The fruit behind this wine was clearly picked at the right time, resulting in a medium-bodied Chardonnay with fine balance between fruit and acidity. Getting these fundamentals right is the key to the wine’s success, but it also shows faint but attractive oak accents that make this more than just a “solid” everyday wine. Very skillfully wrought.
Quite impressive in relation to its asking price, this offers a sense of richness while remaining refreshing. Medium-plus in body but freshened by balanced acidity, it also offers an interesting floral aroma as well as flavors recalling baked apples and orchard fruits.
Pinot Noir is notoriously difficult to grow and vinify, and good renditions that aren’t expensive are difficult to find. Here’s a fine exception to the rule, with appealing aromas of red fruits and substantial flavors to match. Spicy oak accents lend complexity to the finish without intruding on the fruit’s centrality. This would still be impressive at $25—but is a steal at $16.
Spiced sandalwood and juicy plum are highlights. Dried violets settle on the tongue, aided by supple tannins that maintain the wine’s luxe approachability. Ripe black cherry melds with dark chocolate and espresso.
Elegant, with floral appointments of honeysuckle, and gardenia, accented by candied ginger. A creamy wash of vanilla-peach works its way to add depth and richness.
Grapes are sourced from this foggy vineyard, with elevations up to 1250 feet in southern Monterey County. Aged 14 months in (40% new) French oak, this full-bodied red is amped by a bright acidity. Notes of underbrush, plum, cranberry, and fresh blueberries lead the way. It finishes with notes of salted plum and lavender.
Any surprise that ultra-prime land in Napa is still planted to Riesling will blow off like morning fog by anyone who tastes this wine. Truly dry but still very generous in aroma and fleshy fruit recalling the best peach you’ve ever eaten, this wine belongs among the world’s most esteemed examples of this great variety. Nearing five years of age, it has gained complexity without tiring at all, with energetic acidity that’s perfectly tuned to the wine’s fruitiness.
Nearing five years of age as this winery’s current release, this has settled into a sweet spot where oak, primary fruit and tannin are all singing in harmony. Savory undertones emerge to lend enduringly intriguing complexities as this warms and breathes in one’s glass. Neither pushy nor reticent, heavy nor light, this is one of Napa’s classiest Cabernets in a vintage that shows it in peak form.