TN: 2004 Dain Wines Syrah Sojourn Las Madres Vineyard

12/31/2007: Dark crimson color with beautiful transparent edges showing off a lovely purple red color. The nose is subdued; some pomegranate, some vanilla. Interesting. The palate is explosive with sweet red & blue fruits; wonderful blueberry has very much taken hold. An amazing layer of soft vanilla is evident. There is a certain something I have never experienced before. For once in my life I am speechless...

This has perfect weight, and the tannins are lying in the background nicely and a wonderful acid level is in attendance. Fantastic long & smooth aftertaste. There is much happening here. I harkens back to a term I learned from a fellow wine lover; "Mind bender". This is such a wine. A serious, sensual gratifying assault on all of my senses from the neck up. 750 ml of elegance. My last bottle. I got to get me more of this. Well done Dain! (93 pts.)

2005 Audelssa Estate Winery Summit (USA, California, Sonoma County, Sonoma Valley)

Nice translucent deep color. The nose is a bit subdued, but if one looks (smells) hard enough one can find some candied red fruits. The palate reveals red plums, cassis, tar, and leather. There is a real elegant feminine quality about this wine. A quality that elevates it to the stratosphere. The Petit Verdot is evident toward the end. Not a showy wine, but a more classy restrained wine. A structured tannin level interweaved with a tight wire-like acid level hold all parts of the whole together. Very Bordeaux like while still retaining its California roots. Something for everyone. 92/100

The State of the Union…. of my glassware.

My fellow wine lovers. Glassware has become a tremendous part of our ‘thing’. Years ago you had limited options that amounted (by today's standards) to average uncut crappy glasses as the INAO (seen here left).

I remember when the Les Impitoyables hit the market. I bit. I got the Mature Red (No. 3, right), and 2 Champagne (No. 4). Pricey, but nice. My Mature Red has not been used since the mid 90’s, and my Champagne circa 2000. I must admit, I would use the Champagne often if I were a bigger Champagne drinker. 1 Bottle a year does not a big drinker make.

These days I enjoy a few types of glasses. Most recently the Waterford Mondavi Syrah glass (left). Great feel, elegant and nicely balanced. A special wine glass for special wines. I have owned the Waterford Mondavi Cabernet glasses, but found them too big.

My everyday glass for the last year is the Riedel Ouverture Red Wine glass (below right). I purchased 15 or so tubes (4 glasses) last December 26th from bed Bath and Beyond. They were marked down from $30 per tube of 4 to $12.99. How could I not grab all I could? They make great gifts, and I still have enough on hand for a decent group tasting at my home. The stem is shorter but the feel is great.

Previous to the Riedel I regularly used the Spiegelau Vino Grande Magnum Bordeaux (below left). Nice feel. Very similar to the above Riedel, just a longer stem. They break a bit easier on the faucet, so in the back of my cabinet they sit.

I have recently checked out the Crate & Barrel Loire line-up. The Sauvignons seems pretty good. Nice feel, but slight rough visually when spun in your thumb and forefinger. At $7.95 they seem like a good candidate for the dinner table, or situations that can get a bit rough like dinner on the back deck. I will grab 4 when I get a chance. Crate and Barrel glassware has come a long way in the last year. In the past they were awkward and unbalanced.

TN: 2005 Saxon-Brown Syrah Flora Ranch

(USA, California, Sonoma County, Chalk Hill) $28.99
Went on Greg dal Piaz's (Astor, NYC) recco on this. I asked him for a cool climate Cali Syrah in about the $40 range and this surely delivered. Great complex nose of pebbles,moss, white pepper and dark plums. The palate showed elegance, structure, restraint and beauty. Great under current of red fruits and tight tannins. Deft acid level. Nice decent finish. This was surely the crowd pleaser on the table. One that I wish were a magnum than a 750 as I hated to see it go. Thanks Greg.

What do point scores mean to me?

Lots of talk of this subject as of late. Good points made on both sides of the wall. Me? I am solidly aground in my use of them. I think they work well for my needs and give me a yardstick to judge all wines that cross my lips.

When reading others notes I really have no use for the points UNLESS I know the tasters preferences. Descriptors are more important to me than point scores 98% of the time.

I know what I like in a wine, but does that mean your button pushers are the same? No way.

I agree with BS, professional critics scoring schemes are different, but not. You must find a critic you align with, and only then feel comfortable relying on his scores can you purchase on his recommendation, but remember, there is nothing like tasting for yourself and making your own judgement.

Let's not abolish points just yet. They have a place, even if it's under your own roof.

But what the hell do I know?

"Where did all my Bordeaux go?" or 'Where's the fruit?"

I started 'this thing of ours' in 1981. Wine was relatively inexpensive and bargains were plentiful. The 'boom' had not hit yet, at least not the boom which has brought us to today's conditions.

I enjoyed Bordeaux from the left bank (more CS based than Merlot). I was able to get wines like 1978 Beychevelle for $11 and 1982 Lafite Rothschild futures for $300...a case!

It took some time, but I was able to build up quite a nice collection. Moderately rare Bordeuax going back to the teens (1918 Calon Segur) by tapping some of the great cellar auctions like Delmonicos in NYC. I had amassed many top vintages of the 40's, 50's, 60's and 7o's. I remember bidding on a pair of 1926 Mouton Rothschilds. When the bidding went above $200 for the pair I stopped. I also remember bein offered a newly Chateau re-corked 1934 Lafite on sale at Sherry Lehman for about $150. By time I went back to to the shop, it was gone. I found I had filled my Eurocave quite nicely.

California Cabernet was a very different beast then; monolithic and primary for the most part. Lingering in the back of my mind I had always felt there was something I was missing in all the wines I drank.

Somewhere around 2001 I awoke and realized; I did not like Bordeaux. To me it was funky, barnyardy, missing fruit and just plain amiss. The whole concept of 'secondary nuances' flew past me. In contrast, many of today's California Cabernet's are full of deep red/black fruits, wonderful lush mouth feel, and just all around enjoyable. I happen to like my Cabs young; 5-10 years is perfect, and I am not shy about opening my 2004's either. Why wait? If I enjoy them now, what's to gain? (I love when I see tasting notes proclaiming "wonderful, 95 points! I will wait for my other 5 to get better." Better? There is a high probability they will be disappointed.)

What to do? What to do?

I sold ALL of my Bordeaux and restocked with my beloved newly rediscovered Cabernet. Not just any Cabernet, pure Napa Valley elixir.Don't cry for me...I did OK.

TN: 2005 Saintsbury Pinot Noir Carneros

This pinot noir is well worth its 23 dollar price:

It is somewhat pale in color, but intense, with crimson edges. The nose reveals fresh crushed pebbles & sour red cherries. The palate continues on with the cherries and pebbles with the addition of : tar, leather, violets and a hint of strawberries. The acid level seems right on and the medium texture tannins are well balanced and smooth. A great effort from the entry (I believe) level Pinot in the Saintsbury line. I have had Gevrey-Chambertains costing 3x the price that were not as expressive and enjoyable. Isn't that the real meaning of QPR? 92 points. ($22.99)

TN: 2005 Lucia Syrah Susan's Hill

USA, California, Central Coast, Santa Lucia Highlands

(11/23/2007)This is a more 'complete' wine when compared to the 2004. The color is deep and dark, almost blue/purple on the edges. The nose is blueberry, blackberry, camphor, and more. On the palate there was the sexiness spoken of, as well as a lushness I don't not usually associate with Syrah. A beautiful deep fruited Syrah that will just get better in the next few years. The tannin and acid level are spot on. A super long finish completes the package. Note to self; get more.

(94 pts.)

TN: 2004 Scholium Project Syrah Scythia Donati Vineyards

USA, California, Central Coast, San Benito County (8/24/2007)Not decanted as long as usual. Super dark purple color. This is one of the smoothest syrahs I have ever come across. Pretty blueberry pie on the nose as well as bruised purple fruits; plums are the highlight. A wonderful integration of tannins and acid create an ultra refined mouthfeel for a syrah. The finish goes on 'til midnight, or at least 40 seconds. Glad I got 5 more in reserve. (93 pts.)

TN: 2002 Forman Cabernet Sauvignon

USA, California, Napa Valley (8/24/2007)The nose on this is phenomenal. Dark fruits & chocolate shoot upward from the glass. Medium color. The palate reveals wonderful cassis, dark cherries, and cocoa. There is an amazing mouthfeel which exhibits the purest expression of cabernet you can find, all wrapped in a wonderfully meshed tannin jacket. This is just so elegant and classy; words are difficult to describe it. 30 second finish sums things up nicely (95 pts.)

TN: 2004 Rivers-Marie Cabernet Sauvignon

USA, California, Napa Valley, Howell Mountain (8/24/2007)Decanted 1 hour. Sweet red fruits, cherry pie. Over extracted and very unbalanced. Not flawed, just not.....nice. High acid and never yielding in any sort of 'cabernet as I know 'em' type of way. If this is the new world, stop it, I want to get off.n/a

TN: 2002 Chateau St. Jean Cabernet Sauvignon Cinq Cépages

USA, California, Sonoma County (11/24/2007)Pretty medium ruby color. The nose is all about casis and blackberry with some anise. Quite intense. The palate reveals beautiful pure cabernet qualities of currant, sweet dark fruits, wonderful slight cocoa, and tar. There is a very intense oak quality but this has the fruit to carry it. If I have any complaint its the somewhat high acid level, but its negligable. This is a very elegant intense bottle of wine. A superb finish brings it all home. This was a wonderful deal at $37.00 from Winestilsoldout.com. (91 pts.)

An interesting wine taste observation

Yesterday I opened what amounts to my 3rd bottle in 2 months. (I have been going real easy, getting in shape and lowering some numbers).

Anyhow, I opened this good bottle of Cab, figuring it would be nice to enjoy with dinner.

I decanted and let sit in my glass. it was good. Then I opened the sliding door to my deck and took my glass with me, sat it down while I lit the Weber, and took another sip. WOW. Much fresher and bigger fruit. I even enjoyed the cool glass smells right before sipping. It was not that the wine cooled, but the environment around it did. Fresh NY fall air. Lots of red and yellow leaves on the ground. Wonderful clean air. 50 degree F. with a light breeze. And this all showed in my glass.

I finished up and sat for dinner. Same good wine but the exterior wow had subsided. Needless to say I finished the last half a glass a fresco.

Maybe its the fact that I have been away for a bit, combined with the fresh air. So to all those posts asking if any particular environment treats wine better, my answer is a resounding....yes.

I should hold my next OL outside.

The Quintessa style - 6/6/2006

Last night 2 dozen wine aficionados were invited to an exclusive tasting of Quintessa hosted by both Gary Fisch. from Gary’s Marketplace and George Staikos from Quintessa (Eastern Regional Sales Manager). The tasting focused on 3 block selections of the ’04 Quintessa property, as well as the finished product from ’01, and ’02.

The first wine was the Dragon’s Terraces block ’04 – This wine was light in color, but big in flavor. Lush red fruit, medium tannins, with a very smooth long finish. Some cherry notes present. A wonderfully balanced wine. One of the backbone wines in the final blend.
The second was the Cruz Del Sur block ’04 – This one was a bit darker with much bigger fruit up front. Dark fruit with some notes of cassis, & clove. Tannins more evident. I love the 30 second finish. A very integrated wine on its own. Now, since biodynamic measures it's becoming more important in the final blend. My favorite of the blocks.

The third and final block was the Corona Sur ’04 – This was a totally different styled wine altogether, as promised on the nose. The darkest of the three both on sight and on fruit style. I found a slight bitterness in the middle palate and a super slight vegetalness. An interesting wine non-the less.

The fourth wine was the Quintessa 2001 – This wine was the last make by Philippe Melka. This wine is Cabernet with some Merlot. 18 months in oak, 100% French, 60% new. I liked this wines approachability. The same reason some did not like it. Moderate tannins. I did notice some of the famed Rutherford dust. A smooth beautiful long mouth feel. Medium dark fruit. Some browning on the edges. After some time in the glass some port notes evident on the nose. Some believed this wine was tiring too soon. 88/100

The final wine of the night was the Quintessa 2002 – This wine was made by Sara Gott. Totally different than the ’01. The ’02 was a bigger fruit more tannic styled wine. !00% new French oak and 20 months in it. The blend here is 78 Cabernet, 18% Merlot and 4% Cab Franc. The Cab Franc was evident from the get go. Currants and dark cherries, with beautiful integrated levels of acid and tannins. I felt this wine has stuffing to go many years. Not as approachable as the’ 01. The dark color gave promise to the long persistent aftertaste. I would cellar this 2-4 years. 92/100

I think Quintessa is a great wine with much potential to be a very great wine once consistency issues are worked out, and crazy price strategies are corrected. They now have a new winemaker, Aaron Pott, and going forward I believe they should build a flavor profile that fans could rely on. Unfortunately prices are way up there and it’s getting hard to justify $120+ per bottle. Much of Quintessa’s fan base has abandoned her. Too bad.(Just my opinion and we all know what opinions are worth).

Quintessa now has a second wine which is made from blocks not quite up to Quintessa standards called Faust. I will seek out a bottle to try. Gary Fisch tells me it’s on the style of the Corona Sur. It’s priced at about $53.

TN: 2005 Robert Mondavi Winery Cabernet Napa

I know there are many fans of this wine lurking here. I was real curious to taste this. I believe some of these grapes are still sourced from To-Kalon vineyard. I have heard as much as 50% To-Kalon for this vintage, although I could be wrong. This bottle shows that the QPR magic still exists. Real Napa, especially ties to To-Kalon for $20!

Deep color, great nose of currant and other black fruits. The palate shows the nice balance of tannins and acid that these Mondavi cabs are known for. Decent cassis with signs of cocoa, leather, and a slight soy. Always a good food wine. Not the longest on the palate though. I paid south of $20 all in and will get some more as they make great everyday drinkers. 88/100

Napa Vintners on Tour - NYC January 23th, 2007

Some impressions of the other notes from the Napa Vintners Assoc tour tasting in NYC. Tuesday, January 23rd.

2004 Blackbird - Singing. Much more refined fruit coming through than back in November at their open house. This has gone from a good bottle to a great bottle. The 2005 is still showing a bit much cab franc for me.93/100

2003 Diamond Creek Gravelly Meadow - To me this is always the best of the three and this year is no different. There was a 1999 MicroClimate bottling of Volcanic hill. An ok bottle. I expected more. 92/100

1996 Heitz Ink Grade Cabernet- This had tremendous length and class. Deep dark fruits belying its age. Unavailable. Too bad. 93/100

2002 Dyer Cabernet- I loved the purity of this. It had great dark fruit and smooth integrated tannins. Now, the '03 next to it was something altogether different. 91/100

2003 Long Meadow Ranch Cabernet (from Mag)- To this point in the tasting, this was the best '03 that I came across. Silky smooth and delicious. A qpr too! (In this room? Never heard of it). One to seek out. 90/100

A few Merlots;

2002 Sullivan Merlot Reserve - This had all of the big explosive qualities I like in a Merlot. Deep dark red fruits, super smooth tannins, and an acid level deftly present. 93/100

2002 Sullivan Merlot - This was just a notch below in quality, but a very good bottle for the price ($40s). 90/100. The people at Sullivan are doing Merlot right.

Amidst all those lovely Cabs and Merlots were the good people of Saintsbury, pouring their Pinots. These I have overlooked in the past.
The 2005 Pinot Carneros showed amazing fresh pure fruits, with a backbone that carries it all the way to a long elegant finish. Red cherries and violets abound. I like one this a lot. 92/100

This year the vintners were asked to bring something special. Many partake in the Napa Premiere Auction, and brought representative bottles. These are limited bottlings given to the auction by the wineries to auction for medical needs and such for migrant workers. A noble cause indeed. The wines are usually 5 or 10 case runs, and usually the best barrels (or cuvees) available. In the past 3 or 4 years I have been a buyer, but the costs are getting prohibitive. Some beauties were;

2005 Trinchero Stagecoach- Big dark fruits abound. A glorious texture made this on of the best in the room. Available only at auction. 97/100

2005 The Terraces Premiere Cabernet, Quarry Vineyard. This was unique for the day in such it has 6% Zin blended into the cuvee. Smooth and beautiful with just a hint of bramble. I loved this and so did my companions. 97/100

2005 Corison Cabernet- I got to admit, I am usually not a fan of Corisons wines. This one was different. Big plush deep cored fruit wrapped sublimely in tannins. Smooth finish. Wow. 95/100

A great tasting, usually the best of the year. The room probably had 500-600 people at peak, so crowding was evident of the demand to taste these beauties.

2007 Polaner Selections Spring Portfolio -part 2 (US Pinots)

Part 2 - Pinots

2005 Melville Pinot Noir Terraces- Light in color but big in taste. Great cherries and tar. Very Burgundian in style. A crowd pleaser. 3.6/4 (93)

2005 Melville Pinot Noir Carries - A bit more austere and reticent. Fruit is there, just hiding a bit for the moment. Should show well in a few years. 3.3/4 (90)

2005 Radio-Coteau Pinot Noir La Neblina- A very fruit forward Pinot with soft tannins. Smooth and elegant. 3.6/4 (93)

2005 L'Angevin Pinot Noir RRV- Super floral style of Pinot that I vcan love for 10 minutes, then be turned off for the rest of the evening. Silky mid palate. I just don't always know what to make of wines like this. 3.5/4 (92)

2005 L'Angevin Pinot Noir Sonoma Stage- Similar in style to the above, just a bit more lite bodied. 3.5/4 (92)

I also tasted Giacomo Conternos offering, as well as Mas Doix from Priorat.

Either I am missing something, or my palate has changed drastically. I was once a big fan of Barolos.

Priorats leave me with more questions than answers.

Polaner Selections Spring Portfolio 2007

Attended the Polaner Spring Portfolio. My goal at this one is to a; find new and interesting Cali wines and b; check some of my current favorites. I was not disappointed.

I bee-lined to the back room and hit table #55 first, Arnot-Roberts. The complete lineup was amazing.

2005 Arnot-Roberts Syrah Hudson-Deep red fruit forward Carneros District beauty. Smooth seamless tannins. Wow. 3.7/4- (94)

2005 Arnot-Roberts Syrah Griffins Lair-a bit more spice and tannic structure, great mouthfeel. 3.5/4 (92)

2005 Arnot-Roberts Syrah Adler Springs- most northern Rhone like of the group. Dense with some tat, pepper, and bacon fat. 3.6/4 (93)

2004 Arnot-Roberts Cabernet Sauvignon Wild Iris- Amazing fruit forward, smooth but firm tannins complete packaged Cabernet. One of the best in the room, and the room was tough. 3.8/4 (95)

2004 Arnot-Roberts Cabernet Sauvignon Bugay Vnyd- Deep colored and wonderfully balanced pure Sonoma style Cab with tightly spun tannins, a bit unyielding, will show nice in a few years- 3.5/4 (92)

2004 Merus Cabernet Sauvignon- Super smooth tannins with a wonderful acid level envelope the dark fruit climaxing in a super long finish. Elegant. A bit tight but the wow factor is evident. 3.6/4 (93)

2004 Maybach Meterium Cabernet Sauvignon- This is an interesting wine. Smooth and regal, shows much breed. Dark and ultra balanced Cabernet that is well worth the hunt. Chatting with Chris Maybach a bit gave me the sense that these guys are truly dedicated to producing world class cult status, Cabernet Sauvignon. Amazing. 3.8/4 (95)

Juan and Wendell from Realm were both in attendance showcasing barrel samples of 3 Cabernets in their lineup. Always good speaking with these gentlemen.

2005 Realm Cabernet Sauvignon Farella (barrel) - A favorite of mine, this has all the guts of a world class Realm. A bit austere now, it should evolve into something worthy of owning. Dark purple color, smooth firm tannins. A baby with a wonderful pedigree and future. 3.4/4 (91/92)

2005 Realm Cabernet Sauvignon ToKalon (barrel) - Lush and well structured, this Cabernet shows the terroir of Tokalon nicely. The most consistent in the lineup yet. A bit bigger than the 2004, nothing that a few in the bottle won't help though. Then look out, this will be a stunner. 3.6/4 (93/94)

2005 Realm Cabernet Sauvignon Dr. Crane (barrel) - The wine I wanted to try most in the lineup. A middle weight Cabernet with good deep red fruits, and a nice set of bones. This will evolve into an elegant cabernet. 3.4/4 (91/92)

Keep in mind that keeping with Realms early release, these wines are all babies. I can't wait for another try at them in June when Realms open house hits NYC.

2004 Larkmead Firebelle- nice blend 3.4/4 (91)

2004 Larkmead Cabernet Sauvignon- This is always a pleaser. The number one QPR again. Although I think the retail this year will be a bit higher, it will still be worth it if it stays under $50. This opulent fruit forward, ultra balanced Cabernet shows what can be done in good vintages as well as sub-par (2003). 3.5/4 (92)

2002 Philip Togni Tanbark Cabernet- I always like this better than the Spring Mountain bottling, and this year is no different. 3.2/4 (89)

2004 Philip Togni Spring Mountain Cabernet- shame to kill so many trees. N/R

2004 Brookman Cabernet Sauvignon- Great deep color. A good tight grip of tannins wrapping around a core of dark currant, tar, cocoa, and cassis. A lovely classic Napa styled Cabernet made to please. 3.4/4 (91)

Other notable Cabernets;

2003 Black Sears Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain- 3.4/4 (91)
2004 Drinkward-Peschon Cabernet Sauvignon- 3.4/4 (91)
2003 Crocker & Starr Stone Place blend-3.3/4 (90)
2004 Gemstone Facets blend- 3.5/4- I still like last years better. (92)

I would have liked to taste the Harris Estate, but they were not present this year.

Moving onto Syrah.

2005 K Vintners Syrah 'the beautiful'- this is a fruit medley in a glass, there is so much good things happening here it's hard to talk of them all. A unique wonderful Syrah from a super dedicated winemaker with more energy than my son had at 5. 3.6/4 (93)

2005 K Vintners Syrah Cougar Hills- interesting that side by side on the same table two diametrically opposite wines exists. Wonderful old world styled Syrah that has elegance and structure. The fruit lingers as the wines aftertaste goes on for 45 seconds. 3.6/4 (93)

2005 K Vintners the Boy blend- 2.9/4 (86)
2005 K Vintners Syrah Milbrandt-3.1/4 (88)

Meeting Tim Spear for the first time you immediately know he knows what his goals are. He wants to produce a La La on this shore. He is well on the way to figuring it out too. His 2002 Clos Mimi Syrah White Hawk (3.7/4 - 94) is amazing. He explained his treatment to me. The wine shows breed and firm expressive structure not found very often today. One of the top two or three Syrahs in the room. I'm a believer Tim!

Also tasted;

2003 Clos Mimi Syrah Shell Creek - 3.3/4 (90)
2003 Clos Mimi Brave Oak- 3.3/4 (90)

2005 Pax Syrah Cuvee Christine - 3.0/4 (87)
2005 Pax Syrah Obsidian- 3.7/4 (94)
2005 Pax Syrah Walker Hill RRV - 3.2/4 (89)
2005 Pax Syrah Adler Springs - 3.3/4 (90)

2004 Ojai Santa Barbara- 2.9/4 (86)
2003 Ojai Syrah White Hark- 3.1/4 (88)
2003 Ojai Syrah Melville- 3.3/4 (90)

2005 Copain Saisons des L'Hiver Syrah- 3.3/4 (90)
2005 Copain Syrah Eaglepoint Ranch - 3.4/4 (91)
2005 Copain Syrah Harrison Clarke 3.2/4 (89)


I have some Pinot notes I will add later.

Polaner Selections NYC - 3/21/2006

Just back from the Polaner Selections tasting NYC

I must say, there are some very amazing wines out there, and yet there are 20 fold average offerings. You must tread easy and pick carefully, but then you will be rewarded, as I was today. (in order of preference).

2003 Harris Estate Cabernet Sauvignon Jakes Creek- Wow. and amazing sublime etheral wine of tremendous balance. Fantastic deep red fruit. some cassis. Excellent balance. Long long finish. I love this wine. Valley floor Estate grown grapes. One to seek out.

2003 Pax Syrah Castelli -Knight Ranch RRV- If I had a choice to drink one syrah for the rest of my life, this would be it. Deep dark fruit, just the right amount of pepper Long lingering finish. Memorable. I love this wine. A wine all other Syrahs can aspire to.

2002 Larkmead Cabernet Sauvignon Napa- This is truly a beautiful wine. All nose, wonderful smooth tannins, Medium dark fruit with a long smooth finish. This is a wonderful wine that will reward you for years to come.

2001 Westerly Lot 18 Reserve Merlot Santa Ynez- For me to even write about Merlot states something. This wine is big full bodies high octaine plush mouth filling Merlot. But yet seems to balance itself on the head of a pin. Wonderful middle, I love this wine for short term consumption. Now until 2008. My surprise of the day.

2003 Crocker and Starr Cabernet Franc- Ditto my Merlot notes. Cab Franc always dissapoints. I have had a ratio of 30/1-- medicore/good Cab Francs. This is the exception. Pam Starr hits the mark here. The 5% Merlot balances this wine. Big nose, wonderful red fruit. Cassis, nice tannis/acid/oak treatment. This is an amazing wine, from a truly talented winemaker.

2000 Powers Cabernet Reserve- This wine has QPR written all ove it. Wonderful deep dark fruit wrapped u in a nce balance of acid/ tannins. I would love this paired with a big juicy tenderlon. This one will get better fora few and the pay dividends. The days 'sleeper'.

2004 Domaine Saint Benoit Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee XIII- This wine is very old world. Thats the beauty of it Its a tannic oak laden monster that keeps its balance and smoothly delivers. I would love to try this in a few years. It will be amazing! When you taste this you know what all the world wants to replicate.

Some other notables:
2003 Gemstone
2002 Sineann Merlot Hillside
2004 Sineann Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley
2002 Crocker & Starr Stone Place (80% cab, 20% merlot)
2003 Merus Cabernet Sauvignon Napa
2004 Carver-Sutro Petite Sirah Palisades Vineyard Barrel Sample
2001 Clos Mimi Syrah Bunny Slope
2004 Pax Syrah Walker Vine Hill RRV
1998 Conterno Brolo Monfortino

Not a bad afternoon.

TN: 2002 Albert Morot Beaune 1er Cru Cent-Vignes

2002 Albert Morot Beaune 1er Cru Cent-Vignes - France, Burgundy, Côte de Beaune, Beaune 1er Cru (8/30/2007)The color was a medium to light garnet. This has a wonderful nose of wild flowers, especially violets...wow. There was a fantastic fruit profile, crushed stones, and great balance on the palate. The tannin level is quietly hiding but is surely the bones that supports all these wonderful qualities. This wine is ultra pure and elegant. Very nice indeed. $29.95 and well worth it. (91 pts.)

TN: 2004 Sbragia Family Cabernet Sauvignon Andolsen Vineyard

2004 Sbragia Family Cabernet Sauvignon Andolsen Vineyard - USA, California, Sonoma County, Dry Creek Valley (8/25/2007)Bright purple tinged edges on a ultra dark background. The nose reveals a certain breed of cassis that is pretty and floral. The palate shows the same cassis/currant but with the added dimension of boysenberry and super dark cherries, slight cocoa, and tat. There is a wonderful mouth feel that carries this forward. A great finish completes the package. This will surely benefit from a year in the bottle. For $26 this is a great QPR that belies its price tag. I have had the 2003 and this is less in your face and a more serious wine four square. (93 pts.)

TN:2004 Lucia Syrah Susan's Hill

USA, California, Central Coast, Santa Lucia Highlands

With the new mailer on my doorstep I just could not resist trying this.

The color is inky garnet, bulls blood comes to mind. The nose shows a fragrant assortment dark fruits and an underlying white pepper component that I like a lot. The palate has it all and then some; still warm blueberry pie, dark boysenberry, dark blackberries, vanilla, earth, white pepper, wild flowers and some great smooth spiciness. It is a smorgasbord of flavors. The tannins are nicely laid out all in a row, and the acid is present but compliments the whole package. The finish is a minute plus! The fruit bowl of persistence. Sounds like a Dali painting. Artwork non-the-less. Very different than the Garys Vnyd. Tamer and more refined. WOW

93/100

TN: 2003 Sbragia Family Cabernet Sauvignon Andolsen Vineyard Dry Creek Valley

I had gone to one of my favorite haunts today to pick-up 7 - 2002 Kuleto Estate Cabs, plus some NV Auction wines awaiting me. I eyed the New Sbragia line-up of Cabs; Monte Rosso Sonoma Valley, Rancho del Oso Howell Mountain , and this one; Andolsen Vineyard Dry Creek Valley. All from 2003. A vintage I have been avoiding, but for $26...what the hay.

Super dark purple tinged edges. Beautiful floral nose with currants, blackberries, and Cherries. The palate revealed a very lush sweet styled cab. One I would not expect from the vintage. There was amazing sour cherries, currants, and sweet young blackberries as well as some tar, slight anise, and sour cherries. (didn't I say that already?). A solid core of pure Sbragia Cabernet. There was a moderatly long finish that kept the fruit going for 45 seconds (sour cherry and currant). I loved the balance of fruits and deft acid level. The firm tannins were in check, but hanging in the background. Wow. This guy is an artist!!

This is one fantasic wine for $26. Drinks like $50. I will try the others soon.

Life is great. Happy 4th!!!!

TN: 2003 Neal Family Cabernet Sauvignon - USA, California, Napa Valley

2003 Neal Family Cabernet Sauvignon - USA, California, Napa Valley (6/30/2007)My second of this. It showed slightly better. The color was dark, the nose was Cabernet. Good currant/cassis, blackberries, and anise on the palate. This one was balanced much better, but there was a metallic tone on the midpalate and a finish that should have lasted longer. I guess for what it is...it is. Nothing more. I doubt time will come to the rescue of this flaw.

I wouldn't throw this one out of bed, but wouldn't wine and dine it either. (89 pts.)

2003 Neal Family Cabernet Sauvignon - USA, California, Napa Valley (4/27/2007)Vigorous decanted for 30 minutes. Good purple fringed color. Wonderful 'true' cabernet on the nose. This is a four square wine; it's varietally correct and sound, nothing more. It has some black-cherry, currant, and a slight cassis note. A little off balance as its a little high on acid. It is a good effort for an '03, but not memorable (another '03 that falls into this category). Picked up from a fellow BBer for $30 each.(88 pts.)

TN: 2002 Pride Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon (USA, California, Napa Valley)

2002 Pride Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon - USA, California, Napa Valley (6/17/2007)Beautiful color. This needed the hour decant time I gave it as out of the gate there was an unbalanced disjointed quality that I did not care for. 1 hour later; The nose is pretty cassis as well as petroleum-refinery (a la Ch. Latour). Maybe a bit candied as well. The palate reveals a nicely balanced lush & quiet fruit bomb. There is both red and dark fruits (currant, blackberry, blackcherries, and plum) as well as tar, licorice, coffee-bean, and the Foley toasted oak.....but restrained. The acid level is a bit high and there is a certain sweetness evident that does not detract. There is also some sediment. The tannins seem to be resolving nicely. A nice 30 second aftertaste finished up a very nice deftly made wine. Drink now (decant) or hold for 5 years. I wish this had blown me away, they used to. (90 pts.)

TN: 2005 Rebel Wine Cabernet Sauvignon The Show

2005 Rebel Wine Cabernet Sauvignon The Show - USA, California, Napa Valley, St. Helena (6/11/2007)This may be the 'Three Thieves' but it ain't three thieves in the bottle...and that's a good thing. The color is deep dark crimson with purple tinges. The nose is subdued muted red fruits. The palate reveals some soft tannins, quiet red cherry, some camphor and cassis after about 30 minutes. A nice agreeable finish. Overall a little one dimensional, but nothing negative that keeps it from becoming an everyday drinker. Great QPR. (85 pts.)

2nd Day; This wine hs opened up to be a lush, mildly more interesting decent drinker, with better defined reds fruit, and overall just better all around. . Enough to gain a point or 2. A definate QPR alert here folks, just open 1 day early. Drinks like some $40 jobbies from recent memory. (87 pts.)

Sometimes I forget why I love wine. I find myself always being critical of its finer nuances and loosing sight of the real reason I want it in my life. Yeah, I know it brings people together blah blah blah, but sometimes you need a reminder that this 'thing of ours' is fun. This bottle is a reminder, This is a fun wine. I mean....look at the labels!!! (3)


Cheers!

TN: 1999 L'Ecole No. 41 Cabernet Sauvignon Walla Walla Valley

USA, Washington, Columbia Valley, Walla Walla Valley (6/8/2007)These bottles of Washington State wine amuse me, but don't motivate me to go out and buy a supply. Maybe I treat them like experiments? I have had many many Cabs from this state and can honestly say, other than a stray here and there, they just don't spin my wheels. This one is no different. Maybe I am seeking Napa style from elsewhere?

Tasted immediately and decanted. The color is a dark cherry cola. The nose reveals some soda pop and some very subdued red fruits. The palate shows the sweetness and slight vegetalness I have come to expect from the appellation. There is some dark cherrie and blackberry. Where's the currant/cassis? Where's the lush/plush? Tannins resoved but that not alone is gonna pull this one out of the hole. Some chocolate and tar toward the finish which is just ok.. Ho Hum sums it up. Now back to the Valley to the south. (85 pts.)

TN: 2002 Robert Mondavi Winery Cabernet Sauvignon Stags Leap District

2002 Robert Mondavi Winery Cabernet Sauvignon Stags Leap District - USA, California, Napa Valley, Stags Leap District (6/5/2007)Pure Stags Leap. The color shows dark rich velvety crimson. The nose shows smokey cassis and dark fruits. The palate blossoms with bramble, extra dark blackberry, an aristocratic cassis, currant, French vanilla, tar and cocoa. The acid level is pure Mondavi, and the tannins are ironed out and all in a row....smooth. Fantastic mouthfeel....This is one cool customer. Some sweetness is present but not in a negative way. A smokiness that adds interest and a purity make this wine sing. The finish is long and precise. No green as mentioned elsewhere. A great effort indeed. (92 pts.)

TN: 1999 Dunn Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain

1999 Dunn Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain - USA, California, Napa Valley, Howell Mountain (6/3/2007)Wonderful deep crimson color with purple tinged edges. The nose was restrained with some dark cherries and currant, while showing a little ripeness. Upon entering the mouth this wine was beautifully integrated with some secondary notes of tar and cedar. All the dark fruits were present. A great seamless tannin level had delivered this nicely to age 8. A smooth even finish completed the package. This had shown very nicely considering the reputation Dunn Howell has received for being a 20 year wine. Would have scored higher if just a tad plusher, but hey..it's mountain fruit.

Enjoy one if you have any. (91 pts.)

TN: 2005 Glaetzer Shiraz Amon-Ra Barossa Valley

2005 Glaetzer Shiraz Amon-Ra Barossa Valley - Australia, South Australia, Barossa, Barossa Valley (6/4/2007)The color on this wine is crazy. Super dark and concentrated. The nose showed a little sweetness alongside some boysenberries, and a black and white cookie. This was a little restrained for what was expected. It was big and extrated, but kept graceful. The palate revealed some blueberry,blackberry, boysenberries, and red cherries. A fruit medley. This wine kept changing as the night went on. I like this type of wine, I just find my palate tires quicky if it is the only wine on the table. Alongside others wines this turns a conversation piece. There is alot happening that seems to evolve minute by minute to alot more. The finish was long and vibrant. I enjoyed this better than the 2004 Amon-Ra tasted last summer. (89 pts.)

TN: 2004 Herb Lamb Cabernet Sauvignon EII Napa Valley Red Wine

2004 Herb Lamb Cabernet Sauvignon EII Napa Valley Red Wine - USA, California, Napa Valley (6/4/2007)An interesting wine. A bit one dimensional and subdued. Great red-brick color. The nose did not reveal too much other than some sweet blueberry and cassis. The palate was a lillte flat. It showed some cherries & raspberry. There was a touch of oak. Medium tannis don't add ot detract. This wine reminded me of a Shiraz at moments, both in the nose and on the palate. A little extrated and sweet at moments. The finish was decent. I can see new world aficionados embracing this. I may credit the one dimesional thing as well as the flatness to being young. It should evolve into something. (87 pts.)

TN: 2002 Shafer Cabernet Sauvignon (USA, California, Napa Valley)

2002 Shafer Cabernet Sauvignon - USA, California, Napa Valley (6/4/2007)This wine was a monolithic beast. It showed a wall of oak that never really dissapated. Hard to get a read for a few reasons. (Fifth of the night w/3+ drinkers). Needs a ton of time. Thank you Nano for the generous 3rd bottle.

TN: 1996 Etude Cabernet Sauvignon (USA, California, Napa Valley)

1996 Etude Cabernet Sauvignon - USA, California, Napa Valley (6/4/2007)From memory. This was number 4 in the night so I was getting a bit foggy. A little browning on the edges, this wine had some classic cassis, and blackberry notes. It did evolve in the glass showing some cocoa, and tar. It was showing some age; It was the 70 year old women that seems to be able to pull off looking 50 thing. It had elegance, and all the tannins have been resolved. The fruit was tettering on the edge. I found it enjoyable alongside my strip steak. Noit a B. Sherwin wine. Drink up! (88 pts.)

TN: 2003 Pride Mountain Syrah (USA, California, Sonoma County)

2003 Pride Mountain Syrah - USA, California, Sonoma County (5/27/2007)Super opaque in color. On the nose there was a enticing sweet boysenberry, blueberries and pure vanilla extract-american oak quality I really liked. The palate exposed super deep plush & dark fruits as previously mentioned in a sea of smooth tannins. There was a flowery quality present as well as some pepper notes. The finish was long and sweet.

A velvet fist wrapped in an iron glove. (waiting to put this expression in words for years).

I gotta say, I have had this a few times and this showed the best yet. I am glad I held onto my bottles. Perfect served during family BBQ. It was a hit amongst the the non-winos as well. There was something for everyone. (91 pts.)

TN: 1995 Robert Mondavi Winery Cabernet Sauvignon

USA, California, North Coast, Napa County (5/27/2007)

Thats the thing with older bottles......They take on a life of thier own even from the same case. This one was medium garnet and browning on the edges. The nose showed a little cork, on the palate the immediate thing is the cork, but its not corked. It has some dusty fruit of dried cherries and cassis. There is some cedar box as well as some vanilla bean. it seemd a bit tired but was still enjoyable in its own right. Just a little out of whack. (87 pts.)

TN: 2001 Robert Mondavi Winery Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville

USA, California, Napa Valley, Oakville (5/27/2007)On track once again.

Intense vibrant hue od brick with dark purple edges. Great true cassis and currant nose.On the tonque there was the Mondavi signature of balance and finesse. Great understated cassis, currant, and dark cherry cola. There is a clean smooth tannin/acid base that makes this good with food as well as on its own. A 30 second aftertaste completed the package.

I have had this about a dozen times. I think this has emerged from its sleep and is willing to serve faithfully again. (91 pts.)

TN: 2003 Copain Syrah Broken Leg Vineyard

2003 Copain Syrah Broken Leg Vineyard - USA, California, North Coast, Anderson Valley (5/21/2007)

I expected much more from this. A waste of two years in the cellar.Deep dark color. Pomegranate and white pepper on the nose. The palate shows the same dried pomegranate and thats about it. Some burnt tar and nada. The finish is short and exciting only in its ability to end quick and get it over with. I always said the L'Hiver is THE best bottle Copain makes. I stand by this statement.

DTD(down the drain)80/100 (80 pts.)

TN: 1995 Chateau Souverain Cabernet Sauvignon

1995 Chateau Souverain Cabernet Sauvignon - USA, California, Sonoma County, Alexander Valley (5/16/2007)Totally different than my last bottle (2 weeks ago). Dark with some browning on the edges. Beautiful (almost hauntingly) sweet cassis on the nose. The palate shows a nice old world styled cabenet profile; dark currant, underbrush, cassis and exotic spices. The finish was a touch short and the acid level seemed a bit out of whack, but all in all an enjoyable wine, even if most of the enjoyment was on the nose. (87 pts.)

TN: 2003 Jones Family The Sisters (USA, California, Napa Valley)

2003 Jones Family The Sisters - USA, California, Napa Valley (5/11/2007)Super dark crimson with vibrant purple tinged edges. The nose shows cassis as well as dark plums and black cherries. The palate has a super lush mouthfeel and balance that made me look again at the bottle to be sure it read 2003. It did. Refined elegance wrapped in a velvet layer of smooth rich tannins. Beautiful cassis filled with cedar, currant, plum and a touch of licorice. This is one classy wine. Quite possibly THE best 2003 I have had to date other than Staglin. An ultra long finish that’s ends as its starts....superb. Drinking well now into 2010. Amazing....simply amazing. Anyone lucky enough to have some is in for a treat.95/100 (95 pts.)

TN: 1994 Michel-Schlumberger Cabernet Sauvignon

1994 Michel-Schlumberger Cabernet Sauvignon - USA, California, Sonoma County, Dry Creek Valley (5/7/2007)A correct but otherwise lackluster bottle. Very good deep garnet with purple tinged edges. A muted nose od cassis and medium dark currant. The palate reveals som, repeat some subdued fruits of dark black cherries, currants, slight cassis, and a hint of cedar box. Nice tannins level and acid. Nothing really negative but more fruits would have been appreciated, but at 13 years old, you get what you get. A decent bottle of Napa Cabernet, just not exciting enough to warrant higher praise. (87 pts.)

TN: 1995 Robert Mondavi Winery Cabernet Sauvignon

1995 Robert Mondavi Winery Cabernet Sauvignon - USA, California, North Coast, Napa County (5/1/2007)Deep brick color. A bit medicinal on the nose. Initially some interesting casis & band-aid on the palate. After 1+ hour; Good structure. Still alive. Some dark fruits, (currant, dark cherry) and moderate tannins still carry this. A decent Mondaviish acid level. Maybe a bit short but otherwise a very enjoyable 12 year old everyday bottling. This was probably $10 when new. A nice surprise. Picked up from a fellow BBer for a song. Glad I got 1 more.(89 pts.)

TN: 2001 Provenance Merlot Carneros

I had a nice find today. Half bottles of Provenances' Merlot Carneros, 2001. Nice balance of red fruit, cherries, and strawberries. Not heavy at all. Does not explode sideways like the Beckstoffer Las Amigas Merlot, but really has some nice integrated tannins and a beautiful long aftertaste. I always liked Tom Rinaldis efforts, first with Duckhorn, and now with Provenance & Hewitt. His Merlots are 100% varietal.

I once had the good fortune of meeting him at a private tasting. He spoke of the fact that his Merlots are not bottles to save for your sons 25th birthday. The host interjected "unless he's 24 now!". This will go a bit more, maybe until the kids 31 or 32.

For $10.99 (375ml) I will go back for as much as I can carry. (unfortunately, I called the store and even though I can carry alot, sadly it will be three).I am usually not a Merlot type of guy, but this is a no brainer... perfect form me, since mine has been known to be missing from time to time.

TN: 2001 Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville - Back from its 'dumb' phase

With all the discussion about dumb phase wine today, I picked this dummy out of my cellar. I figure tonight is as good as a night as any. It's no longer asleep, but dying a quick death.

2001 Robert Mondavi Winery Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville - USA, California, Napa Valley, Oakville (4/2/2007)My first bottle since 3/28/06. When I last left this wine, it was asleep. It has awoken.... I think.Decanted 45 minutes. Lots of sediment evident. The color has the purple tinge on the edges. It seems like a younger wine by looks alone. The nose shows 'correct' qualities of cassis, red currant, and camphor. The palate show a flinty lushness of red fruits, cassis, and tar. There is now a hollow feel to this thats disturbing. It has no mid-palate. Finish is decent.I'm a bit dissapointed in this apparent 5 year wine. When I originally had it back in February 2005 it was a different animal altoghether. I have watched its demise.I have 6 more that will do hamburger deck duty this summer. 86/100 (86 pts.)

TN: 2001 Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste (France, Bordeaux, Médoc, Pauillac)

2001 Château Grand-Puy-Lacoste - France, Bordeaux, Médoc, Pauillac (3/25/2007)Medium garnet color. Lead pencil and dried red fruits on the nose. A bit refined on the palate. Not a big wine, but no slouch. Decent mouthfeel with some currant, tar, and leather. There is the usual earthinees present as well. The acid level seems a bit high today telling me it's a food wine. The tannins are undelying. This is my last bottle and I am on the fence either missing more in my cellar or happy they are gone (all 8). I am leaning toward the latter.88/100$25. (88 pts.)

Polaner Selections Portfolio

Attended the Polaner Spring Portfolio. My goal at this one is to a; find new and interesting Cali wines and b; check some of my current favorites. I was not disappointed.

I bee-lined to the back room and hit table #55 first, Arnot-Roberts. The complete lineup was amazing.

2005 Arnot-Roberts Syrah Hudson-Deep red fruit forward Carneros District beauty. Smooth seamless tannins. Wow. 3.7/4- (94)
2005 Arnot-Roberts Syrah Griffins Lair-a bit more spice and tannic structure, great mouthfeel. 3.5/4 (92)
2005 Arnot-Roberts Syrah Adler Springs- most northern Rhone like of the group. Dense with some tat, pepper, and bacon fat. 3.6/4 (93)
2004 Arnot-Roberts Cabernet Sauvignon Wild Iris- Amazing fruit forward, smooth but firm tannins complete packaged Cabernet. One of the best in the room, and the room was tough. 3.8/4 (95)
2004 Arnot-Roberts Cabernet Sauvignon Bugay Vnyd- Deep colored and wonderfully balanced pure Sonoma style Cab with tightly spun tannins, a bit unyielding, will show nice in a few years- 3.5/4 (92)

2004 Merus Cabernet Sauvignon- Super smooth tannins with a wonderful acid level envelope the dark fruit climaxing in a super long finish. Elegant. A bit tight but the wow factor is evident. 3.6/4 (93)

2004 Maybach Meterium Cabernet Sauvignon- This is an interesting wine. Smooth and regal, shows much breed. Dark and ultra balanced Cabernet that is well worth the hunt. Chatting with Chris Maybach a bit gave me the sense that these guys are truly dedicated to producing world class cult status, Cabernet Sauvignon. Amazing. 3.8/4 (95)

Juan and Wendell from Realm were both in attendance showcasing barrel samples of 3 Cabernets in their lineup. Always good speaking with these gentlemen.

2005 Realm Cabernet Sauvignon Farella (barrel) - A favorite of mine, this has all the guts of a world class Realm. A bit austere now, it should evolve into something worthy of owning. Dark purple color, smooth firm tannins. A baby with a wonderful pedigree and future. 3.4/4 (91/92)

2005 Realm Cabernet Sauvignon ToKalon (barrel) - Lush and well structured, this Cabernet shows the terroir of Tokalon nicely. The most consistent in the lineup yet. A bit bigger than the 2004, nothing that a few in the bottle won't help though. Then look out, this will be a stunner. 3.6/4 (93/94)

2005 Realm Cabernet Sauvignon Dr. Crane (barrel) - The wine I wanted to try most in the lineup. A middle weight Cabernet with good deep red fruits, and a nice set of bones. This will evolve into an elegant cabernet. 3.4/4 (91/92)

Keep in mind that keeping with Realms early release, these wines are all babies. I can't wait for another try at them in June when Realms open house hits NYC.

2004 Larkmead Firebelle- nice blend 3.4/4 (91)

2004 Larkmead Cabernet Sauvignon- This is always a pleaser. The number one QPR again. Although I think the retail this year will be a bit higher, it will still be worth it if it stays under $50. This opulent fruit forward, ultra balanced Cabernet shows what can be done in good vintages as well as sub-par (2003). 3.5/4 (92)

2002 Philip Togni Tanbark Cabernet- I always like this better than the Spring Mountain bottling, and this year is no different. 3.2/4 (89)

2004 Philip Togni Spring Mountain Cabernet- shame to kill so many trees. N/R

2004 Brookman Cabernet Sauvignon- Great deep color. A good tight grip of tannins wrapping around a core of dark currant, tar, cocoa, and cassis. A lovely classic Napa styled Cabernet made to please. 3.4/4 (91)

Other notable Cabernets;

2003 Black Sears Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain- 3.4/4 (91)
2004 Drinkward-Peschon Cabernet Sauvignon- 3.4/4 (91)
2003 Crocker & Starr Stone Place blend-3.3/4 (90)
2004 Gemstone Facets blend- 3.5/4- I still like last years better. (92)

I would have liked to taste the Harris Estate, but they were not present this year.

Moving onto Syrah.

2005 K Vintners Syrah 'the beautiful'- this is a fruit medley in a glass, there is so much good things happening here it's hard to talk of them all. A unique wonderful Syrah from a super dedicated winemaker with more energy than my son had at 5. 3.6/4 (93)

2005 K Vintners Syrah Cougar Hills- interesting that side by side on the same table two diametrically opposite wines exists. Wonderful old world styled Syrah that has elegance and structure. The fruit lingers as the wines aftertaste goes on for 45 seconds. 3.6/4 (93)

2005 K Vintners the Boy blend- 2.9/4 (86)
2005 K Vintners Syrah Milbrandt-3.1/4 (88)

Meeting Tim Spear for the first time you immediately know he knows what his goals are. He wants to produce a La La on this shore. He is well on the way to figuring it out too. His 2002 Clos Mimi Syrah White Hawk (3.7/4 - 94) is amazing. He explained his treatment to me. The wine shows breed and firm expressive structure not found very often today. One of the top two or three Syrahs in the room. I'm a believer Tim!

Also tasted;

2003 Clos Mimi Syrah Shell Creek - 3.3/4 (90)
2003 Clos Mimi Brave Oak- 3.3/4 (90)

2005 Pax Syrah Cuvee Christine - 3.0/4 (87)
2005 Pax Syrah Obsidian- 3.7/4 (94)
2005 Pax Syrah Walker Hill RRV - 3.2/4 (89)
2005 Pax Syrah Adler Springs - 3.3/4 (90)

2004 Ojai Santa Barbara- 2.9/4 (86)
2003 Ojai Syrah White Hark- 3.1/4 (88)
2003 Ojai Syrah Melville- 3.3/4 (90)

2005 Copain Saisons des L'Hiver Syrah- 3.3/4 (90)
2005 Copain Syrah Eaglepoint Ranch - 3.4/4 (91)
2005 Copain Syrah Harrison Clarke 3.2/4 (89)


I have some Pinot notes I will add later.

TN: 1999 Beaulieu Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Georges de Latour Private Reserve

1999 Beaulieu Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Georges de Latour Private Reserve - USA, California, Napa Valley (3/21/2007)

Just received 6 half bottles and wanted to try one, forgoing any bad expectations of the 'bottle shock' phenomenon. Opened for 45 minutes before tasted. No decanting. Super deep dark garnet color. A great intense nose of camphor, dusty dark fruits, and cassis. On the palate there is nice dark currant with an amazingly bold cassis, probably the most I have ever encountered in a Cab. Smooth but bold tannins with an evenly balanced acid level give this a great mouth feel. A 60 second aftertaste brings it all home.Happy with the way this showed, especially since my last experience (CLONYC GdL Vertical last September) where the 99 as was so-so, particularly since tonight’s was from a half bottle. Glad I got 5 more.(92 pts.)($22.95)

TN: 2003 Luce della Vite Lucente

La Toscana QPR.
Yes, my Italian may be rusty, but this wine is delisioso.

Dark vibrant red color. The nose shows crushed pebbles, currant, and plums. The palate shows black currants, and red raspberry and tar. There is a lush flintiness I really enjoy. The full throttle tannins are very smooth and there is a dryness that blows off nicely after 2 hours decant time. The finish is admirable. For $20 this is the best QPR I have had recently from Italia. My hat (if I wore one) is off to tne Frescobaldis and Mondavis. I will stock up.

50% Merlot, 35% Sangiovese, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon90/100

TN: 2004 Razor's Edge Shiraz McLaren Vale

A nice crimson color. The nose shows a bit of sweetness, petroleum, and some subdued red plums. The palate reveals a slight fruit bomb type of Shiraz I usually dislike, but there are other characteristics that outweigh all that; some nice blackberry & boysenberry, the tar is still there and a bit of tobacco. A good wall of tannins, and an acid level that brings some balance to the wine. A long finish that keeps the mouth coated for 30 seconds. It reminds me a bit of some Petits Sirahs I have had. Minus the sweetness and I would say Cali Petit. Although not a ground breaker, it is defineatly a QPR that would be perfect to have around this coming summer on my new deck whilst the BBQ is heating up.

88/100 $8.99

TN: 1995 Simi Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve (USA, California, Sonoma County)

1995 Simi Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve - USA, California, Sonoma County (2/16/2007)Fantastic vibrant color. No sign of a 12 year old showing, not even on the edges. The nose shows is pure black currant and cassis. The palate reveals a super lush character with slightly sweet tannins, great dark fruit, some tar and leather. A great acid level that would make this great on my table with a grilled steak and frites. (soon). The finish is very long and smooth. I traded a 2003 Pride Cab Reserve for three of these and I think I did ok.

92/100 (92 pts.)

TN:2003 Rustenberg John X Merriman Stellenbosch

Decanted 1 hour. The color shows a very bright ruby. The nose is a bit subdued. Some dried fruit, all medium dark. Some currant and sulphur and camphor. There is a very nice note of cinnamon? Not sure, but I like it. The palate reveals an amazing purity of dark fruits, great subdued tannins, and a super elegance not usually found in a $30 wine. A plushness is evident, one that I fear many correlate over-ripeness to. I relate it to an acid level right on the mark. A 30 second aftertaste with a tinge of sweetness. Nice. A four grape blend that is sure to please. Note to self; get more.
91/100 $23.99

TN: 2003 Staglin Family Estate Cab. -or- A 2003 that doesn't suck

This is very impressive. Had this at the Napa Vintners on tour in NYC today. Deep dark color.

The nose reveal some creme de casis. A deep core of dark fruit, with super refined tannins wrapped around it. Some mocha with just a hint of oak, so deftly interceded. A super lushness that coats your mouth and a finish that does not want to end. This shows its breed. I have seen the light . My first Staglin, and not my last by a longshot.

95/100