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Search Flickinger Wine Inventory
Inventory updated: Wed, Sep 02, 2026 04:02 PM cst
Your search criteria:
Regions: USA Red
Vintages: Between 2021 and 2021
| Producer |
Vint. |
Wine |
Price |
Qty |
Order |
| | USA Red |
| Belle Glos |
2021 |
Dairyman Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$35 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Bergman |
2021 |
Estate Proprietary Red  |
$350 |
2 |
|
| |
JD 97 (1/2025): The inaugural release, the 2021 Proprietary Red Wine checks in 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Cabernet Franc, and 6% each of Petit Verdot and Merlot, all aged 30 months in 95% new French oak. This deep ruby/plum-hued beauty offers a killer nose of blackcurrants, smoked tobacco, new leather, graphite, and chocolate. A rich, full-bodied, concentrated 2021, it has a layered, elegant mouthfeel, perfectly integrated oak, plenty of tannins, and a great finish. It needs 3-5 years of bottle age (if not more) but is a stunningly complete, layered, impressive Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon that readers will love. This is a tiny estate and there's not much wine produced, but buy it if you can find it.
WA 96+ (10/2024): Bottled after approximately 29 months in French oak barrels (95% new), Bergman's inaugural release—although not the first vintage made off this small Spring Mountain vineyard—is a blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Cabernet Franc and 6% each Merlot and Petit Verdot. The 2021 Red Wine, made with the advice of consultant Nigel Kinsman, is fragrant and floral, combining hints of sage, bay and violet with strong underlying notes of black cherries. Cocoa and vanilla nuances from the oak are also present on the nose, while the full-bodied palate is dense and concentrated yet simultaneously silky and fine, with a lingering, elegant finish. |
|
| Bien Nacido |
2021 |
Santa Maria Valley Grenache |
$50 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 94 (12/2023): The 2021 Grenache Bien Nacido Vineyard is expressive and alluring. It has pretty scents of strawberry and raspberry jam with nuances of rooibos tea, blood orange, licorice and dusty earth. The medium-bodied palate is chalky and super fresh, with gregarious, perfumed fruit and a long, nuanced finish.
VM 94 (9/2023): The 2021 Grenache is another superb wine in this tasting. Rich, heady and pliant, with terrific depth, the Grenache is seriously impressive. Dark red/purplish fruit, blood orange, pomegranate, spice and new leather are all dialed up. The 15% whole clusters are buried by the sheer intensity of the fruit. Aging in 500-liter barrels works so well here. (Drink between 2023-2029). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Bond |
2021 |
Pluribus |
$475 |
3 |
|
| |
VM 98 (12/2024): The 2021 Pluribus is just as exceptional as it was from barrel. Complex, dynamic and ever-changing in the glass, the 2021 coveys tons of mountain structure. Graphite, crushed rocks, mint, spice, licorice and lavender are all laced together in a dramatic, dense wine endowed with tremendous pedigree. This site on Spring Mountain yields Cabernets loaded with character. (Drink between 2028-2041). Antonio Galloni.
JD 96+ (1/2025): Usually one of the most structured wines in the lineup, the 2021 Pluribus is more medium to full-bodied and elegant, with a terrific perfume of black and blue fruits intermixed with exotic flowers, violets, and graphite nuances. It has a certain exotic edge, is beautifully balanced, has fine tannins, and a great finish. It's another seamless, elegant, very classically built Cabernet Sauvignon from this team that deserves 4-6 years of bottle age and will be long-lived. (Drink starting 2029). |
|
| Capiaux |
2021 |
Chimera Pinot Noir |
$35 |
7 |
|
| |
| VM 94 (8/2023): The 2021 Pinot Noir Chimera is a rich, heady wine. A burst of dark red cherry, plum, lavender, rose petal and blood orange are all dialed up. This bold, generous Pinot delivers the goods, big time. It's a fabulous entry-level offering from Sean Capiaux, if that term can even be used here. The Chimera is mostly young vines from Starscape, with dollops from Widdoes, Pisoni and Garys’. (Drink between 2023-2031). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Carte Blanche |
2021 |
Beckstoffer Missouri Hopper Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$125 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 97+ (12/2023): The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Missouri Hopper is a total dream. Sumptuous and racy with notes of blackberry jam, cloves, menthol, licorice and chocolate. The blend of three blocks and three clones (4, 144 and 337) is so complementary. The 2021 is magnificent. An archetype of modern Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2021 is super elegant, polished and refined from start to finish. What a knockout. (Drink between 2026-2036). Antonio Galloni.
JD 97 (12/2023): Winemaker Helen Keplinger came here in 2014 and has consistently been making beautiful wines. The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Missouri Hopper Vineyard offers a pretty, medium to full-bodied, more elegant style as well as a terrific array of red, blue, and black fruits supported by floral and violet notes. It has perfectly integrated background oak, fine, polished tannins, and a great finish. It's incredibly impressive, and while it already has some appeal, it's going to evolve for 20 years in cold cellars. (Drink between 2023-2043). |
|
| Cirq |
2021 |
Russian River Valley Pinot Noir |
$189 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 99+ (6/2024): A deep jeweled ruby/magenta hue, the 2021 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley takes things to another level and is likely going to be just as impressive as the last release of 2019, as they made the difficult decision to skip the 2020 vintage due to the fires. On opening, it's layered and refined on the nose, with notes of black raspberries, violets, dark mineral earth, and sweet cardamom spice. The palate boasts a luxurious silky and velvety texture that's completely seamless, with a long, outstanding finish. It will show its best in another 5-6 years. Drink 2027-2040. Audrey Frick.
VM 95 (1/2024): The 2021 Pinot Noir Estate is an elegant, luxurious wine. Plump and juicy but not at all heavy, the 2021 is wonderfully classy from start to finish. Succulent dark red cherry, pomegranate, blood orange and a kiss of new French oak race across the palate. Silky tannins and bright acids frame the long, persistent finish nicely. There’s a bit more restraint in Michael Browne’s wines these days, and that’s not a bad thing at all. This mid-weight Pinot is terrific. (Drink between 2024-2034). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Colgin |
2021 |
IX Estate Proprietary Blend |
$500 |
8 |
|
| |
WA 99 (3/2024): Colgin's 2021 IX Estate is a rich, opulent example, with layers of ripe black cherries and dark chocolate punctuated by hints of sage and bay leaf, plus some vaguely floral notes (violets?). Full-bodied, concentrated, velvety and long, it's another terrific wine that showcases the potential of Pritchard Hill, the investment by the owners and the talent of the winemaking team. Drink between 2025-2045.
JD 98+ (12/2023): I’d wager a Napa Valley legend in the making, the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon IX Estate comes from the estate vineyard on Pritchard Hill, and if there was ever a classification of terroirs in the valley, this would check in near the top of the list. Deep purple-hued, with awesome aromatics of pure cassis, graphite, crushed stone, and subtle floral hints, this has that rare mix of power and elegance that defines so many great wines. Full-bodied, concentrated, and flawlessly balanced, it has no shortage of structure and is going to need 7-8 years, if not a decade, to hit full maturity, where it will hold for 2-3 decades. Drink between 2023-2031.
VM 98 (12/2023): The 2021 IX Estate is such an elegant wine. Sleek, aromatic and refined, the 2021 is one of the most polished young wines I have tasted from this site. Red/purplish fruit, lavender, rose petal and mint abound. Silky and delineated, the 2021 is exceptionally beautiful and balanced. Clean saline notes and veins of tannin extend the explosive, sublime finish. Drink between 2027-2041. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2021 |
IX Estate Syrah |
$249 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 98+ (12/2023): The 2021 Syrah is another incredible Syrah here and I’d put it up against any Syrah out there. Inky-hued with a La Landonne-like nose of ripe black and blue fruits, smoked game, chocolate, and graphite, it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a dense, powerful, compact mouthfeel, building tannins, and a great finish. Hide bottles for 4-5 years and enjoy over the following decade or more. Drink between 2027-2037.
WA 98 (3/2024): All destemmed and aged in Burgundy pièces from the likes of Damy, François Frères and Ermitage, the 2021 Syrah IX Estate boasts considerable floral and herbal nuances on the nose, along with something akin to rust, corroded iron or blood and layers of black cherry and plum fruit. Full-bodied, rich and velvety in texture, it lacks the finesse and elegance of the 2018, but it pales only in comparison to that beauty, finishing long, with echoes of espresso, licorice and peppery spice. Drink between 2025-2040.
VM 97 (12/2023): The 2021 Syrah IX Estate impresses with its fruit purity and freshness. Bright red-toned fruit, blood orange, cinnamon and dried herbs are beautifully articulated in this vibrant, mid-weight Syrah. There's a bit of new oak today, but that will subside over time. This is an exceptionally beautiful vintage for the Syrah, a wine that is as much a wine of IX Estate as it is of varietal character. Seamless, polished tannins wrap up the finish. Drink between 2026-2036. Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2021 |
Tychson Hill Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$550 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 100 (3/2024): Supremely rich and concentrated, Colgin's 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Tychson Hill Vineyard nevertheless remains vibrant and energetic. Hints of bay leaf perk up scents of dark chocolate and black cherries on the nose, while the full-bodied, plushly textured palate glides easily into a prolonged finish redolent of loamy earth and red raspberries. Like so many of the world's greatest wines, it's a series of seeming paradoxes—in this case, ripeness and freshness, fruit and earth, density and vibrancy—that complement each other and emerge as an elegant, harmonious whole. |
|
| Continuum |
2021 |
Proprietary Blend |
$279 |
6 |
|
| |
| VM 94+ (12/2023): The 2021 Proprietary Red Wine Sage Mountain Vineyard is a heady, bombastic wine with a huge fruit profile and equally imposing tannins. In so many vintages, Continuum can be quite racy and seductive, but 2021 is not one of those years. Readers will have to be especially patient here. Lavender, mocha, crème de cassis and cloves build into the substantial, resonant finish. The blend is 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Cabernet Franc, 11% Merlot and 9% Petit Verdot. It will be interesting to see if the tannins soften. Today, the 2021 is a brute. Let's see what time brings. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Dalla Valle |
2021 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$239 |
6 |
|
| |
| WA 98 (12/2023): With a much higher proportion of Cabernet Sauvignon (91%, with 9% Cabernet Franc), the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate is less floral than the Maya but more obviously fruity and up front. Bold black cherries and cassis lead the way, framed by gentle oak shadings of cedar and vanilla, backed by deep bass notes of rich loam and hints of tobacco. Medium to full-bodied, the tannins are wonderfully judged, supple and velvety in one sip, then fine and silky in the next, while the finish lingers effortlessly, even if it lacks some of the seamless elegance of its sister. |
|
| Donum |
2021 |
Anderson Valley Pinot Noir |
$75 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 94 (7/2023): The first of three wines from the Anderson Valley, the 2021 Pinot Noir Anderson Valley brings aromas of preserved wild raspberry, licorice, and pressed flowers. On the palate, it’s medium-bodied and offers fresh alpine herbs, purple flowers, and a hint of blue fruit. With fine tannins and a good lift of refreshing acidity on the finish, it has a bit more cooling nature, as well as good ripeness. Drink 2023-2028. (Drink between 2023-2028). Audrey Frick. |
|
|
2021 |
Russian River Valley Pinot Noir |
$60 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 92 (7/2023): The 2021 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley is a rich ruby with classic ripe cherry, tea leaf, and cola aromas. It has much charm and is medium-bodied, with juicy and attractive fruit up front with vanilla spices. It offers good freshness and will drink well over the next few years. Audrey Frick. |
|
| Emeritus Vineyards |
2021 |
Wesley’s Reserve Hallberg Ranch Pinot Noir |
$60 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Fingers Crossed |
2021 |
Unanswered Prayers Syrah |
$159 |
3 |
|
| |
WA 95-97 (8/2023): I tasted the 2021 Syrah Unanswered Prayers on July 7, 2023, a few days before it was due to be bottled. It comes from the Bien Nacido, Rancho Boa Vista and Sanford & Benedict Vineyards. The blend includes 4.7% Grenache, 4.7% Mourvèdre, 4.7% Petite Sirah and 2.9% white wine. It was vinified using 35% whole clusters and matured for 20 months in 63% new French oak. Opaque ruby-purple, it's bursting with youthfully broody scents of blueberry preserves, blackcurrant, lavender, tar, game meats and peppermint patty. Full-bodied, powerful yet balanced, the palate features concentrated floral fruit, detailed, velvety tannins and seamless acidity that carries on through the shimmery finish.
JD 97-99 (8/2023): The 2021 Syrah Unanswered Prayers appears to be ever so slightly more successful than the Grenache (which, given the differences in the vintage, certainly makes sense). It has an incredibly pure, flawlessly balanced, full-bodied style to go with perfumed aromatics of darker berry fruits, ground pepper, smoked game, and iron. With a vibrant spine of acidity, utterly flawless balance, and ripe tannins, it's going to flirt with perfection at maturity.
VM 95-97 (9/2023): Tasted just prior to bottling, the 2021 Syrah Unanswered Prayers is dazzling. There's gorgeous purity in the 2021, even if it is not totally put together at this stage. Inky blue/purplish fruit, cloves, menthol, licorice and mocha race out of the glass. I can't wait to taste this from bottle. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Gargiulo Vineyards |
2021 |
Aprile Proprietary Blend |
$89 |
7 |
|
| |
|
|
2021 |
G Major Seven Study 575 OVX Cabernet Sauvignon |
$225 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Hall |
2021 |
Jack’s Masterpiece Cabernet Sauvignon |
$149 |
3 |
|
| |
| VM 95 (12/2023): The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Jack's Masterpiece is a dense, powerful wine. Inky blue/purplish fruit, cloves, new leather, lavender, licorice and chocolate fill out the layers. I would be tempted to cellar this for a year or two, as the tannins are quite potent at this stage. Vineyard sites are Sacrashe, Beller, Dellar-Freidkin and Sage Ridge. (Drink between 2026-2036). Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2021 |
The North End Cabernet Sauvignon |
$65 |
3 |
|
| |
|
| Claire Hill |
2021 |
Casa Vyd. Syrah |
$42 |
3 |
|
| |
|
|
2021 |
Grist Vyd. Syrah |
$42 |
3 |
|
| |
|
| Hundred Acre |
2021 |
Few and Far Between Cabernet Sauvignon |
$450 |
1 |
|
| |
Decanter 99 (9/2024): Pure elegance with super attractive white truffle aromatics and rich umami notes layered with fresh herbs and dark berry fruit. The wine features fine-grained tannins that resolve through a tapestry of succulent blackberry and blueberry notes, cherry-infused currant liqueur, and delicate tobacco spices. Few and Far Between is Hundred Acre’s estate 2.02-hectare vineyard, surrounding the Woodbridge home in Calistoga, sharing a fence line with the legendary Eisele Vineyard. Planted to Cabernet Sauvignon and one "Home Block" of Cabernet Franc, which abuts the veranda of the Woodbridge home, the final blend includes some of this Franc. Owner-winemaker Jayson Woodbridge ages the wine up to 30 months in extremely fine, centre-cut French oak barriques with ultra-tight graining. (Drink between 2024-2045)
JD 97 (1/2025): Darker currants, smoked tobacco, chocolate, and graphite notes all shine in the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Few And Far Between, another sensationally layered, complex, full-bodied, flawless, seamless wine in the lineup. |
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|
2021 |
Wraith Cabernet Sauvignon |
$675 |
1 |
|
| |
Decanter 100 (9/2024): Hundred Acre owner-winemaker Jayson Woodbridge describes Wraith as the perfect snapshot of a vintage, defined by a blend of all three of his estate single vineyards—Ark, Few and Far Between, and Morgan’s Way. Aged for 40 months in extremely fine, centre-cut French oak barriques with ultra-tight graining, this wine captures the essence of each vineyard while forming a cohesive whole. 'Every vintage of Hundred Acre has a thread that connects it to the first', Woodbridge tells me as I taste this wine, 'Weaving the fabric of each new vintage, Wraith is like a time machine, revealing each vineyard’s unique characteristics in a singular expression. You can sense all three vineyards merging into one entity, creating the masterpiece that is Wraith.' If you were to taste all three Hundred Acre wines, then Wraith, you might pick out the umami-rich character of Few and Far Between, the red-toned, zesty mineral character of Ark, or the brooding muscularity of Morgan's Way. Still, above all, that unmistakable complex fabric of Hundred Acre is evident in each sip. The 2021 Wraith is coiled up, seductive, and red berry-driven, with loads of black truffle and earthy notes. It’s like the Burning Man of wine—rip-roaringly insane, full of energy, magic, and mystery. Yes, there’s plenty of red and blackberry fruit, laced with currants and sweet spices, but the floral nuances and dried perfumed aromatics elevate this wine to something otherworldly. (Drink between 2024-2045)
JD 99 (1/2025): Red, blue, and black fruit, graphite, darker chocolate, sappy tobacco, and spring flowers all define the aromatics of the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Wraith, which comes from a blend of multiple vineyards. It's deep, rich, and powerful, yet also weightless on the palate, with silky tannins and a blockbuster of a finish. The idea with Wraith is to highlight the vintage as opposed to a site, and this beauty can be enjoyed any time over the coming 20-30 years. (Drink between 2025-2055) |
|
| Kinsman Eades |
2021 |
Aphex Cabernet Sauvignon |
$350 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 97 (12/2023): The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Aphex Ecotone Vineyard is a potent, dense wine. Dried herbs, spice, tobacco and earthy notes lend tons of savory nuance. This wild, structured Cabernet is going to need a number of years to come together. It shows tons of energy and depth, even if all the elements aren't totally in harmony at this stage. Nigel Kinsman has done a tremendous job in taming tannins that can be quite fierce at this site. Time in the glass is especially beneficial here. (Drink between 2027-2041). Antonio Galloni.
WA 96 (7/2024): A co-ferment of 79% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Petit Verdot and 2% Cabernet Franc from Ecotone Vineyard, the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Aphex is dark and plummy, combining black cherries and some earthy notes with a hint of dark chocolate. It's full-bodied, concentrated and rich yet harmonious, with a degree of elegance, no excess weight on the palate and a lingering, softy tannic finish. |
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|
2021 |
Aphex Ecotone Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon Lightly Bin-Soiled Label |
$275 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 97 (12/2023): The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Aphex Ecotone Vineyard is a potent, dense wine. Dried herbs, spice, tobacco and earthy notes lend tons of savory nuance. This wild, structured Cabernet is going to need a number of years to come together. It shows tons of energy and depth, even if all the elements aren't totally in harmony at this stage. Nigel Kinsman has done a tremendous job in taming tannins that can be quite fierce at this site. Time in the glass is especially beneficial here. (Drink between 2027-2041). Antonio Galloni.
WA 96 (7/2024): A co-ferment of 79% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Petit Verdot and 2% Cabernet Franc from Ecotone Vineyard, the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Aphex is dark and plummy, combining black cherries and some earthy notes with a hint of dark chocolate. It's full-bodied, concentrated and rich yet harmonious, with a degree of elegance, no excess weight on the palate and a lingering, softy tannic finish. |
|
|
2021 |
Kaannos Vine Hill Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon |
$475 |
2 |
|
| |
JD 100 (12/2023): Coming from the northern end of Vine Hill Ranch, the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Kaannos is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon raised in 70% new French oak. This deep purple-hued beauty offers a heavenly perfume of darker, almost blue fruits as well as leafy herbs, flowers, spice cabinet, camphor, and chocolate. I love its complexity on the nose, and it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a remarkable sense of refinement and elegance, fine yet building tannins, and an incredible finish. This magical, majestic, absolutely jaw-droppingly good Cabernet Sauvignon is a legend in the making. Hide bottles for 5-7 years if you can, count yourself lucky, and enjoy over the following 30-40 years. (Drink between 2028-2063).
VM 99 (12/2023): The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Kannos Vine Hill Ranch, 100% Clone 4, is rich, expansive and broad. Dark cherry, mocha, spice, leather and tobacco all wrap around the palate in a positively stunning Cabernet. Time in the glass brings out a whole range of earthy, floral and savory notes that add character. This fruit once went to one of the most pedigreed wineries in Napa Valley. This is extremely elegant, and the purity here is just unbelievable. (Drink between 2027-2041). Antonio Galloni.
WA 95+ (7/2024): The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Käännös is composed of Clone 4 from Vine Hill Ranch. Notes of ripe cherries and dried herbs dominate the complex, elegant nose, while the full-bodied wine flows easily across the mid-palate in gentle, rich waves of flavor, finishing long, velvety and tannic. |
|
|
2021 |
Kodo Cabernet Sauvignon |
$475 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 100 (12/2023): The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Kodo emerges from one of the top sites in southern Oakville—a site I consider as elite as it gets, but that can't be named for the time being. A sensational wine, the 2021 saturates the palate with dense dark fruit, spice, leather and tobacco. But, it’s the textural richness, resonance and persistence that impress most. This is a truly unforgettable wine. I would be thrilled to own it. (Drink between 2027-2041). Antonio Galloni.
WA 95+ (7/2024): Sourced from the M-Bar Ranch (western Oakville, across Hopper Creek from Vine Hill Ranch), the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Kodo offers up dusty earth notes, mixed red and black cherries, some cassis notes and a hint of dried herbs. It's full-bodied, ripe and rich without being heavy, and it's bright on the long, softly tannic finish. Is there just a touch of alcoholic warmth evident? |
|
| Kosta Browne |
2021 |
Anderson Valley Pinot Noir |
$69 |
3 |
|
| |
| WA 93 (6/2023): The 2021 Pinot Noir Anderson Valley, matured for 13 months in 38% new French oak, takes some time to shake off its cedary new oak and reveal red cherry, pipe tobacco and garrigue. The medium-bodied palate is chalky and refreshing with concentrated, spicy fruit, and it has a long finish laced with baking spices. |
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|
2021 |
Bootlegger’s Hill Pinot Noir |
$99 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 92 (10/2024): The 2021 Pinot Noir Bootlegger's Hill was matured for 14 months in 56% new French oak. It’s alluringly woodsy and musky on the nose, releasing scents of potpourri, underbrush, conifer, bergamot and wild berries. The medium-bodied palate is concentrated and floral with grainy tannins and vibrant freshness, and it has a long, spicy finish.
JD 92 (6/2024): A ripe red hue, the 2021 Pinot Noir Bootlegger's Hill was raised for 14 months in 56% new French oak, and offers classic Russian River Valley aromas of baked cherries, sassafras, cedar, and dried herbs. The palate is flush with stemmy spice and textured with chalky tannins, and it has a clean, spiced finish. It's going to drink well over the next 6-8 years. (Drink between 2024-2032). Audrey Frick. |
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|
2021 |
Cerise Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$99 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 95 (2/2025): Structured and substantial in earthy, forested notes, the 2021 Pinot Noir Cerise Vineyard is made from a selection of multiple clones, 6% whole-cluster fermented in stainless steel, concrete, and oak, and aged in new French and Austrian oak for 18 months. Subtle layers of crisp red fruit adorn a palate of underlying elegance beneath a graceful layering of chalky tannins and floral aromatics. Age through 2041. Virginie Boone.
WA 92 (10/2024): The 2021 Pinot Noir Cerise Vineyard is super spicy: Red Hots cinnamon candy, aniseed and Angostura bitters complement a core of red and black cherries and violet. The medium-bodied palate pairs concentrated fruit with velvety tannins and juicy acidity, and it has a long, spicy finish. It will benefit from 3-5 years in the cellar. |
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|
2021 |
Keefer Ranch Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$89 |
2 |
|
| |
| JD 95 (6/2024): The 2021 Pinot Noir Noir Keefer Ranch takes on great foresty aromas of pine needles, Asian spices, toasted cedar, and dried strawberries. Medium-bodied, it feels more linear through the palate, with refreshing, even acidity, fine tannins, and a long finish, with notes of blood orange through the palate. It’s very well-defined and is going to do its best with another year or so in bottle. Drink 2025-2037. |
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|
2021 |
Keefer Ranch Vyd. Pinot Noir (1.5 L) |
$289 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 95 (6/2024): The 2021 Pinot Noir Noir Keefer Ranch takes on great foresty aromas of pine needles, Asian spices, toasted cedar, and dried strawberries. Medium-bodied, it feels more linear through the palate, with refreshing, even acidity, fine tannins, and a long finish, with notes of blood orange through the palate. It’s very well-defined and is going to do its best with another year or so in bottle. Drink 2025-2037. |
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|
2021 |
Russian River Valley Pinot Noir |
$93 |
9 |
|
| |
| JD 94 (7/2023): Taking on more richness both visually and aromatically, the 2021 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley is generous with violets, black cherry, and cola spices. Medium to full-bodied, it has ripe, sweet tannins, with notes of black tea, expansive black raspberry fruit, and toasted cedar. It offers good richness and has a classic feel with a long finish. Drink 2024-2034. Audrey Frick. |
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2021 |
Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir |
$89 |
5 |
|
| |
| WA 94 (6/2023): The 2021 Pinot Noir Santa Lucia Highlands comes from Garys', Rosella's, Pisoni, Sierra Mar and Soberanes vineyards, and it was matured for 14 months in 49% new oak. It has a medium ruby color and a deep well of aromas: pomegranate, raspberry and cranberry are accented by touches of autumn leaves, tea leaves and spice. The palate is light-bodied, gently chalky and mouthwatering with generous spicy fruit and a long, layered finish replete with floral tones. |
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|
2021 |
Santa Rita Hills Pinot Noir |
$79 |
2 |
|
| |
| WA 93 (6/2023): Matured for 15 months in 52% new oak, the 2021 Pinot Noir Sta. Rita Hills has a very pretty expression this vintage. The nose features detailed scents of blueberries, strawberries, Earl Grey tea leaves and forest floor, and the medium-bodied palate offers generous, perfumed fruit on a delicate frame, finishing long and layered. |
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2021 |
Thorn Ridge Vineyard Pinot Noir |
$169 |
2 |
|
| |
| JD 93 (6/2024): A saturated red color, the 2021 Pinot Noir Thorn Ridge Ranch sports a savory and more warming profile, with aromas of charred cedar, dried red cherries, leather, and woodsy herbs. Medium-bodied, it has a more coiled feel on the palate, with fine tannins, evenly balanced acidity, and a clean finish with notes of dusty earth and a hint of orange peel. Drink 2024-2030. |
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2021 |
Treehouse Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$99 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 93 (6/2024): A darker, more opaque magenta/ruby hue, the 2021 Pinot Noir Treehouse Vineyard is slower to open on the nose, revealing more introspective, dark aromas of black cherries, licorice, sappy herbs, and menthol. Medium to full-bodied, it takes on richer structure as well, with a more grounded feel, ripe tannins, broad shoulders, and an earthy finish. It is going to need time to show its potential and may well improve. Drink 2025-2035. (Drink between 2025-2035). Audrey Frick.
WA 93 (10/2024): The 2021 Pinot Noir Treehouse Vineyard was aged in 43% new French oak for 18 months. It’s ultra fragrant, releasing scents of lavender, aniseed, bitters, pomegranate and iron. The medium-bodied palate is bursting with concentrated, autumnal flavors and offers notable purity. It’s structured by grainy tannins and vibrant acidity and has a long, spicy finish. |
|
|
2021 |
Willamette Valley Pinot Noir |
$69 |
2 |
|
| |
| JD 92 (7/2023): Medium ruby, the 2021 Pinot Noir Willamette is lifted and highly aromatic of orange peel, cinnamon, and pomegranate. Medium-bodied with fine tannins, on the palate it’s fresh with dusty earth, brambly herbs, and cranberry cocktail. It leans a bit more toward the savory end of the spectrum, but it’s a lovely first wine from the region for Kosta Browne. It will need some air on opening at this youthful stage. Drink 2024-2034. |
|
| Leviathan |
2021 |
Red Wine |
$29 |
3 |
|
| |
| JD 94 (12/2023): Always a good value, the 2021 California Red Wine is no exception and has darker berry fruits, some leafy herb, sage, lavender, and chocolate nuances, full-bodied richness, and a lush, round, seamless style that's already impossible to resist. This is primarily Cabernet Sauvignon (with plenty of other red varieties), and it should shine for 7-8 years, if not a decade, although I would drink this puppy in its youth. (Drink between 2023-2031) |
|
| Limited Addition |
2021 |
Red Blend |
$25.99 |
8 |
|
| |
|
|
2021 |
Cabernet Franc Field Blend |
$33.99 |
6 |
|
| |
|
|
2021 |
Eola-Amity Hills Gamay Noir |
$34.99 |
7 |
|
| |
|
| Philippe Melka |
2021 |
CJ Cabernet Sauvignon |
$89 |
10 |
|
| |
|
|
2021 |
Mekerra Proprietary Blend |
$150 |
4 |
|
| |
VM 97 (12/2023): The 2021 Proprietary Red Mekerra, Melka's Merlot/Cabernet Franc blend, is terrific. Deep, rich and voluptuous in the glass, the 2021 is a sensual beauty. Succulent red cherry, cinnamon, mocha, new leather and pomegranate flesh out, framed by the silkiest, most polished tannins imaginable, a rarity in Knights Valley. This is beautifully done. (Drink between 2024-2036).
JD 94+ (2/2024): The 2021 Mekerra Proprietary Red checks in as 55% Merlot and 45% Cabernet Franc and was raised in French oak barrels for 22 months. It’s a rich, concentrated, medium to full-bodied beauty that really shows the vintage with its pure, focused, bright style, which is balanced by rock-solid mid-palate density and a great finish. Black cherries, leafy herbs, graphite, crushed stone, and background oak all define the aromatics, and it's going to benefit from 2-4 years of bottle age and keep for two decades. (Drink between 2027-2047). |
|
|
2021 |
Metisse Jumping Goat Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$175 |
4 |
|
| |
VM 97+ (12/2023): The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Jumping Goat Vineyard Métisse is fabulous. Dense and quite savory, the 2021 possesses tremendous depth and vibrancy. There is a quite a bit more in the way of minerality and savory elements than is often the case. Blackberry jam, graphite, chocolate, spice, new leather and chocolate saturate the palate. This tannic, brooding beauty needs time. (Drink between 2024-2036). Antonio Galloni.
JD 96+ (2/2024): The 2021 Metisse Jumping Goat Vineyard checks in 92% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Merlot, and 4% Petit Verdot. Another classic 2021 from this talented winemaker, it offers gorgeous darker red and black currant fruits, lots of graphite, crushed stone, and hints of espresso, medium to full body, ripe tannins, and a great finish. (Drink between 2026-2046).
WA 95 (1/2024): The 2021 Metisse Jumping Goat Vineyard comes from a site next to Spottswoode on the western side of St. Helena. A blend of 92% Cabernet Sauvignon and 4% each Merlot and Petit Verdot, it showcases attractive notions of ripe cherries, florals (violets?) and clean dusty earth. Medium to full-bodied, it's velvety in feel yet vibrant at the same time, with a long, lush finish. It's a beautiful wine, concentrated and harmonious, approachable now, yet capable of evolving for 20 years. |
|
| Ch. Montelena |
2021 |
Estate Cabernet Sauvignon |
$155 |
4 |
|
| |
| Decanter 98 (6/2024): The Montelena Estate is a gorgeous wine in 2021, built of 94.1% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4.9% Cabernet Franc, and 1.0% Petit Verdot, aged 22 months in 45% new French oak. It is super bright and wonderfully aromatic with gorgeous light brown spices, white pepper, and sagebrush. Medium-bodied with cranberry and huckleberry fruits, they have very ripe and powerful tannins with supreme granularity and a fine, pinpoint, pixelated texture. Fantastic, linear, and racy acidity brings this wine into focus. Tasted with winemaker Matt Crafton at Chateau Montelena, Crafton explained that 'the aromatic potential of the vintage leapt out.' For him, the challenge was to reflect the concentration and richness and keep the fresh aromatics. So he moved to very light toast barrels in this vintage. (Drink between 2024-2045) |
|
|
2021 |
Estate Cabernet Sauvignon |
$169 |
4 |
|
| |
| Decanter 98 (6/2024): The Montelena Estate is a gorgeous wine in 2021, built of 94.1% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4.9% Cabernet Franc, and 1.0% Petit Verdot, aged 22 months in 45% new French oak. It is super bright and wonderfully aromatic with gorgeous light brown spices, white pepper, and sagebrush. Medium-bodied with cranberry and huckleberry fruits, they have very ripe and powerful tannins with supreme granularity and a fine, pinpoint, pixelated texture. Fantastic, linear, and racy acidity brings this wine into focus. Tasted with winemaker Matt Crafton at Chateau Montelena, Crafton explained that 'the aromatic potential of the vintage leapt out.' For him, the challenge was to reflect the concentration and richness and keep the fresh aromatics. So he moved to very light toast barrels in this vintage. (Drink between 2024-2045) |
|
| Myriad |
2021 |
Beckstoffer Bourn Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$203.15 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2021 |
Empyrean Beckstoffer Georges III Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$195 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 99 (2/2024): The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Georges III Vineyard Empyrean is cut from the same cloth yet has just a touch more of everything compared to the classic release. Coming all from the A3 Block, it has incredible red and blue fruits that give way to more spring flower, tobacco, and crushed stone-like minerality. Full-bodied, concentrated, yet as seamless and elegant as they come, with incredible tannins as well as purity of fruit, this beauty deserves 4-5 years of bottle age and will evolve for 20-25 years if well stored. There are 225 cases produced. (Drink between 2028-2053) |
|
| de Negoce |
2021 |
OG N. 365 Syrah |
$15 |
1 |
|
| |
|
| Next of Kyn |
2021 |
Numero Siete Touriga Nacional |
$295 |
2 |
|
| |
VM 98+ (8/2024): The 2021 Touriga Nacional - Número Sete is terrific, but it is also a very young wine that will need time in bottle to blossom. All of the pedigree of this great vintage comes through loud and clear. Readers should plan on cellaring this for at least a few years. Dried herbs, lavender, licorice and cool, blue-toned fruit are all beautifully delineated throughout. Dollops of Syrah and Petit Manseng round out the blend, with an added kick of floral nuance from the 11% stems. Drink between 2027-2041. Antonio Galloni.
WA 94 (8/2024): Sourced from the Krankl's Cumulus Vineyard and containing 14% Syrah and 4% Petit Manseng, the 2021 Touriga Nacional Número Sete spent 30 months in 42% new French oak. Nearly completely opaque in color, the nose opens with deep, dense aromas of dried clove, tobacco leaf, graphite, black plums and chocolate-covered dark fruit aromas, with increasingly savory and woody notes appearing after time in the glass. The palate is an absolute behemoth, with a blocky, gargantuan density that reaches its logical conclusion in a staining, saturated, concentrated finish framed with chewy tannins. This is equally clear testimony to the sheer mass achievable with Touriga Nacional and the lavish decadence that can be applied to it if one desires. Drink between 2024-2030. |
|
| Nickel and Nickel |
2021 |
John C. Sullenger Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5 L) |
$229 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 95 (12/2023): The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon John C. Sullenger comes from a site in Oakville and is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon brought up in 55% new French oak. This deep purple-hued effort offers a textbook Oakville perfume of ripe black fruits, iron, smoked tobacco, and graphite. This carries to a powerful, full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon with a broad, expansive mouthfeel, ripe tannins, and a gorgeous finish. It's an impressive effort, if not the finest vintage of this cuvée I've tasted. Enjoy bottles over the coming 15 years. (Drink between 2023-2038). |
|
| Perchance |
2021 |
Beckstoffer George III Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$225 |
2 |
|
| |
WA 98 (1/2024): I was blown away by how much better Perchance's 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Vineyard Georges III looked after a bit more élevage and some time in bottle. Selected from four vineyard blocks and blended just prior to bottling, it offers floral, spicy aromas of violets and licorice backed by waves of cherries, blueberries and black cherries. In the mouth, it's full-bodied, rich and layered, hugely textural and long on the finish. Wow.
JD 97 (2/2024): The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Georges III Vineyard is brilliant stuff and has to rank with some of the finest releases from this vineyard. Its deep purple hue gives way to a great nose of red, blue, and black fruits as well as subtle floral and spicy nuances. This medium to full-bodied, flawlessly balanced 2021 has nicely integrated background oak, ripe, polished tannins, and the vintage's purity and just overall sense of class. This riveting Cabernet Sauvignon deserves 4-5 years in the cellar and will evolve for well over two decades. |
|
|
2021 |
Beckstoffer Georges III Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon Ex-Domaine |
$225 |
60 |
|
| |
WA 98 (1/2024): I was blown away by how much better Perchance's 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Vineyard Georges III looked after a bit more élevage and some time in bottle. Selected from four vineyard blocks and blended just prior to bottling, it offers floral, spicy aromas of violets and licorice backed by waves of cherries, blueberries and black cherries. In the mouth, it's full-bodied, rich and layered, hugely textural and long on the finish. Wow.
JD 97 (2/2024): The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Georges III Vineyard is brilliant stuff and has to rank with some of the finest releases from this vineyard. Its deep purple hue gives way to a great nose of red, blue, and black fruits as well as subtle floral and spicy nuances. This medium to full-bodied, flawlessly balanced 2021 has nicely integrated background oak, ripe, polished tannins, and the vintage's purity and just overall sense of class. This riveting Cabernet Sauvignon deserves 4-5 years in the cellar and will evolve for well over two decades. |
|
| PerUs Wine Co. |
2021 |
Alessio Proprietary Red |
$200 |
1 |
|
| |
WA 96 (7/2024): A blend of 60% Cabernet Franc (Sugarloaf Mountain), 20% Cabernet Sauvignon (Tench) and 20% Merlot (Sugarloaf Mountain), the 2021 Alessio Proprietary Red Wine combines a tomato-leaf character with black cherries, blueberries, cassis and mocha notes on the nose. Full-bodied, creamy-ripe without being overly heavy, the wine finishes supple and long, framed by soft tannins.
JD 96 (12/2023): The 2021 Alessio Proprietary Red comes from a steep, rocky site and is a blend of 60% Merlot and 20% each Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. It's one of the more seamless, polished, silky wines in the lineup and has a wild array of red, blue, and black fruits as well spring flowers, graphite, lead pencil, and some chocolaty nuances. Full-bodied, pure, elegant, and seamless on the palate, it has ripe tannins and a great, great finish. (Drink between 2026-2041). |
|
|
2021 |
Janeen Red Wine |
$200 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 95+ (12/2023): The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Janeen is based on 80% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Merlot aged 18-22 months in new barrels. Wild strawberries, blueberries, dark chocolate, graphite, and lead pencil notes all emerge on the nose, and it's another full-bodied, concentrated, powerful wine from this label that has the vintage’s fresher, elegant under-riding style. Give it a few years and it’s going to drink brilliantly over the following 15-20 years. (Drink between 2026-2046).
WA 95 (7/2024): There are a whopping 120 cases of the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Janeen, which is based on Sage Ridge fruit but includes 20% Sugarloaf Mountain Merlot. The nose features a touch of asphalt, then black olives and cassis, plus a dark, earthy nuance. Full-bodied and densely concentrated, with a long, savory finish, it's a serious wine, capable of aging at least a couple of decades. |
|
| Joseph Phelps |
2021 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$89.99 |
12 |
|
| |
|
| Realm |
2021 |
Beckstoffer Bourn Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$276.25 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Ridge Vineyards |
2021 |
Monte Bello |
$259 |
3 |
|
| |
VM 97 (10/2024): The 2021 Monte Bello is a top-tier wine from this reverential site in the Santa Cruz Mountains. The blend contains quite a bit more Merlot than usual (31%), which is a reflection of reduced Cabernet yields stemming from the drought-riddled 2021 growing season. Broad, infinitely layered and rooted in deep spice tones, the 2021 opens with a forceful kick of wild blackberry and orange peel, delving deeper into complex layers of black olive, new leather, violet and sweet pipe tobacco. Surprisingly giving and undeniably fresh, the 2021 is precise, laser-focused and propulsive, stationing the midline of the palate with an army of well-honed tannins and culminating in a finish that seemingly never ends. This is everything Monte Bello should be. (Drink between 2031-2061). Billy Norris.
JD 96 (8/2024): The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Monte Bello is based on 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31% Merlot, and the rest Petit Verdot that was raised in mostly new American oak. It reminds me of the 2016 with its beautifully balanced, seamless style, and it has a riveting perfume of pure crème de cassis, sweet tobacco, lead pencil shavings, and violet-laced aromas and flavors. Medium to full-bodied, flawlessly balanced, and absolutely seamless, it's a gorgeous Mont Bello that's surprisingly already accessible, yet it won't hit full maturity for 7-8 years but will have 30+ years of longevity. (Drink between 2031-2052).
WA 96 (4/2024): 2021 marks the start of a new era at Ridge, now under the stewardship of Trester Goetting and longtime Ridge veteran John Olney following the departure of veteran winemaker Eric Baugher. The 2021 Monte Bello is 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 31% Merlot and 5% Petit Verdot due to drought-induced low yields, particularly in Cabernet Sauvignon. It is already assertive and polished on the nose, with aromas of cassis, dried tobacco, green peppercorn, mint and figs springing from the glass. The palate is suave and refined with electrifying energy and persistence, leading to a sophisticated finish of ripe black fruits and drying, layered stately tannins. Even in this embryonic stage, the perpetual pedigree of Monte Bello is here in spades; cellar for a decade and enjoy over the following two and beyond. |
|
| Screaming Eagle |
2021 |
The Flight Proprietary Blend |
$775 |
1 |
|
| |
VM 97 (12/2023): The 2021 The Flight is built around a core of Merlot from old vines on cobbly soils at the front of the property. From barrel, the 2021 was quite sensual, perhaps deceptively so. This recent tasting of the finished wine from bottle reveals a powerful, dense Flight packed with dark-toned fruit, leather, tobacco and incense. In many vintages, The Flight is accessible young, but the 2021 is a wine for the cellar. It is one of the best and most complete editions I have tasted. There’s a fair amount of Cabernet Sauvignon in the blend and quite a bit more Franc than usual, which contributes to the wine’s personality and overall feel. (Drink between 2027-2041). Antonio Galloni.
WA 96 (5/2026): Screaming Eagle's 2021 The Flight seems darker and more concentrated than the 2023, with mixed red and black cherries framed by tannins that are firm yet not lacking ripeness. It's medium- to full-bodied, with an expansive mouthfeel that remains balanced and impressively focused on the long, lingering finish. It's mostly Merlot, with Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc making up the balance.
JD 95 (12/2025): In the same style as the 2023, the 2021 Flight displays a deep ruby/purple and borderline opaque hue with a powerful nose of red and black fruits, roasted herbs, chocolate, and graphite, along with a kiss of background rose and floral notes. It's medium to full-bodied, rich, powerful, and nicely structured, with the masculine tannins that define the vintage. Hide bottles for 4-6 years and enjoy over the following two decades. Drink 2029-2049. (Drink between 2029-2049). |
|
| Sea Smoke |
2021 |
Southing Pinot Noir |
$105 |
8 |
|
| |
| VM 93 (8/2025): The 2021 Pinot Noir Southing shows a step up in elegance in this tasting of the 2020s and 2021s, layering plush textures over generous berry and cherry fruit. A touch of bitter spice and gentle acidity add lift, keeping the wine poised and engaging through the finish. (Drink between 2025-2032). Billy Norris. |
|
|
2021 |
Southing Pinot Noir |
$89 |
6 |
|
| |
| VM 93 (8/2025): The 2021 Pinot Noir Southing shows a step up in elegance in this tasting of the 2020s and 2021s, layering plush textures over generous berry and cherry fruit. A touch of bitter spice and gentle acidity add lift, keeping the wine poised and engaging through the finish. (Drink between 2025-2032). Billy Norris. |
|
|
2021 |
Southing Pinot Noir (1.5 L) |
$210 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 93 (8/2025): The 2021 Pinot Noir Southing shows a step up in elegance in this tasting of the 2020s and 2021s, layering plush textures over generous berry and cherry fruit. A touch of bitter spice and gentle acidity add lift, keeping the wine poised and engaging through the finish. (Drink between 2025-2032). Billy Norris. |
|
|
2021 |
Ten Pinot Noir |
$109 |
8 |
|
| |
| VM 92 (8/2025): The 2021 Pinot Noir Ten is rich and forward, leaning into the riper side of the spectrum. Elevated notes of iodine, tart berries, chalk and tobacco bring complexity, while cedar and oak spice shape the finish. This remains a powerful wine that will benefit from a bit of time in bottle. (Drink between 2025-2031). Billy Norris. |
|
| Silver Oak |
2021 |
Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon |
$61 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 91 (1/2026): The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Alexander Valley is very closed aromatically, but it entices with its darker, more concentrated character than its typical red-fruited personality. The tannins are very, very subtle, pointing to a wine that feels like a medium-term proposition. Mocha, graphite, incense, leather and blackcurrant flavors saturate the palate, leaving behind an echo of American oak spice. (Drink between 2026-2033). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Sojourn Cellars |
2021 |
Georges III Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon ex-Domaine |
$175 |
29 |
|
| |
JD 95 (1/2025): Ripe darker fruits, chocolaty herbs, cedar pencil, and spring flower notes all shine in the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Georges III Vineyard, a medium to full-bodied, ripe, polished, nicely textured 2021 that has the focused, concentrated style of the vintage, plenty of tannins, and outstanding length. I love it today, with its youthful purity and balance, yet this is going to evolve gracefully as well and have a solid two decades of prime drinking.
WA 94 (7/2024): Sojourn gets Clone 337 from F Block in this historic vineyard, formerly known as Beaulieu Vineyard No. 3. The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Vineyard Georges III aged in 75% new French oak before being bottled in June 2023. It's true to its Rutherford roots, showing dusty earth notes on the nose alongside bright cherries and deeper mocha and dried-spice undertones. It's full-bodied but somehow seems less rich than its 14.7% alcohol implies, cruising across the mid-palate in a flurry of soft tannins and finishing long and firm, with hints of dark chocolate. |
|
|
2021 |
Oakville Ranch Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon ex-Domaine |
$195 |
27 |
|
| |
WA 96+ (7/2024): It's easy to think of the Oakville AVA as being just the valley floor, but it extends well up into the Vaca Range on Napa's eastern side. Sojourn's 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville Ranch Vineyard comes from a site approximately 1,400 feet above sea level and is a mix of Clones 4, 169 and 337 (plus 4% Petit Verdot), all aged in 75% new French oak. Scents of crushed stone, black cherries and blackberries appear on the nose, while the full-bodied palate is firmly structured and streamlined, framed by silky tannins that linger on the cool, slightly menthol-tinged finish. It makes a harmonious overall impression, albeit a very youthful one, with time to grow into a potentially outstanding wine. Unfortunately, production is only 150 cases.
JD 95 (1/2025): Cassis, ripe blue fruits, darker tobacco/herbs, chocolaty oak, and some violet notes all emerge from the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville, another beautifully textured, polished, medium to full-bodied beauty in the lineup. It has that classic darker, almost black olive-like Oakville signature, with ripe tannins and just a focused, classy style that's going to age gracefully for two decades. |
|
|
2021 |
Russian River Valley Pinot Noir |
$43 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Stolpman Vineyards |
2021 |
Pliocene Mourvedre Very Lightly Scuffed Label |
$50 |
1 |
|
| |
JD 93 (8/2022): All Mourvèdre from a selection of own rooted vines, the 2021 Mourvedre Pliocene offers up bright red and blue fruits as well as notes of incense, leather, and spices. It's loaded with character and is medium-bodied and elegant, with terrific overall balance as well as outstanding length. Drink this character-filled beauty over the coming 7-8 years as well. (Drink between 2022-2030).
VM 93 (8/2022): Bottled shortly before my visit, the 2021 Mourvèdre Pliocene is fabulous. It offers terrific fruit purity and aromatic presence. Crushed red berry fruit, mint, white flowers and chalk abound. This fresh, vibrant Mourvèdre is absolutely delicious and also full of character. Then again, this plant material originates from Enz and was planted own-rooted at Stolpman. (Drink between 2024-2033). Antonio Galloni.
WA 93 (12/2022): Medium garnet, the 2021 Mourvèdre Pliocene is scented of blueberries, cranberries, garrigue and bergamot with touches of underbrush. The medium-bodied palate is supple and fresh with a core of floral fruits and a long, ethereal finish. It's spicy, inviting and approachable! 405 cases were made. |
|
| Story of Soil |
2021 |
Chene Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$40 |
1 |
|
| |
|
|
2021 |
La Rinconada Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$40 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 92 (9/2023): The 2021 Pinot Noir La Rinconada Vineyard is a cool, nervy Pinot that captures all the energy of this site. Crushed rocks, mint, white pepper and bright red-toned fruit are all finely sculpted in this taut Pinot Noir from one of the top sites in the Sta. Rita Hills. The ethereal finish is quite striking. (Drink between 2023-2032). Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2021 |
Larner Vyd. Syrah |
$40 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 94 (9/2023): The 2021 Syrah Larner Vineyard is broad, ample and super-expressive. It shows all the savory and earthy complexity of Jessica Gasca wines but tempered by her approach, a winning combination in my book. Dried herbs, tobacco, leather, incense, cedar and dark red-toned fruit all come together nicely. (Drink between 2024-2033). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Terre et Sang |
2021 |
Sidecar Moulds Family Vyd. Cabernet Sauvignon |
$200 |
1 |
|
| |
| JD 94+ (8/2024): Â The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Sidecar Moulds Family Vineyard is all variety that's from the Moulds Family Vineyard in the Oak Knoll region of Napa Valley. It has a deep purple hue as well as a gorgeous nose of blue and black fruits, smoked tobacco, classy oak, and spring flowers. Possessing a pure, focused, medium to full-bodied mouthfeel, it has beautiful yet building tannins, terrific overall balance, and a great finish. It's a stunning 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon that will benefit from 2-4 years of bottle age and have 2-3 decades of overall longevity. (Drink between 2028-2053) |
|
| The Third Twin (Sine Qua Non) |
2021 |
Third Twin Vyd. Nuestra Senora del Tercer Gemelo |
$239 |
3 |
|
| |
WA 98+ (8/2021): Deep purple-black colored, the glass needed a fair bit of swirling to unlock this wine’s wonderfully pure scents of baked black plums, blackberry pie and boysenberries, leading to an undercurrent of fruitcake, Indian spices, unsmoked cigars and cracked black pepper. The full-bodied palate is a powerhouse of fruit, bursting with black berry preserves and exotic spice layers, framed with a solid line of firm, ripe tannins and wonderful freshness, finishing with incredible persistence and purity. This beautiful monster of a wine should be pretty much indestructible, capable of cellaring for 40+ years. Drink between 2026-2061.
VM 96 (8/2024): The 2021 Nuestra Senora del Tercer Gemelo offers a capitvating mix of opulent fruit and energy, all framed by judicious French oak and silky tannins. A dense, full-bodied wine, the Nuestra Senora has so much to offer, starting with its immediacy. This full-throttle red is undeniably glorious. The blend is 57% Mourvedre, 14% Grenache, 14% Graciano, 14% Syrah, and 1% Viognier, done with 33% stems. It spent 31 months in French oak, 31% new. Drink between 2025-2036. Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Three Sticks |
2021 |
One Sky Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$85 |
5 |
|
| |
| VM 95 (1/2024): The 2021 Pinot Noir One Sky Vineyard emerges from Bill Price's estate vineyard on Sonoma Mountain. Translucent and finely cut, the One Sky is so refined. Crushed flowers, bright red-toned fruit, chalk, mint and white pepper all give the 2021 notable brilliance. Vibrant saline notes shape the exquisite finish. (Drink between 2025-2033). Antonio Galloni. |
|
|
2021 |
William James Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$85 |
1 |
|
| |
| VM 94 (1/2024): The 2021 Pinot Noir William James Vineyard emerges from an estate site in Sebastopol. Lifted floral and citrus notes meld into a core of red-toned fruit. Aromatic and gracious, with silky tannins and fine balance, the 2021 is super-finessed. It is one of the more understated wines in the range. This is the last Pinot pick in 2021. (Drink between 2024-2031). Antonio Galloni. |
|
| Tusk Estates |
2021 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
$625 |
3 |
|
| |
|
| William & Mary Wine Company |
2021 |
Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon |
$92.65 |
2 |
|
| |
|
| Williams Selyem |
2021 |
Bucher Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$89 |
2 |
|
| |
|
|
2021 |
Calegari Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$89 |
1 |
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| WA 95 (10/2024): The 2021 Pinot Noir Calegari Vineyard comes from vines planted in the late 1990s in decomposed, iron-rich, volcanic soils on Eastside Road. Matured in 53% new oak for 16 months, it opens with soaring scents of mixed berry preserves and nuances of iron, charcuterie, lavender, orange oil and botanicals. The medium-bodied palate features concentrated, detailed flavors. It’s structured by powdery tannins and seamless acidity and has a long, spicy finish. It will benefit from 3-5 years in bottle. |
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2021 |
Central Coast Pinot Noir |
$65 |
3 |
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2021 |
Estate Pinot Noir |
$115 |
2 |
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| WA 94+ (10/2024): The 2021 Pinot Noir Estate Vineyard, matured for 16 months in 69% new oak, is bursting with scents of pomegranate and raspberry preserves, orange peel, licorice, allspice and earth. Medium-bodied and powerful, the palate features concentrated, hedonistic flavors. It has a surprisingly elegant structure of silky tannins and bright acidity and boasts a long, perfumed finish. |
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2021 |
Ferrington Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$69 |
2 |
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JD 94 (2/2025): Soft, supple tannins wrap around lively layers of rose petal, raspberry, and a light hint of cardamom in the memorable 2021 Pinot Noir Ferrington Vineyard from this famous Russian River Valley producer. Medium-bodied, the wine is zesty and weighty, persistent in acidity while complex and long-lasting on the palate. Drink now through 2031. (Drink between 2025-2031). Virginie Boone.
WA 93 (10/2024): The 2021 Pinot Noir Ferrington Vineyard, matured for 16 months in 60% new oak, opens with flinty touches that give way to blackberry, blueberry, pennyroyal and earth aromas. The medium-bodied palate features powerful, perfumed flavors structured by powdery tannins and bright acidity, and it has a long, layered finish. It will benefit from 3-5 years in bottle. |
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2021 |
Foss Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$89 |
2 |
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| WA 94+ (10/2024): The 2021 Pinot Noir Foss Vineyard was matured for 16 months in 61% new oak and takes significant time to open. Initial tones of damp earth and flint eventually give way to raspberry, botanicals and floral perfume. The medium-bodied palate features highly concentrated, layered flavors. It’s structured by abundant, suede-textured tannins and mouthwatering acidity, and it has a long finish replete with a flourish of spicy accents. It will benefit from extended cellaring. |
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2021 |
Russian River Valley Pinot Noir |
$83 |
14 |
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WA 95 (6/2023): The 2021 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley, matured for 11 months in 41% new oak, is very expressive and generous this vintage. It has a medium ruby-purple color, and the nose is bursting with cranberry, raspberry, red cherry and wafts of tea leaves, mushroom, orange peel and wildflowers. The medium-bodied palate is full of powerful fruit, delivered in a seamless frame, and it reveals latent spicy accents on the long finish.
JD 93+ (7/2023): A deeper ruby, the 2021 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley is classic and well-layered with ripe aromas of cola spice, black cherry, and iron-rich earth. The palate is full and ripe with good freshness, notes of black raspberry and fresh forest floor, and a good lift of acidity. This is a fantastic example of place. Drink 2023-2028. Audrey Frick. |
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2021 |
Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir |
$79 |
1 |
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| JD 93 (7/2023): The ruby 2021 Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast is lifted with fresh aromas of wet stone, pepper, and fresh cherry. Medium-bodied, it offers a more linear feel, with a spine of bright acidity, and is balanced with blue and black berries, dusty earth, an angular texture, and a fresh lift. I love this for its snappy, crunchy fruit and nice balance. Drink 2024-2030. Audrey Frick. |
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2021 |
Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir |
$85 |
5 |
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| JD 93 (7/2023): The ruby 2021 Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast is lifted with fresh aromas of wet stone, pepper, and fresh cherry. Medium-bodied, it offers a more linear feel, with a spine of bright acidity, and is balanced with blue and black berries, dusty earth, an angular texture, and a fresh lift. I love this for its snappy, crunchy fruit and nice balance. Drink 2024-2030. Audrey Frick. |
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2021 |
Sonoma County Pinot Noir |
$65 |
3 |
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WA 93 (6/2023): The 2021 Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast, matured for 11 months in 40% new oak, has a pale ruby-purple color and slowly unfolding scents of raspberry, pomegranate, bergamot, aniseed and citrus peel. The medium-bodied palate offers powerful, spicy fruit and fireworks of fresh acidity, and it finishes long and gently chalky.
JD 93 (7/2023): The ruby 2021 Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast is lifted with fresh aromas of wet stone, pepper, and fresh cherry. Medium-bodied, it offers a more linear feel, with a spine of bright acidity, and is balanced with blue and black berries, dusty earth, an angular texture, and a fresh lift. I love this for its snappy, crunchy fruit and nice balance. Drink 2024-2030. (Drink between 2024-2030). Audrey Frick. |
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2021 |
Vista Verde Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$75 |
2 |
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| WA 93 (10/2024): Matured for 16 months in 60% new oak, the 2021 Pinot Noir Vista Verde is bursting with aromas of kirsch, strawberry pie, violet, cast iron and earth. The medium-bodied palate has an elegant structure of chalky tannins and bright acidity, and it gains intensity and expression as it opens in the glass. It will benefit from 3-5 years in bottle to unwind. |
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2021 |
Weir Vyd. Pinot Noir |
$99 |
2 |
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| WA 93 (10/2024): Matured for 16 months in 57% new oak, the 2021 Pinot Noir Weir Vineyard opens with aromas of blueberry, blackberry and wildflowers and reveals undertones of porcini mushrooms, tea leaves and iron as it spends time in the glass. The medium-bodied palate features generous, layered flavors structured by powdery tannins and seamless acidity, and it has a long, iron-laced finish. |
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