2021 Haute Montagne Cabernet Franc Napa Valley

2021 Haute Montagne Cabernet Franc Napa Valley

with No Comment $70-$80Cabernet FrancKevin VogtNapaPritchard HillUSA

Haute Montagne

Cabernet Franc
Napa Valley 2021

2021 Haute Montagne Cabernet Franc Napa Valley

The Haute Montagne Cabernet Franc was the brightest shining light at our recent tasting. Its seamless blend of dark fruit, intricate complexity, and striking elegance immediately captivated everyone present. Winemaker Douglas Danielak has skillfully captured the unique terroir of Pritchard Hill. The high-altitude terrain and cool microclimate produce wines of remarkable depth and character. Minimal intervention allows the vines to flourish in a natural balance, resulting in exceptional purity.

Danielak’s expertise is the product of extensive experience. With a degree in Viticulture and Enology from UC Davis and training at the Lycée Agricole et Viticole de Beaune in Burgundy, he has dedicated decades to perfecting his craft. His work at Knights Bridge has earned significant critical acclaim, and Wine Spectator recognized him as a “Winemaker to Watch” for his visionary approach. Each bottle he crafts showcases a rare harmony of technical skill and artistic inspiration.

Crafted using traditional French oak and the time-honored Bordeaux method, this wine elegantly combines the classic refinement of old-world winemaking with the opulent character of California fruit. The resulting Cabernet Franc possesses power and grace—a compelling and sophisticated expression of this distinguished varietal.

Haute Montagne
Cabernet Franc
Napa Valley 2021
Retails at:$90

Your Price: $75

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“This Pritchard Hill Cabernet Franc possesses a captivating allure. The nose unfolds with briary red and black berries, their vibrant fruitiness entwined with a mineral core of crushed granite and a hint of iron. Licorice adds a touch of intrigue, while cocoa powder and dried sage contribute to the complex aromas. A subtle lavender perfume lingers, adding a unique floral note. On the palate, the wine delivers a powerful yet refined expression of mountain fruit. Intensely penetrating flavors of concentrated boysenberry and black currant are complemented by the brisk acidity of Darjeeling black tea. Dusty tannins provide a firm yet elegant structure, while a touch of espresso bean adds complexity. The wine is incredibly focused and balanced, with a brilliantly orchestrated interplay of fruit, acidity, and tannin. The finish is remarkably long and mouth-watering, leaving a lingering impression of dark fruit and savory spice. This Cabernet Franc is a truly exceptional wine that beautifully showcases the unique terroir of Pritchard Hill.”

97 Points

2022 Ehlers Portrait Red Blend Saint Helena

2022 Ehlers Portrait Red Blend Saint Helena

with No Comment $70-$80Kevin VogtNapaProprietary RedSaint HelenaUSA

Ehlers

Portrait Red Blend
Saint Helena 2022

2022 Ehlers Portrait Red Blend Saint Helena

Ehlers Estate’s 2022 Portrait marks a new era in winemaking, guided by the vision of Adam Casto. His experience spans the diverse vineyards of New Zealand, Chile, Australia, and France, bringing a global perspective to his craft. Eleven years with the renowned Philippe Melka at DANA and Gandona Estates further shaped his approach, one that unites meticulous technique with a deep passion for the vine. The 2022 Portrait is the first wine to fully express this vision—a remarkable example of his dedication to crafting site-specific, terroir-driven wines.

Located on the northwestern edge of Saint Helena, Ehlers Estate boasts a rich history, its viticultural origins dating back to the mid-19th century. The estate’s organic farming practices are more than just a method; they reflect a commitment to nurturing the land and cultivating fruit of exceptional purity and complexity.

A harmonious blend of 66% Cabernet Sauvignon, interwoven with Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Petit Verdot, the 2022 Portrait embodies Adam’s aim: to capture the distinct character of Ehlers’ terroir while achieving a balance of elegance and strength. The result is a refined, velvety wine where structure and suppleness coexist, the varietals merging into a cohesive story—a portrait of both place and the winemaker’s devotion.

Ehlers
Portrait Red Blend
Saint Helena 2022
Retails at: $80

Your Price: $72

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“This wine immediately grabs your attention yet does so with an understated grace. The nose opens with compelling ripe blueberries and kirsch, their sweetness enhanced by subtle Italian glove leather and a distinct, dusty minerality. It’s a bouquet with both richness and restraint, alluding to the complexity to come. On the palate, the wine unfolds with a supple texture and satiny tannins that balance the rich, sweet black fruit power. Black currants and blueberry compote create a core of concentrated flavor. A saline note adds a mouth-quenching component to the fruit’s intensity, while black tea lends further nuance. The wine’s structure is compact and focused, promising longevity, yet it remains remarkably approachable. The finish is fabulous—long, luxurious, and leaving a lasting impression of elegance and depth. This Napa red blend showcases the best of the vintage, offering both immediate pleasure and the potential for graceful aging. It’s a wine that invites contemplation, revealing new layers with each sip.”

95 Points

2019 Anakita Cabernet Sauvignon Helena Montana Vineyard

2019 Anakita Cabernet Sauvignon Helena Montana Vineyard

with No Comment $100 and overCabernet SauvignonKevin VogtKnight's ValleyNapaUSA

Anakota

Cabernet Sauvignon
Helena Montana Vineyard
Knights Valley 2019

2019 Anakita Cabernet Sauvignon Helena Montana Vineyard

Anakota’s Helena Montana Cabernet is a masterful expression of terroir and craftsmanship, embodying the pinnacle of world-class viticulture. Nestled on the western slopes of the Mayacamas Mountains, this singular vineyard basks in cool Pacific breezes, tempering the warm valley sun to create an ideal microclimate for Cabernet Sauvignon. 

Under the visionary guidance of 100-point winemaker Pierre Seillan, who champions Knights Valley as one of the world’s premier regions for Cabernet, Anakota crafts wines that echo the gravitas of Bordeaux’s Pauillac, while remaining distinctly Californian.

Perched at 950 feet, the Helena Montana Vineyard sprawls across 60 acres of steep, undulating terrain, its vines rooted in rocky, volcanic soils that impart power and concentration. Over the decades, this vineyard has yielded wines marked by their commanding structure, refined elegance, and longevity—hallmarks that shine brilliantly in the 2019 vintage. The 2019 Helena Montana promises to, and already has evolved gracefully, standing as a testament to the vineyard’s enduring legacy and the art of meticulous winemaking.

Anakota
Cabernet Sauvignon
Helena Montana Vineyard
Knights Valley 2019
Retails at: $175

Your Price: $159.99

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“Incredibly spicy and aromatic with pumice and cloves. Pops out of the glass. Cedar, too. Full-bodied with soft, polished tannins adding tension and creaminess. Long and beautiful. All about class and breeding. Try after 2025.”

99 Points

2022 Bruliam Pinot Noir Soberanes Vineyard Santa Lucia Highland

2022 Bruliam Pinot Noir Soberanes Vineyard Santa Lucia Highland

with No Comment $40-$50Central CoastKevin VogtMontereyPinot NoirSanta Lucia HighlandsUSA

Bruliam

Pinot Noir 2022
Soberanes Vineyard
Santa Lucia Highlands

2022 Bruliam Pinot Noir Soberanes Vineyard Santa Lucia Highland

Bruliam’s Soberanes Vineyard Pinot Noir captures the essence of one of California’s most respected vineyards, showcasing remarkable varietal purity, impeccable balance, and a profound sense of place. Sourced from the renowned Soberanes Vineyard, the latest jewel in the crown of the Pisoni and Franscioni families, this wine offers an exceptional glimpse into the terroir-driven excellence of the Santa Lucia Highlands—at a price that belies its quality.

Bruliam Wines is led by Kerith Overstreet, a physician-turned-winemaker whose meticulous approach and scientific background infuse every bottle with precision and vibrant energy. Her strong relationships with top growers provide access to fruit from iconic sites like Soberanes. Here, fog-drenched mornings, well-drained granitic soils, and consistent coastal winds contribute to the Pinot Noir’s remarkable depth and complexity.

The 2022 Soberanes Pinot Noir impresses with captivating aromatics and a majestic balance of complexity and finesse. This wine, with its impressive 95-point score, surpasses expectations, demonstrating excellence in both viticulture and winemaking—a true achievement for Bruliam Wines.

Bruliam
Pinot Noir 2022
Soberanes Vineyard
Santa Lucia Highlands
Retails at: $70

Your Price: $49.99

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“Pale to medium ruby-purple in color, the 2022 Soberanes Vineyard Pinot Noir gallops out with vibrant notes of redcurrant jelly, kirsch, and forest floor plus wafts of garrigue and mossy tree bark. The medium-bodied palate is both elegant and intense, with loads of red berry and mineral layers and a fine-grained texture, finishing long and refreshing.”

95+ Points

2023 Pont Neuf Royal Chardonnay Russian River Valley

2023 Pont Neuf Royal Chardonnay Russian River Valley

with No Comment $60-$70ChardonnayKevin VogtRussian River ValleySonomaUSA

Pont Neuf

Pont Royal Chardonnay
Russian River Valley 2023

2023 Pont Neuf Royal Chardonnay Russian River Valley

Pont Neuf’s Pont Royal Chardonnay is a masterful expression of Russian River Valley terroir, seamlessly marrying California’s opulent fruit with the restraint of great Burgundian wines. This Chardonnay doesn’t simply impress—it enchants, leaving an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to experience it.

At the helm of this artistry is Douglas Danielak, a winemaker whose deep reverence for Burgundian tradition shapes every nuance of his craft. A graduate of UC Davis with further training at the Lycée Agricole et Viticole de Beaune, Danielak employs a low-intervention philosophy, allowing the vineyard’s voice to shine. Native yeasts, meticulous bâtonnage, and a slow, deliberate malolactic fermentation yield a wine that is both texturally sumptuous and vibrantly pure.

The 2023 vintage is a radiant testament to this vision. It unfolds in layers of golden-hued complexity, where Meyer lemon, white peach, and toasted hazelnut intertwine with hints of crushed rock and delicate spice. A luminous thread of acidity lends tension and precision, balancing the wine’s sumptuous depth with an elegance that lingers long on the palate. Pont Royal Chardonnay delivers a harmonious interplay of richness and restraint, destined to captivate all who discover it.

Pont Neuf
Pont Royal Chardonnay
Russian River Valley 2023
Retails at: $70

Your Price: $65

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“The Pont Neuf 2023 “Pont Royal” Chardonnay from the Russian River Valley elegantly balances the finesse of French Burgundy with the richness of California fruit. Aromas of ripe apricot and nectarine intertwine with white blossoms, a touch of orange zest, and a refined mineral character reminiscent of wet stones. On the palate, subtle nuances of golden apples, toast, vanilla, chantilly, and crème brûlée add layers of depth. The wine’s concentrated flavors unfold gracefully on the palate, leading to a long, silky finish.”

95 Points

2022 Kosta Browne Pinot Noir Sta. Rita Hills

2022 Kosta Browne Pinot Noir Sta. Rita Hills

with No Comment $90-$100Central CoastKevin VogtPinot NoirSanta BarbaraSanta Rita HillsUSA

Kosta Browne

Pinot Noir 2022
Sta. Rita Hills

2022 Kosta Browne Pinot Noir Sta. Rita Hills

The star of our recent Kosta Browne tasting, the 2022 Santa Rita Hills Pinot Noir, redefines expectations with its unforgettable expression of California’s Central Coast. This remarkable vintage highlights fruit from the iconic Rita’s Crown Vineyard, a gem in Kosta Browne’s portfolio. Perched on windswept slopes near the Pacific, this vineyard lends the wine a vibrant energy that captures the rugged beauty and unique spirit of the Santa Rita Hills.

As part of Kosta Browne’s acclaimed Appellation Series, this Pinot Noir reflects the winery’s unwavering dedication to storytelling. The Santa Rita Hills AVA, shaped by tectonic forces over 20 million years, is a geological marvel where cool marine breezes and fog flow through coastal ranges. This rare microclimate slows ripening, allowing grapes to achieve exceptional depth, complexity, and balance—a signature of this world-class region.

The 2022 vintage was expertly crafted, fermented in a masterful combination of stainless steel, concrete, and oak, followed by 16 months of aging in premium French oak barrels. The result is a captivating symphony of vibrant red fruit, exotic spice, and velvety tannins that glide effortlessly across the palate. Elegant and layered, this stunning wine is a must-try for every Pinot Noir lover—a true celebration of Kosta Browne’s artistry.

Kosta Browne
Pinot Noir 2022
Sta. Rita Hills
Retails at: $115

Your Price: $99.99

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“This Santa Rita Hills Pinot Noir from Kosta Browne is a truly captivating wine. The nose opens with alluring aromas of strawberry preserves, delicate spring blossoms, and a touch of earthy wet stones with hints of subtle pie spices. On the palate, the wine unfolds with vibrant flavors of wild strawberries and briary boysenberries, complemented by a refreshing note of black tea. The mouthfeel is remarkably smooth and supple, with ripe fruit tannins providing elegant structure and a touch of grip. The finish is long and graceful, leaving a lasting impression of pure elegance and refined fruit expression. This wine exemplifies the exceptional quality and terroir-driven character that Kosta Browne is renowned for. It is a wine that will undoubtedly reward careful cellaring and provide many years of enjoyment.”

95 Points

2021 Zialena Cabernet Sauvignon Geyserville

2021 Zialena Cabernet Sauvignon Geyserville

with No Comment $30-$40Alexander ValleyCabernet SauvignonKevin VogtSonomaUSA

Zialena

Cabernet Sauvignon
Geyserville 2021

2021 Zialena Cabernet Sauvignon Geyserville

Zialena redefines the expectations of California Cabernet Sauvignon with wines that radiate purity, precision, and elegance. Known for their bright, concentrated fruit and impeccable balance, Zialena’s Cabernets have quickly become a favorite among enthusiasts. In fact, the 2019 Zialena Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon was one of the most re-ordered wines last year, a testament to its universal appeal and extraordinary craftsmanship.

Rooted in legacy, the Mazzoni family has been stewards of their Geyserville property since 1931. Now led by fourth-generation siblings Mark and Lisa Mazzoni, the winery blends history and innovation. Mark’s expertise as a viticulturist—honed through work at prestigious vineyards like Bacchus and Vino Farms—ensures exceptional fruit. His winemaking skills, refined under the mentorship of renowned winemaker Philippe Melka at Vineyard 29, bring an artisan’s touch to every bottle.

Nestled on a historic 120-acre estate in the heart of Alexander Valley, Zialena thrives in a landscape shaped by diverse soils, varied microclimates, and gentle elevations. These natural advantages are masterfully harnessed to produce wines of remarkable character and depth. At an extraordinary value of $32, the 2021 Zialena Cabernet Sauvignon is a must-have for any wine lover, offering a true taste of Alexander Valley in every pour.

Zialena
Cabernet Sauvignon
Geyserville 2021
Retails at: $76

Your Price: $32

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“The Zialena 2021 Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon from the winery’s estate gives aromas of red currants, red and black cherries, a hint of mint, graphite, and forest floor. On the palate, the wine has an elegant balance of acidity and tannins resulting in bright fruit flavors of cranberry, cassis, blackberries, earthy minerality, mocha, and spice. This wine finishes beautifully with layers of eloquence and reminds us why Cabernet Sauvignon thrives in Alexander Valley.”

94 Points

2021 La Follette Los Primeros Pinot Noir Sonoma County

2021 La Follette Los Primeros Pinot Noir Sonoma County

with No Comment $30 and underAnderson ValleyKevin VogtPinot NoirSonomaSonoma ValleyUSA

La Follette

Los Primeros Pinot Noir
Sonoma County 2021

2021 La Follette Los Primeros Pinot Noir Sonoma County

La Follette’s Los Primeros Pinot Noir is a masterful expression of Greg La Follette’s decades of winemaking expertise and dedication to crafting wines of purity and place. Greg, a visionary winemaker and former biochemist mentored by the legendary André Tchelistcheff, has long been celebrated for his ability to unlock the soul of a vineyard, transforming its unique character into wines of exceptional depth and elegance. 

La Follette’s philosophy is rooted in the belief that every vineyard holds a distinct identity, and he collaborates exclusively with growers who share his passion for authenticity. This meticulous approach ensures that each vintage is a testament to the unique terroir of Sonoma County. The 2021 Los Primeros Pinot Noir, sourced from declassified barrels of premier single-vineyard lots, reflects this ethos—a wine that marries accessibility with complexity.

The 2021 vintage underwent fermentation in stainless steel to preserve its vibrant aromatics. The wine was aged for ten months in French oak barriques, where subtle spice notes were delicately woven into its structure, enhancing the wine’s bright red fruit profile and silky texture. The result is a beautifully balanced Pinot Noir with a finish that lingers like a well-told story—elevating Los Primeros from a value-driven offering to a celebration of Sonoma’s rich winemaking heritage.

La Follette
Los Primeros Pinot Noir
Sonoma County 2021

Your Price: $29.99

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“Savory, tea-like aromas and flavors dominate this charming, lighter-style wine as fresh acidity and light tannins give a slight, mouth-watering grip on the palate. Perfect for a roast chicken, sauteed mushrooms or sauteed salmon.”

92 Points

2022 Paul Hobbs Pinot Noir Russian River Valley

2022 Paul Hobbs Pinot Noir Russian River Valley

with No Comment $60-$70Kevin VogtPinot NoirRussian River ValleySonomaUSA

Paul Hobbs

Pinot Noir 2022
Russian River Valley

2022 Paul Hobbs Pinot Noir Russian River Valley

Paul Hobbs masterfully captures the essence of the Russian River Valley in his 2022 Pinot Noir, showcasing the vibrant character and alluring qualities of this celebrated varietal.

Renowned as a visionary in the wine world, Hobbs, often compared to Steve Jobs for his innovative approach, began his journey with Robert Mondavi at the pioneering Opus One. Armed with a Bachelor’s in Chemistry and a Master’s in Viticulture and Enology, he built a career that has shaped the wine industry.

In 1991, Paul Hobbs embarked on his independent path, driven by a bold vision. He sought out legendary vineyard owners Larry Hyde and Richard Dinner, securing five tons of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Sauvignon. These grapes formed the foundation of his inaugural releases, establishing Paul Hobbs Winery as a beacon of quality and innovation. His Appellation Tier wines reflect his philosophy of blending exceptional vineyard sources into a single, harmonious expression.

The 2022 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir exemplifies Hobbs’ meticulous craftsmanship. This wine unveils concentrated fruit flavors interwoven with remarkable complexity and depth—each sip an unfolding journey of sensory delight. Awarded an impressive 95 points, this Pinot Noir invites wine lovers to experience the magic of Hobbs’ artistry and the extraordinary character of the Russian River Valley.

Paul Hobbs
Pinot Noir 2022
Russian River Valley
Retails at: $80

Your Price: $69.99

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“Sliced strawberry with bark and stone with some sand undertones. Graphite. Medium-bodied, tight and focused with spices such as pepper and bark. Flavorful finish. Drink now or hold.”

95 Points

2020 Silver Oak Cabernet Sauvignon Alexander Valley

2020 Silver Oak Cabernet Sauvignon Alexander Valley

with No Comment $80-$90Alexander ValleyCabernet SauvignonKevin VogtSonomaUSA

Silver Oak

Cabernet Sauvignon
Alexander Valley 2020

2020 Silver Oak Cabernet Sauvignon Alexander Valley

Silver Oak is a quintessential expression of American winemaking, with a steadfast commitment to American oak. Sourced exclusively from their Missouri cooperage, where this noble wood flourishes, the oak imparts a signature character to every bottle.

Founded in 1972 within the walls of a dairy barn, Silver Oak emerged from a partnership between Ray Duncan and Justin Meyer. Their visionary goal: crafting world-class Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa Valley’s premier vineyards near Oakville and the Silverado Trail. This aspiration is encapsulated in the winery’s name.

Today, Silver Oak cultivates vineyards in Napa and Alexander Valley, each terroir contributing its unique essence to the flagship Cabernet Sauvignon. While oak aging remains constant, the wines evolve with the subtleties of the land.

The 2020 Alexander Valley is a testament to this philosophy. A precise blend of 95.2% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2.1% Merlot, 1.4% Cabernet Franc, 0.7% Petit Verdot, and 0.6% Malbec, this wine is a meticulous composition that showcases the innovation and unwavering dedication behind this enduring classic.

Silver Oak
Cabernet Sauvignon
Alexander Valley 2020
Retails at: $100

Your Price: $89.99

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“The Silver Oak 2020 Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is elegantly opulent and opens with aromas of lavender, dill, cedar, blackberry pie, baking spices, and white pepper. On the palate, the wine has a round, supple texture and flavors of black cherries, plums, coconut, cinnamon raisin toast, and savory spice. This wine is enjoyable immediately after the cork is pulled, and still has the concentration and structure to age for years to come.”

95 Points