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Inventory updated: Wed, Sep 09, 2026 04:02 PM cst
2015 Vineyard 29 Cabernet Sauvignon
Vintage: 2015
Region: USA Red
Color/Type: Red
Size: 750 ML
Tasting Notes:
VM 94 (3/2018): The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Vineyard 29 Estate is tremendous. A big, ample wine, the 29 Estate packs a real punch. Even so, there is fabulous balance, especially for such a big, potent wine. A rush of black cherry, smoke, chocolate, licorice and cloves all build into the plush, flamboyant finish. The 2015 is not a shy wine, but it is impeccable in its balance. I loved it. Antonio Galloni.
| Producer |
Vint. |
Wine |
Price |
Qty |
Order |
| | USA Red |
| Vineyard 29 |
2014 |
Aida Cabernet Sauvignon  |
$184 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 96+ (12/2017): Very deep purple-black in color, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Aida Estate Vineyard gives up warm cassis, black berry and black cherry notes with hints of cedar chest, black pepper, black soil and baking spices plus a waft of tapenade. Medium to full-bodied, firm and tautly built, it has a lovely ripe and coarsely grained texture with oodles of freshness giving lift to the muscular fruit. It finishes on a complex earthy note. 750 cases were made. |
|
|
2015 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$225 |
4 |
|
| |
| VM 94 (3/2018): The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Vineyard 29 Estate is tremendous. A big, ample wine, the 29 Estate packs a real punch. Even so, there is fabulous balance, especially for such a big, potent wine. A rush of black cherry, smoke, chocolate, licorice and cloves all build into the plush, flamboyant finish. The 2015 is not a shy wine, but it is impeccable in its balance. I loved it. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2007 |
Cru Cabernet Sauvignon |
$55 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 92 (12/2009): One of Napa’s finest Cabernet Sauvignon-based wines in the $50 range is Vineyard 29's 2007 Cru. Produced by owners Chuck and Ann McMinn and their consulting winemaker, Philippe Melka, there are 5,000 cases of this blend of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Merlot and Cabernet Franc. The grapes are all purchased, and the wine is made at their state-of-the-art facility just off Highway 29 north of St. Helena. This beautiful wine exhibits a dense ruby/purple color as well as pure black currant fruit aromas intermixed with notions of licorice, charcoal, subtle smoke, and high class unsmoked cigar tobacco. It is an elegant, stunningly concentrated, seductive, lush wine that should age nicely for a decade or more. |
|
| | USA White |
| Vineyard 29 |
2022 |
Sauvignon Blanc |
$125 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 95 (3/2025): Like a great Pessac-Léognan Blanc, the 2022 Sauvignon Blanc 29 Estate (100% Sauvignon Blanc) offers honeyed lemon, mint, crushed stone, and orange blossom, with hints of toast. Medium to full-bodied, round, fleshy, and textured, it's beautiful, deep, and layered, despite being a touch short on acidity. Drink over the coming 4-6 years. (Drink between 2025-2031) |
|
| Producer |
Vint. |
Wine |
Price |
Qty |
Order |
| | USA Red |
| 12C |
2015 |
Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon |
$75 |
3 |
|
| |
|
| Arnot-Roberts |
2015 |
Clary Ranch Pinot Noir |
$69 |
2 |
|
| |
| VM 94 (3/2017): An addition to the range 2015 Pinot Noir Clary Ranch is a terrific wine that captures the essence of the Arnot-Roberts house style. Intensely savory pungent (a quality share by the Syrahs here), the Clary Ranch possesses dazzling aromatic presence and overall nuance. The 100% whole clusters are felt in the wine's lift and aromatic intensity, while the fruit is a bit in the background. Readers should expect a pungent, almost Syrah-like Pinot with a lot of savoriness. (Drink between 2018-2027). Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2015 |
Que Syrah Vyd. Syrah |
$85 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 94 (3/2017): The 2015 Syrah Que Syrah Vineyard powerful, rich and also massively tannic. Bright, pungent and super-expressive, the 2015 possesses notable intensity as well as structure. I don't see the finesse of the other wines in the lineup, but time may ultimately have something to say about that. Ripe red cherry, pomegranate, mint, chalk and wild herbs built into the deep finish. The 100% whole clusters are pretty much buried by the sheer intensity of the fruit. (Drink between 2018-2030). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Arterberry Maresh |
2015 |
Maresh Vyd Pinot Noir |
$79 |
3 |
|
| |
| VM 94 (1/2018): Vivid red. Sexy, high-pitched red berry, incense and candied rose scents are complemented by a smoky mineral aspect and a hint of star anise. Sappy and focused in the mouth, offering energetic raspberry liqueur, bitter cherry, blood orange and floral pastille flavors that put on weight and become sweeter with air. Conveys a suave blend of power and vivacity and closes on a subtly tannic note, displaying outstanding focus and floral-driven persistence. Josh Raynolds. |
|
| Aubert |
2015 |
UV-SL Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$125 |
3 |
|
| |
| VM 93 (3/2017): The 2015 Pinot Noir UV-SL Vineyard is the darkest and most concentrated of these Pinots. Super-ripe black cherry, plum and lavender are pushed forward. Big, ample and large-scaled in all of its dimensions, the UV-SL will appeal most to readers who appreciate big Pinots. I find a bit more complexity in the UV and CIX, but at this level, it really comes down to personal taste. The clones are Calera and Vosne-Romanee. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Becklyn Cellars |
2015 |
Moulds Vyd. Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon Lightly Scuffed Label |
$72.25 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 95 (12/2017): From a site in the Oak Knoll AVA, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve Moulds Vineyard (it's labeled just as Reserve) is another inky purple-colored beauty that has a cooler-climate vibe in its blackberry smoke tobacco, leafy herbs, and mineral-laced style. It's medium to full-bodied, pure, concentrated and structured, and will keep for two decades. This estate was started in 2012 by Austin, TX-based Matt and Amber Denny. (Drink between 2018-2038). |
|
| Bedrock Wine Co. |
2015 |
The Bedrock Heritage |
$50 |
3 |
|
| |
WA 96 (10/2016): Possibly the flagship wine is the 2015 Proprietary Red The Bedrock Heritage. This ancient vineyard is planted with 27 different varieties, so I won’t even begin to list them, as that is a book in itself. This is Rhône Valley-like, with notes of Mediterranean herbs, blackberries, blueberries, loamy soil notes, incense, creosote, steak tartare and pepper followed by a wine of great intensity – built like a skyscraper, with layers of fruit and extraction. It is a sensational effort, super-complex, and best drunk over the next decade.
JD 95 (6/2018): Similar to the 2013, the 2015 The Bedrock Heritage is a field blend from a site planted in 1888 that contains 19 different grape varieties, with the large portion being Zinfandel and Carignan. The 2015 is another singular, exotic, incredibly satisfying red that offers terrific complexity in its plum and blueberry fruits, cigar wrapper, mulled spices, and chocolate aromas and flavors. Deep, full-bodied, concentrated, and undeniably sexy on the palate, with loads of fruit yet no apparent weight or richness, it’s already impossible to resist, but I suspect it will keep for 10-12 years.
VM 94 (3/2017): The 2015 The Bedrock Heritage Wine is a masculine, powerful wine with tons of fruit and structure. As always, the Bedrock is built on power. A rush of sweet red cherry, pomegranate and blood orange bursts from the glass in this deep, tightly wound Zinfandel-based red. (Drink between 2018-2028). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Beringer |
2015 |
Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon |
$145 |
24 |
|
| |
JD 97 (1/2019): I was able to taste to two vintages of the Private Reserve, and the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Private Reserve comes from a vintage loved by the estate. The final blend is the normal 97% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Petit Verdot brought up in 85% new French oak. This full-bodied, ripe, voluptuous beauty shows the vintage to a T, offering a blast of sweet blackcurrants, licorice, ground herbs, and graphite aromas and flavors. Blockbuster styled, with full body and an expansive, sexy texture, it has the depth and density to continue drinking brilliantly for 20+ years. (Drink between 2019-2039).
VM 93+ (5/2018): Beringer's flagship 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Private Reserve is tannic, unyielding and not fully put together. I suppose that is not entirely surprising, as most of the fruit was sourced from sites on Howell Mountain. Time in the glass brings out an attractive floral upper register, along with brighter notes in the fruit. Even so, the tannins remain forbidding. There is plenty to look forward to, but readers will have to be patient. The 2015 has been very tight on both occasions I have tasted it so far. (Drink between 2025-2040). Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2015 |
Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon |
$150 |
3 |
|
| |
JD 97 (1/2019): I was able to taste to two vintages of the Private Reserve, and the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Private Reserve comes from a vintage loved by the estate. The final blend is the normal 97% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Petit Verdot brought up in 85% new French oak. This full-bodied, ripe, voluptuous beauty shows the vintage to a T, offering a blast of sweet blackcurrants, licorice, ground herbs, and graphite aromas and flavors. Blockbuster styled, with full body and an expansive, sexy texture, it has the depth and density to continue drinking brilliantly for 20+ years. (Drink between 2019-2039).
VM 93+ (5/2018): Beringer's flagship 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Private Reserve is tannic, unyielding and not fully put together. I suppose that is not entirely surprising, as most of the fruit was sourced from sites on Howell Mountain. Time in the glass brings out an attractive floral upper register, along with brighter notes in the fruit. Even so, the tannins remain forbidding. There is plenty to look forward to, but readers will have to be patient. The 2015 has been very tight on both occasions I have tasted it so far. (Drink between 2025-2040). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Betz Family Winery |
2015 |
La Cote Patriarche Syrah (1.5 L) |
$125 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 95 (4/2018): The 2015 Syrah La Cote Patriarche is a small step back from the sensational 2014, yet is still an incredible wine. Coming from some of the oldest Syrah vines in the state, planted in the Red Willow Vineyard in the Yakima Valley, it offers beautiful blue fruits, spring flowers, licorice, and sappy herb-like aromas and flavors. It’s fresh, elegant, and silky, with fabulous purity of fruit and a medium to full-bodied richness and depth. It’s a beautiful Syrah to enjoy over the coming 10-15 years. |
|
|
2015 |
La Cote Rousse Syrah (1.5 L) |
$125 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 96 (4/2018): As usual, the 2015 Syrah La Cote Rousse offers a more masculine, structured, mineral-driven style. This cuvee comes all from the warmer Red Mountain AVA and is a power-packed 2015 loaded with notions of black, black fruits, scorched earth, graphite, and charred meats. It’s a big, rich, inky effort, yet like all the wines from this estate has awesome purity of fruit and is impeccably balanced. |
|
| Bevan Cellars |
2015 |
Harbison Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$225 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 97 (12/2017): There are 1,200 cases of the 2015 Ontogeny and it’s 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Petit Verdot and the balance Cabernet Franc. Its deep purple color is followed by a gorgeously pure bouquet of black and blue fruits, crushed flowers (violets, lilies), lead pencil shavings, and damp earth. Deep, full-bodied, layered and multi-dimensional on the palate, with incredible purity of fruit and a seamlessness that's hard to describe, it's a gorgeous wine that's fabulous today, yet will keep for two decades or more. |
|
|
2015 |
Ontogeny Proprietary Blend |
$115 |
7 |
|
| |
| JD 97 (12/2017): There are 1,200 cases of the 2015 Ontogeny and it’s 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Petit Verdot and the balance Cabernet Franc. Its deep purple color is followed by a gorgeously pure bouquet of black and blue fruits, crushed flowers (violets, lilies), lead pencil shavings, and damp earth. Deep, full-bodied, layered and multi-dimensional on the palate, with incredible purity of fruit and a seamlessness that's hard to describe, it's a gorgeous wine that's fabulous today, yet will keep for two decades or more. |
|
|
2015 |
Sugarloaf Mountain Proprietary Blend |
$215 |
3 |
|
| |
JD 100 (12/2017): Another perfect wine from Bevan is the 2015 Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard Proprietary Red Wine and it’s a Cheval Blanc-like blend of 55% Cabernet Franc and 45% Merlot brought up all in French oak. This huge, full-bodied, opulent 2015 carries itself like a ballerina and is elegant, weightless and even graceful, with remarkable purity of fruit. Currants, Blueberries, liquid violets, Asian spices and a distinct minerality all emerge from the glass and it has both incredible complexity and richness. Bravo! (Drink between 2018-2038).
WA 98 (2/2021): Sugarloaf is a cooler site in south Napa, above a quarry. It usually allows for a longer hang time, often lending a minty or herbal lift to this label. Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2015 Proprietary Red Sugarloaf Mountain has a powerful nose of black raspberries, black and red plums and warm cassis with hints of tar, eucalyptus, bay leaves and pencil lead with a waft of cedar. The palate is full-bodied with opulent fragrant earth notes and seducing black berry layers, supported by fine-grained tannins and tons of freshness, finishing very long and perfumed. Stunning! |
|
|
2015 |
Tench Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$249 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 99 (12/2017): Very deep purple-black in color, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Tench Vineyard has a crème de cassis, black plums and black cherries-scented nose with touches of garrigue, fragrant earth, espresso and violets with a waft of roses. Full-bodied, rich and ripe with fantastically multilayered, perfumed black fruit flavors, it has a wonderfully velvety yet firm texture with great length and depth defining the finish.
JD 98 (12/2017): From a tiny block in a vineyard in Oakville, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Tench Vineyard is a head turner that’s up with the crème de la crème of the vintage. With a deep purple/blue color and killer notes of blueberries, black cherries, chocolate, spice and building minerality, this beauty is full-bodied, concentrated, and pure, with a focused, clean finish that carries ripe tannin and good acidity.
VM 94 (1/2018): The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Tench Vineyard is the deepest and most flamboyant of Russell Bevan's Oakville wines. Black cherry, plum, new leather, licorice, smoke and spice infuse this rich, boisterous Cabernet. Exotic, racy and wonderfully forward, the 2015 exudes character and personality in a decidedly voluptuous style. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2015 |
Tench Vyd. The Calixtro Cabernet Sauvignon |
$209 |
3 |
|
| |
WA 99 (12/2017): Very deep garnet-purple in color, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Tench Vineyard The Calixtro conjures notions of lavender, wild thyme, dusty earth and pencil shavings over a core of red and black currants plus a touch of charcuterie. Full-bodied, rich, ripe and oh-so-seductive, the palate features ripe, velvety tannins and fantastic freshness, lifting the incredibly long, fruity finish.
JD 98 (12/2017): Another gem from this site in Oakville is the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Tench Vineyard The Calixtro. It gives up complex notes of blackberry jam, tobacco leaf, violets, seaweed and crushed rock, and is stacked on the palate, with full-bodied richness and sweet tannin. It’s a beautifully complete, layered, balanced 2015 that does everything right. Drink it over the coming two decades. (Drink between 2018-2038) |
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|
2015 |
Tin Box Cabernet Sauvignon |
$159 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 97+ (12/2017): The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Tin Box Vineyard gives a very deep garnet-purple color and nose of dried herbs, red currant jelly and underbrush over a core of plum preserves, crème de cassis and fungi with a waft of mossy bark. Medium-bodied with beautiful elegance and freshness in the mouth, it has a firm backbone of grainy tannins and great freshness, finishing long and earthy. Needs time but should age fantastically!
JD 95+ (12/2017): From old Martini Clone Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Tin Box Vineyard will be the last vintage from this cuvee. It’s a masculine, full-bodied, structured beauty that possessing lots of ripe black fruits, scorched earth, cedar and licorice aromas, and flavors. It packs serious fruit but has enough tannin to warrant 3-4 years of bottle age.
VM 95 (1/2018): The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Tin Box Vineyard is distinguished by a bit more energy, freshness and linearity next to the other Oakville Cabernets in this range. The aromatics are quite open and expressive, but the wine is less expressive on the palate. Bright floral notes, espresso and red cherry fruit open up, but only with considerable reluctance. My instincts say the wine's reticence is a good sign for the future. Readers looking for a showy 2015 Cabernet will find that in other wines in this range, but not here. I would cellar the 2015 for at least a few years. Antonio Galloni. |
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|
2015 |
Wildfoote Vyd. Vixen Block Cabernet Sauvignon |
$169 |
3 |
|
| |
WA 98 (12/2017): Very deep garnet-purple colored, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Vixen Block Wildfoote Vineyard offers up a very serious nose of cassis, blackberry pie and blueberry compote with hints of dried lavender, underbrush, Chinese five spice and cigar box, plus a waft of dark chocolate. Full-bodied and densely packed with black fruit preserves and earthy layers, it has a firm frame of finely grained tannins and just enough freshness, finishing with epically long exotic spice nuances. Only 125 cases were produced.
JD 96 (12/2017): The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Wildfoote Vineyard Vixen Block is one of the more refined, elegant wines in the lineup and reveals a perfumed bouquet of white flowers, blue fruits, violets, and spice. It’s seamless and silky on the palate, yet has building underlying tannin and is beautifully balanced. It’s one of those wines that carry loads of intensity and texture yet just glides over the palate. Drink it anytime over the coming two decades. (Drink between 2018-2038) |
|
| Blankiet |
2015 |
Rive Droite Proprietary Blend |
$195 |
2 |
|
| |
| VM 97+ (3/2018): The 2015 Rive Droite is the most reticent of these 2015s today. In 2015, the Rive Droite has more structure and power than is typically the case, which may be a result of the higher percentage of Cabernet Franc in the blend. I imagine the 2015 is going to need at least a number of years in bottle to be at its best. There is plenty of intrigue, with myriad savory notes that emerge over time. Even so, patience will be rewarded. The 2015 Rive Droite is a fabulous wine by any measure. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Booker Vineyard |
2015 |
Fracture 22 Syrah |
$95 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 98 (8/2017): Seeing 22 months in barrel, the 2015 Fracture 22 possesses additional richness and depth over the base cuvée. Crème de cassis, black currants, smoked meats, licorice and roasted herb characteristics give way to a full-bodied, opulent, incredibly hedonistic Syrah that has a layered, silky texture, sweet tannin and a forward style that’s still going to surprise in the cellar give its balance and richness. |
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|
2015 |
Fracture Syrah |
$89 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 97 (9/2017): “I want my softest, most textured, rounded Syrah with density and gentle tannins to go into this label,” winemaker Eric Jensen informed me. Produced from 100% Syrah, the medium to deep garnet-purple colored 2015 Fracture has a vibrant nose of crushed red currants and black cherries with hints of bay leaves, cloves, aniseed and forest floor, plus a touch of roses. Full-bodied and beautifully structured, it has a lively backbone supporting the dynamic fruit, finishing with a beautiful herbal lift.
JD 96 (8/2017): Leading off the 2015s, the 2015 Fracture is 100% Syrah that was brought up mostly in new barrels. It’s a classic, elegant Paso Syrah that delivers loads of black raspberries, cassis, toasted spices and crushed flower-like aromas and flavors. A more elegant, streamlined example of this cuvee, it shows the freshness of the vintage, supple tannin and a charming, elegant style that’s a dream to drink. It is already approachable, yet will still be better with another year or two in bottle. |
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|
2015 |
Fulldraw Proprietary Blend |
$79 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 96 (8/2017): The 2015 Fulldraw comes from a site located just beside Jensen’s estate Booker Vineyard and is 50% Grenache, 30% Mourvèdre and 20% Syrah. It has a gorgeous, Châteauneuf du Pape-like (it reminds me of Domaine de Marcoux’s Vieilles Vignes cuvée) perfume of red and black fruits, spice-box, incense, fennel and cured meats. Ethereally textured and elegant, yet also ripe, powerful and concentrated, it has ripe tannin, it’s an incredible wine that builds with time in the glass. While beautiful today, it will be even better with short term cellaring and keep through 2027.
WA 95 (9/2017): A blend of 50% Grenache, 30% Mourvèdre and 20% Syrah, the 2015 Fulldraw has a medium to deep garnet-purple color and opens with black and blue fruit notes of blackberries and blueberries with suggestions of licorice, tree bark and black soil, plus a waft of lavender. The medium to full-bodied palate has bags of elegance, with restrained, understated beauty and wonderful freshness, finishing long with velvety tannins supporting the perfumed fruit. |
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|
2015 |
Jada Vyd. |
$69 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 94-96 (8/2016): From a hillside vineyard just off of Vineyard Drive road (near Denner) that has lots of clay soils (so more water retention and better canopy development, which is very different from Booker Vineyard), the 2015 Jada Vineyard checks in as a mix of 55% Syrah and 45% Grenache that saw 25% stems and aging all in barrel. Full-bodied, rich, unctuous and downright sexy, with lots of jammy blackberry, cassis, roasted herbs and melted licorice (there are some floral notes hiding in there as well), it's another stacked red from Jensen that readers shouldn't miss. |
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|
2015 |
Ripper 22 Grenache |
$75 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 97 (8/2017): Seeing additional time in barrel (22 months to be exact), the 2015 Ripper 22 is the exact same wine as the traditional release yet saw additional time in older barrels. I always love tasting experiments like this; same juice, just a longer elevage. Is it better? Yes, it is. Offering similar kirsch liqueur, framboise, crushed flowers, candle wax and white pepper, it’s full-bodied, ethereally textured and perfectly balanced, with fine, building tannin and a great finish. It has another level of depth, and length, over the classic cuvée, and it going to be longer lived as well.
WA 96 (9/2017): Produced from 100% Grenache with 6 months’ extra time in barrel, the 2015 Ripper Ext "22" has a pale to medium ruby-purple color and gregarious nose of spice cake, potpourri, Chinese five spice and licorice with a kirsch, red currant jelly and rose hip tea nose, plus a waft of dusty earth. Full-bodied, concentrated and packed with savory and expressive spice flavors, it has a velvety structure and plenty of freshness, finishing long and multilayered. |
|
| Buccella |
2015 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$150 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 95 (12/2018): Buccella's 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon is an outrageously beautiful wine. It is also going to need a least a few years to shed some of its considerable baby fat. Inky, flamboyant and super-concentrated, the 2015 almost tastes like a barrel sample, so primary is its fruit! Silky tannins and plush textures only add to the wine's considerable appeal. I am very intrigued to see how the 2015 ages, although I doubt most readers will have the patience to find out. This sumptuous, racy Cabernet has so much to offer. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Cardinale |
2015 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$225 |
2 |
|
| |
| JD 97 (12/2017): The 2015 Cardinale is heavenly juice made from 91% Cabernet Sauvignon and 9% Merlot that’s from a number of AVAs in Napa Valley. It offers a beautiful perfume of crème de cassis, black raspberry jam, graphite, and scorched earth. This gives way to a full-bodied, elegant, impressively concentrated 2015 that has the deep, concentrated fruit of the vintage, yet stays fresh, lively and graceful on the palate. This is high-class stuff that can be drunk anytime over the coming 20-25 years. These sensational wines come from winemaker Chris Carpenter, with the estate falling under the Kendall-Jackson Family umbrella. (Drink between 2018-2043) |
|
| Carter Cellars |
2015 |
The G.T.O. Beckstoffer To Kalon Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$825 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 99 (5/2023): Another heavenly 2015, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard The G.T.O. is sweetly fruited and full-bodied, with a concentrated, balanced, seamless profile. Cassis, blueberries, violets, graphite, and California bay leaf all define the aromatics, and it has silky tannins and not a hard edge to be found.
WA 99 (10/2017): Very deep inky-purple in color, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon The G T O gives up pronounced red and black currants notes, black cherries and wild blueberries with touches of underbrush, black olives and lavender plus a waft of cloves. Full-bodied, rich and decadent in the mouth, it reveals layers of red and black fruits with loads of earth and savory nuances, framed by firm, finely grained tannins and plenty of vivacity, finishing long and spicy. Totally tempting to drink this right now but you will be rewarded handsomely if you wait 3-5 years and drink it over the next 20+. |
|
| Caymus |
2015 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon |
$125 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 95 (1/2020): The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon from Caymus is a stunner that offers ample balance and class paired with serious hedonistic fireworks. Revealing a saturated purple color and blockbuster notes of blackcurrants, cassis, chocolate, cedary spice, and hints of espresso, it’s velvety textured, full-bodied, concentrated, and flawlessly balanced. It opens up with time in the glass and is straight-up loaded with fruit and texture, yet it has the balance, depth, and pedigree to evolve for two decades or more if you’re so inclined. (Drink between 2020-2040).
WA 94+ (10/2017): Deep purple-black in color, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon springs from the glass with lifted crème de cassis, violets and chocolate box notes plus hints of lilacs, raspberry leaves, anise and cardamom. The perfumed black fruit preserves and chocolate-laced notes completely pack the full-bodied palate, with soft, velvety tannins and just enough freshness, finishing very long and very spicy. Definitely one for hedonists seeking immediate gratification. |
|
| Charles & Charles |
2015 |
C2 Northridge Vyd. Malbec |
$30 |
5 |
|
| |
| JD 95 (4/2019): Made at the K Vintners facility outside of Seattle, the 2015 Malbec / Cabernet Sauvignon checks in as 77% Malbec and 23% Cabernet Sauvignon, brought up in French oak. It’s a shockingly good Malbec and one of the top expressions of the variety I’ve tasted from Washington. Deep purple-colored with awesome notes of blackberries, smoked herbs, gravelly earth, and graphite, it’s full-bodied, concentrated, and powerful, yet still just glides over the palate. It’s a stunning wine and one of the few examples of the variety I’d put up with the best of Argentina. |
|
| Constant |
2015 |
Diamond Mountain Vyd. Merlot |
$60 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2015 |
Diamond Mountain Vyd. Syrah |
$60 |
2 |
|
| |
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| Continuum |
2015 |
Proprietary Blend |
$238 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 98+ (3/2018): Bottled just a few months ago, the 2015 Continuum is shaping up to be a real gem. The flavors are dark, bold and incisive. In 2015, poor weather during flowering took with it 50% of the production in Continuum's prime Cabernet Sauvignon blocks. As a result, the 2015 has a high percentage (31%) of Cabernet Franc. Today, the Franc is keeping the wine a bit clenched, but that should be less of an issue as time passes. Antonio Galloni. |
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| G.B. Crane |
2015 |
El Coco Proprietary Blend |
$75 |
3 |
|
| |
WA 95 (6/2018): A blend of 56% Zinfandel, 27% Petite Sirah and 17% Merlot, the medium to deep garnet-purple colored 2015 G.B. Crane Vineyard el Coco gives up a very seductive nose of fruitcake, chocolate box, fragrant earth and incense with hints of raspberry pie and blueberry compote plus a waft of Indian spices. Concentrated, full-bodied and completely packed with dried berries and exotic spice layers, it has a firm, chewy texture and plenty of freshness to boost the very long finish.
VM 92 (1/2018): The 2015 El Coco is gorgeous. Succulent red cherry, plum, lavender and spice are nicely pushed forward in this racy, pliant wine. Medium in body, gracious and beautifully perfumed, the 2015 is a striking Zinfandel-based wine from the Crane Assembly. (Drink between 2018-2030). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Dalla Valle |
2015 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$325 |
6 |
|
| |
VM 97 (11/2025): The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon is in great shape today. Deep, pliant and super expressive, the 2015 is just starting to open. A blast of dark cherry fruit, mocha, licorice and espresso makes a strong opening statement. Still very young, the 2015 will drink well for another decade or more. It's one of the most youthful, vibrant wines of the year. I underestimated this wine and its potential longevity in my original review. (Drink between 2025-2040). Antonio Galloni.
JD 95 (1/2019): The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon includes slightly less Cabernet than normal and is 75% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Cabernet Franc. It has loads of cassis and black raspberry fruits as well as gorgeous incense, dried violets, vanilla, and flowery spice overtones. About as seamless as it gets, with full body and present yet sweet tannins, it’s a beautiful, elegant wine from this remarkable site sitting above Oakville. (Drink between 2019-2044). |
|
| DeLille Cellars |
2015 |
Chaleur Estate |
$65 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 95 (4/2018): While I always think of the Harrison Hill release as the Margaux in the lineup, the Chaleur is much more Pauillac/Saint Julien in style. The 2015 Chaleur Estate checks in as 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, and 10% Cabernet Franc. It’s a full-bodied, deep, concentrated effort that offers terrific cassis and black cherry fruits, graphite, scorched earth, licorice, and crushed rock-like minerality. Like all the 2015s from Delille, it has an elegant, pure, focused style and is beautifully balanced. Owner/Winemaker Chris Upchurch compared the 2015s from Washington State to the 2009s from Bordeaux, and given the sweltering heat in 2015, I understand the comparison. However, the 2015s come across as more focused and classic in style, in part, I suspect to the vines shutting down throughout the summer and I think the true phenolics actually lag the 2012s, 2014s, and 2016s. These wines are concentrated, have notable purity, and building tannin. They’re going to benefit from short-term cellaring. As usual, I tasted the barrel samples during my visit at the estate and the bottled wines at my office in Colorado. (Drink between 2018-2030).
VM 93 (11/2018): Dark red-ruby. Aromas of cassis, raspberry, blueberry and licorice, plus a whiff of lead pencil. Plush, sexy and sweet, boasting complex, highly concentrated flavors of dark berries, spicy oak and cocoa powder. Finishes very rich but quite primary, with terrific lingering boysenberry fruit and a rather muscular framework. A large-scaled, spicy Red Mountain blend with serious old-vines complexity and depth--and balanced from the start. According to winemaker Jason Gorski, this Cabernet was picked in October even in this very warm growing season. (14.2% alcohol) (Drink between 2019-2027). Stephen Tanzer.
WA 92+ (6/2018): Offering up aromas of cassis, menthol, loamy soil and cherries, the 2015 Chaleur Estate is medium to full-bodied, rich and chewy, with a nice core of fruit but rather assertive, chewy tannins that might equally easily be derived from barrel or seeds. I suspect this will always be rather firm and tannic, but I wouldn't bet against it mellowing with time. It's a blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc. |
|
|
2015 |
D2 |
$35 |
2 |
|
| |
VM 92 (11/2018): Bright, dark red with ruby highlights. Aromas of cassis and licorice hint at a dried-berry character. Impressively concentrated for such a large blend, offering a fine-grained texture and noteworthy inner-mouth floral lift. Boasts plush, sweet dark fruit and spice flavors, with a repeating element of very ripe berries. Suggests a wider range of fruit ripeness than most of the other DeLille reds but very successful for such a disparate blend. The long finish features substantial ripe, broad tannins. Stephen Tanzer.
JD 91 (4/2018): The largest production Bordeaux blend from this estate is their D2 release, which is named after the famed highway leading up to the Médoc from the city of Bordeaux. The 2015 D2 is 58% Merlot, 36% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the rest Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. It offers a Pomerol-like bouquet of black cherries, leafy herbs, graphite, and lead pencil, and is medium to full-bodied, seamless and elegant. Readers wanting a taste of the style – and quality – from Delille should absolutely check this wine out. Drink bottles over the coming 7-8 years.
WA 90 (6/2018): Exhibiting aromas of loamy soil, crushed currants and creamy new oak, the 2015 D2 Proprietary Red Wine is medium-bodied, chewy and rustic, with a good core of juicy fruit but a firm, somewhat drying finish that seems to be marked by tannins derived from its time in 55% new oak but which could also simply reflect the vintage. It's a blend of 58% Merlot, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot. |
|
|
2015 |
Grand Ciel Syrah |
$60 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 94 (11/2018): Bright medium ruby. An aroma of black raspberry eau de vie is complicated by hints of prosciutto and tea leaf. Juicy, sharply delineated flavors of dark berries, cardamom and pie spices are lifted by a floral topnote. Wonderfully fine-grained and suave, delivering uncommon detail and cut for a 2015 red. "How Syrah should be," notes executive winemaker Chris Upchurch, who added that "DeLille's middle name is tannin management." Finishes with outstanding rising length and a captivating light touch. This wine should evolve gracefully in bottle over the next decade or more. (14.6% alcohol) (Drink between 2020-2028). Stephen Tanzer.
JD 93+ (4/2018): The flagship Syrah is the 2015 Syrah Grand Ciel Vineyard and it’s all from a single vineyard on Red Mountain, was completely destemmed, and aged in 30% new French oak. Similarly colored to the Signature Syrah, it offers more black cherry, currants, scorched earth, smoke, and mineral characteristics to go with a big, rich, concentrated style on the palate. Beautifully balanced, with both tannin and acidity, it needs 2-3 years of bottle age and will shine over the following decade. |
|
|
2015 |
Merlot |
$39 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 90 (4/2018): The 2015 Merlot is outstanding, with a concentrated, rich style and classic notes of black cherries, dark chocolate, scorched earth, and tobacco. It’s deep, medium to full-bodied, has beautiful fruit, and a great finish. It’s certainly approachable today but will be even better with a year in bottle and keep for a decade. Owner/Winemaker Chris Upchurch compared the 2015s from Washington State to the 2009s from Bordeaux, and given the sweltering heat in 2015, I understand the comparison. However, the 2015s come across as more focused and classic in style, in part, I suspect to the vines shutting down throughout the summer and I think the true phenolics actually lag the 2012s, 2014s, and 2016s. These wines are concentrated, have notable purity, and building tannin. They’re going to benefit from short-term cellaring. As usual, I tasted the barrel samples during my visit at the estate and the bottled wines at my office in Colorado. (Drink between 2018-2028). |
|
|
2015 |
Red Willow Vyd. Malbec |
$25 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 94 (4/2018): The 2015 Malbec Red Willow Vineyard is one of the finest Malbec coming from the state. Offering up a huge nose of blueberries, blackberries, crushed flowers, toasty oak, and Asian spices, this beauty is full-bodied, has a seductive, ripe, layered texture, sweet tannin, and a great finish. It’s a rocking good wine to enjoy over the coming 5-7 years.
VM 91 (11/2018): Bright ruby. Aromas of dark berries, licorice, tree bark and sagebrush, plus a wilder note of garrigue. Tactile and thick but bright as well, with its dark fruit, lavender, licorice and chalky mineral flavors complemented by a lower-toned note of tobacco. In a plush, fine-grained style, combining savory notes and hints of very ripe fruit. Finishes with suave tannins and excellent length. Very Malbec! (14% alcohol) (Drink between 2019-2024). Stephen Tanzer. |
|
|
2015 |
Signature Syrah |
$30 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 93 (11/2018): Bright medium ruby. Sexy aromas and flavors of blackberry, blueberry, crushed stone and violet. Doesn't offer quite the detail of the superlative 2014 model but delivers a lovely combination of sweetness and salinity. This tactile, suave wine finishes with perfectly integrated tannins and noteworthy freshness. Boasts serious spine but there's nothing dry or austere about this young Syrah. Stephen Tanzer.
JD 91 (4/2018): The 2015 Signature Syrah (which includes 2%) comes from Ciel du Cheval, Grand Ciel, and Boushey Vineyards and was completely destemmed and aged in 20% new French oak. It’s another Rhône look alike and offers classic notes of blackberries, black olives, bacon fat, and peppery herbs. It’s medium-bodied, fresh, nicely concentrated, and balanced, with present, yet ripe, tannin. It will keep for a decade.\ |
|
| Diamond Creek |
2015 |
Volcanic Hill Cabernet Sauvignon |
$219 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 92 (12/2018): The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Volcanic Hill is the most savory and mineral-driven of these three Cabernets from Diamond Creek. Graphite, gravel, crème de cassis, lavender, menthol and plum are all finely sketched. The Volcanic Hill shows a good deal of the nuance that makes wines from this part of the estate so compelling, but in a far more approachable style than I can recall encountering previously. I would prefer to give the 2015 a few years to develop a bit of aromatic complexity, but opening a bottle on the young side is hardly a crime. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| L' Ecole No. 41 |
2015 |
Estate Ferguson Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$55 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Efeste |
2015 |
Big Papa Cabernet Sauvignon |
$60 |
4 |
|
| |
|
| Ehlers Estate |
2015 |
1886 Cabernet Sauvignon |
$90 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2015 |
Petit Verdot |
$30 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Fairchild Estate |
2015 |
G III Cabernet Sauvignon |
$239 |
3 |
|
| |
|
|
2015 |
Sigaro Cabernet Sauvignon |
$149 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 97 (12/2017): Very deep inky-purple colored, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Sigaro delivers ripe cassis, black plums and fragrant earth notes with touches of bay leaves, mossy bark and tobacco leaf. Medium to full-bodied with a rock-solid frame of wonderfully fine-grained tannins and lovely freshness, it has a great core of vibrant black fruit flavors, finishing long and pure. 210 cases were made. |
|
|
2015 |
Sigaro Cabernet Sauvignon |
$159 |
3 |
|
| |
| WA 97 (12/2017): Very deep inky-purple colored, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Sigaro delivers ripe cassis, black plums and fragrant earth notes with touches of bay leaves, mossy bark and tobacco leaf. Medium to full-bodied with a rock-solid frame of wonderfully fine-grained tannins and lovely freshness, it has a great core of vibrant black fruit flavors, finishing long and pure. 210 cases were made. |
|
|
2015 |
Sigaro Cabernet Sauvignon |
$269 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 97 (12/2017): Very deep inky-purple colored, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Sigaro delivers ripe cassis, black plums and fragrant earth notes with touches of bay leaves, mossy bark and tobacco leaf. Medium to full-bodied with a rock-solid frame of wonderfully fine-grained tannins and lovely freshness, it has a great core of vibrant black fruit flavors, finishing long and pure. 210 cases were made. |
|
|
2015 |
Sigaro Cabernet Sauvignon Heavily Bin-Soiled Label |
$269 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 97 (12/2017): Very deep inky-purple colored, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Sigaro delivers ripe cassis, black plums and fragrant earth notes with touches of bay leaves, mossy bark and tobacco leaf. Medium to full-bodied with a rock-solid frame of wonderfully fine-grained tannins and lovely freshness, it has a great core of vibrant black fruit flavors, finishing long and pure. 210 cases were made. |
|
|
2015 |
Sigaro Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$299 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 97 (12/2017): Very deep inky-purple colored, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Sigaro delivers ripe cassis, black plums and fragrant earth notes with touches of bay leaves, mossy bark and tobacco leaf. Medium to full-bodied with a rock-solid frame of wonderfully fine-grained tannins and lovely freshness, it has a great core of vibrant black fruit flavors, finishing long and pure. 210 cases were made. |
|
|
2015 |
Stones No. 2 Perrarus Block 1 Cabernet Sauvignon |
$295.75 |
5 |
|
| |
|
|
2015 |
Stones No. 2 Perrarus Block 1 Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$614.25 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2015 |
Stones No. 3 Perrarus Block Tench Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$499 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2015 |
Stones No. 3 Tench Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$591.50 |
2 |
|
| |
| VM 95 (1/2018): Fairchild's 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Stones No. 3 emerges from the Tench vineyard, which is the heart of the valley floor in Eastern Oakville. Dark, sumptuous and explosive, with all of the resonance that is typical of the wines from this district in Oakville, the Tench has much to offer. This heady, full-throttle Cabernet is another winner from Larry Fairchild and Philippe Melka. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Far Niente |
2015 |
Estate Cabernet Sauvignon |
$129 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Favia |
2015 |
Coombsville Cabernet Sauvignon |
$169 |
2 |
|
| |
JD 98+ (1/2019): Another thrilling 2015 from winemaker Andy Erickson is the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Coombsville, which comes from vines not far from the estate. It has classic cool climate notes of blue fruits, violet, chocolate, and green tobacco. These all flow to a deep, concentrated, yet finesse-driven wine that has fine tannins, terrific mid-palate depth, and a huge finish. It shows the classic Coombsville complexity, purity, and freshness, and will keep for 2-3 decades. (Drink between 2019-2039).
VM 95 (11/2025): The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Coombsville opens with strong floral and savory notes that are so typical of Coombsville. Cedar, pipe tobacco, dried herbs, mint, juniper berry and graphite are all beautifully delineated. This sensual, highly expressive Cabernet Sauvignon will drink well for another handful of years, maybe more. (Drink between 2025-2035). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Gamble Family |
2015 |
Family Home Cabernet Sauvignon |
$100 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 90 (12/2018): The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Family Home is a very pretty, resonant Oakville Cabernet. Dark cherry, plum, mocha, new leather and spice all open up nicely. Medium in body, open-knit and inviting, the Family Home is another attractive, accessible wine from Tom Gamble. (Drink between 2021-2031). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Gemstone |
2015 |
Alluvial Selection Cabernet Sauvignon |
$129 |
2 |
|
| |
VM 92 (1/2018): The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Alluvial Selection is one of the most intriguing wines I have tasted from Gemstone in some years. Vibrant and powerful in the glass, with plenty of polish, the 2015 has a lot to offer. Black cherry, graphite, menthol, licorice and plum abound in this super-expressive Cabernet Sauvignon. The Alluvial Selection includes a touch of Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. (Drink between 2018-2027). Antonio Galloni.
WA 92+ (12/2017): Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2015 Estate 'Alluvial Selection' Cabernet Sauvignon is a little youthfully mute, providing glimpses at black cherry compote, baked blueberries and spice cake with an undercurrent of charcuterie, underbrush and tar. The full-bodied palate is taut and chewy, offering up savory layers and dried berry flavors, finishing with the spices coming through. |
|
| George Wine Company |
2015 |
Sonoma Coma Pinot Noir (5.0 L) 5-liter bottle; Cracked Wax Capsule |
$300 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Greer |
2015 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$189 |
3 |
|
| |
| JD 96 (1/2026): Showing beautifully, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon offers ripe, exotic aromatics of currants, red plums, dried, savory flowers, and leather. Based on 100% Cabernet Sauvignon and aged 19 months in 60% new French oak, it's full-bodied, broad, layered, and seamless on the palate, with resolved tannins and a great finish. I think it's in a good spot today, yet I see no reason it shouldn't keep for another 15+ years if well stored. Drink 2026-2041. (Drink between 2026-2041) |
|
|
2015 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$215 |
2 |
|
| |
| JD 96 (1/2026): Showing beautifully, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon offers ripe, exotic aromatics of currants, red plums, dried, savory flowers, and leather. Based on 100% Cabernet Sauvignon and aged 19 months in 60% new French oak, it's full-bodied, broad, layered, and seamless on the palate, with resolved tannins and a great finish. I think it's in a good spot today, yet I see no reason it shouldn't keep for another 15+ years if well stored. Drink 2026-2041. (Drink between 2026-2041) |
|
| Hall |
2015 |
Jack’s Masterpiece Cabernet Sauvignon |
$179 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 96+ (10/2018): The very deep purple-black colored 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Jack's Masterpiece reveals the most stunning perfume of violets, chocolate box, star anise, rose hip tea and lavender over a core of kirsch, blackberry pie, warm plums and cassis plus a waft of allspice. Full-bodied and delivering intense fresh black and red fruits in the mouth, the palate maintains a lot of grace and finesse in spite of the the obvious power, with beautifully plush tannins and a very long, perfumed finish.
VM 93 (12/2018): The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Jack's Masterpiece is another impressive wine from Hall. The Diamond Mountain tannins are present, but they are nearly buried by the sheer intensity and power of the fruit. Graphite, menthol, licorice, spice, sage and wild flowers are very nicely delineated. The 2015 is potent, but also remarkably well balanced for a young mountain wine. (Drink between 2021-2030). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Heitz Cellar |
2015 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$119 |
1 |
|
| |
| Decanter 94 (6/2020): Heitz Cellars' Napa Cabernet is always one of the region's best-value buys, thanks in part to the winery's dedication to a pre-release ageing regimen. It spends eight months in neutral tank, two years in 50% new French oak, and then 18 months in bottle before release. Notes of aged leather, toffee and brick dust on a refined and velvety-textured palate. An honest Napa Cab. (Drink between 2020-2050). |
|
| Hendry |
2015 |
Block 13 Merlot |
$30 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2015 |
Block 14 Malbec Lightly Bin-Soiled Label |
$20 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2015 |
Block 7 & 22 Zinfandel |
$35 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2015 |
Hendry Vyd. Primitivo |
$20 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2015 |
Napa Valley Red Wine |
$40 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2015 |
Pinot Noir |
$30 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Horsepower Vineyards |
2015 |
Sur Echalas Vyd. Grenache |
$115 |
2 |
|
| |
| JD 94 (4/2018): The 2015 Grenache Sur Echalas Vineyard is a classic expression of both the terroir and the variety. Black cherries, strawberries, ground pepper, and forest floor notes all flow to a medium to full-bodied, silky Grenache that has incredible character and depth. Drink it over the coming decade. |
|
|
2015 |
Sur Echalas Vyd. Syrah |
$115 |
5 |
|
| |
| JD 93+ (4/2018): The 2015 Syrah Sur Echalas Vineyard is a savory, tertiary effort that’s reminiscent of red wine filtered through a rocky riverbed. Earth, chalky minerality, wood smoke, and sous bois notes, as well as both red and black fruits, give way to a medium to full-bodied, seamless Syrah that has light tannin, no hard edges, and a singular, transparent character. It’s going to gain weight with 2-3 years in bottle and drink well for a decade. |
|
| Jonata Winery |
2015 |
Fenix Merlot |
$69 |
2 |
|
| |
| VM 94 (9/2018): The 2015 Fenix is super-expressive. Dark cherry, chocolate, menthol, licorice and spice notes all run through this racy, Ballard Canyon red. In 2015, the Fenix packs a serious punch. I would give it a few years to soft, despite the considerable allure it holds today. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2015 |
Todos Proprietary Blend |
$45 |
6 |
|
| |
| JD 94 (8/2017): Graphite, pencil, lead, smoked earth, tobacco and assorted dark fruits emerge from the 2015 Todos, and it’s its usual, crazy blend of just about every varietal. This beautifully pure, fresh, focused blend has fine tannin and a great finish, and is another stunner from this estate. The full blend is 56% Syrah, 14% Cabernet Franc, 10% Petit Verdot, 10% Sangiovese, 7% Petite Sirah, 2% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the balance Viognier. |
|
| Justin |
2015 |
Savant Proprietary Blend |
$45 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| K Vintners |
2015 |
Powerline Estate Syrah |
$55 |
4 |
|
| |
| JD 95 (4/2018): blend of 80/20 Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah, the 2015 Cabernet / Syrah The Creator Powerline Vineyard offers a perfumed, singular bouquet of blackcurrants, ripe black cherries, tobacco, peat, and olive tapenade. This ripe, sexy, opulent effort has sweet tannin, a layered, rounded, sexy style, and a great finish. It's a pure, sexy red to drink over the coming decade. One of the highlight tastings I do in Washington State is unquestionably with Charles Smith and Brennon Leighton, who together produce a sensational lineup of Rhône and Bordeaux blends, as well as a seriously good Tempranillo and Sangiovese. The majority of the Cabernet Sauvignon dominated cuvees have been moved from the K Vintners label to the Wine of Substance label, which are also reviewed in this report. All the Rhône blends are not destemmed, see native ferments, and are aged mostly in used French oak. These are the real deal and are brilliant wines. (Drink between 2018-2028) |
|
|
2015 |
The Beautiful Syrah |
$59 |
3 |
|
| |
| JD 97 (4/2018): Co-fermented with 4% Viognier, the 2015 Syrah The Beautiful Powerline Vineyard was fermented with plenty of stems and brought up mostly in neutral oak. Candied violets, game, blackcurrants, and incense notes all emerge from this beautiful, seamless beauty. It has a rich, full-bodied profile on the palate as well as a great mid-palate, fine tannin, and nicely integrated acidity. This is another singular, layered, silky beauty from this team. Keep in mind, this comes from very young vines, so I suspect the best is yet to come here, which is saying something at this quality level. One of the highlight tastings I do in Washington State is unquestionably with Charles Smith and Brennon Leighton, who together produce a sensational lineup of Rhône and Bordeaux blends, as well as a seriously good Tempranillo and Sangiovese. The majority of the Cabernet Sauvignon dominated cuvees have been moved from the K Vintners label to the Wine of Substance label, which are also reviewed in this report. All the Rhône blends are not destemmed, see native ferments, and are aged mostly in used French oak. These are the real deal and are brilliant wines. (Drink between 2018-2030) |
|
|
2015 |
The Deal Sundance Vyd. Syrah |
$35 |
4 |
|
| |
| JD 95 (4/2018): All from the Sundance Vineyard on the Wahluke Slope, the 2015 Syrah The Deal (100% Syrah, not destemmed and aged in 30% new puncheons) offers smoking notes of red and black fruits, black olive, smoked earth and a huge meatiness. Full-bodied, silky and seamless, with a rock, mineral, backward style. One of the highlight tastings I do in Washington State is unquestionably with Charles Smith and Brennon Leighton, who together produce a sensational lineup of Rhône and Bordeaux blends, as well as a seriously good Tempranillo and Sangiovese. The majority of the Cabernet Sauvignon dominated cuvees have been moved from the K Vintners label to the Wine of Substance label, which are also reviewed in this report. All the Rhône blends are not destemmed, see native ferments, and are aged mostly in used French oak. These are the real deal and are brilliant wines. (Drink between 2020-2028) |
|
| Kerloo |
2015 |
Upland Vyd. Syrah |
$40 |
4 |
|
| |
| VM 90+ (10/2017): (13.7% alcohol; vinified entirely with whole clusters in neutral 500-liter barrels and racked only for the bottling; from a very warm site featuring rocky basalt soil): Bright medium ruby. Captivating, complex nose combines black raspberry, lavender, brown spices, wild herbs, cocoa powder and black olive tapenade. Suave, fine-grained and youthfully reserved, showing lovely sweetness and inner-mouth floral lift and definition to its berry, crushed rock and spice flavors; here the stems provide an energy boost. A distinctly adult style of Syrah with no undue weight or thickness. Finishes a touch clenched, with firm, youthfully imploded tannins that will need time to unwind. A fascinating and persistent moderate-octane Syrah. Incidentally, Chateau Ste. Michelle is getting this fruit as of the harvest of 2016. (Drink between 2019-2025). Stephen Tanzer. |
|
| Kosta Browne |
2015 |
Rosella’s Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$79 |
1 |
|
| |
JS 95 (5/2017): This is so perfumed and floral with blue fruits and lightly unripe strawberries. Lemon rind. Medium body, very fine tannins and bright fruit. Vivid. Irresistible now.
JD 91 (10/2017): The 2015 Pinot Noir Rosella's Vineyard is a terrific wine from this site, which always gives a fresh, perfumed style. Completely destemmed and aged in 40% new barrels, it offers textbook notes of bright berries, strawberries, rose petals and sappy flowers, medium-bodied richness, a charming, forward style, and a clean finish. It shines for its elegance and purity and is beautifully balanced.
VM 90 (8/2017): The 2015 Pinot Noir Rosella's Vineyard is an attractive, open-knit Pinot. Sweet red cherry, hard candy, orange peel and exotic floral notes, along with silky, creamy tannins give the wine its distinctive personality. The Rosella's is one of the more racy, forward wines in this lineup. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2015 |
Russian River Valley Pinot Noir |
$79 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 95 (10/2017): There are 5500 cases of the 2015 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley and it’s a deeply colored, ripe, sexy, beast of an appellation wine that’s as good, or better, then several of the single vineyards. Black raspberries, cassis, roasted herbs, violets, and loads of toasted spice give way to a full-bodied, beautifully textured 2015 that has sweet tannin and a great finish. It's already drinking beautifully but should keep nicely on its balance and purity.
JS 94 (5/2017): The bright fruit and hints of citrus come through clearly in this wine on the nose. Medium to full body, linear fine tannins and a fresh citrusy backbone of acidity. Lively. Drink now.
VM 90 (8/2017): The 2015 Pinot Noir (Russian River Valley) is a gorgeous appellation-level Pinot. Ripe and racy in the glass, with terrific density, the Russian River Pinot captures the essence of the Kosta Browne style. Succulent red cherry, plum, licorice and spice notes are front and center in a delicious, rewarding Pinot to drink now and over the next few years. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Larkmead Vineyards |
2015 |
Dr. Olmo Cabernet Sauvignon |
$149 |
2 |
|
| |
VM 97 (1/2018): The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Dr. Olmo has really come together since I last tasted it from barrel. Graphite, smoke, crushed rocks, spice and rose petal overtones give the 2015 Dr. Olmo its distinctive aromatic signatures. The 2015 finishes with remarkable tension and energy. What a gorgeous wine it is. (Drink between 2022-2035). Antonio Galloni.
JD 96 (12/2017): Of the three top Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Dr. Olmo is the most classic expression of Cabernet and offers Pauillac-like notes of black cherry, cassis, lead pencil shavings, espresso roast, and gravelly minerality. It’s full-bodied, concentrated, and structured, and will benefit from 4-5 years of bottle age and shine for 20-25 years or more.
WA 94+ (10/2047): The deep garnet-purple colored 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Dr. Olmo (Black Label) is scented of cedar, rose, dusty earth and incense over a core of warm red and black currants, blackberry compote and anise plus a touch of Mediterranean herbs. Medium to full-bodied and very firm, taut and muscular in the mouth, there is loads going on here, but this needs time! Give it 3-4 years at least, and drink it over the next 15+. |
|
|
2015 |
Firebelle Red Wine |
$100 |
3 |
|
| |
VM 90 (4/2018): The 2015 Firebelle shows the challenges of the growing season in its slightly roasted flavor profile and brooding, potent tannins. Just as it was from barrel, the Firebelle is decidedly virile. More importantly, the tannins feel not fully ripe. It will be interesting to see if the 2015 gains more polish over time. I have my doubts. Antonio Galloni.
JD 93 (12/2017): The Merlot-dominated cuvee of the estate is the 2015 Firebelle and it checks in as 71% Merlot, 21% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Petit Verdot that spent 18 months in 65% new French oak. It offers a terrific bouquet of black cherries, leafy herbs, lavender, and dried violets, medium to full body, loads of minerality, and a fresh, focused, beautifully balanced style. It’s ideal for drinking over the coming 15 years. Located north of Saint Helena and pulling all from their estate vineyard located around the winery, owner Cam Baker and winemaker Dan Petroski have produced some true superstars in 2015. These are ripe, full-bodied, majestic, yet structured wines that are going to age beautifully. There’s been a distinct stylistic shift with the 2016s, which were harvest far in advance of when most were harvesting, and the wines are certainly still beautiful, yet more tannic, backward, and angular. They’ll be beautiful wines, but certainly in a different style than previous vintages. |
|
|
2015 |
LMV Salon Proprietary Blend |
$170 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 92+ (8/2019): Bright medium ruby. Muskier and less exuberant on the nose than the 2015 Solari; a bit lower-toned. Shows excellent punch if not quite the personality and early sex appeal of the Solari, with its plum and spice flavors underpinned by minerality. Not quite the early balance of the Solari, as the wine's serious spine of acids and tannins will require patience. Ultimately a bit drier on the back half. Stephen Tanzer.
JD 94+ (12/2017): A blend of 60/40 Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, the 2015 LMV Salon is a cuvee that’s moving towards being a Cabernet Franc-dominated release as the estate plants more Cabernet Franc. Cassis, spring flowers, chocolate and a rocky, river bottom-like earthiness all flow to a full-bodied, concentrated, tannic 2015 that has exceptional purity and a great finish. Give bottle 3-5 years and enjoy over the following 15+. |
|
| Cliff Lede |
2015 |
Songbook Cabernet Sauvignon |
$215 |
3 |
|
| |
| VM 94+ (3/2018): Lede's 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Songbook, a blend of fruit from David Abreu's Madrona Ranch and Thorevilos, appears to have a bright future. Like all of these wines, though, it is going to need time to settle down. There is no shortage of intensity or power in this virile, structured Cabernet Sauvignon. Time in the glass only seems to bring out the wine's inherent power even more. A blast of ripe red stone fruit, iron, smoke and tobacco leaves a lasting impression. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Matthews |
2015 |
Colombia Valley Claret |
$25 |
6 |
|
| |
| JD 91 (4/2018): The 2015 Claret checks in as a 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 26% Merlot, 21% Cabernet Franc and the rest Malbec and Petit Verdot which spent 20 months in 51% new French oak. Cassis, blueberries, leafy herbs, and liquid flower notes all emerge from this medium to full-bodied, lively, fresh, elegant blend that shines for its purity and sheer drinkability. These Matthews releases are made by Aryn Morell, who has a hand in a number of top wines in this report. (Drink between 2018-2028) |
|
|
2015 |
Colombia Valley Reserve Claret |
$55 |
5 |
|
| |
| JD 94 (4/2018): The 2015 Claret Reserve checks in as 68% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Merlot and the balance Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot that saw more new oak, spending 22 months in 80% new barrels. Similarly inky colored, with beautiful blue fruits, violets, cedar and incense aromatics, this beauty hits the palate with full-bodied richness, fine, polished tannin, and nicely integrated acidity. It's balanced, has beautiful purity, and a great finish. |
|
| Mayacamas |
2015 |
Mt. Veeder Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$350 |
5 |
|
| |
| VM 96 (11/2025): The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon is a gorgeous, elegant wine that is just starting to drink well. Black cherry, licorice, lavender, spice, menthol and coffee fill out the layers. Plush contours wrap it all together in style. This offers lovely textural density to play off the estate's more classically leaning sense of structure. Today, my impression is that some of the baby fruit has started to melt away. At the same time, the 2015 is a bit of a mystery, as is one of the most shut-down, reticent 2015s I tasted for this report. (Drink between 2025-2040). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Mayacamas Vineyards |
2015 |
Mt. Veeder Cabernet Sauvignon |
$175 |
60 |
|
| |
| VM 96 (11/2025): The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon is a gorgeous, elegant wine that is just starting to drink well. Black cherry, licorice, lavender, spice, menthol and coffee fill out the layers. Plush contours wrap it all together in style. This offers lovely textural density to play off the estate's more classically leaning sense of structure. Today, my impression is that some of the baby fruit has started to melt away. At the same time, the 2015 is a bit of a mystery, as is one of the most shut-down, reticent 2015s I tasted for this report. (Drink between 2025-2040). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Maybach |
2015 |
Amoenus Cabernet Sauvignon |
$205 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 98 (12/2017): Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2015 Amoenus Cabernet Sauvignon features vibrant, youthful crushed blackberry and black currant notes with touches of wild thyme, charcoal, pencil shavings and damp soil. Full-bodied, richly fruited and packed with vivacious black fruit and savory layers, it has lovely, ripe, grainy tannins and wonderful freshness, finishing with great persistence. 240 cases produced.
JD 97 (12/2017): From a site in the northern part of the Valley, in Calistoga, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Amoenus offers a perfect expression of this ripe, sexy vintage. Loaded with notions of blackberry jam, toasted spice, dried flowers and licorice, it has a beautiful opulence and sweetness of fruit that stays balanced, elegant and fresh. Made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon that spent 20 months in 80% new French oak, it has awesome tannin quality, a majestic, layered personality, and will drink nicely for three decades. |
|
| Miner |
2015 |
Gibson Ranch Rosato |
$10 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Next of Kyn |
2015 |
Cumulus Vyd. No. 9 Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$507.50 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 98+ (10/2018): A wine that’s going to flirt with perfection in another handful of years, the 2015 No 9 Cumulus Vineyard checks in as a complex blend of 45% Syrah, 22% Grenache, 16.8% Mourvèdre, 10% Petite Sirah, 5% Touriga Nacional, and the rest Viognier that saw 42% stems and 34 months in 40% new French oak. Sensationally perfumed, with powerful notes of blackberries, graphite, crushed rocks, black pepper, and dark chocolate, it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a layered, multi-dimensional texture, and incredible purity of fruit. This beauty has everything – richness, acidity, density, tannins, and length. Give it a handful of years and it will keep for 10-15 years. |
|
|
2015 |
Cumulus Vyd. No. 9 Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$525 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 98+ (10/2018): A wine that’s going to flirt with perfection in another handful of years, the 2015 No 9 Cumulus Vineyard checks in as a complex blend of 45% Syrah, 22% Grenache, 16.8% Mourvèdre, 10% Petite Sirah, 5% Touriga Nacional, and the rest Viognier that saw 42% stems and 34 months in 40% new French oak. Sensationally perfumed, with powerful notes of blackberries, graphite, crushed rocks, black pepper, and dark chocolate, it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a layered, multi-dimensional texture, and incredible purity of fruit. This beauty has everything – richness, acidity, density, tannins, and length. Give it a handful of years and it will keep for 10-15 years. |
|
|
2015 |
Cumulus Vyd. No. 9 Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$595 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 98+ (10/2018): A wine that’s going to flirt with perfection in another handful of years, the 2015 No 9 Cumulus Vineyard checks in as a complex blend of 45% Syrah, 22% Grenache, 16.8% Mourvèdre, 10% Petite Sirah, 5% Touriga Nacional, and the rest Viognier that saw 42% stems and 34 months in 40% new French oak. Sensationally perfumed, with powerful notes of blackberries, graphite, crushed rocks, black pepper, and dark chocolate, it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a layered, multi-dimensional texture, and incredible purity of fruit. This beauty has everything – richness, acidity, density, tannins, and length. Give it a handful of years and it will keep for 10-15 years. |
|
|
2015 |
Cumulus Vyd. No. 9 Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) No Capsule |
$625 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 98+ (10/2018): A wine that’s going to flirt with perfection in another handful of years, the 2015 No 9 Cumulus Vineyard checks in as a complex blend of 45% Syrah, 22% Grenache, 16.8% Mourvèdre, 10% Petite Sirah, 5% Touriga Nacional, and the rest Viognier that saw 42% stems and 34 months in 40% new French oak. Sensationally perfumed, with powerful notes of blackberries, graphite, crushed rocks, black pepper, and dark chocolate, it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a layered, multi-dimensional texture, and incredible purity of fruit. This beauty has everything – richness, acidity, density, tannins, and length. Give it a handful of years and it will keep for 10-15 years. |
|
|
2015 |
Numero Um Touriga Nacional |
$249 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 96 (10/2018): The first Touriga Nacional from California I’ve ever tasted, the 2015 Touriga Nacional comes all from the Cumulus vineyard in Oak View and is 80% Touriga Nacional, 8% Mourvèdre, 6% Syrah, and the rest Viognier that was mostly destemmed, and spent 34 months in 62% new French oak. This beauty gives up a voluptuous, sexy yet also incredibly elegant profile to go with notes of blueberries, violets, white chocolate, and cherry pie. Full-bodied, deep, and layered, it has fine tannins as well as remarkable purity and freshness. In short, it’s an incredible expression of the variety that I suspect will keep for 10-15 years. |
|
| Opus One |
2015 |
Proprietary Blend |
$375 |
3 |
|
| |
VM 97 (1/2020): The 2015 Opus One is rich, sensual and super-polished. That said, 2015 has really shut down since I tasted it last year, which is probably a very good sign for the future. All of the fruit intensity and ripeness of the vintage is evident, but the wine feels a bit more compact and less exuberant than it did at the outset. Sweet floral and spice notes add a gentler touch as the wine opens up just a bit with air. (Drink between 2023-2040). Antonio Galloni.
WA 97 (10/2019): “This wine was too much—too much like a caricature for me,” winemaker Michael Silacci confessed to me while tasting the 2015 Opus One together again recently. “So, when we took it out of barrel to prepare for bottling we added a few more components.” Medium to deep garnet-purple color, it bursts from the glass with beautiful violets, lavender, rose hip tea and chocolate-covered cherries scents over a core of crushed blackberries, black cherries, cassis and iron ore. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is wonderfully bright and crunchy, with bags of fresh black and red berries and a wonderfully plush, finely grained texture, finishing long and fragrant. |
|
| Ovid |
2015 |
Experiment P5.5 Proprietary Blend |
$155 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Paloma |
2015 |
Merlot |
$75 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Passing Time |
2015 |
Horse Heaven Hill Cabernet Sauvignon |
$55 |
5 |
|
| |
JD 96+ (4/2019): Tons of smoked black fruits, high-class smoke tobacco, graphite, and background oak emerge from the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Horse Heaven Hills. Deep, full-bodied, tannic, and concentrated, it’s a powerhouse wine that needs to be forgotten for 4-5 years and will keep for 25+. (Drink between 2023-2043).
VM 93 (10/2017): Bright, saturated medium ruby. Alluring violet lift to the mouthfilling aromas of cassis, black cherry, violet, licorice and black olive. Silky, fine-grained and light on its feet, offering a plush, edge-free texture to the flavors of cassis, cocoa powder and coriander. Terrific, lightly saline vinosity and peppery lift here. A classic, elegantly styled Cabernet in an Old World style, finishing suave and very long, with noble tannins, restrained sweetness and terrific lift. Impeccably balanced wine. (Drink between 2018-2026). Stephen Tanzer.
WA 87 (6/2018): Aromas of plum preserve, berry fruit liqueur and charred new oak introduce the 2015 Horse Heaven Hills Cabernet Sauvignon, a firm, astringently tannic wine with overripe flavors of fig and prune and a somewhat diffuse but simultaneously chewy finish. While some of Passing Time's 2015s are undeniable successes in their overtly sun-kissed, fruit-forward register, this bottling wasn't one of my favorites. |
|
| Peacock Family |
2015 |
Saltonstall Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$65 |
4 |
|
| |
|
| Joseph Phelps |
2015 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$175 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 93 (12/2017): The only 2015 I was able to taste from this estate (I couldn’t visit due to the fires), the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon is 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot and the rest Petit Verdot. Deeper and richer than the 2014 with gorgeous notes of black currants, plums, graphite, toasted spice and licorice, this beauty is full-bodied, supple and seamless on the palate, with fine, fine tannin and surprising freshness and purity. It’s a beauty, layered wine to drink over the coming 15-20 years. While I couldn’t visit at Joseph Phelps due to the fire, their 2014s (and a few 2015s) showed beautiful in my tastings in Colorado.
WA 91 (10/2017): Blended of 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot, 3% Petit Verdot, 2% Malbec and 2% Cabernet Franc, sourced from six vineyards, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon reveals a medium to deep garnet-purple color and nose of red and black currants, black raspberries and mulberries with hints of pencil shavings, cinnamon stick, cloves and vanilla pod. Medium to full-bodied, the palate has great freshness, with the vibrant, open-for-business fruit well supported by ripe, grainy tannins, finishing with good length.
VM 88 (1/2018): The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon is a pretty wine. There is good depth and density, but most of that happens at the outset, as the wine loses some of its persistence through the mid palate and into the finish. Ultimately, the shortcomings of the year can't be totally overcome. I would prefer to drink the 2015 sooner rather than later. (Drink between 2017-2023). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Predecessor |
2015 |
Howell Mountain Red Lake Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$386.75 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Pride Mountain Vineyards |
2015 |
Vintner Select Cuvee Merlot |
$79 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 94 (12/2018): Made from 100% Merlot, the medium to deep garnet-purple colored 2015 Merlot Vintner's Select is flamboyantly scented of warmed black plums, blueberry compote, candied violets and exotic spices with hints of garrigue, fertile loam, licorice and black tea. Medium to full-bodied, the generous black fruits are beautifully perfumed with floral hints and framed by velvety tannins, finishing long and decadently spicy.
JD 91 (3/2019): The 2015 Merlot is a charming effort, offering attractive red currants, mulled plums, licorice, and dried herb aromas and flavors. It’s medium-bodied, nicely textured, has moderate tannins, and outstanding length. It’s not a blockbuster, but it’s elegant and nicely balanced. Drink it any time over the coming 7-8 years.
VM 89 (12/2018): The 2015 Merlot Vintner Select shows the personality of the vintage in its super-ripe profile and amped up red cherry jam, chocolate and sweet spice flavors. The 2015 will appeal most to readers who like flamboyant wines. I find the super-ripe, sweet style a bit much, given that these wines already have so much intensity to begin with. (Drink between 2020-2027). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Quilceda Creek |
2015 |
Columbia Valley CVR Proprietary Blend |
$65 |
7 |
|
| |
| WA 92 (6/2018): A blend of 81% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Merlot and the balance equal parts Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, the 2015 CVR Columbia Valley Red Wine offers up a generous bouquet of ripe red cherries, licorice and creamy new oak. On the palate, it's medium to full-bodied, supple and velvety, with an open-knit core and a generous personality, concluding with a chewy, richly fruity finish. |
|
| Radio-Coteau |
2015 |
Savoy Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$65 |
3 |
|
| |
|
| Realm |
2015 |
Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$550 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 100 (12/2017): One of the most profound young wines I’ve ever tasted is the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane. Of all the high scoring wines in this report, if I had to pick one to put at the top of the heap, this would be it. My notes are filled with expletives, but this majestic, opulent, heavenly red boasts a deep purple color and La Mission Haut Brion-like notes of tobacco leaf, blackcurrants, earthy/rocky minerality, cigar box, blueberries, and Asian spices. Huge, opulent, and voluptuous, with a mid-palate that needs to be tasted to be believed, it has no hard edges, incredible density, ripe tannin, and a great, great finish. Don’t miss it and hats off to winemaker Benoit Touquette.
WA 100 (10/2017): Produced from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr Crane Vineyard is an absolute stunner, sporting an inky purple-black color and show-stopping nose of crème de cassis and blackberry pie laced with cumin seed, fenugreek, black pepper and cardamom, plus a transporting earthy undercurrent of black loam, moss-covered tree bark and forest floor. The palate delivers a wall of muscular black fruit accented by exotic spices and decadent floral notions, framed by firm, grainy tannins and just enough freshness, finishing with epic length and many, many layers. Amazing. Just 325 cases were made.
JS 96 (5/2018): Powerful aromas of dark fruit with rust and crushed stones. Oyster shell, too. Very aromatic. Full-bodied, layered and powerful. Lots of toasted oak, but tight and focused. Needs time to come together. Try in 2022. |
|
|
2015 |
The Bard Proprietary Blend |
$169 |
5 |
|
| |
JD 98+ (12/2017): Last of the blends, the 2015 The Bard checks in as 73% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Merlot and the rest Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Like the Falstaff, it has a terrific purity and freshness as well as full-bodied richness and depth. Blackberries, currants, liquid rock, and tobacco all give way to a gorgeous, deep, layered Cabernet Sauvignon that’s still tight, backward and reserved on the palate. Give bottles 3-4 years, count yourself lucky, and enjoy over the following two decades.
WA 97 (10/2017): Blended of 73% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc and 4% Petit Verdot, the 2015 The Bard offers up a very deep garnet-purple color and highly perfumed scents of violets, dried Provence herbs, lavender and tapenade over a core of cassis and blackberry preserves. Full-bodied and loaded with perfumed black fruit layers, it has a solid frame of rounded, plush-textured tannins and a provocatively earthy finish. 2,000 cases were made. |
|
| Rewa |
2015 |
Coombsville Cabernet Sauvignon |
$150 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 92 (11/2019): Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon (100% Cabernet Sauvignon) slips sensuously out of the glass with open-knit notes of baked blackberries, crème de cassis and stewed plums with hints of garrigue, bay leaves, tilled soil and fallen leaves plus a waft of pencil lead. Full-bodied, rich and jam-packed with ripe, opulent fruit, it has a firm line of ripe, grainy tannins and lovely freshness, finishing with an herbal lift. |
|
| Reynvaan Family Vineyards |
2015 |
In the Rocks Syrah |
$75 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 94 (6/2018): Co-fermented with 6% Viognier, the 2015 Syrah In The Rocks is striking, bursting from the glass with an expressive nose of potpourri, wild plums, espresso roast and grilled meats. On the palate, it's medium-bodied, lavish and velvety, with savory flavors of roasted meats and wild dark fruits, concluding with a sapid, saline finish. While I don't think this boasts the depth and dimension of this cuvee's best vintages, it's a beautiful wine with a strong personality. |
|
|
2015 |
The Contender Syrah |
$65 |
3 |
|
| |
| WA 94 (6/2018): Co-fermented with 4% Roussanne, the 2015 Syrah The Contender is more aromatically reserved than the In The Rocks bottling, but it's similar in profile, unfurling in the glass with notes of dried rose petals, ripe plums, grilled meats and coffee grounds. On the palate, it's fuller in body, with a richer attack and an ampler core of fruit, framed by similarly fine tannins and concluding with a savory, licorice and coffee- inflected finish. While it's a little more powerful than the In The Rocks, The Contender is quite supple and elegant this year. |
|
|
2015 |
The Stonessence Syrah |
$65 |
2 |
|
| |
| JD 96 (4/2018): The most expensive Syrah from Matt is the 2015 Syrah Stonessence and there’s a scant 325 cases made. Its deep ruby/plum color is followed by a salty, bloody Syrah that has loads of complexity, full-bodied richness, sweet tannin, and a big finish. Black raspberries, peppery herbs, dry aged beef, and hints of lavender all emerge from the glass and while it’s already singing, it’s going to evolve gracefully for 10-15 years. |
|
| Rhys |
2015 |
Anderson Valley Pinot Noir |
$35 |
2 |
|
| |
JD 93 (8/2017): Leading off the wines from Mendocino, the straight 2015 Pinot Noir Anderson Valley is terrific. Black raspberries, singed herbs, earth and sappy flower notes all emerge from this supple, textured 2015 that’s already a joy to drink. It’s certainly one of the more approachable in the lineup, yet like all the wines from this estate, it’s going to keep nicely for a decade due to its balance and classic style. This was a terrific lineup of 2015s from the team at Rhys. Across the board, these are tight and structured, with terrific concentration. Give them a few years of bottle age. Unfortunately, due to the devastating yields, there’s no Skyline Vineyard or Hillside releases in 2015s. In addition, they have a new estate vineyard in the Santa Cruz Mountains (bringing their total to seven estate vineyards) that will be coming on line over the next couple of years. Named Mount Pajaro Vineyard, the site was planted in 2010 and covers 18 acres in the southern part of the Santa Cruz Mountains, planted all with high density, 3.5 feet row spacing. Harvey commented that they’ve learned a lot over the past decade planting their other estate properties and they’re excited about the quality of this site. (Drink between 2017-2027).
VM 92 (8/2017): The 2015 Pinot Noir (Anderson Valley), the second selection from Rhys's Bearwallow vineyard, is gorgeous. Sweet red cherry, hard candy, wild flowers, mint and rose petal notes are pushed forward in a pliant, supple Pinot that will drink well right out of the gate. There is so much to like here, including the wine's engaging, up-front personality. This stellar appellation-level wine overdelivers big time. Don't miss it. (Drink between 2017-2023). Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2015 |
Horseshoe Vyd. Syrah (1.5 L) |
$150 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 96+ (8/2018): The 2015 Syrah Horseshoe Vineyard is quite rich, and yet it also has tremendous freshness, especially within the context of the year. Today, the Syrah is a bit more reticent than it was from barrel, but all the ingredients are present for the 2016 to blossom into a spectacular wine over time. The Syrah spends six months in French oak and a second year in cask. Time in cask seems to really bring out striking detail and structure while maintaining a good deal of freshness as well. (Drink between 2020-2031). Antonio Galloni.
JD 96 (2/2019): Moving to the reds, the 2015 Syrah Horseshoe Vineyard reminds me of a great vintage from Jamet in Côte Rôtie with its exotic floral, peppery, sappy, and gamey aromas and flavors. Medium to full-bodied and beautifully concentrated, with building structure, it’s another brilliant Syrah from this estate. While the Pinot Noirs get all the attention here, don’t miss a chance to try their Syrah. (Drink between 2018-2028). |
|
| Ridge Vineyards |
2015 |
50th Anniversary Geyserville |
$59 |
8 |
|
| |
VM 94 (8/2017): It's hard to believe that Ridge's iconic Zinfandel Geyserville celebrates its fiftieth anniversary in 2015. Today, the wine is quite deep, powerful and unyielding. Of course, the low yields of the vintage have a lot to do with that. I am not surprised winemaker Eric Baugher decided to give the 2015 a few more months in barrel, as there is a lot of stuffing here. The interplay of fruit, aromatics and acidity is compelling. Red cherry jam, pomegranate, rose petal and woodsmoke infuse the finish. The 2015 is going to need time to be at its best, but it is impressive. (Drink between 2022-2035). Antonio Galloni.
JD 92 (8/2017): Another wine from this estate that has a terrific track record for aging beautifully, the 2015 Geyserville checks in as a blend of 70% Zinfandel, 15% Carignan, 12% Petite Sirah, and the balance Alicante Bouschet. It offers elegant, lively notes of spice plums, leather, white pepper and brambly herbs in a medium-bodied, silky, charming, and undeniably elegant style. It stays fresh and lively on the palate, and like most of these 2015 Zinfandel releases, is already a joy to drink. There’s 9,000 cases. Ridge continues to produce a stacked lineup from their estate vineyards in the Santa Cruz Mountains, as well as numerous sites in Sonoma County. These reviews focus mostly on their 2015s, which was the earliest harvest on record for Ridge. Nevertheless, the wines show terrific purity and elegance, and it’s a rock-solid vintage for the estate. The Bordeaux blends are from the 2014 vintage, which was another hot, dry year. These are big, ripe, sexy releases that have the fruit and depth to drink nicely today, yet are going to age beautifully. (Drink between 2017-2032). |
|
| Rivers Marie |
2015 |
Calistoga Cabernet Sauvignon |
$109 |
3 |
|
| |
| VM 92 (3/2018): Super-ripe red cherry, plum, mint and pomegranate rush onto the palate in the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon (Calistoga). Even with all its ripeness, the 2015 has quite a bit of depth and textural resonance, not to mention tons of personality. The Calistoga Cabernet emerges from one of the choicest areas in Larkmead. My only hesitation at the moment with the 2015 is the tannins, which are a bit grainy and suggest that ripening was not totally even. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Rutherford Hill |
2015 |
Napa Valley Merlot |
$15 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Union Sacre |
2015 |
La Passion du Diable Cabernet Sauvignon |
$30 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 89 (5/2018): Another Cabernet Sauvignon cuvée, also from the Happy Canyon of Santa Barbara, the 2015 La Passion du Diable reveals classy aromas of crushed currants and tobacco leaf, framed by new oak. On the palate, it's medium-bodied, with a good core of fruit underpinned by nice balancing acids, but it turns a bit compact and austere on the finish. It's an attractive wine, but I wouldn't mind seeing a lighter touch with extraction and oak tannin. |
|
| Salt Vine |
2015 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon |
$199 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Scarlett Wines |
2015 |
Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon |
$50 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 91 (12/2017): Brought up in 75% new French oak, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate offers a pretty, charming, forward style. Black cherries, incense, fruitcake, and spice notes all flow to a charming, rounded and supple Cabernet that has sweet fruit, ripe tannin and a balanced, delicious style.
VM 88 (1/2018): Scarlett's 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon is a supple, fruity wine to drink now and over the next few years, while the flavors retain their youthful intensity. (Drink between 2017-2022). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Schrader |
2015 |
LPV Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$350 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 98+ (12/2017): Coming from the Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard, from blocks C and E that are planted to clones 337 and 4, respectively, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard Lpv has a very deep garnet-purple color and nose of crushed black berries, black currant cordial and garrigue with wafts of sage, mocha and cedar chest plus a hint of lavender. Medium to full-bodied, very firm and very tightly knit, the palate reveals great elegance and sophistication, with slowly revealing layers and a lovely minerality coming through on the long finish. 2,017 cases produced. |
|
| Screaming Eagle |
2015 |
The Flight Proprietary Blend |
$675 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 97 (4/2018): Very deep purple-black, the 2015 The Flight (a blend of 61% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc and 37% Cabernet Sauvignon) opens with electric notes of black and blue fruit sparks—wild blueberries, fresh blackberries and crushed black plums—with nuances of lavender, violets, pencil shavings, tilled soil, yeast extract and a waft of cinnamon stick. Medium to full-bodied, it hits the palate with tons of energy and freshness supported by firm, finely grained tannins, finishing with tons of fragrant earth layers.
JS 98 (5/2018): This is very tight grained and beautifully balanced with violets, crushed stones and a brambleberry character. Extremely aromatic and perfumed. Medium to full body with a compressed mouthfeel of wonderfully fine and fresh tannins. A fantastic merlot-based red for the vintage. Structured yet so balanced. Beautiful now but better in 2021.
VM 95 (3/2018): The 2015 The Flight, Screaming Eagle's Merlot-based wine, is terrific. Powerful, deep and explosive, the 2015 is endowed with serious richness and intensity in all of its dimensions. The 2015 is an especially dark, somber wine. As often happens with young Merlot-based wines, The Flight appears to be going through a somewhat closed phase at the moment. That won't be an issue once the wine has a bit more time to come together. Time in the glass brings out hints of lavender, gravel, red cherry, mocha and espresso. The 2015 is going to be fascinating to follow for the next several decades. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Sea Smoke |
2015 |
Southing Pinot Noir |
$79 |
14 |
|
| |
|
|
2015 |
Ten Pinot Noir |
$99 |
8 |
|
| |
|
| Sheridan Vineyard |
2015 |
L’Orage Proprietary Blend |
$65 |
3 |
|
| |
| JD 94 (4/2018): The Cabernet Sauvignon dominated (there’s a small amount of Cabernet Franc) 2015 L’Orage is another brilliant wine from this estate. Dried red currants, cedarwood, incense and lead pencil notes all flow to a ripe, sexy, medium to full-bodied Cabernet that has sweet tannin, impeccable balance, and a great finish. Drink this pleasure-bent beauty anytime over the coming decade. (Drink between 2018-2028). |
|
| Sine Qua Non |
2015 |
"E" Eleven Confessions Vyd. Grenache |
$450 |
3 |
|
| |
VM 100 (9/2019): The 2015 Grenache E, from Elaine and Manfred Krankl’s Eleven Confessions Vineyard, is stunningly beautiful. Remarkably light on its feet for such a sumptuous wine, the 2015 has so much to offer. Beautifully expressive aromatics make a strong opening impression. Dark red and purplish berry fruit, mint, sweet spice and licorice develop with air, but it is the wine’s overall feel that stands out most. At times, the E is quite powerful, while in other moments it is much more delicate. That contrast makes for an utterly captivating wine. Antonio Galloni.
WA 100 (6/2019): This is a single-vineyard Grenache-dominated, barrel-selection blend coming from the Eleven Confessions Estate vineyard in Sta. Rita Hills. It bears Elaine Krankl’s initial and a portrait Manfred made of Elaine on the label. The blend is 82% Grenache, 12% Syrah, 5% Petite Syrah and 1% Viognier, and 56% was fermented using whole clusters. It was aged for around 38 months in French oak, 28% new.
JD 98+ (10/2019): The 2015 Grenache E comes all from the Eleven Confessions Vineyard and spent a whopping 38 months in 28% new French oak, with the balance in used barrels of varying sizes. An incredible effort that offers complex notes of cured meats, graphite, ground white and black pepper, flowers, and cassis, it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, ultra-fine tannins, and a purity level that’s just about off the charts. Showing the concentrated, powerful, structured style of the vintage, give bottles 3-4 years in the cellar and enjoy over the following decade or more. |
|
|
2015 |
"M" Eleven Confessions Vyd. Syrah (1.5 L) |
$650 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 99 (10/2019): The extended aged 2015 Syrah M is more backward and structured, with the 2015 vintage character front and center. Based on 90.6% Syrah and the rest Petite Sirah, Grenache, and Viognier, aged 38 months in 66% new oak, its deep purple color is followed by powerful notes of blackcurrants, blackberries, cedarwood, spiced meat, candle wax, and white flowers. It’s deep and full-bodied, with a huge mid-palate, building tannins, and one serious finish. This rocking beast of a Syrah stays remarkably elegant and perfectly balanced yet needs 4-5 years or more of bottle age. It’s going to evolve for two decades or more.
WA 99 (6/2019): This is a single-vineyard Syrah-dominant blend coming from the Eleven Confessions Estate vineyard in Sta. Rita Hills. It bears Manfred Krankl’s initial and a provocative self-portrait on the label. The blend is 90.6% Syrah, 4.4% Petite Syrah, 2.6% Grenache and 2.4% Viognier. Forty-three percent was fermented using whole clusters. It was aged for around 38 months in French oak, 66% new.
VM 99 (9/2019): The 2015 Syrah M will thrill Sine Qua Non lovers. Rich and sumptuous in the glass, with tremendous aromatic nuance from the whole clusters, the 2015 possesses mind-blowing intensity, yet also remains light on its feet. What impresses me most is how much energy and vivacity the 2015 shows given the tiny yields that year. At the risk of sounding like a broken record, this is yet another stunning wine from Sine Qua Non. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Sojourn Cellars |
2015 |
Reuling Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$75 |
4 |
|
| |
| WA 92 (3/2017): Pale to medium ruby-purple colored, the 2015 Pinot Noir Reuling Vineyard has a fragrant nose of lavender, oolong tea and fertile loam over a red currant and Bing cherry core with a waft of underbrush. The medium-bodied palate is just beautiful with very finely grained tannins and seamless acidity framing the elegant red berry and earthy flavors, finishing with a slight minerality. |
|
|
2015 |
Riddle Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$75 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 91 (3/2017): The 2015 Pinot Noir Riddle Vineyard has a medium ruby-purple color and compelling nose of roses, kirsch, cranberry sauce and eucalypt plus touches of cloves and fallen leaves. The medium to full-bodied palate is packed with taut red berry and menthol-laced flavors, structured with ripe, firm, finely knit tannins and finishing in thought-provoking layers. |
|
|
2015 |
Ridgetop Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$75 |
4 |
|
| |
| WA 90 (3/2017): Pale to medium ruby-purple colored, the 2015 Pinot Noir Ridgetop Vineyard has intense notes of ripe red and black cherries, black raspberries and roses with touches of chocolate box and Provence herbs. Medium to full-bodied and offering tons of ripe raspberry inspired flavors, it possesses wonderfully silky tannins and a lovely seamlessness. |
|
|
2015 |
Wohler Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$50 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 89 (3/2017): Pale to medium ruby-purple in color, the 2015 Pinot Noir Wohler Vineyard has some tar and charcoal notes over a core of mulberries and red plums plus a touch of fungi. Medium to full-bodied, it offers a generous amount of plummy fruit and chewy tannins, though perhaps lacks some of the presence and sophistication of some of the other Sojourn vineyards in 2015. |
|
|
2015 |
Wohler Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$55 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 89 (3/2017): Pale to medium ruby-purple in color, the 2015 Pinot Noir Wohler Vineyard has some tar and charcoal notes over a core of mulberries and red plums plus a touch of fungi. Medium to full-bodied, it offers a generous amount of plummy fruit and chewy tannins, though perhaps lacks some of the presence and sophistication of some of the other Sojourn vineyards in 2015. |
|
| Somnium |
2015 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$65 |
5 |
|
| |
|
|
2015 |
Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$140 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Stag's Leap Wine Cellars |
2015 |
Cask 23 Cabernet Sauvignon Bin-Soiled Label |
$259 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 93 (11/2025): The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Cask 23 is a very good wine that shows the style that was in vogue here at the time. Inky dark fruit, chocolate, new leather, cloves, licorice and sweet spice are all boldly sketched. This potent, opulent Cabernet is packed to the brim. It has aged very well, even if the style is all about textural density and extraction. (Drink between 2025-2035). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Substance |
2015 |
BX Klein Cabernet Sauvignon |
$55 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Orin Swift |
2015 |
Mercury Head Cabernet Sauvignon |
$145 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 95+ (3/2018): Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Mercury Head opens with gorgeous crushed black currants, blackberries and warm plums with suggestions of lavender, camphor, dark chocolate and pencil lead with a waft of smoked meats. Full-bodied, firmly structured and densely packed, it fills the mouth with vibrant, multilayered black fruits and savory notions, finishing long and perfumed. |
|
| Tamber Bey |
2015 |
Sabino Cabernet Sauvignon |
$65 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Thomas |
2015 |
Dundee Hills Pinot Noir |
$129 |
5 |
|
| |
|
| Todd Taylor |
2015 |
Clone 8 Cabernet Sauvignon |
$40 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Tor |
2015 |
Napa Valley Proprietary Blend |
$200 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 98 (12/2017): A blend of 44% Cabernet Franc, 44% Petit Verdot, and the rest Cabernet Sauvignon that’s from two sites in Oakville, the 2015 Oakville Proprietary Red boasts a deep ruby/purple color as well as locked and loaded notes of black raspberries, blackcurrants, toasty oak, white flowers, underbrush, and incense. This incredibly concentrated, deep, unctuous, and seamlessly textured 2015 has moderate acidity, ripe, sweet tannin, fabulous purity of fruit, and a huge finish. It will be better with short-term cellaring and keep for two decades. (Drink between 2018-2038). |
|
| Turnbull |
2015 |
Oakville Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon Very Lightly Scuffed Label |
$85 |
2 |
|
| |
JD 93+ (12/2017): The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville Reserve offers lots of blackcurrant and bluebrry fruit as well as notes of graphite, licorice, and scorched earth. Picking up a distinct violet character with time in the glass, it has full-bodied richness, a concentrated, firm, structured style, good acidity, and a great finish. It's a backward, structured pontetial-packed beauty that needs 3-4 years of bottle age and will keep for two decades. (Drink between 2018-2038).
WA 93 (12/2017): Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville Reserve has a baked black cherries, black berries and wile blueberries-scented nose with hints of levender, pencil shavings and earth plus a touch of cloves. The palate is full-bodied and bursting with black berry and earthy flavors, supported by soft, rounded tannins and fishing with a hint of pepper.
VM 92 (1/2018): The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve is a blend of fruit from the Fortuna and Leopoldina (Weitz) vineyards. Supple, pliant and inviting, the Reserve is a goregeous wine for drinking now and over the next handful of years. Succulent dark cherry, mocha, new leather, spice, menthol and dark spice add nuance to the voluptous, racy finish. This is another striking wine from Turnbull (Drink between 2020-2030). Antonio Galloni |
|
|
2015 |
Rose Cabernet Franc |
$10 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Upchurch Vineyard |
2015 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$65 |
5 |
|
| |
WA 95+ (6/2018): The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Upchurch Vineyard is showing very well from bottle, unfurling in the glass with aromas of blackcurrants, crème de cassis, licorice, subtle cigar ash and a judicious framing of new oak. On the palate, it's full-bodied, richly tannic and layered, with a deep core of dark fruit, juicy balancing acids and a serious structural chassis. The upside here appears to be considerable, so cellar it for another 4 or 5 years, then follow it for two decades.
JD 94 (4/2018): The top cuvée is the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon, which comes from a tiny parcel at the southern end of Red Mountain. It's a classic expression of this terroir and offers lots of red and black currant fruit, dried earth, graphite, and leafy herbs aromas and flavors. Like the Counterpart cuvée, it's tight and structured, with good acidity, and short-term cellaring is going to be your friend. It's a gorgeous wine, though, that's going to have 2-3 decades of overall longevity. Chris Upchurch releases his own wine under his Upchurch label which is sourced exclusively from his estate vineyard on Red Mountain. (Drink between 2018-2038).
VM 94 (11/2018): Bright, full ruby. Cassis, blackberry, licorice and a whiff of mocha on the nose. A step up in sweetness and pliancy--not to mention depth of flavor--from the Counterpart blend, but still with terrific floral lift to its red fruit flavors. (Upchurch uses an old Oakville clone that retains acidity well.) This plush wine delivers a near-perfect combination of ripeness and structure (like the best Red Mountain wines) and spreads out horizontally to saturate the palate on the long, building aftertaste. Upchurch's vines are only ten years old but the high quality of the site is already obvious. His 18.5 acres include 2 of Merlot. (Drink between 2020-2027). Stephen Tanzer. |
|
| Vincent Wine Co. |
2015 |
Temperance Hill Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$42 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Whitcraft Winery |
2015 |
La Cuna Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$79 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2015 |
Pence Ranch Clone 115 Pinot Noir |
$79 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2015 |
Pence Ranch Mt. Eden Clone Pinot Noir |
$75 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Williams Selyem |
2015 |
Eastside Road Neighbors Pinot Noir |
$89 |
3 |
|
| |
| WA 92+ (4/2018): The medium ruby-purple colored 2015 Pinot Noir Eastside Road Neighbors has a wonderfully spicy nose featuring notes of allspice, fenugreek, cloves and anise over a core of black cherries, warm red currants and pomegranate with a waft of fertile loam. Medium-bodied, soft, spicy and seductive, it offers beautiful poise and compelling depth. 865 cases produced. |
|
| Wind Gap |
2015 |
Sonoma Coast Syrah |
$35 |
5 |
|
| |
| VM 94 (3/2017): The 2015 Syrah (Sonoma Coast) is a very serious wine. Then again, in 2015 proprietor Pax Mahle did not bottle his Armaugh, Majik or Walker-Vine Hill vineyard designates. The little fruit he was able to harvest off those sites when into this, the appellation-level Syrah. A big, tannic wine, the 2015 possesses notable depth and structure. Black fruit, smoke, iron, blood and savory herbs are some of the signatures in this bold, pungent Syrah. This is one of the many gems in the Wind Gap range. (Drink between 2019-2025). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Winderlea Vineyards |
2015 |
Crawford-Beck Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$49 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 92 (1/2018): Deep red. Smoke-tinged red fruit and floral scents are complemented by subtle cola and cracked pepper nuances. Gently sweet and focused on the palate, offering lively cherry and red currant flavors that deepen steadily on the back half. Shows excellent nerve, focus and spicy lift on the red-fruit-dominated finish, which is shaped by dusty, slow-building tannins. (Drink between 2020-2026). Josh Raynolds. |
|
|
2015 |
Maresh Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$59 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 93 (1/2018): Deep lurid red. A complex, highly perfumed bouquet evokes ripe red and dark berries, potpourri and Asian spices, and a smoky mineral quality builds in the glass. Lively, mineral-laced raspberry, bitter cherry and floral pastille flavors display excellent precision and gentle sweetness. Unfolds slowly with aeration, gaining weight and finishing with sharp definition, gentle tannins and strong, red-fruit-driven persistence. (Drink between 2021-2028). Josh Raynolds. |
|
|
2015 |
Murto Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$64 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 92 (1/2018): Vivid red. Sharply delineated aromas of raspberry, peppery spices and lavender display a strong mineral accent. Juicy and focused on the palate, showing vibrant cut and lift to the red berry, floral pastille and spicecake flavors. Finishes very long and incisive, featuring lingering florality and firming tannins that contribute shape and subtle grip. (Drink between 2021-2027). Josh Raynolds. |
|
|
2015 |
Shea Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$69 |
2 |
|
| |
| VM 93 (1/2018): Dark red. A highly perfumed bouquet evokes red fruit preserves, spicecake and potpourri, and a smoky mineral nuance adds urgency. Nervy and appealingly sweet, offering concentrated yet energetic raspberry and bitter cherry flavors and a rose pastille accent. Fine-grained tannins come on late and lend shape to a very long, juicy finish that leaves a sexy floral note behind. (Drink between 2021-2027). Josh Raynolds. |
|
|
2015 |
Winderlea Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$59 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 93 (1/2018): Lurid red. Lively, high-pitched aromas of strawberry, blood orange, Asian spices and fresh flowers. Silky, sweet and incisive on the palate, offering intense red fruit and floral pastille flavors complemented by spicecake and smoky mineral flourishes. Smooth and intensely floral on the impressively persistent finish, which features finely woven tannins and a late, sweetening cola note. (Drink between 2021-2027). Josh Raynolds. |
|
| 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 |
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| |
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2023 |
Macon-Villages Blanc |
$31.99 |
24 |
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| |
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2023 |
Rully Blanc Les Cailloux |
$42.99 |
12 |
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| |
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| Pierre Morey |
2023 |
Bourgogne Aligote |
$31.99 |
20 |
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| |
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). |
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| | Rhone Red |
| Dom. Coursodon |
2021 |
St. Joseph Rouge l’Olivaie ex-Domaine |
$39.99 |
60 |
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| |
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. |
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2022 |
St. Joseph Rouge l’Olivaie ex-Domaine |
$41.99 |
60 |
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| |
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. |
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2023 |
St. Joseph Rouge l’Olivaie Ex-Domaine |
$49.99 |
60 |
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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. |
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2020 |
St. Joseph Rouge Silice ex-Domaine |
$31.99 |
60 |
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| |
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. |
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2021 |
St. Joseph Rouge Silice ex-Domaine |
$28.99 |
60 |
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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. |
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2022 |
St. Joseph Rouge Silice ex-Domaine |
$29.99 |
28 |
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| |
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. |
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2023 |
St. Joseph Rouge Silice Ex-Domaine |
$31.99 |
60 |
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| |
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. |
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| Dom. de Mourchon |
2022 |
Cotes du Rhone Villages Seguret Family Reserve Grenache ex-Domaine |
$36.99 |
60 |
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| |
| 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. |
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2023 |
Cotes du Rhone Villages Seguret Family Reserve Grenache ex-Domaine |
$36.99 |
60 |
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| |
| 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. |
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2022 |
Cotes du Rhone Villages Seguret Family Reserve Syrah Ex-Domaine |
$36.99 |
60 |
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| |
| 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. |
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2022 |
Cotes du Rhone Villages Seguret Grande Reserve Ex-Domaine |
$27.99 |
60 |
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| |
| 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. |
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2025 |
Cotes du Rhone Villages Seguret Loubie Rose ex-Domaine |
$16.99 |
60 |
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| |
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2024 |
Cotes du Rhone Villages Seguret Nana ex-Domaine |
$17.50 |
60 |
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| |
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2025 |
Cotes du Rhone Villages Seguret Soubois Rose ex-Domaine |
$22.99 |
60 |
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| |
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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. |
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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. |
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|
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. |
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|
2022 |
Cote Rotie La Chana Ex-Domaine |
$49.99 |
53 |
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| |
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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. |
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|
2022 |
Cote Rotie La Germine Ex-Domaine |
$48.99 |
44 |
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| |
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. |
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| Dom. Vincent Paris |
2020 |
Cornas Granit 30 |
$44.99 |
20 |
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| |
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) |
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| 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. |
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|
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. |
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|
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. |
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|
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. |
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|
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. |
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|
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. |
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|
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. |
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|
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. |
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|
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. |
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|
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 |
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|
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. |
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|
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. |
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|
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. |
|
|
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. |
|
|
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. |
|
| 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 |
|
| |
|
|