| Year | Wine | Variety | Location | Price | Num | Rating |
| | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
| 2002 | ? Les Bressandes | Pinot Noir | R B3 | | 1 | |
| 2002 | Alcina Cellars Las Madres | Pinot Noir | Back Bin | | 5 | |
| 1999 | Allegrini Amorone | | R-F7 | | 1 | |
| 2004 | Amon Ra | Shiraz | Under Table Top | | 9 | |
| 1997 | Anderson's Conn Valley | Cabernet | L-A5 | | 1 | |
| 1996 | Andre Ziltener Chambolle-Musigny | Pinot Noir | R-15 degree | | 2 | |
| 2006 | Araujo Estate | Syrah | L | | 3 | |
| 2006 | Araujo Estate | Cabernet | R Bin | | 6 | |
| 2002 | Arnoux Les Proces Premier Cru | Pinot Noir | R B2 | | 1 | |
| 2002 | Arnoux Vosne Romanee Grand Cru | Pinot Noir | R B1 | | 1 | |
| | Assorted dessert wines | | RR Bin | | 9 | |
| 1997 | Barone Ricasoli Toscana Casalferro | Red Wine | L-C8 | | 1 | 94WS |
| A monster Italian red. Aromas of coffee, roastedmeat and ripe berries precede a full-bodied winewith mouthpuckering tannins and an enormousconcentration of fruit. What it lacks in eleganceand sophistication it gives in concentration andpower. Best after 2003 |
| 2002 | Beaulieu Vineyards Georges De La Tour | Cabernet | L J4 | | 1 | |
| 1996 | Beaulieu Vinyards Georges de La Tour | Cabernet | L-J5 | | 1 | 91WS |
| Gushing with berry and new wood character--perhaps a bit too much--but it's rich and powerful, with lots of good tannins and a long finish. Definitely a modern-style Napa Cab.--Georges de Latour Private Reserve vertical. Best after 2006. |
| NV | Benjamin | Dessert Wine | Counter | | 1 | 91WS |
| Smooth and sweet, with distinctive lime and tangerine peel notes coming through the caramel, raisin and coffee flavors at the core. Delicious Port, and a steal at this price. Drink now. |
| 1996 | Beringer Nightingale private reserve | Dessert Wine | L-B7 | | 1 | |
| 1993 | Beringer Private Reserve | Cabernet | L-K3,4 | 45 | 2 | 93WS, 92+RP |
| From Beringer's impressive line of reserve bottlings. Remarkable for its intensity, richness, depth and concentration, this is a big yet elegant wine stuffed with complex currant, leather, spice, sage and cedar flavors that fan out on the palate. Tempting now, but probably best cellared into 1999 to 2001. 11,500 cases made. |
| 1995 | Beringer Private Reserve | Cabernet | L-K2 | 60 | 1 | 92WS, 93RP |
| A tightly wound wine from a classic vintage, with a firm band of cedar and spice wrapped around a core of ripe plum, blackberry and black cherry. It fans out to reveal hints of olive and smoke, firming on the finish. Best from 2002 through 2011. |
| 1995 | Beringer Private Reserve | Cabernet | Under Table Top | 60 | 12 | 92WS, 93RP |
| A tightly wound wine from a classic vintage, with a firm band of cedar and spice wrapped around a core of ripe plum, blackberry and black cherry. It fans out to reveal hints of olive and smoke, firming on the finish. Best from 2002 through 2011. 15,000 cases made. |
| 2001 | Bonny Doon NM1 | Syrah | RR Bin | | 1 | |
| 2004 | Brancaia Il Blu | | | | 1 | |
| swap w/Dave Colin |
| 2000 | Brane-Cantenac | Blend | Wood case storage | | 12 | 91WS |
| Subtle aromas of blackberry and vanilla. Medium- to full-bodied, with a solid core of silky tannins. Long and caressing. Very fresh, almost tart. An estate going places. Best after 2009. 12,500 cases made. |
| split case w/Dallas, Mike and Gerry |
| 2001 | Bryant Family Vineyards Family Cab | Cabernet | L G9-? | | 6 | |
| 2001 | Bryant Family Vineyards Family Cab | Cabernet | L-15 degree, R 15 degree, L G10,11 | 210 | 4 | |
| 2006 | Buccella Winery | Cabernet | L K10-15 | | 6 | |
| 2001 | Buehler | Cabernet | L-D1 | | 1 | |
| NV | Campbells | Muscat | L-B10 | | 1 | |
| 2001 | Castell del Remei Gotim Bru | | RE7,8, RD6 | | 3 | |
| 2002 | Cave Spring Indian Summer | LH Riesling | | | 1 | |
| 1995 | Chateau Certan | Bordeaux | Wood case storage | | 9 | |
| 1999 | Chateau D' Yquem | Dessert Wine | RR bin | | 4 | |
| 1997 | Chateau De La Tour Reserve 6L | Bordeaux | Up Top | 79 | 1 | 84WS |
| Lovely aromas of blackberries, black olives and cherries. Medium-bodied, with silky tannins and a short finish. A bit lean really. Best after 2000. |
| 1998 | Chateau Faugeres | Bordeaux | FR-C1,2,3 | | 3 | 91WS |
| Fantastic aromas of berry, chocolate and cherry. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a long, long finish. Very well done. A château on the rise. Best after 2006. 9,580 cases made. |
| 2000 | Chateau Gigault Cuvee | Bordeaux | Back Bin | | 3 | |
| 1995 | Chateau Greysac | Bordeaux | RR Bin | | 1 | 83WS |
| Plenty of cherry and light earth aromas. Medium-bodied, with silky tannins and a light finish. A bit simple really. Drink now |
| 1997 | Chateau Greysac | Bordeaux | FR-D1-3 | | 3 | 83WS |
| I like the berry and mineral character in this '97 but it finishes rather short. Medium to light body. Drink now. |
| 1995 | Chateau Lafon Cotes d Duras Red Table Wine | Malbec | R-G6 | | 1 | |
| 1996 | Chateau Leoville Barton | Bordeaux | RR-Bin | | 1 | 90WS |
| A well-structured, racy red. Lovely, fresh aromas of raspberries, cream and currants. Medium- to full-bodied, with well-integrated tannins which are firm yet silky. One of the more reasonably priced top '96s. Best after 2000. |
| 1996 | Chateau Marquis de Terme | Bordeaux | RR Bin | | 1 | 85WS |
| Good fruit character, with plenty of new wood on the nose. Medium-bodied, with firm tannins and a caressing finish, but rather hollow midpalate. Best after 2000. |
| 1996 | Chateau Saint Jean Cinque Cepages | Blend | L-H5, L-15 degree | 34 | 2 | 95WS |
| Dense, rich and complex describes this '96 California Cabernet--with its layers of currant, mineral, plum, cherry and toasty oak and its broad, intense and deeply flavorful finish. An extraordinary wine, scoring classic and well-priced. Best from 2000 through 2008. |
| 1999 | Chateau d' Yquem | Sauternes | L-B6-8, 15d | | 4 | |
| 2001 | Chateau de Malle | Dessert Wine | RR bin | | 5 | |
| 2006 | Cheverny Le Pitit Chambord | White Bordeaux | R Bin | | 3 | |
| 2006 | Chevrey | White Loir Valley | RF Bin | | 3 | |
| 1995 | Cinnabar | Cabernet | L-D2 | | 1 | |
| 2000 | Clos Du Marquis | Bordeaux | Wood case storage | | 12 | |
| 1996 | Clos du Val | Cabernet | L-I4 | | 1 | 88WS |
| Trim, with good depth to the leathery cherry and cranberry flavors, with a firm herbal thread. Finishes with crisp tannins. Best from 2000 through 2006 |
| 1994 | Cockburn's Vintage Port | Port | RR bin | | 1 | 92WS |
| A big and juicy, young vintage Port. Round, with loads of very ripe roasted and raisiny character. Full-bodied and medium-sweet, with a tannic backbone. Try after 2008 |
| 2000 | Constant | Cabernet | | | 5 | |
| 2002 | Corte' Riva | Merlot | LF1-3 | | 3 | |
| 2003 | Corte' Riva | Cabernet | Back Bin | | 3 | |
| 1996 | Cos D' Estournel | Bordeaux | L-15 degree | 60 | 2 | 95WS |
| A classy and impressive young Bordeaux from an appellation that stepped up in '96. Dark-colored, with plenty of currant and spice aromas, the wine is full-bodied, with very velvety tannins and allspice, berry and currant flavors. Long, long finish. One of the wines of the vintage, it's a beauty. Best after 2005. |
| 1999 | Craneford | Shiraz | R-P7 | | 1 | 88WS |
| Chewy texture, earthy flavors and fine structure mark this as a serious wine and a cellar candidate, but the berry and plum fruit at the core needs to come out a little more. Best after 2002. 600 cases made. |
| 1995 | Cuvaison | Cabernet | L-B9 | | 1 | 88WS |
| A ripe, smooth and polished style, with supple currant, earth, anise and cedary notes, finishing with fine tannins and good length. Best from 1999 through 2004. (JL) |
| 1997 | Cuvaison | Cabernet | L-F7 | | 1 | 88WS |
| Wonderful richness, intensity and depth of flavor, with elegant, supple currant, mint, coffee and cedar, turning firmly tannic and rich on the finish. Best from 2002 through 2012. 5,300 cases made. |
| 2000 | Cuvaison | Merlot | L F6 | | 1 | |
| 2004 | D'Alenberg Dead Arm | Shiraz | RR Bin | | 1 | |
| 1999 | D'Arenberg Dead Arm | Shiraz | FR A11 | | 1 | 91WS |
| Polished, round and generous with its cherry, berry and spice flavors, hinting at vanilla and smoke on the ripe finish. This favors grace over power. Drink now through 2007. 1,000 cases imported. |
| birthday gift from Mike Blau |
| 2006? | Dalla Valle Maya | Cabernet | R 15 degree; L C9-11 | | 4 | |
| 2005 | David Arthur | Cabernet | L A7 | | 1 | |
| 2004 | David Fulton | Petite Sirah | R D1-6 | 40 | 6 | |
| 1997 | Doisy-Vedrines | Dessert Wine | RR Bin | 30 | 2 | 93WS |
| Lots of spice, honey, apricot and dried fruit character. Full-bodied and very sweet, with a long, spicy vanilla aftertaste. A lively young thing. Best after 2002 |
| 1999 | Dutschke Willow Bend Merlot/Shiraz/Cab | Red Wine | Back Bin | 12 | 10 | 93WS |
| Ripe, drippingly rich and generous, brimming with cherry, berry and seductive spice flavors, picking up pepper and licorice notes on the long finish. Tannins are well-submerged. Merlot, Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon. Drink now through 2010. 750 cases made. ( |
| 1/2 Mike |
| 2001 | E Guigal | Rhone | FR-D5 | | 1 | |
| 1999 | Elderton Command Shiraz | Shiraz | FR-B8,9 | | 2 | |
| 1999 | Estancia | Cabernet | L-A10 | | 1 | 86WS |
| Black currant and herb notes weave together with plenty of toasty oak and modest tannin. Drink now through 2004. |
| 2005 | Fairchild | Cabernet | L E12-14 | 140 | 3 | |
| 2005 | Fairchild Sigaro | Cabernet | L E15-16 | 160 | 2 | |
| 1995 | Far Niente | Cabernet | L-15 degree | | 1 | 92WS |
| Tight, complex and concentrated, this outstanding Cab harbors a pretty core of spicy currant, anise, tar, sage and cedar, turning supple and harmonious on the finish, where the flavors fan out and show remarkable depth and finesse. Will reward cellaring. Best from 2002 through 2010 |
| 1995 | Fattoria dei Barbi | Brunello | R-A1 | | 1 | |
| 2003 | Fisher Coach Insignia | Cabernet | | | 2 | |
| 1999 | Flora Springs Trilogy | Blend | L-E10,11 | | 2 | 89WS |
| Trim and elegant, with rich cedar, chocolate and black cherry, hints of tobacco and dill. Turns tight and firmly tannic on the finish. 595 cases made |
| 1997 | Flora Springs Wild Boar | Cabernet | L-H1-5 | | 5 | 93WS |
| Dark, rich, smooth and chocolaty, with a pretty core of earthy currant, plum and blackberry accented by hints of mineral and cedar. Finishes with a gush of fruit and mocha. Tannins are firm and supple. Best from 2003 through 2012. 1,400 cases made. ( |
| drank 2/25/02-big, bold wine. let settle a few yrs before retrying. |
| 1997 | Fonseca | Port | RR Bin | | 1 | |
| 1997 | Freemark Abbey | Cabernet | L-D3 | | 1 | 91WS |
| Intense, with mineral, vanilla, currant and mushroom notes, offering excellent length, with sturdy tannins and chocolate richness on the finish. Drink now through 2009. (JL) |
| 2000 | Grand Puy Lacoste | Bordeaux | Wood case storage | | 9 | |
| 1997 | Greg Norman Cab/Merlot | Red Wine | FR-C8,9 | | 2 | |
| 1998 | Greg Norman Cab/Merlot | Red Wine | FR-D8-12 | | 5 | 88WS |
| 1998 | Greg Norman Limestone Coast | Shiraz | FR-C10 | | 1 | 89WS |
| Ripe and generous, framing its bright cherry and plum flavors with a velvety texture and fine tannins. An intriguing note of peach and spice on the finish. Supple enough to enjoy already. Drink now through 2007. |
| 1996 | Groth | Cabernet | L-A3 | 40 | 1 | 89WS |
| Smooth and polished up front, with supple herb, chocolate and currant flavors, it tightens up on the finish, where it shows more tannic strength. Best from 2001 through 2008. 8,400 cases made. |
| NV | Gruet Brut | Champagne | R 15 dgree | | 1 | |
| 2006 | Havens Black & Blue | Red Wine | L K6-9 | 40 | 4 | |
| 1994 | Heitz | Cabernet | L-E4 | | 1 | 84WS |
| Spicy and peppery, of medium weight, with a modest range of dried cherry and berry flavors that turn dry and austere. Good but not exciting. Drink now through 2004. (JL) |
| 1993 | Heitz Bella Oaks | Cabernet | L-E1 | 50 | 1 | 91 |
| Best version of this Rutherford-grown wine in nearly a decade. Aromatically complex, with pretty floral and plummy aromas, the lean, austere style slowly unfolds to reveal a broad range of complex flavors, with currant, spice, sage and cedar notes. Impeccably balanced, this late-release Cabernet will be best from 1999 to 2005. 1,521 cases made |
| 1993 | Heitz Trailside Vinyards | Cabernet | L-E2,3 | 45 | 2 | 92WS |
| Deliciously complex, with ripe, juicy currant, black cherry and spice flavors. There's also plenty of toasty, vanilla-laced oak, but it wears the wood well and finishes with minty chocolate notes that linger. This late-release Cabernet drinks well now. Best from 1999 through 2007. 3,796 cases made. |
| 2002 | Henri Clerc & Fils Echezeaux | Pinot Noir | R B4 | | 1 | |
| 1996 | Hess Select | Cabernet | L-C3 | | 1 | 85WS |
| Rich, ripe and focused, with balanced flavors of tart cherry and berry, herb and vanilla oak notes. Drink now through 2002. |
| 1998 | Hogue Late Harvest | Riesling | L-B14-15 | 9 | 2 | 89WS |
| A frankly sweet wine sporting a crisp, lemony side to the light peach and apricot flavors, the ensemble gaining intensity on the balanced finish. This late-harvest Riesling isn't quite a dessert wine, but it's certainly sweet and flavorful. Good price, too. From Washington. Drink now through 2003 |
| 2005 | Hundred Acre | Cabernet | L B6 | 300 | 1 | |
| 1999 | Icardi Pierino Suri di Mu | Red Table Wine | R-A3 | 21 | 1 | 92RP,6MIKE |
| opaque-purple colored and full-bodied, w/a gorgeous perfume of strawberry, cherry, and blackberry jam aromas mixed w/charcoal, graphite, and new oak, this is a succulent, hedonistic,Barbera fruit bomb to drink over the next 3-5 yrs. |
| this is a great wine |
| 1983 | Inglenook Reserve Cask | Cabernet | R-15 degree | | 1 | 88WS |
| Cedar and menthol characters tend to outshine the fruit at this stage, with lots of tannin and some pretty fair Cabernet fruit and even an underlying silky texture. Big and powerful, very woody and definitely for the cellar |
| 1998 | Inniskillin Vidal Ice Wine | Dessert Wine | RR-Bin | 45 | 1 | |
| 2005 | Joel Gott trio The Show | Cabernet | RR Bin | 10 | 9 | |
| 1997 | Joseph Phelps Insignia | Blend | L-15 degree | | 1 | 96WS |
| Superrich and seductive version of this prestigious red, its layers of currant, black cherry, chocolate and ginger turning smooth and polished, with a long, intricate aftertaste. Best from 2002 through 2012. |
| 2005 | Kapcsandy Family Cab | Cabernet | | | 2 | |
| 1998 | Kracher #11 WelschRiesling Trockenbeeren Auslee | Dessert Wine | RR-Bin | | 12 | |
| 1998 | Kracher #8 | Dessert Wine | L-B11 | | 1 | |
| 2004 | Kumala | Shiraz | RF Bin | | 13 | |
| 1998 | La Bionda Campo Casal Vegri | Valpolicella | Back Bin | 16 | 3 | 6Mike |
| 1992 | La Puosse D'Or Volnay 1er Cru Les Caillerets | Pinot Noir | FR-E6,E7 | | 2 | |
| 2006 | Larkin | Cabernet Franc | L E6 | | 1 | |
| 2000 | Lehmann Barossa Cab | Cabernet | R-P6 | | 1 | |
| 2000 | Lehmann Barossa Shiraz | Shiraz | R-P4 | | 1 | |
| 1995 | Louis Jadot Les Boudots | Pinot Noir | FR-B1-5 | | 5 | 1/2 Mike |
| split w/Mike from Peter @ Avalon |
| 1993 | Louis Latour, Domaine Beaune Annee | Pinot Noir | FR-D4 | | 1 | |
| 2002 | Madrigal | Petite Sirah | RF Bin | | 15 | |
| 2004 | Madrigal | Petite Syrah | RF Bin | | 1 | |
| 2004 | Madrigal | Zinfandel | RF Bin | | 1 | |
| 2004 | Madrigal | Cabernet | RF Bin | | 1 | |
| 2004 | Madrigal | Merlot | RF Bin | | 1 | |
| 1997 | Marc Morey Corton-Perrieres Gran Cru | Pinot Noir | FR-C4-7 and 15 degree | | 5 | 1/2 Mike |
| split w/Mike fr Peter @ Avalon |
| 2005 | Maybach Materium | Cabernet | L H10-12 | | 3 | |
| 2006 | Maybach Materium | Cabernet | | | 2 | |
| 2005 | Meander | Cabernet | Back Bin | | 5 | |
| NV | Meyer Family Port | Dessert Wine | L-B5,B6 | | 2 | |
| 1999 | Michel Colin-Deleger Les Chenevottes Premier Cru | White Burgandy | FR-A6, A7, B6, 15 degree | | 4 | 1/2 Mike |
| split w/Mike fr Peter @ Avalon |
| 2003 | Michel Gross Vogne Romanee | | R 15 degree | | 1 | |
| 1997 | Midnight Cellars | Cabernet | Back Bin | | 6 | |
| 1996 | Midnight Cellars Reserve | Cabernet | L-H8,9 | 27 | 2 | 86WS |
| A bit on the austere side, with tangy flavors of strawberry, mint, red currants and mocha. The tannins finish a bit dry. Drink now through 2006. |
| 2006 | Modus Operandi | Cabernet | R Front Bin | 65 | 13 | |
| 2007 | Modus Vicarious | Red Wine | L J7-12 | | 5 | |
| 1997 | Mount Veeder | Cabernet | L-B1-5 | | 5 | 88WS |
| Dark, dense, chewy and chunky, with tightly wound currant, coffee, mocha and pencil lead flavors, finishing in a rich aftertaste. Drink now through 2010. 10,000 cases made. |
| 1999 | NV Manthia | | R A6-8 | | 3 | |
| 2001 | Nickel & Nickel Rock Cairn Vineyard | Cabernet | L C6 | | 1 | |
| 2005 | O'Shaughnessy Howell Mountain | Cabernet | R F2-4 | | 2 | |
| 2005 | O'Shaughnessy Mt. Veeder | Cabernet | R E2,3, 15 degree | | 3 | |
| 2001 | Opus One Andrew Halper | Blend | L A11 | | 1 | |
| 2006 | Oreno Sete Ponti | Red Wine | | 139 | 1 | WS96 |
| #15 WS Top 100-2008 |
| Shows loads of black licorice, blackberry and toasty oak. Full-bodied, with supersilky tannins and a long, long finish. Has wonderful concentration and balance. Structured. The best Oreno ever. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Sangiovese." |
| 2006 | Oreno Sette Ponti | Red Wine | Top | | 3 | |
| 2001 | Oreno Toscana | | L-15 degree | | 1 | |
| 2002 | Ottimino Little 8 | Zinfandel | L A6 | | 1 | |
| 2005 | Ovid | Cabernet | Top | | 2 | |
| solid, but not enough taste to warrant price tag |
| 2001 | Pahlmeyer | Cabernet | L I1 | | 1 | |
| 2000 | Paradigm | Zinfandel | L-G1,2 | | 2 | |
| 2002 | Peju | Cabernet | Back Bin | | 5 | |
| 2002 | Peju | Syrah | Back Bin | | 3 | |
| 1996 | Penfolds Bin 407 | Cabernet | FR-A8,9 | | 2 | |
| 1997 | Penfolds Bin 707 | Cabernet | L-15 degree, R-15 degree, 5b case | 79 | 5 | 91WS |
| Generous in flavor, supple in texture, delivering a ripe mouthful of mint-shaded black cherry and currant flavors that linger on the open finish, echoing mint and fruit. Tannins are beautifully integrated. Best from 2005 through 2012. 15,884 cases made. |
| 1992 | Penfolds Grange | Cabernet blend | Wood case storage | 125 | 23 | |
| 1998 | Penfolds Grange | | R 15 degree, Cases | | 25 | |
| 1998 | Peter Lehman | Cabernet | R-P5 | | 1 | 88WS |
| Smooth, generous and appealing for its blackberry, black currant and generally dark-fruit flavors, nicely shaded with coffee, caramel and nutmeg notes. Structure is velvety and nicely packed for developing in the cellar. Drink now through 2008 |
| 1997 | Pichon Longueville | Bordeaux | FR-15 degree | 45 | 1 | 87WS |
| Good berry and mineral character, with medium body, fine tannins and a delicate finish. Drink now. |
| 1995 | Pine Ridge Howell Mountain | Cabernet | L-J1-3 | | 3 | 88WS |
| Remarkably supple and refined for Howell Mountain, with spicy currant, herb, sage and mineral, finishing with dashes of tar and cedar. The tannins slowly work their way to the forefront, so it's best cellared. 1,640 cases made. |
| 2000 | Pipeau Grand Cru | Bordeaux | FR E1-3 | | 3 | |
| 1995 | Pontet Canet | Bordeaux | Back Bin | | 7 | 94WS |
| This is the best Pontet-Canet I have ever tasted. Dark ruby-colored, offering berry, raspberry and dark chocolate character. Full-bodied and very fruity, with big, velvety tannins. A glorious red, this goes on and on on the palate, displaying wonderful structure and fruit. Best after 2002 |
| tried 2/25/02. still pretty closed. try again in a few yrs. |
| 1996 | Pontet Canet | Bordeaux | Wood case storage | 35 | 12 | 90WS |
| WS-A young red, with bright black licorice and berry aromas and hints of spice. Full-bodied, with firm tannins and compact fruit structure. Slightly closed on the finish, but impressive nonetheless. Best after 2002; RP- “A classic Pauillac, the 1996 continues to flesh out, revealing an opaque purple color, and a magnificent creme de cassis nose reminiscent of the superb vintages of Mouton-Rothschild (Pontet-Canet's neighbor). The wine is full-bodied, as well as extraordinarily rich, ripe, and powerful, with layers of sweet black fruits intertwined with earth, minerals, and spicy oak. Massive on the palate, with lofty tannin, but equally high extract, this is a profound Pontet-Canet that may turn out to be even more classic and longer-lived than the 1995 and 1994. Terrific stuff! Anticipated maturity: 2006-2035” |
| Max's wine |
| 2000 | Pride | Cabernet | L-15 degree | | 1 | 90 WS |
| Intense and vibrant, with a tight band of spicy currant, anise, mineral and sage. Young and backward, it needs time to soften and evolve. Best from 2004 through 2012. 3,178 cases made |
| 2000 | Prieuré-Lichine | Bordeaux | Wood case storage | | 12 | 91WS |
| A solid young red, with big, velvety tannins and lots of ripe fruit, tobacco and chocolate character. Long, fresh finish. One of the best Prieuré-Lichine in a long, long time. Best after 2007. 18,000 cases made. |
| split case w/Dallas, Mike and Gerry |
| NV | R.L. Buller & Son Tokay Victoria NV | Dessert Wine | L-B10,11,12 | 13 | 2 | 91WS |
| Unctuously sweet, rich in texture and long, playing out its crème brûlée, orange peel and evanescent remnants of cherry fruit as the wine coats the mouth luxuriantly. Drink now. 2,000 cases made. |
| NV | RH Buller | Tokay | RR Bin | | 2 | |
| 1983 | Ramos Pinto Vintage Port | Port | RR Bin #2 | | 1 | 89WS |
| Has more grip and power than the '85, but is still elegant. Deep ruby with a black center, aromas of licorice, blackberries and earth, full-bodied, with ripe blackberry flavors, full tannins and wonderful elegance and balance. |
| 1995 | Raymond Generations | Cabernet | L-I5 | | 1 | 88WS |
| A well-oaked and complex style, with a pretty underlying band of berry, black cherry and plum. The intensity is there to cellar into 2000, when it will likely have come together. Best from 2000 through 2007. (JL) |
| 1997 | Raymond Reserve | Cabernet | L-D7 | 22 | 1 | 90WS |
| Here's an outstanding reserve Cabernet at a reasonable price. It's firm, focused and complex, leading off with a smoky, toasty core of oak notes and complementary flavors of ripe black cherry, currant, cedar and tar. Deliciously complex on the finish, where the flavors persist. Drink now through 2007 |
| 1998 | Raymond Reserve | Cabernet | L-D6 | | 1 | 92WS |
| A nice round red, with ripe flavors of black currant, cotton candy, spice and lavish toasty oak. Solid tannins integrate harmoniously with coffee flavors on the finish. Best from 2001 through 2009. |
| 1995 | Reinhessen Nierteiner...Spatlese | White wine | FR-E4 | | 1 | |
| 1995 | Renwood Clockspring Vineyard | Muscat Canelli | | | 1 | |
| 2002 | Reverie | Cabernet Franc | L I6,7 | | 2 | |
| 1999 | Reverie AS KiKken | Red Wine | RF Bin | | 15 | |
| 1999 | Ridge Monte Bello | Cabernet | R-15 degree, Back Bin | 60 | 8 | 92WS Collectibles |
| "A wine of great balance, finesse and grace. Well-focused, the ripe, tart, rich blackberry and currant fruit is intense yet elegant, picking up earth, mineral and sage notes, and finishing with fine, well-integrated tannins. Drink now through 2012" |
| tasted April '02. very much like concentrated grape juice. |
| 2003 | Rieussec 1/2 bottle | | Under Table Top | 20 | 8 | |
| 1995 | Robert Mondavi | Cabernet | L-A9 | | 1 | 90WS |
| A dense, well-oaked style, with plenty of anise, currant, chocolate, cedar and berry flavors to sustain it. Turns complex and supple on the finish, though it has the tannic strengh to cellar short-term. Drink now through 2004. |
| 1999 | Robert Mondavi | Cabernet | L-B7 | 17 | 1 | |
| 1993 | Robert Mondavi Reserve | Cabernet | Back Bin | 50 | 7 | 90WS, 93RP |
| Dark, ripe and intense, with a tight core of currant, mineral, earth and spice flavors. Turns dry and austere on the finish, where the flavors show more earthy qualities. Best to cellar into 1999. 17,000 cases made. |
| 1997 | Rosemount GSM | Red Wine | FR-E8 | | 1 | 94WS |
| Rich and distinctive, a bit lighter than moststraight Aussie Shirazes but dripping withflavors, corralling a wild range of meatyblackberry, red cherry, black cherry and pepperflavors into a smooth wine of enormous characterand depth. Appealing already. Best after 2002. (HS) |
| 1999 | Sausal | Zinfandel | Back Bin | | 4 | 90WS Highly Recommended |
| Smooth, ripe and rich, with a pretty core of currant and black cherry-laced fruit that shows more flavor with every sip. Mildly tannic. A terrific value from a reliable producer. Best from 2003 through 2008. 4,000 cases made. |
| 1995 | Sebastiani | Cabernet | L-F11,12 | 13 | 2 | 87WS |
| Muscular, with black currant, tar, anise and herb notes. It's got depth, though the tannins are somewhat drying. Should improve in the bottle. A fine value. Best from 1999 through 2004. |
| 1996 | Sebastiani | Cabernet | L-F9,10 | | 2 | 88WS |
| Rich, smoky and plush, showing off lots of toasty oak, coffee and cola flavors, complex black cherry, cedar and anise. Perks up on the smooth finish and carries the flavors through. Drink now through 2006 . |
| 1997 | Sebastiani Sonoma Cask | Cabernet | L G3-5 | | 3 | 90WS |
| Layers of coffee, currant, mineral, black cherry, sage and cedar unfold in this ripe, rich and complex Cabernet, finishing with a long, intricate aftertaste. The price represents a great deal on a wine that's both cellarable aand drinkable now. Drink now through 2008. 3,850 cases made. (JL) |
| 2006 | Seven Stones | Cabernet | L H15-16 | | 2 | |
| 2004 | Shafer Hillside Select | Cabernet | Case | | 3 | |
| 2005 | Shafer Hillside Select | Cabernet | Case | | 3 | |
| 1997 | Silverado Limited Reserve | Cabernet | Back Bin | | 9 | |
| 1996 | Simi | Petite Sirah | L-E7 | | 1 | |
| 2000 | Smith Woodhouse Vintage Port | Port | R Bin #2 | 42 | 3 | 95-100 WS Barrel tasting |
| Blackstrap wine. Wow. Intense aromas of blackberries, mineral, black licorice and wet earth. Full-bodied, medium-sweet, with a mouthpuckering amount of tannins, yet it's refined and very, very long. A beauty. Greatest young vintage of SW I have ever tasted. 4,000 cases made. Score range: 95-100 |
| 1999 | Snowden | Cabernet | L-D9-12 | | 4 | |
| split w/Mike? |
| 2000 | Sociando Mallet Magnum | Bordeaux | RR Bin | | 1 | |
| 2000 | Spottswoode | Cabernet | Back Bin split w/Mike | 74 | 7 | |
| 2006 | Switchback Ridge Peterson Syrah | Syrah | L,J15-17 | | 3 | |
| 1997 | Tenuta Bibbiano Chianti Classico Montornello | Sangiovese | R-C3,4 | | 2 | 81WS |
| Light, fruity and easy, with plum and cedar character. Drink now. |
| 1998 | Torre Muga | Red Wine | FR-B13 | | 1 | 90 WS |
| Lush and ripe. Rich plum and cherry flavors are wrapped in toasty oak and supported by muscular tannins in this exuberant red. A bit clumsy now, but vivid and deep. Best from 2003 through 2008. 1,000 cases imported |
| 2000 | Tronquoy-Lalande | Bordeaux | Back Bin | | 6 | 92-94WS Barrel tasting Bodeaux gp |
| Black licorice, with tar and berry aromas. Full-bodied, with very fine, well-knit tannins and a long, berry finish. Very well done for this estate. Score range: 92-94 |
| split case w/Dallas, Mike |
| 2002 | Twenty Bench | Cabernet | Back Bin | | 4 | |
| 2006 | Valle Reale Vigne Nuove D'Abruzzo | Montepulciano | RF Bin | | 5 | |
| | Various bottles | Cabernet | bin on Right | | 28 | |
| 1999 | Vincent Girardin Les Grand Epenots Premier Cru | Pinot Noir | FR A1-5 | | 5 | 1/2 Mike |
| split w/Mike fr Peter @ Avalon |
| 1999 | Vincent Girardin Maranges 1er Cru, Clos des Loyeres | Pinot Noir | Back Bin | | 10 | |
| 1999 | Vincent Girardin Premier Cru | | ?? | | | |
| 1999 | Vinterra San Juan Malbec | Malbec | FR C13 | 6 | 1 | 80WS |
| A little lean for Malbec, with cherry and spice notes, and a finish that picks up a slightly tart quality. Might unfold a bit with food. Drink now. |
| 2001 | Volker Eisele Terzetto | Napa Red | L E9-11 | 75 | 3 | |
| 1997 | Warre's Vintage Port | Port | RR Bin | | 1 | 94WS |
| Aromas of minerals, berries and wet earth jump out of the glass. Full-bodied and very chewy, with lots of fruit and a long finish. A tough young wine. Warre is flexing its muscles here. Best after 2008. |
| 2000 | Warres Vintage | Port | R Bin #2 | | 4 | |
| 1995 | Whitehall Lane | Cabernet | Back Bin | | 6 | 88WS |
| Rich, complex and flavorful, with a concentrated core of earthy currant, plum and berry-scented flavors, and firm, dry tannins. Finishes with dense sage and herbal overtones and enough tannin to merit cellaring. Best from 2000 to 2004 |
| 1997 | Whitehall Lane Reserve | Cabernet | L C1,2 | 65 | 2 | 97WS |
| Deliciously ripe, rich and deeply flavored, with juicy layers of coffee, herb, currant, sage, chocolate, toffee and spice, with a long, complex, integrated finish. Best from 2002 through 2012. 2,850 cases made. |
| 2001 | William Cole | Cabernet | Case | | 1 | |
| 2003 | William Cole | Cabernet | Case | | 5 | |
| 2005 | William Cole | Cabernet | | | 1 | |
| 1996 | William Hill Reserve | Cabernet | L D4 | | 1 | 86WS |
| Ripe, with black olive, mineral, black cherry and sage notes. Focused finish is firmly tannic. Drink now |
| NV | Yalumba Museum Release Old Sweet Wine | Dessert Wine | L-C6 | 17 | 1 | 92WS |
| Intensely sweet, spicy and exotic, with molasses and coffee notes around a core of dried cherry, walnut and smoky orange peel flavors that linger extensively. A complex dessert wine that deserves contemplation. Made from Muscadelle. Drink now. |