2023 Maxence Millet Sancerre Blanc Cuvee Make Sense

2023 Maxence Millet Sancerre Blanc Cuvee Make Sense

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Maxence Millet

Sancerre Blanc 2023
Cuvée Make Sense
Loire Valley, France

2023 Maxence Millet Sancerre Blanc Cuvee Make Sense

Maxence Millet’s ‘Make Sense’ Sancerre offers a compelling story of tradition revitalized by an innovative spirit. Inheriting the legacy of Domaine Jean-Luc Millet, Maxence blends classic techniques with a modern sensibility, crafting a Sauvignon Blanc that reflects the terroir’s inherent character and the dynamism of contemporary winemaking.

The estate’s clay-limestone soils, imbued with history and minerality, nurture the vines, bestowing a refined elegance upon the grapes. The ‘Make-Sense’ label, with its striking design and equally bold philosophy, embodies Maxence’s vision: a confluence of place, passion, and artistic innovation.

Maxence gracefully balances respect for tradition with a touch of the unconventional. This exceptional bottling is designed to showcase Sauvignon Blanc’s pure, expressive nature, resulting in a wine that is both lively and remarkably complex. The 2023 vintage captivates with its vibrant acidity and distinctive flinty minerality—a wine that resonates with clarity and conviction.

Maxence Millet
Sancerre Blanc 2023
Cuvée Make Sense
Loire Valley, France

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“The 2023 Makes Sense Sancerre by Maxence Millet opens with a fresh, inviting bouquet of white blossoms, chamomile, delicate cherry blossoms, ripe lemons, juicy melon, and Honeycrisp apples. On the palate, the wine has bright fruit flavors and a flinty minerality with a touch of salinity that adds precision and depth and balances the wine’s vibrant acidity. The finish is crisp and pleasant, leaving lingering notes of citrus zest and wet stones.”

94 Points

2022 Portalupi Charbono L. Venturi Vineyard Mendocino County

2022 Portalupi Charbono L. Venturi Vineyard Mendocino County

with No Comment $30-$40CharbonoKevin VogtMendocinoUSA

Portalupi

Charbono 2022
L. Venturi Vineyard
Mendocino County

2022 Portalupi Charbono L. Venturi Vineyard Mendocino County

Portalupi’s L. Venturi Vineyard Charbono impressed us deeply, easily surpassing the Cabernets we recently tasted. This is a wine of undeniable allure, weaving layers of profound depth that command your full attention with each sip. With only 80 acres of Charbono gracing California’s vineyards, Portalupi’s masterful expression stands as a siren call, beckoning wine lovers to rediscover a varietal that whispers of untapped potential.

Charbono’s journey is one of resilience, tracing back to the slopes of France’s Savoie region, where it’s known as Douce Noir, and flourishing in the rustic landscapes of Northern Italy. This enigmatic grape yields brooding wines, inky depths, sumptuous textures, and a structure as enduring as stone. In the US, vintners like Turley, Heitz Cellar, and Robert Foley have also unveiled Charbono’s hidden charms, and Portalupi’s version stands tall among them.

Drawn from 90+-year-old vines that stretch their roots deep into the pinole gravelly loam of Mendocino’s L. Venturi Vineyard—this Charbono is a testament to the magic of California terroir. Its robust, yet elegantly structured profile enchants, proving that Charbono is a revelation waiting to unfold in your glass.

Portalupi
Charbono 2022
L. Venturi Vineyard
Mendocino County
Retails at: $45

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“This Charbono opens with a densely layered bouquet, where notes of boysenberry syrup mingle with cassis, red roses, and subtle baker’s chocolate. A distinct minerality adds a grounding note. On the palate, concentrated brambly blackberries and rich black currants take center stage, delivering a decadent experience yet retaining a refreshing vibrancy. The texture is supple and seamless, showcasing the wine’s exceptional balance. This is, quite simply, the finest Charbono I’ve ever encountered. The flavors linger exceptionally long, leaving a lasting impression.”

96 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

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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

2016 Covila Rioja Gran Reserva Spain

2016 Covila Rioja Gran Reserva Spain

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Covila

Rioja Gran Reserva
Rioja, Spain 2016

2016 Covila Rioja Gran Reserva Spain

Bodegas Covila’s 2016 Gran Reserva Rioja is a masterpiece of careful aging and tradition, a wine that whispers tales of the Rioja Alavesa region with each sip. Our tasting panel was captivated by its exceptional fruit concentration, layered textures, and the elegant dance of sweet spices, cocoa, and dark fruits.

Nestled in the heart of Rioja Alavesa, Covila is a boutique winery born from the vision of 22 local families. United by their love for the land and its wines, they have formed a cooperative dedicated to sustainable farming and traditional practices that honor their Basque heritage.

The 2016 Gran Reserva is crafted from grapes meticulously handpicked from vineyards surrounding Laguardia and Lapuebla de Labarca. Following careful vinification, the wine matures gracefully in a curated blend of American and French oak barrels, imparting depth of flavor and structure. It then rests patiently in the cellar for the required five years, followed by an additional four years in the bottle, allowing its complexity to fully unfold.

The 2016 Covila Gran Reserva Rioja is a vibrant expression of the artistry and heritage of Rioja Alavesa, offering a journey through time and tradition with every sip.

Covila
Rioja Gran Reserva
Rioja, Spain 2016

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“This dark garnet wine offers a nose of pomegranate, olive tapenade and orange zest. Opulent tannins support flavors of cherry, purple fig, cocoa butter, citrus zest and aniseed that evaporate into an enduring finish.”

95 Points

2023 Evesham Wood Pinot Noir Willamette Valley

2023 Evesham Wood Pinot Noir Willamette Valley

with No Comment $30-$40Kevin VogtOregonPinot NoirUSAWillamette Valley

Evesham Wood

Pinot Noir 2023
Willamette Valley

2023 Evesham Wood Pinot Noir Willamette Valley

Evesham Wood Willamette Valley Pinot Noir embodies the heart and soul of Oregon Pinot Noir: elegant, balanced, and remarkably affordable. Since its inception in 1986, Evesham Wood has adhered to a minimalist approach, prioritizing sustainable vineyard practices and gentle winemaking. This philosophy allows the true character of the fruit to shine through, resulting in authentic, expressive wines from some of the region’s most prestigious vineyards.

The 2023 vintage showcases the brilliance of this approach. Sourced primarily from Mahonia and Illahe Vineyards, with complementary contributions from renowned Eola-Amity Hills sites like Prophet, Koosah, Jubilee, Cortell Rose, and Sojeau, this Pinot Noir captivates with layers of bright red fruit, delicate spice, and refreshing acidity. Its silky texture and inviting charm make it the perfect companion for any occasion, and encapsulates the vibrant, approachable spirit of the Willamette Valley at an incredible value.

Evesham Wood
Pinot Noir 2023
Willamette Valley

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“The Evesham Wood Willamette Valley Pinot Noir 2023 begins with a delicate ballet of red fruit that unfolds on the nose, with tart cherry and pomegranate leading the way. A floral bouquet of spring blossoms and potpourri adds elegance, while subtle earthy notes of dried mushrooms, wet stone, and cola bean round out the complex aromatic profile. The palate projects elegance, showcasing a lighter body and bright, refreshing fruit flavors. The wine’s crisp acidity provides a mouth-quenching quality, leaving a clean and satisfying finish.”

92 Points

2023 Flowers Chardonnay Sonoma Coast

2023 Flowers Chardonnay Sonoma Coast

with No Comment $30-$40Kevin VogtSonomaSonoma CoastUSA

Flowers

Chardonnay 2023
Sonoma Coast

2023 Flowers Chardonnay Sonoma Coast

Flowers Chardonnay masterfully captures the essence of the Sonoma Coast, a grace that has earned it a place of honor on countless wine lists and in the hearts of Chardonnay enthusiasts. Consistently exceptional, this wine is a love letter to the rugged beauty of the Sonoma Coast, a region renowned for its cool-climate perfection.

In 1991, Flowers Winery’s visionary founders dared to plant vines on the windswept ridges of the Sonoma Coast. This unique terroir, characterized by cool breezes, persistent fog, and rocky soils, imparts a crisp minerality and invigorating acidity to the Chardonnay. Here, nature’s extremes are harnessed to produce wines of profound character, resulting in a distinctive and impressive Chardonnay.

Now part of the esteemed Huneeus Collection, which includes luminaries like Quintessa, Flowers reaches new heights with this wine attaining #43 on the Wine Spectator’s 2024 Top 100 list. The 2023 Sonoma Coast Chardonnay is a masterful blend of estate fruit from Camp Meeting Ridge, complemented by select grapes from Ross Ranch, Wildcat Mountain, and Bohan Ranch. The result is a seamless expression of the Sonoma Coast’s signature style, reflecting the distinct qualities of each vineyard.

Flowers
Chardonnay 2023
Sonoma Coast
Retails at: $55

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“This distinctive white features a lively, mouthwatering and energetic mix of pomelo, yuzu and lemon sherbet flavors, with hints of sweetgrass, apple blossoms and lime zest. There’s also an appealing grip on the finish, reminiscent of the skin of roasted, salted almonds, while a whiff of wild fennel lingers. Drink now through 2033. 23,000 cases made.” 

93 Points, #43 Top 100 Wines of 2024

2022 Ernest Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast

2022 Ernest Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast

with No Comment $30-$40Kevin VogtPinot NoirSonomaSonoma CoastUSA

Ernest

Pinot Noir 2022
Sonoma Coast

2022 Ernest Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast

Ernest Vineyards is where Burgundian elegance meets windswept Sonoma Coast fruit. Their Pinot Noirs, imbued with concentrated fruit, vibrant acidity, and a touch of coastal complexity, are truly captivating. The 2022 Ernest Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir is a prime example, earning a well-deserved spot among the year’s top five wines. Its seamless harmony, pure varietal expression, and refreshing quality far exceed its approachable price point, making it a standout for the year.

Nestled in the serene Freestone Valley, the Ernest Estate benefits from the ocean-kissed climate of the Sonoma Coast, where Pacific breezes and fog-laden mornings extend the growing season. Since joining Ernest Vineyards in 2018, winemaker Joseph Ryan has championed a philosophy of minimal intervention and meticulous craftsmanship, allowing each vintage to express its unique character with finesse and authenticity.

The 2022 Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir is a tribute to this commitment. This wine exudes energy and precision with a masterful blend of estate fruit and select parcels from renowned vineyards. Its vivid fruit profile, underpinned by vibrant acidity and coastal minerality, captures the pristine essence of the Sonoma Coast. At $38, it’s a truly exceptional offering.

Ernest
Pinot Noir 2022
Sonoma Coast

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“This is a wonderful wine from Grand Vent, Cleary Ranch, the Michael Valentine vineyard from the Freestone Valley, and a Laguna vineyard that supplies the Swann clone. Red and black fruits are concentrated with stem inclusion, giving the wine a tremendous savoury backbone. The palate is redolent of cloves, red berries, and early-season black plums.”

95 Points

2022 Venge Scouts Honor Proprietary Red Napa & Sonoma

2022 Venge Scouts Honor Proprietary Red Napa & Sonoma

with No Comment $30-$40Kevin VogtNapaProprietary RedSonomaUSA

Venge

Scout’s Honor
Proprietary Red
Napa/Sonoma 2022

2022 Venge Scouts Honor Proprietary Red Napa & Sonoma

Venge’s Scout’s Honor has captivated wine enthusiasts for years with its bold character and irresistible charm. This Zinfandel-driven blend embodies the essence of California, marrying rich depth with vibrant, intense fruit. Seamlessly balancing opulence, structure, and approachability, it has garnered a loyal following.

Each vintage of Scout’s Honor is a tribute to the Venge family’s beloved family dog while showcasing the artistry of acclaimed winemaker Kirk Venge. Known for his work with esteemed wineries like Eleven Eleven, Macauley, and B. Cellars, Venge crafts the 2022 vintage with approximately 70% Old Vine Zinfandel, complemented by Charbono, 

Petite Sirah and Syrah. This blend offers remarkable depth and complexity, with each varietal contributing its unique voice to a harmonious symphony of flavor and structure.

Unapologetically bold yet effortlessly drinkable, the 2022 Scout’s Honor is ready to enjoy now or age gracefully. It invites you on a sensory journey through high-quality North Coast vineyards, capturing the region’s heritage and Venge’s signature winemaking finesse.

Venge
Scout’s Honor
Proprietary Red
Napa/Sonoma 2022

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“The Venge Vineyards 2022 Scout’s Honor Red opens with supple aromas of blackberries, raspberries, toast, cloves, hot chocolate, and balsamic reduction. On the palate, the wine has concentrated flavors of ripe fruits, fudge brownies, candied walnuts, and Christmas spices. This wine has a nice, smooth mouthfeel and seamlessly combines the best traits of rich California Zinfandel.”

92 Points

2021 Lombardi Chardonnay Sonoma Coast

2021 Lombardi Chardonnay Sonoma Coast

with No Comment $30-$40ChardonnayKevin VogtSonomaSonoma CoastUSA

Lombardi

Chardonnay 2021
Sonoma Coast

2021 Lombardi Chardonnay Sonoma Coast

Lombardi’s Sonoma Coast Chardonnay leaves a lasting impression—a glimpse of the exceptional 2021 vintage and the expert farmers who tended the vines. The Lombardi family has been a proud steward of Sonoma County’s winemaking heritage since settling in the region in 1947. With a deep respect for the land and a passion for crafting exceptional wines, Lombardi specializes in small-lot wines that capture the essence of the Sonoma Coast. 

The 2021 Sonoma Coast Chardonnay is a shining example of Lombardi’s meticulous approach to winemaking. Sourced from Benovia’s celebrated Martaella Vineyard—renowned for its connection to icons like Williams Selyem and Gary Farrell—this Chardonnay carries the legacy of one of Sonoma’s most coveted sites. 

Barrel-fermented, the wine seamlessly integrates flavors, with the oak serving as a delicate frame rather than a defining feature. The 2021 vintage offers a striking balance of power and finesse, showcasing depth and concentration from an exceptional growing season. Bright acidity and coastal freshness dance harmoniously with its rich texture, delivering a vibrant and compelling Chardonnay.

Lombardi
Chardonnay 2021
Sonoma Coast
Retails at: $52

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“A bright straw/yellow hue, the 2021 Chardonnay Sonoma Coast is ripe with aromas of candied apple, lemon candies, and a savory saline. It boasts fantastic brightness on the palate, and it’s ripe and juicy but never feels over-ripe. Its really enjoyable and is going to show its best over the next 6-8 years.”

93 Points

2020 Galius Saint-Emilion Grand Cru Bordeaux France

2020 Galius Saint-Emilion Grand Cru Bordeaux France

with No Comment $30-$40BordeauxBordeauxFranceKevin VogtSaint Emilion

Galius

Saint-Émilion Grand Cru
Bordeaux, France 2020

2020 Galius Saint-Emilion Grand Cru Bordeaux France

In the heart of Saint-Émilion lies Château Galius, named for a legendary Roman soldier who left the battlefield to cultivate the land he received as a war bounty. In this region where Gallo-Roman culture first took root, Galius exchanged his weapons for farming tools, helping to sow the earliest vines that would shape Saint-Émilion’s winemaking legacy. 

Château Galius continues this legacy across eleven hectares of sustainably farmed vineyards. Rooted in the famed clay-limestone soils that have birthed some of the world’s most coveted wines, these half-century-old vines thrive, producing exceptional grapes year after year.

The 2020 vintage, a testament to nature’s balance and the winemaker’s artistry, emerged from a challenging year. Early rains nurtured the vines, preparing them for the intense summer heat. This delicate equilibrium resulted in an extraordinary wine.

A masterful blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc, this wine offers a harmonious interplay of power and elegance. Rich, concentrated fruit flavors unfold on the palate, balanced by a refreshing acidity that leaves a lasting impression. This impressive Saint-Émilion value is a tribute to Galius’s past, with a promise for the future.

Galius
Saint-Émilion Grand Cru
Bordeaux, France 2020

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“Dark plums, blueberries, violets, loganberries and bay leaves on the nose. Full-bodied with firm, polished tannins. I like the intense and persistent bitter chocolate and dark berry fruit. Better from 2025.”

92 Points