2019 Adamvs Teres Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain

2019 Adamvs Teres Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain

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ADAMVS

TÉRES 2019
Cabernet Sauvignon
Howell Mountain

2019 Adamvs Teres Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain

Few wineries embody the untamed elegance of Howell Mountain with the depth and finesse of ADAMVS. Guided by the skilled hand of winemaker Alberto Bianchi and enriched by the insightful expertise of consultant Philippe Melka, ADAMVS is a pinnacle of precision, strength, and poise within one of Napa Valley’s most celebrated regions.

Set high above the valley, Howell Mountain is renowned for crafting Cabernet of extraordinary depth and intricacy. Its rugged, volcanic soils—stony and quick to drain—challenge the vines, producing small berries bursting with concentrated flavor. In 2008, Denise and Stephen Adams saw the rare promise of this terrain and founded ADAMVS across five unique vineyard blocks spanning elevations from 1,500 to 2,000 feet.

The 2019 TÉRES is a refined reflection of this distinctive estate, a carefully curated barrel selection drawn from all five soil profiles to weave a field blend of striking unity. After four years of bottle aging, it has matured into a wine of captivating power and grace. This vintage enthralled our tasting panel, unfolding with a poised interplay of lively youth and the layered complexity that signals a vibrant evolution ahead.

ADAMVS
TÉRES 2019
Cabernet Sauvignon
Howell Mountain

Your Price: $140

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“This generous and plush wine shows elegance along with brawn. A tempting aroma of red and black fruit, violets and dark chocolate leads to deep and complex raspberries, cherries, blueberries and mocha flavors as firm but polished tannins wrap them up snugly. Best from 2027.”

95 Points

2018 Figli Luigi Oddero Convento Barolo Piedmont Italy

2018 Figli Luigi Oddero Convento Barolo Piedmont Italy

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Figli Luigi Oddero

Convento Barolo
Piedmont, Italy 2018

2018 Figli Luigi Oddero Convento Barolo Piedmont Italy

Convento Barolo intertwines the rich legacy of tradition with the profound influence of its terroir, yielding a wine that blends Barolo’s innate nobility with a remarkable value rarely encountered in bottles of this stature. Crafted under the expert guidance of Dante Scaglioni—whose 25 years as winemaker shaped the illustrious Bruno Giacosa wines—this creation draws from a deep well of heritage and masterful artistry.

Barolo has long been revered as the “King of Wines and the Wine of Kings,” a distinction earned through its commanding structure, vibrant acidity, and firm tannins, which ensure a graceful evolution over decades. The 2018 Convento Barolo upholds this heritage with distinction. Its complexity unfurls in layers of dark cherry, crushed violets, and the earthy aroma of forest floor, interwoven with subtle hints of anise, leather, and a hint of truffle.

Figli Luigi Oddero is more than a winery; it is a custodian of Piemonte’s past and a beacon for its future. Since the early 1800s, the family has tended the land that would come to shape Barolo’s very identity. Drawn primarily from La Morra, one of the region’s most celebrated terroirs, the 2018 Convento Barolo achieves a rare balance of lineage, craftsmanship, and accessibility. Priced under $50, it offers an effortless opportunity to enjoy one of Italy’s most treasured wines with confidence.

Figli Luigi Oddero
Convento Barolo
Piedmont, Italy 2018

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“The Figli Luigi Oddero 2018 Barolo “Convento” opens with inviting aromas of dried rose petals, red cherries, and ripe strawberries, with hints of licorice, tar, and dried herbs. On the palate, flavors of black tea, leather, and sweet spices emerge alongside subtle earthy undertones. The wine is vibrant and structured, with firm, refined tannins and a lively acidity that carries through the finish. While already approachable, this wine will continue to develop over the next decade or more.”

94 Points

2022 Sequum Kidd Ranch Syrah Napa Valley

2022 Sequum Kidd Ranch Syrah Napa Valley

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Sequum

Kidd Ranch Syrah
Napa Valley 2022

2022 Sequum Kidd Ranch Syrah Napa Valley

Sequum’s Kidd Ranch Syrah beautifully captures the essence of its Napa Valley origins. Crafted in small batches at their Saint Helena estate, this wine reflects the meticulous care and dedication of Paul Skinner. A respected viticulturist and soil scientist, Skinner’s intimate understanding of the land informs every vintage, creating a wine that speaks of its unique terroir.

The Kidd Ranch Vineyard is Skinner’s expression of Napa’s rich viticultural heritage. His daily presence in the vineyard is a constant dialogue with the vines, each row nurtured with meticulous attention. By carefully selecting different Syrah clones, each matched to specific rootstocks and soil types, Skinner pays homage to the traditions of the Northern Rhône.

The 2022 vintage displays both poise and elegance. Sequum’s dedication to sustainable practices and minimal intervention winemaking results in a wine that authentically expresses the interplay of nature and skilled craftsmanship. This Syrah presents exceptional value, offering a quality comparable to much higher-priced wines, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate fine wine without unnecessary formality.

Sequum
Kidd Ranch Syrah
Napa Valley 2022

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“The 2022 Sequum Kidd Ranch Syrah is a compelling expression of Napa Valley fruit. The nose opens with a dynamic interplay of kirsch and boysenberry syrup, grounded by a distinct minerality reminiscent of iron dust and delicate violets. On the palate, this wine showcases a concentrated complexity. Wild mountain blackberries are interwoven with bright red currants and juicy, ripe blueberries. The fruit profile is penetrating and complex, accented by subtle baking spices. A beautiful balance of richness and freshness defines the wine, with vibrant, mouth-quenching fruit supported by soft, supple tannins. The finish is long, elegant, and ultimately satisfying. This is, without a doubt, the finest Sequum Syrah to date.”

96 Points

2023 Silver Ghost Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

2023 Silver Ghost Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

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Silver Ghost

Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley 2023

2023 Silver Ghost Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

Silver Ghost’s Napa Valley Cabernet has consistently delighted even the most refined palates, offering a compelling combination of elegance, genuine character, and exceptional value. The 2023 vintage upholds this tradition, presenting a remarkable expression of Napa Valley terroir, skillfully crafted by winemaker Weston Eidson. Sourcing fruit from carefully chosen vineyards in Oakville, Yountville, and Sugar Loaf Mountain, Eidson conducts a harmonious blend of flavors that captures the essence of Napa Valley.

Comprising 96% Cabernet Sauvignon and a subtle touch of Petit Verdot, the 2023 vintage captivates with poise and equilibrium. Eidson’s meticulous selection from each vineyard results in a wine of both power and grace, showcasing the brilliance of Napa’s diverse landscape and the skill of a winemaker who respects its heritage while elevating its quality at this accessible price point.

Weston’s path to winemaking mastery is a story of unwavering commitment. Apprenticing with Jason Moore of Modus Operandi and the renowned Russell Bevan, Eidson has refined his art with precision and fervor. His 2023 vintage is a celebration of his tireless quest for quality—an enduring narrative of artistry, terroir, and vision.

Silver Ghost
Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley 2023
Retails at: $45

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“The Silver Ghost 2023 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon opens with rich, opulent aromas of blackberry pie, ripe blueberries, and black plum, layered with rich dark berry preserves, boysenberry, and sweet spices. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and velvety, unfolding with decadent flavors of chocolate-covered raisins, carob, cassis, and sweet tobacco leaves, lending a slightly savory edge. Notes of anise and cedar add to the wine’s complexity on the finish with silky tannins and well-integrated oak.”

92 Points

2021 Haute Montagne Cabernet Franc Napa Valley

2021 Haute Montagne Cabernet Franc Napa Valley

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Haute Montagne

Cabernet Franc
Napa Valley 2021

2021 Haute Montagne Cabernet Franc Napa Valley

The Haute Montagne Cabernet Franc was the brightest shining light at our recent tasting. Its seamless blend of dark fruit, intricate complexity, and striking elegance immediately captivated everyone present. Winemaker Douglas Danielak has skillfully captured the unique terroir of Pritchard Hill. The high-altitude terrain and cool microclimate produce wines of remarkable depth and character. Minimal intervention allows the vines to flourish in a natural balance, resulting in exceptional purity.

Danielak’s expertise is the product of extensive experience. With a degree in Viticulture and Enology from UC Davis and training at the Lycée Agricole et Viticole de Beaune in Burgundy, he has dedicated decades to perfecting his craft. His work at Knights Bridge has earned significant critical acclaim, and Wine Spectator recognized him as a “Winemaker to Watch” for his visionary approach. Each bottle he crafts showcases a rare harmony of technical skill and artistic inspiration.

Crafted using traditional French oak and the time-honored Bordeaux method, this wine elegantly combines the classic refinement of old-world winemaking with the opulent character of California fruit. The resulting Cabernet Franc possesses power and grace—a compelling and sophisticated expression of this distinguished varietal.

Haute Montagne
Cabernet Franc
Napa Valley 2021
Retails at:$90

Your Price: $75

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“This Pritchard Hill Cabernet Franc possesses a captivating allure. The nose unfolds with briary red and black berries, their vibrant fruitiness entwined with a mineral core of crushed granite and a hint of iron. Licorice adds a touch of intrigue, while cocoa powder and dried sage contribute to the complex aromas. A subtle lavender perfume lingers, adding a unique floral note. On the palate, the wine delivers a powerful yet refined expression of mountain fruit. Intensely penetrating flavors of concentrated boysenberry and black currant are complemented by the brisk acidity of Darjeeling black tea. Dusty tannins provide a firm yet elegant structure, while a touch of espresso bean adds complexity. The wine is incredibly focused and balanced, with a brilliantly orchestrated interplay of fruit, acidity, and tannin. The finish is remarkably long and mouth-watering, leaving a lingering impression of dark fruit and savory spice. This Cabernet Franc is a truly exceptional wine that beautifully showcases the unique terroir of Pritchard Hill.”

97 Points

2022 Ehlers Portrait Red Blend Saint Helena

2022 Ehlers Portrait Red Blend Saint Helena

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Ehlers

Portrait Red Blend
Saint Helena 2022

2022 Ehlers Portrait Red Blend Saint Helena

Ehlers Estate’s 2022 Portrait marks a new era in winemaking, guided by the vision of Adam Casto. His experience spans the diverse vineyards of New Zealand, Chile, Australia, and France, bringing a global perspective to his craft. Eleven years with the renowned Philippe Melka at DANA and Gandona Estates further shaped his approach, one that unites meticulous technique with a deep passion for the vine. The 2022 Portrait is the first wine to fully express this vision—a remarkable example of his dedication to crafting site-specific, terroir-driven wines.

Located on the northwestern edge of Saint Helena, Ehlers Estate boasts a rich history, its viticultural origins dating back to the mid-19th century. The estate’s organic farming practices are more than just a method; they reflect a commitment to nurturing the land and cultivating fruit of exceptional purity and complexity.

A harmonious blend of 66% Cabernet Sauvignon, interwoven with Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Petit Verdot, the 2022 Portrait embodies Adam’s aim: to capture the distinct character of Ehlers’ terroir while achieving a balance of elegance and strength. The result is a refined, velvety wine where structure and suppleness coexist, the varietals merging into a cohesive story—a portrait of both place and the winemaker’s devotion.

Ehlers
Portrait Red Blend
Saint Helena 2022
Retails at: $80

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“This wine immediately grabs your attention yet does so with an understated grace. The nose opens with compelling ripe blueberries and kirsch, their sweetness enhanced by subtle Italian glove leather and a distinct, dusty minerality. It’s a bouquet with both richness and restraint, alluding to the complexity to come. On the palate, the wine unfolds with a supple texture and satiny tannins that balance the rich, sweet black fruit power. Black currants and blueberry compote create a core of concentrated flavor. A saline note adds a mouth-quenching component to the fruit’s intensity, while black tea lends further nuance. The wine’s structure is compact and focused, promising longevity, yet it remains remarkably approachable. The finish is fabulous—long, luxurious, and leaving a lasting impression of elegance and depth. This Napa red blend showcases the best of the vintage, offering both immediate pleasure and the potential for graceful aging. It’s a wine that invites contemplation, revealing new layers with each sip.”

95 Points

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

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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

Your Price: $36

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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

2019 Anakita Cabernet Sauvignon Helena Montana Vineyard

2019 Anakita Cabernet Sauvignon Helena Montana Vineyard

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Anakota

Cabernet Sauvignon
Helena Montana Vineyard
Knights Valley 2019

2019 Anakita Cabernet Sauvignon Helena Montana Vineyard

Anakota’s Helena Montana Cabernet is a masterful expression of terroir and craftsmanship, embodying the pinnacle of world-class viticulture. Nestled on the western slopes of the Mayacamas Mountains, this singular vineyard basks in cool Pacific breezes, tempering the warm valley sun to create an ideal microclimate for Cabernet Sauvignon. 

Under the visionary guidance of 100-point winemaker Pierre Seillan, who champions Knights Valley as one of the world’s premier regions for Cabernet, Anakota crafts wines that echo the gravitas of Bordeaux’s Pauillac, while remaining distinctly Californian.

Perched at 950 feet, the Helena Montana Vineyard sprawls across 60 acres of steep, undulating terrain, its vines rooted in rocky, volcanic soils that impart power and concentration. Over the decades, this vineyard has yielded wines marked by their commanding structure, refined elegance, and longevity—hallmarks that shine brilliantly in the 2019 vintage. The 2019 Helena Montana promises to, and already has evolved gracefully, standing as a testament to the vineyard’s enduring legacy and the art of meticulous winemaking.

Anakota
Cabernet Sauvignon
Helena Montana Vineyard
Knights Valley 2019
Retails at: $175

Your Price: $159.99

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“Incredibly spicy and aromatic with pumice and cloves. Pops out of the glass. Cedar, too. Full-bodied with soft, polished tannins adding tension and creaminess. Long and beautiful. All about class and breeding. Try after 2025.”

99 Points

2020 Silver Oak Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

2020 Silver Oak Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

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Silver Oak

Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley 2020

2020 Silver Oak Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

Silver Oak’s Cabernet is a testament to the power of vision, dedication, and an unwavering pursuit of excellence. For over five decades, this family-owned winery has remained steadfast in its mission: to craft world-class Cabernet while championing sustainable farming and innovative winemaking. A defining moment in its evolution came when Silver Oak took complete control of its barrel aging process, acquiring a Missouri cooperage to ensure unparalleled quality. This commitment to precision has propelled the winery to new heights.

Since its founding in 1972, Silver Oak has earned its place as one of America’s most revered Cabernet Sauvignon producers. For generations, it has achieved the rare feat of crafting age-worthy wines that are immediately compelling upon release. With each vintage, the winery reaffirms its commitment to crafting wines of depth, structure, and seamless elegance, a philosophy that has made Silver Oak a benchmark.

The 2020 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is a striking expression of this mastery. Defined by its opulent concentration, velvety texture, and refined complexity, it embodies the meticulous craftsmanship and sustainable ethos that have become Silver Oak’s signature. A wine that speaks to both legacy and innovation, the 2020 vintage is a profound reminder of why Silver Oak remains an icon in Napa Valley.

Silver Oak
Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley 2020
Retails at: $200

Your Price: $149.99

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“The Silver Oak 2020 Napa Valley Cabernet opens with supple aromas of blackberries, black plums, cocoa powder, sweet spices, toast, forest floor, dried sage, and a wet stone minerality. On the palate, the wine is seductive and sophisticated, with fine, smooth tannins and flavors of black cherries, cassis, cloves, savory spice, and melted dark chocolate. The wine has a silky texture and layered complexity that slowly unfolds with each sip into a long, seductive finish.”

97 Points