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Search Flickinger Wine Inventory
Inventory updated: Sat, Feb 21, 2026 12:48 PM cst
Your search criteria:
Regions: USA Red
Vintages: Between 2011 and 2011
| Producer |
Vint. |
Wine |
Price |
Qty |
Order |
| | USA Red |
| Alban Vineyards |
2011 |
Reva Alban Estate Syrah  |
$95 |
3 |
|
| |
WA 94-96 (8/2015): All of the 2011 Syrahs will be in bottle by the time you read this. The 2011 Syrah Reva Alban Estate Vineyard offers a cool-climate, pretty and perfumed style to go with lots of pepper, violets, iodine and dark fruits, with just a hint of vanilla and oak. Full-bodied, fresh and lively, with bright acidity and fine tannin, it's a Northern Rhone look-alike that will have 15-20 years of longevity.
VM 92-94 (9/2015): Bright purple. Energetic black and blue fruit scents, with notes of olive paste and candied violet adding complexity. Shows very good focus and lift to its sweet boysenberry and cherry-cola flavors, gaining weight and sweetness with aeration. Finishes with excellent power and persistence, leaving peppery spice and cola notes behind. Quite Old World in style and structure, showing no excess fat or undue warmth. Josh Raynolds. |
|
| Antica Terra |
2011 |
Botanica Pinot Noir (1.5 L) |
$325 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 93 (7/2013): Vivid ruby-red. A heady, complex bouquet evokes black raspberry, cherry-cola, Asian spices and dried rose. Sweet and penetrating, with impressively pure red and dark berry flavors lifted by zesty acidity and a hint of allspice. Intensely flavored but surprisingly elegant, with strong finishing punch and smooth, even tannins adding shape. This sexy pinot has great upfront appeal, especially for fruit freak, but I'd be stashing mine away for a few more years, at a minimum. Josh Raynolds. |
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|
2011 |
Ceras Pinot Noir (1.5 L) |
$275 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 92 (7/2013): Bright ruby-red. Sexy, floral- and spice-accented aromas of red berry liqueur and potpourri, with a hint of vanilla in the background. Silky and precise, offering energetic raspberry and floral pastille flavors and a touch of dusty minerals. Finishes lively, focused and long, with resonating spiciness, a hint of anise and slow-building tannins. Josh Raynolds. |
|
| Araujo Estate |
2011 |
Eisele Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$225 |
3 |
|
| |
VM 96+ (11/2013): Araujo has long made some of the more restrained Cabernets in Napa Valley. The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Eisele Vineyard is one of the more Left Bank inflected wines in the estate's distinguished history. Beautifully layered and expressive, the 2011 graces the palate with exquisite finesse and total harmony. The 2011 isn't a huge, explosive wine like the 2010 or 2009, but it stands out for its exceptional length and vibrancy. Readers should not expect an obvious Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. I imagine the 2011 will still be marvelous at age 30, and I won't be surprised if it is one day regarded as one of the great, iconic wines of the vintage. The 2011 has been truly special since I started tasting the single blocks in the Spring of 2012. The blend is 94% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot. Antonio Galloni.
WA 92-95 (12/2012): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Eisele Vineyard is simply beautiful. It is easily one of the most complete and compelling wines of the vintage. Rich, flashy and open, especially within the context of the vintage, the 2011 impresses for its depth and polish. Layers of blue and black fruit, savory herbs, mint and licorice come together in this complete Cabernet. A model of total class and elegance, the 2011 is simply remarkable for the year. This is one of the few wines of the vintage with real potential not just for the near-term, but also for the future. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2026. |
|
|
2011 |
Eisele Vyd. Syrah |
$75 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 94 (11/2013): The 2011 Syrah Eisele Vineyard is rich, dense, textured and also incredibly primary. Smoke, tar, game, black pepper, plum and licorice notes emerge, but only with great reluctance. The 2011 remains intense and resonant in its fruit, but also very young, somber and almost raw. Readers will have to give the 2011 at least a few years in bottle. Once again, Araujo's Eisele Syrah is incredibly distinctive and intense. The 2011 was fermented with 10-15% whole clusters, with a splash of Viognier. According to vineyard manager Caleb Mosley Syrah was the least problematic variety in 2011, as all the fruit came in before the rains. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| L' Aventure |
2011 |
Estate Cuvee Proprietary Blend |
$115 |
3 |
|
| |
| VM 94 (7/2014): Blackberry jam, cassis, savory herbs, cloves, lavender and new leather are some of the notes that jump from the glass in the 2011 Estate Cuvee. The high percentage of Petit Verdot in this vintage, along with the nature of the cool growing season, gives the 2011 a sense of energy and tannic backbone to balance the opulent, full-throttle fruit. The finish is layered, nuanced and crystalline. The 100% new oak barrels are very nicely balanced. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2011 |
Optimus Proprietary Blend |
$55 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 94 (8/2013): Leading off the 2011s reds, the 2011 Optimus is a rocking value that gives more than a glimpse into the style and quality of this estate. A blend of 50% Syrah, 33% Cabernet Sauvignon and 17% Petit Verdot and spending 14 months in 70% new French oak, it delivers fantastic black and blue fruits, tobacco, violets and cedar aromas and flavors to go with a full-bodied, supple and beautifully polished mouthfeel that stays fresh and lively. Gorgeous all around, it will drink nicely through 2021, if not longer.
VM 92 (7/2014): Super-ripe black cherries, plums, cassis, smoke and mocha are some of the many notes that meld together in the 2011 Optimus. Deep, rich and fleshy to the core, the 2011 impresses for its depth and pure voluptuousness. Hints of spice, new leather and menthol add nuance on the striking finish. Optimus is 50% Syrah, 33% Cabernet Sauvignon and 17% Petit Verdot. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Bedrock Wine Co. |
2011 |
Monte Rosso Vyd. Zinfandel |
$55 |
4 |
|
| |
| WA 92 (4/2013): Bedrock’s 2011 Zinfandel Monte Rosso is pure seduction. Plums, mocha, black cherry and menthol notes all make an appearance as this flashy, expressive Zinfandel shows off its considerable personality. Here, too, the wine’s creamy texture and impeccable overall balance shine with uncommon elegance. All the elements are in the right place. This is a surprisingly soft wine for Monte Rosso. As such, it will drink well upon release. Readers who prefer tertiary complexity will want to cellar the 2011 for at least a few years. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2031. |
|
| Belle Glos |
2011 |
Clark & Telephone Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$35 |
3 |
|
| |
|
| Betz Family Winery |
2011 |
Clos de Betz Proprietary Blend |
$55 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 93 (11/2013): (67% merlot, 28% cabernet sauvignon and 5% petit verdot; aged in 65% new oak): Good bright, deep red. Redcurrant, cocoa powder and musky tobacco on the nose. Gentle and creamy in the mouth for 2011, with harmonious ripe acidity framing the sweet red berry, cherry and cocoa powder flavors. This floral merlot-based wine is supported by firm acids and tannins but comes across as quite feminine in style. Betz notes that 2011 was a very good year for merlot. Stephen Tanzer.
WA 91 (6/2014): Moving to the Bordeaux blends, the 2011 Clos de Betz (67% Merlot, 28% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Petit Verdot) shows the vintage profile with its mid-weight, lively and overall fresh feel. Black currants, spring flowers, mint and hints of lead pencil and cedar flow from the glass and this medium-bodied, lively and balanced red has bright acidity that’s balanced by good concentration and depth. Give it another 2-3 years in the cellar and enjoy bottles through 2023. |
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|
2011 |
Clos de Betz Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) Signed Bottle |
$115 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 93 (11/2013): (67% merlot, 28% cabernet sauvignon and 5% petit verdot; aged in 65% new oak): Good bright, deep red. Redcurrant, cocoa powder and musky tobacco on the nose. Gentle and creamy in the mouth for 2011, with harmonious ripe acidity framing the sweet red berry, cherry and cocoa powder flavors. This floral merlot-based wine is supported by firm acids and tannins but comes across as quite feminine in style. Betz notes that 2011 was a very good year for merlot. Stephen Tanzer.
WA 91 (6/2014): Moving to the Bordeaux blends, the 2011 Clos de Betz (67% Merlot, 28% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Petit Verdot) shows the vintage profile with its mid-weight, lively and overall fresh feel. Black currants, spring flowers, mint and hints of lead pencil and cedar flow from the glass and this medium-bodied, lively and balanced red has bright acidity that’s balanced by good concentration and depth. Give it another 2-3 years in the cellar and enjoy bottles through 2023. |
|
|
2011 |
La Cote Patriarche Syrah (1.5 L) Autographed Bottle |
$145 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 94+ (11/2013): Highly nuanced nose combines dark berries, smoke, stony minerality, pepper and flowers. Floral, cool and precise yet silky too; delivers outstanding intensity without weight thanks to ripe, harmonious acidity. Captivating, soil-driven notes of lavender, smoke and garrigue add nuance to the dark berry fruit. Finishes very long, with noble tannins and clear projection of terroir . This can be enjoyed now owing to its utterly seamless texture, but has the depth and energy to enjoy a slow and graceful evolution in bottle. Stephen Tanzer.
WA 93 (6/2014): Coming from the Red Willow Vineyard, on the western side of the Yakima Valley, and from the old Syrah vines planted in the state, the 2011 La Cote Patriarche is more similar to the La Serenne, with its vibrant, lively perfume of blueberry, violets, olive and underbrush. More concentrated on the palate however, it has medium to full-bodied richness that’s cut nicely by juicy acidity and additional minerality that comes through on the finish. Beautifully proportioned, with a rock mid-palate, this lively, elegant and seamless beauty will be better in another 2-3 years, and thrill over the following decade. |
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|
2011 |
La Cote Rousse Syrah (1.5 L) Autographed Bottle |
$119 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 93+ (11/2013): Bright ruby-red. Complex nose melds cranberry, licorice, minerals and smoke. Sappy, smooth and light on its feet, showing terrific lift to its sexy flavors of red berries, flowers, pepper and game. Youthfully sinewy and complex wine with a rising, perfumed finish showing great class. Really high-quality barrels here! Betz noted that he's now working to "take down the overall astringency of the wines through reduced skin contact, generally gentler extraction, and more seed removal." He explained: "Red Mountain fruit does not need any more seed phenolics." Stephen Tanzer.
WA 93 (6/2014): Darker in color, the opaque-purple 2011 Syrah La Cote Rousse is a richer, fuller Syrah that offers up plenty of chocolaty black fruits, crushed rock, pepper, liquid smoke and iron to go with a medium to full-bodied, balanced, concentrated, yet elegant and classy feel on the palate. Made from 100% Syrah and coming from 65% Ciel du Cheval and 35% Ranch at the End of the Road Vineyards, it has juicy acidity, but also excellent concentration and depth. It should evolve gracefully for 10-12 years. |
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|
2011 |
La Serenne Syrah (1.5 L) Autographed Bottle |
$89 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 93+ (11/2013): Lucid red-ruby color. Aromatic scents of boysenberry and graphite. Lovely spicy, peppery lift and energy to the brooding, primary dark berry flavors. Intense and impeccably balanced wine with a light touch and lovely lingering perfume. This is a moderate 13.8% alcohol, with a relatively low pH (for this wine) of 3.62 and 6.1 grams per liter acidity. Owing to its serious inner-mouth tension, I'd wait a couple years before pulling the cork on this beauty. Incidentally, winemaker Betz cut the percentage of new oak aging from 65% to 45%, and noted that his crop level in 2011 was a good 15% lower than the previous year, partly due to the damaging frost in November of 2010. Stephen Tanzer.
WA 92 (6/2014): Coming from the Boushey Vineyard, which is the highest elevation vineyard of the three Syrahs, the 2011 Syrah La Serenne is 100% Syrah that was aged in a combination of new and neutral barrels. As with the Besoleil, it’s beautifully perfumed and elegant, with Cote-Rotie-like pepper, game and bacon fat to go with notions of blueberry, blackberry and violets. Medium-bodied, juicy, lively and pure, it’s a fabulous and elegant effort to enjoy over the coming decade. |
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|
2011 |
Pere de Famille Cabernet Sauvignon |
$59 |
2 |
|
| |
VM 94+ (11/2013): (blended with 9% petit verdot and 3% merlot): Good bright red-ruby. Musky red berries, licorice, thyme, rosemary and pepper on the scented nose. Creamy-sweet, suave and deep but at the same time precise and youthful, offering lovely perfumed flavors of red berries, cocoa powder (from the Taransaud oak?) and anise. Very intensely flavored cabernet with terrific lift and aromatic persistence and remarkably suave, dusty tannins. Betz describes 2011 as a year with lower total polyphenols, higher acidity and lower pHs than 2010.
WA 92 (6/2014): Made from 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Petit Verdot and 3% Merlot that comes mostly from Red Mountain, the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Pere de Famille is slightly more reserved and backwards, with notions of dried spices, cured meats, black currant, spring flowers and tobacco leaf reluctantly emerging from the glass. Medium to full-bodied, with solid concentration, especially in the vintage, it has ample tannin that emerge on the mid-palate and focus the finish. It also needs another 2-3 years in the cellar and will have 10-12 years of total longevity at a minimum. |
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|
2011 |
Pere de Famille Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) Signed Bottle |
$135 |
2 |
|
| |
VM 94+ (11/2013): (blended with 9% petit verdot and 3% merlot): Good bright red-ruby. Musky red berries, licorice, thyme, rosemary and pepper on the scented nose. Creamy-sweet, suave and deep but at the same time precise and youthful, offering lovely perfumed flavors of red berries, cocoa powder (from the Taransaud oak?) and anise. Very intensely flavored cabernet with terrific lift and aromatic persistence and remarkably suave, dusty tannins. Betz describes 2011 as a year with lower total polyphenols, higher acidity and lower pHs than 2010.
WA 92 (6/2014): Made from 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Petit Verdot and 3% Merlot that comes mostly from Red Mountain, the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Pere de Famille is slightly more reserved and backwards, with notions of dried spices, cured meats, black currant, spring flowers and tobacco leaf reluctantly emerging from the glass. Medium to full-bodied, with solid concentration, especially in the vintage, it has ample tannin that emerge on the mid-palate and focus the finish. It also needs another 2-3 years in the cellar and will have 10-12 years of total longevity at a minimum. |
|
| Bevan Cellars |
2011 |
EE Napa Valley Red Wine |
$149 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 98 (10/2013): The 2011 EE, which also comes from the Tench and Tin Box vineyards, is composed of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon and 35% Cabernet Franc. It exhibits lots of graphite, charcoal embers, a Pessac-Leognan-like smoky barbecue character, black currant liqueur, licorice and a touch of chocolate. Huge, massive, rich fruit oozes across the palate, but there is a refinement and delicacy to it that is almost impossible to believe in view of this wine’s size. Apparently, this cuvee comes from the rich, red soils on the hillsides of Oakville below the well-known Showket Vineyard. This spectacular 2011 should drink well for 10-15 years. |
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|
2011 |
Harbison Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$179 |
2 |
|
| |
|
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2011 |
Ontogeny Proprietary Blend |
$79 |
3 |
|
| |
| WA 93+ (10/2013): One of the least expensive wines in this portfolio is the 2011 Ontogeny, a blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Petit Verdot and the rest Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Bevan calls this the oddity or contrarian in his line-up of wines, probably because of the high percentage of Petit Verdot in the blend. More earthy than some of its siblings, with less exuberant and boisterous fruit, it is another over-sized, opaque purple-colored wine with lots of roasted meat, bouquet garni and charcuterie notes backed up by plenty of power, blackberry and cassis characteristics. The striking aromatics are followed by a wonderfully lush, velvety wine to drink over the next 7-10 years. |
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2011 |
Tin Box Proprietary Blend |
$395 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 100 (10/2013): Meriting a three digit score, the 2011 Tin Box is a blend of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Petit Verdot from a hillside vineyard. It boasts a vivid perfume of acacia flowers and blueberry liqueur that bursts from the glass with vibrant purity as well as intensity. A magnificent red wine with unreal richness, full-bodied unctuosity, low acidity, and velvety tannins, this 2011 (aged in 100% new French oak) reveals few wood notes, and because of the vintage characteristics, can be drunk now or cellared for another 10-15 years.
VM 94+ (11/2013): Bevan's 2011 Red Wine Tin Box (Cabernet Sauvignon) emerges from a superb site in Oakville. Deeply spiced and layered, the 2011 impresses for its balance and classy, totally supple personality. Pencil shavings, graphite, spices and plums are some of the many notes that flow through to the stunning finish. Quite frankly, the Tin Box is a revelation. I can hardly wait to see what Russell Bevan comes up with here in a more favorable vintage. |
|
| Blankiet |
2011 |
Rive Droite Proprietary Blend |
$103.20 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 92 (6/2014): (92.4% merlot and 7.6% cabernet franc): Good deep red-ruby. Tight, pure, highly perfumed nose combines cassis, lead pencil, licorice and sexy spices, plus a balsamic cedary note. Supple, silky and uncompromisingly dry, showing inviting flavors of cassis, graphite, milk chocolate and cedar. Doesn't have the richness of the best vintages here but there's no shortage of aromatic complexity. |
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| Booker Vineyard |
2011 |
Fracture Syrah |
$89 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 97 (8/2013): Up there with the best of the vintage, the 2011 The Fracture is ethereal stuff that’s made with the goal to be the most ready to drink of the lineup. I’m not sure if that goal is met or not, but I can say the wine is utterly brilliant. Seeing only 5-10% stem inclusion, it delivers rocking aromas of cassis, black raspberry, hints of roasted herbs, licorice and chocolate that give way to a medium to full-bodied, seamless and textured effort that has both elegance and deep, layered fruit and richness. Hard to resist and a joy to drink, it nevertheless has the balance and depth to evolve gracefully through 2021. Drink 2015-2021.
VM 95 (7/2013): The 2011 Fracture, 100% Syrah, is one of the deepest and richest of these 2011s. A plush, highly expressive mid-palate opens to reveal layers of dark fruit, leather, licorice and melted road tar. The 2011 is endowed with considerable aromatic depth and pure richness. Eric Jensen aged the 2011 in Hermitage and Francois Freres barrels, 50% new.
JS 94 (11/2011): Gorgeous aromas of dark berries with blackberry and blueberry; hints of flowers too. Full and rich with wonderful cocoa, coffee and blackberries. Intensely long. So much going on here. Seductive. One or two years more before striking.
VM 94 (12/2013): (100% syrah and 15% alcohol, the highest in the Booker set this vintage): Inky purple. Pungent, smoke-accented aromas of black raspberry, olive tapenade and floral oils. Very syrah. Lush and complex on the palate, offering potent flavors of cherry-cola, blackberry, violet pastille and star anise. Rich but surprisingly lively syrah, with powerful closing punch and gently chewy, harmonious tannins. |
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2011 |
My Favorite Neighbor Proprietary Blend |
$53 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 95 (8/2013): Holding things slightly closer to the vest, the 2011 My Favorite Neighbor (46% Syrah, 40% Petit Verdot and 14% Cabernet Sauvignon) has full-bodied richness and power to go with classic aromas and flavors of cassis, wild herbs, tobacco and cedar. The Cabernet and Petit Verdot really show here, with the Syrah component adding more plushness on the palate. Firming up nicely on the finish, with ripe, yet notable tannin, this serious 2011 should be given another 2-3 years in the cellar. While it will be hard to resist in its youth, I wouldn’t be surprised to see this drinking nicely at age 15 and beyond. Drink 2015-2026.
VM 95 (7/2013): The 2011 My Favorite Neighbor is one of the many highlights at Booker this year. Explosive, full-bodied and opulent, the 2011 captures the generous, resonant warmth that is so typical of Paso Robles while at the same time retaining gorgeous balance and proportion. There is so much to like here. What a gorgeous wine! The blend is 46% Syrah, 40% Petit Verdot, and 14% Cabernet Sauvignon.
VM 91+ (12/2013): (46% syrah, 40% petit verdot and 14% cabernet sauvignon): Inky purple. Deeply pitched black and blue fruit scents are lifted by zesty Asian spice and floral nuances. Ripe and fleshy, offering expansive cassis, blueberry and bitter chocolate flavors and a touch of candied licorice. Closes with firm, youthful tannins, lingering smokiness and a hint of black pepper. The most brooding wine in the Booker lineup this year and the only one that I'd insist on stashing away for another few years. |
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2011 |
Oublie Proprietary Blend |
$55 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 94 (8/2103): Also more finesse oriented than normal, the 2011 Oublie is a great blend of 38% Syrah, 23% Counoise, 20% Mourvedre and the balance Grenache. Spending 16 months in barrel, it gives up big bing cherry, licorice, pepper and complex underbrush-like qualities to go with a medium to full-bodied, seamless mouthfeel that stays remarkably well- focused and precise. Beautiful stuff that offers both richness and freshness, it will age gracefully for over a decade. Drink 2014-2021. |
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2011 |
Remnant Proprietary Blend |
$65 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 94 (8/2013): Also superb, the 2011 Remnant (formerly known as the Alchemist) is a kitchen sink blend of 55% Syrah, 14% Tempranillo, 11% Petit Verdot, 10% Grenache and 10% Mourvedre that saw 20% new French oak, 40% once-used barrels and the balance neutral oak. It’s a savory, complex 2011 that offers up plenty of spice, toast and cedar that’s balanced by a core of sweet black raspberry fruit that emerges with time in the glass. Medium to full-bodied, balanced and beautifully textured, this totally compelling red has fine tannin, serious richness and depth, and an overall classy profile. It will have upwards of a decade of longevity. Drink 2014-2021.
VM 94 (7/2013): The 2011 Remnant is gorgeous. Pomegranate, orange peel, cloves, menthol and licorice all add shades of exotic complexity as this full-bodied, explosive wine opens up in the glass. The style is surprisingly soft and voluptuous for the year. Many producers in California eschew press juice in their blends. Eric Jensen, on he other hand, decided to bottle all of that juice, giving birth to the appropriately and colorfully named Remnant. In 2011, Remnant is 55% Syrah, 14% Tempranillo, 11% Petit Verdot, 10% Grenache and 10% Mourvedre. Antonio Galloni. |
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2011 |
Ripper Grenache |
$89 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 96+ (8/2013): Starting out the tasting and absolutely rocking, the 2011 The Ripper checks in as a blend of 100% Grenache that was brought up in equal parts concrete and neutral barrel. Offering up layers of kirsch, dried underbrush, white pepper and hints of spring flowers, it flows onto the palate with a medium to full-bodied, vibrant profile that gains richness and depth with air. Leaning towards the more focused, elegant side of the spectrum, this beauty doesn’t lack for texture or length. Give it a year or three and enjoy through 2023. It’s superb and well worth the effort to track down. Drink 2015-2023.
VM 94 (7/2013): Eric Jensen has done a fabulous job with the 2011 Ripper, no easy feat after the iconic 2010. Expressive floral notes, mint, spices and kirsch all lift out of the glass. The freshness and crystalline purity of the year come through in spades. Jensen aged the 2011 70% in cement and 30% in neutral oak, an approach that worked beautifully. Over the last few years, Ripper has established itself as one of the most distinctive Grenaches in California.
VM 93 (12/2013): (100% grenache and 14.6% alcohol): Deep ruby. Spicy black raspberry and cherry compote on the highly perfumed nose, with zesty mineral and spice notes adding vibrancy. Deeply pitched but lively red fruit flavors show excellent clarity and sweetness, with a jolt of tangy acidity adding spine. The sappy, broad finish is shaped by smooth and harmonious tannins. This wine was raised entirely in used demi-muids. |
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2011 |
Vertigo Proprietary Blend |
$69 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 95 (7/2013): The 2011 Vertigo is one of the clear highlights of the year in Paso Robles. A rich, resonant wine, the 2011 boasts gorgeous depth and power, especially for the year. The brightness of the vintage comes through on the finish laced with expressive dark Syrah fruit. Floral and spice notes add vibrancy as well as complexity. The 2011 is 69% Syrah, 24% Mourvedre and 7% Grenache. I very much like the sense of purity here.
WA 94 (8/2013): More Syrah heavy, with 62% Syrah, 24% Mourvedre and a splash of Grenache, fermented with 30% stems and aged in 20% new French oak, the 2011 Vertigo is red fruit-driven, with plenty of raspberry, licorice and floral notes flowing to a medium to full-bodied, balanced and lively palate. Gaining more minerality and spice in the glass, it, too, is a knockout effort from Eric. Enjoy it over the coming 7-8 years. Drink now-2021.
VM 94 (12/2013): (69% syrah, 24% mourvedre and 7% grenache): Inky ruby. Suave, vanilla-accented blackberry, blueberry and floral pastille aromas show impressive energy and thrust. Surprisingly elegant, even graceful on the palate, with vibrant, violet-tinged dark berry and bitter cherry flavors complicated by slow-building spicecake and cracked pepper nuances. Silky tannins add structure to the long, alluringly sweet finish, with its lasting floral note. Wine lovers familiar with Eric Jensen's past work will be surprised (pleasantly, I hope) by this wine's finesse. |
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| Brittan Vineyards |
2011 |
Basalt Block Pinot Noir |
$55 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 91+ (6/2016): The 2011 Pinot Noir Basalt Block has a pretty bouquet with red berry fruit, cranberry and wild strawberry, a touch of flint and gravel developing with time. The palate is medium-bodied, taut and linear in the mouth, quite masculine and austere. It has a coolness to it, yet well balanced with decent depth on the finish, though I find more energy and delineation on the 2013. I suspect this might repay a couple more years in bottle, hence my plus sign. |
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| Buccella |
2011 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$148.75 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 93 (10/2014): A blend of 90-95% Cabernet Sauvignon with the balance tiny quantities of Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec, the dense purple-colored 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon possesses sweet blackberry and cassis fruit, a deep, full-bodied, opulent, precocious, showy style, and 10 years of evolution ahead of it.
VM 91 (12/2014): Buccella's 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon has turned out beautifully. Dark red cherry, plum, spice, new leather and licorice meld together in a surprisingly plump, juicy wine for the year. Naturally, the 2011 is a bit lighter than most recent vintages, but the overall balance here is terrific. Winemaker Rebekah Weinburg and consultant winemaker Celia Welch have done a terrific job with their 2011. |
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| Bunnell Family Cellars |
2011 |
Snipes Mtn. Fete Proprietary Blend |
$20 |
1 |
|
| |
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2011 |
Wine O’Clock Boushey Vyd. Sangiovese |
$15 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Cadence |
2011 |
Bel Canto Red Mtn. Cara Mia Vyd. Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$100 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 94+ (12/2014): (84% Cabernet Franc, 8% Merlot and 8% petit verdot; this and the Camerata were aged in 50% new French oak): Bright ruby-red. Exhilarating floral lift to the aromas of redcurrant and nutty oak; very Cabernet Franc. Perfectly integrated acidity energizes this somewhat muscular yet ultimately very suave wine, with the redcurrant and cherry flavors complicated by flowers, dusty dried herbs and minerals. Great subtle density here. Finishes with outstanding length and lift, harmonious smooth tannins, and a building sweetness to its floral perfume. This remarkably classy cab franc-based wine should evolve gracefully over the next 10 to 15 years. Stephen Tanzer. |
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2011 |
Tapteil Vyd. Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$80 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 94 (6/2014): More ripe, layered and textured, the 2011 Tapteil Vineyard is knockout stuff. Showing impressive black and blue fruits, wild herbs, underbrush and hints of flowers, it is full-bodied, concentrated and has plenty of sweet tannin and integrated acidity. Enjoy this beauty anytime over the coming decade or more. |
|
| Cakebread Cellars |
2011 |
Napa Valley Carneros Syrah |
$45 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Cobb |
2011 |
Emmaline Ann Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$50.15 |
4 |
|
| |
WA 92 (11/2020): The 2011 Pinot Noir Emmaline Ann Vineyard opens with tar and scorched earth aromas that flesh out to dried red berries and citrus peel notes. The medium-bodied palate maintains a core of dark, broody fruit in a firm frame, and it finishes long and detailed. It's in a great spot for drinking right now.
VM 90 (6/2014): Bright red. Fresh raspberry and cherry-cola on the deeply scented nose and in the mouth. Supple and less tangy than its siblings this year, showing good breadth and a hint of building smokiness. Closes sweet and long, with building floral and spice notes and youthfully gripping tannins. There's a good amount of clay in this vineyard, which gives the wine a roundness virtually every vintage, notes Ross Cobb. Josh Raynolds. |
|
|
2011 |
Rice-Spivak Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$38.25 |
4 |
|
| |
| WA 91 (11/2020): The 2011 Pinot Noir Rice Spivak Vineyard has a pale ruby color and takes time to open to aromas of saline, dried red berries, iodine and wafts of floral potpourri. The palate is medium-bodied and firm, with a slow flourish of spicy red fruits, and it finishes long, delicate and lifted. It’s a very pretty, mature expression of Rice Spivak. |
|
| Constant |
2011 |
Diamond Mountain Vyd. Merlot |
$60 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 91 (5/2014): Bright deep ruby. Aromas of currant, milk chocolate, mocha and truffle. Plush and pliant in the mouth; sweeter than the cabernet franc, with rich mocha and chocolate flavors complicated by a slightly herbaceous truffley character. Finishes with serious ripe tannins and building savory length. Very good merlot. Stephen Tanzer.
WA 84 (10/2013): The 2011 Merlot exhibits a certain lightness and dilution, and lacks substance. |
|
| Copain Wines |
2011 |
Kiser "En Haut" Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$38.50 |
3 |
|
| |
| VM 90 (5/2014): Dark red. Powerful spice-accented aromas of black raspberry, floral pastilles and licorice, with a bright mineral overtone. Then livelier in the mouth, offering tangy blackberry and bitter cherry flavors that put on weight with air. Structured, focused pinot with strong finishing punch, chewy tannins and a late jolt of peppery spices adding bite. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
|
2011 |
Wentzel Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$44.80 |
2 |
|
| |
| VM 91 (5/2014): Light, bright red. Zesty, mineral-tinged scents of redcurrant and strawberry, with subtle woodsmoke and floral notes adding complexity. Tangy, linear and stony on the palate, offering intense red fruit flavors and a touch of blood orange. A bitter cherry pit quality gives bite to the finish, which is framed by silky, slow-building tannins. No excess fat here but no lack of fruit either. |
|
| Culler |
2011 |
Cortese Vyd. Syrah |
$50 |
2 |
|
| |
| VM 92 (11/2013): Sage, rosemary, black olives, earthiness and tobacco all take shape in the 2011 Syrah Cortese Vineyard, a dark, savory wine loaded with personality. The long, energetic finish is particularly of note. There is a lot to like in this medium-bodied, polished Syrah. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Dalla Valle |
2011 |
Maya Proprietary Blend |
$279 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 94 (6/2014): One of the wines of this challenging Napa Valley harvest, the 2011 Maya is impressive. Textural beauty is front and center, but it will be at least another few years before the aromas and flavors start to show the full breadth of complexity and nuance that has always been present in barrel. The deep, intense finish is simply dazzling in a magnificent Maya that should drink well for many, many years.
VM 93+ (5/2014): (65% cabernet sauvignon and 35% cabernet franc): Bright ruby-red. Higher-pitched on the nose than the cabernet bottling and tighter today, offering hints of dark berries, violet, minerals and licorice. Then big, rich and mouthfilling, conveying a texture of liquid silk and a powerful impression of the site's red soil. Saline mocha and graphite flavors display terrific definition and underlying spine. Finishes with substantial building, sweet tannins and Outstanding length. Zero impression of underripeness here. This classy, highly concentrated wine may yet merit an even higher score. An exciting 2011. |
|
| Dancing Hares |
2011 |
Mad Hatter Proprietary Blend |
$35 |
4 |
|
| |
|
| DeLille Cellars |
2011 |
Chaleur Estate Proprietary Blend |
$65 |
3 |
|
| |
WA 94 (6/2014): The 2011 Chaleur Estate is a gorgeous Bordeaux blend from this estate that does everything right. Made from 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc, it gives up textbook creme de cassis, toast, lead pencil and cedar to go with a full-bodied, rich, layered and seamless style. Gaining richness in the glass, enjoy this concentrated, balanced effort over the coming two decades.
VM 92+ (12/2014): Deep red-ruby. Aromas of blackberry, tobacco, peat and menthol. Broad but tight and classically dry; much less showy than the Harrison Hill today but with plenty of incipient complexity and depth of fruit. Finishes with saline soil tones and subtle minerality. Not overly tannic but nonetheless extremely backward today and in need of six or seven years of cellaring. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
|
2011 |
D2 Proprietary Blend |
$25 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 93 (6/2014): A smoking effort, the 2011 D2 checks in as a blend of 56% Merlot, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Cabernet Franc and the balance Petit Verdot. It offers gorgeous black cherry, black currants, tobacco leaf and hints of chocolate to go with a full-bodied, rich, textured and seamless profile on the palate. Showing both richness and elegance, with building fine tannin, it’s a rock-star Bordeaux blend that will have 10 to 15 years of longevity.
VM 92 (12/2014): Bright red-ruby. Showy aromas of cassis, Cuban cigar tobacco, minerals, licorice and dark chocolate are accented by a suggestion of fennel. Suave, juicy and energetic, already displaying lovely inner-mouth floral character to its dark fruit, menthol and graphite flavors. Shows the sappiness and lift of the vintage but today this is also one of the most expressive of these superb 2011s. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
|
2011 |
Doyenne Aix Syrah |
$25 |
5 |
|
| |
VM 93+ (12/2014): Bright ruby-red. Aromas of black raspberry, licorice and pepper. Concentrated, dense and dry, with gripping dark berry flavors complicated by sexy garrigue and gunflint and lifted by a floral topnote. At once ripe and classically dry, conveying the strong acidity of the vintage. Very juicy and long on the aftertaste. This will require at least a few years in bottle to become more pliant but it boasts outstanding potential. Stephen Tanzer.
WA 92 (6/2014): A Provencal styled blend of 71% Syrah and 29% Cabernet Sauvignon that comes all from Red Mountain, the 2011 Doyenne Aix has beautiful richness and texture in the vintage, with ample black raspberry, blackberry, licorice, toast and hints of meatiness all flowing to a clean, beautifully balanced and overall elegant wine that will have 10 - 12 years of overall longevity. Seemingly outstanding in every vintage, it represents a superb value and is well worth checking out. |
|
|
2011 |
Doyenne Grand Ciel Vyd. Syrah |
$25 |
18 |
|
| |
| WA 94 (6/2014): Slightly richer and more concentrated than the Signature Syrah, yet still playing in the elegant, seamless style of the vintage, the 2011 Doyenne Syrah Grand Ciel Vineyard is 100% Syrah that was aged in 35% new French oak. Possessing beautiful black raspberry, currants, licorice, crushed rock-like minerality and hints of graphite, this beauty flows onto the palate with full-bodied richness, fabulous purity of fruit and a seamless, silky texture that carries through the finish. Give it a year or two and drink bottles through 2024. |
|
|
2011 |
Doyenne Signature Syrah |
$35 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 93 (6/2014): A smoking Syrah, the 2011 Doyenne Signature Syrah (which was co-fermented with 2% Viognier) possesses a pure, incredibly elegant style to go with notions of creme de cassis, blackberry, licorice, liquid flowers and hints of wild herbs. Medium to full-bodied, seamless, balanced and integrated, it can be enjoyed anytime over the coming decade.
VM 91+ (12/2014): Bright, deep ruby. Tight, high-pitched aromas of blueberry, blackberry, licorice and black pepper. Extremely youthful and tightly wound, with brisk acidity keeping the intense black fruit, violet and pepper flavors under wraps today. Finishes with excellent length and lift but this will require patience. This wine did not include any Boushey Syrah due to the cool year. |
|
|
2011 |
Four Flags Cabernet Sauvignon |
$45 |
5 |
|
| |
WA 94 (6/2014): Even better, the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Four Flags is 100% Cabernet that comes from Red Mountain and is a mix from the Upchurch, Grand Ciel, Ciel du Cheval and Klipsun vineyards. Aged 20 to 22 months in French oak, it offers a full-bodied, elegant, yet classically styled profile to go with notions of cassis, black raspberry, lead pencil shavings and dried spices that show on both the nose and palate. Concentrated and rich, with excellent mid-palate density and building tannin, it nevertheless stays seamless, elegant and perfectly balanced. Give it 2-3 years in the cellar and drink it over the following 10 to 15 years.
VM 93+ (12/2014): Bright ruby-red. Cassis and blueberry aromas are complemented by wild herbs and toasty oak. Deeper than the D2, showing outstanding density and focus to its dark fruit, olive tapenade, Asian spice and iron flavors. Wonderfully pliant and vibrant wine, with extremely suave tannins spreading out to saturate the palate on the very long finish. A classically structured, outstanding wine in the making, this will be better for five years in the cellar. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
|
2011 |
Grand Ciel Cabernet Sauvignon |
$100 |
5 |
|
| |
WA 95 (6/2014): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Grand Ciel (100% Cabernet Sauvignon and aged in 100% new French oak for 20 to 22 months) is still backward and tight, with slightly reticent aromas of graphite, black cherry, blackberry, dark chocolate and singed cedar flowing to a full-bodied, nicely concentrated and structured feel on the palate. Showing mostly structure and tannin at present, it needs 3-4 years in the cellar, and assuming it fleshes out, will have a long life ahead of it. I’d like to see more mid-palate depth at this point, but it’s still a superb wine that will have 10-15 years of longevity even on the most conservative side.
VM 94+ (12/2014): Bright ruby-red. Knockout nose melds black cherry, cassis, licorice and minerals, with a floral topnote contributing energy. Penetrating, compellingly sappy cassis and huckleberry flavors are complemented by sexy oak. Explosive on the palate, this wonderfully classy cabernet finishes with Outstanding grip and length. Still an infant but should be a Washington classic in six or seven years. |
|
|
2011 |
Harrison Hill Proprietary Blend |
$60 |
16 |
|
| |
VM 94 (12/2014): Good dark red. Aromas of cassis, white pepper and peat complicated by sexy wood spices. Wonderfully silky and sweet, offering a suave fine-grained texture to the inviting flavors of pomegranate, minerals and leather. A highly concentrated and elegant wine, with nothing out of place. The Cabernet Sauvignon in the blend is from 50-year-old vines, according to Chris Upchurch. Finishes sweet and very long. Superb, and balanced from day one. Stephen Tanzer.
WA 94 (6/2014): Showing awesome complexity (which is one of the hallmarks of this cuvee), the 2011 Harrison Hill is made from 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot. Loaded with notions of cherry blossoms, black currants, mineral, tobacco leaf and chocolate, this full-bodied, seamless and supple effort has a classy, elegant profile that should allow it to evolve gracefully for two decades or more. It’s a beautiful 2011 that should not be missed. |
|
|
2011 |
Harrison Hill Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$125 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 94 (12/2014): Good dark red. Aromas of cassis, white pepper and peat complicated by sexy wood spices. Wonderfully silky and sweet, offering a suave fine-grained texture to the inviting flavors of pomegranate, minerals and leather. A highly concentrated and elegant wine, with nothing out of place. The Cabernet Sauvignon in the blend is from 50-year-old vines, according to Chris Upchurch. Finishes sweet and very long. Superb, and balanced from day one. Stephen Tanzer.
WA 94 (6/2014): Showing awesome complexity (which is one of the hallmarks of this cuvee), the 2011 Harrison Hill is made from 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot. Loaded with notions of cherry blossoms, black currants, mineral, tobacco leaf and chocolate, this full-bodied, seamless and supple effort has a classy, elegant profile that should allow it to evolve gracefully for two decades or more. It’s a beautiful 2011 that should not be missed. |
|
| Donelan |
2011 |
Cuvee Keltie Syrah |
$59 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 93 (12/2013): The 2011 Cuvee Keltie, which came in under 14% alcohol, spent 22 months in neutral wood, and 100% whole stems were used. The wine reveals a chocolaty, smoky, bacon-scented nose that at first suggests a French Cote Rotie, but as it hits the palate with its full-bodied creme de cassis, blackberry, charcoal and graphite personality, it moves more toward a single vineyard Hermitage from the likes of Chapoutier. This supple, rich 2011 can be drunk now or cellared for a decade.
VM 92+ (2/2014): The 2011 Syrah Cuvée Keltie is a selection of the best barrels in the cellar from Walker Vine Hill, Obsidian, Richards and Steiner. One of the darker 2011s here, the Cuvée Keltie boasts terrific depth, power and raciness. Black fruit, smoke, licorice and incense flow through to the finish. This resonant, expressive Syrah could use another year or two in bottle to fully assimilate the 80% whole clusters. Today the 2011 is deep, dense and a bit compact, yet full of promise. (Drink between 2015-2023). Antonio Galloni.
JD 91 (6/2019): While the 2011 Syrah Cuvee Keltie isn’t at the same level as the other vintages here, it’s nevertheless a beautiful wine. Medium-bodied notes of cracked pepper, smoked earth, graphite, and sweet black fruits all emerge from this fresh, elegant Syrah that has terrific balance, moderate depth and richness, and outstanding length. It’s drinking nicely today yet is still youthful and lively, and I’m sure will continue drinking nicely for another decade. (Drink between 2019-2029). |
|
|
2011 |
Richards Family Vyd. Syrah |
$49 |
11 |
|
| |
| VM 89 (1/2015): The 2011 Syrah Richards Family Vineyard comes across as compact and dried out, especially on the mid-palate. Attractive savory notes develop in the glass, but the 2011 lacks freshness and depth. Sweet tobacco, crushed flowers, mint and dried cherries add a measure of nuance, but that is not enough to compensate for an overall faded feeling that runs through the wine. I can't help the 2011 may have ultimately spent too much time in barrel. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2011 |
Two Brothers Pinot Noir |
$50 |
5 |
|
| |
VM 92 (2/2014): Dark red/black cherries, wild flowers, mint and licorice meld together in the 2011 Pinot Noir Two Brothers. Savory notes develop in the glass, adding nuance and aromatic complexity. Hints of sage, sweet tobacco, anise and earthiness meld into a juicy finish supported by firm yet well-integrated tannins that should allow the wine to age nicely for a number of years. The 2011 was fermented with 40% whole clusters and spent 18 months in barrel, 20% new. The sites are Steiner Ranch, Perli, Goldrock Ridge, Walker Vine Hill and a dollop of Gap's Crown. (Drink between 2014-2021). Antonio Galloni.
WA 92 (12/2013): The red wines include the 2011 Pinot Noir Two Brothers which comes from four relatively high elevation sources, three in Sonoma and one in Mendocino. It was aged 18 months in 20% new French oak and finished with 14.4% alcohol. Its medium ruby color is followed by seductive aromas of kirsch, strawberries, loamy soil and a hint of oak in the background. A remarkably successful 2011, it is a medium-bodied, velvety, long Pinot Noir to consume over the next 5-7 years. |
|
| Duckhorn |
2011 |
Monitor Ledge Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$75 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2011 |
Napa Valley Merlot |
$50 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2011 |
Patzimaro Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$95 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2011 |
Rector Vyd. Estate Grown Cabernet Sauvignon |
$80 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| L' Ecole No. 41 |
2011 |
Estate Ferguson Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$55 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 91+ (6/2014): A new cuvee for the estate and more focused and tight, the 2011 Estate Ferguson is 57% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Merlot and the balance Cabernet Franc that spent 22 months in 50% new French oak barrels. Coming completely from the Ferguson vineyard in Walla Walla, it’s a slightly longer term prospect and gives up ample dark berry fruit, scorched earth, charcoal and graphite to go with a medium+-bodied, tight, focused and linear profile. Give it 2-3 years in the cellar and enjoy bottles through 2025. |
|
| Ehlers Estate |
2011 |
1886 Cabernet Sauvignon |
$85 |
4 |
|
| |
|
| Epoch Estate Wines |
2011 |
Authenticity Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$150 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2011 |
Paderewski Vyd. Block B Syrah (1.5 L) |
$150 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Force Majeure |
2011 |
Ciel du Cheval Collaboration Series I Proprietary Blend |
$55 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 93 (6/2014): Made by Ben Smith, the 2011 Collaboration Series I is pure elegance in a glass. Offering up notions of creme de cassis, violets, sappy green herbs, mint and assorted wild flower like qualities, this beauty flows onto the palate with full-bodied richness, integrated acidity and fine tannin that frame the finish beautifully. A blend of 64% Cabernet Sauvignon and then 12% each of Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Merlot, aged 28 months in 70% new French oak, it needs another year or two in the cellar, and will evolve gracefully for 15 years or more.
VM 92+ (12/2014): Saturated dark red. Brooding aromas of black fruits, dark chocolate and licorice show a medicinal reserve. Suave and penetrating in the mouth, offering a fine-grained texture and an attractive restrained sweetness to the dark fruit and milk chocolate flavors. Finishes savory and long, with building ripe tannins. This should evolve gracefully in bottle. Stpehen Tanzer. |
|
|
2011 |
Ciel du Cheval Collaboration Series II Proprietary Blend |
$65 |
4 |
|
| |
|
|
2011 |
Ciel du Cheval Collaboration Series III Proprietary Blend |
$65 |
2 |
|
| |
| VM 91 (12/2014): Bright red-ruby. Aromas of black raspberry, cassis, licorice, brown spices and smoky oak show a liqueur-like quality. At once lush and lively, with enticing inner-mouth violet perfume framing and lifting the flavors of black fruits, licorice and mint. An edge of harmonious acidity restrains the wine’s sweetness today. Finishes with tongue-dusting tannins and a note of exotic smoky oak. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
|
2011 |
Ciel du Cheval Collaboration Series V Cabernet Sauvignon |
$60 |
4 |
|
| |
WA 95 (6/2014): Starting out and concentrated, structured and full-bodied, with rocking creme de cassis, lead pencil, sweet tobacco and hints of gaminess, the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Collaboration Series V is 100% Cabernet that comes from vines planted in 1975 and 1982. Spending 20 months in 100% new French oak, this knockout Washington State Cabernet will be better in another year or three, and have two decades of longevity. It’s a resounding success in this difficult vintage.
VM 91+ (12/2014): Bright, medium red-ruby. Subdued, pure aromas of crushed blackberry, blueberry, licorice pastille and violet, complicated by leather and bitter chocolate nuances. Tightly wound and youthfully backward, with an insidious liquid velvet character currently hidden by strong inner-mouth tension. Finishes with serious tongue-dusting tannins, very good grip and verve, and lingering notes of cassis, smoked meat, leather and exotic oak. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
|
2011 |
Collaboration Series Reserve Syrah |
$50 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 95-97 (6/2013): A new cuvee that might be renamed by the time you read this (I heard more than three different ideas in the 5-10 minutes we spent with the wine), the 2011 Collaboration Series Syrah Special Project is made from 92% Ciel du Cheval Syrah and 8% co-fermented Viognier and Roussanne. Sexy, supple and gorgeously perfumed, it boasts knockout aromatics of black raspberry, peach pit, smoked cherries, bramble and pepper as well as a full-bodied, seamless and voluptuous texture that has no hard edges. It gains focus and detail on the finish, yet will be hard to resist in its youth given the purity of fruit and quality of the texture; nevertheless, it should evolve gracefully. Drink now-2026. |
|
|
2011 |
Collaboration Series V Proprietary Blend |
$70 |
2 |
|
| |
| VM 91+ (12/2014): Bright, medium red-ruby. Subdued, pure aromas of crushed blackberry, blueberry, licorice pastille and violet, complicated by leather and bitter chocolate nuances. Tightly wound and youthfully backward, with an insidious liquid velvet character currently hidden by strong inner-mouth tension. Finishes with serious tongue-dusting tannins, very good grip and verve, and lingering notes of cassis, smoked meat, leather and exotic oak. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
|
2011 |
Collaboration Series VI Proprietary Blend |
$40 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 92 (6/2014): The estate’s Rhone-styled blend is the Collaboration VI. Comprised of 47% Mourvedre, 42% Syrah and 11% Grenache, the 2011 Collaboration Series VI was fermented in concrete eggs (some whole-cluster inclusion) and aged 20 months in 500-liter French oak puncheons. Made by James Mantone (of Syncline), it offers classic white pepper, ground herbs, earth and assorted dark fruit characteristics to go with a medium to full-bodied, pure and beautifully textured feel on the palate. Elegant, fresh and with a terrific finish, it will evolve gracefully for 10-12 years. |
|
|
2011 |
Force Majeure Vyd. Collaboration Series Cabernet Sauvignon |
$60 |
7 |
|
| |
| WA 93-95+ (6/2013): Coming all from the new, incredibly steep estate vineyard located high up near the top of Red Mountain, the 2011 Collaboration Series Cabernet Sauvignon is distinct in the lineup for its deep black currant, tobacco, underbrush, violets and mineral-loaded profile. More rounded and supple on the palate than some of the Ciel du Cheval bottlings, it has a rich, weighty mouthfeel, knockout purity of fruit and enough silky tannin to allow it to evolve gracefully for at least a decade. This is only the fourth leaf for the vineyard and hats off to the Force Majeure crew for having the vision to push the envelope on where grape vines can be planted and for the perseverance to work those steep hillsides. Drink now-2021. |
|
| Frank Family |
2011 |
Zinfandel |
$25 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2011 |
Reserve Petite Sirah |
$50 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2011 |
Reserve Pinot Noir |
$40 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2011 |
Reserve Sangiovese |
$40 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2011 |
Reserve Zinfandel |
$20 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Grace Family Vineyards |
2011 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$169 |
4 |
|
| |
| JS 94 (5/2014): A beautiful red with superb concentration for the vintage, featuring currants, berries and light milk chocolate. Full and silky, with a soft texture and a delicately fruity aftertaste. Dick Grace is a guru of classic Napa cab each vintage. Better in 2016. |
|
| Gramercy Cellars |
2011 |
Lagniappe Syrah |
$59 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Grgich Hills |
2011 |
Estate Grown Cabernet Sauvignon |
$75 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 89 (5/2014): Bright medium red-ruby. Tight aromas and flavors of dark berries and licorice complicated by tobacco, spicecake and flowers. Bright and juicy in the mouth, with a touch of sweetness counterpointed by sound acidity. Nicely avoids the greenness of the vintage and finishes with a fine dusting of tannins, good energy and moderate length. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
|
2011 |
Miljenko’s Old Vine Zinfandel Slightly Depressed Cork |
$75 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Gundlach Bundschu |
2011 |
Vintage Reserve Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) Scuffed Label |
$85 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Hendry |
2011 |
Block 28 Zinfandel Very Lightly Bin-Soiled Label |
$25 |
3 |
|
| |
|
|
2011 |
Block 7 & 22 Zinfandel |
$35 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2011 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon |
$35 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Janzen Estate |
2011 |
Cloudy’s Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$75 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 91 (5/2014): Cabernet Sauvignon Cloudy Vineyard Napa Valley) (from a vineyard in Dutch Henry Canyon between Switchback Ridge and Hourglass): Saturated ruby-red. Aromas of cassis, crushed blackberry and licorice. Densely packed, very ripe and sweet, with a distinctly chocolatey quality to the black fruit flavors. Quite pliant and silky in texture but has good energy too. Finishes with substantial, dusty tannins and noteworthy breadth and length. Stephen Tanzer.
WA 88 (10/2014): Janzen made a very good 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Cloudy’s Vineyard, which comes from the Dutch Henry Canyon sector of Napa Valley. This dark ruby/purple-tinged wine shows more density and richness than the Beckstoffer Vineyards as well as more blackcurrant, cedarwood and licorice notes. Drink it over the next 7-8 years, as none of these 2011s are meant for long-term aging. |
|
| Kistler |
2011 |
Cuvee Natalie Silver Belt Pinot Noir Lightly Bin-Soiled Label |
$85 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 94 (5/2014): Brilliant ruby. High-pitched aromas of raspberry, cherry-cola, incense and fresh rose, with a zesty mineral nuance adding lift. Juicy, sharply delineated red berry and floral pastille flavors are given spine by tangy acidity. Expands with air, leaving sexy floral pastille and spicecake notes behind on the strikingly long finish. This suave, energetic pinot is already delicious.
WA 91 (12/2013): The 2011 Pinot Noir Silver Belt Vineyard Cuvee Natalie includes more of the Joseph Swan clone than the Kistler Vineyard. It offers hints of strawberries, pomegranate, clove and cinnamon along with crisp, tart acidity, and less texture and depth than the Kistler. |
|
| Kosta Browne |
2011 |
Kanzler Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$79 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 90 (2/2014): The 2011 Pinot Noir Kanzler Vineyard is bright, focused and articulate. Cranberry, freshly cut flowers, mint and crushed rocks all lift from the glass. The Kanzler is one of the more pointed, vibrant Pinots in this range, reflecting the qualities of a cool site in a cool vintage. The wine's mid-weight structure argues for near-term drinking. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2011 |
Kanzler Vyd. Pinot Noir Lightly Bin-Soiled Label |
$79 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 90 (2/2014): The 2011 Pinot Noir Kanzler Vineyard is bright, focused and articulate. Cranberry, freshly cut flowers, mint and crushed rocks all lift from the glass. The Kanzler is one of the more pointed, vibrant Pinots in this range, reflecting the qualities of a cool site in a cool vintage. The wine's mid-weight structure argues for near-term drinking. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2011 |
Koplen Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$79 |
2 |
|
| |
| VM 92 (2/2014): The 2011 Pinot Noir Koplen Vineyard is a wine of real density and power. Big and broad shouldered, the 2011 blossoms in the glass beautifully, filling out its frame very nicely. Plums, black cherries, cloves, menthol and licorice are all woven into the juicy, enveloping finish. The Koplen could use another year or two in bottle to fully come together. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Larkmead Vineyards |
2011 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$73 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 90 (10/2013): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate (100% Cabernet Sauvignon) offers up notes of mulberries, licorice, plums and tobacco leaf in its medium-bodied, surprisingly concentrated, well-made personality. There are over 3,000 cases produced, and it is one of the top wines made on the valley floor in 2011. The healthy deep ruby/purple color is accompanied by lots of fruit, soft tannins and low acidity. Consume it over the next 8-10 years.
VM 89 (11/2013): Mocha, espresso, licorice, tobacco, dried herbs and leather are some of the many notes that emerge from the glass in the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate, a wine with distinct Old World overtones. Savory herbs, cedar and dried flowers continue to develop in the glass, adding complexity to the fruit. The 2011 is best enjoyed sooner rather than later. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2011 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$79 |
12 |
|
| |
WA 90 (10/2013): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate (100% Cabernet Sauvignon) offers up notes of mulberries, licorice, plums and tobacco leaf in its medium-bodied, surprisingly concentrated, well-made personality. There are over 3,000 cases produced, and it is one of the top wines made on the valley floor in 2011. The healthy deep ruby/purple color is accompanied by lots of fruit, soft tannins and low acidity. Consume it over the next 8-10 years.
VM 89 (11/2013): Mocha, espresso, licorice, tobacco, dried herbs and leather are some of the many notes that emerge from the glass in the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate, a wine with distinct Old World overtones. Savory herbs, cedar and dried flowers continue to develop in the glass, adding complexity to the fruit. The 2011 is best enjoyed sooner rather than later. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2011 |
Firebelle Proprietary Blend |
$75 |
9 |
|
| |
| VM 89 (5/2014): Bright, full red-ruby. Musky currant, cherry, menthol and tobacco leaf aromas are slightly dulled by a whiff of nutty oak. More vibrant in the mouth than on the nose, offering currant, plum, mocha, milk chocolate and tobacco leaf flavors accented by a peppery herbal quality that runs through the wine. Shows a rather suave texture and a light dusting of tannins. Larkmead did not bottle its "reserve" wines in 2011 (LMV Salon and Solari) owing to the difficult vintage conditions here. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
|
2011 |
Firebelle Proprietary Blend Nicked Capsule |
$75 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 89 (5/2014): Bright, full red-ruby. Musky currant, cherry, menthol and tobacco leaf aromas are slightly dulled by a whiff of nutty oak. More vibrant in the mouth than on the nose, offering currant, plum, mocha, milk chocolate and tobacco leaf flavors accented by a peppery herbal quality that runs through the wine. Shows a rather suave texture and a light dusting of tannins. Larkmead did not bottle its "reserve" wines in 2011 (LMV Salon and Solari) owing to the difficult vintage conditions here. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
|
2011 |
Napa Valley Red Wine |
$79 |
7 |
|
| |
|
| Law Estate Wines |
2011 |
Audacious Red Wine |
$59 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 96 (8/2014): The 2011 Audacious (38% Cabernet Sauvignon, 36% Syrah, 18% Grenache and 8% Petit Sirah) reminds me of a Howell Mountain Cabernet with its creme de cassis and purple fruits, lead pencil shavings, caramelized meats and chalky minerality. As with the other 2011s from this estate, it has full-bodied richness and depth, solid mid-palate concentration and building tannin that comes through on the finish. It's a terrific wine that will have 10-15 years of longevity.
VM 93 (7/2014): The 2011 Audacious might be the most promising of these wines. Beams of acidity and tannin run through the fruit in a vivid, striking wine endowed with tremendous purity and vibrancy. Grilled herbs, smoke, tobacco and licorice are some of the many notes that add complexity on the finish. What a gorgeous wine this is. The 2011 is 38% Cabernet Sauvignon, 36% Syrah, 18% Grenache, 8% Petite Sirah. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2011 |
Intrepid Red Wine |
$55 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 95 (8/2014): The inky-colored 2011 Intrepid checks in as a blend of 100% Syrah that spent 22 months in 50% new French oak barrels. It's another smoking effort from this estate that gives up classy framboise, black licorice, chocolatey oak and toasted spice to go with a full-bodied, layered and thrillingly pure profile on the palate. Top class all the way, it will be better in another year and have upward of a decade of longevity.
VM 90 (7/2014): Layers of cassis, blackberry jam, spices and new leather all flesh out in the 2011 Intrepid, Law's 100% Syrah. The 2011 is overt and built on pure fruit. This is one of the sweeter wines in the range, partly the result of slightly higher toast levels in the barrels. Although not quite as compelling as the very best wines in the range, the 2011 is unique and poised for far greater things once the vines get older and the winemaking team gains more experience with the site. Antonio Galloni |
|
| Leonetti Cellars |
2011 |
Reserve Proprietary Blend |
$125 |
3 |
|
| |
VM 94+ (12/2014): (14.1% alcohol; 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Merlot and 7% each petit verdot and Cabernet Franc): Bright, dark ruby-red. I might have identified this as a white wine from the nose, which offers citrus and gooseberry aromas lifted by a floral topnote. Then pure and intense in the mouth, with an element of citrus zest, suggestions of tropical fruits and a strong sour cherry candy quality that reminded me of a top Pomerol. Very densely packed, savory and dry, with strong acidity giving it a light touch. The wine’s serious tannic spine calls for extended cellaring. A singular wine with great eclat—but will it ever surpass the estate’s flagship cabernet bottling?
WA 93 (6/2014): The 2011 Reserve is 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Merlot, 7% Petit Verdot and 7% Cabernet Franc that spent 20 months in once-filled French oak barrels. Offering more black cherry, black currant, licorice, tobacco and spring flower-like qualities on the nose, this serious 2011 has fantastic mid-palate depth, integrated acidity and a medium to full-bodied, seamless and elegant personality that’s hard to resist. It too will drink beautifully through 2031. |
|
|
2011 |
Walla Walla Valley Cabernet Sauvignon |
$109 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 95+ (12/2014): (14.2% alcohol; blended with 10% each Merlot and petit verdot plus 5% Malbec): Saturated medium ruby. Pristine aromas of cassis, raspberry liqueur, blueberry, licorice and graphite. Outstanding inner-mouth energy gives this extremely dense wine a wonderfully light touch. The sappy, dry flavors of slightly high-toned red and black fruits are complicated by a saline quality. Wonderfully velvety in the middle palate but dry, classic and still a bit youthfully clenched on the chewy, extremely long back end, where the harmonious tannins coat the front teeth. An Outstanding Bordeaux-like wine that may well merit an even higher rating eight to ten years from now.
WA 94 (6/2014): The best of the 2011s, the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon is Pauillac-like with its gorgeous creme de cassis, lead pencil shavings, tobacco leaf and graphite styled aromas and flavors. Medium to full-bodied, pure, silky and layered on the palate, with a broad frame and sweet tannin, it’s already approachable, yet will evolve nicely for 5-7 years and hold for a decade after that. |
|
|
2011 |
Walla Walla Valley Merlot |
$69 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 93 (6/2013): Coming from the estate Loess, Seven Hills and Mill Creek Upland vineyards in Walla Walla, the 2011 Merlot is a superb, plush and yet gorgeously elegant and detailed effort that boasts knockout aromatics of spring flowers, black cherry, plum, licorice and dusty mineral on the nose. Already complex and approachable, it nevertheless has full-bodied richness on the palate, as well as a supple, mouth-filling texture, juicy acidity and no hard edges. Drink it over the coming decade. Drink now-2023. |
|
|
2011 |
Walla Walla Valley Reserve Red Wine |
$129 |
2 |
|
| |
VM 94+ (12/2014): (14.1% alcohol; 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Merlot and 7% each petit verdot and Cabernet Franc): Bright, dark ruby-red. I might have identified this as a white wine from the nose, which offers citrus and gooseberry aromas lifted by a floral topnote. Then pure and intense in the mouth, with an element of citrus zest, suggestions of tropical fruits and a strong sour cherry candy quality that reminded me of a top Pomerol. Very densely packed, savory and dry, with strong acidity giving it a light touch. The wine’s serious tannic spine calls for extended cellaring. A singular wine with great eclat—but will it ever surpass the estate’s flagship cabernet bottling?
WA 93 (6/2014): The 2011 Reserve is 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Merlot, 7% Petit Verdot and 7% Cabernet Franc that spent 20 months in once-filled French oak barrels. Offering more black cherry, black currant, licorice, tobacco and spring flower-like qualities on the nose, this serious 2011 has fantastic mid-palate depth, integrated acidity and a medium to full-bodied, seamless and elegant personality that’s hard to resist. It too will drink beautifully through 2031. |
|
| Linne Calodo |
2011 |
Overthinker |
$55 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 94 (7/2014): One of the more explosive wines in the range, the 2011 Overthinker bursts from the glass with notable intensity and depth. Raspberry jam, crushed flowers, spices, new leather and menthol meld together in a sumptuous, expressive wine full of character. The 2011 is 45% Grenache, 33% Syrah and 22% Mourvèdre, all from estate-owned vineyards. (Drink between 2014-2019) Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2011 |
Perfectionist |
$55 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 93 (12/2013): (62% syrah, 27% mourvedre, 7% grenache and 4% tannat): Vivid ruby. Vibrant aromas of cassis, licorice and black pepper, with a suave floral overtone. Bright, juicy and tightly wound, offering intense black and blue fruit flavors and hints of candied violet and spicecake. Impressively fresh and focused, with excellent finishing thrust and smooth, harmonious tannins adding shape. Josh Raynolds. |
|
|
2011 |
Problem Child |
$55 |
3 |
|
| |
| WA 94 (8/2013): Showing additional richness, the 2011 Problem Child (72% Zinfandel, 20% Syrah and 8% Mourvedre) possesses a sweet core of fruit as well as a medium to full-bodied, voluptuously textured profile. Blackberry, currants, exotic flowers and violets all show on the nose, and it continually changes in the glass and is beautifully complex. Aged in 20% new wood, the fruit is front and center here. Drink 2014-2021. |
|
|
2011 |
Sticks and Stones |
$55 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 93 (8/2013): More Grenache dominated and comprised of 52% Grenache and the rest Syrah and Mourvedre, the 2011 Sticks and Stones is medium-bodied and fresh, with vibrant acidity, fine tannin and an all-around polished, lively feel. Kirsch, blackberry, licorice, pepper and plenty of underbrush all emerge from the glass, and this highlights aromatic complexity and elegance more than richness or power. It will evolve gracefully for 7-8 years. Drink now-2021. |
|
| Long Shadows Wineries |
2011 |
Chester Kidder Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$120 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 92 (6/2015): The 2011 Chester Kidder is a beauty. Coming from a difficult vintage and a blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Syrah and 7% Petit Verdot, it spent 30 months in 85% new French oak before being bottled. Inky colored, medium to full-bodied, silky and with fabulous tannin quality, it’s absorbed almost every trace of its oak élevage and offers layers of dark fruits, licorice, chocolate and toasted spice. It has a classic feel and will age effortlessly for another 10-15 years. |
|
|
2011 |
Pedestal Merlot (1.5 L) |
$125 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 94 (6/2014): Made by Michel Rolland, the Merlot-dominated 2011 Pedestal incorporates a small amount of Cabernet Sauvignon and gives up ripe, full-throttle aromas and flavors of plum liqueur, licorice, smoked herbs and hints of background meatiness to go with a full-bodied, up-front, layered and downright sexy feel in the mouth. Showing good concentration and an already delicious style, enjoy bottles over the coming decade or so. |
|
|
2011 |
Pirouette Red Wine (1.5 L) |
$125 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 92+ (12/2014): (14.9% alcohol; 53% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot, 15% petit verdot, 5% Cabernet Franc and 4% Malbec; aged for 22 months in 75% new French oak; made by Augustin Huneeus Sr. and Philippe Melka): Bright red-ruby. Aromas of black fruits, licorice pastille, bitter chocolate and violet. At once juicy and powerful, with ripe acidity giving sharp definition and thrust to the dark berry, violet and coffee flavors. Finishes very long and firmly tannic. The wine’s Cabernet Sauvignon component fermented on its skins for 30 days with native yeasts, but the petit verdot may also have contributed to the wine’s tannic clout. This will need a minimum of six or seven years of additional bottle aging. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
| Matthews |
2011 |
Blackboard Colombia Valley Red Wine |
$15 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 88 (12/2013): (15.4% alcohol; 54% cabernet sauvignon, 28% syrah, 6% each merlot and cabernet franc, 4% petit verdot and 2% malbec): Medium red. Aromas of strawberry, plum and chocolate. Silky and pliant on entry, then moderately concentrated and seamless in the middle, with plum and spicecake flavors complicated by vanilla and cola notes. A rather polite blend, especially in light of its high alcohol, finishing with soft tannins and moderate grip. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
|
2011 |
Colombia Valley Claret |
$25 |
8 |
|
| |
| VM 90 (12/2014): (a Bordeaux blend based on 68% Merlot; the objective here is elegance, while the flagship red is more about structure, according to winemaker Aryn Morell): Full, bright, deep red. Sexy aromas of black raspberry, mocha, licorice, tar and tobacco. At once smooth and tight-grained, with intense black fruit-dominated flavors showing very good grip. Carries nicely on the finish, which features broad tannins, firm acidity and suave oak treatment. I like this style. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
|
2011 |
Colombia Valley Reserve Red Wine |
$40 |
11 |
|
| |
| WA 94 (6/2014): Even more impressive, with smoking raspberry, blackberry, spring flowers, toast and hints of licorice, the 2011 Reserve is medium to full-bodied, beautifully concentrated (especially in the vintage), layered and elegant, with fabulous purity and freshness. It too has ultra-fine tannin and impressive length on the finish. Made from 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Merlot, 6% Malbec and 6% Cabernet Franc that spent 19 months in 100% new French oak, it will shine through 2025. |
|
|
2011 |
Colombia Valley Syrah |
$20 |
4 |
|
| |
| VM 91 (12/2013): Saturated medium ruby. Blackberry, raspberry, licorice and exotic spicecake on the nose, with a faintly jammy quality. At once creamy and bright, with silky berry fruit framed by harmonious acidity and supported by good medicinal reserve. A bit warm throughout but this syrah has excellent creamy depth and finishes with suave tannins and lovely lingering sweetness. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
| Ch. Ste. Michelle |
2011 |
Artist Series Meritage |
$40 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 92 (12/2014): Healthy dark red. Bright, inviting aromas of currant, black cherry and woodsmoke; high-quality oak here! Silky and fine-grained, with terrific spicy complexity and restrained sweetness to the flavors of cherry, raspberry, smoke and graphite minerality. Tightly wound and light on its feet, showing less fat than the 2010 bottling but excellent definition and energy. This elegant, long wine features fine-grained tannins and terrific lift. Balanced from the start and built for a graceful evolution in bottle. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
|
2011 |
Cold Creek Vyd. Cabernet Franc |
$15 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2011 |
Cold Creek Vyd. Red Wine |
$15 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2011 |
Cold Creek Vyd. Syrah |
$15 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Mount Eden Vineyards |
2011 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$110 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 95 (7/2015): Mount Eden's 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon offers a striking interplay of ripe, flamboyant fruit and supporting mountain structure. Fresh, vibrant and energetic to the core, this stunning, beautifully delineated Cabernet Sauvignon might need another decade to show the full breadth of its pedigree, but it's all there. Pinot Noir at Chardonnay get most of the attention and Mount Eden, yet the Cabernet can be every bit as intriguing, just as it is here. The blend includes 5% Merlot, 1% Malbec and 1% Petit Verdot. (Drink between 2020-2037). Antonio Galloni.
WA 94 (4/2024): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate is a lovely example of one of the most overlooked vintages in California's modern era. It has unquestionably green and unquestionably beautiful aromas of dried herbs, matcha tea, baking spice and tobacco. The palate is red-fruited, balanced and energetic, finishing on a powdery tannin note with delineated focus. The more successful 2011 California Cabernets have aged remarkably better than their initial reputation would have consumers believe, the Mount Eden bottling being a particularly charming example. |
|
| Next of Kyn |
2011 |
Cumulus Vyd. No. 5 Proprietary Blend |
$325 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 97 (8/2015): While I reviewed the 2011 Cumulus Vineyard #5 last year, I was thrilled to be able to retaste it this go around. Showing consistently, with tons of savory, meaty characteristics in its currants, cassis, ground herbs and wood smoke-like aromas and flavors, this is a full-bodied, gorgeously concentrated 2011 that shows the freshness and purity of the vintage, yet backs it up with plenty of texture and length. Give it a few years and enjoy bottles through 2032.
VM 95 (8/2017): The 2011 Next of Kyn - No. 5, from one of the most maligned California vintages in recent memory, is quite attractive, if a bit compact. Although very much light to medium in body next to the other wines in this tasting, the 2011 is full of perfume, freshness and bright fruit. If anything, the 2011 still needs time to develop the full breadth of its aromatic complexity. In this tasting, the 2011 is more reticent than it has been in the past. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Alexandria Nicole |
2011 |
Destiny Ridge Vineyards Jet Black Syrah |
$25 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2011 |
Destiny Ridge Vineyards Rock Star Red |
$25 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Onward Wines |
2011 |
Hawkeye Ranch Pinot Noir |
$29 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Outpost |
2011 |
Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon |
$99 |
5 |
|
| |
| WA 95 (10/2013): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon (100% Cabernet Sauvignon aged 20 months in 75% new French oak) reveals attractive scents of blackberries, black currants, charcoal and graphite, full-bodied flavors with impressive richness, a long, opulent mouthfeel and a heady finish. |
|
|
2011 |
True Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$139 |
7 |
|
| |
| WA 96 (10/2013): Even better is the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon True Vineyard, one of the candidates for wine of the vintage. It, too, is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon and is given the same basic elevage as the other wines except the percentage of new French oak increases to 90%. There are 375 cases of this beauty, which may be the greatest Cabernet Sauvignon Outpost has made to date. Abundant notes of creme de cassis, blueberry, acacia flowers (or is it violets?), licorice and wet stones are followed by a full-bodied, superbly concentrated, multidimensional, endearingly textured wine with low acidity and ripe tannin. Drink it over the next 15-20 years. |
|
| Pfeiffer |
2011 |
Blue Dot Reserve Pinot Noir Loose Capsule |
$19 |
4 |
|
| |
|
| Joseph Phelps |
2011 |
Insignia Proprietary Blend |
$205 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 91+ (4/2016): (from a very late growing season in which the harvest took place in October): Dark ruby. Cool aromas of blackberry, dried sage and thyme, Kona coffee, black olive and peppery herbs. Boasts good density and intensity to its cassis and cherry flavors but also a distinctly green element of mint, pepper and herbs. Finishes juicy and firmly tannic: will this expand in bottle? This was the first Insignia vintage since 2000 with all five Bordeaux varieties, as a bit of Cabernet Franc found its way back into the blend--in this case, from three-year-old vines in Suscol vineyard. Hepworth believes that the wine's green notes will diminish over time and that it will evolve gracefully. Stephen Tanzer.
JS 92 (5/2014): A balanced, delicious Insignia for early drinking. Aromas of currants, blueberries and licorice follow through to a full to medium body, fine tannins and a clean finish. Yummy. Drink or hold.
WA 90-93 (11/2013): The 2011’s deep ruby/purple color is followed by sweet aromas of bouquet garni, mint, red and black currants, tobacco leaf and licorice, and a surprisingly intense, full-bodied mouthfeel with more richness and intensity than I would have expected from this vintage. It is also precocious and can be drunk upon release or cellared for 15 or more years. Although it has not yet been bottled, the 2011 Insignia is composed of 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Petit Verdot and the rest Malbec, Merlot and a dollop of Cabernet Franc, and represents 13,000 cases. It achieved a slightly lower alcohol of 14.1%. |
|
| Pott |
2011 |
Actaeon Quixote Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$89 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 93 (11/2013): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Actaeon Quixote Vineyard, from the Quixote vineyard in Stags Leap, is full of detail, nuance and juiciness. Blackberries, grilled herbs, licorice and new leather meld together in a supple, inviting Cabernet loaded with Stags Leap character. Sweet spice and violet notes wrap around the juicy, generous finish. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2011 |
Her Majesty’s Secret Service Proprietary Blend |
$129 |
2 |
|
| |
| VM 94 (11/2013): Pott's 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Her Majesty's Secret Service Stagecoach Vineyard, from M5 parcel in Stagecoach, is savory, expressive and nuanced to the core. Sweet tobacco, grilled herbs, dried flowers, cedar, licorice and menthol all add complexity over time. The M5 is distinctly savory and perfumed with less overt fruit than some of the other 2011s in the range, the Quixote in particular. There is a lot to like in this distinctive, layered Cabernet Sauvignon from Aaron Pott. (Drink between 2014-2021) Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2011 |
The Arsenal Greer Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$109 |
2 |
|
| |
| VM 93+ (11/2013): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon The Arsenal Greer Vineyard is one of the more tannic wines in Aaron Pott's range this year. Firm tannins provide the backbone for a core of expressive dark fruit in a powerful, inward wine that needs time to fully come together. Mocha, tar, licorice and smoke add complexity on the brooding finish. Readers will need to be patient here. The combination of intense fruit and underlying structure is compelling. (Drink between 2015-2023). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Pride Mountain Vineyards |
2011 |
Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon |
$99 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 94 (10/2014): There are 1,374 cases of the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve, which spent 22 months in 40% new French oak. It exhibits classic notes of new saddle leather, unsmoked cigar tobacco, red and blackcurrants, and loamy soil undertones in a full-bodied, intense, opulent, fleshy style. 85% came from Sonoma County and 15% from Napa County. This beauty is on a fast evolutionary track, so drink it during its first 7-8 years of life.
VM 93+ (12/2014): Pride's 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve is another exceptional wine from this vintage. The cool, late harvest yielded a slightly restrained wine, yet the 2011 Reserve impresses for its balance and overall harmony. Grilled herbs, tobacco and lavender flesh out on the super-expressive, pliant finish. The 2011 could use another year in bottle, but I wouldn't plan on cellaring it for more than a decade give or take. Once the tannins soften, the 2011 will drink nicely for at least a handful of years.
VM 90 (6/2015): (14.4% alcohol; the fruit was picked until November 28 "without botrytis," said Steve Pride, adding that 2011 was "the coldest year in our history"): Bright, saturated medium ruby. Precise aromas and flavors of blackberry, licorice, spices, menthol and espresso accented by flinty minerality, pepper and fresh herbs. Juicy, tight and on the lean side, given a distinctly savory character by slightly peppery acidity. Boasts very good definition, grip and underlying structure--not to mention good length--but will this very cool Cabernet gain in complexity with bottle aging? |
|
| Quilceda Creek |
2011 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$109 |
3 |
|
| |
| WA 96 (6/2014): More serious, and one of the wines of the vintage, the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon (100% Cabernet Sauvignon) has uncommon concentration and depth in the vintage, as well as a broad, structured profile that will allow it to age gracefully. Loaded with sweet creme de cassis, exotic spice, licorice and graphite, it’s a full-bodied, elegant and classically styled effort that has nothing out of place, fine, building tannin and a rock star finish. It will be approachable at an earlier stage than most vintages, yet still have two decades of longevity. |
|
|
2011 |
Columbia Valley Proprietary Blend |
$55 |
8 |
|
| |
| WA 91 (6/2014): The 2011 Columbia Valley Red Wine offers the classic creme de cassis, graphite, toasted spice and hints of licorice that seems to be present in all of the estate’s Cabernets. Medium to full-bodied, supple and already approachable, it nevertheless has the back-end stuffing to evolve gracefully for upwards of a decade. |
|
|
2011 |
Galitzine Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$105 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 95 (6/2014): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Galitzine Vineyard comes all from the Golitzin’s Red Mountain vineyard and is almost all Cabernet Sauvignon. One of the richest and most concentrated wines in the vintage, it offer fabulous creme de cassis, black raspberry, graphite, toast and licorice aromas and flavors to go with a full-bodied, seamless and beautifully balanced profile on the palate. As expected, it doesn’t have the sheer wealth of material that’s present in the prior vintages, yet everything is perfectly proportioned, it has excellent mid-palate depth and notable, sweet tannin. It benefits from a decant and will have upwards of two decades of longevity. |
|
|
2011 |
Palengat Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$100 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Rasa Vineyards |
2011 |
In Order to Form a More Perfect Union |
$69 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 93 (6/2014): The 2011 In Order To Form A More Perfect Union checks in as a blend of 43% Cabernet Sauvignon, 37% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc. Giving up plenty of cedar, spice box, spring flowers and black currant styled aromas and flavors, this medium to full-bodied, layered and seamless effort has juicy acidity, excellent concentration (especially in the vintage) and superb underlying structure. It will evolve nicely over the coming 3 to 4 years and drink well through 2026. |
|
| Raymond |
2011 |
District Collection St. Helena Cabernet Sauvignon |
$60 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Realm |
2011 |
The Falstaff Proprietary Blend |
$99 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 91+ (11/2013): The 2011 Falstaff wraps around the palate with plum, mocha, espresso, licorice and menthol. A decidedly rich, voluptuous wine for the year, the 2011 stands out for its pure texture, immediacy and grace. There are no angular contours whatsoever in this supremely inviting Cabernet Franc-based red. Today, the 2011 is a bit tight, but it should soften with further time in bottle. In 2011, the blend is 60% Cabernet Franc (from Englehard) and 40% Cabernet Sauvignon (from Blair and Dr. Crane). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Reynvaan Family Vineyards |
2011 |
The Contender Syrah |
$55 |
3 |
|
| |
| WA 95 (6/2014): More mineral driven and tight, with pure black raspberry, blueberry, spice, ground herbs and spiced game, the 2011 Syrah The Contender is full-bodied, beautifully concentrated, textured and long. Incorporating 6% Marsanne and aged 18 months in 25% new French oak, it’s always the texture that sets this cuvee apart. Give it another year or two in the cellar and drink it through 2026. |
|
|
2011 |
The Stonessence Syrah |
$65 |
3 |
|
| |
| WA 97 (6/2014): The 2011 Syrah Stonessence is a blend of 100% Syrah that competes with the top wines in the vintage. Voluptuous, decadent, layered and full-bodied, with thrilling notes of blackberry, blueberry, underbrush, chocolate and ripe herbs, it has low acidity, superb concentration and a downright sexy style that is just hard to resist. Aged 18 months in 25% new French oak, it can be consumed anytime over the coming 10 to 15 years. |
|
| Rhys |
2011 |
Bearwallow Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$55 |
2 |
|
| |
BH 91 (1/2014): This is less obviously floral than the Alpine but slightly more aromatically complex with its elegant aromas of violets, plums and red currants. There is really lovely intensity to the delicious middle weight flavors that possess a bit more volume before culminating in a structured, serious and clearly built-to-age finish. Good stuff. Drink 2019+. Outstanding!
VM 90 (7/2013): Sweet tobacco, herbs, licorice and dried black cherries lift out of the glass in the 2011 Pinot Noir Bearwallow Vineyard. Subtle floral and savory notes are woven throughout. The 2011 shows lovely energy and depth, but also the modest structure typical of Anderson Valley Pinots in this vintage. I expect the Bearwallow 2011 will drink well pretty much upon release and for at least a handful of years to follow. This is a terrific showing in a vintage that was very tough in the Anderson Valley. The 2011 was made with 35% whole clusters. Antonio Galloni.
WA 90 (4/2015): Like in 2012, the 2011 Pinot Noir Bearwallow Vineyard is distinctly different than the Santa Cruz Mountain releases in both its aromatics and texture. Giving up loads of underbrush, juniper berry, lavender, currants and sweet kirsch, it hits the palate with medium-bodied depth and richness, nicely integrated acidity and tannin, and a clean, focused finish that lacks length compared to the 2012. Elegant, upfront, complex and classy, drink it over the coming 4-5 years. |
|
|
2011 |
Family Farm Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$55 |
2 |
|
| |
VM 91 (7/2013): The 2011 Pinot Noir Family Farm Vineyard is one of the wilder wines in this range of 2011 Pinots. Game, tar, licorice and dark fruits all take on an intensely mineral personality with distinct volcanic overtones reminiscent of Aglianico and Taurasi. The layered, exotic finish is compelling and full of character. Antonio Galloni.
WA 90 (4/2015): Still showing its oak elevage, with some char and vanilla in its sweet cherry, old hearth, roasted herbs and licorice aromas and flavors, the 2011 Pinot Noir Family Farm Vineyard is medium-bodied, nicely textured and has notable acidity that comes through on the finish. This is one of the few wines from Kevin where the oak sticks out (it does integrate more with air), nevertheless, it's still Outstanding and has lots to love. I suspect it will evolve nicely for another 5-7 years.
BH 88 (1/2014): This is completely different as there is plenty of wood toast and even a hint of tar that fights somewhat with the black raspberry and plum aromas. There is good vibrancy to the concentrated and extract-rich flavors that are overtly robust, all wrapped in a muscular finish where the tar character resurfaces. This is impressively scaled but awkward today as the style is not consistent with the other wines in the range. Drink 2019+. |
|
| Ridge Vineyards |
2011 |
Lytton Springs Proprietary Blend |
$55 |
3 |
|
| |
| WA 89 (10/2013): The 2011 Proprietary Red Lytton Springs (82% Zinfandel, 16% Petite Sirah and 2% Carignan; 14.4% alcohol) was harvested near the end of September. A juicy, rich effort, it displays abundant notes of raspberry and black cherry fruit, medium body, excellent purity, and good weight as well as richness. The strongest effort of these Zinfandel-based wines, it should drink well for 5-6 years. |
|
| Rivers Marie |
2011 |
Gioia Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$75 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 89 (7/2013): The 2011 Pinot Noir Gioia Vineyard is one of the more immediate wines in the range. It has some of the brambly qualities found in the Summa, but with more fruit, the result of the warmer micro climate in this parcel. Today my impression is that the 2011 is best enjoyed sooner rather than later, as the fruit will likely start dropping out after a few years, but it is quite pretty today. Licorice, savory herbs, mint and anise are some of the aromas and flavor that add complexity on the finish. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2011 |
Occidental Ridge Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$59 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 91 (4/2013): Black cherries, plums, spices and new leather all come to life in the 2011 Pinot Noir Occidental Ridge Vineyard. Fresh, vibrant and beautifully delineated, the 2011 impresses for its nuance. The 2011 is a bit lighter than most recent vintages, but at the same time, the wine retains a buoyancy and vibrancy that is hugely appealing. Saline notes support the bright finish. This is a gorgeous showing. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2021. |
|
|
2011 |
Silver Eagle Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$65 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2011 |
Summa Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$59 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 89 (6/2013): (just 12.4% alcohol; from a tiny crop level and a late harvest): Dullish red. Aromas of strawberry, brown spices and earth. Sweet, supple and rather glyceral, but with strong acidity running through the red berry and earth flavors. Finishes with a saline quality. Good smooth pinot but a bit diffuse and in need of more definition and cut. There's just this one bottling of the Summa pinot in 2011 due to the very low yield. Incidentally, Brown and his wife Genevieve Marie Welsh purchased this vineyard in 2010.
WA 88 (4/2013): The 2011 Pinot Noir Summa Vineyard emerges from the glass with autumn leaves, tobacco, dried cherries and savory herbs. Although made from fully de-stemmed fruit, the 2011 has a stemmy character in its aromas and flavors. High-toned floral and herbs notes add lift on the finish. Sadly, there is no Summa Old Vines in 2011. The best fruit went into this, the straight Sonoma bottling. Today, the 2011 comes across as a bit fragile, so it is best enjoyed sooner rather than later. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2016. |
|
| Round Pond |
2011 |
Rutherford Estate Cabernet Sauvignon |
$35 |
5 |
|
| |
| VM 87 (5/2014): Dark ruby-red. Musky aromas of tobacco leaf, eucalyptus, black olive and anise; at once green and a bit tired. Smooth in texture, with red berry flavors joined by spices, licorice and fresh herbs. Not quite as green in the mouth as on the nose but still slightly tart. Tannins are a bit dry. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
|
2011 |
Rutherford Proprietary Blend |
$35 |
3 |
|
| |
|
|
2011 |
Rutherford Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon |
$65 |
2 |
|
| |
| VM 90 (5/2014): Bright red-ruby. Distinctly riper on the nose than the regular release, offering scents of plum, blackberry, flowers and licorice, plus a gravelly nuance. Juicy and energetic on the palate, showing good density of material but coming across as youthfully tight today. Red fruit flavors are complicated by graphite and mocha notes. Finishes juicy and persistent, with substantial dusty tannins. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
| Rudius |
2011 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$59 |
3 |
|
| |
|
|
2011 |
Fion Bainise Proprietary Blend |
$27.20 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 88 (6/2014): (75% grenache, 23% mourvedre and 2% syrah): Medium red. Good peppery, herbal lift to the aromas of strawberry, raspberry and spices. Supple, savory and dry, in a rather gentle style, with a slightly intrusive greenness to the red berry, licorice and spice flavors; could use a bit more definition and verve. Finishes with dusty, even tannins. |
|
| Mark Ryan |
2011 |
Dead Horse Cabernet Sauvignon |
$51 |
3 |
|
| |
| WA 93 (6/2014): Made from 81% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the rest Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Dead Horse Ciel du Cheval Vineyard offers beautiful purity and freshness to go with classic aromas of blackberry, blueberry, charcoal, crushed rock and burnt toast. Full-bodied, fleshy, balanced, with ample tannin, it-s a serious Bordeaux blend that will have upwards of two decades of longevity. |
|
|
2011 |
Long Haul Merlot |
$51 |
3 |
|
| |
| WA 92 (6/2014): Another outstanding effort from this estate, the Merlot-dominated 2011 Long Haul incorporates 13% Cabernet Franc 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and 1% Petit Verdot, all of which were aged 21 months in 73% new French oak. It gives up ripe black fruits, currants, licorice, singed herbs and chocolate to go with a full-bodied, rounded and voluptuous style the palate. Nicely focused, with excellent purity of fruit, it-s already approachable and should be consumed over the coming decade. |
|
| Sass Winery |
2011 |
Vieux Amis Pinot Noir |
$19 |
3 |
|
| |
|
| Saxum |
2011 |
Bone Rock James Berry Vyd. Proprietary Blend |
$139 |
3 |
|
| |
| WA 97+ (5/2018): The 2011 Syrah James Berry Vineyard Bone Rock opens in the glass with complex aromas of ripe black fruits, rich spice, cracked pepper, licorice and savory notions of grilled meats. On the palate, it's full-bodied, fine-grained and intensely concentrated, with a firm, tight-knit core and unusual energy. The finish is long, precise and penetrating. While the 2011 vintage tends to be tainted by association with the challenges producers faced on California's North Coast, conditions were not so adverse in Paso Robles: at Saxum, the year seems to have produced some of the most tight-knit wines of Justin Smith's career, and the wines have the potential to be unusually long-lived. |
|
|
2011 |
Broken Stones Proprietary Blend |
$99 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 96 (8/2014): The brilliant 2011 Syrah Broken Stones comes from a cooler block of the James Berry Vineyard and checks in as a blend of 78% Syrah, 18% Mourvedre and 4% Petit Sirah. Relatively forward (especially when compared to the locked up Bone Rock), with fabulous purity and freshness, it exudes notions of creme de cassis, blueberry, pepper, crushed flowers and sweet oak on the nose. Full-bodied, seamless and elegant, yet with building richness and rock star length, it’s an elegant version of the cuvee to drink over the coming 15 years or more.
VM 95 (7/2014): A dark, mysterious beauty, the 2011 Broken Stones is laced with expressive dark red and black stone fruits, iron, smoke and French oak. This is one of the more explosive wines in Saxum's range of 2011s. The Broken Stones finishes with substantial depth and power. While oak levels have come down quite a bit here in recent years, Broken Stones is one wine in this range where the oak influence is noticeable. The blend is 78% Syrah, 18% Mourvèdre and 4% Petite Sirah.Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2011 |
Heart Stone Vyd. Proprietary Blend |
$105 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 95 (8/2014): The 2011 Heart Stone Vineyard is a blend of 58% Syrah, 37% Grenache and 5% Mourvedre that was brought up in mostly concrete, with 20% in puncheons. Showing beautifully from barrel, it didn’t disappoint from bottle and has a perfumed, elegant feel to its purple fruits, lavender, violets, white pepper and underbrush-like aromas and flavors. The whole cluster inclusion shows here, yet it has fantastic purity, fine tannin and integrated acidity. Give it another year in the cellar and enjoy bottles through 2025.
VM 93-95 (8/2012): The 2011 Heart Stone Vineyard comes across as a bit more ethereal than some of the other 2011s here, but there is plenty of understated depth and resonance to be found in the dark cherries, sweet herbs, flowers and spices. The 2011 is 41% Syrah, 39% Grenache and 20% Mourvèdre. The use of 60% whole clusters gives the 2011 much of its aromatic lift. This is very, very beautiful. The 2011 was all done in concrete.
VM 93 (12/2013): (58% syrah, 37% grenache and 5% mourvedre; no new oak and 14.8% alcohol, which is quite low by Saxum standards): Opaque purple. Highly perfumed aromas of dark fruit preserves, violet, olive tapenade and cracked pepper, with an exotic blood orange nuance emerging with aeration. Weighty but surprisingly lithe on the palate, offering sweet blueberry and mulberry flavors and strong floral and spicecake accents. Closes spicy and long, with supple tannins making a late appearance and adding gentle grip. |
|
|
2011 |
James Berry Vyd. Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$225 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 96+ (8/2014): Reminding me of a top 2010 Chateauneuf du Pape (the 2010 Raymond Usseglio Cuvee Imperiale to be exact), the 2011 James Berry Vineyard is a blend of 69% Grenache, 13% Mourvedre, 13% Syrah, 2% Counoise, and a splash of Roussanne, that was aged in a combination of concrete (Grenache) and larger oak puncheons. A fresh, detailed and more elegant example of the cuvee, it offers gorgeous notes of ripe berry fruit, loads of exotic spice, violets, pepper and lavender to go with a full-bodied, beautifully pure and layered profile on the palate. It’s no blockbuster, but has loads of energy and tension, as well as class and refinement. Give it 2-3 years in the cellar and enjoy it over the following decade or longer.
VM 94 (12/2013): (69% grenache, 15% mourvedre, 13% syrah, 2% counoise and 1% roussanne; 15.5% alcohol): Inky ruby. Sexy, highly perfumed aromas of red fruit liqueur, lavender and Asian spices, with a bright mineral overtone. Rich and fleshy but lively, offering intense raspberry and cherry-cola flavors and exotic star anise and floral pastille accents. Silky tannins sneak in late and add shape to a long, smooth and alluringly sweet finish. The grenache in this blend was raised in a large concrete vat. |
|
|
2011 |
Paderewski Vyd. Proprietary Blend |
$109 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 97 (8/2014): Kicking off the 2011s and about as seductive and sexy as they come in the vintage, the 2011 Paderewski Vineyard is an eclectic blend of 34% Zinfandel, 31% Mourvedre, 16% Tempranillo, 10% Syrah and 9% Petite Sirah that comes from a warmer terroir of chalky, calcareous soils. Full-bodied, seamless and perfectly balanced, it offers brilliant aromas and flavors of black raspberry, rose petal, bramble and violets that are to die for. A big wine to be sure, yet it stays remarkably elegant, poised and fresh on the palate, with no hard edges and an approachable, utterly impossible-to-resist profile that keeps you pouring another glass. Enjoy this gorgeous wine anytime over the coming 10-12 years.
VM 94 (12/2013): (34% zinfandel, 31% mourvedre, 16% tempranillo and 10% syrah; 15.7% alcohol): Inky purple. Powerful, expansive aromas of dark berry compote, cola, dark chocolate and licorice, with a smoky mineral quality adding vivacity. Sappy, deeply pitched blackberry and cassis flavors are sharpened by juicy acidity and gain sweetness with air. Shows Outstanding clarity and power on the finish, which features supple tannins and sweet, clinging dark berry preserve and floral pastille notes.
VM 94 (7/2014): One of the more immediate wines in this range of the 2011s, the Paderewski Vineyard, is voluptuous and textured to the core, with huge dark red/black fruit, spice and leather notes. The Paderewski is dense and powerful, with plenty of immediacy but a touch less overall complexity than some of the other wines in the range. Still, the marriage of varieties in this Zinfandel-based red is terrific. In 2011, the Paderewski is 34% Zinfandel, 31% Mourvèdre, 16% Tempranillo, 10% Syrah and 9% Petite Sirah. |
|
|
2011 |
Paderewski Vyd. Proprietary Blend (1.5 L) |
$225 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 97 (8/2014): Kicking off the 2011s and about as seductive and sexy as they come in the vintage, the 2011 Paderewski Vineyard is an eclectic blend of 34% Zinfandel, 31% Mourvedre, 16% Tempranillo, 10% Syrah and 9% Petite Sirah that comes from a warmer terroir of chalky, calcareous soils. Full-bodied, seamless and perfectly balanced, it offers brilliant aromas and flavors of black raspberry, rose petal, bramble and violets that are to die for. A big wine to be sure, yet it stays remarkably elegant, poised and fresh on the palate, with no hard edges and an approachable, utterly impossible-to-resist profile that keeps you pouring another glass. Enjoy this gorgeous wine anytime over the coming 10-12 years.
VM 94 (12/2013): (34% zinfandel, 31% mourvedre, 16% tempranillo and 10% syrah; 15.7% alcohol): Inky purple. Powerful, expansive aromas of dark berry compote, cola, dark chocolate and licorice, with a smoky mineral quality adding vivacity. Sappy, deeply pitched blackberry and cassis flavors are sharpened by juicy acidity and gain sweetness with air. Shows Outstanding clarity and power on the finish, which features supple tannins and sweet, clinging dark berry preserve and floral pastille notes.
VM 94 (7/2014): One of the more immediate wines in this range of the 2011s, the Paderewski Vineyard, is voluptuous and textured to the core, with huge dark red/black fruit, spice and leather notes. The Paderewski is dense and powerful, with plenty of immediacy but a touch less overall complexity than some of the other wines in the range. Still, the marriage of varieties in this Zinfandel-based red is terrific. In 2011, the Paderewski is 34% Zinfandel, 31% Mourvèdre, 16% Tempranillo, 10% Syrah and 9% Petite Sirah. |
|
|
2011 |
Terry Hoage Vyd. Proprietary Blend |
$105 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 95-98 (8/2013): Coming from dense, clay soils and a blend of 51% Grenache and 49% Syrah, the 2011 Terry Hoage is a ripe, voluptuously textured effort that exhibits rocking purity of fruit, sweet tannin and no shortage of richness or length. Boasting fantastic aromas and flavors of raspberry, cassis, flower oil and licorice, it comes together beautifully in the glass and is one impressive barrel sample. Given the overall texture and richness, I can’t image it not being delicious on release, yet as with most of Justin’s wines, it should have 12-15 years of longevity. Drink 2015-2026.
VM 93 (12/2013): (51% grenache and 49% syrah; 15.3% alcohol): Opaque ruby. Highly expressive scents of red- and blackcurrant, cherry, smoky minerals, licorice and flowers. Fresh and precise but deeply concentrated, with sweet red berry compote and cassis flavors, supple texture and an exotic floral pastille quality. Becomes spicier with air and finishes pliant and long, with subtle tannins and a whiplash of peppery spices. |
|
| School House |
2011 |
Spring Mountain District Pinot Noir |
$60 |
20 |
|
| |
|
|
2011 |
Spring Mountain District Pinot Noir Scuffed Label |
$60 |
4 |
|
| |
|
| Sea Smoke |
2011 |
Ten Pinot Noir |
$95 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Sheridan Vineyard |
2011 |
Block 1 Cabernet Sauvignon |
$119 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 96 (6/2014): A wine that was just bottled, the 2011 Block 1 is easily one of the top wines in the vintage. A blend of 100% Cabernet Sauvignon that comes from a southeast facing block in the Sheridan vineyard, it possess a seriously full-bodied, rich and structured style to go with decadent dark fruits, lead pencil, singed cedar and tobacco leaf-like romas and flavors. Give it another year or three and enjoy it over the following 10 to 15 years. |
|
|
2011 |
Block 1 Cabernet Sauvignon |
$94 |
8 |
|
| |
| WA 96 (6/2014): A wine that was just bottled, the 2011 Block 1 is easily one of the top wines in the vintage. A blend of 100% Cabernet Sauvignon that comes from a southeast facing block in the Sheridan vineyard, it possess a seriously full-bodied, rich and structured style to go with decadent dark fruits, lead pencil, singed cedar and tobacco leaf-like romas and flavors. Give it another year or three and enjoy it over the following 10 to 15 years. |
|
|
2011 |
Block 1 Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$199 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 96 (6/2014): A wine that was just bottled, the 2011 Block 1 is easily one of the top wines in the vintage. A blend of 100% Cabernet Sauvignon that comes from a southeast facing block in the Sheridan vineyard, it possess a seriously full-bodied, rich and structured style to go with decadent dark fruits, lead pencil, singed cedar and tobacco leaf-like romas and flavors. Give it another year or three and enjoy it over the following 10 to 15 years. |
|
|
2011 |
L’Orage Proprietary Blend |
$59 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 94 (6/2014): A cuvee that is slowly becoming more and more Cabernet-dominated, the 2011 L’Orage checks in as a blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon and 25% Cabernet Franc that comes from a more south-facing portion of Scott’s Sheridan vineyard. Gorgeous all around, and a smoking success in the vintage, it gives up beautiful black currant, lead pencil, chocolate and smoky nuances to go with a medium to full-bodied, layered and seamless profile on the palate. Possessing good concentration and plenty of ripe tannin, this beauty will have an easy 10 to 15 years of prime drinking. |
|
|
2011 |
L’Orage Proprietary Blend |
$65 |
6 |
|
| |
| WA 94 (6/2014): A cuvee that is slowly becoming more and more Cabernet-dominated, the 2011 L’Orage checks in as a blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon and 25% Cabernet Franc that comes from a more south-facing portion of Scott’s Sheridan vineyard. Gorgeous all around, and a smoking success in the vintage, it gives up beautiful black currant, lead pencil, chocolate and smoky nuances to go with a medium to full-bodied, layered and seamless profile on the palate. Possessing good concentration and plenty of ripe tannin, this beauty will have an easy 10 to 15 years of prime drinking. |
|
| Sine Qua Non |
2011 |
Patine Grenache |
$295 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 97 (8/2015): Coming all from Manfred's Eleven Confessions Vineyard in the Sta. Rita Hills and a blend of 77% Grenache, 22% Syrah and 1% Viognier (fermented with 25% whole clusters), the 2011 Grenache Patine spent a full 33 months in almost all neutral oak, with just 11% being new. It offers perfumed and spice-laced notes of white pepper, black raspberry, blackberry and ground herbs that flow to a full-bodied, elegant, nicely concentrated 2011 that has nicely integrated acidity, no hard edges and a terrific finish. It's certainly one of the fresher, more elegant Grenaches from Manfred, yet it still has rocking levels of fruit. Give it 2-3 years of cellaring and enjoy bottles over the following decade.
VM 97 (8/2015): The 2011 Grenache Patine has turned out beautifully. Dark red cherry, plum, mocha, spice and leather meld together in the glass as this savory, beautifully layered wine opens up. Herb, graphite, smoke, sage and tobacco add shades of nuance in a delineated Grenache that captures the best of this cool, late-ripening year. Patine is 77% Grenache, 22% Syra and 1% Viognier, all from Eleven Confessions, done with 25% whole clusters and aged for 33 months in French oak barrels, 11% new. |
|
| Sojourn Cellars |
2011 |
Spring Mtn. District Cabernet Sauvignon |
$30 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Somnium Cellars |
2011 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$75 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Spoiled Dog Winery |
2011 |
Malbec |
$10 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2011 |
Pinot Noir |
$10 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Spottswoode |
2011 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$139 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 90 (10/2013): A surprisingly strong effort, the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon exhibits hints of black olives and tapenade as well as copious notes of creme de cassis, licorice and forest floor. Medium to full-bodied and atypically concentrated for a 2011, this is another tour de force from Spottswoode that boasts beautiful fruit and a long finish. It should drink well for 8-12 years. Kudos to the Novack family! |
|
| Spring Mountain Vineyard |
2011 |
Syrah |
$30 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Stags' Leap Winery |
2011 |
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon |
$60 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2011 |
Napa Valley Merlot |
$25 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2011 |
Ne Cede Malis Petite Sirah |
$40 |
1 |
|
| |
| WA 91 (10/2014): The sensational 2011 Petite Sirah Ne Cede Malis Estate comes from a plot of old vines planted in 1929. A superstar in 2011, it boasts a dense blue/purple color as well as copious aromas of blueberries, black raspberries, licorice, camphor and incense. Deep, pure and impressively endowed, it is best consumed over the next 10-15 years. |
|
|
2011 |
The Leap Cabernet Sauvignon |
$70 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Stone the Crows |
2011 |
Three Twins Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$130 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 89 (5/2014): (from a vineyard located in Conn Valley): Good dark red. Redcurrant, red plum, woodsmoke, tobacco leaf, herbs and menthol on the rather Graves-y nose. Juicy, spicy and tight, with a strong tobacco leaf quality joined by a slightly inky quality on the end. Boasts good intensity but the tannins come off as a bit green and tough. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
| Orin Swift |
2011 |
The Abstract Proprietary Blend |
$45 |
4 |
|
| |
| JD 92 (12/2012): A voluptuous, hedonistic, and pleasure bent blend that is mostly Grenache, the 2011 Orin Swift Abstract delivers loads of creamy red and blackberry fruit, sweet spice, licorice, bramble, and hints of white chocolate-like aromas and flavors to go with a full-bodied, decadent, yet gorgeously proportioned and balanced palate. A crowd pleaser for sure, yet even better, with real class and depth, this knockout effort benefits from a decant, and should be consumed over the coming 4-6 years. |
|
|
2011 |
The Prisoner Proprietary Blend |
$65 |
9 |
|
| |
|
| Tenor Wines |
2011 |
2:2 Proprietary Blend |
$25 |
4 |
|
| |
WA 92 (6/2014): The only Bordeaux blend produced in the vintage (Morell chose not to produce his 1:1 release) and made from 35% Merlot, 34% Cabernet Franc, 27% Cabernet Sauvignon and the balance Malbec, that spent 18 months in 83% new French oak, the 2011 2:2 Columbia Valley shows uncommon concentrations and density in the vintage. Loaded with dark chocolate fruits, crushed rock, spice and hints of underlying herbs, this medium to full-bodied beauty has a layered, textured feel, rocking mid-palate density and fine tannin comes through on the finish. In short, it’s a superb effort that will have 10 to 12 years of longevity.
VM 92 (12/2014): Bright red-ruby. Alluring aromas of red and black cherry, boysenberry, licorice and minerals. Sweet, fine-grained and elegant, offering as much red as black fruit character along with an element of Belgian chocolate. A lovely midweight with real depth of flavor. Shows the spicy tannins of the vintage, a complicating saline nuance and very good length. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
|
2011 |
Tenor Syrah |
$30 |
4 |
|
| |
WA 92 (6/2014): The 2011 Syrah Columbia Valley comes all from fractured basalt and sandy loam soils and spent 16 months in 100% new 500-liter French oak barrels. It’s a drop dead gorgeous Syrah that offers classy black and blue fruits, cracked pepper, violets and slightly green herb/sappy qualities to go with a medium-bodied, pure and textured profile on the palate. Showing integrated acidity and ultrafine tannin, you can feel the cooler nature of the vintage here and this beauty stays remarkably well focused and detailed through the finish. There’s no harm in drinking now, but it will have over a decade of longevity.
VM 90 (12/2014): Bright, full ruby-red. Aromas of blackberry, violet, carob, licorice and peppery herbs. Sweet, supple and seamless, but without quite the ripeness or dimension of the brilliant 2012. A chocolatey flavor is juxtaposed with a faint herbal element, giving the wine a lightly medicinal character. Finishes with firm tannins, moderate energy and a lingering blueberry note. Stephen Tanzer. |
|
| Tensley Wines |
2011 |
Colson Canyon Vyd. Syrah |
$55 |
3 |
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VM 96 (7/2013): Black cherries meld into plums and spices, followed by hints of leather, rose petals, mint and licorice. A rich, layered Syrah, the 2011 Colson Canyon Vineyard is one of the most voluptuous wines in this range. With time in the glass, the 2011 continues to blossom nicely, providing some clues as to where the future lies. A distinctly layered, fruit-driven Syrah, the 2011 is flat-out dazzling. Colson Canyon sits above the fog line, making it the warmest site Tensley works with. (Drink between 2014-2023). Antonio Galloni.
WA 95 (8/2013): The only wine to see some new oak, the 2011 Colson Canyon Syrah is knockout stuff in this vintage! Meaty and complex, with plenty of dark berry fruit, olive, underbrush, violets, licorice and earth, it is full-bodied, deeply concentrated and has a textured, layered feel on the palate. Easily the best Colson Canyon Syrah I’ve tasted from Joey, this knockout effort will have 10-12 years of longevity. Drink 2014-2023.
JD 92 (8/2017): Reminiscent of the 2006, the 2011 Syrah Colson Canyon Vineyard offers classic cool-climate characteristics of spice, white pepper and cedar, with complex underbrush and ample dark fruits showing in the background. It lacks the breadth and richness of a top vintage, yet shines for its purity, nuance and elegance. Drink it over the coming decade. (Drink between 2014-2029). |
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| Terlato Vineyards |
2011 |
Galaxy Proprietary Blend |
$50 |
1 |
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| Turley Wine Cellars |
2011 |
Hayne Vyd. Zinfandel |
$65 |
1 |
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| WA 93-95 (12/2012): Turley’s 2011 Zinfandel Hayne Vineyard, the product of a very late harvest, is another drop-dead gorgeous wine. Dark red fruit, cinnamon and mocha are some of the layers of aroma and flavor that blossom to fill out the wine’s big, broad-shouldered frame. Vibrant, rich and intense, the Hayne is one of the clear standouts in this lineup of 2011s. It is a dazzling wine in every way. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2021. |
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| Venge |
2011 |
Penny Lane Vyd. Sangiovese |
$35 |
2 |
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| Vineyard 7 & 8 |
2011 |
Correlation Cabernet Sauvignon |
$69 |
3 |
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WA 91 (8/2016): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Correlation displays a clean, pure nose of camphor, crème de cassis and licorice followed by an opulent, medium to full-bodied mouthfeel and a long finish. Clearly showing significantly better than when I first tasted it, it should continue to evolve for another 10-12+ years.
VM 90 (5/2014): Bright ruby-red. Highly aromatic, inviting nose offers scents of cassis, licorice, brown spices, tobacco leaf and fresh herbs. Supple and surprisingly sweet in the middle, with good concentration and floral lift to the flavors of currant, plum and cola spices. Easygoing and open-knit for the vintage, with the flavor intensity to support its dusty, spicy, peppery tannins. Stephen Tanzer. |
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2011 |
Estate Cabernet Sauvignon |
$100 |
1 |
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VM 94 (5/2022): The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Vineyard 7 & 8 Estate has turned out beautifully. At age ten, the 2011 is endowed with tremendous depth. Moreover, it remains very, very young. Blackberry jam, chocolate, spice, new leather and cloves saturate the palate. There are no hard edges or green notes here, just a very young Spring Mountain Cabernet that still needs time. Harvest took place in early November, meaning very, very late. (Drink between 2023-2036). Antonio Galloni.
WA 94 (10/2018): Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate sings of warm plums, cassis and violets with touches of bay leaves, black soil, pepper and cedar chest. The palate is full-bodied, firm and grainy with a lively line cutting through the intense black and blue berry flavors, finishing long with an herbal lift. |
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| Andrew Will |
2011 |
Champoux Vyd. Proprietary Blend |
$55 |
3 |
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WA 94 (9/2016): The 2011 Champoux Vineyard is flat out gorgeous. Elegant, perfumed, layered and complex, with lots of sweet currants, licorice, underbrush and graphite, this beauty hits the palate with medium to full-bodied richness, ultra fine tannin and a great finish. A complete, impeccably put together and balanced wine, it can be enjoyed anytime over the coming 10-15 years.
VM 94 (12/2014): Dark red-ruby. Aromas of redcurrant, cocoa powder and rose petal, plus a whiff of game; higher-pitched today than the 2011 Ciel du Cheval. Suave, seamless and sweet but showing outstanding grip as well, with the wine’s inner-mouth floral character providing early sexy appeal and an impression of energy. Best today on the extremely long, perfumed, rising back end, where the tannins fold smoothly into the wine’s fruit. This is splendid. Stephen Tanzer. |
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2011 |
Sorella Champoux Vyd. |
$85 |
3 |
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WA 94 (9/2016): Closest in character to the Champoux Vineyard release, the 2011 Sorella has a first rate bouquet of lead pencil shavings, graphite, licorice, smoked earth and black currants. Still youthful and lively, it shows the more mid-weight style of the vintage, yet has beautiful balance, pure fruit and fine tannin on the finish. It's a straight up classy wine to enjoy anytime over the coming 10-15 years.
VM 93+ (12/2014): Bright ruby-red. Pungent wild blackberry and boysenberry aromas are complicated by smoke and minerals. Suave and fine-grained, with dark berry, floral and mineral flavors complicated by a whiff of game. Not overly sweet in the early going but shows the persistence and structural support for a slow and graceful evolution in bottle. The ripe, enveloping tannins saturate the teeth and palate. |
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| Woodward Canyon |
2011 |
Artist Series Cabernet Sauvignon |
$55 |
6 |
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| WA 94 (6/2014): One of the standouts in the vintage, the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Artist Series comes from a number of vineyards throughout Washington (mostly from, Champoux, Canoe Ridge and Sagemoor) and spent 22 months in French oak prior to bottling. Full-bodied, seamless and layered, with fabulous mid-palate, it offers up classic creme de cassis, lead pencil shavings, black raspberry, toast and dried soil like aromas and flavors. Count me a fan. This beautifully balanced effort will evolve gracefully for 15 to 20 years. |
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