{"id":57,"date":"2012-01-26T18:27:41","date_gmt":"2012-01-26T18:27:41","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/wineandbeertasting.com\/?p=57"},"modified":"2012-01-26T18:27:41","modified_gmt":"2012-01-26T18:27:41","slug":"napacentral-coast-california-wine-tasting-notesdec-2011","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/wineandbeertasting.com\/?p=57","title":{"rendered":"Napa\/Central Coast California Wine Tasting Notes\/Dec 2011"},"content":{"rendered":"

We again are using the same “Wine and Beer Tasting” rating scale denoted by the WB prefix. Note if the rating includes a\u00a0\u00a0 ” ? “<\/em> that means that the wine seems to be in a state of change and it could (and usually does) go higher up the rating scale, but at the time of tasting, we were not sure.<\/em>
\n<\/strong><\/p>\n

2009 Zotovich Pinot Noir Santa Rita Hills<\/strong><\/p>\n

Light golden yellow.\u00a0 Light- to medium-bodied, with easygoing apple notes and a hint of smoke.\u00a0 Good acidity, with considerable minerality that when coupled with the rather lean palate creates a sense of overall austerity.\u00a0\u00a0 WB 89<\/em><\/strong>.<\/p>\n

2008 Zotovich Pinot Noir Estate<\/strong><\/p>\n

Garnet.\u00a0 Aromatics of dark cherries, cranberries and smoke.\u00a0 Medium-bodied, with a red fruit character that eventually gives way to a 15-second finish of moderate intensity and duration.\u00a0 This bottling sees 35% new oak (medium+ toast), which is nearly completely integrated.\u00a0 WB 90<\/em><\/strong>.<\/p>\n

2008 Zotovich Syrah<\/strong><\/p>\n

Ruby red.\u00a0 Rather reticent aromas of black olives and minerals transition to a peppery, dense mid-palate that is chock-full of minerals.\u00a0 Finishes with a whiplash of big tannins which will require a few years to tame.\u00a0 WB 90+<\/em><\/strong>.<\/p>\n

2010 Moretti Bianchetto<\/strong><\/p>\n

Very light yellow.\u00a0 Clean aromas of white pears and acacia flowers.\u00a0 Medium-bodied in the mouth, with good acidity throughout.\u00a0 Finishes crisply with briefly lingering minerals.\u00a0 This pleasant, uncomplicated drink is best consumed over the next few years.\u00a0 WB 88<\/em><\/strong>.<\/p>\n

2010 Moretti Rosso Mio<\/strong><\/p>\n

Light Red.\u00a0 A blend of 60% Dolcetto, 30% Barbera and 10% Nebbiolo, the Rosso Mio exhibits aromatics of rose petals, red berries and a whiff of minerals.\u00a0 Medium-bodied, with considerable oak masking red fruit flavors, but good acidity.\u00a0 This may improve with a year or two of cellaring, but the overall oakiness is troublesome.\u00a0 WB 87<\/em><\/strong>.<\/p>\n

2009 Dolina Pinot Noir<\/strong><\/p>\n

Light Red.\u00a0 Raspberry, underbrush, and cranberries can all be found in this elegant Pinot Noir.\u00a0 Light bodied in the mouth, with raspberries and spices predominating throughout.\u00a0 Solid acidity and a deft touch complete this wine crafted by the winemaker for Rozak Estate.\u00a0 WB 91.<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

2009 Thorne Pinot Noir Rio Vista<\/strong><\/p>\n

Red ruby.\u00a0 Very ripe nose of red cherries and candied raspberries.\u00a0 Fruit-forward on the palate, with nearly cloying compote-like flavors.\u00a0 Low acidity makes this difficult to drink.\u00a0 Some may like this style better than I.\u00a0 WB 85<\/em><\/strong>.<\/p>\n

2006 Kenneth Crawford Syrah Lafond Vineyard Santa Rita Hills<\/strong><\/p>\n

Very dark red.\u00a0 Mostly closed aromatically, but with some swirling, aromas of black olives and minerals emerge from the glass.\u00a0 Rather dense in the mouth, with earth, tapenade, and vitamins that are complemented by a toasty note.\u00a0 This rather refined wine will benefit from some cellar time.\u00a0 WB 91+<\/em><\/strong>.<\/p>\n

2007 Arcadian Sleepy Hollow Chardonnay<\/strong><\/p>\n

This deep golden Chardonnay spent 28 months in barrel.\u00a0 Distinguished by aromas of lemon and powdered stone, it is medium bodied in the mouth and exhibits serious cut.\u00a0 Finishes with a strong limestone aftertaste.\u00a0 WB 91<\/em><\/strong>.<\/p>\n

2006 Arcadian Sleepy Hollow Chardonnay<\/strong><\/p>\n

Light gold.\u00a0 Aromas of lime, minerals and flowers.\u00a0 Nearly full-bodied in the mouth, with brisk granny smith-like acidity and a long finish.\u00a0 A considerable step up over the 2007 vintage, this will live and improve for a long time.\u00a0 WB 92+<\/em><\/strong>.<\/p>\n

2008 Bratcher Santa Maria Valley Chardonnay<\/strong><\/p>\n

Light gold.\u00a0 Nose of white pears and freshly cut flowers.\u00a0 Medium- to full-bodied, with good acidity, with citrus fruits and a hint of nuts on the palate.\u00a0 A riper style than the preceding Arcadian Chardonnays.\u00a0 WB 91<\/em><\/strong>.<\/p>\n

2007 Arcadian Sleepy Hollow Pinot Noir<\/strong><\/p>\n

Cherry, nutmeg and spices on the nose.\u00a0 Middle weight, with minerals throughout and a hint of oak and some tannins.\u00a0 A seamless, cooler climate Pinot Noir built for aging.\u00a0 WB 91+<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2008 Bratcher Pinot Noir Santa Maria Valley<\/strong><\/p>\n

Ruby Red.\u00a0 Slightly reduced on the nose.\u00a0 Palate is dominated by red cherries, underbrush, minerals and brightness.\u00a0 Not much persistence on the simple finish.\u00a0 WB 88<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2007 Arcadian Pinot Noir Fiddlestix Vineyard<\/strong><\/p>\n

Crimson.\u00a0 Aromas of red cranberries and flowers lead to a medium-bodied, seamless wine containing a panoply of red fruits, earth and exotic spices.\u00a0 Finishes with very long, kaleidoscopic red fruits and minerals.\u00a0 A great wine in the making. WB 93+<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2002 Arcadian Pinot Noir Fiddlestix Vineyard<\/strong><\/p>\n

Light red.\u00a0 Flowers, red cherries, underbrush and vitamins dominate the flavors here.\u00a0 Medium-bodied, with no undue weight yet powerfully intense flavors.\u00a0 Finishes long with considerable late-arriving tannins.\u00a0 This impressive wine has years to go and will improve.\u00a0 WB 94+<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2007 Arcadian Syrah Sleepy Hollow Vineyard<\/strong><\/p>\n

Deep garnet.\u00a0 Aromas of green olives, bacon and smoke.\u00a0 Medium- to full-bodied on the palate,with black raspberries, earth, and minerals all present.\u00a0 Some tannins are apparent on the medium-length finish.\u00a0 92.<\/p>\n

2010 Paul Lato Chardonnay Sierra Madre Vineyard<\/strong><\/p>\n

Medium yellow.\u00a0 This very impressive Chardonnay is chock-full of yellow fruit, yet is almost steely in character, with bracing acidity and a hint of vanilla on the long finish.\u00a0 Medium-bodied and impeccably refined, this will be superb with a bit of bottle age.\u00a0 Well done!\u00a0 WB 93-95<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2010 Paul Lato Chardonnay Hilliard Bruce Vineyard \u201cThe Outlier\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n

As good as the Sierra Madre Chardonnay is, it is dwarfed by \u201cThe Outlier\u201d.\u00a0 Soaring aromatics of white flowers, citrus and a trace of gunpowder characterize this exciting Chardonnay.\u00a0 It possesses a huge body, a mid-palate crammed with wet stones, powerful acidity and a seemingly endless finish.\u00a0 Too bad there are only three barrels of this stupendous juice.\u00a0 WB<\/strong><\/em> 95-97<\/em><\/strong>.<\/p>\n

2010 Paul Lato Pinot Noir Sierra Madre<\/strong><\/p>\n

Dark cherries, earth and slightly medicinal notes characterize this silky-smooth, medium bodied Pinot Noir.\u00a0 Medium-bodied and utterly seamless, if a bit youthfully reserved at the moment, it finishes fairly long and linear.\u00a0 Will undoubtedly improve once in bottle. WB 92-94<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2010 Paul Lato Pinot Noir Hilliard Bruce Vineyard<\/strong><\/p>\n

Dark red.\u00a0 Red raspberry, spices and flowers can all be found in this medium-bodied, silky and elegant Pinot Noir.\u00a0 Impeccably balanced, with a solid core of red fruit that transitions to a long, complex finish.\u00a0 Demonstrates superior fruit purity and winemaking.\u00a0 WB 94-96<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2010 Paul Lato Pinot Noir Solomon Hills Vineyard<\/strong><\/p>\n

Unlike the Hilliard Bruce bottling, the Solomon Hilliard Pinot Noir comes across as distinctively dark-fruited.\u00a0 A serious, brooding wine, with good density of black currents and a touch of spices.\u00a0 Silky smooth on the palate, where it glides effortlessly and saturates every nook and cranny of the palate.\u00a0 Delicious.\u00a0 WB 94-96<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2010 Paul Lato Pinot Noir Pisoni Vineyard<\/strong><\/p>\n

Deep red in color, the 2010 Pisoni Vineyard Pinot Noir is heart-breakingly beautiful.\u00a0 Seemless on the entry, light on its feet yet powerful at the same time, it unleashes a wave upon wave of juicy red and black raspberries, flowers, minerals ,and aromatic herbs, all of which are accompanied by powerful, refreshing acidity.\u00a0 Somehow, it all comes together in just the right way, with balance and harmony that may cause one to shake their head in disbelief.\u00a0 This tour-de-force Pinot Noir has a long and promising life ahead of it, for those lucky enough to latch onto a bottle or two.\u00a0 WB 95-97<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2010 Paul Lato Pinot Noir Zotovich Vineyard<\/strong><\/p>\n

Red cherries, violets, and earth can all be discerned in the Zotovich Pinot Noir.\u00a0 Like the other wines in Paul Lato\u2019s stable, the refinement and purity of the fruit come through to the forefront, all wrapped up in a cashmere-like texture that is all but irresistible.\u00a0 This may be better than the 2009, and that\u2019s saying something.\u00a0 WB 94-96<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2010 Paul Lato Grenache Larner Vineyard<\/strong><\/p>\n

Light red.\u00a0 The inaugural vintage of the Larner Vineyard Grenache is all about red raspberries, sweet cherries, with hints of rhubarb and mineral.\u00a0 Medium-bodied and Pinot-like, this very seductive wine, made in the style of Chateau Rayas, is all about elegance.\u00a0 A promising debut.\u00a0 WB 91-93<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2010 Paul Lato Syrah Larner Vineyard<\/strong><\/p>\n

Very dark red.\u00a0 Aromas of flowers, fried bacon, garrigue and a whiff of green tobacco make up the complex and powerful aromatics.\u00a0 Full-bodied and dense in the mouth, with black olives, fatty meat and dark plums all coexisting with good acidity.\u00a0 Fantastically polished, with a slowly mounting long finish that really packs a punch.\u00a0 A very impressive Syrah that will be long lived, yet is already providing much pleasure!\u00a0 WB 95-97<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2010 Paul Lato Syrah Bien Nacido Vineyard<\/strong><\/p>\n

Nearly impenetrable dark red.\u00a0 Powerful aromatics of olives and underbrush can be found in the 2010 Bien Nacido Syrah.\u00a0 On the palate, the wine is very dense and masculine, with beef blood, black olive and lurking minerality.\u00a0 Finishes very long, with lots of very fine grained tannins.\u00a0 This one should be buried in the cellar for at least a few years, but it has all the hallmarks of a great wine in the making.\u00a0 WB 94-96<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2009 Arkenstone Sauvignon Blanc<\/strong><\/p>\n

Very light yellow.\u00a0 Melon, freshly cut grass and and peppery note characterize this full-bodied Sauvignon Blanc from Howell Mountain.\u00a0 Made in the style of Bordeaux Blanc, with big viscosity and a moderately long minerally finish, it really needs to be aged for several years prior to consumption.\u00a0 Note: a second bottle opened for two days displayed no peppery note and was a bit easier to drink. WB 92<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2008 Arkenstone Cabernet Sauvignon Coliseum Block<\/strong><\/p>\n

Deep red.\u00a0 Black raspberry, plums, vitamins and flowers comprise the aromatic profile of the 2008 Arkenstone Coliseum Block Cabernet Sauvignon.\u00a0 Vinous in the mouth, with licorice, cassis, oak, spices and powerful acidity.\u00a0 Finishes long with building tannins and a trace of wood.\u00a0 A great Cabernet that needs years in the cellar.\u00a0 WB 94<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2009 Arkenstone Construction Cuvee<\/strong><\/p>\n

Flowers, licorice and minerals can all be found in the 2009 Construction Cuvee (Predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon and Franc, with 8% each of Merlot and Petit Verdot).\u00a0 Medium-bodied, with a long berry aftertaste, it is an infant.\u00a0 WB <\/strong>91+<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2006 Arkenstone Construction Cuvee<\/strong><\/p>\n

A dead ringer for a top-flight St. Emilion, the 2006 Construction Cuvee bursts forth with chocolate, red berries, asian spices and saddle leather.\u00a0 Now entering early maturity, this medium- to full-bodied, impeccably balanced blend glides seamlessly across the palate and finishes with lingering berry aftertaste.\u00a0 Excellent.\u00a0 WB<\/strong> 95<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2009 HDV Chardonnay De La Guerra<\/strong><\/p>\n

Pale yellow.\u00a0 Mostly made up from younger vines, the De La Guerra Chardonnay offers up Meyer lemons, quince, and a hint of orange rind.\u00a0 Medium-bodied on the palate, with citrus fruits and minerals that transition into a 20+ second finish.\u00a0 Dring this very good wine over the next 5 years.\u00a0 WB <\/strong>92<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2008 HDV Chardonnay Estate<\/strong><\/p>\n

The estate sees 20% new oak for 12 months, and is the flagship Chardonnay bottling.\u00a0 Reticent aromas of roasted nuts, white flowers and a hint of reduction.\u00a0 In the mouth, the wine is full-bodied and powerful, with a glycerine-like mouthfeel.\u00a0 Really impressive on the very long, complex finish.\u00a0 This will benefit from some bottle aging.\u00a0 A real star.\u00a0 WB <\/strong>94+<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2010 HDV Chardonnay Commendante<\/strong><\/p>\n

The pale yellow Commendante Chardonnay is predominantly Wente clone juice that sees 100% new oak aging.\u00a0 Yet, there is barely a trace of wood in the wine. Rather, this medium- to full-bodied Chardonnay is dominated by flowers, stony fruit and an ever-present minerally streak.\u00a0 Long and classy, with lots of acidity throughout.\u00a0 Very impressive.\u00a0 WB<\/strong> 93-95<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2007 HDV Californio Syrah<\/strong><\/p>\n

Deep red with purple highlights.\u00a0 Rather reserved aromas of olive and smoked beef that take require some coaxing to emerge.\u00a0 Smooth in the mouth, with lots of tannin and a certain coolness of fruit.\u00a0 This seems shut down, but there is no doubting that the components are all there for a very nice Syrah years down the road. WB <\/strong>92 (+?)<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2007 HDV Belle Cousine<\/strong><\/p>\n

Impenetrable dark red.\u00a0 The Belle Cousine is a Bordeaux-style blend comprised of 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Sauvignon.\u00a0 Medium-bodied, stuffed with red current, licorice and chocolate, it reveals some lingering tannin on the 20-second finish.\u00a0 Distinctively cool climate in personality, the Belle Cousine needs to be cellared for a few years, but will last for two decades.\u00a0WB <\/strong> 92<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2010 HDV Cabernet Sauvignon<\/strong><\/p>\n

This 100% Cabernet Sauvignon is dominated by powerful notes of lead pencil and incense.\u00a0 Liqueur-like and exotic in the mouth, with bitter chocolate, licorice and dried herbs all leading to very long, polished finish.\u00a0 This Napa-style bottling stands in sharp contrast to its more reserved stablemate the Belle Cousine, yet is an outstanding wine on its own.\u00a0 WB <\/strong>94-96<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2010 Kapcsandy Rose<\/strong><\/p>\n

Bright pink.\u00a0 Fruity, with flowers sharing an equal billing with minerals.\u00a0 Quite flavorful and balanced for a rose.\u00a0 Good acidity. WB <\/strong>88<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2003 Kapcsandy State Lane<\/strong><\/p>\n

This medium bodied wine displays dark chocolate, blackberries and minerals in its flavor profile.\u00a0 Decidedly easygoing, this will not get any better, and should be drunk up over the next 5-6 years.\u00a0 WB\u00a089<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2008 Kapcsandy Endre<\/strong><\/p>\n

Aromatics of flowers, burning embers and licorice.\u00a0 Seamless and integrated in the mouth, with great acidity.\u00a0 Approachable now, but will be better in a few years.\u00a0 WB<\/strong> 91<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2009 Kapcsandy Endre<\/strong><\/p>\n

Verk dark red.\u00a0 Violets, boysenberries and black cherries are present in the 2009 Endre.\u00a0 In the mouth, it is considerably more powerful than the 2008, with excellent fruit sweetness and purity.\u00a0 Finishes very long, with gentle tannins coating the palate.\u00a0 WB <\/strong>92+<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2009 Kapcsandy Estate Cuvee<\/strong><\/p>\n

Notes of dark berries and smoke dominate the aromatic profile of the Estate Cuvee.\u00a0 In the mouth, this very young wine is rather austere, with an almost medicinal-like quality.\u00a0 Nevertheless, one can sense the underlying components and the considerable fruit density lurking below the surface.\u00a0 This will need some serious time in the cellar, but is very impressive.\u00a0 WB <\/strong>95<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2005 Kapcsandy Cabernet Sauvignon<\/strong><\/p>\n

A dark mass of fruit and a huge body distinguish this flagship wine from Kapcsandy.\u00a0 Cassis, currants and minerals are everywhere, including on the very long and linear finish.\u00a0 A hugely promising, though practically embryonic, Cabernet Sauvignon that must be cellared for at least 5 more years.\u00a0 WB <\/strong>95+<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2009 Kapcsandy Cabernet Sauvignon Grand Vin<\/strong><\/p>\n

As good as the 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon is, the 2009 kicks it up another notch or two.\u00a0 A big, yet very refined blend of lead pencil, cassis, and spices.\u00a0 Unbelievably big in the mouth, with skyscraper-like texture and an unreal 60+ second finish.\u00a0 Already incredibly complex, this wine reminds me of a very ripe vintage of Latour (such as the 2003), and will require at least a decade in the cellar before reaching its apogee.\u00a0 Grand Vin indeed!\u00a0 WB <\/strong>97+<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2009 Kapcsandy Roberta\u2019s Reserve<\/strong><\/p>\n

Chocolate, incense, and sweet berries dominate this Right Bank-inspired blend.\u00a0 Super silky in the mouth, like drinking liquid nobility.\u00a0 Positively explodes on the finish, with a m\u00e9lange of red and black fruit flavors effortlessly intermingling with very fine grained tannins.\u00a0 An inspiring wine that\u2019s better than the vast majority of top-notch St. Emilion and Pomerol cuvees.\u00a0 WB <\/strong>97<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2008 Kapcsandy Vino del Sol<\/strong><\/p>\n

This port-style wine is fortified by the addition of grape brandy.\u00a0 Drinking nicely already, with good acidity and no obvious cloying character, this would make for a nice apres-dinner quaffer. \u00a0\u00a0WB <\/strong>91<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2009 Alpha Omega Sauvignon Blanc 1155<\/strong><\/p>\n

Very pale yellow.\u00a0 The Sauvignon Blanc 1155 offers up aromas of lanolin, wax and freshly-cut grass.\u00a0 Medium- to full-bodied, viscous and slightly oaky, it could use a touch more acidity.\u00a0 WB <\/strong>89<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2009 Alpha Omega Chardonnay<\/strong><\/p>\n

This Chardonnay sees 100% new oak and suffers as a result.\u00a0 Aromas of melted butter and white flowers are followed by a medium-bodied, low acid, tropical fruit-infused palate that feels ponderous and imbalanced.\u00a0 No doubt fans of over-oaked and low acid Chardonnay will be all over this.\u00a0 WB <\/strong>84<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2008 Alpha Omega Proprietary Red<\/strong><\/p>\n

Flowers, cassis and a hint of toast jump from the glass of the Proprietary Red, a Bordeaux-style blend composed of 36% Merlot, 33% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Petit Verdot and 12% Cabernet Franc.\u00a0 Rich and velvety in the mouth, but the opulence is balanced by good acidity.\u00a0 Finishes fairly long with some serious, late-arriving tannins.\u00a0 Cellar this baby version of the flagship ERA for a few years.\u00a0 WB<\/strong> 93<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2009 Alpha Omega Proprietary Red<\/strong><\/p>\n

Even more promising the the \u201908 version, the 2009 Proprietary Red (37% Merlot, 34% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Cabernet Franc and the rest Petit Verdot) smells like a blend of flower esters and incense.\u00a0 Silky-smooth, with plums and cherries galore, and a long, resonant finish, this is a very fine wine.\u00a0WB<\/strong> 93+<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2009 Alpha Omega Cabernet Sauvignon<\/strong><\/p>\n

The Cabernet Sauvignon opens up with aromas of leather, cassis and camphor.\u00a0 Sauve on entry, with a licorice-dominated mid-palate and a long finish, this impressive Cabernet could be consumed anytime over the next 10-15 years.\u00a0 WB <\/strong>93+<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2009 Alpha Omega Cabernet Sauvignon Stagecoach Vineyard<\/strong><\/p>\n

Slightly closed, with lead pencil, raspberries, all wrapped up in a smooth, full-bodied package.\u00a0 A very promising wine that needs several years to come together.\u00a0 WB<\/strong> 94?<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2006 Alpha Omega ERA<\/strong><\/p>\n

The purple-tinged ERA, the flagship cuvee from Alpha Omega, offers up glorious aromas of incense, lavender and ripe raspberries.\u00a0 Medium- to full-bodied, this unabashedly hedonistic wine is ultra refined and very long in the mouth.\u00a0 Still needs years in the cellar, but it will be worth it in the end.\u00a0 WB <\/strong>95+<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2009 Alpha Omega ERA<\/strong><\/p>\n

Liqueur-like aromatics dominate the latest vintage of the flagship ERA, a blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Petit Verdot, 7% Cabernet Franc and 5% Merlot.\u00a0 On the palate, a veritable cornucopia of red and black berries, aromatic herbs and minerals.\u00a0 All wrapped up in a seamless, powerful package.\u00a0 This opulently-styled wine can be drunk now for the fruit, but will handsomely repay a decade\u2019s worth of cellaring.\u00a0 WB <\/strong>96<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2010 Ladera Sauvignon Blanc Howell Mountain<\/strong><\/p>\n

Nearly clear, with pale yellow accents.\u00a0 A nose rich with grass, hay and lemon essence make it easy to identify the Ladera Sauvignon Blanc when tasted blind.\u00a0 Medium-bodied on the palate, with citrus, quince and some minerals.\u00a0 Drops off somewhat rapidly and abruptly on the finish.\u00a0 Drink now.\u00a0 WB <\/strong>89<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2007 Ladera Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley<\/strong><\/p>\n

The 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon, which also contains small percentages of Cabernet Franc and Merlot (3% and 1%, respectively), exhibits aromas of cassis, violets, and smoke.\u00a0 On the palate, bitter wood dominates, overshadowing what little fruit there is.\u00a0 The heavy toast levels are a definite concern, and I doubt that the wine will ever absorb all of the oak it is saddled with at present.\u00a0 WB<\/strong> 86<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2007 Ladera Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain<\/strong><\/p>\n

Dark purple in color, the Howell Mountain bottling is much better than its Napa Valley sibling.\u00a0 Heavy on the cassis, with medium body and an easygoing personality (highly unusual for a Howell Mountain Cabernet), this wine can be drunk with pleasure now and over the next 10-15 years.\u00a0 WB<\/strong> 91<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2006 Ladera Cabernet Sauvignon Lone Canyon<\/strong><\/p>\n

Incense and black raspberry can be found in the aromatics of the 2006 Lone Canyon, which comes from a steep hillside vineyard on Mt Veeder.\u00a0 Dense in the mouth, with lots of black plums, minerals and a respectable, refined finish that lingers on the palate.\u00a0 WB <\/strong>92<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2008 Ladera Cabernet Sauvignon High Plateau<\/strong><\/p>\n

Comprised of 92% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Petit Verdot and 3% Malbec, the High Plateau offers up notes of licorice, spices and black plums, all in a nearly opaque red, medium-bodied package.\u00a0 Finishes smooth, with lingering tannins that don\u2019t take away from the current enjoyment.\u00a0 WB <\/strong>92<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2008 Jones Family Cabernet Sauvignon \u201cThe Sisters\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n

A second label of the flagship Estate Cabernet, The Sisters possesses copious boysenberries, bluckcurrents and licorice in its repertoire.\u00a0 Medium-bodied and well-crafted, it is best suitable for enjoyment over the near term.\u00a0 WB <\/strong>90<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2006 Jones Family Cabernet Sauvignon<\/strong><\/p>\n

A restrained, red-fruited Cabernet, which is clearly well-crafted, yet does not taste especially ripe.\u00a0 Medium-bodied on the palate, and marked with wood at the moment.\u00a0 Nonetheless, this has the stuffing to absorb the oak in due time.\u00a0 Patience is key here.\u00a0 WB <\/strong>91<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2005 Jones Family Cabernet Sauvignon<\/strong><\/p>\n

Ruby-red.\u00a0 Smoke, raspberries and vanilla notes dominate the aromatic profile here.\u00a0 Medium-to full-bodied, harmonious, with red fruits and a long finish make for an impressive and eminently drinkable wine with no hard edges.\u00a0 WB 93<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2007 Jones Family Cabernet Sauvignon<\/strong><\/p>\n

Aromatically, the 2007 Jones Cabernet Sauvignon is comprised of raspberries, dark cherries and a hint of vanilla.\u00a0 Smooth on the entry, the mid-palate is heavy on the licorice and minerals.\u00a0 Needs a bit of time, but it\u2019s all there.\u00a0 WB <\/strong>92+<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2008 Harris Estate Indulgence<\/strong><\/p>\n

Chambord-like aromatic essence leads to a liqueur-like mid-palate, with a medium-full body and a silky-smooth texture.\u00a0 A ripe style of wine, but with lots of acidity to keep the different components in balance.\u00a0 Drink over the next decade or so, as this is unlikely to be a marathon runner.\u00a0 WB<\/strong> 93<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2007 Harris Estate Cabernet Sauvignon Jake\u2019s Creek Vineyard<\/strong><\/p>\n

A step up in intensity and complexity form the Indulgence, the Jake\u2019s Creek bottling is distinguished by very ripe raspberry aromas, sweet tobacco and flowers.\u00a0 Full-bodied, with cherry compote-like mid-palate and a very long finish.\u00a0 Makes for a very satisfying wine in a distinctly ripe (but not overripe) style.\u00a0 WB<\/strong> 94<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2009 Beringer Chardonnay Private Reserve<\/strong><\/p>\n

Light gold.\u00a0 Vanilla, white flowers and a trace of reduction on the nose.\u00a0 Medium-bodied, with orange peel, pineapple and oak.\u00a0 Low acidity throws off the balance and makes it difficult to drink.\u00a0 WB <\/strong>86<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2006 Beringer Merlot Howell Mountain<\/strong><\/p>\n

Ruby red.\u00a0 Fruitcake, chocolate and incense can all be found in the aromatics of the Howell Mountain Merlot.\u00a0 Dark cherries and oak predominate in the mouth, and the acidity is just barely adequate.\u00a0 WB <\/strong>90<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2006 Beringer Cabernet Franc Steinhauer Ranch<\/strong><\/p>\n

Deep red.\u00a0 This Howell Mountain-sourced Cabernet Franc gives off notes of lavender, baking spices and a trace of vanilla.\u00a0 Medium bodied, with lots of oak on the rather spicy palate.\u00a0 Short finish of moderate intensity.\u00a0WB <\/strong> 87<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2007 Beringer Cabernet Sauvignon Quarry Vineyard<\/strong><\/p>\n

Red raspberries and plums on the nose.\u00a0 Medium-bodied, with licorice, smoke and toasted oak.\u00a0 Finishes gently, with lingering wood tannins.\u00a0 WB <\/strong>90<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2004 Beringer Cabernet Sauvignon Lampyridae<\/strong><\/p>\n

Very dark red.\u00a0 Flowers and cassis are ever-present on the aromatic nose, and a hint of vanilla can be discerned as well.\u00a0 Smooth, with licorice, dried herbs in the mouth, and gentle tannins that show some unresolved wood.\u00a0 Needs a couple more years in the cellar.\u00a0 WB<\/strong> 91<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2006 Beringer Cabernet Sauvignon Private Reserve<\/strong><\/p>\n

Classy nose of violets, candied raspberries and dark plums.\u00a0 Sweet in the mouth, with a medium- to full-body, and a seamless texture and refinement that is head and shoulders above most other wines from this house.\u00a0 Long finish exudes class.\u00a0 WB <\/strong>94<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2007 Beringer Cabernet Sauvignon Private Reserve<\/strong><\/p>\n

Highly aromatic nose of sweet cherries, bay leaf and a hint of reduction.\u00a0 Shockingly sweet and rather fruit-forward in the mouth, with strawberry jam and a hint of minerals.\u00a0 Long finish with some gripping tannins.\u00a0 This can be drunk now with decanting or cellared for 10-20 years.\u00a0 Very Impressive.\u00a0WB <\/strong> 95<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2008 Beringer Cabernet Sauvignon Private Reserve<\/strong><\/p>\n

Macerated cherries on the nose, with a slightly youthful character.\u00a0 Then, very sweet in the mouth, yet vinous, seamless and plush.\u00a0 Finishes quite long with the tannins buried under the masses of fruit.\u00a0 A very promising Private Reserve vintage that really calls out for a few years of bottle aging.\u00a0 WB<\/strong> 94<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2007 Beringer Cabernet Sauvignon Rancho del Oso Vineyard<\/strong><\/p>\n

Smoke, black currants and licorice can all be found in the aromatics of the 2007 Rancho del Oso Cabernet.\u00a0 Silky sweet in the mouth, fruit-forward and gentle, with a medim-length finish.\u00a0 Suffers when tasted side by side with the Private Reserve, but a good wine in its own right.\u00a0 WB<\/strong> 92<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2006 Beringer Nightingale<\/strong><\/p>\n

This Sauternes-style dessert wine is dominated by aromatics of apricots, spices and a slight grassiness.\u00a0 Sweet in the mouth, with good acidity and complexity.\u00a0 Long finish with a tactile-like powder stone component.\u00a0 Excellent effort.\u00a0 WB <\/strong>94<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

1997 Beringer Nightingale<\/strong><\/p>\n

Darker in color, like a grade \u201cA\u201d maple syrup.\u00a0 Dried apricots, orange rind and a slightly oxidative note can all be found in the 1997 Nightingale.\u00a0 Medium-bodied, with a fairly long finish that reveals minerals and traces of vanilla.\u00a0WB 92<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

2004 Beringer Port of Cabernet Sauvignon<\/strong><\/p>\n

Aromatics of candied raspberries, with an occasional hint of a sherry-like element.\u00a0 Slightly rustic, with baking spices and a certain plumminess in the mid-palate.\u00a0 Good acidity prevents any sensation of cloying.\u00a0 WB 91+<\/strong><\/em>.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

We again are using the same “Wine and Beer Tasting” rating scale denoted by the WB prefix. Note if the rating includes a\u00a0\u00a0 ” ? “ that means that the wine seems to be in a state of change and it could (and usually does) go higher up the rating scale, but at the time […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[4],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-57","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-wine-reviews"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/wineandbeertasting.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/57","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/wineandbeertasting.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/wineandbeertasting.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wineandbeertasting.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wineandbeertasting.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=57"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/wineandbeertasting.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/57\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":59,"href":"https:\/\/wineandbeertasting.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/57\/revisions\/59"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/wineandbeertasting.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=57"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wineandbeertasting.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=57"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wineandbeertasting.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=57"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}