2022 Bruliam Pinot Noir Soberanes Vineyard Santa Lucia Highland

2022 Bruliam Pinot Noir Soberanes Vineyard Santa Lucia Highland

with No Comment $40-$50Central CoastKevin VogtMontereyPinot NoirSanta Lucia HighlandsUSA

Bruliam

Pinot Noir 2022
Soberanes Vineyard
Santa Lucia Highlands

2022 Bruliam Pinot Noir Soberanes Vineyard Santa Lucia Highland

Bruliam’s Soberanes Vineyard Pinot Noir captures the essence of one of California’s most respected vineyards, showcasing remarkable varietal purity, impeccable balance, and a profound sense of place. Sourced from the renowned Soberanes Vineyard, the latest jewel in the crown of the Pisoni and Franscioni families, this wine offers an exceptional glimpse into the terroir-driven excellence of the Santa Lucia Highlands—at a price that belies its quality.

Bruliam Wines is led by Kerith Overstreet, a physician-turned-winemaker whose meticulous approach and scientific background infuse every bottle with precision and vibrant energy. Her strong relationships with top growers provide access to fruit from iconic sites like Soberanes. Here, fog-drenched mornings, well-drained granitic soils, and consistent coastal winds contribute to the Pinot Noir’s remarkable depth and complexity.

The 2022 Soberanes Pinot Noir impresses with captivating aromatics and a majestic balance of complexity and finesse. This wine, with its impressive 95-point score, surpasses expectations, demonstrating excellence in both viticulture and winemaking—a true achievement for Bruliam Wines.

Bruliam
Pinot Noir 2022
Soberanes Vineyard
Santa Lucia Highlands
Retails at: $70

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“Pale to medium ruby-purple in color, the 2022 Soberanes Vineyard Pinot Noir gallops out with vibrant notes of redcurrant jelly, kirsch, and forest floor plus wafts of garrigue and mossy tree bark. The medium-bodied palate is both elegant and intense, with loads of red berry and mineral layers and a fine-grained texture, finishing long and refreshing.”

95+ Points

2022 Kosta Browne Pinot Noir Sta. Rita Hills

2022 Kosta Browne Pinot Noir Sta. Rita Hills

with No Comment $90-$100Central CoastKevin VogtPinot NoirSanta BarbaraSanta Rita HillsUSA

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

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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

2022 Aniello 006 Malbec Patagonia Argentina

2022 Aniello 006 Malbec Patagonia Argentina

with No Comment $30 and underArgentinaKevin VogtMalbec

Aniello

‘006’ Malbec 2022
Patagonia, Argentina

2022 Aniello 006 Malbec Patagonia Argentina

Bodega Aniello’s 006 Malbec is a vibrant expression of Patagonia’s unique terroir, a captivating interplay of perfectly ripened fruit, silky textures, and intriguing savory notes. This stunning Malbec, a remarkable value at $20, showcases the rising brilliance of Río Negro, where elegance and wild beauty converge in every sip.

The winery’s story is as rich as its wines. Founded in 1927 by an Italian family with a centuries-old winemaking heritage, Bodega Aniello embodies a harmonious blend of Old World craftsmanship and the untamed potential of Patagonia. Nestled amidst pristine, alluvial soils of sand, silt, and gravel in the celebrated Río Negro region, the estate is perfectly positioned to capture the magic of this emerging wine region.

Grown in the winery’s Manique vineyards in the Upper Río Negro Valley, where Malbec thrives in the cool climate, the 2022 006 Malbec is crafted with meticulous care. Fermented in small concrete tanks and aged for 12 months in oak barrels, the wine achieves a harmonious balance of vibrant freshness and subtle complexity. Enjoy its delightful approachability now, or savor the promise of added depth with careful cellaring.

Aniello
‘006’ Malbec 2022
Patagonia, Argentina

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“The 2022 Malbec 006, from Mainqué, Patagonia, underwent aging in 30% American oak. Purple in color, it boasts aromas of plum and herb-tinged cherry. Rich and taut, with reactive tannins, the 2022 delivers a lasting, ripe-fruited finish-the embodiment of a sun-kissed Malbec.”

90 Points

2022 Paul Hobbs Pinot Noir Russian River Valley

2022 Paul Hobbs Pinot Noir Russian River Valley

with No Comment $60-$70Kevin VogtPinot NoirRussian River ValleySonomaUSA

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

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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

2022 Steps Barrel Select Reserve Napa Valley

2022 Steps Barrel Select Reserve Napa Valley

with No Comment $40-$50Atlas PeakCalistogaKevin VogtNapaOak KnollProprietary RedSaint HelenaUSA

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

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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

2022 Hero Proprietary Red California

2022 Hero Proprietary Red California

with No Comment $30 and underKevin VogtNapaProprietary RedSonomaUSA

Hero

The Beau Vigne Collection
Proprietary Red
California 2022

2022 Hero Proprietary Red California

The 2022 Beau Vigne Hero California Red Blend beautifully illustrates the remarkable talent of Julien Fayard, one of Napa Valley’s most acclaimed winemakers. A top-seller in 2024, Hero offers an exceptional balance of value and refinement.

Crafted from meticulously selected vineyards across Napa and Sonoma, this multi-AVA blend showcases the unique character of Cabernet Sauvignon grown in chalky soils, resulting in a wine of striking concentration and vibrant minerality.

Julien Fayard, with his distinguished background at renowned estates like Château Lafite Rothschild and Quintessa, brings a profound understanding of balance and nuance to winemaking. This expertise is evident in Hero, where 74% of Cabernet Sauvignon harmoniously blends with Merlot and a touch of Syrah, creating a wine that is both expressive and remarkably integrated.

Aged for 17 months in French oak, the 2022 Hero Red Blend captivates with its firm yet silky texture and layered complexity. The wine possesses a bold concentration beautifully balanced by a polished elegance, making it an immediate delight and a promising cellar addition for years to come.

Hero
The Beau Vigne Collection
Proprietary Red
California 2022
Retails at: $60

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“A Bordeaux blend from winemaker Julien Fayard who has sourced grapes outside of Napa Valley for this dynamic project. White pepper, with plum skin tannins, graphite, and above all, energy, and tension. Sweet black cherry and black tea create a winning combo of fervor and power.”

94 Points

2022 EnRoute Pinot Noir Les Pommies Russian River Valley

2022 EnRoute Pinot Noir Les Pommies Russian River Valley

with No Comment $40-$50Kevin VogtPinot NoirRussian River ValleySonomaUncategorizedUSA

EnRoute

Pinot Noir 2022
Les Pommiers
Russian River Valley

2022 EnRoute Pinot Noir Les Pommies Russian River Valley

Crafted with the artistry and precision synonymous with the Far Niente family of wines, the 2022 EnRoute Les Pommiers Pinot Noir weaves a tale of place, passion, and expertise. Conceived to showcase the unique character of single-vineyard Pinot Noirs, this wine embodies the elegance of the Russian River Valley, reflecting the unparalleled craftsmanship that defines Far Niente Wine Estates.

Each vintage embarks on a journey, beginning with EnRoute’s Estate vineyards and extending through partnerships with growers who share their unwavering commitment to quality. These collaborations yield a Pinot Noir as layered and complex as the vineyards themselves. The 2022 vintage, sourced from three coveted Russian River Valley sites, thrived under near-perfect growing conditions.

Aged in French oak, the wine unfolds with a seamless harmony of bright cherry and raspberry fruit, nuanced spice, and lively acidity. The result is a graceful, polished finish that lingers invitingly, beckoning the next sip and celebrating the remarkable terroir of this iconic region.

EnRoute
Pinot Noir 2022
Les Pommiers
Russian River Valley
Retails at: $60

Your Price: $48

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“Vibrant ruby in color, this wine erupts from the glass with aromas of sweet cinnamon, cola and cherry. There is a charming delicacy here, with flavors of dried rose petal, cherry and berry pie filling on a midweight palate. A captivating dance between the snappy tannin structure and the lively acidity of this wine lead to a very pleasurable finish.”

93 Points

2022 Chateau Haut Bertinerie Bordeaux Blanc Grand Vin Bordeaux France

2022 Chateau Haut Bertinerie Bordeaux Blanc Grand Vin Bordeaux France

with No Comment $30 and underBordeauxFranceKevin VogtSauvignon Blanc

Château Haut Bertinerie

Bordeaux Blanc 2022
Grand Vin. Bordeaux, France

2022 Chateau Haut Bertinerie Bordeaux Blanc Grand Vin Bordeaux France

White Bordeaux wines, celebrated for their elegance and layered complexity, have enchanted wine lovers for generations. The Château Haut Bertinerie 2022 Blaye Côtes de Bordeaux Blanc Grand Vin exemplifies this timeless appeal, emerging from an estate steeped in over two centuries of family tradition. At Château Haut Bertinerie, a seamless blend of heritage and innovation results in wines of exceptional character.

At the core of their success is the Lyre trellis system, a unique “Y”-“-shaped canopy that maximizes sunlight exposure and enhances airflow around the vines. This method promotes optimal ripeness while significantly reducing the need for herbicides. It’s a testament to the estate’s commitment to sustainability, delivering unparalleled richness and vibrancy to their wines.

Adding to the wine’s remarkable depth is the estate’s diverse terroir, comprising three distinct soil types that impart unique characteristics to the Sauvignon Blanc vines. The 2022 vintage harnesses this diversity, with old vines yielding fruit of extraordinary concentration and complexity. Following nearly a full year aging on lees, the wine emerges with an impeccable balance of richness and freshness. Bright citrus flavors mingle with subtle minerality, all wrapped in an elegant structure that promises a graceful evolution with time.

Château Haut Bertinerie
Bordeaux Blanc 2022
Grand Vin. Bordeaux, France

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“This is showing aromas of smoked almonds, vanilla and baked pears. Rich and smoky expression, medium-bodied, with plenty of flavor and density. 100% sauvignon blanc. Drink now.”

90 Points

2022 Double Diamond by Schrader Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville

2022 Double Diamond by Schrader Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville

with No Comment $80-$90Cabernet SauvignonKevin VogtNapaOakvilleUSA

Double Diamond

by Schrader Cellars
Cabernet Sauvignon
Oakville 2022

2022 Double Diamond by Schrader Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville

Double Diamond Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon further solidified its reputation in 2022, building on the success of its 2019 vintage, crowned Wine Spectator’s #1 Wine-of-the-Year. Born from the legacy of Schrader Cellars, Double Diamond offers an extraordinary opportunity to enjoy world-class craftsmanship without the ultra-premium price tag.

 

Founded in 2001 by Fred Schrader, Double Diamond shares the same commitment to quality as its sister winery, guided by the talented winemaker Thomas Rivers Brown.

This wine is a stunning expression of its vintage, showcasing concentrated black fruit, vibrant acidity, and refined tannins. Crafted entirely from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, the wine benefits from meticulous aging in French oak, including second-use Schrader Darnajou barrels. The result is a balanced, elegant expression with a silky texture and robust structure, ready to be enjoyed now or cellared for future appreciation.

Experience the iconic terroir of Oakville with every sip of this extraordinary wine.

Double Diamond
by Schrader Cellars
Cabernet Sauvignon
Oakville 2022

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“The 2022 Double Diamond Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon is a wine of profound elegance and power. The nose is a captivating blend of dark fruit aromas, with notes of blackberry cobbler and boysenberry preserves leading the way. A subtle floral note of lavender adds complexity, while a hint of minerality, eucalyptus, and milk chocolate rounds out the bouquet. The wine is seamless and opulent on the palate, with rich, ripe, concentrated, and lush flavors mirroring the aromatic profile. The tannins are finely-grained and well-integrated, providing structure and a long, complex finish. This is a wine of remarkable depth and intensity, showcasing the exceptional quality of the 2022 vintage. A true gem from Oakville.”

96 Points

2022 Post & Beam Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

2022 Post & Beam Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

with No Comment $40-$50Cabernet SauvignonKevin VogtNapaUSA

Post & Beam

Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley 2022

2022 Post & Beam Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

Far Niente has always been synonymous with excellence, crafting wines that embody the heart and soul of Napa Valley. Among its distinguished family—Far Niente, Bella Union, and Nickel & Nickel—Post & Beam carves its own path, offering a more accessible gateway to Far Niente’s expertise.

The name pays homage to the historic barns at Nickel & Nickel Winery, where the enduring strength of the posts and beams mirrors the spirit of Post & Beam wines: authentic, powerful, and uncomplicated.

The 2022 vintage is a testament to nature’s balance and resilience. Grapes from diverse Napa Valley AVAs, each with its unique character, were carefully selected and blended to create a wine that reflects the region’s incredible diversity.

Aged for ten months in French oak, the 2022 Post & Beam Cabernet Sauvignon is a masterpiece of simplicity and precision. Lush layers of ripe blackberries and cassis intertwine with supple tannins and subtle oak notes. It’s a wine that is both polished and approachable, refined yet comforting. Whether you’re a seasoned Napa Valley enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this wine offers a timeless connection to the region’s rich heritage.

Post & Beam
Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley 2022
Retails at: $55

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“Richly appointed, with dark blue and purple fruit and a plush mouthfeel. Notes of plum liqueur and fresh roasted coffee grace the palate. Dark chocolate and anise entwine in the wine’s well-defined structure and satin-lined tannins. Spiced red tea and sandalwood engage with chocolate notes on the finish.”

95 Points