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90+ Rated Wines
100-Point Eisele Cabernet 2-Bottle Gift Pack
$ 799.98
A wine Collectors dream pack! This Two Bottle Gift box includes one bottle of the extremely rare 100-Point Eisele 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon and one bottle of the Eisele 2019 'Altagracia' Cabernet Sauvignon, two of the highest-rated and rare Cabs from Napa Valley. It displays beautifully in a premium crafted Brix26 wooden logo box.
This handsome collector box comes wrapped in tissue paper with complete tasting notes on each wine (personalized gift card available during checkout). Subject to availability.
Review:
100 Points Robert Parker: "Deep purple-black in color, the nose of the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon slowly unfurls to reveal a gorgeous perfume of violets and roses over a core of kirsch, boysenberries and cassis, plus hints of redcurrant jelly and menthol, emerging into wafts of pencil lead and truffles. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is built like a brick house, featuring very firm, wonderfully ripe, grainy tannins and bold freshness to support the vivacious, tightly wound black and red fruit layers, finishing long and mineral laced. It's a stunning, evocative, singular wine that so beautifully captures the long, slow-maturing grace of the 2019 vintage..."This is the first complete expression of this vineyard, using all the dedicated blocks (to the west) for this label," winemaker Helene Mingot mentioned. Indeed, coming up on eight years since the Pinault family purchased the estate, this 2019 has a compelling effortless harmony—a joy to taste!" The team at Eisele, led by Frédéric Engerer (of Chateau Latour) and beautifully orchestrated by winemaker Hélène Mingot, have knocked it out of the park this vintage with this singular expression that both embraces the site's heritage and reveals parts unknown."
Ad Vivum 2018 Sleeping Lady Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
$ 169.95
A fantastic boutique Cabernet from Ad Vivum and the great 2018 vintage - limited.
The 2018 Ad Vivum Cabernet represents one of Napa's best recent vintages, made with 100% cabernet sauvignon grapes from two micro-blocks at Sleeping Lady Vineyard in Yountville along the Mayacamas Mountains. Winemaker Chris Phelps has worked with Petrus, Dominus and Caymus and he made just 430 cases of this allocation only wine for his own label. Dense tannic structure and youthfully energetic cassis mean the wine will drink well for several decades to come.
97+ Robert Parker: "Made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, the Ad Vivum 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Sleeping Lady Vineyard is deep garnet-purple in color. It leaps from the glass with blackcurrant jelly, warm plums and mulberries notes plus suggestions of black raspberries, roses, tar, anise and fragrant earth. Full-bodied, the palate is very tight-knit, with firm, ripe, grainy tannins and lively acidity supporting the layers upon layers of nuances, finishing very long and wonderfully minerally. 480 cases were made."
Alpha Omega 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
$ 144.99
Fantastic new Napa Valley Cabernet from Alpha Omega.
93+ Points Jeb Dunnuck: "The base appellation Alpha Omega 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley succeeds wonderfully in the vintage, offering classic blue fruits, cassis, scorched earth, crushed stone, and tobacco-like aromas and flavors. This beauty is medium to full-bodied and has a seamless, elegant texture, remarkable balance, and a great finish. It can be drunk today with loads of pleasure but will benefit from a handful of years of bottle age and drink nicely for 15+ years."
Alpha Omega in Rutherford was founded by Robin Baggett and Eric Sklar, who both have wine industry backgrounds. The winemaker is Jean Hoefliger and French wine consultant Michel Rolland is also part of the winemaking team. The estate makes Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. Henrik Poulsen is winemaker. Consulting winemakers are Jean Hoefliger and Michel Rolland. Robert Parker has written that the winery “continues to turn out impressive wines that merit attention from consumers.”
Anakota 2017 Helena Dakota Cabernet Sauvignon, Knight's Valley
$ 119.99
96 Points
Limited new Cabernet from Anakota.
97 Points Robert Parker: "The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Helena Dakota Vineyard, bottled six months ago, is very deep purple-black in color. Red roses waft sensuously, provocatively out of the glass, taking center stage until the notes of kirsch, blackberries and black raspberries come through, followed by Ceylon tea and forest floor. The palate is medium-bodied, very freshly perfumed and drop-dead gorgeous in the mouth, with a firm, grainy frame and long, mineral-laced finish. 900 cases produced."
Anakota is made by master winemaker Pierre Seillan, who is the genius behind the Bordeaux-inspired blends at Verité. His Verité wines have received seven perfect 100 point scores from Robert Parker, more than any other Sonoma winery. Anakota, focuses on 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from single-vineyards in Sonoma's Knights Valley (home to cult producer Peter Michael).
Anakota 2019 Helena Dakota Cabernet Sauvignon, Knight's Valley
$ 199.99
96 Points
Limited new Cabernet from Anakota.
99 Points James Suckling: "Incredibly spicy and aromatic with pumice and cloves. Pops out of the glass. Cedar, too. Full-bodied with soft, polished tannins adding tension and creaminess. Long and beautiful. All about class and breeding. Try after 2025.”
98 points Robert Parker: "The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Helena Montana Vineyard (100% Cabernet Sauvignon) was tasted as a finished blend that has come out of barrel in preparation for bottling. It spent 12 months in 100% new French oak and is due to be bottled in April 2021. Deep garnet-purple in color, the nose is very primary, revealing pure blueberry, plums and crushed black currants scents with nuances of cedar, cloves and dried Provence herbs. Medium to full-bodied, the palate has a firm, grainy texture with concentrated black fruits leading to a very long, fruity finish."
Anakota is made by master winemaker Pierre Seillan, who is the genius behind the Bordeaux-inspired blends at Verité. His Verité wines have received seven perfect 100 point scores from Robert Parker, more than any other Sonoma winery. Anakota, focuses on 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from single-vineyards in Sonoma's Knights Valley (home to cult producer Peter Michael).
Andrew Will 2017 Sorella Red Blend, Horse Heaven Hills
$ 89.99
97 Points
Andrew Will is one of Washington States finest wineries. We highly recommend the Sorella Proprietary Red, one of the best Bordeaux Blends in Washington and top-scoring wine of the vintage.
97 Points Robert Parker: "A resounding success, the deep ruby-colored 2017 Sorella displays beautiful purple highlights and explodes from the glass with aromas of blackberry, cigar box and dried tobacco with hints of graphite and dusty purple flowers. Full-bodied, the wine is ripe and round, with an immaculate mouthfeel, showing an impressive depth of flavor. With succulent red and black fruit expressions and soft cinnamon spice tones from oak, the wine is a whirlwind of complexity across the mid-palate. Emerging with a balanced structure and lifted tannic backbone, the wine lingers with persistence and intention, as flavors of dusty bitter dark chocolate, black plum and spiced dark cherries flutter across the finish. Bravo, this is absolutely stunning and will drink amazingly for the next two decades to come.. Only 472 cases were made, and it will be your lucky day if you can add some of this stellar wine to your cellar. Bravo!
95+ Points Jeb Dunnuck: "Lastly, the flagship 2017 Sorella Champoux Vineyard shares plenty of similarities with the base Champoux Vineyard release yet has another level of concentration. Medium to full-bodied, flawlessly balanced, with silky tannins, it has a great bouquet of blueberries, cassis, mint, violets, and leafy herbs. As with all these 2017s from Chris Camarda, it shines for its balance and purity. Give bottles 2-4 years in the cellar, and it’s going to evolve for 15-20 years with no issues."
Robert Parker: "Readers looking for classic, age-worthy Washington state Bordeaux blends need look no further than this terrific estate. As always, they release a few appellation blends (Esploso and Sorella) and numerous single vineyard wines (Champoux, Ciel du Cheval, Mays’ and Two Blondes). The wines show singular characters and have broad drink windows."
Andrew Will 2018 Two Blondes Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Yakima Valley
$ 37.99
Andrew Will is one of Washington States finest wineries. We highly recommend this Cabernet.
Robert Parker: "Readers looking for classic, age-worthy Washington state Bordeaux blends need look no further than this terrific estate. As always, they release a few appellation blends (Esploso and Sorella) and numerous single vineyard wines (Champoux, Ciel du Cheval, Mays’ and Two Blondes). The wines show singular characters and have broad drink windows."
93 Points James Suckling: "Pretty blackberry and blueberry aromas with black licorice. A full body, firm and silky tannins and a fresh finish. Integrated and tight. Needs two or three years to come together. Better in 2020."
92 Points Jeb Dunnuck: "Blueberry, violets, blood orange, and candied orange peel all emerge from the Andrew Will Cabernet Sauvignon. It's beautifully pure, fresh, and elegant, yet also has terrific concentration and depth. It's just another balanced, beautiful wine from this estate."
92 Points Robert Parker: "Offering up notes of minty cassis, blackberries and cigar smoke, the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon is medium to full-bodied, supple and velvety, with beautifully fine-grained tannins and a deep core of fruit. While it's already generous and expressive, it's a touch more tight-knit at the core and richly structured than the corresponding Merlot."
Anthill Farms 2020 Comptche Ridge Vineyard Pinot Noir, Mendocino County
$ 54.99
96 Points
One of the best new Pinot Noir producers in California! The partners, who all previously worked at Williams Selyem, are deeply committed to crafting high quality, cool climate single vineyard Pinot Nor, Syrah and Chardonnay sourced from vineyards in Northern California. Limited.
94 Points Robert Parker: "Medium ruby-purple, the 2020 Pinot Noir Comptche Ridge is scented of pomegranate, blueberry, tea leaves, mushrooms and forest floor. The medium-bodied palate offers an intense core of perfumed berry fruit supported by grainy tannins and bright acidity, and it finishes long and sapid. Drink it now for its plush, alluring fruit."
previous vintage 96 Points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "Another stellar wine in this range, the Anthill Farms Pinot Noir Comptche Ridge is fabulous. In this vintage, the Comptche Ridge is a bit richer and deeper than it has been, while avoiding some of the austerity this wine can show. Beguiling in its aromatics and finely sculpted, the 2018 is marvelously complex. There is plenty of tannin, and the acids are bright (as they are for all these wines), but the 2018 is deep and so multi-faceted. It will appeal most to readers who enjoy taut, structured reds."
Located a few miles from the Pacific Ocean, this vineyard sits near the tiny town of Annapolis, and is farmed by Steve Campbell. At approximately 750 feet above sea level, it sits right at the boundary of the marine layer, ensuring that the cool, coastal climate delays ripening well beyond the warmer vineyards to the east. The two-decade-old vines grow on sandy, low-vigor Goldridge soil, which helps reduce yields to near two tons per acre.
Antica 2018 Mountain Select Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
$ 69.99
94 Points
This California Cabernet is made by one of the greatest Tuscan wineries: Antinori. Known for their Super Tuscans, this California estate wine lives up to their greatly deserved reputation. It is full bodied and rich with darker fruits and an earthy but smooth background. The finish is long and expressive.
San Francisco Chronicle Top 100 Wines of 2012! The new chapter from Tuscany's legendary Piero Antinori's Atlas Peak project has found its footing with a distinctive Antica Napa Cabernet.
95 Points James Suckling: "A full and juicy red with berry and mushroom character, round and juicy tannins and a flavorful finish. Shows focus and tension. Drink after 2020. 100% Estate-Grown – 95% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc."
94 Points Wine Enthusiast: "The Antica Cabernet shows its mountain provenance in meaty, grippy and gritty tannins and a broad expansive weight on the palate. But beneath its brawn is beauty and a rounded lushness of delicious drinkability, a mix of brambly blackberry, cherry, cassis and crushed rock. Let it sit in the glass over time or consider cellaring."
Antica 2019 "Mountain Select" Chardonnay, Napa Valley
$ 27.00
93 Points
Antica Chardonnay Napa Valley is made by one of the greatest Tuscan wineries: Antinori. Known for their Super Tuscans, this California estate wine lives up to their greatly deserved reputation with this lovely Burgundian style Chardonnay.
92 Points Robert Parker: "The Antica Chardonnay Mountain Select features fresh Bosc pears, ripe nectarines and lemon curd notes with touches of lime leaves and hay. Medium-bodied, elegant and lively in the mouth, it has a restrained, understated character and chalky finish."
Antinori 2018 "Solaia" Toscana Proprietary Red, Italy
$ 399.99
New release of the cult Super Tuscan Solaia from Antinori! One of Italy's finest.
98 Points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "Antinori’s 2018 Solaia captures all of the elegance of this important vintage. The bouquet alone is mesmerizing. It speaks to the stunning beauty and pedigree of Cabernet Sauvignon as grown at the Antinori family’s Tignanello property. Sweet scents of crème de cassis, lavender, graphite, mint, spice and espresso lead into a fine, delineated palate. Bright and energetic, Solaia is decidedly medium in body in 2018, with striking purity and exceptional beauty. I can’t remember ever tasting a young Solaia with this much sheer appeal and balance in the early going. In 2018 Solaia is 73% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Sangiovese and 7% Cabernet Franc. Production is down to around 60,000 bottles because of strict selection."
97 Points James Suckling: "Very aromatic and lively on the nose with currants, fresh herbs, white pepper and cherry blossoms. Full-bodied with a vertical, multilayered structure and ultra fine tannins. Velvety texture. Extremely long and focused. Complex and succulent. This is the smallest production of Solaia ever. Great length. This is a beautifully complex red that’s open now, but needs another three to four years to show even more of its excellence."
The Antinori family of Florence, one of the world's oldest and most distinguished wine producers, has lived in Tuscany since the 14th century and celebrated its 625th anniversary as wine makers in 2010.
Antinori 2019 "Tignanello" Toscana Proprietary Red, Italy
$ 159.99
New release of the cult Super Tuscan Tignanello! One of Italy's top wines. Limited.
95 Points James Suckling: "Extremely perfumed and vivid, with fresh mushrooms, cherry stones and blackberries. Medium-bodied with very fine tannins that are long and complete. Fresh acidity. Tangy and vibrant. Lovely is the word. Drink or hold."
95 Points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "The 2019 Tignanello is one of the most reserved, understated young wines I can remember tasting here. In so many vintages Tignanello is quite showy, but in 2019 the nervous energy and brightness of Sangiovese takes center stage. That’s intriguing, because the 2019 blend has a bit more Cabernet Sauvignon than normal, a decision made to compensate for some of the lighter qualities in the Sangiovese. With air the 2019 shows gorgeous depth and captivating inner perfume, even if it is clearly still coming together. The 2019 spent about 14 months in oak, with 50% new wood. Things are always in constant evolution at Antinori. This is the first vintage to incorporate some larger 500L barrels, an approach I think will work brilliantly. Drinking window 2027 - 2041."
100 Points Luca Gardini: "A milestone in the contemporary Italian winery. The first Sangiovese aged in barrique, blended with untraditional varieties, the proof that great Bordelais could be created in Italy as well. A selection of Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, shows an intense and velvety nose recalling blackberry and blueberry, scents of fresh pepper leaf, then licorice. Rich and fulfilling mouthfeel with iodized tannins and balsamic touches. Persistent aftertaste.”
Aperture 2021 Chenin Blanc, Sonoma County
$ 34.99
94 Points - new release
A small-production gem! Aperture Chenin Blanc comes from old vines planted in the 1940s in Clarksburg CA. The vines grow in clay loam soils and are cooled by stong breezes off the San Francisco Bay into the delta. 80% fermented and aged in stainless steel and 20% in neutral oak.
94 Points Robert Parker: "The Aperture 2021 Chenin Blanc was matured in stainless steel and 20% used oak for six months. It has very pretty scents of white peach, honeysuckle, beeswax, biscuit and green herbs. The palate is silky, mouthwatering and surprisingly gregarious with intense, nutty fruit and a long, elegant finish. Generous yet structured, the Aperture Chenin Blanc is getting better every year, and this 2021 is worthy of 3-5+ years in bottle."
Aperture 2021 Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley
$ 44.99
96 Points - new release
A small-production gem! Aperture Sauvignon Blanc has a stunning mix of tropical notes and citrus married with decadent highlights of honey on the nose. The barrel fermentation and aging create an incredible richness on the palate that is balanced by significant bright natural acidity.
96 Points Robert Parker: "The 2021 Sauvignon Blanc is blended with three percent Sémillon and matured for six months in one-third new, once-used and older barrels. Sourced mainly from the Dry Stack Vineyard in Bennett Valley, this latest release includes fruit from the Aperture estate vineyards in Healdsburg. In 2022, even more vines will be dedicated to the Sauvignon Blanc, from newly planted vines in the recently purchased Farrow Ranch in Alexander Valley. In the glass, flinty tones give way to perfumed white peach, tarragon, citrus blossoms, toast and beeswax. The palate is medium-bodied, satiny and expansive with concentrated, flint-laced flavors countered by tangy acidity. Its flavors are anchored by a touch of textural grip that also drives the honeyed finish, and this has the potential to develop savory complexity in bottle over the next 3-5 years or more. 1,808 cases produced."
Arbe Garbe 2020 White Blend, Sonoma County
$ 28.00
93 Points
One of our favorite new white discoveries of the year! A delicious blend that we highly recommend.
93 Points Robert Parker: "The Arbe Garbe is a blend of Malvasia, Tocai and Ribolla Gialla. This is an exotic fruit cocktail of a wine with gorgeous aromatics of mango, caramelized melons, honeysuckle, apricot, a touch of pineapple, strawberry and even cherry notes, making for an intense, round and juicy wine. It is an intriguing wine that merits serious attention from readers."
92 Points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "The White Wine Sonoma County is absolutely gorgeous. Sweet, floral aromatics lead to apricot, lemon confit, jasmine and mint. Beautifully perfumed throughout, the 2015 offers a compelling interplay of exotic fruit, lifted aromatics and pliant texture. Not surprisingly, it has much in common with the white blends of Friuli. The 2015 is all class."
Arbe Garbe winemakers Letizia and Enrico Maria Bertoz make white wines in the style of the great white wines of their native Friul, with a little California flair.
Arietta 2021 "On The White Keys" White Wine Napa Valley
$ 69.99
95 pts
A fantastic white blend from winemaker Andy Erickson and Arietta. Don't miss!
95 Points Wine Enthusiast "Editor's Choice": "This is a beautiful blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Sauvignon Muque and Semmilon mad by winemker Andy Erickson. Inspired by Bordeaux, it shows high-toned aromas of Meyer Lemon and lemongrass with a flinty unertone and juicy acidity. Layered, complex and textured, it is floral, earthy and balanced, a gorgeous expression of the grapes."
Arietta On The White Keys is of the most intensely aromatic Sauvignons we have tasted in a long time. Vinous mentions it’s “Creamy in the glass, yet also has quite a bit of supporting structure and overall freshness… Richness and vibrancy is simple compelling” This is a staff favorite and will be for years. Don’t let this one slip through your spring plans.
Arista 2019 Ferrington Vineyard Pinot Noir, Anderson Valley
$ 99.99
Arista is one of California's leading Pinot Noir producers under the helm of winemaker Matt Courtney (Ferren), Limited.
95 Points Jeb Dunnuck: "The 2019 Pinot Noir Ferrington is resinous with medicinal herbs, black cherry fruit, and beet root. The palate is full and rounded with forward fruit, leading into savory notes of raspberry seed, wooded spice, and red plum skin. More structured in style, allow for a year or two in bottle and drink over the following 15 or so years..,,,With the wines made by Matt Courtney, this Russian River estate continues to make some of the best wines in the vintage."
92 Points Wine Spectator: "Lusciously spiced, with lively cherry tart and dried raspberry flavors, backed by crunchy acidity. Mocha hints emerge midpalate, leading to a finish flush with creamy richness. Drink now through 2024. 556 cases made."
92 Points Robert Parker: "Pale ruby-purple, the 2017 Pinot Noir Ferrington Vineyard has earthy aromas of dried herbs, damp soil and mushroom powder with notes of graphite, dried flowers and tea leaves over a core of crunchy blackberries and cranberries. The palate is medium-bodied and intensely minerally, with very juicy, fresh fruit character, finishing a tad coiled."
The Ferrington Vineyard Pinot Noir is a dark and intense wine from one of the most historic vineyards in the famously cool Anderson Valley. On the nose, the wine shows great complexity with notes of brambly wild berry, forest floor, cola, pencil shavings, and blackberry preserves, backed up with classic secondary aromas of ground cinnamon, cedar, and Griotte cherry. The intensely floral nose is accompanied by flavors of bright red raspberry, black pepper, toasted herbs, and tart bing cherries. The mid-palate is silky and rich, leading into a long, layered finish.
Arrow & Branch 2018 "Right Bank Red" Napa Valley
$ 149.99
96+ Points
Limited new release of one of Napa Valley's highest-scoring Cabernet blends from Arrow & Branch. Their bottles are a direct nod to the First Growth properties in Bordeaux.
96+ Robert Parker: "The 2018 Right Bank Blend is a blend of 47% Cabernet Franc, 26% Cabernet Sauvignon, 26% Merlot and l% Petit Verdot, aged for 20 months in French oak, 75% new. Deep garnet- purple in color, it rolls effortlessly, seductively out of the glass with gorgeous scents of lavender, lilacs and baked black cherries, leading to a core of kirsch, warm cassis and chocolate box plus a waft of bouquet garni. The full-bodied palate delivers bright, crunchy fruit, supported by fine-grained tannins and great tension, finishing long, lively and mineral laced. 459 cases were made.”
Arrow&Branch was founded by Steve and Seanne Contursi. Both have enjoyed Bordeaux wines since the 1980’s and have collected wine from a number of premium Bordeaux based, primarily Right Bank producers. One of the rising stars of Napa Valley winemaking, winemaker Jennifer Williams was previously with Araujo & Spotswoode.
Arrowood 2016 'Réserve Spéciale' Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma Valley
$ 89.99
Rare reserve Cabernet from Arrowood. Limited.
96 Points Roberrt Parker: "The deep purple-black colored Arrowood Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve Speciale (100% Cabernet Sauvignon) sings of fresh blackcurrants, warm plums, mulberries and black raspberries with touches of cedar chest, pencil lead, underbrush and sautéed herbs. Full-bodied and laden with black fruits and earth layers, it has a firm, grainy structure and a long, earthy finish."
94 Points Jeb Dunnuck: "Another sensational barrel sample is the Arrowood Cabernet Sauvignon Réserve Spéciale, which is all Cabernet that will see 32 months in just over half new oak. As with the other top releases here, it’s a vineyard and cellar selection. Offering lots of sweet oak, cassis, lead pencil, and floral notes, it’s medium to full-bodied, silky, and downright seamless, with awesome purity. Give it 2-3 years of bottle age and enjoy over the following two decades."
94 Points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "The Arrowood Cabernet Sauvignon Réserve Spéciale is another compelling wine from Arrowood. A whole range of dark spice, leather, smoke and licorice notes meld around a core of deep, dense fruit. The tannins are imposing today, and yet there is more than enough breadth and resonance in the fruit to provide balance. Readers will have to be patient though."
Aubert 2019 Larry Hyde & Sons Vineyard Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast MAGNUM (1.5L)
$ 450.00
100 points - limited
* Rare Magnum (1.5L) bottle* - Limited new release from cult Chardonnay producer Mark Aubert.
100 Points Robert Parker: "Aubert noted that this is his coolest site and usually the last to be harvested. Located near the Hyde Estate winery, by virtue of chilly afternoon breezes, it is indeed among the coolest sites on the Napa side of the Los Carneros AVA. This section is planted to Corton-Charlemagne clone on St. George rootstock. A barrel sample, it is being aged in 50% new French oak barrels... Whoa—the Aubert Chardonnay Larry Hyde & Sons explodes from the glass with bombastic scents of sea spray, freshly shaved ginger, lemon curd and grapefruit plus emerging hints of green guava, lime cordial and coriander seed with a waft of struck flint. Full-bodied, rich and lively, the palate is remarkably fruity and yet possesses loads of mineral sparks and savory nuances, finishing very long and spicy. This vintage no doubt played to the strengths of this site beautifully in 2019, delivering a very impressive wine of amazing singularity and intensity."
...Mark Aubert continues to set the bar incredibly high for the world-class quality of his Burgundian-styled, remarkable Chardonnays, which come from relatively cool sites spread from Rutherford in Napa Valley to the far reaches of the Sonoma Coast. As I indicated last year, Aubert is at the top of his game, and it is hard to believe any Chardonnay winemaker in the world is turning out a half-dozen Chardonnays at this qualitative level year in and year out. He has had an incredible run of great success, after being mentored by none other than the reclusive and supremely talented Helen Turley when he took over the winemaking job at Peter Michael, then proceeded on to impressive sojourns at Colgin Estate as well as Tom Futo’s winery in Oakville."
Aubert 2019 Powder House Estate Vineyard Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast MAGNUM (1.5L)
$ 475.00
100 points - limited
* Rare Magnum (1.5L) bottle* - Limited new release from cult Chardonnay producer Mark Aubert.
98 Points Robert Parker: "Aubert 2019 Sugar Shack Chardonnay is produced from Montrachet clone vines grown in Rutherford AVA. It is aged in French oak barrels, 70% new. A barrel sample, the 2019 Chardonnay Sugar Shack has a fabulously flamboyant nose of juicy Bosc pears, ripe apricots and ginger cake with hints of orange blossoms, crème caramel and toasted almonds. The palate is concentrated, full-bodied and beautifully textured with loads of stone fruit and spice layers, finishing long with a chalkiness coming through on the finish."
...Mark Aubert continues to set the bar incredibly high for the world-class quality of his Burgundian-styled, remarkable Chardonnays, which come from relatively cool sites spread from Rutherford in Napa Valley to the far reaches of the Sonoma Coast. As I indicated last year, Aubert is at the top of his game, and it is hard to believe any Chardonnay winemaker in the world is turning out a half-dozen Chardonnays at this qualitative level year in and year out. He has had an incredible run of great success, after being mentored by none other than the reclusive and supremely talented Helen Turley when he took over the winemaking job at Peter Michael, then proceeded on to impressive sojourns at Colgin Estate as well as Tom Futo’s winery in Oakville."
Aubert 2019 Sugar Shack Estate Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast MAGNUM (1.5L)
$ 475.00
100 points - limited
* Rare Magnum (1.5L) bottle* - Limited new release from cult Chardonnay producer Mark Aubert.
98 Points Robert Parker: "Aubert 2019 Sugar Shack Chardonnay is produced from Montrachet clone vines grown in Rutherford AVA. It is aged in French oak barrels, 70% new. A barrel sample, the 2019 Chardonnay Sugar Shack has a fabulously flamboyant nose of juicy Bosc pears, ripe apricots and ginger cake with hints of orange blossoms, crème caramel and toasted almonds. The palate is concentrated, full-bodied and beautifully textured with loads of stone fruit and spice layers, finishing long with a chalkiness coming through on the finish."
...Mark Aubert continues to set the bar incredibly high for the world-class quality of his Burgundian-styled, remarkable Chardonnays, which come from relatively cool sites spread from Rutherford in Napa Valley to the far reaches of the Sonoma Coast. As I indicated last year, Aubert is at the top of his game, and it is hard to believe any Chardonnay winemaker in the world is turning out a half-dozen Chardonnays at this qualitative level year in and year out. He has had an incredible run of great success, after being mentored by none other than the reclusive and supremely talented Helen Turley when he took over the winemaking job at Peter Michael, then proceeded on to impressive sojourns at Colgin Estate as well as Tom Futo’s winery in Oakville."
Aubert 2020 Park Avenue Estate Vineyard Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast MAGNUM (1.5L)
$ 499.00
100 points - limited
* Rare Magnum (1.5L) bottle* - Limited new release from cult Chardonnay producer Mark Aubert.
100 Points Robert Parker: "Park Avenue is a brand new, single-vineyard label for Aubert. This site was purchased by Mark Aubert in 2013. It had previously been an apple orchard but has since been planted to mostly Hyde Clone Chardonnay with a little Montrachet clone. It is located on the Sonoma Coast, conveniently situated right in between Aubert's Lauren and CIX vineyards. The vineyard has a long road leading up to the property, hence the name "Park Avenue." Note that the previous two vintages from this vineyard were declassified into the AVA wine. A barrel sample, the Chardonnay Park Avenue leaps out of the glass with provocative notes of white peaches, fresh pears, lemon curd and chalk dust plus spicy hints of coriander seed, nutmeg and white pepper. The full-bodied palate is super intense with wonderful tension and lots of mineral accents to the concentrated flavors, finishing with epic length and long-lingering spicy kick."
Mark Aubert continues to set the bar incredibly high for the world-class quality of his Burgundian-styled, remarkable Chardonnays, which come from relatively cool sites spread from Rutherford in Napa Valley to the far reaches of the Sonoma Coast. As I indicated last year, Aubert is at the top of his game, and it is hard to believe any Chardonnay winemaker in the world is turning out a half-dozen Chardonnays at this qualitative level year in and year out. He has had an incredible run of great success, after being mentored by none other than the reclusive and supremely talented Helen Turley when he took over the winemaking job at Peter Michael, then proceeded on to impressive sojourns at Colgin Estate as well as Tom Futo’s winery in Oakville
e."
Aubert 2021 'Larry Hyde & Sons' Vineyard Chardonnay, Carneros
$ 199.99
96 points - limited
Limited new release from cult Chardonnay producer Mark Aubert.
96 Points Robert Parker: "The coolest of Aubert's Chardonnay sites, the 2021 Chardonnay Larry Hyde & Sons boasts lovely aromas reminiscent of melon, citrus curd and lime zest. It's full-bodied and creamy, with a silky, custardy mouthfeel and tremendous length....My tasting with Mark Aubert was one of the most anticipated visits of my first year reviewing Napa wines for Robert Parker Wine Advocate. Having read years of previous reviews—and sampling the occasional bottle along the way—I had high expectations for the wines. This was an opportunity to look at Aubert's 2020 Chardonnays from bottle (there were no 2020 single-vineyard Pinot Noirs released) and take a pre-bottling look at the 2021s."
...Mark Aubert continues to set the bar incredibly high for the world-class quality of his Burgundian-styled, remarkable Chardonnays, which come from relatively cool sites spread from Rutherford in Napa Valley to the far reaches of the Sonoma Coast. As I indicated last year, Aubert is at the top of his game, and it is hard to believe any Chardonnay winemaker in the world is turning out a half-dozen Chardonnays at this qualitative level year in and year out. He has had an incredible run of great success, after being mentored by none other than the reclusive and supremely talented Helen Turley when he took over the winemaking job at Peter Michael, then proceeded on to impressive sojourns at Colgin Estate as well as Tom Futo’s winery in Oakville."
Aubert 2021 CIX Vineyard Estate Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast
$ 219.99
98 points - limited
Limited new release from cult Chardonnay producer Mark Aubert.
98 Points Robert Parker: "From a vineyard that borders the source of Aubert's Lauren bottling, there are 1,200 cases of the 2021 Chardonnay CIX Estate. Matured in 75% new French oak, this review is based on a tank sample awaiting bottling. Planted to a Montrachet selection in 2008, there's just a hint of fumé character, those smoky, mocha notes accenting ripe peaches and bright lime pith. It's characteristically full-bodied, generous, creamy and lush, yet with enough acidity to keep it clean and fresh on the finish.
...Mark Aubert continues to set the bar incredibly high for the world-class quality of his Burgundian-styled, remarkable Chardonnays, which come from relatively cool sites spread from Rutherford in Napa Valley to the far reaches of the Sonoma Coast. As I indicated last year, Aubert is at the top of his game, and it is hard to believe any Chardonnay winemaker in the world is turning out a half-dozen Chardonnays at this qualitative level year in and year out. He has had an incredible run of great success, after being mentored by none other than the reclusive and supremely talented Helen Turley when he took over the winemaking job at Peter Michael, then proceeded on to impressive sojourns at Colgin Estate as well as Tom Futo’s winery in Oakville."
Aubert 2021 Eastside Vineyard Estate Chardonnay, Russian River Valley
$ 199.99
97 points - limited
Limited new release from cult Chardonnay producer Mark Aubert.
97 Points Robert Parker: "From a somewhat warmer site on thin, volcanic soils overlooking the Russian River, Eastside—originally a collaboration between Ulises Valdez and Mark Aubert—features a Montrachet selection planted on riparia rootstock. Despite plenty of new French oak in the élevage, there's only a faintly fumé, crushed-stone character on the nose, which nicely sets off the wine's white peach and lime notes. Full-bodied and generous but sturdily built, with an imposing structure, the 2021 Chardonnay Eastside is powerful and long on the finish. The crop was virtually wiped out by a spring frost in 2020, but the vines rebounded in 2021, yielding 1,400 cases."
...Mark Aubert continues to set the bar incredibly high for the world-class quality of his Burgundian-styled, remarkable Chardonnays, which come from relatively cool sites spread from Rutherford in Napa Valley to the far reaches of the Sonoma Coast. As I indicated last year, Aubert is at the top of his game, and it is hard to believe any Chardonnay winemaker in the world is turning out a half-dozen Chardonnays at this qualitative level year in and year out. He has had an incredible run of great success, after being mentored by none other than the reclusive and supremely talented Helen Turley when he took over the winemaking job at Peter Michael, then proceeded on to impressive sojourns at Colgin Estate as well as Tom Futo’s winery in Oakville."
Aubert 2021 Lauren Vineyard Estate Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast
$ 299.99
100 points - limited
Limited new release from cult Chardonnay producer Mark Aubert.
100 Points Robert Parker: "Unlike many of Aubert's wines, the 2021 Chardonnay Lauren Estate incorporates four different selections (Hyde Old Wente, Montrachet, Mount Eden and Hudson). From vines planted in 1999 and 2000 on the site of a former orchard, and matured in 80% new French oak, it exudes power yet remains balanced. Hints of pencil shavings mark the nose, joined by effusive notes of lime and white peach, while the palate is full-bodied, rich and slightly oily in feel. Despite a sense of massive density, it remains fresh and lively, with great length and energy on the finish. It's the crowning achievement among a stellar collection of 2021s from Aubert."
...Mark Aubert continues to set the bar incredibly high for the world-class quality of his Burgundian-styled, remarkable Chardonnays, which come from relatively cool sites spread from Rutherford in Napa Valley to the far reaches of the Sonoma Coast. As I indicated last year, Aubert is at the top of his game, and it is hard to believe any Chardonnay winemaker in the world is turning out a half-dozen Chardonnays at this qualitative level year in and year out. He has had an incredible run of great success, after being mentored by none other than the reclusive and supremely talented Helen Turley when he took over the winemaking job at Peter Michael, then proceeded on to impressive sojourns at Colgin Estate as well as Tom Futo’s winery in Oakville."
Aubert 2021 Powder House Estate Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast
$ 199.99
97 points - limited
Limited new release from cult Chardonnay producer Mark Aubert.
97 Points Robert Parker: "Floral, non-fruity hints of crushed stone and talcum powder appear on the nose of Aubert's 2021 Chardonnay Powder House, creating an attractive counterpoint to the wine's honeyed richness and intense white-peach notes. Full-bodied and silky in feel, it's a bit custardy in texture yet lithe, graceful and long, with an almost mentholated finish. There are 2,000 cases this vintage, from a Forestville vineyard planted in 2015 mainly to Hyde Old Wente, plus a bit of Mount Eden."
...Mark Aubert continues to set the bar incredibly high for the world-class quality of his Burgundian-styled, remarkable Chardonnays, which come from relatively cool sites spread from Rutherford in Napa Valley to the far reaches of the Sonoma Coast. As I indicated last year, Aubert is at the top of his game, and it is hard to believe any Chardonnay winemaker in the world is turning out a half-dozen Chardonnays at this qualitative level year in and year out. He has had an incredible run of great success, after being mentored by none other than the reclusive and supremely talented Helen Turley when he took over the winemaking job at Peter Michael, then proceeded on to impressive sojourns at Colgin Estate as well as Tom Futo’s winery in Oakville."
Aubert 2021 Sugar Shack Estate Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast
$ 199.99
95 points - limited
Limited new release from cult Chardonnay producer Mark Aubert.
95 Points Robert Parker: "The warmest site in Aubert's portfolio, the 2021 Chardonnay Sugar Shack comes from Mark and Teresa's home property on the western side of the Rutherford AVA. Planted in 2008 to a Montrachet selection and managed by David Abreu, it offers up attractive aromas of toasted hazelnuts and ripe peaches. Big, broad and fleshy in the mouth, it turns a bit angular on the finish, providing a bright, fresh counterpoint to the earlier opulence. 700 cases produced."
...Mark Aubert continues to set the bar incredibly high for the world-class quality of his Burgundian-styled, remarkable Chardonnays, which come from relatively cool sites spread from Rutherford in Napa Valley to the far reaches of the Sonoma Coast. As I indicated last year, Aubert is at the top of his game, and it is hard to believe any Chardonnay winemaker in the world is turning out a half-dozen Chardonnays at this qualitative level year in and year out. He has had an incredible run of great success, after being mentored by none other than the reclusive and supremely talented Helen Turley when he took over the winemaking job at Peter Michael, then proceeded on to impressive sojourns at Colgin Estate as well as Tom Futo’s winery in Oakville."
August West 2018 Peterson Vineyard Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands
$ 42.00 $ 48.00
Superstar winemaker Ed Kurtzman and proprietor Gary Franscioni (ROAR) explore two appellations and three varietals to produce stunning wines from August West. The 2018 Peterson Vineyard Pinot from the Santa Lucia Highlands is one of their best!
94 Points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "Brilliant scarlet. A highly complex bouquet evokes fresh red and blue fruits, exotic spices and sandalwood, and a hint of smokiness builds in the glass. Densely packed yet lively in the mouth, offering intense black raspberry, boysenberry, candied rose and spicecake flavors that turn sweeter through the midpalate. Finishes very long and smooth, with harmonious tannins framing lingering red berry preserve and floral pastille notes."
Ed Kurtzman has been making wine since 1994 where he got his start in the cellar at Bernardus in Carmel Valley, California under the guidance of Don Blackburn and Kirby Anderson. From 1995 through 1998 Ed moved across Monterey County to Chalone Vineyard where he was enologist and then assistant winemaker under Michael Michaud. Ed had the good fortune of meeting future August West partners Howard Graham and John Peterson while he was winemaker at Testarossa for the vintages 1999-2002. August West wines are produced in San Francisco.
Barnett 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Spring Mountain, Napa Valley
$ 79.99
93 point boutique Cabernet
A fantastic Cabernet from Spring Mountain. Limited.
94 Points Robert Parker: "The Cabernet Sauvignon Spring Mountain is a blend of 83% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Cabernet Franc and the rest Petit Verdot and Merlot. A beautiful example of Spring Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon with its blue and black fruits (raspberries, blueberries interwoven with white flowers), this wine has an opaque purple color, a wonderful sweet kiss of delicate oak and forest floor. It is full-bodied and rich with supple tannins. It is a classic 2014 that is approachable, and frankly irresistible already, but promises to evolve gracefully for another 15 or more years."
Barnett Vineyards is located off of the narrow windy Spring Mountain Road which connects Napa and Sonoma Counties – about 1.5 miles in. This is a small estate winery (founded in 1983 by Hal & Fiona Barnett) located on very steep hillsides with slopes up to 35%! Their original intent was never to build a winery but rather to have a weekend private getaway location from San Francisco. For a fairly small production they make a wide variety of wines – as of our latest visit, 11 different wines are made here. They are strong believers in unique terroir sites and will source fruit from a variety of locations (not necessarily within Napa) based on where specific varietals grow best.
Beau Vigne 2018 'Cult' Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
$ 124.99
Limited new Cabernet from Beau Vigne!
93 Points Jeb Dunnuck: "The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Cult is the finest wine I have tasted from Beau Vigne. Rich, layered and expressive, the 2019 has a lot to offer. Black cherry, licorice, lavender, spice and espresso build in the glass. The 2019 is a rich, luscious Cabernet that also avoids being overly heavy."
92+ Points Robert Parker: "Composed of 95% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Petit Verdot, the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Cult is a blend of both of the estate vineyards: Stags Ridge and Soda Canyon, with 15% blended from Rutherford and Oakville. It was aged in 100% new oak. Deep garnet-purple colored, it prances out of the glass with showy black fruit notions of preserved plums, baked blueberries and crème de cassis plus suggestions of hoisin, cedar chest, pencil lead and tilled soil with a touch of sautéed herbs. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is filled with black fruit preserves with loads of exotic spice and herbal sparks, framed by chewy tannins and oodles of freshness, finishing earthy...
...One of my favorite wineries, Beau Vigne’s 10-acre vineyard sits at a high 1,650-foot elevation in the southern Napa Valley, back Soda Canyon Road, overlooking the Pritchard Hill Gap as well as the Stagecoach Vineyard. The AVA for these wines is Atlas Peak, and the soils are all of volcanic origin. The top-notch consulting winemaker is none other than Kirk Venge."
Beau Vigne 2018 'Juliet' Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
$ 124.99
Limited new Cabernet from Beau Vigne!
93+ Points Robert Parker: "The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Juliet is composed of 95% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Petit Verdot. Deep garnet-purple in color, notes of pencil lead, cedar and tapenade waft over a core of crème de cassis, baked plums and mulberries. Medium to full-bodied with bags of bright, crunchy black fruits and a firm, grainy texture, it finishes with a refreshing lift...
...This winery has been making terrific wines for a number of years, and the current lineup, put together by winemaker Kirk Venge, is just amazing. The10-acre estate vineyard sits at a relatively high 1,650-foot elevation on Soda Canyon Road. These are all dry-farmed vineyards planted in predominantly volcanic soils."
Beau Vigne 2018 'Romeo' Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
$ 124.99
94 Points
Limited new Cabernet from Beau Vigne!
92+ Points Robert Parker: "The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Romeo is blended of 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Malbec and 5% Petit Verdot. Deep garnet-purple in color, it leaps from the glass with notes of kirsch, black cherry compote and warm cassis, plus wafts of lavender, forest floor and cloves. The medium to full-bodied palate is refreshing, featuring fine-grained tannins with elegantly styled fruit and a lively finish...
...One of my favorite wineries, Beau Vigne’s 10-acre vineyard sits at a high 1,650-foot elevation in the southern Napa Valley, back Soda Canyon Road, overlooking the Pritchard Hill Gap as well as the Stagecoach Vineyard. The AVA for these wines is Atlas Peak, and the soils are all of volcanic origin. The top-notch consulting winemaker is none other than Kirk Venge. The 2014s are terrific, more fruit-forward follow-ups to their magnificent 2013s and dramatic 2012s, as this winery is currently on a qualitative roll."
Beaulieu Vineyard 2018 "Reserve" Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
$ 79.99 $ 145.00
96 Points - new release
New Reserve Cabernet release from Beaulieu Vineyard, one of Napa Valley's classic wineries.
96 Points James Suckling: "This is so aromatic with redcurrants, flowers and crushed stones. Some bark and rose stem, too. Full-bodied, yet so refined and textured with a lovely finish of fruit and hints of berry and light chocolate. So delicious now, but will develop nicely in the bottle."
96 Points Jeb Dunnuck": "The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Rutherford Reserve is a deeper, richer wine with impressive chocolatey blackcurrant fruits as well as lots of tobacco, damp earth, camphor, and new leather-like aromas and flavors. It’s beautifully textured and medium to full-bodied, with ripe tannins and a great finish. I’d be thrilled to drink bottles any time over the coming 10-15 years or more."
94 Points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Rutherford Reserve is compelling. Dark cherry, plum, chocolate, licorice and spice are some of the many aromas and flavors that open in the glass. Rich and sumptuous to the core, the 2018 hits all the right notes. The Rutherford Reserve is sourced mostly from BV #1 and BV #2. Bright acids perk up the finish. Think of the Rutherford Reserve as a baby Georges de Latour that can be enjoyed pretty much on release."
Beaulieu Vineyard 2019 Georges de Latour Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
$ 149.99
100 Points - new release
A legendary Napa Cabernet- new release. Limited.
The superb 2019 vintage gave the Beaulieu Georges de Latour Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon its unctuous fruit character and dense structure. Hugely complex, the wine reveals a broad spectrum of briary blackberry, black cherry and currant notes, with nuances of violet and bittersweet chocolate. Muscular tannins support the plush, expansive palate, while impeccably balanced acidity adds vibrancy.
100 Points James Suckling: ""Wow! The aromas to this are really exceptional, with a tangerine edge to the blackcurrants, graphite, lead pencil, flowers and wet earth. It changes all the time. So expressive and refined. Full-bodied with great intensity and depth of fruit. The ultra-fine tannins display millions of layers. The texture on the palate is superb and lasts for minutes. This is the new 1974 Georges de Latour, which was a legend. Real Napa Valley red here. Drinkable now, to understand it, but truly great in five to six years and onwards. Benchmark."
97 points Wine Enthusiast "Cellar Selection": "Another stunning vintage of this classic wine, blended with 9% Petit Verdot, this wine is dark and brooding in black cherry, cassis and currant, with a rich nose of baking spice. Lengthy and generous in tannin, it shows a backbone of age-worthy structure and complexity, with a lasting thread of dark chocolate."
97 points Decanter: "Fragranced and richly fruited on the nose, vivid and vibrant. Smooth yet with crunchy fruit, this makes an immediate impression. Exuberant, racy and fruit forward with a sense of detail and character. I like the soft floral touches, the sweet blackcurrants and red berry elements, the chalky, minty fresh edges as well as some wild thyme and bay leaf herbal notes and a soft dusting of coffee and cocoa powder. Lots of tension still but also richness and concentration. The powdery yet also fleshy texture is so captivating and together with a mouthwatering capacity gives this wine such star power. Elegant and refined with supreme freshness and a real sense of vibrancy. That said, it's more serious than the stunning 2018, less immediately approachable—it feels cooler but with more precision. One to wait for. Amazing styling going on by winemaker Trevor Durling. This has to be one of the best value Napa Valley wines going. Ageing 20 months in French oak (95% new). More Petit Verdot in the blend than usual at 9%."
Beaux Freres 2017 Chardonnay Willamette Valley, Oregon
$ 79.99
Rare Chardonnay release from Beaux-Freres owner Mike Etzel. Tiny production.
The Beaux Freres Willamette Valley Chardonnay comes from the Star Mooring vineyard (planted by Mike D. Etzel in 2014), along with a few carefully selected parcels tucked in other ideal corners of the Willamette Valley. As if directed by Leonard Bernstein, this harmonious wine delivers orchestral balance despite its youth. An Old World-esque depth of flavor and low alcohol ensure graceful aging for 7 - 10 more years. Just 268 cases produced.
Tasting Notes: Meadowfoam honey and Lemon verbena aromatics are followed by bees wax and a waft of citrus flower. This is truly a nectar of sunlight across the palate, with bright, energetic freshness.
Beaux Freres 2018 Chardonnay Willamette Valley, Oregon
$ 79.99
Rare Chardonnay release from Beaux-Freres owner Mike Etzel. Tiny production.
The Beaux Freres Willamette Valley Chardonnay comes from the Star Mooring vineyard (planted by Mike D. Etzel in 2014), along with a few carefully selected parcels tucked in other ideal corners of the Willamette Valley. As if directed by Leonard Bernstein, this harmonious wine delivers orchestral balance despite its youth. An Old World-esque depth of flavor and low alcohol ensure graceful aging for 7 - 10 more years. Just 268 cases produced.
Tasting Notes: Meadowfoam honey and Lemon verbena aromatics are followed by bees wax and a waft of citrus flower. This is truly a nectar of sunlight across the palate, with bright, energetic freshness.
Beaux-Freres 2018 The Upper Terrace Pinot Noir, Oregon
Sold Out
96 Points Wine Spectator
Limited new release from Beaux-Freres. Wine Spectator #3 of 2016.
96 Points Wine Spectator: "Seduces you immediately, with expressive violet and dark raspberry aromas that open to polished and brilliantly structured blueberry, savory anise and tea flavors that take on richness on a long finish. Drink now through 2026." (Aug 2019)
Senior editor Tim Fish says: “Beaux Frères has set the gold standard for Oregon Pinot Noir since Michael Etzel planted his first vines in 1988 in an old pig farm, in what is now the Ribbon Ridge AVA of Willamette Valley. The Upper Terrace vineyard is his most recent planting, which is situated just north of and at a higher elevation than the original estate vines. The 9-acre vineyard was planted in 2000 to Dijon clones of Pinot Noir only, and the 2017is a brilliant expression of the Beaux Frères style: dynamic, seductive and impeccably structured. It was fermented with native yeast and aged in French oak for a year."
The Beaux Freres vineyards are located on an 86-acre farm in Yamhill County's Willamette Valley. Majestic Douglas fir trees comprise just under 50 acres of the farm, with the homestead and barns occupying another six acres. The vineyard is situated on 30 acres of steep contiguous hillsides that enjoy an exceptional south/southwest exposure. The property, purchased in 1987 by Michael Etzel and the noted wine critic Robert M. Parker, Jr., was named Beaux Freres (the brothers-in-law). A few years later Robert Roy, a Pinot Noir and red burgundy enthusiast from Quebec, became the third member of the Beaux Freres partnership.
Beaux-Freres 2018 Zena Crown Pinot Noir, Eola-Amity Hills, Oregon
Sold Out
Limited new release from Beaux-Freres, one of Oregon's best wineries.
Vibrantly faceted, this wine from a spectacular Eola-Amity Hills site is a rarity in their lineup thanks to a volcanic red clay Jory soil foundation. Candied red cherries and whispering floral notes precede a palate of blue fruit, finishing with a burst of fresh citrus zes
The Beaux Freres vineyards are located on an 86-acre farm in Yamhill County's Willamette Valley. Majestic Douglas fir trees comprise just under 50 acres of the farm, with the homestead and barns occupying another six acres. The vineyard is situated on 30 acres of steep contiguous hillsides that enjoy an exceptional south/southwest exposure. The property, purchased in 1987 by Michael Etzel and the noted wine critic Robert M. Parker, Jr., was named Beaux Freres (the brothers-in-law). A few years later Robert Roy, a Pinot Noir and red burgundy enthusiast from Quebec, became the third member of the Beaux Freres partnership.
Beaux-Freres 2019 "Belles Soeurs Cuvee" Ribbon Ridge Pinot Noir, Oregon
$ 99.99
96 pts
Limited new release from Beaux-Freres.
96 Points James Suckling: "This deliberately, elegantly tuned blend of three parcels (Beaux Frères, Upper Terrace and Sequitur vineyards) delivers a redder-cherry focus of fruit on the nose with roses and some gently fragrant notes of leaves and sour cherries. There’s a lighter feel to the palate, yet it has great volume of red fruit and vibrant freshness. The tannins glide in silky, caressing and balanced mode. Drink or hold."
95 Points Jeb Dunnuck: "The Beaux Freres 2019 Pinot Noir The Belles Soeurs is elegant with the perfume of raspberry, cherry pie, dried roses, and cinnamon. The palate is vibrant and tension-driven with rose hip, hibiscus, and orange zest. I love this for its focused and direct nature, which will warrant some time in cellar to unfold. Drink 2024-2037...Michael Etzel founded Beaux Freres in 1991 in Ribbon Ridge alongside his brother-in-law, Robert Parker. In 2017, Parker and another investor sold their shares and Michael became partners with the Champagne and Burgundy house of Maison & Domaines Henriot. Today, Michael’s son Mikey has taken over the wine production. Michael purchased an adjacent property, Sequitur, which is a 12-acre vineyard he farms and where he produces wines today. Both Beaux Freres and Sequitur are farmed biodynamically.
After a 12-year pause, this renaissance of our Belles Sœurs Cuvée label has the seamless elegance and finesse it always showcased, and is now solely compiled from our family’s three vineyards (Beaux Frères, Upper Terrace, and Sequitur). A worthy tribute to our little pocket of the Ribbon Ridge viticultural area, it is a bright, lively wine balancing red and blue fruits, genteel minerality, and beautifully high-spirited character at every turn; an altogether triumphant return for our long lost companion cuvée.
The Beaux Freres vineyards are located on an 86-acre farm in Yamhill County's Willamette Valley. Majestic Douglas fir trees comprise just under 50 acres of the farm, with the homestead and barns occupying another six acres. The vineyard is situated on 30 acres of steep contiguous hillsides that enjoy an exceptional south/southwest exposure. The property, purchased in 1987 by Michael Etzel and the noted wine critic Robert M. Parker, Jr., was named Beaux Freres (the brothers-in-law). A few years later Robert Roy, a Pinot Noir and red burgundy enthusiast from Quebec, became the third member of the Beaux Freres partnership.
A limited opportunity to try some of Oregon's highest rated Pinots!
$ 89.99
Beaux-Freres 2019 "Star Dance" Vineyard Pinot Noir, Yamhill-Carlton
$ 89.99
95 Points Wine Spectator
Limited new release from Beaux-Freres. From a remote vineyard planted in 2000 entirely to Pommard Clone and on its own roots. The vineyard is farmed organically. According to Beaux Freres, the result is a one-off exotic flavor profile like no other vineyard in Oregon.
The Beaux Freres vineyards are located on an 86-acre farm in Yamhill County's Willamette Valley. Majestic Douglas fir trees comprise just under 50 acres of the farm, with the homestead and barns occupying another six acres. The vineyard is situated on 30 acres of steep contiguous hillsides that enjoy an exceptional south/southwest exposure. The property, purchased in 1987 by Michael Etzel and the noted wine critic Robert M. Parker, Jr., was named Beaux Freres (the brothers-in-law). A few years later Robert Roy, a Pinot Noir and red burgundy enthusiast from Quebec, became the third member of the Beaux Freres partnership.
A limited opportunity to try some of Oregon's highest rated Pinots!
Beaux-Freres 2019 "Star Mooring" Vineyard Pinot Noir, Chehalem Mountains
$ 89.99
95 Points Wine Spectator
Limited new release from Beaux-Freres. From a young vineyard developed by Mike Etzel in 2014. A dramatic site with only two inches of top soils over extremely rocky, fractured basalt. Whilst still young, this vineyard is already producing wines of real character, tension and length on the palate.\
The Beaux Freres vineyards are located on an 86-acre farm in Yamhill County's Willamette Valley. Majestic Douglas fir trees comprise just under 50 acres of the farm, with the homestead and barns occupying another six acres. The vineyard is situated on 30 acres of steep contiguous hillsides that enjoy an exceptional south/southwest exposure. The property, purchased in 1987 by Michael Etzel and the noted wine critic Robert M. Parker, Jr., was named Beaux Freres (the brothers-in-law). A few years later Robert Roy, a Pinot Noir and red burgundy enthusiast from Quebec, became the third member of the Beaux Freres partnership.
A limited opportunity to try some of Oregon's highest rated Pinots!
Beaux-Freres 2019 'Les Cousins' Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley Oregon
$ 36.99
Limited new release from Beaux-Freres, one of Oregon's best wineries. A fantastic value.
This wine is one that comes along only once in a rare while! Les Cousins is a second label Pinot Noir of Beaux Freres Vineyards that’s a selection from the barrels in their cellar. A relatively few cases were produced of this silky, but boldly expressive Pinot. Like all of their wines, it’s bottled unfined and unfiltered AND it’s about half the price of the regular Beaux Freres wine. Don’t miss this!
The Beaux Freres vineyards are located on an 86-acre farm in Yamhill County's Willamette Valley. Majestic Douglas fir trees comprise just under 50 acres of the farm, with the homestead and barns occupying another six acres. The vineyard is situated on 30 acres of steep contiguous hillsides that enjoy an exceptional south/southwest exposure. The property, purchased in 1987 by Michael Etzel and the noted wine critic Robert M. Parker, Jr., was named Beaux Freres (the brothers-in-law). A few years later Robert Roy, a Pinot Noir and red burgundy enthusiast from Quebec, became the third member of the Beaux Freres partnership.
A limited opportunity to try some of Oregon's highest rated Pinots!
Beaux-Freres 2021 The Beaux Freres Vineyard Pinot Noir, Oregon
$ 115.00
95 Points Wine Spectator
Limited new release from Beaux-Freres. Wine Spectator #9 of 2020!
previous vintage reviews:
95 Points Wine Spectator: "A wine of presence and expression, impeccably structured yet elegantly layered, with evocative raspberry, rose petal and brown baking spice notes that pick up richness and tension toward fine-grained tannins. Drink now through 2029."
95 Points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "Brilliant ruby. Intense red and blue fruit, floral and spice qualities on the highly perfumed nose, along with hints of cola and licorice. Juicy and precise, offering concentrated raspberry, boysenberry and floral pastille flavors that take on a five-spice-powder nuance with air. Plays power off delicacy with a sure hand and finishes extremely long and silky, with polished tannins framing lingering red fruit and candied rose notes. 45% new oak.
The Beaux Freres vineyards are located on an 86-acre farm in Yamhill County's Willamette Valley. Majestic Douglas fir trees comprise just under 50 acres of the farm, with the homestead and barns occupying another six acres. The vineyard is situated on 30 acres of steep contiguous hillsides that enjoy an exceptional south/southwest exposure. The property, purchased in 1987 by Michael Etzel and the noted wine critic Robert M. Parker, Jr., was named Beaux Freres (the brothers-in-law). A few years later Robert Roy, a Pinot Noir and red burgundy enthusiast from Quebec, became the third member of the Beaux Freres partnership.
A limited opportunity to try some of Oregon's highest rated Pinots!
Beaux-Freres 2021 Willamette Valley Pinot Noir, Oregon
$ 69.99
Limited new release from Beaux-Freres, one of Oregon's best wineries.
94 Points Wine Spectator: "Sleek, graceful and elegantly proportioned, with expressive violet, raspberry, guava and black tea flavors that jump out of the glass and gather richness toward polished tannins. Drink now through 2032."
The Beaux Freres vineyards are located on an 86-acre farm in Yamhill County's Willamette Valley. Majestic Douglas fir trees comprise just under 50 acres of the farm, with the homestead and barns occupying another six acres. The vineyard is situated on 30 acres of steep contiguous hillsides that enjoy an exceptional south/southwest exposure. The property, purchased in 1987 by Michael Etzel and the noted wine critic Robert M. Parker, Jr., was named Beaux Freres (the brothers-in-law). A few years later Robert Roy, a Pinot Noir and red burgundy enthusiast from Quebec, became the third member of the Beaux Freres partnership.
A limited opportunity to try some of Oregon's highest rated Pinots!
Beringer 2017 "Private Reserve" Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
$ 169.99
98 Points - limited
Limited Reserve Cabernet from Beringer. One of the top-rated Cabs of the stellar 2017 vintage.
96 Points Jeb Dunnuck: "The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Private Reserve is brilliant, with a ripe, powerful style that’s going to age gracefully. Deep blackcurrants, dark chocolate, scorched earth, and graphite notes all emerge from this concentrated, powerful Cabernet that has ripe tannins, a big, rich mid-palate, and a great finish. It’s going to benefit from 3-5 years of bottle age and keep for upwards of two decades with no issues."
...As I have written in the past, the Beringer Private Reserve program incorporates many of the single vineyards that they own and also bottle separately in lots from 250 up to nearly 1,000 cases. These wines are generally only available at the winery or through their membership club. Various parts of these single vineyards are all put through taste trials, and the result, when there’s a unanimity of opinion, is the great Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon from Beringer, one of the most successful Cabernets of Napa Valley
Beringer 2019 Private Reserve Chardonnay, Napa Valley
$ 44.99
97 Points - Limited
Beringer's top Chardonnay from the Gamble Ranch vineyard. Limited.
97 Points James Suckling: "This is a really solid white with so much structure and depth, as well as a border-less, encompassing palate. Full-bodied and polished with lots of length. Shows complex flavors, from cooked apples and lemons to stones and hints of flowers. Still tight. Needs time to come together."
94 Points Jeb Dunnuck: "The classic Napa release from this estate, the Beringer Chardonnay Private Reserve has lots of beautiful golden apple, caramelized citrus, toasted nut, and hints of acacia flowers. With a rich, textured style, it still stays beautifully fresh, balanced, and layered. It's a brilliant effort."
Beringer's Private Reserve Chardonnay is primarily sourced from their Gamble Ranch property in the Oakville AVA of Napa Valley. Each lot was kept separate from harvest all the way through the winemaking process. The wine was aged for 9 months in 88% new French oak with full malolactic fermentation, and the lees were stirred weekly to enrich the texture and profile. Only the finest lots were then selected for inclusion in this Private Reserve bottling. From winemaker Laurie Hook: "Aromas of hazelnut and grilled pineapple are followed by flavors of lush, tropical fruits, balanced by a hint of citrus. A rich, creamy mouthfeel is rounded out by a lengthy, elegant finish.
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