2023 Gamba MCM Estate Zinfandel Russian River Valley

2023 Gamba MCM Estate Zinfandel Russian River Valley

with No Comment $40-$50Kevin VogtRussian River ValleySonomaUSAZinfandel

Gamba

MCM Estate Zinfandel
Russian River Valley 2023

2023 Gamba MCM Estate Zinfandel Russian River Valley

Born from one of California’s oldest dry-farmed vineyards, the 2023 Gamba MCM Estate Zinfandel delivers a striking tribute to a century of continuous heritage. Rooted in a delicate balance of soil and climate, Gamba’s Estate Vineyard stands as a benchmark for sustainable viticulture, producing intensely concentrated Zinfandel from impossibly small yields.

With the 2023 MCM Zinfandel, Gamba masterfully celebrates a vineyard that has become a cherished symbol of Russian River Valley viticulture. Known for producing grapes brimming with lively, succulent fruit, this historic site imparts layers of complexity accentuated through indigenous yeast fermentation.

Aged gracefully in American and French oak, the 2023 vintage exemplifies Gamba’s signature style: richly textured yet impeccably balanced. Carefully crafted, it reveals astonishing depth, intricate detail, and a lingering finish that echoes its remarkable lineage, offering an homage to one of Sonoma’s oldest vineyards.

Gamba
MCM Estate Zinfandel
Russian River Valley 2023
Retails at: $69

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“The Gamba 2023 MCM Russian River Valley Old Vine Zinfandel opens with vibrant notes of juicy cherries, cranberries, and wild blackberries with underlying notes of Christmas spices and toast. On the palate, the wine has a silky smooth approach with flavors of bramble fruit, dark cherry, and boysenberry compote, complemented with savory undertones of tobacco leaf and dried herbs. The wine has supple tannins and finishes with a finely textured, velvety mouthfeel.”

94 Points

2021 Buoncristiani O.P.C. Napa Valley Red

2021 Buoncristiani O.P.C. Napa Valley Red

with No Comment $40-$50Kevin VogtNapaProprietary RedUSA

Buoncristiani

O.P.C. 2021
Napa Valley Red

2021 Buoncristiani O.P.C. Napa Valley Red

Each vintage of Buoncristiani O.P.C. reveals a new chapter in the captivating story of Napa Valley’s celebrated terroir. With an artful blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Syrah, and a whisper of Merlot, this wine seamlessly weaves power and finesse into every sip. Born and raised in Napa, the Buoncristiani brothers connect deeply to their region, channeling intimate vineyard knowledge into each wine they produce.

Under the guidance of winemaker Jay Buoncristiani, each vineyard’s distinct voice is showcased brilliantly. His expert hand ensures that every element, from vibrant fruit to finely integrated tannins, aligns harmoniously, creating depth and perfect equilibrium. 

Buoncristiani has honed a signature style for more than twenty-five years, masterfully blending concentration and elegance to craft wines of profound texture and captivating allure. The 2021 O.P.C., sourced from some of Napa’s most revered vineyards, stands proudly among its predecessors, a stunning 95-point testament to bold, richly textured winemaking. 

Buoncristiani
O.P.C. 2021
Napa Valley Red
Retails at: $75

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“The 2021 Red Wine O.P.C., Buoncristiani’s blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Syrah and Merlot, is superb. Another rich wine in this range, the 2021 hits the palate with dense dark fruit, chocolate, graphite, leather, spice, plum and lavender. This rich, inky wine will delight Buoncristiani fans.”

95 Points

2023 Pierre Guillemont Bourgogne Cote d'Or Burgundy France

2023 Pierre Guillemont Bourgogne Cote d’Or Burgundy France

with No Comment $40-$50BurgandyFranceKevin VogtPinot Noir

Pierre Guillemot

Bourgogne Côte d’Or
Burgundy, France 2023

2023 Pierre Guillemont Bourgogne Cote d'Or Burgundy France

Domaine Pierre Guillemot’s 2023 Bourgogne Côte d’Or is a luminous expression of Pinot Noir where tradition and terroir converge. The wine presents a striking clarity and purity of fruit, enhanced by a lively brightness that encapsulates the spirit of Burgundy’s Côte d’Or. Rich yet light, expressive yet restrained, this wine embodies the character of Pinot Noir perfectly.

The Guillemot family, stewards of their land, practice organic viticulture and holds the prestigious Haute Valeur Environnementale certification. Their commitment ensures each vine flourishes in soils of limestone and clay, imparting complexity, nuance, and a vibrant lift to every grape.

Through partial whole-cluster fermentation, the Guillemot brothers extract exceptional freshness and floral notes from each cluster. These meticulous techniques result in a wine that reflects its terroir and the family’s passion, making Burgundy’s celebrated elegance accessible. The 2023 Domaine Pierre Guillemot Bourgogne Côtes d’Or Red Burgundy is a vivid, unforgettable invitation to experience the true spirit of Burgundy.

Pierre Guillemot
Bourgogne Côte d’Or
Burgundy, France 2023

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“This 2023 Bourgogne Côte d’Or Rouge from Domaine Pierre Guillemot is a vibrant expression of Pinot Noir. The nose is inviting and complex, with bright red cherries, complemented by notes of cola bean and mandarin peel. Subtle hints of fresh mushrooms and English roses add depth, while a touch of crushed flint provides a distinctive mineral edge. On the palate, the wine is vibrant and penetrating, with red fruits and berries that are fresh, concentrated, and beautifully balanced. Liquid minerals add complexity, while the ripe, fleshy fruit ensures a satisfying and mouth-filling texture. The dance of fruit and minerality creates a harmonious whole, making this a delightful and authentic representation of the region.”

93 Points

2021 Trujillo Petit Verdot Napa Valley

2021 Trujillo Petit Verdot Napa Valley

with No Comment $40-$50Kevin VogtNapaPetit VerdotUSA

Trujillo

Petit Verdot
Napa Valley 2021

2021 Trujillo Petit Verdot Napa Valley

In a region dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon, Michael Trujillo’s 2021 Napa Valley Petit Verdot stands apart with quiet force and unforgettable depth. The wine is rich and commanding, with intense flavors of blackberry, plum, and black currant, all wrapped in a polished, velvety texture. An iron fist in a velvet glove, it offers powerful structure, yet also lift and clarity, making it truly enjoyable.

Such a wine is no mere coincidence. Michael Trujillo brings over three decades of experience, shaped by his years at Sequoia Grove, Herb Lamb, and Karl Lawrence. His unwavering focus and independence from fleeting trends set him apart. He knows what renders a wine memorable, and his 2021 Petit Verdot reflects that dedication.

With just 58 cases produced, this is a wine to seek, savor, and remember. Trujillo’s 2021 Petit Verdot offers a rare glimpse into a varietal often subtly incorporated into blends, now given the space to shine with brilliance and purpose. Crafted by a winemaker whose expertise resonates in every detail, this wine delivers boldness without excess, structure without edge, and beauty without compromise.

Trujillo
Petit Verdot
Napa Valley 2021
Retails at: $60

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“TheTrujillo Napa Valley Petit Verdot 2021 captivates with its deep, inky core, promising an intense experience. The nose reveals a lush array of dark fruit preserves—blueberry and black plum dominate, complemented by wild, briary boysenberry syrup. Sweet purple florals and subtle pie spices complexity. The palate surges with bright yet plush red, blue, and black fruits. Flavors fill the mouth, supported by silky, supple tannins that create a polished, velvety structure. Bold yet balanced, this vibrant wine showcases the varietal’s potential and promises further evolution.”

93 Points

2021 Two Old Dogs Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

2021 Two Old Dogs Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

with No Comment $40-$50Cabernet SauvignonKevin VogtNapaUSA

Two Old Dogs

Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley 2021

2021 Two Old Dogs Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

The 2021 Two Old Dogs Cabernet Sauvignon captures the essence of what a memorable $50 Napa Cabernet should offer—vibrant, layered, and beautifully balanced with an engaging complexity. This exceptional wine expands the JACK portfolio through a collaboration between Major League luminaries Chris Iannetta and Vernon Wells, joined by vintner Jennifer Lamb, whose unwavering commitment to quality radiates throughout this creation.

Guiding this endeavor is Julien Fayard, a masterful talent in Napa Valley’s winemaking scene. With origins in Bordeaux and a refined skill set honed at the renowned Château Lafite Rothschild and Château Smith Haut Lafitte, Fayard infuses Two Old Dogs with precision and a wealth of experience. His aim is deliberate: to produce a Cabernet that reveals the depth and richness synonymous with Napa’s finest, while keeping it within reach.

The 2021 vintage unfolds with generous notes of dark fruit, cradled by smooth tannins and a silky texture that carries through to a lingering, graceful finish. It’s a wine that marries strength with elegance, delivering a compelling experience at an impressive value—a true delight for Cabernet enthusiasts.

Two Old Dogs
Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley 2021
Retails at: $55

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“The Two Old Dogs 2021 Oak Knoll Cabernet Sauvignon opens with notes of blackberry, boysenberry, dark chocolate, violets, cigar box, and toast. On the palate, the wine is penetrating and concentrated with flavors of blueberry, plum, cocoa, and cassis. The wine has fine-grained tannins and is beginning to show brilliantly with just a few years in the bottle. Great acidity and concentration will allow this wine to age for several years, but you won’t be disappointed if you can’t wait.”

95 Points

2021 VIK Milla Cala Red Blend Millahue Valley Chile

2021 VIK Milla Cala Red Blend Millahue Valley Chile

with No Comment $40-$50ChileKevin VogtProprietary Red

VIK

Milla Cala Red Blend
Millahue Valley, Chile 2021

2021 VIK Milla Cala Red Blend Millahue Valley Chile

Vik’s 2021 Milla Cala embodies the pinnacle of Chilean winemaking, confidently ranking among the world’s finest wines under $50. Its profound character has earned prestigious recognition, securing #36 on Wine Spectator’s Top 100 Wines of 2024 and a remarkable 95-point endorsement from James Suckling, affirming its captivating expression.

Milla Cala hails from the Millahue Valley, known as “Lugar de Oro,” or “Golden Place,” by the indigenous Mapuche. Nestled in the Andean foothills, its vines flourish across a mosaic of valleys shaped by cooling Pacific breezes and crisp mountain air, yielding grapes of exceptional purity and intensity.

Milla Cala elegantly blends Old World tradition with New World innovation, balancing nature’s influence with a refined human touch. Hand-harvested grapes undergo spontaneous fermentation with native yeasts, showcasing an authentic style that vividly reflects its origins. Comprising nearly 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, skillfully blended with Carménère, Cabernet Franc, Syrah, and Merlot, the 2021 vintage offers seamless complexity and purity—a vibrant reflection of its remarkable terroir, lingering gracefully after each sip.

VIK
Milla Cala Red Blend
Millahue Valley, Chile 2021
Retails at: $49

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“Dark chocolate, black olives and a touch of sweet tobacco to the sweet blackberries. Rich and deep but very fresh at the same time. Firm, full and pretty seamless. Very long finish. 68% cabernet sauvignon, 16% carmenere, 4% cabernet franc, 7% syrah and 5% merlot. Drink or hold.”

95 Points

2021 Summit Lake Zinfandel Howell Mountain

2021 Summit Lake Zinfandel Howell Mountain

with No Comment $40-$50Howell MountainKevin VogtNapaUSAZinfandel

Summit Lake

Zinfandel 2021
Howell Mountain

2021 Summit Lake Zinfandel Howell Mountain

Summit Lake Vineyards’ 2021 Estate Zinfandel weaves a compelling tale of heritage, dedication, and the distinctive terroir of Howell Mountain. Here, among ancient, head-trained Zinfandel vines nurtured by vintners Bob and Sally Brakesman, the mountain’s bold essence shines through in every vibrant sip. At this lofty elevation, lively fruit intertwines with deep, concentrated flavors, embodying the heart of this celebrated appellation.

Founded in 1971, Summit Lake Vineyards spans a scenic 28-acre estate, home to eight acres of historic Zinfandel vines—some rooted in the pre-Prohibition era. These time-honored vines, having weathered over a century of harvests, impart profound depth and character to the wine.

Howell Mountain, known for its robust and intricate reds, provides a perfect stage for Zinfandel. The 2021 vintage, crafted from a blend of heritage vines dating to 1900 and younger plantings from the early 2000s, delivers a captivating, richly layered wine. Bursting with youthful energy yet steeped in tradition, it offers a memorable expression of Howell Mountain’s iconic spirit.

Summit Lake
Zinfandel 2021
Howell Mountain

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“The Summit Lake 2021 Howell Mountain Estate Zinfandel opens with vibrancy and fresh notes of black cherries and raspberries, complemented with Baker’s chocolate, clove, and white pepper spice. On the palate, the wine has flavors of blackberries, boysenberries, fudge brownies, cinnamon, and a specific graphite-like minerality that is typically found in Howell Mountain fruit. The wine has a smooth texture and velvety tannins that coat your mouth as the wine finishes with finesse and grace. Not even close to being overripe or jammy, this wine shows the elegant side of Zinfandel with impeccable balance.”

94 Points

2016 Leto Exceptional Selection Cabernet Sauvignon Saint Helena

2016 Leto Exceptional Selection Cabernet Sauvignon Saint Helena

with No Comment $40-$50Cabernet SauvignonKevin VogtNapaSaint HelenaUSA

Leto

Exceptional Selection
Cabernet Sauvignon
Saint Helena 2016

2016 Leto Exceptional Selection Cabernet Sauvignon Saint Helena

Leto’s 2016 Exceptional Selection Cabernet Sauvignon captures the height of artisanal winemaking, blending deep intensity, refined elegance, and steadfast commitment. Drawn from a carefully nurtured micro-block of Cabernet vines—rooted over fifty years ago in the storied soils of Saint Helena—this wine tells a vivid tale of legacy, endurance, and terroir. The ancient, dry-farmed vines yield concentrated fruit, revealing their landscape with striking precision.

Under the skilled hand of veteran winemaker Brad Warner, this distinctive Cabernet matured for 21 months in French oak barrels, followed by a remarkable six-year refinement in bottle. The outcome is mesmerizing: a broad, richly layered bouquet that instantly awakens the senses with its intricate depth.

With only a handful of cases produced, the 2016 Leto Exceptional Selection is a rare and soulful expression that speaks quietly but lingers long. After years of careful rest, it reveals its truth: deep, graceful, and complete. It’s a rare opportunity—to experience a wine not just at its peak but in its prime.

Leto
Exceptional Selection
Cabernet Sauvignon
Saint Helena 2016
Retails at: $125

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“The precisely shaped and exquisitely balanced Leto Exceptional Selection Cabernet Sauvignon 2016 begins with an elegant nose filled with black plums, black currants, smooth blue fruits, baking spices, rose petals and sweet vanilla oak. There is a seamless combination of freshly crushed mountain blackberries, kirsch, and light tobacco notes on the palate. The finish is focused, penetrating, balanced, and long, making this wine a truly exceptional selection.”

94 Points

2021 Stewart Cabernet Sauvignon Yountville

2021 Stewart Cabernet Sauvignon Yountville

with No Comment $40-$50Cabernet SauvignonKevin VogtNapaUSAYountville

Stewart

Cabernet Sauvignon
Yountville 2021

2021 Stewart Cabernet Sauvignon Yountville

Stewart’s 2021 Yountville Cabernet Sauvignon captivated our panel with the distinctive traits of this quietly revered AVA—fragrant aromatics, precisely chiseled tannins, and a delicate balance of opulence and restraint. Sourced from the coveted eastern edge of Yountville, where alluvial soils and benchland terroir echo the character of distinguished neighbors like Kapcsándy and Gemstone, this wine offers remarkable pedigree at an inviting price.

Yountville’s unique expression unfolds through finesse, structure, and grace. Its proximity to San Pablo Bay ushers in cool morning fog, prolonging the growing season and coaxing Cabernet to mature with poise. Rooted in gravelly earth, the vines reach deep, yielding fruit marked by innate concentration, purity, and refinement. A Cabernet emerges that whispers rather than shouts—satin in texture, vividly nuanced, and poised for years in the cellar.

The 2021 vintage was one of Napa’s most exceptional, shaped by modest yields and striking fruit intensity. Stewart Cellars embraced the opportunity, crafting a wine that captures the season’s potential. For those attuned to Napa’s hidden gems, this release is a refined, resonant find, ready to delight now or over time.

Stewart
Cabernet Sauvignon
Yountville 2021
Retails at: $95

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“While deep and concentrated, this full-bodied wine is also smooth in texture, not overly tight with tannins, and woos you with ample blueberry, black cherry and mint flavors. Drinkable soon with decanting, but able to age well through 2030.”

93 Points

2019 Rubia Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

2019 Rubia Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

with No Comment $40-$50Cabernet SauvignonHowell MountainKevin VogtNapaUSA

Rubia

Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley 2019

2019 Rubia Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

Rubia’s 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon emerges as a striking reflection of its mountain origins, deftly balancing vigor with refinement. Drawn from the lofty slopes of Howell Mountain and the untamed ridges of Calistoga, it captures the untempered energy of its rugged birthplace while unveiling a polished grace. Guided by the skilled hands of Julien Fayard, a luminary among Napa Valley’s winemakers, this wine commands the senses with its robust, mountain-born intensity, softened by a seamless elegance.

Julien Fayard’s journey lends depth to this creation. Shaped by his time at revered French estates like Château Lafite Rothschild, he carried his mastery to Napa, collaborating with Philippe Melka before stepping forward as a trailblazer in the region’s contemporary winemaking scene. His finesse shines through in this wine—a compelling blend of structure and allure, where the firm tannins of the mountains are artfully tamed.

Limited to just 130 cases, the 2019 vintage matured for nearly two years in French oak, then rested four more in the bottle, allowing its initial intensity to evolve into a refined majesty. Now approaching its finest hour, this Cabernet Sauvignon reveals a captivating harmony of power and subtlety—a wine of undeniable pedigree and exceptional value.

Rubia
Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley 2019
Retails at: $130

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“The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley) from Rubia is a boisterous, heady wine loaded with character and personality. A blast of inky blue/purplish fruit makes a strong first impression. Spice, rose petal, chocolate and licorice add layers of flavor to this full-throttle, resonant Cabernet Sauvignon. The full-throttle style works well here.”

94 Points