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Inventory updated: Fri, Jan 15, 2021 04:02 PM cst
Domestic Large Format
Flickinger Wines has an outstanding selection of domestic large format in-stock and ready to ship. This predominantly California list focuses on red wines, and covers a huge range from ready to drink values, to cellar worthy trophies. Take the time to comb through this impressive list of big bottles and add some new gems to your collection today - happy hunting!
The following are the wines remaining from the offer sent on Tuesday, December 29, 2020. Please enter your desired quantities and click the 'Add' button.
| Producer |
Vint. |
Wine |
Price |
Qty |
Order |
| | USA Red |
| Alban Vineyards |
2000 |
Alban Estate Grenache (1.5 L)  Wine-Stained Label |
$199 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 90 (11/2002): Good full ruby. Expressive aromas of raspberry, bacon fat, roasted meat and smoky oak. Ripe and generous in the mouth, with sound acidity framing the strongly roasted flavors of blackberry, espresso, chicory, black pepper and charred oak. Once again, this grenache reminds me more of Cote-Rotie than of the Southern Rhone. Finishes ripe, firm and long. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
|
2006 |
Reva Alban Estate Syrah (1.5 L) |
$450 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 100 (8/2010): The 2006 Syrah Reva, coming from parcels of dark, volcanic soil, has off-the-chart richness and intensity. This thick, opaque-purple colored wine offers up notes of scorched earth, ground pepper, and blackberry liqueur intermixed with cassis, licorice, camphor, and tar. The wine is spectacular in every sense. Full-bodied and certainly not for wimps, this is a remarkably concentrated yet very nuanced and intense wine that should age for 20 more years.
JD 98 (11/2010): Truly extraordinary, the 2006 Alban Vineyards Syrah Reva Alban Estate Vineyard is a jaw dropping Syrah, sporting rich, full aromatics of smoky dark fruits, steak tartare, tapenade, and licorice. These carry over to the palate where the wine is perfectly built, possessing awesome concentration, solid, almost burly structure, and a phenomenal texture that coats the palate, but at the same time, stays light, fresh, and clean. I’m a huge fan, and while delicious now, I’ve no doubt this will continue to drink well for 15 to 20 years.
WS 97 (12/2010): A luxurious style, rich, layered and dramatic, yet stays stylishly textured and balanced, offering a fleshy core of deep blackberry, wild berry and plum, with shades of tar, mineral, pepper and sage. Drink now through 2022. 2,300 cases made.
VM 94+ (11/2010): Glass-staining purple. Blackberry, boysenberry and licorice pastille on the nose, with mounting spice and floral notes and a strong wallop of cracked pepper. Deeply pitched black and blue fruit flavors expand with air and pick up strong spicecake and candied flower notes, along with velvety tannins. More backward than the Lorraine today, and showing a darker profile. The finish completely stains the palate and lingers with intense floral and spicy persistence. This is still a baby. Josh Raynolds. |
|
| Alderbrook |
2011 |
Dry Creek Valley Old Vine Zinfandel (1.5 L) |
$50 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Anderson's Conn Valley Vineyards |
1991 |
Estate Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) Signs of Old Seepage |
$225 |
1 |
|
| |
| WS 88 (11/1994): This has an earthy, leathery edge to the currant and cherry flavor, but it turns supple and elegant on the finish. Best after 1998. 4,088 cases made. |
|
| Andremily Wines |
2014 |
#3 Syrah (1.5 L) |
$359 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 96 (9/2017): Blended of 89% Syrah, 8% Mourvèdre and 3% Viognier using 54% whole cluster and spending around 22 months in French oak (60% new), the 2014 No 3 has a deep purple-black color and nose of blueberry preserves, spiced black berries and cassis with hints of mocha, tilled soil and roasted nuts. Medium to full-bodied, the plush, velvety tannins nicely frame the generous fruit, with great freshness and a good long, spicy finish. 450 cases were made. |
|
|
2015 |
#4 Syrah (1.5 L) |
$299 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 97 (9/2017): The 2015 No 4 is composed of 90% Syrah, 4% Mourvèdre and 6% Viognier and saw 35% whole cluster, while spending around 22 months in French oak (70% new). Sporting a very deep purple-black color, it reveals vibrant black currants, blackberries and mulberries notes plus touches of sandalwood, espresso, black soil and stewed tea. Full-bodied, rich, concentrated and with lovely energy, there is a good firm backbone of grainy tannins supporting the generous fruit, finishing long and savory. 550 cases were made.
JD 97-99 (8/2017): A terrific follow-up to the heavenly 2014, the 2015 Andremily No 4 is another wine from Jim that’s going to be in the top 2-3 wines of the vintage. A Syrah dominated blend that incorporates 6% Viognier and 4% Mourvèdre, it sports an inky purple color as well as incredible notes of liquid violets, blueberry liqueur, white chocolate, pen ink and lead pencil. Showing more classic peppery, Syrah notes with time in the glass, this opulent, decadent, yet always pure and precise 2015 will benefit from short term cellaring and have two decades of more of ultimate longevity.
VM 92-95 (9/2017): The 2015 Andremily No. 4 is a gorgeous, extroverted wine. Sumptuous and seamless, the 2015 captures all of the intensity of the year. Despite its obvious flamboyance, the 2015 is going to need at least a few years to shed some baby fat. Today, it is shockingly young. At times, the 2015 tastes like it was just drained from tank! A rush of crème de cassis, chocolate, plum, lavender and cloves adds the final exclamation point on the finish. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Arietta |
2006 |
H Block Hudson Vyd. Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$150 |
2 |
|
| |
| WS 91 (5/2009): Firm, gutsy and full-bodied, with tight cedar, tobacco, dried currant and spicy herbal elements that gain complexity, while maintaining a tight structure. Ends with mineral and herb notes and chewy tannins on a long finish. Cabernet Franc and Merlot. Drink now through 2016. 450 cases made. |
|
|
2008 |
H Block Hudson Vyd. Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$149 |
3 |
|
| |
WA 95 (12/2010): My favorite wine of this group is the 2008 H Block. It is the first time they have ever made it from 100% Cabernet Franc, and it is a killer wine. Gorgeous notes of blueberry, violets, lead pencil shavings, and pen ink soar from the glass of this full-bodied yet strikingly elegant, floral wine. It is deep blue/purple in color, with a glorious texture, terrific purity, and a long finish. This is further evidence of the brilliance of Cabernet Franc in Napa and of Cabernet Franc paired with the rare talents of Andy Erickson. It should drink well for 10-15 years, possibly two decades.
VM 93 (6/2011): (the only one of these wines that's 100% cabernet franc, owing to the high quality of the franc and to severe frost damage to the merlot in 2008): Deep, bright ruby-red. Vibrant but tight nose offers medicinal blackberry, black cherry, minerals and violet, along with a high-pitched minty note. Juicy and energetic, with excellent cut and precision to the dark fruit and chocolate flavors. A distinctly firm style of this wine: I miss the mid-palate pliancy and plumminess that's normally contributed by the merlot. |
|
| Aubert |
2013 |
CIX Pinot Noir (1.5 L) |
$320 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 95+ (1/2015): One of the darker wines in the range, the 2013 Pinot Noir CIX Vineyard races across the palate in a compelling mélange of dark red and purplish stone fruits, graphite, wild cherries, new leather and smoke. The combination of Calera and Vosne-Romanée clones is magic here, as the CIX presents a super-intriguing interplay of intense fruit and structure influenced by this cool site in Forestville. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2014 |
CIX Pinot Noir (1.5 L) |
$360 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 96 (12/2015): Made entirely from a clone from the most famous vineyard in Burgundy, the 2014 Cix offers crisp acid, loads of black raspberry, forest floor and blueberry fruit, and tremendous density, richness, and intensity. (It’s interesting to note that these 2014s are all in bottle while the Chardonnays are still in tank awaiting bottling.) This is a wine with great fruit, terrific acids and a long finish. It should evolve for 10 or more years. |
|
|
2010 |
Reuling Vyd. Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir (1.5 L) |
$219 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 94+ (2/2012): The 2010 Pinot Noir Reuling Vineyard bursts from the glass with an exciting melange of dark red cherries, flowers, licorice, tar, mint, camphor and exotic spices. Layers of flavor build effortlessly to the rich, textured finish. The Reuling impresses with its energy, length and minerality. An endless array of vivid aromas and flavors wrap around the rich, deep finish. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2020.
WS 93 (9/2013): Deep and intense, with vibrant, zesty wild berry, raspberry, anise and licorice notes that gain depth and fan out on the finish, exhibiting depth, persistence and tannins. Drink now through 2022. 228 cases made. |
|
|
2014 |
UV Vyd. Pinot Noir (1.5 L) |
$280 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 94 (12/2015): As for the 2014 Pinot Noir UV, this wine comes two-thirds from the Calera clone of Pinot Noir and the rest from a Vosne-Romanée clone (which we all know, but no one’s saying, probably emanated from the famous Domaine de la Romanée Conti estate). Lots of soft strawberry, sweet cherry and blueberry notes emerge from this wine, giving it a Côte de Nuits-like character. Slightly lighter than the Ritchie, feminine, fragrant, and beautifully round and juicy, this wine should drink well young and last ten or more years.
VM 92 (2/2016): The 2014 Pinot Noir UV Vineyard has a lovely immediacy, but it also comes across as ample and at times a bit heavy. Then again, this site is rich in clay, which tends to confer breadth. Dark red cherry, plum, leather, mint and spices meld into the powerful, resonant finish. This supple, engaging Pinot will drink well pretty much right out of the gate. UV is planted with a mix of Calera and Vosne-Romanée clones. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Barbour Vineyards |
2015 |
Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$250 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Bedrock Wine Co. |
2013 |
Bedrock Vyd. Ancient Vine Syrah (1.5 L) |
$225 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Behrens Family (Erna Schein) |
2007 |
Moulds Family Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$159 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 91-93 (6/2009): (100% cabernet sauvignon) Bright ruby-red. Redcurrant and tobacco leaf aromas lifted by a whiff of rose petal. Juicy, light on its feet and refined, with good peppery thrust and aromatic character to the berry, mineral and tobacco flavors. Finishes with fine-grained tannins and lovely subtle persistence. An elegantly styled cabernet with no shortage of intensity. |
|
| Benessere |
2015 |
Johns Promise Red Wine (1.5 L) |
$75 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2015 |
Phenomenon Red Wine (1.5 L) Writing on Label |
$75 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Beringer |
1996 |
Knights Valley Cabernet Sauvignon (3.0 L) |
$275 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 88 (5/1999): Deep ruby-red. Blueberry, mint and oak spice on the nose. Supple entry, then good but not outstanding flavor intensity. Finishes with smooth tannins, a note of dark chocolate and moderate length. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
| Blankiet |
2003 |
Paradise Hills Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$225 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 95 (12/2005): There are just over 1000 cases of the Cabernet Sauvignon, which is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from the hillsides of the Blankiet estate. The 2003, showing an almost “liqueur of rocks" character, is a huge, gigantic Cabernet Sauvignon that is intense purple in color, very full-bodied, with notes of coffee, graphite, blackberry, blueberry, and cassis. The striking minerality comes forth in the flavors as well, and the wine reveals refined, but high tannins, a massive texture, and awesome concentration. Give this wine 4-5 years of bottle age and drink it over the following 30 years. It is a stunning Cabernet Sauvignon that is showing even better out of bottle that it did from barrel.
VM 94 (6/2006): Deep ruby color. Blackberry, pepper, mint and tar on the vibrant nose. Lush but dry, with strong acids giving terrific cut and definition to the dark berry and bitter chocolate flavors. But this also offers excellent breadth and palate coverage. Finishes with full tannins that call for at least a few years of additional bottle aging. |
|
|
2005 |
Paradise Hills Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$295 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 95+ (12/2007): The 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Paradise Hills Vineyard (1,200 cases) reveals a chocolatey espresso roast note with mocha, blackberry and cassis, high tannins, but full body, superb concentration, purity, and an almost Graves-like scorched earth character. This wine needs 3-4 years of bottle age, and should last 25-30 years.
VM 92+ (6/2008): Good deep, saturated ruby. Aromas of currant, bitter chocolate, violet and tobacco. Juicy and penetrating, with firm-edged, slightly green acidity that has not yet harmonized with the wine's fruit. This very young wine will need extended time in bottle to come together. Claude Blankiet noted that the substantial spring rain in 2005 caused the vines "to go crazy," producing a big crop that required a lot of work to control the ultimate yields. A good bit of 2005 wine was ultimately declassified (the equivalent of about 600 cases), he told me, and when Michel Rolland helped out with the final blends, he added some cabernet sauvignon to the Rive Droite cuvee "to give it more middle." The 3.68 pH of this wine is unusually low. |
|
| Booker Vineyard |
2011 |
Ripper Grenache (1.5 L) Cracked Wax Capsule |
$349 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 96+ (8/2013): Starting out the tasting and absolutely rocking, the 2011 The Ripper checks in as a blend of 100% Grenache that was brought up in equal parts concrete and neutral barrel. Offering up layers of kirsch, dried underbrush, white pepper and hints of spring flowers, it flows onto the palate with a medium to full-bodied, vibrant profile that gains richness and depth with air. Leaning towards the more focused, elegant side of the spectrum, this beauty doesn’t lack for texture or length. Give it a year or three and enjoy through 2023. It’s superb and well worth the effort to track down. Drink 2015-2023.
VM 94 (7/2013): Eric Jensen has done a fabulous job with the 2011 Ripper, no easy feat after the iconic 2010. Expressive floral notes, mint, spices and kirsch all lift out of the glass. The freshness and crystalline purity of the year come through in spades. Jensen aged the 2011 70% in cement and 30% in neutral oak, an approach that worked beautifully. Over the last few years, Ripper has established itself as one of the most distinctive Grenaches in California.
VM 93 (12/2013): (100% grenache and 14.6% alcohol): Deep ruby. Spicy black raspberry and cherry compote on the highly perfumed nose, with zesty mineral and spice notes adding vibrancy. Deeply pitched but lively red fruit flavors show excellent clarity and sweetness, with a jolt of tangy acidity adding spine. The sappy, broad finish is shaped by smooth and harmonious tannins. This wine was raised entirely in used demi-muids.
WS 88 (7/2014): Offers ripe, rich dark berry, graphite and savory herb flavors. Supple midpalate, this ends with touches of cola and violet. Clean and snappy. Drink now through 2022. 725 cases made. |
|
| Bovet (Round Pond) |
2007 |
Rutherford Estate Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$100 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Capitello Wines |
2009 |
Sucession Cuvee Pinot Noir (1.5 L) |
$125 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Caymus |
2012 |
40th Anniversary Cabernet Sauvignon (1.0 L) |
$345 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 96 (10/2014): They appear to be immune to some of winedom’s less than intelligent trends and fads that we see from time to time, and the result is a spectacular 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon 40th Anniversary offering. Its dense purple/black color is followed by copious quantities of crème de cassis and blackberry fruit, silky tannins, a voluptuous texture and stunning purity as well as length. This full-bodied effort is a fabulous example of Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon as well as a tribute to this amazing family. It is so good now, why wait? However, I’m sure that like most vintages of Caymus, it will last for 20-25 years. Amazing!
WS 91 (11/2014): Lavishly oaked, with creamy mocha, vanilla, cedar and anise notes at the edge of a rich core of dark berry, plum and black licorice flavors. Tight, focused and persistent, showing a seductive character. Drink now through 2026. 122,158 cases made.
VM 85 (12/2014): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon 40th Anniversary from Caymus hits the palate with a rush of dark cherry, plum, Coke, chocolate, brandy, spices and sweet new oak. There is good texture, viscosity and immediacy to the fruit at first, but the sickly sweet new oak and vanillin become overpowering soon after, totally covering the fruit and attenuating the mid-palate and finish. Thankfully, the finish is short. Even by today's standards in Napa Valley, this is a decidedly sweet style of Cabernet Sauvignon quite unlike pretty much anything else I tasted this year. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2012 |
40th Anniversary Cabernet Sauvignon (3.0 L) Wrinkled Label, Signed Bottle |
$1,050 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 96 (10/2014): They appear to be immune to some of winedom’s less than intelligent trends and fads that we see from time to time, and the result is a spectacular 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon 40th Anniversary offering. Its dense purple/black color is followed by copious quantities of crème de cassis and blackberry fruit, silky tannins, a voluptuous texture and stunning purity as well as length. This full-bodied effort is a fabulous example of Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon as well as a tribute to this amazing family. It is so good now, why wait? However, I’m sure that like most vintages of Caymus, it will last for 20-25 years. Amazing!
WS 91 (11/2014): Lavishly oaked, with creamy mocha, vanilla, cedar and anise notes at the edge of a rich core of dark berry, plum and black licorice flavors. Tight, focused and persistent, showing a seductive character. Drink now through 2026. 122,158 cases made.
VM 85 (12/2014): The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon 40th Anniversary from Caymus hits the palate with a rush of dark cherry, plum, Coke, chocolate, brandy, spices and sweet new oak. There is good texture, viscosity and immediacy to the fruit at first, but the sickly sweet new oak and vanillin become overpowering soon after, totally covering the fruit and attenuating the mid-palate and finish. Thankfully, the finish is short. Even by today's standards in Napa Valley, this is a decidedly sweet style of Cabernet Sauvignon quite unlike pretty much anything else I tasted this year. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
1982 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon (3.0 L) Signs of Old Seepage; Writing on Label; Scuffed Label |
$500 |
1 |
|
| |
| WS 94 (7/1986): (not tasting note given) |
|
|
2002 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$260 |
1 |
|
| |
| WS 93 (12/2004): Lots of rich, creamy oak and a tasty core of ripe currant, plum and black cherry fruit combine to form this notably complex and concentrated young wine. Delicious from start to finish, with a long, fruity aftertaste and fine-grained tannins. Drink now through 2011. 29,980 cases made. |
|
|
2006 |
Special Selection Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$325 |
1 |
|
| |
| WS 94 (3/2009): Complex, riveting aromas of spice, cola and sassafras join wild berry, spice, black cherry and sage notes in this full-bodied, intensely flavored, tightly focused and very persistent display of fruit that's long and lingering. Drink now through 2017. 11,900 cases made. |
|
| Ch. Montelena |
1997 |
Estate Cabernet Sauvignon (3.0 L) |
$1,200 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 98 (12/2000): There are 10,200 cases of the remarkable 1997 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate. Opaque purple-colored with a dense, chewy, full-bodied personality, it displays abundant cassis, mineral, and earth notes. This brilliantly made, super-concentrated, pure, blockbuster possesses sweet tannin as well as a terrific finish. Having added additional weight since last year, this sumptuous, multilayered, profoundly concentrated Cabernet contains 14% alcohol. It is a candidate for 25-30 years of longevity. Anticipated maturity: 2003-2030.
WS 95 (10/2000): This California Cab serves up lots of ripe, supple black cherry, currant and plum-laced flavors, as well as pretty touches of earth, anise and mineral. Turns smooth and supple, finishing with polished tannins. Best from 2001 through 2015. 11,700 cases made.
VM 93+ (5/2000): Good deep medium ruby. Very complex nose combines cassis, black cherry, plum, smoked meat, dark chocolate, Cuban tobacco and a hint of menthol. Youthfully unevolved and primary yet broad and pliant; offers impressive texture and stuffing for a young Montelena cabernet. Superripe hints of smoked meat and leather. Finishes with very lush tannins and strong dark berry flavor. The pH here is higher than average, an indication of the thorough ripeness of the vintage. The yield in this generous year was a reasonable 3.1 tons per acre, which Barrett described as huge. Still, this appears to be an Outstanding vintage for this classic Napa cabernet. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
| Charles Krug |
1980 |
Vintage Selection Cabernet Sauvignon (5.0 L) 125th Anniversary; 20 Jeroboams Produced |
$600 |
3 |
|
| |
|
|
1983 |
Vintage Selection Cabernet Sauvignon (6.0 L) |
$850 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
1988 |
Vintage Selection Cabernet Sauvignon (6.0 L) |
$850 |
5 |
|
| |
| WS 84 (11/1998): Tasted from magnum. Tart, with crisp tannins and a narrow beam of black cherry and currant. Can age further, but given the sharp acidity and tannins and the lack of depth, don't expect it to improve.--1988 California Cabernet retrospective. Drink now through 2002. |
|
| Cliff Lede |
2010 |
Poetry Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$425 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 94 (12/2012): Lede's 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Poetry brings together the aromatic nuance and overt florality of the Landslide Fire with the heft and concentration of the Songbook, a pretty appealing combination in my book. Power and richness dominate in a wine that nevertheless retains considerable finesse. Over time, the more silky, gracious side of the Poetry emerges as layers of fruit appear to blossom in all directions. This is another totally delicious, compelling wine from Cliff Lede. The blend is 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot, 3% Cabernet Franc and 1% Malbec. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2011 |
Poetry Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$300 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 92 (11/2013): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Poetry is endowed with serious power and depth. Blackberry jam, bittersweet chocolate, smoke, licorice, violets, new leather and spice emerge over time, but only with great reluctance. The 2011 needs time to come together. Today it is compact and intense, but not fully expressive. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2013 |
Poetry Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$675 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 100 (12/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Poetry reveals a rather inky, bluish/purple color. A blend of 95% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Cabernet Franc and the rest Merlot and Petit Verdot, this wine is super-youthful and still tastes somewhat like a barrel sample. It’s bursting with upside potential. Inky purple to the rim, with notes of crème de cassis, black cherry liqueur, licorice, spice and a touch of vanilla, this is a full-bodied, concentrated and an utterly profound wine that may represent the greatest wine that Cliff Lede has made to date. Forget it for another 5-6 years and drink it over the following 30 years. |
|
|
2014 |
Poetry Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$375 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 95+ (12/2016): Always one of the stars of Napa is Cliff Lede’s Cabernet Sauvignon Poetry and the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Poetry is a blend of 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc and the rest Petit Verdot. Never the biggest wine made by Cliff Lede, this is an elegant, classic Stags Leap example with finesse allied to beautifully pure power and balance. Deep and rich and possibly, at this stage, less expressive than some of its siblings, it is simply loaded and poised for a brilliant future. Consumers should give this 4-5 years of bottle age and drink it over the following 25-30 years. |
|
|
2012 |
Songbook Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$399 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 96 (10/2014): Packaged in a heavier bottle, the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Songbook is a blend of 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Merlot and 1% Cabernet Franc. A profound Napa Cabernet Sauvignon, it exhibits a dense purple color in addition to notes of white chocolate, crème de cassis, blackberries and subtle oak. Full-bodied, opulent, generous and voluptuously textured, this stunning 2012 can be drunk now or cellared for 15 or more years. |
|
| Continuum |
2014 |
Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$409 |
2 |
|
| |
| 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. |
|
| Dana Estates |
2012 |
Hershey Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$825 |
1 |
|
| |
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. |
|
| Faust |
2005 |
Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$90 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Fobiano |
1996 |
La Carraia (1.5 L) |
$65 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 89 (1/1999): Good red-ruby. Fragrant red fruit, smoke and spice aromas. Lush and seamless, with lovely sweetness and noteworthy concentration. A mineral quality gives shape to the fruit. Finishes slightly dry-edged, with some acidity yet to be absorbed. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
| George Wine Company |
2016 |
Sonoma Coma Pinot Noir (5.0 L) Writing on Label |
$300 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Groth |
2006 |
Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) Heavily Bin-Soiled Label; Signed Bottle |
$149 |
1 |
|
| |
| WS 88 (6/2009): Tightly wound, firmly tannic, full-bodied and dense. Chewy and extracted, this is a touch rustic and cedary, but also deep, complex and concentrated. Needs time. Best from 2010 through 2017. 19,000 cases made. |
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|
2007 |
Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) Bin-Marked Label |
$149 |
1 |
|
| |
| WS 87 (10/2010): Rustic, displaying a loamy, earthy streak that runs through a tight mix of graphite, dried currant and herbal sage notes. Full-bodied, ending with drying tannins. Drink now through 2016. 18,000 cases made. |
|
|
2008 |
Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$199 |
1 |
|
| |
WS 89 (12/2011): Tight and racy, with a leathery edge to the dried berry and currant, medium- to full-bodied, slow to reveal its currant and tobacco smoke. Drink now through 2021. 3,450 cases made.
WA 86 (12/2010): The 2008 Groth Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve reveals slightly more fruit, but again the nose seems so filtered that there is just not much left in it. It does possesses slightly more density (perhaps because of the low yields), elegance and a touch of sweetness. A medium-bodied, pleasant offering, it is best drunk over the next 5-7 years. |
|
| Harlan Estate |
2010 |
Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$1,550 |
2 |
|
| |
VM 100 (11/2013): The 2010 Harlan Estate is magnificent. One of the very best wines I have ever tasted at Harlan, the 2010 brings together richness and volume, but with a level of energy and sheer precision I don't think I have ever seen in a young Harlan Estate. Layers of deeply expressive dark red/black fruit, cloves, menthol and new leather flesh out in a seamless wine endowed with stunning balance and class. Iron, melted road tar, tobacco and incense add shades of complexity on the finish. The 2010 has turned out even better than I had originally expected. Today it is epic.
JS 100 (5/2014): Fascinating aromas of rock and dark fruits such as blueberries and blackberries. Transparency is fascinating. Full body, with wonderfully formed tannins that give tension and form to a perfect wine of incredible layers and depth. Reminds me of something like 1961 Latour - not that I tasted it young, but there's a classicism to it. Unmitigated purity to this wine. This will be so much better in 2020. Get the chance to try it.
WA 98+ (10/2013): I wouldn’t be surprised to see the 2010 Harlan Estate inch closer to perfection over the next decade. Surprisingly supple for this vintage, while this cuvee is not usually that flamboyant or exuberant in its youth, the 2010 is sensual and performing remarkably well. Its deep purple color is accompanied by notions of charcoal, graphite, camphor, creme de cassis, barbecue smoke and blackberries. As usual, this complex effort reminds me of a hypothetical blend of a great Pauillac and Graves (such as La Mission Haut-Brion). Rich, full-bodied and softer than I would have expected in this vintage, it is a prodigious, multidimensional, compelling wine. It requires 3-5 years of bottle age and should drink well over the following 30+ years.
WS 96 (10/2013): A serious wine that commands attention, from its initial rustic earth, crushed rock and dense berry flavors to its push of concentrated dark berry, dried herb, dried licorice, road tar and dried flowers. Never loses purpose or direction. Patience required. Best from 2015 through 2030. 1,550 cases made. |
|
| Heitz |
2001 |
Trailside Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) Torn Label |
$199 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Hundred Acre Winery |
2004 |
Kayli Morgan Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$795 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 98 (6/2012): Performing better now than it has previously, this 100% Cabernet Sauvignon exhibits a brooding black/purple color as well as strong aromas of forest floor, creme de cassis, blackberries, vanillin and barbecue smoke. Rich and full-bodied, with a flawless integration of acid and tannin, this amazing wine was aged nearly 30 months in 100% new French oak, all of which is well-concealed. It has 20-25 years of life ahead of it.
VM 94 (6/2010): Red-ruby. Superripe cherry and cassis complicated by crystallized flowers, licorice, coconut, patchouli oil, cinnamon and earth. A huge wine with Outstanding depth of flavor; downright creamy in the mid-palate but with fruit of steel and near-exotic sweetness. The wine's minerality and sound acids contribute to an impression of power. Finishes with explosive, liqueur-like persistence. Due to the hot harvest conditions, Woodbridge and winemaker Philippe Melka used a radical "cryogenic maceration," first chilling the grapes to 31oF under argon gas for a few days, then bringing them down to minus-40oF for a month before allowing a fast but cool fermentation to start-all this in an attempt to preserve aromatic character in a year with stressed fruit.
WS 93 (11/2007): A seductive style that's rich and creamy-textured, with mocha, black cherry and red berry flavors that are focused, supple, intense and focused, with a long, lingering aftertaste. Drink now through 2016. 1,100 cases made. |
|
| Joseph Phelps |
2013 |
Backus Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$649 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 96 (10/2016): The impressive site of Backus Vineyard, right across from the Oakville Crossroads and the Screaming Eagle vineyard, is an extremely steep but magnificent site in Napa Valley. Production for this wine ranges from 1,200 to 1,600 cases. The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Backus Vineyard has 90% Cabernet and the rest Petit Verdot and Malbec. This wine is also aged for 24 months in 100% new French oak. The 2013 is a big, strong, powerful, muscular, even masculine style of wine, with high extract, loads of blackberry and cassis, some loamy soil undertones, sweet but noticeable tannins, and a long finish of close to 50+ seconds. It is a wine meant for the long haul, so I wouldn’t touch a bottle of the 2013 for another 5-6 years and drink it over the following 30+. |
|
|
2001 |
Insignia Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$475 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 98+ (11/2013): Still a young wine at age 12, the 2001 Insignia exhibits a dense purple color along with a sweet bouquet of camphor, blackberries, cassis, incense and spring flowers. Full-bodied, rich and heady with sweet tannin, stunning concentration and a fabulous finish, this remarkable Insignia has 25 or more years of life ahead of it.
VM 95+ (4/2016): (from an early harvest, like 2015; the first vintage of a ten-year spell without any Cabernet Franc): Dark red with ruby highlights. The aromas of currant, graphite minerality and dark chocolate convey an inviting warmth. Wonderfully suave, fleshy and sweet, especially for its 13.9% alcohol. Deep, broad flavors of raspberry, sandalwood and soy are energized by a subtle mineral quality and harmonious acidity. Outstanding intensity and tight grain here. Finishes with serious but integrated tannins that spread out horizontally on the very long finish. This wonderfully balanced, still-young wine has clearly benefited from the firming influence of its 8% Petit Verdot element, the highest to this point. Incidentally, this was the last vintage of the Insignia with measurable brettanomyces--but it works for me!
WS 88 (6/2011): Enticing aromas of mixed berries, mocha, cedar and tobacco. Full-bodied, focused and intense, with touches of mature flavors that turn simpler and fade on the finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot and Malbec. Drink now. 18,000 cases made. |
|
|
2001 |
Insignia Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$495 |
6 |
|
| |
WA 98+ (11/2013): Still a young wine at age 12, the 2001 Insignia exhibits a dense purple color along with a sweet bouquet of camphor, blackberries, cassis, incense and spring flowers. Full-bodied, rich and heady with sweet tannin, stunning concentration and a fabulous finish, this remarkable Insignia has 25 or more years of life ahead of it.
VM 95+ (4/2016): (from an early harvest, like 2015; the first vintage of a ten-year spell without any Cabernet Franc): Dark red with ruby highlights. The aromas of currant, graphite minerality and dark chocolate convey an inviting warmth. Wonderfully suave, fleshy and sweet, especially for its 13.9% alcohol. Deep, broad flavors of raspberry, sandalwood and soy are energized by a subtle mineral quality and harmonious acidity. Outstanding intensity and tight grain here. Finishes with serious but integrated tannins that spread out horizontally on the very long finish. This wonderfully balanced, still-young wine has clearly benefited from the firming influence of its 8% Petit Verdot element, the highest to this point. Incidentally, this was the last vintage of the Insignia with measurable brettanomyces--but it works for me!
WS 88 (6/2011): Enticing aromas of mixed berries, mocha, cedar and tobacco. Full-bodied, focused and intense, with touches of mature flavors that turn simpler and fade on the finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot and Malbec. Drink now. 18,000 cases made. |
|
|
2002 |
Insignia Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$650 |
3 |
|
| |
WA 100 (11/2013): The 2002 boasts an inky/purple color along with notes of graphite, violets, blackberries, creme de cassis and hints of charcoal and barbecue in addition to a full-bodied, multilayered mouthfeel that builds incrementally with great purity, staggering fruit concentration, and a long, velvety, 50+-second finish. This prodigious effort should continue to drink well for 20+ years.
WS 96 (5/2012): Rich flavors fan out, the way you hope for, coating the palate with layers of currant, fresh earth, mineral, cedar, tobacco, mocha, black licorice and espresso. The tannins are firm and the structure built for a longer haul. Very much in its infancy still at age 10, it finds that unusual bridge between dense Napa fruit and a Bordeaux build. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Malbec.—2002 California Cabernet blind retrospective (May 2012). Drink now through 2032. 15,000 cases made.
VM 92+ (4/2016): (from a year featuring three heat spikes in September): Full red-ruby. Slightly roasted, high-toned black raspberry nose show a slightly pruney ripeness (the VA here was a relatively elevated 0.85). Creamy, plush and sweet, displaying excellent breadth and still-considerable baby fat. This was quite flashy on release but now seems to be in an adolescent phase. Big, building tannins saturate the tongue and front teeth. Winemaker Hepworth described it as "like a teenager, and without the suavity of tannins of the 2001." I'd leave it alone for at least a couple more years, at which point it may well merit a higher score. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
|
2016 |
Insignia Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$494 |
7 |
|
| |
WA 99 (10/2019): Bottled in January 2019, the 2016 Insignia is a blend of 84% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Petit Verdot, 3% Cabernet Franc and 1% Malbec, aged for 24 months in 100% new French oak barrels. Deep garnet-purple colored, the nose is a little reticent to begin, needing a fair bit of coaxing to reveal beautifully beguiling notions of wild blueberries, warm blackberries, black currant cordial, cloves and cedar chest with nuances of camphor, yeast extract, charcuterie and candied violets. Medium to full-bodied, the palate has fantastic elegance and depth, revealing loads of subtle floral, black fruit and earthy layers with a firm, very finely grained texture and seamless freshness, finishing with epic length. 13,400 cases were made.
JS 98 (3/2019): Lovely density and intensity with dark berries, blueberries and inky undertones with hints of spice, chocolate and walnuts. Medium to full body, fine tannins and a flavorful finish. The texture and length are fantastic here. Complex. Hints of smoky wood at the end. This needs three to five years more in bottle age. Exciting wine. Try after 2022.
JD 97 (1/2020): Is the 2016 Insignia the next 1997? Coming mostly from the Stags Leap region, with the rest from the Home Ranch, this deep purple-colored beauty offers a magical bouquet of crème de cassis, fruitcake, forest floor, tobacco leaf, and toasted spices. It shows even more complexity with time in the glass and is a full-bodied, powerful, ageworthy example of this cuvée that’s going to benefit from 4-5 years of bottle age and keep for 25+ years or more.
VM 97 (1/2020): The 2016 Insignia has turned out beautifully. Silky, layered and positively striking, the 2016 is magnificent. In this vintage, Insignia is especially silky, refined and understated, which is unusual for this wine that has often been more bombastic. Readers will have to be patient with the 2016, as it needs at least several years in bottle to be at its very best, but this is all finesse and class. Antonio Galloni.
WS 95 (10/2019): This is laden with flavors of dark currant, blackberry and black cherry preserves, infused gently with alder, incense and black tea notes, all carried by a long swath of fine-grained tannins. Hints of warm stone and tobacco gild the finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec. Best from 2021 through 2035. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 13,500 cases made. |
|
| Justin |
2009 |
Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$85 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Lang & Reed |
1997 |
Cabernet Franc (1.5 L) |
$35 |
1 |
|
| |
| WS 88 (1/1999): Ripe and supple, with a cedary edge to the tobacco, currant and berryish flavors, turning rich and polished on the finish. Best from 2000 through 2007. 700 cases made. |
|
| 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 cuvée 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. |
|
| Maybach |
2017 |
Materium Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$445 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 98 (1/2020): The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Materium is one of the wines of the vintage and, as I wrote last year, a solid step up over the Amoenus release. Loads of liquid violets, flowery incense, sappy herbs, graphite, and assorted blue fruits all flow to a full-bodied, thrillingly textured, pure, sensationally concentrated Cabernet Sauvignon. Super rich, plush, yet flawlessly balanced, it too is going to benefit from 2-3 years of bottle age and keep for two decades. |
|
| Mount Veeder |
2002 |
Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$100 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Next of Kyn |
2011 |
Cumulus Vyd. No. 5 Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$675 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 97 (8/2015): While I reviewed the 2011 Cumulus Vineyard #5 last year, I was thrilled to be able to retaste it this go around. Showing consistently, with tons of savory, meaty characteristics in its currants, cassis, ground herbs and wood smoke-like aromas and flavors, this is a full-bodied, gorgeously concentrated 2011 that shows the freshness and purity of the vintage, yet backs it up with plenty of texture and length. Give it a few years and enjoy bottles through 2032.
VM 95 (8/2017): The 2011 Next of Kyn - No. 5, from one of the most maligned California vintages in recent memory, is quite attractive, if a bit compact. Although very much light to medium in body next to the other wines in this tasting, the 2011 is full of perfume, freshness and bright fruit. If anything, the 2011 still needs time to develop the full breadth of its aromatic complexity. In this tasting, the 2011 is more reticent than it has been in the past. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2011 |
Cumulus Vyd. No. 5 Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$679 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 97 (8/2015): While I reviewed the 2011 Cumulus Vineyard #5 last year, I was thrilled to be able to retaste it this go around. Showing consistently, with tons of savory, meaty characteristics in its currants, cassis, ground herbs and wood smoke-like aromas and flavors, this is a full-bodied, gorgeously concentrated 2011 that shows the freshness and purity of the vintage, yet backs it up with plenty of texture and length. Give it a few years and enjoy bottles through 2032.
VM 95 (8/2017): The 2011 Next of Kyn - No. 5, from one of the most maligned California vintages in recent memory, is quite attractive, if a bit compact. Although very much light to medium in body next to the other wines in this tasting, the 2011 is full of perfume, freshness and bright fruit. If anything, the 2011 still needs time to develop the full breadth of its aromatic complexity. In this tasting, the 2011 is more reticent than it has been in the past. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2012 |
Cumulus Vyd. No. 6 Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) Cracked Wax Capsule |
$745 |
1 |
|
| |
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. |
|
|
2013 |
Cumulus Vyd. No. 7 Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$609 |
3 |
|
| |
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. |
|
|
2013 |
Cumulus Vyd. No. 7 Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$685 |
1 |
|
| |
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. |
|
|
2013 |
Cumulus Vyd. No. 7 Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$609 |
1 |
|
| |
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.
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.
WA 97+ (9/2017): The 2013 Cumulus Vineyard #7 is blended of 45% Syrah, 29% Grenache, 15% Petite Sirah, 5% Mourvèdre, 4.5% Touriga Nacional and 1.5% Rossanne, using 58% whole clusters. It sports a deep garnet-purple color with a sexy spiced plums, black cherry coulis and blackberry tart-laced nose accented by hints of tea, dried Provence herbs, mocha, spice box and eucalypt. The bold, powerful, outspoken palate delivers concentrated black fruits and savory layers framed by firm yet fine-grained, velvety tannins and bags of freshness, finishing with lingering baking spice and mineral notions. Full and fresh with plenty of spices and wonderful length. |
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|
2014 |
Cumulus Vyd. No. 8 Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$625 |
3 |
|
| |
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. |
|
|
2014 |
Cumulus Vyd. No. 8 Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$699 |
1 |
|
| |
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) |
$749 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 98+ (10/2018): A wine that’s going to flirt with perfection in another handful of years, the 2015 No 9 Cumulus Vineyard checks in as a complex blend of 45% Syrah, 22% Grenache, 16.8% Mourvèdre, 10% Petite Sirah, 5% Touriga Nacional, and the rest Viognier that saw 42% stems and 34 months in 40% new French oak. Sensationally perfumed, with powerful notes of blackberries, graphite, crushed rocks, black pepper, and dark chocolate, it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a layered, multi-dimensional texture, and incredible purity of fruit. This beauty has everything – richness, acidity, density, tannins, and length. Give it a handful of years and it will keep for 10-15 years. |
|
|
2015 |
Cumulus Vyd. No. 9 Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$800 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 98+ (10/2018): A wine that’s going to flirt with perfection in another handful of years, the 2015 No 9 Cumulus Vineyard checks in as a complex blend of 45% Syrah, 22% Grenache, 16.8% Mourvèdre, 10% Petite Sirah, 5% Touriga Nacional, and the rest Viognier that saw 42% stems and 34 months in 40% new French oak. Sensationally perfumed, with powerful notes of blackberries, graphite, crushed rocks, black pepper, and dark chocolate, it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a layered, multi-dimensional texture, and incredible purity of fruit. This beauty has everything – richness, acidity, density, tannins, and length. Give it a handful of years and it will keep for 10-15 years. |
|
| Nova Wines |
2002 |
Marilyn Velvet Collection Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$129 |
3 |
|
| |
|
| Peter Michael Winery |
2011 |
Au Paradis Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$375 |
2 |
|
| |
JS 94 (5/2014): A cabernet with clay, iron, meat, red soil and fresh fruit, as well as hints of fresh herbs. Full to medium body with fine tannins and a sweet-berry and spice character. So attractive now but will improve for many years to come. 76% cabernet sauvignon and 24% cabernet franc. This is the first vintage.
WA 92 (12/2013): Peter Michael’s newest offering, the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Au Paradis, is a blend of 76% Cabernet Sauvignon and 24% Cabernet Franc, the latter coming from the great red soils on the eastern hillsides that were first made famous by Dalla Valle’s Maya. The Au Paradis offers lots of black currant, cedar wood, unsmoked cigar tobacco and vanillin notes in a dense, full-bodied, impressive style, especially for a 2011. Sweet tannins auger well for drinking this cuvee now and over the next 15+ years.
VM 91 (5/2014): Inky ruby. Pungent, oak-spiced aromas of dried cherry, dark berries, licorice and mocha, with a subtle note of cracked pepper in the background. Penetrating bitter cherry and cassis flavors unfold slowly and pick up a richer plum jam character, with a spicy note adding lift. Closes smoky and long, with gentle, slow-building tannins and lingering spiciness.
WS 90 (10/2014): Deftly balanced, firm, dense and tightly focused on earth- and mineral- laced currant and dark berry flavors. Lightly oaky and well-built, this ends with touches of graphite and pencil lead. Drink now through 2021. 988 cases made. |
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|
2013 |
Au Paradis Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$475 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 98 (12/2015): The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Au Paradis comes from one of their newer acquisitions, formerly known as the Showket Vineyard in the red soil hillsides overlooking the Oakville crossroads. This is a blend of 76% Cabernet Sauvignon and 24% Cabernet Franc. Production is less than 1,530 cases. The 2013 displays loads of roasted meats, licorice, graphite, dusty, loamy soil notes, creamy blackcurrants and blackberries, stunning richness, and a Pauilllac-like first-growth cedarwood and crème de cassis notes. The Cabernet Franc from this area grows right next to the famous Maya wine of Dalle Valle. This wine spent all of its time in 100% new Daranjou cooperage, which is not even noticeable in the aromatics or flavors. This full-bodied, modern-day classic should age brilliantly for 30-35 years. |
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|
2015 |
Au Paradis Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$449 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 94+ (10/2017): Composed of 76% Cabernet Sauvignon and 24% Cabernet Franc, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Au Paradis has a deep garnet-purple color and nose of crushed blackcurrants, blackberries and mulberries with hints of menthol, violets, bay leaves and cloves, plus a waft of pencil shavings. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is energetic and yet tautly structured with firm, grainy tannins and a lively backbone framing the muscular fruit, finishing long and earthy. Give it 2-3 years in bottle and drink it over the next 25+. 1,620 cases were made. |
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|
2007 |
LEsprit des Pavots Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$180 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 92 (6/2010): Opaque ruby. Strikingly pure, complex aromas of redcurrant, cherry, spicecake, tobacco and licorice. Pliant, focused red fruit flavors are complemented by deeper notes of mocha and cola. Finishes with silky tannins and a slow-building mineral quality. With its clarity, juiciness and lingering spiciness, this is far more inviting than the brooding Pavots today.
WA 91 (2/2010): The second wine, the 2007 L’Esprit des Pavots (44% Cabernet Sauvignon, 38% Merlot, 16% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Petit Verdot), exhibits lots of smoky cassis, tobacco leaf, and chocolate characteristics presented in a full-bodied, fleshy, rich format. While it is unquestionably an Outstanding wine, it is simply dwarfed by the prodigiousness of its bigger sibling. Consume it over the next 15-20 years. |
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|
2009 |
Les Pavots Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$375 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 96 (2/2012): The 2009 Les Pavots is absolutely fabulous. Mocha, espresso, spices, plums and blackberries are just some of the many notes that jump from the glass in this seamless, striking wine. The 2009 boasts exceptional textural finesse and tremendous class. In 2009 Les Pavots includes 22% Cabernet Franc, one of the highest percentages ever. It all works beautifully. The 2009 is firing on all cylinders. All of the vineyards in Les Pavots are now over 20 years old. In 2009 the blend is 66% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Cabernet Franc, 10% Merlot and 2% Petit Verdot. Anticipated maturity: 2016-2024.
WS 95 (10/2012): Offers a strikingly complex mix of flavors that are refined and graceful. Pure, rich and supple given its level of intensity and concentration, with a beautiful core of ripe wild berry, pomegranate, spice, mineral, cedar and graphite. Holding back ever so slightly. Another classic Les Pavots. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2030. 3,500 cases made.
VM 94 (5/2012): (a blend of 66% cabernet sauvignon, 22% cabernet franc, 10% merlot and 2% petit verdot): Opaque ruby. Pungent, assertive aromas of dried cherry, cassis, pipe tobacco, vanilla and woodsmoke, with a sexy floral accent emerging with air. Juicy and sharply focused, offering bitter cherry and floral pastille flavors brightened by a spicy element. Fine-grained tannins add shape and gentle grip to the very long, appealingly sweet finish. There are 3,500 cases of this wine to go around from the 2009 vintage. |
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|
2012 |
Les Pavots Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$550 |
1 |
|
| |
JS 97 (3/2015): This has great density with a firm and silky texture that caresses your palate, giving layers of mouthfeel. It shows so much, yet has subtle grilled meat, black truffles and dark fruits. Sous bois gives a mushroom and cedar character. Long finish. So gorgeous now but much better in 2017.
WS 95 (10/2015): A strikingly complex and well-structured effort, with a tight frame around the taut dark berry, mineral, spice, cedary oak, forest floor, cassis and wild berry flavors. All in all, this is a remarkably flavorful and focused effort. Ends with ripe, chewy tannins. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2030. 3,600 cases made.
WA 96-98 (12/2014): The 2012s made from Bordeaux varietals include their flagship wine, the 2012 Proprietary Red Les Pavots, a sensational blend of 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Cabernet Franc, 11% Merlot and 5% Petit Verdot. A prodigious effort, it rivals some of the fabulous past vintages such as 1997, 2001, 2002 and 2007. The inky/purple-colored 2012 boasts classic notes of crème de cassis, roasted coffee, vanilla bean, cedar, forest floor and blueberries. Full-bodied and complex with sweet tannin as well as hints of charcoal and camphor, this opulent, multi-leveled, Bordeaux-styled 2012 can be drunk now or cellared for 25-30+ years. |
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|
2014 |
Les Pavots Proprietary Blend (3.0 L) Autographed Bottle |
$800 |
1 |
|
| |
JS 98 (5/2017): Incredible aromas of pine tree, mineral, cigar box and tobacco leaf but then it turns to currants and black truffle. Forest fruit and forest floor. Soya. Full body, round and decadent with a combination of ripe fruit and earth, spice and long finish. The uniqueness of Pavot is streaming here. Drink or hold
WA 95 (10/2016): The 2014 Proprietary Red Les Pavots (3,570 cases) is a blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Cabernet Franc, 13% Merlot and 5% Petit Verdot aged in mostly Taransaud barrels with a small helping of Darnajou thrown in. This wine is fabulous in the vintage, although certainly less profoundly concentrated and extracted, as well as structured, compared to the 2013, which was off-the-charts fabulous. This is a brilliant wine, charming, with front-end loaded plum, blackcurrant and black raspberry fruit interwoven with graphite, tar and truffle notes. The wine has sumptuous texture, sweet, velvety tannin, and a long, full-bodied finish. It should drink well for at least two decades.
WS 93 (11/2017): Well-centered on rich, dark berry fruit that is firm and direct, with subtle flavors filling in the gaps and ending with tannins that give the flavors traction and structure. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2034. 3,570 cases made. |
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|
2015 |
Les Pavots Proprietary Blend (3.0 L) Autographed Bottle |
$850 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 98+ (6/2018): The 2015 Les Pavots checks in as 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Cabernet Franc, 15% Merlot and the balance Petit Verdot. It offers a huge nose of blackcurrants, blackberry, scorched earth, graphite, and cedarwood. Deep, rich, supple, and sexy, with a seamless, incredibly elegant texture, it builds with time in the glass and is a monumental Cabernet Sauvignon blend from Sonoma.
WA 95 (10/2017): Blended of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Cabernet Franc, 15% Merlot and 7% Petit Verdot, the 2015 Les Pavots Proprietary Red Wine is scented of crème de cassis, blueberries and baking spices with hints of chocolate box, black earth and cigar box. Medium to full-bodied, the palate simply sings with black fruit preserves and spicy layers, supported by chewy tannins and plenty of freshness, finishing long. 2,870 cases were made. |
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|
2016 |
Les Pavots Proprietary Blend (3.0 L) |
$900 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 98+ (6/2019): A solid step up, the 2016 Les Pavots comes from vines planted in 1989 and is a mix of two separate sites in Knights Valley. This straight-up phenomenal Cabernet offers a powerful nose of ripe black fruits, tobacco leaf, chocolate, and spring flowers, and it has a Margaux-like complexity and elegance. Full-bodied on the palate, it has a multi-dimensional, seamless texture, building tannins, and a great, great finish. It’s a baby of a wine that needs 4-5 years of bottle age, but it will probably merit a triple-digit score in 7-8 years and keep for three decades. |
|
| Pine Ridge |
2006 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon (3.0 L) |
$175 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 89 (12/2009): The 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa offers attractive cedar, licorice, herb, vanillin, and red and black currant characteristics, medium body, and ripe tannin. Enjoy it over the next 15 years. |
|
| Pride Mountain Vineyards |
1998 |
Cabernet Sauvignon (3.0 L) |
$350 |
1 |
|
| |
WS 93 (12/2000): Deliciously ripe and complex, overflowing with layers of exotic spice, mineral, sage, currant and blackberry, and finishing with a burst of flavor. Tannins are well-integrated. Drink now through 2010. 3,234 cases made.
VM 90-93 (6/2000): Saturated, bright ruby-blue. Sappy, spicy aromas of cassis, blackberry, blueberry and roast coffee. Powerful mountain-style cabernet, with intense flavors of black fruits, licorice, shoe polish and wintermint, and strong underlying backbone. Here, too, the tannins are less sweet than those of the extraordinary '97 yet coat the entire palate. Not quite as superripe or generous as the '97, but then not many wines are. The harvest in these vines began in the second week of November and ended in early December.
WA 90 (12/2000): The Outstanding 1998 Cabernet Sauvignon boasts a dark ruby/purple color as well as surprising opulence for a wine from this vintage, admirable elegance, abundant black currant fruit, a dense, chewy mid-palate, a fleshy texture, low acidity, and a tannic finish. It is a classic Cabernet Sauvignon with medium weight, as well as Outstanding ripeness, richness, and balance. Drink it over the next 12 years. |
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|
2014 |
Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$335 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 95+ (10/2017): Composed of 97% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3% Petit Verdot, with 66% coming from Sonoma and 34% from Napa, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve displays a very deep purple-black color and nose of crushed red and black currants, black cherries and pencil shavings with touches of cloves, bay leaves, damp earth and truffles. Medium to full-bodied, it fills the mouth with juicy red and black fruits, supported by silky, silt-like tannins and wonderful freshness, finishing long with an herbal lift. 1,546 cases were made. |
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|
2015 |
Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$375 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 95+ (12/2018): The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve is going to need a few years in bottle to come into its own. Despite its obvious ripeness and inner sweetness, the 2015 is presently dominated by its firm tannins. A host of blackberry jam, leather, smoke, spice and earthy notes meld together effortlessly, while truffle, spice, dried flower and leather overtones add a distinctly wild, exotic character. Flamboyant and potent to the core, the Reserve clearly needs time to be at its best. There is plenty to look forward to, that much is obvious. Antonio Galloni. |
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|
2004 |
Reserve Claret (1.5 L) |
$279 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 92+ (6/2008): Good full, deep red. Sexy oak spices perk up the aromas of black raspberry, minerals, mocha and coffee. Like liquid silk on entry, but with a firm mineral spine and lively acidity keeping the youthful flavors of black raspberry, mocha and chocolate under wraps. Finishes with dusty, broad tannins and compelling sweetness and aromatic persistence. This big, rich blend strikes me as considerably younger than the 2003 was at the same stage.
WA 90 (12/2007): The strength of the 2005 vintage at Pride is again noticeable when one compares some of the lower level Cabernet Sauvignons with the 2004 Reserve Claret. While the latter wine (89% from Sonoma and 11% from Napa) is Outstanding, it is not as good as the less expensive 2005 Cabernets.
WS 87 (6/2008): Intense and concentrated, with firm currant, dried berry, herb and sage notes. Turns very dry and extracted, offering jazzy, toasty mocha-laced oak. Decant. Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Drink now through 2011. 402 cases made. |
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|
2010 |
Reserve Claret (1.5 L) |
$350 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 96 (10/2013): The 2010 Claret Reserve, 56% Merlot, 43% Cabernet Sauvignon and 1% Petit Verdot aged 22 months in 40% new French oak, boasts a stunning perfume of lead pencil shavings, charcoal, incense, blackberries, cassis and forest floor aromas. This full-bodied, concentrated, multidimensional red fills the mouth and coats the palate, but never comes across as heavy or unruly. The tannins are velvety and well-integrated in this spectacular, classic Napa red. Drink it over the next 12-15 years.
VM 94+ (5/2014): (15% alcohol; made up of 56% Vintner Select merlot, 43% Reserve cabernet sauvignon and 1% petit verdot): Bright ruby-red. Highly complex, vibrant aromas of raspberry, strawberry, exotic spices, dried herbs and sexy oak. Powerful briary mountain berries (more red than black) dominate the palate, which displays a captivating balance of acidity and sweetness. Finishes with serious but ripe tannins and terrific length. Goes well beyond the 2011s in complexity and verve. A beauty.
VM 91 (11/2013): The 2010 Claret Reserve (Merlot/Cabernet Sauvignon) is round, supple and very, very pretty. Dark red berries, flowers, mint, sweet tobacco and anise meld together in the glass. The 2010 stands out for its juicy personality and near-term appeal. Fine, silky tannins support a finish laced with spice and floral notes.
WS 91 (4/2014): Deep and densely structured, with toasty red currant and dried herb aromas, leading to deep flavors of cherry, cedar and mocha. Finishes with dusty tannins. Needs time. Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot. Best from 2016 through 2021. 569 cases made. |
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|
2012 |
Reserve Claret (1.5 L) |
$425 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 98 (10/2015): The 2012 Claret Reserve is a blend of 66% Merlot, 29% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Petit Verdot aged in 40% new French oak for 22 months. The bulk of the fruit comes from the Sonoma side of their vineyards, with about 28% from Napa. There are 586 cases of this red, which is one of the more potent wines in the Pride lineup at 14.9% alcohol. The wine has great intensity, a full-bodied mouthfeel, and loads of créme de cassis, chocolate, plum, licorice and foresty undertones. Full-bodied, with oodles of glycerin, a highly extracted, silky mouthfeel, terrific purity, and length of a good 45 to 50 seconds, this fabulous effort can be drunk now or cellared for 12-15+ years.
VM 95 (10/2015): The 2012 Claret Reserve is a gorgeous wine that captures the essence of the Pride house style. Sweet dark cherries, tobacco, hard candy, mint, cola and mocha all open up nicely in the glass. Round, succulent and deeply expressive, the 2012 hits all the right notes. Floral and savory notes add lift, but the style remains classic 2012, which is to say racy and voluptuous. The 2012 can be drunk now or cellared for 10-15 years.
WS 93 (10/2015): A blockbuster, powerful, rich and well-structured. Floral red currant, mocha and bay leaf aromas give over to focused and supple flavors of black cherry and spicy toast. The finish lingers, with ripe and persistent tannins. Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2024. 586 cases made. |
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|
2013 |
Reserve Claret (1.5 L) |
$475 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 98 (10/2016): Close to perfection is the 2013 Reserve Claret, a blend of 62% Merlot, 37% Cabernet Sauvignon and 1% Petit Verdot, aged 22 months in 20% new French oak. There are 450 cases of this big boy (14.8% alcohol). This is a 30-year wine and a spectacular effort, with 14% coming from the Napa side of the property and 86% from the Sonoma County side. Dense opaque purple, with a glorious nose of chocolate, and espresso intermixed with mulberry fruit, blueberry and blackberry, it is fleshy, succulent, full-bodied, opulent and impressively structured. In fact, the 2013 tannic profile is alive in this wine, and thus I suggest 3-5 years of bottle age. Drink it over the following three decades.
VM 94 (12/2016): A highlight among these current releases, the 2013 Reserve Claret is also one of the most explosive wines in the range. As such, it is likely to require at least a few years of cellaring. Cedar, red stone fruit, smoke and tobacco give the 2013 its distinctly savory personality. There is plenty of depth and intensity in the glass, but the 2013 needs time to shed some of its ferocious mountain tannin. Antonio Galloni.
WS 91 (11/2016): Muscular tannins pair with rich fruit in this cellar-worthy wine, offering notes of red currant and cherry accented by crushed stone, dusty mocha and spice. Best from 2018 through 2028. 450 cases made. |
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|
2014 |
Reserve Claret (1.5 L) Signed Bottle |
$449 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 95 (3/2018): Pride's 2014 Reserve Claret is dense, concentrated and unctuous on the palate. Succulent dark cherry, plum, smoke, tobacco, espresso, wild flowers and mint build in a flamboyantly ripe, silky Claret. Today, the 2014 is rich and explosive in feel, but it will be even better in a few years' time, once some of the baby fat has melted away. This is a pretty opulent style, and yet it works. Antonio Galloni. |
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|
2015 |
Reserve Claret (1.5 L) |
$425 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 94 (12/2018): The 2015 Claret Reserve is a powerful, full-throttle wine. Iron, smoke, cedar, tobacco, mocha, espresso and red cherry jam infuse this succulent, dramatic Merlot/Cabernet Sauvignon blend from Pride. The Claret is unquestionably ripe, like all of the 2015s, but it also has the frame and breadth to hold all of that richness. A classic Pride wine, the 2015 Claret will drink well now and for another 10-15 years. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Provenance |
1999 |
Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$89 |
3 |
|
| |
| VM 88 (5/2002): Deep ruby-red. Aromatic nose combines currant, plum syrup, licorice, cedar and tobacco, plus a whiff of dried herbs. Shapely and fairly intense, with subtle sweetness and rather Graves-y flavors of currant, roasted meat and tobacco. Finishes firmly tannic, with a slight dryness emerging with aeration. |
|
| Quilceda Creek |
2016 |
Columbia Valley CVR Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$275 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 90 (12/2019): Dark red-ruby. Musky currant, plum, licorice, herbs and tobacco leaf on the nose, along with a hint of celery seed and obvious oak. At once firm and smooth on the palate; more black fruit than red in character, with dominant flavors of boysenberry and dark plum complicated by licorice, herbs and oak spices. Offers a fine-grained texture for a wine made from declassified barrels, and less of a range of ripeness than usual, perhaps owing to the longer hang time afforded by this vintage. Finishes with a solid spine of dusty, building tannins that mostly avoid dryness. Shows less of the black olive component demonstrated by the 2015. (aged in 60% new French oak; 6,675 cases made from declassified barrels). Stephen Tanzer |
|
| Raymond |
2004 |
Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$75 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Realm |
2017 |
The Bard Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$269 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 96 (1/2020): Based mostly on Cabernet Sauvignon (87%) and a small amount of Merlot (13%), the 2017 The Bard is another ripe, sexy wine that has more sweetness of fruit than most in the vintage. Black cherries, blackberries, scorched earth, graphite, and some violets notes all dominate the nose, and it's beautifully textured and balanced on the palate. It’s beautiful today yet has 15-20 years of prime drinking ahead of it. |
|
| Rutherford Hill |
2008 |
Episode Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$239 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Saxum |
2013 |
Heart Stone Vyd. Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$275 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 95 (8/2016): Checking in as a final blend of 54% Syrah, 35% Grenache and 11% Mourvedre, the 2013 Heart Stone Vineyard shows the class and purity of the vintage in its complex, floral-laced aromas of dark fruits, spice and minerality. Full-bodied, seamless and silky, with no hard edges and terrific purity, it's another 2013 from Smith that will open up with another year in bottle.
VM 95 (9/2016): Vibrant purple. Intensely perfumed scents of ripe black and blue fruits, incense and cola gain vivacity from a smoky mineral nuance. Deeply concentrated, palate-staining blueberry, spicecake and floral pastille flavors are accompanied by suggestions of licorice and Indian spices that emerge on the back half. Finishes with a suave echo of candied violet, displaying slowly building tannins, Outstanding energy and dark-fruit-driven persistence. Josh Raynolds.
WS 92 (2/2016): Distinctive and densely constructed, with aromas of blackberry, black tea and olive leading to tightly focused, personality-filled flavors of wild berry, licorice and smoky peppered sage. Offers a firm, loamy structure and a tannic frame on the finish. Syrah, Grenache and Mourvèdre. Best from 2018 through 2027. 650 cases made. |
|
|
2010 |
Paderewski Vyd. Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) Wrinkled Back Label |
$245 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 95 (7/2013): The 2010 Paderewski Vineyard is firing on all cylinders today. The Zinfandel is very much front and center in a big, boisterous wine full of personality. Mocha, chocolate, spice and plum notes caress the palate in a succulent, highly expressive wine to drink now and over the next handful of years. This is without question the biggest and most exuberant of the Saxum wines. Today it is stunning. The 2010 is 35% Zinfandel, 26% Mourvèdre, 19% Tempranillo, 11% Syrah and 9% Petite Sirah.
WA 95 (8/2012): The 2010 Paderewski Vineyard caresses the palate with layers of expressive, sensual fruit. Zinfandel plays the leading role in the Paderewski, and that comes through loud and clear in the wine's inner perfume and sweetness. The 2010 boasts gorgeous length and purity, even if it is a bit tight from its recent bottling. Paderewski is a little warmer than some of the other sites Saxum works with, which seems to give the wine a note of softness that is immensely appealing, especially with some time in the glass. The 2010 is 35% Zinfandel, 26% Mourvedre, 19% Tempranillo, 11% Syrah and 9% Petite Sirah. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2020.
VM 94 (12/2012): (35% zinfandel, 26% mourvedre, 19% tempranillo, 11% syrah and 9% petite sirah; 16.1% alcohol): Opaque purple. An exotically perfumed bouquet displays scents of spice-accented black raspberry, cherry, violet and incense, with a bright mineral quality gaining power with air. Densely packed but impressively vibrant, offering sweet red and dark berry flavors that show iqueur-like depth and intensity. Floral pastille and raspberry notes carry through a long, sappy, seamless finish. |
|
| Schrader |
2014 |
Colesworthy Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$499 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 94 (10/2016): Slightly less impressive, but still a brilliant wine, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Colesworthy comes across as more backward and closed with a Graves-like minerality. This also hails from the Las Piedras Vineyard and was aged 20 months in 100% new Darnajou. This was the most reserved of all of the 2014s from Schrader, will probably benefit from several years of bottle age, and keep for 15 or more years. |
|
| Screaming Eagle |
2017 |
Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$6,400 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 96+ (1/2020): The 2017 Screaming Eagle is a deeply intriguing, fascinating wine, as it represents just a small portion of the harvest in that only pre-fire lots were used here (and in The Flight). As a result, the 2017 is unusually bright and tightly wound, with a decidedly savory, mineral-infused, old school-leaning personality. I won't be surprised if the 2017 turns out to be even better than this note suggests, although I also don't expect I will taste it too often given that the entire production was bottled in magnum. Antonio Galloni.
JD 96 (1/2020): The team at Screaming Eagle first declared that they wouldn’t be releasing their flagship Cabernet Sauvignon in 2017, yet they were able to make a draconian selection, so there’s a minuscule amount of the 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon scheduled to be released only in magnums. It’s unquestionably a beautiful wine and has the classic elegance and regal quality this cuvée always shows as well as pure aromatics of crème de cassis, graphite, acacia flowers, and subtle background oak. With medium to full body, a seamless, multi-dimensional texture, and great tannin quality, it’s going to be accessible with short-term cellaring and, given the magnum-only format, evolve at a glacier pace. |
|
| Seaver Vineyards |
2014 |
GTS Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$450 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 94+ (3/2019): Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon GTS leaps from the glass with vivacious black cherries, wild blueberries and cassis notes plus touches of lavender, wild thyme, cedar chest and forest floor. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is charged with energetic black and red berry layers framed by ripe, grainy tannins and bold freshness, finishing long and perfumed. |
|
|
2015 |
GTS Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$895 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2016 |
GTS Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$995 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 94+ (3/2019): Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon GTS leaps from the glass with vivacious black cherries, wild blueberries and cassis notes plus touches of lavender, wild thyme, cedar chest and forest floor. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is charged with energetic black and red berry layers framed by ripe, grainy tannins and bold freshness, finishing long and perfumed. |
|
|
2017 |
GTS Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$995 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 88 (1/2020): The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon GTS is powerful, dense and brooding, with massive tannins that may never be balanced. Game, licorice, tobacco and graphite add layers of complexity, but it is hard to get past tannins that are huge and overpowering, even within the context of Diamond Mountain. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Silver Oak |
1996 |
Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon (3.0 L) |
$335 |
1 |
|
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WA 92 (1/2000): The dark ruby-colored 1996 Cabernet Sauvignon Alexander Valley exhibits a pronounced smoky, espresso bean, and kirsch-scented nose. Round, dense, rich, full-bodied, and open-knit, its low acid flavors are undeniably appealing. Black olives make an appearance in the wine's aromatics as it sits in the glass. Anticipated maturity: now-2015.
VM 87-90 (6/1999): Good deep red-ruby. Ripe aromas of cherry, dark chocolate, tar and mint. Less dense than the '97 but shows the baby fat of the vintage. But doesn't have quite as much flavor development as the '97. Finishes with good length and slightly green tannins.
WS 80 (12/2007): Shows an unusual roasted dill oak character. Dilute and woody on the palate, with a glimmer of dried currant fruit and a dry, tannic aftertaste.--1996 California Cabernet retrospective. Drink now. |
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1999 |
Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon (3.0 L) |
$300 |
1 |
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WA 89 (8/2002): The 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon Alexander Valley exhibits a deep, saturated ruby/purple color. The wine possesses aromas of sweet toasty oak, earth, spice box, cherries, and currants. It is a soft effort for this vintage. The wine has medium body, and good fruit and flavor. Drink it over the next 10-12 years.
VM 87-90 (5/2002): Deep fresh ruby-red. Brooding aromas of currant syrup, licorice, naphtha and tobacco leaf. Fairly intense flavors similar to the aromas. Still quite youthfully tight, but offers solid concentration and very good length. Just a hint of greenness on the end; the firm tannins reach the teeth.
WS 87 (7/2009): Displays notably oaky dill and mocha aromas. Full-bodied and firmly tannic, with dried currant, mineral, sage and cedary dill flavors showing on the finish. The best of two bottles tasted.—1999 California Cabernet blind retrospective (2009). Drink now through 2015. 55,195 cases made. |
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2006 |
Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$209 |
1 |
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VM 87 (5/2010): Bright, full red-ruby. Musky blackberry, tobacco, tar and chocolate on the nose, plus a note of dill. Plum, raspberry and tobacco flavors are intensified by sound acidity, with the musky quality carrying through in the mid-palate. Doesn't have quite enough stuffing to support its fairly serious tannins, though, with the finish showing an increasing dryness with air. Stephen Tanzer.
WS 87 (11/2010): Built around creamy mocha, cedary oak and dill flavors, with dried currant, sage and underbrush notes. Full-bodied and balanced, this smoothes out on the finish, where it gains a black licorice and mineral edge. Decant. Drink now through 2017. 74,000 cases made. |
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2008 |
Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$199 |
5 |
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| WS 89 (6/2013): Presenting a subtle, graceful mix of herb, ripe berry, black tea and tobacco, this is intense without being weighty, ending with firm, fine-grained tannins. Drink now through 2024. |
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2012 |
Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$165 |
1 |
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| WS 86 (7/2016): Exhibiting a mix of dusty, savory roasted herb, tobacco leaf, road tar and green underbrush flavors, this is a solid effort that needs time. Best from 2020 through 2030. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. |
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2012 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$225 |
1 |
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| WS 90 (6/2017): Notes of dill, herb and vanilla bean–scented oak lead to an elegant array of dark berry, herb, cedar, gravelly earth and underbrush flavors. The tannins cling a bit, but this is an enjoyable and approachable youngster, with a track record for aging. Drink now through 2028. 25,359 cases made. |
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2013 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$245 |
1 |
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| WS 90 (9/2018): Shows off a distinctive dill and mocha edge, leading to a complex core of dark berry, licorice, loamy earth and cedar flavors. Ends with firm tannins and good length. Drink now through 2030. 28,000 cases made. |
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2014 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$210 |
1 |
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| WS 92 (10/2019): Distinctive, with lots of singed sage, sassafras, black tea and bay leaf notes out front, giving this aromatic distinction while the core of gently mulled plum, black cherry and raspberry fruit is carried by lightly dusty tannins. Shows a lingering perfume of singed alder at the very end. Best from 2020 through 2032. 26,106 cases made. |
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2015 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$225 |
1 |
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| WS 93 (11/2020): Seductive singed juniper, black tea and sassafras notes lead the way, with mulled blackberry, plum and black currant fruit following along. The fine-grained finish laces everything up with mouthwatering acidity and subtle grip. Drink now through 2031. 19,680 cases made. |
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| Sine Qua Non |
2013 |
Jusqua lOs Grenache (1.5 L) Scuffed Label |
$1,095 |
1 |
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WA 100 (9/2017): The 2013 Grenache Jusqu' a l'os was produced from 79% Grenache from the 11 Confessions Vineyard along with 18% Syrah and 3% Petite Sirah, produced using 89% whole cluster and aged for around 38 months in 51% used oak, 6% new French oak and 43% concrete tanks (bottled December 6, 2016). It displays a medium to deep garnet color and rock star vibrant red currant and black raspberry scents with hints of licorice, mocha, Indian spices and peppered salami plus oh-so-fragrant and seductive touches of potpourri and chargrill. Medium to full-bodied, concentrated and opulently fruited in the mouth, the alluring, velvety tannins support savory, spicy layers right through the long, mineral-laced finish. This is one drop dead gorgeous, femme fatale of a wine. 868 cases of 750 milliliter bottles, 223 magnums and 30 double magnums were made.
JD 98+ (8/2017): Meaning “To The Bone” in English, the 2013 Grenache Jusqu’ a l’Os is the estate release from the Eleven Confessions Vineyard and is a blend of 79% Grenache, 18% Syrah and 3% Petite Sirah that was fermented with very little destemming and aged 38 months in 6% new French oak, 51% used barrels, and 43% in concrete tanks. It’s a peppery, perfumed, seriously endowed Grenache that offers tons of blackcurrants, blackberries, smoked earth, toasted spice and graphite aromas and flavors. Big, backward, tight and structured, yet gorgeously concentrated, it needs 4-5 years of cellaring to hit its peak and will see its 20th birthday in fine form.
VM 96+ (9/2017): A darker, more potent side of Grenache comes through in the 2013 Grenache Jusqu'à l'Os. This powerhouse wine is nowhere near ready to drink. Swaths of tannin enshroud a core of plum, dark fruit in this muscular, brooding Grenache from Sine Qua Non. Readers will have to be patient. The 2013 is 79% Grenache, 18% Syrah and 3% Petite Sirah, all from Eleven Confessions, done with 89% whole clusters. Antonio Galloni. |
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2003 |
Omega Pinot Noir (1.5 L) |
$1,200 |
1 |
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WA 93 (8/2005): The top-notch 2003 Pinot Noir Omega Shea Vineyard offers up beautiful aromatics of raspberries, plums, blueberries, and flowers. This deeply fruity, medium to full-bodied Pinot boasts tremendous opulence, a sweet mid-palate, admirable purity, and a seamless finish. Drink it over the next 5-7 years. After 2003, Elaine and Manfred Krankl will no longer produce a Shea Vineyard Pinot Noir due to the logistical problems of moving fruit from Oregon to their winery in Ventura.
VM 91 (8/2005): Dark red.Deep, very ripe aromas of blackberry and chocolatey torrefaction. Large-scaled and deep, with the blackberry, black cherry and black raspberry flavors carrying a strong load of chocolate, not to mention 15.5% alcohol. Finishes impressively broad and uncompromisingly dry, with very good length and decent grip. A big fellow. |
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2011 |
Patine Syrah (1.5 L) |
$695 |
1 |
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WA 98 (8/2015): A wine that needs to be forgotten in the cellar for 5-6 years, the 2011 Syrah Patine checks in as a blend of roughly 97% Syrah and the balance Roussanne and Viognier. It too comes all from the estate's Eleven Confessions Vineyard and saw 39 months in 63% new French oak. Backward, tight, concentrated and structured, with full-bodied richness and depth, it gives up Guigal La Landonne like aromas and flavors of graphite, sweet oak, smoked meats, pepper and black raspberry and cassis-like fruit. While it shows the vintage's cooler nature, it has a stacked mid-palate and will evolve gracefully for 15-20 years.
VM 96 (8/2015): The 2011 Syrah Patine is deep, powerful and intense, with huge fruit and texture, especially within the context of the year. Mocha, plums, violets, bittersweet chocolate and dark spice meld into the deep, voluptuous finish. As good as the 2011 is, it could use another few years to fully meld together. The 2011 is 97% Syrah, 2% Roussanne and 1% Viognier, all from Eleven Confessions, done with 22% whole clusters and aged for 39 months in French oak barrels, 63% new. |
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2016 |
Ratsel Syrah (1.5 L) |
$550 |
1 |
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WA 96+ (8/2018): Produced entirely from estate fruit, the 2016 Syrah Rätsel 16 offers up a brooding bouquet of smoky blackberries, French roast, cassis liqueur and subtle grilled meat, with only hints of all the savory complexity it will show down the line. On the palate, it's full-bodied, layered and chewy, with a rich chassis of velvety structuring tannins, a deep, super concentrated core of fruit and a long, sapid finish. Like the Grenache Dirt Vernacular, it's quite expressive and giving in profile by comparison with the firmer, more structural 2015s from Sine Qua Non, but its more brooding profile makes me suspect it has more potential upside with some time in bottle. It's a blend of 81% Syrah, 7% Mourvèdre, 5% Petite Sirah, 2.5% Grenache and 4.5% Viognier that was fermented with 47% whole cluster. 1791 cases and 600 magnums were produced.
JD 96-99 (10/2018): A not yet bottled blend of 81% Syrah, 7% Mourvèdre, 5% Petite Sirah, and the rest Viognier and Grenache, fermented with 47% whole clusters, the 2016 Syrah Rätsel 16 is an inky colored beauty that has another level of depth and richness over the 2015. Black raspberries, cassis, white pepper, white chocolate, and hints of bacon fat give way to a full-bodied, seamless, elegant wine that has terrific freshness and purity, ultra-fine tannin, and a huge finish. Not too dissimilar from the 2014s, which have the same supple, sexy, and approachable style, it should drink reasonably well right out of the gate and cruise for 15-20 years in cool cellars.
VM 95-97 (9/2018): The 2016 Syrah No Name Yet is another wine that shows just how fabulous the 2016 vintage is. Powerful, dense and resonant, the 2016 is a wonderfully complete wine. Hints of smoke, tobacco and grilled herbs are woven throughout a core of inky dark fruit, but it is the wine's total sense of balance and harmony that I keep coming back to. The 2016 is going to need at least a few years to come into its own, but it is a stunningly beautiful wine. Dollops of Mourvedre, Petite Sirah, Grenache and Viognier round out the blend. The 2016 was done with 47% whole clusters and will see about 47% new French, but none of that really matters when sitting in front of this gorgeous and moving Syrah from Elaine and Manfred Krankl. Antonio Galloni. |
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2005 |
The Naked Truth Grenache (1.5 L) |
$1,800 |
1 |
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WA 99 (8/2009): The 2005 The Naked Truth (a blend of 90% Grenache and 10% Syrah) displays a backside portrait of Manfred Krankl’s wife, Elaine. (Krankl does all the artwork for his labels.) Approximately 38% whole clusters/stems were used during fermentation, and the wine is aged in a combination of small barrels and larger demi-muids. Contrary to everything I have learned about Grenache, this offering spends 38 months in wood, yet it shows no evidence of oak, and it possesses remarkable vibrancy and freshness. It’s the kind of wine that makes a mockery of all “conventional" wisdom about oak and Grenache. Made totally from fruit grown in the 11 Confessions Vineyard in the Santa Rita Hills, it is about as profound a Grenache as one is likely to taste. Krankl looks everywhere for inspiration, and there is a large picture (and I mean large) of the great southern Rhone oenologist, Philippe Cambie, hanging in the winery. There may be a spiritual kinship to what Cambie’s magic is unleashing in the southern Rhone and what Krankl is doing in California. The dense ruby/plum/purple-colored Naked Truth reveals an extraordinary bouquet of sweet black raspberries, boysenberries, kirsch, licorice, pepper, and spice. Full-bodied with noteworthy concentration, freshness, texture, and length, it is a tour de force as well as a mind-boggling example of Grenache that is likely to turn heads, but how many wine lovers have the guts, courage, and are willing to put up with the tiny yields and challenging maturity curve of Grenache in California to pull off something like this? Not many. That’s why we don’t see more than a handful of wines such as this emanating from California.
WS 97 (2/2010): Offers an amazing purity of dark berry fruit, stylish and multifaceted, gushing with tiers of blackberry, wild berry and huckleberry, joined by spicy, grapy floral scents, with mineral, anise and fresh earth delivered on a beam. Yet for all its richness and depth of flavor, this is elegant. Drink now through 2018. 218 cases made.
VM 96 (12/2009): Dark purple color. Powerful scents of blueberry, blackcurrant, cracked pepper and fruitcake, with a suave undertone of violet and smoky minerals. Very spicy in the mouth, displaying concentrated, mineral-driven dark fruit preserve flavors and a velvety texture. The peppery note returns on the finish, which is tightly focused and extremely persistent, featuring an exotic note of blood orange. This superb wine is very primary today and would benefit from decanting or a few more years of cellaring. |
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| Spottswoode |
2013 |
Cabernet Sauvignon (3.0 L) |
$1,300 |
1 |
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JS 98 (1/2016): Glorious blueberries, blackberries, violets and hot stones. Cloves and other spices. Even sliced mushrooms. Full body, very firm tannins and persistent and savory finish. A tight and polished young cabernet.
VM 96 (10/2015): Vivid, nuanced and explosive, the estate's 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon possesses remarkable intensity and pure power. The 2013 is one of the most precise wines I have tasted here in some time. Dark blue and black fruits, cedar, lavender and leather are all vivid and beautifully articulated throughout. The flavors build effortlessly to the huge, dramatic finish.
WA 95+ (12/2015): The flagship wine, the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate, which in this vintage is a blend of 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Cabernet Franc and 4% Petit Verdot aged 20 months in 60% new French oak. It is elegance personified. Dark blueberry and black raspberry fruit with crème de cassis, licorice and spring flowers emerge from this juicy, medium to full-bodied wine with everything in ideal balance. The acidity, tannin, wood and alcohol are subtle and disguised. This is another beauty from Spottswoode. Slightly less dramatic than the 2012, but classic, it offers 20-25 years of aging potential. |
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2017 |
Cabernet Sauvignon (3.0 L) |
$1,050 |
1 |
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WA 97+ (10/2019): Made of 89% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc and 4% Petit Verdot, the 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon is deep garnet-purple in color and prances out of the glass with vivacious blackberries, crushed black cherries, warm black currants and red currant jelly scents plus exotic hints of cassia, cardamom, fenugreek and star anise with a waft of underbrush. Medium-bodied, the palate has fantastic energy and beautiful poise, with bags of bright, crunchy black and red fruit plus a firm, fine-grained texture, finishing long and spicy.
JD 96 (1/2020): Looking at the 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate, which was bottled two months prior to my tasting, it too has a Château Margaux-like complexity and elegance, with beautiful notes of crème de cassis, sandalwood, dried flowers, tobacco leaf, and lead pencil. Harvested all pre-fire, it hits the palate with medium to full-bodied richness, silky tannins, and remarkable purity, all making for a quintessential Spottswoode that’s going to benefit from 3-5 years of bottle age and keep for 20+ years.
VM 96 (1/2020): Spottswoode's 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon has been simply tremendous on both occasions I have tasted it so far. Sweet red cherry, red plum, flowers and mint give the 2017 striking freshness to complement its decidedly mid-weight structure. The intense heat of the vintage caused ripening to slow down and yielded a wine with just 13.7% alcohol, which is low for both the estate and Napa Valley in general. Spottswoode was one of the first estates in the valley to adopt a more moderate approach to farming and that really paid off in 2017, as a wine of this level in that year could have only resulted from impeccable farming. In a word: magnificent! Antonio Galloni.
JS 96 (10/2019): A soft, velvety red with dark-berry, blackcurrant and plum aromas and flavors. Medium-bodied, creamy and delicious. Pretty tension of fruit and tannins. Very refined. 89% cabernet sauvignon, 7% cabernet franc and 4% petit verdot. Drink or hold.
WS 95 (11/2020): Features a sleek and racy edge, with damson plum, bitter cherry and black currant fruit working together, revealing pinpoints of savory, sage and iron scattered throughout. The mouthwatering finish shows the vintage's slightly brambly grip, but with superior integration and energy to most of its peers. Best from 2022 through 2038. 4,019 cases made. |
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| Stag's Leap Wine Cellars |
2002 |
Fay Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$200 |
2 |
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VM 89+ (2/2006): Bright ruby-red. Dark raspberry, chocolatey oak and hints of celery and mint on the nose; offers more aromatic lift than the S.L.V. Creamy and lush in texture, with sweet flavors of raspberry, spices and earth; grew more chocolatey as it opened in the glass. The firm finish features substantial but sweet tannins.
WS 74 (10/2006): Herbal style, with stalky green bean and underripe flavors that turn dry and leathery. 3,542 cases made. |
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2001 |
SLV Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$225 |
3 |
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WA 88 (2/2005): In addition to the earthy, almost fresh cow dung smell, the 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon SLV possesses attractive black raspberry, plum, and cherry notes. Medium-bodied with a silky texture, good flesh, fine balance, and a pleasant finish, it may be more interesting in another 2-3 years. It should last for 10-15.
WS 86 (11/2004): Elegant and refined, with subtle currant, fresh earth, herb, and sage flavors and tight, earthy tannins, though it leaves you hoping for more depth and complexity. Drink now through 2012. 882 cases made.
VM 86 (2/2005): Saturated ruby-red. Cassis, mocha, earth and smoky oak on the nose. Moderately sweet, pliant flavors of dark berries, plum, sassafras and chocolate. Finishes with fairly sweet but slightly dry tannins and late notes of chocolate and dill. Not especially complex but not bad. |
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| Williams Selyem |
2013 |
Block 10-Mass Selection Estate Vyd. Pinot Noir (1.5 L) |
$240 |
1 |
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| VM 88 (8/2016): The 2013 Pinot Noir Block 10 Mass Selection Estate Vineyard is an intriguing wine, but it is also dominated by oak. Perhaps the wine's mid-weight structure was not able to handle the cooperage. Today, the fruit has been eaten and replaced by sweet vanillin and spice oak notes. Antonio Galloni. |
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2017 |
Lewis MacGregor Estate Vyd. Pinot Noir (1.5 L) |
$260 |
1 |
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| VM 94+ (5/2019): The 2017 Pinot Noir Lewis MacGregor Estate Vineyard is decidedly boisterous, with a huge core of ripe fruit and equally imposing tannins. This is an especially muscular style of Russian River Pinot. All the elements meld together effortlessly in this powerful, resonant Pinot. Readers will have to be patient, though, as the 2017 needs time. Hard candy, blood orange, spice and star anise add an exotic flavor to this potent Pinot. Antonio Galloni. |
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| Agharta |
2006 |
Black Label Grenache (1.5 L) Signed Bottle |
$125 |
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| Blankiet |
2003 |
Paradise Hills Vyd. Merlot (1.5 L) |
$199 |
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| Bond Estates (Harlan) |
2007 |
Melbury Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$645 |
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| Caymus |
2013 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon (1.0 L) |
$135 |
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2014 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$180 |
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| Ch. Montelena |
2002 |
Estate Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$275 |
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2015 |
Estate Cabernet Sauvignon (3.0 L) |
$775 |
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| Chimney Rock |
2011 |
Stags Leap District Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$145 |
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| Dominus |
1997 |
Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$525 |
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| Dunn |
1998 |
Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) Cracked Wax Capsule |
$295 |
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| Faust |
2016 |
Cabernet Sauvignon (3.0 L) |
$190 |
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| Groth |
2014 |
Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$195 |
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| Leviathan |
2014 |
Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$75 |
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| Merryvale Vineyards |
2004 |
Beckstoffer Las Amigas Merlot (1.5 L) |
$60 |
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2001 |
Beckstoffer Vyd. X Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$125 |
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1997 |
Profile Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$185 |
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| Merus |
2007 |
Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$300 |
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| Schrader |
2011 |
MMXI Old Sparky Beckstoffer To-Kalon Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$725 |
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2012 |
MMXII Old Sparky Beckstoffer To-Kalon Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$1,200 |
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2014 |
MMXIV Old Sparky Beckstoffer To-Kalon Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$800 |
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| Sine Qua Non |
2012 |
The Writing on the Wall Petite Sirah (1.5 L) |
$3,900 |
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| The Third Twin (Sine Qua Non) |
MV |
Third Twin Vyd. (2 Bottles Each 2014 and 2015 Vintages) Graciano Assortment Case (3.0 L) OWC |
$1,900 |
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