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Inventory updated: Sat, Jan 10, 2026 10:30 AM cst
| Producer |
Vint. |
Wine |
Price |
Qty |
Order |
| | Bordeaux Red |
| Ch. Angelus |
2000 |
St. Emilion (12x750ML) 
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$7,159.99 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 99 (8/2015): Approaching perfection, this wine is inky, bluish/purple-colored to the rim, offering up notes of incense, blueberry and blackberry liqueur, licorice, graphite and spring flowers. A touch of roasted espresso bean is also present. The wine has great concentration, a magnificent, full-bodied mouthfeel, stunning purity, and well-integrated acidity, tannin, alcohol and wood. This beauty seems to be in mid-adolescence with at least 25-30 years of life ahead.
WS 97 (3/2003): Out of this world. Incredible aromas of crushed blackberries and cherries, with wet earth, mineral and mint. Full-bodied, with fantastically refined, silky tannins and a long, long finish. Terrific. Greatest Angelus I have ever tasted. Best after 2010. 7,080 cases made.
JS 95 (5/2012): Furnished with wonderful richness, this has notes of amazingly dark fruit and dark chocolate on the nose. Full-bodied and soft, this has a lovely velvety texture and a chocolate and coffee character. This is extensive and fresh, with hints of mint and spice on the finish. Don’t drink this for another five years, pull the cork in 2015.
NM 93 (12/2012): Consistent notes to the bottle tasted last year with that enticing truffle and tar tinged bouquet and a harmonious, full-bodied, composed palate that suggests it will need just two or three years before it begins to enter its plateau of maturely. Very fine indeed.
VM 93 (5/2003): Impressive saturated ruby. Black fruits, shoe polish, licorice, truffle, leather and a hint of game on the nose; at once superripe and fresh. Fat, sweet and deep, but retains lovely inner-mouth aromatic character and precision of flavor for such a rich wine, thanks to sound acidity. Effortlessly carries its 14% alcohol. This builds impressively on the back end, finishing with strong but lush tannins (the index of polyphenols was 92!) and powerful fruit. This wine was racked a total of three times. |
|
| Ch. Branaire-Ducru |
1989 |
St. Julien Nicked Label |
$100 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 92 (11/1996): The 1989 was exhibiting far more power and intensity than I expected. It has always been an impressively crafted, elegant, seamless wine with cassis fruit nicely dosed by high quality oak. The wine is currently revealing more expansiveness, fuller body, and plenty of lusty richness, a sure-fire formula for producing a crowd pleaser. There are no hard edges to this opulently-textured, rich, ripe, complex, savory style of wine. Drink it over the next 12-15 years. |
|
| Ch. Canon La Gaffeliere |
2021 |
St. Emilion (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$544.99 |
6 |
|
| |
|
| Ch. Cantenac-Brown |
2017 |
Margaux (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$757.99 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 94 (3/2020): The 2017 Cantenac Brown has really come together nicely. The typically overt Cantenac Brown style is present in a round, supple Margaux that exudes textural richness and raciness. Dark cherry, spice, chocolate and licorice all flesh out in this wonderfully inviting, supple Margaux, with pretty savory notes that add freshness and energy. This understated wine is all class. Antonio Galloni.
JS 93 (12/2019): A solid core of fruit to this with blueberry and blackberry character. Plenty of chocolate as well. Medium to full body. Dense and flavorful for the vintage. Needs two or three years to come together. Better after 2021.
WS 92 (3/2020): Warm and seductive in feel, with velvety plum sauce, blackberry puree and incense notes all melded together, flowing through a sandalwood- and black tea–tinged finish. Nicely done for the vintage. Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Drink now through 2032. 7,916 cases made. |
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|
2017 |
Margaux (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$367.99 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 94 (3/2020): The 2017 Cantenac Brown has really come together nicely. The typically overt Cantenac Brown style is present in a round, supple Margaux that exudes textural richness and raciness. Dark cherry, spice, chocolate and licorice all flesh out in this wonderfully inviting, supple Margaux, with pretty savory notes that add freshness and energy. This understated wine is all class. Antonio Galloni.
JS 93 (12/2019): A solid core of fruit to this with blueberry and blackberry character. Plenty of chocolate as well. Medium to full body. Dense and flavorful for the vintage. Needs two or three years to come together. Better after 2021.
WS 92 (3/2020): Warm and seductive in feel, with velvety plum sauce, blackberry puree and incense notes all melded together, flowing through a sandalwood- and black tea–tinged finish. Nicely done for the vintage. Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Drink now through 2032. 7,916 cases made. |
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|
2017 |
Margaux (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$199.99 |
4 |
|
| |
VM 94 (3/2020): The 2017 Cantenac Brown has really come together nicely. The typically overt Cantenac Brown style is present in a round, supple Margaux that exudes textural richness and raciness. Dark cherry, spice, chocolate and licorice all flesh out in this wonderfully inviting, supple Margaux, with pretty savory notes that add freshness and energy. This understated wine is all class. Antonio Galloni.
JS 93 (12/2019): A solid core of fruit to this with blueberry and blackberry character. Plenty of chocolate as well. Medium to full body. Dense and flavorful for the vintage. Needs two or three years to come together. Better after 2021.
WS 92 (3/2020): Warm and seductive in feel, with velvety plum sauce, blackberry puree and incense notes all melded together, flowing through a sandalwood- and black tea–tinged finish. Nicely done for the vintage. Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Drink now through 2032. 7,916 cases made. |
|
| Ch. Capbern |
2019 |
St. Estephe (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$226.98 |
4 |
|
| |
JD 94 (4/2022): I love the nose on the 2019 Château Capbern, a medium to full-bodied, spicy, rich, tobacco and cedar pencil-filled beauty with ripe yet building tannins, a great mix of richness and freshness, and a blockbuster of a finish. It's incredibly impressive, and while it offers pleasure even today, it deserves 5-6 years of bottle age, and I can't imagine it not evolving for two decades. (Drink between 2027-2042).
VM 89 (2/2023): The 2019 Capbern has improved since I tasted it just after bottling. Finally, it has developed a more elegant bouquet, mainly black fruit fused with cedar and undergrowth scents. It has mustered more classicism. The palate is medium-bodied with a strong graphite element on the entry, fine depth, quite fresh with a structured, gritty finish. Fine. Tasted blind at the Southwold annual tasting. (Drink between 2025-2045). Neal Martin. |
|
| Le Clarence de Haut Brion |
2021 |
Pessac Leognan (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$734.99 |
20 |
|
| |
|
| Ch. L' Eglise Clinet |
2020 |
Pomerol (3x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,563.99 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 97+ (3/2023): There's a clear jump from the second wine to the 2020 Château L'Eglise Clinet, a riveting Pomerol that checks in as 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc that spent 18 months in 80% new French oak. Offering a restrained, yet concentrated, structured style, it reveals classic notes of red and black currants, leafy tobacco, loamy earth, and chocolate. This carries to a full-bodied, powerful, tannic 2020 that needs a solid 7-8 years of bottle age. It's going to be long-lived but is not for those seeking instant gratification.
WA 97-99 (5/2021): The 2020 L'Eglise Clinet is a blend of 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc. The Merlot was picked between the 11th and the 14th of September, and the Cabernet Franc was picked on the 16th of September. It has an alcohol of 14.4% and is aging in French oak barrels, 80% new. Displaying and opaque purple-black color, it needs a bit of swirling to reveal a fascinating array of earthy notes—black truffles, charcoal, mossy tree bark and fallen leaves—over a profound core of preserved plums, blackberry preserves and violets, with a waft of tapenade. The medium to full-bodied palate has exquisitely ripe tannins and bold freshness supporting the seductively ripe, black fruit layers, finishing on a lingering fragrant earth note.
VM 96-98 (5/2021): The 2020 l’Eglise-Clinet is very deep in color. It has an intense nose featuring blackberry, wild strawberry, touches of Japanese nori and light basalt aromas, gaining in intensity and clarity over the 60 minutes I spent analyzing the sample. The palate has exquisite balance and a silver bead of acidity that slices through the pure black fruit with effortless ease. This is a very harmonious and focused L’Eglise-Clinet, and as always, it is not an immediately crowd-pleasing Pomerol. You have to sit with it and examine its facets, including those that require unlocking with aeration. There is wonderful salinity on the finish, and awe-inspiring persistence. A magnificent testament to a great winemaker. Neal Martin.
JS 98-99 (4/2021): Wonderfully bright, floral aromas with so much violet character. Such purity and focus. Ethereal on the nose already. Full-bodied, but very polished and deep with finesse and beauty. Incredible structure that fills the mouth. |
|
| Ch. Grand Puy Lacoste |
2022 |
Pauillac (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,050.99 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 96-98 (5/2023): The 2022 Grand Puy Lacoste was picked from 7 to 23 September and contains more Merlot due to the high quality of the fruit, matured in 75% new oak. There is 14.2% alcohol. Therefore, this lends this GPL a little more precocity and sensuality compared to other vintages, not cut from the same "classical" cloth as, say, the 2019 or 2020. Underlying this velvety veneer are enticing traits of freshly-rolled tobacco and undergrowth. The palate is medium-bodied with finely-sculpted tannins. Silky smooth in texture, so much so that it belies that backbone underneath. There is a peacock's tail of mineral-rich, quite peppery black fruit on the finish, completing a Pauillac endowed with huge potential. Neal Martin.
WA 95-97 (5/2023): A blend of 79% Cabernet Sauvignon and 21% Merlot, the 2022 Grand-Puy-Lacoste is a brilliant classic in the making, wafting from the glass with aromas of dark berries, violets and pencil shavings, followed by a medium to full-bodied, layered and concentrated palate that exhibits beautiful structural refinement and purity of fruit. Classy and integrated, it is somewhat reminiscent of a modern-day and less forbiddingly structured version of this estate's brilliant 1982. |
|
| Ch. d' Issan |
2013 |
Margaux (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$418.99 |
6 |
|
| |
|
| Ch. Lafite Rothschild |
2015 |
Pauillac (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$3,960.99 |
1 |
|
| |
JS 99 (7/2020): Firm and powerful with blackberries, blueberries, currants and wet earth. Full-bodied, yet tight and angular with very pretty fruit and brightness. Really racy and super and set for a long, long life. Better after 2025.
VM 96+ (2/2018): Rich, powerful and enveloping, the 2015 Lafite-Rothschild is endowed with serious volume and textural resonance. Super-ripe plum, smoke and spice notes emerge in the glass, but only with great reluctance. Although the aromatics aren't giving much at this point, the palate is much more expressive. The wine's sheer power and authoritative tone result in an unusually dramatic Lafite. The 2015 is 91% Cabernet Sauvignon and 9% Merlot that spent 20 months in oak, which is a bit more than the norm. Antonio Galloni.
WA 96+ (2/2018): The deep garnet-purple shaded 2015 Lafite Rothschild is blended of 91% Cabernet Sauvignon and 9% Merlot and was matured for 20 months in new oak barrels from Tonnellerie des Domaines (their own cooperage). It is still sporting a lot of cedar at this nascent stage with a vibrant core of black raspberries, red currants and crushed plums plus touches of cigar boxes, violets and underbrush with a waft of tilled loam. Medium-bodied and elegantly styled with wonderful freshness and depth, it is compellingly earthy/minerally in the mouth with a frame of seductively silky yet very firm tannins and culminating in a very long, racy and pure finish. Boasting spectacular finesse and packed with nuances, clearly, given some of the challenges here in 2015, this is a masterpiece of diligence in the vineyards, careful selection and very clever crafting—bravo!
JD 96 (11/2017): The grand vin 2015 Lafite-Rothschild checks in as 91% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Merlot that was brought all in 100% new oak. Director Eric Kohler (who replaced Charles Chevallier in 2015) told me the vintage suffered a touch of dilution but wasn’t a complicated year. The 2015 is an aristocratic, classy example from this estate that offers textbook lead pencil shavings, tobacco, smoked herbs, and graphite as well as a beautiful core of currant and cassis fruit. It’s the most refined and subtle of the first growths, has medium to full-bodied richness, building tannin, and undeniable class and charm. Give bottles 4-5 years of bottle age and enjoy over the following 2-3 decades.
WS 95 (3/2018): Velvet- and silk-textured red currant, raspberry and black cherry compote notes glide through, supported by a perfectly embedded graphite spine, while enticing violet, black tea and alder accents add range through the finish. Very refined and sneakily long. Best from 2025 through 2045. 16,000 cases made. |
|
| Ch. Lafleur |
2008 |
Pomerol (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$4,656.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2016 |
Pomerol (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$3,563.99 |
1 |
|
| |
| JS 99-100 (4/2017): This is a young wine that just kicks off at the end with fantastic depth of fruit and intensity. Full-bodied, yet very tight and closed at first. Compact and powerful. Incredible power and structure. |
|
|
2018 |
Pomerol (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$3,022.99 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 100 (3/2021): The Grand Vin 2018 Château Lafleur from this magical terroir checks in as 54% Cabernet Franc and 46% Merlot that comes only from the more gravelly soils of the vineyard and spent 15 months in 25% new French oak. It's as good as any wine can get and has a layered, multi-dimensional style that marries power with elegance as only this estate can do. Offering notes of black raspberries, tobacco, truffly earth, spring flowers, and chocolate, it's full-bodied and concentrated on the palate, but nevertheless is as weightless as they come, offering this "je ne sais quoi" character that's hard to describe. It's more backward and reserved than the Pensees and is going to take a decade of bottle age to hit maturity, but it's a desert Island wine if there ever was one.
VM 100 (3/2021): The 2018 Lafleur is mesmerizing. What a wine! The aromatics alone are spellbinding. There is no need to actually taste the 2018 to know how profound it is. Silky and caressing, with phenomenal persistence, the 2018 is a total knock-out. Spice, cedar, blood orange, sage, mint, rose petal and kirsch all race out of the glass, saturating the palate with a dazzling concoction of aromas, textures and flavors. Readers lucky enough to find it should not hesitate. Antonio Galloni.
JS 100 (1/2021): So subtle and complex with blackberry, blueberry, fresh bark, fresh black truffles and light wet earth, as well as forest floor. Full-bodied, yet linear and so long with an amazingly polished and refined tannin structure and finesse that draws you deep and down in the palate. It opens incredibly in the glass. What a wine. Goes on for minutes. A real beauty. Something so true and ethereal here. Try after 2026.
WA 98+ (3/2021): The 2018 Lafleur is a blend of 54% Cabernet Franc and 46% Merlot. Medium to deep garnet-purple colored, the nose absolutely shuts down upon first pour. After a lot of air, it slowly unfurls to reveal alluring scents of fresh black cherries, ripe blackberries and redcurrant jelly, leading to suggestions of sandalwood, pencil shavings, lilacs and forest floor, with emerging, heady wafts of camphor, iron ore and Indian spices. The rich, full-bodied palate is equally slow to read, offering whispers and murmurs of earth and exotic spice-laced black fruits with glimpses at a fleeting floral undercurrent, framed by firm, finely grained tannins and beautifully knit freshness, finishing with an edifying perfume. This is liquid poetry, but I would touch it for 7-8 years, at least. Should you be around in 40 years' time, expect it to blow your mind. |
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|
2019 |
Pomerol
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,800.99 |
2 |
|
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|
| Ch. Leoville Las Cases |
1995 |
St. Julien (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$3,246.97 |
4 |
|
| |
JD 94 (3/2021): Showing beautifully today, the 1995 Château Léoville Las Cases is a blend of 67% Cabernet, 26% Merlot, and 7% Cabernet Franc (a normal blend for that period) and hit 12.95% alcohol. Coming from a vintage featuring a cool, rainy spring followed by a sunny, mild growing season, it has a more upfront, fruit-driven style that still offers lots of classic Las Cases minerality in its red and black currant fruits as well as notes of cedary herbs, graphite, wood smoke, and forest floor nuances. With medium to full-bodied richness, a round, supple, mouth-filling texture, velvety, almost resolved tannins, and a beautiful finish, it's ideal for enjoying any time over the coming two decades. I don't think it has the same elegance and weightlessness as the 1982 nor the precision of the 1996 (which this wine is often compared to), but it's a gorgeous wine in every sense.
WA 95 (2/1998): If it were not for the prodigious 1996, everyone would be concentrating on getting their hands on a few bottles of the fabulous 1995 Leoville-Las-Cases, which is one of the vintage's great success stories. The wine boasts an opaque ruby/purple color, and exceptionally pure, beautifully knit aromas of black fruits, minerals, vanillin, and spice. On the attack, it is staggeringly rich, yet displays more noticeable tannin than its younger sibling. Exceptionally ripe cassis fruit, the judicious use of toasty new oak, and a thrilling mineral character intertwined with the high quality of fruit routinely obtained by Las Cases, make this a compelling effort. There is probably nearly as much tannin as in the 1996, but it is not as perfectly sweet as in the 1996. The finish is incredibly long in this classic. Only 35% of the harvest was of sufficient quality for the 1995 Leoville-Las-Cases. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2025.
WS 95 (12/2007): Pure violets, minerals and blackberries on the nose. Full-bodied, chewy and powerful. Still holding back a lot. This wine needs to break its chains. Give it time.--'95/'96 Bordeaux retrospective. Best after 2010. 18,000 cases made.
VM 94+ (6/1998): Deep ruby-red. Deep, lively aromas of red- and blackcurrants, licorice, tobacco and grilled nuts. Great sweetness and silky texture in the mouth currently overshadows the wine strong supporting acidity and tight core of spice and minerals. The toothcoating tannins don't cover as much of the mouth as those of the '96 do, but this wine offers uncanny length. Stephen Tanzer. |
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|
2022 |
St. Julien (6.0 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,851.98 |
10 |
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JD 98-100 (5/2023): Looking at the Grand Vin 2022 Château Léoville Las Cases, it has an almost Pauillac-like style in its ripe, powerful aromatics of graphite, lead pencil shavings, cassis, and liquid rock-like minerality. Full-bodied, massively concentrated, and powerful on the palate, it nevertheless stays flawlessly balanced, has just about off-the-charts purity, ripe yet building tannins, and a great finish. This will clearly rank with the truly greats from this address and reminds me slightly of a mix of the 2016 and 2018. It is not, however, going to be for those looking for instant gratification.
VM 98-100 (5/2023): The 2022 Léoville Las Cases is stunning. Fine-grained and nuanced, the 2022 Las Cases is breathtaking. Red/purplish fruit, rose petals, lavender, spice and mocha open gradually but what impresses most about the 2022 is its sublime finesse. Silky, plush and exceptionally beautiful, the 2022 Las Cases is shaping up to be one of the wines of the year. Antonio Galloni.
WA 98-100 (5/2023): One of the wines of the vintage this year is the 2022 Léoville Las Cases, a monument in the making that combines unerring classicism with unusual sensuality and charm by the standards of this estate's sometimes youthfully forbidding wines. Exhibiting deep aromas of dark berries, violets, pencil lead, rose petals and tobacco leaf, it's full-bodied, deep and multidimensional, with terrific concentration, beautiful purity of fruit, abundant but refined tannins and a long, vibrant finish. On the several occasions that I tasted it, the 2022 was surprisingly open for a young Las Cases, but it wouldn't surprise me if it were to shut down after a few years in bottle. It's a blend of 83.5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10.5% Cabernet Franc and 6% Merlot. |
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| Ch. Leoville Poyferre |
2003 |
St. Julien (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,900.97 |
1 |
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WA 96 (8/2014): The spectacular 2003 Leoville Poyferre exhibits a dense purple color with a touch of lightening at the edge as well as notes of creosote, barbecue smoke, jammy black currants, licorice and spice box. This intense, voluptuously textured, full-bodied St.-Julien possesses low acidity and ripe tannin. Still fresh and exuberant, it is just entering its plateau of full maturity where it should remain for 10-15+ years.
WS 95 (3/2006): Pure cassis on the nose. Impressive. Full-bodied, thick and powerful, with loads of fruit and big, velvety tannins. Goes on for minutes on the palate. Huge wine. Very, very impressive. This is one of the big surprises of the vintage. Best after 2012. 19,165 cases made.
NM 94 (3/2013): Tasted at Bordeaux Index's "10-Year On" tasting in London. The Poyferre -03 offers an exuberant bouquet that is clearly more ostentatious and perhaps vigorous than the Barton - black cherries, cassis, a hint of Bovril and bay leaf. The palate is medium-bodied with ripe and grippy but succulent tannins. There are layers of black toasty fruit infused with white pepper, cedar and graphite. The finish is nicely composed and is becoming more -classic- in style compared to previous encounters. This is promising - watch out for this in five years time.
VM 92 (6/2006): Medium ruby-red. Extravagant aromas of currant, loam, leather and graphite; like the 1990 in its roasted character. Then sweet and dense but with surprising aromatic lift in the mouth, not to mention considerable power. Liqueur-like black fruit, licorice and mineral flavors really stain the palate. Cuvelier maintained that this vintage was not acidified. The cabernet acidity, he said, was healthy and the grape skins gave up their acidity slowly during the vinification. A very impressive showing, and built to last.
JS 92 (3/2011): Ripe currants, almost cassis aromas with hints of dried flowers and tar. Full bodied, with chewy tannins and an elegant and lean structure. Long and stylish, this still needs some time. Pull the cork after 2013. |
|
| Ch. Lynch Bages |
2016 |
Pauillac (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$977.99 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 97+ (11/2018): Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2016 Lynch Bages comes charging out of the gate with pronounced cassis, chocolate-covered cherries, mulberries and menthol notions, backed up by scents of garrigue, tilled soil and a waft of tapenade. Medium to full-bodied, rich and fantastically concentrated, the generous fruit is superbly framed by firm, ripe, grainy tannins with tons of pepper, cinnamon and cloves layers coming through on the finish. Truly, a legendary Lynch Bages!
JS 97 (1/2019): Very rich and exotic with blackberry, black-tea, graphite and lead-pencil aromas. Full-bodied, dense and structured with lots of ripe tannins and a long, flavorful finish of currants and forest floor, combined with fresh mushrooms and bark. Needs four to five years to show its true potential. Try after 2024.
VM 97 (1/2019): The 2016 Lynch-Bages delivers on its promise from barrel with an intense blackberry, cedar and mineral-driven bouquet that actually reminds me of Lafite-Rothschild. A faint dark chocolate scent makes a brief appearance. The palate is medium-bodied with succulent ripe tannin, pure black fruit and a velvety texture. There is wonderful structure and focus on the finish, followed by a persistent saline aftertaste. This is an outstanding Lynch-Bages, easily the best since the twin titans of 1989 and 1990. Neal Martin.
WS 97 (3/2019): This is built for the cellar, with a generous core of kirsch, raspberry paste and plum preserve flavors waiting to unfurl. Will take time, due to the licorice snap, roasted apple wood and sweet tobacco elements draped over the fruit. Should meld with age, as the structure is invigorating in feel, showing both acidity and tannins in lockstep with the fruit. Best from 2025 through 2040.
JD 95+ (2/2019): The flagship 2016 Château Lynch Bages is a powerhouse, checking in as 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Petit Verdot raised in 75% new French oak. This deep, concentrated, powerful 2016 is going to be one for the ages, but if you’re looking for instant gratification, this isn’t for you. Saturated purple-colored, with thick black fruits, graphite, and scorched earth aromas and flavors, it fills the mouth with fruit, has masses of tannins, and beautiful overall balance. Don’t even think about opening bottles before 7-8 years from now, and it’s going to have 3-4 decades of longevity. |
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|
2022 |
Pauillac (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,610.99 |
2 |
|
| |
JD 96-98+ (5/2023): The Grand Vin 2022 Château Lynch Bages checks in as 66% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Merlot, and the rest Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. It actually reminds me slightly of the 2019, and while it's a classic Lynch Bages powerhouse, it has beautiful balance and purity. Cassis, graphite, lead pencil, and chalky minerality all define the aromatics, and it's full-bodied, with terrific tannins and a layered, incredibly impressive profile that continues to open and evolve with time in the glass. Tasted twice with consistent notes.
VM 95-97 (5/2023): The 2022 Lynch-Bages shows all the classic Lynch layers, but dialed up to the maximum. Rich, deep and explosive, the 2022 packs tremendous punch. Sweet dark cherry, spice, leather, menthol, licorice, plum and mocha all open with time in the glass. The tannins are imposing, and yet there is more than enough fruit to balance things out, at least to some degree. I expect the 2022 will need a decade to shed some of its tannin, but it is formidable, even in the early going. Impressive. Tasted two times. "This is the third time in history we are above 14% in alcohol, the others were 2018 and 2019" Jean-Charles Cazes explained. Antonio Galloni.
WA 93-96 (5/2023): One of the vintage's most powerful, muscular wines is the 2022 Lynch-Bages, a full-bodied, broad-shouldered Pauillac that unfurls in the glass with aromas of cassis, cherries, mint, pencil shavings and petroleum jelly, framed by nicely integrated new oak. Liberally extracted, its deep core of fruit is underpinned by an imposing chassis of rich, powdery tannin and lively acids. Always rather forbidding from barrel, Lynch Bages always seems to come together in bottle, and the 2022 has the makings of another success for this address. |
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| Ch. Malescot St. Exupery |
2020 |
Margaux (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$401.99 |
1 |
|
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JS 97 (12/2022): Lots of blackcurrants and blueberries on the nose, together with walnuts and chocolate. Full-bodied and very layered, with super depth and plushness, offering currant, crushed-stone and bitter-chocolate flavors. Very lush for this wine, but velvety and structured at the same time. Needs four to six years of bottle age. Try after 2027.
VM 95 (2/2023): The 2020 Malescot Saint Exupéry is absolutely gorgeous. Deep and silky (that is not a typo) Malescot shows a level of finesse that is truly remarkable. There is still plenty of textural intensity, but also greater elegance than in the recent past. Succulent dark cherry, plum, licorice, incense and blood orange all run through this wonderfully sumptuous, expressive Margaux. Give this a few years in bottle. Superb. Antonio Galloni.
JD 94+ (3/2023): Beautiful cassis, smoky oak, graphite, blackberries, and scorched earth notes emerge from the 2020 Château Malescot Saint Exupéry, another incredibly impressive wine from Margaux in the vintage. With medium to full-bodied richness, it has plenty of mid-palate depth, the building, firmer tannins of the vintage, fabulous purity of fruit, and a great finish. Hide bottles for 4-5 years and enjoy over the following 15-20 years.
WS 92 (3/2023): A ripe, slightly flashy style, with a lovely core of mulled plum and blackberry fruit laced with black tea and singed sandalwood. Reveals a very caressing feel through the finish, with hints of mocha and dark tobacco filling in. Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Best from 2026 through 2036.
WA 95-97 (5/2021): Sporting a deep purple-black color, the 2020 Malescot St. Exupery prances out of the glass with showy scents of ripe black and red currants, black cherries, raspberry leaves and ground cloves, plus wafts of lilacs and tilled soil. Medium to full-bodied, the palate delivers mouth-coating black and red fruit layers with a firm, grainy texture and well-balanced acidity, finishing on a lingering fragrant-earth note. |
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| Ch. Margaux |
2004 |
Margaux (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$6,271.97 |
1 |
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NM 95 (11/2009): Tasted at the Margaret River Cabernet tutorial. A deep black/garnet colour. The nose has stupendous definition and clarity, with that ethereal sense of controlled power and intensity, scents of dark cherry, pencils shavings and cedar all with wonderful definition and focus. The palate is medium-bodied, superb acidity, quite austere with cedar and tobacco, fine tannins, quite sharp and a little earthy on the finish. This is just a baby but should be considered a great success for the vintage. Drink 2012-2030.
VM 94 (6/2007): Bright red-ruby. Knockout nose features boysenberry, currant, cedar, graphite and mocha. Suave, gentle and sweet, already displaying ineffable inner-mouth perfume. The 17% merlot component injects a silky component, and the oak element adds a complementary sweetness. Complex, lush, horizontal finish saturates the mouth with flavor. It was not clear to me in April that the 2006 would exceed this-and it will certainly take longer to reach full maturity in bottle.
WA 93 (6/2007): The supple-textured 2004 Chateau Margaux is reminiscent of the 2001 or 1999. It exhibits a superb blue/purple color to the rim as well as sweet aromas of flowers, blueberries, creme de cassis, licorice, and smoke, superb fruit intensity, medium body, classic elegance, and silky, sweet tannin in the long finish. This beauty can be drunk now or cellared for two decades or more.
WS 93 (3/2007): Subtle and complex aromas of crushed raspberry, milk chocolate and cigar box. Full-bodied, silky and refined, with layers of fruit and seductive tannins. Very long. A Margaux with finesse and reserve. Best after 2011. 12,500 cases made. |
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2010 |
Margaux (6.0 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$8,046.97 |
1 |
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JS 100 (2/2013): This was phenomenal from barrel and remains so. The aromas are spellbinding. It smells like a bouquet of pink roses and then goes to currants, berries and citrus. Full body, with wonderfully refined tannins. It starts discretely and then grows to different levels and dimensions like a slow but big high tide. The texture is so beautiful. Try it in 2020 or beyond.
WA 99 (2/2013): The 2010 is a brilliant Chateau Margaux, as one might expect in this vintage. The percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon in the final blend hit 90%, the balance Merlot and Cabernet Franc, and only 38% of the crop made it into the Chateau Margaux. Paul Pontallier, the administrator, told me that this wine has even higher levels of tannin than some other extraordinary vintages such as 2005, 2000, 1996, etc. Deep purple, pure and intense, with floral notes, tremendous opulence and palate presence, this is a wine of considerable nobility. With loads of blueberry, black currant and violet-infused fruit and a heady alcohol level above 13.5% (although that looks modest compared to several other first growths, particularly Chateau Latour and Chateau Haut-Brion), its beautifully sweet texture, ripe tannin, abundant depth and profound finish all make for another near-perfect wine that should age effortlessly for 30-40 years.
WS 98 (3/2013): A mouthwatering tobacco leaf note leads the way, quickly followed by steeped black currant and fig fruit, with dark tar and ganache on the back end. Roasted alder and juniper hints hang in the background. Extremely backward, with a firm, tannic structure, this is girded for the long haul. Judging from the finely beaded acidity and lilting echo of lilac that peeks in now, this should acquire sensational aromatics and incredible grace with age. Best from 2018 through 2040.
VM 95+ (8/2013): Saturated ruby-red. Deep aromas of blackberry, licorice and bitter chocolate, complicated by nuances of loam and coffee extract. Dense, thick and sweet, but with harmonious acidity giving shape and lift to the pungent cassis, spice and tobacco flavors. Youthfully chewy wine with terrific underlying structure and a very long, sappy finish featuring broad tannins and a hint of licorice. This has improved considerably since the Primeurs, but I still think the 2009 Margaux is the superior wine. |
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| La Chapelle de La Mission Haut Brion |
2007 |
Pessac Leognan (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$608.99 |
1 |
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| Ch. La Mission Haut Brion |
2010 |
Pessac Leognan (6.0 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$7,510.97 |
1 |
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WA 100 (3/2020): Deep garnet colored, the 2010 La Mission Haut-Brion has a commanding, profound nose of baked blackberries, boysenberries and warm cassis plus suggestions of candied violets, red roses, chocolate box, cedar chest and smoked meats with a waft of iron ore. Full-bodied, powerful and hedonic, the palate bursts with expressive black fruits and floral sparks, framed by exquisitely ripe, grainy tannins and beautiful freshness, finishing with epic length. A real head-turner, this beauty is already very impressive, but for that full WOW experience I would give it another 3-5 years in bottle to blossom.
JS 100 (2/2013): This is crazy. The nose is so unique with the iodine, stones and currant aromas with wet earth and mushroom. Aromas like this don't usually come out until 10 years or so in the bottle. Classic nose for this estate. Full-bodied, with an amazing palate of firm yet polished tannins and a solid palate. So dense and gorgeous. It is really stunning. Try in 2020.
VM 98 (4/2020): The 2010 La Mission Haut-Brion has a very flattering bouquet with detailed red and black fruit laced with chestnut, cedar and sous-bois. This is supremely well focused. The palate is medium-bodied with fine grain tannins. There is immense depth here, more savoury than expected with chestnut once again, white pepper and a tinge of dried blood towards the finish. Outstanding. Tasted from an ex-château bottle at the BI Wines & Spirits 10-Year On tasting. Neal Martin.
WS 97 (3/2013): Intense and engaging. Despite showing lots of heft and tarry grip, the singed apple wood and alder notes are well-defined in this red, accentuating a core of roasted fig, blackberry coulis and macerated red and black currant fruit. The long, bramble-edged finish sports showy ganache and Lapsang souchong tea notes, while the structure refuses to yield until everything has finally played out. Muscular and vivacious. Best from 2019 through 2040. |
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| Ch. Montrose |
2003 |
St. Estephe (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,488.97 |
1 |
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WA 99 (8/2014): Note: This was not in the tasting in Montrose, but I had it several times in Asia as well as recently from my own cellar. The grapes were harvested between September 11 and 26. The blend in 2003 was 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34% Merlot (a very high percentage), 3% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot. The wine, unlike most 2003s, has a freshness and liveliness provided by their extraordinary terroir. This wine can be drunk now. It has a dense bluish/purple color to the rim and an extraordinary nose of blueberries and mulberries, with blacker cassis and blackberry entering the picture. Scorched earth, spice and licorice are all present in this magnificent, full-bodied, opulent wine that is very Montrose, very classic and somewhat atypical of the vintage. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2040.
NM 97 (3/2013): Tasted at Bordeaux Index's "10-Year On" tasting in London. The Montrose '03 puts the Calon-Segur in the shade with tightly coiled earthy black fruit, briary, graphite, hot steaming espresso and Provencal herbs that are all beautifully defined. The palate is medium-bodied with firm but fine ripe tannins, a crisp seam of acidity and wonderful focus on the multi-layered finish. It represents a long-term Montrose for sure - enormous persistency and grip on the aftertaste. This is a barnstorming Saint Estephe!
JS 97 (7/2013): After the 2009, this is the most exciting Montrose ever made, with intense aromas and flavors of plums, blueberries, spices, tobacco and cedar. It’s full-bodied with extremely refined tannins but a dense, delicious palate. Better in 2016, but why wait?
VM 96 (5/2005): Good medium-deep ruby-red. Superripe, roasted aromas of black raspberry, chocolate and licorice. Wonderfully dense, sweet and lush, with an early roundness rare for this wine. A monumental St. Estephe with almost confectionery sweetness. Wonderfully horizontal, palate-saturating wine with huge but thoroughly ripe, lush tannins. It's hard to believe that a wine this rich and deep could be carrying just 13.2% alcohol. The only thing missing here is the floral topnote of 2005, but that's a quibble in this baking-hot vintage, as Montrose's cooler, water-retentive clay-rich soil handled the extreme heat and drought as well as any chateau in the Bordeaux region. The final blend is 63% cabernet sauvignon, 33% merlot, 3% cabernet franc and 1% petit verdot. Stephen Tanzer.
WS 95 (3/2006): Dark color. Aromas of blackberry, toasted oak, spice and tobacco. Loads of plum. Medium- to full-bodied, with very integrated and refined tannins. Long. This really builds on the palate. This is better than the 2000 and 1990. Only time will tell if it's better than the 1989. Best after 2011. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 15,830 cases made. |
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| Ch. Mouton-Rothschild |
1994 |
Pauillac (3.0 L) Signs of Old Seepage; Scuffed Label |
$1,600 |
1 |
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WA 91 (2/1997): After less than persuasive performances in two potentially great years, 1989 and 1990, Mouton-Rothschild appears to have settled down, producing fine efforts in recent vintages, culminating with the enormously promising, unquestionably profound 1995. The 1994 appears to be the finest Mouton-Rothschild made following the 1986 and before the 1995's conception. The wine exhibits a dense, saturated purple color, followed by a classic Mouton nose of sweet black fruits intermingled with smoke, pain grillee, spice, and cedar. Medium to full-bodied, with Outstanding concentration, a layered feel, plenty of tannin, and rich, concentrated fruit, this wine is similar to the fine 1988. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2025. By the way, the Dutch artist, Appel, has created a gorgeous label for the 1994. Although Mouton-Rothschild can be among the most inconsistent first-growths, when this estate gets everything right, the wine can be as compelling as any produced in Bordeaux.
WS 91 (1/1997): Dark-colored, with intense aromas of blackberries, tar and spice, and toasted oak notes as well. Full-bodied, with very silky tannins and a chewy, ripe fruit-accented finish. An impressive Mouton. Better in 1999. |
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1998 |
Pauillac (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$6,547.97 |
1 |
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WA 96 (4/2001): Like many of its peers, the 1998 has filled out spectacularly. Now in the bottle, this opaque black/purple-colored offering has increased in stature, richness, and size. A blend of 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Merlot, and 2% Cabernet Franc (57% of the production was utilized), it is an extremely powerful, super-concentrated wine offering notes of roasted espresso, creme de cassis, smoke, new saddle leather, graphite, and licorice. It is massive, with awesome concentration, mouth-searing tannin levels, and a saturated flavor profile that grips the mouth with considerable intensity. This is a 50-year Mouton, but patience will be required as it will not be close to drinkability for at least a decade. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2050.
VM 93+ (8/2011): (86% cabernet sauvignon, 12% merlot and 2% cabernet franc; pH 3.82; IPT 76; 12.3% alcohol; a 57% selection): Very deep saturated ruby. Archetypical cabernet sauvignon-dominated nose offers fresh blackcurrant, lead pencil and flowers complicated by strong spice notes. Bright and juicy on entry, with very pure flavors of dark berries, underbrush and dried herbs, then slightly austere and linear in the middle palate. Finishes with a lingering saline nuance and very good length. A very refined and impeccably balanced Mouton, but I would have liked a little bit more concentration and opulence for an even higher score. This classic Mouton possesses relatively high acidity and a solid tannic structure; it offers early accessibility but should age effortlessly for another 15 or 20 years. In 1998, after a couple years of experimentation, Mouton began to de-leaf in a systematic fashion on both sides of the vine rows. Another vintage with a large crop, 1998 featured an unsettled September with rain falling during the cabernet sauvignon harvest (one of the reasons why 1998 is widely considered a Right Bank year.) Ian d'Agata.
NM 92 (11/2010): Tasted at the Claret Club Mouton-Rothschild dinner. The 1998 Mouton has a very deep garnet hue. The nose has good intensity and fine definition with blackberry, cassis, graphite and a touch of sous-bois. The palate is tight at first..."a dense ball of Pauillac stubbornness" are the exact words that I wrote. But it unwinds nicely: graphite and cedar interlacing the black fruit, almost brutal towards the finish that needs more persistency. This will been another 4-5 years in bottle.
WS 91 (12/2009): Blackberry and violets on the nose, with hints of roses. Sweet tobacco too. Full-bodied, with a solid core of fruit and round tannins. A little tight and reserved now. Give it time.—'88/'98 Bordeaux blind retrospective. Best after 2011. 22,915 cases made.
JS 91 (11/2015): This is spicy and peppery with dried fruits and currants. It's full and velvety on the palate, showing pretty berries and toasted coffee beans. Long, long finish. |
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|
2015 |
Pauillac (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$3,590.99 |
1 |
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JD 99 (11/2017): The crème de la crème from the northern Medoc is the 2015 Mouton Rothschild and this incredible wine flirts with perfection. Made from 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Merlot, and 3% Petit Verdot, this inky purple-colored effort offers sensational Cabernet flare in its crème de cassis, graphite, lead pencil shavings, floral, and Asian spice aromas and flavors. It is full-bodied, dense, and incredibly concentrated, yet still has the sexy, opulent, seductive style of the vintage front and center. It will be a candidate for perfection in 10-12 years and is going to be one of the longest-lived wines in the vintage. Hats off to Philippe Dhalluim and his team for this incredible effort that’s a step up over just about every other northern Medoc out there!
JS 99 (2/2018): Decadent and rich aromas of black cherries and plums with wet earth and sandalwood. Turns to dried mushrooms. Full-bodied, tight and closed with big, polished tannins, yet this is very closed and shy right now. Despite this, underneath it shows such depth and beauty. Tangy acidity. This is a combination of 2005 and 2009. Try it in 2024.
WA 98 (2/2018): The 2015 Mouton Rothschild is a blend of 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Merlot and 2% Cabernet Franc aged in 100% new oak with a mid-July 2017 bottling. Deep garnet-purple colored, this Mouton pulls off an incredibly impactful entrance, emerging from the glass with profound notes of blackberry preserves, plum pudding, crème de cassis and grilled meats, featuring perfectly accessorized accents of sandalwood, cinnamon stick and fenugreek with wafts of dried roses, unsmoked cigars and tilled soil. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is completely packed with rich, ripe black fruits sparked with blue and red fruit undertones and an incredible structure of very firm, very ripe tannins, with seamless freshness and an epically long, earth-laced finish. Possessing striking natural beauty framed by impeccable crafting, this 2015 is a total diva and well worth attention. Give it a good 7-8 years in bottle, at least, and drink it over the next 30+ years.
VM 97+ (2/2018): In 2015, Mouton Rothschild is fabulous. A big, towering wine, the 2015 makes its presence felt with layers of super-ripe dense fruit and striking textural resonance that carries all the way through to the finish. The 2015 is much more reticent from bottle than it was from barrel, which is not at all surprising, but is something readers should take into account. Even with all of its obvious intensity, the 2015 Mouton is a wine of classically inspired proportions. I can't wait to taste it in another 15-20 years. The 2015 is 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Merlot and 2% Cabernet Franc that spend 19 months in 100% new French oak. Antonio Galloni.
WS 96 (3/2018): Offers a prodigious core of steeped fig, black currant and blackberry compote flavors, enmeshed with notes of smoldering tobacco, charcoal and licorice. Broad, deep and long, with a deep foundation of graphite through the finish. Despite the heft, this manages to show off some purity too. Best from 2025 through 2045. |
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2018 |
Le Petit Mouton Pauillac (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,275.98 |
12 |
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2018 |
Le Petit Mouton Pauillac (1.5 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$430.99 |
1 |
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| Ch. Pavie |
2000 |
St. Emilion (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$5,673.99 |
2 |
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| WA 100 (4/2003): Give Gerard Perse credit. People thought his numerous assurances that 2000 was the greatest Pavie ever produced were premature as well as arrogant. However, after tasting this extraordinary blend of 60% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Franc, and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon (made from low yields of 28-30 hectoliters per hectare) six separate times in 2003, it is unquestionably one of the most monumental wines Bordeaux has ever produced. Bottled in March, 2003, about nine months later than other 2000s, the color is an opaque purple, and the bouquet offers up notes of liquid minerals, blackberries, cherries, and cassis intermixed with spice box, cedar, and white flowers. On the palate, it exhibits a massive display of richness and extract, yet with pinpoint delineation and vibrancy as well as a 60+ second finish, this is the kind of phenomenal wine that Perse's critics were afraid he might produce - a no-compromise, immortal wonder that represents the essence of one of Bordeaux's greatest terroirs. Life is too short not to own and consume the 2000 Pavie. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2050. |
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| Ch. Pavie Decesse |
2006 |
St. Emilion (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,517.97 |
1 |
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| Ch. Pontet Canet |
2008 |
Pauillac (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$648.97 |
2 |
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JD 96 (2/2019): Unquestionably one of the gems in the vintage is the 2008 Pontet-Canet, which reminds me of the 2005 with its concentrated, deep, powerful style. Beautiful dark fruits, graphite, obvious minerality, and classic Pauillac lead pencil notes all emerge from this still youthful, full-bodied, and pure 2008 that’s 4-5 years away from maturity and will keep for 30+ years. Hats off to Alfred Tesseron for another awesome wine that ranks up with the crème de la crème of the vintage.
WA 96 (5/2011): A candidate for the “wine of the vintage," Pontet Canet’s 2008 boasts an opaque purple color as well as copious aromas of sweet blueberries, blackberries and black currant fruit intertwined with lead pencil shavings, subtle barbecue smoke and a hint of forest floor. Full-bodied, with fabulous richness, texture and tremendous freshness, this first-growth-like effort is more developed than the uber-powerful 2010. Give it 5-8 years of cellaring and drink it over the following three decades. Bravo!
VM 94 (8/2011): Deep ruby-red. Knockout nose combines black cherry, lavender, potpourri spices and graphite minerality; high-toned and slightly liqueur-like. Then dense, seamless and vibrant in the mouth, with firm acidity giving Outstanding energy to the dark fruit, floral and mineral flavors. Really spreads out on the back end and stays a while. Brilliantly delineated, complex wine with superb cut and penetration. Stephen Tanzer.
JS 94 (7/2016): The minerality and floral character to this is really impressive with lots of bark, currant and dried rose character. Full body, chewy yet polished tannins and a mouthwatering finish. Made from biodynamcially grown grapes. Drink or hold.
WS 92 (4/2011): Quite dense, but pure and fresh, with the core of fig, damson plum and mulled cherry fruit already well-defined, and the back end of rounded loam and roasted cedar grip fully integrated. The finish is long and powerful. Best from 2013 through 2020. |
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2022 |
Pauillac (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,519.99 |
1 |
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JD 97-99+ (5/2023): The 2022 Château Pontet-Canet is brilliant and should easily be up with the crème de la crème from the Médoc. Based on 57% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot, and 4% each of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, it was vinified mostly in concrete (there's a small part in wood), and the aging is in 50% new French oak, 35% in amphora, and the rest in once-used barrels. It has an incredibly pure bouquet of cassis, graphite, lead pencil, and scorched earth. This carries to a full-bodied Pauillac with a deep, layered mid-palate, building tannins, and a great finish. It has the purity, richness, and structure that makes this vintage so compelling and is going to be drinkable with just 4-6 years of bottle age but have an incredibly long life.
VM 95-97 (5/2023): The 2022 Pontet-Canet is a surprising wine. Usually much more opulent, especially in warm, dry years, the 2022 comes across as restrained and understated. It is a wine of linear intensity rather than size, marked by notable freshness and a feeling of tension and precision I don’t recall seeing in the past. Clean mineral notes extend the finish effortlessly. I very much admire the precision and vibrancy here. Unforgettable. Antonio Galloni. |
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| Vieux Chateau Certan |
2014 |
Pomerol (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,150.98 |
1 |
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| VM 96 (3/2018): The 2014 Vieux-Château Certan has an attractive bouquet with blackberry, clove and truffle aromas, nicely defined though it seems to have closed up a little since I tasted it just after bottling. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin and a keen thread of acidity. The palate shows the real potential, more than the nose at the moment. There is wondrous linearity and precision and it finishes with haunting grace. At this tasting I marked this lower than I wanted because it just continuously improved in the glass after I announced my score to the group. Tasted blind at the annual Southwold tasting. Neal Martin. |
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2021 |
Pomerol (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,109.97 |
2 |
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| | Bordeaux White |
| Ch. Haut-Brion |
2024 |
Pessac Leognan Blanc
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$954.99 |
1 |
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| | Burgundy Red |
| Dom. Arlaud |
2010 |
Morey St. Denis 1er Cru Les Ruchots (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,173.99 |
1 |
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| Dom. de L' Arlot |
2021 |
Nuits St. Georges 1er Cru Clos des Forets St. Georges (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$769.99 |
2 |
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| Dom. Arnoux-Lachaux |
2017 |
Clos de Vougeot Grand Cru (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$3,254.99 |
1 |
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| Dom. Ghislaine Barthod |
2021 |
Chambolle Musigny 1er Cru Les Gruenchers (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,828.97 |
1 |
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| Dom. Bertagna |
2005 |
Clos St. Denis Grand Cru |
$200 |
1 |
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| BH 90-93 (1/2007): Moderate wood highlights the ripe and spicy crushed red berry and plum aromas that give way to delicious, forward and mouth coating flavors that possess excellent volume and plenty of power on the enduring finish. This is perhaps not quite as elegant as it usually is though it may gain in precision with a few more months in cask. Drink 2013+. |
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2005 |
Clos St. Denis Grand Cru Bin-Soiled Label |
$200 |
1 |
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| BH 90-93 (1/2007): Moderate wood highlights the ripe and spicy crushed red berry and plum aromas that give way to delicious, forward and mouth coating flavors that possess excellent volume and plenty of power on the enduring finish. This is perhaps not quite as elegant as it usually is though it may gain in precision with a few more months in cask. Drink 2013+. |
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| Dom. Sylvain Cathiard |
2014 |
Nuits St. Georges 1er Cru Aux Murgers (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,674.97 |
1 |
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2015 |
Romanee St. Vivant Grand Cru (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$11,775.99 |
1 |
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|
| Dom. Bruno Clavelier |
2014 |
Vosne Romanee La Combe Brulees (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,593.99 |
1 |
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|
| Joseph Drouhin |
2019 |
Charmes Chambertin Grand Cru (3x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,599.99 |
1 |
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2020 |
Charmes Chambertin Grand Cru (2x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$572.99 |
1 |
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| Dom. Dujac |
2020 |
Gevrey Chambertin 1er Cru Aux Combottes (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,436.99 |
1 |
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| BH 92 (1/2023): Somewhat surprisingly the nose is quite reserved with its brooding array of very ripe dark berries, cassis, violet, lavender and a whisper of herbal tea. The succulent and exceptionally rich, even opulent, flavors also coat the palate with an abundance of sap that does a quality job of buffering the markedly firm tannic spine shaping the beautifully persistent finale. This is more robust than usual but a wine that should repay extended cellaring. |
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| S. Esmonin |
2023 |
Gevrey Chambertin (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,030.99 |
6 |
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| Dom. Fourrier |
2020 |
Gevrey Chambertin 1er Cru Cherbaudes Vieilles Vignes (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,662.99 |
3 |
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| |
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| Dom. Jean Grivot |
2015 |
Nuits St. Georges 1er Cru Les Boudots (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,337.99 |
1 |
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| |
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2018 |
Nuits St. Georges Les Charmois (3x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,752.99 |
1 |
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| |
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| Dom. Anne-Francoise Gros |
2012 |
Vosne Romanee Aux Reas (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,000.99 |
1 |
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WA 90-92 (12/2013): The 2012 Vosne-Romanee Aux Reas lies next to Clos des Reas and the two were originally the same parcel and were labelled premier and deuxieme cuvees. It is aged in 50% new oak. It has a precise, quite floral bouquet with hints of cassis and red currant scents, suggestions of vanilla pod coming through with aeration. It disguises the new wood well. The palate is medium-bodied with a supple entry, well-judged acidity and a velvety smooth finish with hints of white chocolate on the aftertaste.
BH 89-91 (4/2014): Here too there is plenty of wood influence to the even spicier nose of mostly red currant and violet aromas. There is a caressing and highly seductive mouth feel to the concentrated medium weight flavors that possess fine volume before terminating in a slightly more structured and saline-infused finish where the wood, while not invisible, seems to be more completely integrated and does not sweeten the finish to the same degree as in the Fontaine. Drink 2018+. Outstanding Top Value! |
|
| Louis Jadot |
2011 |
Le Chambertin Grand Cru (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,511.99 |
2 |
|
| |
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2019 |
Corton Greves Grand Cru (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$774.99 |
6 |
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| |
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2020 |
Charmes Chambertin Grand Cru (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,364.99 |
1 |
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| |
|
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2020 |
Gevrey Chambertin 1er Cru Estournelles St. Jacques (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$784.99 |
2 |
|
| |
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2020 |
Volnay 1er Cru Clos de la Barre (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$615.99 |
1 |
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| |
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2020 |
Volnay 1er Cru Clos de la Barre (3x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$649.99 |
1 |
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| |
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2020 |
Volnay 1er Cru Santenots (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$561.99 |
1 |
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| |
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2020 |
Corton Greves Grand Cru (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$757.99 |
2 |
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| |
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|
2021 |
Clos St. Denis Grand Cru (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,218.99 |
1 |
|
| |
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2021 |
Le Chambertin Grand Cru (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,566.99 |
1 |
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| |
|
| Dom. des Lambrays |
2017 |
Morey St. Denis (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$818.99 |
1 |
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| |
|
|
2020 |
Clos des Lambrays Grand Cru (3x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$5,217.97 |
1 |
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| |
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| Dom. Leroy |
2004 |
Bourgogne Rouge Signs of Old Seepage; Very Lightly Bin-Soiled Label |
$2,500 |
1 |
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| |
BH 92 (4/2006): As one might reasonably expect, this is by far and away the most complex nose I have ever experienced with a so-called Bourgogne, revealing notes of red raspberry, spice, earth and violets that are followed by rich, classy and stylish flavors that possess a textured, pure and wonderfully refined finish that goes on and on. This is of top 1er quality and while the structure is supple, this clearly will age. Sweet spot. Drink 2012+.
VM 89 (4/2007): Palish red. Sexy aromas of plum, redcurrant, smoked meat, mushroom and earth. Supple, sweet and shapely, with slightly dry-edged flavors of iron and tobacco. A very shapely wine with lovely persistence. |
|
|
2004 |
Bourgogne Rouge Very Lightly Bin-Soiled Label |
$2,500 |
1 |
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| |
BH 92 (4/2006): As one might reasonably expect, this is by far and away the most complex nose I have ever experienced with a so-called Bourgogne, revealing notes of red raspberry, spice, earth and violets that are followed by rich, classy and stylish flavors that possess a textured, pure and wonderfully refined finish that goes on and on. This is of top 1er quality and while the structure is supple, this clearly will age. Sweet spot. Drink 2012+.
VM 89 (4/2007): Palish red. Sexy aromas of plum, redcurrant, smoked meat, mushroom and earth. Supple, sweet and shapely, with slightly dry-edged flavors of iron and tobacco. A very shapely wine with lovely persistence. |
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| Dom. Hubert Lignier |
2020 |
Morey St. Denis 1er Cru Chenevery (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$850.99 |
1 |
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| |
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| Dom. Mongeard Mugneret |
2004 |
Richebourg Grand Cru Heavily Scuffed Label; Bin-Soiled Label |
$400 |
1 |
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| |
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| Dom. de Montille |
2017 |
Beaune 1er Cru Les Greves (3.0 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$441.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. JF Mugnier |
2011 |
Chambolle Musigny 1er Cru Les Fuees (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$9,483.99 |
1 |
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| |
| BH 90 (7/2015): A cool, restrained and admirably pure nose is composed of various red berry fruit, spice, floral and Asian-style tea scents. The highly refined and punchy middle weight flavors possess a lovely sense of minerality before delivering fine length on the slightly lean, dusty and austere finale. This elegant effort is coming along very nicely and it has reached a stage that could certainly be enjoyed now but for my taste I would allow this another 4 to 6 years first in order to develop a bit more depth as well as broadening the finale. Try from 2019+. |
|
| Jean Marc Pavelot |
2022 |
Savigny Les Beaune 1er Cru La Dominode (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$921.99 |
8 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. Georges Roumier |
2017 |
Ruchottes Chambertin Grand Cru
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,093.99 |
2 |
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2018 |
Bonnes Mares Grand Cru
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,429.99 |
3 |
|
| |
VM 95 (1/2024): The 2018 Bonnes-Mares Grand Cru from Roumier offers copious amounts of black cherries and blueberry fruit. It is still a "baby", though that doesn't make it unenjoyable, even if you cannot help thinking that it needs at least another decade. The palate is framed by those succulent tannins, one of the tropes of the growing season. There's a little more glycerine than I remember, with a powerful and still almost overwhelming finish that prompts me to be just a little more cautious with my score. Tasted at Le Benaton in Beaune. Neal Martin.
BH 95 (1/2021): A very spicy and overtly floral nose consists of liqueur-like aromas of various red berries trimmed in hints of wood and menthol. There is a lovely sense of energy and delineation to the broad-shouldered yet relatively fine flavors that terminate in a beautifully textured, powerful and firm finish that possesses its usual level of youthful austerity. This very serious Bonnes Mares will also require extended keeping as it's every bit as structured as the Ruchottes.
WA 95 (1/2021): Opening in the glass with aromas of ripe red fruits, rose petals, peonies, orange rind and exotic spices, Roumier's 2018 Bonnes-Mares Grand Cru is full-bodied, multidimensional and concentrated, with a rich and layered mid-palate, a muscular chassis of powdery tannin and a bright, mineral finish. This is very much built for the long haul, but it has taken the warm vintage in its stride. |
|
|
2018 |
Musigny Grand Cru
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$18,569.99 |
1 |
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| |
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| Dom. Jean & Jean Louis Trapet |
2020 |
Latricieres Chambertin Grand Cru (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,731.99 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. Comte de Vogue |
2005 |
Musigny Grand Cru Cuvee Vieilles Vignes (1.5 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$4,362.97 |
1 |
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| |
BH 99 (1/2008): Prepare to be transported. A positively brilliant nose of violet and rose petal shines against a background of intensely spiced extravagant red and black pinot fruit nuanced by hints of earth and stone and this minerality continues onto the surprisingly supple flavors that convey a remarkable sense of energy and power on the almost unbelievably intense, focused and structured finish that seems to go on and on without end. And the '05 VV has what all truly great burgundies have which is that extra dimension of power without weight as this carries terrific punch and power yet delivers that explosiveness with impeccable class and grace. While I am duly mindful of the many legendary wines this domaine has produced (see the database for all vintages reviewed dating to 1919), the 2005 could very well join the list of the all time greats, there is really that much potential here. Whether it will ultimately transcend the heights achieved by the 1919 or the 1949 (among many others) remains an open question, I have zero doubt that 2005 will be a genuinely great vintage for this wine. Brilliance personified and absolutely a 'wow' wine, in fact, this merits a double 'wow'.
WA 96-98 (4/2007): My notes on the 2005 Musigny Vieilles Vignes represent a composite impression from a selection of barrels. There can be little question that this deep, dark wine displays its class of origin, indeed a class of its own in this year’s collection. Fresh black raspberry, pomegranate, blackberry, and iris dominate the nose and stain the palate. A wealth of spice, mineral, chalky and bitter-sweet floral nuances persistently wreath the fruit at all stages. This shows lovely creaminess of texture in counterpoint to the persistent freshness of fruit. The intensely rich yet refreshing palate saturation and tenacious cling exhibited auger well for extended cellaring yet don’t detract from an impression of utmost elegance and refinement. The domaine will begin bottling the wines in spring and all will, as usual, receive “the minimum, gentlest possible" filtration. Francois Millet notes that skin-to-juice ratios this year were as formidably high as those of 2003, yet thanks to relatively mild temperatures, the fruit retained what he terms a “sorbet-like presentation." |
|
| | Burgundy White |
| Dom. Marquis d' Angerville |
2019 |
Meursault 1er Cru Santenots (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,266.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. Francois Carillon |
2022 |
Puligny Montrachet 1er Cru Les Combettes (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,282.99 |
1 |
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| |
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2022 |
Puligny Montrachet 1er Cru Les Folatieres (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,282.99 |
1 |
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| |
|
| Dom. William Fevre |
2020 |
Chablis Grand Cru Bougros Cote Bouguerots (3x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$893.99 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 96 (7/2022): In a sense, the 2020 Chablis Grand Cru Bougros Côte Bouguerots offers a resumé of several of Fèvre's grand cru bottlings, uniting the taut musculature of Valmur and the ethereal, mineral profile of Les Preuses, with some of the perfumed sensuality of Vaudésir and fleshy texture of Bougros. The result is certainly a very compelling wine, exhibiting aromas of crisp green orchard fruit, white flowers, freshly baked bread, oyster jus and white peach, followed by a full-bodied, taut and layered palate that's seamless and complete, concluding with a pungently mineral finish. It's worth a special effort to seek out, though a decade's patience is warmly advised.
BH 96 (9/2022): A deft application of wood lurks in the background of the aromas cool citrus, apple, mineral reduction and ocean breeze wisps. There is an almost painful intensity to the powerful but sleek and defined medium weight plus flavors that brim with minerality on the clean, very dry and hugely long finish. This is also potentially brilliant and well-worth considering. (Drink starting 2032).
VM 93 (7/2024): The 2020 Chablis Bougros Côte Bouguerots Grand Cru has a crushed stone scented bouquet. A peppermint trace comes through with aeration. The nose is controlled and citrus-fresh, and I admire the energy. The palate is poised and concentrated, and a silver thread of acidity keeps this Grand Cru tensile and focused. Bright and lightly spiced towards the finish, this fans out with style. Excellent. Tasted blind at the annual Burgfest tasting. (Drink between 2025-2044). Neal Martin. |
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|
2020 |
Chablis Grand Cru Bougros (3x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$581.99 |
1 |
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| |
BH 92-94 (10/2021): This is restrained to the point of being all but aromatically mute though aggressive swirling eventually coaxes notes of green fruit, citrus peel and oyster shell nuances to reveal themselves. There is both excellent volume and concentration to the big-bodied, powerful and imposing flavors that are focused, structured and youthfully austere. This is very much a work in progress, and I would advise allowing this at least 5 years of cellaring and it should easily reward a decade or more.
VM 92-94 (10/2021): The 2020 Chablis Bougros Grand Cru comes from six hectares of vines, southwest- and south-facing, forming the two different cuvées. The bouquet unfolds to offer lovely yellow fruit and oyster leaf aromas, well defined and quite generous. The palate is taut and crisp with fine acidity and moderate depth, but very pretty and composed toward the saline finish. There is plenty of substance already in situ and I foresee this aging with class. Neal Martin. |
|
| Louis Jadot |
2020 |
Le Montrachet Grand Cru (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$5,721.99 |
2 |
|
| |
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2020 |
Bienvenues Batard Montrachet Grand Cru (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,927.99 |
2 |
|
| |
|
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2021 |
Le Montrachet Grand Cru (2x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,190.99 |
1 |
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| |
|
| Dom. Hubert Lamy |
2020 |
St. Aubin 1er Cru Clos de la Chateniere
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$210.99 |
1 |
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| |
VM 88? (7/2024): The 2020 Saint-Aubin Clos de la Chatenière 1er Cru has a slightly nutty, Meursault-like bouquet that needs a little more freshness. It feels a little more mature than a 2020. There is something a bit static about the aromatics. The palate is balanced with a tangy opening, a simple Chardonnay rather than a definable Saint-Aubin. It is fresh and boasts decent length, but it does not leave you beholden. N.B. I find this far superior at the Domaine, hence my lower score. Perhaps the bottle? Tasted blind at the annual Burgfest tasting.
BH 92 (7/2023): There is just enough reduction to suppress the underlying fruit for the moment with the exception of a whisper of lemon zest. By contrast there is really lovely intensity to the precise, cool and restrained mineral-inflected middleweight flavors that terminate in a racy, clean and emphatically dry finale that displays only a trace of youthful austerity. This chiseled effort is excellent and akin to rolling tiny rocks around the mouth. |
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|
2021 |
St. Aubin 1er Cru Clos de la Chateniere (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$543.99 |
1 |
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| |
|
| Louis Latour |
2014 |
Corton Charlemagne Grand Cru
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$269.97 |
3 |
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| |
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| Dom. Leflaive |
2019 |
Bienvenues Batard Montrachet Grand Cru (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$7,484.99 |
1 |
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| |
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2019 |
Batard Montrachet Grand Cru
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,465.99 |
3 |
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| |
|
|
2019 |
Batard Montrachet Grand Cru (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$8,226.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2022 |
Bienvenues Batard Montrachet Grand Cru (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$4,828.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. Louis Michel |
2022 |
Chablis Grand Cru Grenouilles (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$749.99 |
10 |
|
| |
|
| Patrick Piuze |
2021 |
Chablis 1er Cru Les Sechets (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$766.99 |
10 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. Roulot |
2020 |
Meursault Les Luchets (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,679.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Etienne Sauzet |
2016 |
Puligny Montrachet 1er Cru Champ Canet (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,875.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| | Champagne |
| Dom Perignon |
2002 |
P2 Plenitude Champagne (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,459.97 |
1 |
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| |
VM 97+ (7/2018): The 2002 Dom Perignon P2 is surprisingly, almost shockingly, austere and tightly wound. That almost surely bodes well for the future. Today, though, the 2002 is very hard to taste. Stylistically, it is also much less available than the original release. Readers lucky enough to own the 2002 should plan on being patient. Antonio Galloni.
WA 96 (3/2019): The 2002 Dom Perignon P2 is still a youthful wine, but it is beginning to develop appreciable complexity, wafting from the glass with notes of of iodine, warm bread, ripe orchard fruit, peach, citrus oil, smoke and peat, which in Geoffroy's words "are on the verge of aromatic over-ripeness." On the palate, the wine is medium to full-bodied, broad and fleshy, with a textural, voluminous profile, pinpoint bubbles and a chalky, phenolic finish. This is a ripe and powerful Dom Perignon that finds its closest stylistic analogy in the 1990 vintage, and it is considerably less evolved than the more tertiary 2000 P2 today. While the P2 is a bit drier and more precise on the finish than the original release, given the wine's slow evolution the difference between the two is less pronounced than it has been for any vintage since 1996. |
|
| Pierre Peters |
2014 |
Cuvee Speciale Blanc de Blancs Les Chetillons Champagne (3x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,482.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Pol Roger |
2009 |
Cuvee Winston Churchill Champagne (3x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,430.99 |
1 |
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| |
| WA 95+ (4/2020): Pol Roger's 2009 Cuvee Sir Winston Churchill has turned out very well, offering up a demonstrative bouquet of golden apples, clear honey, hazelnuts and fresh pastry that's still quite primary. Full-bodied, fleshy and textural, it's deep and concentrated, with an ample core of fruit, ripe but racy acids, a pinpoint mousse and a long, penetrating finish. This is an expressive, deceptively immediate rendition of this bottling, yet despite its charm out of the gates, readers willing to wait at least five years will be rewarded with significant additional complexity. |
|
| Roses de Jeanne (Cedric Bouchard) |
2012 |
Roses de Jeanne La Haute Lemble Champagne (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,482.99 |
1 |
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| |
|
|
2015 |
Roses de Jeanne La Haute Lemble Champagne (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,482.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Jacques Selosse |
NV |
Brut Initiale Champagne (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$3,087.99 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 94 (12/2008): The NV Brut Blanc de Blanc Initiale sparkles on the palate with soft, creamy textured fruit framed by silky tannins and notes of salinity on the finish. The wine reveals an expansive, mysterious personality with a level of depth to the fruit that renders the mousse extremely delicate. This is great Chardonnay first, and a profound Champagne second, but made in a slightly richer style than the Originale. Whereas the Initiale is made from the steeper parcels, the Initiale is made from plots on the lower slopes of vineyards in Avize, Cramant and Oger, where a component of clay is more prominent. This year the wine is a blend of equal parts 2003, 2002 and 2001. 2003 is a small harvest of rich, concentrated juice, which contributes to this wine’s weight. This bottle was disgorged January 18, 2008. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2014. |
|
| | Italy |
| Allegrini |
2016 |
Amarone della Valpolicella Classico |
$75 |
7 |
|
| |
|
|
2016 |
Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Riserva Fieramonte |
$229 |
5 |
|
| |
|
| Piero Antinori |
2015 |
Tignanello (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,338.99 |
1 |
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| |
VM 98 (2/2019): The 2015 Tignanello is a wine of extraordinary finesse. Ample, creamy and voluptuous, the 2015 dazzles from the very first taste. Dark raspberry jam, rose petal mint and wild flowers are some of the many notes that are laced throughout. Intense and explosive, but also remarkable vibrant, the 2015 is one of the finest Tignanellos in recent memory. The 2015 also represents a bit of a shift in winemaking philosophy that favors picking fruit a bit earlier than in the past and also blending earlier than was the case in the previous period spanning 2004-2014, when the components were aged separately and then blended just before bottling. Lastly, at 85% Sangiovese and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2015 has a bit more Sangiovese than is the norm, which contributes to the wine's freshness and energy. Antonio Galloni.
JS 98 (1/2019): Fantastic aromas of dark berries, sandalwood and Spanish cedar that are ever so deep. Full body, an incredible spin of polished tannins and bright acidity. Incredible depth. Like looking over the edge of a skyscraper. Powerful and structured. A great Tignanello. A little more sangiovese than usual. Best since the legendary 1997?
WS 97 (10/2018): (WS #24 wine of 2018) Dense and intensely flavored, with violet, black currant, blackberry, graphite, wild herb and spice aromas and flavors, this is concentrated and solidly built, yet also harmonious, vibrant and pure. Approachable now, but should be better in a few years. Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Best from 2021 through 2035. 5,000 cases imported.
WA 96 (9/2018): The 2015 Tignanello is a wine that opens, like a fully blossomed rose, right in front of you. This vintage is immediately accessible, generous and opulent. The wine will surely flesh out and gain focus with more bottle age, but one of the best qualities of this vintage is just how beautiful the wine tastes straight out of the gate. The fruit is beautifully ripe with fresh blackberry and cherry nuances, spice, leather, sweet tobacco and smoke. Up until this vintage, the various blending components that make up Tignanello were vinifed in separate lots. Starting with 2015, the wine is blended sooner in order to achieve better overall integration. The entire Tignanello estate counts 130 hectares of vines, but the single-vineyard "Tignanello" that makes this wine is 57 hectares. Some 340,000 bottles were produced. |
|
| Azelia |
2016 |
Barolo (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$382.99 |
1 |
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| |
JS 94 (9/2020): This is an ultra fine Barolo with cherries, spice, cedar and hints of dried flowers on the nose and palate. It’s full-bodied, yet reserved, very caressing and fine-grained. A thoroughly beautiful young 2016. Drink or hold.
VM 93 (2/2020): Azelia's 2016 Barolo is a blend of fruit from two parcels in Castiglione Falletto and five in Serralunga, with the character of Serralunga especially felt in the wine's tannic grip and persistence. Iron, sage, mint, smoke and wild cherry give the Barolo striking aromatic nuance and complexity, all in the mid-weight style that is such a signature at this address. The purity of the fruit is just striking. Stated simply, this is a tremendous wine in its peer group. Antonio Galloni.
WA 93 (7/2020): Azelia's classic 2016 Barolo shows a spicy or savory personality with accents of laurel leaf, eucalyptus and clove. Those are some of the high notes that hover over a core of dark fruit and dried blackberry. On the Nebbiolo scale, this wine takes us to a sultry side of the variety, with slightly more fruit weight, texture and pronounced black fruit. If you are choosing your Barolo according to a possible pasta or meat pairing, this would be the meat wine. Azelia's classico Barolo is a blend of fruit from seven single vineyards, with 30% of the total from Castiglione Falletto and 70% from Serralunga d'Alba. A big portion comes from the Cerretta and Broglio sites, with 50-year-old vines. About 29,000 examples were produced. |
|
| Produttori del Barbaresco |
2005 |
Barbaresco Rio Sordo Riserva (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$747.97 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Giacomo Conterno |
2021 |
Barolo Arione (3.0 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,261.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Conterno Fantino |
2016 |
Barolo Sori Ginestra (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,024.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Dal Forno |
2016 |
Amarone della Valpolicella |
$299 |
3 |
|
| |
|
| Casa Vinicola Bruno Giacosa |
2015 |
Nebbiolo d’Alba Valmaggiore (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$681.97 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Elio Grasso |
2016 |
Barolo Ginestra Vigna Casa Mate (3.0 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$453.99 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| La Massa |
2019 |
Giorgio Primo Chianti Classico (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$622.98 |
12 |
|
| |
|
| Le Macchiole |
2019 |
Paleo Rosso (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$797.99 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 96 (3/2022): The 2019 Paleo, 100% Cabernet Franc, is a total stunner. Deep, plush and explosive, the 2019 possesses fabulous density and yet it is not at all heavy. All the elements are so well-balanced. Dark cherry, plum, chocolate, mocha, espresso and grilled herbs all meld together in the glass. The purity and persistence of the flavors is absolutely compelling. The 2019 is seriously impressive. I loved it. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Bartolo Mascarello |
2006 |
Barolo (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,063.97 |
2 |
|
| |
| VM 97+ (7/2016): The 2006 Barolo is one of my all time favorite Bartolo Mascarello wines. It won’t be ready to drink anytime soon. Beams of tannin give the 2006 its imposing, vertical personality. The 2006 is a Barolo for classically-leaning palates and readers who have the time to be patient. Even so, the 2006 is a utterly majestic tonight. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Le Ragnaie |
2016 |
Brunello di Montalcino Casanovina Montosoli (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$879.99 |
4 |
|
| |
|
| Case Basse di Gianfranco Soldera |
2014 |
Toscana Sangiovese (3x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$5,176.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Tenuta San Guido |
2006 |
Sassicaia (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$2,595.97 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 97 (8/2009): The 2006 Sassicaia may very well go down as one of the all-time great recent vintages for this Tuscan thoroughbred. The year started off very warm but by August evening temperatures had moderated, leaving the fruit with a stunning combination of ripeness, perfume, acidity and tannin. The wine is simply glorious, that’s all there is to it. Layers of dark fruit meld into smoke, leather, violets, menthol, earthiness and tar as this profound wine opens up in the glass. The creamy, silky finish lasts an eternity, as waves of fruit caress the tannins with breathtaking elegance. Everything is in the right place in this magical Sassicaia. This is one for the ages. In a word: Awesome. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2031.
VM 95 (10/2010): (85% cabernet sauvignon and 15% cabernet franc) Bright red-ruby. Complex nose melds red cherry, blackcurrant, minerals, dried herbs and a delicate oaky vanillin nuance; the fruit aromas show an almost roasted quality without going over the top. Sweet, concentrated and nicely fresh, with an impression of strong extract and a hint of exotic fruits to the flavors of ripe red and dark berries, chocolate, plum and wild herbs. The candied fruit quality carries through on the long, smooth finish, where there's a trace of heat and hints of menthol and minerals. A very successful Sassicaia but, in my notebook, just a little below the lofty heights of the 2001 or 2004. But given the quality of this wine, that's quibbling. Ian d'Agata.
JS 95 (4/2012): Sweet tobacco and berry with hints of currants. Full, soft and silky. Lots of fruit and a long finish. It's subtle, dense and sophisticated. Please give this another five years to really show what it has.
WS 94 (10/2009): Displays sweet tobacco, plum and berry aromas, with a jammy undertone, turning to licorice on the palate. Full-bodied and balanced, with silky tannins, a lovely texture and plenty of fruit. Outstanding Sassicaia, with structure and finesse. 85 percent Cabernet Sauvignon and 15 percent Cabernet Franc. Best after 2013. 20,000 cases made. |
|
| | Other Red |
| Sadie Family |
2022 |
Columella Proprietary Blend (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$987.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| | Rhone Red |
| Ch. d' Ampuis (Guigal) |
2016 |
Cote Rotie (3x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$697.99 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 96 (11/2020): Moving to the top Côte Rôties, the 2016 Côte Rôtie Chateau D'Ampuis comes from a blend of top sites (7 different lieux-dits) and sees the same care and elevage as the La Las. Revealing a ruby/purple hue as well as a stunning nose of black raspberry and cassis interwoven with notes of bacon fat, spring flowers, violets, and smoked game, this beauty hits the palate with medium to full-bodied richness, a seamless texture, and gorgeous overall balance. The tannins are polished, and it has wonderful sweetness of fruit as well as considerable elegance. A classic 2016 that does everything right, it cedes very little, if anything, to the more expensive single vineyard releases. Readers that love classic Côte Rôtie should buy this by the case. Give bottles 4-5 years and enjoy over the following 15+. |
|
| Ch. de Beaucastel |
2005 |
Chateauneuf du Pape (1.5 L) |
$240 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 96 (8/2010): Young but far from unapproachable, the 2005 Château de Beaucastel Châteauneuf-du-Pape has screaming aromatics of bloody meats, iron, and truffle that are wrapped around a gorgeously fruited core. Medium to full bodied with beautiful structure, a solid, full mid-palate, a smooth, precise texture and a long finish, this is a smoking bottle of wine! Give it another 3 to 5 years in the cellar and then drink over the following 20.
WS 96 (4/2008): (WS #8 wine of 2008). Really dense and locked up now, this is packed with dark fig, currant and blackberry fruit shrouded by layers of tar, hot stone, bittersweet licorice and espresso. The long, dense finish has a great tug of iron buried within it. Best from 2011 through 2030. 15,000 cases made.
JLL ****** (5/2011): Nicely plum red, very little evolution showing. Herbs in the air, also violet, floral influences on the nose, which is welcoming, and has a smoky intensity right at its centre, a smoky licorice. After two hours, it gains a nature of primrose and finesse that are most attractive. The palate: tight lines here. The shape is rectangular, sleek and there are clean straight lines from its dark tannins. Very true to the vintage. Still careful, not greatly expressive, notably on the second half of the palate. Smoky, fine length that leads to a coffee-noted, crisp aftertaste. Long wine. Classical long-term Beaucastel, a delight for those who like proper tannins in their wines.
WA 95 (2/2015): Reminiscent of the 1995, the 2005 Chateauneuf du Pape is tight, structured and backward, with high acidity and tannin. Showing notes of blackcurrants, black raspberry, truffle, damp earth and cedar, with medium to full-bodied richness and depth, it needs another 3-5 years to reach the early stages of maturity, at which point it will hold for another decade or more.
VM 94 (2/2008): Ruby-red. Blackberry and cassis on the nose, with a complex set of earth, herb and floral qualities adding complexity. Deep and sweet, with bitter cherry and candied licorice flavors and youthfully firm tannins but no hardness. Turns more lively on the finish, picking up a spicy red berry character and leaving a long, pungent herbal trail behind. This needs time. "It's the opposite of a bimbo wine," Perrin offered. Josh Raynolds. |
|
|
2018 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Hommage a Jacques Perrin (1.5 L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$440.99 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 99 (12/2020): Red-fruited and garrigue-laden, the nose of the 2018 Chateauneuf du Pape Hommage à Jacques Perrin is glorious, showing remarkable complexity in its notes of cherries, raspberries and strawberries, all accented by hints of bay leaf, lavender and thyme, plus deeper bass notes of black olives, roasted meat, espresso, star anise and dark chocolate. Full-bodied and intense, it seems to have added structure since last year, with a firm matrix of tannins holding it all together and lingering on the lengthy finish. Put this Mourvèdre-based blend (approximately 60%) away for five or more years; it should drink well for a couple of decades beyond that.
JD 97 (10/2020): Lastly, the 2018 Châteauneuf Du Pape Hommage A Jacques Perrin showed beautifully, and while it doesn’t hit the heights of the 2001, 2007, 2010, 2016, or 2017, it’s a beautiful expression of this cuvee that deserves a place in the cellar. Revealing a deep purple hue as well as a kaleidoscope-like array of blueberries, charred meat, graphite, ground pepper, violets, and garrigue, it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a layered, seamless texture, building tannins, and a magical finish. It doesn’t have the sheer wealth of material found in truly great vintages and stays compact and focused on the palate, but it has beautiful depth of fruit and intensity as well as a seamlessness to its tannins. I suspect it will be relatively approachable by this cuvee’s standards, yet it still has enough structure and tannins to warrant a solid 7-8 years of bottle age. Given its balance, freshness, and purity, it’s going to age beautifully.
JS 96 (4/2021): Very spicy with grilled meat and lots of blackberry and blueberry aromas, together with moss and bark, following through to a full body with round, dusty tannins that are polished and together. Finishes a little tight, suggesting the need to age and open up. Chewy at the end, too. Better after 2024, when it opens. |
|
| Clos des Papes |
2006 |
Chateauneuf du Pape (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,302.99 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 98 (10/2008): The 2006 Chateauneuf du Pape is one of the two or three candidates for the wine of the vintage. An extraordinarily great wine, the 2006 is far superior to the 2005, which was amazing, and while made in a different style, is as great as the 2003, and such legends as 1990 and 1978. Fashioned from a minuscule 21 hectoliters per hectare, and tipping the scales at 15.2% natural alcohol, the 2006 boasts a dense ruby/purple color to the rim, in addition to an extraordinary bouquet of melted licorice, spring flowers, raspberries, black currants, spice box, and earth. In the mouth, it is utterly profound - full-bodied and multidimensional with astonishing purity, length, equilibrium, and intensity. This is a superb vintage for the Avrils, and Vincent deserves huge accolades for producing a wine of such incredible intensity and complexity. Think of Clos des Papes as a Chateauneuf du Pape with the complexity of a top-notch grand cru Burgundy from the Cote de Nuits.
WS 95 (11/2008): This has terrific purity, with a stunningly pure beam of cassis holding sway over fruitcake, melted licorice and incense notes. Shows impressive density for the vintage, but this is suave, elegant and seamless through the finish, with terrific underlying minerality. Best from 2009 through 2030. 7,165 cases made.
VM 95 (2/2009): Bright ruby. Highly expressive aromas of raspberry, cherry, lavender, smoked meat and minerals. Racy and sharply focused, with juicy red and dark berry flavors, silky texture and a gentle candied floral quality. Impressively pure and balanced, with Outstanding finishing clarity and lingering sweetness. Does this ever really finish? By no means a blockbuster, but delivers very serious palate impact. Josh Raynolds. |
|
| Dom. Clusel-Roch |
2018 |
Cote Rotie La Vialliere (3x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$692.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Ch. Fortia |
2005 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee du Baron |
$30 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. de la Janasse |
2018 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes (6x1.5L)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$728.99 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 95-97 (8/2019): The 2018 Châteauneuf Du Pape Cuvee Vieilles Vignes (only 30% destemmed) is more powerful than the Chaupin cuvee and has a rocking bouquet of blackberries, cassis, scorched earth, graphite, and licorice, that develops beautifully with time in the glass. Rich, full-bodied, concentrated, and layered on the palate, it has integrated acidity, present yet ripe tannins, and a beautiful finish. Pure class, it’s going to benefit from 2-4 years of bottle age and keep for two decades. |
|
| Dom. de Marcoux |
2016 |
Chateauneuf du Pape (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$763.99 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 95 (8/2018): Bottled in March, the 2016 Châteauneuf-du-Pape (80% Grenache) was brought up in a mix of concrete (mostly) and foudre. It gives up sensational notes of kirsch liqueur, white flowers, graphite, candle wax, and spice. This rich, full-bodied, yet seamless Chateauneuf-du-Pape has a powerful, balanced style that's going to keep for 15-20 years. It's a gorgeous wine.
JLL ****[*] (9/2016): Dark red; the nose is an attractive mix of sturdy, dark red fruits and a floral, musky shimmer. There is a small sense of liqueur. The palate sets off immediately on a graceful wave of red cherry fruits, which have a nourishing quality. They continue deep into the finish, where there are classy tannins waiting. As for the Côtes du Rhône 2015, the tannin quality here is high, and well above average. It’s long and sustained, authentic, STGT Chateauneuf. From late 2019.
VM 93 (7/2018): Brilliant red. Highly perfumed red fruit liqueur, potpourri and Moroccan spice scents show impressive vivacity and focus. Sappy, alluringly sweet and precise, offering palate-staining raspberry and floral pastille flavors and a hint of spicecake. Closes very long and smooth, displaying excellent focus, even tannins and emphatic, floral-tinged persistence. Josh Raynolds. |
|
| Clos de L' Oratoire des Papes |
2022 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Les Choregies (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$884.99 |
5 |
|
| |
|
| Dom. Jean-Michel Stephan |
2013 |
Cote Rotie (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$879.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Alain Verset |
2015 |
Cornas (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$840.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2021 |
Cornas (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$703.99 |
8 |
|
| |
|
| | Rhone White |
| Ch. de Beaucastel |
2013 |
Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc Roussanne Vieilles Vignes (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$982.99 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 97 (10/2014): Similar in color to the classic white, the 2013 Châteauneuf du Pape Roussanne Vieilles Vignes is deeper and richer, with more viscosity, glycerin and minerality. Loaded with notes of buttered citrus, flowers, orange marmalade and crushed-rock nuances, this beauty hits the palate with full-bodied power, juicy, lively acidity and terrific length. Like the classic white, this does not go through malolactic fermentation, but sees slightly more oak (some new) in its elevage, which always gives it slightly more richness, as well as hints of vanilla in its youth. It’s unquestionably the greatest white wine coming from the Southern Rhône, and while I prefer to drink it in its first 4-6 years, it can evolve for decades.
WS 96 (11/2015): Ripe and bright, with gorgeous creamed peach, pear and ginger notes forming the core, while verbena, chamomile and honeysuckle accents create the frame. Lush through the finish, where a light salted butter hint emerges. Drink now through 2023. 500 cases made.
VM 93 (4/2016): (aged in a 50/50 blend of stainless steel tanks and oak barrels for eight months): Light, vivid gold. Intensely perfumed aromas of poached pear, orange, candied fig and jasmine slowly acquire a hint of fennel. Smooth, sappy and expansive on the palate, offering rich, mineral-laced orchard fruit and pit fruit flavors that show a suave blend of richness and energy. Finishes very long and sappy, displaying excellent clarity and building mineral and floral notes. Josh Raynolds.
JLL ***** (2/2015): Yellow, shiny robe. Soaked pear, banana aromas - a nose that isn’t quite plush, but is generous, and also trails a little finesse; it prolongs well, with style. The palate is adorned by a firm apricot, dried fruits flavour, with steel and some tannin underpinning it. This is seriously structured, is broad and long, and will age much like a red wine, with a period of closing down. This is up there as one of the best Vieilles Vignes from Beaucastel - it combines freshness with complete matter, a touch of tangerine and nut as it ends. Best to swerve this during its youth, I feel. Take your time with it. From 2022. |
|
| | Spain |
| Alion |
2019 |
Ribera del Duero (6x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$660.98 |
3 |
|
| |
|
| Dominio de Pingus |
2015 |
Flor de Pingus (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,395.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2018 |
Flor de Pingus (12x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,412.99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Vega Sicilia |
2010 |
Unico Ribera del Duero (3x750ML)
ETA 90-120 Days; No cancellations or returns. This item may be subject to tariffs. |
$1,450.97 |
1 |
|
| |
JS 99 (6/2019): This is still very tight and closed with so much depth and beauty. The linear line to this is very vertical and draws you down. It shows intense blackberry, dark-chocolate, hazelnut and walnut character. Full body. Chewy yet extremely polished. Precise. Shows decadence. So drinkable already, but better in 2022.
WA 97 (12/2019): I was surprised by the aromatics of the 2010 Único, cropped from a powerful and concentrated year that delivered this blend of 94% Tinto Fino (aka Tempranillo) and 6% Cabernet Sauvignon, with 14.5% alcohol and a highish pH of 3.87. It fermented with indigenous yeasts and matured in a combination of French and American oak barrels and 20,000-liter oak vats and aged for almost six years. It feels quite ripe and somehow old style, dominated by ripe black fruit, with a rustic and earthy touch. It has an ample palate, concentrated and powerful, with some earthy tannins. 85,185 bottles, 3,362 magnums, 228 double magnums and 36 Imperials were produced. It was bottled in June 2016. |
|
| | USA Red |
| Altamura |
2006 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$50 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 94 (12/2009): The 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon (100% Cabernet Sauvignon) possesses aromas of creme de cassis, white chocolate, espresso roast, dusty, loamy soil, and a full-bodied structure. With rich, powerful flavors that cascade over the palate as well as beautiful purity and depth, it will be even better with another 2-4 years of cellaring, and is capable of lasting 20-25 years.
WS 94 (5/2010): A brilliant 2006, showing gorgeous, rich, supple and juicy blackberry-laced Cabernet flavors that are bold and intense, yet supple and refined, with complex mocha, roasted herb, espresso and anise flavors that combine power with finesse. Drink now through 2020. 3,000 cases made. |
|
| Anderson's Conn Valley Vineyards |
2004 |
Eloge Proprietary Blend |
$59 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 95 (12/2007): The 2004 Eloge (65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Merlot and Petit Verdot) is a beauty. Notes of cedar, spice box, black currant, leather, truffle, and earth jump from the glass of this elegant yet authoritatively flavored wine that shows terrific fruit intensity, full body, and silky tannins. This is a complex, beautiful wine that should drink splendidly for 15 or more years. |
|
| L' Aventure |
2004 |
Optimus Proprietary Blend Scuffed Label |
$65 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Axios |
2007 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$65 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Brewer Clifton |
2005 |
Cargasacchi Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$45 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Bryant Family Vineyard |
2009 |
Bettina Proprietary Blend |
$275 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 97 (12/2011): The 2009 Bettina Bryant is a striking wine graced with exquisite aromatics and beautifully delineated fruit. It is a bit darker, firmer and more inward than the Bryant Cabernet Sauvignon. Espresso, spices, black cherries, tobacco, leather and red berries are woven together beautifully in this fabulous Bordeaux-style blend. This is a drop-dead gorgeous wine. The only problem is that it might very well challenge the Bryant Cabernet! In 2009 the blend is 55.6% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23.8% Cabernet Franc, 16.9% Merlot and 3.7% Petit Verdot. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2029. |
|
|
2009 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$375 |
1 |
|
| |
JS 97 (4/2011): Insane nose of pure cassis, minerals, and gorgeous flowers. This is stunning. Full and juicy, with amazing layers of fruit, from cassis to blueberries and hints of vanilla on the great finish. 1100 cases.
WA 96+ (12/2011): The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon bursts from the glass with rich, dark red fruit, smoke, licorice and incense. The aromas and flavors are a touch ripe, exotic and totally seductive. Polished, silky tannins frame the fruit beautifully through to the finish, where floral notes add the lift and brightness. The 2009 isn’t a huge wine, but it is immensely appealing. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2029.
VM 93-96 (6/2011): Deep ruby. Knockout nose combines ripe black raspberry, blueberry, wild strawberry, dark chocolate and incense. A creamy-sweet fruit bomb in the mouth, with a strong cocoa powder quality complicating the black raspberry and blueberry flavors. A subtle hint of smoky minerality emerged as the sample opened in the glass. Finishes with dusty tannins and excellent length. A second sample introduced a pronounced element of liquid rock along with hints of wild herbs and wet earth, and finished even longer, with more obvious structure. |
|
|
2009 |
DB4 Cabernet Sauvignon |
$145 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 93 (12/2011): The 2009 DB 4 flows across the palate with heady notes of rose petals, sweet red berries and truffles. It is a gorgeous, totally sexy wine that captures the essence of the Bryant house style at a price that is affordable for mere mortals. Finessed, silky tannins grace the exceptional, polished finish. This is a terrific showing from Don Bryant and his team. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2021. |
|
|
2010 |
DB4 Cabernet Sauvignon |
$165 |
6 |
|
| |
| WA 94 (12/2012): The 2010 DB4 is insanely beautiful. Crushed rocks, plums, cinnamon and licorice jump from the glass from this striking, delineated wine. In 2010, the DB4 has a level of pure energy and vibrancy that is missing in the 2009, most likely because it also includes declassified lots from the Bettina. This is a great showing from Don Bryant and his team. In most cellars, the DB4 would be the top wine, but here it is the second label. Top flight Napa Cabernet is seldom inexpensive, but this is just about as good as it gets for the money. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2025. |
|
| Caravan (Darioush) |
2005 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$40 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2007 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$40 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Cardinale |
2005 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$219 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 95 (12/2008): (no note given)
WS 87 (11/2008): Firm, rich and concentrated, with loamy earth, cedar, tobacco, anise and dried currant flavors that have a spicy edge. This is also quite tannic and austere. Best from 2010 through 2017. 1,282 cases made. |
|
|
2014 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$219 |
1 |
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| |
|
|
2015 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$225 |
3 |
|
| |
|
|
2016 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$225 |
3 |
|
| |
|
|
2018 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$269 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2019 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$235 |
4 |
|
| |
JD 98+ (12/2021): Pure, classic California notes of crème de cassis, spicy oak, chalky minerality, graphite, and spring flowers emerge from the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon, a blend of 91% Cabernet Sauvignon and 9% Merlot that's sourced from multiple mountain AVAs in the valley. Full-bodied and powerful on the palate, it has a deep, rich mid-palate, beautiful tannins, notable acidity, and a great, great finish. It's another brilliant wine from Carpenter that can offer pleasure today yet also evolve for 20-25 years or more.
VM 97+ (1/2022): The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the most finessed wines I have ever tasted here. That seems to be the direction Chris Carpenter is pursuing of late. So more than a vintage or place (Cardinale is a blend of hillside and valley floor sites) what comes through is the wine's finesse. Floral overtones lift a core of red cherry fruit, pomegranate and blood orange. I imagine the 2019 will enjoy a long life based on its spectacular balance. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2022 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$225 |
3 |
|
| |
|
| Caymus |
2006 |
Special Selection Cabernet Sauvignon |
$169 |
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. |
|
|
2009 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon |
$95 |
5 |
|
| |
| WS 91 (11/2011): Supple and creamy-textured, with mocha, ripe plum and cherry flavors that show touches of tobacco, espresso and underbrush. Full-bodied, gaining tannic traction on the finish, elegant and readily approachable. Drink now through 2018. 71,690 cases made. |
|
| Constant |
1999 |
Diamond Mountain Vyd. Merlot |
$50 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2004 |
Diamond Mountain Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$70 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2005 |
Diamond Mountain Vyd. Cabernet Franc Lightly Bin-Soiled Label |
$30 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 89 (12/2007): The 2005 Cabernet Franc Diamond Mountain appears to be a better bet than the 2004. Its deep ruby color is accompanied by notes of mint, white pepper, blue and red fruits, a sweet entry in the mouth, medium body as well as elegance and length. It should drink nicely for 5-7 years. |
|
|
2006 |
Diamond Mountain Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$65 |
3 |
|
| |
| VM 91 (6/2009): Aromas of plum, cassis, menthol and dark chocolate, with complicating licorice and graphite nuances. Lush and nicely concentrated; a step up in sweetness from the Claret, with good energy to the currant, plum, mocha and chocolate flavors. This one is slightly herbal in a positive way. Finishes with dusty, building tannins and lingering berry and mineral flavors. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
| Continuum |
2009 |
Proprietary Blend |
$169 |
6 |
|
| |
VM 95+ (11/2013): The 2009 Continuum is still in that part of its life where fruit and texture dominate, while the more aromatic qualities are yet to fully emerge. A rich, explosive wine, the 2009 can be enjoyed young for its exuberance, but the best is yet to come. Personally, I would wait a bit on the 2009. The finish is rich, layered and sumptuous.
VM 93+ (5/2012): (as of this vintage, 70% of the fruit is from Tim Mondavi's property on Pritchard Hill, up from just 20% in 2007): Medium ruby-red. Deep, brooding aromas of cassis, licorice, dark chocolate and warm spices. Sweet and round on entry, then rather powerful in the middle, showing lovely floral lift to its medicinal black fruit flavors. Plenty of mouthfilling texture here but shapely too. Finishes with substantial ripe tannins. Comes across as a bit less sweet and pliant now than the 2008, but this is in a rather brooding phase today and needs time. |
|
| Copain Wines |
2005 |
James Berry Vyd. Syrah |
$35 |
2 |
|
| |
VM 93+ (5/2006): (50% whole clusters; from soil rich in schist that Guthrie compares to the Cote Brune of Cote-Rotie) Saturated deep ruby. Highly aromatic nose offers crushed raspberry, pepper, woodsmoke and minerals. Densely packed, intense and sweet, with flavors of dark berries, spices and pepper. This boasts terrific, slowly mounting fruit and finishes very long and perfumed, with big, peppery tannins. The crop level here was barely two tons an acre, according to Guthrie. A superb California syrah in a distinctly French style.
WA 92+ (12/2006): From a high elevation site (1,400 feet), the 2004 Syrah Hawke’s Butte is planted in pure schist. Seventy-five percent whole clusters were used, and the wine was aged 16 months in French oak, 30% new. Revealing the most minerality of these Syrah cuvees, its liquefied rock character is interwoven with blackberry, cassis, and a peppery earthiness. It should evolve for a decade.
WS 87 (12/2007): Tightly wound, firm and compact, with a beam of spicy, peppery blueberry and wild berry flavors that are framed by chewy tannins. Drink now through 2011. 227 cases made. |
|
| Darioush |
2005 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$75 |
1 |
|
| |
WS 92 (10/2008): Intense, with firm tannins wrapped around a tight core of dried currant, anise, sage, cedar and mineral flavors. This has excellent structure, depth and focus, and it's so dense and closed now that cellaring is best advised. Best from 2010 through 2017. 9,715 cases made.
WA 90 (6/2015): Darioush is at the very southern end of the Silverado Trail in Napa. It generally produces two cuvees of Cabernet Sauvignon, and the 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon is top flight. Just reaching full maturity, the wine has a dense plum/purple color, with a touch of lightening at the edge and notes of blackcurrants, Asian plum sauce, clove, allspice and balsam. It is medium to full-bodied and pure, with integrated acidity, tannin, wood and alcohol (14.8%). The wine is supple, opulent, and ideal for drinking now and over the next 10-12 years. |
|
| Dominus |
2005 |
Proprietary Blend |
$275 |
4 |
|
| |
WA 95+ (12/2008): The 2005 Dominus continues to strut its stuff, tasting like a Napa hybrid blend of a St.-Emilion and Pomerol. Its dark ruby/purple-tinged color is followed by notions of cedarwood, spice box, roasted herbs, sweet black cherry and cassis fruit, licorice, and truffles. Full-bodied with excellent fruit intensity, complex aromatics, supple tannins, and a long finish, this 7,000-case blend of 92% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc, and 3% Petit Verdot should drink well for two decades or more.
VM 94+ (6/2008): (a blend of 93% cabernet sauvignon, 4% cabernet franc and 3% petit verdot) Good full red-ruby. Highly complex nose melds black raspberry, minerals, milk chocolate, tobacco, licorice and brown spices. Wonderfully silky, sweet and broad; quite primary for a young Dominus vintage but with subtle earth tones adding nuance. This has plenty of high-quality tannins but the wine's buffering flesh gives it an impression of sweetness. One senses near-perfect ripeness here in the way the wine saturates the palate with flavor. Very suave and fine-grained wine that will almost certainly rank among the best half-dozen vintages of Dominus made to day. Incidentally, long-time winemaker Boris Champy has returned to his native France to make wine, and Ted Mostero, previously in charge of winemaking at Almaviva in Chile, is now in charge here.
WS 89 (10/2008): Starts out rich, supple and polished before gaining tannic traction, letting the earthy clay, loamy currant and dried herb and sage notes show in a complex, focused fashion. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2012. 7,000 cases made. |
|
| Duckhorn |
2004 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon |
$30 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Etude |
2004 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$50 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 94 (12/2007): The classic, deep ruby/purple-tinged 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa offers aromas of tobacco leaf, cedar, black currants, tar, licorice, and espresso. Full-bodied, powerful, and opulent, it can be drunk now or cellared for 15 or more years.
WS 92 (10/2007): Tightly wound, with a mix of dried currant, herb, sage and cedary oak. Well-proportioned, focused, intense and concentrated, yet with an elegant lift on the finish. Best from 2009 through 2018. 3,600 cases made. |
|
| Far Niente |
2007 |
Estate Cabernet Sauvignon |
$150 |
3 |
|
| |
WA 93 (12/2009): The finest Cabernet Sauvignon I have ever tasted from Far Niente may be the 2007 Estate. Its dense purple color is accompanied by fragrant aromatics of creme de cassis, spice box, underbrush, and forest floor. Voluptuously-textured and full-bodied with superb purity and depth as well as a layered, complete finish, this terrific wine should be drinkable before the 2006, but age just as long 20-25+ years.
WS 88 (11/2010): Tightly wound, firm and tannic, this well-structured red has a core of herb- and bell pepper-laced cedar, currant and tobacco flavors that are taut and concentrated. Ends with chewy tannins. Best from 2011 through 2017. 12,790 cases made. |
|
|
2008 |
Estate Cabernet Sauvignon |
$119 |
1 |
|
| |
JS 92 (6/2011): A full-bodied red with lots of character, from spices such as cinnamon to grilled nuts. Plus plenty of fruit. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a long rich finish. Turns a little astringent. Give it three to five years of bottle age to soften.
WA 89 (12/2010): Composed of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Petit Verdot and 4% Cabernet Franc, this dense ruby/purple-colored 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon possesses a slightly muted, restrained set of aromatics (cedar and black currants), but the wine kicks in on the palate. Medium to full-bodied with an elegant style, it is an attractive, stylish Cabernet Sauvignon that appears to be slightly over-priced.
WS 89 (9/2011): Taut and tightly wound, with firm cedar, tobacco, cigar box and roasted herb flavors built around dried currant, mineral and spicy oak notes. Needs time. Decant for now. Best from 2012 through 2022. 10,300 cases made.
VM 88 (5/2011): Bright ruby-red. Aromatic nose combines cherry, currant, chocolate, flowers and fresh herbs lifted by a note of spearmint oil. The juicy palate adds some tobacco and resiny spices to the mix, with a peppery quality contributing energy. The dusty, firm-edged tannins reminded me a bit of 2006, but this has better fruit. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
|
2009 |
Estate Cabernet Sauvignon |
$119 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2013 |
Estate Cabernet Sauvignon |
$139 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 93 (10/2015): A dark, explosive wine, the 2013 hits the palate with masses of dark, super-concentrated fruit. Spice, new leather, menthol and tobacco appear with air to round things out. The 2013 is not especially subtle, but it is racy, opulent and voluptuous, all qualities that will hold considerable appeal to readers looking for immediacy and near-term pleasure, all of which the 2013 has in abundance. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2014 |
Estate Cabernet Sauvignon |
$129 |
4 |
|
| |
| VM 90 (12/2016): The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Far Niente Estate Bottled is an excellent choice for drinking now and over the next few years. Wild cherry, smoke, tobacco, licorice and dark spices give the wine much of its considerable appeal. This is a very pretty, mid-weight Cabernet Sauvignon from Far Niente. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2015 |
Estate Cabernet Sauvignon |
$129 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2017 |
Estate Cabernet Sauvignon |
$109 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2018 |
Estate Cabernet Sauvignon |
$105 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2019 |
Estate Cabernet Sauvignon |
$105 |
4 |
|
| |
|
|
2020 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon |
$99 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Frank Family |
2004 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$30 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Gemstone |
2007 |
Estate Red Wine |
$80 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Ghost Block |
2005 |
Estate Cabernet Sauvignon Very Lightly Scuffed Label |
$50 |
1 |
|
| |
| WS 93 (6/2008): A big, rich, expressive style that's intense and concentrated, with ripe, firm, vibrant black cherry, blackberry, currant, anise and spicy, toasty oak, which adds a nice flavor dimension. Best from 2009 through 2014. 1,700 cases made. |
|
| Hall Winery |
2006 |
Kathryn Hall Cabernet Sauvignon Lightly Scuffed Label |
$100 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 90+ (12/2008): Not surprisingly, the 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon is slightly more tannic and firmer, revealing aromas of creosote, coffee beans, black currants, and toasty oak. Medium to full-bodied with a more aggressive structure as well as more noticeable astringency to the tannins, but with the necessary depth of fruit and concentration for balance, it should drink well for 12-15 years.
VM 90 (5/2009): Full red-ruby. Currant, chocolate, loam and a whiff of meat on the nose. Sweet, lush and creamy, with rather exotic flavors of currant and chocolate liqueur. A satisfying mouthful of cabernet, finishing with substantial fine-grained, dusty tannins. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
|
2008 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$59 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 95 (12/2010): As for those in bottle, my favorite is the 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa. Most of this comes from the Sacrashe Vineyard as well. A dense, full-bodied wine with lots of creme de cassis, charcoal, licorice and forest floor, the wine is opulent and already delicious and powerful. It should continue to drink well for at least 12-15+ years. |
|
| Harlan Estate |
2003 |
Proprietary Blend |
$900 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 98+ (6/2013): One of the most backward yet promising wines of the vintage is the 2003 Harlan Estate. Its dense opaque plum/purple color is accompanied by a sumptuous bouquet of graphite, camphor, creme de cassis, smoky barbecue wood and a hint of forest floor. Similar flavors hit the mouth with full-bodied splendor, a multidimensional mouthfeel and texture, and the sensational finish lasts more than 45 seconds. Some tannins are still present, and this wine seems much younger than expected at ten years of age, so give it 4-5 more years of bottle age and consume it over the following 20-25 years.
JD 93 (12/2017): The 2003 Harlan Estate is a huge, almost over the top beauty that doesn’t hold anything back in its deep plum and currant fruits, cedar, toasty oak and licorice aromas and flavors. With full-bodied richness, a sweet, massive texture and a big finish, it stays nicely balanced and enjoyable but has a dry, slightly rustic edge to its tannin that will need to be watched going forward.
VM 95 (5/2006): Good deep ruby-red. Blackcurrant, minerals, graphite, mocha and leather on the nose. Sweet and tightly wound, with a violet topnote and terrific depth of flavor. This powerfully structured wine has plenty of meat on its bones. The tannins are huge but refined. This must be among the three or four longest wines of the vintage, with the violet quality persisting on the aftertaste. Stephen Tanzer.
WS 88 (7/2013): Mature and a bit muddled, rich and potent, with a mix of loamy earth and dry dark berry notes, ending with a touch of mocha and metal. The better of two bottles tasted.--2003 California Cabernet blind retrospective. |
|
| Mark Herold Wines |
2010 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$65 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 95 (10/2013): The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Herold, 100% Cabernet Sauvignon largely from the Stagecoach Vineyard in Coombsville, is a spectacular effort. It boasts copious notes of licorice, charcoal, burning embers, graphite, blackberries and cassis in a full-bodied, full throttle, pedal-to-the-metal, muscular, intense personality. The tannins are soft and the wine is rich as well as convincing. Drink it over the next 12-15 years. |
|
| Hoopes Vineyard |
2004 |
Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon |
$50 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2005 |
Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon |
$50 |
6 |
|
| |
|
|
2007 |
Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon |
$50 |
5 |
|
| |
|
| Hundred Acre |
2017 |
Few and Far Between Cabernet Sauvignon |
$450 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2019 |
Few and Far Between Cabernet Sauvignon |
$595 |
3 |
|
| |
JD 98 (12/2023): The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Few And Far Between Vineyard is another gem, with beautiful red and black fruits, exotic spices, new leather, and incense aromatics in its full-bodied, deep round, layered profile. The tannins here are sensational, and the wine has ample mid-palate depth, no hard edges, and just a multi-dimensional, incredibly impressive style that just begs to be drunk. Enjoy this beauty anytime over the coming 25+ years.
WA 100 (5/2023): My favorite of the extensive range of wines presented on this occasion, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Few and Far Between masterfully combines dusty loam notes with hints of sage and dark chocolate, then backs those savory nuances with layers of ripe cherries, black cherries and even something akin to boysenberries. It's a full-bodied, silky effort, tannic yet ripe, with a long, elegant finish. It's impressively complex, impeccably balanced and just a fantastic drink. |
|
| Igneous Vineyards |
2006 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon |
$25 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Inglenook |
2009 |
Rubicon Rutherford Red Wine |
$109 |
4 |
|
| |
|
| Kamen Estate |
2004 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$60 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2007 |
Cabernet Sauvignon Very Lightly Bin-Soiled Label |
$79 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Kobalt |
2007 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$65 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 93 (2/2010): Slightly softer and more velvety-textured, the 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon will be drinkable slightly sooner than the Special K, but the two wines are almost identical in quality as well as character. It possesses outstanding fruit, full-bodied power, and well-integrated wood, acidity, and tannin. |
|
| Korbin Kameron |
2006 |
Cuvee Kristin Cabernet Sauvignon |
$30 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Larkmead Vineyards |
2007 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$100 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 94+ (12/2009): Composed of 96% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Merlot, and 1% Cabernet Franc, the 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate (nearly 4,000 cases produced) is a great buy for a world-class Napa Cabernet Sauvignon. It exhibits a dense purple color, notes of charcoal, creme de cassis, graphite, and forest floor, and a ripe, opulently fruity, rich, full-bodied style. Its endearing silkiness, multi-dimensions, and mature, sweet tannins suggest it has two decades of life ahead of it.
VM 91+ (6/2010): (includes 3% merlot and 1% cabernet franc) Good full ruby. Pungent aromas of raspberry, currant, graphite, dried herbs, violet and loam, along with a whiff of dark tobacco; smells like a Graves. Less giving on the palate than the nose suggests, with a firm edge of acidity keeping the flavors under wraps today. Finishes with youthfully strict tannins. Winemaker Smith notes that he has not added either water or acid to any of the Larkmead reds since the 2004 vintage. |
|
| Cliff Lede |
2005 |
Stags Leap District Cabernet Sauvignon |
$100 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 92 (12/2007): There are 5,800+ cases of the 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Stags Leap District. A blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Merlot, and the rest a dash of Malbec and Petit Verdot, it is a beauty. It shows the elegance and finesse of the cooler southern end of Napa with beautiful floral, black raspberry, and currant notes mixed with some cedar, a whiff of tobacco leaf, spring flowers, and well-integrated wood. The wine is medium to full-bodied and cuts a nice, deep, rich, but delicate feel in the mouth. This is a stunner that should drink gracefully for 15 or more years.
WS 92 (6/2008): Smooth-textured, with layers of creamy oak, herb, dried currant and loamy earth flavors that give this depth and a complex range of flavors. Ends with a long, focused and persistent finish. Drink now through 2013. 5,816 cases made.
VM 89 (6/2008): Good deep ruby-red. Roasted plum, tobacco, earth and licorice on the nose, complicated by dried flowers, underbrush and brown spices. Broad, supple and rich; began dry and a tad warm but turned sweeter with air. Ultimately suave and nutty, with subtle notes of plum, flowers and smoky herbs. Finishes with dusty tannins and very good length. |
|
|
2005 |
Stags Leap District Cabernet Sauvignon Lightly Scuffed Label |
$100 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 92 (12/2007): There are 5,800+ cases of the 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Stags Leap District. A blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Merlot, and the rest a dash of Malbec and Petit Verdot, it is a beauty. It shows the elegance and finesse of the cooler southern end of Napa with beautiful floral, black raspberry, and currant notes mixed with some cedar, a whiff of tobacco leaf, spring flowers, and well-integrated wood. The wine is medium to full-bodied and cuts a nice, deep, rich, but delicate feel in the mouth. This is a stunner that should drink gracefully for 15 or more years.
WS 92 (6/2008): Smooth-textured, with layers of creamy oak, herb, dried currant and loamy earth flavors that give this depth and a complex range of flavors. Ends with a long, focused and persistent finish. Drink now through 2013. 5,816 cases made.
VM 89 (6/2008): Good deep ruby-red. Roasted plum, tobacco, earth and licorice on the nose, complicated by dried flowers, underbrush and brown spices. Broad, supple and rich; began dry and a tad warm but turned sweeter with air. Ultimately suave and nutty, with subtle notes of plum, flowers and smoky herbs. Finishes with dusty tannins and very good length. |
|
| Long Shadows Wineries |
2005 |
Pedestal Merlot |
$50 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Meyer Family Cellars |
2004 |
Bonny’s Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$109 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Peter Michael Winery |
2005 |
Les Pavots Proprietary Blend |
$179 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 95 (12/2007): The 2005 Les Pavots (3,600 cases of 63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Cabernet Franc, 12% Merlot, and the rest Petit Verdot) is a sensational wine, with a style that suggests a hypothetical blend of a great St.-Emilion and Pomerol. Chocolatey cassis notes intermixed with incense, licorice, and a hint of black olive are present in this wine. When it hits the palate, it comes across as very Pomerol-like, with lushness, full body, and opulence. The tannins are sweet, the pH high, and the wine gorgeously full, pure, dense, and long. It’s a terrific example of non-interventionalist winemaking that has turned out a beautiful, silky-textured wine that should age effortlessly for 15+ years. Like so many 2005s, this wine has really put on weight since I tasted it last year. |
|
| Mirror |
2007 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$55 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Ch. Montelena |
2005 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon Bin-Soiled Label |
$95 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 90 (12/2007): The winery continues to turn out a strong Cabernet Sauvignon from vineyards in the Calistoga area. This is a big production item (10,000 cases), and tends to be a good value for a high-class Napa Cabernet. The 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon (22,000 cases) is a beauty. Savory black currant fruit notes intermixed with some licorice, underbrush, and spice jump from the glass of this medium to full-bodied, smoothly textured, beautifully elegant wine meant to be served and drunk in its first 10-12 years of life. This clearly has the fingerprints of Chateau Montelena’s Bo Barrett and his father Jim Barrett, but at a much lower price point, and for that reason seems an ideal steakhouse Cabernet that gives both value and pleasure.
VM 87 (6/2008): Good deep ruby-red. Wild aromas of cassis, game, leather and licorice, plus a whiff of band-aid. The distinct wildness carries through on the palate, where the dark berry and game flavors are framed by juicy acidity. This is pretty sauvage, and the finish is a bit edgy with acids and tannins.
WS 82 (10/2008): Subdued, with herb and cedary oak overlapping dried currant and black cherry fruit that ends with an earthy, murky edge. Drink now through 2015. 22,000 cases made. |
|
| Nickel and Nickel |
2007 |
State Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon |
$99 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 90+ (12/2010): The 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon State Ranch is from Yountville, a sector that is becoming populated with such high quality wineries as Cliff Lede and Kapcsandy. This deep ruby/purple effort is not so much austere as it is more narrowly constructed than its siblings. There is a lot going on in this outstanding Cabernet, but it is the least expressive of all these Nickel & Nickel Cabernet Sauvignons. It reveals some minerality along with white chocolate and black currant characteristics, but the structure dominates at present. Forget this wine for 3-4 years and drink it over the following 20 years. |
|
|
2018 |
Air Show Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$109 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2018 |
Kenefick Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon |
$89 |
21 |
|
| |
|
|
2018 |
Quicksilver Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon |
$95 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2018 |
Stelling Vyd Cabernet Sauvignon |
$95 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2019 |
Kenefick Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon |
$109 |
6 |
|
| |
|
| O'Shaughnessy |
2009 |
Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon |
$100 |
2 |
|
| |
VM 94+ (12/2011): The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain is all minerals, graphite and pure Howell Mountain. Layers of dark red fruit come to life in this articulate, pedigreed Cabernet Sauvignon. The 2009 needs another few years in the bottle, but it is already quite striking, especially with some time in the glass. Saline notes frame the long finish. The 2009 is 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Malbec, 5% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot, 5% St. Macaire and 2% Cabernet Franc. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2029.
VM 92+ (5/2012): (aged in about 75% new oak; includes 7% malbec, 5% merlot, 5% petit verdot, 5% St. Macaire and 2% cabernet franc): Good deep bright ruby. Expressive but cool nose offers cassis, violet and mint. Suave, concentrated and spicy, with licorice, mineral and oak flavors currently holding the upper hand over the wine's fruit flavors. The first tannins show some youthful toughness and will require at least five years of patience. |
|
| Pahlmeyer |
2009 |
Proprietary Blend |
$150 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 96 (1/2020): The 2009 Pahlmeyer is made up of 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Franc, 3% Petit Verdot and 1% Malbec. Deep garnet colored, the nose gives up provocative notes of candied violets, dark chocolate-covered cherries, licorice, dried lavender and dried Provence herbs over a core of warm cassis, prunes and blueberry compote plus a waft of cedar. Full-bodied, the big, rich, juicy palate has a well-played frame of fine-grained, plush tannins and tons of freshness, finishing long and fruity. |
|
| Casa Piena |
2008 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$95 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2008 |
Cabernet Sauvignon Bin-Soiled Label |
$95 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Realm |
2004 |
The Tempest Proprietary Blend |
$100 |
6 |
|
| |
WA 91 (12/2006): The impressive 2004 The Tempest, a 524-case blend of 60% Merlot, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 5% Petit Verdot, exhibits an inky/ruby/purple color as well as a big, rich nose of melted licorice, white chocolate, espresso, blackberries, and cherries. Super-pure, intense, and silky-textured, this stunning wine will drink beautifully for 8-12 years.
VM 89 (6/2007): Ruby-red. Aromas of plum, redcurrant, tobacco and minerals. Sweet and plump, with sound acids framing the black plum and spice flavors. Finishes with dusty tannins and good juicy persistence. |
|
|
2005 |
The Absurd The Birdwatcher Proprietary Blend |
$525 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2005 |
The Absurd The Gardener Proprietary Blend |
$525 |
1 |
|
| |
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2005 |
The Absurd The Magician Proprietary Blend |
$525 |
1 |
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2006 |
The Bard Proprietary Blend |
$125 |
1 |
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WA 92 (12/2008): The 2006 The Bard, a combination of 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 24% Petit Verdot, and 12% Merlot, offers beautiful notes of graphite, smoked herbs, burning embers, blackberries, and cassis. Ripe, broad fruit flavors are loaded with glycerin and extract. This extravagantly opulent 2006 reveals a long, heady finish with no hard edges. Despite the relatively high percentage of Petit Verdot, it can be drunk now and over the next 12-15+ years.
WS 92 (7/2009): Pure, rich, focused and concentrated, with a supple, graceful mix of ripe plum, currant and black cherry fruit that's both rich and elegant, graceful and balanced, ending with a long, persistent finish. Drink now through 2017. 160 cases made.
VM 91 (5/2009): (a blend of 64% cabernet sauvignon, 24% petit verdot and 12% merlot) Complex aromas of redcurrant, black cherry, cocoa powder, herbs and mint. Plump and lush, with good life and noteworthy depth to the fruit and spice flavors. The tannins are firm but sweeter than those of the Tempest and the finish boasts lovely aromatic persistence. Stephen Tanzer. |
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2006 |
Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$150 |
1 |
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| VM 93 (5/2009): Bright medium ruby. Redcurrant, minerals and herbs on the intense nose, lifted by a floral element. Juicy, spicy and downright suave, with redcurrant and raspberry flavors complicated by tobacco leaf. Nothing overripe about this 2006. This really spreads out on the palate without leaving any impression of weight. Finishes with smooth tannins and excellent length. Stephen Tanzer. |
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2006 |
Beckstoffer To-Kalon Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$250 |
1 |
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| WS 96 (10/2009): Shows wonderful purity of flavor and focus, with rich, deep, concentrated layers of black cherry, blackberry, currant and plum, shaded by black licorice and mineral and framed by light toasty oak, lively acidity and firm, integrated tannins. Best from 2010 through 2017. 220 cases made. |
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2006 |
Farella Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$100 |
1 |
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VM 91 (5/2009): Bright ruby-red. Reticent but pure aromas of dark fruits, smoke and flinty minerality; conveys a strong impression of rocks. Plush, sweet and seamless, with a silky texture to the dark berry, smoke and rock flavors. Nothing hot about this Napa cabernet. The big, broad, dusty tannins give this the backbone to age. "Our coolest site," notes winemaker Mike Hirby, adding that the red volcanic clay is also "cool" soil. Stephen Tanzer.
WS 83 (7/2009): Tough going. Dry, herbal and leathery, with earthy currant, graphite, pebble and cedary oak that dominate. While concentrated, it's short on complexity and charm at this point. Best from 2010 through 2016. 445 cases made. |
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2008 |
The Bard Proprietary Blend |
$100 |
1 |
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| VM 91+ (5/2011): (14.9% alcohol; 81% cabernet sauvignon with 13% petit verdot and 6% malbec): Full ruby. Reticent but pure aromas of black cherry, cassis, menthol and woodsmoke. Lush and sweet on entry, then a bit youthfully clenched in the middle, with bright acidity framing the purple fruit, chocolate and licorice flavors. In a tougher and more obviously tannic style than the Falstaff bottling and in need of at least three or four years of bottle aging. Stephen Tanzer. |
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2008 |
Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$225 |
1 |
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WA 94+ (12/2010): A brilliant wine (as one might expect, given the source for the raw material) is the 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard, a blend of 96% Cabernet Sauvignon and 4% Petit Verdot, with the Cabernet Sauvignon coming from the famed Clone 6. This wine (like so many wines from this parcel that is basically a gravel pit) has a very flinty/hot rocks sort of character to the cassis and blackberry fruit, a common element no matter who makes wine from this site. This wine from Realm is like Napa Valley’s version of La Mission Haut-Brion in Bordeaux. It is full-bodied, powerful, flowery, and at the same time, thick, rich and powerful. Giver it 3-4 years of cellaring and drink it over the next 25+ years.
VM 92+ (5/2011): (96% cabernet sauvignon with 4% petit verdot): Good medium ruby. Black- and redcurrant, licorice, bitter chocolate and a musky cedary note on the nose. Juicy, intense and fruit-driven, with complicating smoke and mineral nuances. Offers subtle sweetness but comes across as a bit medicinal and bound-up today. Broadened nicely with aeration but this cabernet needs time. Today the dusty tannins are less refined than those of the To Kalon. Stephen Tanzer.
WS 92 (8/2011): Firm and intense, yet gushing with rich blueberry, blackberry, plum and cassis flavors. Shows great density and concentration, along with a supple lining in texture, finishing with hot stone and pebble notes and a burst of fruit. Best from 2013 through 2022. 145 cases made. |
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2008 |
Beckstoffer To-Kalon Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$175 |
1 |
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WA 94+ (12/2010): From Clone 4 and Clone 337, the 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To-Kalon Vineyard (100% Cabernet Sauvignon) is the equivalent of a Bordeaux first or second growth. Sweet creme de cassis notes intermixed with some white chocolate, cedar wood, fruitcake and spice box are all present in this deep bluish/purple-colored wine, which also has hints of lead pencil shavings and tobacco leaf. Deep, rich, full-bodied, and intense, this wine should drink well for at least another 20-25 years.
VM 93+ (5/2011): (like the Farella bottling, this is 100% cabernet sauvignon): Bright medium ruby. Deep, soil-driven aromas of currant, smoke, mocha, milk chocolate and nutty oak. Like liquid silk in the mouth but with enticing minerally lift. Boasts terrific depth but this rich, tactile wine is still a baby and is not yet showing its inherent complexity. Spreads out to dust the entire palate, finishing long, subtle and very suave, with serious but thoroughly ripe tannins. There's nothing heavy or overly sweet about this beauty. Really reverberates on the aftertaste. Stephen Tanzer.
WS 89 (7/2011): Pure and focused, featuring a complex mix of ripe plum and black cherry flavors, with a touch of anise and black licorice notes. Full-bodied, firming on the finish, this shows a chalky edge. Best from 2012 through 2021. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 225 cases made. |
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2008 |
The Tempest Proprietary Blend |
$95 |
3 |
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2009 |
The Bard Proprietary Blend |
$100 |
3 |
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| WA 92 (12/2011): The 2009 The Bard is predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon with a dash (7%) of Petit Verdot. It possesses striking inner perfume and dazzling richness in its fruit, with layers of flavor that build effortlessly to the textured, vivid finish. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2024. |
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2009 |
Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$225 |
1 |
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| VM 93 (5/2012): Ruby-red. The most perfumed of these 2009s to this point, offering scents of cassis, violet, bitter chocolate and spicecake. Layered, deep and utterly seamless, with ripe acidity giving shape to the plush flavors of blackberry, cassis, cola and chocolate. Dense and smooth but not at all heavy. The rising, very long finish features noble tannins. A very classy 2009 cabernet. |
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2009 |
Beckstoffer To-Kalon Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$225 |
2 |
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| WS 94 (8/2012): Deliciously rich blackberry, mocha, black licorice and spicy floral scents lead to a ripe, fleshy and full-bodied palate. Pure and persistent, this is long and elegant on the finish. Drink now through 2025. |
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2009 |
The Falstaff Proprietary Blend |
$109 |
2 |
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| VM 90+ (5/2012): (55% cabernet franc, 30% cabernet sauvignon, 10% merlot and 5% petit verdot): Full red-ruby. Cassis, licorice, tobacco and tarry oak on the nose and palate, complicated by pepper and herbs. Quite dry and light on its feet, showing more herbal lift and definition but less flamboyance today than the Bard. Finishes with suave tannins and good spicy persistence. Seemed to grow firmer in the glass. I'd hold this for a couple years before pulling the cork. |
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2009 |
The Tempest Proprietary Blend |
$85 |
2 |
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| VM 92 (5/2012): (53% merlot, 42% cabernet franc and 5% petit verdot): Good full ruby-red. Aromas of black fruits, minerals, licorice and spicy oak. Dense, bright and concentrated, with a slightly high-toned character to the rather plush flavors of cassis and bitter chocolate. A bit youthfully medicinal today, not particularly sweet but structured to age. A step up in depth and structure from the Bard and the Falstaff bottlings, combining the texture of merlot with the firm spine of cabernet. |
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| Ridge Vineyards |
2006 |
California Geyserville Proprietary Blend |
$30 |
1 |
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| Rudd |
2007 |
Oakville Estate Proprietary Blend |
$135 |
2 |
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WA 98+ (12/2009): The flagship wine, the 2007 Proprietary Red from Oakville is a blend of 76% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Malbec, and Petit Verdot. A prodigious effort, it boasts a dense purple color along with gorgeously complex aromatics reminiscent of a hypothetical blend of a first-growth Pauillac and a top Graves. Notes of burning embers, forest floor, creme de cassis, blackberries, espresso, and a hint of chocolate soar from the glass of this full-bodied, well-delineated, structured wine with tremendous depth and texture. This awesome red is a future legend in the making. Give it 4-5 years of bottle age, and drink it over the following 30-35 years.
VM 92-95 (6/2009): (69% cabernet sauvignon, 14% cabernet franc, 8% merlot, 8% malbec and 1% petit verdot) Bright, saturated ruby. Aromas of crushed black fruits, menthol, licorice, violet, espresso and cocoa powder. At once primary and suave, with more inner-mouth perfume and aromatic lift than past vintages of this wine. The dark raspberry and violet flavors offer terrific intensity and aromatic lift. The tannin management here is far more sophisticated than just a few years ago here, when the tannins had a tendency toward hardness. But then this wine has only been racked twice so far. Sullivan noted that 2007 was the first year in which David Abreu controlled the vineyard work; Michel Rolland will finalize the blend, and the bottling will not occur until at least August. Outstanding potential here.
WS 94 (10/2012): This is pure, deep, rich and concentrated, with firm, spicy currant and creamy mocha-laced oak. Firms nicely on the finish, where the tannins are grainy and add traction. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec. Best from 2014 through 2028. 1,000 cases made. |
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| Sea Smoke |
2005 |
Southing Pinot Noir |
$75 |
1 |
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WS 92 (9/2007): Spicy, peppery wild berry aromas carry over to the palate, with firm tannins. Tight and compact, this is an austere style that's rich and full-bodied, with enough depth and complexity to merit short-term cellaring. Drink now through 2012. 3,750 cases made.
VM 91 (12/2007): Dark red. Zesty raspberry and cherry aromas are complicated by cinnamon, black cardamom and violet. The perfume built with air, gaining depth and power. Lush kirsch and blackcurrant flavors seem vaguely syrah-like, but there's excellent mineral tang keeping things in check. Finishes with impressively sweet red fruit flavors, supple tannins and striking persistence.
BH 88 (10/2007): This is also notably ripe with an attractive breadth of spice and dark and blue berry fruit aromas including cola and coffee that complement the concentrated flavors blessed with ample dry extract and a nicely intense if somewhat edgy and slightly warm finish that is not at present as well integrated as it might be. There is clearly good material here but the youthful awkwardness has yet to pass. Drink 2009+. |
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| Seven Stones |
2009 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$200 |
1 |
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WA 95 (12/2011): The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon is a huge wine bursting with dark fruit, licorice, scorched earth, tar and grilled herbs. This is an especially big, hulking 2009 that is likely to require a measure of patience. Massive tannins frame the fruit through to the virile finish. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2029.
WS 95 (5/2012): This striking Cabernet weaves together an impressive array of black licorice, gravel, dried berry, currant, cedar and wild flowers. Dense, concentrated, tight yet persistent, with a long, focused finish that keeps the flavors on point. Best from 2013 through 2024. 307 cases made. |
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2009 |
Cabernet Sauvignon Lightly Scuffed Label |
$200 |
1 |
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WA 95 (12/2011): The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon is a huge wine bursting with dark fruit, licorice, scorched earth, tar and grilled herbs. This is an especially big, hulking 2009 that is likely to require a measure of patience. Massive tannins frame the fruit through to the virile finish. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2029.
WS 95 (5/2012): This striking Cabernet weaves together an impressive array of black licorice, gravel, dried berry, currant, cedar and wild flowers. Dense, concentrated, tight yet persistent, with a long, focused finish that keeps the flavors on point. Best from 2013 through 2024. 307 cases made. |
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| Silver Oak |
2004 |
Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon |
$75 |
1 |
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| WS 89 (10/2008): Fresh and vibrant, with a nice smoky mocha oak overlay joining the dried currant, sage, plum and berry flavors. Has wonderful balance, harmony and finesse, ending with a long, complex finish and just the right amount of tannins. Drink now through 2014. 67,000 cases made. |
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| Sinatra Family Estates |
2007 |
Come Fly with Me Cabernet Sauvignon |
$65 |
1 |
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| Stag's Leap Wine Cellars |
2018 |
Fay Cabernet Sauvignon |
$125 |
2 |
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2018 |
Fay Hillside Cabernet Sauvignon |
$109 |
1 |
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2018 |
Heart of Fay Cabernet Sauvignon |
$125 |
7 |
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2019 |
Fay Cabernet Sauvignon |
$129 |
6 |
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2020 |
Fay Cabernet Sauvignon |
$149 |
5 |
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2020 |
Heart of Fay Cabernet Sauvignon |
$125 |
1 |
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| Orin Swift |
2007 |
The Prisoner Proprietary Blend |
$40 |
1 |
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| The Vineyardist |
2009 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon |
$150 |
2 |
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| Philip Togni |
2006 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$175 |
4 |
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| WA 95+ (12/2008): The 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate remains one of the finest bargains for long-lived California Cabernet Sauvignon. A dense purple color is followed by stunning aromatics of creosote, black olives, blackberries, cedar, and cassis. Full-bodied with a multi-layered texture, decent acidity, and substantial, but ripe, noble tannins, this excellent effort will benefit from 5-6 years of bottle age, and will be another 30+ year wine. |
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| Verite |
2007 |
Le Desir Proprietary Blend |
$300 |
2 |
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| WA 100 (6/2011): A profound blend of 44% Cabernet Franc, 44% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Sauvignon and 4% Malbec, with 56% of the fruit from Chalk Hill, 26% from the Alexander Valley Mountain Estate, 14% from Knight’s Valley and 4% from Bennett Valley, the 2007 is a wine of unbelievable intensity. It boasts a deep blue/purple color as well as notes of acacia flowers, graphite, licorice, blackberries, blueberries and a hint of burning embers/charcoal, superb intensity and purity, and abundant tannin in the finish. This massive wine needs 5-6 more years of bottle age, and is meant for 35-40 years of cellaring. |
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| Zepaltas |
2006 |
La Cruz Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$30 |
2 |
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