2021 Merus Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

2021 Merus Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

with No Comment $100 and overCabernet SauvignonKevin VogtNapaUSA

Merus

Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley 2021

2021 Merus Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

With striking intensity and a captivating balance between muscle and finesse, the 2021 Merus Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is unapologetically bold and commands attention. Once a cult garage label founded by Mark Herold, Merus rose swiftly in the late 1990s, earning a reputation for producing Cabernets with both swagger and substance. Now under the stewardship of Bill Foley, Merus reclaims its place among Napa’s elite with stunning authority.

At the helm of the 2021 vintage is Eric Baugher, a scientist turned artisan who, during his 27-year tenure at Ridge Vineyards, crafted two 100-point Monte Bello vintages. Known for his precision, restraint, and deep respect for structure, Baugher brings an exacting lens to Merus, elevating the brand with a style that marries power with poise.

Composed of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon and complemented by Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot, this wine is both muscular and magnetic. Aged for 24 months in 100% new French oak, it’s a wine of immense presence, but also one of clarity and control, bringing a commanding expression of modern Napa Valley.

Merus
Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley 2021
Retails at: $225

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“Beautiful plum and blue fruits, sappy herbs, violets, and sandalwood notes all emerge from Merus’s 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon, a deep purple-hued, ripe, sexy 2021. Despite all its upfront baby fat, it has a rock-solid underlying structure and is going to benefit from 2-4 years of bottle age and should be long-lived.”

97 Points

2020 Marques De Murrieta Reserva Rioja Spain

2020 Marques De Murrieta Reserva Rioja Spain

with No Comment $30 and underKevin VogtRiojaSpainTempranillo

Marqués De Murrieta

Reserva Rioja
Rioja, Spain 2020

2020 Marques De Murrieta Reserva Rioja Spain

Marqués de Murrieta 2020 Finca Ygay Rioja Reserva is a wine of exceptional quality, setting a benchmark rarely matched in its category. From a historic winery founded by Luciano de Murrieta in 1852, this remarkable Rioja Reserva embodies the visionary spirit that transformed Rioja into one of the world’s most celebrated wine regions. Rich in tradition yet embracing modern refinement, the wine captures the timeless essence of its origin.

Luciano Murrieta’s pioneering journey, inspired by his studies in Bordeaux, gave rise to a style of Rioja that gained global acclaim for its power, complexity, and elegance. The Rioja Reserva is crafted predominantly from Tempranillo grapes grown in the distinguished vineyards of Rioja Alta, an area where history meets innovation to produce fruit of remarkable purity and depth.

With its graceful aging and clarity of expression, this Reserva speaks fluently in the language of Rioja: balanced, timeless, and resonant with place. At its price, few wines offer such pedigree, making it a compelling invitation to experience the soul of Rioja.

Marqués De Murrieta
Reserva Rioja
Rioja, Spain 2020

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“Subtle rusticity paired with assertive elegance, in a wine that marries subtle minerality with chalky tannins and poised, crunchy fruit. It’s vibrant throughout, with acid verve holding the rich, robust black fruit at the core. Long finish, with a spicy lining.”

95 Points

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 Lorenzi Estate Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve Napa Valley

2021 Lorenzi Estate Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve Napa Valley

with No Comment $60-$70Cabernet SauvignonKevin VogtNapaUSA

Lorenzi Estate

Cabernet Sauvignon
Reserve 2021
Napa Valley

2021 Lorenzi Estate Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve Napa Valley

At once bold and impeccably refined, the 2021 Lorenzi Reserve Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon channels the raw intensity of Howell Mountain into something transcendent. Crafted from meticulously selected fruit by Julien Fayard and shaped with quiet precision by Don Lorenzi, this wine is a singular expression of place, pedigree, and purpose.

Aging for thirty-two months in new French oak has sculpted the wine into something both majestic and deeply harmonious. Plush yet restrained, it glides across the palate with a velvet intensity. The confident yet composed tannins promise a graceful arc of evolution, while its inner tension suggests decades of potential.

It is built on a foundation of 96% Cabernet Sauvignon, subtly elevated by Merlot’s plushness, Petit Verdot’s depth, and Malbec’s intrigue. The result is a wine of striking clarity and dimension. With only 250 cases produced, its scarcity is as real as its brilliance. 

Lorenzi Estate
Cabernet Sauvignon
Reserve 2021
Napa Valley
Retails at: $125

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“With the addition of some Merlot and Petit Verdot, this is a 28-month, 100% French-oaked aged Cabernet Sauvignon with chewy, but approachable suede tannins. Dusted with cocoa and blueberry. The wine comes on like a heavyweight, but broadens across the palate, reining in its powerful message. A sprinkle of white pepper, graphite, licorice, and soy sauce drench the palate on the finish.”

95 Points

2019 Mastroberardino Radici Taurasi Campania Italy

2019 Mastroberardino Radici Taurasi Campania Italy

with No Comment $50-$60ItalyKevin VogtProprietary Red

Mastroberardino

Radici Taurasi
Campania, Italy 2019

2019 Mastroberardino Radici Taurasi Campania Italy

Mastroberardino’s Radici Taurasi embodies Campania’s volcanic terroir and centuries of heritage. Cultivated in the volcanic hills of Irpinia, it reflects the enduring commitment of one of Italy’s most historically significant wine families. After World War II, Mastroberardino spearheaded the revival of Campania’s indigenous varieties, with Aglianico at the center. ‘Radici’ represents the peak of what this classic varietal can be.

First released in 1986, the wine emerged from meticulous research into clonal selection, site elevation, and the precise pairing of vine to soil. The vineyard’s rugged volcanic soils and cool mountain breezes produce fruit with depth, restraint, and tension. Every detail of the farming and winemaking is carefully considered, allowing the character of the place to emerge clearly and confidently.

The 2019 vintage captivates with its harmony and intensity. After two years in French oak and large Slavonian casks, followed by extended bottle aging, the tannins are now firm but polished, the acidity bright, and the finish long and composed. Vinous called it “impossible to ignore.” For those drawn to authenticity, structure, and a deep connection to place, this is one of the most compelling wines in Southern Italy.

Mastroberardino
Radici Taurasi
Campania, Italy 2019

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“The 2019 Taurasi Radici is impossible to ignore, mixing cloves with incense, crushed stones and dried black cherries. This is saturating and intense, with a silken textural wave that ushers in masses of tart wild berry fruits and spices, all carried by a stream of vibrant acidity. It finishes long and youthfully tense, with a mineral tinge that lingers along with notes of black licorice and a sour cranberry crunch. In 2019, the Taurasi Radici is back to form.”

95 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

2022 Faint-Main Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Missouri Hopper

2022 Faint-Main Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Missouri Hopper, Oakville

with No Comment $100 and overCabernet SauvignonKevin VogtNapaOakvilleUSA

Fait-Main

Cabernet Sauvignon
Beckstoffer Missouri Hopper
Oakville 2022

2022 Faint-Main Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Missouri Hopper

From the gifted hands of Benoit Touquette, a protégé of legends Michel Rolland and Andy Erickson, comes a wine that doesn’t merely reflect Oakville—it redefines it. At Fait-Main, Touquette applies the same precision that led to 28 perfect 100-point wines at Realm Cellars. The 2022 Beckstoffer Missouri Hopper Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon embodies everything he’s learned, resulting in a wine of riveting definition.

Located on Oakville’s Western Benchland, neighboring To Kalon, Beckstoffer’s Missouri Hopper site is shaped by the marine breezes of San Pablo Bay, offering a rare combination of richness and restraint. The silty-clay loam soils challenge the vines, driving them deep and yielding fruit with density, polish, and an unmistakable sense of place.

The 2022 vintage exemplifies this balance, being plush and concentrated yet lifted by sculpted tannins and effortless structure. Jeb Dunnuck describes it as “ready to go,” yet its poise and depth suggest it will evolve beautifully over the next decade or more. This is Oakville through the lens of a master, a Cabernet Sauvignon that captures its remarkable origins.

Fait-Main
Cabernet Sauvignon
Beckstoffer Missouri Hopper
Oakville 2022

Your Price: $175

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“Crème de cassis, smoked tobacco, chocolate, incense, and flowery incense are just some of the aromatics in the 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Missouri Hopper Vineyard, a concentrated 2022 that has terrific purity, ripe, polished tannins, a lively spice of acidity, and a great finish. This valley floor site can be hit or miss (it’s a large vineyard), but when it’s on, it can rival the best. As with most 2022s, this is upfront, ripe, front-end-loaded, and ready to go. Enjoy bottles over the coming decade or so.”

95 Points

2021 Grail Pinot Noir Campbell Ranch West Sonoma Coast

2021 Grail Pinot Noir Campbell Ranch West Sonoma Coast

with No Comment $90-$100Kevin VogtPinot NoirSonomaSonoma CoastUSA

Grail

Pinot Noir 2021
Campbell Ranch
West Sonoma Coast

2021 Grail Pinot Noir Campbell Ranch West Sonoma Coast

Grail 2021 ‘Campbell Ranch’ Pinot Noir is Dan Kosta’s defining achievement, embodying decades of dedication to mastering Pinot Noir. Reverently described as his “Grand Cru,” this wine reflects the precision, depth, and artistry that first brought Kosta Browne international acclaim. With this exceptional release, Dan reignites his innovative spirit, showcasing the vast potential of New World Pinot Noir.

Dan Kosta, a visionary co-founder of the legendary Kosta Browne Winery, transformed American Pinot Noir. Entrusting the gifted Shane Finley, who honed his craft under Dan’s mentorship, this collaboration marks a thrilling new expression of excellence in winemaking, rooted in meticulous craftsmanship and creative synergy.

Crafted from Sonoma Coast’s celebrated Campbell Ranch vineyard, this inaugural vintage is a blend of the elegant 777 and refined 115 Pinot Noir clones. After 15 months in French oak, the wine offers an enchanting, silky texture with savory spices harmonizing beautifully with pristine, ripe fruit. The Grail 2021 promises an unforgettable adventure of contemplation and indulgent pleasure.

Grail
Pinot Noir 2021
Campbell Ranch
West Sonoma Coast

Your Price: $95

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“Dan Kosta’s Convene wines are aged in 30% new oak, while his elevated DK label is closer to 50% for 15 months and encompasses specific blocks or barrel selections from single vineyards. Campbell Ranch vineyard in the Russian River Valley is the winery’s largest holding, with clones 777 and 115. There’s more power and intensity to these single vineyard wines. A wonderful minty freshness mingles with crushed river stones, white pepper, and intriguing umami notes. Medium to full-bodied with very present, substantial tannins that have beam-like qualities, a bit sappy and balanced by mocha notes. The entire wine has a broad feeling on the palate and builds with spicy richness. It’s layered with dense black cherry, pomegranate, spiced plums, and blood orange fruits, which have real staying power. The long finish is marked by warming brown sugar spices, toffee, and espresso beans. Plenty of heft balanced by great tension. 503 cases made.”

97 Points

2022 Jett Cabernet Sauvignon Walla Walla Valley

2022 Jett Cabernet Sauvignon Walla Walla Valley

with No Comment $70-$80Cabernet SauvignonKevin VogtUSAWashington State

Jett

Cabernet Sauvignon
Walla Walla Valley 2022

2022 Jett Cabernet Sauvignon Walla Walla Valley

Few wines arrive with the profound poise of the 2022 Jett Walla Walla Valley Cabernet Sauvignon—a masterpiece born from visionary artistry and remarkable terroir. Guiding its creation are two prodigious talents: Chris Carpenter, Napa Valley’s revered craftsman behind Lokoya and Cardinale, and Gianna Ghilarducci, a rising talent whose skills were honed at Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars and through collaboration with Carpenter at Mt. Brave and Lokoya.

The Jett Cabernet Sauvignon is an evocative portrait of Skysill Vineyard, nestled within the elevated folds of Walla Walla’s Upper Mill Creek district, not far from Leonetti. Perched between 1,200 and 1,600 feet, the vines thrive amidst cool mountain breezes and Aeolian soils, rich with ancient volcanic and sedimentary deposits.

After twenty months in French oak, the wine emerges with captivating finesse and structured depth. Pouring forth in an alluring cascade, it weaves together deep, rich intensity with intricate notes of graphite, crushed herbs, and aromatic spices. It leaves a lasting memory on the palate and a quiet conviction that something truly special is unfolding in the Walla Walla Valley.

Jett
Cabernet Sauvignon
Walla Walla Valley 2022

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“The Jett 2022 Walla Walla Cabernet Sauvignon brings together complex, powerful, yet elegant aromas of violets, blackberries, cassis, forest floor, dried herbs, dark chocolate, and a pencil-lead-like minerality. On the palate, the wine has fine-grained, chalky tannins with bright acidity, enhancing flavors of baking spices alongside black and blue fruits, balanced by subtle savory notes. This wine is penetrating and concentrated at the moment and will age gracefully with time.”

97 Points