2023 Pont Neuf Royal Chardonnay Russian River Valley

2023 Pont Neuf Royal Chardonnay Russian River Valley

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

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

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

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

2021 Lewis Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve Napa Valley

2021 Lewis Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve Napa Valley

Lewis

Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley 2021

2021 Lewis Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve Napa Valley

Lewis Cellars Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon consistently sets the bar for Napa Valley excellence. This 2021 vintage, awarded a remarkable 97 points by Jeb Dunnuck, is no exception.

Bold and opulent, this wine unfolds with layers of captivating depth. It exemplifies the signature Lewis Cellars style – powerful and concentrated, yet refined with a sophistication that lingers long after the last sip.

The story behind this extraordinary wine is as remarkable as the wine itself. Founded by former race car driver Randy Lewis and his wife Debbie, Lewis Cellars embodies the same focus, determination, and pursuit of excellence that fueled Randy’s racing career. Since 1992, they have consistently produced world-class wines, culminating in the prestigious honor of Wine Spectator’s Wine of the Year in 2016.

The 2021 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon boldly displays this unwavering commitment. Crafted from meticulously selected barrels, it showcases the very best of Napa Valley terroir. This is a wine built to captivate and enchant, a masterpiece that Jeb Dunnuck advises collectors to savor over the next two decades.

Lewis
Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley 2021

Your Price: $189.99

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“Another ripe, powerful wine from this estate that ticks all the right boxes, the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve reveals a dense purple hue as well as sumptuous notes of blackcurrant, black cherry liqueur, spicy oak, and graphite, with a Graves-like smoky, scorched earth character. It’s full- bodied, deep, layered, incredibly concentrated, and has a blockbuster finish. Drink this awesome Cabernet over the coming two decades.”

97 Points

2022 Paul Hobbs Pinot Noir Russian River Valley

2022 Paul Hobbs Pinot Noir Russian River Valley

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

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

2021 Ballentine Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

2021 Ballentine Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

Ballentine

Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley 2021

2021 Ballentine Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

Established in 1905, Ballentine Vineyards embodies the enduring legacy of Napa Valley winemaking. For over a century, the Ballentine family has nurtured this tradition, with Frank Ballentine, the fourth generation, now at the helm. Guided by the seasoned expertise of winemaker Bruce Devlin, Frank oversees every aspect of wine production, walking the historic estate vineyards and shaping the winery’s distinctive style.

Ballentine’s 75 acres of vineyards, nestled within the prestigious St. Helena and Calistoga appellations, symbolize generations of dedication. Each vine reflects a history of resilience, cultivated with a deep respect for the land and a commitment to sustainable practices.

The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon, a culmination of this rich heritage, is crafted with meticulous care and unwavering passion. Hand-selected from the finest vineyards, the fruit is expertly blended with 12% Cabernet Franc, Malbec, and Petit Verdot, creating a seamless harmony of elegance and spice. Aged for 19 months in French oak, the wine unfolds with layers of richness, structure, and finesse, offering a sophisticated expression of Napa Valley’s timeless allure.

Ballentine
Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley 2021

Your Price: $59.99

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“The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Grown, with 11.5% Cabernet Franc, 5% Malbec, and 3.5% Petit Verdot in the blend, is medium to deep garnet-purple in color. It comes barreling out with notes of warm cassis, juicy plums, and cedar plus wafts of graphite and bay leaves. The full-bodied palate is laden with classic black berry and savory flavors supported by grainy tannins and seamless freshness, finishing with a refreshing herbal lift.”

93 Points

2022 Steps Barrel Select Reserve Napa Valley

2022 Steps Barrel Select Reserve Napa Valley

Steps

Barrel Select Reserve
Napa Valley 2022

2022 Steps Barrel Select Reserve Napa Valley

The 2022 Steps Reserve Barrel Select embodies the exceptional artistry of Grant Long, Jr., a renowned winemaker celebrated for his work at Aonair, Reverie II, and James Joseph. Grant possesses a unique talent for crafting both approachable and elegant wines, transforming each barrel into a harmonious expression of texture, balance, and enduring appeal.

Sourced from premier vineyards across Napa Valley – Saint Helena, Oak Knoll, Atlas Peak, and Calistoga – the 2022 Steps Reserve showcases a captivating interplay of lush valley floor fruit and structured mountain grapes. This meticulously crafted blend, centered around Cabernet Sauvignon and interwoven with Malbec, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Petit Verdot, exemplifies Grant’s ability to translate Napa Valley’s diverse terroir into a genuinely captivating wine.

After 18 months of careful aging in French oak, the 2022 Steps Reserve Barrel Select unfolds with layers of rich, penetrating flavors. Polished yet vibrant, this wine promises a journey of evolution, maturing gracefully into a paragon of sophistication over time.

Steps
Barrel Select Reserve
Napa Valley 2022

Your Price: $49.99

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“The Steps 2022 Reserve Barrel Select opens with supple fruit aromas of plums and black currants, accompanied by notes of sweet spices, chocolate fudge, graphite, new leather, and cedar. On the palate, the wine is penetrating and concentrated with flavors of blackberries, black plums, allspice, gingerbread, vanilla extract, and toasted hazelnuts. The wine has a sultry structure with silky tannins that glide into a long, smooth finish like a sunset slowly fading into twilight.”

95 Points

2021 Arkenstone Cabernet Sauvignon NVD Napa Valley

2021 Arkenstone Cabernet Sauvignon NVD Napa Valley

Arkenstone

Cabernet Sauvignon
NVD Napa Valley 2021

2021 Arkenstone Cabernet Sauvignon NVD Napa Valley

Arkenstone NVD Cabernet Sauvignon consistently ranks among our most cherished wines, with the 2018 vintage recently claiming the #1 spot on our 2023 top-ten list. From the rugged top of Howell Mountain, winemaker Sam Kaplan meticulously crafts wines that exemplify power, grace, and harmonious balance. The NVD Cabernet Sauvignon, in particular, is a captivating experience—a remarkable value that seamlessly blends intensity and refinement.

The Arkenstone story began in 1988 when visionary founders, inspired by the profound character of mountain-grown grapes, established their estate on Howell Mountain. In 2006, Sam Kaplan joined the team, assuming the dual roles of winemaker and vineyard manager. With unwavering dedication, he oversees every stage of production, ensuring consistent excellence and earning critical acclaim.

The 2021 NVD Cabernet is a quintessential expression of Napa Valley’s mountain terroir. Sourced from the dramatic, volcanic slopes of Howell Mountain and select vineyards in eastern Napa Valley, this 100% Cabernet Sauvignon showcases the varietal’s intense, complex character. The 2021 growing season yielded smaller, intensely flavored berries, which Sam skillfully transformed into a wine of incredible depth, richness, and sophistication—an exceptional tribute to Napa Valley’s finest vineyard sites.

Arkenstone
Cabernet Sauvignon
NVD Napa Valley 2021

Your Price: $125

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“Sam Kaplan masterfully combines components from premier single vineyards—Heimark, Godward, and Amoenus—to craft this exceptional blend, aged 22 months in 75% new French oak. The result is a wine of remarkable depth and balance. The bouquet is wonderfully rich, with aromas of crushed stones and lifted blackberry fruit. It offers a medium-to-full-bodied profile on the palate with layers of dark black cherry and blackberry, underscored by graphite and fine-grained tannins. The tannins are elongated and possess a terrific grip, delivering intensity and structure that linger for a full 60 seconds. As the finish unfolds, notes of wild herbs, spices, and a subtle hint of hay emerge, adding complexity and intrigue. This wine is a testament to Kaplan’s ability to balance power with precision, creating a blend that captures both elegance and intensity—a true standout.”

95 Points