Made with three clones—4, 76, and Mount Eden—from the Miller family’s famed Bien Nacido property, this Chardonnay aged 14 months in (20% new) oak displays plenty of cool-climate polish, from the nose of bruised apple infused with baking spice such as cinnamon and savory chamomile to the silky mouthfeel distinguished by caramel apple and preserved lemon. A soupçon of banana makes for a jazzy finish.
Robust, teeth-grabbing tannins surround a field of violets and fennel. Wet stone is elevated by plum skin and soy sauce, with a spiced cedar finish.
Prickly pear, hibiscus, and Ranier cherries send a bight signal to the palate. White pepper and raspberry gelée are perked up by an ideal acid structure. From one of California’s – if not the world’s – most pedigreed vineyards, it ‘s demeanor is confident and fresh, with a mocha-raspberry finish and a hint of terroir.
Cherries soaked in cinnamon, with iron filings and an earthy frame create a lively, eye-opening, well-paced red. White pepper glazes over the palate, holing up notes of Rooibos tea and red beets, with a nod to sandalwood on the cooling finish.
Winemaker Joey Tensley certainly has a way with Syrah, and from this vineyard it is certainly a super star. A coating of licorice and tarry plum demonstrates concentration and confidence. A line-up of fresh herbs and crushed boysenberry lengthens on the palate, with a dot of black pepper and a glide of sleek minerality.
Startling grassy notes surrounded by lemon-lime sorbet and freshly squeezed grapefruit. Acidity revives with each sip, while mineral tones cleanse the palate.
Dramatic and bold, with dense layers of espresso, black plum, cassis, and pipe tobacco. Tannins are suede-lined; drying and yet balanced with an elegant restraint.
Magnetic, lush notes of Golden apple and pie crust, sparked by salty mineral tones. Summer crisp pear is a highlight, with brisk acidity.