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Inventory updated: Tue, Dec 03, 2024 04:02 PM cst
Magnum Collection
Today at Flickinger Wines we would like to showcase our current collection of Magnums. The 1.5L bottles allow for a more delicate aging than the standard size bottles, and they make excellent showpieces to one’s cellar. Both young and well-aged options abound in the list below. Happy Hunting!!
The following are the wines remaining from the offer sent on Friday, October 11, 2024. Please enter your desired quantities and click the 'Add' button.
| Producer |
Vint. |
Wine |
Price |
Qty |
Order |
| | Bordeaux Red |
| Ch. Ausone |
2021 |
St. Emilion (1.5 L)  2021 en Primeur Release |
$1,150 |
4 |
|
| |
WA 97-100 (4/2022): A blend of 65% Cabernet Franc and 35% Merlot, the 2021 Ausone is a strong candidate for the title of wine of the vintage. Wafting from the glass with aromas of wild blueberries and raspberries mingled with rose petals, violets, exotic spices, vine smoke and blood orange, it's full-bodied, seamless and sensual, with a satiny attack that segues into a deep, layered mid-palate of breathtaking precision and intensity without weight. Built around bright acids and ultra-refined tannins and concluding with a resonant, perfumed finish, this profound young Ausone represents the essence of this great limestone terroir. I am not in the habit of drinking six-month-old Bordeaux cask samples, but this is one wine that would have sorely tempted me to make an exception to that rule if my appointment at the estate hadn't been one of the first of the day!
VM 93-95 (5/2022): The 2021 Ausone was picked on September 30 for the Merlot and October 4–6 for the Cabernet Franc, with a higher percentage of Cabernet Franc because some of the Merlot was deselected into the Chapelle. Matured in 90% new oak, this has a fragrant and floral bouquet, more iris than violet, revealing a hint of seaweed in the background. The palate is well-defined, quite strict and focused, certainly one of the more mineral-driven Ausones that I have encountered at this stage. The limestone terroir is evident on the finish. Again, this is a little leaner and less flamboyant than recent vintages. Having tasted Ausone at this prenatal stage for over 20 years, I don’t find the thrilling "drive” or the pyrotechnics of the 2001, 2010, 2016 or 2019. Yet this Ausone is compelling in its own uncompromising way, and I wouldn't want it any different. |
|
| Ch. Haut Bailly |
2014 |
Pessac Leognan (1.5 L) Nicked Label |
$159 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 94 (3/2018): The 2014 Haut-Bailly has a sophisticated bouquet with cedar and gravel-infused red berry fruit, gaining intensity with aeration. The palate is medium-bodied with fine, quite supple tannins that manage to form a firm frame that should see this repay cellaring. There is plenty of attractive, lightly spice red and black fruit, segueing into clove and black olive notes towards the finish. Excellent. Tasted blind at the annual Southwold tasting. Neal Martin |
|
| Ch. Labegorce |
2019 |
Margaux (1.5 L) |
$69 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 89-91 (6/2020): The 2019 Labegorce is a blend of 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 45% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Franc and 6% Petit Verdot, harvested from the 19th of September to the 12th of October. It has an alcohol of 14% and is being aged in French oak barrels, 40% new. Deep garnet-purple in color, the nose offers fragrant scents of damp soil, cedar chest, dried lavender and incense over a core of stewed plums, blackcurrant pastilles and chargrill with a waft of dried herbs. The medium-bodied palate is pretty much open for business with bags of juicy black fruit and an approachable chewiness to the texture, finishing savory.
VM 93-95 (6/2020): The 2019 Labegorce, picked from 19 September to 12 October and matured in 40% new oak, has one of the more flamboyant Margaux bouquets with expressive black cherries, bilberry, light cedar notes and crushed violet. It develops impressive cohesion with aeration. The palate is medium-bodied and what you first notice is the finesse of the tannins. This has a satin-like texture and very well judged acidity. The new oak does poke out a little on the finish - if that can be assimilated during its barrel maturation, this could turn into a very serious Margaux.
JD 93-95 (6/2020): Quintessential Margaux notes of red and blue fruits, sandalwood, flowery incense, and baking spices emerge from the 2019 Château Labegorce. Medium to full-bodied, it has a plush, sexy texture, sweet tannins, and a great finish. A final blend of 46% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Cabernet Franc, and a splash of Petit Verdot that was raised in 40% new French oak, it's going to have loads of upfront appeal yet cruise for two decade or more in cold cellars.
JS 91-92 (6/2020): A creamy, refined red with currant and berry aromas and flavors. Hints of citrus and chocolate. Medium to full body with ripe, creamy tannins. |
|
| Ch. Lafite Rothschild |
2020 |
Pauillac (1.5 L) Ex-Negociant |
$1,550 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 100 (3/2023): Looking at the Grand Vin, the 2020 Château Lafite-Rothschild is a sensational effort checking in as 92% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Merlot, and the rest Petit Verdot that hit 12.8% natural alcohol and a pH of 3.94. As Lafite as Lafite gets, this ultra-classic reveals a dense ruby/plum hue as well as a tight, yet layered bouquet of ripe blackcurrants, smoked tobacco, freshly sharpened pencils, graphite, and subtle spice. Flawlessly balanced, deep, concentrated, and layered, it has an incredible mid-palate, building, perfect tannins, and a finish that leaves you salivating. Refined, elegant, and perfection are the buzz words here. Unfortunately, it's not for the instant gratification crowd, and I wouldn't be surprised to see this require 15 years to hit the early stages of its prime drinking window. It will probably hit its 100th birthday in fine form.
VM 98 (2/2023): The 2020 Lafite-Rothschild, which contains the highest proportion of Merlot since the 2016, hit the bull's eye from barrel. Revisiting the wine in the bottle since July, it still bursts from the glass with copious blackberries, touches of blueberry and juniper, pencil lead and a hint of crushed stone. Wonderful delineation. The palate is medium-bodied with finely-chiseled tannins, quite linear and "correct" - a quintessential Lafite-Rothschild in many ways. It gently builds in the mouth while keeping a restraint on things, finishing with fine sapidity yet a little more juiciness than you would have found a decade or two earlier. This has the potential to evolve beautifully over several decades. Neal Martin.
JS 99-100 (4/2021): Rather ethereal and so refined with finesse, focus and brightness that provides incredible energy and pedigree. It’s full-bodied with ultra fine tannins that go on and on. Superb presence with tannins that melt into the wine. This is 12.8%. I love the wine. Lots of dark fruit and fresh tobacco. Lead pencil, too. 92% cabernet sauvignon, 7% merlot and 1% petit verdot.
WA 96-98 (5/2021): Displaying a deep purple-black color, the 2020 Lafite Rothschild takes a little swirling and coaxing to unlock scents of freshly crushed blackcurrants, boysenberries and spiced plums, followed by emerging nuances of red roses, raspberry preserves, underbrush and unsmoked cigars, with a waft of cedar chest. The medium-bodied palate is an exercise in elegance and finesse, featuring tightly wound layers of red and black berries and loads of mineral sparks, framed by finely grained tannins and well-poised tension, finishing with fantastic length and the most stunning perfume. Magnificent achievement. This 2020 is a blend of 92% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Merlot and 1% Petit Verdot, coming in at 12.8% alcohol and a pH of 3.9. |
|
| | Bordeaux White |
| Les Pagodes de Cos |
2019 |
Bordeaux Blanc (1.5 L) ex-Negociant |
$97.99 |
10 |
|
| |
|
| Pavillon Blanc du Chateau Margaux |
2009 |
Margaux (1.5 L) ex-Negociant |
$539 |
10 |
|
| |
| WS 94 (3/2012): This really sneaks up on you, with laserlike focus to the blanched macadamia nut, honeysuckle, white peach and creamed yellow apple fruit flavors. Very sleek and restrained, with a long, stone-framed finish that's as pure as freshly fallen snow. Best from 2013 through 2023. |
|
| | Burgundy Red |
| Dom. des Lambrays |
2008 |
Clos des Lambrays Grand Cru (1.5 L) |
$795 |
4 |
|
| |
| BH 93 (1/2011): (produced from two large parcels of differing vine age - one that is approximately two-thirds of the blend and is now 45 years of age and a second, smaller group of vines that is approximately 20+ years of age.) The deeply pitched nose evidences obvious earth and floral influences on the mostly ripe red pinot fruit aromas that complement the rich, pure and detailed medium weight flavors that culminate in a dusty and mouth coating finish where the supporting tannins display a clear stem influence. This is an excellent wine though it may not be to everyone's taste due to the obvious stem character. Drink 2020+. |
|
|
2014 |
Clos des Lambrays Grand Cru (1.5 L) |
$695 |
8 |
|
| |
WA 93-95 (12/2015): The 2014 Clos des Lambrays Grand Cru is matured in 50% new oak and is 100% whole bunch fruit. It is blessed with a winsome bouquet. As usual, there is something very natural, unimposing and refined on the nose: blackberry and briary, a hint of graphite, a subtle leafiness maybe, and yet delineated and very pure. The palate is lively and energetic with crisp tannin, black rather than red fruit, linear and very classic in style with what you might call a "cool" marine-influenced finish that has fine salinity. What a great Clos des Lambrays that will put a smile on the face of those that adore refined Burgundy.
VM 92-94 (1/2016): (Taupenot makes less than a barrel of wine annually from a tiny parcel planted in 1975 at the bottom of the Clos des Lambrays): Slightly hazy medium red. A deep earthy perfume complements aromas of raspberry, spices and dried flowers. A bit imploded but surprisingly fresh and vibrant on the palate, with flavors of raspberry and flowers tweaked by a pungent blood orange note. The very long, slowly mounting finish features slightly tight tannins, a subtle saline quality and considerable finesse."This is never a powerful style, but more about length and charm," noted Taupenot. Still, this beauty will need at least seven or eight years of bottle aging.
BH 91-94 (1/2016): (produced from two large parcels of differing vine age - one that is approximately two-thirds of the blend and is now 50+ years of age and a second, smaller group of vines that is approximately 25+ years of age; made with 100% whole clusters.) A notably spicy, fresh, cool and floral nose displays mostly red berry fruit scents that are trimmed in discreet wood notes. There is excellent cut and definition to the nicely rich and attractively textured flavors that culminate in a presently austere finale though I doubt that austerity will persist. This is a relatively fine and forward vintage for Clos des Lambrays and one that should be approachable after only 7 to 8 years of bottle age. Drink 2026+. |
|
|
2014 |
Clos des Lambrays Grand Cru (1.5 L)
ETA 120-180 Days; No cancellations or returns |
$722.99 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 93-95 (12/2015): The 2014 Clos des Lambrays Grand Cru is matured in 50% new oak and is 100% whole bunch fruit. It is blessed with a winsome bouquet. As usual, there is something very natural, unimposing and refined on the nose: blackberry and briary, a hint of graphite, a subtle leafiness maybe, and yet delineated and very pure. The palate is lively and energetic with crisp tannin, black rather than red fruit, linear and very classic in style with what you might call a "cool" marine-influenced finish that has fine salinity. What a great Clos des Lambrays that will put a smile on the face of those that adore refined Burgundy.
VM 92-94 (1/2016): (Taupenot makes less than a barrel of wine annually from a tiny parcel planted in 1975 at the bottom of the Clos des Lambrays): Slightly hazy medium red. A deep earthy perfume complements aromas of raspberry, spices and dried flowers. A bit imploded but surprisingly fresh and vibrant on the palate, with flavors of raspberry and flowers tweaked by a pungent blood orange note. The very long, slowly mounting finish features slightly tight tannins, a subtle saline quality and considerable finesse."This is never a powerful style, but more about length and charm," noted Taupenot. Still, this beauty will need at least seven or eight years of bottle aging.
BH 91-94 (1/2016): (produced from two large parcels of differing vine age - one that is approximately two-thirds of the blend and is now 50+ years of age and a second, smaller group of vines that is approximately 25+ years of age; made with 100% whole clusters.) A notably spicy, fresh, cool and floral nose displays mostly red berry fruit scents that are trimmed in discreet wood notes. There is excellent cut and definition to the nicely rich and attractively textured flavors that culminate in a presently austere finale though I doubt that austerity will persist. This is a relatively fine and forward vintage for Clos des Lambrays and one that should be approachable after only 7 to 8 years of bottle age. Drink 2026+. |
|
| Dom. Henri Boillot |
2018 |
Volnay (1.5 L) |
$149 |
3 |
|
| |
WA 90 (1/2020): Aromas of cassis, dark berries and violets, framed by a deft touch of new oak, introduce the 2018 Volnay Village, a medium to full-bodied, ample and succulent wine with a lively core of fruit and powdery structuring tannins. This is a charming and beautifully defined Volnay that will offer a broad drinking window.
BH 89 (4/2020): ( from Le Village.) A more deeply pitched nose combines notes of violet with those of cassis and plum. The sleek, intense and beautifully vibrant medium weight flavors possess fine delineation and a subtle minerality that adds a sense of lift to the balanced, long, linear and youthfully austere finale. This too is very good for its level. Drink 2024+. Outstanding Top Value! |
|
| Dom. Pierre Bertheau & Fils |
2010 |
Chambolle Musigny 1er Cru Les Amoureuses (1.5 L) |
$1,900 |
1 |
|
| |
| BH 93 (1/2013): A wonderfully, even exuberantly spicy mix of red currant, plum and floral nuances gives way to rich, elegant and impressively refined middle weight flavors that possess impeccable balance on the mineral-driven and utterly delicious finish. This understated and beautifully concentrated effort is a stunner of an Amoureuses that possesses a mouth feel of silk and lace. Drink 2020+. |
|
| Joseph Drouhin |
1995 |
Musigny Grand Cru (1.5 L) Bin-Soiled Label, Signs of Old Seepage |
$1,500 |
1 |
|
| |
BH 93 (5/2007): A marvelously complex nose that is just beginning to display the first hints of secondary aromas (though no sous bois) leads to concentrated black cherry flavors with firm but harmonious tannins underpinned by firm acidity and excellent length where the structure comes across as a dusty element. This is a big wine by the standards of the domaine and is very classy juice that continues to positively evolve and as such, I have extended my suggested drinking window. Drink: 2012+.
WA 90-92 (6/1997): The day I tasted the dark-colored Musigny, it was extremely muted aromatically. On the palate it revealed tightly wound (almost nervous), super-delineated and polished fresh cherries, cassis and violets. Medium-to-full bodied, supple and very long, it is obviously an Outstanding wine but it is closed. Anticipated maturity: 2002-2010.
WS 90 (1/1998): Sexy and racy, with wild raspberry, rose petal, violet, mocha and white chocolate character. Full-bodied, with ripe but firm tannins. Nice finesse. Drink now through 2010. |
|
| Maison Henri Boillot |
2022 |
Bourgogne Pinot Noir (1.5 L) ex-Domaine |
$89.99 |
1 |
|
| |
BH 87 (4/2024): (from vineyards in Santenay, Marsannay and the lower portions of Volnay.) An unusually elegant nose for the genre features perfumed aromas of plum, violet and cool cherry. There is both a lovely texture and energy to the delicious middleweight flavors that deliver fine length on the lingering finish where the only nit is a touch of warmth. Serve it cool though and you won't notice. Drink 2025+. Outstanding!
VM 88-90 (1/2024): The 2022 Bourgogne is bursting with red purplish fruit, spice, rose petal and lavender. This mid-weight, fruity Bourgogne is an absolute delight. Enjoy it over the next few years. It’s a great introduction to this range. Neal Martin. |
|
|
2022 |
Chambertin Clos de Beze Grand Cru (1.5 L) ex-Domaine; 1-magnum OWC |
$1,099.99 |
3 |
|
| |
BH 94 (4/2024): An exuberantly spicy and quite floral-suffused nose features notes of wild currant, cherry and a gamy hint. The super-sleek and even finer yet more powerful larger-bodied flavors display impressive power on the even more complex, balanced and highly persistent finale. This is a big wine yet the balance is such that it could be approached after only 5 to 7 years. Drink 2034+.
VM 93-95+ (1/2024): The 2022 Chambertin Clos de Bèze Grand Cru is an imposing young wine. A blast of blue fruit, lavender, licorice, gravel, crushed rock and menthol saturates the palate. This bruiser is going to need time to be at its best, but it is pretty impressive, even in the early going. Neal Martin. |
|
| Maison Mommessin |
1996 |
Clos de Tart Grand Cru (1.5 L) Signs of Old Seepage |
$1,250 |
6 |
|
| |
| BH 89 (3/2013): I have had two distinctly different experiences with this wine. The most recent example was notably better than the first as it displayed none of the acidic dryness of the first and while, like most '96s, the flavors are not especially dense, there was excellent depth, length and overall balance. Moreover there was a really lovely perfumed and highly complex character to the nose. An excellent Clos de Tart and one that has basically arrived at its peak. For those who might be interested to read how the first bottle performed, please see the big Clos de Tart Progress Report that appeared in Issue 37. Drink Now+. |
|
| | Burgundy White |
| Bouchard Pere et Fils |
2009 |
Le Montrachet Grand Cru (1.5 L) |
$1,200 |
6 |
|
| |
BH 94-96 (7/2011): This is also notably ripe yet remains very fresh; indeed there is noticeable restraint to the cool, pure and quite dense floral, citrus and orchard fruit aromas that included spiced pear, apple and both yellow and white peach. The powerful and almost painfully intense flavors ooze dry extract that buffers the quite firm acid spine that shapes the driving and explosively long finish where ample minerality surfaces. This is a sizeable but not truly massive effort that remains exceptionally well-balanced despite its density. Terrific potential.
VM 94-97 (10/2010): Pale yellow. Aromas of very ripe peach and pineapple enlivened by more delicate crushed stone. Rich, fully ripe and hugely deep, with great complexity to its flavors of stone fruits, flowers and spices. Near-perfect phenolic maturity here (the potential alcohol was 13.2% and the wine finished close to 13.5%). The finish boasts outstanding palate-staining persistence and an ineffable floral character. One of the longest 2009s I tasted in Burgundy on my spring tour, and not at all an austere style of Montrachet. According to Prost, Bouchard has been picking its Montrachet later and later, and DRC earlier and earlier. "In 2009, we picked on the same day," he told me. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
| Dom. Francois Raveneau |
2008 |
Chablis 1er Cru Montee de Tonnerre (1.5 L) Cracked Wax Capsule |
$1,695 |
1 |
|
| |
BH 94 (10/2010): (from a huge parcel of 2.5 ha though this figure includes the surface area in Chapelot). A more elegant as well as more refined but also much more reserved nose of white flower and salt water aromas is very much in keeping with the equally refined, pure and silky middle weight flavors that possess excellent detail and precision on the textured and seductive finish that displays grand cru level persistence. This is not quite as rich as the Butteaux but it's finer as the chiseled flavors are flat out gorgeous. In a word, stunning. Drink 2016+. Outstanding!
WA 93-94+ (10/2010): Iris, narcissus, peony, heliotrope, lemon, white peach, and litchi combine for the knockout nose of Raveneau’s 2008 Chablis Montee de Tonnerre. Uncannily combining a sense of textural richness, underlying extract, and decisively stony, alkaline, chalky, oyster shell minerality that go beyond its fellow premier crus in this collection. Yet this preserves a vintage-typical core of primary juiciness that helps convey lip-smacking appeal. Musky, sweet floral notes cling to the prodigiously long, expansive, finish of this almost certainly relatively un-evolved wine. Give it several years in bottle and expect to be rewarded for over a decade.
VM 93-94 (8/2010): Pale, green-tinged color. Discreet aromas of citrus rind and crushed oyster shell. At once penetrating and sweet, with surprising pliancy to the concentrated mineral and lemon flavors. Not a particularly powerful style but refined and very long. In fact, this really explodes and echoes on the aftertaste. A superb premier cru. |
|
| Dom. Hubert Lamy |
2016 |
St. Aubin 1er Cru Clos de la Chateniere (1.5 L) Cracked Wax Capsule |
$425 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 92 (10/2019): The 2016 Saint-Aubin Clos de la Chatenière 1er Cru has a lovely generous bouquet with beeswax and honeysuckle, light apricot aromas and a faint smear of vanilla. The palate is fresh and vibrant on the entry, beautifully balanced with a fine bead of acidity, taut and linear towards the finish with a citric bite that urges you back for another sip. What a great white Burgundy from Olivier Lamy. Neal Martin. |
|
| Joseph Drouhin |
1995 |
Le Montrachet Marquis de Laguiche Grand Cru (1.5 L) Nicked Label |
$1,399 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 93-95 (4/1997): To no one's surprise, the Montrachet Marquis de Laguiche is Drouhin's finest 1995. Made entirely in 1st year oak (oak barrels that have been used once, not new oak), rich honeysuckle aromas burst from the glass with a touch of honeyed spice. The wine is extremely viscous and fat (my notes say: "wouldn't legally be considered a liquid") and has very ripe flavors of rich, toasted and roasted, lively fruits. This full-bodied, beautifully delineated wine exemplifies Montrachet, as it combines Batard's forward, sultry fruit and Chevalier's elegance and precision. Drink it between 2005-2012.
WS 93 (4/1997): Subtle and classy, this wine is supple with near-perfect balance and spice, ripe fruit, toasted bread and mineral flavors that linger for minutes on the great, racy finish. Full-bodied; try around 2005. |
|
|
1995 |
Le Montrachet Marquis de Laguiche Grand Cru (1.5 L) Very Lightly Nicked Label |
$1,699 |
3 |
|
| |
WA 93-95 (4/1997): To no one's surprise, the Montrachet Marquis de Laguiche is Drouhin's finest 1995. Made entirely in 1st year oak (oak barrels that have been used once, not new oak), rich honeysuckle aromas burst from the glass with a touch of honeyed spice. The wine is extremely viscous and fat (my notes say: "wouldn't legally be considered a liquid") and has very ripe flavors of rich, toasted and roasted, lively fruits. This full-bodied, beautifully delineated wine exemplifies Montrachet, as it combines Batard's forward, sultry fruit and Chevalier's elegance and precision. Drink it between 2005-2012.
WS 93 (4/1997): Subtle and classy, this wine is supple with near-perfect balance and spice, ripe fruit, toasted bread and mineral flavors that linger for minutes on the great, racy finish. Full-bodied; try around 2005. |
|
| Maison Henri Boillot |
2022 |
Batard Montrachet Grand Cru (1.5 L) ex-Domaine; 1-magnum OWC |
$1,899 |
2 |
|
| |
BH 96 (6/2024): (one contiguous parcel measuring about .24 ha is spread evenly between Chassagne and Puligny; Boillot calls it his Bâtard du Milieu.)
VM 95-97 (1/2024): The 2022 Batard-Montrachet Grand Cru emerges from holdings that straddle the Chassagne and Puligny sides. Super-elegant and refined, Boillot's Batard has a ton to offer, even if it is rather reticent at this stage. White flowers, mint, spice and light pastry overtones add layers of nuance. The 2022 is unctuous, but not at all heavy. This really opens beautifully onto its explosive finish. Neal Martin. |
|
| | Rhone Red |
| Bernard Levet |
2012 |
Cote Rotie Maestria (1.5 L) |
$175 |
3 |
|
| |
| VM 92 (2/2015): Vivid purple. Deeply pitched aromas of black and blue fruits, olive paste, tobacco and black pepper, with a hint of candied flowers in the background. Juicy, focused and energetic, offering vibrant blackberry, bitter cherry and violet pastille flavors that gain sweetness and spiciness with air. The smoky note comes back on the long, spice-accented finish, which is framed by fine-grained, gently gripping tannins. Josh Raynolds. |
|
|
2013 |
Cote Rotie Maestria (1.5 L) |
$175 |
2 |
|
| |
| VM 94 (4/2016): Dark purple. Powerful, strongly perfumed blackberry and cherry liqueur scents pick up sexy floral and spicecake nuances and a hint of smokiness with aeration. Rich, seamless and broad on the palate, offering concentrated yet lively black and blue fruit and violet pastille flavors energized by juicy acidity and an intense mineral quality. Finishes smooth, sweet and extremely long, with velvety tannins and a strong echo of peppery spices and smoky minerals. Josh Raynolds. |
|
|
2015 |
Cote Rotie Maestria (1.5 L) |
$195 |
3 |
|
| |
| VM 93 (4/2018): Bright purple. Intensely perfumed aromas of dark berry liqueur, cherry compote, olive, licorice candy and smoky bacon show excellent focus and mineral lift. Stains the palate with intense, appealingly sweet blueberry and fruitcake flavors that become deeper and spicier with air. Distinctly rich, in the style of the years, but this wine comes off surprisingly graceful and precise and finishes with wonderful persistence and chewy, slowly emerging tannins. Josh Raynolds. |
|
| Ch. de Beaucastel |
2010 |
Chateauneuf du Pape (1.5 L) |
$295 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 96 (10/2012): Showing consistently with the barrel review, the 2010 Château de Beaucastel Châteauneuf-du-Pape (30% Grenache, 30% Mourvedre, 10% Syrah, 10% Counoise, and the remainder an assortment of varieties) is a classic Beaucastel that has both richness and elegance. Showing loads of black cherry, new leather, licorice, pepper, and hints of flowers on the nose, this full-bodied, structured, yet surprisingly elegant and polished 2010 has fantastic purity of fruit, superb balance, and knockout length. Showing more and more structure with air, this needs 3-5 years of bottle age, and should evolve gracefully for upwards of two decades or more.
WA 95 (10/2012): Interestingly enough, even though many of the 2010 Perrin et Fils selections from the southern Rhone were scheduled to be bottled right after my visit, the 2010 Beaucastel had already been put in bottle. This is a gorgeous wine, a classic blend of 30% Grenache, 30% Mourvedre, 10% Syrah, 10% Counoise and the balance the other permitted varietals in the appellation. Deep purple, with loads of bouquet garni, beef blood, blackberry, kirsch, smoke and truffle, this wine is full-bodied, rich and showing even better than it did last year. I still think it needs 3-5 years of cellaring, and it should last for 25-30 years, as most of the top vintages of Beaucastel do.
WS 96 (10/2013): (WS #6 wine of 2013) Dark, dense and very closed now, this has a tremendous core of crushed plum, linzer torte and blackberry confiture waiting in reserve. Ample singed cedar and mesquite, warm paving stone and black tea notes lurk in the background and glide through the finish. Features serious grip, but wonderful integration. Should cruise in the cellar. Best from 2016 through 2035. 7,500 cases made, 4,500 cases imported.
VM 94 (2/2013): Bright ruby. Sexy, spice- and mineral-accented aromas of red and dark fruit preserves and garrigue. Juicy and expansive on the palate, offering vibrant black raspberry and bitter cherry flavors, a hint of smokiness and intense minerality. Tannins come on late and are quickly sucked up by this wine's intense fruit. Rich and lively, with excellent finishing clarity and length. Josh Raynolds. |
|
| Chimere |
2015 |
Chateauneuf du Pape (1.5 L) |
$2,000 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 97 (2/2018): The 2015 Châteauneuf du Pape Chimère is a selection of Mourvèdre made by the Maurel brothers of Clos Saint Jean, oenologist Philippe Cambie, and Sine Qua Non genius Manfred Krankl. I believe there’s a touch of Grenache in the blend, as well as some Clairette and other varieties, but the bulk of this cuvee comes from the famed la Crau lieu-dit and is brought up all in demi-muids. It offers a beautiful perfume of sweet kirsch and blueberry fruit intermixed with loads of licorice, sweet spice, violets, and crushed rocks. Full-bodied, super intense, sweetly fruited, perfumed, and complex, it’s a gorgeous 2015 that does everything right. Forget bottles for 4-6 years and it should keep for 2 to 3 decades. |
|
|
2016 |
Chateauneuf du Pape (1.5 L) |
$1,295 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 99 (4/2019): The 2016 Chimere is another brilliant wine made from a collaboration between Sine Qua Non’s Manfred Krankl and the Maurel Brothers of Clos Saint Jean. The 2016 is a blend of 93% Mourvèdre, 5% Grenache, and 2% Grenache Blanc, all from the famed La Crau lieu-dit, that was brought up in new 300-liter barrels. It offers an incredible, singular style in its sweet blackberry and blueberry fruits, incense, crushed flowers, ground pepper, and smoked herb. This lavish, powerful, super-intense effort is nevertheless perfectly balanced and seamless, and it shows the purity and vibrancy of this vintage beautifully. Given its sweet tannins, it's already approachable and delivers incredible pleasure, yet it's going to keep for 20-30 years. |
|
|
2016 |
Chateauneuf du Pape (1.5 L) |
$1,899 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 99 (4/2019): The 2016 Chimere is another brilliant wine made from a collaboration between Sine Qua Non’s Manfred Krankl and the Maurel Brothers of Clos Saint Jean. The 2016 is a blend of 93% Mourvèdre, 5% Grenache, and 2% Grenache Blanc, all from the famed La Crau lieu-dit, that was brought up in new 300-liter barrels. It offers an incredible, singular style in its sweet blackberry and blueberry fruits, incense, crushed flowers, ground pepper, and smoked herb. This lavish, powerful, super-intense effort is nevertheless perfectly balanced and seamless, and it shows the purity and vibrancy of this vintage beautifully. Given its sweet tannins, it's already approachable and delivers incredible pleasure, yet it's going to keep for 20-30 years. |
|
|
2017 |
Chateauneuf du Pape (1.5 L) |
$799 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 95 (6/2020): The 2017 Chimère reminds me a little of the 2011 with its more elegant yet still powerful style. Beautiful notes of black cherries, blueberries, cured meats, pepper, tree bark, and new leather all emerge from the glass, followed by a rich, medium to full-bodied, tight, backward and unevolved Mourvèdre that needs forgotten for 4-5 years. As always, this cuvee is primarily Mourvèdre (it’s normally blended with Grenache and other varieties, even some white varieties) and there are a scant 100 cases made. While I don’t think this beauty hits the heights of the 2016, it’s still a brilliant, singular wine that will evolve for 20 years or more. |
|
|
2017 |
Chateauneuf du Pape (1.5 L) |
$825 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 95 (6/2020): The 2017 Chimère reminds me a little of the 2011 with its more elegant yet still powerful style. Beautiful notes of black cherries, blueberries, cured meats, pepper, tree bark, and new leather all emerge from the glass, followed by a rich, medium to full-bodied, tight, backward and unevolved Mourvèdre that needs forgotten for 4-5 years. As always, this cuvee is primarily Mourvèdre (it’s normally blended with Grenache and other varieties, even some white varieties) and there are a scant 100 cases made. While I don’t think this beauty hits the heights of the 2016, it’s still a brilliant, singular wine that will evolve for 20 years or more. |
|
|
2018 |
Chateauneuf du Pape (1.5 L) |
$800 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 96 (8/2021): A challenging year for the appellation, the 2018 Châteauneuf Du Pape is a Mourvèdre dominated release that's put together by California superstar Manfred Krankl and the incredible team at Clos Saint Jean. Released only in magnum (it's a tiny production cuvée), it reveals a translucent ruby/purple hue to go with a beautiful perfume of black raspberries, kirsch, orange blossom, candied violets, and peppery garrigue-like nuances. Gorgeous on the palate as well, it shows a medium to full-bodied, incredibly seamless style carrying polished tannins, a layered, elegant mouthfeel, good overall freshness (I'm sure the acidity is low), and a great finish. It unquestionably ranks with the top wines in the vintage and should drink brilliantly over the coming 10-15 years. |
|
|
2019 |
Chateauneuf du Pape (1.5 L) |
$895 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2021 |
Chateauneuf du Pape (1.5 L) |
$880 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Clos des Papes |
2011 |
Chateauneuf du Pape (1.5 L) |
$235 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 96 (10/2013): One of the stars of the vintage and coming from absurdly low yields of 18 hectoliters per hectare, the 2011 Chateauneuf du Pape is a full-bodied, seamless effort that exhibits copious kirsch, ground pepper, dried flowers and underbrush as well as incredibly fine tannin, great mid-palate concentration and ample length on the finish. Relatively forward by this estate’s standards, it will be approachable at an earlier age than normal. Nevertheless, it will have 20+ years of evolution and is an awesome effort in the vintage. Drink 2015-2030.
WS 95 (11/2013): Delivers a beautifully pure and velvety note of cassis that holds sway over an ample range of blackberry paste, blood orange, singed apple wood and bergamot notes. The long finish shows succulent flesh and a buried iron accent. The grip is integrated, the acidity mouthwatering and the depth impressive for the vintage. Best from 2015 through 2030. 9,000 cases made.
VM 93 (2/2014): Vivid ruby. Smoky cherry, red berry and potpourri scents show excellent clarity and pick up spiciness with aeration. Stains the palate with intense black raspberry and bitter cherry flavors, with a sexy floral pastille quality adding complexity. Finishes with impressive energy and thrust, firmed by fine-grained tannins and piquant minerality. Avril thinks that this will be an ager based on its balance.
JD 92-95 (9/2012): As is normal here, I was able to taste the 2011 Clos des Papes Châteauneuf-du-Pape from numerous foudres and assorted blends, as well as from a single foudre that contains a rough equivalent of the final blend. While 2011 is certainly a more difficult vintage, this estate excelled and has a rare level of depth in concentration, with each sample showing solid intensity on the nose, medium to full-body, and a rich, concentrated mid-palate. I do not think it will compete with the ’06, ’07, or ’10, but will easily be a mid 90-point wine that will delight Clos des Papes lovers.
JLL ***[*] (11/2013): Plum red colour, fair depth. There is a fragrant top note to an open, plum-fruited aroma that proffers a curve of ripeness, a sprinkle of herbs such as rosemary, fennel. The attack feels some of its inherent power - there is that line of near spirit-led glow through it. This has a misleading youth - there are kirsch and similar Mirabelle plum flavours, not young ones. It needs leaving until its middle age, such as 2018. Bosky and sous-bois, damp forest floor notes and tobacco beckon. This isn’t particularly ensemble as it stands; its matter doesn’t show a full façade - I find it facile. With its Pinot Noir implications, here the Southern Rhône is taking the Burgundian route - this works better in the Northern Rhône, where the alcohol levels are much lower. |
|
|
2020 |
Chateauneuf du Pape (1.5 L) |
$185.99 |
3 |
|
| |
WA 96-98 (5/2022): Proprietor Paul-Vincent Avril expects to bottle 100,000 bottles of something approximating this "final blend," tasted out of foudre. A blend of 55% Grenache, 35% Mourvèdre and 10% Syrah and other permitted varieties, the 2020 Chateauneuf du Pape looked exceptional on this day, offering up scents of framboise and kirsch alongside dried flowers and Asian spices. Full-bodied yet weightless, silky and long, this is special stuff, complex and balanced.
JD 94-96 (11/2021): Looking at the reds, the 2020 Châteauneuf Du Pape is a silky, elegant wine that shows the vintage to a T. I was able to taste through all the foudres of the cuvee as well as one that’s a final blend, with all showing beautiful red and black fruits, peppery garrigue, and floral nuances. The purity of fruit is remarkable, and this will be a medium to full-bodied, finesse-driven, yet still concentrated vintage for this cuvee that readers will love. |
|
|
2022 |
Chateauneuf du Pape (1.5 L) |
$188.99 |
10 |
|
| |
JD 97-99 (10/2023): The 2022 Châteauneuf Du Pape reminds me of the 2007 with its incredible sexiness and seamless, elegant texture. Black cherry liqueur, Provençal herbs, flowers, and licorice are just some of its nuances, and it's full-bodied, with a layered mouthfeel, gorgeous tannins, and a great, great finish. Tasted from multiple foudre, this is unquestionably up with the finest in the vintage, and as I’ve written in the past, it’s almost impossible to have too much Clos des Papes in the cellar!
WA 97-99 (9/2023): The 2022 Chateauneuf du Pape is a richly concentrated effort, dark-fruited and loaded with black cherries and blackberries, yet it's not without nuance, as it includes hints of asphalt, truffle and dried spices. Full-bodied (15.4% alcohol), deep and velvety, with a long, softly dusty finish, it looks to be a real beauty, capable of aging up to two decades. |
|
| Dom. de la Vieille Julienne |
2018 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Les Trois Sources (1.5 L) |
$144.99 |
34 |
|
| |
VM 92 (6/2023): The 2018 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Les Trois Sources is showing wonderfully, opening in the glass with dark cherry and plum aromas, strawberry, leather and a dash of white pepper. Full-bodied, concentrated and framed by slightly drying tannins it is well-balanced by refreshing acidity, closing with a savory finish. Due to the presence of mildew, only half the normal amount of production was achieved. Nicholas Greinacher.
JD 95 (10/2020): True to form, the 2018 Châteauneuf Du Pape Les Trois Sources is a softer, more elegant wine than the Les Hauts-Lieux and offers a gorgeous perfume of black cherries, black licorice, tapenade, violets, herbes de Provence, and jus de viande. Deep, full-bodied, and beautifully layered, it gains weight with time in the glass and is going to benefit from just short-term cellaring. It doesn’t have the concentration for any long-term cellaring yet my money is on it evolving nicely for a solid 10-12 years. |
|
| Dom. du Tunnel |
2021 |
Cornas (1.5 L) ex-Domaine |
$144.99 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 92-94 (12/2022): The 2021 Cornas showed amazingly well, and it brings more ripeness and texture than just about every other Cornas out there. Ripe blackberries, mulberries, spicy herbs, and earth all emerge on the nose, and it's medium-bodied, with terrific mid-palate depth and ripe tannins. This cuvée comes from a mix of terroirs and will spend 14 months in used barrels. |
|
| Dom. Jamet |
2003 |
Cote Rotie (1.5 L) Signs of Old Seepage |
$700 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 94 (4/2014): A gorgeous Cote Rotie that does everything right, Jamet’s 2003 Cote Rotie, which was harvested very late for the vintage, offers complex kirsch, framboise, incense, liquid flowers and spiced meat-qualities to go with a full-bodied, layered and seamless profile on the palate. Still youthful and lively, with fabulous density and concentration, this beauty can be enjoyed anytime over the coming 10-15 years. |
|
| Dom. Thierry Allemand |
2005 |
Cornas Reynard (1.5 L) |
$1,000 |
1 |
|
| |
| WS 96 (2/2009): Densely packed, with tar, olive and maduro tobacco notes up front, holding the massive core of braised fig, plum sauce and tar at bay for now. The muscular finish shows flashes of iron, garrigue and graphite. Very, very long. Best from 2011 through 2024. |
|
| Jean-Luc Jamet |
2018 |
Cote Rotie Terrasses (1.5 L) ex-Domaine |
$154.99 |
10 |
|
| |
| JD 94 (12/2022): I loved the 2018 Côte Rôtie Terrasses, which is slightly more supple and elegant than both the 2017 and 2019. Offering darker red, almost blue fruits as well as peppery game, violets, and crushed stone-like minerality, it's medium to full-bodied, has the vintage's pure, balanced, harmonious style, supple tannins, and a great finish. It doesn't have the structure or mid-palate density of the 2019, but is a gorgeously complex, nuanced Côte Rôtie that needs another 3-5 years of bottle age and will evolve gracefully. |
|
|
2020 |
Cote Rotie Terrasses (1.5 L) ex-Domaine |
$144.99 |
21 |
|
| |
JD 93 (5/2024): The 2020 Côte Rôtie Terrasses is terrific and shows the forward, sexy style of the vintage while still being classic Côte Rôtie! Black raspberries, peppery herbs, spring flowers, and a kiss of game all define the bouquet, and it's medium-bodied, with a supple, silky mouthfeel, soft tannins, and a great finish. It stays light on its feet and has a good sense of freshness, and it should evolve gracefully for a decade or more.
WA 91-94 (1/2022): Tasting through several parcels/barrels, the 2020 Cote Rotie Terrasses looks to be a solid effort, marked by slightly vegetal notes up front and almost sherbet-like red fruit flavors. Medium to full-bodied, with decent texture and length, it should be approachable young, with the ability to age at least a decade. |
|
|
2021 |
IGP Collines Rhodaniennes Rouge Syrah Valine (1.5 L) ex-Domaine |
$54.99 |
2 |
|
| |
| JD 88 (5/2024): The 2021 Collines Rhodaniennes Syrah Valine has a perfumed, exotic nose of red plums, candied violets, and cedary, peppery spice. These carry to a medium-bodied Syrah offering good ripeness, a rounded, juicy mouthfeel, and a good finish. It's not going to make old bones, but it’s another rock-solid wine in the lineup from this terrific producer. |
|
| Le Vieux Donjon |
2020 |
Chateauneuf du Pape (1.5 L) |
$124.99 |
14 |
|
| |
JD 95 (11/2022): The 2020 Châteauneuf Du Pape is another winner from this team, and readers can’t go wrong here. Based on 75% Grenache, 10% each of Syrah and Mourvedre, with the balance Cinsault, it was partially destemmed and brought up all in foudre. This beauty just about jumps out of the glass with its Provençal aromatics of ripe cherries, ground pepper, saddle leather, garrigue, and spice. These carry to a medium to full-bodied wine that has the vintage’s charming, pure character front and center, yet still brings good mid-palate density and ripe tannins. Buy a case, count yourself lucky, and enjoy bottles any time over the coming 10-15 years.
WA 94 (9/2023): Vieux Donjon's 2020 Chateauneuf du Pape is a balanced, harmonious effort that offers up pretty aromas of strawberries, raspberries and cherries, accented by hints of crushed stone and dusty earth. It's full-bodied and supple, with a long, silky-textured finish. Richer and riper than the 2021, it shows great harmony and texture. Tasted twice (once blind), with consistent notes.
VM 94 (6/2024): Vieux Donjon's 2020 Chateauneuf du Pape is a balanced, harmonious effort that offers up pretty aromas of strawberries, raspberries and cherries, accented by hints of crushed stone and dusty earth. It's full-bodied and supple, with a long, silky-textured finish. Richer and riper than the 2021, it shows great harmony and texture. Tasted twice (once blind), with consistent notes. Nicholas Greinacher. |
|
|
2021 |
Chateauneuf du Pape (1.5 L) |
$119.99 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Marie et Pierre Benetiere |
2017 |
Cote Rotie Cordeloux (1.5 L) |
$249 |
3 |
|
| |
| VM 88 (12/2022): Bright ruby. Spice- and herb-accented red and blue fruits and a cured meat quality on the pungent nose. In a taut, nervy style, offering bitter cherry, redcurrant, smoked meat and green olive flavors that show a bit of weediness and a cracked pepper flourish. Dusty tannins add grip to the firm finish, which echoes the cherry and herb notes. Josh Raynolds. |
|
| Paul Jaboulet Aine |
2020 |
Hermitage La Chapelle (1.5 L) ex-Domaine |
$385 |
5 |
|
| |
JS 96-97 (3/2022): At first this feels like you’re standing in front of a set of locked gates. Huge power and structure without that much weight, thanks to the wonderful freshness that’s intertwined with the tarry depths of this Hermitage masterpiece. As it aerates smoked bacon, menthol and licorice notes develop, but I’d need much more space to give you all the aromas! The huge tannins at the finish are finely chiseled, suggesting this has decades of life ahead of it. From 40 to 100-year-old syrah vines. From biodynamically grown grapes.
JD 94-96 (6/2022): A barrel sample that was shipped to my office in Colorado, the 2020 Hermitage La Chapelle reveals a deep purple, almost blue-tinged hue to go with a terrific nose of blue fruits, scorched earth, violets, and charcoal. This carries to a medium to full-bodied, concentrated barrel sample that stays fresh and lively, with solid mid-palate depth, ripe tannins, and a great finish. It's certainly showing better today than from the domaine, and this is one that, if the trajectory continues, is certainly going to be an impressive Hermitage.
WA 93-95 (1/2022): After the past several vintages, the 2020 Hermitage La Chapelle will need to add significant richness and concentration if it is to compete at that level. That said, it is still an excellent wine, with classic aromas of crushed stone, cassis, espresso and black olives. It's full-bodied, fine and silky, giving an impression of great elegance on the lingering finish. |
|
| | Rhone White |
| Clos des Papes |
2023 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc (1.5 L) |
$179.95 |
7 |
|
| |
|
| | Southern France |
| Dom. Grange des Peres |
2004 |
Vin de Pays de l’Herault (1.5 L) |
$950 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 92 (10/2007): The latest installment of Laurent Vaille’s justly-celebrated if also expensive red offers a surprisingly developed, but for that reason all the more fascinating nose of red raspberry, sage, mint, sealing wax, and smoked meat. Bright raspberry fruit laced with bacon fat and tinged with candied ginger, sage, salt and cherry pit inform a texturally creamy palate. Fresh berries, soy, smoked meat, pungent-sweet citrus rind, and herbs dominate a finish of striking brightness and savory intensity in this wine that (abstracting from its textural refinement) slightly resembles a cross between Zinfandel and Cote Rotie. |
|
|
2011 |
Vin de Pays de l’Herault (1.5 L) |
$850 |
3 |
|
| |
| WA 92 (4/2017): Tasting like a top-flight Chateauneuf du Pape, the 2011 Grange des Peres is a supple, beautifully polished and voluptuous red that shows the warmth and sun of the vintage. Kirsch, sweet cherries, dried Provencal garrigue and Asian spices all emerge from the glass, while this medium to full-bodied effort has no hard edges and sweet tannin. Drink it anytime over the coming 7-8 years. |
|
| Dom. Tempier |
2007 |
Bandol Cuvee Speciale La Tourtine (1.5 L) |
$265 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 94 (9/2011): More substantial and rich than the La Migoua, the 2007 Domaine Tempier Bandol Cuvee Speciale La Tourtine is dense and thick, sporting brilliant aromatics of smoked meat, tree bark, leather, and crushed rock-like nuances that are all supported by ripe, lush black fruits. Full-bodied and powerful on the palate, this certainly doesn’t lack for concentration and has loads of texture, superb balance, and a very long finish. This bottle took a full day to start to open up and was still going strong on day four. Where the La Migoua has enough going on to warrant cracking bottles now (although it too will be better with age), this really needs to be hidden in the cellar for a decade or longer. |
|
| | Alsace |
| Dom. Marc Kreydenweiss |
1998 |
Alsace Clos du Val d’Eleon (1.5 L) Heavily Wine-Stained Label |
$120 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. Trimbach |
2000 |
Pinot Gris Reserve Personnelle (1.5 L) Signs of Seepage; Heavily Bin-Soiled Label; Corroded Capsule |
$175 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Gustave Lorentz |
1989 |
Gewurztraminer Grand Cru Altenberg de Bergheim (1.5 L) Signs of Old Seepage; Bin-Soiled Label |
$85 |
4 |
|
| |
|
|
1999 |
Tokay Pinot Gris Grand Cru Altenberg de Bergheim (1.5 L) Very Heavily Bin-Soiled Label |
$99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
1989 |
Tokay Pinot Gris SGN (1.5 L) Wine-Stained Label; Nicked Label |
$175 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Josmeyer |
1985 |
Gewurztraminer Les Archenets (1.5 L) Ullage 5 cm; Heavily Bin-Soiled Label; Nicked Label; Cracked Wax Capsule |
$119 |
3 |
|
| |
|
| | Champagne |
| Drappier |
2008 |
Grande Sendree Brut Champagne (1.5 L)
ETA 120-180 Days; No cancellations or returns |
$270.99 |
5 |
|
| |
| BH 91 (6/2017): A pungent nose consists of notes of petrol, yeast, citrus confit and various white orchard fruit aromas. There is a lovely sense of energy to the well-detailed and decidedly crisp flavors that are supported by a vigorous and moderately fine mousse, all wrapped in a solidly persistent if not particularly complex finale. To be fair, this is still very young and more depth will undoubtedly develop but even so, I would buy this only if you intend to cellar it for at least 3 to 5 years. |
|
|
2008 |
Grande Sendree Brut Champagne (1.5 L) |
$295 |
1 |
|
| |
| BH 91 (6/2017): A pungent nose consists of notes of petrol, yeast, citrus confit and various white orchard fruit aromas. There is a lovely sense of energy to the well-detailed and decidedly crisp flavors that are supported by a vigorous and moderately fine mousse, all wrapped in a solidly persistent if not particularly complex finale. To be fair, this is still very young and more depth will undoubtedly develop but even so, I would buy this only if you intend to cellar it for at least 3 to 5 years. |
|
| Mousse Fils |
NV |
L’Extra Or d’Eugene Perpetuelle Blanc de Noirs Champagne (1.5 L) d. 6/21 |
$150 |
4 |
|
| |
|
| Taittinger |
2006 |
Blanc de Blancs Comtes de Champagne (1.5 L) |
$450 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 97+ (7/2015): The 2006 Comtes de Champagne is striking, especially in the way it brings together elements of ripeness and freshness in a hypothetical blend of the 2002 and 2004. Smooth and creamy on the palate, the 2006 is all about texture. There is a real feeling of density and weight in the 2006, qualities I expect to see grow with time in the bottle. All the elements fall into place effortlessly. The 2006 has been nothing short of magnificent both times I have tasted it. Comtes de Champagne remains the single best value (in relative terms) in tête de cuvee Champagne. I suggest buying a case and following it over the next 20-30 years, which is exactly what I intend to do. There is little doubt the 2006 Comtes de Champagne is a magical Champagne in the making. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2006 |
Comtes De Champagne Rose (1.5 L) |
$449 |
3 |
|
| |
| VM 96 (4/2018): The 2006 Taittinger Comtes de Champagne Rosé is at once rich and refined, a simply fabulous Champagne Rosè I won’t soon forget. Intensely perfumed, with the Pinot Noir-derived red berry and cranberry flavors that are not just concentrated, but also remarkably pure. It is one of the better Rosé bubbles I have had in the last year. Ian d'Agata. |
|
| Veuve Fourny et Fils |
NV |
Vertus Brut Blanc de Blancs Champagne (1.5 L) |
$99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| | Germany |
| Robert Weil |
2001 |
Kiedrich Grafenberg Riesling Auslese (1.5 L) |
$345 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| | Italy |
| Azienda Agricola Falletto di Bruno Giacosa |
1998 |
Barbaresco Asili (1.5 L) Lightly Nicked Label |
$850 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 93 (12/2001): Giacosa's 1998 Barbaresco Asili needs 4-5 years of cellaring. It exhibits a dark ruby color along with a big, sweet nose of dried herbs, cedar, tobacco, tar, and red fruits. Opulent on the attack, with moderately high tannin as well as good underlying acidity, this is a fragrant effort for Giacosa. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2020.
VM 92+ (12/2002): Amber-edged medium red. Very sweet but vibrant nose combines cherry, redcurrant, marzipan, brown spices and a whiff of game. Wonderfully sweet and sappy in the mouth, with perfectly integrated acidity giving the wine compelling vinosity. Lifted by a strong floral perfume. Finishes with firm, fine tannins and terrific length. Another '98 with a near-perfect balance of fruit and acid.
WS 90 (11/2002): Refined red. Plenty of berries and roses on the nose. Medium-bodied, with fine tannins and a pretty berry and leather character. Rather chewy finish. Best after 2005. |
|
|
2014 |
Barolo Falletto (1.5 L) |
$450 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 95 (6/2018): This wine was made in 2011 and 2012 but not in 2013. The 2014 Barolo Falletto (white label) is fascinating to taste right after the Barbaresco Riserva Asili from the same vintage. There is no doubting the extra muscle mass and power that is obtained in the Barolo appellation, and from the Serralunga d’Alba township specifically. This dramatic Barolo delivers darkness and density. It shows a beautiful appearance with faint highlights of dark ruby that add a subtle sparkle. At this point in its drinking cycle, the wine shows all the characteristic traits of its youth. This means it is more closed and rigid at present. That nervous tightness needs to be factored in when assessing the cellar longevity of this vintage. Hints of the wine’s inner complexity, sheer determination and textural fortitude are already bubbling up from deep inside this firmly layered Nebbiolo. I wanted to mention the tightness of the tannins now. These will undoubtedly serve to carry this wine forward over the coming decades. |
|
| Caprili |
2015 |
Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Ad Alberto (1.5 L) |
$239 |
2 |
|
| |
WS 97 (3/2021): Expressive and lush, this red shows ripe cherry, plum, earth, tobacco and leather notes, backed by a rigid backbone of tannins. This is vibrant too, leaving a long aftertaste of fruit, mineral and savory accents, with fine harmony and complexity. Best from 2025 through 2050. 300 cases made, 150 cases imported.
WA 96+ (11/2020): Tasted from an unfinished shiner bottle, the Caprili 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva AdAlberto is a single-vineyard expression that has drawn its fruit from the same site since 2010. The wine is dedicated to the paternal figure Alberto Bartolomei (grandfather to the current owners) who planted these vines in 1965. You can definitely taste the age and authentic character of those plants in the concentration and richness of the fruit, presented here with the abundance that only the 2015 vintage affords. The wine is smooth and enduring, and the tannins just need a few more years of bottle age. This is a small-production wine with just 4,000 bottles made.
JD 96 (3/2021): The 2015 AdAlberto Brunello di Montalcino Riserva is ripe with black cherry fruit, sassafras, and anise. The palate is fruit-forward and approachable up front, with notes of black raspberry, tea leaf, and clove, and its more classic structure coming through on the finish. This wonderful wine has freshness while expressing the sunny character of the 2015 vintage. AdAlbreto was not produced in 2013 or 2014, and this is a welcome return from winemaker Giacomo Bartolommei. Drink 2022-2036.
JS 96 (11/2020): Lots of dried and sour cherries on the nose with earth and dried leaves. Smoke and cigar box, too. It’s full-bodied with ultra fine tannins and delicious orange peel and a touch of leather on the finish. Really impressive texture. Drink after 2024.
VM 95 (11/2020): The 2015 Brunello di Montalcino Ad Alberto Riserva from Caprili harnesses the ripeness of the vintage and melds it beautifully with savory earth tones. There are masses of dark florals and sweet herbs, as mineral-laced wild berry fruits come forward. With further coaxing notes of licorice, brown spice and baker’s chocolate evolve in the glass - does it ever end? It’s silky and pliant, providing an initial burst of ripe dark berries before giving way to a mix of sour citrus and fine tannins. Its structure is formidable, yet so are its primary fruits, coming across as perfectly balanced and full of potential. Eric Guido. |
|
|
2016 |
Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Ad Alberto (1.5 L) |
$239 |
2 |
|
| |
WS 97 (6/2022): A taut, linear red, hallmarked by cherry, strawberry, green olive, rose, sanguine and iron aromas and flavors. This is packed with fruit, backed by a solid matrix of tannins and an aftertaste of wild herbs, fruit and tobacco. Best from 2026 through 2045. 400 cases made, 200 cases imported.
VM 96 (12/2021): The 2016 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Ad Alberto is sultry and dark captivating the senses with its mix of crushed stone wild herbs red currants dried roses and ashen earth. The textures here are like pure silk seamless and polished with potent black fruits and savory spices that penetrate deeply as fine tannins mount under an air of tobacco and dark inner florals. It leaves the palate reeling with a combination of residual acids tart berries and sour citrus all held firm in youthful poise. The 2016 Riserva Ad Alberto is absolutely stunning but it will require a number of years in the cellar to reveal all of its charms. Eric Guido. |
|
| Castelgiocondo (Frescobaldi) |
1997 |
Brunello di Montalcino (1.5 L) |
$315 |
4 |
|
| |
WS 96 (6/2002): Superbly crafted. Pretty aromas of black cherry, cream and licorice. Full-bodied, yet incredibly tight and smooth, with ultrafine tannins and a long, long, velvety finish. Best after 2004. 12,000 cases made.
WA 88 (12/2002): The 1997 Brunello di Montalcino Castelgiocondo is an earthy, herbaceous effort with a dark plum/ruby color as well as a sweet bouquet of cherries, compost, underbrush, and Asian spices. Medium-bodied, dry, and angular, with complex aromatics, it is hard to say in what direction this wine will go, but I would opt for drinking it over the next 8-10 years. |
|
| Castello di Ama |
2019 |
Chianti Classico Bellavista Gran Selezione (1.5 L) |
$399.99 |
3 |
|
| |
| JS 96 (8/2022): Blackberry, brambleberry, bark and mushroom aromas follow through to a full body with deep and chewy tannins and a long finish. This is very structured. Needs time to soften. Drink after 2025. |
|
|
2019 |
Chianti Classico La Casuccia Gran Selezione (1.5 L) |
$449.99 |
3 |
|
| |
VM 100 (7/2022): The 2019 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigneto La Casuccia is stunning. What a wine! In this vintage, the aromatics are huge and expansive, a theme that comes through on the palate as well. Cedar, tobacco, dried leaves, incense and blood orange all race out of the glass. The 2019 is mind-blowing in its intensity, pedigree and overall balance. It's the wine of the vintage in Chianti Classico. Antonio Galloni.
WA 97 (2/2023): The 2019 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Vigneto la Casuccia is a wine of intensity, volume and power. Yet it also shows impeccable balance thanks to the deft hands of the estate winemaking team. I find this edition of la Casuccia, with fruit from a steep vineyard that faces the Castello, to be especially full and rich. Fruit weight and concentration is indeed a characteristic of this classic growing season, and this wine wears it well. You are treated to plenty of blackberry, spice, tobacco and grilled herb. |
|
|
2018 |
Gran Selezione San Lorenzo Chianti Classico (1.5 L) |
$99.99 |
15 |
|
| |
VM 94 (9/2021): The 2018 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Castello di Ama San Lorenzo is a deep, potent wine. Black cherry, gravel, smoke, licorice, chocolate, spice infuse the San Lorenzo with tons of dark Sangiovese character. A heady, muscular wine, the 2019 exudes tremendous richness. I would give it a few years. The 2018 is a wine of aromatic intrigue and intensity. Antonio Galloni.
WA 94+ (10/2021): The Castello di Ama 2018 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione San Lorenzo is one of the most distinctive wines in the ample portfolio offered by this estate. I always seem to find a balsamic note in the San Lorenzo Sangiovese (a blend of some of the property's best fruit, with a touch of Merlot and Malvasia Nera thrown in), and it definitely comes through in this vintage with grilled rosemary and even a touch of black olive. This wine is truly Mediterranean in spirit and it boasts an all-Italian identity. Its supple, mid-weight texture is amplified by elegant fruit and spice. And the wine's fresh acidity makes it the ideal pairing partner with your favorite Tuscan pasta or pici recipes. |
|
|
2019 |
Gran Selezione San Lorenzo Chianti Classico (1.5 L) |
$89.99 |
9 |
|
| |
WA 95 (9/2023): The 2019 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione San Lorenzo draws its fruit from various sites selected throughout the estate, and for that reason, it is often the most representative wine from Castello di Ama (despite its more approachable price). This vintage is especially interesting, showing a more formal quality of tannins for longer aging potential and softly extracted dark fruit that sets it apart. Vintner Marco Pallanti likens 2019 to 2004 or 2016, some of the best vintages in recent memory. The wine is partially aged in new oak, and the percentage of new barrels used depends on the vintage conditions. This edition sees 20% new oak, medium toast and fine grains. The team is working with lower temperatures during fermentation with more numerous pump-overs for the first couple of weeks, then the wine is left alone. Fresh cherry fruit, blackberry, spice and grilled herb emerge.
VM 94 (7/2022): The 2019 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Castello di Ama San Lorenzo is a wild, beautifully layered wine. Touches of Merlot and Malvasia Nera lend striking complexity and dimension to a mid-weight yet fleshy Gran Selezione. Iron, cured meats, spice, leather and dried leaves all take shape in this deceptively mid-weight yet deep, highly expressive Gran Selezione. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Dott G. Cappellano |
2004 |
Barolo Otin Fiorin Pie Franco (1.5 L) |
$1,500 |
2 |
|
| |
| VM NR (7/2016): The 2004 Barolo Piè Franco-Michet is very closed at first and needs quite a bit of air. Even so, a slight bit of funk never blows off and remains in the wine, masking the fruit. At this point, it's hard to tell if slight signs of oxidation are creeping in, or, if I suspect, a whiff of old cask has tainted the wine. Either way, the 2004 does not appear to be an especially refined version of this wine. My last two bottles have been disappointing. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Fattoria di Felsina |
2013 |
Berardenga Chianti Clasico Gran Selezione Colonia (1.5 L) |
$350 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 95 (1/2018): Volume, power and breadth are the signatures of the 2013 Chianti Classico Gran Selezione Colonia. This is the first vintage in which Colonia falls in line with the rest of the Fèlsina range from a stylistic standpoint. Among other things, the use of French oak is much more measured than it was in Colonia's first vintages. Next to the flagship Rancia, Colonia is a sleeker, and perhaps a bit more polished, although it doesn't quite offer the same direct expression of Sangiovese. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Margherita Otto |
2018 |
Barolo (1.5 L) ex-Domaine |
$229.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2019 |
Barolo (1.5 L) |
$246 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 95 (5/2023): The upcoming spring release, the 2019 Barolo leads into the red-fruited range of the spectrum, with notes of red cherry, leather, and cedar. The wine has medium body and has fantastic structure, with an attractive floral perfume that lingers through the finish. Though there is a consistent stylistic arch of fruit through the mid-palate, it propels forward with notes of dried apricot, mixed berries, and pressed flowers. Refreshing and balanced, with good concentration, this is an impressive effort. Drink 2025-2045. Audrey Frick.
VM 93 (1/2023): The 2019 Barolo is a very pretty wine loaded with complexity. Macerated cherry, dried herbs, mint, sage and orange peel lend notable aromatic presence. There's terrific depth here. At the same time the aromas are a bit forward, so I would prefer to drink this on the early side. The only question mark for me is time in wood, which at 32 months is on the longer side by present day standards. "At my age, I don't have a ton of time to wait for the wines!" Alan Manley told me. Fair enough. The 2019 is the best wine Manley has made since setting up shop a few years ago. Even so, there seems to be even more potential to realize here. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Piero Antinori |
1985 |
Tignanello (1.5 L) Slightly Depressed Cork |
$795 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Pio Cesare |
2019 |
Barolo (1.5 L) |
$139.99 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 92 (5/2023): A touch more reserved at the moment, the 2019 Barolo reveals notes of pure red fruit, cherry, grenadine, dusty earth, and menthol. It is gripping with structure and rich with tea leaf, cherry, and turned soil. Drink 2024-2035. Audrey Frick. |
|
| Sette Ponti |
2009 |
Oreno (1.5 L) |
$145 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 94+ (8/2011): The 2009 Oreno is stunning. Layers of soft, well-articulated fruit caress the palate in this sweeping, dramatic wine. There is tons of depth, freshness and vitality in the glass, not to mention terrific overall balance. Sweet flowers, spices and licorice wrap around the seamless, captivating finish. Oreno is one of Italy's most improved wines. The 2009 represents another move in the right direction. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Sottimano |
2017 |
Barbaresco Pajore (1.5 L) ex-Domaine |
$129.99 |
3 |
|
| |
WA 93 (7/2020): With fruit from Treiso, this wine is often recognized by its immediate and accessible personality, with silky tannins and delicate floral aromas. The Sottimano family farms five separate vineyard sites in the appellation. The 2017 Barbaresco Pajore is a little more subdued in this vintage with a wide assortment of earthy, wild fruit and licorice aromas. This expression offers a lower threshold on the aromatic high points. However, the palate is more elaborate and constructed in this vintage with firm, free-standing tannins that give lift and buoyancy. Some 5,000 bottles were made.
WS 93 (4/2021): Fresh and light on its feet, this cherry- and strawberry-flavored red is accented by floral, tobacco and savory notes. Its tannins are refined, providing a firm layer of support. Shows excellent balance and length. Best from 2023 through 2038. 416 cases made, 150 cases imported. |
|
|
2013 |
Barbaresco Riserva (1.5 L) ex-Domaine |
$599.99 |
3 |
|
| |
| VM 96 (11/2019): Sottimano's 2013 Barbaresco Riserva, a blend of old vines from Cottà and Pajorè, is off the charts gorgeous, and also one of the best wines I have ever tasted here. Rich, dramatic and sweeping, the 2013 possesses stunning inner perfumes, tons of mid-palate richness and exceptional balance. The 2013 is just beginning to show the first signs of aromatic development as it moves into its first plateau of maturity. Spice, lavender, menthol and licorice develop in a positively thrilling Barbaresco that hits so many high notes. The 2013 needs to be opened well in advance. Readers should expect a searingly intense Barbaresco with distinctly old school leanings. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Tenuta San Guido |
2001 |
Sassicaia (1.5 L) |
$850 |
6 |
|
| |
| WS 94 (10/2004): Beautiful aromas of summer fruits and hints of cream. Then turns to dried Provençal herbs, such as rosemary. Well-defined Sass. Full-bodied, with sleek, refined tannins and a silky finish. All in finesse. Classy wine. Almost chewy. Reminds me of the excellent 1997, but this is slightly better. Give it time. Best after 2008. 15,000 cases made. |
|
| | Port |
| C. da Silva |
2000 |
Presidential Port (1.5 L) |
$139 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| | USA Red |
| Amuse Bouche |
2014 |
Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$399 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 94 (12/2016): The 2014 Amuse Bouche, the flagship Merlot/Cabernet Franc blend, is absolutely delicious. Dark cherry, mocha, spice and leather open up nicely in the glass. Fleshy, supple and radiant, with silky tannins underpinning the fruit, the 2014 has a lot to offer, even in the early going. I would prefer to drink it over the next decade or so. Antonio Galloni.
JD 92 (12/2017): The 2014 Merlot Amuse Bouche (there’s 8% Cabernet Franc) is the Pomerol look alike in the portfolio and it's a ripe, sexy, elegant beauty loaded with notions of plums, blueberries, brambly spice and hints of leafy herbs/tobacco. Ripe, rounded and undeniably sexy on the palate, with sweet tannin, it's already hard to resist, yet should keep for 10-15 years.
WA 90 (12/2016): The 2014 Proprietary Red Amuse Bouche, the flagship wine is a blend of 92% Merlot and 8% Cabernet Franc. This is a stylish, rich, complex wine showing how serious Merlot can be when handled properly. Dense ruby/purple with loads of black cherry and blackberry fruit, a medium to full body and soft, supple tannins, the wine is pure with a multilayered mouthfeel. This is rich and authoritative, but at the same time elegant and complex. It is already drinking well and should continue to do so for at least 10-15 more years. |
|
| Anderson's Conn Valley Vineyards |
2015 |
Signature Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$259 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Araujo Estate |
2005 |
Eisele Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$575 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 96 (6/2015): A nose of black raspberries interwoven with floral notes of blackcurrants and spice jump from the glass of this dense ruby/plum/purple wine. This famous vineyard at the northern end of Napa Valley, which in this era was owned by Bart and Daphne Araujo (today owned by François Pinault, the proprietor of Château Latour), can certainly make the argument that it’s one of the first growths of Napa Valley. Sweet, velvety tannin, medium to full body, and extraordinary complexity and elegance characterize this wine, which is seamless and drinking beautifully. While not one of their longest-lived vintages, the balance and purity suggest that, while it may be entering its fully mature stage, it certainly can keep going for another 10-15 years. The finish is easily 40 seconds-plus.
VM 95+ (6/2008): Good full red-ruby color. Wonderful floral lift to the expressive aromas of blackcurrant, black raspberry, tobacco, graphite and nutty oak. Dense, thick and sweet but with perfectly integrated acidity framing the deep flavors of currant, tobacco, mocha and earth. Finishes broad, dusty and very long, with the tannins thoroughly buffered by the wine's mid-palate fruit. This boasts real density of extract without any undue heaviness and offers the balance and backbone for a long and positive evolution in bottle. Very long on personality. Stephen Tanzer.
WS 92 (10/2008): Smooth, rich and savory, with dried currant, wild berry and black cherry fruit that has a dusty, savory herb and underbrush flavor that adds complexity, ending with a pretty burst of ripe fruit. This grows on you. Best from 2011 through 2018. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 2,600 cases made. |
|
| Au Sommet |
2014 |
Atlas Peak Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$450 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 92 (12/2017): The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Au Sommet is a beauty. Offering tons of upfront cassis and black raspberry fruit, with building spice, sandalwood, and dried flower, it hits the palate with medium to full-bodied richness, ripe, polished tannin and a great mid-palate. It shows the upfront, charming nature of the vintage, yet has plenty of density, as well as tannin. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon 96% Cabernet Sauvignon and 4% Petit Verdot, it should last for 15-20 years.
VM 95 (12/2016): The 2014 Au Sommet is one of the best wines I have tasted off this property on Atlas Peak. Aromatic, intense and yet also light on its feet, the 2014 speaks to weightless intensity. A host of sweet tobacco, cedar, menthol, dried herbs and licorice add nuance throughout. A wine of translucent, understated power, the 2014 is wonderfully complete. Drink it over the next decade or so. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Aubert |
2017 |
UV Vyd. Pinot Noir (1.5 L) |
$325 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 96 (12/2018): Aubert's 2017 Pinot Noir UV Vineyard is pliant, open-knit and super-expressive. Sweet tobacco, cedar, mint, earthiness, dried flowers and cherry fruit are all laced together in this very pretty, nuanced Pinot. Despite its recent bottling, the 2017 UV is bright, lifted and super-expressive. The blend of Calera and Vosne-Romanee clones works beautifully. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2018 |
UV Vyd. Pinot Noir (1.5 L) |
$475 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 93 (1/2020): The 2018 Pinot Noir UV Vineyard is the darkest and richest of the three Pinots in Mark Aubert's lineup. Black cherry, chocolate, licorice and herbs are all broad and ample in the glass. The UV is a Pinot of gravitas, power and textural intensity. Ideally, readers should give it a few years in bottle, as the tannins are pretty imposing at this stage, just a few months after bottling. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2017 |
UV-SL Vyd. Pinot Noir (1.5 L) |
$295 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 94+ (12/2018): The 2017 Pinot Noir UV-SL Vineyard is the most backward and tannic of the three Aubert Pinots. Dried herbs, cedar, tobacco and menthol add striking aromatic nuance, but today it is the wine's tannin profile that makes the strongest impression. This hillside site above Occidental yields Pinots of real distinction. I imagine the UV-SL will be the slowest of these wines to reveal itself, but it has plenty to say. Lavender, rose petals, blood orange and spices add an exotic flair to this embryonic Pinot. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2019 |
UV-SL Vyd. Pinot Noir (1.5 L) |
$325 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 96 (1/2021): The 2019 Pinot Noir UV-SL Vineyard brings together some of the aromatic breadth of the UV with the textural resonance of the CIX. Rose petal, lavender, spice, menthol, kirsch and dark cherry fruit build in a Pinot that balances density, power and energy. Rich and layered in the glass, with striking inner perfume, the UV-SL is superb. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| B Cellars |
2013 |
Star Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$195 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Bond Estates (Harlan) |
2014 |
Melbury Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$1,295 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 96+ (10/2017): Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2014 Melbury is profoundly scented of crushed plums, black cherries and cassis with hints of dark chocolate, black pepper, black soil and licorice plus a hint of iron ore. Full-bodied, rich and earthy in the mouth, it has a lovely fine-grained but firm backbone with plenty of freshness, finishing long and peppery.
JD 95 (12/2017): The 2014 Melbury comes from a site just north of Lake Hennessey that consists of unique, oceanic and clay soils. It’s a pretty, perfumed, seamless beauty offering loads of black cherry and cassis fruit, hints of chocolate and earth, medium to full-bodied richness, no hard edges, and beautiful tannin. Drink it over the coming 15-20 years.
VM 95 (1/2018): The 2014 Melbury is bright, perfumed and wonderfully lifted in the glass. Soft, silky tannins add to the wine's considerable appeal. Medium in body and gracious, the 2014 is absolutely exquisite today. Sweet red cherry, plum, rose petal and mint grace the supple finish. This is a super-refined wine from BOND. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2014 |
Quella Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$1,150 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 96+ (3/2018): The 2014 Quella is showing beautifully. Floral and savory overtones give the wine its energy and tension. The 2014 has really come along over the last six months. Today it is vibrant and full of life, with an understated sense of power that is compelling. The 2014 has developed very nicely since I last tasted it, but it still has room to grow. Antonio Galloni.
WA 96 (10/2017): Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2014 Quella is scented of blackberry preserves, fruitcake and crushed rocks with hints of cigar box, dried Provence herbs and Indian spices. Medium to full-bodied, it has a firm backbone of grainy tannins and great freshness lifting the black fruit and earth layers, finishing on a lingering mineral note.
JD 95 (12/2017): The 2014 Quella is one of the most aromatic and complex in the lineup. Coming from more seabed and volcanic soils (similar to the Melbury) and sporting a deep purple color and lifted notes of spice cake, black cherries, blueberries, violets and iron-like minerality, this beauty is medium to full-bodied, elegant, has bright acidity, and a great finish. Drink it anytime over the coming 20+ years. |
|
|
2014 |
St. Eden Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$1,095 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 97 (12/2017): The Oakville release (yet it’s from a steep hillside vineyard), the 2014 St. Eden has lots of graphite and dusty earth character as well as classic dark fruits, white chocolate, and toasty oak notes. It’s a big, full-bodied, elegant, multi-dimensional beauty that has everything going for it. It’s up with the crème de la crème of the vintage.
VM 96 (3/2018): As it often is, the 2014 St. Eden is a showy, racy wine. A rush of dark red cherry, plum, mocha, espresso and grilled herbs gives the wine its opulent, flamboyant feel. Even so the St. Eden shows the natural restraint and mid-weight structure of the year. Antonio Galloni.
WA 96 (10/2017): Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2014 St. Eden offers up expressive crème de cassis, black cherry compote and blueberry pie notes with hints of cedar chest, baking spices, menthol and pencil lead. Full-bodied, tightly packed, taut and muscular, it has a solid structure of firm, grainy tannins and lovely vivacity coming through on the long, earthy finish. |
|
|
2003 |
Vecina Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$750 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 93+ (6/2006): Good medium ruby color. Roasted black fruits and a suggestion of almost port-like ripeness on the nose. Lush, superripe and powerful, with superb density of flavor. With notes ranging from black olive to dark chocolate, this shows a wider range of ripeness than either the highly promising young 2004 or the remarkably lush and sweet 2002 (which I scored 95 on this latest occasion).
WA 93 (12/2006): More difficult to evaluate than its siblings, the 2003 Vecina, which comes from a site near Harlan Estate, is a firm, tannic, backward wine displaying a gravelly, scorched earth, hot rock, black currant, licorice, and herb-scented bouquet. In the mouth, it is tight, rich, and ruggedly constructed with medium to full body as well as a boatload of tannin. Give it 4-5 years of cellaring, and consume it over the following 15. |
|
|
2014 |
Vecina Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$995 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 98+ (10/2017): The 2014 Vecina displays a deep garnet-purple color and has a broody, baked blueberries, cassis and anise-laced nose with suggestions of garrigue, dusty earth and bay leaves. Full-bodied, rich, spicy and powerful in the mouth, it offers a lot of latent layers and promises great, great things to come with an incredibly long, layered finish. It needs a bit of time but should cellar beautifully for a good 25 years+.
JD 97 (12/2017): Another awesome wine is the 2014 Vecina and it’s from a vineyard on the western side of the valley, right up next to Harlan Estate. This deep, full-bodied, seriously concentrated 2014 gives up loads of plums, currants, toasty oak, chocolate, and chalky minerality. It picks up a touch of violets with time in the glass, but the theme here is deep, dark fruit and minerality. With the forward, supple style of the vintage, it still has serious concentration and structure, and is going to be long-lived.
VM 97 (3/2018): One of the most expressive wines in this range, the 2014 Vecina is powerful, dense and explosive. Despite its obvious intensity, the 2014 has quite a bit of detail and nuance. Time in the glass unleashes the wine's natural intensity, volume and power. The huge, savory and mineral-drenched finish only adds to the wine's immeasurable beauty. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Bryant Family Vineyard |
2019 |
Bettina Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$695 |
3 |
|
| |
| JD 98 (2/2023): Coming mostly from Madrona and Las Posadas, with a little estate fruit, the 2019 Bettina checks in as 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Petit Verdot and Merlot. This full-bodied, seamless, elegant red has lots of cassis and currant-like fruits, plenty of background spicy oak, perfectly ripe tannins, and lots of flowers, incense, tobacco, and spice-driven aromatics. The Cabernet Franc here saw a touch of whole clusters, and the wine was aged in 70% new French oak. It's as classy as they come. |
|
| Buccella |
2014 |
Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$325 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 95 (3/2018): Buccella's 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon is a total knock-out. In fact, the 2014 is one of the best – possibly the best – wine I have ever tasted from Buccella. Deep, ripe and intense, with striking persistence, the 2014 is delineated, precise and complete. There is plenty of the textural richness that is such a Buccella signature, but the 2014 has an extra degree of energy that balances things out. Hints of bittersweet chocolate, lavender, red cherry jam and exotic spice infuse the vibrant, sculpted finish. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Caymus |
2014 |
Special Selection Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$399 |
1 |
|
| |
| WS 91 (10/2017): Pure and rich, well-centered on melted black licorice, spice, cedar and dark berry flavors. Deep and complex, if short on finesse and grace, ending with musclebound tannins. Drink now through 2028. 25,964 cases made. |
|
| Ch. Montelena |
2015 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$150 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 92 (3/2018): The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley release from Montelena has a beautiful bouquet that just jumps from the glass. Lovely notes of crème de cassis, violets, tobacco, and orange blossom all give way to a ripe, medium to full-bodied, sweetly fruited Cabernet Sauvignon that shows the charm of the 2015 front and center. It will keep for 10-15 years.
VM 92 (1/2018): Montelena's 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon is gorgeous. Pliant and supple, the 2015 offers notable density and raciness in an up-front style that will drink well upon release. Succulent red/purplish fruit, spice, new leather and licorice are front and center. A wine of total allure, the 2015 hits all the right spots. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Chappellet |
2015 |
Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$295 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2013 |
Pritchard Hill Estate Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$479 |
3 |
|
| |
WA 99 (5/2018): A blend of 83% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Malbec, 6% Cabernet Franc and 3% Petit Verdot, the deep garnet-purple colored 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Pritchard Hill gives gregarious crème de cassis, baked blackberries, black cherry compote and mocha notes with touches of camphor, star anise, violets and oolong tea. Full-bodied and packing a rock-solid frame of grainy tannins, with great freshness supporting the powerful, muscular fruit, it finishes very, very long. This should live forever.
JD 98 (2/2023): A beast of a wine on release, the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Pritchard Hill has shed plenty of its copious baby fat and is now showing more elegance and nuance. Cassis, graphite, sagebrush, iron, and tobacco all define the aromatics, and it's full-bodied, with a silky, layered mouthfeel, beautiful tannins, and a great finish. It's certainly in the early stages of its drink window, yet I suspect it will evolve gracefully for another two decades.
VM 96 (10/2015): A deep, inky wine, the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Pritchard Hill exudes richness and concentration. Blackberry jam, crème de cassis, graphite, mocha, smoke and spices meld together as this ample, structured Cabernet Sauvignon shows off its personality. The Pritchard Hill is made in a ripe, concentrated style that is quite typical of the vintage. At the same time, the impact of heavier extractions and more new oak also shapes the wine to a significant degree. I am not sure the Pritchard Hill is meaningfully more complex than the Signature, but it is quite striking just the same. As good as the 2013 is today - and it is terrific - my sense is that it would be even better with less oak influence. This is an especially somber, virile Cabernet Sauvignon from Chappellet. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2014 |
Pritchard Hill Estate Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$435 |
3 |
|
| |
WA 99 (5/2018): Made up of 81% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Petit Verdot and 5% Malbec, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Pritchard Hill is deep garnet-purple in color with an incredibly youthful, primary fruited nose of crushed blackcurrants, blackberries and plums with touches of chocolate box, espresso, cinnamon stick, cloves and menthol. It's a big, blockbuster, rich style with the full-bodied palate sporting tons of black and blue fruits, structured with a solid frame of ripe, grainy tannins and just enough freshness, finishing long.
VM 97 (12/2016): The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Pritchard Hill is every bit as magnificent today as it was last year from barrel. Inky, concentrated and regal in its pedigree, the 2014 is all class. The 2014 is not as bombastic or huge as the 2013. Instead, it is a wine of total finesse and elegance. The purity of the fruit is simply striking. This is a mesmerizing, utterly compelling wine from the Chappellet family. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2014 |
Pritchard Hill Estate Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$475 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 99 (5/2018): Made up of 81% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Petit Verdot and 5% Malbec, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Pritchard Hill is deep garnet-purple in color with an incredibly youthful, primary fruited nose of crushed blackcurrants, blackberries and plums with touches of chocolate box, espresso, cinnamon stick, cloves and menthol. It's a big, blockbuster, rich style with the full-bodied palate sporting tons of black and blue fruits, structured with a solid frame of ripe, grainy tannins and just enough freshness, finishing long.
VM 97 (12/2016): The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Pritchard Hill is every bit as magnificent today as it was last year from barrel. Inky, concentrated and regal in its pedigree, the 2014 is all class. The 2014 is not as bombastic or huge as the 2013. Instead, it is a wine of total finesse and elegance. The purity of the fruit is simply striking. This is a mesmerizing, utterly compelling wine from the Chappellet family. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2015 |
Pritchard Hill Estate Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$469 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 97 (5/2018): A blend of 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Petit Verdot and 8% Malbec, the deep garnet-purple colored 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Pritchard Hill has gone a little reticent at this stage, offering quiet notions of blackberry pie and blueberry tart with sparks of dried herbs, earth and savory/meaty suggestions. Full-bodied, rich and concentrated with a built-like-a-brick-house structure framing the massive fruit, it finishes long with exotic spices coming through.
VM 96+ (2/2018): The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Pritchard Hill is dense, powerful and voluptuous in the glass, and yet it very much retains a classic sense of structure that is one of the signatures of Chappellet wines. Dark red-toned fruit, licorice, smoke, dark spice and dried flowers all meld together. Sumptuous and forward, with terrific depth, the 2015 has a lot to offer. The 100% new French oak is beautifully integrated, even at this early stage. A year ago, the 2015 was hugely tannic. Since then, the tannins have softened and the 2015 has developed into a much more elegant wine. Antonio Galloni.
JD 100 (12/2017): Also inky colored, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Pritchard Hill comes from the estate vineyard on Pritchard Hill and spent 22 months in new French oak. It has a similar level of purity, as well as incredible minerality, to go with notes of crème de cassis, scorched earth, crushed rock, and graphite. Reminiscent of liking a rock with its insane level of minerality, this full-bodied beauty is tight and closed on the palate, yet is just loaded with potential. It’s only for those with cold cellars and needs forgotten for 7-8 years, but will keep for 4-5 decades. Bravo! |
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|
2017 |
Pritchard Hill Estate Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$459 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2018 |
Pritchard Hill Estate Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$465 |
2 |
|
| |
JD 98 (1/2021): Always one of top wines in a vintage, the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Pritchard Hill is another gorgeous wine with a more plush, supple texture that hides solid underlying structure and tannins. Beautiful notes of blueberries, new leather, camphor, violets, and smoked tobacco all flow to a full-bodied, seamless, gorgeously textured beauty that's very much in the style of the vintage. Possessing remarkable purity, flawless balance, and building tannins, give bottles 4-5 years of bottle age, count yourself lucky, and enjoy over the following 25+ years.
VM 96+ (1/2021): The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Pritchard Hill is bright, punchy and structured. Blackberry jam, grilled herbs, lavender, menthol and crushed rocks all come alive in the glass. This searingly tannic, mountain Cabernet needs a good deal of time to open, but when it does, it dazzles. Bright floral notes, blood orange and slightly redder tonalities of fruit develop over time. The Pritchard Hill is a wine for readers who can be patient. Antonio Galloni.
WA 98+ (11/2020): The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Pritchard Hill is composed of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Petit Verdot. It was aged in 100% new French oak for 22 months. The alcohol weighed in at 14.5%. Deep garnet-purple in color, it charges out of the gate with bold expressions of warm cassis, wild blueberries and black raspberries, plus hints of chocolate box, menthol, tapenade, smoked meats and pencil lead. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is bursting with vibrant black fruits, framed by fantastically ripe, fine-grained tannins and lovely freshness, finishing long and mineral laced. |
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|
2018 |
Pritchard Hill Estate Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$489 |
2 |
|
| |
JD 98 (1/2021): Always one of top wines in a vintage, the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Pritchard Hill is another gorgeous wine with a more plush, supple texture that hides solid underlying structure and tannins. Beautiful notes of blueberries, new leather, camphor, violets, and smoked tobacco all flow to a full-bodied, seamless, gorgeously textured beauty that's very much in the style of the vintage. Possessing remarkable purity, flawless balance, and building tannins, give bottles 4-5 years of bottle age, count yourself lucky, and enjoy over the following 25+ years.
VM 96+ (1/2021): The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Pritchard Hill is bright, punchy and structured. Blackberry jam, grilled herbs, lavender, menthol and crushed rocks all come alive in the glass. This searingly tannic, mountain Cabernet needs a good deal of time to open, but when it does, it dazzles. Bright floral notes, blood orange and slightly redder tonalities of fruit develop over time. The Pritchard Hill is a wine for readers who can be patient. Antonio Galloni.
WA 98+ (11/2020): The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Pritchard Hill is composed of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Petit Verdot. It was aged in 100% new French oak for 22 months. The alcohol weighed in at 14.5%. Deep garnet-purple in color, it charges out of the gate with bold expressions of warm cassis, wild blueberries and black raspberries, plus hints of chocolate box, menthol, tapenade, smoked meats and pencil lead. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is bursting with vibrant black fruits, framed by fantastically ripe, fine-grained tannins and lovely freshness, finishing long and mineral laced. |
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|
2019 |
Pritchard Hill Estate Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$495 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 99 (11/2021): A blend of 95% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Petit Verdot, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Pritchard Hill is another wonderfully evocative triumph from this family-owned Pitchard Hill pioneer. Deep garnet-purple colored, it storms out of the glass with profound scents of crème de cassis, blackberry preserves, licorice and mulberries, plus hints of unsmoked cigars, wild sage and tar. The medium to full-bodied palate delivers fantastic intensity and great poise, offering fine-grained, ripe tannins and bold freshness, finishing long and mineral laced.
JD 98+ (3/2022): The flagship from this great estate is the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Pritchard Hill, which checks in as a blend of 95% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Petit Verdot. It has an incredible nose of pure blue fruits as well as flowers, crushed stone, fresh thyme, tobacco, and graphite. Deep, rich, full-bodied, and concentrated, it's nevertheless weightless and light on its feet, with wonderfully integrated acidity, polished tannins, and a great finish. This classic, quintessential Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon will benefit from 2-4 years of bottle age and cruise for 20, 30, if not 40 years if stored correctly. 3800 cases.
VM 92 (1/2022): The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Pritchard Hill is a potent, massively tannic wine. Black fruit, graphite, licorice, spice, menthol, chocolate and dried herbs abound. A huge, tannic beast, the 2019 is all brawn today and not terribly finessed. This is not a particularly distinguished vintage for Chappellet's flagship. Antonio Galloni. |
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| Continuum |
2013 |
Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$399 |
1 |
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| |
| VM 97 (10/2015): Graphite, lavender, sage, cloves and menthol race out of the glass in the 2013 Continuum, a wine that is just as impressive in bottle as it was from barrel. An intensely saline, mineral-drenched wine endowed with serious depth and precision, the 2013 shines with exceptional structural intensity and power, all that despite just having been bottled. In 2013 the Cabernet Franc is way up, which helps give the wine more aromatic top notes as well as greater overall complexity. Simply put, the 2013 is a real knock-out. |
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|
2014 |
Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$395 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 97 (3/2018): A stunning wine, the 2014 Continuum exudes balance and class. Super-ripe red cherry, kirsch, mocha, menthol and rose petal infuse this beautifully layered, fragrant wine. The 2014 is layered and nuanced to the core, all while maintaining sublime finesse. At the outset, the 2014 is gracious and light on it its feet, but time and air bring out the wine's fruit density. Healthy dollops of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot complement the Cabernet Sauvignon nicely. Two thousand-fourteen is also the first vintage that incorporates co-fermented lots. Antonio Galloni. |
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|
2016 |
Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$475 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 99 (2/2019): The 2016 Proprietary Red is blended of 46% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31% Cabernet Franc, 18% Petit Verdot and 5% Merlot. Deep garnet-purple colored, it emits an incredible array of seductive floral notes—violets, lavender and rose hip tea—with a core of warm cassis, redcurrant jelly, dark chocolate, cigar box, tapenade and crushed rocks plus hints of bay leaves, beef drippings and yeast extract. Medium to full-bodied, the palate explodes with vivacious black fruit sparked by red fruit, herbal and mineral accents. It is framed with a rock-solid line of firm, grainy, super ripe tannins and finishes with fantastic fragrance and freshness. Wow! |
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|
2017 |
Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$485 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 96+ (1/2020): The 2017 Proprietary Red Wine Sage Mountain Vineyard comes across as remarkably primary. Bright red-toned fruit and floral notes give the 2017 striking freshness as well as nuance. Deep and layered on the palate, with superb depth, the 2017 Continuum is easily one of the wines of the year. Even in the early going, it is truly magnificent. Antonio Galloni. |
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|
2018 |
Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$495 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 98 (1/2022): The 2018 Proprietary Red Wine Sage Mountain Vineyard is another magnificent wine from the Mondavi family. Soaring and regal in its intensity, the 2018 possesses breathtaking aromatic presence and tons of the pedigree that have made wines off this site so compelling pretty much since the beginning. Vibrant dark fruit, lavender, sage, mint and mocha build into an impossibly long, silky finish. The 2018 is a flat-out stunner. Antonio Galloni.
JD 97+ (12/2021): Coming all from the Sage Mountain Vineyard on Pritchard Hill, the 2018 Proprietary Red Wine is a blend of 54% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31% Cabernet Franc, 9% Petit Verdot and 6% Merlot. This is classic 2018 with its dense, concentrated, slightly backward, yet full-bodied and incredibly impressive style. Offering lots of ripe black (black cherry, currant) fruits, scorched earth, graphite, and chocolate-like aromatics, it has terrific concentration, ripe, building tannins, a terrific sense of freshness, and a great finish. It's going to need 5-7 years of bottle age but will have upwards of three decades of overall longevity. |
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| Dana Estates |
2013 |
Helms Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) Scuffed Label |
$850 |
1 |
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| |
JS 100 (9/2016): Unique aromas of citrus fruit such as tangerines and oranges which combine with plums, black cherries, and blackcurrants. Lemon rind, too. Full-bodied with ultra-fine tannins that give the wine a precise and focused finish that lasts for minutes. Laser-guided. A savory and subtle, minerally finish. This redefines the greatness of Napa Valley wine and California. 282 cases made.
WA 97 (10/2015): The 57-acre estate vineyard includes the Helms Vineyard in Rutherford, which is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon and usually produces small quantities of less than 300 cases. The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Helms is sensational. Its opaque purple color, which is common among the 2012 and 2013 Bordeaux varietals in Napa, leads to a spectacularly flamboyant and aromatic nose of earth, graphite, blackberry and cassis. The wine is rich, full-bodied, and again, concentrated, pure and dense, with sweet melted tannins nicely integrated, along with the French oak (about 100% new). This wine has a good 30+ years of upside to it.
VM 95 (10/2015): Dana's 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Helms Vineyard opens with exquisite, floral-laced aromatics. Rose petal, mint, hard candy, sweet red cherry and cinnamon are all nicely delineated in the glass. Plump, forward and generous, the 2013 Helms is surprisingly approachable today for the year, but there is plenty of stuffing and structure underneath. Antonio Galloni.
WS 90 (11/2016): Though massive and extracted, this is also approachable, as the core of dark berry, cedary oak, dried herb and tobacco leaf gives this a distinct flavor and textural presence. The level of tannin may be a concern. Best from 2019 through 2030. 281 cases made. |
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|
2012 |
Hershey Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$795 |
1 |
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| |
WA 98 (10/2014): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Hershey Vineyard comes from an 1,800-foot elevation and is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon harvested October 19-22. This is a sensational superstar from Howell Mountain with an inky purple color, notes of mocha, mulberry, crème de cassis, graphite and spring flowers. It is dense, full-bodied, opulent and concentrated with sweet but moderate tannin. This is a stunner that should drink well for another 25 or so years.
VM 95-98 (12/2014): Graphite, smoke, dark spices, gravel and blue/purplish fruit emerge from the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Hershey Vineyard, Dana's Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon. The flavors are wonderfully vibrant and alive in the glass. A host of spice, menthol, pine and crushed rocks add nuance on the powerful, driving finish. The 2012 Hershey is shaping up to be gorgeous. Tasted from barrel in October 2014, it appears to have a very bright future. This is the first year the See Clone has entered the blend.
VM 93-96 (5/2014): Bright ruby. Tight nose hints at cassis, blueberry, licorice, minerals and menthol. Densely packed and youthfully medicinal, with brooding flavors of black and blue fruits and crushed stone. This classic Howell Mountain cabernet went into a shell in my glass. Finishes with huge, chewy tannins that are well supported by the wine's Outstanding depth. Holds out great potential. |
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|
2013 |
Hershey Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$750 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 99 (10/2016): Two wines that I did not see from bottle have turned out to be close to perfection. The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Hershey Vineyard has unbelievable richness, a profound opaque purple color and enormous notes of lead pencil shavings intermixed with blackberry liqueur, white flowers and crushed rock. The wine is full-bodied and dense with moderately high tannin, but the tannin is integrated and silky. This is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon and look for it to evolve for 30-35 years.
VM 98 (12/2016): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Hershey Vineyard opens with striking, beguiling aromatics. The bright salinity and tannin of Howell Mountain gives the Hershey its energy, but at the same time, the wine has softened and become relatively accessible for the vintage, something winemaker Chris Cooney ascribes to a greater focus on dry farming. Pine, menthol, chocolate, spice and dried flowers give the wine its distinctive aromatic signatures. A dark, brooding wine, the Hershey is also a terrific example of the vintage. Dramatic, intense and utterly beguiling, the 2013 is a majestic, soaring Cabernet Sauvignon. I would prefer to cellar it for at least a few years. Antonio Galloni.
JS 98 (1/2016): The aromas of tar, slate, and graphite with dark fruits such as blackberries are so prevalent here. Licorice too. Smoked meat. Full-bodied, very layered, dense and profound. Mouth-filling and structured. A wine that is fascinating now but even better in 2020. 282 cases.
WS 88 (7/2016): Well-built, featuring taut, gritty tannins and a mix of charcoal, graphite, cedar and dark berry flavors, with charry oak dominating. Best from 2020 through 2032. 282 cases made. |
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| Dancing Hares |
2003 |
Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$250 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Del Dotto |
1999 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$139 |
1 |
|
| |
WS 93 (10/2002): Dark and intense, with a tight, rich, concentrated beam of spicy black cherry, blackberry and currant fruit. Remarkably focused, with excellent structure, depth and length. Best from 2004 through 2012. 1,200 cases made.
WA 87 (8/2002): The 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon is a tight, structured, Bordeaux-styled offering. The aromatics consist of sweet black currants, new oak, earth, and a hint of mushrooms. A medium-bodied, ripe attack is followed by an angular, tannic finish. Give it 1-2 years of cellaring and drink it over the next 10-12 years. |
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| Diamond Creek |
2019 |
Gravelly Meadow Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$595 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Dominus |
2014 |
Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$485 |
1 |
|
| |
JS 98 (1/2017): Loads of dark tobacco aromas with blackcurrants and black olives. Boysenberries, too. Full to medium body, ultra-fine tannins and lots of flavors of smoke, dried roasted chillis, black truffles, mushrooms and fruit. Bright acidity on the finish. Sexy and subtle austerity. Alluring. Very approachable now but better in 2021.
WA 97 (10/2016): The 2014s, where the production of Napanook was only 2,200 cases and Dominus slightly more than the 2015 at 4,000 cases, was another early harvest, although somewhat later than 2015. The 2014 Dominus, which is 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc and 7% Petit Verdot really struts its stuff. Moueix’s belief in dry farming seems to be paying off with stronger and stronger vintages, each successive year, and the 2014 is a sexy, opulent, layered, multidimensional wine with notes of red and blackcurrant, cedar wood, tobacco leaf , spice box and licorice. The color is a dense plum/ruby/purple, much like the Napanook. This is a beauty that is already drinking gorgeously – as most 2014s are – and will continue to evolve for 25 or so years.
VM 96+ (12/2016): The 2014 Dominus is endowed with tons of depth, power and muscle. Black cherry, plum, smoke, menthol, licorice, chocolate, dried herbs and dark spices are all pushed forward. Deep, pliant and exquisitely layered, the 2014 possesses tons of concentration and mid-palate depth. Like so many wines in this vintage, the 2014 comes across as a hybrid of 2013 and 2012. I very much like the energy and focus in this wine. This is a fabulous wine in every way. With time in the glass, the flavors gain in brightness and focus. There is certainly much to look forward to. |
|
|
2018 |
Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$625 |
3 |
|
| |
JD 100 (1/2021): The flagship 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon checks in as 89% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Petit Verdot brought up in 40% new French oak. With an essence of Cabernet-like character in its darker currants, green tobacco, cedar, graphite, and floral aromas and flavors, this gorgeous wine is full-bodied and has bright yet integrated acidity, polished tannins, and a great, great finish. It’s just gorgeously put together and a magical, flawless wine. It's going to take a decade to hit maturity but will evolve for 40-50 years in cold cellars. It is as good as it gets in classic, age-worthy Cabernet Sauvignon!
JS 100 (5/2021): This is incredible on the nose, offering hot stones, blackcurrants, iodine and wet earth. Full-bodied with a tight center palate, then it opens with a tannin structure that is weightless and spreads across the palate. Totally integrated on the palate. This is a magic-carpet wine. Really incredible. One of the reference points for the vintage. Drinkable now and please try a bottle, but it’s one for the cellar.
WA 99+ (2/2021): Very deep garnet-purple colored, the 2018 Dominus slowly emerges from the glass with profound notes of blackcurrant cordial, ripe black plums, boysenberries and Black Forest cake with hints of violets, star anise, cracked black pepper, raspberry leaves and pencil lead, plus a touch of garrigue. Medium to full-bodied, the palate delivers impactful black fruit layers, creating a beguiling sense of richness that is beautifully countered by invigorating freshness and great poise, framed by super ripe, plush tannins and beautiful tension, finishing on a lingering fragrant earth note and, finally, lots of mineral sparks. For all that it is at the moment, one cannot help but feel that this 2018 is holding something back. Give it a good five years in bottle, at least, and then get set for what I suspect will be a mind-blowing transformation over the next 30 years+.
VM 97 (1/2021): The 2018 Dominus is wild and exotic from the first taste. Lifted aromatics make a strong opening impression. There is something exuberant about the 2018 that is hard to describe. The 2018 is not a huge Dominus, nor is it massively structured, but the intensity of the flavors is remarkable just the same. Dark raspberry, spice, leather and cedar are some of the many notes that open over time. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Doubleback |
2018 |
Walla Walla Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$249 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Eisele Vineyard |
2015 |
Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$995 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 100 (10/2017): Medium to deep garnet-purple in color, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon charges from the gate with exuberant red and black cherries notes, black currants and mulberries with a beautiful roses and lavender perfume, plus hints of sandalwood and cinnamon stick. Full-bodied, concentrated and downright explosive in the mouth, it is still wearing loads of gorgeous puppy-fat fruit flavors, offering suggestions of the complex, multilayered blockbuster that it will emerge into. The structure deserves its own mention: wonderful, seamless freshness and oh-so-fine, pixelated tannins, with an extraordinary persistence of fruit and mineral nuances. Wow. |
|
| Fairchild Estate |
2016 |
G III Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$675 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 98 (1/2019): The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Fairchild G-III, which is from a well-known Beckstoffer property in Rutherford, is heavenly juice. Seeing an extended maceration and 20 months in 80% new French oak, it boasts awesome notes of crème de cassis, blueberries, crushed rocks, and violets. This all flows to a blockbuster styled beauty that has fabulous purity, fine, silky tannins, and incredible opulence paired with purity and elegance. This beauty got more than a few “wow” comments in the notes and should keep for two decades or more. |
|
|
2017 |
G III Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$525 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2015 |
Sigaro Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$575 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 97 (12/2017): Very deep inky-purple colored, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Sigaro delivers ripe cassis, black plums and fragrant earth notes with touches of bay leaves, mossy bark and tobacco leaf. Medium to full-bodied with a rock-solid frame of wonderfully fine-grained tannins and lovely freshness, it has a great core of vibrant black fruit flavors, finishing long and pure. 210 cases were made. |
|
|
2016 |
Sigaro Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$480 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 98 (1/2019): Also thrilling, the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Fairchild Sigaro comes from a site north of Lake Hennessey and is 100% clone 4 Cabernet Sauvignon that spent 20-22 months in 80% new French oak. Black currants, crushed rocks, graphite, and lead pencil notes all flow to a powerful, tight, backward Cabernet that has incredible minerality and depth. It’s in a much more austere, focused style compared to the Fairchild G-III release, but it’s unquestionably at the same level of quality. Hide bottles for 4-5 years and enjoy over the following 2+ decades.
WA 96+ (10/2018): From fruit on Pritchard Hill, aged for 20 months in 85% new 225-liter French oak barrels, the deep garnet-black colored 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Sigaro opens with somewhat shy notes of warm blackcurrants, dried mulberries and wild blueberries with hints of plum pudding, spice box, cardamom, wood smoke, black pepper and hoisin. Full-bodied and tightly wound in the mouth, the fruit vibrates with compelling energy and a firm frame of ripe, grainy tannins with just enough freshness, finishing long and minerally. 640 cases produced.
VM 95 (12/2018): The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Sigaro emerges from Fairchild's estate vineyard in Conn Valley. Racy and pliant, with tremendous intensity, the 2016 is impeccable in it balance. As with all of Larry Fairchild's wines, the Sigaro is quite big, and yet all the elements are impeccably balanced. The Sigaro offers striking aromatic complexity and layered fruit for such a big wine, with tannins that are both prominent and yet very well polished. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2016 |
Stones No. 1 Perrarus Block 1 Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$625 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2015 |
Stones No. 2 Perrarus Block 1 Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$675 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2015 |
Stones No. 3 Perrarus Block Tench Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$695 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2015 |
Stones No. 3 Tench Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$650 |
2 |
|
| |
| VM 95 (1/2018): Fairchild's 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Stones No. 3 emerges from the Tench vineyard, which is the heart of the valley floor in Eastern Oakville. Dark, sumptuous and explosive, with all of the resonance that is typical of the wines from this district in Oakville, the Tench has much to offer. This heady, full-throttle Cabernet is another winner from Larry Fairchild and Philippe Melka. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2016 |
Stones No. 3 Tench Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$645 |
2 |
|
| |
JD 100 (1/2019): This full-bodied, remarkably pure, seamless Napa Cabernet comes from the Tench Vineyard outside St. Helena and reveals a saturated purple color as well as sensational notes of blueberries, currants, camphor, scorched earth, and hints of lavender and violets. Deep, layered, still tight and backward, yet with incredible purity and focus, it’s a monumental beauty that’s going to benefit from at least 4-5 years of bottle age and cruise for 2-3 decades. Hats off to winemaker Philippe Melka and the team at Fairchild Wines for this incredible wine.
VM 97 (12/2018): The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Stones No. 3 is another superb wine from Larry Fairchild. Dense, powerful and explosive, with tremendous depth, the 2016 captures all the magic of this Oakville site. Black cherry, bittersweet chocolate, licorice, spice and menthol infuse this sumptuous, extravagantly rich Cabernet Sauvignon. Sweet, ripe tannins add to the wine's considerable immediacy and sheer appeal. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Fantesca |
2012 |
All Great Things- Duty Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$325 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2015 |
All Great Things- Freedom Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$325 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2015 |
All Great Things- Freedom Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$345 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2013 |
All Great Things- Mercy Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$299 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Far Niente |
2005 |
Estate Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$289 |
1 |
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| |
| WS 87 (7/2015): The dusty herb and loamy earth notes show a tarry side. Though the structure is Bordeaux-like in terms of restraint and tightness, this ends a little too clipped.—2005 California Cabernet blind retrospective (September 2015). Drink now through 2021. 14,700 cases made. |
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| Freemark Abbey |
2009 |
Bosche Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$275 |
1 |
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| |
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2010 |
Bosche Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$275 |
1 |
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| |
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| Gundlach Bundschu |
2011 |
Vintage Reserve Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) Scuffed Label |
$135 |
1 |
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| |
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2013 |
Vintage Reserve Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) Slightly Depressed Cork |
$185 |
1 |
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| |
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| Harlan Estate |
2017 |
Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$2,200 |
2 |
|
| |
JD 97 (1/2021): The Grand Vin is the 2017 Harlan Estate, and this beauty just about jumps from the glass with its pure cassis and blackcurrant fruits as well as notes of tobacco, graphite, crushed stone, and spice. With a full-bodied, expansive mouthfeel, building, velvety tannins, and a layered, seamless style that offers way more pleasure than just about every other wine in the vintage, bottles can be enjoyed any time over the coming 20-25 years.
VM 96+ (1/2021): The 2017 Harlan Estate is superb. Deep, inky and wonderfully expressive, the 2017 is impeccably rendered. All the elements come together effortlessly. The nervous tannins of the vintage are evident, but there is also plenty of sumptuousness. Time in the glass brings out a whole range of red-toned fruit and floral notes that are surprising for a year with massive heat spike. The 2017 is polished and sophisticated to the core. In a word: impressive. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Joseph Phelps |
2012 |
Backus Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$475 |
1 |
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| |
| WA 96+ (10/2014): As you drive down the Silverado Trail it is hard to miss the steep, striking Backus Vineyard across the street from Screaming Eagle. The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Backus Vineyard (93% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Merlot and 3% Petit Verdot) is a 2,800-case cuvee that tips the scales at 14.9% natural alcohol. Its dense purple color is followed by notes of acacia flowers, blueberry and blackberry liqueur, smoky charcoal and graphite, and a lavish, full-bodied, powerful, concentrated style with a boatload of tannin. This cuvee is never the most precocious of the Phelps Cabernet Sauvignons, but patience is rewarded. Give this 2012 3-4 years of cellaring and drink it over the following 25-30+ years. |
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|
2007 |
Insignia Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$695 |
1 |
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WA 99 (11/2013): Aged 24 months in new French oak, this infant 2007 exhibits an inky/purple color along with notes of graphite, spring flowers and smoky oak. This full-bodied, classic Insignia reveals fabulous depth, ripeness, texture, viscosity and richness. Still young and unformed, it should evolve for 25 or more years. Perhaps I should just go ahead and give this 2007 a three-digit score as it is a profoundly great Cabernet Sauvignon-based effort. The production was 13,500 cases of this 100% estate fruit blend of 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Merlot and 4% Petit Verdot. The alcohol came in at 14.5%. The growing season was nearly ideal, with early bud break, generous flowering, a bountiful crop size, and summer weather that was warm and dry with no significant heat spikes. According to the Phelps winemaking team, the cluster grape weights in 2007 came in 23-45% lower than average, which surprised everyone. However, the fruit quality was one of the finest they had ever seen. The result is one of the top Insignias yet produced.
WS 96 (10/2010): Firm, intense and concentrated, massive yet well-proportioned, with a dense, focused core of graphite, dried currant, blackberry, black tea, forest floor and blueberry flavors. Full-blown, finishing with rich, layered tannins that beg for cellaring. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Best from 2013 through 2025. 13,500 cases made.
VM 94 (6/2010): (bottled three weeks prior to my visit) Bright ruby. Claret-like nose offers cassis, minerals, bitter chocolate and strong soil tones. Densely packed and quite tight today, in a classically dry style. But there's also superb sex appeal and excellent energy to the flavors of plum, currant, licorice, bitter chocolate and spices. Most impressive today on the long, chocolatey aftertaste. |
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|
2017 |
Insignia Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$550 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 96 (10/2020): The 2017 Insignia is a blend of 94% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Malbec and 2% Cabernet Franc coming from: 46% Las Rocas vineayrd (Stags Leap District), 22% Barboza vineyard (Stags Leap District), 13% Suscol vineyard (South Napa Valley), 10% Yountville vineyard (Oak Knoll District) and 9% Home Ranch (St. Helena). It was aged for 24 months in 100% new French oak barrels. Deep garnet-purple colored, it comes bounding out of the glass with exuberant scents of Black Forest cake, preserved plums and blueberry pie plus touches of redcurrant jelly, potpourri, clove oil and dark chocolate. Medium to full-bodied, the palate has gained weight from it's in-barrel offering, boasting rich, decadently perfumed black fruit preserves flavors with a racy backbone and velvety tannins, finishing long and spicy. 7,400 cases were made. |
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|
2018 |
Insignia Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$550 |
1 |
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| |
JS 99 (3/2021): Blackberry and black chocolate with mint, conifer and clove. Sweet tobacco, violets and flowers, too. Some graphite. Cool and complex. Full-bodied with ultra fine, dusty tannins and a wonderful, extremely long finish. Savory and refined. A classic-styled 2018. This needs time, but is so approachable and gorgeous. One of the best Insignias ever. Alive and changing all the time. 40% Stags Leap AVA. 87% cabernet sauvignon, 8% petit verdot, 3% malbec and 2% cabernet franc. Leave this for five or six years, but so wonderful now.
WA 97+ (7/2021): The 2018 Insignia is a blend of 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Petit Verdot, 3% Malbec and 2% Cabernet Franc. The vineyard sources this year include: 30% Las Rocas (Stags Leap District),18% Yountville (Oak Knoll District), 13% Banca Dorada (Rutherford), 18% Suscol (South Napa Valley), 14% Home Ranch (St. Helena), 12% Las Rocas (Stags Leap District), 7% Barboza (Stags Leap District). It was aged for 24 months in 100% new French oak barrels.
JD 95-97 (1/2021): Very much in the style of the vintage with its pure, concentrated, yet also elegant and focused style, the 2018 Insignia offers up a vivid purple hue to go with lots of red and blue fruits, menthol, tobacco, graphite, and distinct minerality. With an almost Bordeaux-like style, medium to full-bodied richness, present tannins, and a great finish, it's a beautiful, classic Cabernet Sauvignon blend from this team that's going to benefit from 4-5 years of bottle age and keep for two decades or more.
WS 94 (10/2021): This is richly layered, with cassis, crushed plum and blackberry puree flavors moving through slowly but steadily, while warm earth, ganache and black licorice notes follow along. Picks up a tarry edge on the finish as the fruit takes an encore. For fans of the muscular, fruit-driven style. Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Malbec and Cabernet Franc. Best from 2022 through 2036. 17,000 cases made.
VM 93-96 (1/2021): The 2018 Insignia is a beautiful wine. It is also quite delicate and less bombastic than some recent vintages have been. Its hard to tell if that is just the personality of the year or if changes in farming and/or winemaking are also at play. I suppose time will tell. In the meantime, the 2018 is gorgeous Insignia with tons of potential. Blueberry jam, spice, menthol, dried herbs and licorice all develop in the glass, all lifted by the salivating acids of a long, cool growing season. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Kosta Browne |
2019 |
Cerise Vyd. Pinot Noir (1.5 L) |
$289 |
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. |
|
|
2020 |
Cerise Vyd. Pinot Noir (1.5 L) |
$269 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 95 (7/2023): The 2020 Pinot Noir Cerise Vineyard pours a rich ruby hue and reveals aromas of anise, red cherry, and pine. Medium-bodied, with fine tannins and ripe notes of cranberry cocktail, clove, and orange peel, give it another year and drink 2024-2030. Audrey Frick. |
|
|
2020 |
Gap’s Crown Vyd. Pinot Noir (1.5 L) |
$259 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 97 (7/2023): I really love the wines from this site. Taking on more purity and freshness, the 2020 Pinot Noir Gap's Crown Vineyard opens with aromas of raspberry liqueur, candied roses, and mentholated herbs. Medium-bodied, with good tension and packed with great energy, there’s a refreshing nature to this wine, which offers notes of fresh tangerine, grenadine, and cinnamon, fine tannins, and a good bit of minerality in its texture. This is my favorite wine in this lineup from Kosta Browne. Drink 2024-2040. Audrey Frick. |
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|
2019 |
Kanzler Vyd. Pinot Noir (1.5 L) |
$215 |
1 |
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| |
|
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2021 |
Keefer Ranch Vyd. Pinot Noir (1.5 L) |
$259 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 95 (6/2024): The 2021 Pinot Noir Noir Keefer Ranch takes on great foresty aromas of pine needles, Asian spices, toasted cedar, and dried strawberries. Medium-bodied, it feels more linear through the palate, with refreshing, even acidity, fine tannins, and a long finish, with notes of blood orange through the palate. It’s very well-defined and is going to do its best with another year or so in bottle. Drink 2025-2037. |
|
|
2021 |
Russian River Valley Pinot Noir (1.5 L) |
$199 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 94 (7/2023): Taking on more richness both visually and aromatically, the 2021 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley is generous with violets, black cherry, and cola spices. Medium to full-bodied, it has ripe, sweet tannins, with notes of black tea, expansive black raspberry fruit, and toasted cedar. It offers good richness and has a classic feel with a long finish. Drink 2024-2034. Audrey Frick. |
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|
2021 |
Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir (1.5 L) |
$199 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 94 (6/2023): The 2021 Pinot Noir Santa Lucia Highlands comes from Garys', Rosella's, Pisoni, Sierra Mar and Soberanes vineyards, and it was matured for 14 months in 49% new oak. It has a medium ruby color and a deep well of aromas: pomegranate, raspberry and cranberry are accented by touches of autumn leaves, tea leaves and spice. The palate is light-bodied, gently chalky and mouthwatering with generous spicy fruit and a long, layered finish replete with floral tones. |
|
|
2021 |
Willamette Valley Pinot Noir (1.5 L) |
$219 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 92 (7/2023): Medium ruby, the 2021 Pinot Noir Willamette is lifted and highly aromatic of orange peel, cinnamon, and pomegranate. Medium-bodied with fine tannins, on the palate it’s fresh with dusty earth, brambly herbs, and cranberry cocktail. It leans a bit more toward the savory end of the spectrum, but it’s a lovely first wine from the region for Kosta Browne. It will need some air on opening at this youthful stage. Drink 2024-2034. |
|
| Lail Vineyards |
2013 |
J Daniel Cuvee Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$495 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 99+ (10/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon J. Daniel Cuvee is probably the qualitative equivalent of the 2012, but slightly more backward and coiled tight. Coming from three vineyards that Robin Lail uses in Napa Valley: one in Calistoga, one in Oakville and the other on Howell Mountain. This is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon aged 20 months in about three-fourths new French oak. Just under 1,000 cases are produced. The 2013 comes across like a Napa version of the famous Château Montrose in Bordeaux’s St.-Estephe. Earthy notes intermixed with chocolate, blackcurrant liqueur, grilled meats and spice are all present in this opaque purple wine. Graphite and floral notes are also present. It is full-bodied and ripe with beautiful purity and superbly integrated acidity, alcohol, wood and tannin. This wine needs another 4-5 years, as it’s less dramatic and flamboyant compared to the 2012. It should evolve and age beautifully for 30+ years. |
|
|
2014 |
J Daniel Cuvee Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$415 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 95 (10/2016): The flagship wines include the 2014 J. Daniel Cuvée Cabernet Sauvignon, which comes from three sources – the family vineyard called Molehill at a 1700-feet elevation on Howell Mountain, the Vine Hill Ranch Vineyard and Heimark Vineyard in Calistoga. A gorgeous 2014, with notes of graphite, mulberry and blackcurrant, this full-bodied, opaque purple wine offers terrific fruit purity, sweet tannin, and a long finish of a good 45+ seconds. It was aged 19 months in 75% new French oak and is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. There are 1,064 cases, and it can be drunk now or cellared for another 25 years.
VM 94+ (5/2019): Bright medium ruby. Youthfully medicinal aromas and flavors of black fruits, licorice and bitter chocolate. Densely packed and fine-grained, conveying terrific purity of fruit framed by harmonious acidity. Quite full but less thick and extractive than the '13, and a bit less port-like than that big boy. Still, this brooding, backward, slightly unsettled wine is difficult to taste today. With its element of reserve and powerful finish, it calls for extended aging. It may well eventually merit an even higher rating. Stephen Tanzer. |
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|
2018 |
J Daniel Cuvee Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$495 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 99 (1/2021): Made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2018 J. Daniel Cuvée Cabernet Sauvignon was aged for 20 months in French oak barrels, 75% new. Very deep garnet-purple in color, it soars out of the glass with seductive notes of crème de cassis, blueberry preserves and Black Forest cake, followed by suggestions of espresso, yeast extract, black truffles and charcoal plus a fragrant waft of violets. Full-bodied, rich and opulently fruited in the mouth, it has layer upon layer of black fruit preserves, earthy nuances and savory sparks, framed by firm, finely grained tannins and bold freshness, finishing long and fragrant. 1,290 cases were made.
JD 100 (1/2021): The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon J. Daniel Cuvee comes from a mix of terroirs (Howell Mountain, Stags Leap, Oakville, Calistoga) and is brought up in 75% new French oak. Heavenly notes of red and black currants, dried tobacco, sandalwood, flowers, and spice give way to a full-bodied, concentrated, yet weightless texture that carries awesome tannins, no hard edges, and just flawless balance. This majestic, regal wine is going to drink brilliantly for 25 years or more.
VM 96 (1/2021): The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon J. Daniel Cuvée is quite restrained in this vintage. Silky and medium in body, with lovely red berry fruit character, the 2018 has a lot to offer. I would cellar it for a few years, as the tannins are pretty clamped down today. As always, the J. Daniel Cuvée is a blend taken from a handful of top sites in Napa Valley. Antonio Galloni. |
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|
2014 |
Mole Hill Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$525 |
2 |
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2014 |
Mole Hill Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$545 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Larkmead Vineyards |
2015 |
LMV Salon Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$375 |
1 |
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| |
VM 92+ (8/2019): Bright medium ruby. Muskier and less exuberant on the nose than the 2015 Solari; a bit lower-toned. Shows excellent punch if not quite the personality and early sex appeal of the Solari, with its plum and spice flavors underpinned by minerality. Not quite the early balance of the Solari, as the wine's serious spine of acids and tannins will require patience. Ultimately a bit drier on the back half. Stephen Tanzer.
JD 94+ (12/2017): A blend of 60/40 Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, the 2015 LMV Salon is a cuvee that’s moving towards being a Cabernet Franc-dominated release as the estate plants more Cabernet Franc. Cassis, spring flowers, chocolate and a rocky, river bottom-like earthiness all flow to a full-bodied, concentrated, tannic 2015 that has exceptional purity and a great finish. Give bottle 3-5 years and enjoy over the following 15+. |
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|
2017 |
LMV Salon Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$325 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 92 (12/2019): A blend of 52% Cabernet Franc and 48% Cabernet Sauvignon aged in 100% new French oak, the deep garnet-purple colored 2017 LMV Salon (White Label) has a medium to deep garnet-purple color and is scented of chocolate-covered cherries, fresh blackcurrants, kirsch and black raspberries with touches of bouquet garni, forest floor, charcoal and black olive. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is filled with ripe red and black fruits and a firm, rugged texture, possessing just enough freshness to deliver a long, earth-laced finish. 470 cases were made.
VM 92+ (1/2020): Cabernet Franc, with its bright, high-toned aromatics, takes the lead in the 2017 LMV Salon. Sweet dried red cherry, mint, tobacco and wild flowers are all nicely lifted throughout. Supple and racy with tons of immediacy, the 2017 is already inviting, although it will develop more nuance with time in bottle. Even just a bit of air brings out an attractive fleshiness. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Lazy Susan Ranch (The Vineyardist) |
2009 |
Diamond Mt. District Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$325 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2013 |
Diamond Mt. District Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$525 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 95 (10/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Lazy Susan Ranch, also 100% Cabernet Sauvignon coming from clones 33 and 169 and slightly higher yields of 1.5 tons of fruit per acre, is an even smaller cuvee of 145 cases. The wine emerges from a different parcel of red Aiken iron-rich soils, as opposed to the volcanic tufa and fractured bedrock of its sibling. This wine offers loads of cedar wood, cr?me de cassis, licorice and forest floor in a full-bodied, opulent style. The fruit is beautifully pure, the oak well-integrated, and the wine gorgeous. It’s top, top-flight, clearly world-class and should drink well for 20-25 years. |
|
| Leonetti Cellars |
2013 |
Walla Walla Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$235 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 96 (6/2016): Leading off the 2013s, the 2013 Walla Walla Cabernet Sauvignon comes all from estate vineyard and is 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Merlot, 9% Petit Verdot and 7% Malbec, all of which spent 22 months in new and once used French oak. It’s vibrant purple color is followed by classic notes of crème de cassis, violets, tobacco leaf, lead pencil shavings and graphite. This full-bodied, ripe, yet still elegant Cabernet (which checks in at 14.7% alcohol) has terrific purity, ripe, polished tannin and a great finish. It has the purity and finesse to drink beautifully today, but it will have 20-25 years of overall longevity.
VM 93 (11/2016): (70% new French oak): Bright red-ruby. Very sexy aromas of blueberry, dark raspberry, pomegranate, mocha, cola and top-quality oak, lifted by violet and mint high tones. Very rich, deep, creamy wine, with its intense, vibrant red and darker berry flavors accented by spices. Slightly edgy acidity and youthfully clenched tannins call for patience; I would not be at all surprised if this seriously structured but plush and very long wine eventually merited an even higher rating.
WS 92 (8/2016): Broad and expressive, with a sense of elegance to the savory-accented black cherry, berry and underbrush aromas and flavors, wrapped in fine, firm tannins. Best from 2018 through 2023. 2,876 cases made. |
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|
2018 |
Walla Walla Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$218 |
1 |
|
| |
|
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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. |
|
| Lewis Cellars |
2014 |
Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$285 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Myriad |
2013 |
Georges III Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$425 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 98 (12/2015): An absolutely fabulous wine, the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Georges III Vineyard has an inky bluish/purple color, extraordinary nose of graphite, blueberry and blackberry liqueur, forest floor and spring flora. The wine hits the palate with a full-bodied richness, stunning purity and an absolutely magnificent texture and length. It would be difficult to want more in a bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon than this. Drink it over the next 25 years. |
|
| Next of Kyn |
2016 |
Cumulus Vyd. No. 10 Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$750 |
2 |
|
| |
JD 99 (10/2019): Just about pure perfection in a glass, the 2016 No 10 Cumulus Vineyard is an incredible mix of 46% Syrah, 19% Grenache, 18.3% Petite Sirah, and the rest Mourvèdre and Petit Manseng that was mostly destemmed and brought up in 75% new French oak. Awesome notes of blackberries, ground herbs, violets, loamy earth, and chocolate notes give way to a full-bodied, powerful red that has moderate acidity, flawless balance, sweet tannins, and a finish that keeps you coming back to the glass. It’s another off-the-charts, singular wine from an incredible winemaker.
VM 95+ (9/2019): The 2016 No.10 Cumulus Vineyard is rich, sumptuous and racy to the core. Surprisingly open for a wine that has just been bottled, the 2016 is curvy and inviting, with tons of breadth and fleshiness that fully emerge with a bit of air. Hints of mocha, spice and new leather are laced into a core of dark cherry and plum fruit. The 2016 boasts superb concentration, but it also appears to have a bit less energy than some prior vintages, the 2015 in particular. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2016 |
Cumulus Vyd. No. 10 Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$774 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 99 (10/2019): Just about pure perfection in a glass, the 2016 No 10 Cumulus Vineyard is an incredible mix of 46% Syrah, 19% Grenache, 18.3% Petite Sirah, and the rest Mourvèdre and Petit Manseng that was mostly destemmed and brought up in 75% new French oak. Awesome notes of blackberries, ground herbs, violets, loamy earth, and chocolate notes give way to a full-bodied, powerful red that has moderate acidity, flawless balance, sweet tannins, and a finish that keeps you coming back to the glass. It’s another off-the-charts, singular wine from an incredible winemaker.
VM 95+ (9/2019): The 2016 No.10 Cumulus Vineyard is rich, sumptuous and racy to the core. Surprisingly open for a wine that has just been bottled, the 2016 is curvy and inviting, with tons of breadth and fleshiness that fully emerge with a bit of air. Hints of mocha, spice and new leather are laced into a core of dark cherry and plum fruit. The 2016 boasts superb concentration, but it also appears to have a bit less energy than some prior vintages, the 2015 in particular. Antonio Galloni. |
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|
2016 |
Cumulus Vyd. No. 10 Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$925 |
2 |
|
| |
JD 99 (10/2019): Just about pure perfection in a glass, the 2016 No 10 Cumulus Vineyard is an incredible mix of 46% Syrah, 19% Grenache, 18.3% Petite Sirah, and the rest Mourvèdre and Petit Manseng that was mostly destemmed and brought up in 75% new French oak. Awesome notes of blackberries, ground herbs, violets, loamy earth, and chocolate notes give way to a full-bodied, powerful red that has moderate acidity, flawless balance, sweet tannins, and a finish that keeps you coming back to the glass. It’s another off-the-charts, singular wine from an incredible winemaker.
VM 95+ (9/2019): The 2016 No.10 Cumulus Vineyard is rich, sumptuous and racy to the core. Surprisingly open for a wine that has just been bottled, the 2016 is curvy and inviting, with tons of breadth and fleshiness that fully emerge with a bit of air. Hints of mocha, spice and new leather are laced into a core of dark cherry and plum fruit. The 2016 boasts superb concentration, but it also appears to have a bit less energy than some prior vintages, the 2015 in particular. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2017 |
Cumulus Vyd. No. 11 Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$1,095 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 100 (8/2020): Pure perfection, the 2017 No 11 comes all from the estate Cumulus Vineyard around the estate in Oak View and is 48% Syrah, 24.8% Grenache, 12.7% Mourvèdre, 10.6% Petite Sirah, and the balance a mix of white varieties including Petit Manseng and Roussanne. Fermented with 23% whole clusters and aged 32 months in 68% new French oak, this incredible 2017 boasts a saturated purple hue to go with full-bodied aromas and flavors of ripe blackberries, bouquet garni, ground pepper, white chocolate, and cured meats. Incredibly complex, flawlessly balanced, and with a seamless texture that needs to be tasted to be believed, this is a magical blend from California that can be drunk today with incredible pleasure or cellared for 15-20 years. Hats off to the Krankl family for another truly special wine! |
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|
2018 |
Cumulus Vyd. No. 12 Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$820 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 100 (8/2021): As with the 2017, the 2018 No 12 Cumulus Vineyard is as good as wine gets. Based on 47.7% Syrah, 23.4% Grenache, 21.3% Petite Sirah, 5.6% Mourvèdre, and the remaining 2% a mix of white varieties, aged 32 months in 34% new barrels, its vivid purple hue gives way to a full-bodied blockbuster of a wine that’s loaded with cassis and blue fruits as well as notes of gravelly earth, graphite, ground pepper, and spring flowers. Flawlessly balanced, deep, super-rich, and unctuous, yet with incredible purity, give bottles a year of two and enjoy over the following 15 years or more.
WA 99 (8/2021): This cuvee comes entirely from the Krankl’s “home” vineyard—the Cumulus vineyard in Oak View, just south and inland from Santa Barbara, on the road to Ojai. There are now just over 12.5 acres planted at Cumulus. The first plantings of Syrah, Grenache and Roussanne took place in 2004. A little more Grenache was planted in 2005. Then in 2008, small blocks of Petite Manseng, Syrah, Touriga Nacional, Mourvedre and Petite Sirah were added, including 3.5 acres on its own roots.
VM 95 (10/2021): The 2018 No. 12 Cumulus Vineyard is a big wine. Black fruit, chocolate, spice, new leather and licorice are all dialed up. The tannins remain a bit coarse, which makes the wine feel not totally put together. Perhaps the brutal heat spikes in July caused a slight stoppage in ripening, or it could be the stems aren't totally integrated just yet. To be sure, the 2018 doesn't quite have the same textural lushness of most vintages. It will be interesting to see how things develop in the coming years. The 2018 was done with 41% whole clusters and spent 32 months in French oak, 34% new. Antonio Galloni. |
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|
2012 |
Cumulus Vyd. No. 6 Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$745 |
1 |
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WA 99 (8/2016): A wine that flirts with perfection, the 2012 Cumulus Vineyard #6 is an interesting blend of 38% Syrah, 37% Grenache, 17.4% Petite Sirah and the rest Mourvedre that saw 33 months in 54% new French oak. There’s a tiny 191 cases made, and it’s one of the most singular, exotic wines I’ve tasted. Spice, cedar, chocolate, exotic flowers and an assortment of dark fruits all emerge from this full-bodied, layered blend that hits the palate with serious richness and depth. Yet, like all truly great wines, it’s light, ethereal and never, ever heavy. There’s big structure here as well, so forget bottles for 3-4 years and enjoy over the following 15+ years.
VM 98 (9/2016): The 2012 No. 6 - Cumulus Vineyard might very well be my favorite of Manfred and Elaine Krankl's 2012s, including naturally the wines of Sine Qua Non. This is the warmest site the Krankls work with and the need to harvest on the earlier side seems to also preserve a bit more verve than is often found in some of the other Sine Qua Non wines. A host of cherry jam, pomegranate, sweet spice, rose petal and mint open up effortlessly, all with striking energy that keeps the wine vibrant and wonderfully alive. The blend is 38% Syrah, 37 % Grenache, 17.4% Petite Sirah and 7.6% Mourvèdre, done with 36% whole clusters and aged in 54% new oak. Sold in cases of 3 bottles and 1 magnum at the price of $1,200.00 per case. Antonio Galloni. |
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2013 |
Cumulus Vyd. No. 7 Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) Mixed OWC |
$735 |
1 |
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JD 99 (8/2017): The 2013 Cumulus Vineyard #7 (45% Syrah, 29% Grenache, 15% Petite Sirah and the balance Mourvèdre, Touriga Nacional and Roussanne) is a killer wine that delivers the that rare mix of hedonistic and intellectual pleasure that’s almost impossible to find outside of this address. Notes of cassis, violet, iris, toasted spices and caramelized cherries all emerge from the glass. Full-bodied, unctuous and decadent, yet seamless and silky, with no weight, it has ultra-fine tannin and a finish that won’t quit. This is a tour de force in wine that deserve 3-4 years of bottle age and will keep for another decade or more.
VM 99 (9/2017): The 2013 Next of Kyn - No. 7 Cumulus Vineyard is a real stunner. Rich, explosive and overwhelmingly beautiful, it takes hold of all the senses and never lets go. Even with all of its power and richness, the 2013 retains striking aromatic lift and energy. I would give it another few years to settle down, but it is superb today. This is an extraordinary wine by any measure. Don't miss it. In 2013, the blend is 45% Syrah, 29% Grenache, 15% Petite Sirah, 5% Mourvèdre, 4.5% Touriga Nacional and 1.5% Roussanne, done with 58% whole clusters and aged for 30 months in French oak. Antonio Galloni. |
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2014 |
Cumulus Vyd. No. 8 Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$650 |
1 |
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JD 99 (8/2017): Bottled in May of this year, the 2014 Cumulus Vineyard No 8 is a match for the sensational 2013. Made from 38% Syrah, 33% Grenache, 16% Touriga Nacional and the balance Mourvèdre and Petite Sirah, fermented with 43% whole clusters and aged in close to equal parts new and used French oak. There’s only 400 cases of this elixir and it offers killer notes of black raspberries, blueberries, violets, licorice, exotic spices and flowers. Perfumed, complex and nuanced, and dare I say, singular, this full-bodied red has a thick, opulent texture, beautiful freshness and sweet tannin on the finish. While it shows the 2014 vintage’s forward fruit characteristic, this puppy has backbone and length. Drink it anytime over the coming two decades.
WA 98+ (9/2017): Composed of 38% Syrah, 33% Grenache, 16% Touriga Nacional, 7% Mourvèdre and 6% Petite Sirah, using 43% whole clusters, the 2014 Cumulus Vineyard #8 has a deep garnet-purple color and slightly reticent nose to begin of black cherries, mulberries and black soil with suggestions of menthol, tobacco, incense, sandalwood and chocolate box, plus a fragrant undercurrent of violets. Firm, grainy tannins frame the full-bodied, muscular palate with stacks of flavor layers, finishing with great delineation and finesse. Forget this beauty for three to four years and enjoy drinking it over the next 20+.
VM 95 (9/2017): The 2014 Next of Kyn - No. 8 Cumulus Vineyard is a dense, powerful wine. Next to the 2013, the 2014 comes across as quite supple and downright accessible. A blast of dark red cherry, plum, spice, menthol, lavender and licorice infuse the beautifully layered finish. I imagine the 2014 will drink nicely with just a few years in bottle, although if past vintages are an indication, the wine will need longer than that to be at its very best. The blend is 38% Syrah, 33% Grenache, 16% Touriga Nacional, 7% Mourvèdre and 6% Petite Sirah, done with 43% whole clusters. Antonio Galloni. |
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2014 |
Cumulus Vyd. No. 8 Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$725 |
2 |
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JD 99 (8/2017): Bottled in May of this year, the 2014 Cumulus Vineyard No 8 is a match for the sensational 2013. Made from 38% Syrah, 33% Grenache, 16% Touriga Nacional and the balance Mourvèdre and Petite Sirah, fermented with 43% whole clusters and aged in close to equal parts new and used French oak. There’s only 400 cases of this elixir and it offers killer notes of black raspberries, blueberries, violets, licorice, exotic spices and flowers. Perfumed, complex and nuanced, and dare I say, singular, this full-bodied red has a thick, opulent texture, beautiful freshness and sweet tannin on the finish. While it shows the 2014 vintage’s forward fruit characteristic, this puppy has backbone and length. Drink it anytime over the coming two decades.
WA 98+ (9/2017): Composed of 38% Syrah, 33% Grenache, 16% Touriga Nacional, 7% Mourvèdre and 6% Petite Sirah, using 43% whole clusters, the 2014 Cumulus Vineyard #8 has a deep garnet-purple color and slightly reticent nose to begin of black cherries, mulberries and black soil with suggestions of menthol, tobacco, incense, sandalwood and chocolate box, plus a fragrant undercurrent of violets. Firm, grainy tannins frame the full-bodied, muscular palate with stacks of flavor layers, finishing with great delineation and finesse. Forget this beauty for three to four years and enjoy drinking it over the next 20+.
VM 95 (9/2017): The 2014 Next of Kyn - No. 8 Cumulus Vineyard is a dense, powerful wine. Next to the 2013, the 2014 comes across as quite supple and downright accessible. A blast of dark red cherry, plum, spice, menthol, lavender and licorice infuse the beautifully layered finish. I imagine the 2014 will drink nicely with just a few years in bottle, although if past vintages are an indication, the wine will need longer than that to be at its very best. The blend is 38% Syrah, 33% Grenache, 16% Touriga Nacional, 7% Mourvèdre and 6% Petite Sirah, done with 43% whole clusters. Antonio Galloni. |
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2015 |
Cumulus Vyd. No. 9 Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$595 |
1 |
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| JD 98+ (10/2018): A wine that’s going to flirt with perfection in another handful of years, the 2015 No 9 Cumulus Vineyard checks in as a complex blend of 45% Syrah, 22% Grenache, 16.8% Mourvèdre, 10% Petite Sirah, 5% Touriga Nacional, and the rest Viognier that saw 42% stems and 34 months in 40% new French oak. Sensationally perfumed, with powerful notes of blackberries, graphite, crushed rocks, black pepper, and dark chocolate, it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a layered, multi-dimensional texture, and incredible purity of fruit. This beauty has everything – richness, acidity, density, tannins, and length. Give it a handful of years and it will keep for 10-15 years. |
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2015 |
Cumulus Vyd. No. 9 Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$725 |
2 |
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| JD 98+ (10/2018): A wine that’s going to flirt with perfection in another handful of years, the 2015 No 9 Cumulus Vineyard checks in as a complex blend of 45% Syrah, 22% Grenache, 16.8% Mourvèdre, 10% Petite Sirah, 5% Touriga Nacional, and the rest Viognier that saw 42% stems and 34 months in 40% new French oak. Sensationally perfumed, with powerful notes of blackberries, graphite, crushed rocks, black pepper, and dark chocolate, it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a layered, multi-dimensional texture, and incredible purity of fruit. This beauty has everything – richness, acidity, density, tannins, and length. Give it a handful of years and it will keep for 10-15 years. |
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2015 |
Cumulus Vyd. No. 9 Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$745 |
1 |
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| JD 98+ (10/2018): A wine that’s going to flirt with perfection in another handful of years, the 2015 No 9 Cumulus Vineyard checks in as a complex blend of 45% Syrah, 22% Grenache, 16.8% Mourvèdre, 10% Petite Sirah, 5% Touriga Nacional, and the rest Viognier that saw 42% stems and 34 months in 40% new French oak. Sensationally perfumed, with powerful notes of blackberries, graphite, crushed rocks, black pepper, and dark chocolate, it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a layered, multi-dimensional texture, and incredible purity of fruit. This beauty has everything – richness, acidity, density, tannins, and length. Give it a handful of years and it will keep for 10-15 years. |
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2018 |
Numero Quatro Touriga Nacional (1.5 L) |
$619 |
1 |
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JD 99 (8/2021): I was able to taste two new releases from the Krankls’ Next of Kyn release. Starting with the 2018 Touriga Nacional Numero Quatro, which also includes 9.1% Syrah, 7.2% Grenache, 6.2% Petite Sirah, and 1.5% Roussanne, it’s a full-bodied, deep, rich monster of a wine that still stays balance and elegant, with a terrific perfume of blue fruits, violets, gravelly earth, and peppery spice. It has building tannins, but the balance is as good as it gets, and it has a finish that won’t quit. Fermented with 35% whole clusters and aged 32 months in 60% new French oak, it’s going to keep for a solid 15 years or more.
VM 98 (10/2021): The 2018 Touriga Nacional – Número Quatro is sourced from Elain and Manfred Krankl's estate vineyard in Oak View. It is a wine of tremendous character and personality. Sadly, production remains tiny, at just over 130 cases. Copious black cherry, plum, bittersweet chocolate, new leather, licorice and spice build in an deep, powerful wine that is loaded with personality. Antonio Galloni. |
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2018 |
Numero Quatro Touriga Nacional (1.5 L) |
$789 |
1 |
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JD 99 (8/2021): I was able to taste two new releases from the Krankls’ Next of Kyn release. Starting with the 2018 Touriga Nacional Numero Quatro, which also includes 9.1% Syrah, 7.2% Grenache, 6.2% Petite Sirah, and 1.5% Roussanne, it’s a full-bodied, deep, rich monster of a wine that still stays balance and elegant, with a terrific perfume of blue fruits, violets, gravelly earth, and peppery spice. It has building tannins, but the balance is as good as it gets, and it has a finish that won’t quit. Fermented with 35% whole clusters and aged 32 months in 60% new French oak, it’s going to keep for a solid 15 years or more.
VM 98 (10/2021): The 2018 Touriga Nacional – Número Quatro is sourced from Elain and Manfred Krankl's estate vineyard in Oak View. It is a wine of tremendous character and personality. Sadly, production remains tiny, at just over 130 cases. Copious black cherry, plum, bittersweet chocolate, new leather, licorice and spice build in an deep, powerful wine that is loaded with personality. Antonio Galloni. |
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2017 |
Numero Um Touriga Nacional (1.5 L) |
$995 |
1 |
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| Neyers |
2013 |
AME Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) Lightly Bin-Soiled Label |
$163.99 |
1 |
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2013 |
AME Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) Nicked Label |
$163.99 |
1 |
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| Oakford Vineyards |
1998 |
Estate Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$195 |
2 |
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| WS 87 (12/2000): Shows-off lots of oak, with toasty vanilla and anise scents, picking up black cherry, coffee, cedar and mocha, finishing with well-integrated tannins. Drink now through 2009. 550 cases made. |
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| Ovid |
2012 |
Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$450 |
1 |
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VM 95 (2/2017): The 2012 Ovid belongs to a group of vintages that includes 2007 and 2009 where the main characteristic is bold, racy fruit. A host of red cherry, pomegranate, smoke, licorice and tobacco wrap around the palate. Juicy, racy and flamboyant to the core, the 2012 needs a few years to lose some baby fat and develop aromatic complexity, but it is impressive. The 2012 is distinctly red-toned and floral in character, as so many wines are in this vintage. Antonio Galloni.
WA 94 (12/2015): The 2012 Proprietary Red is a 625-case cuvée made from 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Merlot and Petit Verdot. The wine displays blueberry and blackberry fruit, some violets, a hints of charcoal embers and graphite. It is pure, full-bodied, ripe and already dramatic and ostentatious. This is a beauty to drink over the next 15 or so years. |
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2013 |
Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$529 |
1 |
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| WA 98 (12/2015): The 2013 Proprietary Red, a slightly different blend from the 2012 of 84% Cabernet Sauvignon and 16% Cabernet Franc, is a much smaller production of 350 cases. This wine, which ratchets up the level of intensity, has an opaque purple color and a beautiful nose of blackberry, blueberry and cassis as well as hints of espresso, white flowers, and subtle background toast. The wine hits the palate with a cascade of gorgeous fruit, sweet tannin, great delineation and acidity, and a long, velvety, voluptuously textured mouthfeel. This big, inky, thick, juicy wine should age beautifully for 25-30 years. |
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| Parallel |
2006 |
Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$89 |
2 |
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| VM 91 (5/2009): Full ruby. Roasted black fruits and licorice on the nose and palate. Sound acids gives this rather exotic wine an elegant quality. Finishes with broad, mouthcoating tannins. Made by Philippe Melka from a vineyard close to Seavey. Stephen Tanzer. |
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| Paul Hobbs |
2009 |
Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$475 |
1 |
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| VM 94 (6/2012): Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard Napa Valley) Inky purple. Complex, heady bouquet evokes red and dark berry preserves, incense and dried flowers, with star anise and allspice overtones gaining strength with air. Juicy, palate-staining black raspberry and cassis flavors show excellent depth, with chewing tobacco and vanilla nuances contributing complexity. Finishes seamless and sweet, with outstanding energy and persistence. Josh Raynolds. |
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2010 |
Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$459 |
1 |
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JS 97 (10/2014): This has a very spicy, dried-fruit character with blackberries and blueberries. Full body with chewy, powerful tannins. Gravelly and intense. Big and powerful. Try in four or five years. I love the contrast in this wine. Smells so ripe and intense. Crazy wine.
WA 96 (12/2012): The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard is rich, sumptuous and totally striking. It brings together all of the classic Dr. Crane qualities – expressive aromatics, silky tannins and voluptuous fruit, all with the crystalline purity of 2010. Juicy dark cherries, roses, sweet spices and crushed rocks are layered into the expressive finish. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2025.
VM 95 (5/2013): Inky purple. An explosive perfume presents dark fruit liqueur, exotic spices and incense. Lush, palate-coating blackberry and cassis flavors show superb energy, becoming smokier and spicier with air. Refuses to let go of the palate on the finish, which features supple but substantial tannins and a lingering floral nuance. Stephen Tanzer.
WS 90 (7/2013): Offers a complex mix of creamy, mocha-laced oak and supple currant and berry flavors, gaining depth and richness while maintaining an elegant, graceful balance. Drink now through 2013. 682 cases made. |
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2011 |
Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$359 |
1 |
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| WA 91 (10/2013): One of my personal favorites, the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard possesses flinty, wet stone-like characteristics, more rugged tannins and an overall more masculine personality than the Las Piedras. Its concentration is impressive for a 2011, the tannins are ripe, and the wine is beefy and mouthfilling. Although it may lack some of the nuances typical for this site, it is definitely a star of the vintage. It should drink well for 10-15 years. |
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2016 |
Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$650 |
1 |
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| VM 94 (12/2018): The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard is bright, lifted and sensual, as is so common with wines from this site in St. Helena. Floral overtones, expressive red-toned fruit and silky tannins are some of the signatures in this very pretty and inviting mid-weight Cabernet. Today, the Dr. Crane is perhaps a touch linear, so readers should be prepared to cellar it for at least a few years. Antonio Galloni. |
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2009 |
Beckstoffer To Kalon Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$699 |
1 |
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| VM 95 (7/2019): Saturated red-ruby. Licorice, black cherry, red- and blackcurrant, sexy soil tones and violet on the nose; conveys a strong impression of site character. Densely packed, full and youthful, conveying strong inner-mouth lift but still a bit monolithic and in need of patience. The wine's inky dark fruit, spice and graphite flavors are firm but not at all hard or spiky. Made from vines picked on the late side, this big boy may not be as graceful as the 2010 but its firm tannic structure should ensure a long, slow evolution. And this classically dry Cabernet boasts excellent definition and inner-mouth tension. Give this wine some time in a decanter if you plan to open a bottle anytime soon. Stephen Tanzer. |
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2014 |
Nathan Coombs Estate Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$595 |
1 |
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| VM 98 (12/2017): The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Nathan Coombs Estate is on another level. This 100% Cabernet Sauvignon comes from a site in Coombsville which is a cooler terroir in the southern part of the Valley and spent 20 months in all new French oak. Sporting an inky purple/blue color and incredible notes of blackcurrants, scorched earth, graphite, damp earth and leafy herbs, it incredibly concentrated, opulent and decadent, yet always balanced and pure. It's a real “Wow” wine that's going to knock your socks off over the coming 2-3 decades. Antonio Galloni. |
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| Pillar Rock |
2001 |
Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$245 |
1 |
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