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Brix26
75 Wine Company "The Sum" 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon
$ 24.99
The Seventy Five Wine Co. "The Sum" Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley is a fantastic $20 discovery in California Cabernet from the Beckstoffers who are synonymous with managing some of Napa Valley's most famous vineyards. Don't miss!
This amazingly well endowed profoundly rich red wine must be smelled and tasted to be believed. The color is a rich, deep purple garnet and gives but a small hint as to what’s inside. The nose gives off soaring and wonderfully focused aromas of ripe stone fruit, vanilla, cherries, cedar cigar box, blackberries and cinnamon. In the mouth, there are layers upon layers of broad, sweet opulent fruit balanced by firm tannins, great acidity and oak. This wine truly showcases the potential of blending and is a must have.
Alban 2016 Patrina Syrah
$ 49.99
Brand new Syrah release from John Alban - limited.
95+ Points Robert Parker: "The 2016 Syrah Patrina, made of 100% Syrah, has a deep ruby-purple color. The nose opens slowly—and it's worth the wait—opening to very pure aromas of wild blackberries, crushed black cherries, mint leaves, brewed coffee, cracked pepper and violets, giving up more and more nuances with time in the glass. The palate is full-bodied and intense but equally fresh and lifted, finishing very long. This is still youthfully wound, and I expect it may get even better with a few years in bottle."
Brix26 Inside Scoop: Intermittently, Alban Vineyards produced a 'Central Coast Syrah' which was never predictable in either when it was made or its quantity but was always tremendously popular. With each sporadic release, it became undeniable that lots of people wanted this wine. Likewise, it became painfully clear to Alban that without control of the vineyards from which this wine would derive, nothing about it would ever be reliable. In 2005, Alban discontinued purchasing grapes for the Central Coast Syrah to develop his own vineyards and the 'Patrina' Syrah was born.
Aloft 2013 Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon
$ 165.00
93 Points WS
Thomas Brown (Schrader, Outpost, etc) is one of the best winemakers today and Aloft is his newest project. This Howell Mountain vineyard reveals a different soil type as you walk row by row. Above the fog line, this property is carefully tended by vineyard manager Jim Barbour. In the glass, you'll taste silky, penetrating dark red and purple fruit that will show its potential for years to come. This new Cabernet comes from Napa Valley winemaking icon Peter Mondavi Sr. Only 450 cases made - hurry.
93 Points Wine Spectator: "Big and rich, yet graceful and elegant, this features a subtle mix of cedar, tobacco, dark berry, mocha and espresso notes. Fine-grained tannins mark the long finish. Drink now through 2022. 450 cases made.
Wine Enthusiast: "Peter Mondavi Sr. and his two sons, Peter Jr. and Marc have crafted a big, tannic and ageworthy wine. It’s packed with massive blackberry fruit, with the hard tannins and minerality common of Howell Mountain. Don’t even think of opening this before 2016; it should develop well beyond that"
Anakota 2015 Helena Montana Cabernet Sauvignon, Knight's Valley
$ 119.99
96 Points
Limited new Cabernet from Anakota.
96 Points Robert Parker: "Very deep purple-black in color, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Helena Montana Vineyard gives up notes of coffee grounds, chocolate box and warm blueberries with hints of black currant cordial and blackberry pie, plus touches of tar and black soil. Medium-bodied and totally laden with tightly packed fruit layers and great tension, it has a very firm frame of grainy tannins and epic length. 847 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).
Ancien 2015 Pinot Noir, Carneros
$ 36.99
A beautiful new Pinot Noir from Ancien, one of our favorite small wineries producing small lots of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from a range of the most exceptional sites in Napa and Sonoma.
The Ancien Pinot Noir from Carneros comes entirely from the Toyon Vineyard, located in the Napa side of the appellation. It sits on a cool, southern facing knoll with spectacular views to San Pablo Bay. Deep, juicy black cherry, blackberry, and dark chocolate flavors with great structure that overlays pretty aromatics of spice, violets, and cola and bright fruit. A mouth filling combination with layer upon layer of complexity. Highly Recommended.
Robert Parker: "Under owner/winermaker Ken Bernard's (he apprenticed at Domaine Carneros and Truchard before starting his own winery) capable hands, Ancien is producing complex, elegant wines that merit attention.
Antica 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
$ 54.99
94 Points
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.
94 Points Robert Parker: "A beautifully elegant, stylish Cabernet Sauvignon from the Antinori outpost in Napa Valley, has a dense ruby/purple color, a beautiful, sweet kiss of pure blackcurrant fruit, licorice and forest floor. Full-bodied, but with creamy texture, sweet, beautifully integrated acidity, tannin and alcohol, this is an impressively well-crafted wine that’s drinkable now, but should evolve nicely for another 15-20 years.."
Antinori 2016 "Solaia" Toscana Proprietary Red, Italy
$ 349.99
New release of the cult Super Tuscan Solaia from Antinori! One of Italy's finest.
100 Points Robert Parker: "I fussed over scoring this wine more than I'd like to admit-tasting through three samples under different conditions at various intervals and testing my impressions blind against wines in its peer group. Most importantly, I tasted this 2016 vintage against the 2015 vintage over and over again. I confess to a few nights of restless sleep as a result. Ultimately, my decision to award 100 points to the 2016 Solaia came on impulse and with the most natural sense of purpose. I had also given the 2015 vintage a perfect score, and intellectually, it seemed impossible not to pick a favorite among these two stunning expressions. I will also state, outright, that the wines are very different, principally because the 2015 vintage shows more overall opulence and sweetness that extends to the pronounced textural richness of the mouthfeel. The 2016 vintage, on the other hand, is more chiseled and sharp with mineral shadings of campfire ash and graphite at the rim of its dark fruit. The mouthfeel is more streamlined and tight at its core, suggesting that the wine will unfold and soften beautifully with time. I feel like 2015 is the Dolce & Gabbana of the situation and the 2016 is the Armani Privé. The personalities of the two wines are distinct, yet my admiration for each is identical."
99 Points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "Like Tignanello, the 2016 Solaia is a wine of extraordinary nuance and finesse. Super-ripe blackberry, plum jam, espresso, menthol, licorice and sweet spice build as the sublime 2016 shows off its personality and breeding. The 2016 somehow manages to be incredibly deep and also light on its feet. Sweet floral and spice notes add the closing shades of nuance to an exotic, beguilingly beautiful Solaia endowed with an eternal finish and mind-blowing beauty. The 2016 is an epic Solaia. That’s all there is to it."
98 Points Wine Spectator: "This red leads off with a slight oaky edge, featuring vanilla and resin accents that meld with the black cherry and blackberry fruit flavors on the palate. This is all about purity and finesse, featuring a vibrant structure that fits harmoniously with the flavors. Cedar, iron, tobacco and fruit elements converge on the finish, which is very long, fresh and satisfying. Cabernet Sauvignon, Sangiovese and Cabernet Franc."
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 2016 "Tignanello" Toscana Proprietary Red, Italy
$ 129.99
New release of the cult Super Tuscan Tignanello! One of Italy's top wines. Limited.
98 Points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "The 2016 Tignanello is flat out stunning. Dark, dense and resonant, the 2016 is a wonderfully complete wine that will provide readers with decades of pure drinking pleasure. The 2016 is especially dark and brooding, and yet the tannins are incredibly polished to the point of being perceptible. In the glass, the 2016 is complete and regal, perhaps because of the super-classic blend of 80% Sangiovese, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cabernet Franc. The pedigree of the vintage comes through in the wine's extraordinary balance and total sense of finesse. I don't think there is another wine anywhere in the world made entirely from estate fruit that can match Tignanello for quality, consistency and value within its peer group of top-flight reds."
97 Points Robert Parker: "Tasted from barrel, the 2016 Tignanello will be released next year in April. This celebrated red blend is of course mostly Sangiovese with about 15% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cabernet Franc. If 2015 is an ideal vintage for Tuscan blended reds made with the great Bordeaux varieties, the 2016 vintage is better suited to Italian grapes such as Sangiovese. This classic vintage of Tignanello has a leg up, albeit slim, over the previous vintage precisely because the protagonist here is Sangiovese. This wine shows a high caliber of fresh primary fruit that is direct and intense. In the mouth, the wine is focused and sharp. Ultimately, the 2016 Tignanello is slightly more streamlined compared to the more fleshy 2015. This adds to the firm elegance you get here."
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.
Araujo Estate 2013 Eisele Vineyard Viognier, Napa Valley
$ 124.99
Rare white viognier from cult Napa producer Araujo. Limited.
Viognier was planted for blending with our Sauvignon Blanc, and is also used to co-ferment with our Syrah. An unreliable bearer, Viognier in some years provides us with enough crop to bottle on its own, producing a profoundly aromatic and seductive wine redolent of honey, apricots, orange blossoms and spice.
Arietta 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
$ 124.99
A fantastic new top Napa Cabernet from Arietta and former Screaming Eagle winemaker Andy Erickson. Limited.
91 Points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon is a polished, elegant wine. Medium in body, the 2014 graces the palate with bright red stone fruit and floral nuances. The new oak still needs time to integrate, so I would give the 2014 at least another year or two in bottle. It will be interesting to see if the 2014 gains weight in bottle. Today, it is decidedly on the lighter side of things, even within the context of the vintage...
...This is the finest and most complete set of wines I can remember tasting from Arietta. Proprietor Fritz Hatton and winemaker Andy Erickson seem to have reached a new level of quality with the 2012s and 2013s, both of which are brilliant. This is a fabulous showing from top to bottom."
Arietta 2016 Merlot, Napa Valley
$ 75.00
A fantastic top Napa Merlot from Arietta and former Screaming Eagle winemaker Andy Erickson. Limited.
93+ Points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "Arietta's 2016 Merlot Hudson Vineyards is just as impressive from bottle as it was from barrel. Powerful and savory, the Merlot packs a real punch. Black cherry, grilled herbs, graphite and menthol add character to this decidedly brooding wine. Far from an easygoing Merlot, the 2016 at Arietta is going to need a few years to come into its own, and will drink beautifully for many years beyond that"
93+ Robert Parker: "Deep purple-black in color, the 2016 Merlot has a captivating nose of crushed red and black plums, Black Forest cake and underbrush with hints of spice cake and dried mint. Full-bodied, plushly textured and packed with warm black fruits and baking spices in the mouth, it has a long peppery finish."
Atrea 2017 Old Soul Red, Mendocino
$ 24.99
A fantastic new Zinfandel blend! David Ramey is consulting winemaker for this new discovery reminds us of one our most popular wines, Orin Swift's The Prisoner. A fantastic value.
The Atrea Old Soul (Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Malbec, Syrah) is sensational. This is a bistro wine on steroids. Deep ruby/plum-colored with sweet kirsch notes intermixed with licorice, pepper, and background toast, the wine is medium to full-bodied, fleshy, and displays vibrant, juicy, even succulent fruit, a nicely layered texture, and a crisp finish with light tannins. Drink it over the next 3-4 years. Attractive wines are emerging from this Mendocino County winery, where none other than David Ramey is their consulting winemaker.
Aubert 2017 CIX Vineyard Estate Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast
$ 199.99
99 points - limited
Limited new release from cult Chardonnay producer Mark Aubert.
99 Points Robert Parker: "CIX stands for "109" as this block, planted in 2008 to Montrachet clones, was originally called "parcel 109" when they purchased it. The 2017 Chardonnay CIX Estate has an incredibly intense nose of lemon peel, green mango, fresh pears and powdered ginger with suggestions of baking bread, chopped cashews, lightly buttered popcorn and crème brûlée. The palate is full-bodied, concentrated and bold with a racy line carrying the citrus and savory layers to an incredibly long 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 2017 UV Vineyard Pinot Noir, Sonoma County
$ 139.99
Limited new Pinot release from one of California's top producers Aubert.
95 Points Robert Parker: "Medium to deep ruby-purple colored, the 2017 Pinot Noir UV-SL Vineyard gives gorgeous black cherries, pomegranate, fresh blackberries and wild blueberries scents with suggestions of licorice, potpourri, chocolate tart and clove with a touch of dried Provence herbs. The palate is full-bodied with a rock-solid frame of grainy tannins and oodles of freshness supporting the flamboyant black and blue fruits, finishing with an exciting herbal lift."
Aubert 2017 UV-SL Pinot Noir, Sonoma County
$ 139.99
Limited new Pinot release from one of California's top producers Aubert.
95 Points Robert Parker: "Medium to deep ruby-purple colored, the 2017 Pinot Noir UV-SL Vineyard gives gorgeous black cherries, pomegranate, fresh blackberries and wild blueberries scents with suggestions of licorice, potpourri, chocolate tart and clove with a touch of dried Provence herbs. The palate is full-bodied with a rock-solid frame of grainy tannins and oodles of freshness supporting the flamboyant black and blue fruits, finishing with an exciting herbal lift."
Aubert 2017 UV-SL Vineyard Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast
$ 199.99
Limited new release from cult Chardonnay producer Mark Aubert.
99 Points Robert Parker: "A barrel sample aging in 80% new barrels, the 2017 Chardonnay UV-SL is a little broody right now, slowly revealing notes of warm apricots, apple pie and pear tart with suggestions of crème caramel, honey toast, sassafras and lime blossoms with a hint of candied popcorn. The palate is full-bodied with a wicked backbone of freshness lifting the densely packed stone fruit and savory layers, finishing very long and yeasty...
...Mark Aubert is one of the contenders for California’s finest practitioner of Burgundian-styled, yet classic, California Chardonnays. His offerings are all made like grand cru Burgundies with full malolactic, the use of French oak and lees stirring, but the purity of fruit, the textural dimensions, and the stunning singularity of these Chardonnays can only be matched by a handful of other Chardonnay producers in the world. He’s that good. Aubert’s 2012s, which I have enjoyed multiple times out of bottle since I purchased most of them, merit the scores I gave them last year."
Aubert 2018 'Larry Hyde & Sons' Vineyard Chardonnay, Carneros
$ 199.99
98 points - limited
Limited new release from cult Chardonnay producer Mark Aubert.
99 Points Robert Parker: "One of the last vineyards picked, this section of Hyde vineyard in Carneros is planted to Corton Charlemagne clone on St. George rootstock. The 2018 Chardonnay Larry Hyde & Sons leaps from the glass with vivacious fresh grapefruit, lemon peel, orange blossoms and lime cordial notes with nuances of fresh ginger, hay, sea spray and chalk dust. The full-bodied mouth explodes with the whole citrus-fruit flavor spectrum—lemons, limes, oranges and grapefruit on steroids—complemented by loads of spicy sparks and lifted by amazing freshness, sporting a provocatively creamy texture and finishing long....
...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 2018 CIX Vineyard Estate Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast
$ 199.99
99 points - limited
Limited new release from cult Chardonnay producer Mark Aubert.
99 Points Robert Parker: "CIX stands for 109, because this was originally called “Parcel 109” when Aubert bought the vineyard. Planted in 2008 to Montrachet clone, the 2018 Chardonnay CIX Estate slips sensuously from the glass with beguiling scents of apple blossoms, honeysuckle and orange peel over a core of ripe Bosc pears, coriander seed, white pepper and shaved almonds plus a touch of talc. Full-bodied, rich and seductive, it has seamless freshness and the most beautifully perfumed personality, finishing long and fragrant....
...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 2018 Eastside Vineyard Estate Chardonnay, Russian River Valley
$ 199.99
100 points - limited
Limited new release from cult Chardonnay producer Mark Aubert.
99+ Points Robert Parker: "Eastside is a warmer site in Russian River that is composed of very rocky, gravelly soils and planted to Montrachet clone. It is usually harvested second, after Sugar Shack. Wow—the 2018 Chardonnay Eastside has a truly compelling hazelnut/praline character with a core of spice cake, apple pie, peach preserves and clotted cream plus suggestions of cloves, allspice and brioche. Full-bodied, the palate is a powerhouse of savory layers, lifted by fantastic freshness and allowing the beautifully pristine apple and peach flavors to kick in on the long, long 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 2018 Lauren Vineyard Estate Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast
$ 224.99
100 points - limited
Limited new release from cult Chardonnay producer Mark Aubert.
100 Points Robert Parker: "Mark Aubert notes that this is a complex vineyard. It is planted to four different clones: two Old Wente clones, Mount Eden and Corton Charlemagne. The 2018 Chardonnay Lauren Estate explodes effortlessly from the glass, emitting flamboyant crystalized ginger, cinnamon stick, green tea and lime cordial notions with suggestions of applesauce, lemongrass, honey-roasted almonds and paraffin wax plus a touch of cedar chest. Full-bodied, the palate is wonderfully earthy/savory, delivering a beautiful oiliness to the texture juxtaposed by spine-tingling purity and freshness, finishing with epic length...
...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 2018 Powder House Estate Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast
$ 199.99
100 points - limited
Limited new release from cult Chardonnay producer Mark Aubert.
99 Points Robert Parker: "The second vintage of this wine, the 2018 Chardonnay Powder House comes from eight acres of what are now estate-owned vines planted in 2013, to Hyde Old Wente and Mt. Eden clones on Goldridge soils. The vineyard is located in downtown Forestville, right across from the high school. The nose bursts from the glass with notes of lemon meringue pie, lime curd, tangerine peel and candied ginger plus touches of lightly browned toast, cashews and a waft of cedar. The full-bodied palate starts out gentle and floral, expanding into a citrus explosion on the finish, featuring a wicked backbone of freshness and loads of compelling savory sparks that will keep you coming back for more...
...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 2018 Powder House Estate 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.
99 Points Robert Parker: "The second vintage of this wine, the 2018 Chardonnay Powder House comes from eight acres of what are now estate-owned vines planted in 2013, to Hyde Old Wente and Mt. Eden clones on Goldridge soils. The vineyard is located in downtown Forestville, right across from the high school. The nose bursts from the glass with notes of lemon meringue pie, lime curd, tangerine peel and candied ginger plus touches of lightly browned toast, cashews and a waft of cedar. The full-bodied palate starts out gentle and floral, expanding into a citrus explosion on the finish, featuring a wicked backbone of freshness and loads of compelling savory sparks that will keep you coming back for more...
...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 2018 Russian River Chardonnay
$ 109.00
99 points - limited
Limited new release from cult Chardonnay producer Mark Aubert.
Robert Parker: "...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 2018 Sonoma Coast Chardonnay
$ 109.00
99 points - limited
Limited new release from cult Chardonnay producer Mark Aubert.
Robert Parker: "...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 2018 Sugar Shack Estate Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast
$ 199.99
100 points - limited
Limited new release from cult Chardonnay producer Mark Aubert.
99 Points Robert Parker: "Produced from Montrachet Clone vines (what Mark Aubert calls “the citrus circus clone") grown in Rutherford AVA, the 2018 Chardonnay Sugar Shack comes bounding out of the glass with a sit-up-and-beg nose of candied lemon peel, green mango, guava and lime leaves plus hints of honeysuckle, toasted almonds, crushed stones and nutmeg. Full-bodied, the palate is electric with concentrated citrus and tropical fruits and the most amazing tension, featuring a satiny texture and very long, pristine 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 2018 UV-SL Vineyard Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast
$ 199.99
Limited new release from cult Chardonnay producer Mark Aubert.
98 Points Robert Parker: "The 2018 Chardonnay UV-SL comes across as a little shy compared to the Napa Chardonnays, slowly unfurling to reveal oyster shells, peach blossoms, honeysuckle and brine notes over a core of lemon marmalade, crème brûlée and pink grapefruit plus a touch of key lime pie. Full-bodied, the palate is like a tightly coiled spring with loads of tension between the racy acid and all the taut fruit, finishing very long and very minerally. This should be very long-lived!"...
...Mark Aubert is one of the contenders for California’s finest practitioner of Burgundian-styled, yet classic, California Chardonnays. His offerings are all made like grand cru Burgundies with full malolactic, the use of French oak and lees stirring, but the purity of fruit, the textural dimensions, and the stunning singularity of these Chardonnays can only be matched by a handful of other Chardonnay producers in the world. He’s that good. Aubert’s 2012s, which I have enjoyed multiple times out of bottle since I purchased most of them, merit the scores I gave them last year."
Babcock 2014 Chardonnay, Santa Rita Hills
$ 29.99
A great new Chardonnay discovery from the Santa Rita Hills that strikes a great balance between fruit and crisp acidity thats not overoaked! Get it before the new ratings come out.
80 % of the Chardonnay grapes for this wine come from Babcock's Estate Vineyard. You get the brisk acidity and minerality from this fruit and the varietal character and flesh from the Loma Verde fruit. With a nose of pineapple and lemon meringue, it’s hard to resist. There’s a pinch of clove and maybe a little tapioca thing going on in there as well. The mouth is beautifully rich without being over the top.
Barnett 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Spring Mountain, Napa Valley
$ 74.99
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.
Barnett Vineyards 2014 Sangiacomo Vineyard Chardonnay, Carneros
$ 33.00
A great small-produyction Napa Chardonnay from Barnett Vineyards on Spring Mountain.
Hal Barnett told us he has contracted the same parcels, same rows for years so the flavor profile and style would have an estate character. Using two Dijon clones and a Wente clone of Chardonnay, then going 22% through malolactic fermentation, winemaker David Tate has produced a delicious Chardonnay. The wine is made in a style that Chardonnay lovers could sip alone, but has the backbone and structure to succeed at the table. There are interesting layers of flavor to savor, with a floral element buried in there. Very attractive. Rich and layered, with a mix of tangerine, nectarine, spice and honeysuckle. Full-bodied, ending with a spicy, citrus- and cedar-laced finish.
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.
Beaulieu Vineyard 2015 Georges de Latour Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
$ 124.95 $ 145.00
96 Points - new release
A legendary Napa Cabernet- new release!
The superb 2015 vintage gave the 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.
96 Points James Suckling: "The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Georges de Latour Private Reserve expresses all of the richness of the year while also retaining a terrific sense of energy and vertical lift for such a big wine. Floral notes add aromatic intensity to a core of red cherry jam, pomegranate, blood orange, mint and sweet spice notes. Racy and unctuous to the core, the 2015 has a lot to offer."
Beaux-Freres 2016 Beaux Freres Vineyard Pinot Noir, Oregon
$ 89.99
95 Points Wine Spectator
Limited new release from Beaux-Freres. Wine Spectator #3 of 2016.
95 Points Wine Spectator: "Remarkably and seamlessly complex, with a polished and refined core wrapped in a silky raspberry and blueberry flavors, accented by savory spice and orange zest hints. The long finish builds toward polished tannins. Drink now through 2025. From 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 2016 The Upper Terrace Pinot Noir, Oregon
$ 99.99
96 Points Wine Spectator
Limited new release from Beaux-Freres. Wine Spectator #3 of 2016.
96 Points Wine Spectator: "A seductive wine that combines structure with harmony and a silky texture. Vivid black raspberry, rose petal and mocha espresso flavors build richness and dance on the long finish. Drink now."
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 2017 "Belles Soeurs Cuvee" Ribbon Ridge Pinot Noir, Oregon
$ 89.99
Limited new release from Beaux-Freres.
94 Points Wine Spectator: "Impeccably polished and structured, with gracefully expressive cherry and blueberry flavors, laced with black tea, spice and orange peel notes, taking on richness toward refined tannins. Drink now through 2027."
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!
Beaux-Freres 2017 Beaux Freres Vineyard Pinot Noir, Oregon
$ 89.99
95 Points Wine Spectator
Limited new release from Beaux-Freres. Wine Spectator #3 of 2016.
95 Points Wine Spectator: "Combines structure with verve, offering richly expressive raspberry, violet and orange peel flavors that take on polish and complexity toward well-buffed tannins. Drink now through 2028."
95 Points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "Deep red. High-pitched cherry, black raspberry and rose scents are complemented by hints of succulent herbs, exotic spices and musky flowers. Shows impressive energy and focus on the palate, offering juicy dark berry, bitter cherry and rose pastille flavors given a spicy edge by a hint of star anise. Closes smooth, appealingly sweet and very long, with fine-grained tannins adding framework and gentle grip."
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 2017 Ribbon Ridge Pinot Noir, Oregon MAGNUM (1.5L)
$ 199.00
95 Points Wine Spectator
Limited new release from Beaux-Freres. *This is a rare MAGNUM (1.5L) bottle*
previous vintage 95 Points Wine Spectator: "Remarkably and seamlessly complex, with a polished and refined core wrapped in a silky raspberry and blueberry flavors, accented by savory spice and orange zest hints. The long finish builds toward polished tannins. Drink now through 2025. From 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 2017 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 2017 Willamette Valley Pinot Noir, Oregon
$ 59.99
Limited new release from Beaux-Freres, one of Oregon's best wineries.
94 Points Wine Spectator: "Seamlessly complex and silky, with vivid raspberry and blueberry flavors accented by black tea and savory spice notes that dance elegantly toward refined tannins. Drink now through 2024."
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!
Beckmen 2017 Cuvee Le Bec, Santa Barbara
$ 22.99
One of our favorite under $25 red wine discoveries of the year! A delicious, juicy red blend that should be your house red.
Robert Parker: "One of the finest values in the Central Coast is their Cuvee Le Bec, a blend of 44% Grenache, 28% Syrah, 20% Mourvedre, and 8% Counoise, is one of the two great Cotes du Rhone look-alikes of the Central Coast. This is the type of wine that California can do so well, but rarely does. Part of the reason may be due to the difficulty of trying to convince consumers that a proprietary blend, available at a much lower price, can ultimately be better than some single varietal wines. The super Cuvee Le Bec is a sexy, delicious concoction of red and black cherries, black currants, pepper, spice box, and fruitcake. Medium to full-bodied and pure with supple tannins and a fleshy, lush personality, it will provide immense pleasure over the next 3-4 years...This winery, which has extensive holdings on one of Santa Ynez’s finest viticulture sites, Purisima Mountain, continues to build on an already impressive resume of wines. Kudos to Beckmen Vineyards for offering top-notch quality as well as plenty of enticing bargains."
Bedrock 2016 Evanghelho Vineyard Heritage Red, Contra Costa County
$ 35.00
Hot new boutique producer from Sonoma label. A rising start to watch!
93 Points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "Another standout, the 2016 Evangelho Heritage Wine is wonderfully fragrant and lifted. Medium in body, gracious and super-expressive, the Evangelho is pure class. All the elements simply come together in this super-expressive Zinfandel-based wine. The combination of sandy soils and unique field blend of approximately 60% Zinfandel, 35% Mataro and 5% mixed blacks results in a wine of compelling beauty and pedigree. Evangelho is now a true estate vineyard owned by Bedrock."
Robert Parker: "Everybody should recognize the incredible speed at which Morgan Twain-Peterson has built his Bedrock Wine Co. into a world-class performer. Moreover, few people have done more to preserve and save heritage/ancient-vine vineyards than Peterson. Here is his new lineup of wines that shows his creative Midas touch for coaxing full character out of his diverse terroirs and blends. His commitment to excellence is something to admire."
The Bedrock 2016 Heritage Red from the Evanghelho Vineyard in Contra Costa County truly embodies Bedrock is all about. This wine is a "field blend" made from 22 different varietals from vines that were planted 123 years ago. Winemaker Morgan Peterson has gone through and identified every vine on the property by hand. The main component is Zinfandel, with the remaining 40% of the wine a blend of what has been planted in the vineyard for the past century. Peppery fruit is in the lead with this wine, followed by plums and cloves. It is a very dark and textured wine, chewy and dense. This wine has so much history in each glass. If you are a fan of the tradition and history of wine, this is something to be tried and shared with friends.
Bedrock 2017 Evanghelho Vineyard Heritage Red, Contra Costa County
$ 36.00
94 points
Hot new boutique producer from Sonoma label. A rising start to watch!
94 Points Wine Spectator: "Distinctive, showing briary complexity, with deep and expressive smoky anise, black cherry, black olive and green peppercorn flavors that build toward refined tannins. Zinfandel, Carignane and Mataro. Drink now through
2026."
Robert Parker: "Everybody should recognize the incredible speed at which Morgan Twain-Peterson has built his Bedrock Wine Co. into a world-class performer. Moreover, few people have done more to preserve and save heritage/ancient-vine vineyards than Peterson. Here is his new lineup of wines that shows his creative Midas touch for coaxing full character out of his diverse terroirs and blends. His commitment to excellence is something to admire."
The Bedrock 2016 Heritage Red from the Evanghelho Vineyard in Contra Costa County truly embodies Bedrock is all about. This wine is a "field blend" made from 22 different varietals from vines that were planted 123 years ago. Winemaker Morgan Peterson has gone through and identified every vine on the property by hand. The main component is Zinfandel, with the remaining 40% of the wine a blend of what has been planted in the vineyard for the past century. Peppery fruit is in the lead with this wine, followed by plums and cloves. It is a very dark and textured wine, chewy and dense. This wine has so much history in each glass. If you are a fan of the tradition and history of wine, this is something to be tried and shared with friends.
Bedrock 2017 Lorenzo's Heritage Red, Dry Creek Valley
$ 46.00
93 points
Bedrock Wine Co. is a hot new boutique producer from Sonoma specializing in fantastic old vine zinfandels and blends. Limited.
93 Points Wine Spectator: "Broad-shouldered and burly, with expressive black cherry and blueberry flavors, accented by licorice, stony mineral and cracked pepper notes, building toward refined but firm tannins. Drink now through 2026. 300 cases made."
Robert Parker: "...Everybody should recognize the incredible speed at which Morgan Twain-Peterson has built his Bedrock Wine Co. into a world-class performer. Moreover, few people have done more to preserve and save heritage/ancient-vine vineyards than Peterson. Here is his new lineup of wines that shows his creative Midas touch for coaxing full character out of his diverse terroirs and blends. His commitment to excellence is something to admire."
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Bedrock 2018 Bedrock Vineyard Heritage Red, Sonoma Valley
$ 49.95
94 Points
Hot new boutique producer from Sonoma label. Limited.
94 Points Wine Spectator: "Heady, yet refined and polished, with boldly expressive black raspberry, orange peel and spice box flavors. This is full of additional nuances and builds toward big but fine-grained tannins. Zinfandel, Carignan and Mataro. Drink now through 2030."
Robert Parker: "Everybody should recognize the incredible speed at which Morgan Twain-Peterson has built his Bedrock Wine Co. into a world-class performer. Moreover, few people have done more to preserve and save heritage/ancient-vine vineyards than Peterson. Here is his new lineup of wines that shows his creative Midas touch for coaxing full character out of his diverse terroirs and blends. His commitment to excellence is something to admire."
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Bedrock 2018 Pagani Ranch Heritage Red, Sonoma Valley
$ 44.99
97 points
Bedrock is makign some of the finest Zinfandels and heirlooms reds in California today. Limited.
97 Points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "A stunning, riveting wine, the 2018 Heritage Wine Pagani Ranch is the most complete of the four Sonoma Valley bottlings in the range. Unctuous red cherry fruit, pomegranate, mint, blood orange an spice are some of the many aromas and flavors that develop over time. More than that, though, the Pagani Ranch is endowed with striking dimension and resonance. Today, it is a real showstopper."
Robert Parker: "...Everybody should recognize the incredible speed at which Morgan Twain-Peterson has built his Bedrock Wine Co. into a world-class performer. Moreover, few people have done more to preserve and save heritage/ancient-vine vineyards than Peterson. Here is his new lineup of wines that shows his creative Midas touch for coaxing full character out of his diverse terroirs and blends. His commitment to excellence is something to admire."
Behrens Family 2013 "Front Man" Merlot, Napa Valley
$ 74.99
95 Points
New release from Spring Mountain's Behrens Family Winery.
95 Points Robert Parker: "The 2013 Merlot Front Man, which includes 12% Cabernet Sauvignon, is relatively dense purple in color. Deep, rich and concentrated, this is one of my favorite wines of their portfolio. It is a terrific example of Merlot. Plenty of berry fruit, a full-bodied opulence, stunning purity and a deep, layered finish make for quite a splendid example of Merlot to drink over the next 15 or so years."
Behrens Family 2013 The Collector Red, Napa Valley
$ 59.99
94+ Points
New release from Spring Mountain's Behrens Family Winery. Limited.
94+ Point Robert Parker: "The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon the Collector, 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Petite Sirah and the rest Merlot and Petit Verdot, reminds me of a big, rich Petite Sirah. That explains the 30% of that variety, but it seems to dominate the blend. Beautiful blueberry and black raspberry fruit, extremely extracted and rich, but not rustic by any means, this is a big, dense, pedal-to-the-metal, balls-to-the-wall black/purple red wine to drink over the next 20-25 years."
Behrens Family The Collector is back with a brand new label, and the 2013 edition is an intriguing blend of Petite Sirah and Cabernet Sauvignon. Aromas of tobacco and loam meld with vanilla, cherry and black fruits. There is a lush and savory quality to this wine that is focused with great acidity and expands with a mouthful of black currant, allspice and cassis. We held off on the release of this wine for a year while it hit its stride, but now we find it deep, rich and truly satisfying. Only 315 cases produced
Behrens Family 2016 The Passeneger Petite Sirah, Napa Valley
$ 54.99
New release from Spring Mountain's Behrens Family Winery. Limited.
The Passenger is a 93% Petite Sirah from three small, up-valley vineyards. Brooding and dark at the core, with aromas of sandalwood, forest floor and blackberry, the texture is dense yet juicy and mouth filling. The wine finishes with notes of candied citrus peel, mint and Asian spice. There is a lot packed in here - we suggest just going along for the ride.
Beringer 2015 "Private Reserve" Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
$ 149.99
96 Points Parker - limited
Limited Reserve Cabernet from Beringer. One of the top-rated Cabs of the stellar 2015 vintage.
97 Points Jeb Dunnuck: "I was able to taste to two vintages of the Private Reserve, and the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Private Reserve comes from a vintage loved by the estate. The final blend is the normal 97% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Petit Verdot brought up in 85% new French oak. This full-bodied, ripe, voluptuous beauty shows the vintage to a T, offering a blast of sweet blackcurrants, licorice, ground herbs, and graphite aromas and flavors. Blockbuster styled, with full body and an expansive, sexy texture, it has the depth and density to continue drinking brilliantly for 20+ years."
95+ points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "Containing the tiniest splashes of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Private Reserve has a deep garnet-purple color and nose of plum preserves, baked blackberries and cassis with hints of menthol, sandalwood and chocolate box. Full-bodied with soft, seductive tannins and a lively backbone supporting the generous, ripe, opulent fruit, it has a decadent spiciness and great length....
...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 2016 Private Reserve Chardonnay, Napa Valley
$ 44.00
92 Points Parker - Limited
Beringer's top Chardonnay from the Gamble Ranch vineyard.
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."
92 Points Robert Parker : "A tank sample, the 2016 Chardonnay Private Reserve opens with peaches and cream notes and suggestions of cedar box, pink grapefruit and green mango with a touch of nutmeg. Medium to full-bodied with an appealingly oily texture, it delivers mouth-filling tropical fruit and oak flavors, finishing with great persistence."
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