Dutton Goldfield

Today we share the glorious wines of Dutton Goldfield. I have been enjoying these wines in my personal collection for two decades. Located in the heart of the Russian River Valley, Dutton Goldfield dates back to 1998 when colleagues Steve Dutton and Dan Goldfield decided to start a winery together. Steve Dutton is a 5th generation farmer while Dan has a background in chemistry and later completed the illustrious UC Davis program in winemaking. Dan previously worked at Robert Mondavi Winery and even made wine in Portugal for two years before coming back to California and starting Dutton-Goldfield

Check out the delicious 2023 Dutton-Goldfield ‘Docker Hill Vineyard’ Pinot Noir (OB, 94) which is wonderfully salty and has a great sense of place. Learn more about Dutton Goldfield at http://www.duttongoldfield.com. Here are the great new releases from Dutton Goldfield.

2023 Dutton Goldfield ‘Rued Vineyard’ Chardonnay- The really good 2023 Dutton Goldfield ‘Rued Vineyard’ Chardonnay comes from this acclaimed site in the Green Valley of the Russian River Valley. It is loaded with melon and tropical fruits with a refined texture and great sense of length. Big and dense on the mouth, enjoy this beauty now and over the next eight plus years. Drink 2026-2034- 94

2023 Dutton Goldfield ‘Dutton Ranch-Emerald Ridge Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- The 2023 Dutton Goldfield ‘Dutton Ranch-Emerald Ridge Vineyard’ Pinot Noir comes off wonderfully rocky, salty and savory. Bright red raspberry and teaberry flavors combine with shades of damp earth and kumquat zest on the palate. Seriously good, enjoy now and over the next decade. Drink 2026-2038- 94

2023 Dutton Goldfield ‘Docker Hill Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- The 2023 ‘Docker Hill Vineyard’ comes from this site located near the Pacific Ocean. Translucent in the glass, this offers salted orange peel, pomegranate fruits and shades of wintergreen on the nose. The palate is salty and fresh with a great sense of place and elegance, loaded wth bright red fruits. Enjoy now and over the next ten plus years. Drink 2026-2038- 94

2023 Dutton Goldfield ‘Dutton Ranch-Snow Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- The 2023 Dutton Goldfield ‘Dutton Ranch-Snow Vineyard’ Pinot Noir comes from this location set on Goldridge soils. Very translucent in the glass, this offers red rose petals and red currants on the nose, as this comes off very lifted with bergamot accents. The palate is somewhat leaner than the prior two Pinot Noirs, showing a light to medium bodied core of red fruits, with damp soil notes. Drink 2026-2038- 93

2023 Dutton Goldfield ‘McDougall Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- The McDougall Vineyard comes from this higher elevation location neighboring the Pacific Ocean. This 2023 Pinot Noir opens with beautiful potpourri notes alongside red cherry and wild strawberry. The palate comes off a touch on the linear side with lighter red fruits that parade with copious salty minerals. Drink 2026-2036- 91

2023 Dutton Goldfield ‘Morelli Lane Vineyard’ Zinfandel- The 2023 Dutton Goldfield ‘Morelli Lane Vineyard’ Zinfandel come from a tiny, less than two acre parcel in the Russian River Valley. It is impeccably balanced with serious poise and a literal cornucopia of red fruits on the palate, with orange zest, cola and sassafras accents. Complex and absolutely delightful to enjoy now, watch this evolve over the next ten years. Drink 2026-2036- 94

Open Claim

Today we share the great wines of Open Claim. Founded in 2014 by Marnie and Brett Wall, Open Claim creates a bigger style of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir that are complete wines with a beginning, middle and end. They use a limited amount of new oak, despite their fleshy character. Tony Rynders is of the Pacific Northwest’s great winemakers Formerly with Hogue and Domaine Serene, Tony crafts some incredible wines for his own label, Tendril. He has been the winemaker at Open Claim and is doing an incredible job with this site. I have long enjoyed these wines that showcase a beginning, middle and end.

I adored the 2023 Open Claim ‘Flora’s Veil’ Pinot Noir (OB, 95) which is all about texture and flavor range. It is utterly delicious right now. Learn more about these beautiful wines at http://www.openclaimvineyards.com/ Here are the brilliant 2021 and older releases by Open Claim. 

2023 Open Claim ‘Estate’ Chardonnay- Another stellar edition of this wine the 2023 ‘Estate’ Chardonnay is an epic bottling by Oregon wine legend Tony Rynders. Once on the nose this takes on buttercream and cardamom laced pastry crust notes that combine with ripe nectarine, and shades of Japanese pear. The palate is silky and inviting throughout the drinking experience, as this displays both beautiful poise and weight. A joy to consume now, watch this evolve over the next ten plus years to come. Drink 2026-2036- 95

2023 Open Claim ‘Estate’ White Pinot Noir- The utterly fabulous 2023 ‘Estate’ White Pinot Noir captures flat out fabulous flavor and aromatic range from this warm vintage in Oregon. Toasted hazelnut and wild mushroom tones combine with Yakima cherry notes on the nose. The palate is dense and viscous with serious weight and power. A gorgeous melange of citrus, melon and even wild strawberry fruit flavors greet you, alongside good tension. Enjoy this outstanding bottling now and over the next ten plus years. Drink 2026-2038- 95

2023 Open Claim ‘Flora’s Veil’ Pinot Noir- The 2023 ‘Flora’s Veil’ is another outstanding edition of this wine which was sourced from the Mount Pisgah region of the Willamette Valley. Translucent in the glass, this shows off Linzer torte and red currants that combine with shades of Shitake mushroom on the nose. The palate is heady and dense with loads of salty minerals, exotic spices and a lush mouthfeel. Really good now, enjoy over the next fifteen plus years to come. Drink 2026-2042- 95

2021 Open Claim ‘Layer & Stitch’ Pinot Noir- The outstanding 2021 ‘Layer & Stitch’ was stored for 18 months in 35% new French oak and comes from the Open Claim Estate Vineyard. It is fresh and mineral-laden, showing off bright black raspberry and Bing cherry fruits alongside Mandarin orange zest and earthy underpinnings on the palate. Medium to full-bodied with a smooth texture, enjoy now and over the next eight to ten years. Drink 2026-2034- 93

Chateau Ste. Michelle 'Eroica' Riesling Vertical Tasting

Today we share one of Washington’s most historic and famous wine partnerships, it was back in 1999 that Ernst Loosen of famed Dr. Loosen approached Chateau Ste. Michelle and their CEO Allen Shoup with the idea of joining forces after discovering the winery's Cold Creek Vineyard Riesling. The collaboration became one of the famed wine projects in the United States as ‘Eroica’ Riesling has been one of the benchmark Rieslings that you will find in North America.

Speaking with co-winemaker on ‘Eroica’, Chateau Ste. Michelle’s head winemaker Katie Nelson explained how much she enjoys working with Ernst Loosen. She explained “Ernst’s annual trip to Washington is always a highlight for us. It’s when we get to sit down together, taste and blend the next Eroica vintage, check in on our Eroica XLC tanks, and revisit some verticals. He always brings a fresh perspective and thoughtful feedback, which helps keep us sharp and moving the wines forward year after year. We love digging into the vintage, the vineyards, and what’s ahead… and honestly, his stories are always part of the fun.”

‘Eroica’ Riesling began with the 1999 vintage which is one of Nelson’s favorites. But she also explains a vastly different winemaking method than was utilized back in ’99. She explained “1999-the very first Eroica, still really stands out for me. It’s aged beautifully, especially when you think about how much our approach to growing Riesling has changed since then. Back in those early days, we were sourcing fruit from warmer Washington sites, reducing yields, and opening up canopies to get more sun exposure. Today, we do almost the opposite. We’re careful to avoid too much sun, focus on cooler, later‑ripening sites, and steer clear of anything that limits yield. That lets us extend hang time and ultimately make wines that are built to age.”

The new 2024 ‘Eroica’ Riesling (OB, 93) is a stellar, gorgeous edition of this wine that exudes class and value. Nelson explained that this new wine comes mainly from the Evergreen Vineyard which is a “cool, high‑elevation vineyard in the Ancient Lakes of the Columbia Valley, right near the Columbia River. These moderating effects allow us to hang the Riesling longer on the vine and still get great balance, even in a warm growing season” she explained.

To Nelson, making this wine in 2024 was about “warm days paired with cool nights through the summer kept botrytis pressure very low. Harvest began in mid-October, which is typical timing for Eroica picks.”

I had the chance to taste many of the older ‘Eroica’ wines and was completely shocked how well they had held. Even the first vintage, the 1999 ‘Eroica’ (OB, 90) had good freshness and flavor range.  I was so impressed with the 2011 ‘Eroica’ (OB, 93) which has consistently been one of my favorite vintages of this wine, and is also one of Nelson’s favorite, along with the amazing 2010 ‘Eroica’ (OB, 92)

Congrats to Chateau Ste. Michelle and their amazing impact in Washington wine and helping put Washington Riesling on not only the national but international wine scene. Learn more about this special wine at and here are my reviews of this incredible vertical tasting of Chateau Ste. Michelle ‘Eroica’ Riesling.

1999 Chateau Ste. Michelle ‘Eroica’  Riesling- In 1999 Ernst Loosen approached Chateau Ste. Michelle with the idea of joining forces after discovering the winery's Cold Creek Vineyard Riesling. This is the inaugural edition of this wine that is still hanging on — showing that Washington Riesling can really cellar well for over 20 years if stored correctly. Light melon and citrus rind fruits collide with wet stone and kerosene accents on the palate. Drink 2026-2028- 90

2002 Chateau Ste. Michelle ‘Eroica’ Riesling- Another beautifully evolved Riesling, the 2002 Chateau Ste. Michelle ‘Eroica’ comes from one of the great vintages in Washington history. This is a remarkable showing, as plenty of melon fruit remains both aromatically and on the palate. White flowers and lychee notes combine with suggestions of green apple and flinty nuances on the palate. Drink 2026-2030- 92

2004 Chateau Ste. Michelle  ‘Eroica’ Riesling- Very evolved and showing well considering its age, the 2004 Chateau Ste. Michelle  ‘Eroica’ Riesling is starting to lose some fruit flavors but has great petrol and mineral-character alongside honeydew and lime zest flavors. Enjoy over the next few years. Drink 2026-2031- 91

2010 Chateau Ste. Michelle ‘Eroica’ Riesling- An amazing rendition of this wine from a slightly cooler vintage, the 2010 Chateau Ste. Michelle ‘Eroica’ Riesling is showing remarkably well at the 16 year mark. It is elegant and nicely textured and weighted stuff, still loaded with citrus and melon fruit flavors alongside good tension. Enjoy over the next few years. Drink 2026-2031- 92

2011 Chateau Ste. Michelle ‘Eroica’ Riesling- Always one of my favorite ‘Eroica’ bottlings, the 2011 Chateau Ste. Michelle ‘Eroica’ Riesling is the lone very cold vintage wine amongst this tasting. It is more lean and linear but still packs plenty of mouth-watering acidity. Lemon/lime flavors combine with hints of starfruit and wet rocky accents on the palate. Enjoy now. Drink 2026-2031- 93

2014 Chateau Ste. Michelle ‘Eroica’ Riesling- A wine that has beautifully evolved, the 2014 ‘Eroica’ Riesling is an impressive showing now at the 12 year mark. Kiwi, freshly cut limes and stony minerals collide on the palate, as this still comes off quite fresh despite its age. Enjoy now. Drink 2026-2032- 93

2024 Chateau Ste. Michelle ‘Eroica’ Riesling- An amazing edition of this wine, the 2024 ‘Eroica’ Riesling sits fat and round on the mouth, with bright underlying acidity. Pear and sourdough bread flavors collide with wet rock and copious minerals on the palate. Enjoy this beauty now and over the next eight years to come. Drink 2025-2033- 93

2021 Chateau Ste. Michelle ‘Eroica XLC Dry’ Riesling- Very nervy and incredibly-textured, the 2021 ‘Eroica XLC Dry’ Riesling is a stunning GG-inspired bottling by winemaker Katie Nelson. Once on the nose this shows off wet slate and petrol notes alongside Japanese pear and hints of star jasmine. The palate is dense and mineral-laden with incredible length. Gorgeous now, this is only starting to hit its stride. Drink 2026-2038- 95

2017 Chateau Ste. Michelle ‘Eroica Single Berry Select’ Riesling- From a tiny bottle a behemoth of a wine emerges as the 2017 ‘Eroica Single Berry Select’ Riesling is easily the best dessert wine made in Washington State. This TBA-inspired bottling oozes with honey, butterscotch, poached pear and candied apple flavors that all seamlessly combine with the silky texture. Weightless, dense and utterly sensational to enjoy now, this will easily be a 20 year wine. Drink 2026-2046- 100

Stag's Leap Wine Cellars

Today we share one of the brilliant houses of Napa. Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars is one of the famed winners from the 1976 Judgment of Paris. Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars was initially founded in 1970 and today the vineyard team is led by Guillermo Perez who works alongside head winemaker Marcus Notaro.

Notaro comes from an Italian family that had wine around the dinner table. He decided to work initially in the industry as a tour guide at Chateau Ste. Michelle. He formerly was winemaker at Col Solare before taking over as head winemaker at Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars. The wines show excellent poise and depth. I love the 2021 Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars ‘Cellarius Series’ Cabernet Sauvignon (OB, 95) which has plenty of of power and poise and is seamless throughout the drinking experience. This is great stuff from this warm vintage. Learn more about this famed site at https://www.stagsleapwinecellars.com/ and here are my reviews of the latest by Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars.

2021 Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars ‘Cellarius Series’ Cabernet Sauvignon- Sourced from the Soda Canyon Ranch (Atlas Peak), Moore Ranch (Hills East of St. Helena), and SLV Vineyards,  the 2021 Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars ‘Cellarius Series’ Cabernet Sauvignon shows off violets, tar and tobacco leaf on the nose with heady dark fruits. The palate is rich and refined with great structure and underlying tension — loaded with great loamy and rocky soil character. This is powerful without coming off overly fruity. Drink 2026-2044- 95

2017 Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars ‘Cellarius Series’ Cabernet Sauvignon- A great wine to enjoy now, the 2017 Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars ‘Cellarius Series’ Cabernet Sauvignon is soft and approachable on the mouth. A delicious melange of red and dark fruits greets you on the palate, with milk chocolate and anise seed accents. Enjoy now and over the next ten years. Drink 2026-2036- 93

2016 Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars ‘Cellarius Series’ Cabernet Sauvignon- Another sensational bottling, the 2016 Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars ‘Cellarius Series’ Cabernet Sauvignon still has a long way to go in the cellar. Red and dark rose petals collide with wet gravel, mocha, and scorched earthy accents on the nose. The palate is fresh and lithe with a polished texture and good sense of length. Medium to full-bodied, enjoy this beauty now and over the next ten plus years. Drink 2026-2038- 93

2021 Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars ‘Soda Canyon Ranch Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon- Coming from a sunny site with rocky, red volcanic soil, the 2021 Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars ‘Soda Canyon Ranch Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon has a touch of Cabernet Franc blended in. Inky in the glass, this offers gorgeous black tea and Middle Eastern spice aromatics in the glass, alongside boysenberry compote and hints of pencil lead. The palate is refined and elegant with a seamless mouthfeel and great sense of underlying tension, as salty and rocky soils add to the nuance. A beautiful wine from a great vintage, enjoy now and over the next fifteen plus years to come. Drink 2026-2041- 95

2020 Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars ‘Soda Canyon Ranch Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon- A delicious wine from a tough vintage, the 2020 Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars ‘Soda Canyon Ranch Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon shows off medium bodied dark fruits with graphite and creosote notes. Enjoy now. Drink 2026-2030- 90

2019 Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars ‘Chase Creek’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2019 ‘Chase Creek’ comes from an offshoot of the Napa River, which flows along the western edge of Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars S.L.V. and FAY vineyards. This is seamless and impeccably balanced on the mouth. Creme de violette and cassis flavors all combine with dark chocolate shavings, graphite, espresso grounds and shades of loamy soils on the palate. A totally dazzling bottling with terrific tension and opulence, enjoy now and over the next fifteen plus years. Drink 2026-2041- 95

Echolands

Today we share an electric wine brand out of Walla Walla. Founded by Brad Bergman and Doug Frost, MW, MS, Echolands has a stunning, must-visit new tasting room in Walla Walla. I was amazed when I visited there last year. Doug Frost has an illustrious wine career, and is one of three individuals in the world to hold simultaneously the Master of Wine and Master Sommelier titles, achieving his MS in 1991 and MW in 1993. He also authored ‘The Spanish Wine Guide (third edition 2009’) and is a contributing editor of the Oxford Companion to Spirits and Cocktails.

Winemaker Brian Rudin has done an amazing job taking over the winemaking program. I love the wines he formerly made at  Canvasback, creating wines that have beautiful depth and flavor density — deftly showcasing the Red Mountain power and terroir.

Check out the outstanding 2024 Echolands ‘Walla Walla Valley’ Grenache (OB, 93) which is drinking so beautifully in its heady, bright youth. Learn more about this fantastic new project at echolandswinery.com Here are my reviews of he beautiful new wines that I tasted from Echolands.

2024 Echolands ‘Frenchman Hills Vineyard’ Riesling- Coming from this historic site in Washington, this comes form Block 01 in the vineyard. This is made with the faintest hint of residual sugar. It is round, rich and beautifully-textured on the mouth. Green apple and cantaloupe flavors parade with suggestions of juicy peach and stony nuances on the palate. Really good from this warm vintage, enjoy now. Drink 2026-2031- 92

2024 Echolands ‘Walla Walla Valley’ Grenache- The 2024 ‘Walla Walla Valley’ Grenache shows up translucent in the glass. Wet rock and juicy strawberry tones fill the nose alongside wafts of red rose petal. The palate is rich and beautifully textured with sterling tension that runs through a core of very pretty red fruits. This is juicy and filled with minerality — and is drinking remarkably well in its youth. Drink 2026-2032- 93

2022 Echolands ‘Seven Hills Vineyard’ Merlot- The 2022 Echolands ‘Seven Hills Vineyard’ Merlot has 15% Cabernet Sauvignon blended in. Stored in a combination of neutral and new French oak this delivers a dark core in the glass. Fresh herbs and dark currants fill the nose alongside chocolate and shades of salty soils. The palate is beautifully balanced, round and generous on the mouth. This has good weight considering the coolness of the vintage. Enjoy now and over the next ten plus years to come. Drink 2025-2035- 93

2023 Echolands ‘Seven Hills Vineyard Block 03’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The outstanding 2023 Echolands ‘Seven Hills Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon comes from this site located in the foothills of the Blue Mountains. Medium-bodied kirsch and black raspberry fruits mingle well with wet rock and herbal accents on the palate. Neatly-textured, enjoy now and over the next ten years. Drink 2026-2036- 92

2023 Echolands ‘Blue Mountain Vineyard’ Cabernet Franc- The 2023 ‘Blue Mountain Vineyard’ Cabernet Franc offers potpourri and fresh sage on the nose alongside suggestions of dark currants and tobacco leaf. The palate is fresh and vibrant with a silky texture and good depth and concentration. Enjoy this beauty now and over the next decade. Drink 2026-2036- 93

Tamber Bey

The name Tamber Bey originates from Arabian horses at the estate. Founded in 1999, Tamber Bey a family-owned business, with Barry and Jennifer managing operations and marketing, and Barry's daughter, Kendra, managing the wine club. The winery is located in Calistoga and focuses on estate-grown wines at their Sundance Ranch, a functioning 22-acre equestrian facility.

I love the new lineup. They originally used winemaker Thomas Rivers Brown, and now utilizes winemaker Sally Johnson Blum to craft its portfolio. Check out the beautiful 2023 ‘Bien Nacido Vineyard’ Chardonnay (OB, 93) which is dense and viscous with plenty of tension. Learn more about these great wines at https://tamberbey.com/ and here are my reviews of the outstanding new Tamber Bey wines.

2023 Tamber Bey ‘Bien Nacido Vineyard’ Chardonnay- The 2023 Tamber Bey ‘Bien Nacido Vineyard’ Chardonnay offers salted hazelnut, brioche and shades of creme brûlée on the nose. The palate is rich and viscous with good viscosity and underlying verve. Heady melon fruits combine with suggestions of roasted pineapple and mango on the palate, giving this an exotic edge. Drink 2026-2033- 93

2023 Tamber Bey ‘Mes Filles Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- Cran-cherry marks the nose alongside freshly tilled soils and rocky nuances. The palate is concentrated and pure with classic cola notes alongside Mandarin orange zest and shades of red licorice. Juicy, vibrant and delicious enjoy this beautiful wine now and over the next decade. Drink 2026-2038- 93

2023 Tamber Bey ‘UV Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- The 2023 Tamber Bey ‘UV Vineyard’ Pinot Noir comes fro this highly windy site in the Russian River Valley. Sassafras, orange peel and ripe strawberry all mark the nose. The palate is soft and elegant with a smooth mouthfeel and good underlying tension. Salty minerals complete this beauty that id best enjoyed over the next decade. Drink 2026-2038- 93

2024 Tamber Bey ‘Burnside Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- The 2024 ‘Burnside Vineyard’ comes from this location in the Russian River Valley. Red cherry and loganberry notes mark the nose alongside shades of lavender. The palate is fresh and mineral-laden with medium-bodied red fruits alongside salty soil accents. Drink 2026-2034- 92

2023 Tamber Bey ‘Beckstoffer Missouri Hopper Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2023 Tamber Bey ‘Beckstoffer Missouri Hopper Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon stands inky in the glass, offering beautiful dark florals alongside tar, tobacco leaf and loamy soils. The palate is a total knockout in terms of flavor density, richness and underlying salty finesse. A stunning wine to enjoy now — the consummate iron fist in a velvet glove — enjoy over the next twenty years. Drink 2026-2046- 97

Woodward Canyon

Today we share the amazing wines of Woodward Canyon — one of Washington’s oldest wineries. For years I have admired these wines as I have tasted at the property for more than 20 years. Rick Small is the original vintner and his children have taken over the business in the past five plus years. For several decades winemaker Kevin Mott has crafted a range of beautiful wines. Taking over in 2003, he made his mark as one of the bright talents of Washington. They have recently hired a new winemaker, Marcus Rafenlli who was formerly head winemaker at L’Ecole No. 41 and made some beautiful wines there.

Check out the stunning 2024 Woodward Canyon Chardonnay (OB, 94) which is lush, concentrated and filled with flavor density. I adore the 2023 Woodward Canyon ‘Estate’ Cabernet Franc (OB, 95) which is an amazing follow-up to the gorgeous 2022. Learn more about these fantastic new wines at woodwardcanyon.com and here are my reviews of the beautiful new wines by Woodward Canyon.

2024 Woodward Canyon ‘Washington State’ Chardonnay- The 2024 ‘Washington State’ Chardonnay is a beautiful new bottling that was stored in a small portion of new French oak before bottling. Rich pear and peach flavors collide with copious minerals on the palate, with vanilla creme brûlée accents. This is totally dazzling stuff that is best enjoyed over the next eight to ten years. Drink 2026-2034- 94

2023 Woodward Canyon ‘Estate Reserve’ Red Wine- The 2023 ‘Estate Reserve’ is mainly Cabernet Sauvignon (59%) with smaller portions Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Petit Verdot and Merlot. This is concentrated and wonderfully finesse- laden. Rich mocha and tar notes combine with bright red and dark fruits, with coffee ground accents on the palate. Seamless and elegant with good length, enjoy now and over the next fifteen plus years. Drink 2026-2041- 95

2023 Woodward Canyon ‘Artist Series #32’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The outstanding 2023 Woodward Canyon ‘Artist Series #32’ Cabernet Sauvignon was stored in a combination of French and Hungarian oak before bottling. It is a rich and viscous rendition, loaded with kirsch and black raspberry flavors that meld well with milk chocolate and fresh sage. A gorgeous rendition, this is already beautifully defined stuff that will deliver drinking enjoyment over the next fifteen years. Drink 2026-2041- 94

2023 Woodward Canyon ‘Estate’ Cabernet Franc- A glorious rendition of this wine, that is both herbal and highly gratifying in terms of flavor density, the 2023 ‘Estate’ cabernet Franc leads with green bell pepper and rabbitbrush notes on the nose alongside suggestions of Linzer torte. Lush and round on the mouth with terrific tension, this glides throughout the drinking experience, offering a generous core of red and dark fruits that parade with espresso grounds and herbal accents. Drink 2026-2042- 95

2023 Woodward Canyon ‘Old Vines’ Cabernet Sauvignon- Another stunning edition, the 2023 ‘Old Vines’ is a hedonistic and massive bottling that needs about 1-2 hours in the decanter before enjoying. Once aroused, this offers violet rose petals, scorched earth and wintergreen notes on the nose alongside heady dark fruits. The pallets is plush and refined with a sinfully good mouthfeel and bright underlying acidity. Glorious in its heady youth, watch this beauty evolve over the next two decades. Drink 2026-2046- 96

En Garde

Today we share the beautiful wines of En Garde. This brand produces a beautiful range of wines from Sonoma Pinot to Napa Cabernet and even Petite Sirah. Founder and winemaker Csaba Szakál grew up on his family’s vineyards, learning winemaking and viticulture from family. He spent his summers helping tend the vineyards and quickly learned the value of working hard to achieve a goal. I have really enjoyed the Pinots by En Garde since I first tasted them several years back. The wines are really delicious across the board.

He noted that he really enjoys the 2023 wines. “They have such an elegance” he said. “Might remind me of 2009, which was similar in elegance. More on the delicate side” he said. He found the vintage to be stressful “Because of the lack of heat. Pinots were lagging and were harvested a month later than normal. Cabs, we harvested them later but not as late comparatively. We got super lucky with the weather at the end if a big rain would have been devastating.”

I found the 2023 En Garde ‘Touche Reserve’ Cabernet Sauvignon (OB, 95) to be a stunning, complex Cabernet that speaks beautifully to this warm vintage. Similarly good, the 2023 ‘Pleasant Hill’ Pinot Noir (OB, 94) is dense and complex stuff that has beautiful terroir character in the salty soil accents. Learn more about these fantastic wines at https://www.engardewinery.com/ and here are my reviews of the new En Garde wines.

2023 En Garde ‘Napa Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2023 ‘Napa Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon has a large portion of Merlot (15%) blended in, along with 5% Cabernet Franc. Beautiful red florals mark the nose with black tea, exotic spice and shades of dark chocolate shavings. The palate is well-structured and medium-bodied with kirsch and red currants and alongside rocky and loamy soils. Drink 2026-2038- 92

2023 En Garde ‘Grand Vin’ Red Wine- The really good 2023‘Grand Vin’ is mostly Merlot (67%) with smaller portions Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and a touch of Petit Verdot. Great red and dark florals mark the nose alongside tar and damp earth with bay leaf notes. The palate is soft and elegant with a seamless mouthfeel and is already drinking beautifully. Drink 2026-2042- 94

2023 En Garde ‘Cavedale Crest Reserve’ Cabernet Sauvignon- Sourced from a location high atop Mt. Veeder, the 2023 ‘Cavedale Crest’ has a small amount of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot blended in. Stored in 50% new French oak barrels, this opens with violets, tar and volcanic soils. The palate is soft and refined with good concentration, as this glides throughout the drinking experience. Very pure and elegant, enjoy now and over the next fifteen plus years. Drink 2026-2042- 94

2023 En Garde ‘Hendrickson Vineyard Reserve’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2022 En Garde ‘Hendrickson Vineyard Reserve’ Cabernet Sauvignon comes from this location high atop Atlas Peak. This has a small amount of Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc blended in, as this opens with orange bell pepper, wild blackberry and dark currants that all meld in the glass. The palate is smooth and viscous with medium-bodied dark fruits, refined tannins, excellent tension and salty nuances on the palate. Drink 2026-2042- 94

2023 En Garde ‘Le Bijou du Reserve’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The brilliant 2023 En Garde ‘Le Bijou du Reserve’ Cabernet Sauvignon comes from the Sori Bricco Vineyard in the Diamond Mountain District. En Garde began making this wine in 2011. This was stored in 80% new French oak barrels before bottling and begins with aromatics of purple flowers, green herbs, creme de cassis and shades of black licorice. The palate is rich and polished with serious finesse and length. This is glorious stuff that is seamless throughout the drinking experience. Drink 2026-2046- 96

2023 En Garde ‘Touche Reserve’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2023 ‘Touche Reserve’ comes mainly from the Diamond Mountain District and was stored in all new French oak prior to bottling. This is a barrel selection wine that stands out for the vintage. Cedar, anise and black currants mark the nose alongside purple rose petals. The palate is viscous and concentrated with serious verve and richness. A gorgeous, elegant bottling, with plenty of power and underlying finesse, enjoy now and over the next twenty years to come. Drink 2026-2046- 96

Willamette Valley Vineyards

Today we share one of the historic wineries in Oregon. Willamette Valley Vineyards founder, Jim Bernau, bought the estate back in 1983 and planted Pinot Noir (Pommard and Wadenswil clones), Chardonnay (Dijon and Espiguette) as well as Pinot Gris. He studied winemaking at UC Davis and then made his winery full time back in 1989. Willamette Valley Vineyards has grown considerably in the past 20 years, as they merged with Bill Fuller of Tualatin Vineyards (established in 1973), the O'Briens for Elton Vineyard (established in 1983) and Loeza Vineyard (planted in 2015). They make a fabulous range of wines.

They have a great bubbles house, Domaine Willamette. Check out the new 2022 ‘Blanc de Noirs’ (OB, 92) which is round and dense with plenty of flavor range.  I love the new 2024 Willamette Valley Vineyards Pinot Gris (OB, 92) which is loaded with stuffing and nerve. Here are the new releases from Willamette Valley Vineyards and learn more at http://wvv.com

2024 Willamettte Valley Vineyards Pinot Gris- Loaded with both stuffing and nerve, the outstanding 2024 Willamette Valley Vineyards Pinot Gris starts off with honeysuckle water, lychee and nutty nuances on the nose. The palate is big and round on the tongue with a generous mouthfeel and plenty of citrus and melon fruit flavors. This is really well-done stuff that will cellar for at least another five years. Drink 2026-2031- 92

2022 Domaine Willaette ‘Blanc de Noirs’ Sparkling Wine- The 2022 Domaine Willaette ‘Blanc de Noirs’ Sparkling Wine spent more than 30 months en tirage prior to disgorgement. It is finesse-laden stuff that is already neatly evolved. Cashew nut flavors collide with honeydew melon and shades of juicy peach on the palate. 100% Pinot Noir and very well-done. Drink 2026-2035- 92

2022 Domaine Willamette ‘Blanc de Blancs’ Sparkling Wine- The 2022 ‘Blanc de Blancs’ is all estate Chardonnay that was aged on the lees for 30 months before disgorgement. This is loaded wth astringency and nerve, with rich lemon and Key lime fruits that combine with salted hazelnut and sourdough bread notes, with wafts of ginger. Gorgeous now, enjoy this saline-laden sparkling wine over the next eight plus years. Drink 2026-2034- 93

2017 Domaine Willamette ‘Extended Tirage’ Sparkling Wine- The outstanding 2017 Domaine Willamette ‘Extended Tirage’ Sparkling Wine is made from estate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes that were aged on the lees for seven years. This is a mature, complex sparkling wine that is really peaking right now. Golden in the glass, this shows off heady green melon and kiwi flavors that collide with Japanese pear and cardamom laced pastry crust on the palate. Fabulous now, enjoy over the next decade. Drink 2026-2036- 94

2022 Willamette Valley Vineyards ‘Elton’ Pinot Noir- The 2022 ‘Elton’ comes from the Eola-Amity Hills AVA and utilizes Pinot Noir vines from both Jory volcanic soils. It comes off nicely rocky and polished on the mouth, with a smooth texture. Vibrant red cherry and pomegranate seed flavors combine with Mandarin orange zest and rocky soil nuances on the palate. Enjoy this beauty over the next ten plus years. Drink 2026-2038- 93

Jachter

Today we share the great wines of Dave Jachter who owned and operated several successful car dealerships in Oregon. Over decades, Dave cultivated a passion for wine, and a cellar to match. After selling his dealerships Dave has travelled to France, Italy, and California wine regions, and tasted wines from around the world.  He studied at UC Davis, completing a variety of viticultural courses as he and his wife, Karen, purchased 120 acres in the Chehalem Mountains AVA in the heart of the Willamette Valley.

I love the new 2023 Jachter ‘The J. Reserve’ Chardonnay (OB, 93) which shows off the richness of the ’23 vintage.  Learn more about this exciting new Oregon house at https://www.jachterwine.com and here are my reviews of the new Jachter wines.

2023 Jachter ‘Estate Chehalem Mountains’ Chardonnay- The 2023 ‘Estate Chehalem Mountains’ Chardonnay comes up soft and mineral-laden with juicy pear and nectarine flavors alongside kiwi and wet stony accents. Drink 2026-2032- 92

2023 Jachter ‘The J. Reserve’ Chardonnay- The 2023 ‘The J. Reserve’ is a barrel selection wine that was stored in a portion of new French oak before bottling.It comes off slighter richer than the ‘Estate’ with lemon oil and pineapple flavors that parade with baking spice laced pastry crust on the palate. Seriously good, enjoy over the next ten years. Drink 2026-2036- 93

2023 Jachter ‘Estate’ Pinot Noir- This 2023 ‘Estate’ Pinot Noir comes from this location in the Chehalem Mountains AVA. This is rich and powerful Pinot Noir, loaded with orange peel notes alongside bergamot, pomegranate seed and tart red cherry notes. Loaded with flavor, enjoy now and over the next six plus years. Drink 2026-2034- 92

2023 Jachter ‘Cuvee Karen Ann’ Pinot Noir- The 2023 ‘Cuvee Karen Ann’ come from Wadenswil and Pommard clone Pinot Noir grapes. It is ripe and rich, showing beautiful red florals on the nose. The palate is loaded with bright red fruits with shades of kumquat rind and salty soil nuances. Drink 2026-2034- 92

2021 Jachter ‘Block 15 Estate’ Pinot Noir- The 2023 ‘Block 15 Estate’ Pinot Noir comes from 5 different clones from their estate property. It comes off with good earthy elegance as wafts of black truffle shavings fill the nose alongside peat moss and boysenberry compote. The palate is rich and fleshy with a refined mouthfeel and good sense of richness from this warm vintage. Drink 2026-2038- 93

Charles Heidseick

An amazing story in wine, Charles Heidsieck (1822–1893) was a 19th-century French founder of his namesake champagne house in 1851. He played a large role in popularizing champagne in the United States. Over time he earned the nickname "Champagne Charlie". He was imprisoned as a spy during the Civil War, and even nearly went bankrupt.

His story lives on with the wines today that are really well-made. Emilien Erard serves as Chef de Caves for Charles Heidseick, taking over for succeeding Elise Losfelt in July 2025. Erard has been with the House since 2018.

The new wines were fabulous. I really enjoyed the NV Charles Heidseick ‘Rose Reserve’ Champange (OB, 93) which is wonderfully earthy and has a good amount of reserve wines blended in. Learn more at https://charlesheidsieck.com/en  and here are my reviews of the new Charles Heidseick wines.

NV Charles Heidseick ‘Rose Reserve’ Champagne- The outstanding NV ‘Rose Reserve’ is a marvelous juxtaposition between ripe red fruits and earthy nuances. Aged on the lees for roughly 3.5 years, reserve wines make up 35% of the wine, with an average age of 5 years. Salted walnut and wild mushroom tones combine with salmonberry and pomedrade seed flavors on the palate. A joy to drink now, enjoy over the next eight plus years. Drink 2026-2034- 93

NV Charles Heidseick ‘Brut Reserve’ Champagne- The NV ‘Brut Reserve’ shows candied ginger and white flowers on the nose with honeydew melon notes. The palate has nice nutty nuances with a fat mouthfeel and good viscosity. Enjoy now and over the next few years. Drink 2026-2031- 91

NV Charles Heidseick ‘Blanc de Blancs’ Champagne- The NV ‘Blanc de Blancs’ is all Chardonnay coming from mainly the Côte des Blancs. It has 25% reserve wines blended in with an average age of 5 years. Immediately gratifying, this comes off mineral-laden and round on the tongue, with sea salt dusted pastry crust alongside dense melon and lemon fruits. Medium-bodied with plenty of nerve, enjoy now and over the next eight plus years. Drink 2026-2034- 93

Domaine Serene

It is my pleasure to share one of the jewels of the Dundee Hills, founded by Ken and Grace Evenstad. It was many decades back that they planted their vines on ancient volcanic soils. Domaine Serene is one of Oregon’s most beautiful wineries. It is a magical place to visit with sweeping views of the valley and a really attentive staff that know Oregon wine and can help guide you through your tasting.

Michael Fay remains vice president of winemaking and winemaker Carl Formaker continue to make world-class wines at Domaine Serene.   I love the new 2023 Domaine Serene ‘Clos de Lune’ Chardonnay (OB, 96) which mineral-laden and stony. Check out the stunning 2023 Domaine Serene ‘Coeur Blanc’ White Pinot Noir (OB, 96) which is amongst the finest white Pinots you will taste in the United States. Learn more about this famed Oregon estate at http://domaineserene.com/ Here are the incredible new release wines by Domaine Serene.

2023 Domaine Serene ‘Clos de Lune’ Chardonnay- The stunning 2023 Domaine Serene ‘Clos de Lune’ Chardonnay comes from this location in the Winery Hill Estate in the Dundee Hills, planted in Jory soils with gentle south- and west-facing slopes. This is rich, viscous and highly nervy stuff showing orange blossom and star jasmine tones on the nose with poached pear and buttered sourdough bread. The palate is laden with minerality, with great stony undercurrents. A joy to consume now, watch this evolve over the next ten plus years to come. Drink 2026-2037- 96

2023 Domaine Serene ‘Etoile’ Chardonnay- The 2023 ‘Etoile’ comes from this dry-farmed, three-acre vineyard that ranges from 800 to 825 feet in elevation. This site is panted to Dijon clones in Jory soil, as this opens with creme brûlée and suggestions of baking spice laced pie crust on the palate with apricot notes and wet rock accents. Delicious, with terrific flavor density and finesse, enjoy this beautiful wine now and over the next ten plus years to come. Drink 2026-2037- 96

2023 Domaine Serene ‘Coeur Blanc’ White Pinot Noir- Truly one of the great wines of its kind, the 2023 ‘Coeur Blanc’ is a dense and layered white Pinot Noir by vice president of winemaking Michael Fay and winemaker Carl Formaker. Golden in the glass, this exudes class with white raisin, salted cashew nut and marzipan notes on the nose with wafts of wild strawberry. The palate is rich and viscous with a tremendous combination of flavor density and underlying salty minerality. A complete wine, this is drinking remarkably well at the three year mark. Enjoy over the next fifteen years. . . but why wait? Drink 2026-2041- 96

2022 Domaine Serene ‘Evenstad Reserve’ Pinot Noir- A knockout wine from a slightly cooler vintage, the 2022 Domaine Serene ‘Evenstad Reserve’ Pinot Noir was stored for 15 months in mainly natural French oak barrels before bottling. This has great concentration and purity of red fruits on the palate, as it comes off packed full of bright pomegranate seed, strawberry and red raspberry flavors, with lavender and loads of rocky soil character. Medium to full-bodied, with a refined mouthfeel, enjoy this sturdy Dundee Hills Pinot Noir now and over the next ten to fifteen years. Drink 2026-2041- 95

2022 Domaine Serene ‘Triple Crown’ Pinot Noir- The dazzling 2022 ‘Triple Crown’ Pinot Noir was sourced from this dry-farmed site in the Dundee Hills, set on rocky soils. Smoldering stones and Umami notes mark the nose with a dash of white pepper and great melange of red and dark fruits. The palate is lifted and refined with terrific verve and texture. Gorgeous and generous stuff to enjoy now, watch this evolve over the next fifteen plus years. Drink 2026-2041- 96

2022 Domaine Serene ‘Fleur de Lis’ Pinot Noir- The 2022 ‘Fleur de Lis’ comes from this rocky location atop the Dundee Hills AVA. Red rose petals mark the nose alongside exotic spices, white pepper and shades of cardamom dusted loganberry. The palate is fresh and viscous with terrific texture and juicy red fruits. Enjoy this beauty now and over the next ten to fifteen years. Drink 2026-2041- 95

2022 Domaine Serene ‘Gold Eagle’ Pinot Noir- The 2022 ‘Gold Eagle’ was stored for 17 months in mainly new French oak barrels before bottling. Translucent in the glass, this offers rich red fruits with blood orange zest on the nose alongside baking spices and hints of Earl Grey tea. The palate is rich and fat on the tongue, with terrific depth and tension. A gorgeous wine even in its bright youth, watch this evolve over the next fifteen plus years. Drink 2026-2041- 96

2022 Domaine Serene ‘Mark Bradford’ Pinot Noir- Named after Ken and Grace Evenstad’s son, the 2022 ‘Mark Bradford’ stands unusually translucent in the glass — as this can be many times one of the most brooding in Serene’s Pinot Noir lineup. Bright red rose petals fill the nose alongside toasted walnut, white pepper dusted red fruits and flinty undercurrents. The palate is powerful, delivering an ultra-pure red fruit core with loads of mouthwatering acidity. It is a total gem of a wine that already is neatly evolved now at the four year mark. Drink 2026-2046- 98

2022 Domaine Serene ‘Aspect’ Pinot Noir- The otherworldly 2022 ‘Aspect’ was sourced from the Mark Bradford, Grace, and Côte Sud vineyards in the Domaine Serene estate, all set on Jory soils. For my palate, this is the finest ‘Aspect’ yet produced. Akin to the ‘Mark Bradford’ this edition of ‘Aspect’ carries a considerably lighter color than normal. Seamlessly textured on the mid-palate, a sensational melange of red and black fruits greet you alongside orange peel, bergamot and forest floor notes, with rocky soils. It is a stunning rendition of this wine that is typically very black fruit-driven. Very broad-shouldered and heady, enjoy now and over the next twenty years to come. Drink 2026-2046- 98

2022 Domaine Serene ‘Grand Cheval’ Red Wine- A blend of mainly Syrah (74%) from the Walla Walla Valley, with the remainder Pinot Noir from the Dundee Hills, this one of a kind wine is absolutely singing right now. This comes off quite Syrah-driven on the nose with bacon fat and white pepper dusted smoked meats alongside dark currants and tobacco leaf. The palate is fresh, viscous and a total stunner. Rich dark fruits parade with graphite, peat moss and creosote tones. Already drinking marvelously, enjoy over the next ten plus years. Drink 2026-2038- 95

Westborn

Today we share a new winery that has really hit the ground running. Westborn is a collaboration between winemakers Russell Bevan, Weston Eidson, and Nathan Reeves. It focuses on traditional method sparkling wines from exclusive vineyards in Sonoma, Napa, and Mendocino. They are sourcing from top sites such as Ritchie, Gap’s Crown and Durell.

It isn’t everyday I am sent wines from a new winery and gush over them. You just can’t go wrong with these new releases. Westborn is a project with serious promise and I am very excited to see how this brand continues to develop. I loved the new lineup, especially the 2018 ‘Brut’ (OB, 95) which is rich and robust with great maturity. Learn more at https://www.westbornwine.com and here are my reviews of the new Westborn releases.

NV.01 Westborn ‘Perpetual Reserve’ Sparkling Wine- The NV.01 Westborn ‘Perpetual Reserve’ Sparkling Wine comes from half the 2020 vintage and the rest from the perpetual reserve. This comes off clean, offering oyster shell and green papaya flavors that meld well with tart citrus and melon fruits on the palate. Soft on the mouth and very nervy, enjoy now and over the next eight plus years. Drink 2026-2043- 92

NV.02 Westborn ‘Perpetual Reserve’ Sparkling Wine- The NV.02 Westborn ‘Perpetual Reserve’ Sparkling Wine is a blend of near equal parts Pinot Noir and Chardonnay with 7% Pinot Meunier. Stored on the less for 38 months, this was given 6G/L dosage and was disgorged in July 2025. This shows off a soft mousse with beautiful tension. Bright citrus fruits parade with sea salt dusted French bread on the palate, with kiwi and ginger nuances. This is really good stuff that is already nicely evolved. Drink 2026-2034- 92

2018 Westborn ‘Brut’ Sparkling Wine- The best wine of the tasting, the 2018 ‘Brut’ combines 65% Pinot Noir with the remainder Chardonnay coming from a range of sites including Durell, Ritchie and Silver Eagle Vineyards. Given 5G/L dosage, this was stored on the lees for 74 months before disgorgement. Golden in the glass, this delivers damp rock, bergamot and shades of Japanese pear on the nose. The palate has really come together nicely, as this has excellent maturity but also good freshness alongside its silky mousse and salty character. Generous and broad-shouldered, enjoy now and over the next ten plus years. Drink 2026-2038- 95

2019 Westborn ‘Brut’ Sparkling Wine- The 2019 ‘Brut’ is a blend of 59% Pinot Noir with the remainder Chardonnay. It was stored on the lees for 52 months before disgorgement and given only 2G/L dosage. The resultant wine comes off nervy, with plenty of diatomaceous earth character. Salted brioche and shortbread flavors combine with Key limes and cantaloupe notes. Medium-bodied with a soft mousse, enjoy now and over the next ten years. Drink 2026-2036- 93

2019 Westborn ‘Rose’ Sparkling Wine- The 2019 ‘Rose’ is all Pinot Noir that was stored on the lees for 52 months before disgorgement. Sourced from the Gap’s Crown, Ferrington and Silver Eagle Vineyards, this opens with an evocative bouquet of orange blossom and shades of red currants alongside salted sourdough bread that all take shape in the glass. The palate is very heady and intense with great structure and nuanced red fruits. This is delightful Rose sparkling wine that still has a long life head of it. Drink 2026-2038- 94

2019 Westborn ‘Blanc de Blancs’ Sparkling Wine- The 2019 Westborn ‘Blanc de Blancs’ Sparkling Wine comes from the Ritchie, Silver Eagle and Manchester Ridge Vineyards. The wine was stored on the lees for 64 months before disgorgement. Salted peach and cashew nut fill the nose alongside baking spice laced pastry crust. The palate comes off fat and rich with great depth and tension, loaded with diatom character. A joy to consume now, enjoy over the next ten to fifteen years to come. Drink 2026-2036- 93

Chateau de Beaucastel

It is my great pleasure to share the wines of famed Chateau de Beaucastel.  Situated in the Southern Rhone region of France, Chateauneuf du Pape was first mentioned in 11th century historical records. The town of Avignon, in this region, was the previous site of the papacy, following a Roman invasion. Bertrand de Got, archbishop of Bordeaux, was elected pope in 1305, and took the name of Clement V. He transferred the papacy from Rome to Avignon in 1309. The register of pontifical letters reveals that Clement V visited Châteauneuf on several occasions, sometimes for long periods.

There is historical evidence that red wine existed prior to the arrival of the papacy but there are no historical records of wine growing in this region prior to this time. Most of the wines during that time were consumed within a year. In 1923, the local wine producers led by the lawyer Pierre Le Roy de Boiseaumarié started a campaign to establish legal protection for the wine from the commune. The wine classified as Châteauneuf-du-Pape Appellation d'origine contrôlée (AOC) is produced from grapes grown in the commune of Châteauneuf-du-Pape as well as in portions of the four nearby communes in the Vaucluse department. The vineyards cover an area of approximately 3,200 hectares.

Clearly one of the famed houses in Chateauneuf du Pape, Chateau de Beaucastel was named after the Beaucastel family which lived in this region in the 16th century. Records show a Pierre de Beaucastel buying a barn and some associated land at Coudoulet in 1549, and this land is still part of Château de Beaucastel's holdings. In the 19th century, when the Phylloxera epidemic struck the region, the owner decided not to replant the vineyards but rather to sell the property. In 1909, it was bought by Pierre Tramier, and the vineyards were rebuilt under his ownership. After him, his son-in-law Pierre Perrin took over management and expanded Château de Beaucastel's vineyard holdings considerably. The house has belonged to the famed Perrin family for many years.

I have been enamored by these wines for more than 20 years. I had the chance to taste a very special wine that is only made in select years. The 2022 Chateau de Beaucastel ‘Hommage Jacques Perrin’ Chateauneuf du Pape (OB, 100) is a perfect wine that has tremendous power and poise. It really needs a year or two in the cellar before consuming.  Learn more about Chateau de Beaucastel at http://www.beaucastel.com/en/ Here are the fantastic 2022 Chateau de Beaucastel ‘Homage Jacques Perrin’ review.

2022 Chateau de Beaucastel ‘Hommage Jacques Perrin’ Chateauneuf du Pape- A mesmerizing Chateauneuf only made in select vintages, the 2022 Chateau de Beaucastel ‘Hommage Jacques Perrin’ Chateauneuf du Pape is an otherworldly bottling that really needs several hours of air if enjoying now. Candied red fruits parade with citrus rind, rocky soils and red licorice notes on the nose. The palate is opulent and intense with layers of bacon fat, anise and a generous melange of red and dark fruits. The stony essence here is stunning, as it presents a flinty tension that runs through the veins of this beauty. Finishing with great length, this is a perfect wine from this warm vintage. Try to give this at least another year in the cellar. Drink 2027-2046- 100

Marques de Caceres

Its s my pleasure to share an outstanding house in Rioja that is readily available throughout the United States. Marques de Caceres has made their name by providing beautiful value-driven Rioja wines since the 1990s. I have long admired their Reserva and Gran Reserva and was so impressed with how they age. I had a great visit to their location in Rioja which offers a marvelous tour. Located in the Rioja Alta region, In 1970 Enrique Forner founded the winery which was an alliance between the the Cenicero region in the La Rioja Alta. This family had been focused on the wine trade for five generations, sourcing from some of the great growers and vineyards in the region in a Bordeaux like concept.

Cristina Forner is the fourth generation owner of this wine family. They produce a great Grand Reserva, but their Reserva is also consistently good and commands a lower price tag. Check out the terrific value 2020 Marques de Caceres ‘Gran Reserva Vendima Seleccionada’ Rioja (OB, 95) which is one of the finest wines I have ever had from this house. This is pure, concatenated and beautifully structured Rioja. Learn more about these special Rioja wines at https://www.marquesdecaceres.com Here are the beautiful new wines by Marques de Caceres.

2019 Marques de Caceres ‘Gran Reserva Vendima Seleccionada’ Rioja- The dazzling 2019 Marques de Caceres ‘Gran Reserva Vendima Seleccionada’ Rioja is a concentrated and powerful wine from this warm vintage. Once on the nose this takes on roasted figs alongside molten chocolate, anise and cedar notes. The palate is viscous and fresh with terrific tension and salty minerality. A totally gorgeous bottling, enjoy now and over the next twenty years to come. Drink 2026-2046- 95

Frescobaldi

Today we share the story of the Frescobaldi family, whose Tuscany heritage dates back seven hundred years, beginning in the early 1300s. Their impact in Florence was built upon controlling key guilds, notably the Arte della Lana (wool guild), the Arte di Calimala (guild of foreign cloth merchants and finishers), and the Cambio (money exchange).

The Frescobaldi family began producing Tuscan wine in 1308 and quickly established an esteemed clientele. An intriguing historical detail from 1308 includes a documented exchange where Michelangelo Buonarroti traded his artwork for Frescobaldi wine. Additionally, the Frescobaldis supplied wine to King Henry VIII of England; surviving contracts in the family archives bear the English king's signature.

Lamberto Frescobaldi is now the 30th generation at the helm. In 2016, he was elected Vice President of Unione Italiana Vini, Italy's leading federation of winemakers, becoming its President in 2022. His house produces a range of wines including Brunello di Montalciino and Chianti Classico. I really enjoyed these wines, particularly the 2020 Frescobaldi ‘Castel Giocondo’ Brunello di Montalcino (OB, 93) which is a warm vintage Brunello that is drinking marvelously right now. Learn more about this storied house at https://www.frescobaldi.com/en/history and here are my reviews on the new Frescobaldi wines.

2020 Frescobaldi ‘Castel Giocondo’ Brunello di Montalcino- The outstanding 2020 Frescobaldi ‘Castel Giocondo’ Brunello di Montalcino is a great showing now at the six year mark. Once on the nose this takes on layers of thyme and red currants that mingle well with clay soils and shades of red licorice. The palate is ripe and rich with a terrific mouthfeel and wonderful concentration of dense red fruits. Drink 2026-2038- 93

2019 Frescobaldi ‘Ripe Al Convento’ Brunello di Montalcino Riserva- The 2019 Frescobaldi ‘Ripe Al Convento’ Brunello di Montalcino Riserva shows off sandalwood and exotic spice aromatics that parade with rich red and dark fruits with shades of mocha. The palate is rich and viscous with a dense mouthfeel and great concentration of fig, kirsch and red currant flavors that mingle well with copious stony minerals on the palate. Drink 2026-2043- 94

2024 Frescobaldi Castiglioni Chianti- This 2024 Chianti offers red florals that combine with tart red fruits on the nose. The palate is soft and inviting with good minerality. Drink 2026-2031- 89

2021 Frescobaldi ‘Castello Nipozzano’ Chianti Rufina- The 2022 ‘Castello Nipozzano’ Chianti Rufina offers wild mushrooms, dried herbs and tart red fruits that collide with shades of coffee grounds on the palate. Nicely-textured, with great freshness, enjoy over the next six plus years. Drink 2026-2032- 91

2021 Frescobaldi ‘Tenuta Perano’ Chianti Classico Riserva- The really good 2021 Frescobaldi ‘Tenuta Perano’ Chianti Classico Riserva offers roasted figs and milk chocolate on the nose alongside suggestions of dark florals. The palate is velvety and soft with terrific grip and refinement. A stunning ‘Riserva’ this is already nicely evolved from this warm vintage. Drink 2026-2038- 93

Doubleback

Today we share the amazing journey of Doubleback, one of the jewels of the Walla Walla Valley. Doubleback was founded by NFL legend, Drew Bledsoe and his wife, Maura. The story completes itself as Drew circled back following his brilliant NFL career. Growing up in Walla Walla, Drew was a star at Walla Walla High School before his illustrious tenure at Washington State University. For many years Drew had visions of starting his own winery for many years and going back to Walla Walla was the perfect choice for him. During his years in the NFL he continued to expand his palate, trying various wines of the world. He knew there was something special about this region. It was back in 2007 that Drew returned to Walla Walla to plant his estate vineyard, McQueen on the southern end of the Walla Walla Valley AVA.

In 2008 that Bledsoe began focusing on using top estate fruit to make Cabernet Sauvignon from the Walla Walla Valley. He needed a top class winemaker and connected with childhood friend and superstar winemaker, Chris Figgins, of Leonetti Cellar, who served as consulting winemaker until Josh McDaniels assumed the role in 2015. Josh is one of the great people you will meet in Washington wine. He is one of the great winemaking talents on the west coast.

I adored the 2023 Doubleback Cabernet Sauvignon (OB, 97) which needs at least an hour in the decanter before enjoying now. It is rich and viscous stuff with amazing floral character. Learn more about these beautiful wines at http://www.doubleback.com/ and here are my reviews of the gorgeous new 2026 spring release wines by Doubleback.

2023 Doubleback Cabernet Sauvignon- A stunning wine from this warm vintage, the 2023 Doubleback comes from both the McQueen, Schafer and LeFore vineyards. A touch of Malbec was blended in, as this really needs about 1-2 hours of air before enjoying. Once aroused, this is a total beauty. Gorgeous black rose petals fill the nose alongside Arabica bean, creme de violette and tar notes that combine with heady dark fruits. The palate is plush and seamless with great underlying tension and refined tannins that slowly dissipate with more air. Dense and hedonistic to enjoy now, this has another twenty years in front of it. This is not a pop and pour, so be sure to give this at least an hour or two of air if enjoying now. Drink 2026-2046- 97

2023 Doubleback ‘Estate Reserve’ Red Wine- Not for the faint at heart, the world-class 2023 ‘Estate Reserve’ Red Wine has small portions of Malbec and Petit Verdot blended in.  It comes from the McQueen, Lefore and Schaefer vineyards in the Walla Walla Valley. This is also needing 1-2 hours in the decanter before being fully aroused. Purple and black florals combine with creme de cassis, Turkish coffee, scorched earth and faint green herbal accents all line the nose. The palate is powerful, nervy and tannic with serious structure and weight. A stunning melange of black and blue fruits greet you, as this comes off soft and refined on the mouth, with excellent length. Jet black in the glass, this has plenty of non-fruit character with graphite, rocky soils and cedar accents. Still shedding some of its baby fat, give this at least another year in the bottle to fully evolve. Drink 2027-2050- 99

Rhys Vineyards

Today we share an outstanding California producer of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Rhys Vineyards produces from some extreme vineyard sites that has slopes which range up to a 40% grade. This is extreme farming.

Rhys Vineyards founder, Kevin Harvey, had a successful software career prior to stating his winery. He began planting Pinot Noir in his backyard near the Santa Cruz Mountains AVA and has had his first vintage in 2004. The new release wines by Rhys from the slightly cooler 2023 vintage. They are not quite the level of their single vineyards but are completely outstanding, with a beginning, middle and an end.

I love the new 2023 ‘Santa Cruz Mountains’ Chardonnay (OB, 93) which has great salty character and excellent viscosity. Learn more about this incredible new lineup of wines at https://rhysvineyards.com Here are the exciting new wines by Rhys Vineyards

2023 Rhys Vineyards ‘Santa Cruz Mountains’ Chardonnay- Salty and delicious, the 2023 Rhys Vineyards ‘Santa Cruz Mountains’ shows excellent flavor density and viscosity. Lifted orange blossom water combines with pear and mango flavors alongside salty minerals on the palate. A joy to drink now, enjoy over the next eight years. Drink 2026-2034- 93

2023 Rhys Vineyards ‘Anderson Valley’ Chardonnay- The delicious 2023 Rhys Vineyards ‘Anderson Valley’ Chardonnay offers damp earth and buttered French bread flavors on the palate, alongside rich melon and citrus fruits. Medium to full-bodied with excellent length, enjoy now and over the next eight plus years. Drink 2026-2034- 93

2023 Rhys Vineyards ‘Santa Cruz Mountains’ Pinot Noir- The really good 2023 Rhys Vineyards ‘Santa Cruz Mountains’ Pinot Noir takes on red currants and red rose petal aromatics that parade with volcanic rock and shades of red licorice. The palate is fresh and lithe with a polished texture. Drink 2026-2034- 92

2023 Rhys Vineyards ‘Anderson Valley’ Pinot Noir - Another outstanding bottling from Rhys, their 2023 ‘Anderson Valley’ Pinot Noir shows off forest floor and hints of wild mushroom on the nose with red and dark florals alongside ripe fig. The palate is medium-bodied and fresh with great earthy character. Drink 2026-2034- 92

Starmont

I always love wines that exude value. The Starmont brand began back 25 years ago and has grown in a great value brand out of Napa. Winemaker Winemaker, Jeff Crawford crafts these wines with minimal oak intervention. Grapes are sourced from select sites including Monterey, Santa Barbara, Sonoma and Napa counties.

I really enjoyed these values. Check out the 2024 Starmont Sauvignon Blanc (OB, 90) which is fresh and neatly textured stuff. Learn more at https://www.starmontwines.com and here are my reviews of the Starmont wines.

2024 Starmont Sauvignon Blanc- The really good 2024 Starmont Sauvignon Blanc offers pear and kiwi flavors with brisk acidity. Light to medium-bodied with a smooth mouthfeel, enjoy now. Drink 2026-2030- 90

2023 Starmont Chardonnay- Mainly sourced from Napa, the 2023 Starmont Chardonnay delivers peaches and salty minerals alongside pastry crust notes. Light to medium-bodied, enjoy now. Drink 2026-2030- 90

2023 Starmont Pinot Noir- The 2023 Starmont Pinot Noir offers delicate and salty red fruits with damp earth notes on the palate. A bit lean, enjoy now. Drink 2026-2030- 88

2023 Starmont Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2023 Starmont Cabernet Sauvignon shows off chocolate, blackberry and coffee notes on the plate with a smooth mouthfeel. Delicious, enjoy now and over the next several years. Drink 2026-2030- 90

BACA

Today we share the beautiful wines of BACA. BACA Wines focuses on high quality Zinfandel wines, soured from some of California’s most esteemed Zinfandel sites including some locations planted in the 1920s. The range of Zinfandel is really fun to taste, as the lineup reveals serious range from more restrained, acid-driven styles to rich and jammier renditions. All of the wines are splendid and beautifully showcase the terroir and climate that they are sourced from.

I love the new 2024 BACA ‘Tug O’ War’ Zinfandel (OB, 93) which is a dense and chewy wine with serious richness. Learn more about this great project at bacawines.com and here are my reviews of the new BACA wines.

2024 BACA ‘Home Base’ Zinfandel- The 2024 ‘Home Base’ offers dill and white pepper alongside boysenberry compote. The palate is concentrated and fleshy with terrific mouthfeel and bright acidity, with orange zest notes. This is drinking beautifully now. Drink 2025-2032- 93

2024 BACA ‘Tug O’ War’ Zinfandel- Sourced from the Maffei Vineyard, this 2024 Zinfandel offers dense dark fruits with chocolate and tobacco leaf aromatics. The plate has great flavor density with loads of dark fruits and Black Forest cake notes alongside good tension and salty nuances. Drink 2025-2032- 93