| Year | Wine | Variety | Location | Price | Num | Rating |
| 2005 | Argus Sangiovese/Merlot | Red Wine | | 15 | 4 | |
| 2005 | Abeja Reserve | Cabernet | 10C5 | 92 | 1 | 92st |
| 92st "Bright ruby. Musky aromas of blackberry, violet, lavender and oak. Ripe and lush but dry, with an exotic note of apricot pit adding complexity to the dark berry and spice flavors. A suave and energetic cabernet that finishes broad and rich, with superb aromatic lift and a lingering spice character." 92 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar, Nov/Dec 08 |
| 2001 | Anderson's Conn Valley Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve | Cabernet | 11C1-3 | 70 | 3 | 94rp |
| 94rp Napa Valley, California Anderson's Conn Valley Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve is a great 2001 vintage Napa Cab that will last for over 20 years Anderson's Conn Valley Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve is a great 2001 vintage Napa Cab that will last for over 20 years. The much-awaited 2001 Cabernet Sauvignons from Napa are finally here, and this is one of the finest yet. This wine just earned an incredible 94 RATING from Robert Parker. In his estimation, this appears to be one of the finest Cabernet Reserves produced since the mid 90’s. Additional comments are: “EXPLOSIVE FINISH, COMPLEX AROMAS OF CEDAR, SPICE AND EARTH. A DRY RED FOR DECADES TO COME.” |
| 2001 | Andrew Geoffrey | Cabernet | 9D4-5 | 75 | 2 | 92we |
| 92 points and a "Cellar Selection" from Wine Enthusiast: "Diamond Mountain District Cabs always are very tannic, and so is this one, but it should reward cellaring. It’s well-oaked, with balancing acids and a tremendous core of blackberry and currant fruit that penetrates the palate and lasts through the finish. Combines power and finesse. Drink now-2015." (6/1/2005) Firm, dark, rich and concentrated, with intense, chewy tannins that match up well with layers of earthy currant, coffee, mint, blackberry, cedar, anise and spice. This is a big, expressive, intense wine that can be enjoyed now and should improve for the next several years. But the tannins may be an issue, so if you buy a few bottles, taste one early to judge for yourself. Best from 2005 through 2012. 1,367 cases made. " WS - 91 pts |
| 2005 | Andrew Will Champoux Vineyard | Red Wine | 10C2-4 | 60 | 3 | 94rp |
| 94rp The 2005 Champoux Vineyard is made up of 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Petit Verdot. Purple-colored, it delivers an alluring perfume of pain grille, spice box, and violets. On the palate, it is layered, intense, and powerful. Its impeccable balance should allow it to evolve for up to a decade and drink well through 2030. 94 Points, Harvey Steiman/Wine Spectator. Seamless and harmonious, with beautifully articulated, ripe black cherry, cassis and violet-tinged floral notes that mingle with hints of cedar and dark chocolate as the finish sails on against polished tannins. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Best from 2009 through 2015. |
| 2002 | Arger Martucci Vineyards | Cabernet | 3B4 | 63 | 1 | 88we |
| 88we A cellar selection from W.E. Here’s an old -style Cab. Tastes like it was picked earlier than most these days, giving a dry, rich earthiness along with acidity and firm, dry tannins. Opulent it’s not, but balanced and ageworthy it is, and will probably last for 20 years. — S.H. (9/1/2006) Located not far from the bustling town of St. Helena, Arger Martucci is a small country winery once known as Villa Helena, a winery famous from years past. The owners, a doctor and a banker and their wives, are actually from Reno, Nevada, but in a few short years they seem to have found themselves completely in-step with the cadence of Napa. |
| 2004 | August Briggs Monte Rosso | Cabernet | 7D1 | 55 | 1 | 93cp |
| 93cp The 2004 vintage represents August Briggs' fourth release of this famous vineyard designated Cabernet Sauvignon. Due to a moderate crop level and warm ripening season this 100% Cabernet Sauvignon is dark purple in color & full-bodied with deep fruit flavors of blackberry & plum, as well as, aromatic hints of smoky oak & chocolate in the nose. This wine is big and drinkable now, but age worthy for many years. Definitely a Mountain Cabernet! This is one of those rare Napa Cabernets that is both big and elegant. Starts with bold, intense flavors of black cherry fruit and finishes with complex aromas of cocoa, earth and smoky oak that lingers. Swirl this one and serve it with roasts and your favorite BBQ meats. Briggs is a great American wine entrepreneur success story. You may want to put a few bottles away because some day soon, this winemaker's wines are going to be impossible to get. A mere 298 cases were produced--don't miss this opportunity to own and enjoy a future classic |
| 2002 | Axios | Cabernet | 10C6 | 125 | 1 | 87ws |
| Cabernet Sauvignon - Napa, CA - Peaks 2008-14 - $125 - Although young...very smooth and balanced, shows great potential! Premium Price is our only issue - Grade B+ Snooth 4+ WS87 ntense, with ripe, vibrant currant, cedar, herb and bay leaf scents, it turns dry and cedary on the palate, revealing a touch of greenness that makes the tannins taste very dry. Decant. Drink now through 2012. -Wine Spectator |
| 1999 | B.V. George De Latour Private Reserve | Cabernet | 6B11 | 100 | 1 | 91w&s |
| 91w&s Nearly opaque black ruby-violet color. Pronounced, herbal, licorice-vanilla and dark cherry aromas, fragrant and explosive intensity. Definite clone 6 influence!, almost dark and earthy. Full-bodied, with a thick chewy texture, ripe black and red fruits, firm but supple tannins and no sense of jamminess or over-ripeness. Ripe tannins and solid acidity provide underpinning. Hints of licorice and mineral, as well as bittersweet cocoa, show up in the very long finish. This wine has high fruit intensity combined with strong structure to insure extended aging up to two decades from vintage, and should be the longest aging Private Reserve of the 1990’s.Best served: Now-2015 (This wine was not part of the tasting with Joel Butler and James Suckling) Nearly opaque black ruby-violet color. Pronounced, herbal, licorice-vanilla and dark cherry aromas, fragrant and explosive intensity. Definite clone 6 influence. Full-bodied, with a thick chewy texture, ripe black and red fruits, firm but supple tannins and no sense of jamminess or over-ripeness. Ripe tannins and solid acidity provide underpinning. Hints of licorice and mineral, as well as bittersweet cocoa, show up in the very long finish. This wine has high fruit intensity combined with strong structure to insure extended aging up to two decades from vintage, and should be the longest aging Private Reserve of the 1990’s. |
| 2000 | B.V. George De Latour Private Reserve | Cabernet | 6B10 | 75 | 1 | 92we |
| 92we Dark, black-ruby color. The aromas reflect classic ""Rutherford dust"" notes of black cherry, loamy mineral-earth tones, and licorice, along with fine new oak vanilla highlights. Medium full-bodied, with deep cherry-mineral, currant - anise flavors, this vintage has a fine veneer of tannins combined with good acidity to support 10-15 years aging. Rich, supple fruit softens the texture. The sweet fragrance and taste of vanilla from the new oak add measurable length and structure in the finish. A fine wine to drink young with grilled steaks, roast leg of lamb with shallots, or a ripe wedge of Fontina or aged Vermont cheddar cheese. |
| 2001 | B.V. George De Latour Private Reserve | Cabernet | 6B9 | 85 | 1 | 93we |
| 93we Wine Enthusiast says "Classic Georges, balanced and ageworthy, yet riper and lusher than any Private Reserve in memory. Magnificently ripe fruit, rich in currants and cocoa, well-oaked, with sweet, complex tannins. Doesn’t try to out-wow the competition in power, but the equilibrium is its strong point. Now through 2015. Cellar Selection. 93 Points." |
| 2002 | B.V. George De Latour Private Reserve | Cabernet | 6A8-6B8 | 98 | 11 | 95wn |
| 95wn Beaulieu Vineyard, 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon Georges de Latour Private Reserve, Napa Valley Purple-black hue. Direct, dusty aromas of mixed berries, mocha and cedar make for a tight, nervy nose. Layered, chalky, youthful flavors of brambly blackberry, tobacco, chocolate and well-meshed wood. Chocolate and dust highlight the smooth finish. $95 / 9,500 cases 92cg 92we 90w&s This much esteemed label has seen its share of ups and downs over the years, but the stuff in the bottle in 2002 is the best we have seen in a good many. Its close-to-classic nose of currants and dust and pencil-lead spice gives way to complex and wonderfully deep varietal flavors that marry generous fruit with lovely oak and flashes of minerals and loam. It is firmed by ample tannins to finish, but its fruit refuses to quit, and, what is a most impressive wine even now, will only get better over the next eight to ten years." 92 points - Connoisseurs' Guide to California Wine, August 2005 Dark, black-ruby color. The aromas reflect classic "Rutherford dust" notes of black cherry, loamy mineral-earth tones, and licorice, along with fine new oak vanilla highlights. Medium full-bodied, with deep cherry-mineral, currant –anise flavors, this vintage has a fine veneer of tannins combined with good acidity to support 10-15 years aging. Rich, supple fruit softens the texture. The sweet fragrance and taste of vanilla from the new oak add measurable length and structure in the finish. A fine wine to drink young with grilled steaks, roast leg of lamb with shallots, or a ripe wedge of Fontina or aged Vermont cheddar cheese. From Winery.. Aging Potential:10-25 years |
| 2003 | B.V. George De Latour Private Reserve | Cabernet | 6A2-7 | 90 | 6 | 95ww |
| 95 PTS WILFRED WONG. A remarkable young Cabernet, stately '03 Beaulieu Georges de Latour has everything going for it; fine fruit, sophistication, and tremendous balance; red fruit with oak accents W&S 91 Georges de Latour is the classic, original Reserve California wine. Aged 20 months in oak, it reflects many decades' experience with our historic vineyards in Napa. Hand-harvested fruit, whole berries, careful but vigorous extraction during fermentation and gentle handling throughout provide a wine for the ages. This wine is nearly opaque black-ruby color with purple highlights. The aromas show strength of black fruits, licorice, black pepper and minerals, with Rutherford accents of black olive, peppercorn and dark cherry. Full-bodied in texture, this wine has pronounced, dense and concentrated flavors of black currant, anise, sweet vanilla and distinctive minerality. The rich tannins are balanced by medium acidity providing freshness. Deeply full of character, this vintage will require 7 to 9 years aging to reach maturity, yet tastes fine now; it is an excellent example of the vintage. WS92-94 One of the best of the tasting, this rich, well-balanced wine exhibits plenty of gusto, with complex currant, blackberry, mineral and cedary oak, finishing with a firm wall of ripe, integrated tannins. One of the bigger ’03s we have tasted! Decant this wine way ahead. Black licorice, spice, red cherry and cola hints jump from the glass. This wine is balanced yet sturdy and should age well in a cellar over the next 10+ years! |
| 2006 | B.V. George De Latour Private Reserve | Cabernet | | 103 | 1 | 95we |
| 95we Even in this vintage, which was not so great, Beaulieu has succeeded with this dramatic, classic Cabernet Sauvignon. It's absolutely delicious, offering a range of blackberry, black currant and cedar flavors, complexed with notes of chocolate, anise, sweet smoky leather and Asian spices. Beautiful now for its velvety softness, but has the inherent structure to last for a long time. Through 2014, and much longer if you like older Cabernet. Wine Tasting Notes The Beaulieu Vineyard Georges de Latour Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon expresses immensely concentrated layers of brambly blackberry, black cherry and dark plum character. Complex nuances of mocha and black licorice mingle with toasty vanilla oak from barrel aging. Gentle precision winemaking assures that no single character predominates in the beautifully integrated aromas and flavors. This wines opulent flavors, structured with mouthcoating, velvety tannins, are best shown with equally rich entres, such as filet mignon, or with an elegant cheese course. 92cg Very deep and extracted, and showing again that 2006 is a vintage capable of making very good wines even it has proven to be more difficult than in recent years, this expressive effort smells of currants, black cherry and hints of tea leaves with a nice dollop of sweet, slightly caramelly oak on top. Supple at entry, then firming up across the palate and tightening without losing its way at the finish, this one boasts classic structure and classic character. 91+ points Robert Parker: "While the 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Private Reserve Georges de Latour is the strongest wine made at Beaulieu in many years, it is eclipsed by the 2007. The 2006 Georges de Latour exhibits a dense inky/purple color along with a sweet bouquet of graphite, licorice, charcoal, creme de cassis, and sweet cherries. Deep, ripe, and full-bodied with powerful tannins, admirable structure, and superb depth, it will benefit from 2-4 years of bottle age, and should be drinkable over the following 25+ years." (12/09) |
| 2002 | B.V. Tapestry | Red Wine | 6C1 | 50 | 1 | 90we |
| 750ml, California - Deep dark ruby in color, the aromas reflect classic Rutherford notes of black cherry and currant, with licorice, loam and dried herb components. The wine is medium to full bodied with layered flavors of dark berries, currants, cherries, slate, anise and vanilla. Winemaker's Notes. Score WE 90 Rich oak and ripeness are met with a broad measure of sweet black cherry fruit first in the aromas and then in the deep, well-composed flavors of this solid, moderately full-bodied offering. There is a puckery edge of latter-palate tannins still to be resolved, but the wine's considerable fruit carries well even at the finish, and a wait of some four to six years seems the sure prescription for genuine success. Biggest Tapestry Yet!: This has always been made in a true crowd pleasing style year after year. With this particular rendition, BV has pumped up the volume on the fruit and power of this muscular beast. Primarily sourced from Rutherford Cabernet and aged in a mix of French and American oak, this shows ripe black cherry aromas mixed with toasty coffee. Elements of black olive and dark cocoa blend in nicely with cherry-plum and vanilla spice. This all blends together very nicely on the finish. Dark ruby in color, the Tapestry’s aromas evoke scents of black cherry, herbs, vanilla-oak and some black pepper. Medium-full bodied, the wine’s fruit flavors are at the forefront; cherry and blackcurrant, followed by nuances of licorice, dark chocolate and peppercorn. Fleshy yet backed by firm, ripe tannins, the finish shows some torrefaction notes from the oak now, but should evolve gracefully with 4-7 years in the bottle. |
| 1998 | Balnnaves Coonawarra | Cabernet | 8B4-5 | 45 | 2 | 94jh |
| 94 James Halliday 91 ws |
| 2003 | Barbour Vineyards | Cabernet | 2B7 | 143 | 1 | 95bd |
| 95brown derby Classic California Cabernet Sauvignon! Ripe fruit, with great character and structure, make this wine a pleasure to drink now, although it definitely has the potential to cellar for a decade or two. From Jim Barbour, ace vineyard manager and owner, and winemaker Heidi Peterson Barrett, this wine has everything going for it---except reviews from the big names! Only 285 cases of the 2003 vintage were produced. --- Scott Gargus, Wine Club Advisor. 93vf The nose shows rich shadings of nectarine, currant, and spicy chocolate mole. The palate is rich and smooth with roasted currant, chocolate, and anise pod. |
| 2003 | Barlow | Cabernet | HR | 25 | 4 | 91we |
| 91we Deep in aroma, in flavor, in depth and finish, this Cabernet fulfills your Napa Cab expectations. The mouthfeel is all velvet and silk, the tannins are perfectly sculpted, and the blackberry and coffee flavors are ripe and satisfying without being overwrought. Best now and for a decade. 87cg Both of the Barlow bottlings owe much to ripeness, and both have plenty of weight, but this one is built with a sturdier spine of varietal tannins and gives a little more play to finishing heat. It is and will remain on the rustic side of the Cabernet spectrum, and it requires five or six years of softening before reaching its rugged best. OBA$45.00 The 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon Sonoma is even better than the 2002, although more muscular, concentrated, and fuller-bodied without the charm of the 2002. Performing better out of bottle than it did from barrel, its dense ruby/purple color is accompanied by wonderful cassis fruit. Enjoy it over the next 10-15 years. |
| 2000 | Barlow Cabernet | Cabernet | 1C6 | 36 | 1 | 93ws |
| 93wsThe 2000 vintage marks another great growing season in the Napa Valley. The 2000 Cabernet was bottled Sept. 5th 2002, with a production of 400 cases and released 9/1/2003. It has received a 90 from the Wine Enthusiast. Big and ripe, the purple hue speaks to the extraction of color from exceptional ripe fruit. Aromatically the wine speaks Cabernet, with its sweet cherry aroma and classic rum raisin, the wine is never over shadowed by oak. The palate is rich and ripe with a sweet supple core that extends into a lengthy well balanced finish. 92cg This substantial wine serves as further proof that success can be had in a difficult vintage. It is ripe, well-fruited and very long on extract, and its mix of tactile flesh and firming tannins strikes us as just about right. Like any serious Cabernet, however, it needs a bit of patient cellaring to reach its full potential, and, if four to five years would be a good idea, eight to ten would seem to be the better choice yet. 89rp From an upper end Napa Valley estate located north of St. Helena and south of Calistoga, this is an excellent 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon, a year that produced a huge majority of duds. Barlow's offering exhibits a deep ruby/purple color as well as a sweet nose of black fruits and subtle creamy oak. Supple-textured and medium bodied, with admirable purity as well as texture (an anomaly for 2000 Cabernet), it can be drunk now or cellared for 7-8 years. Readers should check out this winery, particularly given the high quality of the 2001 and 2002 vintages in Northern California. we90 Made in a classic Napa style, with pronounced aromas of cassis and black currant and considerable layering of |
| 2004 | Beau Vigne Reserve | Cabernet | 3A5 | 89 | 1 | 93vf |
| VF 93 A very well put together wine with the aromatics and flavors merged into an amalgam of seamlessness; tar and black figs, sea salt and violets, creme brulee, mocha, black cherry and smoky blackberry. 2004 Beau Vigne Cabernet Sauvignon Juliet is soft with a delicate balance. The reserveCabernet Sauvignon, bold with tobacco leaf, cocoa and black cherry. Merlot, rich fruit flavors of cherry blackberry and plum. Petit Verdot, spicy, velvety and smooth. A very well put together wine – Dave Phinney (Orin Swift) strikes gold again Blend of Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Cabernet provides bold flavors of tobacco leaf, cocoa and black cherry. Merlot offers rich fruit Dark, rich and seductive style layered with a pointed entry. Aromas of cedar, tobacco leaf and crème de cassis. Centered with black cherry, blackberry, mocha and spice. The woven plush texture has a balance of fruit, acid and tannins that contribute to a long velvet finish. Full bodied and well endowed this cabernet sauvignon should age nicely for 10-12 years. 2004 Beau Vigne Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 100% cuvee of Cabernet Sauvignon has an opaque purple color, a gorgeously pure nose of spring flowers intermixed with black currant liqueur, licorice, and some subtle background oak. Quite powerful, rich, but at the same time elegant, as one would expect from Stags Leap, this is a terrific effort that should drink well for 20+ years.– Dave Phinney (Orin Swift) strikes gold again! This is a California Wine. |
| 2000 | Bell Clone 6 | Cabernet | 1A11 | 150 | 1 | 92 |
| 4stars decanter mag. gold medal LA county fair 2008-2016 2000 vintage is deep ruby in color, with dense, concentrated flavors.The long, cool growing season resulted in bright fruit flavors and the long hang time allowed the fruit to develop full flavor maturity. On the palate concentrated fruit flavors are balanced with crisp acidity, firm yet supple tannins and undertones of toasted French oak, leading to a lingering, rich finish. The wine’s exquisite balance continues the sophisticated, elegant, Bordeaux style associated with prior releases. Excellent today, the wine will certainly reward those with the patience to cellar it. |
| 2003 | Bennett Lane | Cabernet | 9B5 | 42 | 1 | 91 |
| 91ws Ripe and fleshy, with rich succulent layers of currant, anise, blackberry and black cherry fruit supported by hints of chicory-laced oak and firm yet ripe tannins. Best from 2007 through 2012. 2,000 cases made. –JL |
| 2003 | Benziger Tribute | Red Wine | 7A6-7 | 70 | 2 | 93rp |
| 93rp "this effort reveals exuberant, extroverted notes of crème de cassis, graphite, smoke, and earth. Full-bodied and opulently-textured, with loads of concentration, this is a brilliant red to drink young or cellar for 10-15 years." RP |
| 2005 | Beresan | Cabernet | 6D6 | 35 | 1 | 92we |
| 92we Editor's choice. This is the vinous equivalent of a high-wire acrobatic performance. Bright, impeccably clean red currant and raspberry fruit is sculpted into a tight and balanced wine underscored with black olive. Everything is ripe and polished and, most importantly, proportionate, including the alcohol, a moderate 13.8%. — P.G. (8/1/2008) 100% cabernet |
| 1996 | Beringer Founders Estate 3ltr | Merlot | display | 50 | 1 | display |
| Gift from Cassie (wine rep) (display don't drink ) |
| 1995 | Beringer Private Reserve | Cabernet | 5D11 | 130 | 1 | 95we |
| 95we A dazzling wine. Bursts with black-currant, plum, blackberry, tobacco, and olivaceous notes, and fine, toasty oak. Superb concentration; the fruit is simply fabulous, and so are the luscious, warm, silky tannins. Epitomizes class and elegance. — S.H. (7/1/2000) 93 points Robert Parker: "The 1995 Cabernet Sauvignon Private Reserve is a full-bodied, explosively rich, deep purple-colored wine bursting with ripe fruit. It displays smoky oak, gobs of cassis, a touch of cigar box and cedar, and a layered, multi-dimensional feel. This voluptuous, seductive offering is already drinking well, yet should age effortlessly for 15-20 years." (12/98) 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. |
| 1997 | Beringer Private Reserve | Cabernet | 5D10 | 140 | 1 | 94rp |
| 94rp Here are 15,000 cases of the 1997 Cabernet Sauvignon Private Reserve. Composed of 97% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3% Cabernet Franc, and aged in 100% new French oak for 22-24 months, it is a sensational effort. The opaque plum/purple color is followed by a superb nose of smoked herbs, melted licorice, and black currant jam. Full-bodied, with a silky texture, and an opulent personality, this sexy, full-throttle Cabernet Sauvignon will be delicious young, yet last for 18-20 years. Reviewer Wine Advocate Robert Parker 94 points. Full red-ruby. Superripe aromas of plum, strawberry, tobacco and loam. Fat, thick, sweet and deep, with the wine huge weight gracefully supported by firm underlying backbone. A superripe, extremely long cabernet of great richness and depth. Built to age but showing spectacularly already. 93we Creamy blackberry, cassis, toasty oak and vanilla aromas lead off. This elegant wine is loaded with additional flavors redolent of licorice, tobacco, spice and dense berries. It's all couched in supple, velvety tannins. Long and lush at the end. — S.H. (12/31/2001) |
| 1999 | Beringer Private Reserve | Cabernet | 5D9 | 100 | 1 | 93ws |
| 92-95st Ruby-red. Highly nuanced nose combines currant, plum, smoky oak, minerals, licorice and mint. Wonderfully sweet, sappy and dense. The most complex of these '99 cabernets, with enticing flavors of currant, minerals and brown spices. Very long, slow-building finish features big but sweet and fine tannins. Suave and impressive. Complex aromas of currant, herb, tobacco, olive andcedar lead to similar flavors in a rich, concentrated yet elegant presentation. Turns smooth and creamy, with vanilla, mocha and blackberry flavors peeking through on the finish. Best from 2005 through 2014. 10,000 cases made Wine Spectator 93 points (Jun 15 2004) "In what has become the classic PR style, this wine is showing well young, with flamboyant aromas of toasty oak backed by concentrated, pure flavors of black currants. It's rich and smooth enough to drink now, yet powerful and intense enough to age." August 2003 Score: 91. March 31, 2006 Robert Parker: The dark ruby/purple-colored 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon Private Reserve exhibits a sweet, Bordeaux-influenced bouquet of tobacco, cedar wood, spice box, and black currants. It is moderately tannic, medium-bodied, and firm in the finish. Patience will be required. The cooler growing climate is clearly evident when tasting this wine. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2014 91we what has become the classic PR style, this wine is showing well young, with flamboyant aromas of toasty oak backed by concentrated, pure flavors of black currants. It's rich and smooth enough to drink now, yet powerful and intense enough to age." August 2003 Score: 91. March 31, 2006. |
| 2002 | Beringer Reserve | Cabernet | 5D8 | 110 | 1 | 94rp |
| 94rp It is a fruit-forward, softer, more flamboyant, already seductive effort displaying gorgeous notes of chocolaty creme de cassis, some spicy, high-quality, toasty oak, a rich, plush, savory, expansive mid-palate, and a long, heady finish with elevated glycerin and plenty of sweet tannin and fruit. This wine is delicious yet promises to age gorgeously for 15-20 years. 94st Good full ruby-red. Sexy aromas of currant and dark chocolate. Compellingly sweet and densely packed, with lovely vinosity giving shape to the flavors of dark berries, cedar and minerals. Very fine-grained and very long on the palate, with the tannins perfectly buffered by the wine's material. This wine, mostly from Steinhauer and St. Helena fruit, went into the barrel in January of 2003 and remained there for two years, undisturbed except for a monthly topping-up. Has the balance to offer considerable early appeal, but this bottling has a long track record for aging gracefully in bottle and surprising with its longevity. 91cg Here is a big, beautifully ripened, definitively varietal opus that is brimming with deep, well-extracted fruit and decked out with a full measure of very sweet oak. Its precise focus and its wholly impeccable balance place it at the forefront of the pack, and it never once hints at heaviness or heat. While fairly tannic, it is not in the least tough, and its essential juiciness perseveres to the end. Those with a taste for young Cabernet will find lots to like even now, but the real beauty of this compelling wine will only emerge with five years of time. |
| 2001 | Betz "Pere de Famille" | Cabernet | 1B10-11 | 69 | 2 | 94ws |
| WS 94 points, Rich, densely packed and powerful, a lively mouthful of plum, blueberry and exotic spice flavors that last and last on the aristocratic finish. Cellar 10-15 years, will greatly reward the collector. |
| 2003 | Betz "Pere de Famille" | Cabernet | 1B8-9 | 60 | 2 | 95we |
| 95 we 93st 92rp "Classy cabernet aromas of cassis, blueberry, iodine, minerals, tar, tobacco leaf, mocha and sexy oak spices. Sweet, lush and thick; conveys a high-pH feel without coming across as heavy. The chewy, layered currant and spice flavors are perked up by a captivating minerality. Finishes with firm, broad tannins, palate-saturating fruit and terrific length. 93 points" -Steven Tanzer "The 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon Pere de Famille is an impressively powerful, chunky wine. Containing 13% Merlot, 8% Malbec, and 3% Petit Verdot in the blend, this medium to full-bodied wine is dense, concentrated, and deep. Its blackberry liqueur and tar flavors linger throughout its long, tannin-studded finish. Projected maturity: 2010-2022." 92 points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate #164 (APR 2006) |
| 2004 | Betz "Pere de Famille" | Cabernet | 1B6-7 | 55 | 2 | 93+st |
| “93(+?) Bright, deep ruby-red. Musky, minerally, spicy aromas of blackberry, blueberry, leather and tree bark. Quite penetrating on the palate, with terrific intensity and cut to the black cherry and currant flavors. Denser and larger-scaled than the Clos de Betz. This, too, finishes with excellent cut, growing sweeter and longer as it opens in the glass. There's firm tannic spine here but no impression of dryness.” The vineyard source for the 2004 is also more focused, with barrels only from Red Mountain and the Horse Heaven Hills in the final blend. We're used to the terrific concentration and intensity of our Red Mountain fruit (Ciel du Cheval and Klipsun Vineyards) but this vintage the Horse Heaven fruit (Alder Ridge Vineyard) was equally concentrated yet without the tannic dominance of Red Mountain. The two appellations blended seamlessly (64% to 36%) and provided a structure that is both accessible now but will cellar beyond the previous two vintages. |
| 2005 | Betz "Pere de Famille" | Cabernet | 1B4-5 | 65 | 2 | 97we |
| 97we "The fragrance is almost otherworldly; sweet, dense and lightly lifted. This is a sinewy wine, that begins with compact power and focused, tart red fruits—predominantly raspberry and currant. At first juicy and tart, with hours of breathing time the wine broadens out into a wider spectrum of Cabernet fruits; cassis, blackberry and black cherry." Cabernet Sauvignon dominates this vintage in more than percentages would indicate: color, aroma, flavor and mouthfeel all identify this wine as Cabernet Sauvignon (77%). While it blends four of the classic Bordeaux varieties (Merlot 13%, Malbec 8% and Petit Verdot 3%) it still shouts Cabernet Sauvignon. The Cabernet fraction is predominantly from Red Mountain, from the Ciel du Cheval and Klipsun Vineyards’ rows that we have used for most all the past vintages. Their power and depth contributions are unmistakable. They also provide the tannic spine essential for our goals for this wine. Their muscular ways are tamed by a fraction of the Cabernet that comes from the Alder Ridge Vineyard, located in the Horse Heaven Hills: it provides length and complexity. While the other two varieties are minor players, their contribution is distinctive: Malbec adding juiciness, and the Petit Verdot, with its black skin, adds color and a spicy/peppery fragrance. Red Mountain depth dominates the blend of all varieties at 68%, followed by 24% from the Horse Heaven Hills and 8% from the Yakima Valley. And it shows. 93+st "Good deep, bright ruby-red. Sappy aromas of crushed blackberry, licorice, minerals and spices. Wonderfully sweet but less pliant and open today than the Clos de Betz; more affected by the bottling. With aeration, this showed subtle cabernet notes of cassis, Belgian chocolate and fresh herbs. This dense, thick wine boasts outstanding structure and dimension, and finishes with terrific persistence. Betz used his highest percentage of cabernet sauvignon to date in this wine, and the lowest amount of merlot." ROBERT PARKER'S WINE ADVOCATE I had a chance to retaste the 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Pere de Famille. Last year I though the wine was a bit compressed but that time would likely round it out. One year later the wine has blossomed and appears headed for a promising future. Betz Family Winery, run impeccably by Bob Betz, MW, remains a Washington benchmark for top quality Syrah and Bordeaux blends. With his connections from decades of service at Chateau Ste-Michelle, Betz is able to purchase choice fruit from some of the state's finest vineyards including Boushey, Red Willow, Ciel du Cheval, Alder Ridge, Kiona, and Klipsun. Regarding the 2006 vintage, Betz says, "I took a long time to warm up to the vintage, but the wines have come on strong." 95 Points Jay Miller, Wine Advocate, June 1, 2008 |
| 2006 | Betz "Pere de Famille" | Cabernet | 1B1-3 | 65 | 3 | 96we |
| 96we This is taut, muscular, toasty, young and tight; the fruit is concentrated, pure and evocative, with earthy flavors that add notes of soil, spice and mineral. The most complex of all the Betz blends, in this vintage it includes 84% Cabernet Sauvignon—far and away the dominant flavor. The fruits unfold in a rich panoply of reds and blues; the tannins are rich and chewy, polished and complex, showing exemplary back of the palate grip and concentration. — P.G. (8/1/2009) 95rp "Opaque purple, the wine has a brooding nose of wood smoke, earth notes, mineral, spice box, black cherry, and blackberry. This is followed by a layered, opulent wine with superb depth and concentration." The wine was scored shortly after bottling, so Imagine what the score might be if tasted now. 94st Bright ruby-red. Aromas of plum, currant, raspberry and graphite, with a youthfully medicinal nuance and emerging cedar and mineral notes reminiscent of a Medoc wine. Then more New World in the mouth, with wonderfully sweet, lush, tactile flavors of cassis and raspberry dominating. Very young and tactile wine but already conveys a compelling sweetness. Finishes with very broad, suave tannins that hide the wine's underlying structure. A knockout. cellar tracker 2012- 2025 |
| 2005 | Betz Clos de Betz | Red Wine | 7D11 | 55 | 1 | 92wa |
| 92wa "The 2005 Clos de Betz, composed of 56% Merlot, 19% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Malbec, and 9% Cabernet Franc, is opaque purple colored with bright aromas of pain grille, spice box, cranberry, clove, cassis, and black currant. This is followed by a harmonious, layered wine with tons of flavor, well-concealed tannins, and outstanding length. It will evolve for 3-5 years and drink well through 2030." 92st "Good deep red-ruby. Sappy, spicy aromas of blackberry, redcurrant and wild herbs. Dense, supple and sweet, with captivating wild berry and floral flavors complicated by a light weedy note from the cabernet franc and roasted herbs from the malbec. Plush and fine-grained; the smooth texture of this wine reminds me of La Serenne. Lots of Darnajou oak here!" |
| 2003 | Blair Estate | Cabernet Franc | | 50 | 1 | 89vf |
| 89vf Black cherry and rose petals with some graphite. The palate is firm and textured black fruits. Ours is a classic blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot. Harvested from low-yielding small vines at optimal ripeness, the level of concentation is noticeable. The Cabernet Sauvignon is the elegant essential core of the blend (45%); while the Cabernet Franc (28%), and Merlot (27%) provide the spicy currant, earth and fruit. Aging in French Oak gracefully integrates these flavors while providing an intensifying toffee and vanilla undertone. |
| 2005 | Boudreaux Cellars | Cabernet | 1D1-2 | 54 | 2 | 91ct |
| median of 91 pts. in 25 notes Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: 90 points Boudreaux Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon ties with Widgeon Hill Winery and Zerba Cellars Winery for the #1 Northwest Cab in a blind tasting of 128 CabThis wine is a fitting end to the remarkable vintage wines. The wine is 99% cabernet sauvignon from five remarkable Washington vineyards. Bacchus Vineyard Block 9 is part of the venerable Sagemoor Farm in the Columbia Valley. Old vines with deep flavors. Tended to perfection vine by vine by the vigilant Todd Cameron. Champoux Vinyard Block 2 in the Horse Heaven Hills is part of the old Mercer Ranch. Old vines managed to perfect balance by the legend, Paul Champoux. At the opposite eastern end of Horse Heaven Hills is the younger Wallula Vineyard managed by the Den Hoed brothers, Andy and Bill. Highly floral aromatics make these wines a standout for Chateau Ste. Michele, Leonetti, Abeja, Long Shadows and Boudreaux. Pepper Bridge Block 28 produces awesome fruit in the Walla Walla Valley. Managed by Tom and Tim Waliser, this vineyard is a big name for good reasons. Tom has an uncanny sixth sense for grape farming and how it relates to winemaking Ten vineyards and seven grape varietals combine with several forests of oak to deliver this complex, old-world style wine. I set out to make something interesting with subtle layers of intriguing flavors. The cab was gorgeous, the merlot full and smooth, the cab franc aromatic, the malbec grainy, the petite verdot tannic and dark, the sangio spicy, the syrah earthy and good old stinky. We stored the wines separately in the cellars for 26 months in French, Hungarian, Russian, Minnesota, and Appalachian oaks. Some of the Minnesota barrels were toasted using chunks of sweet, smoky hickory from Louisiana. The barrels were blended in big French oak tanks for several months of flavor assimilation. This wine is young and should develop into a complicated beauty. The 04 got 91 points from parker 10-14yrs |
| 2001 | Bourassa Vineyards Harmony 3 | Red Wine | 1C7 | 100 | 1 | 94 |
| 94 gold medal,first cal state fair The sensory-stimulating flavors of the 2002 Harmony3 open up beautifully on the palate. It is a rich, lush wine with dense complexity. The young, compact, black currant and dried cherry flavors are enhanced by scents of crème brulee, caramel, slate and a hint of herb. Tastes of toasted oak, plum, and pepper are evident throughout. It is possessed of wonderful flavor, through a veneer of youthful tannins, presenting a medium long finish. This wine can be enjoyed now or will reward those who choose to cellar it for years to come. |
| 2004 | Bourassa Vineyards Harmony 5 | Red Wine | | 40 | 1 | 90ct |
| ct Elegant, Feminine, Med Body (90 pts.) This Harmony5 blend is elaborately crafted, offering full-bodied elegance and opening up beautifully on the palate. Complex, rich and lush, the young and compact black currant and dried cherry flavors are enhanced by scents of caramel, slate and herbal hints. Tastes of plum, chocolate, and oak are evident throughout. The wonderful flavor possesses a veneer of youthful tannins presenting a long finish. This limited production is a blend of hand crafted wine which includes Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec. Each varietal was hand crafted from Napa Valley grown vineyards. 53% Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Merlot, 13% Cabernet Franc, 8% Petit Verdot, and 5% Malbec. |
| 2001 | Brookdale | Cabernet | 7C10-11 | 60 | 2 | 91we |
| 91 we "should age quite well in the cellar" |
| 2003 | Brown Estate | Cabernet | 11D4 | 72 | 1 | |
| The 2003 growing season was memorable for its unpredictability. Early rain and late heat spikes resulted in lower overall yield but produced a vintage with higher qaulity,great color concentration and intense flavors. The nose shows layers of dried tobacco leaves, ground coffee beans, a dusting of Valhrona chocolate and dark fruit blossom.This wine has a phenomenal texture with very fine tannis and silky mouthfeel and dark lingonberry fruit flavors integrated with berry blossom and toasty oak.This wine has amazing structure and the expressive tannins indicate great cellaring potential.You’ll want to cellar this one. The 2003 growing season was memorable for its unpredictability. Early rain and late heat spikes resulted in a lower overall yield but produced a vintage with high quality, great color concentration , and intense flavors. The nose shows layers of dried tobacco leaves, ground coffee beans , a dusting of Valhrona chocolate , and dark fruit blossom. This wine has a phenomenal texture with very fine tannins and a silky nouthfeel and dark lingoberry fruit flavors integrated with berry blossom and toasty oak. This wine has amazing structure and the expressive tannins indicate great cellaring potential. |
| 2004 | Brown Estate | Cabernet | 11D1-3 | 76 | 3 | |
| This wine’s gorgeous ruby clarity and subtle amethyst center instantly draw you in. Its fragrant nose takes you back to the comfort of a lazy Sunday afternoon, treating you to aromas of blueberry and boysenberry fruit with earthy tobacco Detailed Description 2002 was the longest growing season on record at Brown Estate, with harvest extending through November 1st. As our cabernet sauvignon vineyards were enjoying the long, mild growing season, a sudden and unexpected heat wave in October sent us into a state of emergency. Both the terraces and the west side block were picked in one day. Fortunately we were able to allow the fruit to ripen at an optimal pace through the mild season which spared us the dreaded October rains. Before you have a chance to notice the color, this wine hits you with fragrant boysenberry and smoky chocolate notes. The dense royal-magenta color leads to the plush palate and layers of ripe dark berries, plum, and crem de cassis with hints of espresso, mocha and dusty valhrona chocolate. Fine integrated tannins give grip to the finish while deep flavors leave a lasting impression of complexity and finesse. |
| 2005 | Brown Estate Chaos Theory | Red Wine | | 47 | 1 | |
| Crimson color. Aromas of apples, rose petals and cloves. Wine delivers soft silky texture. Flavors of blackberries, blackcherries, tobacco and cappuccino. A PG PICK. Drink before 2015. |
| 2004 | Buoncristiani O.P.C. | Cabernet | 5B7-8 | 40 | 2 | 92we |
| 92 Points - CELLAR SELECTION - Wine Enthusiast - March 2008 This is very full-bodied and tannic, with a dusty astringency that’s too young to drink now, but it should age well. Balanced and dry, it has an impressively ripe core of cassis, spicy plums and cherry liqueur that should sweeten when those tannins fall out. Best after 2010. — S.H. (3/1/2008) “The Buoncristiani OPC is just plain delicious; a wonderful blend and very attractively priced.” Ronn Wiegand, Master of Wine, Master Sommelier, publisher of Restaurant Wine Stefan Sez: "What started as sort of a "family drinking wine" turned into their best seller, and rightly so. It's just delicious, rich, polished, lush wine that I can recommend with not an iota of reservation. A blend of Cabernet, Syrah, Merlot and Malbec, this wine comes from selected lots from Stagecoach, Hyde, Caldwell and Bennett vineyards and just zings across the palate with plenty of boldness and surprising power for a wine that weighs in at a very reasonable $39. Highly recommended!" As we have said elsewhere, this is one winery that seems to have taken a giant leap forward in quality with the current set of releases. They have sort of ‘supersized’ them and the whole lineup we tasted had a depth and a glossy sheen that gives them an almost ‘culty’ sheen on the palate. It’s not just the big gun Cabernet, either. All the wines have a distinctively creamy demeanor. This quirky blend, labeled O.P.C. for Old Pa’s Cuvee (an ode to a grandfather if memory serves) is42% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34% Syrah, 14% Merlot, and 10% Malbec from a who’s who list of vineyard sites, gussied up with French oak (48% new). Broad, lavish, ripe and loaded with character, it is a big jump up from past editions we have sold. Does it pander? What’s wrong with a little pandering? It has certainly worked for a lot of $100+ labels that are the current media darlings. Only 1200 cases made of this juicy red and it’s a pretty fair value by today’s Napa standards. |
| 2005 | Buoncristiani O.P.C. | Red Wine | 5B5-6 | 40 | 2 | 95we |
| 95we According to the Wine Enthusiast: Just gorgeous. Floods the mouth with decadent black currant, cherry, chocolate, anise, beef jerky and smoky oak flavors that stun for their addictive deliciousness. Yet it's perfectly dry, and the balance of rich, ripe tannins, acidity and smoky oak is near perfect. The wine is a blend of Bordeaux varieties and Syrah, from esteemed vineyards including Hyde, Stagecoach and Caldwell. - Winemaker Notes - The Buoncristiani O.P.C. is our Napa Valley proprietary red blend. In the quest to create a wine uniquely ours, we discovered the synergy of marrying Napa Cabernet Sauvignon with Syrah, while also folding in further complexity of texture and flavor with Napa Malbec and Merlot blenders. Grapes are sourced from some of Napa’s most prestigious vineyards including Hyde, Stagecoach, Caldwell, and Bennett. Just like our winemaking fathers before us, with Ol’ Pa’s Cuvee we four brothers continue the family tradition of handcrafting blends that help accentuate the enjoyment of life. This blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Merlot and Malbec is one of the highest rated blends from Napa. The 2005 Buoncristiani OPC Napa Claret earned a massive 95 Point score from the Wine Enthusiast back in February. 90cg 42% Cabernet Sauv.; 36% Syrah; 15% Merlot; 7% Malbec. If well-removed from the Bordelaise paradigm in its uncommon marriage of grapes, this deeply filled and very rich wine offers up lots of sweet, oak-enriched, cassis- and black-cherry fruit and shows glimmers of early complexity to make us anxious about what will come over time. It feigns friendliness and accessibility at the start but gradually gives ground to late-arriving tannins, and it is just tough enough to preclude drinking for some four or five years. |
| 2005 | C.Beck | Cabernet | 3A6 | 48 | 1 | Gold |
| double gold This is Corey Beck's wine. Corey is the wine maker for Coppola wines. Built like a Bordeaux this wine boasts of elegance. Beautiful texture, seamless personality with lush, ripe fruit, touch of earth and tons of chocolate...like a delicate chocolate truffle that just melts in your mouth! Corey Beck was born and raised in Calistoga and has been involved in wine his whole life. Grapes have been grown on his family's property since the early 1900's, and Corey learned the winemaking craft at his father's knee, during his Dad's 20 year stint as Chateau Montelena's vineyard manager. After 4 years as Montelena's cellar master and additional time as the assistant winemaker at Rubicon Estate, Corey has now released the first wine under his own name. The fruit comes from Calistoga's highly esteemed Barlow Vineyard, and its class shows in this beautiful cabernet. Rich with ripe fruit that is balanced with supple tannins and crisp acidity, the flavors are all dark plum and blackberry, with just a hint of oak. Very rare (only 188 cases made), and very special. |
| 1999 | Cafaro | Cabernet | 1A8-9 | 40 | 2 | |
| This vintage is big and bright with aromas of cherry, spice and rose petals. Adding to these aromas the sweet oak adds yet another layer to the concentration of hits youthful cabernet. Similar bright and deep flavors on the palate enhance the stylish elegance. The structure is big for long aging but accessible for enjoying now. |
| 2000 | Cain Five | Red Wine | 6D8 | 90 | 1 | 91ws |
| It could be said that 2000 was the third in a series of “winemaker’s” vintages. But those who tried to “make” their wine conform to a standard set of expectations may have been disappointed. 2000 was not a vintage to mess with—and it shows. Paradoxically, it turns out that the best wines (of which we would like to think Cain Five is one) were allowed to make themselves. 2000 was a late year, and it was critical to dodge a few rain events to find the best days to pick. Careful selection in the vineyard, patience in choosing when to harvest, gentle macerations, and a rigorous selection at blending have brought out the best of the vintage in our 2000 Cain Five.Wine Spectator says "Tight, with firm tannins and an intense, pleasing core of coffee, chocolate, currant and berry, clamping down on the finish, where the tannins flex their muscles. Score range: 89-91 for this barrel tasting. 91 Points." "Good intensity and concentration, especially for the vintage, with vibrant currant, anise, herb and earth nuances that turn to cedar, bell pepper and tobacco. Tannins on the finish are raw and firm. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec. Drink now through 2010. 4,890 cases made. (JL)-WS" |
| 2000 | Cakebread Cellars | Cabernet | 10A3 | 60 | 1 | 89ws |
| 89ws Vivid, supple black cherry, blackberry and currant flavors are round and focused, with smooth, well-integrated tannins. Very complete and well made. The 2000 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon displays a dark ruby/scarlet color and a classic Napa Valley cabernet aroma of ripe black cherry and currant fruit. This is enhanced by well-integrated toast and vanilla oak tones. The wine’s rich, elegant, blackberry, cassis and plum flavors are beautifully structured by ripe, round tannins and persist through a long, fruit-filled finish. Enticing now, this lovely red will continue developing for 5-8 years and will age well up to 12. The 2000 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon displays a dark ruby/scarlet color and a classic Napa Valley cabernet aroma of ripe black cherry and currant fruit. This is enhanced by well-integrated toast and vanilla oak tones. The wine’s rich, elegant, blackberry, cassis and plum flavors are beautifully structured by ripe, round tannins and persist through a long, fruit-filled finish. Enticing now, this lovely red will continue developing for 5-8 years and will age well up to 12. |
| 2002 | Cakebread Cellars | Cabernet | 10A2 | 70 | 1 | 89ws |
| 2002 Cakebread Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley boasts an enticing aroma of ripe black cherry, berry and currant fruit complemented by scents of vanilla, sweet herbs, cocoa, and coffee bean. On the palate, the wine's lush, deep, mouth-filling berry and cassis flavors carry a hint of tea-leaf spiciness and are seamlessly balanced by firm, supple tannins, leading to a lusciously long, rich, oak-enhanced finish. Delicious to drink now, this classic Napa Valley Cabernet will continue to develop for another 5-7 years in bottle. This Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon has a clear, dark garnet color. Its spicy, cedar-like scents together with a background aroma of cassis are invitingly rich and complex. On the palate, the texture is rich and smooth with flavors reminiscent of cassis with a hint of chocolate. The overall taste impression of this wine is one of rich black fruit in a delicious balance.2002 Cakebread Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley: "Smooth, ripe and plush, with excellent balance to the cedary currant, anise and nutmeg scents. Firm and concentrated, with ripe, integrated tannins that will benefit from short-term cellaring. Best from 2007 through 2013. 15,000 cases made." 89 Points - Wine Spectator, May 31, 2005 |
| 2003 | Cakebread Cellars | Cabernet | 10A1 | 70 | 1 | 87st |
| 87st Beautifully focused while enticingly lush, Cakebread Cabernet is dense, ripe and chewy, with complex, concentrated flavors of currant, plum and black cherry that keep pumping for a long, rich aftertaste. It's tempting now, but sure to improve over the next few years. 87cg 11% Merlot. If starting out in a curious direction with elements of dried leaves and bacon more evident than a bare wisp of ill-defined fruit in the nose, this bottling finds its varietal footing once in the mouth and shows solid cherry and cassis flavors set against a nice bit of oak. Never flashy, but fairly constant and balanced from front to back, the wine wins recommendation despite its quirky aromatic beginnings and has a fair chance of moving ahead in the rankings if allowed some four or five years of further development. Cakebread's 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon boasts enticing aromas of ripe black fruits and dark chocolate, with lush, concentrated, blackberry, black cherry and black fig flavors. A supple structure of fine tannins is well-integrated with the wine's ripe fruit and fresh acidity, leading to a finish full of rich dark chocolate and blackberry flavors. Delicious to drink now, this classic Napa Valley Cabernet should develop beautifully in bottle for another 5-7 years. |
| 2005 | Cakebread Cellars | Cabernet | 9D6 | 74 | 1 | |
| 89cg 10% Merlot; 3% Cabernet Franc. Plentiful, well-ripened black-cherry fruit and sweet, slightly toasty oak spice quickly surpass initial notes of dried herbs and earth in the nose and become the central themes of this nicely made, fairly full-bodied young Cabernet's slightly succulent flavors. Solidly built and firmed by evident tannins, yet never tough and already showing the first signs of suppleness, the wine should round into shape with but a few years of age Cakebread’s Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is clear, dark garnet in color with complex, spicy, cedar-like scents and background aromas of cassis and dark berries. On the palate, the texture is rich and smooth with flavors reminiscent of cassis with a hint of chocolate set in a structure of balanced fruit and tannin. These flavors are confirmed on the finish, which is marked by rich, ripe fruit and discreet impressions of oak and spice. This lush yet focused wine expresses elegant black cherry, plum and cassis fruit offset by notes of chocolate, herbs and cedar with a supple texture and a structure of balanced fruit and tannin confirmed on the finish. 2005 Cakebread Cabernet Sauvignon boasts a fascinating mélange of aromas, including ripe black fig, blackberry, cassis, caramel, and mocha. On the richly textured palate, the wine’s intense black fruit flavors take on brambly spice, roasted coffee and dark chocolate tones, leading to a long, savory finish. Firmly structured and packed with layers of luxurious flavor, this lavishly endowed Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is a treat now with grilled red meats and other hearty dishes, but will develop beautifully in the bottle for another 5-7 years. 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc This is a California Wine This 2004 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon has a clear, dark garnet color. Its spicy, ce-dar-like scents together with a background aroma of cassis are invitingly rich and complex. On the palate, the texture is rich and smooth with flavors reminiscent of cassis with a hint of choco-late. The overall taste-impression of this wine is one of rich black fruit in a delicious balance.2001 best vintage ever from napa.Delicious to drink now, this classic Napa Valley Cabernet will continue to develop for another 5-7 years in bottle. Years Drinkable: 2009 - 2017 |
| 2005 | Cakebread Cellars Benchland Select | Cabernet | | 125 | 1 | 92wa |
| The star here is the beautiful 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Benchland Select. Its dense ruby/purple color is accompanied by aromas of gravelly earth intermixed with notions of lead pencil shavings, blue as well as blackberries, and spice. Medium-bodied with solid yet ripe tannins, good structure, a Bordeaux-like weight, and a clean, pure finish, it displays admirable purity and texture. It will benefit from 2-3 years of bottle age, and should drink well for two decades. Score: 92. —Robert Parker, December 2008. Rich and plush, supple and harmonious, with generous plum, black cherry and wild berry fruit that runs deep and persistent, repeating the dark fruit themes and ending with firm yet gentle tannins. Drink now through 2014." - 92 points, Wine Spectator (July 2008) This sumptuous Napa Valley cabernet sauvignon offers fragrant aromas of blackberry, boysenberry and ripe fig coupled with seductive loam, leather, dark chocolate and spice scents. Full and well-rounded on the palate, its lavish blackberry, black cherry and dark chocolate flavors are framed by powerful, yet supple tannins and extend into a long, lush finish. Seamlessly structured, with dense, concentrated fruit, this latest edition of our luxurious Benchland Select Cabernet Sauvignon drinks beautifully now, but will reward another 6-8 years of bottle aging. Cakebread Cabernet Sauvignon Benchland Select 2005 - This rich, suave Cabernet Sauvignon offers lavish aromas of ripe dark fruits (blackcurrants, blackberry and boysenberry) mingled with loamy earth, dark chocolate, vanilla cream and briary spice scents. Full and lush on the palate, its dense, mouthfilling, black fruit and dark chocolate flavors are framed by fine, ripe tannins, which give the wine a seamless, sumptuous texture and long, savory finish. Beautifully structured, with great reserves of lush, ripe fruit, this luxurious Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is delicious now, but will age well for another 7-10 years. |
| 2001 | Carter Beckstoffer Vineyards | Cabernet | 5B4 | 150 | 1 | 93we |
| 93we Made from grapes grown in the To Kalon Vineyard, this Cab showcases both its terroir and the amazing vintage. It’s dry, ripe in currants and cherries, lush in tannins yet expressive and forward. Very drinkable now, with good grip, a dry finish and plenty of elegance. A bold, rich and concentrated young wine, with a dense core of currant, blackberry and wild berry fruit. Sharply focused, supported by firm, ripe tannins. Notably svelte, finishing with a touch of mocha-laced oak. Best from 2007 through 2012. 221 cases made. (JL) |
| wedding dinner wine premeal |
| 2006 | Carter Beckstoffer Vineyards | Cabernet | | 100 | 1 | 94wa |
| The gorgeous 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To-Kalon Vineyard possesses the finest aromatics of all the 2006s. Aromas of flowers, spice box, cedarwood, black currants, new saddle leather, and smoky oak are followed by a beautifully textured, full-bodied wine with a lot of tannin, but also considerable concentration and depth. While it seems more evolved aromatically, in the mouth it appears another 2 years of bottle age would be helpful. This beauty should evolve for 20-25+ years. 94 Points WA A touch more elegant than the Carter Coliseum Block, the Revilo possesses the same flash as the Coliseum Block but with smoother tannin. Revilo Vineyard is located off of Silverado Trail.There were just 318 cases of the Revilo Vineyard Cabernet produced in 2006. A bright, red-fruited wine with wonderfully integrated tannins and spice, this is stylish and fresh just hinting at the complexity underneath. This age-worthy, under-the-radar cab is the combined effort of renown winemakers Nils Venge and Jeff Fontanella.This elegant wine shows off a bright, red fruit core, tempered with superbly integrated tannins. A profusion of berries, currant, and spice flavors drape themselves over a fine structure, ending in a stylish, long-drawn finish. Very ripe and complex, with fleshy, full-bodied black cherry and wild berry, with touches of currant and spice. Balanced, turning elegant on the finish. Drink now through 2016. 300 cases made. |
| 2005 | Castello Banfi Tavernelle | Cabernet | | 49 | 4 | |
| 2002 | Caymus | Cabernet | 7B3-4 | 75 | 2 | 93ws |
| WS 93 points, Lots of rich, creamy oak and a tasty core of ripe currant, plum and black cherry fruit combine to form notably complex and concentrated young wine. Delicious from start to finish, with a long, fruity aftertaste and fine-grained tannins. 92cg There are arguments to be made that this inviting young wine is a little too forward and too reliant on oak, but for all of its debt to sweet, creamy spice, it is solidly fruity at its heart and has the extract good Cabernet Sauvignon needs. It is quite ripe, fairly full in the mouth and surprisingly supple for such a young wine, yet it is anything but frontal or one to be gulped down in haste. We expect it to shine after only few years of age, but it has the kind of depth and genuine fruit substance to carry it for close to a decade. |
| 2003 | Caymus | Cabernet | 7A11-7B1 | 70 | 2 | 94we |
| 94we This extraordinary wine possesses an enormous wealth of black cherry, blueberry, cassis and espresso flavors, wrapped in fine, well-toasted oak. Has that rare quality of elegance, in which all the parts work together in harmony. Thoroughly dry, it’s marked by a firm, astringent tannic structure now, but is a certain cel lar candidate. Should begin to blossom by 2008 and hold through 2015. — S.H. (6/1/2006) 93ws "Smooth, rich and seductive, with impeccable balance, great depth and lots of finesse and flavor. The layers of plum, black cherry, mocha, spice and wild berry flavors unfold gracefully, giving it a long, supple aftertaste. Drink now through 2012.—" (WS) |
| 2005 | Caymus | Cabernet | 7A9-10 | 70 | 2 | 93rp |
| "A barrel sample of the 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Special Selection offers terrific fruit intensity and purity, a more laid-back style, a meaty, chewy texture, and impressive opulence as well as length. It should evolve for 10-15 years. 92 PTS WILFRED WONG. An outstanding effort, the well-built '05 Caymus Cabernet exhibits superb black fruit flavors that ride long and lustily in a devilishly delicious, long and lasting finish. A burst of black fruit aromas, the essence of perfect summer berries. Sweet, ripe blackberry flavors with an undertone of mocha and toasted oak. Balancing acidity and a fine, chalky texture carry the wine through to an exceptionally long finish, with no falling off of the rich fruit flavors. From first sip to last, nothing is missing as the wine crosses the palate. Vinfolio (1) Drink: 2007 - 2020 |
| 2006 | Caymus | Cabernet | 7A8 | 75 | 1 | 94ag |
| 94 amazing grapes: What more can be said about this perrenial favorite except that it is once again, a hedonistic, full-bodied, delicious example of Napa Valley Cabernet. Chuck Wagner is a genius when it comes to sourcing only the finest fruit for his "Napa" Cabernet bottling. The 2006 (which by the way is an excellent cab vintage in Napa Valley) has a glorious nose of blackberry jam, creme de cassis and toasty oak that are equally represented on the full bodied, decadent palate. This is pure, red nectar! 92ws Full-blown, ripe and rich, with intense and sharply focused dried currant, wild berry and blackberry fruit that's still fairly tannic at this stage. Ends with a long, persistent finish. Best from 2010 through 2015 90cg Ripeness and sweet oak are the governing traits of this very rich and wide-open wine, and it is more geared to dark chocolate and caramelly sweetness than it is to classic Cabernet fruit. That said, it is positively plush on the palate with extract to spare, so much so, in fact, as to make its hard turn to tannin and heat an acceptable sin. Those who demand varietal precision will be less than happy, but unrepentant fans of opulent reds are certain to find lots to like here as well. 90iwcBright ruby-red. Aromas of cassis, spicecake and bitter chocolate, with a strong component of sweet, nutty oak. Lush, full and sweet, with black fruit, dark chocolate and graphite flavors dominating. Finishes with big, broad, mouthdusting tannins that coat the front teeth. There's no reason not to enjoy this cabernet now but it should evolve nicely for five or six years Wine Tasting Notes Aromas of sweet bing cherry and ripe, lush plum. The opulent sweetness of peak-season, fully-ripe fruit brings about abundant yet soft tannins. The core of this wine is a silky and amiably rich, textured base, with a pure Napa Valley cabernet focus. Flavors of cocoa, currant and sweet tobacco. This rich and chalky wine, devoid of assertive astringencies, drinks well now and should endure for a decade or more. 93wn |
| 2007 | Caymus | Cabernet | | 70 | 1 | 96ww |
| 96 PTS WILFRED WONG. A phenomenal performance, the incredible '07 Caymus Vineyards Cabernet offers purity beyond belief; well-mannered with superb synergy; dust, mocha, black fruit, tar and violets. Here’s an extraordinary wine to add to your cellar collection. It’s a guaranteed ager. Supported by rich, sturdy tannins, it shows a firm, dry mouthfeel and deep flavors of blackberries, with a seamless hem of toasty oak. So balanced, so powerful and elegant, it’s at the top of its class, and proves that the floor of the Napa Valley can produce great Cabernet. Drink now–2020. 95 pts We are excited about the 2007 Caymus as this vintage is reminiscent of the legendary 1994 vintage which scored 95 pts (WS)!. It has the same lush fruit flavor of the 2002 and 2003 vintages with a well balanced tannin structure. The color is very dark with a purple core. The nose has a beautiful perfume of blackberry and blueberry. Rather expansive in the massive mid-palate, this is a dense and chewy Cab. With a hint of semi sweet cocoa then finishing with a deliciously savory hint of lightly toasted caramel. The finish has a magnificent tannin structure and that allows for early drinking, but the massive nature of this great wine will age beautifully and reward you for years to come. Al Jabarin, Calwine 92 (WS) Ripe and fleshy, with rich plum, wild berry, spice and savory herb notes that are complex, full-bodied and expansive on the palate, ending with firm tannins and a dash of espresso. Drink now through 2016.—J.L. |
| 2000 | Caymus Special Selection | Cabernet | 4B2-3 | 150 | 2 | 93we |
| 93we 93we A bright-edged wine, redolent of Bing cherry, raspberry, blackberry, anise, spice, cedar and herb flavors. Tannins are powdery, firm and ripe. They frame the wine in a toasty embrace, ending with a plush finish. Consistently a benchmark from the heartland of California Cabernet. — J.M. (12/15/2003) 92 points from the Wine Spectator... 'This represents a slight stylistic change for Caymus, with the harvesting of slightly riper grapes and less time in barrel. The result is a richly flavored and beautifully crafted wine, with well-defined currant, cassis, blackberry and plum flavors that are mouth-coating, finishing with intricate coffee, mocha and pencil lead flavors. Big ripe tannins are firm but polished. Best from 2004 through 2012. (Feb-2003) |
| 2003 | Caymus Special Selection | Cabernet | 4B1 | 155 | 1 | 94rp |
| Robert Parker 94 Points The 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon Special Selection offers up scents of licorice, black currants, spice box, and a hint of flowers. This deep, full-bodied, chunky 2003 should last for 13-15 years. Intense, complex and concentrated, with a vibrant stack of flavors built around currant, blackberry and wild berry, with pretty oak nuances on the finish, along with ripe, firm tannins. Excellent sample. Score: 94. —James Laube, September 30, 2004. |
| 2004 | Caymus Special Selection | Cabernet | 4B4 | 160 | 1 | 96rp |
| 96rp The Wine Advocate The brilliant, super-rich 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Special Selection (this cuvee is now aged only 15-16 months in barrels compared to older vintages that spent almost twice as long in wood) boasts an inky/purple hue, and sweet notes of lead pencil shavings, creme de cassis, licorice, and charcoal. This dense, full-bodied, opulent, seamless, heady Cabernet is ideal for drinking over the next 15+ years. 94ws The Wine Spectator Has aromas of lead pencil, currant and blackberry. Tightly wound, dense and concentrated, with a dash of earthiness. Finishes with a supple texture and a complex range of flavor. Score range: 92-94. Score: 94. —James Laube, July 31, 2005. |
| 1999 | Chateau Lynch Bages | Red Wine | 2C7 | 100 | 1 | 91rp |
| 91rp This dense ruby/purple-colored 1999 is a modern day clone of this estate's wonderful 1962. The 1999 reveals forward, open-knit notes of creme de cassis and earth. It is fleshy, medium to full-bodied, and succulent, with supple tannin, excellent balance, as well as a long, pure, ripe finish. This seductive effort will drink well for 12-15 years, possibly longer. |
| 2001 | Chateau Margaux | Red Wine | 8D8-9 | 90 | 2 | 89ws |
| 89ws Fresh and floral, with hints of berries and vanilla. Medium-bodied, with silky tannins and a fresh, fruity finish. Refined. Second wine of Margaux. Best after 2007. 20,000 cases made. |
| 2003 | Chateau Montelena Estate | Cabernet | | 100 | 2 | 93rp |
| 93rp While the 2002, which was quite extroverted right before bottling, has shut down, the 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate is still open-knit, although I suspect it will probably close down as well. It exhibits an opaque ruby/purple color along with a sweet, spicy nose of black currants, licorice, herbs, and damp earth. Rich and concentrated, it is the most accessible, and possibly the most elegant and French-oriented of the Cabernets produced between 2002 and 2004. This top-notch effort should be cellared for 2-3 years, and consumed over the following 20-25 years. Score: 93. —Robert Parker, 2006. The wine is a typically bright ruby red, with opaque density and color, which leads to a nice array of aromas: sweet black currant jam, with hints of black cherry and flowers. There is much fruit in the nose, not unexpected considering the excellent ripeness achieved in this vintage. The unique blend of soils in our vineyard leads to very pleasing layers of complexity, and I particularly like the evident menthol-cedar note attributable to the volcanic soil component. On the palate it delivers intense, broad and sweet fruit, layered with spicy cherry, and even a bit of chocolate. The overall structure is ripe and rich, pure and well delineated. It is very much in the Montelena Estate style, in which vineyard flavors drive the wine. It is a very structured Cabernet from a great growing year, and it will greatly reward you after a few more years of cellaring. |
| 1999 | Chateau Pichon-Longueville | Red Wine | 11C6 | 66 | 1 | 90rp |
| 90rp THIS LOW ACID, MEDIUM-BODIED, CHARMING, LUSH 1999 POSSESSES GOOD STUFFING, RIPE TANNIN, AND A MODERATELY LONG FINISH. ENJOY IT NOW AS WELL AS OVER THE NEXT 10-12 YEARS. (RP) st 'Evolving aromas of currant, tobacco, cigar box, mocha and earth. Sweet, lush and rich; in a distinctly easygoing style, thanks to the very ripe merlot, which comprises 37% of the blend.' 1999 Chateau Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande (Pauillac):A delicate and refined red. Fresh aromas of raspberries and minerals follow through to a medium-bodied palate, with fine tannins and a delicate, refreshing finish. Best after 2003. " 88 Points - Wine Spectator, January 31, 2002 |
| 1997 | Chateau St Jean Cinq Cepages | Cabernet | 5A10-11 | 120 | 2 | 96ws |
| Spectator: - "Ultrarich and chocolaty, with layers of cedar, plum, currant and black cherry, revealing uncommon depth and tiers of flavor as it picks up coffee, toffee and anise. Finishes with firm tannins. Best from 2002 through 2012. Tasted twice, with consistent notes." Parker: -"The 1997 Cinq Cepages is a blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon and the balance Merlot, Malbec, Cabernet Franc, and Petit-Verdot, it boasts a super-complex bouquet of licorice, dried herbs, black currants, spice box, and cherry liqueur. In the mouth, notes of chocolate, new oak, and red and black fruits caress the palate in a medium to full-bodied, succulent style. Aged in 50% new and 50% one-year old French barrels, it is bottled with no fining or filtration. Fleshy and complex, this is California's answer to a big, rich St.-Emilion. Drinkable now, it promises to last for 12-15 years." |
| 1999 | Chateau St Jean Cinq Cepages | Cabernet | 5A7-9 | 100 | 3 | 95ws |
| Spectator Review: "Gorgeous Cabernet, offering a mix of ripe, rich, fleshy currant and blackberry fruit, with hints of herb, olive and sage. Finishes with a firm, structured backbone and ripe tannins giving it depth and richness. Drink now through 2014." Parker Review: "...boasts an opaque ruby/purple color in addition to a sweet bouquet of licorice, dried herbs, tobacco, smoke, black cherries, and cassis. It is medium to full-bodied, with a lovely texture, admirable complexity, and a long finish..." |
| 2001 | Chateau St Jean Cinq Cepages | Cabernet | 5A2-3 | 75 | 2 | 94rm |
| 94rm Jan 21, 2006 - Chateau St Jean Cinq Cepages 2001 - RM 94 - Complex, polished, elegant, smooth, full bodied, currant flavor with subtle vanilla, plum and essence of mocha on the finish. A lovely Cab, elegant and harmonious. Strikes an even balance between cherry and blackberry flavors, smoky oak, sweet herbs, cocoa and spice. The tannins are beautifully ripe and soft. Of all these qualities, balance is foremost." 93 Points - Wine Enthusiast, March 1, 2005 Beautifully crafted, dark, rich and layered, with blackberry, cherry, plum and wild berry fruit that zooms across the palate, holding a tight focus and finishing with a long, complex aftertaste. The tannins firm up nicely on the finish. Drink now through 2011. Score: 92. A lovely Cab, elegant and harmonious. Strikes an even balance between cherry and blackberry flavors, smoky oak, sweet herbs, cocoa and spice. The tannins are beautifully ripe and soft. Of all these qualities, balance is foremost.(Wine Enthusiast) The 2001 Cinq Cepages is an outstanding effort, although not up to the quality of the terrific examples made in the mid-nineties. A dark ruby/purple color is followed by an elegant nose of cranberries, cherries, red and black currants, smoke, and herbs. This elegant, medium to full-bodied 2001 is ideal for drinking over the next 12-13 years." 90 Points - Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate, Issue 157 |
| 2003 | Chateau St Jean Cinq Cepages | Cabernet | 5A1 | 55 | 1 | 94we |
| A classic Cinq Cepages, the 2003 vintage offers the signature chocolate - covered cherry and boysenberry aromas that have come to define this flagship Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon. Lush, elegant and gracefully balanced, the wine delivers sweet plum and dark berry flavors and an exotic floral note that wraps around big, juicy tannins. This highly concentrated wine has beautiful oak integration and a lushness throughout that leads to a lingering finish. Sonoma, CA- "Smooth and complex, with 78% Cab contributing the firm tannic backbone that gives this such excellent structure...The flavors are so interesting: black cherries, blackberry jam, plum sauce, coffee, root beer and new oak. There's an acidic vibrancy as well." Wine Enthusiast 94 The Cinq Cepages is impressive. It boasts a deep ruby/purple hue as well as aromas of cedar, black currants, sweet cherries, licorice, and smoky oak. Medium to full-bodied, authoritatively flavored, elegant and impressively long with a velvety texture, it is already delicious and evolved but should drink well for at least another 12-14 years. There are some terrific values in the Chateau St. Jean portfolio. People complain, with justification, about the high prices of the finest California wines, but this winery releases some offerings that are actually under priced for what’s in the bottle. The values in this portfolio seem obvious, and the winery is to be applauded for that |
| 2004 | Chester Kidder | Red Wine | 1C5 | 50 | 1 | 93 |
| This is an outstanding Bordeaux blend from the Long Shadows winery. It got 93+ points from the Wine Advocate. Here is their review: " The 2004 Chester Kidder Red Wine is made by Gilles Nicault who is also the winemaker in residence at Long Shadows. It is a blend of 58% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Syrah, 10% Cabernet Franc, and 3% Petit Verdot. It was aged for 28 months in 90% new, mostly French oak. Opaque purple-colored, it reveals an alluring nose of cedar, leather, pencil lead, espresso, blueberry, and blackberry. Round and ripe on the palate, it borders on opulence while concealing enough tannin to support another 5-7 years of cellaring. The sweet, savory fruit carries through into the lengthy finish. Drink this superb effort from 2013 to 2030. " |
| 2000 | Chimney Rock Stag's Leap Reserve | Cabernet | UT | 100 | 3 | 90cg |
| 90cg Counting poise and polish as first among its many assets, this rich, sweetly oaked and beautifully measured young Cabernet sports lots of very friendly fruit from start to finish. Keen sense of balance that is equaled by few. Fairly forward, yet quite long on the palate and never overly reliant on ripeness, it calls for mid-term aging and should peak in a half-dozen years. |
| 2001 | Chimney Rock Stags Leap Ditrict | Cabernet | UT | 50 | 1 | 93we |
| 93 we Medium ruby color; very attractive, forward, complex, plummy, cedary, sweet red currant and red berry fruit aroma with a hint of coffee and overtones of creamy oak; medium-full body; forward, supple, elegantly styled, toasty, tarrish, plummy red currant and ripe red berry fruit flavors with a rounded mouth feel; well balanced; medium-full tannin; lingering aftertaste. Approachable and very enjoyable to taste now though has the balance and structure to develop for another five years. Very highly recommended. - California Grapevine 91 points |
| 2003 | Cliff Lede Poetry Stags Leap District | Cabernet | 2B10-11 | 125 | 2 | 95v |
| Just beautiful. from the Poetry vineyard in Stag’s Leap, a vineyard of shallow soils and old, low-yielding Cabernet vines. This is a big, powerful wine, but still leaves the impression of grace. Aromas of spices, plum, mocha, anise, lavender and blueberry lead to pure, rich flavors of black cherry, rose petal, and spices. The finish just keeps going, with extremely fine tannins suggesting this has a number of years ahead of it. A magnificent wine. 9.5vinography "Poetry" Cabernet Sauvignon, Stags Leap District. Score: 9.5/10. Wow. |
| 2006 | Cliff Lede Poetry Stags Leap District | Cabernet | | 157 | 1 | 94rp |
| Cliff Lede 2006 Poetry Stags Leap District Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 750 ml Even better is the 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Poetry. A 969-case blend of 96% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest equal parts Merlot and Petit Verdot, this wine has sweet tannins, a big, rich kiss of blackberry and creme de cassis interwoven with subtle smoke, graphite, and loamy soil undertones. The wine has gorgeous purity, full-bodied flavors, elegance, and finesse. Like great cuisine, it offer tremendous intensity of flavor without any sense of heaviness or weight. Drink it over the next 20+ years. Rated 94 Points by Robert Parker |
| 1999 | Clos Du Val Reserve | Cabernet | 7A1-5 | 95 | 5 | 94we |
| 94we"Elegant and restrained, this complex, well-crafted wine offers hints of green olive, cedar, currant and black cherry, supported by firm tannins. The long, elegant aftertaste is enlivened by acidity. Drink now through 2010." (11/03) |
| 2003 | Clos Saron Black Pearl | Red Wine | | 23 | 11 | 92vf |
| vinfolio 9.5 to 9.0 Fairly dark color, although not nearly as opaque as the 00 and 01 vintages. Very aromatic and complex in the nose with a strong fruity intensity nicely layered by various spices (sage is the first to come to mind), and an earthy-mushroomy dimension. Medium-full bodied, richly flavored and well balanced with good acidity and tannic structure. Perhaps more elegant than the earlier versions, with as much length and aromatic persistence. Merlot 51%, Cabernet Sauvignon 30%, Syrah 19% 1144 bottles , 42 magnums, bottled unfined, unfiltered on 1/24/2006. |
| 2005 | Col Solare | Red Wine | 9C4-5 | 70 | 2 | 94wa |
| WA 94Pts - WS 93Pts - Tasting Notes - The 2005 Red Table Wine is composed of 71% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, and 4% Cabernet Franc. It also spent 27 months in new French and American oak. The 2005 vintage contains more Red Mountain fruit which may be why it is more structured and powerful; it’s also the case that 2005 is a superior vintage. The wine is purple-colored with notes of wood smoke, mineral, spice box, black currant and blackberry. On the palate, it is full-bodied and layered with the tannins well concealed. Reminiscent of a top level Pauillac, it will evolve for 5-7 years and provide pleasure through 2030. |
| 2004 | Conn Creek Anthology | Red Wine | 9C3 | 60 | 2 | |
| The pinnacle wine of Conn Creek, Anthology is an expressive, complex blend of Napa Valley's finest Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot. The 2004 Anthology offers red and black fruit aromas and spicy flavors with nuanced expressions of creamy oak and berry cobbler. A robust wine balanced with silky tannins." Conn Creek's Anthology, a Bordeaux-style blend from Napa Valley grapes, has soft tannins and high fruit intensity. The wine earned a "93" from Wine Spectator with the inaugural 1991 release and has earned scores in the 90s for each vintage since. The Limited Release Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon showcases great Napa Valley fruit. Balanced, complex, it is a bold, highly extracted, beautifully proportioned wine. According to Wine Spectator: "Aromas of herb, sage, bell pepper and dried currant carry over to the palate in an intense yet tannic style. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Malbec. Drink now through 2012." (04/08) |
| 2003 | Corison | Cabernet | 2D4 | 65 | 1 | 91st |
| Bing cherry and plum chutney fruit and rendered rich and complex with undertones of cocoa, nutmeg, white pepper and "Rutherford dust". Trademark floral highnotes are already beginning to develop in the bottle. Lush with gentle, mouth-coating tannins, it gracefully walks the line between power and elegance, perfectly balanced for a long, distinguished life This limited-production Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, by Corizon is hand-crafted without compromise from some of the finest vineyards in the Napa Valley. Rich, complex flavors and aromas. The red fruit notes include plum, blackberry and black cherry with hints of chocolate and a dash of spice for interest. A beautiful floral perfume of violets and an unmistakable mineral quality, complete the package. All of the components converge in just the right place; everything is in balance. Good full ruby. Sweet aromas of cassis, blackberry, licorice and violet. Juicy and sweet, with excellent clarity of flavor. Bears a strong resemblance to the 2002. A firmly built wine, with excellent acidity and inner-mouth energy. Finishes with noteworthy persistence and subtlety of flavor. ST 90-92 |
| 2004 | Corley Proprietary | Red Wine | HR | 33 | 5 | |
| Continuing along my musical theme from above, this wine’s opening stanza is a medley of blueberry, blackberry, floral and sweet oak tones. The chorus is lovely, the tannins laying down a solid rhythmic bass line, while the berry aromatics and dark fruit flavors entertain with an “echo” jam evoking some of the old-school boogie-woogie piano jams of old. The finish is sweet, lingering and smoky – like the last song of the evening in a downtown jazz club. – Chris Corley, Winemaker Cabernet Franc (61%) Merlot (21%) Cabernet Sauvignon (12%) Syrah (6%) |
| 2003 | Corley Reserve | Cabernet | HR | 33 | 8 | |
| Aromatics of berries, blackberry, coffee and chocolate with oak nicely woven into the thread. The flavors are very similar in profile to the aromatics, this wine shows nice consistency and balance throughout the entire experience, from the aromatics to the finish. The mouth feel is a full, rich attack that coats the mouth with richness. The tannins are full but approachable and should evolve nicely as this wine develops with time. The full finish lingers on the back of the palate with firm but appropriate tannin. “In 2003 we separated several select lots from State Lane and Tietjen Vineyards to use for the Corley Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon. These free run lots were selected for their textural, aromatic and flavor balances. As is typical, our Corley Reserve blends carry a higher percentage of new oak than the Jefferson Cuvee blends. In 2003 I used roughly 40% new oak, heavily toasted from the Troncais forest in France. We utilized barrels from several different coopers. 90% Cabernet Sauvignon 6 % Merlot 3 % Cabernet Franc |
| 2004 | Corte Riva | Cabernet | 7D4 | 65 | 1 | 91ws |
| 91ws 89rp "The deep ruby/purple-colored 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon exhibits abundant scents of espresso roast, black cherries, cassis, and chocolate. More structured and backward than the Merlot, with a more linear, masculine mouthfeel, it will benefit from 1-2 years of bottle age, and should keep for 10-15 years." A dark ruby color, this Cabernet Sauvignon was aged for 18 months in French Oak barrels, 75% new. This well balanced wine has great structure. It is full bodied, yet elegant and refined. It has an intense nose of blackberry and black cherry, dark chocolate and sweet integrated oak. The flavors continue through the mid palate with the addition of spice and fine soft tannin. |
| 2002 | Cosentino Hoopes Ranch | Cabernet | TOPLEFT | 70 | 15 | 94we |
| Wine Enthusiast, Cellar Selection. Rated: 94 points. "What a great job Mitch Cosentino does with Bordeaux varities.... Rich in Cassis, Cherry and Toast. This balanced wine has smooth polished tannins and a long finish. Remarkably good now and will devolop for many years." Complex notes of spice, minerals, earth and black fruits commingle in an almost exotic melange of aromas and flavors.This is a wine of great purity. Distinctive Graves - like lead pencil in the nose with notes of oak and blue berries. Richly concentrated with excellent balance on the palate. Cabernet Sauvignon that exhibits the special uniqueness of the Oakville appellation. I recently tasted this wine again at the Taste of Oakville in Napa Valley. It was my favorite wine over the likes of Screaming Eagle. Bright and juicy with gobs of fruit. |
| 2005 | Covenant | Cabernet | 11C5 | 85 | 1 | 91rp |
| 90-92wa The 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon (550 cases) possesses beautiful purity along with abundant amounts of black currant fruit intermixed with licorice, tobacco leaf, and spice box notes. It is a restrained, elegant version of the extroverted 2004. The 2005 should drink well for 12-15 years. WA # , #168 (Dec 2006) Drink 2006 - 2021 Robert Parker |
| 2003 | Craneford | Shiraz | 11C4 | 39 | 1 | 92rp |
| 90-93 points Robert Parker: "A barrel sample of the 2003 Shiraz (14% alcohol) exhibits notes of black fruits, flowers, and damp earth along with a dense, full-bodied, opulent style. This offering will not be particularly long-lived, but it possesses a pure flavor, good texture, and offers a considerable value." (10/04) |
| 2005 | Culler La Palette | Red Wine | 7D9-10 | 53 | 2 | 93rp |
| 93 points Robert Parker: "The 2005 Proprietary Red La Palette is a blend of 91% Cabernet Sauvignon and 9% Petit Verdot, all from Alexander Ranch fruit. Complex aromas of bay leaf, roasted herbs, black currants, loamy soil, and toasty oak, along with a medium to full-bodied, elegant finish suggest this 2005 can be enjoyed over the next 10-12 years.Karen Culler (who also makes the wines for Wolf Family Vineyards and Ladera) fashions some impressive cuvees under her own label." (12/08) 91 points from Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "Saturated ruby. Black fruits, licorice, leather, minerals and bitter chocolate on the nose. Dense, pliant and nicely concentrated, with a restrained sweetness to the fruit-driven flavors of blackberry pastille, licorice and violet. Ripely tannic and soundly structured on the back. With extended aeration, this was all minerals and violet." (May/June '0893vf vinfolio 2007-2020 91st 91 points from Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "Saturated ruby. Black fruits, licorice, leather, minerals and bitter chocolate on the nose. Dense, pliant and nicely concentrated, with a restrained sweetness to the fruit-driven flavors of blackberry pastille, licorice and violet. Ripely tannic and soundly structured on the back. With extended aeration, this was all minerals and violet." (May/June '08) 2005 Culler La Palette: The proprietary blend of 91% Cabernet Sauvignon provides the varietal character, depth, and structure of the wine, while 9% Petite Verdot contributes the deep color and thick mid-palate. Blended together, the wine has the rich balance of fruit with black cherry and cassis, subtle hints of vanilla and continues with a long and lush finish. The 2005 wines are drinkable earlier because of the lush, soft tannins, but should also age well for 10 years or beyond. Culler Winemaker: Karen Culler | http://www.cullerwines.com/) |
| 2001 | D`Arenberg Coppermine Road | Cabernet | 11B6 | 60 | 1 | 93rp |
| 2001 d'Arenberg The Coppermine Road Cabernet Sauvignon: "One of the finest Cabernet Sauvignons produced in South Australia is d’Arenberg’s Coppermine Road. The colossal 2001 The Coppermine Road Cabernet Sauvignon exhibits an opaque purple color in addition to a gorgeous perfume of lead pencil shavings intermixed with blackberry and cassis fruit, vanilla, Asian spices, and white flowers. Still primary and young, with great intensity as well as tremendous upside potential, it requires 5-6 more years of aging, after which it will last for two decades." 93 Points - Robert M. Parker, Jr.'s, The Wine Advocate, Issue 148 |
| 2000 | Dalle Valle | Cabernet | 4B11 | 130 | 1 | 93ws |
| 93ws 'A wonderful display of fruit purity, with floral, plum, grapey currant and black cherry fruit that's well-focused and supported by firm tannins. Finishes with a push of blackberry and lead pencil. ' 90rp "An outstanding effort, [with] copious quantities of cas-sis fruit, medium to full body, ripe, pure flavors, sweet tannin, and a long, heady finish. Anticipated maturity: now - 2015." 90-92st Bright ruby. Aromas of cassis, blackberry, bitter chocolate, licorice and shoe polish. Tightly wound and serious, with notes of minerals and shoe polish and a strong spine of acidity. Dense and bright but not yet expansive in the middle palate. Finishes firm and long. |
| 2000 | Darioush | Cabernet | 7C1 | 67 | 1 | 94we |
| 94we This luscious Signature 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon boasts spectacular soaring aromatics of mocha-espresso, blackberries, licorice and cassis with subtle notes of sweet vanillin. Layer after layer of dense, richly concentrated juicy black fruit unfold powe |
| 2001 | Darioush | Cabernet | 7B10-11 | 67 | 2 | 94ws |
| WS 94 Pts. - Wonderfully rich intense and concentrated Cabernet, with neat layers of tightly focused currant, black cherry, anise, sage and cedary oak. Given all its flavor and richness, there's a sense of elegance and finesse. Well-integrated tannins provide an excellent balance to the rich flavors. Best from 2003 to 2012. 2,443 cases made. This luscious Signature 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon boasts spectacular soaring aromatics of mocha, espresso, blackberries, licorice and cassis with subtle notes of sweet vanillin. Layer after layer of dense, richly concentrated juicy black fruit unfold powerfully yet gently on the palate. Well-balanced acidity and velvety tannin add graceful support to the wine's supple richness and concentration. A wine of extraordinary depth with a long, enduring finish. Best until 2012. Proprietor Darioush Khaledi has fine wine in his blood. Khaledi grew up in Iran's Shiraz region, a wine-growing zone, that is up until the Islamic revolution. His father made wine as a hobby, and as young boy, Khaledi used to sneak sips from the barrel. As an adult, he became a devoted collector of fine wines. Nestled in the eastern slopes of the Napa Valley near the Oak Knoll and Stag's Leap appellations, Khaledi's vision is to craft elegant, complex, world-class wines in the finest Old-World style yet reflective of the expressive fruit generally associated with big Napa Cabs. Ripe, but with balancing structure and considerable power and body, this highly sought after red will drink well now and for at least a decade. |
| 2004 | Darioush | Cabernet | 7B8-9 | 76 | 2 | 95cg |
| CG 95pts. - The Napa Valley is renowned for producing some of the world’s most inspiring—and collectible—Cabernet Sauvignons. The 2004 Darioush Signature Cabernet Sauvignon is a classic Napa Valley vintage; ripe, lush and profoundly concentrated, yet epitomizing the stylistic profile and poise we value so highly. 2004 Darioush Signature Cabernet Sauvignon's alluring floral and licorice aromatics combine with the sweet scent of crushed blackberries to introduce this seriously sexy wine. Finely-knit tannins support a rich, full-bodied mid-palate of crème de cassis, European dark chocolate, espresso, earth and exotic allspice. Though best decanted in its youth, this sophisticated beauty will age gracefully for the next decade. Darioush Khaledi has proven to be the master of the rich, fleshy, full-bodied style, and once again, his winery delivers a bottling with a virtually unrivalled combination of intensity, drama and hedonistic pleasure. In its youth, the wine is at once both open and brooding, and its invitingly sensual aromas and flavors, while seeming to ask for early enjoyment, are far from fully developed. One can easily partner this lush wine with juicy filet mignons or a standing rib roast, but putting it in the cellar for half a decade or more seems the better idea. The true signature of a wine, its character and sense of place, is born in the vineyard. Grown in the cooler-climates of southern Napa Valley and upon the rocky slopes of Mt. Veeder, our Cabernet Sauvignon’s ‘Signature’ will always be its graceful combination of rich, concentrated fruit, earth and spice complexity with the well-integrated, age-worthy structure found in the worlds most collectible wines. |
| 2006 | Darioush Signature | Cabernet | | 80 | 1 | 91cg |
| 91cg 9% Merlot; 3% Cabernet Franc; 3% Malbec. Taking its usual place near the head of the class as far as sheer opulence and lavish oak are concerned, this year's offering from Darioush is as hedonistic and voluptuous as ever with so much deep fruit that it finds success in a style where success does not always come easy. Some will no doubt find it a bit over the top, but it has the balance and structure to improve with age, and it will never be accused of being wimpy or wan" From the winery's vineyard on the cool, rocky slopes of Mt. Veeder, the Darioush Cabernet is pure Napa Valley royalty. Aromas of black currant, blueberry and cacao nibs wrap themselves around you like a warm embrace. Once drawn in, the palate delivers focused blackberry, cherry and coffee flavors with firm tannins and a spicy accent. Enjoy now and over the next decade, at least. The long awaited release of this ultra-sheik Cabernet from Darioush is sure to be a big hit. It is sourced from the eminent winery's estate vineyards in the Oak Knoll, Mt. Veeder and Napa Valley appellations. Darioush Khaledi, Proprietor, grew up in Shiraz, one of Iran's prominent wine-growing regions. His father was a hobbyist winemaker and as a young boy, Khaledi used to sneak sips from the barrel; as a young adult he became a devoted collector of fine wines. Immigrating to the United States in the late 1970's Khaledi's passion for wine never waned. In the early 1990's he embarked on a worldwide search for the ultimate vineyard estate. Darioush is the culmination of this search. |
| 2004 | DeLille Cellars D2 | Red Wine | 3A7 | 42 | 1 | 91we |
| WE91" An extraordinary, effusive nose, smooth and voluptuous, with spectacular focus and concentration, opens this wine. There is an herbal underpinning, and just a bit of tannic roughness, but it’s nothing that won’t soften up with time. This, along with Quilceda’s second-tier red, is the best red wine value in the state. Still showing youthful tart, tight acid; it’s chewy but focused. Good flavors of very tart cherry, plum and even red apple, leading into hints of menthol, cigar box, pepper and slate. — P.G. (3/1/2007) |
| 2002 | Delectus Oakville | Cabernet | 2D2 | 67 | 1 | 93cg |
| 93cg 91ws Aromas of cherry liqueur, creme-de-cassis, well-integrated oak, some vanilla bean, cocoa. Well-structured mouth feel, a trace of dust, loaded with dark fruit, rich chocolate, and a very long finish. The nose features crème de cassis, chocolate-covered cherries, clove, and lemon peel. The mouth is a trip through your spice rack, but most impressive is the powerful finish |
| 2003 | Delille Cellars Chaleur Estate | Red Wine | 8D7 | 70 | 1 | 95wa |
| Wine Advocate 95 points - Amazing aromas of blueberries, black cherries, spices, sage, thyme, and violets emanate from the glass of the 2003 Chaleur Estate (red). Though this wine is densely packed with candied blackberries as well as cassis, it loses none of its elegance and charm. Extremely well-focused and detailed, it also reveals great length in its seamless finish. Drink it over the next 15 years |
| 2001 | Dominari | Cabernet | 8B6 | 75 | 1 | 88we |
| we88 Very young, with a cut of acidity that has yet to be integrated into the oaky, rather flamboyant flavors of cassis and blackberries. It’s all there, including lush tannins, but needs a few years to come together. Best after 2005. A new label from Atlas Peak. — S.H. (10/1/2004) AWCL 10yr from 03 A traditional Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon with its own style and elegance. This mountain grown wine definitely lives up to its name. It will arouse your senses to a new appreciation of fine wine. |
| 2000 | Dominus Napa Valley Proprietary | Red Wine | 1A5 | 100 | 1 | 92ww |
| 92ww Dominus is the red wine produced from the historical Napanook vineyard, 124 acres in size, in Yountville, mid-Napa Valley, California. Christian Moueix of St. Emilion and Pomerol (France) began producing Dominus with the 1983 vintage. The wine is essentially made from Cabernet Sauvignon with small amounts of Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Bright, full medium ruby. Highly complex nose combines plum syrup, minerals, tobacco and shoe polish. Lush, full and fleshy, but with terrific minerally verve underneath. Strong flavor of black plum. Perhaps sweeter and more pliant today than the '99. "From a vintage with a more normal skin-to-juice ratio," notes Moueix. A distinctly adult-styled Bordeaux blend, with excellent length and grip. A must-have for the cellar! Dominus is the proprietary red wine produced in the heart of Napa Valley by Christian Moueix and his winemaking team. Since 1983, their goal has been to express the unique terroir found at the historic Napanook Vineyard. The 2000 is a blend of 83% cabernet sauvignon, 9% cabernet franc, 5% merlot and 3% petit verdot.The round, seductive 2000 will drink well for 12-15 years. |
| 2001 | Dominus Napa Valley Proprietary | Red Wine | 1A4 | 119 | 1 | 95rp |
| 95rp...should last for two decades 95ws...thru 2014 94 Points" Wine Enthusiast;s Top 100 Wines of 2004 OUR EDITOR'S PICK THE YEAR'S MUST-HAVE WINES As good as the 2001 Napanook is, this wine is more intense. The fruit is lusher, the oak newer, the control more complete, but the kicker is the tannins. They're powerful and dusty, and conceal the flamboyance, for now. Needs time; hold until 2010 and beyond. 93( + )st Good ruby-red. Superripe aromas of plum, cherry, licorice, mocha, smoke and minerals. At once sweet and gripping, with very intense, nuanced flavors of cherry, plum, currant, tobacco, minerals and currant leaf. Despite the very high pH of 4.01, this shows no shortage of energy in the mouth. A muscular, firmly tannic, serious wine for aging. (A second sample that had been decanted for four hours prior to my visit was sweeter and more seamless, but still showed solid tannic spine.) |
| 2002 | Dominus Napa Valley Proprietary | Red Wine | 1A3 | 120 | 1 | 96rp |
| 96 points Robert Parker: "The 2002 Dominus gets my nod as the greatest example of this cuvee since the 1991 and 1994. There are 4,500 cases of this 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Cabernet Franc, 4% Petit Verdot, and 3% Merlot blend fashioned from minuscule yields ranging from 1.8 to 2.8 tons of fruit per acre. Christian Moueix told me that the phenolic material was higher analytically in 2002, as were the acids, which surprised everyone. The deep, saturated purple-colored 2002 boasts an extraordinary perfume of roasted coffee intermixed with black currants, cherries, cocoa, cedar, cigar smoke, and new saddle leather. A classic, full-bodied palate possesses great structure, tremendous depth, loads of tannin, and a multilayered, concentrated yet elegant finish. It is difficult to predict when this beauty will plateau in terms of maturity. My best guess is it needs 3-5 years of bottle age, and should last for 25 years." 92+ points Stephen Tanzer: "(85% cabernet sauvignon, 8% cabernet sauvignon, 4% petit verdot and 3% merlot) Red-ruby. Cool, shy aromas of currant, blackberry and licorice, with a leafy, medicinal aspect. Dense, fat and structured but also quite penetrating and powerful, with black fruit, licorice and herbal flavors and a strong impression of extract. This offers noteworthy energy in the mouth, and finishes quite claret-like, with fine-grained tannins and sneaky length..." (Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar, May/Jun 05) |
| 2003 | Dominus Napa Valley Proprietary | Red Wine | 1A1-2 | 125 | 2 | 95rp |
| Robert Parker 95 Points Wine Advocate -- The 2003 Dominus has turned out even better than I thought from barrel. There are 4,800 cases of this 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Petit Verdot blend. A big, sweet nose of roasted coffee, Provencal herbs, black currants, cherry jam, plums, allspice, and forest floor is followed by a spicy, rich, full-bodied, fragrant, intense wine. The tannins are sweet, but noticeable in this beautifully complex, strikingly aromatic 2003. It has much more similarity to a great Bordeaux than anything from Napa Valley. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2025. |
| 2001 | Duckhorn Vineyards | Cabernet | 3C3-4 | 60 | 2 | 94ws |
| 94ws 89% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot. "Layered with fruit that explodes upon first taste with flavors of red currant, cassis, and crème brulée. This vintage is well-balanced with smooth, mouth-filling tannins that will allow it to develop for 7-10 years in the bottle. The aroma has notes of cherry, blackberry, and blueberry with caramel and exotic spice." Winemaker's Comments.Ultrarich, with plush, thick, concentrated currant, black cherry and wild berry fruit. Sharply focused, long and intense, with smooth tannins. Toasty oak makes a showing on the finish. Wine Spectator." |
| 2001 | Duckhorn Vineyards Estate | Cabernet | 3C6 | 90 | 1 | 94ws |
| 94 points Wine Spectator: "A bold, rich, massive expression of exuberant Cabernet, with layers of concentrated currant, blackberry, spice and wild berry flavors that offer a mix of power and finesse, easing up a bit on the finish, where the tannins are ripe and firm. Best from 2006 through 2012." (11/04) |
| 2002 | Duckhorn Vineyards Estate | Cabernet | 3C5 | 90 | 1 | 94ws |
| Wine Spectator: 'Highly Recommended' 94 Points This Estate Grown Cabernet Sauvignon from our twenty-fifth harvest is a full-bodied wine that is nicely layered with a velvet structure, round tannins, dense texture, and a lingering finish. The aroma is concentrated with ripe raspberry, black cherry and toasted oak followed by vanilla, mocha and hints of spice. The flavors are rich with blackberry, currant, dark chocolate and a savory component of roasted coffee and smoked meat.Our Estate Grown wines are blended using the best lots of our Estate ranches. In any given harvest we have 30 or more separate lots of Estate wine. With these vineyards, we harvest the grapes at natural maturity, going through vineyard sites several times, picking only the ripe fruit with each pass. The final blend for our Estate Grown Cabernet Sauvignon is approachable in its youth, with a soft texture and notable finesse, but also has the structure to carry forward for a decade or longer. |
| 2002 | Dunn Vineyards Howell Mountain | Cabernet | 2A5 | 90 | 1 | 93st |
| 92-94st Stephen Tanzer: Good full ruby-red. Complex nose combines cassis, black cherry, licorice and game. Silky and thick; even sweeter than the Napa sample. This has a wonderfully round mid-palate and impressive, fat fruit. Finishes firmly tannic and very long. Despite the recent sulfuring, this comes across as more fleshy and pliant than the 2001. 91-93rp Robert Parker: The 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain exhibits an inky/blue/purple color along with a sweet perfume of pure blackberries, meat, new saddle leather, and flowers. From an unusually ripe harvest, this sweet, rich, fleshy offering displays more accessibility than many Howell Mountain vintages. Randy Dunn said it was important to drop crop, and he eliminated 40% of the fruit from the vines in both 2002 and 2001. The long, concentrated 2002 may not be the biggest Howell Mountain cuvee, but it will provide lovely drinking between 2009-2024. 93ws "Remarkably elegant and refined, showing distinct floral, mineral, blackberry and black plum fruit. The finish is rich, with fine-grained tannins. Score range: 92-94 (JL)" |
| 2004 | El Puntido Rioja | Red Wine | 8A5-7 | 60 | 3 | 96we |
| Wine Enthusiast's #1 Wine of 2007. 96 pts: "Ruby. Earthy cherry and dark berry scents, accompanied by graphite and licorice root. Starts off solid and a bit clenched but aeration brings out sweeter kirsch and floral flavors. The finish shows cherry, chocolate and espresso." -Wine Enthusiast The 2004 El Puntido was sourced from its namesake vineyard planted in 1975. The wine was aged in new French oak for 18 months. Purplecolored, it offers an expressive nose of pain grille, pencil lead, scorched earth, black cherry, and blackberry. Firm and structured on the palate, this nicely balanced wine has ample spicy fruit but a slightly compressed finish. It has enough structure to evolve for 3 to 5 years and should drink well through 2020. ST Inky ruby. Earthy cherry and dark berry scents are accompanied by brooding notes of printer's ink, graphite and licorice root. Starts off solid and a bit clenched but aeration brings out sweeter kirsch and floral pastille flavors. The finish shows bitter cherry, chocolate and espresso. Give this some cellar time. WS Black cherry, plum, coffee and smoke flavors mingle in this sleek, muscular red. The tannins are prominent now, but lively acidity provides balance and the finish is spicy and long. Best from 2008 through 2016. 300 cases imported. Score: 90. —Thomas Matthews, November 30, 2007. |
| 2000 | Elderton Ashmead Single Vineyard | Cabernet | 1C8 | 70 | 1 | 90ct |
| 90ct Color: Deep purple. Nose: Complex nose of ripe blackberries and cedary oak. Palate: An explosion of dark chocolate, blackberries and long silky tannins. Only the 3rd release of this wine, with the fruit entirely from the old vines Cabernet block on the Elderton Estate. This is a blockbuster of a wine. Its dark color gives you a hint of just how much dense fruit has been packed into the bottle. Intense ripe blackberries, dark cherry dominate, but with lovely higher tone red fruits adding great elegance. Almost 3 years in both French and American oak has softened the wine. It has freakish balance for all its richness. This wine is destined to live for many years to come, but why wait! |
| 2002 | Emilio's Terrace Reserve | Cabernet | 7D8 | 50 | 1 | 91we |
| 91we The Wine Enthusiast The vineyard is in the foothills above Mondavi, and the wine is marked by the authoritative tannic structure that usually marks Cabs from this neighborhood. Rich in pure cassis, there's a dusty, locked-down quality and a sandpapery astringency that suggests aging. This is a very fine wine and should drink well in a few years and then hold through 2014 or so. Score: 91. —Steve Heimoff, August 01, 2006. |
| 2000 | Endeavor | Cabernet | 2A11 | 45 | 1 | |
| Endeavour is the winery’s top Cabernet. This vintage is a blend of 90% Endeavour embodies the best that Dry Creek Vineyard has to offer in Cabernet Sauvignon. Aromas of black cherries, currants and dried raspberries mingle with nuances of clove, bramble and peat. Rich and opulent on the palate, a mixture of dark chocolate and juicy berries shine with plenty of balanced and full-bodied tannins. The structure of this wine, complemented by its well-integrated oak, promises excellent potential for extended bottle aging. Includes 10% cabernet franc. |
| 2003 | Equilateral The Gabrielle Collection | Cabernet | 3B1 | 46 | 1 | 90ct |
| "This Cabernet Sauvignon is a composition from premier vineyards of the Napa Valley. Each release is a unique composition, so wine lovers eagerly await the next release. Layers of blackberry and chocolate with a velvety finish entice your palette. Serve to sip and to compliment meats, poultry, pork, vegetarian dishes and chocolate." Ct 90pts cellar tracker average score 90pts |
| 2004 | Etude | Cabernet | 1D9 | 90 | 1 | 94rp |
| 94rp The classic, deep ruby/purple-tinged 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa offers aromas of tobacco leaf, cedar, black currants, tar, licorice, and espresso. Full-bodied, powerful, and opulent, it can be drunk now or cellared for 15 or more years." RP94 93 Wine Enthusiast: A lush Cabernet that feels soft and delicious right now, but has layers of complexity that make it a cellar candidate.. Dry and oaky, the wine is enormously rich in blackberry, cassis, coca and cedar flavors, with considerable tannins. The wine was assembled from the length of Napa, Calistoga down to Oakville, it is wonderfully balanced. Drink now through 2010, at least. 92ws Tightly wound, with a mix of dried currant, herb, sage and cedary oak. Well-proportioned, focused, intense and concentrated, yet with an elegant lift on the finish. Best from 2009 through 2018. |
| 2000 | Falcor | Red Wine | 3B8-9 | 38 | 2 | |
| Our 2000 “Le Bijou” (the jewel in French) is an elegant Bordeaux-style blend of Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. Opening with aromas of tobacco, cassis, cedar, cola berries and dusty earth, the wine is loaded with opulent blackberry and blueberry fruit, and balanced by sweet tannins and subtle new oak. Luscious and graceful, this wine has a finish that lingers on and on. Crafted in the style of great Bordeaux, the varieties were aged separately in French & American oak for ten months, then racked, blended together and placed back into barrel for seven months additional aging. Approachable on release, this wine will age 8-10 years. |
| 2002 | Fantesca Estate | Cabernet | 2D1 | 60 | 1 | 94w&s |
| Wine & Spirits Review: 94 POINTS The lasting impression is fresh, crisp black cherries, cool as the mountain air at night, the depth of their flavor leaving your mouth feeling refreshed even as the tannins explode like a blast of dynamite in Sprint Mountain rock. no matter the power or intensity of those tannins, the fruit battles and wins out, hovering for more than a minute after each taste. Remarkably powerful, and beautifully fresh for days after its first opened, this should grow more compelling with age. Drink 2012-2016 (850 cases) Dec. ‘05 Wine Advocate Review: 90 POINTS A relatively new operation, this 800-case winery on Spring Mountain dedicated to 100% Cabernet Sauvignon produced an outstanding 2002. Deep ruby purple in color with a sweet nose of black currants, licorice, earth, and some barrique smells, the wine shows impressive concentration as well as purity, moderately high tannin, and a structured style that suggests 1-3 years of bottle-age will be essential after its release. It should age nicely for 10-15 years. This is an impressive start! Drink: 2006-2020 Wine Advocate #157 (Feb 2005) Robert Parker |
| 1999 | Far Niente | Cabernet | 12B6 | 145 | 1 | 93ws |
| WS91-94" INTENSE AND RACY, A TOUCH EARTHY AND MINERALLY. IT'S RICH AND CONCENTRATED, EVEN DENSE AND CHEWY, A PACKED WINE BUILT FOR AGE." DRINK THROUGH 2012!! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED - Medium to Medium-dark ruby; attractive, intense, floral, spicy, herbal, cedary, ripe currant aroma with notes of tobacco, olives, and vanilla; full body; big, moderately rich, forward, concentrated, cedary, herbal, woody, high-extract ripe currant flavors which are somewhat rounded and fleshy on the palate and have good depth; medium-full to full tannin; hint of bitterness on the finish; lingering aftertaste. Above average to superior quality. Approachable now with accessible bruit but deserves another year or two of bottle aging. |
| 2000 | Far Niente | Cabernet | 12B2-5 | 110 | 4 | 93ws |
| 93ws Far Niente Cabernet Sauvignon is grown primarily in our estate Stelling Vineyard, located behind the winery in Oakville. WS 93 This 100-acre vineyard produces wines that exhibit the cassis, blackberry and "dusty" components typical of wines grown in the soils of western Oakville. The 2000 offers a perfume and birght raspberries up front with complementary layers of cassis and cedary oak. This vintage has produced a soft, supple wine with moderate tannins that will only become more velvety with further bottle aging. A classically structured Cabernet which is soft in texture, rich in flavor, complex and long. The 2000 displays the typical cassis and blackberry notes along with spicy oak aromas that have become synonymous with the Far Niente "house style." Time enhances the flavors and nurtures the bottle bouquet, offering elegance, and earning Far Niente the reputation for creating age-worthy wines.This wine has subtle blackberry, cherry and cassis flavors complemented by cedary oak components as well as the typical "dusty" flavors traditionally found among the soils of western Oakville vineyards. Once again Far Niente has produced a round ripe Cabernet with a firm, graceful core. Though soft now, it will reward patience with a longer and more velvety texture.The 1999 Cabernet displays substantial cassis and dark blackberry aromas that are mirrored on the palate with the extra density and depth that come from an excellent vintage and low vineyard production. The lush ripeness marries particularly well with the toasty char of the French oak. This wine has all the layers and structure typical of Far Niente Cabernet Sauvignon. Well-built if a bit lean, with spice, mineral, herb, olive and currant flavors shaded by light oak. Well-focused, this aims for elegance and restraint at the expense of riper, fuller or oakier flavors. Drink now through 2010.(WS) |
| 2001 | Far Niente | Cabernet | 12A6-B1 | 120 | 2 | 93ws |
| 93ws Excellent structure, depth and richness, deftly balanced, with a firm core of well-defined earthy currant, sage, plum and pencil lead flavors and finishing with a burst of concentrated flavors and ripe, fine-grained tannins. Drink now through 2012. |
| 2004 | Far Niente | Cabernet | 12A3-5 | 120 | 3 | 93ws |
| Aromas of very dark fruit, black currant, dark chocolate, dust/earth, vanillan and perfume are layered behind the ripeness. The wine provides a big and full entry, yet the tannins are balanced and have an underlying silkiness. On the palate, ripe cassis and spice mingle with well-integrated oak and evolve into a lingering, fruit-driven finish. 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Petit Verdot, 4% Cabernet Franc and 4% Merlot aged for 17 months in French oak (61% new, 39% once-used). The wine displays dark chocolate,cassis and blackberry notes along with spicy oak aromas that have become synonymous with the Far Niente "house style." The finish is long and fruit driven. Time enhances the flavors and nurtures the bottle bouquet, offering elegance, and earning Far Niente the reputation for creating age-worthy wines. 2004 Far Niente Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Excellent structure, depth and richness, deftly balanced, with a firm core of well-defined earthy currant, sage, plum and pencil lead flavors and finishing with a burst of concentrated flavors and ripe, fine-grained tannins. Drink now through 2012. 8,100 cases made." |
| 2005 | Far Niente | Cabernet | 12A1-2 | 125 | 4 | 96rw |
| 96Robert Whitley 96wn 94we Aromas of huckleberry, dark cocoa and chocolate arecomplemented by a touch of vanillan in the nose. Upon entry, this Cabernet is soft and lush, with a dense mid palate. Flavors of boysenberry and black fruits are supported by tannins that are chewy, yet smooth and lingering. There is a very long finish to this wine. The 100-acre Martin Stelling Vineyard, located behind the winery in Oakville, is the cornerstone of the Far Niente Cabernet Sauvignon program. The vineyard is composed of two distinct areas. The flat acreage uniformly produces wines with supple, sweet tannins and bright, forward fruit. Halter Valley, which is the extension of the vineyard that starts into foothills of the Mayacamas, is composed of gently rolling knolls. This section of the vineyard includes more diverse individual blocks that provide wines of great tannin and structure. Notes of black fruit, anise and blackberries appear up front followed by hints of fruit jam and dark chocolate. In the mouth, this wine unfolds in layers, beginning with a round and supple entry and progressing to a full, weighty structure on the palate. The silky tannins are textured and coating, producing a wine that is smooth from start to finish. Time enhances the flavors and nurtures the bottle bouquet, offering elegance, and earning Far Niente the reputation for creating age-worthy wines. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED - Medium to Medium-dark ruby; attractive, intense, floral, spicy, herbal, cedary, ripe currant aroma with notes of tobacco, olives, and vanilla; full body; big, moderately rich, forward, concentrated, cedary, herbal, woody, high-extract ripe currant flavors which are somewhat rounded and fleshy on the palate and have good depth; medium-full to full tannin; hint of bitterness on the finish; lingering aftertaste. Above average to superior quality. Approachable now with accessible bruit but deserves another year or two of bottle aging. 10-15 years of cellaring |
| 2001 | Fisher "Coach Insignia" Napa | Cabernet | 8D10-11 | 66 | 2 | 93rp |
| 93 points Robert Parker: "The 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon Coach Insignia (4,500 cases of a beautiful blend of 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the rest Cabernet Franc and Merlot) was aged in 80% new oak, an increased percentage of new French wood recommended by consultant Mia Klein. Its dense ruby/purple color is followed by a sweet perfume of pure black fruits, licorice, vanilla, and smoke. The wine is supple, dense, opulent in the mouth, and long in the finish with low acidity and ripe, unobtrusive tannin. The fragrant 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon Coach Insignia (which includes Malbec, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc in the final blend) exhibits up-front, sweet, tobacco-tinged black currant fruit, medium body, and fine purity, ripeness, and balance. It should drink well for 7-10 years. It should drink well for 10-15 years. Yummy!" (08/02) 90-92 points Stephen Tanzer: "Good bright ruby-red. Dusty aromas of cherry, blackberry and leather. Chewy, sappy and sweet, with impressive concentration of bright berries and black cherry. Layered and sophisticated cabernet. Finishes with big, dusty, even tannins and excellent persistence." (Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar, May/Jun 03 |
| 2004 | Flora Springs | Cabernet | | 18 | 4 | 87wa |
| 2004 was a vintage of soft tannins, exuberant fruit, and up-front forwardness, and that is evidenced in the 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa. There is some tannin, but the overall impression is one for drinking over the next decade. Score: 87. —Robert Parker, December 2007. Floral, spicy berry and cedary underbrush notes are firm and balanced, showing nice cherry and berry flavors on the palate. Ends with a fruity note and ample tannins. Drink now through 2011. Score: 87. —James Laube, November 15, 2007. This wine exhibits all the classic characteristics of a Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa Valley with full, forward, mouth-filling black cherry fruit with cassis and cocoa. The big, ripe, sweet fruit in the front of the mouth moves right across the palate and into a smooth and lingering finish – a nicely balanced wine with oak undertones. |
| 2001 | Flora Springs Trilogy | Red Wine | 2A6-7 | 60 | 2 | 91rp |
| "(90-91) points" The brilliant 2001 vintage is well represented by the 2001 Trilogy, a 10,000 case blend of 58% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc, and 3% Malbec. This dense ruby/purple-colored effort exhibits a sweet bouquet of flowers, mulberries, jammy black cherries, currants, licorice, and dried herbs. Elegant and medium-bodied with loads of fruit, this finesse-styled California red is already drinking beautifully, but there is plenty of upside given its tannic structure. Anticipated maturity: 2004-2014. Drink: 2004-2014 Wine Advocate #150 (Dec 2003) Robert Parker |
| 2000 | Forman | Cabernet | 3D2 | 63 | 1 | 90rp |
| 2004-2015 rp Ric Forman’s Francophile leanings are clear in his winemaking philosophy. He prefers to craft (as Parker commented) “elegant, exceptionally ageworthy wines” on the model of fine Bordeaux. A swirl of cassis, minerals and sexy black fruit nuances, this one offers depth and dimension well beyond the norm. It also begs for cellar time. Ric’s reds typically start their best years around their 10th birthday, so have no fear of this one heading downhill on you. This is California Cab with flavor and guts. 90 PTS WILFRED WONG. Nearly dense and brooding, the finely compacted '00 Forman Cabernet is one of Napa Valley's best designed wines; tasty now with some edges; great in about a half-a-dozen years |
| 2001 | Forman | Cabernet | 3C10-3D1 | 63 | 3 | 93rp |
| RP93" ONE OF FORMAN'S FINEST EFFORTS TO DATE,...A SEAMLESS CLASSIC BOASTING...MEDIUM TO FULL BODY, AND ABUNDANT QUANTITIES OF BLACK CURRANTS, LICORICE, TABACCO LEAF, AND EARTH..." LOVE IT THROUGH 2023 |
| 2004 | Forman | Cabernet | 3C9 | 80 | 1 | 92st |
| 92 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "(bottled in August of 2006; 14.8% alcohol; 60% new oak) Good bright ruby-red. Aromas of blackberry, blueberry, licorice and aromatic spices. Richer and seemingly riper than the young 2005, but with lovely definition to the flavors of redcurrant and sour cherry. This features a lusher, softer, sweeter middle followed by chewier and more obvious tannins that showed a firmer edge with aeration." 91 points Robert Parker: "The 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon (includes Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Merlot in the blend) spent 20 months in barrels prior to bottling. Dark ruby/purple with a restrained but sweet nose of black currants, plums, damp earth, licorice, and white chocolate, it is an elegant, medium-bodied, opulent effort with sweet tannin and a long finish. This is a strong vintage for Forman’s Cabernet, and it should age nicely for 15 or more years." (12/06) |
| 2004 | Francis Coppola Sofia Blanc De Blanc | Sparkling Wine | display | 20 | 1 | 87bd |
| Beverage Dynamics 87 Points The 2004 Sofia Blanc de Blancs exudes a delicate perfume of ripe apricots, tangerine, and pear. Bright flavors of summer melon and zesty lemon unfold on the palate with honeysuckle emerging on the crisp, vibrant finish. |
| Gift from mom (display don't drink ) |
| 1999 | Freemark Abbey Bosche' | Cabernet | TOPMIDDLE | 68 | 2 | 91ws |
| 91 points from the Wine Spectator, which lists this wine at $68! "Pleasantly earthy, rich and loamy, with a complex array of fresh earth, currant, sage and herb. Smooth, long and concentrated, with supple tannins sustaining the flavors. Drink now through 2012." (11/03) Awarded One Puff from the Connoisseurs' Guide to California Wine: 89cg "An attractive aroma of currants, loam, eucalyptus and sweet oak leads to a supple, smooth entry and flavors that reflect the nose while being somewhat less intense than would seem to be advertised. Still, the wine is suitably fruity and offers plenty of range in a style that would seem to invite earlier rather than later consumption." Drink now through 2012 (Volume 28 Issue 2: December 2003) |
| 2001 | Freemark Abbey Bosche' | Cabernet | UT | 68 | 2 | 96we |
| 96we Freemark Abbey Bosche Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2001 is "...one of the best Cabs of the vintage. It's still a young wine, all primary black currant and plum fruit flavors and toasted oak, with complex notes of coffee and mocha. This wine is extraordinarily rich and finely balanced, displaying power, elegance, finesse and an unreal depth of fruit along with great length. Drink now through 2015." - Wine Enthusiast |
| 2002 | Freemark Abbey Bosche' | Cabernet | UT | 60 | 1 | 94we |
| 94we The winery’s flagship single-vineyard Cab, from Rutherford, is extraordinarily rich and opulent, offering tiers of classic Cabernet flavors that don’t stop. Cassis, intense cherry, espresso, cocoa, dill, sweet anise, the list goes on and on. Marked by wonderful depth and balance, this long-lived wine is beautiful now and should improve through this decade before slowly winding down. — S.H. (12/15/2006) |
| 2005 | Frias Family Vineyards | Cabernet | 7D6 | 65 | 1 | |
| This yet to be rated new release is following the award winning 93 point WS 2004 vintage, and is showing incredibly well out of the gates. Exploding with dark chocolate, blackberry and raspberry, this wine is sweetly perfumed with ripe fruit and exotic spices such as vanilla, cinnamon, and cardamom as well as cedar and cigar box. On the palate cassis as well as dark berries carries through with a mocha-berry underpinning. Will drink well now but will improve over the next 10 years. Vintage not yet rated. This under-the-radar Spring Mountain winery has been making fine Cabernets since the early 1990s. James Laube of The Wine Spectator has desfribed the Frias style as "Supple, graceful and complex, with a core of fruit built around plum, black cherry, herb and cedary oak flavors that keep revealing extra nuances." Exploding with dark chocolate, blackberry and raspberry, this wine is sweetly perfumed with ripe fruit and exotic spices such as vanilla, cinnamon, cardamom as well as cedar, cigarbox and sandalwood. On the palate cassis as well as dark berries carries through with a mocha-berry underpinning. The silky mouthfeel, yet bold structure and balanced acids highlight the glory of mountain grown fruit in this concentrated wine. The long finish of fleshy ripe dark fruits and spicy, earthy background also reminiscent of the forest floor add an element of complexity. While this wine is tempting and enjoyable to drink now, it will improve and evolve with years of aging. |
| 2006 | Frog's Leap | Cabernet | 3D5-6 | 44 | 2 | 92ww |
| 92 PTS WILFRED WONG. Dashing and fine, the superbly-crafted '06 Frog's Leap Cabernet plays big and yet shows great finesse; red and black currants ride the palate with a dusting of sweet oak. Our 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon opens with a richly fragrant nose of luscious black fruit and fresh herbs, followed by a taste progression that captures the essence of the terroir from which it came. Intense flavors of cassis, ripe plum and black currants are punctuated by hints of cedar and tobacco. The wine’s velvety tannins are well integrated with fine acidity to create a finish that will endure well after the last course has been cleared. 90ws |
| 2006 | Gargiulo Vineyard Money Road Ranch | Cabernet | | 83 | 1 | |
| * Oakville appellation; Single estate vineyard; Money Road Ranch * 94% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Merlot, 1% Petite Verdot, 2% Cabernet Franc * Produced from a single block planted to 110R rootstock grafted to clone 7 * 20 months in French barriques, 78% new (Demptos, Gamba, Sylvain and St. Martin barrels) * 5 tons/acre for 554 cases * Inaugural vintage 2000, approximately 800 cases annually |
| 1999 | Girard | Red Wine | 3B10-11 | 48 | 2 | 92we |
| 92we 91ws The 1999 Napa Valley Red recieved a 91 point rating and was selected by The Wine Spectator as one of the best Cabernet ’s under $50.Tight, dense and richly flavored, with firm currant, chocolate and blackberry flavors that are sharply focused. Reveals extra layers of depth and dimension. Firms up on the finish, where the tannins flex their muscles. Best from 2004 through 2012. 3,985 cases made. (JL) |
| NV | Gloria Ferrer 3ltr | Sparkling Wine | display | 100 | 1 | 90ws |
| 90ws drink by 2010 Spectator 90 Pts: "An exceptional value. Round and full-bodied, with rich, ripe apple, pear and honeydew melon flavors. This complex sparkler has a nice touch of yeast and doughy aro-mas that give it added flavor, turning creamy with a touch ofvanilla. Drink now through 2009. 65,000 cases made.From California. |
| gift from Jim & Maureen (display don't drink ) |
| 2005 | Goldeneye Anderson Valley | Pinot Noir | UT | 65 | 3 | 92we |
| 92we Wine Enthusiast Winemaker Zach Rasmuson did not produce a Narrows Vineyard bottling in 2005. Instead, those grapes went into the regular Goldeneye, to its great benefit. The wine is particularly rich and powerful in cherry pie filling, black raspberry, mocha, Dr. Pepper and smoky oak flavors, with a gorgeous, mouth-filling texture that’s dramatic on the finish. Score: 92. —Steve Heimoff, July 01, 2008. 92ws "Rich and distinctive, with complex, concentrated loamy earth, black cherry, wild berry, savory spice and fresh earth scents. The tannins are rich and mouthcoating, yet the fruit pours through. Drink now through 2011." Wine Spectator 92 points 91cg 88st This medium weight wine is well-balanced with the bright acidity leaving for a long finish. The aroma is rich with dark cherries, nutmeg, caramelized apple, cinnamon, and clove. The palate is full of plum, spice, cherry, strawberry, and vanilla oak. This wine is both delicate and humble, yet its force of flavor, weight, and potent spice create a density that cannot be missed. Drink until 2015. |
| 2006 | Goldeneye Anderson Valley | Pinot Noir | UT | 54 | 2 | 92ws |
| This well-balanced, medium-weight wine offers bright acidity and a long, satisfying finish. The aroma is rich and evocative of dark cherries, nutmeg, caramelized apple, cinnamon, and clove. On the palate, it is full of plum, spice, cherry, strawberry, and vanilla oak layers. Though delicate and understated, this wine’s compelling force of flavor, weight, and potent spice create a depth and density that cannot be missed. 90 points from Wine Spectator Insider: "Firm and rich, this is marked by tight mineral, dried currant and berry fruit that gains velocity and depth, with touches of cedar and anise and tannins that give the flavors traction. Needs time. Best from 2014 through 2017." (June 3, 2009) The Pinot branch of the Duckhorn family tree. This Goldenee comes entirely from the Anderson Valley, combing fruit from the Confluence, Gowan Creek, Narrows and Abel vineyards. True to the winery's style, this is a full-bodied, extracted style of Pinot Noir, with a velvety texture and grippier tannins to complement the bolder fruit and subtle vanilla, rosemary, lavender and chocolate undertones. Rich oak combines nicely with equally rich cherry-like fruit and suggestions of dried flowers in the nose; sweetly spiced cherries running their length; great balance and a long finish. Limited! |
| 2001 | Goldshmidt Vineyard | Cabernet | 2D7 | 67 | 1 | 94b21 |
| 2001 Goldschmidt Cabernet Sauvignon Game Ranch Oakville: This Cabernet Sauvignon comes from a single vineyard source on a southeastern slope in the heart of the Alexander Valley. The vineyard is situated on a knoll east of the town of Geyserville and is comprised of a gravelly loam soil which allows for good control of irrigation producing wines of rich, concentrated flavors. Excellent exposure of the clusters combined with long hang time on the vine yields grapes possessing optimal ripeness and maximum varietal character. Goldschmidt Vineyards Cabernets are crafted with the best possible resources to achieve exceptional richness, quality and balance - the hallmarks of world-class wines. 94 points B21 92 PTS WILFRED WONG. A red wine with real teeth, the hard-driving '01 Goldschmidt Oakville Cabernet offers red and black fruit power that run throughout the wine; very impressive; great with a steak. 91we "Should hold and improve for five years in the cellar." |
| 1997 | Grgich Hills | Cabernet | 4A9-11 | 125 | 3 | 94w&s |
| "94 points" - Wine & Spirits - April, 2001- "Grgich made a grand 'WS"COMPLEX, IF A BIT RESTRAINED, OFFERING PLENTY OF RICHNESS...BEST FROM 2002 THROUGH 2012..."97, a massive Cabernet from start to finish, still youthful and unevolved. Tannins numb the surface of the wine, rich and black with a savor that cuts at the dark fruit like a knife. At first, that fruit is just as black as the tannins, an essence of the black skin of the grapes, then it builds from under the tannin to take on deeper, bolder plum flavors. It should lengthen out as it ages, but even now, it's great stuff." |
| 1999 | Grgich Hills | Cabernet | 4A8 | 70 | 1 | 94wn |
| 94wn Fabulous aromas of cherry, blueberry and sweet leather in a delicate dance with chocolate, mint, licorice and coffee. A panoply of layered flavors dazzle the palate with blackberry, blueberry, mint and chocolate leading the parade. An amazing, densely packed wineBroadly fruited and decked out with lots of lovely sweet spice that smacks a bit of root beer and cream, this deep and well-polished wine shows nicely at every point. It is full and fleshy in feel and is kept in balance by a proper spine of youthful tannins, and, if warmed by alcohol in its ripe finish, it does not let up in either fruit or richness. There are more intense and bombastic Cabernets to be had, but this one wins very good marks for its open and steady style. "92" points - Wine Enthusiast - May 2003 "90" points - EXCEPTIONAL - '03 Beverage Testing Institute "90" points - Connoisseurs' Guide to California Wines - April 2003 |
| 2001 | Grgich Hills | Cabernet | 4A6-7 | 130 | 2 | 94we |
| 94we One of the last releases from the class of ’01, this is a cellar candidate. It is a big, rich, unctuous wine, with gobs of black currant flavors wrapped up tight in a blanket of dusty tannins and new oak. You could drink it tonight with a great steak, but it will hold and improve for at least 10 years. Score: 94. —Steve Heimoff, February 01, 2006. Vote #1 Cabernet of over 6000 entries in the 2005 LA County Fair, the largest fair wine competition in the country ..93 FROM THE BEVERAGE TESTING INSTITUTE!A roller coaster start to the 2001 growing season led into nearperfect temperatures and cool nights during the last few months before harvest, ensuring fully ripe Cabernet grapes with mature phenolics and balanced acids and tannins. Our 2001 Cabernet displays Grgich Hills’ trademark bouquet of intense cassis and cedar, followed by more subtle nuances of roses, licorice, and dried cherries. On the palate, rich extraction is balanced by moderate tannins and acidity. Ripe black fruit, plums, and dark cherries harmonize in the mouth with notes of cigar box, anise, and spicy oak to form this elegant, full-bodied wine. The finish is concentrated and persistent, with layers of mocha, caramel, cassis, cherries, and vanilla. This young, structured wine should mature well over the next several years, developing additional complexity and depth of flavor. 90 PTS WILFRED WONG. Another solid effort from one of the Napa Valley's finest wineries; the '01 Grgich Hills Cabernet exhibits excellent ripe fruit flavors with a suggestion of sweet oak; delicious. |
| 2002 | Grgich Hills | Cabernet | 4A3-5 | 65 | 3 | 88ws |
| ws88 Lots of red fruits are evident on the nose and palate, with red cherry, black cherry and red currant. Firm and structured, this is a deftly balanced young wine supported by firm, fine-grained tannins. Drink now through 2012. cg87 % Merlot; 1% Cabernet Franc. This one is still on the youthful and reticent side and takes some time in the glass to evolve, but it gradually allows a good look at nicely oaked, medium-deep, curranty fruit before deferring to fairly hard-charging tannins. It clearly possesses the basic material for success, but it is also very clear in its need for age. Tag it for drinking in 2012, and know that it may grow for much longer. 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley In the glass our 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon's deep color promises rich flavors-and it delivers with cassis, blackberries and just a hint of earthy truffles and cedar. In the mouth, the wine is well balanced between acid and tannin and the smooth, velvety finish offers a touch of pepper. Enjoyable upon release, this is a wine that will gain even more complexity with some bottle age. The wine's fine structure and rich flavors make it perfect with grilled and braised meat dishes and hearty cheeses. |
| 2003 | Grgich Hills | Cabernet | 4A1-2 | 60 | 2 | 94w&s |
| 94 Wine & Spirits Review Surprisingly elegant for a 2003, this melds bright raspberry flavor with darker tones of savory black olives and freshly turned earth. The fruit character is beautifully floral, clean and fresh, a crush of berry flavor held in tense suspension with the tannin, so finely integrated that it's the fresh impression that lasts. Lovely to drink now with a roast leg of lamb, this will only get better with age. WN 90pts - Tasting Notes - 2003 marks the first vintage that Grgich Hills' Cabernet Sauvignon is estate grown. By blending wine from the Yountville vineyard with small amounts from the Rutherford and Calistoga vineyards, which are all farmed organically, a complex Cabernet Sauvignon is created with a distinctive personality. The result is a dark, muscular wine with intriguing aromas of licorice, cedar and blackberries with a hint of earthy truffles. Wonderfully drinkable upon release, the wine’s firm tannin structure promises it will benefit from aging GOLD MEDAL, 2007 SAN FRANCISCO CHRONICLE WINE COMP. A complex melange of great flavors, the black-fruited, sweet earth-like '03 Grgich Hills Cabernet sits at the top of genre; a true ultra-premium! |
| 2005 | Grgich Hills | Cabernet | 3D11 | 57 | 1 | 92ws |
| WS 92pts. - Savory herb and ripe currant, berry and plum aromas are firm and intense. Full-bodied and well-structured, with the tannins gaining traction on the finish. Rustic but balanced. Best from 2010 through 2016. 14,520 cases made. Winemaker Notes - This is a is a dark, muscular wine with intriguing aromas of licorice, cedar and blackberries with a hint of earthy truffles. Wonderfully drinkable upon release, the wine?s firm tannin structure promises it will benefit from aging. 2009 - 2019 |
| 2000 | Groth | Cabernet | 2B4-5 | 50 | 2 | 90ww |
| 90 PTS WILFRED WONG. A solid example of Napa Valley Cabernet, the '00 Groth comes up with black fruit flavors that linger nicely on the palate; this is a great choice for short ribs on the grill. As is the case with more than a few of the better 2000s, this bright and balanced Cabernet steers away from boldness and bluster and instead keys on nicely defined, slightly loamy, cassis-like fruit with sweet oak as a complementary counterpoint. It is plump and supple in feel, and its neatly integrated tannins allow fruit to stay the course at the finish. If a touch soft to commend lengthy cellaring, it is bound to grow for several years yet can also be enjoyed in the present term. |
| 2002 | Groth | Cabernet | 2B3 | 55 | 1 | 91we |
| 90we This is a Cab that wouldn't stand out in a competitive blind tasting, because it's not a bruiser. Instead, it can claim balance, finesse, elegance and harmony. Everything's understated. But aficionados will savor the beautiful fruit and classic structure.(Wine Enthusiast) Winemaker Notes: The 2002 Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon continues our pursuit of excellence from theville AVA. This outstanding vintage shows the ultimate character that we expect from our estate vineyards. With full, rich aromas and flavors redolent of ripe stone fruit and dark berries, the 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon is a lush wine with a subtle tannin backbone that will allow the wine to become more complex with proper bottle age |
| 2005 | Groth | Cabernet | 2B1-2 | 59 | 2 | 92vt |
| Vine & Table: 92 Aromas of roasted herb, grain and sage, this is tight, with firm, chewy tannins wrapped around a core of currant, coffee, herb and cedar. 89 PTS WILFRED WONG. A subtle wine, the elegant and fairly complex '05 Groth Cabernet runs it flavors from red to black fruits with a hint of dried leaf and herb thrown in for good measure. The 2005 Cabernet from Groth hits on all cylinders. Consistently one of the benchmark wines of the Napa Valley, the 2005 is their finest wine of the decade. This outstanding vintage shows the ultimate character that come from the estate vineyards at Groth. The Groth 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley has full, rich aromas and flavors redolent of ripe stone fruit and dark berries, the 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon is a lush wine with a subtle tannin backbone that will allow the wine to become more complex with proper bottle age. Delicious! Groth's 2005 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is as big and lush as an Oakville cab can be. Loaded with fruit on the nose and palate, the wine is characteristically supple with a subtle tannic backbone. Drink now with a lush filet or roast or cellar for the next 10-15 years. The 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon is big and lush with huge gobs of fruit in the aroma and flavor. The texture of the wine is soft and supple, typical of Cabernet Sauvignons grown in our area of the Oakville AVA. Patience during bottle aging will reward the “steward” with an outstanding bottle over the next 10 to 15 years. 89 PTS WILFRED WONG. A subtle wine, the elegant and fairly complex '05 Groth Cabernet runs it flavors from red to black fruits with a hint of dried leaf and herb thrown in for good measure. |
| 2006 | Groth | Cabernet | | 57 | 1 | 93w&s |
| 93w&s "Packed with red and black currant flavors, this wine has the cool, refreshing feel of the forest. Tannins frame the berry fruit, providing contrast in umami flavors of wood-ear mushrooms, both tannins and fruit lasting in a finely structured, luxurious finish. Balanced for ten years of age." The 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon is big and lush with huge gobs of fruit in the aroma and flavor. The texture of the wine is soft and supple, typical of Cabernet Sauvignons grown in our area of the Oakville AVA. Patience during bottle aging will reward the “steward” with an outstanding bottle over the next 10 to 15 years. 90we Young now, marked by hard tannins that accentuate the acidity. The flavors are forward and jammy, suggesting blackberries, cherries, orange zest and sweet, smoky cedar wood. Rough-hewn now, with an angular feeling, but should develop softness and roundness after 2012" |
| 2007 | Hamilton Russell | Chardonnay | UT | 30 | 2 | 91ws |
| 91 Points - Wine Spectator, April 30, 2009 Wonderful toasty nose: complex, nutty and full. Rich and balanced on the palate with a rich, savoury edge. Lovely stuff. Excellent Drink: 2008 - 2012 Bound for glory (the 2006 got 92 point from the Spectator), this new edition is a tight, minerally wine with classic Hamilton Russell length and complexity. A prominent core of intense pear fruit aromas and flavous is brought beautifully into focus by a tight line of natural acid and dry minerality. This is an elegant, yet textured and intense wine with a strong personality of both place and vintage. |
| 2000 | Hartwell | Cabernet | 3C1 | 100 | 1 | 93w&s |
| w&s This is the third vintage of the Hartwell "Estate" Cabernet Sauvignon. Beginning in 1998, we decided to select only the very best lots from our small, twenty acres of planted vineyards on the Hartwell Estate. These vineyards share a variety of hillside exposures; soils and clones that make the decision on what grapes to use an exciting challenge. The 2000 Hartwell Estate 100% Cabernet Sauvignon displays a very dark, almost opaque ruby color with forward, deep, rich aromas of dark plums and cassis with hints if toasty oak in the background. This full bodied wine has concentrated black cherry and blackberry flavors on the palate that are ripe, expansive and wonderfully complimented by a long, lingering finish that features a hallmark of Stags Leap District wines: soft tannins. Beautifully structured for drinking now, the 2000 Hartwell Estate Cabernet Sauvignon will develop additional complexity over the next ten years and live on for many more. "The supple and rich characteristics that have brought fame to the region are here captured in Hartwell's second-tier bottling, and there is plenty of ripe cherry fruit to fill in the open and inviting structure. A bit of finishing tannin asks for three to five years of cellaring to soften out fully, but even now, it is no barrier to the wine's enjoyable nature." |
| 1997 | Heitz Trailside | Cabernet | 11B4-5 | 86 | 2 | 92ws |
| 92ws Wonderful sense of harmony and proportion, with rich, supple black cherry, plum and wild berry fruit, with touches of chocolate and mocha. Ends in a long, powerful, multilayered finish. Intense and concentrated, with smooth tannins. Best from 2003 through 2012. 4,006 cases made. |
| 2001 | Hewitt | Cabernet | 11D5 | 80 | 1 | 93ws |
| 93 PTS WINE SPECTATOR; Sleek; rich and concentrated; with a purity of flavors that are tight and focused; with layers currant; blackberry; minerals and fresh herbs; long and compact finish. Limited 93CG As full and plush as any recommended Cabernet in this issue, the Hewitt bottling is expansive in aroma and mouthfilling where it counts. Its outgoing ripe grape, cassis, caramel, forest and cocoa scents are reiterated in flavors that are convincing in their deep, inviting fruit. Tannins frame the latter palate and finish, and if the wine is a little on the soft front/tough back side in construct, it needs but a half dozen years of aging to show at its best with savory roasts and chops |
| 2002 | Hollywood & Vine 2480 | Cabernet | 8C1 | 79 | 1 | 91ws |
| 91 points Wine Spectator: "Open-throttle Cabernet; bold, rich and polished, with layers of currant, wild berry, blackberry and jazzy coconut- and vanilla-scented oak. The tannins are firm and intense, with a touch of leather peeking through on the finish. Drink now through 2012." (05/05) K&L's notes - The Hollywood & Vine 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon was harvested from four distinctive, ultra-premium vineyard locations. A blend of Cabernet vineyards on Mt. Veeder, Atlas Peak, the historic JJ Cohn Estate in Rutherford, and the pedigreed Davis Station in Oakville combine the best of steep hillside structure with the opulent fruit intensity of the mid-valley benchland vineyards. Fermented on skins for approximately three weeks, then transferred to barrels (60% new French oak). The wine was aged in small oak for approximately 21 months. This baby displays an abundance of ripe blackberry and black currant aromas, bright plums, sweet vanilla and cocoa tones. The palate texture is bright, rich and mouth-filling, with fresh fruit flavors. |
| 2006 | Honig | Cabernet | 1C10 | 37 | 1 | |
| The Honig 2006 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is the color of black velvet with a violet rim. The nose is smoky and spicy. Big and rich on the palate, with lots of cassis and real weight to it. There's a little bit of pepper to it. Very well built classic, California cabernet. Honig did a great job overcoming the challenges of the 2006 growing season, and ultimately produced a really lovely Cabernet Sauvignon. Mouthwatering black fruit aromas are complemented by cookie spices and chocolate undertones that are reflected on the palate. In the mouth the wine's sweet fruit is balanced by medium tannins and a long, spicy finish. |
| 2004 | Hunnicutt | Cabernet | 2D5 | 48 | 1 | 92we |
| 92 points from Wine Enthusiast: "Although this Cab is incredibly ripe and appealing in cassis, cherry, vanilla and almost white chocolate fudge flavors, somehow it manages to maintain balance and elegance. That’s because it’s thoroughly dry, and because of those gorgeously ripe Napa tannins, so fine and elegant." (11/1/07) Napa native Kirk Venge (son of winemaker Nils Venge;Saddleback Cellars) joins Justin Hunnicutt Stephens and Seana Stephens at Hunnicutt, a small, terroir-driven winery in the Napa Valley. Black cherry, vanilla, eucalyptus and cinnamon stick notes give way to dark fruit, toast, dried cherry and blueberries on the palate. Decant for a half hour before drinking or lay down for a couple of years and watch this evolve. |
| 2003 | Husic | Cabernet | 9B6 | 103 | 1 | 94 |
| 94vf 07-2015 From the Celia Masyczek tasting: Very intense nose showing lavender, super dark fruit with hints of bittersweet chocolate and wild blackberry. The palate is extracted with more berry, anise and spicy creme de cassis. Polished tannins are very approachable. The 2003 Husic Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Dos Palmas is very, very dark in color, and shows deep chocolate-cherry aromas that evolve into raspberry cordial and warm clove/spice tones. Soft and rich at entry, the fruit-infused flavors combine with hints of grilled anise and cocoa. The wine shows remarkable density and structure, yet very supple tannins, a testimony to this perfect growing season, which yielded small quantities of intensely flavored grapes. This wine is lush and mouth filling now, but its broad, well-defined structure indicates it will age beautifully for many years to come. |
| 2004 | Husic | Cabernet | | 139 | 1 | 95wi |
| 95wi ( wine insider) You would think that with the amount of expensive Napa Cabs out there, finding an amazing bottle wouldn’t be that difficult. But it is, partially because it takes that rare intersection of winemaking skill, winegrower ability, and most importantly, phenomenal terroir to create that wine. When I tasted the Husic Vineyards Estate 2004 Cabernet all these factors had collided to produce one of the most intense, powerful and elegant Cabs I’ve had in a very long time. At $125 you would expect an amazing wine and this one is, and worth every penny. It has an incredibly silky texture which almost betrays just how rich it is. Concentrated blackberry, espresso, graphite, baking spices, and cocoa swirl together in a symphony of flavors that deliver for minutes on the palate AND the finish. I know it sounds cliché, but this wine to me has all the trappings to become one of the top collector wines to come out of Napa. Only her 4th vintage as winemaker with Husic, Celia Masyczek has certainly crafted a wine that will live up to her other wines, particularly those of famed D.R. Stephens. E SMITH The fruit for this remarkable wine was harvested by hand from October 5 through October 14, 2005, entirely from the three, estate grown, Husic Vineyards, above the Stags Leap District. The land is farmed by uber vineyard manager Jim Barbour and esteemed winemaker Celia Masyczek Details (snooth 2012 - 2024 |
| 2002 | Hyde & de Villaine | Red Wine | 10C1 | 75 | 1 | 93cg |
| 93cg 90% Merlot; 10% Cabernet Sauvignon. It may go by a generic title, and its stately structure does bring fine claret to mind, but its ongoing themes of ripe cherries provide this bottling with an indelible varietal stamp. It gathers more richness from its liberal complement of tantalizing oak, and its unmistakable message of fruit is in no way lessened by the late arrival of tannins. It will prove enjoyable now with richer beef preparations, but it will keep very well and comes with a five-year prognosis of further refinement and complexityThanks to the maturity of the grapes, careful fruit sorting and patient fermentation, our HdV Red shows layers of black cherry fruit and a gentle sweetness. This distinctive profile gives to the immediate drinker a key to appreciate the young wine. The combination of sweet spices, firm tannins and a solid frame of acidity contribute to the long finish of the wine. However, like the 2001, the 2002 HdV Red will prove its full potential within the next two to ten years.-Winery" |
| 2003 | Jax | Cabernet | 3B3 | 44 | 1 | |
| JAX Vineyards produce this distinctive Cabernet Sauvignon by dry-farming the estate's thirty-seven year old vines. At the foot of Mt. St. Helena, in Napa Valley, the vineyards bask in the ideal conditions of the northern Calistoga sun. Working together, the Jacksons (Jane, Dave, Kimberly and Trent) select the optimal grapes from their vineyard to produce their tenth vintage of Cabernet Sauvignon. Enjoy! Deep ruby red hues complimenting the ripe red cherry nose. This wine reveals strong tannins backed by layers of dark cherry and cassis fruit (signature fruit flavors of the JAX Vineyards site year over year). These fruit layers follow through with cinnamon and clove accents. |
| 1998 | John Riddoch Wynns Coonawarra Estate | Cabernet | 8D6 | 55 | 1 | 97jh |
| A stunning wine and quite a bargain since Southcorp (the owners of the Wynns brand) have slashed the price to clear excess stocks. Well their strategy has worked, there are no stocks available through the wholesaler and precious little at retail level."If you think I've raved on about the Michael, sit back. They use less than 1% of fruit available to them for these top wines, in Coonawarra, and Sue Hodder, the winemaker reports: 'It was a year in which we saw many parcels of excellent Cabernet Sauvignon from our original vineyards. The selection process was difficult with an abundance of genuine Riddoch contenders. The backbone wine was from our Child's vineyard. This block was planted by Wynns Coonawarra Estate in 1969, is unirrigated and in the heart of the terra rossa area. Childs always produces exciting, rich wines and in 1998 had the structure that I am pursuing in John Riddoch. The final blend was made up of 13 small components, all from vineyards 25 years or older.' I've quoted her in full from their press release because I couldn't do any better. It does lead, however, to thoughts I had when tasting. The wine does have less oak apparent than previous examples - that was in my tasting notes before I read the release. This wine is much more tightly structured than the Michael (as one would expect from cabernet). It has a very powerful, intense, less open but quite dense, blackcurrant nose (though somehow it doesn't smell as Ribena-like as the Michael). The entry is quite startling in that there are elements of tannin evident at that early stage. The middle palate is intense, dense, complex. There's oak, there's fruit, there's also that individual Coonawarra character I call 'chalky' though others would call it something else. It's indefinable and it's regional. The texture is robe-like (French expression) though not as purely silky as the Michael. It is very long with magnificent backbone - the body and the strength of the wine continue right through to the firm fine tannins that end the wine.It's going to be great. How long? At least five years, certainly 10, probably 20.This is a great Australian red." Len Evans "Impenetrable red-purple; rich, concentrated and luscious blackberry/ blackcurrant/cassis fruit on both bouquet and palate has largely - though not entirely - subsumed the oak. Likewise, the tannins are there, but are in perfect balance. Best Drinking: 2005 to 2015." James Halliday - 97 points Jeremy Oliver – 95 points (No review available. Drink 2018-2028+.) Drink Now to 2025 |
| 1999 | Jordan | Cabernet | 10D2-D3 | 90 | 2 | 94w&m |
| Rating 94 wine and more... Beautiful earthy aromas with complex, refined leather elements, are followed by flavors of red cherry, dark baker's chocolate, more complex fruit, freshly-tilled earth and much more in the long length Perhaps the best Jordan Cabernet made in the last half decade, this nicely fruited, black cherryish wine sports background notes of creamy oak and cocoa in its aromas. It is medium-weighted and tasty on the palate with very mannerly tannins providing a bit of Cabernet-like grip The 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon is a wine that possesses layers of cassis, blackberry, coffee, cedar and vanilla. Rich, intense and complex, the 1999 vintage will be remembered as one of the more age worthy wines we have produced. 90 PTS WILFRED WONG. A well-designed wine, the sophisticated '99 Jordan Cabernet exhibits fine balance and restraint of oak; the smoothness of this wine just invites a rare cut of lamb. "A blend of 77% Cabernet Sauvignon and 23% Merlot, Jordan felt the Merlot in 1999 was extraordinary. With such a high percentage of Merlot one would think the wine would be soft and open. In fact the 1999 is firmer and shows more structure than in years past. This is typical of the vintage. I think the key to Jordan's success in 1999 was the Merlot. It adds that extra dimension of fruit and fleshiness to the mid palate and helps balance the tannin from the Cabernet Sauvignon. This wine should age well over the next 10 years." Trey Beffa An herbal style, with ripe, smooth currant, herb, green olive and sage notes. Finishes with complexity and a firm backbone of tannins. Needs time. Best from 2004 through 2011. 50,000 cases made. |
| wedding wine dessert |
| 2001 | Jordan | Cabernet | TOPMIDDLE | 87 | 8 | 91ww |
| 91 PTS WILFRED WONG. The finest Jordan Cabernet in several years; the '01 offers fine ripe cherry flavors with an added bonus of sweet earth; elegant and pert on the palate; excellent with lamb The addition of fruit from Jordan's hillside vineyards is in part responsible for the increase in aromatics, depth of color and flavor and mid-palate feel in the 2001 Jordan Cab. The bouquet offers subtle notes of cassis, black cherry, currants and chocolate. It is a richly textured wine with lush, ripe flavors of blackberry, Bing cherry, cassis and raspberry. Slight earthy notes of tobacco and cedar and a subtle framework of oak complete this delicious wine. The 2001 vintage of Cabernet Sauvignon was fermented slowly and received a gentle extended maceration in order to extract, soften and stabilize the lush, elegant tannins and concentrated flavors from the fruit before pressing. Full malolactic fermentation followed in large oak casks to soften the natural acidity and enrich the texture. The wine was then aged for 12 months in both French and American small oak barrels and six months in neutral large oak barrels before blending to achieve an optimal balance of flavors and complexity. After bottling, the finished wine received nineteen months of additional aging in Jordan's temperature-controlled cellars before release. "A rich, elegantly styled Cabernet, with generous ripe plum, black cherry, herb and fresh earth notes that are vibrant and complex. Excellent balance, finishing with a long, clean aftertaste. Drink now through 2010." - Wine Spectator, 88 points |
| 2002 | Jordan | Cabernet | 2C6 | 60 | 1 | 93cp |
| 93cp Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon ranks among the truly elite of California Cabs. Tom Jordan founded his winery in 1972, and promptly began a dynasty of coveted vintages. According to the 15th Annual Restaurant Poll conducted in April 2004 by Wine & Spirits magazine, "For the fourth consecutive year, Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon is the top selling Cabernet Sauvignon in America's restaurants." The 1999 vintage marked the first harvest of Jordan’s hillside vineyards, adding intensity and depth to the winery's signature Bordelaise winemaking style. The 2002 vintage benefited from optimal growing conditions that produced grapes ideal for the production of Jordan's trademark style: wine that is both approachable upon release and has the ability to age beautifully. The winemaker at Jordan Winery since 1977 is Rob Davis. 88 PTS WILFRED WONG. With the spotlight on the Alexander Valley, the '02 Jordan Cabernet stays controlled and elegant on the palate; redolent of vivid red fruit flavors, this wine nicely delivers. Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon is a blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon and 25% Merlot. It is deep ruby red, with a nose of cassis, blackberry, coffee, cedar and vanilla. It offers flavors of cassis, blackberry, cherry, plum, spice and oak on a full-bodied frame with silky tannins. Aged 15 months in 66% French and 34% American oak, it is intense and complex. The wine is beautifully balanced to enjoy now and over the next 12 years. It is rich, full and elegant on the long finish. The bouquet is highlighted with aromas of cassis, black cherry and dark chocolate, with undertones of sweet tobacco and cedar. The 2002 Cabernet is very rich in texture with opulent flavors of ripe blackberry, cherry and cassis. This Cabernet has a lingering finish of subtle earth, cigar tobacco, cedar, and a well integrated and restrained framework of oak. - Winery. |
| 2003 | Jordan | Cabernet | 12D3-5 | 53 | 3 | 88ww |
| 88ww The 2003 Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon spent four days in stainless steel tanks to complete primary fermentation, followed by three weeks in large, oak upright tanks for malolactic fermentation. The wine was aged in 68% French and 32% American small oak barrels for twelve months, then in the large oak uprights for an additional three months. After wood aging, it was bottled and held for another seventeen months prior to release. The continued addition of fruit from hillside vineyards and the blending of Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot with the Cabernet Sauvignon is responsible for the well integrated flavors, deep color and full mouth feel of the 2003 vintage. The vibrant blueberry qualities of the Petit Verdot marry well with the soft, alluring flavors of Merlot and contribute to the complexity of the masculine, tannic nature of the Cabernet Sauvignon. The 2003 Cabernet is very rich in texture with opulent flavors, a restrained framework of oak and a lingering finish of subtle earth, cigar tobacco and cedar. With the spotlight on the Alexander Valley, the Jordan Cabernet stays controlled and elegant on the palate; redolent of vivid red fruit flavors, this wine nicely delivers |
| 2005 | Jordan | Cabernet | 10D4-6 | 55 | 8 | 89st |
| 89 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "Deep red. Red- and blackcurrant, cherry and menthol on the nose, with subtle vanilla, cola and tobacco notes adding complexity. Tightly wound red berry and bitter cherry flavors are framed by dusty tannins, picking up anise and herb notes on the back end. Understated and brisk, with good finishing clarity and mineral cut." (May/June '09 The 2005 Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon spent 22 days in stainless steel tanks for primary fermentation and extended maceration, followed by two weeks in large upright oak tanks for malolactic fermentation. The wine was aged for six months in large upright oak tanks and then aged in 64% French and 36% American oak barrels for 12 months. Prior to release, the wine was bottled and held for another 20 months. The blend is 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Merlot and 5% Petit Verdot; 13.5% alcohol. With concentrated aromas of cassis, cherry, cedar, red rose petal and tobacco, this wine’s complexity continues through the flavors, which include red currant, cherry, blackberry and blueberry with a hint of vanilla from oak aging. Round tannins balance and support this medium-bodied wine’s ripe fruit. This wine shows beautifully in its youth and will continue to age gracefully for a decade or more. "~(Winery Notes) |
| 2000 | Joseph Phelps Insignia | Red Wine | UT | 140 | 2 | 93ws |
| ws90-92 points from Robert Parker... "The 2000 Insignia reveals a smoky, rich cassis characteristic, medium to full body, and an open-knit, lush, generous style without the austere tannin and backwardness of the 1999. Expansive, fleshy, and seductive, it should drink well for 15-16 years." Also got 91-94 points from Stephen Tanzer... 'Very good saturated ruby color. Roasted currant, mocha and dark chocolate on the nose. Lush and soft but nicely delineated, with a chewy texture and solid underlying minerality. A large-scaled fruit bomb with a seamless texture. Finishes with building but thoroughly sweet tannins. (May-June, 2002)' The blend is 77% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Merlot, 3% Petite Verdot and 1% Malbec. Serves up lots of ripe, rich, spicy cherry, currant, plum and blackberry fruit. Tightly focused, with fine balance. Finishes with spicy, cedary oak and good length. Score range: 92-94 (JL) |
| 2001 | Joseph Phelps Insignia | Red Wine | UT | 175 | 1 | 95rp |
| 95 pts From Parker: The 2001 Insignia (an 18,000 case blend of 89% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Petit Verdot, and 3% Merlot) is an inky/purple-colored effort representing a return to the superb quality of such vintages as 1997. Aged in 100% new French oak, this blockbuster reveals gorgeous aromas of melted licorice, creme de cassis, liquid minerals, and hints of chocolate and spice box. The finish is long, full-bodied, opulent, and voluptuous. Considerable tannin is largely concealed by the lavish richness, extract, and glycerin. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2020+. The bulk of the fruit for the Insignia cuvee comes from vineyards on Manley Lane as well as the Stags Leap area. All the Petit Verdot and Malbec utilized is from the vineyard adjacent to the winery. The Insignia cuvee has been one of Napa’s great Cabernet Sauvignon-based wines since its inception in 1974. In the eighties, this offering seemed to fall off a bit, but it was phenomenal in the seventies, and most of those vintages are still alive. Moreover, it has been absolutely brilliant since 1991. Remarkably,18,000-20,000 cases of this wine are produced in top vintages. |
| 1992 | Joseph phelps | Cabernet | | 100 | 1 | |
| A blend of 92% Cabernet Sauvignon from vineyards throughout the Napa Valley (including estate-owned grapes in Rutherford and the Stag's Leap District; 7% Merlot; 1% Cabernet Franc. This wine was divided into two aging lots, with 80% going into French oak barrels, and 20% into American oak. After blending both lots, the wine was aged an additional year and bottled in August, 1994 Aside from a heat spell during the first two weeks of September, weather conditions during the 1992 growing season were generally favorable. A warm, dry spring provided ideal conditions for bloom and set, and crop yields promised to be high. By removing immature clusters during the ripening period, uniform fruit quality was ensured and grapes were harvested at optimal ripeness. Because of the warm growing season, the finished wine is slightly fuller-bodied than the 1991 vintage, with softer tannins and ripe, smoky flavors of berry and cassis. The long, smooth finish makes it an ideal candidate for current enjoyment, but the wine will continue developing in the bottle for many years to come. From Connoisseurs' Guide to California Wine: Joseph Phelps 1992 Cabernet Sauvignon. Dusty spice, hints of smoke and subtle scents of dried leaves are complexing accents to dense, yet moderately open fruit in the nose, and the generous flavors of this well-filled youngster come across boldly with lots of woodsy spice and a solid sense of deep, nicely-extracted fruit. |
| 2003 | Juslyn Vineyard Select | Cabernet | | 83 | 2 | 91rp |
| Rating: 91 points rp The 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon Vineyard Select (100% Cabernet Sauvignon and, in this case, 70% from the Beckstoffer's To-Kalon Vineyard and 30% from Dr. Crane's Vineyard, two superb sites) has a dense purple color and a big, sweet nose of crushed rocks, blackberries, cassis, tobacco leaf, Asian black tea, and spice box. The wine is layered, rich, and pure, with full body, wonderfully sweet tannin, a judicious integration of acidity and wood, and a long finish. It promises to be drinkable at 2-3 years of age and last for 15 or more years. Review by Robert Parker Rating: (90-92) points The 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon Vineyard Select (70% from the To-Kalon Vineyard and 30% from the Dr. Crane site) possesses good elegance, depth, richness, and balance. While not as concentrated, powerful, or deep as the 2002 or 2001 Vineyard Select, it possesses more charm and finesse, and should drink well for 12-15 years. |
| 2001 | Justin Isosceles | Red Wine | 10B5 | 75 | 1 | 92ws |
| 92ws The medium dark color of this '01 red deceives, giving no hint of tTHE GREAT MERITAGE BLEND FROM JUSTIN SCORES AGAIN IN THE SUPER 2001 VINTAGE. GREAT STUFF, BEAUTIFULLY BALANCED, WITH SUPERB CONCENTRATIONhe A wonderfully rich and complex wine, smooth and seamless, with layers of ripe currant, black cherry and blackberry, with shades of anise, herb and earth. Finishes with just the right amount of acidity and tannin to sustain its long, lingering finish. Best from 2003 through 2012. (92 pts. Spectator) depth and power of the flavors to follow. Likewise, in its current youthful state, there is a shyness on the nose, yielding only faint aromas of fruit, cocoa and mineral immediately upon opening. |
| 2004 | Justin Isosceles | Red Wine | 10B4 | 60 | 1 | 95wa |
| Wine Advocate #162 (Dec 2005) Robert Parker 95 points. I realize this is not a North Coast offering, but it’s such a sensational, impeccably high quality cuvee it merited inclusion in this report. One of the finest Bordeaux blends (93% Cabernet Sauvignon and 7% Merlot and Cabernet Franc) I have ever tasted from Paso Robles, it offers glorious aromas of camphor, creme de cassis, smoke, and subtle oak. Voluptuously rich and full-bodied with beautiful purity as well as a sense of elegance, definition, and harmony, this gorgeously proportioned, rich proprietary red should drink well for a decade or more. Kudos to the folks at Justin for a brilliant achievement Consistently one of the most complex Cabernet-based blends made outside Napa or Sonoma …the Isosceles is named for its three-part blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. The 2004 ISOSCELES is inky blue with a slight purple overtone around the rim. Aromas of blueberry, black cherry and cassis fill the glass. The entry is soft, velvety and filled with bright fruit. Seamless, lengthy tannins scream across the palate showing the youth and potential longevity of this wine. Layers of complexity evolve into a finish that combines flavors of coffee, dark fruit and hints of vanilla and caramel. The 2004 ISOSCELES is very young, and will continue to evolve from now through 2020. |
| 2005 | Justin Isosceles | Red Wine | 10B3 | 63 | 1 | 92ws |
| 92ws "Smooth, rich, elegant and refined, with a tight, sleek focus on ripe, vibrant, even juicy red currant, black cherry and wild berry flavors that are impeccably balanced, ending with a long, complex finish that keeps the fruity flavors reverberating. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot. Drink now through 2015." Long Justin's signature wine, the 2005 Isosceles blends 78% cabernet sauvignon, 15% cabernet franc and 7% merlot into a distinguished, complex wine. Although quite young, this crimson-colored wine's nose is already quite nuanced, casting off aromas of boysenberries, cassis, espresso and mint with earthy sweet notes of new leather, caramel and vanilla. In the mouth the attack is soft and sweet, giving way to a fruit-filled mouthcoating mid-palate with coffee, butterscotch and graphite flavors that linger through the finish. If you can't wait to drink this one, decant it for a few hours first, otherwise, find it a home in your cellar for a good while, this will continue to evolve for the next 10-15 years. Winery: The 2005 ISOSCELES is dark purple with a slight crimson overtone around the rim. Aromas of boysenberry, leather, mocha, mint and cassis combine with light layers of caramel and vanilla resulting from the extended oak ageing. A soft, fruit forward, elegant entry segues into a mid palate with length and complexity. Seamless, integrated tannins marry with ripe fruit, and flavors of coffee, butterscotch and hint of pencil lead on the finish of this wine. The 2005 ISOSCELES is very young, and will continue to evolve from now through 2025. Winery Smooth, rich, elegant and refined, with a tight, sleek focus on ripe, vibrant, even juicy red currant, black cherry and wild berry flavors that are impeccably balanced, ending with a long, complex finish that keeps the fruity flavors reverberating. |
| 2006 | Justin Isosceles | Red Wine | 10B2 | 70 | 1 | 92wn |
| Dense inky purple hue. Exotic scents of plum, blackberry and rum cake with secondary nuances of brown sugar, blueberry and vanilla. Juicy flavors of black cherry and mocha with hints of cedar box. Well-combed, oak-laced tannins and lingering impressions of raspberry, mocha and toasted oak in the lengthy close." 92 Points The 2006 ISOSCELES is inky purple with a slight red hue around the rim. Aromas of blackberry, black plum, leather, mocha, and cassis combine with light layers of caramel, vanilla and a touch of smoke resulting from the extended oak ageing. The entry is filled with red and black fruit. Seamless, integrated tannins marry with ripe fruit, and flavors of red currant, butterscotch and hint of pencil lead on the finish of this wine. The 2006 ISOSCELES is very young, and will continue to evolve from now through 2025. |
| 2005 | K Vintners Cougar Hills | Syrah | UT | 48 | 1 | 93we |
| we93A dark, meaty, sappy wine, supple and saturated with gorgeous color and sensuous fruit. The spices are chromatic, and the flavors include charcuterie, wild cherry, smoke, pepper and green tea. The palate is seamless and tightly wrapped, gently unfolding to reveal a lingering finish with the promise of a long cellar life ahead. — P.G. (12/1/2007) rp92 92 points DRINK: 2011 - 2020 The 2005 Syrah Cougar Hills is a bit more restrained aromatically with a more elegant personality. Concentrated, ripe, and round, the flavors are already exhibiting complexity, and the finish is very long. Allow for another 3-4 years in the cellar and drink it through 2020. ws92 |
| 2004 | Karl Lawrence | Cabernet | 7C8-9 | 60 | 2 | 89we |
| 89we For the seventh consecutive year the Karl Lawrence Cabernet Sauvignon is made from these two renowned vineyards. The combination and blending of the Morosoli grapes and the Lamb Family grapes define the unique Karl Lawrence Cabernet style. The grape combination produces a wine that is rich and full-bodied, well balanced, and enhanced fruit and spice characters. A wine to remember! This 2004 is a rock star vintage and expresses great character. It is full, rich, bold, and forward, with aromas of currant, black fruit, sweet dark chocolate, and spice. The wine is well structured with the right amount of acid and tannin to carry this wine for many years of improvement. Drink now through 2013 This has acids and tannins and plenty of structure. The winemaker is aiming at an ageworthy, more classic wine. It needs time, or at the very least, serious decanting. But the stuffing is there. Hold until 2010. — S.H. (8/1/2007) 88cg Its early impressions of sweet fruit, vanilla and cream are hard not to like, and they bring a sense of depth that makes it easier to forgive what proves to be very tough tannins at the wine's finish. Almost sere in its astringency, but never quite giving up its fruit, this one may or may not come into balance even with age, yet what time will not fix, service with food will. Save it for pairing with a rich leg of lamb. |
| 1998 | Keenan | Cabernet | 6D1-6D4 | 90 | 4 | 94ncwc |
| 2001 California State Fair Gold Medal, 94 Points 2002 San Francisco Chronicle Northern California Wine Competition Gold Medal 2002 Hilton Head Wine Competition Gold Medal 2001 Jerry Mead's New World Wine International Competition Gold Medal 88we Pleasingly focused with smoky cassis and blackberry flavors that are followed by licorice and herb notes. Tangy on the finish, the wine is framed in smooth tannins." Robert M. Parker, Jr., Wine Advocate This Bordeaux-styled 1998 Cabernet Sauvignon is smooth and round, with aromas and flavors of herbs, earth, and black currant....[This cabernet] is well-balanced, and made in a forward, attractive style. Readers should know that 1998 has been deemed by many as a bad vintage for the Noth Coast Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, yet attractive wines have been produced. Anticipated maturity: now-2012." Fragrant and chewy, with currant, toasty oak, fresh herb and subtle lavender and violet nuances. Nicely focused through the solid tannin of the finish. Drink now through 2007. 2,450 cases made. 88we Pleasingly focused with smoky cassis and blackberry flavors that are followed by licorice and herb notes. Tangy on the finish, the wine is framed in smooth tannins. — J.M. (6/1/2002) |
| 1999 | Keenan | Cabernet | 6C11 | 50 | 1 | 93ww |
| 93 POINTS WILFRED WONG. (March 9, 2004, Pleasant Hill, CA USA) Deep ruby color; classy, beautiful ripe fruit aromas, excellent depth; medium to full-bodied, unusually silky on the palate, excellent structure; dry, fine acidity, well-balanced; nice and pleasing young black fruit flavors, excellent depth; long finish, full, firm aftertaste. |
| 2001 | Keenan | Cabernet | 6C7-10 | 40 | 4 | 92rp |
| 92rp"...The 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon 25th Anniversary has a dense purple color and a sweet nose of creme de cassis intermixed with licorice, graphite, and subtle, smoky oak. Dense, medium to full-bodied, with sweet tannins, and a long, heady finish, this is an impressive as well as realistically priced Napa Cabernet. Drink it over the next 10-15 years. This beautiful winery, located in Spring Mountain in the Mayacamas Range, seems to be making the best wine of its 25-year history, and much of the credit must go to the tireless efforts of Michael Keenan who has done so much to resurrect the fortunes of this winery. |
| 2003 | Keenan | Cabernet | 6C6 | 44 | 1 | 92w&s |
| 92 points from Wine & Spirits: "The fresh fruit in the middle of this wine has a lovely sweetness, like Chinese spiced plums. The earthy tannins that surround it have a touch of bitterness and an herbal edge. This is a solidly built mountain cabernet, needing age to mellow its tannin." (04/07) According to Robert Parker: "Exhibiting cassis, earth, and spice box characteristics, the dark ruby/purple-tinged, medium-bodied 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon possesses soft tannins, good power, and an attractive overall balanced feel. Michael Keenan has been pushing the quality of these offerings to exciting levels over the last several vintages, and this Spring Mountain winery is poised to garner more and more accolades from consumers for their impeccably made wines." (12/06) |
| 2004 | Keenan | Cabernet | 6C3-4 | 45 | 2 | 92 |
| 92rp From The Wine Advocate: Classic aromas of cedar, black currants, licorice, graphite, and spicy oak emerge from the full-bodied, powerful, opulent, opaque purple-colored 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon. This concentrated, rich, impressively-endowed Cabernet is a steal for the price. Moreover, it should drink well for 15 or more years 92 points - Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate, Issue 174 |
| 2000 | Keenan 375ml | Cabernet | HR | 30 | 3 | 90ww |
| 90 POINTS WILFRED WONG. (Tasted: March 3, 2005, Concord, CA USA) Deep ruby color with purple highlights; very good rich aromas of nicely ripened fruit, fine depth of fruit; medium bodied, textured on the palate, nicely layered, medium tannins; dry, good acidity, good balance; attractive black fruit with a definite note of leather, very good concentration; medium finish, fairly smooth aftertaste. |
| 2002 | Keenan Mernet Reserve | Red Wine | 6C5 | 100 | 1 | 95rp |
| 95 points Robert Parker: "There were roughly 275-300 cases of the Reserve cuvee, so very little of this wine makes it into the public domain. The 2002 Mernet Reserve, a proprietary blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon and 50% Merlot, is the finest wine Keenan has ever made! The wine has considerable complexity and all the elegance and nuances of a grand cru Bordeaux allied with the ripe, concentrated, saturated fruit that Napa and particularly Spring Mountain provides. Gorgeous aromas of creme de cassis, licorice, espresso, and acacia flowers are followed by a profoundly rich wine boasting medium to full body, elegant, sweet tannins, and enough acidity to provide definition and vibrancy. The finish goes on for a good 40-45 seconds. This beauty is a persuasive example of what Keenan has been able to accomplish over the last few years. Drink it over the next 15+ years." (02/05) |
| 1999 | Kelham Vineyards | Cabernet | 2B8 | 43 | 1 | 90we |
| 90we Rich and nuanced, with ripe black currant and plum flavors. The tannins are dry and refined, accompanied by refreshing acidity. There’s great structure and elegance to this wine, which shows its appellation’s terroir well. —S.H. — S.H. (2/1/2003) AWCL 10yr Big and full of rich ripe fruit from the acclaimed Oakville appellation, the 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon is a beautiful dark burgundy in color. As the wine opens in the glass, complex layers reveal different characteristics, which continually challenge the senses. A bouquet of cassis, plum, currant, spice, with a hint of tobacco and pepper meet the nose. Well-integrated oak, big juicy fruit tannins, lush black cherry and blackberry combine with notes of caramel and toast to create a smooth and well-balanced mouth-feel. A good depth of acidity and a long, silky finish accentuate the wines excellent ageability. |
| 2002 | Kenefick Ranch | Cabernet | 3D9 | 60 | 1 | |
| Initially reserved, but deeply etched nose of red cherry jam, red currant, rose, briar, vanilla and hints of new leather, the whole powerfully structured, focused and perfectly ripe. With airing, all the promise of the nose is delivered on the palate, where gorgeous sweet cherry, currant and grenadine syrup fruit tones dominate both the oaky/earthy background and the wines substantial tannins. Never veering toward the overipe, nor loosing any varietal focus, the finish has a lovely core of fresh cherry to the end; leaving an impression of classic elegance, despite the wines grand scale. This one should be truly brilliant in about four to seven years or so. 384 cases produced. The 2002 Kenefick Ranch Cabernet is the inaugural release of this powerful, yet nuanced wine. Possessing an inky-purple color with aromas of mocha, black currant, toffee, cedar, fig, and smoked meats; this elixir fills the mid-palate and finishes with supple, silky tannins and a long lingering finish. The complexity and balance of this Cabernet Sauvignon gives promise to continue to unfold over the next 10 to 15 years. |
| 2002 | Krupp Brothers Stagecoach Vineyard | Cabernet | 1D11 | 100 | 1 | 93v |
| 93vinfolio: Josh Krupp is back again with another rock-solid release to back up his Black Bart Syrah. This is the first bottling under the majestic Krupp Brothers label and production is very limited. The nose is full of polished black cherry, blackberry and chocolate. The wine is tightly wound and needs nearly 30 minutes to begin opening up. Once it does, the flavors flesh out to show you a glimpse of what this wine will be like in three or four years. Drink: 2008-2016. ..FROM THE FAMILY THAT BROUGHT YOU VERAISON AND STAGECOACH VINEYARDS. A RICH, POLISHED STRUCTURE COMBINES WITH VELVETY TANNINS AND OPULENT FLAVORS OF CASSIS, BLACKBERRY AND DARK CHOCOLATE. BEST FROM 2009 THROUGH 2021. ONLY 308 CASES PRODUCED. The new high end Napa cabernet from fruit from the Krupp Brothers who own the Stagecoach and Krupp Family vineyards up on Pritchard Hill in Napa. Luxorious, creamy cassis fruit with a nice oak backbone. |
| 2004 | L'Aventure estate cuvee' | Red Wine | 4B5-6 | 110 | 2 | 98rp |
| Parker said: There are 1,000 cases of the blockbuster 2004 Estate Cuvee. It reminded me of the 2005 L’Evangile ... on steroids. A dense inky/purple color, great fruit purity, and abundant aromas of acacia flowers, blackberries, cassis, and blueberries are found in this beauty along with a seamless integration of tannin, acidity, and wood, and a finish that lasts over 60 seconds. The result is a profound wine that must be tasted to be believed. This is a brilliant wine from a Frenchman who has captured the magic of Paso Robles. Drink it over the next 12-15 years |
| 2005 | L'Ecole perigee | Cabernet | 2C1 | 62 | 1 | 93 w&s |
| 93w&s 92wa 90ws Perigee exemplifies this vineyard’s characteristic cedary, black cherry elegance. Polished with perfumed aromas of exotic spice, velvety blackberry and silky black cherry fruit, this wine has an earthy, fresh cleansing minerailty which exudes power and grace on an endless, spicy pepper finish. |
| 1999 | La Vita Bargetto's Family Estate | Red Wine | 1D6 | 51 | 1 | |
| 1999 LA VITA is produced from a unique blend of 50% Dolcetto, 25% Refosco, 19% Nebbiolo and 6% Merlot grown in our estate vineyard in the Santa Cruz Mountains. This handcrafted wine was aged for two and one half years in oak puncheons and then aged for an additional eighteen months in the bottle prior to release. The 1999 growing season yielded just 4,560 bottles. |
| 2003 | Ladera Lone Canyon Vineyard | Cabernet | 2D3 | 60 | 1 | 94awc |
| 94 AWC American wine company This wine is classic example of the excellent quality of wine made from grapes grown on the Ladera Lone Canyon Vineyard. Lone Canyon Vineyard wines---deep, rich and dark flavors, with an extracted bramble fruit aroma and hints of spice and herbal notes. The texture of the wine, a heritage to its mountain location, is very rich and highly extracted with an abundance of powerful, but velvety tannins. The 2003 Lone Canyon Cabernet is a perfect example of how rich, bold and extracted the wines from this property can be. This wine is exuberant in color and the aromas are alive with spicy and herbal fruit. The nose is further complimented by earthy, brambly undertones and silhouettes of cola. A full bodied entry hits the palate with enticing flavors of blackberry and dark cherry. The wine is layered with textures that are bold and masculine yet maintain tannins of a velvety character. The dark and ripe fruit flavors intertwine with the tannins to carry through to a long and plush finish |
| 2001 | Lail Vineyards J Daniel Cuvee | Cabernet | 8B3 | 89 | 1 | 93rp |
| The finest effort yet produced, the 2001 J. Daniel Cuvee is a 1,000 case, 100% Cabernet Sauvignon offering. Complex notes of lead pencil shavings, black currants, licorice, and vanilla cascade from the glass of this opaque ruby/purple-colored wine. Structured, medium-bodied, moderately tannic, and oh, so pure and layered, this beauty will be at its finest between 2006-2015. Robert Parker 93 points (Dec 2003) 92we Made from Howell Mountain grapes, yet rich and approachable in youth. There are huge, chewy tannins, but they’re sweet, and frame black currant and cherry-chocolate fudge flavors. This makes it sound like a dessert wine, but it’s dry and balanced and entirely satisfying. — S.H. (10/1/2004) |
| 2003 | Lail Vineyards J Daniel Cuvee | Cabernet | 8B2 | 100 | 1 | 94rp |
| 94rp 2003 Lail J. Daniel Cuvee -Lail’s flagship 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2003 J. Daniel Cuvee, is a 900-case effort made from two fruit sources, the Howell Mountain hillsides and the valley floor Vine Hill Vineyard near Yountville. The result is a gorgeously proportioned, dense purple-colored offering boasting a stunning nose of black currants, smoke, earth, and charcoal. Big and rich, with superb purity and great structure, but neither overbearing nor astringent, this beauty should drink well for 15 or more years.Wine Advocate December 2005 issue 162 |
| 2002 | Laurel Glen | Cabernet | 2A1-2 | 55 | 2 | 95we |
| 95we "Classic Laurel Glen, a Cabernet stuffed with dense, thrillingly ripe fruit..." 92st Bright ruby. Reticent but complex nose combines minerals, licorice, leather, mocha and chocolate, with lovely floral lift. Suave and aromatic in the mouth, but extremely backward and dominated by its powerful acid/tannin structure today. Brooding flavor of inky blackcurrant shows superb penetration and snap. Finishes very long and firmly tannic. The pH here is 3.75, on the high side for Laurel Glen, and this 2002 may be the biggest wine yet from this winery. But this cabernet needs a good eight to ten years of cellaring. |
| 2003 | Laurel Glen | Cabernet | 8A1-4 | 55 | 4 | 90st |
| 90st Good bright ruby-red. Black cherry, cassis, licorice and minerals on the nose, with hints of band-aid and mint. A bit riper than the Counterpoint, but still a tad tart, with the blackcurrant and mint flavors firmed by slightly spiky acidity. Here the tannins are broader and sweeter than those of the Counterpoint. Patrick Campbell considers 2003 a cooler than average vintage and told me he did a lot of 'editing' to come up with this flagship bottling. This may well merit a higher score with bottle aging. we89 This is one of the ripest Laurel Glens in years, and it’s sumptuous now. With gigantic cherry, blackberry, black raspberry, cassis, root beer and cinnamon-anise flavors wrapped into a softly tannic texture. Seems at its best now and for four or five more years. — S.H. (11/1/2007) |
| 2008 | Le Baron Ranch | Late Harvest Riesling | | 45 | 12 | |
| 2000 | Leeuwin Art Series | Cabernet | 2C8 | 45 | 1 | 92st |
| 92st The 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon Art Series is excellent, possibly outstanding. Its deep ruby/purple-tinged color is followed by a spicy, cedary perfume revealing hints of white chocolate, subtle wood, and earth. Medium to full-bodied, restrained, and elegant, with supple tannin, it does not possess the length or richness of the exceptional 1999, but it is well-made and pure. It should drink well for 10-12 years.(Wine Advocate) 92 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "(includes some malbec and petit verdot) Medium red. Lively aromas of raspberry, currant and chocolate. Sweet, dense and deep, with vibrant raspberry and currant flavors sweetened by subtle oakiness. A full, rich wine with nicely integrated acidity. Finishes long and subtle, with very fine tannins, a suggestion of chocolatey oak, and lingering sweet fruit. A very good showing." (Jul/Aug 04) |
| 2003 | Leon Beyer | Gewurztraminer | | 25 | 9 | 91st |
| This delicious dry white has a distinctly complex bouquet of lychees, roses and passion fruit. There is no better wine than this to have with a curry, or particularly spicy foods. |
| 2001 | Leonetti | Cabernet | 4D9-10 | 119 | 2 | 92ww |
| 92ww Leonetti Cab is the reference against which all other Washington State Cabs are measured. The new vintage just arrived and it is a glorious wine from a great vintage year. Blink and it will be gone. - Michael A.92 POINTS WILFRED WONG. (Tasted: March 24, 2004, Concord, CA USA) Deep ruby color; very nice and enticing aromas of ripe cherries, black currants with a faint smokiness, excellent depth, pleasing hint of oak; medium bodied, fine structure, satisfying palate; dry, good acid, fine balance; fine, integrated flavor of cassis and oak, young and fine; long finish, youthfully active aftertaste. (Best Served 2007-2015) [Cabernet Sauvignon 77%, Merlot 13%, Carmenere 4%, Syrah 3%, Petit Verdot 2%, Cabernet Franc 1%] 91we No longer the biggest or oakiest Cab in the valley, this is a more sinuous, sensuous style, with a citrusy lift to the pretty cherry fruit, perhaps from the inclusion of a tiny bit of Syrah (there’s also a bit of Carmenère!). Still young and a bit tannic, this will benefit from three to five years of further bottle age. — P.G. (11/15/2004) |
| 2002 | Leonetti | Merlot | 4D3 | 89 | 1 | 92we |
| 92we Firm and muscular, this delivers powerful, concentrated red currant, cherry and berry fruit, tightly wrapped and resonant. Young and compact, the wine just begins to hint at the complexity it contains, with notes of herb, leaf and barrel spice. Good weight and concentration, plus exceptional length and precision. — P.G. (11/15/2004) 91ws 'Round and open-textured, this elegant, harmonius red features black currant, wild berry and plum flavors at the center, shaded with gently cedary, spicy notes. The flavors linger against polished tannins.Beautiful deep ruby color. Nose of roasted coffee, chocolate, smoke, caramel, and ripe red fruits. The mouthfeel of this wine is incredibly plush and smooth as only merlot can be. Finish with very persistent mouth coating glycerin. vinfolio 2004-2012 |
| 2002 | Leonetti | Cabernet | 4D8 | 119 | 1 | 95rp |
| we92 WS92 / RP95"...THE 2002 CABERNET SAUVIGNON IS SUPERB. IT'S CASSIS LIQUEUR, BLACKBERRY, AND SPICE AROMAS LEAD TO A JUICY, FRESH, HUGELY RIPE PERSONALITY OF EXCEPTIONAL PURITY AND LENGTH...A COMPLEX, HIGHLY EXPRESSIVE, VIBRANT WINE WITH A DELIGHTFULLY LONG, SUAVE FINISH,..." DRINK THROUGH 2016. |
| 2003 | Leonetti | Cabernet | 4D6 | 125 | 1 | 96rp |
| "A stupendous effort, the 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon sports deep aromas of sweet black fruits immersed in spices. Big, powerful, and robust, it coats the palate with tar, licorice, stewed black cherries, and cassis liqueur yet retains an awe-inspiring juiciness and verve. In addition, this medium to full-bodied wine reveals an extremely long finish studded with exquisitely ripened tannin. Drink it over the next 14-15 years. " Robert Parker 96 we94 Here you will find classic Bourbon barrel-vanilla flavors, but with bright, polished fruit showing through. This is firm and substantial—very clean winemaking—crisp, tight, polished and silky. Already it’s showing layers of berries, currants and blueberries. — P.G. (11/15/2006 |
| 2004 | Leonetti | Cabernet | 4D4-5 | 100 | 2 | 94we |
| 94we Though most Walla Walla vineyards got wiped out in 2004, Leonetti was able to keep its best Cabernet from the higher elevation sites. This reflects the tight, somewhat herbal aspect of the vintage, and is still showing a bit of a raw edge to the tannins. But the fruit is sweet and ripe, and the balance impeccable. The flavors mix fresh herb (basil, oregano) and tangy fruit (berry, cherry) with pleasing flashes of leaf and bark. The wine is nervy, compact and refined; the flavors linger and the aromas slowly unwind. This is a wine that I believe will age beautifully. — P.G. (11/1/2007) Rated - 93/100 Wine Spectator Wine Spectator: Dark, dense and vibrant. A juicy mouthful of coffee- and tar-scented black cherry, black olive and spice flavors, persisting impressively on the long, shapely finish. Needs time to settle into itself. Best from 2009 through 2016. The aromatics of this wine are a beautiful mixture of red fruits, balsam and cedar, chocolate, and a hint of freshly picked herbs like sage and lavendar. The wine has a Bordeaux-Claret like refreshing coolness on the palate that gives way to a smooth finish of firmly packed tannins and excellent length. This is classic Walla Walla Valley Cabernet Sauvignon that will drink well for the next 15-20 years. Beautiful, saturated-to-rim color. The complex nose of ripe black fruits, cedar, cigar box, coffee, and chocolate is followed by impressive palate weight, substantial ripe tannin, laced perfectly with complimentary oak notes, and finishes with excellent length. |
| 2005 | Leonetti | Merlot | 4D2 | 82 | 1 | 94rp |
| 94rp The 2005 Merlot contains 8% Cabernet Sauvignon and 7% Petit Verdot. It spent 14 months in French and American oak and was bottled unfiltered. Purple-colored, it has a splendid bouquet of pain grille, spice box, cassis, and black currants. This is followed by a plush wine with layered flavors, superb balance, and terrific length. This outstanding Merlot can be enjoyed now but merits 4-6 years of further cellaring. It should provide pleasure through 2030. |
| 2005 | Leonetti | Cabernet | 4D1 | 100 | 1 | 94rp |
| 94rp The 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon includes 8% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc, 4% Carmenere, and 2% Malbec in the blend. Purple-colored, it offers up notes of pain grille, pencil lead, Asian spices, black currants, and plum. It conceals enough structure to evolve for 4-6 years and the wine admirably balances power and elegance. Drink it from 2014 to 2030. This very dark wine has classic Walla Walla Valley Cabernet Sauvignon elements of cassis, pine tar and cedar, crushed red and black fruits, cranberries, and bright, high-tone floral notes. The palate is lush and fat yet elegant, balanced by wonderful acidity, and finishes with perfectly ripe tannin that carries the wine across the palate. Wine Tasting Notes |
| 2001 | Leonetti Reserve | Red Wine | 4D11 | 160 | 1 | 95ws |
| 95ws A gentle giant, big, broad and amazingly vivid, framed with toasty oak. The tannins are beautifully resolved and let the ripe currant, plum and blackberry flavors sail through the impressively long finish. |
| 2003 | Leonetti Reserve | Red Wine | 4D7 | 175 | 1 | 97rp |
| 97rp 92ws |
| 2001 | Lewis Cellars | Cabernet | 8C6 | 90 | 1 | 92ws |
| 92ws 'Smooth, rich and concentrated, with a tasty core of wild berry, blackberry, plum and mocha, all neatly tailored, delivering a wonderful gush of fruit, spice and jazzy oak. A seductive youngster. ' WINE SPECTATOR 92 POINTS:12/31/03---SMOOTH, RICH AND CONCENTRATED, WITH A TASTY CORE OF WILD BERRY, BLACKBERRY, PLUM AND MOCHA, ALL NEATLY TAILORED, DELIVERING A WONDERFUL GUSH OF FRUIT, SPICE AND JAZZY OAK. A SEDUCTIVE YOUNGSTER. BEST FROM 2004 THROUGH 2012. 1,800 CASES MADE. |
| 2002 | Lewis Cellars | Cabernet | 8C5 | 100 | 1 | 96ws |
| From the excellent 2002 vintage, this is classic Lewis in style and will keep you coming back for more!Showcasing the unique personalities of small hillside vineyards from Pritchard Hill, Oakville and Rutherford, our 2002 Napa Valley Cabernet delivers compelling aromas of mocha, ripe berries, tobacco and sweet oak spice. The wine is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, complex, rich and focused. With a deep core of black fruit and traces of briar and vanilla, it turns chocolaty and long on the palate with serious, integrated tannins. 1,400 cases produced "Amazingly rich and complex, with flavor to burn, this wine stacks up a dense core of wild berry, currant and blackberry fruit and then fairly smothers it with intense smoky, toasty, chocolaty oak. While immense and concentrated, this wine is also very well-balanced and the finish echoes fruit and oak, on and on. In this style, few can rival it. Drink one now; cellar a few. Drink now through 2012." -- Wine Spectator 96 |
| 2004 | Lewis Cellars | Cabernet | 8C2-4 | 90 | 3 | 93ws |
| 93ws A showy, fleshy youngster, with supple currant, anise, blackberry and hints of mocha. Intense and concentrated, the flavors are long and persistent on the finish, with firm but ripe tannins that let the flavors push through. Best from 2008 through 2014." We think this is pretty darned appealing and fleshy, and the Lewis is one of our most consistent Cabernet houses year in and year out. We're not even going to try and compare it to last year's 96-point (Spectator) effort. We will tell you that this one is very impressive and should get equivalent attention. Outstanding effort. Showcasing the unique personalities of small hillside vineyards from Pritchard Hill, Rutherford, and Calistoga our Napa Valley Cabernet delivers compelling aromas of black currant, mocha and sweet oak spice. 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, the wine is complex, rich and focused. Built around a core of concentrated fruit, it serves up sumptuous, round, mouth-feel with traces of tobacco and briar. Beautifully structured, the wine develops distinctive chocolate flavors that travel long on the finish with finely integrated tannins. |
| 1999 | Lewis Cellars Reserve | Cabernet | 8C7 | 125 | 1 | 93rp |
| 93rp "A beauty! This opaque purple-colored Cabernet boasts an explosive bouquet of crushed plums, creme de cassis, licorice, Asian spices, and graphite. The wine is full-bodied, sweet, and exuberantly fruity with surprisingly good acidity. It deftly balances power and juicy fruit with freshness and vibrancy. It should drink well for 15-18 years. Bravo!" -- Robert Parker 93 |
| 2002 | Lolonis Petros | Merlot | | 38 | 4 | |
| A cellar-aged old vine Merlot that is fullsupplecomplexand delicious. With flavors of blackberrycurrantand black cherrythis wine will pair well with rich winter dishes and is great for drinking now through 2011. Ladybugs - not chemicals - are used to combat pests. All wines are certified organic.Winemakers Notes |
| 2001 | Longfellow | Cabernet | 1A10 | 65 | 1 | |
| A powerhouse Napa Cabernet with deep color and concentration. Seductive aromas of ripe dark fruit, cassis, and vanilla bean lead to well developed layers of licorice, rose petal, and cocoa. Silky and focused tannins make this sexy wine enjoyable now, but one that will age with elegance and grace.” ---Rolando Herrera We are pleased to introduce our inaugural vintage of Cabernet Sauvignon. We set out to produce bold and unique wines true to their varietal heritage. Our style relies on native fermentation and limited intervention to allow the wine to develop concentrated layers of richness and complexity naturally. This Cabernet Sauvignon was grown in Coombsville located in the Southern Napa Valley just east of the town of Napa. Coombville’s closer proximity to the bay and mild elevation provides perfect growing conditions for the Cabernet grape |
| 2003 | Longfellow | Cabernet | | 30 | 6 | |
| Gorgeous indigo color and nuanced aromas of ripe dark fruit, cigar box, and cedary oak lead to a blast of black cherry and plum laced with roasted coffee. Enigmatic, yet elegant tannins lend the structure and backbone necessary to cellar this wine well into the next decade. |
| 2000 | Louis Martini "Monte Rosso Vineyard" | Cabernet | 4C1-5 | 65 | 5 | 92we |
| 92 we This 100% Cabernet Sauvignon spent about 22 months in a combination of new French and American oak barrels. The Wine Enthusiast gave this wine 92 points with these notes: "Martini's flagship Cab is a blockbuster. It is exceptionally ripe, with lush currant and cassis flavors that have a laser-like concentration. There's a good deal of new oak, but the massive flavors are easily able to handle it. The result is a special success for this vintage." |
| 2004 | Marietta Cellars Angeli Cuvee | Red Wine | 7C7 | 30 | 1 | 92rp |
| 92rp Dark ruby. The '04 Angeli Cuvee is a solid gradient richer than the well reviewed '03 (Robert Parker 92 point rating) Huge ripe blackberry and cherry fruit lies just under the surface of this lush beauty. This was one of the vintages I've worked with and subsequently this is one of the better Cuvee's I've made. The combination of Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, and Carignane blend harmoniously with toasty oak assuring for a definite ongoing evolution of flavor and aromatic complexity.An interesting blend of old vine Zinfandel, Petite-Syrah and Carignan, this top of the line Cuvee from Marietta displays a saturated ruby purple color and an exciting bouquet of blackberry, spicy pepper, and toasty oak. Robust and full-bodied, this highly extracted wine features flavors of jammy black fruits intermingled with exotic spices and vanilla. Aging potential: 5-10 years...maybe more? The Cuvée offers a heady, broad, and dense yet somewhat tight nose with raspberry jam, spice, camphor, hints of anise, and toasty oak. The generous, warm, "glycerine-like" mouth coats the palate with toasted oak and ripe spicy berry flavors. This wine is young and tight; expect it to blossom and gain fruit as it ages in the bottle. As always, the Cuvée is a huge offering which pushes the limits of ripeness. We are fortunate to have access to such old vines that produce extremely ripe fruit with such complex flavors and mouth filling intensity. This is a big wine that offers great aging potential. Producing only 2400 cases total, these old vines don’t yield tonnages like they used to; but what they lack in quantity, they unquestionably make up for in quality and concentration. |
| 2002 | Mario Perelli-Minetti Reserve | Cabernet | 1C11 | 65 | 1 | |
| This wine is currently one of my favorite wines and is drinking well. However, my grandfather reccommends to decant this wine so there still are some youthful characteristics. This wine was created from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon grapes grown in a single vineyard in Atlas Peak, the southeast hills of Napa Valley. Exhibits characteristics of plums and berry jam, hints of vanilla spice and chocolate. Well balanced with tannins, oak and fruit. 475 cases were produced |
| 2004 | Matthiasson Napa Valley | Cabernet | | 40 | 2 | 93vf |
| 93vf Vinfolio Comprised of 60% Merlot from Red Hen Vineyard, blended with 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, the wine shows a smooth, dense nose of mineral-laced black and bright red fruit notes. Very nice focus, youthful structure yet nice backbone of mint and black fruit. Classically balanced, the wine has incredible elegance and length. The careful, small-scale winemaking preserved the complex layers of aromatics. The cool fall, and an early harvest date, provided for the full spectrum of flavors, from dried herbs through juicy red fruit to rich black fruit and chocolate. This vintage gave us the freshness and minerality that we strive for but can be very elusive in a rich powerful wine. Matthiasson’s 2005 Napa Valley Red Wine is also a big wine that is in need of a few years of cellaring or lots of air time to get to the underlying wine. When first opened, the wine showed some green olive and bell pepper that ran over everything else. But with time, this faded to reveal the underlying herbs, chocolate, and fruit. Both the Merlot and the Red Wine were nicely acidic and would be good alone or with food. Matthiasson’s stated goal is “weight without heaviness” and these two reds succeed admirably in that regard. When I first pulled the cork, immense amounts of sediment were on the cork and I knew this was some serious unfiltered juice. I don't have any information on what is in this, but I'm guessing that it is mostly Merlot, some Cab Franc and Cabernet, perhaps with a dose of Petite Syrah in there. (I'm sure they will correct this!) The nose is as complex as Fernet Branca - crazy earthiness, menthol, blueberries, --wow. The flavor is quite dark in the mid-palate and finish, and shows this is a very meaty wine, ready to put down for a few more years. The tannins are up-front but a great drink now. Again, highly recommended. |
| 1993 | Mayacamas | Cabernet | | 90 | 2 | |
| Mayacamas Vineyards can lay claim as California`s first boutique winery. Today, there are hundreds of them, but Mayacamas remains one of the leaders of high-quality, small production Cabernet. As an example, we present the `93 with its full-bodied flavors of currant and anise, wrapped in firm tannins and laced with cedar. As is the case with most Mayacamas Cabs, the `93 will age brilliantly for a very long time. Our 1993 Cabernet Sauvignon is coming together beautifully and shows many of the characteristics of classic Bordeaux. Velvety on the tongue with clear hintsof oak, it has depth, complexity and power plus a suggestion of raspberry in the finish. The blend here is 11% Cabernet Franc and 4% Merlot. Highly enjoyable now, it will live and develop further for at least 5 or 6 more years and probably longer. |
| 2007 | Melka CJ | Cabernet | | 52 | 1 | 90rp |
| 90 points Robert Parker: "A good bargain (Napa speaking) is the 2007 CJ, a 1,300-case blend of 82% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest equal parts Merlot and Petit Verdot. This seductive, hedonistic, dense ruby/purple-colored offering exhibits plenty of black currant, licorice, smoke, and earth characteristics along with an outstanding texture, good plushness and opulence, and 7-10 years of life ahead of it." (12/09) 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Petit Verdot, 5% Cabernet Franc, 100% Napa Valley. Lean and earthy. Dark berry flavors combine with vanilla and cinder box to excite the senses. Firm yet super juicy, this succulent Napa Valley classic is a wine that never disappoints. The velvety tannins integrate seamlessly with the acidity making this wine approachable even in its youth. Recommended to drink or hold. |
| 2001 | Merryvale Profile | Red Wine | 10A6 | 90 | 1 | 93we |
| 93we Profile is a blend of our finest lots of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, chosen for their concentration, depth of flavor and fine tannin structure. This wine was aging in mostly new French oak chateau ferre barrels and bottled unfined and unfiltered. It is opulently structured and very dark. The Wine Enthusiast An amazingly delicious and complex wine. Dark and rich, filled with blackcurrant, cocoa and new oak flavors and lush, sweet tannins. Finishes with a scour of fresh acidity. Made from some of Napa’s greatest vineyards, such as To-Kalon and Georges III, this is a wine with a great future. Now through 2012. Score: 93. —Steve Heimoff, December 31, 2004. |
| 2002 | Meryvalle Profile | Red Wine | 10A4-5 | 95 | 2 | 92wn |
| 92wn Forward aromas of stewed plum and maraschino cherry with a pungent, mushroom-like note. Crisp, racy red fruit, cedar and clove flavors. Needs time; fruit is somewhat tight and unforgiving right now. Great potential. $100 92w&s Wine & Spirits 92 points - Steve Test blends this from eight vineyards, including Merryvale estate, Beckstoffer-Georges III, VI, X and Tokalon, to create a bright red modulated by earthy, mineral tannins. The flavors layer red cherry with herbs and the dark fruit of wild mushrooms. That distinctive herbal complexity will meld with roast partridge. 90ws Profile is a blend of Marryvale's finest lots of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc, chosen for their concentration, depth of flavor and fine tannin structure. This wine was aged in mostly new French oak chateau ferre barrels and bottled unfined and unfiltered. It is opulently structured and very dark. Merryvale Vineyards90 points Wine Spectator: "This wine combines firm, ripe, complex fruit with excellent structure. The core flavors are centered around a mix of currant, black cherry and plum and the acidity and tannins are in the right proportion, giving it a resemblance to a fine Bordeaux.... drink now through 2012." (11/05) The 2002 Profile is a blend of many of Merryvale's finest lots of 66% cabernet sauvignon, 27% merlot, 2% petit verdot and 5% cabernet franc, chosen for their concentration, depth of flavor and fine tannin structure. This wine was aged in mostly new French oak chateau ferre barrels and bottled unfined and unfiltered. It is opulently structured and very dark. Bottled unfined and unfiltered. |
| 2004 | Meyer Vineyards | Cabernet | 3B7 | 62 | 1 | 90ws |
| 90ws Dark, rich and plush, this is tightly focused, with a complex, concentrated band of spice, currant, black cherry and wild berry fruit that's well-proportioned. Has a long, intense, persistent finish, ending with a dash of herb and sage. Best from 2008 through 2013. Cult winemaker Mark Herold of Merus Vineyards (2004 Cabernet = 'Classic 96' points from Wine Spectator) fame has done it again with the brand new release of the Meyer Vineyards 2004 Napa Cabernet. Trust us, this new discovery is absolutely delicious, like drinking liquid velvet!!! The first thing you notice is its plushy texture and dusty satiny tannins continuing on the palate with cocoa powder, espresso, dark berries, tobacco, and cedar. Perfectly balanced it shows great complexity and a seemingly interminable finish that lingers delightfully for a full 30 seconds. Don't miss this sumptuous new discover destined for fame! Drink through 2014. The hallmarks of the Meyer Cabernet Sauvignon are its deep flavors and velvety tannins with concentrated layers of red and black fruit. This handcrafted wine, aged 18 months in French oak barrels, was bottled without filtration and fining. The ‘second’ wine of Hestan, this Cabernet is certainly at the quality level of a flagship wine, displaying huge concentration and purity. 18 months in French Oak. 50% new oak. 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. 3315 cases made. |
| 2004 | Mi Sueno | Cabernet | 7C5 | 65 | 1 | |
| This premier release of Mi Sueño Cellars’ Cabernet Sauvignon was worth the wait. Indicative of the Terroir of the Coombsville area of Napa, this wine exhibits characteristics of currants, chocolate, licorice, with an unmistakable earthiness that is reminiscent of wines from Bordeaux. With big, ripe, chewy tannins this wine is delightful now, but can be aged for 10-15 years if desired. Subtle oak compliments the richness of this wine and its full body and intense deep purple color are memorable. This wine is sure to please even the most scrupulous Cabernet drinker. Rolando Herrera’s “dream” (sueño) began at his very first job at Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars. After earning his stripes through sweat and dedication, he went on to various winemaking stints before landing his current enviable gig: Director of Winemaking for Paul Hobbs. But his dream was a wine of his own. And what a wine it is! Gorgeous aromas of black cherry and kirsch segue into oak caramel and cedar and a long, chewy finish. It’s a smack-you-upside-the-head Cabernet with ample muscle and weight. Rolando is keeping the dream alive! |
| 2001 | Moon Mountain Reserve | Cabernet | TOPRIGHT | 60 | 12 | |
| This wine is characterized by aromas of ripe blackberry , classic Black Forest Cake with hints of wild Sonoma sage, and has a long, lingering finish. High on the Sonoma Valley side of Mount Veeder, the remote Moon Mountain® Vineyard stretches almost to the 2,000-foot elevation. The steep, southern-facing slopes consist of volcanic rock mixed with soils derived from volcanic ash and lava. These frugal soils and the stress of mountain growing forces the vines to produce smaller grapes with concentrated flavors. Located high on the rugged Sonoma County side of Mount Veeder, our vineyard's volcanic soils, warm sun and cooling nighttime breezes are ideal for red Bordeaux varietals. By farming organically, we enhance the vine's ability to ripen, thus developing intense flavor and color. We use only the finest lots from our mountain vineyard, then craft powerful yet elegant wines. The result is Moon Mountain magic. |
| 2002 | Morey Cellars | Cabernet | | 45 | 2 | gold |
| In the summer of 2007 we entered our 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon at the International Wine Competition at the Los Angeles County Fair and won GOLD! Bordeaux-style Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, drinkable upon release and definitely age-worthy. Our 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon features a nicely focused bouquet of ripe black cherry, red currant with hints of shaved dark chocolate and seamless oak integration. The wine is richly flavored, medium to full weight, neatly balanced and surprisingly polished given its age. With a fine tannin finish and beautiful detail throughout, it will complement a wide variety of foods. Perfect for classic Duck Breast, Beef Filet or even Salmon with a red wine reduction, but just as good with casual Backyard Barbecue. Drink now through 2010 and beyond. This vintage gave us 199 cases and, as usual, they are all hand-labeled and wrapped in protective tissue paper. It is, after all, a hand-crafted wine. Also, we have spared no expense in the production of this wine: the best fruit, the best barrels, the best bottles and corks, and the best label we could generate. We trust that you will enjoy the quality throughout your “Morey Cellars Experience.†|
| 2002 | Mount Horrocks Cordon Cut | Riesling | | 34 | 1 | 92ws |
| Cordon Cut’ refers to a unique, risky process. It involves cutting the canes when the grapes are ripe, allowing the remaining fruit to concentrate and raisin naturally on the vine. This results in intense flavour and richness. The 2002 Mount Horrocks Cordon Cut Riesling is bright white gold with lime-edges. Abundant classical riesling fruit suggest a stunning wine. It is floral-scented, with candied orange and fragrant lime cordial notes. The concentrated fruit and high sugar content give a luscious mouthfeel. Dried apricots, lime, and honeysuckle flavours are fresh and lively, and well-balanced by a zippy acid finish. This is the perfect match for a fresh fruit and cheese platter and a wide range of fruit based desserts. Whilst delightful drinking now, Mount Horrocks Cordon Cut Riesling has the ability to age gracefully for 10 years. Although many people are familiar with Australia’s rich, unctuous botrytis-affected Semillon, not so well known are producers such as Stephanie Toole in the Clare Valley who also make much more refined dessert wines like this super-aromatic, pure, crystalline sweet Riesling. 2002 five star rated Pure, intense, concentrated Riesling. Drink now to 8 years. Sweet intense nose is smooth and rich with lemon and marmalade notes. Luscious, rich-textured palate showing good acidity and a lovely limey, spicy finish. Intense and rich with lots going on. Very good/excellent Australians call their dessert wines stickies, but this defies the term. Cordon Cut is sweet, yes, but its sharp acidity gives it perfect balance. |
| 2005 | Mount Veeder | Cabernet | | 40 | 6 | 93bs |
| 93bs Bottle Shop Look for black berry, cherry vanilla, mulberry, cassis and smoky oak in the nose and mouth. The big, mouthfilling tannins reveal the rugged, mountainous location of the estate. This will be a terrific wine to serve with a grilled Rib Eye and baked potato. Score: 93. 91wn "Deep crimson hue. Pretty nose with maple, vanilla and black cherry fruit. Soft mouth-feel with a silky tannin impressions and elegant integration of berry fruit and acidity. Tart, tangy close with blackberry, leather and coffee impressions." 91 Points The Wine News Concentrated dark cherry and cassis, with bright fruit character, a well-structured palate, and fine mountain tannins. Big yet approachable, the mouthfeel is full and round, with good body and balance. Sweet oak notes complement the vibrant fruit, and the long finish is graced by flavors of cocoa, cassis, and rich mountain character. Winery Combines a complex mix of firm yet ripe and supple currant, spice, mint and cedary oak with good length, but also tannic muscle. Best from 2011 through 2017. 88 points Connoisseurs' Guide: "[$40 list] 15% Merlot. From its nicely composed, ripe-currant and sweet-oak aromas to its supple, but mildly tannin-firmed feel and its rich, well-fruited flavors, this very solid working hits all the right varietal marks and does so without intrusive tannins or heat. It will benefit from a few years of age, but it can be enjoyed early on with hearty hunks of beef. (Dec 2008)" Combines a complex mix of firm yet ripe and supple currant, spice, mint and cedary oak flavors with touches of mineral, sage and tobacco, ending with good length, but also tannic muscle. Best from 2011 through 2017. Mount Veeder's 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon is a sleeper. The wine displays loads of vanilla and toasty notes in the nose, to go along with ripe black currants intermixed with truffles and licorice on the palate. Quite possibly the best value under 50 dollars in Cabernet. 92ww 92 PTS WILFRED WONG. Simply stunning and totally satisfying, the black-fruited '05 Mount Veeder Winery Cabernet skates through the palate with great class and style; long and ripe in the aftertaste. |
| 2002 | Mount Veeder 375ml | Cabernet | HR | 21 | 1 | 93we |
| 93we Deep garnet with a touch of purple. Blackberry fruit with aromas of cocoa and tanned leather. Deep blackberry and dark plum spiked with spice, chocolate and toasty oak. Focused concentration, rich and round with a long, supple finish. Toasty oak spice surrounds the thick black currant and cassis berry fruit on the nose. Forward ripe black cherry fruit on the tongue with a good hand of oak spice resonating through the finish, dark chocolate and fresh shaved lead pencil notes on the finish. Finish 45+. EXCELLENT +This is consistently a wine that shows with a more sophisticated flair than its peers. A complex Cab with briary, brambly, black fruits on the nose and hints of tobacco. Cassis, black cherries, and blackberry follow through on the palate with notes of dark chocolate and spice that offer much wine for the money. Has long been charcterized by rich fruit flavors of blackberry and cherry with distinctive notes of cocoa, tobacco and cedar. Years drinkable 2005 - 2015 |
| 2001 | Mount Veeder Reserve | Red Wine | 1C9 | 85 | 1 | 90ws |
| 77% Cabernet Sauvignon; 21% Merlot; 1% Malbec; 1% Petit Verdot. Among the many rich and deeply filled standouts of this issue, Mount Veeder's Reserve clearly delivers more overall. Its broad, wonderfully expressive aromas are layered with notes of cassis, dusty soil smells and lots of rich, caramelly oakiness, and its powerful, highly extracted flavors exhibit the same deep sense of concentration and range. It is a very big wine to be sure, and its gritty young tannins dissuade early drinking, but its riveting depth and show-stopping richness guarantee it a long and very illustrious life. 90 points Wine Spectator: "Dark, rich, intense and concentrated, with dense currant, mineral, earth and cedary-sage flavors. Excellent structure, depth and range of flavors. Keeps a tight, finishing with firm, ripe tannins. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec and Petite Verdot. Best from 2007 through 2012. 3,950 cases made. (JL)" (07/05) |
| 2005 | Mr. Riggs McLaren Vale | Shiraz | 8A8-B1 | 45 | 5 | 92rp |
| 92 points Robert Parker: "Asphalt/melted road tar characteristics interwoven with blackberries, smoke, roasted herbs, and meat emerge from the dense purple-hued 2005 Shiraz. Aged 20 months in 80% French oak and 20% American, this is a seriously endowed, full-bodied, backward yet accessible offering to consume over the next 10-12 years." |
| 2004 | Neyers | Cabernet | 3B2 | 48 | 1 | 92awc |
| Winemaker Notes - We planned from the beginning to grow world class Cabernet Sauvignon, and we spent two years looking for Napa Valley vineyard property. In 1984, we found the property that met our criteria. All we had to do was plant it. Now, years later, the vineyards sit at 250 feet above the main Napa Valley floor, with some parcels rising to almost 900 feet. The type of Cabernet we favor loves steep hillsides. The slope faces due south, maximizing exposure to the sun and guaranteeing proper ripeness. Conn Creek bisects the slope, so there’s ample water. The soil is rocky, with a near-ideal combination of gravel and clay; the vines must struggle to grow here, enhancing the flavors. In 2004 we harvested barely 20 tons of Cabernet Sauvignon from almost 12 acres of vines, less than 2 tons/acre. The wine, a beautiful dark purple, is rich and intense. It has all the flavor and complexity we’d ever hoped for. "The well-made, richly fruity 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Neyers Ranch exhibits loads of herb-tinged, smoky, berry fruit intermixed with black currants and cherries. This medium-bodied, well-made Cabernet is best consumed over the next decade". Robert Parker 92 AWC American wine company |
| 2006 | Nickel & Nickel Howell Mt. Vogt Vineyard | Cabernet | | 79 | 1 | 91rp |
| 91rp "The wine is frightfully tannic, but there is enough concentration to balance it out. Drink it over the following 25 years. All four of the single vineyard offerings from Nickel and Nickel could use some bottle age, and appear to be long distance runners." 91+ Robert Parker, Wine Advocate Howell Mountain, Napa, CA- Featuring floral aromas intermixed with ripe jammy fruit, spice and cedar. Firm and impressive, this single vineyard Cabernet opens with abundant flavors of boysenberry and cassis enveloped by sweet floral notes and vanillin on the long, bold, chewy, finish. {Concentrated, Cassis, Floral, Cedar, Full-Bodied} |
| 2006 | Nickel & Nickel John C. Sullenger Vineyard Oakville | Cabernet | | 79 | 1 | 93we |
| Wine Enthusiast Shows classic Oakville tannins that are big, ripe, and intricate, but hard, entirely opposite to the softness of the modern cult style. The fruit suggests blackberries and cassis, enriched with smoky-sweet, spicy oak. It’s a beautifully structured, dry and elegant 100% Cabernet. Score: 93. —Steve Heimoff, March 2009. Wine Advocate The dense purple-colored 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon John C. Sullinger Vineyard (100% Cabernet Sauvignon) comes from an Oakville vineyard planted in clay and loamy soils. It reveals more of an Oakville/Pauillac-like character of cedar, spice box, licorice, black cherries, black currants, and camphor. While it is the most complex aromatically, the wine is still 4-5 years away from resolving some of its tannins. It is a big, full-bodied, powerful, impressive effort that should drink well for 20+ years. 92+ Score: 92. —Robert Parker, December 2009. Nickel & Nickel Cabernet Sullenger Vineyard 2006 - The wine has an ultra-ripe fruit expression, similar to other classic Oakville Cabernets. The signature of this vineyard remains constant, with cherry and black cherry fruits layered with sweet herb, spice and cedar from the oak. Rich and coating, the mouthfeel of the 2006 is similar to the 2005 vintage. The middle palate is sweet and plush and the medley of flavors progress into a long, lingering finish. |
| 2005 | Nickel & Nickel Rock Cairn | Cabernet | 9C1 | 80 | 1 | |
| This has got to be one of the best Rock Cairn wines that we have made to date. The concentration of this wine has a rich, coating quality beyond compare. Rooted in the famous loam soils of Oakville, Rock Cairn is a richly structured and powerful wine, showing ripe aromas and flavors of cassis, black cherry and anise. Notes of plum, cherry, olive and mineral emerge, giving depth to the texture, while the oak supports and expands the middle palate, and the mature tannins give length to the finish.A solid fruit core of black cherry and licorice laced with green olives and spice. Rich and powerful. Full bodied with firm fleshy tannins. Long lengthy finish. A PG PICK. Drink before 2018. |
| 2002 | Niebaum - Coppola Rubicon Cask | Cabernet | UT | 65 | 1 | 93we |
| 93we Shows quite oaky now, with powerful notes of vanilla, char and wood sap, but it’s also rich in cherry fruit, with a touch of grilled meat. Texturally, this Cab is dense, smooth, fine and very dry, with substantial tannins. It’s too young now, but should be a beauty by 2008 and beyond. — S.H. (12/15/2005) The 2002 Rubicon Estate Cask Cabernet Sauvignon presents a bright shade of violet and offers an arresting perfume of wild raspberries, red cherries, and cola. A velvety texture with modest tannin frames long, luscious flavors of cherry, cassis, cocoa and French vanilla. Enjoy the 2002 Cask Cabernet now while firm and ripe or cellar it for 5-7 years to garner additional complexity. Layers of ripe, red cherries, plum, vanilla, cocoa, and toast. The flavor is intense, but with a pleasing, supple mouth feel. The wine is eminently enjoyable now, especially if served with intensely flavored meats or cheeses, but also can be aged for 5 to 10 years more. 91wn Warm, loamy aromas of raspberry, red berries, smoke and cigar box. Fresh, raspy flavors of plum, cherry, bittersweet chocolate and mint. Earthy finish concludes on a treacle note. $65 |
| 2004 | Niebaum - Coppola Rubicon Cask | Cabernet | UT | 70 | 1 | 95we |
| 91 PTS WILFRED WONG. A very fine, terroir-driven effort (made from organically certified vyds), the classic '04 Rubicon Estate Cask Cabernet comes through with excellent red and black currant flavors. Rubicon Estate 2004 CASK Cabernet is a classic, grand style American Cabernet. It is loaded with ripe red cherry and rum raisin scents, which are telltale hallmarks of Rutherford Cabernet in a great year. Immediately accessible for its forward charm, the dense and supple tannins are inviting to experience but the rewards will come with three to six years of bottle age. cg88 The Rubicon moniker has typically come on sturdy, ageworthy wines that beg for age, but this relatively supple and smoothly textured offering is very accessible now. It tempers its obvious themes of black cherries with a good dose of sweet oak, and it holds tannin to a quiet minimum. It steers clear of bombast and high extract in its embrace of unhidden fruit, and it will reach its best with but a few years of age. Wine Enthusiast 95 points: " The Rubicon Estate CASK Cabernet Napa Valley is a glamorous wine, tremendous now, and will hold and develop through 2020." |
| 2005 | Oakville East Exposure | Cabernet | | 125 | 1 | 95we |
| 95 points Wine Enthusiast: "[$125 list] They call it east, because the grapes are from the Vaca Mountains, and the vineyard faces west. It's a splendid wine, classically proportioned, with rich, thick tannins that have true Napa refinement. The flavors are also classic, suggesting cassis and cedar, with a distinct smack of indescribably minerals. There's alot of smoky new oak, but it's proportionate to the wine's power. This serious new Napa Cab is great now, and should develop for many years. (May 2009)" "Herb, vanilla bean and cedary, toasty oak flavors are wrapped around a core of supple currant, black olive and black cherry fruit, providing a complex mix of flavors, with an espresso finish. Best from 2009 through 2016. 672 cases made." Wine Spectator (WS, 12/15/2008) Rating: 89 Drink from: 2009-2016 |
| 2006 | Orin Swift Mercury Head | Cabernet | 1D7 | 80 | 1 | |
| The 2006 Mercury Head Cabernet marks the 6th vintage of our premier cabernet. The grapes are sourced exclusively from the Taplin Vineyard in St. Helena and the Morisoli Vineyard located in the heart of Rutherford. Both vineyards are low-yielding and impeccably farmed. The 2005 is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon and exemplifies the intensity of the Taplin fruit while showing the Morisoli terroir creating a wine of extreme concentration, finesse, structure and balance. A Mercury Head dime is affixed to each bottle makeing this rare and limited Cabernet extraordinary. This rare wine is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon from the Taplin vineyard in St. Helena and the Morisoli vineyard in Rutherford. As in the previous vintage, it offers a complex intriguing structure along with vibrant dark fruit and subtle oak shadings. Cellar for up to a decade, or enjoy now with some aeration. Tiny production on this one, so don't wait long. |
| 2006 | Orin Swift The Prisoner | Red Wine | 7D2-3 | 36 | 2 | 91ws |
| It's rare that a Zin has this much structure and finesse. Offers appealing aromas of plum, pepper and tobacco, with focused, layered wild berry, pencil lead and sage flavors. A hint of rusticity on the tannins suggests that there's no hurry to drink. Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Petite Sirah, Charbono and Grenache. Best from 2009 through 2012. 32,000 cases made. Score: 91. —James Laube, May 31, 2008. 2008-20021 vinfolio 2006 Red Wine The 2006 blends the lush berry flavors of Zinfandel(51%), the power and concentration of Cabernet Sauvignon (23%), the dark black fruit of Syrah (12%), the intensity and structure of Petit Sirah (6%), the flesh of Charbono (6%) and a hint of Grenache (2%) - all combined for a decadent wine with great complexity |
| 2003 | Owen Roe DuBrul Vineyard | Cabernet | 7C6 | 63 | 1 | 94ws |
| WS 94! Big, broad-shouldered style has gobs of ripe plum cherry and currant fruit mingling with subtle, sweet spices and hints of tomato and barbecue smoke as the finish sails on and on. Despite its undeniable size, this has tremendous grace, finishing with delctable harmony I often say that the best Oregon cabernet comes from Washington state -- they just have a better cab climate over there on the east side of the Cascade Mountains. Winemaker David-O'Reilly has created a tour-de-force cabernet with this bottling -- the flavors are at once lush, yet pure and coherent. The flavors are of wild black cherries and red currants, leavened by hints of tobacco, cedarbox and melted minerals. The tannins -- minimal at best -- are ripe and completely submerged into the fruit. It's expansive, layered and exceptionally long on the palate. I've tasted this up against heavy hitters like the '02 Staglin 20th Anniversary Reserve, and the '02 Phelps Insignia, and this wine equals or exceeds those wines. It just got a WS 94 points, which puts Owen Roe's most sought after wine and one of Oregon's most highly coveted bottlings. About 100 cases made from a small vineyard high up on the north side of the Yakima Valley where extreme heat and cold stress the grapes and produce small amounts of intensely concentrated fruit. Rich, ripe and powerful in flavor, yet beautifully modulated in texture to show off the spicy black cherry, plum, tar and dark chocolate flavors without losing its sense of harmony and refinement. 2008 - 2015 |
| 1998 | Pahlmeyer | Red Wine | 8D4 | 100 | 1 | 92ws |
| Deftly balanced, rich and elegant, with creamy currant, mocha, herb, blackberry and anise flavors, keeping a tight, supple focus and lingering on the finish... 92."WS 08/01 WA 91 (12/2000) The 1998 Proprietary Red is a blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc, 1% Petit-Verdot, and 1% Malbec. A sexy, up-front, plush wine with a deep purple color, medium to full body, and copious quantities of sweet blackberry, creme de cassis, and meaty notes, it is on a fast evolutionary track, and thus should be consumed over the next 10-12 years |
| 2000 | Pahlmeyer Jayson | Red Wine | 8D2 | 60 | 1 | |
| Purple/black color. Pure, dramatic aromas of smoke, cassis and mocha. In the mouth, there is an intense, juicy/spicy element complemented by deep, rich flavors. Fabulous texture, with sweet, integrated tanninRecent efforts from Pahlmeyer have suggested that some of the hard, tough tannins that were part of the rich style Pahlmeyer achieved with earlier releases have been tamed. There has been no loss of richness, but the smoother, riper tannin is a noteworthy achievement. This is good news as effective tannin management is often ignored by many Cabernet producers. This densely, ruby/purple-colored wine possesses an intense, complex fragrance of blackcurrants, smoke, spices, and vague underbrush notes. Full-bodied and ripe, with a velvety texture and gobs of black-cherry and blackcurrant fruit, this silky, opulently styled Proprietary Red Wine is already drinking well, yet it is capable of lasting for 10-15 years. Purple/black color. Pure, dramatic aromas of smoke, cassis and mocha. In the mouth, there is an intense, juicy/spicy element complemented by deep, rich flavors. Fabulous texture, with sweet, integrated tannin. An exceptional red! |
| 2004 | Pahlmeyer Jayson | Red Wine | 8D1 | 60 | 1 | 92mr |
| 93mel&rose 92ws Firm, ripe and complex, with vivid, well-defined red currant and black cherry fruit, structured and supported by firm, integrated tannins. Ends with a nice flash of toasty oak and mineral notes. Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. 92 points The Wine Spectator |
| 2001 | Pahlmeyer Napa Valley | Red Wine | 8D3 | 130 | 1 | 95cg |
| rp says peak 4-6yrs age well 15+ 95cg 80% Cabernet Sauvignon; 14% Merlot; 3% Cabernet Franc; 2% Petit Verdot; 1% Malbec. Pahlmeyer's wines can always be counted on for depth and drama, and this dazzling effort succeeds handsomely. Making fine use of rich oak spice, it is charged by wholly compelling fruit from front to back and, if very ripe, stays true to type throughout. Weight on the palate, it finds plenty of structure from its well-integrated tannins, and, if it is sufficiently fruity to be enjoyable now, it strikes us as a wine that will grow spectacularly for years to come. |
| 2001 | Paradigm | Cabernet | 11B3 | 55 | 1 | 91we |
| 91we Made by Heidi Barrett, a gracefully soft, impressively balanced wine, with ripe, almost sweet cassis, cherry and cocoa flavors. Sure is easy to drink, but also has the structural harmony to hang in there for up to 10 years. — S.H. (11/1/2005) 2001 Paradigm Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville Estate Napa Valley is dense, concentrated wine from a classic, great vintage. The aromas show character of the earth, sun baked ripe bery, briar and black cherry. Quite big, round and mouth filling on the palate, the flavors match the aromas nicely. The wine is rich and ripe in the mouth, has tons of fruit character and is presented in a silky though powerful and elegant style. Tannins are subtle and read more as a textural element. A serious wine, not for wimps! Enjoy! "Rated 89 - The 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon, which could be expected to tower qualitatively over the 2000, did not do so. It possesses supple tannin, medium body, and layers of cherry and black currant fruit intermixed with spice box, cedar, licorice, and dried herbs. Drink it over the next 7-8 years." - Robert Parker A dense, concentrated wine from a classic, great vintage. The aromas show characters of the earth; sun baked ripe berry, briar and black cherry. Quite big, round and mouth filling on the palate. The flavors match the aromas nicely. The wine is rich and ripe in the mouth, has tons of fruit character, and is presented in a silky though powerful and elegant style. Tannins are subtle and read more as a textural element. A serious wine. Enjoy! -Heidi Peterson Barrett, Winemaker |
| 2004 | Paradigm | Cabernet | 11B2 | 62 | 1 | 92cg |
| 92cg 92 PTS CONNOISSEURS' GUIDE The lovely '04 Paradigm Cabernet starts with aromas of cassis and ripe cherries and opens with air to reveal hints of cocoa and raspberry syrup; supple and balanced. 90ws Well-structured and focused, with ripe plum, spice and cedar aromas and black cherry and mocha coffee flavors that take on richness and tannins on the finish [WS] This is a big, ripe, beautiful wine from what has proven to be a very consistent vineyard estate. Fully ripe fruit aromas remind me of summertime. Plum, fig, berry and spice all come together in the nose leading you to flavors that match. Nice purity of fruit with a round, silky, rich mouthfeel. The tannins are very soft and lightly add a mouth-coating texture and structure to the wine. Very tasty cab from a great vintage. This 2004 Cabernet is a gorgeous dark ruby colored wine which shows off lovely aromatics of ripe black cherry and berry like fruit. The nose is layered with cedar and spice and a caramel toasty note coming from an assortment of French oak barrels. Flavors match the aromas with blackberry and a cherry character. The mouthfeel is classic Paradigm; very silky and round with beautiful structure that adds up to a wine you can enjoy now but is built to last. This vineyard has been a very consistent producer of balanced wines that are blends of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Enjoy! The 2004 Paradigm Napa Cab benefits both from the state's excellent fruit and the exceptional vintage. Ripe and beautiful with late summer aromas like fig and ripe berry, matched by an understated spice, all of which continues onto the palate. Pure fruit and a round, silky mouthfeel with soft, mouth-coating tannins, this is a pretty wine now that will continue to develop in bottle for years to come. The 2004 Paradigm Napa Cab benefits both from the state's excellent fruit and the exceptional vintage. Ripe and beautiful with late summer aromas like fig and ripe berry, matched by an understated spice, all of which continues onto the palate. Pure fruit and a round, silky mouthfeel with soft, mouth-coating tannins, this is a pretty wine now that will continue to develop in bottle for years to come. |
| 2005 | Paradigm | Cabernet | 11B1 | 62 | 1 | 98ww |
| 98 PTS WILFRED WONG. Brace yourself for a tremendous wine of incredible style and purity, the racy '05 Paradigm is Cabernet perfection without all that oak and extract; long and lively in the finish. Winemaker Heidi Peterson Barret says this of her 2005 Oakville Cab: "Quite dark in color with deep ripe aromas of chocolate black cherries. Enticing fruit nose and layers of spice and toasty oak add up to a wonderful rich complex aroma profile. Flavors match the aromas in a mouth coating, textural, silky and tasty wine. This wine is loaded with aging potential. It has everything it needs to last a good 15 years or more. I love the balance and finesse here with flavors that persist minutes after drinking. It all adds up to one of the best Cabernet vintages we have ever produced at Paradigm." |
| 2001 | Paul Hobbs | Cabernet | 6D9-10 | 70 | 2 | 93ws |
| 93ws |
| 2004 | Peripolli | Cabernet | 5B9 | 55 | 1 | |
| 2000 | Peter Franus Napa 375ml | Cabernet | HR | 22 | 6 | |
| 1999 | Pine Ridge Andrus Reserve | Red Wine | 7C4 | 115 | 1 | 92ws |
| Creamy, toasty oak introduces this rich, multifaceted wine, with mocha-laced currant and black cherry fruit filling out the palate. Gains velocity and intensity on the long finish, where it shows a wonderful array of flavors. Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Malbec, Cabernet Franc and Merlot. Best from 2004 through 2012. 1,694 cases made. (JL |
| 1999 | Pine Ridge Napa Rutherford | Cabernet | 7C2-3 | 40 | 2 | 95w&s |
| 95w&s This wine opens with sweet, smoky and briary aromas, accented by detectable notes of black cherry, blackberry, dried cherry, honey/vanilla and a hint of black pepper. The flavor may be best described as supple, creamy and spicy, with a medium to full body. Deep and dark, this remarkably complex Cabernet Sauvignon shows a long finish with great depth and length. Enjoy now or cellar for ten years. Smooth-textured, with well-focused currant, toasty oak, black cherry and plum notes. Excellent structure, depth and concentration. Finishes with a long, complex, even subtle aftertaste. Best from 2003 through 2012. 13,000 cases made. (JL)May 15, 2002 |
| 2006 | Pondera Consensio | Red Wine | | 33 | 1 | |
| Latin for harmony, Consensio is a Cabernet based Bordeaux Blend that exquisitely shows off the Cabernet grapes from Stillwater Creek vineyard. This full bodied wine has rich concentrated flavors of black cherry, cola and blueberry. The bouquet features dark fruits, cassis flowers and earthy notes of mocha, espresso and cedar. It fills the mouth with a voluptuous sensation of pulsating flavors, with well balanced acids and smooth refined tannins. |
| 2006 | Pondera Salon Series | Red Wine | | 28 | 1 | |
| 75% Syrah, 12% Merlot, 7% Sangiovese, and 6% Cabernet Franc This unique wine has rich concentrated flavors of ripe black raspberries and plums with hints of leather and buttery dark chocolate. It's well balanced and smooth, with a silky mouth feel that slides across your Palette for a nice long finish. |
| 2007 | Pott Kaliholmanok Spring Mountain District | Cabernet | | 93 | 1 | |
| 2007 | Pott St. Ralph the Liar Howell Mountain | Cabernet | | 93 | 1 | |
| 2007 | PottNeruda Oakville | Cabernet | | 93 | 1 | |
| 2004 | Pride Mountain Vineyards | Cabernet | 3A3 | 75 | 1 | 93st |
| 93st Saturated, bright medium ruby. Crushed cassis, licorice and minerals on the nose. Pure, primary black fruit and mineral flavors framed and enlivened by surprisingly juicy acidity. Very firmly built, vibrant wine with the structure to reward aging. Winemaker Bob Foley noted that Pride's cabernet had better than usual acidity in 2004, and certainly more than in 2003 or 2002; the harvest here lasted into early November. If the 2004 Reserve Claret is better than this, it will be a stunner. (93pts. Stephen Tanzer) Blackberry, black cherry and cassis, all thoroughly ripe, introduce a broad array of chewy youthful tannins. A beautiful acidity balances the impressive fruit dynamic and youthful cherry flavors lingers long in the finish. Smooth and accessible now, this rich and handsome wine will evolve beautifully over the years if you can resist the immediate gratification. 2004 Pride Cabernet Sauvignon -Making their debut in 2003, our youngest Cabernet Sauvignon vines (located on the Sonoma portion of our mountaintop property) make a stunning contribution to the Pride Cabernet bearing a label that indicates our estate’s unique position straddling the county line. (If you haven’t been here to stand on the crush pad with one foot in each county, it makes a great photo op!) Differing from the Pride Cab you know and love only in labeling, the bright cherry and clove aromas in this elegantly muscular wine indicate a thoroughly rich and ripe Cabernet. Cassis and currant flavors envelope the palate, framed by a full and even tannin spectrum. Enjoyable in its youth as all of the Pride wines are, ample acidity and brightness of fruit guarantee the long-term aging potential of this wine. |
| 2000 | Pride Mountain Vineyards Claret | Red Wine | 3A4 | 125 | 1 | 92st |
| 92st roughly two-thirds merlot and one-third cabernet sauvignon, with a touch of petit verdot) Bright, full ruby. Sweetly oaky aromas of cassis, violet, bitter chocolate and lead pencil. Sweet, suave and deep, with mouthfilling, deeply oaky dark berry and lead pencil flavors nicely framed by juicy acidity. Finishes with impressively fine tannins for the vintage, and strong fruit flavors of blackberry and currant. This is the "brother" of winemaker Bob Foley's eponymously labeled blend; at present, this is the more seductive wine, while Foley's shows a firmer tannic structure. The Grande Dame of the Pride wines, this elegant Reserve Claret is like velvet in your mouth. Complimented by the Cabernet Sauvignon’s firmness, structure and rich tones of black fruit, our mountaintop Merlot provides a lush and juicy mid-palate as the Petit Verdot adds elements of wild violets and lengthens the finish with beautiful natural acidity. Spicy aromas of anise and clove dance with the wine’s ripe blackberry and currant character. Intertwined with cedar, chocolate and espresso beans, these flavors harmonize while a remarkable richness coats the palate and lingers in a long and delightful finish. |
| 2005 | Provenance | Cabernet | 5B10-11 | 45 | 2 | 91vws |
| 91vws valley wine and spirits Sleek and refined, with a tight beam of spicy currant, earth, mineral, sage and dusty berry fruit that's pure and focused, ending with a complex aftertaste of loamy currant. Drink now through 2013 Provenance Rutherford 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Lively red currant, black cherry and wild blackberry aromas layered with classic mocha and toffee character. Hints of clove, violet and dark chocolate are released with each swirl of the wine. The wine is richly textured; opulent dark berry flavors open with chocolate, espresso and accents, and then pick up more subtle nuances of spicy black pepper, black tea and green olive on the mid-palate. Perfect balance. Our 2005 Provenance Vineyards Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon displays lively red currant, black cherry and wild blackberry aromas layered with classic mocha and toffee character. Hints of clove, violet and dark chocolate are released with each swirl of the wine. The wine’s richly textured, opulent dark berry flavors open with chocolate, espresso and accents, and then pick up more subtle nuances of spicy black pepper, black tea and green olive on the |
| 2002 | Quilceda Creek | Cabernet | 9B4 | 325 | 1 | 100rp |
| 100wa 97we 95st Unlike some minuscule production ?cult? wines or luxury cuvees culled from a winery?s primary product that have earned perfect scores over the years, Quilceda Creek?s Cabernet Sauvignon is the winery?s raison d?etre and is produced in significant quantities (3,400 cases in 2002, 3,425 in 2003). For accomplishing this feat the Golitzens should be doubly proud. Dark ruby-colored and sporting a nose of violets, sweet blueberries, dark cherries, and slight undertones of asphalt, the 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon blossoms on the palate to expose a wine of ethereal delicacy yet immense power. Medium to full-bodied, it expands to reveal concentrated layers of cassis, blackberries, red cherries, raspberries, violets, spices, and touches of candied plums. This rich, exquisitely balanced, sweet, and broad wine is harmonious, graceful, and awesomely long. Projected maturity: now-2022. Congratulations Alex and Paul, welcome to the big leagues." Robert Parker, Wine TZ-Bright, deep ruby-red. Pungent nose combines black raspberry, black cherry and baking spices. Fat and sweet but primary; delivers an impressive blast of fruit. Not yet complex but this compellingly sweet wine shows a very refined tex ture. Finishes with ripe, building, very suave tannins and a strong flavor of chocolate. Paul Golitzin told me that there's more Taransaud in this vintage than previously, as Quilceda Creek is phasing out its Seguin-Moreau barrels. Offers great potential: will it equal the 2001?"The dark ruby-colored 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon (3,400 cases) contains 2% Merlot and 1% Cabernet Franc. It displays blackberry, tar, violet, herb, and cassis aromas that lead to a velvety-textured, penetrating character. Effortlessly sporting that mind-boggling juxtaposition of power and elegance, it slathers the palate with red cherries, blackberries, raspberries, cassis liqueur, and spices. Immensely rich yet fresh, this broad, expansive wine is plush, packed with sweet tannin, and immensely long. Projected maturity: 2007-2019. Bravo! |
| 2003 | Quilceda Creek | Cabernet | 9B3 | 325 | 1 | 100rp |
| 100rp Unlike some minuscule production “cult” wines or luxury cuvees culled from a winery’s primary product that have earned perfect scores over the years, Quilceda Creek’s Cabernet Sauvignon is the winery’s raison d’etre and is produced in significant quantities (3,400 cases in 2002, 3,425 in 2003). For accomplishing this feat the Golitzens should be doubly proud. Darker colored and significantly more powerful than the 2002, the 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon displays mouth-watering aromatics of black chocolate, sage, and blackberry liqueur. Its awe-inspiring core of cassis liqueur, violets, blueberry nectar, black cherry syrup, and chocolate is immensely muscular yet elegant. Texturally reminiscent of liquid velvet, it slathers the palate with oodles of fruit, displaying unreal depth, balance, and length. Wow! Projected maturity: 2010-2024. Congratulations Alex and Paul, welcome to the big leagues. 95ws Richly layered with gorgeous, focused currant, plum and blackberry fruit, shaded with touches of dusky spice and smoky notes from oak, but it's almost subliminal to the harmonious, seamless fruit character. The wine glides over the palate, submerging its tannins to let the flavors soar. Best from 2008 through 2020. 3,400 cases made. |
| 2004 | Quilceda Creek | Cabernet | 9B1-2 | 265 | 2 | 99rp |
| 99wa The 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon contains 3% Merlot and 1% Cabernet with the wine sourced from the Champoux, Klipsun, and Taptiel Vineyards. It was aged for 22 months in 100% new French oak. There are 3400 cases produced, most of it sold through the winery's mailing list and the rest in a handful of markets. Opaque purple-colored, it delivers a remarkable array of aromas including pain grille, violets, pencil lead, truffle, Asian spices, black currant, and blueberry. This leads to a lustrous, layered, velvet-textured wine with gobs of spicy, ripe black fruits and beautifully integrated oak, tannin, and acidity. The long, pure finish goes on for well over a minute. It will evolve for a decade and drink well through 2045. I was able to retaste the 2001, 2002, and 2003 vintages and can only say that Monsieur Rovani's notes and scores are right on the bulls-eye. 96st Steven Tanzer rates a bit higher then 02 03 Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar, Nov/Dec 06 QC 04 (with 3% merlot and 1% cabernet franc) Medium ruby. Aromas of cassis, black rasperry, smoke, mocha, coffee and tobacco; still a bit suppressed by SO2 Sweeter and fatter today than the 2003, with a distinct chocolatey flavor, but in its muted state this lacks the high notes of the earlier vintage and shows less obvious spine. But the terrific breadth of the wine is already obvious, and the finish is pliant and long, with building, ripe tannins. 93-96 points This wine is a blend of 96% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Merlot, and 1% Cabernet Franc which was aged in new French oak for 22 months prior to bottling in July 2006. The 2004 vintage resulted in wines that have stunning aromas, flavors and texture. Juicy blueberries, blackberries, violets, cocoa, and minerals coat the palate with complex layers adding notes of wood smoke and Asian spice. This wine will mature nicely over the next 7-8 years and continue to age gracefully for at least another 10-20 years thereafter." WS: Velvety and generous. A supple, insinuating style, with coffee and bittersweet chocolate accents around a beautifully contained core of ripe currant, plum and cherry fruit. Has great presence,balance and harmony. 95 POINTS. |
| 2004 | Quilceda Creek | Red Wine | 6D7 | 55 | 1 | 92rp |
| 92wa The 2004 Red Wine is a blend of 81% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Cabernet Franc, and 6% Merlot from declassified fruit and may be considered a second label. Purple-colored, it gives up a toasty nose of vanilla, violets, cassis, black currants, and blackberry. This leads to a rich, layered, black fruit-flavored, and smoothly textured wine that offers considerable elegance. There is enough ripe tannin to support 3-4 years of further evolution and it should drink well through 2022." |
| 2005 | Quilceda Creek | Cabernet | 9A5-6 | 300 | 2 | 100rp |
| "(WA 100) The 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon contains 3% Merlot. The principal component comes from the Champoux Vineyard (in which the winery is a partner) with contributions from the Klipsun and Taptiel Vineyards, outstanding in their own right. It, too, was aged for 22 months in 100% new French oak. Opaque purple-colored, it has a splendid perfume of violets, wood smoke, truffle, Asian spices, black cherry, and black currant preserves. Opulent and mouth-coating, the layers of complex flavors nearly hide enough tannin to support 8-10 years of additional cellaring. The oak, tannin, and acidity are beautifully integrated and the lengthy finish lasts for well over a minute." The Golitzins have built up a sort of divine reputation for Quilceda Creek after producing two cabs hailed by the critics as perfect wines at the beginning of this century. Wineries don't have this kind of legacy north of Napa! In any case, Paul Golitzin, lead winemaker and heir to Quilceda, feels that this 2005 vintage (tight allocations in NY) is the best vintage in their history. It is approachable now with concentrated dark fruits, cassis and sophisticated layers of chocolate and violet. The complexity of the notes and flavors of the 2005 Cab is expertly rounded off with nuanced oak. By 2008 this wine will really start to open up and continue to do so for the next 25 years. Awarded 100 points by The Wine Advocate! 97st "Brooding, backward nose hints at deep black plum, cassis, graphite and nutty, spicy oak. Fat, sweet and superconcentrated, with an almost citric suggestion of acidity and chewy dry extract contributing to the impression of structure. Wonderfully bright for such a ripe wine, and explosively long on the aftertaste. Along with its considerably power, this promises to deliver great class in an almost Medoc-like way." Reviewed by Stephen Tanzer. 94-97 pts. 94ws Richly aromatic, this brims with dark berry and currant aromas and flavors, shaded with espresso and dark chocolate overtones that play against somewhat gritty tannins. A meaty note adds extra depth as the finish lingers on and on against the tannins. Best from 2010 through 2017. 3,400 cases made. The 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon contains 3% Merlot. The principal component comes from the Champoux Vineyard (in which the winery is a partner) with contributions from the Klipsun and Taptiel Vineyards, outstanding in their own right. It, too, was aged for 22 months in 100% new French oak. Opaque purple-colored, it has a splendid perfume of violets, wood smoke, truffle, Asian spices, black cherry, and black currant preserves. Opulent and mouth-coating, the layers of complex flavors nearly hide enough tannin to support 8-10 years of additional cellaring. The oak, tannin, and acidity are beautifully integrated and the lengthy finish lasts for well over a minute. Purchasers no doubt will want to try a bottle immediately but this towering effort will not reach its peak until 2015 at the earliest and provide pleasure through 2040. I say this with confidence because a 1983 Quilceda Creek Cabernet tasted in May 2008 is at its peak now and should carry on for another 10-15 years. Quilceda Creek Vintners remains a model of consistency. In the outstanding 2005 vintage, Quilceda Creek’s Cabernet Sauvignon remains the benchmark for what can be achieved in Washington and the United States. Some good news from the winery is that beginning with the 2006 vintage, there will be a new vineyard designate, a Cabernet Sauvignon from the Palengat Vineyard in the Horse Heaven Hills AVA. The vines are only 7 years old but the potential is enormous as a taste from barrel attests...100" WA 6/08 |
| 2006 | Quilceda Creek | Cabernet | 9A4 | 215 | 1 | 99wa |
| 99wa "(WA 99) The flagship 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon comes predominantly from the famous Champoux Vineyard in which the winery is a partner. It was aged in 100% new oak. It sports a deep purple-color with a captivating nose of spice box, sandalwood, truffle, Asian spices, incense, black cherry, and black currant. Opulent on the palate (but elegant as well), it already reveals serious complexity, density, and succulence of fruit. Enjoyable now but with at least 8-10 years of cellaring potential, this marvelous effort should have a 30 year lifespan." 98vf Highly collectible Washington Cabernet. Of the four previous vintages, the wines received 100 (2002), 100 (2003), 99 (2004), and 100 (2005) points respectively from Robert Parker's Wine Advocate. Few wines on the planet have that kind of track record. The Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is loaded with blackberry, blueberry, plum and cassis with nuances of dark chocolate and violets. Classically structured, this complex wine has remarkable elegance and persistence on the long, pure finish. Approachable now, it should reach maturity around 2012 and age for 25 or more years. The 2005 vintage of Quilceda Creek's Cabernet Sauvignon was awarded an amazing 100 points by Robert Parker's Wine Advocate. But wait...Parker also awarded 100-points scores to the 2002 and 2003 vintages, and a 99-point score to the 2004. This trio of triple-digit scores exceeds the number of perfect scores awarded to such cult wines as Abreu, Screaming Eagle and Colgin. And the winery believes the yet un-rated vintage surpasses those 100-point vintages in quality. Made from fruit grown at the famed Champoux, Klipsun and Taptiel vineyards, the 2006 was aged for 22 months in new French oak. Its aromas are redolent of a modern-styled Bordeaux - violets, cassis, black plums and cherry cordial - all echoed on the palate. Richly textured, with great purity of fruit, this wine I built for the long-haul. Don't miss it. 94ws Very ripe and generous. Not a big wine, but brims with plum, currant, black olive, cedar and roasted meat flavors, all playing against crisp tannins and lingering on the tight finish. Needs time in the cellar in order to open and flourish. ws94 The 2006 Quilceda Creek Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is an intense and floral wine that is packed with violets, blackberry, cassis, plum and chocolate. The wine has sublime purity, texture and balance. Approachable now, it should reach maturity around 2015 and age for 25 or more years. While we are particularly proud of the last four vintages of our flagship wine, the 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the best wines our estate has ever produced, rivaling 2002, 2003 and 2005 in quality. |
| 2001 | Quintessa | Red Wine | 3A10-11 | 110 | 2 | 94ws |
| 94ws 92we Quite ripe and oaky, made in a big, impressive style. Knocks you out with the density and concentration of its black currant, dark chocolate and coffee flavors. Completely dry, and with a tart, espresso-like bitterness, this beauty is guaranteed to age, with its firm tannins. Drink now through 2015. — S.H. (10/1/2004) |
| 2001 | Quintessa 375ml | Red Wine | HR | 55 | 2 | 94ws |
| 94ws 92we Quite ripe and oaky, made in a big, impressive style. Knocks you out with the density and concentration of its black currant, dark chocolate and coffee flavors. Completely dry, and with a tart, espresso-like bitterness, this beauty is guaranteed to age, with its firm tannins. Drink now through 2015. — S.H. (10/1/2004) |
| 2001 | Quixote | Cabernet | | 60 | 3 | Excellent |
| December 28 , 2005 Fredric Koeppel Excellent Here's a monument to the old-fashioned Napa Valley cabernet. Quixote's 2001, from a terrific year for cabernet in California, smells, tastes and feels fathomless; each element, whether oak, fruit, acid, tannin, completely permeates the others so you perceive them simultaneously. Size, structure, foundation, all the architectural factors, dominate at first, slowly unveiling, like a nightlight in a dark room, a very intense core of crushed violets and lavender, licorice and minerals that yields in turn to ripe and fleshy cassis, black raspberry and cherry flavors. Give this from 2007 to 2012. A Great Achievement. |
| 2004 | R&B Cellars Reserve Napa Valley | Cabernet | | 35 | 9 | gold |
| The 2008 Denver International Wine Competitiongold medal This 2004 R&B Reserve Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is an extraordinary wine with remarkable depth and complexity. It exhibits a huge core of dark black cherry fruit with elements of dark black currant, tea, smoked duck, and violets in the bouquet. The small addition of Merlot adds softness, color and a touch of sweet cherries. The flavors of dark black berry, currants, chocolate, and cassis are evident, with a huge juicy blackberry finish. This wine is a classic Cabernet Sauvignon with all of the exotic spice and layers of fruit you would expect from a Reserve wine. |
| 2003 | Ramey Jericho Canyon | Red Wine | 1D8 | 105 | 1 | 95st |
| Full ruby. Inviting aromas of blackberry and licorice. Offers an exhilarating sweetness in the mouth, with powerful dark fruit flavors lifted and complicated by mineral and floral elements. Magically fresh and light on its feet for such a large-scaled wine, thanks to perfectly integrated acidity. Finishes extremely long, with noble tannins and superb grip. One of the best barrel samples I tasted in March from this vintage. Offers great potential. Score range: 93-96. Score: 96. —Stephen Tanzer, May 31, 2005. The 2003 Jericho Canyon, from a 40-acre parcel of vines at the base of Mount St. Helena, is a blend of 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, and 3% Cabernet Franc. This is David RameyÍs homage to Pauillac. With a big sweet nose of white chocolate, creme de cassis, cedar, spice box, and high-quality smoky oak, it is full-bodied, rich, and tannic with notes of chocolate and espresso in the mouth. This wine also needs several years of cellaring and should last 15-20 years. Score: 93. —Robert Parker, December 26, 2005. Firm, dark and intense, with a rich, concentrated band of anise, currant, blackberry, mocha and light toasty, cedary oak. Very complex and balanced, with a finish that veers to the understated elements of the wine. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2011. 1,700 cases made. Score: 90. May 15, 2006. |
| 2003 | Ramey Jericho Canyon | Red Wine | UT | 210 | 1 | 95st |
| Full ruby. Inviting aromas of blackberry and licorice. Offers an exhilarating sweetness in the mouth, with powerful dark fruit flavors lifted and complicated by mineral and floral elements. Magically fresh and light on its feet for such a large-scaled wine, thanks to perfectly integrated acidity. Finishes extremely long, with noble tannins and superb grip. One of the best barrel samples I tasted in March from this vintage. Offers great potential. Score range: 93-96. Score: 96. —Stephen Tanzer, May 31, 2005. The 2003 Jericho Canyon, from a 40-acre parcel of vines at the base of Mount St. Helena, is a blend of 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, and 3% Cabernet Franc. This is David RameyÍs homage to Pauillac. With a big sweet nose of white chocolate, creme de cassis, cedar, spice box, and high-quality smoky oak, it is full-bodied, rich, and tannic with notes of chocolate and espresso in the mouth. This wine also needs several years of cellaring and should last 15-20 years. Score: 93. —Robert Parker, December 26, 2005. Firm, dark and intense, with a rich, concentrated band of anise, currant, blackberry, mocha and light toasty, cedary oak. Very complex and balanced, with a finish that veers to the understated elements of the wine. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2011. 1,700 cases made. Score: 90. May 15, 2006. |
| 2006 | Rancho Robles | Cabernet | | 15 | 29 | |
| 2005 | Regusci Stags Leap District | Cabernet | 5B3 | 48 | 1 | 92ww |
| Tasting Notes - The Estate Cabernet Sauvignon shows a big, rich expressive style, with complex flavors of currant, blackberry and mocha that lead to a long rich finish. This wine is true to its' Stags Leap roots with loads of ripe velvety tannins and a signature silky character that makes it very approachable upon release yet will continue to show complexities for the next 10-15 years. Deep Garnet colorIntense aromas of rose, lavender and dark cherry fruit. Bright juicy cherry flavors flow over a long lived core of lingering fruit, finishing in supple tannins. This is a fine example of a Stags Leap Cabernet Sauvignon, which is always a welcome accompaniment to cusine. 92 PTS WILFRED WONG. Savory and high class, the fine '05 Regusci Cabernet exhibits delicious ripe red fruit flavors with a note of sweet earth and exhilarating mintiness; finishes quite well. |
| 2002 | Ridge Monte Bello | Cabernet | 1A7 | 120 | 1 | 94rp |
| "(RP 94) Aromas of white chocolate, charred oak, black currants, tar, cedar and earth are followed by a full-bodied, tannic red that is not as fleshy or fat in the mid-palate as its older sibling. This structured, ageworthy 2002 should be consumed between 2011-2030. (RP Jr)" |
| 2005 | Ridgefield Cinnamon Teal | Blend | | 15 | 17 | |
| Our Cinnamon Teal Red Table Wine, which is bottled under our Ridgefield label, is named after a duck found on the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge in Ridgefield, Washington The 2005 Ridgefield Cinnamon Teal is a delightful blend of cabernet sauvignon and cabernet franc, with fairly soft and fruity flavors and a slightly spicy, savory finish. A portion of all sales proceeds from the wine go to the Ridgefield Wildlife Refuge in southwestern Washington. |
| 1999 | Robert Craig Afinity | Red Wine | 3D10 | 70 | 1 | 90we |
| 90we 'Notes on the aromas range from fresh hay and cherry to grapes and watermelon rind; comments on palate flavors run the gamut from cherry liqueur and vanilla to fresh herb and blackberries.' "...exhibits a dense ruby color as well as subtle notes of wood, lead pencil shavings, new saddle leather, black currants and minerals. It is a spicy, medium-bodied, graceful, elegant, surprisingly forward 1999. Consume this mid-weight red over the next 10-12 years." 89 Points - Robert M. Parker, Jr.'s - The Wine Advocate, Issue 142 88ws Offers a wonderful sense of harmony and finesse, with complex cedar, currant, mocha, black cherry and spice flavors, turning smooth and polished. Sufficient tannins to merit short-term cellaring, but enough suppleness to enjoy now. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Drink now through 2008. 2,500 cases made. (JL)"...It is a beautiful deep red and offers a heady bouquet of spicy plum and sweet black cherry. Concentrated cherry and berry fruit are layered with earthy notes, savory herbs, and subtle caramelized oak. This wine manages to be quite full-bodied and rich, but still elegant. Lush, generous finish." |
| 2004 | Robert Foley Claret | Red Wine | 5B1 | 150 | 1 | 95rp |
| 98rp The inky/purple-hued, seamless 2004 Claret boasts gorgeous aromas of creme de cassis, blackberries, smoke, licorice, espresso roast, and spring flowers. With sensational concentration, full body, a voluptuous mouthfeel, decent acidity, and sweet tannin, it can be drunk now and over the next 10-15 years. Score: 95. A blend of nuts and black fruit on the nose here. This is promising. Nice, supple style on entry, then a core of ripe tannins well supported by dark black fruits, with a faint floral edge. This has lovely style; elegance and fresh acidity. Excellent potential here. |
| 2000 | Robert Mondavi Opus One | Red Wine | 12D6 | 170 | 1 | 92we |
| 92we OPUS ONE..2000..CABERNET SAUVIGNON BLEND , NAPA VALLEY.. 2000 ..WE92!!.The Wine Enthusiast Made in the Opus style, which is graceful, limpid and elegant, but with hidden depths of authority and power. The blackberry, cherry and oak flavors are pretty, but the wine is most notable for its harmony and grace. Tannins play only a supportive role, but they will let this wine age effortlessly for many years. Score: 92. —Steve Heimoff, December 01, 2004. . 89ws Opus One is known for its exquisite texture, and the 2000 vintage is no exception. The wine shows aromas of cassis, cloves and roasted almonds against a creamy texture of soft tannins and round, rich fruit. Offering flavors of plum, cherry and black pepper, the 2000 will be charming in its youth and expressive at maturity. Firm and structured, with spicy currant, herb, dill and berry, picking up a cedary lead pencil edge. Finishes with a firm, rich core of flavors and tight tannins. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2012. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 22,500 cases made. (JL)A wine to be enjoyed for years to come. Showing medium deep ruby in color, with aromas of cassis, sandalwood, black cherries, plum and licorice. The palate mirrors the aromas but adds leather, roasted almonds and sweet tannins on the long and supple finish. Drinking beautifully now and will age gracefully. |
| wedding wine meal |
| 1996 | Robert Mondavi Reserve | Cabernet | 11A6 | 121 | 1 | 95ws |
| 95 points from the Wine Spectator: "Rich and complex yet restrained in style, with pretty coffee, currant, black cherry, spice and anise flavors that fan out nicely, this California Cabernet turns particularly elegant and polished on the long finish. Drink now through 2007." (11/99) Also got 92 points from Robert Parker: "The 1996 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve may be no better than the Oakville, but it is made in a slightly different style. The color is opaque purple, and the wine reveals more vanillin, a touch of mint, and plenty of black currant fruit in its moderately intense aromatics. Some of the vintage's dry tannin (from this year's stressed vineyard conditions) is present in the wine's finish. A more stylish, restrained, less exuberant example than the 1996 Oakville, it is an outstanding offering that should be consumed between 2002-2025." (12/98) |
| 1998 | Robert Mondavi Reserve | Cabernet | 11A3-5 | 110 | 3 | 92we |
| 92we Soft and succulent blackberry and cassis fruit upfront, framed by squeaky clean tannins and solid oak elements. This is most notable for its voluptuous, velvety texture, which coats the palate with sweet flavors. It’s not a big wine but a balanced, harmonious one, and a success for the vintage. — S.H. (12/1/2001) 88ws"Seductive and stylish up front, with pretty, supple, coffee, currant, anise and sage notes, but you keep hoping for a little more focus. Finishes with a thick, chewy wall of dry tannins. Best from 2002 through 2008."-Wine Spectator ----- 89rpThe 1998 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve is evolved. A plum/ruby color is followed by aromas of toasty oak, tobacco, black currants, smoke, and spice box. In the mouth, it is medium-bodied, with excellent fruit on the attack, some real charm and roundness, but the finish is filled with astringent tannin. If this wine continues to hold its fruit, it is going to be a Bordeaux-styled, medium-weight Cabernet Sauvignon to drink over the next 12-14 years. However, the tannin will need to be monitored because this particular wine could possibly dry out. Wine Advocate #132 (Dec 2000) |
| 1999 | Robert Mondavi Reserve | Cabernet | 11A2 | 110 | 1 | 96we |
| 96we This flagship wine shows impeccable balance and finesse. It’s well put together, as the couture people say, and drips with lavish, minty French oak. Soft tannins add interest as well as ageability. The wine is not lavishly fruity; instead, the flavors are consciously restrained and subtle. Very high quality, and worth holding through 2010. — S.H. (11/15/2002) Wine Spectator - Cellar Selection; 12 out of WS Top 200 Wines of 2002; WS:'An enormously complex and sophisticated wine that combines great flavors with uncommon finesse. Dark, sleek, rich and polished, with a delicious core of concentrated cola, currant, plum and blackberry. Tremendous finish.' RP:'...notes of black cu rrants, minerals, and toasty oak, and an elegant, restrained, aromatic profile. In the mouth, there is high tannin, medium body, and excellent concentration.' Rated #12 of Top 100 Wines of 2002 by Wine Spectator. |
| 2001 | Robinson Family Vinyards | Cabernet | 7D7 | 53 | 1 | |
| Produced on 7 acres, the Robinson Family vineyards is nestled against the foot of the large rock formation known as Stag's Leap Palisades. This volcanic soil stresses the vines giving the fruit an intense, robust flavor which is handpicked by the entire family. Enter the winemaker, enological wizard Charles Hendricks. From the grapes, he makes an incredibly balanced and elegant wine filled with aromas of cherry, dark chocolate, caramel and hint of tobacco. The flavors of black cherry, brooding sage and chocolate unfurl as the wine opens in the glass. An absolutely gorgeous expression of Cabernet, this production is limited to a mere 300 cases. Winemaker Charles Hendricks (Viader, Barnett) helped guide this wine from berry to bottle, coaxing classic Stag's Leap aromas of ripe cherry, cocoa, caramel, sage, and dust. In the mouth, these flavors continue, with additional hints of cola, smoke, and even more black cherry. The tannins are dense and weighty, promising years of cellarability or a wonderfully masochistic drink in it's youth. We've been touting these wines from the beginning, but you'd better get on the gravy train now, because some wine writer is sure to take notice of these folks sooner or later. Don't get stranded without the Robinsons. This vintage is filled with aromas of dusty cherry, bitter chocolate, caramel, and hints of mace and tobacco. These flavors are well proportioned with a dark brooding of sage quality. A good mouth filling entry and a long persistent lively cherry finish. Some fine youthful grape tannins to savor now and will allow the wine to age beautifully. An excellent selection from this exclusive Stag's Leap Vineyard. |
| 2003 | Roy J. Maier | Cabernet | 3B5 | 63 | 1 | |
| The Maiers are producing this phenomenal Bordeaux inspired red from their 60 acre estate on the Sonoma-side of Spring Mountain (home of such luminaries as Sherwin, Pride, Behrens & Hitchcock, and Keenan to name a few). A Supurb first offering from this incredibly detail oriented estate. 500cs production Dark black cherry black currant berry fruit on the nose with notes of black tea, dark chocolate. An elegant and refined style of California Cabernet very forward and drinkable , smooth tannins with nice spice cedar box and tobacco notes through the finish. Finish 40+ Excellent Situated at the peak of Spring Mountain on the Napa/Sonoma county line between Pride and Fisher Vineyards, the estate produced Bordeaux blend is comprised of 75-80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot 5% Malbec, 5% Cab Franc, and 1-2% Petit verdot. Mike Hirby (Behrens and Hitchcock, Rockledge, Realm, Relic) is the wine maker. The Roy J. Maier Cabernet Sauvignon is produced from extraordinary terroir utilizing the most advanced winemaking technology and is a reflection of the uncompromising talents of owners Richard and Patty Maier. 20/20 Wines proclaimed the inaugural vintage as the next great Californian Cab. The beautiful dark ruby color is followed by aromas of cassis, violets, roasted coffee, red berries, and liquorice. On the palate, you will taste flavors of cassis, vanilla, liquorice, coco, and chocolate. Good structure, spicy, long nice smooth finish with velvety tannins. Drink now or over the next 10 years. |
| 2003 | Rudd Oakville Estate | Cabernet | 7B7 | 90 | 1 | 92we |
| WE92 Made in a very ripe, almost in-your-face style, with flamboyant blackberry pie and cassis flavors veering into rum-soaked raisins and prunes. Defines size and power rather than elegance; a brawny, slightly hot wine that nonetheless is compellingly good to drink. Score: 92. —Steve Heimoff, September 01, 2006. " WA 91 - 93 Pts. - "The 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville Estate (2,700 cases from a similar blend) has a dense purple color to the rim, more tannin evident in its tightly knit personality, full body, and loads of espresso, black currant, creosote, new oak, and cedar notes. This wine’s tannins are more noticeable and gritty, so it will probably need 2-3 years of bottle-age, but it should keep easily for 15 or more years." |
| 2004 | Rudd Oakville Estate | Cabernet | 7B6 | 125 | 1 | 94rp |
| 94rp The 2004 Oakville Estate Proprietary Red (a 2,500-case blend of 83% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Petit Verdot, 8% Merlot, and 1% Cabernet Franc) was aged 20 months in French wood. It exhibits a deep ruby/purple color followed by scents of licorice, black currants, underbrush, charcoal, and spice characteristics. With terrific fruit as well as an opulent texture, it should drink well for 12-15 years. |
| 2004 | Sage Vineyards | Cabernet | 9C6 | 66 | 1 | |
| Mount Veeder Cabernet is the inaugural release for Sage Vineyards, the new project of Alan Peirson and Robbie Meyer of L'Angevin fame. Blackberry and mocha are the hallmarks of this exiting release. Delicious now if you pair it with red meat to tame its moderate tannins. It will age nicely, too, if you can resist drinking it in its youth. |
| 2001 | Schweiger Spring Mountain Reserve | Cabernet | 5C2 | 49 | 1 | 90ct |
| 90ct median of 90 pts. in 39 notes) Once a prime vineyard site in the 1880s, the Schweiger Family reaped their first harvest in 1984, and sold grapes for years to ZD, Newton, and Stags' Leap. Son Andrew convinced the folks he could make great wine if their grapes were that good so starting in 1999 they ended their contracts. We believe it was a good choice - this is classic Napa Valley Cabernet from flavors to structure. Let it mature and you'll have an unbelieveable experience. Full body, Structured, Age 2 to 15 years, Prime Rib The complexity and depth of character of the excellent 2001 harvest inspired a new direction in winemaking here; adding a third year of barrel aging to Schweiger’s Cabernet program. Doing this softened and rounded out the full mountain fruit that is “classic Schweiger.” The color is deep and inky. The nose is intensely layered and very fruit forward, led by blackberry, currant, pomegranate, and plum. Very subtle layers of cigar box/cedar and well-integrated oak further complement the aroma. Careful tannin management has blessed this wine with a full and velvety structure. The sweet supple entry crescendos into a deeply intense middle. The fruit characters from the nose fill the mouth as the tannins build and combine to create a pleasant lingering finish. |
| 1999 | Sebastiani Cherryblock | Cabernet | 2A4 | 75 | 1 | 91cg |
| 91cg Firmly tannic and tightly wound, this is a rich, earthy, concentrated wine, with complex currant, black cherry, anise, sage and cedary notes. Well-focused, it is a mouthful of wine that should reward short-term cellaring. Best from 2003 through 2010. (90 pts. Spectator THE WINE ENTHUSIAST 91 points: "This winery has been working on this Cabernet for many years, laboring to find the true expression of the vineyard. In a great year like 1999 the grapes ripen beautifully, and the flavors, of blackberries and currants, are very pretty. Alcohol is a modest 13.8%, and the wine is balanced and harmonious. A soft wine of grace and charm." we91 This winery has been working on this Cabernet for many years, laboring to find the true expression of the vineyard. In a great year like 1999 the grapes ripen beautifully, and the flavors, of blackberries and currants, are very pretty. Alcohol is a modest 13.8%, and the wine is balanced and harmonious. A soft wine of grace and charm. — S.H. (11/15/2002) |
| 2001 | Sebastiani Cherryblock Centinaio | Cabernet | 2A3 | 80 | 1 | 92ws |
| This wine strikes an excellent balance between ripe, grapey, plum and currant flavors, and the spicy, toasty oak adds a wonderful dimension. Intense and concentrated, sharply focused and long and complex on the finish, where the fruit and wood work in harmony. Best from 2005 through 2012. (92 pts. Spectator) Dark garnet color, ripe cherry, herbal-tea and earthy, truffle aromas, medium body and lower alcohol are all reflections of the cooler growing period. The wine is more elegant than vintages past. |
| 2003 | Selene | Cabernet | 1D5 | 75 | 1 | 93vf |
| 93vf Drink: 2008 - 2017 This is one of those wow wines that just keeps you coming back for more. Incredible aromatics; clove, oozing blackberry, and molten dark chocolate. The palate has excellent acidity and flavors of ripe black fruits, violet and chocolate Blackberry cobbler, cherry, and raspberry; molasses, caramelized brown sugar, hint of sweet spice and vanilla; dark chocolate and coffee. Mouth-coating, viscous, and velvety; intense flavors true to those found in the aroma; very good length. 92% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc, 3% Merlot. 92% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc, 3% Merlot. According to Robert Parker: "Although more laid back and playing it closer to the vest, the 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa is just as powerful as the 2002. It reveals more restrained aromas, not the open-knit, fleshy mouthfeel of its sibling, but abundant quantities of black fruits. Although not complex, it will offer satisfying drinking over the next 7-8 years." |
| 2003 | Sensorium | Cabernet | 10B1 | 48 | 1 | |
| This unique Cabernet Sauvignon was grown in a vineyard high up on the eastern side of Napa Valley on a new hillside block of the Lynch Ranch noted for red soils and good drainage. Chosen for its potential, Block 1A is proving to be worthy of its praise. The 2003 growing season in Napa Valley was generally nice and warm, providing an ideal year for elegant wines. |
| 2001 | Serdonis | Cabernet | 3C7-8 | 60 | 2 | 91rp |
| 91 points Robert Parker: "The fruit for this cuvee comes primarily from the Ink Grade Vineyard made famous by Behrens and Hitchcock. A blend of 80% cabernet sauvignon and the rest cabernet franc and merlot, it exhibits a dense ruby/purple color as well as a fresh, lively perfume of blueberries, blackberries, flowers, lead pencil shavings, and earth. With excellent density and richness in addition to a long finish, it is a beautifully knit, primary but promising Cabernet. (12/03) K&L's notes - The 2001 Serdonis is a classically styled Cabernet Sauvignon from the rugged Ink Grade section of Howell Mountain. The Ink Grade Ranch originates from a steep slope at 2,100 feet altitude. Its 200-foot drop in elevation, rocky terraces and white moon-dust soils characterizes the southeastern-facing vineyard. The 2001 is the first vintage from Serdonis. It shows deep, concentrated flavors of dark cherry, tar, smoke and minerals, with a long, firm but ripe finish. Best in at least five years! |
| 2005 | Serdonis Howell Mountain | Cabernet | | 67 | 1 | 90ct |
| 90cellar tracker NVWE NOTES: This is a richly fruity and soft-edged Cabernet, with attractively spicy aromas, as befits its Howell Mountain origins. Those scents are a mix of deep blackberry and blueberry, tied to foresty notes of laurel and eucalyptus and rich strains of coffee-toffee and toasty vanilla. It is firmer, but still surprisingly silky on the palate, where the berry notes take the dominant position. The finish is lingering and fruit dominated and not until the very end does the tannic grip step in. Enjoy this tasty Cab right read more...now with a good steak, or wait another two or three years to see it at its best.SERDONIS INK GRADE HOWELL MOUNTAIN CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005 Drink Dates: 2015 - 2026 88% Cabernet Sauvignon–Ink GradeVineyard-Howell Mountain 12% Merlot–Ink Grade Vineyard aromas explode with rich dark fruits of blueberries and blackberries accompanied by scents of vanilla and cedar 600 cases produced. What makes Serdonis so distinctive is the bold powerful Cabernet Sauvignon grapes grown on top of Howell Mountain. Howell Mountain is among the highest appellations in Napa Valley with an elevation over 2,100 feet. The southeastern-facing vineyards are characterized by steep, rugged slopes and arid, rocky soil. The vines struggle throughout the growing season producing intense, black, powerful fruit with balanced acidity, sugar and fruit. In January 2001, David DeSante left his work at larger Napa Valley wineries behind to work with his partners to craft Serdonis and his own wines under the DeSante label. He also produces wines for other Napa Valley clients David and his wife Katherine felt that after years of honing their skills in the culinary arts and winemaking trade, they could not resist the opportunity to create a great wine from the Napa Valley. Boots and wide-brimmed hats on, they walk the vineyard rows daily...tasting, hoping...waiting for the day of harvest. The DeSantes envision wines that are fresh, fragrant, elegant and flavorful; wines that remind them of Cullen in Australia where they worked for a time while honing their skills. |
| 2000 | Shafer | Cabernet | 4B9 | 61 | 1 | 93we |
| Epitomizes the New World style of a superripe, soft, plush wine, bursting with fruity-berry flavors, and generously oaked. Hard to imagine a wine flattering the palate more, with its graceful tannins and heaps of blackcurrant, sweet roasted pepper, olive and white chocolate flavors. Instantly appealing, although it may be a difficult match for food. — S.H. (8/1/2003) 89wa The 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon (91% Cabernet Sauvignon and 9% Cabernet Franc) exhibits aromas of toasty oak, black cherries, currants, smoke, and minerals. This sweet, medium to full-bodied, pure, and elegant offering will provide lovely drinking over the next 10-12 years.(Wine Advocate) "Epitomizes the New World style of a superripe, soft, plush wine, bursting with fruity-berry flavors, and generously oaked. Hard to imagine a wine flattering the palate more, with its graceful tannins and heaps of blackcurrant, sweet roasted pepper, olive and white chocolate flavors. Instantly appealing …" Well-balanced, with a supple mix of floral, currant, anise, leather and spicy blackberry fruit that loses a bit of its intensity and richness on the finish. Drink now through 2008. 6,000 cases made. |
| 2003 | Shafer | Cabernet | 4B7-8 | 60 | 2 | 95we |
| 95we Enormously rich in creme de cassis, cherry pie and cocoa flavors, which many Cabs have these days. But what?s so special is the tannic structure, which is world class, and could only come from a premier Napa vineyard. This is an amazingly delicious wine, a joy to drink, but it?s best enjoyed now and for a year or three, to appreciate its youthful opulence. Score: 95. —Steve Heimoff, September 01, 2006. 89wa The chunky, rustic 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon possesses aggressive tannin in its big, corpulent personality. It should drink well for a decade. Connoisseurs' Guide to California Wine: Mild but very evident top notes of loam and woodsy spice lend a touch of complexity to the solid, patently varietal aromas of black currants and cherries, and the same character shows up in this wine's moderately deep and well-formed young flavors. A bit ripe in bias, yet mostly defined by its fruit, the wine is supple and plush on the palate with fairly soft tannins providing a fine and flexible spine. We see it improving for three to five years, but it would be hard to persuasively argue against enjoying it considerably sooner. |
| 2005 | Shafer One Point | Cabernet | 1D3-4 | 77 | 2 | 94wg |
| The Shafer One Point Five is a wonderfully complex cabernet. It has aromas of cedar, chocolate, and herbs. The flavor is complex; with blackberry, smoke, tobacco, and dark chocolate being the most pronounced. The tannins are ripe and supple, and the wine showcases a long, pleasing finish. A truly great wine! wine globe 94 The 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon One Point Five (99% Cabernet and 1% Petit Verdot) is a meatier, more structured wine, but slightly deeper than the 2004, with broad black currant fruit flavors intermixed with some spice box, crushed rock, and spring flowers. It is characteristic of Stags Leap in its elegance and finesse. The wine has good acidity and freshness, but is long and seamless. Drink it over the next 12-15 years. Score: 90. —Robert Parker, December 2007. |
| 2005 | Showket Vineyards | Cabernet | 9C2 | 82 | 1 | |
| A rare Napa Valley cult classic from the heralded 2005 vintage and superstar winemaker Heidi Barrett! (Screaming Eagle, Jones Family) The 2005 Showket Napa Valley Estate Cabernet Sauvignon is a benchmark example of this great vintage, from a great vineyard, made by a truly great winemaker, Heidi Barrett. You don't want to miss the "magic" found in this wine! It is with great pleasure that we release our 2005 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon. We had a wonderful long, moderate, cool summer in 2005 -- perfect for our Oakville hillside fruit. Our Cabernet reveals the unique character of the vineyard location and exposure to the late afternoon sun. Our 2005 Showket Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon might be the most complex wine we have ever released. The vintage gave us perfectly ripe Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, so we increased the percentage of the Cabernet Franc to 15% and it shows in the finished wine. In addition to our hallmark black berry and cassis aromatics this vintage shows hints of violets, tobacco and cedar from the additional Cabernet Franc. On the palate it is very round and seductive. It starts with a lively grip and gains size and depth as it opens up. It will be a perfect compliment to hearty dishes, but can also stand on its own. The 2005 Showket Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon is truly an exceptional wine. Appellation Oakville, Napa Valley, CA Vineyard All Estate Grown, Showket Vineyards Barrel Aging: 20 months in French Oak Blending: Cabernet Sauvignon 85%, Cabernet Franc %15 Production: 1700 Cases . |
| 1999 | Silver Oak Alexander Valley | Cabernet | 12C6-D2 | 100 | 3 | 92rp |
| 92 points Robert Parker: "The 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon Alexander Valley touts an intense olive, smoky, toasty nose intermixed with kirsch liqueur and currant fruit. The wine is sweet, dense, with an opaque ruby/purple color, expansive fat mid-palate, and long finish." (12/2000) The 1999 Silver Oak Alexander Valley is a classic, rich Cabernet Sauvignon with a dark, ruby color and a complex nose of cassis, blueberries, cherries, nutmeg, chocolate and sandalwood. It is luscious and full-bodied on the palate and has a long, fruit-laden finish reminiscent of licorice. Cola and coconut aromas lead to a firm band of spice- and currant-laced Cabernet fruit that picks up a cedary edge on the finish, where the tannins become more evident, giving the aftertaste a drying sensation. Drink now through 2008. 55,195 cases made. (JL) From thw winemaker The 1999 Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is a beautifully balanced wine with a garnet color and a complex nose of raspberries, cassis, violets, cinnamon and caramel. It is luscious and full-bodied on the palate and has a lovely fruity attack and an incredibly long lingering finish. It will continue to improve to 2024 given proper cellaring. |
| 2000 | Silver Oak Alexander Valley | Cabernet | 12C4-5 | 100 | 2 | 94ww |
| 94 PTS WILFRED WONG. Kudos to Dan Baron, the '00 Silver Oak Alexander Valley is their best effort to date; incredible balance, a real stylin' effort; a true revelation! (Best Served: 2007-2017). Silver Oak Alexander Valley Cab is one of the best versions of this wine we've had in a number of years. This wine is classic Silver Oak with a rich, dark, ruby color and a complex nose of cassis, black fruits, chocolate and sandalwood. It is luscious and full-bodied on the palate and has a long, fruit driven finish. According to Robert Parker: "The 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon Alexander Valley is a medium-bodied, soft, attractive effort with plenty of herbaceousness along with notes of figs, plums, and red currants. Made in an up-front style, it begs to be drunk over the next 7-8 years." (12/03) The 2000 Silver Oak Alexander Valley is a classic, rich Cabernet Sauvignon with a ruby-red color and an expressive nose of cassis, blueberries, blackberries, soy sauce and vanilla. It is luscious and full-bodied on the palate and has a long finish of ripe berry fruit, vanilla and a hint of dill. It will continue to improve to 2018, given proper cellaring Winemaker’s Tasting Notes: The 2000 Alexander Valley is a classic, rich Cabernet Sauvignon with a dark ruby-red color and an expressive nose of black cherry, blackberry, violets, baking spices and soy sauce. It is luscious and full-bodied on the palate and has an incredibly long finish of ripe berry fruit and vanilla. This wine will continue to improve until 2020 given proper cellaring. |
| 2001 | Silver Oak Alexander Valley | Cabernet | 12C3 | 90 | 1 | 95ww |
| 95 PTS WILFRED WONG. A real revelation, the '01 Silver Oak may be Alexander Valley's greatest achievement; not over-the-top and not a monster; well-balanced, refined and elite; fine red fruit flavors 90wa "The 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon Alexander Valley (by the way, all of the Alexander Valley offerings are 100% Cabernet Sauvignon) has a big, sweet, oaky nose and a seductive panoply of spices from cedarwood to plum pudding and fruitcake notes. It is a sexy, sensual, broad, flavorful Cabernet lacking serious depth, but offering attractive fruit, plenty of ripeness, and a big wallop of American oak. Drink it over the next decade." 90 points - Robert Parker's, The Wine Advocate #157 The 2001 Silver Oak Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is a vibrant, rich wine with dark, ruby color and an expressive nose of cassis, black cherry, dark chocolate, soy sauce, ginger and sandalwood. It is fruit driven and full-bodied on the palate with a panoply of fruits and spices echoed in its extremely long, complex finish. It will continue to improve until 2023, given proper cellaring. 90-92 points Robert Parker: "The 2001 Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignons reveals a saturated ruby/purple color in addition to a lusty, sweet perfume of cassis, spice box, licorice, and lavender. The wine is ripe and medium to full-bodied, with low acidity, abundant glycerin, wood, and alcohol, and admirable texture as well as length. It will be at its finest between 2003-2014." (08/02) The 2001 Silver Oak Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is a vibrant, rich wine with dark, ruby color and an expressive nose of cassis, black cherry, dark chocolate, soy sauce, ginger and sandalwood. It is fruit driven and full-bodied on the palate with a panoply of fruits and spices echoed in its extremely long, complex finish. It will continue to improve until 2023, given proper cellaring. |
| 2002 | Silver Oak Alexander Valley | Cabernet | 12C1-2 | 90 | 2 | 90rp |
| 90 pts from Robert Parker "The Alexander Valley cuvee is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon aged in new oak. The 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon Alexander Valley offers abundant quantities of spice, vanillin, cedar, herbs, and smoke, soft, round, creamy-textured flavors, good black cherry and currant notes, and a spicy, medium-bodied, easy-going personality. Enjoy it over the next 7-10 years. Drink(2005-2015)" - Wine Advocate Issue #162 Winemaker Daniel Baron describes this wine as a rich, profound wine that beautifully balances concentration with finesse. It has a dark, ruby color and aromas of blackberry jam, soy sauce, violets and dark chocolate, with hints of cedar and cinnamon. The first impression in the mouth is one of smoothness and roundness. The wine offers a seamless, harmonious progression of fruit, chocolate and black tea tones, leading to an extremely long finish with supple tannins and echoes of berry fruit. It will continue to improve until 2027, given proper cellaring. |
| 2004 | Silver Oak Napa Valley | Cabernet | | 95 | 1 | 93wn |
| "Garnet hue with a feathered rim. A bouquet of menthol and lavender with spicy mixed wood notes. Soft, seductive black fruit laced with mint and evergreen. Seamless, elegant finish with expressive cherry and smoky oak." 93 Points The Wine News "7% Merlot; 5% Cabernet Franc; 2% Petit Verdot. Deep, well-defined curranty fruit is the driving force of this nicely extracted, young Cabernet, while complementary oak and deft touches of cocoa lend a boost in overall richness. If fairly full-bodied, the wine shows nary a hint of heaviness and sports a fine sense of balance from beginning to end. It is supple to start and finishes with appropriate tannins, but its astringency never gets in the way of its ongoing fruit, and time is a guaranteed remedy to its wholly acceptable toughness." 91 Points Connoisseurs' Guide "Good deep red. Black cherry, plum syrup and lead pencil on the nose, with a lightly roasted character and a meaty nuance. Quite pliant on the palate, with a much more velvety mouthfeel than the Alexander Valley offering and more mid-palate stuffing to support its toothcoating tannins. Here the wine's herbal element lifts the fruit. Not exactly fat but nicely sweet. Finishes with very good breadth and length. " 90 Points International Wine Cellar Tasting Notes - This mature, well-built Napa Valley Cabernet is a luscious, deep brick-red color. Ripe black-cherry flavors and a cassis core, are nicely integrated with sappy French oak tannins. These firm, yet resolved tannins are supple, silky and elegant on the finish, allowing for both short-term enjoyment, or a long term reward, when cellared. This wine pairs well with petite filet mignon grilled over mesquite and served with a sun dried tomato confit seasoned with fresh marjoram and sea salt or accompanied by soft polenta made with Mascarpone and finished with Reggiano Parmesan and fresh cracked pepper. Silver Oak's long-awaited 2004 Cabernet blends small amounts of Merlot, Cabernet and Petite Verdot, for a complex, savory wine that is still developing and has many years ahead of it. Right now the wine is the color of royal velvet and it's alluring bouquet is wonderfully exotic, displaying notes of Damson plum, rose, soy, spice and black olive. Sumptuous on the attack, the fruit is lifted by spice and supple, integrated tannins. According to K&L's Mike Jordan: "Silver Oak has been synonymous with California Cabernet for years. The 2004 Napa is a beautiful effort, with a nose of lush plum fruit with a hint of spice, chocolate and vanilla.This wine is big and bright on the palate with fine grained tannins and a long finish.This wine isn't a long term wine, drinking now and holding for another 5-7 years. I think this vintage is one of the best from Silver Oak since the 1994." 90 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "Good deep red. Black cherry, plum syrup and lead pencil on the nose, with a lightly roasted character and a meaty nuance. Quite pliant on the palate, with a much more velvety mouthfeel than the Alexander Valley offering and more mid-palate stuffing to support its toothcoating tannins. Here the wine's herbal element lifts the fruit. Not exactly fat but nicely sweet. Finishes with very good breadth and length." (May/June '09) |
| 2002 | Silverado Vineyards Solo | Cabernet | 8C8-9 | 75 | 2 | 93we |
| 93we 93 PTS WINE ENTHUSIAST. Oh, what a perfect expression of Stags Leap this is, the '02 Silverado "Solo" offers soft voluptuous, black currant and cherry flavors with warm notes of mocha and coffee. 90st Bright, saturated red-ruby. Aromas of black fruits, menthol, coffee and mocha. Then surprisingly sweet, supple and seamless, with enticing dark fruits and spicy oak spreading over the palate. Broad and creamy; seems distinctly more pliant and graceful than the Limited bottling. Finishes with toothcoating tannins and very good breadth. 88cg Very much a wine of mixed messages, this deep and exceptionally well-defined young Cabernet is awash in the curranty fruit and loamy richness that marks the best varietal workings, and its relatively firm structure sets is apart from its many fatter cousins. It comes with a real question as to whether and when it will outgrow its imposing tannins, and, while we will give it the benefit of the doubt, we do not expect it to fully soften for ten or more years. |
| 2002 | Sin Zin 3ltr Etched Bottle "signed" Display | Zinfandel | display | 150 | 1 | 88cg |
| 88cg Sweet, well-ripened and convincingly keyed on the ripe berry themes, this accessible wine sweetens its mix with a nice measure of vanillin oak and gets good mileage in the mouth by virtue of its buoyant fruity acids. If its viscous beginnings stand in obvious contrast to its tangy finish just now, it has a little room in which to find a better fit of its pieces a few years hence Varietally distinct, this Zinfandel captures the true essence of Alexander Valley. The fruit is sourced from a variety of vineyards with differing microclimates. This provides the winery with an array of unique parcels of fruit. Once vinified, these parcels are blended together and then allowed to mature in French and American oak for 10 months. Further complexity is achieved by the addition of small amounts of Sangiovese and Syrah. Cellar life of 5-8 years.Ripe plum, cranberry and rhubarb flavors. Concentrated fruit. Good balance. Mature and rich. |
| Gift from Jim and Maureen (display don't drink ) |
| 2005 | Snowden Reserve | Cabernet | 1C2-3 | 65 | 2 | 94rp |
| The Snowden Reserve, our finest wine, is a studied blend of our favorite lots. We want it to be the best expression possible of our vineyard in every vintage. The 2005 Reserve has a beautiful nose of blueberries and sweet fruit spiced with licorice, cinnamon, ginger and cloves. It is rich, powerful and multi-layered with velvety tannins and a smooth, long finish. The structure and character of Snowden Vineyards express themselves fully. This wine can be enjoyed now, but I am confident that it will continue to evolve and provide pleasure over the next ten years. 94rp The real stunner is the 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve. There are 1,600 cases of this prodigious wine. Dense ruby/purple to the rim with a smoky, roasted herb, creme de cassis, melted licorice, and espresso-scented nose with subtle pain grille in the background, it is full-bodied, fleshy, with a terrific multi-dimensional mouthfeel, well-integrated acidity, and ripe, silky tannin. This is great stuff, and a fabulous Cabernet Sauvignon that may well turn out to be the best wine yet made at Snowden unless it is eclipsed by the very promising 2006 Reserve, which, of course, is not yet in bottle. 94 points." |
| 2006 | Snowden Reserve | Cabernet | 1C1 | 75 | 1 | 95wa |
| WA 95Pts - The prodigious 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve (75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Merlot, 8+% Petit Verdot, and about 5% Cabernet Franc) reveals aromas of flowers, espresso roast, blackberries, and creme de cassis. This exuberant, rich, full-bodied Cabernet coats the palate, but is neither heavy nor overbearing. Sweet, substantial, well-integrated tannins along with decent acidity, and a stunningly long, 50-second finish make for a compelling glass of young, but promising Cabernet Sauvignon. This 2006 should hit its peak in 3-5 years, and last for 25 or more. 94wsA touch earthy at first, but the flavors build and expand, with a medley of herb and mineral joined by dry currant, cedar and spice. Very Pauillac-like in its structure, balance and restraint. Keeps getting better with every sip. Best from 2010 through 2017. 93iwc Dark ruby. Currant, minerals, dark chocolate, tobacco, loam, smoke, roast coffee and spicebox scents on the complex nose. Lush, concentrated and broad, with a seamless texture and a captivating restrained sweetness. A wine with serious stuffing, and a step up in intensity and suavity from the Ranch bottling. Finishes very long, with slowly mounting flavors and sweet tannins. |
| 2007 | Sola | Merlot | | 25 | 10 | |
| 2001 | Spotteswoode | Cabernet | 7D5 | 120 | 1 | 95rp |
| 95 RP says, "The 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate is a 4,300-case blend of 95% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cabernet Franc according to winemaker Rosemary Cakebread. A blue/purple color accompanies a gorgeous perfume of crushed rocks intermixed with blueberries and black currants as well as subtle touches of toasty oak and white chocolate. A classic example of power allied with elegance, it possesses undeniable finesse yet tremendous flavor intensity without being heavy. This beauty is one of the most provocative and intense efforts of the vintage, yet it is strikingly delicate for its concentrated personality. Give it 2-3 years of cellaring, and drink it over the following 14-15." st 93 Deep ruby-red. Vibrant, high-pitched aromas of boysenberry, cassis, violet and sweet, chocolatey oak. Brighter and more sharply delineated than the 2002, with less obvious baby fat; offers a captivating combination of berry, spice and floral flavors. Very stylish, firmly tannic wine with the intensity and structure for 15 years or more of development in bottle. 94we Another fabulous ‘01 Napa Cab. This beauty maintains a pleasing balance between the sheer power of its well-ripened cherry and blackberry fruit flavors, and an earthy quality grounded in firm tannins and good acidity. Totally balanced, dry and harmonious, this Cab exudes elegance and style. Drink now through 2015. — S.H. (3/1/2005) |
| 2002 | Spring Mountain Elivette Reserve | Cabernet | 4C7-11 | 99 | 5 | 93ws |
| 93 PTS WINE SPECTATOR. The '02 Spring Mountain Elivette is thick and viscous, with ripe, concentrated black cherry and bittersweet chocolate notes and velvety tannins; a mouthful of wine.as does the plush texture, and lingering mocha-scented finish. Our 2002 vintage Elivette is a deeply hued blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. The aromas are a heady complexion of raspberries, blackberry jam and dark chocolate with nuances of kola and dark spices. Over 22 months of aging in French oak has softened the tannins and shaped the wine into a lush and textural delight. Loaded with a concentration of jammy fruit and hints of black licorice, it is an opulent expression of our Bordeaux varieties as they come to full ripeness on the slopes of Spring Mountain. The full bodied and redolent nature of this wine begs to be enjoyed immediately, but its shape and structure describe a wine that won’t reach its peak for another 10 years. Potent aromas of chocolate and raspberry jam laced with baking spices make an enticing first impression, lavishly surrounded by floral notes of lavender and violet, and supported by earthy, mineral notes. The wine offers an elegant, seamless, full-bodied attack with loads of cocoa, blackberry and black cherry fruit. Malleable tannins fill the palate and give a well-proportioned shape to the wine. Structured in the style of a classic Bordeaux, this wine will age gracefully for 10 to 20 years. In its youth, it will benefit from decanting. The mountain plays its part in the intense tannins and concentrated fruit. You could drink it now against rich fare, but it’s also a cellar candidate. It’s a tough, dry, masculine wine, with heady currant and blackberry flavors and a lot of new French oak. Drink now and for the next 15 years. — S.H. (12/31/2005) |
| 2005 | Spring Valley Vineyard Frederick | Red Wine | 11D6 | 50 | 1 | |
| There is a lot of muscle in this fifth seductive vintage of Frederick. The nose is bright with scents of licorice and blackberry. The mouth feel is huge with a concentration of dark ripe black fruit. As usual, the tannins are richly present with exceptional quality, adding to a lingering, soft finish. Spring Valley Vineyards wines are named in tribute to family members who struggled to work the land where the vineyard and winery now thrive. Spring Valley's "Frederick" is named for Frederick Corkrum, Spring Valley's Shari Corkrum Derby's father. Frederick is a muscle-y red blend comprised of 54% cabernet sauvignon, 40% merlot, 5% cabernet franc and 1% petit verdot with a nose of blackberry and anise. Mouthcoating black fruit and ripe tannins soften on the finish. Decant for at least four hours before drinking now (possibly more) or lay down for the next decade to experience everything this wine has to offer |
| 2001 | St. Clement Oroppas | Cabernet | | 70 | 2 | 93rp |
| There are 5,000 cases of the 2001 Oroppas, a superb, full-throttle, St.-Emilion-like effort built in a Napa Valley style. A blend of 81% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot, and 4% Cabernet Franc, it is full-bodied, with an inky/purple color as well as beautiful aromas of Asian spice, incense, creme de cassis, licorice, and toasty oak. This complex, ripe, rich red reveals supple tannin and an explosive, voluptuous, mid-palate and finish. This glorious 2001 can be drunk now or cellared for 12-16 years. This is the finest portfolio of wines I have ever tasted from St. Clement. These are all serious, outstanding efforts that merit significant attention. St. Clement has never before made wines this dazzling, so readers should jump on the bandwagon before the prices go even higher. (93pts. Robert Parker) |
| 2005 | Stag's Leap | Petite Sirah | 5D3-7 | 41 | 5 | 95twp |
| 95 Points Drink When 2010-2017 The Wining Pro OK, OK. Who's been keeping this a secret? There I was thinking that Petit Syrah (Durif) was a somewhat one dimensional grape, basically limited to the creation of full flavoured, intensely fruited, occasionally alcoholic wines when this slapped me around the jowls and bought me to my senses. I love Aussie wine, but this makes most of our Durif's look a little bit out of their depth. It's a bit like the All Blacks playing Malaysia, or Japan. Essentially they're playing the same game- until they get on the field. This has concentration, weight and a strange sense of elegance to boot. The fruit intensity ( blackberry, blueberry, touches of chocolate) is there, with a savoury edge and a spicy, powderry tannin finish. It's long too, with balanced and unobtrusive alcohol. A super wine. The good news is that this delicious wine is available in Australia now for around $50, and is really worth a look as a pointer towards the true potential of an underappreciated and often maligned grape. As for a rating- not sure what context to place it in, given it is the first Californian Petite Syrah I have tried. There may be even better examples out there. If so, I'm all ears. However, I'll be buying some of this. 88st Bright ruby-red. Blackberry, black cherry, smoke, bitter chocolate and cedary oak on the slightly port-like nose. Densely packed, lush and sweet, with grapey cassis and dark chocolate flavors complemented by an element of cedary oak. Finishes with broad, tongue-dusting tannins.The chocolatey oak element builds on the back end. Stags' Leap Winery's Petite Syrah comes from a 1920s-era field blend, which also includes small amounts of other Rhône varietals including syrah (8%), grenache (4%) and viognier (2%). The resulting wine is a rich purple color with a decadent nose full of blueberry and blackberry fruit and hints of cocoa. In the mouth, the wine is vibrant and expressive, continuing to display black fruits and chocolate with additional notes of espresso and spice. Structured, but balanced, this is an intense wine that will really start to show its stuff with a little bottle age. STAGS' LEAP is home to some of the earliest recognized plantings of Petite Syrah in the U.S., making the winery synonymous with this robust varietal. Our historic Petite Syrah vineyard here in the Stags Leap District is located where the Palisades deposited ancient, weathered rocks. These rocky, deeper soils with ample clay particles allow more water retention encouraging the fruit to fully mature. The estate vineyards, now more than 70 years old, produce a pronounced black fruit character, giving the wines a distinctive, long blackberry finish. |
| 2005 | Stag's Leap Wine Cellars Artemis | Cabernet | 5C4-7 | 65 | 4 | 90ww |
| 90ww 90 PTS WILFRED WONG. An amazing effort with tremendous personality, the savory '05 Stag's Leap Wine Cellars Artemis Cabernet tantalizes the palate with an array of ripe fruit, dried leave flavors. 90sw shoppers wine: Textbook Napa Cab, blessed with ripe cassis-scented fruit and hints of mint, toast and dusty earth. It’s velvety and rich in the mouth, picking up notes of chocolate and vanilla on the silky-smooth finish. A perennial favorite on restaurant wine lists, ARTEMIS is generous in flavor and velvety in texture. Aromas of cassis and caramel rise and give way to earthy notes of black olive, black pepper, and truffles. Classic flavors of cassis and black cherry fill the mouth as notes of violets and vanilla linger on the finish. Enjoy this wine with braised short ribs on a cold winter’s night or with a porcini and gorgonzola burger for you gourmet grillers. Warren Winiarski's famous for this Napa Valley cabernet as well as his single vineyard and Cask 23 offerings. This Artemis cabernet is a blend of the S.L.V and FAY vineyards and as you come to expect, offers a trip to classic Napa enjoyment in every glass. A vibrant nose of plum, cassis, nutmeg, black licorice and hints of rosemary greets the taster, with additional layers of raspberry, tealeaf, rose petals and vanilla. Concentrated flavors of black cherry, plum, cassis, baked cherry pie, cocoa, toast, and allspice intermingle with dusty tannins, hints of white pepper and tobacco. Perfectly balanced and firmly structured, this wine has significant aging potential and is ready to enjoy now with an herb-stuffed turkey accompanied by a velvety chestnut soup. Sensuous aromas of rich, dark chocolate, black cherries, and espresso immediately rise from the glass. As the wine opens, look for more subtle notes of violets, nutmeg, and truffles. The aromas carry over to the palate with additional flavors of cassis, orange peel, and clove. This medium to full-bodied wine has fine grained and smooth pebbly tannins. Its firm structure and fine balance make it a perfect accompaniment to classic chop house fare. Try this wine with any fine cut of steak and you will be delighted. |
| 2006 | Stag's Leap Wine Cellars Artemis | Cabernet | 5C3 | 58 | 1 | 89ww |
| 89 PTS WILFRED WONG. This one brings a little bit shoe leather in the mix, a very fine effort, the well-managed '06 Stag's Leap Wine Cellars Artemis pegs the Napa Valley like few others; good finish.Focused and complex, the wine opens with aromas and flavors of black fruit—blackberry, currant, and plum—that slowly give way to layers of nutmeg, rosemary, grilled game, and warm pie crust. This firmly structured and full-bodied wine gains depth and richness through the finish. Enjoy this wine with filet mignon with green peppercorn cream sauce or braised veal shanks with green olives and capers. |
| 2005 | Stagecoach Vineyards "The Advocate" | Red Wine | 3A9 | 75 | 1 | 91vf |
| 91vf 08-14 Release Date September 1, 2007 Vineyards This wine showcases our grapes from the legendary Stagecoach Vineyard, which ascends from 900 feet above sea level where it adjoins the Oakville appellation of 1,700 feet on the southern side of Pritchard Hill. The intense, rocky soils are ideal for this unique blend of Petit Verdot, Merlot and Malbec. All three varietals are densely planted using the best French clones. Vintage 2005 Bud break came early in 2005. The vines began to open their leaves in mid March. Bloom came late in May and the summer remained cool, leading to a long hang time. A long, warm fall contributed to perfect ripening weather. Date of Harvest October 13 – November 1, 2005 Varietal Composition 57% Petit Verdot, 25% Merlot, 18% Malbec Fermentation Each vineyard block was treated as a discrete batch allowing the subtle differences between each block to be handled accordingly. There was an average 4 day cold soak with 25 days of skin contact. Alcohol 14.8% Cooperage 15 months in 75% new French oak barriques – Taransaud, Bossuet and Sylvain Yield 2.4 tons/acre Bottled March 1, 2007 Unfi ned & Unfi ltered pH/Brix 3.80/27.2 Production 483 cases |
| 2005 | Star Lane Santa Ynez | Cabernet | 3B6 | 54 | 1 | 93ww |
| 93 PTS WILFRED WONG. An amazing effort from a surprising area, the elegant '05 Star Lane Cabernet delivers superb red and black fruit flavors with excellent palate textures and balance; fine finish. Winemaker Notes - The confidence gained after several years of working with our vineyard has allowed us to produce a massive yet unbelievably well-balanced wine that reflects both the unique terroir of Star Lane and the dedication of the vineyard and winemaking team. Complex but not complicated, supple yet structured; the 2005 Star Lane Cabernet is a wine that is intellectual as well as very sensual. Aromas of blackberry laced with the notes of sage brush and chaparral that have become the hallmark of our vineyard precede tiers of currant, wild blackberry and savory herbs. The wine shows a sophistication of structure that emphasizes both lushness and grip that will reward both the hedonist and the collector alike. Wines crafted under the Star Lane Vineyard label are an expression of the unique characteristics of the Santa Ynez Valley estate vineyard, and one of the premium brands in the Dierberg Family of Wines. Vinfolio (1) Drink: 2008 - 2015 93 Shows a lightly herb-scented nose with gobs of dark fruits, black raspberry, blackberry and tar. Very nice weight on the palate, robust and textured front end flavors of tarry black fruits and toasty chocolate on the mid palate. |
| 2004 | Ste Chappelle Ice Wine 375ml | Dessert Wine | HR | 20 | 2 | |
| 2001 | Sterling Vinyards Reserve | Cabernet | TOPMIDDLE | 70 | 4 | 91ws |
| 95 wg (wineglobe) The wine is a nearly opaque inky ruby in color, with rich currant and briar fruit, pipe tobacco, cassis and allspice in the nose. The flavors are reminiscent of ripe berries, black cherry and dried fig, with notes of dusty cocoa, and a hint of anise. The wine is powerful, with youthful tannins, but with an elegance of structure that will cellar well. 91WS "Very grapey, sleek and unevolved. Dark and concentrated, with pretty floral and currant flavors, it needs more time to reveal itself. Finishes with plenty of fruit and toasty oak." 91 Points - Wine Spectator Dark ruby in color with aromas of sweet toasty oak, elegant black plum and briar fruit layered with cinnamon, nutmeg, cocoa and cedar. The flavors are well balanced, with toasty vanilla oak followed by a soft tannin finish, an elegance of structure that will cellar well. A perfect wine for roast beef dishes and savory cheeses. CG89 12% Merlot; 3% Petit Verdot. A very mannerly wine, it is a bit underdone for a wine of its vintage, but it is also on point with its black cherry and curranty fruit and its rich, creamy oak. It is somewhat rounded in early feel on the palate and balanced to the slightest edge of firmness at the back. Its fruit is evident as is its polish, and it is likely to age well for at least four to seven years and to find its finish filling in. |
| 1997 | Stonestreet Legacy | Red Wine | 9A3 | 75 | 1 | 91rp |
| ..RP91" THE OUTSTANDING 1997 LEGACY POSSESSES ABUNDANT JAMMY BLACK CURRANT/CHERRY FRUIT INTERMIXED WITH LEAD PENCIL, TOASTY OAK, AND VANILLA..." DRINK THROUGH 2020!! |
| 2001 | Stonestreet Legacy | Red Wine | 9A2 | 60 | 1 | 93rp |
| WA 93 Pts. - One of the finest efforts I have yet tasted from Stonestreet is the 2001 Legacy, a 1,400-case blend of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Merlot, and 1% Cabernet Franc. It boasts an opaque purple color in addition to a gorgeously intense bouquet of melted licorice, smoky barbeque aromas, black currant liqueur, road tar, and high class French oak. Sweet and expansive, with full-bodied flavors, and tremendous texture as well as depth, the wine’s elevated tannin in the finish is largely buried under the extravagant richness and wealth of extract and glycerin. This is a beauty! Anticipated maturity: 2006-2020. |
| 2002 | Stonestreet Legacy | Red Wine | 9A1 | 65 | 1 | 92wa |
| 92wa A blend of 83% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Merlot, and the rest Cabernet Franc (over 100%), the 2002 Legacy Proprietary Red is a seductive, hedonistically-styled effort boasting a deep ruby/purple color as well as a big, oaky nose displaying plenty of black cherry, currant, and herbal notes. This full-throttle red comes across like a St.-Emilion on steroids. Chewy and fleshy, it is ideal for drinking now and over the next 10-12 years. Score: 92. —Robert Parker, February 2005. |
| 1999 | Sullivan Vineyards Reserve | Cabernet | 1A6 | 100 | 1 | |
| 2003 | Swanson Alexis | Red Wine | 2B9 | 60 | 1 | 88cg |
| 88cg Always complex, if not always as deep and convincing as it is in this vintage, the 2003 edition of Alexis is loaded with curranty, briary, dried cherry and rich loamy scents that come across as a touch on the heavy side. The wine's full, fleshy texture confirms that this is, indeed, a big, slightly blocky, well-filled effort, and, despite a turn towards dryness in the finish, it will drink well now and better with a bit of cellaring. The Alexis shows Oakville Cabernet at its best. Deep casis and briary blackberry on the nose lead to round, ripe sweetness upon entry into the mouth. Layers of texture and nuanced flavors culminate in a long, elegant finish. Ripe, rich tannins will enure that the Alexis will drink well for at least the next decade. Voluptuous, celebratory and exquisitely finessed, our bewitchingly original cabernet sauvignon blend stands among Napa Valley's blockbuster cabernets. The potion changes ever so slightly from year to year, but it always highlights the very finest of our celebrated cabernet sauvignon vineyard along the Oakville Bench. Alexis has drawn a cult-like following with its aromas of deep cassis and blackberry, mouthwatering richness and price tag that makes buying a case of this beguiling wine irresistible. Dark ruby in color, with hints of roasted coffee, marshmallow, blueberry, raspberry, cherry and vanilla. Rich fruit but soft and velvetty finish which lingers around for a while. A must buy |
| 2003 | TOR Cimarossa Vineyard | Cabernet | 2C9 | 73 | 1 | 93rp |
| 93 Points Robert Parker: "From high up Howell Mountain, the 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon Cimarossa Vineyard is backward, but possesses massive fruit concentration, blue/ black fruits in addition to floral notes and crushed rocks in a full-bodied, intense, layered style. This wine requires 2-4 years of bottle age and should drink well for 20-25 years." |
| 2002 | TOR Oakville Heritage Clones | Cabernet | 2C10-11 | 65 | 2 | 92rp |
| Robert Parker 92: The 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville Heritage Clones dense ruby/purple color is followed by a big, sweet bouquet of mint, spice box, black currants, and new oak. Attractively textured, medium to full-bodied, yet elegant as well as flavorful, it includes 7% Cabernet Franc in the blend, which gives considerable vibrancy and uplift to the aromatics. This 2002 should be cellared for 2-3 more years, and consumed over the following 12-15. |
| 2003 | Tedeschi | Cabernet | HR | 40 | 2 | |
| The wines are perfect to drink and enjoy now and over the next three years according to Emil Tedeschi, the Vintner. Tedeschi Family Winery released their first vintage in 2004 from their family 2-acre dry farmed vineyard. It is a very Bordeaux style wine in that the grapes are picked at lower brix, the alcohol is lower and it is not the huge fruit driven Cabernet's that you can commonly find in the Napa area.Tedeschi's Cabernets typically see 36 months in oak which is longer than many wineries, but the wines are not oak driven by any means. The reason for this is his barrel program incorporates mostly neutral French Oak and some American oak. In addition these wines are not fined before bottling |
| 2004 | Temple Family Vineyards | Cabernet | 2D6 | 54 | 4 | 91ct |
| 91 cellar trackerDrink Dates: 2011 - 2020 "This beautiful and densely packed Cabernet is a brilliant example of great vineyard managing and great wine making. This wine has impeccable purity, density and depth, with loads of fruit, but never feels sweet or hot. The wine has tremendous balance, but also shows good tannin and acid structure, which should easily let this wine cruise for another 10 to 15 years. It can be drunk young, and will easily please any hedonist." This beautiful and densely packed Cabernet is a brilliant example of great vineyard managing and great wine making. This wine has impeccable purity, density and depth, with loads of fruit, but never feels sweet or hot. The wine has tremendous balance, but also shows good tannin and acid structure, which should easily let this wine cruise for another 10 to 15 years. It can be drunk young, and will easily please any hedonist."A dark and brooding cabernet sauvignon with dominant notes of cassis, cherry pie, cigar box (complete with cigars) and soy. Secondary aromas lean toward red meats, blackberries and pencil shavings. On the palate the 2004 Temple Cab is rich and velvety with ripe red cherry, blackberry and unsweetened chocolate. The fruit continues through to the finish, which also retains hints of tobacco Black in color, gorgeous notes of cassis, cherry pie, cigar box, tobacco, and soy. Secondary aromas of red meats, blackberry, and pencil shavings. Rich velvety palate of ripe red cherry, blackberry and baker's chocolate. Finishes long with red fruits and hints of tobacco |
| 2001 | Terra Blanca Onyx | Red Wine | 1C4 | 67 | 1 | |
| BRONZE - Dallas Morning News Wine Competition - 2006 SILVER - Hilton Head Wine Competition, SC Raspberry and cherry with notes of violets lift from the glass and mingle with soft spice and toasted oak on the nose. Smooth, lush flavors of blackberry, black cherry, and cassis wrap around a core of full, yet soft, structured tannins. Cedar notes with light touches of spice fold into lingering cherry and berry flavors surrounded by a sea of rich chocolate on the long, silky finish. |
| 2002 | Thomas Michael Dalraddy Vineyard | Cabernet | 3C2 | 46 | 1 | |
| 2006 | Titus Reserve | Cabernet | | 63 | 1 | 91rp |
| Rating: Robert Parker: 91 Points The outstanding 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve has more blackberry, blueberry, espresso, and chocolate notes, with hints of licorice, and again, spring flowers. This dense, rich wine has subtle smoke, full body, and is a seriously endowed, classic Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. It should drink well for 15 or more years. |
| 2001 | Treana | Red Wine | 8D5 | 45 | 1 | 90we |
| The Wine Enthusiast You can taste the richness here in the deeply satisfying dark stone fruit and earth complexities of plums, coffee, black cherries and spices. This is a very dry, full-bodied and balanced wine, with a firm spread of dusty tannins. It's excellent now, and should develop additional complexities for several years. Score: 90. —Steve Heimoff, July 01, 2005. |
| 1999 | Trefethen | Cabernet | 5D1 | 43 | 1 | 88ws |
| 88ws "Austere but rich and complex with currant chocolate and blackberry flavors that are tightly wound finishing with a good push of fruit flavors and firm tannins. Best from 2004 through 2012." |
| 2001 | Trefethen | Cabernet | 5C11 | 37 | 1 | 90cg |
| 90cg Vintage 2001 “Ripe enough for its cassis and cherry-like fruit to be nicely concentrated and taking on attractively rich notes of créme brûlée and caramel… its solid structure and ample depth will hold it in good stead for four to six years.” 90w$s |
| 2004 | Trefethen | Cabernet | 5C8-10 | 50 | 3 | 90cg |
| 90cg 90 points Connoisseurs' Guide to California Wine: "8% Merlot; 1% Cabernet Franc; 1% Petit Verdot. Ripe enough for its cassis- and cherry-like fruit to be nicely concentrated and taking on attractively rich notes of creme brulee and caramel in both its aromas and supple-textured palatal impressions, this wine is fairly full in bottle and holds on well at the end despite its light to medium tannins. Its solid structure and ample depth will hold it in good stead for four to six years." (04/08) Intense fruit, some spice notes. Great balance, gooddepth of flavours and vanilla/spice notes. Drink 2010-18. -Decanter |
| 2006 | Trefethen | Cabernet | | 50 | 1 | 97we |
| Wine Enthusiast Review Rated 97 CELLAR SELECTION A monumental Cabernet that succeeds on every level. It's deep, dark and ultrarich, showing massive blackberries, black currants, dark chocolate, violets, minerals and a touch of sweet, smoky oak. Beyond the flavors is the dramatic structure, with fabulously ripe, dense tannins and a bone-dry, long finish. Surely a tremendous wine capable of long-term aging. Try 2012-2018, at least. Wine Tasting Notes Deep ruby in color, this complex Cabernet Sauvignon exhibits luxurious nose of blackberry, black cherry, plum, black currant, black pepper, cola nut, and chocolate with a hint of black pepper and olive. The tannins are ripe and velvety, leading to a richly textured palate. The wine's fresh, rich raspberry jam, blackberry, currant, and chocolate flavors lead to a long persistent finish of cherry and toasted oak vanilla. |
| 1999 | Trefethen Reserve | Cabernet | 5D2 | 75 | 1 | 90ws |
| ws90 Intense and concentrated, with wonderful purity of flavor built around a dense, complex core of blackberry and wild berry, with hints of anise, black cherry, herb and coffee. Excellent focus and lively acidity keep the flavors vibrant and focused. Ample tannins on the finish for short-term cellaring. Drink now through 2012. |
| 2004 | Tres Sabores Rutherford Perspective | Cabernet | 2D8 | 58 | 1 | |
| Perspective: the experience os tastes relative to one another as determined by one's distance from a glass of luscious Cabernet hand crafted from the western Rutherford Bench. The Vineyards, Ranch, and Winery of Tres Sabores: "Three savory flavors" are nestled against the western Hills of Rutherford where Julie Johnson and her family grow organically certified Zinfandel, Cabernet, and Petite Syrah. The Tres Sabores collection comprises three sumptuous bottlings: Rutherford Perspective Cabernet Sauvignon, Tres Sabores Zinfandel and a delightful Zinfandel-based blend: ¿Porqué No?....wines that celebrate the creativity of winemaking, encourage you to explore your own ideas about taste as well as expand your personal enjoyment of wine "beyond terroir". Visitors to winery are personally welcomed by the owner, winemaker for a tour of the winery and vineyard, as well as a barrel tasting in the cave. Guests may make additional arrangements for a vineyard-side picnic gathering under the canopy of a century-old olive grove, olive oil or pomegranate tastings in season, as well as a personal introduction to the resident Goldens, sheep, goats, and guinea hens. Travel into the western benchland off Whitehall Lane and discover the distinctive and truly enticing |
| 1999 | Tudal Estate | Cabernet | 5B2 | 100 | 1 | |
| True to Arnold’s style of wine, the 1999 is reminiscent of our 1994 with ripe berry flavors that linger into a soft coffee/toffee spice finish. As with all the Cabernets from Tudal, this wine is ready to drink. Further cellaring for up to twenty years will bring many surprises. Wine Spectator rated the1999 Napa Valley Cabernet vintages a "97"... |
| 2005 | Two Iron | Red Wine | | 60 | 16 | |
| 2002 | Twomey | Merlot | 1D10 | 70 | 1 | 94rp |
| 94rp Even better than the 2001 is the 2002 Merlot, a blend of 99.4% Merlot and .6% Cabernet Franc. The good news is that there are 10,845 cases of this sex pot of a Merlot. An exotic perfume of pepper, herbs, black cherries, plums, and raspberries is accompanied by an exciting texture, a plush, fleshy palate, and a concentrated, long heady, moderately tannic finish. This wine should improve over the next 2-3 years and last for 10-14. Very impressive! This is a top-flight single-vineyard wine aged completely in French oak, which is in total contrast to the wines made at Silver Oak. (02/05) |
| 2004 | V Sattui | Cabernet | 6A1 | 44 | 1 | gold |
| 2001 | Varozza | Cabernet | 3A8 | 45 | 1 | 90cp |
| 90cp (crush me press) Initially a bit tight, this St. Helena wine opens slowly building layers of complexity with a strong satisfying finish. Given a chance to breathe it expresses aromas of deep dark fruits, hints of cocoa and tobacco. On the palette, the wine shows a real affinity for black fruit; plum, black cherry and blackberry most prevalent, hiding behind muscular tannins. Gives indications of being there for the long haul, guaranteeing a reward for those with the patience to allow this wine to unfold at its own pace. |
| 2000 | Veraison Stagecoach Vineyard | Cabernet | 6D11 | 45 | 1 | |
| 2005 | Veraison Stagecoach Vineyard | Cabernet | | 58 | 1 | 93ws |
| 93ws Deftly balanced, elegant and refined, this is focused on a ripe, juicy core of black cherry, plum and blackberry fruit. Ends with a long finish and fine-grained tannins. Drink now through 2015. 1,232 cases made. Score: 93. —James Laube, 2009. A multi layered nose showing pristine ripe Cabernet Sauvignon aromas of blackcurrants and blackberries, as well as cedar, raspberry jam, and vanilla. The palate is full and rich, primary fruit flavors of dark black fruits, violets, and cassis coupled with wild sage, licorice, and earthiness. The wine has great density with firm supportive tannins that match perfectly with the long finish. Enjoy now through 2017. |
| 1999 | Verite La Muse | Red Wine | 2D11 | 130 | 1 | 96rp |
| Possibly the wine of the vintage, the terrific opaque blue-purple colored wine offers up gorgeous aromas of espresso, melted caramel, black cherry jam, tobacco, and flowers. It reveals an unctuous texture (amazing for a 1999) as well as a huge palate impact, yet great balance, purity, and overall harmony. This prodigious effort will be drinkable young, yet last for 20-25 years. I believe this is the same wine, with just a slight adjustment in the blend, that I referred to as the 1999 Merlot in issue #132.". |
| 2001 | Verite La Muse | Red Wine | 2D9-10 | 130 | 2 | 94rp |
| 94 points from Robert Parker! - "The 2001 La Muse (85% Merlot, 13% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Malbec; 500 cases) possesses a dense purple color as well as a big, sweet bouquet of chocolate-infused blackberries and cherries intermixed with hints of smoke, earth, and truffles. Full-bodied, with great intensity, tremendous purity, sweet, well-integrated tannin, and a long, blockbuster finish that lasts for 40+ seconds, it offers both power and finesse, a rarity in the super-charged world of big California reds. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2020+. This is an out and out brilliant wine!" Wine Advocate #150 (Dec 2003). |
| 2003 | Verite La Muse | Red Wine | | 199 | 1 | 93rp |
| "The 2003 La Muse (a blend of 83.5% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc, 5.5% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the rest Malbec) is sourced from three vineyards, Bennett Valley, Alexander Valley, and Knight’s Valley. An elegant, sweet nose of espresso roast, chocolate, berries, kirsch, smoke, incense, and roasted meats is followed by a full-bodied, unctuously-textured wine with superb fruit, richness, complexity, and length. Its sweet tannin and heady personality suggest current accessibility as well as the ability to age for 15-20 years." - Robert Parker, Wine Advocate #162 (Dec 2005) 93st (83.5% merlot, 10% cabernet franc, 5.5% cabernet sauvignon and 1% malbec) Full ruby-red. Deep aromas of currant, mocha, chocolate, iron, tobacco and dried herbs, with a liqueur-like nuance. Round, vinous and rich, with highly concentrated flavors of currant, leather and chocolate. There's a silkiness to the texture and a candied note to the wine's fruit, but this powerfully structured merlot-based wine's building tannins and uncompromising dryness will require at least four or five years of cellaring. 93 points By Stephen Tanzer |
| 2005 | Viader | Red Wine | | 40 | 3 | 92st |
| 92we It is entirely conceivable that this blend of the two Cabernets could improve dramatically with time in the bottle. Currently, it’s a very dry, firmly tannic wine, with black currant, mocha, cherry and new oak flavors that have a distinctive edge of sweet herbs, figs and tobacco. Improves considerably with airing in the glass, so decant if you drink it anytime soon. Cellar Selection. 92st Good full ruby-red. Highly complex nose offers currant, plum, blueberry, bitter chocolate and herbs. Suave, silky and downright creamy in the mouth, with lovely breadth and palate coverage. Fresh but harmonious acidity gives this a rather sophisticated texture. In comparison to the easier, fruit-forward 2004, this one is more characterized by its bite and structure. 91ws Sleek and elegantly styled, with spicy currant, sage, dusty berry, mineral and pleasant herb and sage notes. Well-balanced, even delicate and detailed. 69% Cabernet Sauvignon and 31% Cabernet Franc. Best from 2009 through 2014. 2,119 cases made. 91 points –JL 90cg 69% Cabernet Sauvignon; 31% Cabernet Franc. From its fairly deep and sophisticated aromas of currants, dried blossoms, rich oak and woodsy spice to its full yet supple entry and its firm and well-structured latter palate impacts, everything about this wine speaks to quality and ageworthiness. Yet, for all of its complexity and evident charm, it is surprisingly hard in the finish and asks for years of patience. Our 2005 VIADER reaches a more sophisticated, almost "aristocratic" elegance, showing initial notes of mocha and tobacco leaf supporting the ripe black fruit. Enticingly sweet brown sugar notes on the nose complement currant and mineral undertones typical of wines coming from Howell Mountain's volcanic soil. On the palate this wine shows refined, supple tannins with a persistent cashmere finish. |
| 2002 | Vine Cliff Napa | Cabernet | 2C2-5 | 45 | 4 | 95we |
| 95we Napa, CA- "This blend of Oakville and Calistoga is marked by intensely ripe cherry, cassis, cocoa and oak flavors and fabulous balance. Superbly rich and massive, with rich, smooth tannins, this lovely Cab maintains elegance and structural integrity through the long, polished finish." {Intense, Cassis, Mocha, Cedar, Full-bodied} Wine Enthusiast 88cg 10% Cabernet Franc; 4% Petit Verdot. With a certain plushness and juicy immediacy that reminds of good Merlot as much as it does of Cabernet, this liberally oaked effort smacks of caramel, vanilla and cherries in the nose and follows with sweet, almost succulent flavors of a similar bent. The wine slowly picks up a bit of Cabernet firmness and ends with a fine line of tannin, but it never suggests that it needs any more than a few years of age and is thoroughly likeable now. Aroma; Ripe bing cherry, blueberry and deep black plum fruits. Floral with violets and lavender laced with spicy oak, hints of cocoa, caramel and sweet expensive leather. Palate; Sweet, juicy upfront ripe cherry and plum fruit. Soft supple texture. Big rich mid palate with long chewy tannins on the finish. The 2002 Napa Cabernet blend is 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc, and 4% Petite Verdot. The Oakville Cabernet imparts structure and concentration to the blend while the Cabernet Franc from our Pickett Road Vineyard gives the wine length, finesse and a polished supple texture |
| 2001 | Vine Cliff Oakville | Cabernet | 3A1-2 | 75 | 2 | 91ws |
| 91 points from the Wine Spectator and listed at a $75 retail price- "This is an intense, firmly tannic youngster, with loads of mocha, toffee, currant and black cherry flavors that are rich and concentrated, with a wall of chewy tannins on the finish. Best from 2006 through 2012." (11/04) 91we This is a difficult wine to drink now, due to its palate-numbing tannins. Yet there’s something big and flashy going on. The finish is long in black currant fruit, so stunningly rich it can only survive as the tannins fall out. Try after 2008, but it could go long beyond that. — S.H. (10/1/2004) |
| 1999 | Von Strasser Diamond Mountain | Cabernet | 8B11 | 55 | 1 | 91we |
| 91we Smooth and supple texture frames this sleek and complex wine that is both elegant and powerful. It offers a fine blend of blackberry, cassis, anise, spice, herb and toasty oak flavors that fan out on the long finish. — J.M. (6/1/2002) 90rp WONDERFUL COFFEE, MOCHA AND GRAPEY CURRANT AROMAS LEAD TO A RIPE, JUICY WINE." ENJOY THROUGH 2009The dense, rich, and full-bodied 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Vineyards Diamond Mountain exhibits copious quantities of cassis, licorice, and Asian spices as well as sweet tannin in the finish. It should drink well for 10-15+ years RP90"...DENSE, RICH, AND FULL-BODIED..." DRINK THROUGH 2012 |
| 2001 | Von Strasser Diamond Mountain | Cabernet | 8B8-9 | 55 | 2 | 91ws |
| 91ws "Big, rich, earthy and leathery style that packs in lots of exotic spice, currant, plum and blackberry flavors. It's dense and focused, intense and quite tannic. But the finish shows notable depth and complexity. Can stand more cellaring.--'81/'91 California Cabernet retrospective. Drink now through 2012. (JL). WS" st Firm and austere, with flinty mineral, red currant, plum and black cherry fruit. Flexes its tannic muscles yet manages to still showcase the ripe fruit. Needs time or decanting. Best from 2006 through 2013. 900 cases made." Medium red-ruby. Aromas of redcurrant, mocha, tobacco, cola and smoky oak. Refined and claret-like, with supple, sweet flavors of currant and licorice. Finishes with suave, rather soft tannins. |
| 2001 | Von Strasser Diamond Mountain Estate | Cabernet | 8B10 | 90 | 1 | 93w&s |
| 93 Points: This is a big wine for folks who like to age their Cabs. It's huge in mountain tannins now, but the underlying structure is so fine, and the cassis and cherry fruit so pure, that is guaranteed to improve this decade and beyond w&s93 Intimations of greatness: This Cabernets simple cherry flavor is so fine and fresh that it glows. There's a youthful friskiness to the fruit, a benefit, perhaps, of the cool nights on Diamond Mountain. And there's a complex earthiness that lasts beyond the fruit, the tannins integrated, the flavors long. von Strasser's aptitude for grape growing shows Napa hillside fruit at its best.st90 cg90 Perhaps the most open of the Von Strasser gang, this very rich wine is laden with loads of ripe and very well-concentrated curranty fruit, and its way is paved with unstinting oak and rich, loamy spice. Its bias to ripeness is clear all the way through, and it picks up a wee bit of heat in its moderately tannic finish. Its closing toughness is hard to ignore, but the wine never lets go of its fruit, and it will need a half-dozen years of taming before rounding into its very best shape. |
| 2004 | Von Strasser Diamond Mountain Estate | Cabernet | 8B7 | 70 | 1 | 92st |
| 92st Bright ruby-red.Deep aromas of black raspberry, minerals, flowers, cola and spicy oak. Concentrated, bright and sweet, with lovely spicy lift to the flavors of crystallized dark berries and chocolate. Offers impressive balance and enticing sweetness.Finishes broad, ripe, lush and long, with plenty of fine-grained tannins. An excellent example of Diamond Mountain cabernet. We were a little disturbed the other day when we read that Rudy Von Strasser was going to pioneer the Austrian grape Gruner Veltliner in the Napa Valley. Why upset? Don’t we love Gruner?Yes, but we don’t see much of a resemblance between Diamond Mountain and the Wachau, and we don’t want Rudy to get sidetracked as so many California vintners have playing with new stuff and not keeping the eye on the proverbial ball. Especially after his ripping 2004s, which we think are the best wines he has made! The 2004 Estate, from Diamond Mountain, is made up of 80% Cab with 15% Petite Verdot and 5% Merlot done in French oak (50% new). |
| 2000 | Whitehall Lane Reserve | Cabernet | 4C6 | 76 | 1 | 91ws |
| 91ws Barrel Tasting:Rich and plush, with a silky texture leading to ripe cherry, currant, mocha and wild berry. Finishes with a long, fruity aftertaste and firming tannins. Score range: 92-94 2000 presented a stunning growing season of warm days and cool nights. There was excellent grape flavor and acid development as the grapes ripened sweetly and evenly into September. In September and October, the weather cooled, delaying the ripening process. This cooler Fall weather gave the grapes longer hang time in the vineyard for added flavor development. The result is very good balance and soft, ripe tannin development. This 100% Cabernet Sauvignon has attractive aromas, a wonderful silky texture and well-integrated toasty oak. It displays elegant structure with layers of delightful berry and cocoa flavors. It is enjoyable now but will definitely reward the patient collector 2000 Whitehall Lane Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve Napa Valley, Always one of the highest rated wines of the vintage and known throughout the world as a top Cabernet, this will not disappoint! Rich and super classy wine that shows why this winery is always among the best! Cassis, plum and cherry/berry fruits with hints of cedar and vanilla spices. Full and complex wine that is beautiful to behold.91 points Wine Spectator: "A complex, concentrated style. Firm, earthy tannins support a center of mocha, currant and plum Cabernet flavors, with hints of dill and cedar woven in. Shows a burst of fruit on the long, rich aftertaste. Drink now through 2011." (11/03) |
| 2003 | Woodinville Wine Cellars Ausonius | Cabernet | 5C1-2 | 40 | 2 | 89we |
| 89we Our Red Wine blend (83% Cabernet Sauvignon and 17% Cabernet Franc) is named after the Greek philosopher Ausonius. This nicely crafted full-bodied red has a lively nose of red fruits and soft vanilla notes that leap from the glass. Seamless on the palette it offers a round and generous mouth-feel revealing cola tones, black cherry and plum. The finish is long and full with beautifully integrated tannins. Should drink best from 2007 – 2015. |
| 2000 | Woodward Canyon | Cabernet | 9D3 | 36 | 1 | 92we |
| 92we Comes on like the big dog it is, with powerful scents of brash berries, cassis and smoky oak. Meaty, big and bouncy (apologies to the Who) this is a flavor-laden explosion of power and grace. Still young and relatively tight, this is a polished, textured wine with immense potential over the next decade. 92 The 2000 Artist Series is a blend of 82% cabernet sauvignon, 11% cabernet franc and 7% merlot. 90 points according to the Wine Spectator Weekly: "The warm vintage makes this firm-textured wine generous with its flavors, offering currant and plum notes that emerge nicely from a lattice of fine-grained tannins, picking up hints of bay leaf and olive. Mostly Cabernet Sauvignon, it has 11 percent Cabernet Franc and 7 percent Merlot. Best from 2004 through 2010." (05/03) This wine is a beautiful red wine, integrated with spicy new oak, generous black fruits, a rich, silky texture, and deep purple color. The wine is nicely proportioned with a long finish of cassis, cherries, mocha, and vanilla. This cabernet will benefit significantly with additional bottle age and should easily age for twelve years with proper storage. |
| 2005 | Woodward Canyon Old Vines | Cabernet | 9D1-2 | 75 | 2 | 94wa |
| 94wa "The 2005 Old Vines is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from the Champoux Vineyard (the principal source of the Quilceda Creek Cabernet). It was aged for 20 months in 100% new French oak. Opaque purple, it offers up aromas of pain grille, pencil lead, violets, vanilla, black currant, and blackberry liqueur. This leads to a wine with serious depth and concentration, sweet, savory fruit, incipient complexity, and a very long, pure finish. Give it 5-6 years in the cellar and drink it through 2030. I tasted a 1983 Old Vines on this tasting trip and it was in impeccable condition, at its peak but with another decade of life." |
| 2005 | Worthy Sophia's Cuvee | Cabernet | 3D3-4 | 32 | 2 | |
| One of the most highly sought after wines in the U.S. under $50 because of its' delicious and rich flavors vintage after vintage. Worthy, the second label of Axios, comes in as a blend from some of the greatest vineyards in Napa, including Viader, Dalla Valle and Axios. It has been described as "gloriously bold and lush, with a generous bouquet of new oak, black cherry and cassis. Frankly, there's not another Cabernet in the price range that can touch it right now. This wine is made up of 77% Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Merlot and 2% Cabernet Franc. This wine exhibited a dark garnet color throughout with aromas of blackberries, cherries, and plums with a hint of chocolate and oak. On the palate, flavors of plums, ripe cherries, and dark chocolate were wrapped up in smooth tannins with an adequate finish. Always an enjoyable wine. The Washington Post called it "declassified, but still first rate". The Worthy has been a best-seller for us since we introduced the 2003 vintage. It is made from declassified Axios vineyard juice, and considering its big brother runs $150 and up, the Worthy is a real bargain. It is a palate-coating red with currant, dark cherry, and smoky notes. A perfect week-day splurge red wine. |
| 2002 | ZD Reserve | Cabernet | 4B10 | 116 | 1 | 92wn |
| 92wn Pungent aromas of brambly berries, cherry, chocolate chip and dust. A big mouthful of blackberry syrup, plum, milk chocolate and coffee ground flavors. Rich, chocolaty close. $115 89cg California Grapevine 89 points - Medium to medium-dark ruby; attractive, forward, rich, plummy, slightly herbaceous, cassis, dark plum and blackberry fruit aroma with hints of blueberries and cedar; medium-full to full body; forward, herbal, cedary, blackberry fruit flavors; full tannin; lingering aftertaste. Approachable now though deserving of several more years of bottle aging. Highly recommended. Gold Medal "Best of Class" Pacific Rim International Wine Competition 2005 2002 reflects yet another fantastic growing season for ZD’s premiere vintage Cabernet Sauvignon. The grapes come from several small, low yielding Napa Valley vineyards. Each vineyard lot was hand harvested and fermented separately in small open top stainless steel tanks. The wines were gently punched down three times a day to give us excellent extraction without overly aggressive tannins. After almost one year in barrel as individual lots, the wines were then blended and returned to barrel for an additional two years of aging in our state of the art cellars. This wine was bottled in July 05, with only 850 cases produced. The wine has a rich, intense nose of blackberry, cassis, and plum fruit with subtle hints of vanilla, toast and caramel. The balance is structured yet elegant, with soft, silky tannins and a surprisingly long toasty finish. This wine is drinking beautifully now, but you can expect this wine to develop for many years to come. Enjoy!! Serves up a core of ripe, zesty currant, raspberry and mocha-dill oak, that lies heavy on the palate. Tannins are firm and chewy, so it's best to cellar short-term. Best from 2006 through 2012. (ws) |
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