New Year. A fine mid lemon yellow with an engaging generosity of fruit already apparent on the nose. The Javilliers have manged to harness freshness with ripeness in a most engaging fashion. Apple and plum fruit throughout, with a fine long finish. Drink from 2026-2029.
BH 87 (6/2025): Smoky aromas include those of apple, pear and a pretty floral top note. There is fine density, particularly in the context of the 2023 vintage, to the attractively textured and punchy flavors that conclude in a supple and lingering finish that is perhaps a bit less dry than usual. Even so, this is lovely and worth considering. (Drink starting 2026).
VM 87 (3/2025): The 2023 Bourgogne Côte d'Or Cuvée des Forgets has a light grass clipping- and apple blossom-scented nose. The palate is fresh with admirable weight, more expressive than the aromatics at the moment, with citrus peel and a hint of apricot on the finish. Drink over the next five years. (Drink between 2025-2030). Neal Martin. |
|
|
2023 |
Bourgogne Cuvee Oligocene ex-Domaine |
$39.99 |
60 |
|
| |
VM 89 (3/2025): The 2023 Bourgogne Côte d'Or Cuvée Oligocène has a little more evidence of oak on the nose and a touch more yellow fruit than the Cuvée des Forgets. The palate is fresh and lively, mixing citrus lemon with orange rind and a dash of lemongrass towards the finish. Great value as always, this comes recommended. (Drink between 2025-2032). Neal Martin.
JM 89 (12/2024): Bottled end November. A slightly paler lemon yellow. Oligocene proposes a more cerebral aspect after the joyous Forgets. Ther is still an excellent concentration of ripe fruit, with a clear limestone backbone. Very good tension here with some lime notes as well as ripe lemon. Balanced and classy. Drink from 2026-2029.
BH 87 (6/2025): A more layered nose is comprised by notes of petrol, various white orchard fruit, acacia and a whiff of citrus confit. There is a bit more volume to the vibrant and utterly delicious middle weight flavors that retain a fine sense of detail on the drier, longer and more complex finale. This is an excellent Bourgogne and warmly recommended. (Drink starting 2027). |
|
| Dom. Potinet-Ampeau |
2018 |
Bourgogne Aligote ex-Domaine |
$29.99 |
59 |
|
| |
|
|
2020 |
Bourgogne Blanc Ex-Domaine |
$44.99 |
28 |
|
| |
|
| Patrice Rion |
2023 |
Bourgogne Chardonnay ex-Domaine |
$32.99 |
60 |
|
| |
BH 86-88 (6/2025): Fresh and bright aromas include those of pear and apple compote, citrus rind and a hint of spice. There is equally good verve to the delicious and acceptably dense flavors that possess a succulent mid-palate that contrasts mildly with the youthfully austere and balanced finale. This could use better depth so a year, or perhaps two, of cellaring should help. (Drink starting 2026).
JM 86-87 (10/2024): A fine red to crimson colour, with an agreeable immediate red fruit nose, no great concentration but nicely made. Perfumed with some cherries, a slight hardness at the finish still needing time to soften – recently racked – and good ac |
|
| Pierre Boisson |
2022 |
Macon-Villages au Poirier Chanin |
$46.99 |
12 |
|
| |
|
|
2023 |
Macon-Villages Blanc |
$31.99 |
24 |
|
| |
|
|
2023 |
Rully Blanc Les Cailloux |
$42.99 |
12 |
|
| |
|
| Pierre Morey |
2023 |
Bourgogne Aligote |
$31.99 |
20 |
|
| |
VM 88 (3/2025): The 2023 Bourgogne Aligoté, which had been bottled, offers lilting citrus peel and clementine scents on the nose that just need a little coaxing from the glass. The palate is well balanced with an underlying sapidity, slightly viscous in texture with veins of lemongrass towards the persistent finish. This is a fine upstanding Aligoté from Anne Morey. (Drink between 2025-2030).
BH 87 (6/2025): A textbook aligoté nose is comprised by notes of various citrus elements, spice and ripe green apple. The seductive, even suave, middle weight flavors possess excellent punch as well as an almost pungent minerality that seems to build on the bone-dry, youthfully austere and borderline rustic and tannic finale. This is an old school effort that will need a year or two of keeping first. A quality aligoté. (Drink starting 2027). |
|
| | Rhone Red |
| Dom. Coursodon |
2021 |
St. Joseph Rouge l’Olivaie ex-Domaine |
$39.99 |
60 |
|
| |
Decanter 92 (9/2022): Sparky herbal notes on the nose, with thyme and rosemary. There’s some roundness on the palate thanks in part down to the oak, which isn't overly dominating. Good presence on the palate thanks to the firm tannins, and a fairly long finish. A good option in 2021. 60-year-old vines, all destemmed, 15% new oak.
JD 90-92 (12/2022): The 2021 Saint Joseph L'Olivaie is rock-solid, offering pretty darker cherry and fresh fig-like notes as well as spice, game, and flowery incense nuances. This medium-bodied, supple, nicely balanced, and textured effort has outstanding potential and will certainly drink nicely right out of the gate. |
|
|
2022 |
St. Joseph Rouge l’Olivaie ex-Domaine |
$41.99 |
60 |
|
| |
JD 93 (5/2025): All Syrah aged 15 months in barrel (15% new), the 2022 Saint Joseph Olivaie offers red and black fruits, leafy herbs, sappy flowers, and spicy wood. Medium to full-bodied and beautifully balanced, with ripe tannins, it's a layered, elegant, and impressively made wine in a classic style. Drink bottles over the coming 8-10 years. Drink 2025-2035.
VM 91 (1/2025): The 2022 Saint-Joseph L'Olivaie mixes leafy accents with graphite, black cherry and a touch of cedar on the elegant aromatic profile. Medium-bodied, round and refreshing, the 2022 is a delicious Saint-Joseph that’s already starting to drink well. Drink between 2025-2030. Nicolas Greinacher. |
|
|
2023 |
St. Joseph Rouge l’Olivaie Ex-Domaine |
$49.99 |
60 |
|
| |
JD 93-95 (5/2025): All Syrah, the 2023 Saint Joseph L'Olivaie brings another level of concentration, offering cassis, graphite, crushed stone, and classy oak on the nose. It has terrific purity, medium to full-bodied richness, ripe tannins, and a great finish. The overall balance and purity here are exceptional.
VM 90-92 (1/2025): Cedar, black cherry, wood smoke and pencil shaving introduce the 2023 Saint-Joseph L'Olivaie, a medium-bodied, deeply hued Northern Rhône Syrah. Touching the palate with elevated flavor concentration, the 2023 handles the oak well. I look forward to tasting the bottled version. Nicolas Greinacher. |
|
|
2020 |
St. Joseph Rouge Silice ex-Domaine |
$31.99 |
60 |
|
| |
VM 93 (12/2022): Saturated violet color. Displays fresh-mineral-accented aromas of fresh red and blue fruits and candied flowers, with hints of savory herbs and black pepper in the background. Juicy and lithe on the palate, offering appealingly sweet cherry and boysenberry flavors and a touch of licorice. Finishes long and smooth, with resonating red fruit character and round, even tannins that come on late. Josh Raynolds.
JD 91 (12/2022): A great introduction to the wines of this terrific vigneron, the 2020 Saint Joseph Silice has classic darker berry fruits as well as peppery herbs, violets, and some obvious minerality on both the nose and palate. These carry to a medium-bodied effort with good acidity, firm yet ripe tannins, and outstanding length.
JS 91 (2/2022): An interesting nose of blackberries and blueberries with some graphite and leather adding interest. Robust structure for a St.-Joseph with plenty of pepper and spice, but the fruit is more than adequate to carry all this. Good length, if not tremendously complex. Sustainable. Drinkable now, but best from 2023. |
|
|
2021 |
St. Joseph Rouge Silice ex-Domaine |
$28.99 |
60 |
|
| |
JD 91-93 (12/2022): The 2021 Saint Joseph Silice is also beautiful, with a round, supple, layered style that shines in the vintage. Black raspberries, spice box, dried flowers, and hints of violets give way to a medium-bodied, up-front, charming, layered 2021 that certainly stands out in the vintage.
Decanter 91 (9/2022): Neat, well-balanced and fresh, with sappy acidity. It's a relatively light St-Joseph, as is common for the vintage, but they've found a good balance and reflected the vintage as well as it could be. Gently herbal streak and a touch of juniper. |
|
|
2022 |
St. Joseph Rouge Silice ex-Domaine |
$29.99 |
28 |
|
| |
JD 94 (5/2025): Showing the least amount of oak in Coursodon's lineup, the 2022 Saint Joseph Silice offers blackberries, peppery herbs, damp earth, and sappy flowers, all with remarkable purity and complexity. All Syrah, destemmed and aged 12 months in barrel, this cooler-fruited effort is terrific. Drink bottles over the coming 8-10 years. Drink 2025-2035.
VM 92 (1/2025): The 2022 Saint-Joseph Silice unfolds with ripe black cherry, pencil shaving, black tea, crushed violet and gently leafy subtleties. Medium-bodied at most, the 2022 is a classic, age-worthy Silice that’s gently structured by ripe tannins. Drink between 2025-2035. Nicolas Greinacher. |
|
|
2023 |
St. Joseph Rouge Silice Ex-Domaine |
$31.99 |
60 |
|
| |
JD 92-94 (5/2025): The 2023 Saint Joseph Silice shows beautifully, with a pure, balanced, medium to full-bodied style as well as classic Saint Joseph minerality, the vintage's ripe red and darker, almost blue fruits, lots of spice and floral nuances, integrated oak, and outstanding length. All Syrah, destemmed and aged 12 months in barrel, it should shine right out of the gate
VM 90-92 (1/2025): The 2023 Saint-Joseph Silice evokes a classic aromatic profile so typical of the appellation. This accentuates its Syrah elegance through delicate graphite, red and black plum notes as well as spicy subtleties. The medium-bodied 2023 is shaping up to be a refreshing Saint-Joseph, closing with a resonant echo on the bright finish. It is very complete, even at this early stage. Drink between 2025-2033. Nicolas Greinacher. |
|
| Dom. de Mourchon |
2022 |
Cotes du Rhone Villages Seguret Family Reserve Grenache ex-Domaine |
$36.99 |
60 |
|
| |
| JD 93 (2/2025): Almost all Grenache the 2022 Côtes Du Rhône Villages Séguret Family Grenache was totally destemmed and spent 18 months in wooden conical trunk vats and barrels. It's a ripe, sexy, concentrated Grenache that has a rocking bouquet of black raspberries, black cherries, sandalwood, and peppery herbs. Reminding me of a great Gigondas, it offers medium to full-bodied richness, ripe, building tannins, and a great finish. It will shine over the coming 10-12 years. |
|
|
2023 |
Cotes du Rhone Villages Seguret Family Reserve Grenache ex-Domaine |
$36.99 |
60 |
|
| |
| JD 94 (11/2025): This is gorgeous stuff offering black raspberries, violets, blood orange, and tons of peppery garrigue, as well as a beautiful sense of minerality. Based on 98% Grenache and aged 18 months in 600-liter oak containers, the 2023 Côtes Du Rhône Villages Seguret Grenache Family Reserve is medium to full-bodied and has a pure, layered mouthfeel with remarkable purity and fine tannins. It will stand up to just about anything in the region, and there are 375 cases produced. Drink 2025-2040. |
|
|
2022 |
Cotes du Rhone Villages Seguret Family Reserve Syrah Ex-Domaine |
$36.99 |
60 |
|
| |
| JD 93 (11/2025): A bigger, richer wine, the 2022 Côtes Du Rhône Villages Seguret Syrah Family Reserve offers blackberries, chalky minerality, pepper, and gamey, meaty nuances. Based on 98% Syrah from vines planted in the 1950s and aged 18 months in oak barrels, it's medium to full-bodied and has a concentrated, layered mouthfeel with ripe tannins. It will continue to drink nicely over the coming decade, and there are 333 cases produced. Drink 2025-2035. |
|
|
2022 |
Cotes du Rhone Villages Seguret Grande Reserve Ex-Domaine |
$27.99 |
60 |
|
| |
| JD 92 (2/2025): The 2022 Cotes du Rhone Villages Segurey Grande Reserve is based on 70% Grenache and 30% Syrah. Black raspberries, peppery herbs, spicy wood, and some meaty nuances all shine here, and it's medium to full-bodied, with a broad, layered mouthfeel, plenty of tannins, and a great finish. I love it today yet it's going to have a solid 10-12 years of prime drinking. |
|
|
2025 |
Cotes du Rhone Villages Seguret Loubie Rose ex-Domaine |
$16.99 |
60 |
|
| |
|
|
2024 |
Cotes du Rhone Villages Seguret Nana ex-Domaine |
$17.50 |
60 |
|
| |
|
|
2025 |
Cotes du Rhone Villages Seguret Soubois Rose ex-Domaine |
$22.99 |
60 |
|
| |
|
|
2022 |
Cotes du Rhone Villages Seguret Tradition Ex-Domaine |
$18.99 |
60 |
|
| |
| JD 89 (2/2025): Blackberries, darker cherries, peppery garrigue, and plenty of curshed stone-like notes define the 2022 Cotes Du Rhone Seguret Tradition, a medium-bodied, structured, yet elegant Seguret that has tons of character. |
|
|
2023 |
Cotes du Rhone Villages Seguret Tradition ex-Domaine |
$18.99 |
60 |
|
| |
| JD 88 (11/2025): The classic cuvée of this terrific estate, the 2023 Côtes Du Rhône Villages Seguret Tradition offers red and black fruits, crushed stone, garrigue, and pretty floral nuances. Based on 70% Grenache and 30% Syrah and aged 20% in trunconic oak vats with 80% in concrete vats, it's medium-bodied and beautifully balanced, with fine tannins and a good finish. This charming, balanced, elegant Seguret will keep for 5-7 years, and there are roughly 3,250 cases produced. Drink 2025-2032. |
|
|
2023 |
Cotes du Rhone Villages Seguret Tradition (1.5 L) ex-Domaine |
$41.99 |
24 |
|
| |
| JD 88 (11/2025): The classic cuvée of this terrific estate, the 2023 Côtes Du Rhône Villages Seguret Tradition offers red and black fruits, crushed stone, garrigue, and pretty floral nuances. Based on 70% Grenache and 30% Syrah and aged 20% in trunconic oak vats with 80% in concrete vats, it's medium-bodied and beautifully balanced, with fine tannins and a good finish. This charming, balanced, elegant Seguret will keep for 5-7 years, and there are roughly 3,250 cases produced. Drink 2025-2032. |
|
| Dom. Duclaux |
2020 |
Cote Rotie La Chana ex-Domaine |
$44.99 |
29 |
|
| |
JD 89-91 (2/2022): Starting with the 2020 Côte Rôtie La Chana, which includes 7% Viognier, this has a ripe, up-front, charming style as well as classic Côte Rôtie black raspberry fruits mixed with spice and bacon fat nuances. It's going to drink nicely right out of the gate.
WA 89-91 (1/2022): Blended from several parcels and barrels for my evaluation, the 2020 Cote Rotie La Chana usually contains approximately 7% Viognier and sees no new wood. It shows attractive aromas of raspberries and apricot on the nose, a medium to full-bodied feel on the palate and a savory finish that nicely balances mouthwatering acids and softly dusty tannins. It should drink well for the rest of this decade. |
|
|
2022 |
Cote Rotie La Chana Ex-Domaine |
$49.99 |
53 |
|
| |
|
|
2021 |
Cote Rotie La Germine ex-Domaine |
$46.99 |
60 |
|
| |
| Decanter 92 (10/2022): Spiced raspberry fruits on the nose, with a touch of blood orange. A dry, neat, compact style that will drink well young. Fine tannins reveal a gentle, light-bodied style with a good sense of freshness, if not concentration. Vines on gneiss, blonde soils. 20% whole bunch. Vinified in open concrete tanks. |
|
|
2022 |
Cote Rotie La Germine Ex-Domaine |
$48.99 |
44 |
|
| |
JD 93 (5/2025): Incorporating 3% Viognier, the 2022 Côte Rôtie La Germine reveals a concentrated, rich, nicely structured profile of ripe black and blue fruits, crushed stone, and floral, sappy, gamey nuances. Medium to full-bodied, with plenty of mid-palate depth and a great finish, it was vinified with 20% whole clusters and aged 20 months in barrels and demi-muids (15% new). It, too, should have 10-15 years of longevity. Drink 2025-2035.
VM 89 (1/2025): The 2022 Côte-Rôtie La Germine evokes a fairly simple aromatic profile, opening with red and black cherry notes alongside touches of violet and spice box. Medium-bodied and refreshing, the 2022 is an elegant, early approachable Côte-Rôtie culminating with brightness on the moderately long finish. (Drink between 2025-2030). NIcholas Greinacher. |
|
| Dom. Vincent Paris |
2020 |
Cornas Granit 30 |
$44.99 |
20 |
|
| |
JD 93-95 (2/2022): Starting with what could be considered the entry level cuvée, the 2020 Cornas Granit 30 comes from further down the slope, from vines closer to the village. That's obviously not a bad thing, since this plump, full-bodied, beautifully textured Cornas has remarkable purity and elegance as well as richness. Blackberries, blueberries, subtle smoke, graphite, and violets all emerge from the glass, and it has a seamless, incredibly elegant texture.
VM 93 (12/2022): Dark violet color. Dark berry preserve, licorice, olive and exotic spice aromas, with a hint of espresso in the background. Sappy and broad on the palate, offering spice-tinged cherry-cola, blueberry and candied violet flavors with a spicy snap of black pepper. The floral note carries through a very long, dark fruit-driven finish, where gently chewy tannins add shape and closing grip. Josh Raynolds.
Decanter 93 (10/2021): Very herbal, with leafy herbs like tarragon alongside woody herbs such as rosemary. Blueberry and liquorice too. Middleweight style, good concentration of fresh, juicy berry fruit and good persistence. Fresh, intense, gently saline and well-balanced. A good value pick this year. From 10-year-old vines, all destemmed. (Drink between 2022-2028) |
|
| Domaine les Goubert |
2022 |
Cotes du Rhone Villages Sablet ex-Domaine |
$16.99 |
30 |
|
| |
|
|
2021 |
Gigondas Cuvee Florence ex-Domaine |
$44.99 |
37 |
|
| |
| JD 91-93+ (10/2023): Slightly deeper hued, the 2021 Gigondas Cuvée Florence has a terrific nose of darker berries, sandalwood, white chocolate, and pepper. It's a concentrated, medium-bodied, balanced 2021 offering solid mid-palate depth, ripe tannins, and outstanding length. Based on Grenache and Syrah that sees an extended élevage in barrels, it should benefit from just a year or two of bottle age and have a solid decade of prime drinking. |
|
|
2024 |
IGP Vaucluse Principaute d’Orange Miss Grenouille ex-Domaine |
$19.99 |
12 |
|
| |
|
| Jean-Luc Jamet |
2022 |
Cotes du Rhone Rouge l’Enclave Ex-Domaine |
$34.99 |
60 |
|
| |
|
|
2023 |
Cotes du Rhone Rouge l’Enclave ex-Domaine |
$35.99 |
33 |
|
| |
|
|
2022 |
IGP Collines Rhodaniennes Rouge Syrah Valine Ex-Domaine |
$29.99 |
28 |
|
| |
|
|
2023 |
Vin de France Syrah Valine ex-Domaine |
$31.99 |
60 |
|
| |
|
| Mourchon |
2022 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Ex-Domaine |
$45.99 |
60 |
|
| |
| JD 92 (11/2025): A cuvée whose quality has soared over the past four to five years, the 2022 Châteauneuf Du Pape is a brilliant effort in an arguably more challenging, heatwave-driven vintage. Sporting a ruby translucent hue, it boasts a brilliant perfume of ripe black cherries, redcurrants, peppery garrigue, and loamy earth with beautiful aromatic complexity. On the palate it's medium to full-bodied, has a ripe, layered mouthfeel, soft tannins, and a great finish. It's very much in the ripe, forward, sexy style of the vintage yet stays pure, graceful, and is just impossible to resist. It's not a long-term ager, so drink bottles over the coming 7-8 years. Drink 2025-2032. |
|
|
2023 |
Cotes du Rhone Ex-Domaine |
$14.99 |
54 |
|
| |
| JD 92 (11/2025): Lots of peppery red and black berry fruits, garrigue, and spice-driven aromatics emerge from the 2023 Côtes Du Rhône, with a hint of flowers. It's medium to full-bodied, has a round, layered mouthfeel, ripe tannins, and a juicy finish. It's one seriously good Côtes du Rhône that you could pretty much put up against anything in the appellation – count me impressed. This should have 10-12 years of prime drinking as well, and I'd be happy with a case in the cellar. Drink 2025-2037. |
|
|
2024 |
Cotes du Rhone ex-Domaine |
$14.99 |
60 |
|
| |
|
| | Rhone White |
| Dom. Coursodon |
2021 |
St. Joseph Blanc Silice ex-Domaine |
$29.99 |
60 |
|
| |
| JD 92 (12/2022): The 2021 Saint Joseph Silice Blanc has a Burgundian-like sense of reduction as well as beautiful quince, white flowers, honeyed minerality, and a kiss of background spice and toastiness. It's medium-bodied and has a clean, classy style that's going to evolve for 7-8 years in cold cellars. |
|
|
2023 |
St. Joseph Blanc Silice ex-Domaine |
$43.99 |
44 |
|
| |
JD 92 (5/2025): Based on 100% Marsanne, the 2023 Saint Joseph Silice Blanc reveals melon, honeyed flowers, spice, and toasted notes, showing impressive purity and cleanliness. It's fleshy on the palate, with beautiful balance and good purity, and while it has a slightly hazy color, it remains an impressive white. Drink bottles over the coming 4-6 years. Drink 2025-2031.
WA 91 (3/2025): Fresher and livelier than its Paradis Saint-Pierre counterpart, the 2023 Saint-Joseph Silice Blanc reveals aromas of confit citrus, spring blossoms and pear. Moderately weighted and delicately enveloping, it's juicy and layered with bright acids, concluding with a mouthwatering, floral finish.
VM 90 (1/2025): Flinty elements introduce the 2023 Saint-Joseph Blanc Silice, accompanied by notes of cedar, ripe pear, white peach and lemon flesh. Full-bodied, round and generous, the 2023 bundles vibrant energy and checks out with persistence on the sapid finish. This is an exquisite white Saint-Joseph. Drink between 2025-2027. Nicolas Greinacher. |
|
|
2024 |
St. Joseph Blanc Silice Ex-Domaine |
$38.99 |
60 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. de Mourchon |
2024 |
Cotes du Rhone Villages Seguret Soubois Blanc Ex-Domaine |
$22.99 |
20 |
|
| |
| JD 90 (11/2025): Based on 90% Viognier and 10% Roussanne and aged in demi-muids with weekly bâtonnage for six months, the 2024 Côtes Du Rhône Villages Seguret Soubois Blanc shows a light gold hue and offers crisp stone fruit, honeyed flowers, and a hint of orange blossom. It's medium-bodied, fresh, focused, and crisp, with terrific purity and balance. There are 191 cases produced. Drink 2025-2029. |
|
|
2025 |
Cotes du Rhone Villages Seguret Soubois Blanc ex-Domaine |
$22.99 |
60 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. du Tunnel |
2024 |
Saint Peray Cuvee Prestige Ex-Domaine |
$48.99 |
60 |
|
| |
| JD 97 (2/2026): Honeyed melon, crushed stone, mint, and hints of orange blossom all define the 2024 Prestige, an incredibly pure Saint-Péray that has so much to love. It's medium-bodied, has undeniable minerality, and outstanding length. You could put this up with the crème de la crème of the vintage, and while it plays in the fresher style of the vintage, it brings tons of character. Drink bottles over the coming 10-15 years. Drink 2026-2041. |
|
|
2024 |
Saint Peray Marsanne Ex-Domaine |
$37.99 |
60 |
|
| |
| JD 94 (2/2026): All Marsanne, the 2024 Saint-Péray Marsanne offers a gorgeous nose of honeyed quince, sappy white flowers, spice, and crushed stone. It's medium-bodied and has a focused, juicy, yet still nicely concentrated mouthfeel, integrated acidity, and outstanding length. It plays in the fresh, juicy, focused style of the vintage and will evolve gracefully over the coming decade. Drink 2026-2036. |
|
|
2024 |
Saint Peray Roussanne Ex-Domaine |
$45.99 |
60 |
|
| |
| JD 94 (2/2026): Orchard fruits, honeyed mint, and sappy herb/floral nuances emerge from the 2024 Saint-Péray Roussanne, which is medium-bodied, juicy, fresh, and focused on the palate. I love its overall purity, and it picks up a beautiful sense of salinity with time in the glass. It has another decade or more of longevity ahead of it. Drink 2026-2036. |
|
| Dom. Duclaux |
2021 |
Condrieu Les Caillets ex-Domaine |
$46.99 |
26 |
|
| |
|
| Jean-Luc Jamet |
2021 |
Cotes du Rhone Blanc Couzou ex-Domaine |
$25.99 |
12 |
|
| |
| JD 89 (5/2024): The 2021 Côtes du Rhône Couzou Blanc is based on Marsanne, Roussanne, and Viognier, all from more granitic soils. It has a light gold hue as well as a subtle nose of ripe stone fruits, honeyed orange, and spice, and it's medium-bodied, nicely textured, and nicely balanced on the palate. It has a good sense of freshness, but it's certainly a rich white that's going to shine on the dinner table. |
|
|
2022 |
Cotes du Rhone Blanc Couzou Ex-Domaine |
$26.99 |
43 |
|
| |
|
|
2023 |
Cotes du Rhone Blanc Couzou ex-Domaine |
$34.99 |
36 |
|
| |
|
| Mourchon |
2024 |
Cotes du Rhone Blanc La Source Ex-Domaine |
$16.99 |
25 |
|
| |
|
|
2025 |
Cotes du Rhone Blanc La Source ex-Domaine |
$16.99 |
60 |
|
| |
|
| | Southern France |
| Ch. de Pibarnon |
2020 |
Bandol ex-Chateau |
$44.99 |
15 |
|
| |
| JD 94 (7/2026): Under seven years of age, this 2020 Bandol Pibarnon keeps all its promises. It has taken time to develop and grow more complex, with delicate oak notes and others more smoky and typical of the terroir: sour cherry jam, leather, and precious wood. The texture is frank, coating, broad, and round, and the balance will confirm itself over the next 10-15 years. Best from 2027-2035. Antoine Petrus |
|
|
2021 |
Bandol ex-Chateau |
$46.99 |
60 |
|
| |
| VM 93 (5/2026): The 2021 Bandol leans fully into a classical style, opening with licorice, dried herbs, blackberry and peppery undertones as a beautiful spiciness grows steadily in the glass. Medium- to full-bodied, it is shaped by gently chalky tannins that lend real composure. The savoury finish is marked by pepper, subtle fleshiness and understated authority. (Drink between 2028-2046). Nicolas Greinacher. |
|
|
2021 |
Bandol ex-Chateau |
$46.99 |
60 |
|
| |
| VM 93 (5/2026): The 2021 Bandol leans fully into a classical style, opening with licorice, dried herbs, blackberry and peppery undertones as a beautiful spiciness grows steadily in the glass. Medium- to full-bodied, it is shaped by gently chalky tannins that lend real composure. The savoury finish is marked by pepper, subtle fleshiness and understated authority. (Drink between 2028-2046). Nicolas Greinacher. |
|
|
2023 |
Bandol Blanc ex-Chateau |
$49.99 |
27 |
|
| |
| WA 93 (7/2024): The elegant and perfumed 2023 Bandol Blanc from Château de Pibarnon is a real success this year, despite a challenging vintage in the region. It evokes aromas of citrus, spring flowers, curry leaves and white fruits mingled with spicy notes. Medium-bodied, perfectly balanced and fleshy, it has a fleshy core of fruit, bright acids and a long, mineral and saline finish. This blend of 55% Clairette, 30% Bourboulenc and the rest of a mix of other white grapes is an outstanding wine. |
|
|
2022 |
Bandol Rose ex-Chateau |
$36.99 |
60 |
|
| |
WA 93 (6/2023): The citrusy, mentholated 2022 Bandol Rosé was crafted with a blend of 65% Mourvèdre and 35% Cinsault and matured six months in barrels. It displays aromas of pomegranate, citrus, spring flowers, iodine, jasmine and crushed stones, followed by a beautifully defined texture, a fleshy core of fruit and racy acids that underpin a delicate, well-delineated and calcareous finish. It's going to drink nicely in its youth, but I suspect it will also age gracefully over the next 2-5 years.
VM 91 (5/2023): The 2022 Rosé is savory and sweet with a rich blend of rosemary, sage and tomato leaf, giving way to dried cherries. It's silky-smooth and round with a buzz of minerality and brisk acidity up front as ginger-spiked nectarine forms toward the close. This tapers off with a salty flourish. Spice and citrus notes keep the mouth watering. Eric Guido. |
|
|
2023 |
Bandol Rose ex-Chateau |
$34.99 |
60 |
|
| |
VM 93 (5/2025): The 2023 Bandol Rosé is a powerful, classy Rosé that delivers the proverbial “iron fist in a velvet glove.” Deep and rich, the 2023 takes its time in the glass, gradually unfurling layers of waxy cherry fruit, Mediterranean herbs, raspberry liqueur, , crushed oyster shell and dried apricot. There’s an impressive phenolic core and a wealth of complexity here, not to mention a long, long finish. This is a very serious wine with the stuffing to improve in the cellar. Billy Norris.
WA 92+ (7/2024): A blend of 65% Mourvèdre and 35% Cinsault, the 2023 Bandol Rosé from Château de Pibarnon offers up a delicate, complex bouquet of spices, licorice, red berries, lemon, spring flowers and herbs. Medium-bodied, enveloping and beautifully structured, it’s round and juicy with a delicate, lively core of fruit and a mineral, calcareous finish. This is a classical rosé wine from Bandol. |
|
|
2024 |
Bandol Rose ex-Chateau |
$37.99 |
60 |
|
| |
| WA 92 (6/2025): The 2024 Bandol Rosé is another stunning wine from Provence. Revealing a complex, fresh bouquet of red berries, pomegranate, grapefruit and spices, it's medium- to full-bodied, fleshy and round, with a supple, elegant core of fruit supported by moderate tannins, finishing long and delicately saline. |
|
|
2021 |
Bandol Rose Nuances ex-Chateau |
$47.99 |
14 |
|
| |
| JD 95 (7/2026): With the 2021 Bandol Nuances, Pibarnon produces a near-perfect rosé. The pale ruby color leads into spiced, smoky aromas of white pepper, redcurrant jam, and peppery touches, while numerous fine tannins coat the palate to provide power, character, and length. Drink now. Antoine Petrus. |
|
|
2022 |
Bandol Rose Nuances ex-Chateau |
$46.99 |
40 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. Le Roc des Anges |
2016 |
Vin de Pays des Cotes Catalanes Asterolide |
$31 |
15 |
|
| |
|
| Les Restanques de Pibarnon |
2021 |
Bandol ex-Chateau |
$38.99 |
60 |
|
| |
|
|
2021 |
Bandol ex-Chateau |
$38.99 |
60 |
|
| |
|
| | Alsace |
| Klipfel |
2012 |
Riesling Cuvee Louis Klipfel |
$18 |
18 |
|
| |
|
| | Champagne |
| Charpentier |
NV |
Tradition Brut Champagne |
$38.99 |
57 |
|
| |
|
| | Other France |
| Dom. Richard Rottiers |
2023 |
Moulin a Vent Ex-Domaine |
$24.99 |
54 |
|
| |
| VM 88 (4/2025): The 2023 Moulin-à-Vent was bottled a month before my visit. This has fine purity on the nose. The 20% used oak knits everything together nicely, though not as powerfully as the 2022. The palate is medium-bodied and silky, with fine tannins and red cherry and crushed strawberry notes leading to a smooth, easy-drinking finish. The 2023 is very fine. Neal Martin. |
|
|
2023 |
Moulin a Vent Champ de Cour Ex-Domaine |
$26.99 |
60 |
|
| |
VM 92 (4/2025): The 2023 Moulin-à-Vent Champ de Cour was bottled one month before my visit. It has a lifted and more intense bouquet than the Mortperay, with floral scents of rose and violet emerging with time. The palate is medium-bodied and well balanced, with supple tannins and a precise, graceful finish that lingers in the mouth. The 2023 is superb. Neal Martin.
WA 90+ (3/2025): The 2023 Moulin-à-Vent Champ de Cour, aged in oak barrels, stands out as the most lavish offering of the lineup, showcasing deep sappy notes of prunes, cherries, licorice and cacao powder. However, it maintains a poised balance thanks to a refreshing edge of ginger spice and graphite. Full-bodied and with ripe acidity, the wine exhibits a firm structure that signals its aging potential with tightly woven, youthful tannins. |
|
|
2023 |
Moulin a Vent Dernier Souffle Ex-Domaine |
$27.99 |
59 |
|
| |
VM 93 (4/2025): The 2023 Moulin-à-Vent Dernière Souffle is bottled a couple of months later than other cuvées. It has redcurrant and cranberry aromas on the nose, with light earthy scents in the background. The palate is medium-bodied with crunchy red berry fruit, more grip than the Champ de Cour and more substance on the finish. This positively brims with potential. Neal Martin.
WA 91 (3/2025): The 2023 Moulin-à-Vent Dernier Souffle is a luscious fruit-forward wine, yet one of refinement, with notes of rose petals, juicy cherries, vine smoke and sweet spices. It's full-bodied, with ripe acidity and a concentrated, sappy-fruited core. This richness is framed by smoothly integrated tannins that impart a velvety texture, with a dimensional finish toned with graphite. This is a generously proportioned wine that will undoubtedly benefit from time in the bottle or, at the very least, a spell in the decanter to unwind. |
|
|
2022 |
Moulin a Vent Mortperay ex-Domaine |
$24.99 |
60 |
|
| |
| VM 92 (4/2024): The 2022 Moulin-à-Vent Mortperay comes from clayey soils just below Fleurie; the vines here are 70 years old. It aged in old barrels sourced from Chablis. It has another mineral-driven nose but with more roundness and depth than the classic bottling. The palate is medium-bodied with grainy tannins, very well-balanced and poised, touches of freshly rolled tobacco on the finish. Excellent. Neal Martin. |
|
|
2023 |
Moulin a Vent Mortperay Ex-Domaine |
$26.99 |
60 |
|
| |
VM 90 (4/2025): The 2023 Moulin-à-Vent Mortperay comes from a parcel next to Fleurie on clay soils. It was bottled in January and offers Morello cherry, rose petal and cassis scents on the nose. The palate is medium-bodied with finely knit tannins. This is pure and elegant in style, with touches of sour cherry and raspberry . Neal Martin.
WA 90 (3/2025): The 2023 Moulin-à-Vent Montperay, slated for release in 2025, comes from 80-year-old vines located at the periphery of the Clos de la Roilette in Fleurie. The wine unfurls with a lush bouquet of stewed blueberries and cherries, accented by mocha spice and sweet soil. On the palate, the layered wine unfolds along a horizontal trajectory with subdued acidity that imparts a certain softness and density to its texture. |
|
| Pascal Aufranc |
2018 |
Julienas Les Cerisiers ex-Domaine |
$15.99 |
15 |
|
| |
|
| Richard Rottiers |
2023 |
Brouilly Ex-Domaine |
$24.99 |
20 |
|
| |
VM 89 (4/2025): The 2023 Brouilly comes from purchased fruit grown on granite soils. Pretty red cherry and crushed strawberry aromas blossom in the glass. The palate is well balanced and transparent, with light tannins. It's a little fleshier than expected, featuring brambly red berry and bergamot notes on the finish. It's lovely, though not long-term. Neal Martin.
WA 89 (3/2025): The 2023 Brouilly, from purchased grapes near Odenas, is a classic bistro wine. It's juicy, with notes of lilacs, raspberries and plums and tones of crushed stones that give the wine some dimension. It's medium to full-bodied, with a balanced density of fruit and bright acidity that keep it fresh. |
|
| | Germany |
| Weingut Georg Gustav Huff |
2020 |
Niersteiner Hipping Riesling Trocken |
$39.99 |
20 |
|
| |
|
| | Italy |
| Antonio Vallana & Figlio |
2020 |
Gattinara |
$43.99 |
22 |
|
| |
| VM 91 (2/2025): Vallana's 2020 Gattinara is powerful, rustic and a bit rough around the edges, and yet it conveys so much genuine, uncomplicated character. Dark fruit, new leather, licorice, dried herbs and mint are some of the notes that take shape as this rambunctious Gattinara gradually opens in the glass. Don't look for finesse here. (Drink between 2025-2035). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Cantina Tibaldi |
2023 |
Langhe Favorita ex-Domaine |
$23.99 |
60 |
|
| |
|
|
2024 |
Langhe Favorita ex-Domaine |
$24.99 |
60 |
|
| |
|
|
2023 |
Langhe Nebbiolo ex-Domaine |
$25.99 |
19 |
|
| |
|
|
2021 |
Roero Arneis Bricco delle Passere Riserva ex-Domaine |
$24.99 |
29 |
|
| |
|
|
2023 |
Roero Arneis Bricco delle Passere Riserva ex-Domaine |
$26.99 |
60 |
|
| |
|
|
2020 |
Roero Roccapalea ex-Domaine |
$29 |
34 |
|
| |
|
|
2021 |
Roero Roccapalea ex-Domaine |
$33.99 |
60 |
|
| |
|
| Caprili |
2023 |
Rosso di Montalcino |
$21.99 |
21 |
|
| |
| JD 90 (1/2025): The bright ruby 2023 Rosso Di Montalcino jumps from the glass with bright mixed berry fruit, peaches, crushed flowers, and sweet tea. The palate is juicy, with a snap of fresh acidity, fine tannins, and a clean finish. This is a total charmer of a Rosso to drink now or over the next 5-6 years. (Drink between 2025-2031). Audrey Frick. |
|
| Cavallotto |
2022 |
Barbera d’Alba Superiore Vigna Cuculo ex-Domaine |
$36.95 |
33 |
|
| |
|
|
2023 |
Barbera d’Alba Superiore Vigna Cuculo ex-Domaine |
$44.99 |
60 |
|
| |
| JD 93 (4/2026): The 2023 Barbera D'Alba Superiore Vigna Cuculo pours a youthful red/purple hue and was fermented in stainless steel before aging 18 months in large Slavonian oak casks. It opens with wild black cherries, delicate rustic earth, incense, and violets. Medium-bodied, it’s vibrant and well-balanced, with fine tannins and a savory citrus lift that carries through the finish. A traditionally raised Barbera with both energy and structure, about 8,000 bottles were produced. Drink 2026-2036. Audrey Frick. |
|
|
2022 |
Langhe Nebbiolo ex-Domaine |
$37.99 |
55 |
|
| |
|
|
2023 |
Langhe Nebbiolo ex-Domaine |
$42.99 |
60 |
|
| |
| JD 91 (4/2026): The 2023 Langhe Nebbiolo is aged for 18 months in large Slavonian oak casks and pours a youthful ruby red color. It offers a ripe perfume that’s a bit shy, but the palate really shines, offering ripe red berries, a bit of rustic earth, fresh tobacco, and incense. Medium-bodied, zesty, and refreshing, with a good balance of sunny pure fruit, fine tannins, and refreshing acidity, it’s a very appealing Nebbiolo to drink now or over the next 8-10 years. A star in this category, no doubt, it’s delicious and I would snap it up. Drink 2026-2036. Audrey Frick. |
|
| Luigi Maffini |
2021 |
Cenito Cilento Aglianico |
$43.99 |
14 |
|
| |
| VM 93+ (5/2024): Wilted violets and ground cloves complicate a burst of dried wild blueberries and exotic spice as the 2021 Cenito smolders up from the glass. This is pure elegance—silky and polished, yet lifted and energetic, with a textural wave of ripe red and black fruits that flow across a stream of vibrant acidity. A caking of salty minerals mingles with fine tannins as the 2021 tapers off with staining length and youthful structure, leaving a tart blackberry concentration that puckers the cheeks. (Drink between 2026-2034). Eric Guido. |
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|
2024 |
Kratos Fiano |
$24.99 |
45 |
|
| |
| VM 93 (8/2026): Quite mineral-driven in style, the 2024 Fiano Kratos wafts up with salty sea air, crushed rocks and lemon-spiked green apples. The palate is zesty, with a bump of riveting acidity on the entry to energize its tart orchard fruits. It tapers off with sour lime and a saline saturation. Eric Guido. |
|
| Sottimano |
2023 |
Langhe Nebbiolo ex-Domaine |
$23.99 |
60 |
|
| |
| VM 93 (10/2025): The 2023 Langhe Nebbiolo, all young vines from Basarin, is terrific. Pliant and expressive, the 2023 is a superb choice for readers looking for a wine that overdelivers. Macerated cherry, plum, lavender and blood orange open first. Exotic floral and spice overtones develop with a bit of time in the glass. More than anything else, I am so impressed with the wine's textural depth and balance. The 2023 was done a modified, light style of submerged cap maceration for about a week that worked wonders. Élevage was nine months in cask. And the young vines are now nearly 30 years old! Antonio Galloni. |
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|
2023 |
Langhe Nebbiolo (1.5 L) ex-Domaine |
$49.99 |
20 |
|
| |
| VM 93 (10/2025): The 2023 Langhe Nebbiolo, all young vines from Basarin, is terrific. Pliant and expressive, the 2023 is a superb choice for readers looking for a wine that overdelivers. Macerated cherry, plum, lavender and blood orange open first. Exotic floral and spice overtones develop with a bit of time in the glass. More than anything else, I am so impressed with the wine's textural depth and balance. The 2023 was done a modified, light style of submerged cap maceration for about a week that worked wonders. Élevage was nine months in cask. And the young vines are now nearly 30 years old! Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Tenuta Cocci Grifoni |
2024 |
Tara Pecorino |
$15.99 |
37 |
|
| |
|
| Tenuta di Carleone |
2022 |
Chianti Classico |
$34.99 |
20 |
|
| |
WA 94 (10/2025): This is one of the most original wines from the appellation. The Tenuta di Carleone 2022 Chianti Classico sees partial whole-cluster fruit and up to three months of extended fermentation. The wine opens to a medium-garnet color with a shiny element to its appearance. The bouquet is similarly bright and punchy with lots of tart red and blue fruits. Fruit for this 55,000-bottle release is sourced from across this 32-hectare estate in Radda in Chianti. This wine is extremely giving and bright at the moment.
VM 92 (7/2025): The 2022 Chianti Classico is gracious, elegant and polished, as these wines so often are. Crushed flowers, herbs, mint, pine and light citrus overtones exalt the natural brightness of Sangiovese. This translucent, weightless Chianti Classico is a real beauty. (Drink between 2025-2037). Antonio Galloni. |
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| Tenuta Santome |
NV |
Prosecco Brut |
$13.50 |
28 |
|
| |
|
| Ultima Pietra |
2025 |
Gemina Rose |
$40 |
23 |
|
| |
|
| | Port |
| Quevedo |
2006 |
Late Bottled Vintage Port |
$29.99 |
52 |
|
| |
|
|
2010 |
Quinta Vale d’Agodinho Port |
$49.99 |
15 |
|
| |
|
| | USA Red |
| Behrens Family (Erna Schein) |
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. |
|
| de Negoce |
2017 |
OG N. 123 Napa Valley Merlot |
$15 |
12 |
|
| |
|
|
2022 |
OG N. 480 Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel |
$15 |
12 |
|
| |
|
| DeLille Cellars |
2011 |
Doyenne Grand Ciel Vyd. Syrah |
$25 |
12 |
|
| |
| WA 94 (6/2014): Slightly richer and more concentrated than the Signature Syrah, yet still playing in the elegant, seamless style of the vintage, the 2011 Doyenne Syrah Grand Ciel Vineyard is 100% Syrah that was aged in 35% new French oak. Possessing beautiful black raspberry, currants, licorice, crushed rock-like minerality and hints of graphite, this beauty flows onto the palate with full-bodied richness, fabulous purity of fruit and a seamless, silky texture that carries through the finish. Give it a year or two and drink bottles through 2024. |
|
|
2012 |
Doyenne Grand Ciel Vyd. Syrah |
$25 |
13 |
|
| |
WA 93 (6/2015): A similar purple/ruby, semi-opaque color to the Signature Syrah, the 2012 Doyenne Syrah Grand Ciel Vineyard has more minerality (no doubt due to coming from Red Mountain) to go with lots of blackberry, graphite, pepper and crushed violet notes. Like the Signature Syrah, it shows the vintage nicely with lots of concentration, integrated acidity and a big finish, where the wine's structure becomes more apparent. It will benefit from short-term cellaring and have 10-15 years of overall longevity.
VM 92+ (11/2015): Good dark red. Lovely perfume of cherry, cranberry, white pepper, spices and dusty flowers. Lovely fine-grained Syrah with a savory restraint to its highly aromatic red berry and spice flavors complicated by a hint of game. Made from a slow-to-ripen Entav clone. Finishing quite firm, even a bit youthfully sullen, this already complex Syrah needs time to evolve. (Drink between 2019-2028). Stephen Tanzer. |
|
| Donelan |
2013 |
Cuvee Moriah Proprietary Blend |
$50 |
12 |
|
| |
| 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. |
|
| Failla |
2012 |
Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir |
$45 |
12 |
|
| |
|
| Girasole |
2019 |
Mendocino Pinot Noir |
$16.99 |
16 |
|
| |
|
| Kutch |
2013 |
Falstaff Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$45 |
12 |
|
| |
VM 91 (1/2015): Rose petals, mint, spices and sweet red berries are all laced together in the 2013 Pinot Noir Falstaff Vineyard. This is the most lifted and aromatic of the wines in this range. The 2013 is intensely saline, lifted and perfumed. It will appeal most to readers who enjoy aromatic, mid-weight Pinots. The 2013 is all about precision and nuance. It is also a bit light, even within the context of this style. (Drink between 2015-2025). Antonio Galloni.
BH 91 (10/2015): Notes of dried rose petal, anise, herbal tea, red currant and a hint of cinnamon introduce silky-textured medium-bodied flavors that deliver fine length on the dusty, balanced and lingering finale. This too will need a few years but less than either the Sonoma Coast or Bohan, as the overall palate impression is notably finer. Note however that the balance should allow this to age, and improve, gracefully for up to a decade. (Drink starting 2019). |
|
| Matthews |
2010 |
Blackboard Colombia Valley Red Wine |
$15 |
12 |
|
| |
|
|
2006 |
Colombia Valley Claret |
$25 |
12 |
|
| |
| VM 88 (12/2009): Dark red. Expressive aromas and flavors of currant, plum, tobacco, graphite and chocolatey oak. Supple and juicy, with moderate sweetness and flesh. Slightly tart acidity gives shape and lift to this blend, which finishes with dusty, building, oak-driven tannins. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
|
2010 |
Colombia Valley Syrah |
$20 |
20 |
|
| |
| VM 91+ (12/2013): (15.4% alcohol; aged in once-used puncheons and once-used barriques ): Saturated bright ruby. Very primary, dark aromas of blackberry, licorice and illegal resiny herbs, lifted by a high-pitched violet perfume. Dense, juicy and suave but quite tightly wound in the style of the vintage. Dark berry and bitter chocolate flavors work more savory than sweet. This very young, long wine finishes with very fine-grained, suave tannins and a hint of bitter chocolate. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
| Newton |
2019 |
The Puzzle Red Wine |
$49 |
55 |
|
| |
| JD 92 (2/2023): The 2019 Red Blend The Puzzle checks in as mostly Cabernet Sauvignon but includes 8% Cabernet Franc, 7% Merlot, and 1.5% each of Malbec and Petit Verdot. This vivid blue-hued 2019 has a great nose of both black and blue fruits as well as sappy green herbs and crushed stone. Almost austere on the palate, it’s medium to full-bodied, has firm tannins, good mid-palate depth, and outstanding length. I’d give bottles at least 3-4 years in the cellar. (Drink starting 2026). |
|
| Sojourn Cellars |
2022 |
Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir ex-Domaine |
$44.99 |
60 |
|
| |
| JD 93 (6/2024): The 2022 Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast was raised in 50% new French oak and was entirely destemmed. Pouring a youthful, ripe ruby color, it’s highly aromatic with floral and fruity aromas of sweet cola spice, mixed berries, and preserved flowers. Medium-bodied, it retains good energy and freshness as well as wonderful purity on the palate, with fine tannins and a clean, chalky textured finish. It is a beautiful entry to the range and is going to have a wide window for enjoyment over the next 6-8 years. Audrey Frick. |
|
| Sullivan |
2003 |
Estate Reserve Merlot |
$50 |
16 |
|
| |
|
| Varner |
2014 |
Spring Ridge Vyd. Upper Picnic Bloc Pinot Noir |
$45 |
53 |
|
| |
VM 95 (8/2018): The 2014 Pinot Noir Upper Picnic is all class. Silky tannins and expressive, perfumed aromatics give the wine unreal finesse. Just as compelling on the palate, the 2014 is absolutely exquisite in its understated, nuanced expression of the Santa Cruz Mountains. What a gorgeous wine it is. The Upper Picnic is the most elegant of these four Pinots. (Drink between 2018-2026). Antonio Galloni.
JD 94 (2/2019): I loved the 2014 Pinot Noir Upper Picnic Block Spring Ridge Vineyard. This beauty boasts fabulous red fruits, spice, dried flowers, and rose petal notes, with a hint of California bay leaf developing with time in the glass. Possessing a silky, rounded, elegant texture, medium body, ultra-fine tannins, and a great finish, it’s a truly thrilling Pinot Noir that can be drunk today or cellared for 7-8 years. (Drink between 2018-2026). |
|
| Vincent Wine Co. |
2017 |
Bjornson Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$35.99 |
18 |
|
| |
| VM 93 (8/2020): Brilliant red. Highly expressive aromas of fresh red fruits, potpourri, exotic spices and candied rose, along with a hint of smoky minerality. Juicy and seamless in texture, offering penetrating raspberry, bitter cherry and spicecake flavors that show fine definition and back-end lift. Intensely flavored and finely delineated, with an impressively long, perfumed finish that delivers firm mineral cut and resonating florality. (Drink between 2022-2029). Josh Raynolds. |
|
| | USA White |
| Bevan Cellars |
2021 |
Dry Stack Vyd. Sauvignon Blanc |
$35 |
13 |
|
| |
| JD 96 (8/2022): A blockbuster of a Sauvignon Blanc, Bevan's 2021 Sauvignon Blanc Dry Stack Vineyard comes from an Italian clone planted in gravelly soil in the Bennett Valley and is raised, I believe, in barrel. Bottled unfiltered so it has touch of haziness in its gold hue, it offers a heavenly bouquet of caramelized lemon zest, mint, orange blossom, honeyed flowers, and brioche. Rich, full-bodied, and opulent, it has incredible concentration, a layered, pure mouthfeel, good freshness, and a finish that keeps you coming back to the glass. It's not for those craving lightweight aromas and flavors and has the weight and richness of a great Chardonnay. Drink this beauty over the coming 2-3 years. |
|
| Bunnell Family Cellar |
2012 |
Helene Yakima Valley White Wine |
$20 |
12 |
|
| |
|
| Convene (Dan Kosta) |
2021 |
Russian River Valley Chardonnay |
$48.99 |
50 |
|
| |
| Decanter 98 (2/2024): Dan Kosta and Shane Finely have worked together since 2006, when Finley, at age 26, began working in the cellar at Kosta Browne. These guys are having a lot of fun with Convene, the label Kosta launched in 2019. After their entry-level bottlings, the Convene label represents the 'Premier Cru' level wines, while DK Grail is the 'Grand Cru' tier. They are unquestionably 'Holy Grail' worthy. Finley and Kosta are big fans of longer ageing and extended lees contact with their Chardonnays. We tasted in February 2024, and they'd just bottled their 2022s. Super expressive nose with wonderful ripe fruit flavours alongside butterscotch and toasty brioche. Wonderfully rich and full-bodied with plenty of salty mineral tension. Partial malolactic fermentation means the wine retains great tension, vibrancy, and freshness. Flavours run the spectrum from Meyer Lemon to apricots and white peaches. Crushed Marcona almonds are entangled in the finish, and I find this a balanced expression of California Chardonnay with the right amount of toasty richness and acidity. |
|
| DeLille Cellars |
2016 |
Chaleur Estate Blanc |
$30 |
16 |
|
| |
|
| Gambal Work |
2017 |
Santa Rita Hills Chardonnay ex-Domaine |
$43.99 |
45 |
|
| |
|
| Girasole |
2019 |
Mendocino Chardonnay |
$10 |
60 |
|
| |
|
| Hourglass |
2024 |
Estate Sauvignon Blanc |
$33.99 |
24 |
|
| |
JD 94 (12/2025): Based on 86% Sauvignon Blanc/Musque and 14% Semillon from Napa and Sonoma County fruit and aged six months with 30% in oak barrels, the 2024 Sauvignon Blanc offers classic, fresh lime, ripe citrus, mint, and stony minerality aromatics. It's medium-bodied, has a bright, fresh, focused, pure mouthfeel, beautiful balance, and outstanding length. There are roughly 2,600 cases produced. Drink 2025-2035. (Drink between 2025-2035).
VM 90 (11/2025): The 2024 Sauvignon Blanc is an airy, gracious, aperitif-style white drink now and over the next few years. Citrus peel, sage, tomato leaf and mint are all finely sculpted. (Drink between 2025-2029). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Lewis Cellars |
2016 |
Sonoma County Chardonnay |
$36 |
19 |
|
| |
|
| Scherrer Winery |
2019 |
Scherrer Vyd. Chardonnay |
$43.99 |
14 |
|
| |
| VM 94 (1/2022): The 2019 Chardonnay Scherrer Vineyard is a powerful, wild wine. Soaring aromatics and a deep structure give this Alexander Valley Chardonnay tons of character. Orchard fruit, mint, tangerine oil and dried flowers all open in the glass. There's something exotic about the 2019 that is undeniably appealing. The creamy, substantial finish is a thing of beauty. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Sojourn Cellars |
2023 |
Sonoma Coast Chardonnay ex-Domaine |
$41.99 |
60 |
|
| |
|
| Stony Hill |
2024 |
Chardonnay |
$43.99 |
36 |
|
| |
| Decanter 94 (2/2026): Fruit from 1967-planted vines, the oldest Chardonnay vines in the Napa Valley, is at Haynes and Quartz Creek on alluvial soils. This wine balances plush fruit, fleshy pears, 30% new oak for 10 months, and only partial malolactic fermentation. This is a wine of elegance that balances white peach flesh, mineral-driven, mountain Chardonnay, and is oh so fresh. (Drink between 2026-2034). |
|
| | Other White |
| Quevedo |
2011 |
Oscar’s White Douro |
$9.99 |
31 |
|
| |
|
|