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Inventory updated: Tue, Aug 18, 2026 04:02 PM cst
2019 Bevan Cellars Tench Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon
Vintage: 2019
Region: USA Red
Color/Type: Red
Size: 750 ML
Tasting Notes:
WA 98 (5/2022): The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Tench Vineyard is a stunning example of eastern Oakville Cabernet. It's loaded with scents of cassis and red plum and tinged with faint hints of thyme and sage, and it's full-bodied, rich and relatively open-knit. Ripe, plush and layered, gently framed by cedar and vanilla, it's lovely stuff that should drink well for up to two decades.
JD 97 (3/2022): I loved the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Tench Vineyard. This beauty is a great representation of this terroir, with mineral-drenched aromas and flavors of blueberries, iron, chocolate, graphite, and candied violets. Deep, rich, and full-bodied, it’s another monster of a wine from Bevan that stays beautifully balanced and seamless.
VM 96 (1/2022): The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Tench Vineyard is packed with inky dark fruit, gravel, smoke, licorice, lavender, chocolate incense and spice. This powerful, virile Cabernet needs a few years to unwind, but it is super-impressive, even in the early going. A whole range of bold, savory accents lend character to the searingly intense finish. This is a very typical wine from Tench in its sheer heft. (Drink between 2024-2034). Antonio Galloni.
| Producer |
Vint. |
Wine |
Price |
Qty |
Order |
| | USA Red |
| Bevan Cellars |
2018 |
Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon  |
$360 |
2 |
|
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JD 100 (1/2021): I always seem to compare great wines from this site with Haut-Brion, and I think the comparison holds here, although it’s a Haut-Brion on steroids! The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Dr. Crane Vineyard reveals a dense purple color as well as a powerful nose of ripe black fruits, tobacco leaf, earth, coffee beans, and gravelly earth. All of these carry over to the palate, where the wine is full-bodied and has a deep, layered mid-palate, sweet tannins, and a blockbuster of a finish. Hats off to the talented Russell Bevans for another brilliant, singular wine that’s going to keep for 20-25 years. (Drink between 2021-2046.)
WA 100 (2/2021): The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard was aged for 19 months in French oak barrels, 100% new. Deep garnet-purple colored, it sashays out of the glass with flamboyant scents of redcurrant jelly, Black Forest cake, blackcurrant pastilles and rose oil with suggestions of cast-iron pan, pencil lead and tilled soil plus a waft of fragrant earth. Full-bodied, rich and concentrated with firm, exquisitely ripe, fine-grained tannins and seamless freshness, it delivers an incredible mineral and perfumed red fruit firework display finish. Fans of Dr. Crane are going to LOVE this expression, masterfully crafted by Russell Bevan—an absolute must-try! |
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2018 |
Dr. Crane Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$360 |
4 |
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JD 100 (1/2021): I always seem to compare great wines from this site with Haut-Brion, and I think the comparison holds here, although it’s a Haut-Brion on steroids! The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Dr. Crane Vineyard reveals a dense purple color as well as a powerful nose of ripe black fruits, tobacco leaf, earth, coffee beans, and gravelly earth. All of these carry over to the palate, where the wine is full-bodied and has a deep, layered mid-palate, sweet tannins, and a blockbuster of a finish. Hats off to the talented Russell Bevans for another brilliant, singular wine that’s going to keep for 20-25 years. (Drink between 2021-2046.)
WA 100 (2/2021): The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard was aged for 19 months in French oak barrels, 100% new. Deep garnet-purple colored, it sashays out of the glass with flamboyant scents of redcurrant jelly, Black Forest cake, blackcurrant pastilles and rose oil with suggestions of cast-iron pan, pencil lead and tilled soil plus a waft of fragrant earth. Full-bodied, rich and concentrated with firm, exquisitely ripe, fine-grained tannins and seamless freshness, it delivers an incredible mineral and perfumed red fruit firework display finish. Fans of Dr. Crane are going to LOVE this expression, masterfully crafted by Russell Bevan—an absolute must-try! |
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2013 |
EE Cuvee Tench Vyd. Proprietary Blend |
$159 |
2 |
|
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WA 96 (10/2015): The 2013 EE Tench Vineyard, a blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon and 35% Cabernet Franc, is a stunner. This comes from the red, rocky terraces near the Dalla Valle Vineyard on the western Vaca hillsides in Oakville. This wine has great intensity, with notes of scorched earth, jammy blackberry and cassis fruit, some licorice, underbrush and truffle. It is elegant, yet powerful and authoritative, pure and multi-layered, with a phenomenal finish of close to 50 seconds. This wine should drink well for 20-25 years.
VM 96 (10/2015): A wine of superb purity, finesse and richness, the 2013 Red Wine EE Tench Vineyard offers superb balance to match its inviting personality. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, the EE is totally alluring from the very first taste. The Franc adds striking floral and savory notes along with a kick of freshness. |
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2014 |
EE Cuvee Tench Vyd. Proprietary Blend |
$169 |
2 |
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WA 94-96 (10/2015): Another wine that could easily end up being rated close to perfect is the 2014 Proprietary Red EE Tench Vineyard, a blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon and 35% Cabernet Franc. This is an amazingly complex wine already, with forest floor, violets, blueberries and blackberries. It is stunningly rich, with a concentrated, opulent, full-bodied mouthfeel.
VM 92 (12/2016): The 2014 Red Wine EE Tench Vineyard is surprisingly seamless and open-knit for such a young wine. Succulent dark cherry, plum, spice, licorice, mocha and chocolate fill out the wine's supple, inviting frame effortlessly. Best of all, the 2014 will drink well with minimal cellaring. Antonio Galloni. |
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2016 |
EE Cuvee Tench Vyd. Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$349 |
1 |
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| JD 98 (1/2019): The 2016 Tench Vineyard EE Red Wine checks in as a blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Merlot, which is the smallest amount of Cabernet Franc to date. Brought up in new barrels, it has gorgeous blue fruits, violets, spring flowers, and damp earth. Medium to full-bodied, elegant, and just about as seamless and silky as it gets, this is a magical wine to drink over the coming 15 years or more. |
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2010 |
EE Napa Valley Red Wine |
$109 |
1 |
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| VM 95 (12/2012): The 2010 Red Wine EE is gorgeous. Freshly cut flowers, cassis, menthol, licorice and black cherries burst from the glass. All the elements are nicely balanced in this delicious, totally beautiful wine. Hints of cloves, roasted coffee beans, menthol, and graphite add complexity on a distinctly Cabernet Franc-laced finish. The 2010 is 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot. (Drink between 2015-2025). Antonio Galloni. |
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2011 |
EE Napa Valley Red Wine |
$149 |
2 |
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| WA 98 (10/2013): The 2011 EE, which also comes from the Tench and Tin Box vineyards, is composed of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon and 35% Cabernet Franc. It exhibits lots of graphite, charcoal embers, a Pessac-Leognan-like smoky barbecue character, black currant liqueur, licorice and a touch of chocolate. Huge, massive, rich fruit oozes across the palate, but there is a refinement and delicacy to it that is almost impossible to believe in view of this wine’s size. Apparently, this cuvee comes from the rich, red soils on the hillsides of Oakville below the well-known Showket Vineyard. This spectacular 2011 should drink well for 10-15 years. |
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2019 |
EE Napa Valley Red Wine |
$175 |
1 |
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JD 97 (3/2022): The 2019 Tench Vineyard EE Red Wine checks in as a 60/40 split of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc from two different vineyards. The Cabernet Franc really stands out, and the wine has a complex, forest floor, herbal, bouquet garni-like character as well notes of woodsmoke, iron, and blue fruits. Full-bodied on the palate, it has some background chocolaty oak, a great mid-palate, and a heck of a finish.
WA 96 (5/2022): A 60-40 blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, the 2019 Proprietary Red EE Tench Vineyard features leafy, minty nuances and hints of tobacco set against a backdrop of redcurrants. Full-bodied and ripe but remarkably elegant, it finishes supple and long, with a delectable silky texture. It's undeniably sexy, but I have to admit I didn't pick up on the "hot chick-just-done-with-Pilates pheromone quality" that Bevan described. |
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2011 |
Harbison Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$179 |
2 |
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| |
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2013 |
Harbison Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$269 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 98 (10/2015): Bevan’s 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Harbison Vineyard is 95% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Petit Verdot, aged three-fourths in new Taransaud and the rest in Gamba. This wine displays loads of new saddle leather, loamy soil undertones, seductive, sweet, ripe tannin, and luscious, succulent and majestic levels of blackberry and blueberry fruit as well as cassis and Christmas fruitcake. It is an amazing wine to drink over the next 30+ years.
VM 97 (10/2015): An explosive, powerful wine, the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Harbison Vineyard hits the palate with serious depth and intensity. Black cherry jam, mocha, espresso, spice, new leather and menthol are meld into the huge, powerful finish. The Harbison is all about density, power and voluptuousness, all qualities the 2013 has in spades. Mocha, plum and espresso notes reappear to round things out in style. |
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2015 |
Harbison Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$225 |
1 |
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| 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. |
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2013 |
Impetus Proprietary Blend |
$139 |
1 |
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WA 95 (10/2015): The 2013 The Impetus is an equal-part blend of Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon, aged in 50% new Taransaud, 25% new Darnajou, and 25% new Gamba. It comes from vineyards in both Sonoma and Napa. The Cabernet Franc is accessed from a relatively cool, high-elevation site in Bennett Valley, while the Cabernet Sauvignon comes from Napa. Bevan told me that the phenolics of this wine are off the charts analytically, as the wine offers loads of mulberry, forest floor, violet, sweet oak and some underbrush and earth tones. Rich, full-bodied, opulent and fleshy, this wine is already drinking well and should continue to do so for another 10-15 years.
VM 93 (10/2015): The 2013 The Impetus is a blend of Cabernet Franc from Victoria De Crescenzo's estate vineyard in Bennett Valley and 50% Cabernet Sauvignon from Tench. Rich and explosive to the core, the 2013 exudes depth and concentration. Iron, smoke, white pepper, red cherries, plums and exotic spices meld into the deep, resonant finish. Of all the Bevan 2013s, the Impetus should drink well with minimal cellaring. |
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2013 |
McGah Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$195 |
2 |
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| |
WA 98 (10/2015): A blend of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Petit Verdot, the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon McGah Vineyard is pushing toward perfection. A beautiful nose of spring flowers, blueberries, blackberries, licorice, graphite and camphor all jump from the glass of this wine of majestic intensity, a magnificent, full-bodied mouthfeel, and a super-concentrated and pure finish. It should drink well for another three decades.
VM 95 (10/2015): A big, ripe, opulent wine, the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon McGah Vineyard races across the palate with layers of blackberry jam, cassis, mocha, plum, cloves and new leather. This is one of the more unctuous, flashy wines in the Bevan range and will appeal most to readers who enjoy the racier side of Cabernet Sauvignon. |
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2014 |
McGah Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$165 |
2 |
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| WA 95 (10/2016): From Rutherford comes the 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon McGah Vineyard. It is a small cuvée of 125 cases. Dense purple to the rim with notes of blackberry, cassis, white flowers, cedar wood and smoky barbecue, the wine is full-bodied, opulent, fleshy and showing extremely well already. This wine will continue to offer considerable pleasure for another 15 or more years. |
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2012 |
Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon |
$175 |
7 |
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2010 |
Ontogeny Proprietary Blend |
$75 |
5 |
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| VM 91 (12/2012): The 2010 Ontogeny is one of the more compact wines in this lineup. It has good depth and presence but not the personality or silkiness of the best wines here. Sweet red berries, crushed flowers and menthol add complexity on the finish. In this vintage the Ontogeny is 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Cabernet Franc, 5% Petite Verdot and 5% Merlot. (Drink between 2014-2022). Antonio Galloni. |
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2011 |
Ontogeny Proprietary Blend |
$79 |
2 |
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| WA 93+ (10/2013): One of the least expensive wines in this portfolio is the 2011 Ontogeny, a blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Petit Verdot and the rest Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Bevan calls this the oddity or contrarian in his line-up of wines, probably because of the high percentage of Petit Verdot in the blend. More earthy than some of its siblings, with less exuberant and boisterous fruit, it is another over-sized, opaque purple-colored wine with lots of roasted meat, bouquet garni and charcuterie notes backed up by plenty of power, blackberry and cassis characteristics. The striking aromatics are followed by a wonderfully lush, velvety wine to drink over the next 7-10 years. |
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2014 |
Ontogeny Proprietary Blend |
$99 |
3 |
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| WA 96 (10/2016): There are 700 cases of the 2014 Ontogeny Proprietary Red, a blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Petit Verdot and 10% Cabernet Franc. Totally dry, even though there is a wonderful sucrosity to the fruit. The wine has stunning blackberry and cassis notes, spring flowers, supple tannins and a long, multidimensional mouthfeel. It is a sexy beast for sure and best drunk over the next 15 or so years. |
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2015 |
Ontogeny Proprietary Blend |
$115 |
7 |
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| 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. |
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2010 |
Sugarloaf Mountain Proprietary Blend |
$175 |
5 |
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| VM 95 (12/2012): The 2010 Proprietary Red Oscar Sugarloaf Mountain is notably sweeter, richer and more powerful than the Impetus, Bevan's other Merlot/Cabernet Franc blend. Chocolate, sweet spices, cloves, black berries and plums all jump from the glass in this full-bodied wine. The 2010 is full-throttle, intense and unapologetically opulent, but it all works, and beautifully. I expect the 2010 to give years of sheer pleasure once it recovers from its current slightly shut down stage. Antonio Galloni. |
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2015 |
Sugarloaf Mountain Proprietary Blend |
$215 |
3 |
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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! |
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2016 |
Sugarloaf Mountain Proprietary Blend |
$175 |
8 |
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| JD 97 (1/2019): Based on 55% Cabernet Franc and 45% Merlot, the 2016 Proprietary Red Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard was brought up all in new French oak, which has been absorbed beautifully. With terrific intensity in its blue fruits and floral aromatics, this terrific 2016 is full-bodied, powerful, and layered, with ultra-fine tannins that emerge with time in the glass. It has the purity and elegance of the vintage front and center, yet backs it up with both texture and depth. In short, it’s another rock star wine from this estate. |
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2016 |
Sugarloaf Mountain Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$375 |
2 |
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| JD 97 (1/2019): Based on 55% Cabernet Franc and 45% Merlot, the 2016 Proprietary Red Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard was brought up all in new French oak, which has been absorbed beautifully. With terrific intensity in its blue fruits and floral aromatics, this terrific 2016 is full-bodied, powerful, and layered, with ultra-fine tannins that emerge with time in the glass. It has the purity and elegance of the vintage front and center, yet backs it up with both texture and depth. In short, it’s another rock star wine from this estate. |
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2015 |
Tench Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$249 |
2 |
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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. |
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2019 |
Tench Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$179 |
1 |
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WA 98 (5/2022): The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Tench Vineyard is a stunning example of eastern Oakville Cabernet. It's loaded with scents of cassis and red plum and tinged with faint hints of thyme and sage, and it's full-bodied, rich and relatively open-knit. Ripe, plush and layered, gently framed by cedar and vanilla, it's lovely stuff that should drink well for up to two decades.
JD 97 (3/2022): I loved the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Tench Vineyard. This beauty is a great representation of this terroir, with mineral-drenched aromas and flavors of blueberries, iron, chocolate, graphite, and candied violets. Deep, rich, and full-bodied, it’s another monster of a wine from Bevan that stays beautifully balanced and seamless.
VM 96 (1/2022): The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Tench Vineyard is packed with inky dark fruit, gravel, smoke, licorice, lavender, chocolate incense and spice. This powerful, virile Cabernet needs a few years to unwind, but it is super-impressive, even in the early going. A whole range of bold, savory accents lend character to the searingly intense finish. This is a very typical wine from Tench in its sheer heft. (Drink between 2024-2034). Antonio Galloni. |
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2015 |
Tench Vyd. The Calixtro Cabernet Sauvignon |
$209 |
3 |
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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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2016 |
Tench Vyd. The Calixtro Cabernet Sauvignon |
$239 |
6 |
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JD 99 (1/2019): Flirting with perfection and up with the top handful of wines in the vintage, the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Tench Vineyard The Calixtro comes from a single block in the Tench Vineyard that always stands out. Similarly colored to the straight Tench release, it has slightly more freshness, structure, and purity, with thrilling notes of plums, purple fruits, crushed violets, and a liquid rock-like minerality. It got more than a few expletives in my notes and is sensational on the palate as well, with full body, ultra-fine tannins, and world-class purity of fruit. It’s another brilliant, brilliant wine from winemaker Russell Bevan. (Drink between 2019-2039.)
VM 98 (12/2018): The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Tench Vineyard The Calixtro emerges from Block 1B South, which lies next to Harbison. Not unsurprisingly, the Calixtro shares much with its neighbor, specifically a vertical sense of structure and a profile rich in mineral and savory overtones. Explosive and dense on the palate, the Calixtro hits all the right notes. Graphite, scorched earth, licorice, lavender, crème de cassis and spice fill out the wine's huge, massive frame. This is another rock star wine from Russell Bevan. (Drink between 2022-2036.) Antonio Galloni.
WA 98 (10/2018): The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Tench Vineyard The Calixtro is deep garnet-purple colored and has a nose of cassis, violets, roses, tea and earth with touches of cast iron pan and camphor. The palate is medium to full-bodied and firm, with very fine-grained tannins, finishing fresh and long. 135 cases produced. |
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2018 |
Tench Vyd. The Calixtro Cabernet Sauvignon |
$275 |
1 |
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JD 100 (1/2021): Pure perfection, the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Tench Vineyard The Calixtro is a vineyard selection from a great site just beside the winery, on the east side of Oakville. Offering a decadent, full-bodied, concentrated style as well as lots of red and blue fruits, spring flowers, spice, and an almost bloody, iron-like character, it’s a heavenly Cabernet that delivers both intellectual and hedonistic pleasure in spades. It already offers pleasure yet should keep for 20+ years. (Drink between 2021-2043.)
WA 99 (2/2021): The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Tench Vineyard The Calixtro was aged for 19 months in French oak barrels, 100% new. Deep garnet-purple colored, it's a little closed at this youthful stage, revealing glimpses at warm cassis, boysenberries and plum preserves scents with hints of charcoal, espresso, tapenade and violets. Full-bodied and rich, with a rock-solid frame of grainy tannins and seamless freshness, it finishes very long and minerally. Only 109 cases were produced. Those lucky enough to secure a few bottles will want to put them away for at least 4-5 years and drink them over the next 25+ years.
VM 97 (1/2021): The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Tench Vineyard The Calixtro emerges from Block 1B, which is home to some of the best dirt on the site. A stunning range of mineral and savory inflections races out of the glass, adding layers of complexity to the intense dark fruit. This is far from an easygoing 2018. Readers should plan on cellaring it for at least a few years. (Drink between 2023-2033.) |
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2015 |
Tin Box Cabernet Sauvignon |
$159 |
2 |
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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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2013 |
Two Dog Knoll Vyd. Proprietary Blend |
$189 |
1 |
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| WA 96+ (10/2015): Another proprietary red wine, in this case a blend of 55% Petit Verdot and 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, is the 2013 Two Dog Knoll, which comes from the Oakville site. Normally with this much Petit Verdot, I would be worried about rustic tannins, but Bevan has handled it brilliantly. Inky bluish/purple, with notes of blueberry liqueur, brioche, acacia flowers, steak tartare as well as roasted meats and herbs, this is a wine of great intensity. Singular and distinct, it should drink well for 20-25 years as well. |
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2013 |
Two Dog Knoll Vyd. Proprietary Blend |
$199 |
1 |
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| WA 96+ (10/2015): Another proprietary red wine, in this case a blend of 55% Petit Verdot and 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, is the 2013 Two Dog Knoll, which comes from the Oakville site. Normally with this much Petit Verdot, I would be worried about rustic tannins, but Bevan has handled it brilliantly. Inky bluish/purple, with notes of blueberry liqueur, brioche, acacia flowers, steak tartare as well as roasted meats and herbs, this is a wine of great intensity. Singular and distinct, it should drink well for 20-25 years as well. |
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2013 |
Wildfoote Vyd. Vixen Block Cabernet Sauvignon |
$219 |
2 |
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| |
WA 97+ (10/2015): From a vineyard owned by Screaming Eagle’s former proprietress, Jean Phillips, the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Vixen Block Wildfoote is all Cabernet Sauvignon from clone 7, aged in equal parts new Taransaud and new Darnajou. An amazing wine, opaque purple in color, with sweet cedar wood, Christmas fruitcake, blackberry and cassis as well as some charcoal and incense, this fabulous wine is super-rich and capable of 30 years of further evolution.
VM 96 (10/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Wildfoote Vineyard Vixen Block, from Jeannie Philipps's, Stags Leap property, is fabulous. Inky, deep and mysterious, the 2013 possesses remarkable nuance and detail. Lavender, mint, spice and sage are some of the signatures in a wine endowed with tons of Stags' Leap personality. Sweet lavender, mint and pine meld into the sleek, silky finish. |
|
|
2014 |
Wildfoote Vyd. Vixen Block Cabernet Sauvignon |
$250 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 99 (10/2016): Another nearly perfect wine is the 125-case cuvee of 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Wildfoote Vixen Block. This is Stags Leap, owned by former Screaming Eagle Vineyard owner and realtor Jean Phillips. A stunning floral nose intermixed with blackcurrant, black cherry, licorice and gravel is followed by a long, multidimensional wine with terrific blue and black fruits, loads of glycerin, sweet tannin and a stunning finish of more than a minute. This is spectacular stuff. Drink it over the next 20 years.
VM 94+ (12/2016): The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Wildfoote Vineyard Vixen Block is one of the most bold, racy wines in the lineup this year. Intensely aromatic, layered and exquisite, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Wildfoote Vineyard Vixen Block is a classic Stags Leap Cabernet long on class and intensity. The 2014 still needs time to come together, but it is impressive today. Red and purplish-hued fruits, wild flowers, mint and sage build into the super-expressive finish. Russell Bevan gets virtually all of the fruit of Wildfoote, a property owned by Jean Phillips. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
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) |
|
|
2016 |
Wildfoote Vyd. Vixen Block Cabernet Sauvignon |
$200 |
10 |
|
| |
JD 97 (1/2019): Leading off the Cabernets and from a site in the Stags Leap AVA, the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Wildfoote Vineyard offers a thrilling bouquet of blueberries and blackcurrants to go with complex white flowers, violets, and hints of chocolate. With no hard edges, full body, and beautiful fruit, this Cabernet shines for its incredible finesse and elegance yet certainly doesn’t lack for power. It’s a brilliant wine. (Drink between 2019-2039).
VM 96 (12/2018): The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Wildfoote Vineyard Vixen Block is a rich, exotic wine loaded with Stags Leap character. Black cherry, plum, new leather, spice and menthol all flesh out in this potent, dark wine. Dark red and purplish berry fruit and floral notes add brightness. Today, the Wildfoote comes across as quite closed following its bottling, but there is every reason to think it will blossom in a few years' time, as there is quite a bit of energy and persistence. (Drink between 2021-2031.) Antonio Galloni. |
|
| | USA White |
| Bevan Cellars |
2021 |
Dry Stack Vyd. Sauvignon Blanc |
$35 |
16 |
|
| |
| 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. |
|
|
2016 |
Ritchie Vyd. Chardonnay |
$55 |
4 |
|
| |
| WA 95 (10/2018): The 2016 Chardonnay Ritchie Vineyard has intense pink grapefruit, guava and warm pineapple on the nose with suggestions of ginger ale and brioche. The palate is full-bodied and rich with yeasty/toasty notes, finishing very spicy and very long and layered. |
|
| Producer |
Vint. |
Wine |
Price |
Qty |
Order |
| | USA Red |
| Alban Vineyards |
2019 |
Patrina Alban Estate Vyd. Syrah |
$69 |
2 |
|
| |
| JD 93 (9/2022): Moving to the reds, the 2019 Patrina offers lots of smoky red and black fruits as well as violets, pepper, and graphite notes. It's forward, charming, textured, and balanced, with plenty of classic Alban character. I'd be happy to drink it. |
|
| Bevan Cellars |
2019 |
EE Napa Valley Red Wine |
$175 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 97 (3/2022): The 2019 Tench Vineyard EE Red Wine checks in as a 60/40 split of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc from two different vineyards. The Cabernet Franc really stands out, and the wine has a complex, forest floor, herbal, bouquet garni-like character as well notes of woodsmoke, iron, and blue fruits. Full-bodied on the palate, it has some background chocolaty oak, a great mid-palate, and a heck of a finish.
WA 96 (5/2022): A 60-40 blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, the 2019 Proprietary Red EE Tench Vineyard features leafy, minty nuances and hints of tobacco set against a backdrop of redcurrants. Full-bodied and ripe but remarkably elegant, it finishes supple and long, with a delectable silky texture. It's undeniably sexy, but I have to admit I didn't pick up on the "hot chick-just-done-with-Pilates pheromone quality" that Bevan described. |
|
| Blankiet |
2019 |
Paradise Hills Vyd. Proprietary Blend |
$228.65 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2019 |
Prince of Hearts Rose |
$75 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Carter Cellars |
2019 |
Three Kings Beckstoffer To Kalon Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$210 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 97 (12/2021): Leading off the four releases from the To Kalon Vineyard, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard The Three Kings boasts a saturated purple color as well as lots of black, chocolaty fruits supported by more gravelly earth and tobacco. A dark, concentrated, structured To Kalon that builds beautifully with time in the glass, I'd happily drink a bottle today, although it will benefit from 2-4 years of cellaring.
WA 97 (5/2023): Carter's 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon The Three Kings offers up the barest hints of herbal tendrils wrapped around ripe cassis and cherries and rooted in a base of powdered cocoa. Full-bodied, silky and fine on the palate, it's long, concentrated and elegant on the finish.
VM 94 (1/2022): The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard The Three Kings is meant to be the most forward of the To Kalon bottlings, and it is. Inky dark fruit, lavender, spice, licorice and chocolate are front and center. Racy, silky curves wrap around a core of supple fruit. Best of all The Three Kings can be enjoyed with minimal cellaring. The 2019 is beautifully done. (Drink between 2026-2039). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Cayuse |
2019 |
Cailloux Vyd. Syrah |
$109 |
3 |
|
| |
| JS 97 (2/2022): An expressive nose of cracked black pepper, black cherry and an array of dried herbs. Medium-to full-bodied with incredible spicy character. So much going on here. Silky, fruit-soaked tannins. The supple dark fruit is accented by peppercorn, dried ginger, bay leaf, basil and oolong. Umami. Superb. Co-fermented with 4% viognier. Drink or hold. |
|
|
2019 |
En Cerise Vyd. Syrah |
$95 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 97 (10/2022): Made without the use of Viognier, the 2019 Syrah en Cerise is a firmer and denser expression of Syrah with Walla Walla attitude and swagger. Aromas of dark cherry, smoke and a hint of baking spices with turned earth express beautifully with notions of black plums with black peppercorn. Medium-bodied and with 13.5% alcohol on the label, the palate and mouthfeel are generous as it offers a broad-shouldered structure with a firm tannic edge that is fresh and food-friendly. The wine glides to an impressive finish with lingering hints of sage and olives as the fine-grained tannins continue with persistence.
VM 96 (3/2023): The word “smoky” doesn’t even do this justice, as the 2019 Syrah En Cerise Vineyard smolders up with a savory blend of air-dried and salt-cured meats, cigar ash and grilled sage offset by a dramatically pretty hint of sweet lavender. It’s soft-textured and round, with a core of saline-minerals and brisk acidity propelling tart wild berries across the palate. Peppery yet refined, the 2019 leaves a staining of blackberry concentration and silky tannins. Nuances of rosemary and a hint of bitter cacao slowly fade. It’s the perfect combination of Northern Rhône character with New World fruit. The En Cerise is simply stunning and with a bright fruit ahead of it. (Drink between 2024-2032). Eric Guido.
JD 95 (7/2022): More shiitake mushrooms, forest floor, and savory notes emerge from the 2019 Syrah En Cerise Vineyard, which offers more fruit and density with time in the glass. Ripe black cherries, currants, peppery herbs, tobacco, leather, and funky earth all make an appearance on the nose, and it's medium to full-bodied on the palate, with ripe yet present tannins, nicely integrated acidity, and a good core of fruit. It's one of the earthier, more savory wines in the lineup and should evolve gracefully for 20 years or more. (Drink between 2022-2043). |
|
| Chappellet |
2019 |
Pritchard Hill Cabernet Sauvignon |
$215 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 99 (11/2021): A blend of 95% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Petit Verdot, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Pritchard Hill is another wonderfully evocative triumph from this family-owned Pitchard Hill pioneer. Deep garnet-purple colored, it storms out of the glass with profound scents of crème de cassis, blackberry preserves, licorice and mulberries, plus hints of unsmoked cigars, wild sage and tar. The medium to full-bodied palate delivers fantastic intensity and great poise, offering fine-grained, ripe tannins and bold freshness, finishing long and mineral laced.
JD 98+ (6/2022): The flagship from this great estate is the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Pritchard Hill, which checks in as a blend of 95% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Petit Verdot. It has an incredible nose of pure blue fruits as well as flowers, crushed stone, fresh thyme, tobacco, and graphite. Deep, rich, full-bodied, and concentrated, it's nevertheless weightless and light on its feet, with wonderfully integrated acidity, polished tannins, and a great finish. This classic, quintessential Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon will benefit from 2-4 years of bottle age and cruise for 20, 30, if not 40 years if stored correctly. 3800 cases. (Drink between 2024-2054).
VM 92 (1/2022): The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Pritchard Hill is a potent, massively tannic wine. Black fruit, graphite, licorice, spice, menthol, chocolate and dried herbs abound. A huge, tannic beast, the 2019 is all brawn today and not terribly finessed. This is not a particularly distinguished vintage for Chappellet's flagship. (Drink between 2024-2034). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Continuum |
2019 |
Proprietary Blend |
$229 |
6 |
|
| |
WA 98 (5/2022): Continuum's 2019 Proprietary Red is 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 37% Cabernet Franc, 7% Petit Verdot and 6% Merlot, all from the estate vineyard on Pritchard Hill. Aged in two-thirds new French oak, with the balance in second or third-use barrels and a single concrete amphora, it's remarkably dark in hue, a deep, saturated purple in the glass. On the nose, it's floral and herbal yet fruit-driven, with violets, sage and bay leaf adding nuance to black cherries, while the palate is full-bodied, plush and silky. There's an enticing yin-yang to the interplay between high-toned herbals and bass notes of dark chocolate in this dense, concentrated effort that finishes lush and long. It's a magnificent wine that should drink well for at least two decades.
VM 97 (2/2023): The 2019 Proprietary Red Wine Sage Mountain Vineyard is elegant, plush and sensual like few vintages I can remember tasting on release. Black cherry, mocha, gravel, dried flowers and raspberry jam infuse the 2019 with tons of nuance. Time in the glass brings out lovely energy to balance things out. What a gorgeous, classy wine this is. (Drink between 2026-2039). Antonio Galloni.
JD 96 (1/2025): The 2019 Continuum is ripe, upfront, and sexy, which is very much in the style of the vintage. Beautiful red and black currants, new leather, and an almost garrigue/wild herb character define the aromatics, and it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, polished yet still mountain tannins, and incredible length. I love it today, yet it clearly has another two decades of longevity ahead of it. (Drink between 2025-2045). |
|
| Robert Craig |
2019 |
Howell Mountain Cuvee Red Wine |
$49 |
4 |
|
| |
| VM 92 (1/2022): The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain Cuvée is a new entry-level wine in this range. The addition of Merlot works so well in softening some of the young Howell Mountain contours. Even so, there is plenty of energy underpinning the bright red cherry fruit. Mint, pine and floral accents resonate across the persistent finish. The 2019 is a jewel of a wine and a fabulous value. (Drink between 2024-2034). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Daou Vineyards |
2019 |
Soul of a Lion Cabernet Sauvignon |
$120 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 97+ (3/2022): The 2019 Soul Of A Lion is a blend of free-run Cabernet Sauvignon (77%), Cabernet Franc (14%), and Petit Verdot (9%), aged 22 months in 100% new French oak. Opaque ruby in color, it offers aromatic contrast between dark, savory cherry fruit, chargrill and graphite, and top notes of green pepper and rose petals. The palate explodes with detailed flavors and its tannins are already resolved and chocolaty, with seamless acidity and exotic spicy layers emerging on the extended finish.
VM 96 (7/2022): Inky magenta. Primary, mineral-accented cassis, cherry pit, licorice, roasted coffee and incense aromas reveal oak spice and pipe tobacco flourishes. Shows superb clarity and spicy thrust on the palate, offering sweet black and blue fruit, exotic spice, vanilla and candied rose flavors that deftly blend weight and energy. Youthfully gripping tannins frame a wonderfully long, smoky finish that leaves cherry liqueur and vanilla notes behind. 100% new French oak. (Drink between 2027-2037). Josh Raynolds. |
|
| Davis Estates |
2019 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon |
$65 |
6 |
|
| |
| JD 89 (12/2023): The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon is a solid, enjoyable effort. Lots of dark fruits, chocolaty oak, and some spicy, herbal notes give way to a medium-bodied, nicely balanced, textured effort that does a lot right. Drink bottles over the coming 7-8 years. (Drink between 2023-2031) |
|
| DeLille Cellars |
2019 |
Four Flags Cabernet Sauvignon |
$55 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 94 (5/2023): Honoring four vineyard sites on Red Mountain, Ciel du Cheval, Grand Ciel, Klipsun and Upchurch vineyards make up the blend of Four Flags. The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Four Flags displays a deep ruby core and opens up with juicy dark red fruit essences before offering a firm, dusty nose with oak and elements of vanilla and nutmeg. Full-bodied, the palate displays a rich and round mouthfeel before delivering a firm tannic edge that will take another year to come around before seductive oak essences sway across the mid-palate. It’s a delightful wine that needs additional time in the bottle, so be patient.
JD 94 (7/2022): A blend of four vineyards on Red Mountain, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Four Flags sports a ruby/plum color to go with terrific notes of red and black currants, spicy oak, dried flowers, and hints of tobacco. It has some classic Red Mountain minerality and chocolate on the palate, is medium to full-bodied, has beautiful tannins, and a great finish.
VM 90 (3/2023): The 2019 Four Flags impresses with a mix of wild blueberry, cooling smoke and rubbed sage. It soothes with its silky textures and ripe red and blue fruits, as a pleasant inner sweetness resonates, nicely complemented by zesty acidity. This finishes remarkably fresh with subtly grippy tannins that linger. The 2019 mixes vivid fruit, energy and power in a way that I find wildly appealing. (Drink between 2024-2030). Eric Guido. |
|
|
2019 |
Grand Ciel Syrah |
$50 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 96 (5/2023): Big, bold and broad-shouldered, the 2019 Syrah Grand Ciel offers a firm, fresh nose with a rocky and dusty blackberry essence and subtle notes of graphite and baking spices. Full-bodied, firm and focused, the palate reveals fine-grained tannins and a long, spicy and textural finish. It’s still tight and just a baby, so give it another two to three years in the cellar before opening. Your patience will be rewarded. Enjoy with food.
JD 95 (6/2023): All Syrah from a great vineyard on Red Mountain, the 2019 Syrah Grand Ciel Vineyard reveals a deep ruby/plum hue (it's not opaque) to go with a great perfume of mulberries, meaty blue fruits, pepper herbs, leather, and hints of iron. Rich, medium to full-bodied, balanced, and elegant on the palate, it has fine tannins, a silky, layered mouthfeel, and a great finish. It's going to evolve for 15-20 years as well. (Drink between 2023-2043).
VM 94 (3/2023): Cracked ashen stones, savory herbs and smoky black currants form the 2019 Syrah Grand Ciel's beguiling bouquet. This is silky and round on the palate, with depths of dark fruit, savory spice and herbal tones that swirl throughout. It leaves the palate caked in salty minerals and a web of fine-grained tannins while tapering off with pretty inner violet florals and a dark fruit concentration. (Drink between 2024-2032). Eric Guido. |
|
|
2019 |
Minuit Proprietary Blend |
$35 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 91 (5/2023): The 2019 Minuit is a blend of 70% Malbec and 30% Cabernet Sauvignon. The nose is lifted with a juicy fruit frame, offering a firm and sturdy core of ripe fruit. Full-bodied, it offers flavors of dusty black raspberry across the mid-palate with a balanced structure and firm tannic edge. The Minuit continues to evolve on the palate and delivers a seductively long finish. I recommend decanting at least 30 minutes prior to enjoyment.
VM 91 (3/2023): The 2019 Minuit, a blend of Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon, impresses with its vibrant mix of black raspberries complemented by violet florals and sweet smoke. This is silky-smooth, with a seductively spicy mix of ripe red berries accelerated by juicy acidity that keeps the style wildly fresh. The 2019 is packed full of energy, tapering off wickedly spicy and fresh with only the slightest hint of tannin that lingers on. (Drink between 2024-2030). Eric Guido. |
|
|
2019 |
Red Willow Vyd. Red Wine |
$39 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 93 (5/2023): Mostly Cabernet Franc with 35% Merlot and 9% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2019 Red Willow opens to a nose of dark cherry with hints of roasted red pepper, black raspberry and soft red and purple florals. Medium to full-bodied, the palate features soft and elegant brown baking spices from the 38% new French oak and exudes a ripe and juicy frame across the mid-palate. The wine continues to unpack and reveal its secrets as persistent flavors of fresh, ripe, picturesque red plum and blackberry skin sway with a food-friendly and delightfully oaky finish.
VM 92 (3/2023): Dusty florals and peppery herbs give way to crushed black raspberries and a dusting of cocoa as the 2019 Red Willow comes to life in the glass. This coasts along the palate, cooling and full of energy, showing its minerality up front. Juicy red and black fruits give way to grippy tannins that settle in toward the close. The 2019 has sneaky concentration that leaves the palate wrapped up in youthful tension, along with fine tannins that will require a number of years to fully mellow. The Red Willow is a blend of 56% Cabernet Franc, 35% Merlot and 9% Cabernet Sauvignon. (Drink between 2024-2032). Eric Guido. |
|
| Diamond Creek |
2019 |
Red Rock Terrace Cabernet Sauvignon |
$260 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 97 (2/2023): The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Red Rock Terrace opens with a striking bouquet redolent of crushed red berry fruit, cinnamon, blood orange and mint. Medium in body and silky, with tremendous fruit purity, the 2019 impresses with its finesse and open-knit personality. There's good energy and tension, but the Red Rock in 2019 is, unusually, a wine of total sensuality. I loved it. (Drink between 2025-2039). Antonio Galloni.
WA 96+ (9/2022): From a riper, more Californian vintage, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Red Rock Terrace offers up scents of black cherries, cassis and hints of vanilla. It's medium to full-bodied, a bit more tannic than the Gravelly Meadow, with ample concentration and a long finish, framed by rich, velvety tannins. |
|
| Domaine Eden |
2019 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$45 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 94 (5/2022): The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon is such a sexy wine. Plush, deep and seductive, the 2019 is an opulent beauty the likes of which I don't think I have ever tasted here. A rush of black plum, tobacco, incense, dried herbs and licorice makes a strong first impression. Time in the glass brings out the wine's compelling aromatic nuances. Silky and plush, with tremendous depth, the 2019 is a huge overachiever. I loved it. (Drink between 2024-2039). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Emeritus Vineyards |
2019 |
Wesley’s Reserve Hallberg Ranch Pinot Noir |
$70 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Fait-Main |
2019 |
Becktstoffer Las Piedras Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$239 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 97 (12/2021): Certainly in the same league as the 2018, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard is another full-bodied, ripe, incredibly sexy wine that has an incredible bouquet of red and blue fruits, sandalwood, crushed stone, and exotic spices. As with the 2018, it's flawlessly balanced and has a round, lush texture, supple tannins, and a great finish. The 2018 is more straight and classic, and the 2019 is more up-front, sexy, and exuberant. Both are incredible wines.
WA 96+ (11/2021): Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Las Piedras explodes with vibrant scents of blackcurrant preserves, wild blueberries, candied violets and Indian spices, plus wafts of potpourri and tobacco leaf. The full-bodied palate is packed with rich, perfumed black fruit preserves flavors, framed by firm, grainy tannins and plenty of freshness, finishing long with a whole array of mineral and exotic spice sparks. |
|
|
2019 |
Bettinelli Sleeping Lady Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$169 |
2 |
|
| |
JD 97+ (12/2021): I always love the Cabernet Sauvignon Bettinelli Sleeping Lady Vineyard from winemaker Benoit Touquette and the 2019 is no exception, offering a kaleidoscope-like array of cassis, blueberries, iron, crushed stone, and spice. Nicely focused on the palate, medium to full-bodied, concentrated, and straight-up gorgeous, drink it over the coming 15+. (Drink between 2021-2037).
WA 96+ (11/2021): Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Bettinelli Sleeping Lady Vineyard charges out of the gate with bold notions of blackcurrant pastilles, stewed plums and blueberry pie, plus hints of rose hip tea, cracked black pepper and tar. Big, concentrated and muscular in the full-bodied mouth, it has ripe, plush tannins and just enough freshness, finishing long and fragrant. |
|
| Fingers Crossed |
2019 |
Til Death Do Us Part Grenache |
$165 |
5 |
|
| |
WA 96 (5/2022): The 2019 Grenache Two Become One comes from four vineyards—The Third Twin, Vogelzang, Bien Nacido and Sebastiano. It is blended with 13% Mourvèdre and 11% Syrah, made with 29% whole clusters, and matured for 20 months in 56% new French oak. Opaque ruby-purple in color, it begins with reticent scents of blackberry jam, tar, licorice, lavender and bouquet garni with touches of coffee beans, taking plenty of time to unfold in the glass. The full-bodied palate surprises with its concentrated, dark berry fruit, framed by seamless acidity and finely grained tannins. It gains complexity over time, offering up more layers as it airs, and it finishes with soaring floral perfume, suggesting it could use a few more years in bottle or a long decant to show at its best. 381 cases were made, and it will be sold as a six-bottle set with one bottle of white wine, two bottles of Syrah and three bottles of Grenache ($685). This was bottled in July of 2021 and tasted May 24, 2022.
JD 96-99 (8/2020): I was able to taste both the 2019 Grenache and Syrah from barrel, both showing beautifully. The 2019 Grenache TBD is slightly more fruit-forward with lots of red and blue fruits as well as sappy flower and violet notes. A finesse-driven Grenache that still brings serious richness and power, it's full-bodied and has silky tannins, terrific balance, and a sensational sense of freshness. |
|
|
2019 |
Two Become One Syrah |
$180 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 97+ (5/2022): The 2019 Syrah Two Become One is just as stunning as its 2018 counterpart but will require a bit more time in bottle to blossom completely. Blended with 3% Mourvèdre and 3% Roussanne, it was made with 25% whole clusters and matured for 20 months in 70% new French oak. Opaque purple-black in color, it opens slowly to blackberry jam aromas with layers of graphite, tar, lavender, charcuterie and bouquet garni. The full-bodied palate's concentrated, floral fruits are addictive, and its weightless, silky texture brings you back to the glass again and again. It has a juicy backbone of acidity and a hauntingly long, layered finish, suggesting it will develop over many years in the cellar.
JD 96-98 (8/2021): Moving to the reds, the 2019 Grenache Two Become One, which saw 56% new 600-liter barrels, is a full-bodied, rich, yet always elegant and focused Grenache that has beautiful darker berry fruits as well as notes of orange blossom, pepper, spice, and violets. The blend is 76% Grenache, 13% Mourvèdre, and 11% Syrah that saw 29% whole clusters. If you get a chance, you should buy it. |
|
|
2019 |
Two Become One Syrah |
$194 |
5 |
|
| |
WA 97+ (5/2022): The 2019 Syrah Two Become One is just as stunning as its 2018 counterpart but will require a bit more time in bottle to blossom completely. Blended with 3% Mourvèdre and 3% Roussanne, it was made with 25% whole clusters and matured for 20 months in 70% new French oak. Opaque purple-black in color, it opens slowly to blackberry jam aromas with layers of graphite, tar, lavender, charcuterie and bouquet garni. The full-bodied palate's concentrated, floral fruits are addictive, and its weightless, silky texture brings you back to the glass again and again. It has a juicy backbone of acidity and a hauntingly long, layered finish, suggesting it will develop over many years in the cellar.
JD 96-98 (8/2021): Moving to the reds, the 2019 Grenache Two Become One, which saw 56% new 600-liter barrels, is a full-bodied, rich, yet always elegant and focused Grenache that has beautiful darker berry fruits as well as notes of orange blossom, pepper, spice, and violets. The blend is 76% Grenache, 13% Mourvèdre, and 11% Syrah that saw 29% whole clusters. If you get a chance, you should buy it. |
|
| Folded Hills |
2019 |
Santa Ynez Valley Syrah |
$25 |
2 |
|
| |
| VM 90 (8/2024): The 2019 Syrah (Santa Ynez Valley) is a blend of Estella clone Syrah from the estate and Stolpman. It is the one wine in this range that is a touch forward and overt. Then again, this is a five-year-old appellation wine. Succulent dark cherry, plum, licorice, spice and a hint of mocha give this racy Syrah tons of immediacy. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Fortunate Son |
2019 |
The Diplomat Red Wine |
$145 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 94 (2/2023): The Merlot-dominated 2019 The Diplomat comes from a handful of sites and would give a great Pomerol a run for its money with its darker red and black fruits, smoky herbs, and earthy goodness on the nose. These carry to a full-bodied, rounded, opulent 2019 with sweet, building tannins and a great finish. Give it a few years. |
|
| Dom. Jean Francois |
2019 |
The Twleve Rows Sanford & Benedict Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$109 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 97 (10/2021): The 2019 Pinot Noir Sanford and Benedict Vineyard The Twelve Rows is magnificent. Rich and textured on the palate, with tremendous depth, the 2019 exudes class. Inky dark fruit, lavender, spice and tobacco are wonderfully vivid. The 2019 is endowed with so much complexity and sheer pedigree. What a wine! (Drink between 2023-2034). Antonio Galloni.
WA 96 (12/2022): Medium ruby-purple, the 2019 Sanford & Benedict Pinot Noir The Twelve Rows features blackberries and blueberries on the nose, with tones of aniseed, clay, dark spices and blood orange. The medium-bodied palate is soft, plush and inviting with intense, savory fruits, seamless acidity and a youthful sheen of new oak spices on the long, gently warming finish.
BH 87 (6/2023): A background hint of volatile acidity adds lift to the vaguely advanced aromas of mostly red berry fruit, spice and soft floral nuances. There is excellent vibrancy to the utterly delicious middleweight flavors that conclude in a dusty and somewhat one-dimensional finish that slowly leans out as it sits on the palate. Despite the description, this is drinkable but with that said, it would be fair to observe that it's not at the level that I have come to expect. Two bottles tried with consistent results. (Drink starting 2028). |
|
| Girasole |
2019 |
Mendocino Pinot Noir |
$16.99 |
16 |
|
| |
|
| Greer |
2019 |
Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$449 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 99 (12/2021): In contrast, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon is more round and supple, with loads of pure Napa magic in its notes of crème de cassis, toasted spice, smoked tobacco, and cedar pencil. Full-bodied, opulent, and loaded with fruit, it still stays pure, precise, and focused, with ripe tannins, a layered, multi-dimensional texture, and one incredible finish. I finished my notes with “Awesome.” Both the 2018 and 2019 are incredible, singular wines readers should seek out.
VM 97 (1/2022): The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon is a flat out stunner. Rich, ample and explosive, the 2019 possesses tremendous depth and pedigree to burn. Dark red cherry, plum, lavender, spice and menthol race across the palate. Time in the glass brings out a whole range of aromas and flavors that add stunning complexity. Iron, scorched earth, tobacco and incense linger on the potent finish. What a wine! (Drink between 2025-2039). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Groth |
2019 |
Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon |
$55 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 92 (1/2022): The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon is a tasty, easygoing Cabernet Sauvignon to drink now and over the next 10-15 years. Bright red/purplish berry fruit, spice and lifted floral notes lend freshness to this attractive, vibrant, mid-weight Cabernet. The 2019 is very nicely done, and is also one of the most approachable wines of the year, even though there is plenty of grip. (Drink between 2025-2027). Antonio Galloni.
JD 91 (5/2022): Classic Napa Cabernet notes of red and black currants, ripe tobacco, violets, and cedary oak emerge from the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville, a medium-bodied, elegant, balanced, outstanding 2019 that’s perfect for drinking over the coming 10-12 years or so. (Drink between 2022-2034).
WA 87 (9/2022): The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon features pleasant cherry-scented fruit shot through with herbal nuances on the nose, framed by notes of cedar and vanilla. It's medium-bodied and easy to drink but not very concentrated or textural, with a fluid, facile feel on the palate and a relatively short finish. |
|
| Hall |
2019 |
Jack’s Masterpiece Cabernet Sauvignon |
$134.10 |
11 |
|
| |
JD 96 (2/2023): The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Jack's Masterpiece is in the same ballpark, with slightly more blue fruits in its bouquet of blueberries, mulberries, violets, and spicy oak. A blend of 96% Cabernet Sauvignon and 4% Cabernet Franc, this full-bodied, concentrated, incredibly textured 2019 can be drunk any time over the coming two decades or more. (Drink between 2023-2043).
WA 96 (9/2022): Blended to be a more robust, mountain-driven counterpart to the Kathryn Hall bottling, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Jack's Masterpiece blends fruit from Mount Veeder, Atlas Peak, Sacrashe and Montagne. Aged in 75% new French oak (mostly Taransaud), it delivers scents of cassis, herbal shadings like bay leaf and sage, cedar, dark chocolate and vanilla. It's full-bodied, firm but ripe and velvety, then shows more of a silky, dusty edge on the finish. |
|
|
2019 |
Kathryn Hall Cabernet Sauvignon |
$149 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 95 (2/2023): The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Kathryn Hall is a blend of 95% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Merlot, brought up mostly in new barrels. It’s a killer bottle of wine offering lots of ripe black fruits intermixed with savory herbs, melted chocolate, and tobacco. Medium to full-bodied on the palate, it shows the lush, round, velvety style of the 2019 vintage and is already impossible to resist. It’s going to evolve for 15+ years if well stored. (Drink between 2023-2039).
WA 93 (9/2022): There are 6,500 cases of the flagship 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Kathryn Hall, based largely on fruit from the Sacrashe Vineyard, at the eastern edge of the Rutherford AVA. A blend of 96% Cabernet Sauvignon and 4% Merlot, aged in 75% new barrels (mainly Taransaud), it's cedary on the nose, with plenty of cassis and black cherries in support. Full-bodied and plush, this well-endowed effort finishes long and softly dusty, with just a touch of alcoholic warmth. |
|
|
2019 |
Stags Leap District Cabernet Sauvignon |
$179.10 |
3 |
|
| |
|
|
2019 |
Terra Secca Cabernet Sauvignon |
$55 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Hartford Court |
2019 |
Russian River Valley Pinot Noir |
$30 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 94 (7/2021): Readers looking for an incredibly charming, delicious Pinot Noir that’s going to deliver the goods should check out the 2019 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley from Hartford Court. Revealing a translucent ruby/plum color, it has a wonderful nose of spiced red and black fruits, candied violets, orange blossom, and incense. Medium-bodied on the palate, it’s wonderfully balanced, with soft, supple tannins, nicely integrated acidity, and a great finish. Drink this beauty any time over the coming 5-6 years. (Drink between 2021-2027).
VM 91 (1/2021): The 2019 Pinot Noir (Russian River) is a terrific appellation-level offering in this range from Hartford Court. Blue/purplish fruit, cinnamon, licorice and spice all grace this expressive, mid-weight Pinot. Enjoy it over the next decade. (Drink between 2021-2031). Antonio Galloni.
WA 90 (1/2021): The 2019 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley was aged for 10 months in French oak barrels, 27% new. It delivers vibrant notes of black cherries, kirsch and mulberries with suggestions of garrigue and forest floor. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is chock-full of ripe, juicy black and red berry flavors, supported by soft tannins, finishing with a lively red berry kick. |
|
| Ink Grade |
2019 |
Howell Mtn. Merlot |
$175 |
1 |
|
| |
| Decanter 93 (2/2023): An exciting style of Merlot, with impeccable structure and nowhere near the over-extracted style that has become almost de rigueur in Napa. The colour is practically translucent and aromatically seductive with juicy cranberry, elegant cherry, yellow plum and gravel notes. The sappy, grippy tannins are angular and powerful, and there’s plenty of tension to age and see where it goes. |
|
| Kerr Cellars |
2019 |
Wappo Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$160 |
3 |
|
| |
JD 95 (2/2023): Lastly, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Wappo Vineyard comes from a great site in the Stags Leap District and is all varietal. Lots of red, blue, and black fruits dominate the bouquet, and it offers more spice, savory herbs, and even a touch of iron with time in the glass. This full-bodied, balanced, textured 2019 has ripe tannins and a gorgeous finish. Drink bottles any time over the coming two decades. (Drink between 2023-2043)
VM 95 (1/2022): The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Wappo Vineyard emerges from a site on the southern edge of Stags Leap. Inky, plush fruit, gravel, lavender, licorice and spice give this explosive Cabernet a good deal of intensity. The 2019 is plush, deep and full-throttle, with all the elements very nicely balanced. Even so, it would be great to see a bit more nuance here. (Drink between 2024-2034). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Kosta Browne |
2019 |
Anderson Valley Pinot Noir |
$89 |
3 |
|
| |
| JS 93 (11/2021): Aromas of black and red licorice, black cherries and toasted sage. Full-bodied with a very pleasant nutty character on the palate. Soft tannins. Savory herbs and a blanket of ripe black fruit washes over, carried by subtle but steady acidity. Oak at the finish. Needs a little time to come together. Try after 2023. |
|
|
2019 |
Bootlegger’s Hill Pinot Noir |
$109 |
3 |
|
| |
JD 97 (8/2022): The 2019 Pinot Noir Bootlegger's Hill Vineyard evolves in the glass with dried cherry, sassafras, and wild herbs. It has impeccable concentration and length on the palate, which is full of cinnamon, red plum, and forest floor. Hold 1-3 years and drink 2024-2036. Audrey Frick.
WA 93 (7/2022): The 2019 Pinot Noir Bootlegger's Hill has a medium ruby color and bright aromas of Bing cherry, cranberry and citrus peel with accents of dried herbs, licorice and underbrush. The medium-bodied palate is grainy and fresh, with appealingly crunchy fruits and a long, spicy finish. Give it another year or two in bottle to unwind. |
|
|
2019 |
Cerise Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$89 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 92 (7/2022): Medium ruby, the 2019 Pinot Noir Cerise Vineyard is rustic to begin, with accents of tar, tobacco and bay leaves over an intense core of dark red fruit. The palate is full-bodied with abundant, gently chewy tannins, bright freshness and a long, earth-laced finish. |
|
|
2019 |
Cerise Vyd. Pinot Noir (1.5 L) |
$219 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 92 (7/2022): Medium ruby, the 2019 Pinot Noir Cerise Vineyard is rustic to begin, with accents of tar, tobacco and bay leaves over an intense core of dark red fruit. The palate is full-bodied with abundant, gently chewy tannins, bright freshness and a long, earth-laced finish. |
|
|
2019 |
Giusti Ranch Pinot Noir |
$99 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 95 (7/2022): The 2019 Pinot Noir Giusti Vineyard has very layered aromas of cinnamon, dried orange peel, cranberries, raspberries, dusty earth and amaro. The medium-bodied palate features layered, spicy fruits along with abundant, grainy tannins and bright acidity. It's elegant but youthfully tense and could use another 2-3 years in bottle. |
|
|
2019 |
Keefer Ranch Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$105 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 96 (7/2022): The 2019 Pinot Noir Keefer Vineyard is aromatically intense and layered, with aromas of dried cherry, cranberry, blueberry, sage and bergamot, woodsmoke and flint. Medium-bodied, the palate is soft, juicy and alluring, with nuanced flavors and a long, latent finish that hints at layers yet to emerge. Drink it over the next decade. |
|
|
2019 |
Mount Carmel Pinot Noir |
$139 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 94 (7/2022): The 2019 Pinot Noir Mt. Carmel Vineyard is appealingly rustic, featuring scents of dried red cherries and cranberries, resinous herbs, charcuterie and iron. The medium-bodied palate is chalky and fresh with earthy, spicy fruits and a long, nuanced finish. |
|
|
2019 |
Rosella’s Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$99 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 94 (7/2022): Medium ruby, the 2019 Pinot Noir Rosella's Vineyard is scented of cranberry, pomegranate, licorice and autumn leaves, with an undercurrent of bitters-like spices. The light-bodied palate is fresh and detailed with pure, spicy layers on the long finish. |
|
|
2019 |
Russian River Valley Pinot Noir |
$74 |
3 |
|
| |
| JD 94 (7/2021): A vibrant, pure, and precise style of Pinot Noir from this region, the 2019 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley sports a vivid ruby hue as well as a beautiful array of redcurrants, wildflowers, sappy underbrush, and subtle baking spice nuances. Gorgeous on the palate as well, it's medium to full-bodied and has a pure, focused textured, silky tannins, and a great finish. Where most Russian River Pinot Noirs are broad and exuberant, this plays it closer to its vest and has an undeniably Burgundian style, with good acidity, tannins, and precision. It's beautifully done and will evolve for 15+ years or more. |
|
|
2019 |
Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir |
$89 |
5 |
|
| |
| JD 95 (8/2021): The 2019 Pinot Noir Santa Lucia Highlands comes from a cooler region south of Monterey Bay and was only partially destemmed and fermented in 64% in concrete, 29% in stainless, and the rest in barrel. The aging spanned 14 months in 52% new French oak. It has a more pure, fruit-driven style in its assorted red and blackberry, leafy herb, pepper, and rocky mineral-like aromas and flavors. I love its purity, and it's medium to full-bodied, with flawless balance and a great finish. The purity, balance, and length are exceptional, and it develops more complexity and layers with time in the glass. Drink this beauty over the coming decades. |
|
|
2019 |
Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir (1.5 L) Lightly Bin-Soiled Label |
$179 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 95 (8/2021): The 2019 Pinot Noir Santa Lucia Highlands comes from a cooler region south of Monterey Bay and was only partially destemmed and fermented in 64% in concrete, 29% in stainless, and the rest in barrel. The aging spanned 14 months in 52% new French oak. It has a more pure, fruit-driven style in its assorted red and blackberry, leafy herb, pepper, and rocky mineral-like aromas and flavors. I love its purity, and it's medium to full-bodied, with flawless balance and a great finish. The purity, balance, and length are exceptional, and it develops more complexity and layers with time in the glass. Drink this beauty over the coming decades. |
|
|
2019 |
Santa Rita Hills Pinot Noir |
$89 |
8 |
|
| |
| JD 94 (8/2021): Rocking spiced herbs, red and black fruits along with some meaty, exotic notes all emerge from the 2019 Pinot Noir Sta. Rita Hills, a complex, medium to full-bodied Pinot Noir with a round, expansive, seamless texture that's already a joy to drink. |
|
|
2019 |
Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir |
$75 |
2 |
|
| |
| JD 94 (7/2021): Another pure, elegant wine from this estate, the 2019 Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast offers beautiful framboise and dark strawberry fruits to go with complex notes of forest floor, leafy herbs, spice, and damp earth. These carry to a medium to full-bodied Pinot Noir with a layered, seamless texture, terrific overall balance, and a great finish. If anything, it's a more approachable, softer wine than the Russian River Valley, although it too should easily keep for a decade. Both Pinot Noirs from this team are brilliant wines. |
|
| Larkmead Vineyards |
2019 |
Firebelle Red Wine |
$99 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 92 (5/2022): The 2019 Firebelle is based on 57% Cabernet Sauvignon with 43% Merlot, all of which was raised 18 months in 67% new French oak. It has a Bordeaux-inspired nose of darker cherries and currants as well as leather, tobacco, and damp earth. I love it on the palate, where it’s medium to full-bodied, has wonderful purity, and silky tannins. Drink this seamless, elegant, yet still pleasure-bent beauty over the coming 10-15 years.
VM 92 (1/2022): The 2019 Firebelle is fragrant and light on its feet. Crushed raspberry, cedar, tobacco and flowers lend lovely aromatic top notes to this gentle yet flavorful red blend. This is an especially savory style for the Firebelle. All the elements are so nicely balanced. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Cliff Lede |
2019 |
Stags Leap District Cabernet Sauvignon |
$67 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 93 (3/2022): I loved the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon, and readers looking for a great Napa Valley Cabernet under $100 shouldn't hesitate. Deep purple-hued, with classic Cabernet dark red and black fruits, leafy tobacco, chocolate, and graphite, it's medium to full-bodied, has a pure, elegant mouthfeel, integrated acidity, and polished tannins. It's already impossible to resist yet will cruise for 10-15 years in cold cellars. 6812 cases. (Drink between 2022-2037).
VM 92 (1/2022): The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Stags Leap District is a heady, potent wine. Blackberry jam, cloves, licorice, new oak, tobacco and leather are all kicked up in this exuberant, flamboyant Cabernet. Readers will find a luscious, full-throttle Cabernet that delivers the goods. The purity of the fruit really stands out. (Drink between 2024-2034). Antonio Galloni.
WA 92 (10/2021): The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Stags Leap District is a blend of 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Franc and 3% Petit Verdot. Deep garnet-purple colored, it skips out of the glass with bright, cheery scents of warm blackcurrants, blackberry preserves and Black Forest cake, plus hints of tree bark and pencil lead. The palate has a beautiful, silt-like texture and a restrained, medium to full-bodied style with earth-laced, crunchy fruit and a savory finish. |
|
| Leonetti Cellars |
2019 |
Walla Walla Merlot (1.5 L) |
$199 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 93 (5/2021): The 2019 Merlot is juicy and up-front, with lots of black cherry and blue fruits as well as medium to full body, ripe, soft, ultra-fine tannins, a good sense of freshness, and classic tobacco, graphite, and spice aromas and flavors. Drink this sexy beauty over the coming 10-15 years. |
|
| Lerner Project |
2019 |
Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon |
$169 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 96 (3/2022): More iron and bloody nuances as well as blue fruits emerge from the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville, a nicely balanced, ripe fruit bomb of a wine that holds on to a terrific sense of freshness and purity. It’s another sexy mouthful of great Cabernet from this label to enjoy over the coming 15 years or so. (Drink between 2022-2037).
WA 94 (5/2022): The 2019 Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon is mainly barrels of Tench Cabernet that weren't considered to fit the single-vineyard profile, plus some Merlot and Cabernet Franc. About 5% of the volume comes from another vineyard. On the nose, it delivers plum and black cherry fruit, plus hints of smoke and vanilla. It's full-bodied, with a bit more structure than the Project 18 offering, coming across as firm without being hard or tough, and it finishes long and silky. |
|
| The Maiden (Harlan) |
2019 |
Proprietary Blend |
$500 |
2 |
|
| |
JD 95 (2/2023): There are roughly 1,000 cases of the 2019 The Maiden, a classy, full-bodied, beautifully textured wine that clearly has some Harlan Estate class and style. Cassis, graphite, integrated oak, and flowers all define the aromatics, and the tannins and purity here are brilliant. It’s a hell of a second wine.
VM 94 (2/2023): The 2019 The Maiden is gorgeous. Creamy, ample and expressive, the Maiden is a terrific introduction to the year. Succulent dark cherry, plum, chocolate, spice, leather, menthol fill out the layers beautifully. Medium in body, with gorgeous up-front fruit and radiance (Drink between 2023-2031). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Mayacamas |
2019 |
Mt. Veeder Cabernet Sauvignon |
$139 |
25 |
|
| |
|
| Maybach |
2019 |
Materium Cabernet Sauvignon |
$319 |
3 |
|
| |
| JD 100 (12/2021): If you can believe it, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Materium might be even better, and this beauty tops out my scale. An incredible array of red, blue, and black fruits as well as unsmoked tobacco, iron, hazelnut, and toasty oak all emerge from the glass, and it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a layered, ultra-fine, building texture, perfect tannins, and a huge finish. This pure Napa Valley magic is going to benefit from 2-4 years in the cellar and drink brilliantly for another 20-30 years. If this doesn't do it for you, I'd avoid Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon! |
|
| Philippe Melka |
2019 |
CJ Cabernet Sauvignon |
$83 |
3 |
|
| |
| WA 91 (10/2022): Under Melka's own label, the entry point is the 2019 CJ Cabernet Sauvignon, which I was told is a blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Cabernet Franc and 11% Merlot, sourced from several sites around Napa Valley but primarily Soda Canyon. (Statisticians will note that the winery website claims that it's 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% each Cabernet Franc and Merlot, and 5% Petit Verdot.) The nose features gentle cedar notes overlaid on a base of dark loam, cassis and black cherries. Medium to full-bodied and framed by soft tannins, this is drinkable already, but it has enough concentration and length to suggest several years of good drinking. |
|
|
2019 |
CJ Cabernet Sauvignon Nicked Label |
$83 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 91 (10/2022): Under Melka's own label, the entry point is the 2019 CJ Cabernet Sauvignon, which I was told is a blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Cabernet Franc and 11% Merlot, sourced from several sites around Napa Valley but primarily Soda Canyon. (Statisticians will note that the winery website claims that it's 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% each Cabernet Franc and Merlot, and 5% Petit Verdot.) The nose features gentle cedar notes overlaid on a base of dark loam, cassis and black cherries. Medium to full-bodied and framed by soft tannins, this is drinkable already, but it has enough concentration and length to suggest several years of good drinking. |
|
|
2019 |
Mekerra Proprietary Blend |
$150 |
15 |
|
| |
VM 97 (1/2022): The 2019 Proprietary Red Mekerra is another gorgeous wine from Philippe and Cherie Melka. Deep, rich and explosive, the 2019 possesses tremendous depth and tons of character that comes to the fore with time in the glass. Cherry, plum, mocha and soaring Franc aromatics give the 2019 its alluring personality. The tannins need a few years to soften, but the 2019 is so compelling, even today. (Drink between 2024-2039). Antonio Galloni.
JD 97 (12/2021): A blend of 53% Merlot and 47% Cabernet Franc, the 2019 Mekerra Proprietary Red comes from a higher elevation site in Knights Valley and was brought up in 80% new French oak. It has a gorgeous nose of ripe black cherry and darker berry fruits as well as plenty of spice, flowers, tobacco, and scorched earth. It's gorgeous on the palate with medium to full body, wonderful purity, nicely integrated acidity, and a great finish. It's a gorgeous bottle of wine that shines for its elegance and purity as well as its richness. |
|
|
2019 |
Metisse Jumping Goat Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$150 |
3 |
|
| |
JD 97 (12/2021): From a site just behind Spotteswoode, the 2019 Metisse Jumping Goat Vineyard is 91% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Merlot, and 1% Petit Verdot. More blackcurrants, chocolate, smoked tobacco, and scorched earth notes define the nose, and this ruby/purple-hued beauty is medium to full-bodied with a wonderfully fresh, herbal, classic Cabernet character, ripe tannins, and a great finish. It's a beautiful, elegant wine.
VM 97 (1/2022): The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Métisse Jumping Goat Vineyard emerges from a site on the other side of St. Helena, closer to Spottswoode and Madrona Ranch. It offers up generous red berry fruit intermingled with strong savory, earthy and tobacco accents that add layers of nuance. This potent, impeccably balanced Cabernet should start to drink beautifully in a few years, once the tannins soften a bit. (Drink between 2025-2039). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Peter Michael Winery |
2019 |
Les Pavots Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$349 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 98 (8/2022): The 2019 Les Pavots is a blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Merlot, 14% Cabernet Franc, and the remainder Petit Verdot. It has unfolding layers of dark minerals, with graphite, boysenberry liqueur, and fresh leather. The palate is expressive of its mountain fruit, with more gripping structure but no harsh edges. This is a remarkable wine to hold a few years and enjoy over the following two decades. Audrey Frick. |
|
| Mount Eden Vineyards |
2019 |
Estate Pinot Noir |
$64 |
6 |
|
| |
JD 98 (4/2025): The 2019 Pinot Noir is an outstanding and memorable wine, a tremendously light, bright, and complex reflection of the great site from a great vintage. Lovely aromatics of orange peel, cranberry, and Bing cherry wrap around a supple mid-palate of earthy rose and violet, the tannins unobtrusive and the acidity balanced. Lengthy, the wine takes on different nuances along the mid-palate, showing more forest and black tea, adding a quiet density that stretches to a formidable finish. This wine wows now but should drink well for another 20-25 years. Virginie Boone.
WA 93+ (4/2024): The 2019 Pinot Noir Estate was fermented with 35% whole clusters and aged in 50% new French oak. It has a lively, fragrant, focused nose with potpourri, blood orange, bay laurel and evergreen aromas. The palate is slim and high-toned, supported with structured acidity that softens with aeration. Readers who enjoy Mount Eden's classically proportioned Pinot Noirs might find this a bit angular, but a year or two in the cellar should help it come together. |
|
| Myriad |
2019 |
Beckstoffer Bourn Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$219 |
5 |
|
| |
JD 95 (12/2021): From a site outside of St. Helena, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Bourn Vineyard is a more mineral-laced, red and blue-fruited effort with some Pauillac-like lead pencil and earthy nuances. With nicely integrated oak, medium to full-bodied richness, and notable tannins, give it 2-3 years and enjoy over the following 10-15. It's another terrific wine in this portfolio. (Drink between 2023-2039).
WA 95 (11/2021): Made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Bourn Vineyard is deep garnet-purple in color. Alluring notes of warm cassis, blackberry pie and fresh black cherries jump out of the glass, plus wafts of bay leaves, truffles and pencil lead. The medium to full-bodied palate is wonderfully savory with lots of herbal sparks among the black fruits and a firm, grainy frame, finishing refreshing.
VM 90 (1/2022): A new wine in this range, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Bourn Vineyard offers plenty of initial impact, but then loses much of its persistence on the mid-palate and finish. There is no way getting around the young age of these wines. This wine probably should not have been a vineyard designate. (Drink between 2022-2030). Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2019 |
Beckstoffer Bourn Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$249 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 95 (12/2021): From a site outside of St. Helena, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Bourn Vineyard is a more mineral-laced, red and blue-fruited effort with some Pauillac-like lead pencil and earthy nuances. With nicely integrated oak, medium to full-bodied richness, and notable tannins, give it 2-3 years and enjoy over the following 10-15. It's another terrific wine in this portfolio. (Drink between 2023-2039).
WA 95 (11/2021): Made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Bourn Vineyard is deep garnet-purple in color. Alluring notes of warm cassis, blackberry pie and fresh black cherries jump out of the glass, plus wafts of bay leaves, truffles and pencil lead. The medium to full-bodied palate is wonderfully savory with lots of herbal sparks among the black fruits and a firm, grainy frame, finishing refreshing.
VM 90 (1/2022): A new wine in this range, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Bourn Vineyard offers plenty of initial impact, but then loses much of its persistence on the mid-palate and finish. There is no way getting around the young age of these wines. This wine probably should not have been a vineyard designate. (Drink between 2022-2030). Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2019 |
Empyrean Beckstoffer Georges III Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$175 |
2 |
|
| |
JD 98 (12/2021): Even better, the 225-case 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Georges III Vineyard Empyrean is a barrel selection made by winemaker Mike Smith. It has more deep, base notes of blackcurrants, cassis, ripe tobacco, black tea, and chocolate. These all carry to a full-bodied, seamless, incredibly sexy 2019 with velvety tannins, plenty of mid-palate depth, and a great finish. It already has up-front appeal, yet I have no doubt it will evolve for 20-25 years. (Drink between 2021-2046).
WA 97 (11/2021): The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Georges III Empyrean is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. Deep garnet-purple in color, it needs a little coaxing to release notes of blackcurrant preserves, baked black plums and mulberries, plus underlying hints of Indian spice, fragrant earth and wild sage. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is built like a brick house with firm, ripe, grainy tannins and plenty of freshness to support the muscular fruit, finishing long and earthy.
VM 91 (1/2022): The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Vineyard Georges III Empyrean is powerful, dense and super-concentrated. I find the oak overdone, and the wine lacking in freshness as a result of the very pushed, ripe style. (Drink between 2022-2029). Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2019 |
Steltzner Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$149 |
2 |
|
| |
VM 96 (1/2022): The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Steltzner Vineyard is outrageously beautiful. Dark, vivid and sumptuous to the core, the Steltzner captures all the magic of this great Stags Leap vineyard. Crème de cassis, lavender, spice, mint and blueberry jam all come alive in the glass. This is one of the very finest wines I have ever tasted from Mike and Leah Smith. Don't miss it! (Drink between 2024-2034). Antonio Galloni.
JD 95 (12/2021): The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Stelzner Vineyard comes from a corner block in this vineyard and offers a more black-fruited, chocolaty style that turns more floral and violet-tinged with time in the glass. More tobacco and crushed stone, full-bodied richness, good acidity, and ripe tannins all make for a brilliant, seamless, incredibly impressive wine that can be drunk today or cellared for 15+ years. (Drink between 2021-2037).
WA 94+ (11/2021): Produced from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Steltzner Vineyard is deep garnet-purple in color, delivering pronounced notes of stewed plums, boysenberry preserves and warm cassis, plus suggestions of fruitcake, tobacco leaf and charcuterie. Medium to full-bodied, the generous fruit is supported by chunky tannins and just enough freshness, finishing savory. |
|
|
2019 |
Three Twins Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$145 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 95 (12/2021): This will be the last vintage from this site, as the vineyard was lost in the fires in 2020. Deep purple-hued, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Three Twins Vineyard offers a beautiful perfume of cassis and blueberry-like fruits as well as candied orange, violets, and leafy herbs. Reminding me of a mountain Cabernet with its focused, nicely structured, vibrant style, it's medium to full-bodied and brings wonderful depth of fruit, ripe tannins, and outstanding length. Drink it any time over the coming two decades. (Drink between 2021-2041) |
|
| de Negoce |
2019 |
OG N. 187 Atlas Peak Syrah |
$15 |
10 |
|
| |
|
|
2019 |
OG N. 221 Ballard Canyon Syrah |
$15 |
7 |
|
| |
|
|
2019 |
OG. N. 192 Knights Valley Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon |
$35 |
4 |
|
| |
| JS 92 (8/2022): An attractive nose of blackcurrant, sliced plum, gravel and grated nutmeg. Medium-to full-bodied with powdery tannins. There is a solid undertone of black fruit accented by some mineral and toasted herbal complexity. Chocolate too. Nicely persistent. Drink now. |
|
| 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). |
|
| Next of Kyn |
2019 |
Cumulus Vyd. No. 13 Proprietary Blend |
$260 |
3 |
|
| |
JD 99 (8/2022): Another straight-up awesome wine is the 2019 No 13 Cumulus Vineyard, a blend 29% each of Grenache and Mourvèdre, 24.5% Syrah, 8% Touriga Nacional, 7.5% Petite Sirah, and 2% Petit Manseng. Kirsch, toasted spices, new leather, graphite, and peppery notes all emerge from this ripe, sexy, seamless, and incredibly compelling red. Full-bodied and concentrated, it stays light on its feet, has beautiful tannins, and a great finish. If this doesn't put a smile on your face, I don't know what will. It's brilliant today yet should easily evolve for 15 years or more. (I expect it will evolve like a great Châteauneuf du Pape.)
VM 98 (8/2022): The 2019 No. 13 Cumulus Vineyard is fabulous. Inky and savory, the 2019 offers up a compelling mélange of black fruit, gravel, incense and spice that all come together. The combination of a warm site and a coolish vintage yields a superb, wonderfully complete red. Grippy tannins and a touch of whole cluster savoriness extend the finish. The blend is 29% Grenache, 29% Mourvèdre, 24.5% Syrah, 8% Touriga Nacional, 7.5% Petite Sirah and 2% Petit Manseng. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Nickel and Nickel |
2019 |
Kenefick Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon |
$109 |
5 |
|
| |
|
| No Girls |
2019 |
Double Lucky #8 Red Blend |
$49 |
5 |
|
| |
VM 93 (3/2023): The 2019 Double Lucky #8 is smoky in the glass, smoldering up with notes of olive tapenade, musky black currants and rosemary. It’s silky-smooth and supple on the palate, with brisk acidity, enlivening its dark fruits, as saline-tinged minerals add contrast. This leaves salted licorice and hints of sweet spice tapering off with a lovely freshness. While I don’t see the 2019 as a wine for long-term cellaring, it should perform beautifully over the next five to six years. That said, there’s a lot of balanced pleasure to be found here already. The Double Lucky #8 is primarily Grenache with a balance of Syrah and Tempranillo. (Drink between 2023-2028). Eric Guido.
JD 92 (6/2023): Spiced black cherries, framboise, rose petals, and peppery herbs all emerge from the 2019 Double Lucky, a juicy, fruit-forward, complex, layered red offering plenty of classic Rocks funk as well as pure, clean fruit. It's a delicious, balanced red to drink over the coming 7-8 years. (Drink between 2023-2031).
WA 92 (10/2022): The 2019 Double Lucky #8 is black and red-fruited, with a spicy note of cured meat and lavender flowing from the glass along with a delightful mineral essence. Medium to full-bodied, the wine is broadly-layered and possesses fine-grained tannins and succulent acidity, making me crave charcuterie. The gorgeous wine will remain food-friendly for years and ends with a lingering, spicy grip. |
|
|
2019 |
Walla Walla Valley La Paciencia Vyd. Grenache |
$79 |
5 |
|
| |
WA 96 (10/2022): The 2019 Grenache la Paciencia Vineyard opens to a classic, dusty and red-fruited core with savory tones, worn leather and smoked cherry compote. Medium-bodied, the palate offers a fine mineral tension with an essence of umami before swaying to show the more savory and floral side of Grenache. The wine continues to gain complexity before concluding with a gorgeous floral lift, persistent spicy edge and firm tannic finish. Bravo, this is delicious juice!
JD 95 (7/2022): Sporting a translucent ruby hue, the 2019 Grenache La Paciencia Vineyard offers up a savory, exotic nose of mulled cherries, darker strawberries, truffle, rose petals, orange tea, and scorched earth. This is always an ethereal, seamless, exotic expression of Grenache, and the 2019 is medium-bodied, has a seamless, incredibly pure, almost Burgundian mouthfeel, ripe tannins, and a great finish. Drink bottles any time over the coming 10-15 years. (Drink between 2022-2037).
VM 94 (3/2023): The 2019 Grenache La Paciencia Vineyard lulls me in with a nuanced mix of dusty violets, wild strawberries, with stems and all, complicated by a whiff of crushed stones. This splashes across the palate, silky and refined yet energetic, with mineral-tinged red fruits that slowly saturate under an air of rosy inner florals. It leaves a reverberation of spicy tension through the finish, while becoming quite mineral and nearly salty in character. Hints of green olive and sage slowly fade. The Grenache from La Paciencia vineyard is refined for 22 months in neutral demi-muids and foudre. I love its savory profile and spicy nature, yet another year or two of cellaring is recommended. The soils of La Paciencia are much sandier than the surrounding vineyards, which tends to add an extra level of elegance to the No Girls portfolio. (Drink between 2023-2029). Eric Guido. |
|
|
2019 |
Walla Walla Valley Tempranillo |
$79 |
3 |
|
| |
JD 96+ (7/2022): Lastly, the 2019 Tempranillo sports a slightly denser purple/plum color to go with both red and blue fruits supported by complex cedar, sandalwood, tobacco, and saddle leather-like nuances. Medium to full-bodied on the palate, it's another seamless, elegant wine from this incredible winemaker that has ultra-fine tannins, a great mid-palate, plenty of density, and a great finish. It's a gorgeous wine that can be drunk today or cellared for two decades if you're so inclined. (Drink between 2022-2042).
VM 95 (3/2023): The 2019 Tempranillo is zesty, thrilling with an old-world bouquet of red currants and dried strawberries complemented by dusty rose, balsam herbs, spiced citrus rinds and worn leather. It’s silky and refined, propelled by vibrant acidity which also helps to enliven and sweeten the tart wild berry fruits within. The 2019 finishes lightly tannic yet full of energy, with blood orange and sour cherry candies that linger on. This is deceptively drinkable today, yet with the balance to excel through medium-term clearing. The No Girls Tempranillo refines for 22 months in a combination of demi-muids and barrels, of which 50% are new. Stunning. (Drink between 2024-2031). Eric Guido.
WA 93 (10/2022): Juicy and dark-fruited, the 2019 Tempranillo la Paciencia opens to fresh and savory aromas in the glass. Medium-bodied, flavors of oak and dusty plum sway with notions of dark cherry and blackberry skin before showcasing a balanced structure with lifting tannins. Displaying finesse and power, the wine glides to a food-friendly finish that will remain crushable for years. Enjoy with food. |
|
| Pahlmeyer |
2019 |
Merlot |
$95 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Patz & Hall |
2019 |
Burnside Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$65 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2019 |
Jenkins Ranch Pinot Noir |
$60 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2019 |
Little Boots Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$55 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2019 |
Sanchietti Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$55 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Peacock Family |
2019 |
Dona Margarita Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$79 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Perchance |
2019 |
Beckstoffer George III Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$400 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 97 (12/2021): The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Georges III Vineyard was brought up all in new barrels. Rocking crème de cassis, chocolate, toasted spice, and smoke tobacco are just some of the nuances here, and it's full-bodied, has an expansive, ripe, opulent mouthfeel, great tannins, and the class to evolve for over two decades. It's another brilliant wine from this team well worth seeking out. (Drink between 2021-2042).
WA 96 (5/2022): Less intricately floral than the 2018 but perhaps a touch riper and more powerful (both are labeled at 14.9% alcohol), Perchance's 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Vineyard Georges III features chocolate overtones to the cassis and black cherry fruit. Full-bodied, rich and velvety, with a lingering finish, the wine boasts just enough freshness to keep the finish mouthwatering and compelling sip after sip. Lush and textured, it may be enjoyed now or for up to two decades. |
|
| PerUs Wine Co. |
2019 |
Bryn Red Wine |
$125 |
2 |
|
| |
JD 96 (3/2022): Incorporating lots of Merlot, with some Cabernet Sauvignon as well, the 2019 Bryn Proprietary Red has a full-bodied, round, mouth-filling style as well as ample ripe black cherry, chocolate, roasted herb, and bouquet garni-like aromas and flavors. It’s ripe and has great tannins as well as the balance to continue drinking nicely for 10-15 years. (Drink between 2022-2037).
WA 95 (5/2023): A blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon (from Tench Vineyard in Oakville) and 25% Merlot (from Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard in South Napa), the 2019 Bryn Proprietary Red Wine boasts big, intense fruit notes of cassis, blueberries and black cherries. Full-bodied and richly concentrated, this is lush, with great length and gently dusty tannins. Great potential here at a reasonable price.
VM 92 (1/2022): The 2019 Bryn is packed with inky black cherry jam, espresso, licorice, chocolate and savory herbs. Silky and powerful in the glass, the Bryn certainly delivers plenty of impact. It is another powerhouse from PerUs and winemaker Russell Bevan. (Drink between 2024-2034). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Phifer Pavitt |
2019 |
Date Night Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon |
$75 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Prisoner Wine Co. |
2019 |
Unshackled |
$30 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Provenance Vineyards |
2019 |
Deadeye Proprietary Blend |
$39 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Quintessa |
2019 |
Red Wine |
$195 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 97 (2/2024): Still gorgeous, the 2019 Proprietary Red has a more layered, rounded, opulent style while still being pure, balanced, and elegant. Full-bodied, round, and lush, with currants, tobacco, chalky mineral and some graphite notes, it has velvety tannins, no hard edges, and a great finish. The blend is 91% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Cabernet Franc, 2% Merlot, 2% Carmenere, and the rest Petit Verdot, with the élevage spanning 22 months in 60% new French oak. (Drink between 2024-2043).
VM 94 (1/2022): The 2019 Quintessa is one of the best wines I have tasted here in some time. Broad swaths of tannin wrap around a core intense dark plum, mocha, licorice and spice. The 2019 clearly needs a few years in bottle to come together. Quintessa is a large, sprawling property with many different exposures. My feeling is that it may not ultimately be suited to making a single large production flagship wine, but that perhaps a series of smaller production wines might showcase the site better. (Drink between 2024-2036). Antonio Galloni.
WA 95 (9/2022): The 2019 Proprietary Red Wine is more open and effusive than the 2018 version, with gentle floral nuances set against a backdrop of black cherries and cassis, joined by subtle notes of tobacco, cedar and vanilla. In the mouth, it's medium to full-bodied, streamlined, silky and lush, nicely balanced and elegant, with a long, softly dusty finish tinged with licorice and caramel. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. |
|
| Rhys |
2019 |
Bearwallow Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$69 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 96+ (5/2022): The 2019 Pinot Noir Bearwallow Vineyard is a powerful, searing wine. I am not sure I have tasted a Bearwallow with this much sheer intensity. Black cherry, mocha, gravel, cloves and licorice imbue this somber, backward Pinot with quite a bit of complexity. Readers should be in no rush here. The 2019 is an exceptional Bearwallow. (Drink between 2027-2039). Antonio Galloni.
JD 93 (7/2021): Coming from a site in the Anderson Valley region of Mendocino, the 2019 Pinot Noir Bearwallow Vineyard has a classic savoriness in its dried cherry and strawberry fruits as well as loamy soil, spice, and dried herb-like aromas and flavors. Medium-bodied, wonderfully balanced, and elegant on the palate, it has plenty of up-front appeal, yet I have no doubt it will still be going strong in a decade as well. (Drink between 2021-2032).
BH 92 (10/2021): A more elegant and cooler combination is comprised by notes of red currant, plum and plenty of floral elements. I very much like the texture of the sappy and energetic medium weight flavors that possess a supple mid-palate that contrasts with the dusty, serious and moderately austere finale. This robust and powerful effort is definitely built-to-age and a wine that should amply repay a decade plus of cellaring. (Drink starting 2029). |
|
|
2019 |
Home Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$69 |
3 |
|
| |
JD 94+ (7/2021): Ample black cherries, sappy herbs, iron, iodine, and gamey, floral notes emerge from the 2019 Pinot Noir Home Vineyard, and it hits the palate with medium to full-bodied richness, building tannins, a sappy, grippy mouthfeel, and outstanding length. It's mostly potential at this point, but I love its overall balance and length. Give bottles 2-4 years and enjoy over the following decade or more. (Drink between 2023-2035).
VM 94 (5/2022): The 2019 Pinot Noir Home Vineyard is one of the more savory wines in the range. Holiday spice cake, sweet dried cherry, tobacco leaf, cedar and earthy tones are all finely knit together. A Pinot of subtlety and nuance, the Home Vineyard, will appeal most to readers who enjoy understated wines. The 100% whole clusters add quite a bit of savoriness, but not in an exaggerated way. (Drink between 2024-2034). Antonio Galloni.
WA 93 (4/2024): The 2019 Pinot Noir Home Vineyard is lifted and aromatically expressive from the outset, with fresh aromas of cherry blossom, wild strawberry and underbrush. Seamless and svelte on the palate, this finishes on a lively, spry note with mouthwatering acidity and subtle, pleasing tannins. This is ready to enjoy now, but I look forward to following it over the next decade.
BH 91 (10/2021): This is one of the spiciest wines in the range with its array of anise, cinnamon, sandalwood and clove nuances that add breadth to the ultra-fresh essence of red currant, plum and violet. Once again there is a plush and generous mouthfeel to the super-suave medium weight flavors that possess a highly seductive mouthfeel, all wrapped in a dusty, firm and mildly austere finale. While this is one of the few wines that could be enjoyed young, it should also be more than capable of rewarding 6 to 10 years of cellaring. (Drink starting 2026). |
|
| Ridge Vineyards |
2019 |
Geyserville |
$54 |
6 |
|
| |
VM 94 (5/2022): The 2019 Geyserville marks a pretty huge step up in this range. What a wine! Black cherry, plum, chocolate, cloves, menthol and licorice blast across the palate. Deep and saturated, with tremendous concentration, the 2019 Geyserville is a wine to cellar for at least a few years. Today, it is positively stunning. (Drink between 2027-2039). Antonio Galloni.
JD 92 (7/2021): The 2019 Zinfandel Geyserville is 71% Zinfandel, 19% Carignan, and the rest Petite Sirah and Alicante Bouschet. This was a cooler vintage yet this wine reveals plenty of ripeness in its black and blue fruits as well as violets, cigar, and toasted spice-like aromas and flavors. Rich, medium to full-bodied, and expansive on the palate, it has some obvious minerality, building tannins, and a great finish. It's not going to match the 2018, but it’s still a complete, nuanced, complex Zinfandel that will keep for 10-15 years. (Drink between 2021-2036). |
|
| The Ringer |
2019 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon |
$25 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Rivers Marie |
2019 |
Panek Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$139 |
2 |
|
| |
| JD 97 (12/2021): Also dark, concentrated, and dense, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Panek Vineyard boasts a saturated purple hue to go with lots of smoky black and blue fruits, notes of scorched earth, tobacco, chocolate and lead pencil, full-bodied richness, and a round, lush, seamless style on the palate. It's another killer wine from this team that I'd be thrilled to drink any time over the coming two decades. |
|
|
2019 |
Panek Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$149 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 97 (12/2021): Also dark, concentrated, and dense, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Panek Vineyard boasts a saturated purple hue to go with lots of smoky black and blue fruits, notes of scorched earth, tobacco, chocolate and lead pencil, full-bodied richness, and a round, lush, seamless style on the palate. It's another killer wine from this team that I'd be thrilled to drink any time over the coming two decades. |
|
| Schrader |
2019 |
Beckstoffer To Kalon Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$335 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 98 (12/2021): Another spicy, complex, gorgeous wine in every sense, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard Schrader reminds me of the CCS with its pure, seamless, perfectly balanced style. Lots of cassis fruits, notes of flowery incense, baking spices, leather, and unsmoked tobacco, silky tannins, remarkable purity, and a great finish all define this beauty, and it's certainly up with the crème de la crème of this great vintage. |
|
|
2019 |
GIII Beckstoffer Georges III Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$279 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 97 (12/2021): Lots of classic darker, herbal notes define the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Georges III Vineyard, a rich, medium to full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon from winemaker Thomas Rivers Brown. With air, more chocolate, espresso, and spice notes emerge from the glass, and this medium to full-bodied, textured, ripe, yet also elegant 2019 is going to drink brilliantly for another 20 years or so. (Drink between 2021-2041).
WA 95 (9/2022): All Clone 337 from F Block, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Georges III Vineyard GIII delivers masses of black raspberries and cassis, accented by dark chocolate, tobacco and cedar. This full-bodied wine is high-octane stuff, but carries it well, framed by supple tannins and finishing rich, velvety and long. |
|
|
2019 |
Heritage Clone To-Kalon Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$305 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 98+ (12/2021): My notes on the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon To Kalon Vineyard Heritage Clone started with a big "Wow," and it's clearly a structured, serious, incredibly impressive 2019. Giving up plenty of cassis and assorted black and blue fruits, it has a distinct sense of minerality as well as classic Cabernet tobacco, lead pencil, and tobacco leaf nuances. With bright acidity, building tannins, and a concentrated, massive, backward mouthfeel, it needs to be forgotten for 4-5 years and should have decades of prime drinking. |
|
|
2019 |
MB To-Kalon Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$295 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 97 (12/2021): Revealing a vivid purple hue as well as a powerful, more black-fruited, iron, tobacco, and scorched earth-like aromatic profile, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon To Kalon Vineyard Monastery Block is full-bodied, has a rich, powerful attack, great mid-palate density, and brilliant tannins. Coming from a famous block located on the western side of this great vineyard, brought up in new barrels, it's another 2019 that has a rounded, supple, approachable style while also bringing impressive density, depth, and structure. |
|
|
2019 |
T6 Beckstoffer To-Kalon Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$289 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 99 (12/2021): A big, muscular, powerful wine, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard T6 boasts a monster note of blackcurrants, fresh plums, scorched earth, tobacco, and chocolate. This all carries to a full-bodied 2019 with the ripe, savory, concentrated style of the vintage, building tannins, no shortage of fruit, and a great, great finish. It's certainly one of the biggest, richest, more structured wines in the lineup, yet the balance is spot on and everything is in the right places. It's going to take at least 7-8 years for this puppy to shed some of its considerable baby fat and hit maturity, but I wouldn't be surprised to see it evolve for 20 or 30 years. |
|
|
2019 |
Wappo Hill Vyd. Stags Leap District Cabernet Sauvignon |
$249 |
3 |
|
| |
| JD 96 (12/2021): A new wine from this team, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Wappo Hill comes from a famous site in the Stags Leap District and is all Cabernet Sauvignon. At a high level, Stags Leap is a slightly cooler region, and the wines shine for their complexity, and that's certainly the case here. Lots of cassis, violets, graphite, dried flowers, and spicy oak define the bouquet, and it's medium to full-bodied, has good acidity, some chalky tannins, and notable freshness and purity. The acidity is higher here, but this still brings plenty of classic Schrader opulence and texture. |
|
| Sea Smoke |
2019 |
Southing Pinot Noir |
$109 |
11 |
|
| |
| VM 93 (8/2022): The 2019 Pinot Noir Southing is a rich, effusive wine. Bright red cherry fruit, rose petal, blood orange cinnamon and orange peel lend brightness to this mid-weight, articulate Pinot. This opens nicely with air, showing lovely density to play off its natural focus. (Drink between 2022-2031). Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2019 |
Southing Pinot Noir (1.5 L) |
$229 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 93 (8/2022): The 2019 Pinot Noir Southing is a rich, effusive wine. Bright red cherry fruit, rose petal, blood orange cinnamon and orange peel lend brightness to this mid-weight, articulate Pinot. This opens nicely with air, showing lovely density to play off its natural focus. (Drink between 2022-2031). Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2019 |
Ten Pinot Noir |
$109 |
11 |
|
| |
| VM 94+ (8/2022): The 2019 Pinot Noir Ten is bright, punchy and super-expressive. It shows a bit more depth and textural resonance than the Southing. Sweet red cherry fruit blood orange, plum and spice flesh nicely with a bit of time. There's plenty of energy and persistence to support a number of years of fine drinking. (Drink between 2024-2034). Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2019 |
Ten Pinot Noir (1.5 L) |
$279 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 94+ (8/2022): The 2019 Pinot Noir Ten is bright, punchy and super-expressive. It shows a bit more depth and textural resonance than the Southing. Sweet red cherry fruit blood orange, plum and spice flesh nicely with a bit of time. There's plenty of energy and persistence to support a number of years of fine drinking. (Drink between 2024-2034). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Shea Wine Cellars |
2019 |
Shea Vyd. ’Homer’ Pinot Noir |
$129 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 95 (2/2022): Glistening ruby. A complex, highly expressive bouquet evokes spice- and mineral-accented red and blue fruits, potpourri, vanilla, cola and incense. Shows fine detail and cut on the palate, offering sappy Chambord, boysenberry, spicecake and candied rose flavors, along with hints of mocha and smoky minerals. Conveys a suave blend of depth and vivacity and finishes extremely long and juicy, with polished tannins adding shape and closing grip. Josh Raynolds. |
|
| Sojourn Cellars |
2019 |
Gap’s Crown Pinot Noir |
$79 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 95+ (7/2021): I continue to just love the wines from this site, and Sojourn’s 2019 Pinot Noir Gap's Crown Vineyard is a beauty. Lots of plums, darker raspberries, leather, sous bois, and burnt herb notes emerge from the glass, and it hits the palate with medium to full body, a long, elegant, balanced texture, ripe tannins, and a great, great finish. A seriously good Pinot Noir, it should be better with another year in bottle and keep through 2029 or beyond. (Drink between 2021-2029).
WA 92 (6/2021): The 2019 Pinot Noir Gap's Crown Vineyard has a medium ruby-purple color and scents of boysenberries and cranberries with touches of watermelon and red flowers. The palate is medium-bodied, silky and deeply fruited with a layered, spicy finish. |
|
|
2019 |
Sangiacomo Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$65 |
3 |
|
| |
JD 94 (7/2021): A small step up, the 2019 Pinot Noir Sangiacomo Vineyard offers less overt stemmy nuances (I don’t know the whole percentages on any of these) but still has ample spice, underbrush, and redcurrant aromas and flavors. It’s medium to full-bodied, balanced, and elegant, with terrific tannins. As with most 2019s, it’s already drinking nicely. (Drink starting 2021).
WA 90 (6/2021): The 2019 Pinot Noir Sangiacomo Vineyard has a medium ruby color and aromas of watermelon, cranberries, rhubarb and autumn leaves. The palate is medium-bodied, soft, bright and very spicy with an uplifted, bitters-laced finish. |
|
| Sokol Blosser |
2019 |
Goosepen Block Pinot Noir |
$75 |
3 |
|
| |
| WA 92 (5/2023): The 2019 Pinot Noir Goosepen Block has a pale ruby color and aromas of briary fruit, earth, spice and flint. The light-bodied palate is bright and chalky with restrained, spicy fruit and a refreshing finish. |
|
| St. Supery |
2019 |
Estate Cabernet Sauvignon |
$45 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 90 (2/2023): I thought the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate was outstanding, with a medium-bodied, fresh, elegant style as well as plenty of pure blue fruits, leafy herbs, and a kiss of minerality. I loved it’s balance, and this charming, delicious Cabernet will keep for 8-10 years, probably longer. (Drink between 2023-2034) |
|
| Stag's Leap Wine Cellars |
2019 |
Armillary Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon |
$145 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2019 |
Cask 23 Cabernet Sauvignon |
$309 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 99 (2/2023): Coming from a selection from two estate vineyards, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Cask 23 sports a deep purple hue to go with a brilliant bouquet of pure blue fruits (cassis, blueberries, black raspberries) as well as violets, lead pencil shavings, and chocolaty nuances. Concentrated, powerful, and full-bodied on the palate, it's a structured, tannic wine delivering ultra-fine tannins, flawless balance, perfectly integrated oak, and one heck of a great finish. It's probably going to be one of the longest lived 2019s out there. Do your best to hide bottles for 5-7 years, and it will evolve for decades. Bravo! (Drink between 2028-2050).
VM 96 (12/2023): The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Cask 23, the estate's top wine, is seriously impressive. It offers a combination of fruit intensity and structure, with an extra sheen of new oak relative to the other Cabernets that works quite well. Red cherry fruit, blood orange, white pepper, gravel and rose petal are nicely dialed up, adding palpable exotic flair. (Drink between 2029-2044). Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2019 |
Cellarius Series Cabernet Sauvignon |
$109 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2019 |
Distinguished Vineyards Battuello Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$95 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2019 |
Fay Cabernet Sauvignon |
$129 |
6 |
|
| |
|
|
2019 |
Heart of Fay Cabernet Sauvignon |
$149 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Tablas Creek |
2019 |
Esprit de Tablas Proprietary Blend |
$55 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 96 (7/2025): The 2019 Esprit de Tablas opens with a youthfully coiled blend of black cherries and dusty rose complicated by nuances of spiced citrus and clove. It’s seamlessly silky in feel, nearly dense, with crisp mineral tones up front and brisk acidity invigorating its tart wild berry fruits. A gentle tug of fine tannin frames the finish as the 2019 tapers off long and fresh. The 2019 is a cool-toned and classic Esprit de Tablas that’s built for the cellar. I expect this to mature evenly for another 15 years or more. The 2019 growing season started cool but ended quite warm, leading to a compressed harvest, but the fruit that came into the winery was remarkably healthy and perfectly ripe. (Drink between 2028-2040). Eric Guido. |
|
| Tusk Estates |
2019 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$650 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| William & Mary Wine Company |
2019 |
Shifflett Ranch Proprietary Blend |
$92.65 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Williams Selyem |
2019 |
Bucher Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$89 |
1 |
|
| |
| BH 93 (6/2022): A cool and decidedly restrained nose reluctantly offers up its array of red and dark currant, spiced plum and a hint of herbal tea. The sleek, intense and refined medium weight flavors possess a silky mouthfeel while delivering excellent persistence on the balanced and markedly firm finale. This gorgeously textured and highly promising effort will need to develop more depth to merit my rating but the potential to do so certainly appears to be present. (Drink starting 2029). |
|
|
2019 |
Calegari Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$95 |
2 |
|
| |
| BH 92 (6/2022): An exuberantly fresh nose blends both red and blue pinot fruit with notes of exotic spice, lilac and violet. Here too the texture of the medium-bodied flavors is super-sleek thanks to the notably fine-grained tannins supporting the intense, delineated and youthfully austere finale. This well-balanced effort could also use better depth, but the underlying material appears to be more than up to the task. Lovely. (Drink starting 2029). |
|
|
2019 |
Central Coast Pinot Noir |
$69 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 92 (2/2021): The 2019 Pinot Noir Central Coast has a medium ruby-purple color and a nose of black and red berry fruit with touches of blood orange, earth and licorice. The medium-bodied palate is soft, silky and open, with juicy uplift and loads of spicy accents on the finish. 866 cases produced.
BH 88 (4/2021): Notably ripe aromas feature those of black raspberry, currant and a whiff of poached plum. There is good richness to the decidedly plush and round medium-bodied flavors possess good energy and an appealing mouthfeel on the ever-so-mildly tangy finale. This could easily be enjoyed now or held for the development of better depth. (Drink starting 2024).
VM 88 (1/2021): The 2019 Pinot Noir (Central Coast) is laced with dried cherry, tobacco, cedar, dried flowers and earthy notes. This understated, mid-weight Pinot is a terrific choice for drinking over the next few years, while the fruit retains some vibrancy. This is an especially savory style. (Drink between 2021-2027). Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2019 |
Ferrington Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$99 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 95 (8/2022): The 2019 Pinot Noir Ferrington Vineyard has lifted graphitic minerality, red plum, and pine. The palate is energetic and snappy, with lasting red cherry, fine tannins, and mineral-rich earth. Drink 2024-2038. (Drink between 2024-2038). Audrey Frick.
BH 93 (6/2022): A mentholated top note is present on the vigorously spicy blend of poached plum, dark raspberry, Asian-style tea and an interesting hint of hoisin. There is terrific verve and freshness to the beautifully tension-filled flavors that possess a sophisticated texture along with plenty of sappy dry extract that serves to buffer the very firm tannic spine shaping the impressively long, dusty and austere finale. This built-to-age effort will definitely need an extended stay in a cool cellar if you wish to see it at its peak. This too is excellent. (Drink starting 2031). |
|
|
2019 |
Foss Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$79 |
2 |
|
| |
| BH 91 (6/2022): Super-fresh aromas of essence of various red berries, plum, violet and a hint of tea give way to plush, round and delicious middle weight flavors that manage to retain solid delineation on the dusty and austere finale that is bold to the point of being robust. This attractive and well-balanced effort isn't especially refined, though it stops short of being rustic. (Drink starting 2027). |
|
|
2019 |
Russian River Valley Pinot Noir |
$79 |
3 |
|
| |
JD 93 (7/2021): Lots of smoky red and black fruits, peppery herbs, forest floor, and floral notes emerge from the 2019 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley, another medium-bodied, ethereal, elegant wine from this estate. It too has some oak to integrate yet has beautiful tannins and a great finish. Give it a year or two as well.
WA 93 (2/2021): Medium ruby-purple, the 2019 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley has lush aromas of wild berry preserves, aniseed, forest floor, potpourri and tea leaves. The medium-bodied palate is deeply fruited, wonderfully spiced and seamlessly structured, with a very long, layered finish.
BH 91 (4/2021): More reserved aromas are composed by notes of red and dark cherry, spice, especially anise and a whiff of violet. The sleeker and finer middle weight flavors possess really lovely delineation as well as solid punch on the firm, dusty and mildly austere finish that offers slightly better balance. This too needs a few years to add depth, but it seems very promising and is worth checking out. (Drink starting 2026).
VM 89 (1/2021): The 2019 Pinot Noir (Russian River Valley) is a terrific wine in this entry-level part of the range. Supple, open-knit and inviting, the Russian River Pinot captures the essence of the appellation so well. Succulent red/purplish berry fruit, lavender, spice and leather meld into the juicy, inviting finish. (Drink between 2021-2027). Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2019 |
Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir |
$79 |
3 |
|
| |
JD 94 (7/2021): Lots of ripe cherries and mulberries as well as an almost blue fruit quality all emerge from the 2019 Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast. Medium-bodied and super elegant, this seamless Pinot Noir shines on all accounts. It has a kiss of background oak to integrate, yet the balance is spot on, its tannins are ripe and polished, and it's just a gorgeous appellation Pinot Noir that readers should snatch up.
WA 92 (2/2021): Medium ruby, the 2019 Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast offers spicy black fruits on the nose with savory and earthy undertones. The palate is bright and spicy with a finely grained texture and long, uplifted finish. Drink between 2020-2026.
BH 89 (4/2021): Here the very fresh nose is also relatively restrained with fruit that derives more from the red side of the spectrum, along with more discreet spice and floral wisps that include a hint of herbal tea. The delicious and vibrant medium weight flavors are not quite as rich though there is excellent delineation on the mildly edgy and slightly warm if lengthy finish. The balance isn't quite as well dialed in though a few years of keeping may well help. Drink starting 2025.
VM 89 (1/2021): The 2019 Pinot Noir (Sonoma Coast) marries fruit depth and energy so well, brilliantly capturing so much of what makes the coast such an intriguing appellation. Bright mineral accents perk up a core of dark fruit, with a whole range of floral and savory nuances that linger. Drink between 2021-2029. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2019 |
Sonoma County Pinot Noir |
$69 |
3 |
|
| |
JD 94 (7/2021): Lots of ripe cherries and mulberries as well as an almost blue fruit quality all emerge from the 2019 Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast. Medium-bodied and super elegant, this seamless Pinot Noir shines on all accounts. It has a kiss of background oak to integrate, yet the balance is spot on, its tannins are ripe and polished, and it's just a gorgeous appellation Pinot Noir that readers should snatch up.
WA 92 (2/2021): Medium ruby, the 2019 Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast offers spicy black fruits on the nose with savory and earthy undertones. The palate is bright and spicy with a finely grained texture and long, uplifted finish.
BH 89 (4/2021): Here the very fresh nose is also relatively restrained with fruit that derives more from the red side of the spectrum, along with more discreet spice and floral wisps that include a hint of herbal tea. The delicious and vibrant medium weight flavors are not quite as rich though there is excellent delineation on the mildly edgy and slightly warm if lengthy finish. The balance isn't quite as well dialed in though a few years of keeping may well help. (Drink starting 2025).
VM 89 (1/2021): The 2019 Pinot Noir (Sonoma Coast) marries fruit depth and energy so well, brilliantly capturing so much of what makes the coast such an intriguing appellation. Bright mineral accents perk up a core of dark fruit, with a whole range of floral and savory nuances that linger. (Drink between 2021-2029). Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2019 |
Terra De Promissio Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$95 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 94 (2/2021): The 2019 Pinot Noir Terra de Promissio Vineyard is broody on the nose with scents of graphite, woodsmoke, turned earth and licorice over a core of black berry fruit. The palate is soft, spicy, fresh and open with layered, spicy fruits and a long, earth-laced finish. 817 cases were made. Drink between 2020-2028.
VM 92 (1/2021): The 2019 Pinot Noir Terra De Promissio is a very pretty wine. Holiday spice cake, blood orange, mint, star anise and sweet dried cherry lend striking aromatic nuance. Medium in body, silky and also wonderfully refined, with striking mineral-infused drive, the Terra de Promissio has so much to offer. I very much like the energy here. All the elements are so nicely balanced. What an attractive wine this is. Drink between 2024-2034. Antonio Galloni.
BH 91 (4/2021): An elegant, pure and very pretty nose blends notes of spiced plum with those of various dark berry fruit and discreet floral scents. There is very good volume to the solidly concentrated and plush medium-bodied flavors that conclude in a firm, mildly austere and dusty finale. I like the balance of this firm effort that makes clear that it's going to need at least 6 to 8 years to realize its full potential. Drink starting 2027. |
|
|
2019 |
Vista Verde Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$89 |
2 |
|
| |
| BH 91 (6/2022): This airy and exuberantly fresh nose possesses one of the broadest range of spices in the range with its essence of cherry, red currant and Asian-style tea scents. The sleek, delicious and fleshy medium-bodied flavors also manage to retain good delineation on the dusty, sneaky long and youthfully austere finish. This solidly concentrated effort will need to add depth and is a wine that should repay a decade plus of bottle aging. (Drink starting 2029). |
|
|
2019 |
Weir Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$95 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 95 (7/2022): Medium ruby-purple, the 2019 Pinot Noir Weir Vineyard offers deep, pure scents of raspberries, lavender, peppercorn, saline and autumn leaves. The medium-bodied palate is delicate yet concentrated, with a powdery, fresh frame, a rocky mineral streak and detailed floral flavors on the very long, spicy finish. This finessed expression comes from vines planted at about 1,200 feet in elevation in the Yorkville Highlands appellation of Mendocino County, where a lack of coastal influence results in extreme diurnal shifts.
BH 91 (6/2022): A much more restrained nose timidly reveals its aromas of high-toned red berries, anise, violet and a suggestion of lilac. There is excellent intensity to the succulent and caressing yet decidedly powerful flavors that coat the palate with dry extract while exhibiting fine length on the austere, dusty and borderline rustic finale. This very serious effort is already solidly complex, but it does need to flesh out. (Drink starting 2029). |
|
|
2019 |
Westside Road Neighbors Pinot Noir |
$89 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 95 (2/2021): Medium ruby-purple, the 2019 Pinot Noir Westside Road Neighbors offers plush black fruits laced with youthful, classy new oak that gives way to earth and amaro nuances with time in glass. The medium-bodied palate is polished, finely supported and fresh, and it finishes very long and spice-laced. All elegance and class, I can't wait to taste this with a few years of bottle age. Drink between 2020-2030.
VM 93 (1/2021): The 2019 Pinot Noir Westside Road Neighbors is dense, fleshy and wonderfully inviting. Sweet red cherry, red plum, cedar, tobacco and spice all flesh out in a Pinot that balances suppleness with energy. It is another wine in this range that sizzles with vibrancy. Give it a few years in bottle first. Drink between 2026-2036. Antonio Galloni.
JD 92+ (7/2021): Coming from a site in the Russian River, the 2019 Pinot Noir Westside Road Neighbors is more closed aromatically yet certainly has potential in its ripe red and black fruits and spice-driven aromatics. It shows more floral and violet nuances on the palate and is medium-bodied, with a seamless texture and solid length on the finish. Hide bottles for a year or two and it should evolve nicely for 7-8 years. Drink between 2022-2030.
BH 92 (4/2021): An interesting hint of menthol sits atop the cool aromas of dark raspberry, cranberry and anise. There is a more sophisticated texture to the utterly delicious and vibrant medium weight flavors that are at once rich but well-delineated, all wrapped in a relatively powerful, palate coating and lingering finish. This impressively intense effort does need to develop better depth but that should be easily possible given the density of material and firm tannic spine. Drink starting 2029. |
|
| Yesterday |
2019 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon |
$30 |
5 |
|
| |
|
| Producer |
Vint. |
Wine |
Price |
Qty |
Order |
| | Spain |
| Dominio de Pingus |
2012 |
Flor de Pingus (3x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$694.99 |
2 |
|
| |
| VM 93 (9/2014): Vivid ruby. Heady aromas of fresh blackberry, boysenberry and smoky minerals are complicated by pungent hints of vanilla, violet and allspice. Lush, intensely flavored and focused, offering deep dark berry and cherry compote flavors and a suave spicecake nuance. Finishes smooth, sweet and very long, with resonating spiciness, a hint of licorice and fully absorbed tannins. Josh Raynolds. |
|
|
2013 |
Flor de Pingus (3x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$671.99 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2019 |
Flor de Pingus (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,377.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2020 |
Flor de Pingus (3x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$688.99 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 94+ (1/2023): There is around 20% new oak in the 2020 Flor de Pingus, and because it has a little younger vines (there was a land-consolidation project in La Horra in 2006!), there'll be some Garnacha starting in 2021 and maybe some oak vats for aging too. All this shows the direction, where he found structure and volume in the palate, with textured tannins. It's harmonious and elegant, aromatic and floral, perfumed and showy, with contained ripeness and around 14% alcohol. The palate is quite powerful, with abundant but fine tannins. 110,000 bottles were filled in July 2022. |
|
|
2021 |
Flor de Pingus (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,269.98 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2023 |
Flor de Pingus (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,326.99 |
4 |
|
| |
|
|
2006 |
Pingus (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$6,037.99 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 98 (6/2010): The 2006 Pingus is a spectacular effort. A glass-staining saturated opaque purple, it delivers an other-worldly perfume of smoke, lavender, mineral, scorched earth, and an amalgam of kinky black fruits. Voluptuous on the palate in a measured way, it has superb balance, layered, complex flavors, ripe tannin that is entirely covered by the fruit, and a decade of aging potential. This monumental wine will evolve effortlessly for 10-15 years and offer a drinking window extending from 2016 to 2036.
VM 95 (10/2008): Opaque purple. Powerful, mineral-driven aromas of blackberry, blueberry, creme de cassis, incense and floral oils. Fresh dark berry flavors are youthfully crunchy and strikingly pure, with mounting spiciness and minerality. Silky tannins add support to the broad, palate-staining fruit but quickly fade away, allowing the exotic dark berry flavors to stand out. The mineral element clings impressively on the long, sappy, sweet finish. A superb showing, and no doubt the last time I'll get to try this as it costs more per bottle than my car is worth. Josh Raynolds. |
|
|
2007 |
Pingus (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$13,880.97 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 98 (6/2010): Vintage conditions required a stricter selection for the 2007 Pingus. The aromatics are more brooding but seriously multifaceted. Smoke, pencil lead, truffle, Asian spices, blackberry, and licorice notes are followed by a chewy, dense, rich, powerful wine with fully integrated oak, savory black fruits, ripe tannins, and a decade of aging potential. Drink it from 2020 to 2037 if not longer.
VM 95 (10/2009): Glass-staining ruby. Pungent, mineral-driven aromas of black raspberry, bitter cherry, smoky minerals and potpourri, plus a sexy smoky note of cola. Sweet and powerful, with brilliant definition and intensity to the ripe dark berry and cherry flavors. Lush and creamy but energetic, with silky tannins giving shape to the expansive fruit. Highly concentrated but very young wine with a strong, sappy, penetrating finish that echoes the floral note. This is a weighty wine but there's no excess fat or thickness. Stash it away for at least another six years. |
|
|
2011 |
Pingus (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,708.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2013 |
Pingus (1.5 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,150.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2014 |
Pingus (1.5 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,271.99 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2015 |
Pingus (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,819.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2016 |
Pingus (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$8,400.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2017 |
Pingus (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,840.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2019 |
Pingus (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,968.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2020 |
Pingus (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,993.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2021 |
Pingus (1.5 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,372.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2022 |
Pingus (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,670.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2023 |
Pingus (1.5 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,252.99 |
3 |
|
| |
|
|
2023 |
Pingus (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,893.99 |
3 |
|
| |
|
|
2023 |
Pingus (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$6,116.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2019 |
Psi Ribera del Duero |
$31 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 93+ (10/2021): The 2019 PSI combines their knowledge of the vineyards and their new winery. They learned a lot in 2018, a more heterogeneous vintage, and their sorting machine for grapes had to work a lot. 2019 was more homogeneous, an easier harvest when most people made better wine. In the winery, they invested in a simple building but top technology. They used some 10% Garnacha in the blend, which was done one year after aging the lots separately. It really reminds me of the young wines from Ribera del Duero from the early 1990s, with some aromas of orange peel, earthy and smoky (very mild) and with fine-grained tannins. It has good ripeness at 14% alcohol and integrated acidity but great balance. It showcases the style of the 2019s here, fresher than expected and still a sunny vintage, when 2018 was more crystalline. A triumph over the natural conditions of the year. |
|
|
2019 |
Psi Ribera del Duero Nicked Label |
$31 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 93+ (10/2021): The 2019 PSI combines their knowledge of the vineyards and their new winery. They learned a lot in 2018, a more heterogeneous vintage, and their sorting machine for grapes had to work a lot. 2019 was more homogeneous, an easier harvest when most people made better wine. In the winery, they invested in a simple building but top technology. They used some 10% Garnacha in the blend, which was done one year after aging the lots separately. It really reminds me of the young wines from Ribera del Duero from the early 1990s, with some aromas of orange peel, earthy and smoky (very mild) and with fine-grained tannins. It has good ripeness at 14% alcohol and integrated acidity but great balance. It showcases the style of the 2019s here, fresher than expected and still a sunny vintage, when 2018 was more crystalline. A triumph over the natural conditions of the year. |
|
|