2014 Enos Estate Dry Creek Valley Cabernet Sauvingon

2014 Enos Estate Dry Creek Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

with No Comment $30 and underCabernet SauvignonDry Creek ValleyKevin VogtSonomaUncategorizedUSA

ENOS 2014 Enos Estate Dry Creek Valley Cabernet Sauvingon

2014 ESTATE
CABERNET SAUVIGNON
DRY CREEK VALLEY

We know that we’ve done our job when we introduce a wine that performs so far beyond its modest price level, that it immediately generates an avalanche of re-order requests that begin nearly simultaneous with the delivery notices. That’s exactly what happened when we offered Enos’s Knight’s Valley Cabernet in January, and the demand was so vast that there wasn’t nearly enough wine to satisfy it.  Fortunately the winery’s Estate Cabernet Sauvignon is even better, and comes from a 5 acre hillside vineyard in Sonoma County that’s perfectly suited for Bordeaux varietals.  At $60 this is a memorable Cabernet that delights even the most particular wine aficionado… It’s unfathomably great and competes with many of the best wines in the shop for greatest ever value wine.
 
Commanding a presence from one of the valley’s best vintages, one that the Wine Spectator describes as producing “dense, charming, cellar-worthy wines,” the 2014 vintage brought a fuller, richer and more structured wine.  When you taste it for the first time you’ll be shocked by the level of quality, which is amplified in all the right places… A 100% Cabernet Sauvignon that’s densely compact and opens up to a melody of pulverized berries laced with crushed granite, dried spices and mixed chocolates.  I recommend doubling up on the 2014 Estate… You’ll be glad you did…
 
ENOS
2014 ESTATE
CABERNET SAUVIGNON
DRY CREEK VALLEY
Retails at:  $60/btl
 
Your Price: Insider’s Club Member’s Only

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Tasting Notes: “This intriguing Cabernet begins with a compelling nose of black cherries, red currants and cocoa powder, followed by pipe tobacco, toasted hazelnuts and sweet vanilla spice.  On the palate, focused blackberry and chocolate covered cherries intertwine beautifully with a complex, earthy wet clay character along with slightly dusty tannins.  The finish is detailed, long and fresh, without be heavy or cloying. A delight to enjoy now and will age beautifully for a decade or so. Serious wine at a not-so-serious price…” 93+ Points
2016 Coup De Foudre Napa Valley 37.2 Cuvee

2016 Coup De Foudre Napa Valley Cuvee 37.2

with No Comment $70-$80Kevin VogtNapaProprietary RedUncategorizedUSA

COUP DE FOUDRE 2016 Coup De Foudre Napa Valley 37.2 Cuvee

2016 CUVEE 37.2
NAPA VALLEY

 
With a name like Coup de Foudre  (pronounced koo dah foo drah) meaning the moment when lightning strikes, or when something unforgettable occurs that you want to capture forever, my expectations were set high…  They were made even higher by knowing who’s behind the project… Coup de Foudre is owned by John Schwarts whom you might recognize from Amuse Bouche, Au Sommet, Vin Perdu and PharaohMoans.  John has an eye for exceptional talent, working with the likes of Heidi Barrett, et.al.  The 2016 Cuvee shattered my absolutely stratospheric expectations, starting with a unique double label design where you can peel the top layer off to keep, leaving one more below it, to a riveting bouquet and dense, polished core that’s stunningly balanced, poised and polished.  At $75 this wine has everything that I look for in an Ultra Premium Napa Valley Blend.
 
The wine was pristinely constructed by talented winemaker Kent Jarman who perfected his craft at Kenefick Ranch Winery and Duckhorn Vineyards in the early 2000’s.  This distinctive Bordeaux styled blend is built around a core of top-quality Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petite Verdot.  The 2016 has already earned 94 Points from Vinous and with 450 cases produced, this one most certainly won’t be available for long.
 

 

COUP DE FOUDRE 
2016 CUVEE 37.2
NAPA VALLEY
 
Your Price: $75/btl
 
From Vinous: “The 2016 Merlot Cuvee 37.2 is just as good from bottle as it was from barrel. Deeply layered and yet also super-polished, the 2016 has much to recommend it. A rush of dark cherry, plum, leather, smoke, licorice, grilled herb and earthy notes abound in this beautifully resonant and expressive Merlot-based blend. Even with all of its intensity, the 2016 has terrific freshness.”  94 Points
 
Customers who enjoy Coup de Foudre Cuvee 37.2 may also enjoy these two terrific Red Blends…
2015 Rapp Ranch Cutter's Reserve Napa Valley Proprietary Red
 2016 Vin Perdu Napa Valley Proprietary Red
RAPP RANCH 
CUTTERS RESERVE 
2015 PROPRIETARY RED
 
Your Price: $69.99/btl

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Tasting Notes: “This Napa Valley red blend is uniquely driven by 45% Petit Verdot.  Blueberry , licorice, and rose petal entice the nose with secondary aromas of rhubarb, mint and graphite.  Medium bodied on the palate, a burst of mixed berries, anise, and kirsch kiss the tongue.  Balanced, firm tannins lead to a bright, long, lingering finish.“
VIN PERDU
PROPRIETARY RED
2016 NAPA VALLEY
 
Your Price: $75/btl 

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2013 Shottesbrooke Eliza Reserve McLaren-Vale Shiraz

2013 Shottsbrooke McLaren Vale Eliza Reserve Shiraz

with No Comment $30-$40AustraliaKevin VogtMcLaren ValeSyrahUncategorized

SHOTTESBROOKE2013 Shottesbrooke Eliza Reserve McLaren-Vale Shiraz

ELIZA RESERVE SHIRAZ
2013 MCLAREN VALE

 
Many countries have a signature grape varietal that separates them from the rest, and in Australia, that varietal is Syrah, also known as Shiraz.  It’s the countries best known and most widely planted grape, with vineyards dating back to the Mid 1800’s.  Australian Shiraz is revered for its intensity that’s often expressed through powerful, heady aromas, saturating flavors and full-bodied style.  A perfect example is Shottesbrooke’s 97 Point 2013 Eliza Reserve Shiraz which is chillingly intense and brimming with vivid red berries, roasted meats, black chocolate and spices.  Eliza was created from an individual patch of vineyard on the winery’s McLaren Flat property that naturally produces exceptionally low yields of high quality fruit.  At $60/btl this wine absolutely  has it all… We bought it all after tasting this wine and at $39.99 we know you’re going to love it.
 
Named after the founders daughter, Eliza is the top Reserve Shiraz produced by the winery, and is only made in exceptional vintages.  Due to low yields and high-demand for Eliza, only a limited number of cases make their way to the US.  The wine is kept for 19 months in oak before bottling and the 2013 shines with vivid details.  I strongly recommend adding some to your cellar.
 
SHOTTESBROOKE
ELIZA RESERVE SHIRAZ
2013 MCLAREN VALE
Retails at:  $60.00/btl
 
Your Price: $39.99/btl 

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Tasting.com Notes: “Cloudy indigo color. Attractive, roasted, meaty aromas and flavors of mocha maple fudge, smoked nuts, jerky, and toasty cedar and clay with a satiny, dry-yet-fruity medium-full body and a tingling, involved, long finish that exhibits suggestions of blackberry creme brulee, pomegranate-tomato chutney on rye raisin toast, beef consommé, and tamari with moderate oak flavor. A decadently delicious and savory shiraz that will stimulate and satisfy.”  97 Points, Platinum Medal, Superlative 
 
Customers who enjoy Shottesbrooke Eliza Reserve Shiraz may also enjoy these two terrific Reds… 
2013 Montes Purple Angel Carmenere
 2016 Pax Hermit North Coast Syrah
MONTES
PURPLE ANGEL
2015 CARMENERE
APALTA VINEYARD, CHILE
Retails at:  $90.00/btl
 
Your Price: $64.99/btl 

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From James Suckling, “This is perhaps the greatest Purple  Angel ever. Full body, tight and compressed with an amazing texture and density. Fantastic fine tannins that are silky and polished. I love the energy and intensity. A blend of 92% carmenere and 8% petit verdot. One for the cellar but I can’t wait to drink it again.”  99 Points
PAX
2016 SYRAH
THE HERMIT
 
Your Price: $39.99/btl 

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2014 Cabaud Benedictions Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon

2014 Cabaud Benedictions Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon

with No Comment $80-$90Cabernet SauvignonKevin VogtNapaOakvilleUncategorizedUSA

CABAUD 2014 Cabaud Benedictions Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon

2014 BENEDICTIONS
CABERNET SAUVIGNON
OAKVILLE, NAPA VALLEY

 
In the California wine world, the name Beckstoffer rings synonymous with quality, and the best Beckstoffer sites are the six Heritage Vineyards: To-Kalon; Missouri Hopper; Dr. Crane; George III; Las Piedras; and Bourn. Each historic site is capable of producing world-class fruit, generating many of the highest rated, most sought after wines in Napa Valley.  Cabaud’s 2014 Benedictions is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from Beckstoffer Missouri Hopper Vineyard in Oakville. Centered just North of the town of Yountville on the Southern end of Oakville, you might recognize this name from single-vineyard Cabernets produced by Alpha Omega, Purlieu, B. Cellars among others, but what you probably won’t see is finding a wine from this vineyard at under $100/btl… The average is more likely North of $175 per bottle and Cabaud is simply one of the best.
 
Finding new wines made by top producers that are somewhat unheard of, pays off big at times… Cabaud’s winemaker is Luc Morlet, whom many of you many know from his work at Peter Michael or from his own label Morlet which is raking in 100 point scores…  I would estimate Morlet’s Cabs to range from $165 to around $300/btl and at $150 Cabaud is a fantastic wine… I cannot put into words how incredible this wine is. Wines of this caliber, at this price never last long… I wouldn’t hesitate to secure yours.
 
CABAUD
2014 BENEDICTIONS
CABERNET SAUVIGNON
OAKVILLE, NAPA VALLEY
Retails at: $150/btl
 
 
Tasting Notes: “A beautifully deep ruby color immediately captures your imagination of what is about to unfold… A quick swirl and sniff reveals a nose of red currants, black plum skin, wet stone, hints of English rose petals and sweet vanilla oak. Then at first sip, layers of lush red plums, dried blueberries, wild mountain blackberries combine with hints of green tea and tobacco leaf. The supple, seamless elegance and lively freshness of the red and black fruits combine with the fine-grained tannins and a beautifully balanced center core, telegraphing more than a decade of cellar life. The finish is long and powerful, yet refined and focused as well. This one will be a delight to drink for many, many years.”  96 Points
2013 Conspiracy Theory Proprietary Red

2013 Anarchist Wine Co Conspiracy Theory Proprietary Red

with No Comment $30 and underKevin VogtProprietary RedUncategorizedUSA

ANARCHIST WINE CO.

CONSPIRACY THEORY
2013 PROPRIETARY RED

2013 Conspiracy Theory Proprietary Red
Sometimes it all comes down to trust when discovering a new wine, and this one can and will undoubtably bring a tremendous level of enjoyment.  Anarchist’s Conspiracy Theory blend is the bigger, richer and more opulent version to their Philosopher Red which was a knock-out success earlier this year. The common thread between the two is that both wines are made in a style that everybody loves. While The Philosopher was a supple, smooth, silky and medium-bodied red, the Conspiracy Theory saturates your taste buds in a velvety embrace that’s laced in hedonistic flavors that work like a magnet to your desires, drawing you in for sip after sip.  Our tasting panel unanimously agrees.
 
Built around a core of Petite Sirah and blended with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Zinfandel and Syrah, the 2013 Conspiracy Theory will have you contemplating about how it’s possible to create a wine so stunning at this price level.  This wine arose from a vintage unanimously recognized for its unrivaled quality and it’s absolutely one of the most delicious blends imaginable.  I highly recommend a case, while supplies last.
 
ANARCHIST WINE CO.
CONSPIRACY THEORY
2013 PROPRIETARY RED
Retails at:  $36/btl
 
Your Price: Insider’s Club Only
 
Tasting Notes: “This unique blend begins with a compact nose of Bing cherry, wet slate, cotton candy and a touch of sweet vanilla spice.  On the palate, it begins with focused black plum, penetrating wild red and black berries and Ibarra Chocolate. The finish is mouth-filling without being cloying, with just the right amount of dusty tannin, cocoa powder and a touch of baking spices.  A delightful daily drinker that is certainly more serious than the majority of wines at anywhere near this price.”
 
Customers who enjoy Anarchist Conspiracy Theory Proprietary Red may also enjoy these two stunning Reds…
 
2016 Y Rousseau Son of a Butcher Proprietary Red 2013 Anarchist Wine Co The Philosopher Proprietary Red
Y. ROUSSEAU
2016 PROPRIETARY RED
SON OF A BUTCHER
 
Your Price: $23/btl

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Winery Notes: “45% Tannat 25% Cabernet Sauvignon 15% Merlot 15% Cabernet Franc…. The deep, dark, spicy bouquet revolves around blackberries, white pepper, plums, violets, dry leaves with notes of licorice and roasted coffee. Supple and full-bodied, it’s an unmistakable California resident, rich and with youthful vibe, but the one who doesn’t forget its French heritage…“
ANARCHIST WINE CO.
THE PHILOSOPHER
2013 PROPRIETARY RED
Retails at:  $38/btl
 
Your Price: Insider’s Club Only
 
Winery Notes: “…Classic Cabernet aromas of black cherry, plum, and violets, along with toffee, anise and hints of soy. Mouth-filling palate with ripe cherry, vanilla, cigar box and a bit of graphite. Nicely balanced acidity in a full-bodied wine, with well-integrated tannins…”
2016 Alexana Terroir Series Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

2016 Alexana Terroir Series Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

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

ALEXANA2016 Alexana Terroir Series Willamette Valley Pinot Noir

2016 PINOT NOIR
TERROIR SERIES
WILLAMETTE VALLEY

 
It’s not easy making a killer 94 Point Pinot that’s not only a great value, but one that is also complex, balanced and jam-packed with character.  Alexana’s Terroir Series Pinot was created from a diverse clonal selection, and encompasses fruit from five of Willamette Valley’s top AVA’s which lend volume to the wines complexity.  At the winery, the fruit is triple-hand-sorted allowing only the best berries through.  The wine was crafted by Bryan Weil who previously worked at Domaine Serene. On the palate the wine is exceedingly sensual and satiny-smooth, and at under forty per bottle, this Pinot has everything I look for in top-quality Oregon Pinot.  But with the recent 94 Point score, I wouldn’t wait to secure yours.
 
As the sister winery to Revana in St. Helena, Alexana is quickly building it’s own stellar reputation of excellence… In 2013 their Dundee Hills Pinot earned the #17 spot on the Wine Spectator Top 100 list. I wouldn’t be the least bit surprised to see their 2016 Terroir Series make the list this year too. It glides seamlessly across your palate leaving impressions of Morello cherries, pressed boysenberries, violets and dark chocolates. This absolutely brilliant interpretation of Willamette Valley Pinot Noir is simply one of my favorite Pinots that I’ve tasted this year, in this wonderfully realistic price range.
 
ALEXANA
2016 PINOT NOIR
TERROIR SERIES
WILLAMETTE VALLEY
 
Your Price: $36/btl

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From The Wine Spectator:“Precise and harmonious, offering layered raspberry and cherry flavors laced with smoky anise and spice notes, building richness toward polished tannins. Drink now through 2025.” 94 Points, Highly Recommended
 
 
Customers who enjoy Alexana Terroir Series Pinot Noir may also enjoy these two stunning Pinots…
 
2013 Fort Ross FRV Pinot Noir
ELOUAN 
RESERVE PINOT NOIR
KLAMATH’S KETTLE
2016 OREGON
Retails at:  $48.00/btl
 
Your Price: $39.99/btl

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From Wine Enthusiast: “One of a pair of reserves from Joe Wagner’s new Oregon project, this full-bodied wine carries a liquorous, bourbon-like scent. Its rich and soft berry and cherry flavors show a streak of licorice and a light touch of toast. Big, round and almost voluptuous, it’s ready to drink now and into the early 2020s.“90 Points
FORT ROSS
2013 PINOT NOIR
FRV, SONOMA COAST
Retails at:  $52.00/btl
 
Your Price: $39.99/btl 

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From Jeb Dunnuck: “The  2013 Pinot Noir FRV Fort Ross  Vineyard sports a ruby color as well as an open knit, ready-to-go bouquet of dried cherries, tobacco, menthol, and dried herbs. It’s pretty, medium-bodied, rounded, and supple, with an evolved style ideal for drinking over the coming 4-5 years.” 90 Points
2014 Charles Heintz Searby Vineyard Chardonnay

2014 Charles Heintz Searby Vineyard Chardonnay

with No Comment $30-$40ChardonnayKevin VogtSonomaSonoma CoastUSA

CHARLES HEINTZ 2014 Charles Heintz Searby Vineyard Chardonnay

2014 CHARDONNAY
SEARBY VINEYARD

 
In a conversation about Russian River Valley’s most renowned vineyards, the name Charles Henitz never goes without mention.  Many recognize Heintz Vineyard from luminaries like Williams Selyem, DuMOL and Pierson Meyer that have all purchased their revered grapes.  Charles Heintz also produces a small amount of wine under their own label and under the guidance of Hugh Chappelle, former winemaker at Flowers and Lynmar to name a few… Their 2014 Chardonnay sourced from the Searby Vineyard bears striking balance, precision, detail, and exceptionally delicious complexity.  This wine makes absolutely no excuses at it’s $48 retail price… At $39.99, it’s one of the greatest Chardonnays that I’ve tasted in a long time.
 
Brought to life from the Searby Vineyard which you might recognize from Kosta Browne, Nickel & Nickel and Duckhorn Migration who have all made Chardonnays from this remarkable hillside vineyard.  This Chardonnay screams cool-climate, impeccably well-made Russian River Valley Chardonnay with penetrating flavors of lemon meringue, Bosc pear, tropical fruits and butterscotch. It’s perfectly balanced and leaves your taste buds yearning for another sip.
 
CHARLES HEINTZ
2014 CHARDONNAY
SEARBY VINEYARD
Retails at:  $48.00/btl
 
Your Price: $39.99/btl 

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Winery notes: “Intense stone fruit and tropical fruit aroma are prominent; followed by subtle ripe apple, orange blossom, white flower stoniness.  The aromatics continue on the palate with complex notes of pastry and candied citrus.  Acidity is brisk and racy, with a refreshing juiciness.  A good match with boldly flavored international cuisines, this wine will show best from late 2018 through 2023.“
 
Customers who enjoy Charles Heintz Searby Vineyard Chardonnay may also enjoy these two outstanding wines…
2014 Black Cordon Laguna Road Vineyard Chardonnay 2015 Charles Heintz Swan Selection Pinot Noir
BLACK CORDON
2014 CHARDONNAY
LAGUNA ROAD VINEYARD
Retails at:  $65.00/btl
 
Your Price: $39.99/btl 

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(use code bc40)
 
Tasting Notes: “Rich, decadent and inviting, the 2014  Black Cordon Laguna Road Chardonnay is bursting with Meyer Lemond, almond shavings, tangerine and honeyed apple.  Wildflowers, nutmeg and orange rind add to it’s deep complexity.  On the palate the wine is sensual and balanced with terrific weight and structure”  93 Cases Produced 
CHARLES HEINTZ
2015 PINOT NOIR
SWAN SELECTION
Retails at:  $50.00/btl
 
Your Price: $39.99/btl

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Winery Notes: “Shows deep, dark and inviting appearance and the concentration of the vintage.  Abundant fresh red fruit aromatics including bing cherry, blackberry, black raspberry and ripe Santa Rosa plum.  Subtle notes of Asian spice, cardamom, coriander and subtle clove show underneath the fruit-driven nose.  The texture is expansive and young with youthful tannins.  Consistently our longest-lived Pinot Noir, we expect the 2015 vintage to age beautifully through 2023-2025 with ideal storage conditions.”
20116 Shottesbrooke Langhorne Creek Cabernet Sauvignon

2016 Shottesbrooke Langhorne Creek Cabernet Sauvignon

with No Comment $30 and underAustraliaCabernet SauvignonLanghorne CreekMcLaren ValeUncategorized

SHOTTESBROOKE 20116 Shottesbrooke Langhorne Creek Cabernet Sauvignon

2016 CABERNET SAUVIGNON
LANGHORNE CREEK, AUSTRALIA

 
Some of the most complex, hedonistic and individualist Cabernet Sauvignon for your dollar, can be found down under.  The grape, which is a cross between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc has a long history in Australia dating back to the mid 1800’s.  Luminaries Penfolds, Leeuwin and Cape Mentelle have helped to canonize Australian grown Cabernet as a serious contender on the world stage.  Shottesbrooke’s 2016 reminded me how great these can be at our tasting, with classic and profound notes of eucalyptus, blue plums, juniper berry and baking spices.  As the wine opened in my glass it became increasingly complex with layers of dark berries, sandalwood, black licorice. It wasn’t a big surprise to learn this beauty earned 95 Points from Australia’s leading wine critic and author James Halliday.
 
Created from the Langhorne Creek AVA located inside the Fleurieu zone, which is also home to the McLaren Vale region.  The area is well-known for producing Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz, and Shottesbrooke’s 2016 perfectly expresses the area’s rich terroir.  The 2016 is deeply aromatic, wildly complex and very approachable and at $19.99 offers extraordinary value.
 
SHOTTESBROOKE
2016 CABERNET SAUVIGNON
LANGHORNE CREEK, AUSTRALIA
 
Your Price: $19.99/btl 

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From James Halliday: “While not particularly deep, the hue is youthful, and the fragrant eucalypt nuances that accompany the fresh cassis of the palate are regional (and shared with Coonawarra). The finely spun tannins are a feature of a medium-bodied cabernet made to be drunk whenever the idea pleases you. Screwcap. 14.5% alc. To 2030″  95 Points
 
Customers who enjoy Shottesbrooke Langhorne Creek Cabernet may also enjoy these two stunning Reds…
2016 Famiglia Bianchi Cabernet Sauvignon
 2017 Vista Atlas Peak Proprietary Red
FAMIGLIA BIANCHI
2016 CABERNET SAUVIGNON
MENDOZA, ARGENTINA
 
Your Price: $19.99/btl

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Famiglia Bianchi is our number one selling International brand of all time, by far… So much so, that it may never be surpassed. When you taste them, each wine in the brand offers a palpable sense of value that’s absolutely unmistakable, and we were recently reminded of that in a glass of their new 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon.  This wine offers luscious dark fruits, followed by a cavalcade of dark spices, black chocolates, slate and minerals that unwind methodically across your palate.  Their 2012 Malbec won the Grand Trophee, for the “World’s Best Red Wine” at the prestigious 2014 Vinalies Internationales Wine Competition in Paris, France, where it outperformed 3,500 wines from 41 countries. 
VISTA
2017 RED BLEND
ATLAS PEAK
 
Your Price: $23/btl

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Tasting Notes: “Capturing a depth and richness that is completely unheard of at this price, Vista  Atlas Peak unfurls aromas of muddled blackberries, black plum, crushed granite, graphite  and hints of vanilla.  The palate is powerfully concentrated with a stunning array of flavors including deep black cherries, blackberry tart, blueberry syrup, with hints of tobacco and chocolate.  Powerful mountain fruit created a wine that is focused and linear in style, yet richly structured with balanced fruit tannins and a palate staining mid palate that leads to a long, intense finish.” 94 – 96 Points
2016 Mauritson Dry Creek Vineyard Zinfandel

2016 Mauritson Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel

with No Comment $30 and underDry Creek ValleyKevin VogtSonomaUncategorizedUSAZinfandel

MAURITSON 2016 Mauritson Dry Creek Vineyard Zinfandel

2016 ZINFANDEL
DRY CREEK VALLEY

 
When asked why I love Zinfandel so much, the answer is simple…  Although the grape allegedly originated in Croatia, Zinfandel thrives in California and nobody produces better Zin than California, period.  One of the best illustrations of classic California Zinfandel is Mauritson’s Dry Creek Valley.  With perfectly balanced, expressive, inviting fruit, the 2016 escapes from the glass with floral infused raspberry, black cherry, baking spices and incense.  With substantial vineyard holdings in Sonoma’s iconic Rockpile AVA, the Mauritson’s were influential in helping Rockpile become an AVA in 2002.  The family has been farming for more than 140 years, and at around forty bucks, their Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel completes with the best of the best… At $29.99/btl, it’s a steal…
 
A blend of Block 5, Rockpile Ridge, Madrone Spring and Cemetery vineyards, the 2016 perfectly expresses Dry Creek Valley terroir, emphasized by the gravelly nuance, firm tannins and a rich mouthfeel.  Peeling back layers of boysenberry, black raspberry and plum reveals wild flowers, truffle, and cracked pepper.  Our veteran tasting panel unanimously agreed that this wine drinks well beyond it’s modest price. Don’t wait too long to secure yours.
 
MAURITSON
2016 ZINFANDEL
DRY CREEK VALLEY
Retails at:  $39.00/btl
 
Your Price: $29.99/btl

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Winery Notes: “Perfumed aromas of black boysenberry cobbler with graham cracker crust waft from the glass. Hints of anise, fresh fig, and earthiness beautifully complement the fruit profile. The entry is full but inviting, exhibiting flavors of mocha, wet gravel, and black cherry. The mouthfeel is seamless from start to finish, indicative of perfectly integrated tannin and acid. Please enjoy this wine for the next 7-10 years.”
 
Customers that enjoy Mauritson Zinfandel, may also enjoy these two terrific Zins…
2016 Gamba Family Ranches Zinfandel 2013 Valdez St Peter's Church Zinfandel
GAMBA
2016 ZINFANDEL
FAMILY RANCHES
Retails at:  $45.00/btl
 
Your Price: Insiders Club Members Only

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Winery Notes: “... a bold, well structured wine with an aromatic nose of ripe berries, brown spice, and black licorice. The color is a beautiful and vibrant dark crimson. The wine is deftly balanced, with flavors that burst on the palate, offering well defined dark cherry, raspberry and blueberry that give way to dark chocolate, spicy pepper and a hint of nutty oak. The frame is firm yet round without harsh edges, with an appealing, weighty, yet buoyant mid palate, and a refreshing lift on the lengthy, enjoyable, toasty finish.”
VALDEZ
2013 ZINFANDEL
ST. PETER’S CHURCH
Retails at:  $45.00/btl
 
Your Price: Insiders Club Members Only

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Tasting Notes: “This impeccably balanced zinfandel flaunts energizing flavors and aromas of ripe black cherries, concentrated pomegranate, and crushed blackberries with hints of white rose petals, cocoa powder and pipe tobacco. The perfect balance shines through with an amazing brightness that elegantly supports the richly focused flavors.  Simply stunning!”  94 Points
2014 Chateau de Haute-Serre Malbec

2014 Château De Haute-Serre Malbec

with No Comment $30 and underCahorsFranceKevin VogtMalbec

CHÂTEAU DE HAUTE-SERRE 2014 Chateau de Haute-Serre Malbec

2014 MALBEC
CAHORS, FRANCE

 
Did you know the Malbec grape originates in France, and thrives in the Cahors region in the South of France, but today, around 70% of the Malbec planted worldwide is in Argentina… However, Château de Haute-Serre’s Vineyards in Cahors, France date back to middle ages… In 2009, Haute-Serre got a little help from the Master of Malbec Paul Hobbs, who’s been pushing the boundaries of Malbec on multiple continents for decades.  With Paul  as consulting winemaker, their 2010 went on to earn a place on the Spectator Top 100.  Most are familiar with the style of Argentine Malbecs, which are known for their fruit-forward, plummy/blackberry and velvety texture. For those looking for a more densely packed, concentrated Malbec with savory undertones, firm tannins and meaty character, Old-World Malbec from Cahors may be just what they’re looking for. 
 
Malbec is a thick-skinned grape that needs more sun than Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot to mature and Château de Haute-Serre’s parcel has excellent Southwest and Southeast exposure allowing the grapes to reach optimum maturity.  They’ve been making news long before earning a spot on the WS Top 100 list…  Back in 1889 their Malbec was honored by being placed on a Gala menu in line with the famous Château Margaux and Pommard wines.  I strongly recommend trying a case… you’ll be really glad you did.  
 
CHÂTEAU DE HAUTE-SERRE
2014 MALBEC
CAHORS, FRANCE
 
Your Price: $25/btl 
 
 

  
 
“On some of the highest vineyards in Cahors, this estate has a history reaching back to the Middle Ages. This latest vintage from this major estate has a firm structure and cool texture. Allied to acidity and dark tannins, the rich black fruits are going to need time to mature. Drink from 2020.” 90 Points

 
 “A concentrated red, building ripe cherry, plum pudding and licorice drop flavors that are detailed with floral, cocoa powder and raspberry accents. Fresh acidity and mineral elements give focus through the orange peel-tinged finish. Drink now through 2022...” 90 Points

 

 

Customers who enjoy Chateau De Haute-Serre Malbec may also enjoy these two outstanding Reds…
RICCITELLIhttp://bit.ly/2014RiccitelliMalbec
2014 MALBEC
THE APPLE DOESN’T FALL 
FAR FROM THE TREE
Retails at:  $30.00/btl
 
Your Price: $19.99/btl 

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Winery Notes: “Deep purple in color, with beautiful aromas of wild dark fruits, vanilla and chocolate in the nose. This is a complex and rich vine with smooth ripe tannins and a long finish…”  95 Points, Decanter
CATENA
2014 CABERNET FRANC
SAN CARLOS
APPELLATION SERIES
Retails at:  $30.00/btl
 
Your Price: $22.99/btl 

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From Vinous: “Enticing aromatic lift to the aromas of purple fruits, violet and brown spices. Suaver than the Agrelo Cabernet Sauvignon, offering exhilarating cut and penetration and an ideal balance between sweetness and suppleness of fruit and acidity. Savory, plush and ripe for all its energy…”  91 Points