Dear Friends,
I want to offer my warmest holiday greetings from Washington Wine Blog. We are very humbled by your support and following. 2019 has marked an exciting and fruitful year at Washington Wine Blog, as I spent my fifth year as senior editor at International Wine Report, reviewing wines for them primarily from Washington, Oregon and California. Our WWB editors, Dr. Stephen Lee and Dr. Jae Hong, continue to contribute Washington wine reviews, editing and consulting. Over the past year we have contributed hundreds of articles that focus on Washington, Oregon and California wine and wineries. We held our second annual Washington Wine Blog Critic’s Choice of Washington event in February 2019, which featured some of the Washington's best wineries including Cayuse Vineyards, Reynvaan, Quilceda Creek and many more at the beautiful Columbia Tower Club in downtown Seattle. I would love to see you all at our next spectacular event, the third Annual Washington Wine Blog Critic’s Choice of Washington event which will be held Saturday February 15th and our tickets will be on sale shortly.
I have had the great pleasure and challenge of selecting 100 exceptional domestic wines to comprise my Top 100 for 2019. For our 2019 Top 100 we include some good value wine selections, as well as many collectable wines.
This year left me no doubt what wine I should choose for our Washington Wine Blog #1 wine of 2019. Superstar vigneron Christophe Baron produced a dazzling range of wines in 2016. At the high table sits his 2016 Cayuse Vineyards ‘God Only Knows’ Red Wine which is not only amongst the best Grenache wines made in North America, but the world, itself. This scintillating effort is a must for any serious collector of Pacific Northwest wines. I want to offer my deepest thanks for all of your support of Washington Wine Blog. I want to wish you all the absolute best during this holiday season and as we usher in the new decade I hope 2020 brings you all great joy and prosperity, with beautiful wines in your glass.
1) 2016 Cayuse Vineyards ‘God Only Knows’ Red Wine
Oregon I Walla Walla Valley I $100 I 99 Points
The 2016 ‘God Only Knows’ Red Wine is a one of a kind wine that flirts with perfection. The wine was entirely aged in neutral barrels prior to bottling. The nose is gratifying and intoxicating with red rose petals that mingle with guava puree, Hoisin sauce, green peppercorns, Umami and white truffle that all sing in the glass. The texture is hugely gratifying as this silky wine effortlessly glides across the mid-palate. Impeccably balanced, the wine seaweed, blood orange zest, black truffle shavings, and guava puree with a bright, stony character all evolve on the palate. The exceedingly long finish lingers. While a delight to savor at this juncture, the wine will evolve well over the next decade. Drink 2019-2029- 99
2) 2016 Horsepower Vineyards ‘Sur Echalas Vineyard’ Grenache
Oregon I Walla Walla Valley I $120 I 99 Points
The ‘Sur Echalas Vineyard’ Grenache is a stunning new bottling by superstar vigneron Christophe Baron and assistant vigneronne Elizabeth Bourcier. The head-turning bouquet entices with potpourri, wild strawberry, tobacco leaf, wet stone and shades of Umami with blood orange zest and charcuterie on this highly complex and satisfying nose. The palate is lithe and light on its feet, as the wine simply dazzles across the palate. The marvelous salinity produces gobs of mouth-watering acidity. Leather, tarragon, orange zest, red cherry candy and shades of guava puree with white truffle shavings all round out this highly gratifying palate. The range imparted in the wine is second to none. The texture to this wine is also absolutely gorgeous as the wine has a seamless quality that gracefully dances across the mid-palate. Monumental, profound and a delight to savor now, this ‘Sur Echalas’ Grenache up there with the best of its kind in North America. Drink 2019-2029- 99
3) 2016 Quilceda Creek ‘Columbia Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon
Washington I Columbia Valley I $150 I 99 Points
The 2016 Quilceda Creek ‘Columbia Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon is a simply stunning and seamless new bottling by superstar winemaker Paul Golitzin. This 100% Cabernet Sauvignon wine was sourced from the Champoux, Wallula and Lake Wallula Vineyards and was aged in 100% new French oak prior to bottling. On the nose this takes on wonderful toasty oak character that wraps around blueberry compote, Turkish coffee, with shades of violets, exotic spices, anise and sagebrush accents. The balance and silky texture imparted in the wine is scintillating. Mocha, blueberry cordial, sagebrush, creme de cassis and shades of eucalyptus flavors all marvelously combine on the palate. The exceedingly long finish lingers. Tasted over several hours this wine becomes even softer and more harmonious. A true tour de force, the 2016 Quilceda Creek is up there with the best wines ever made from this estate. Drink 2020-2040- 99
4) 2016 Hors Catégorie Syrah (Spring 2020 release)
Oregon I Walla Walla Valley I $250 I 99 Points
The 2016 Hors Catégorie Syrah is a scintillating wine that flirts with perfection. Several years back superstar vigneron, Christophe Baron, founded his ‘Hors Categorie Vineyard’ planting Syrah on his highly steep sloped site, set on broken basalt, with majestic, sweeping views of the Walla Walla Valley. The wine is cropped at roughly one ton an acre and was the aged in 600L Demi-muides prior to bottling. Aromatically this Syrah shows insanely good range from white pepper to red cherry preserves and potpourri with shades of white truffle that all shine brightly on the nose. The palate has incredible texture with gorgeous black fruits that collide with Umami, white peppercorns, wet stone, Kalamata olive tapenade and black cherry cordial. The texture is insanely good and the wine has a seamless quality that makes this truly one of a kind and almost reminds me of a great La Landonne. Showing marvelously in its youth, this will evolve well over the next fifteen years. Only a slightly more than two thousand bottles produced of this incredible, one of a kind wine. Drink 2019-2033- 99
5) 2016 HALL ‘Sacrache Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon
California I Napa Valley I $325.00 I 99 points
The 2016 ‘Sacrache Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon is a barrel selection wine from the top few barrels of all of the wines sourced from the vineyard. The nose shows exotic spices with espresso bean, blackberry compote and shades of tar that all mingle brilliantly in the glass. There is a seamless quality to this wine that really impresses. Velvety tannins line this wine that effortlessly glides across the mid-palate. Deep espresso dusted milk chocolate, creosote, pipe tobacco and shades of black forest cake with sandalwood accents all shine brightly on the palate. The stunningly long finish lingers long on the tongue. Outstanding now, this downright delicious and hedonistic wine will cellar well for decades. Drink 2020-2045- 99
6) 2017 Delmas Syrah
Oregon I Walla Walla Valley I $70 I 97 Points
A true heavyhitter, the 2017 Delmas Syrah is entirely sourced from their estate SJR Vineyard in the Walla Walla Rocks AVA, deftly managed by Brooke Robertson. Crafted by superstar winemaker Billo Naravane, MW, the wine is a stunning blend of 91.5% Syrah with the reminder Viognier. Aged for 14 months in 60% new French oak (Troncais) prior to bottling, this needs about an hour of air exposure in order to evolve to its full unveiling. The nose is nothing short of intoxicating, yielding some insanely good range. Potpourri, Umami, pipe tobacco, cedar, and shades of cran-orange aromas all create an amazing effect in the glass. The heady aromas push you back to the glass for more. The texture its astoundingly good, giving off a sexy, silky edge. Red cherry candy, Umami, Hoisin sauce, Asian spice and guava with citrus rind accents as well as shades of black truffle with minerals and stony accents all complete this scintillating new wine. While remarkable in its youth, this will evolve well over the next decade. Drink 2019-2029- 97
7) 2017 Reynvaan Family Vineyards ‘Foothills Reserve’ Syrah
Washington I Walla Walla Valley I $75.00 I 96 Points
The 2017 ‘Foothills Reserve’ Syrah is a simply magical new wine by Matt Reynvaan. The nose takes on highly hedonistic tones, showing beautiful range from orange zest to Umami to bacon fat and roasted dates with fresh sage that all collide in the glass. Silky smooth on the mid-palate the wine unveils a remarkable depth and salinity. The elegance here is extraordinary with a sensational mouthfeel. Hoisin sauce, blood orange, bulls blood and Umami with wild blackberry cobbler flavors all combine marvelously in the glass. The exceedingly long finish lingers long on the palate. Drink 2019-2033- 96
8) 2016 La Rata Red Wine
Oregon I Walla Walla Valley I $75 I 96 Points
The 2016 La Rata Red Wine is a one of a kind, simply sumptuous new wine by superstar vigneronne Elizabeth Bourcier. The final blend she chose was 59% Grenache with 31% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Syrah. The wine was largely aged in third use demi-muids as well as some stainless steel prior to bottling. The nose is downright intoxicating as the wine shows off red cherry preserves, underbrush, Umami, blood orange zest and shades of wet stone that all shine brightly on the bouquet. The freshness and tension that run through the core of wine is truly outstanding. Bright guava puree and high toned Mandarin orange peel flavors collide with minerals, wet stone, seaweed and green olive tapenade. This finishes exceedingly long with cran-cherry and blood orange zest. A resounding success, this true heavyhitter of a wine will drink marvelously in its youth and will provide drinking enjoyment for a decade or more. Drink 2019-2029- 96
9) 2016 Larkmead ‘Solari’ Cabernet Sauvignon
California I Napa Valley I $250.00 I 98 Points
The 2016 ‘Solari Black Label’ Cabernet Sauvignon is an absolute revelation at this early state in its development. Deep, layered and highly gratifying aromatics greet you with smoky undertones that are set with black tea, exotic spices and huckleberry compote that all wonderfully meld together on the nose. There is a seamless quality that deftly carries through this wine. While obviously rich, the sense of balance is also very satisfying. Highly structured and tannic the ‘Solari’ incredible texture, yielding intense mocha, asphalt, anise and creme de cassis flavors. The black fruit and mineral driven finish lingers exceedingly long. While a delight to savor in its youth, this beautiful wine will have an exceedingly long life in the cellar. Make sure and give this at least another year of bottle development prior to enjoying. Drink 2021-2045- 98
10) 2016 Force Majeure ‘SJR Vineyard’ Syrah
Washington I Walla Walla Valley I $100 I 97 Points
The 2016 Force Majeure ‘SJR Vineyard’ Syrah is one of the best Washington wines I have sampled over the past year. This simply awesome new Syrah was sourced from the esteemed SJR Vineyard in the Walla Walla Rocks AVA. The wine was fermented using native yeasts and then was aged in oak puncheons (50% new) for 18 months prior to bottling. While the Syrah was obviously given a good amount of oak treatment, this does not come off as particularly oaky. The wine shows serious range on the nose from green olive to bacon fat to blood orange rind to red cherry candy and guava puree. The beautiful aromatics bring you back to the glass for more pleasure. The texture to this wine borders ethereal and absolutely delights the senses once on the mouth. Black olive tapenade, wild blackberry cobbler, salted smoked pork shoulder, umami and touches of milk chocolate all come together marvelously. This is just stunning wine that marvelously showcases this great vineyard. Drink 2018-2030- 97
11) 2016 Saviah ‘The Funk Estate’ Syrah
Washington I Walla Walla Valley I $60 I 96 Points
The 2016 ‘The Funk Estate’ is a stunning new wine by superstar winemaker Richard Funk of Saviah Cellars. Chosen to co-ferment 4% Viognier with Syrah, this immediately entices with bright citrus blossom aromatics that combine with the deep dark fruits, green olive, bacon fat and horse manure aromatics that all shine brightly in unison. Soft, round and generous, there is a seamless quality to this wine that is apparent. Black tea, clove, cigar ash, Umami, red cherry puree and suggestions of wild blackberry cordial all marvelously combine in this utterly thrilling palate. I really enjoy this sensational Syrah at this stage in its development, and my feeling is there is no reason to cellar it for more than another seven years. Drink 2019-2026- 96
12) 2015 Opus One Red Wine
California I Napa Valley I $350.00 I 98 Points
The 2015 Opus One Red Wine is a monumental wine that blends Cabernet Sauvignon (81%) with Cabernet Franc (7%), Merlot (6%), Petit Verdot (4%) and Malbec (2%). The nose is highly complex and downright intoxicating showing off creme de cassis, mocha, tar, and shades of Turkish coffee that all build in the glass. There is a seamless quality to the wine that really impresses. Soft and round across the mid-palate, the wine reveals Asian spices. The palate is silky and spumous as the wine shows off an exotic edge with Turkish coffee, black tea, anise and creme de cassis that all impress. The wine finishes strong with minerals and black fruits. Enjoy this beautiful wine over the next twenty years. Drink 2020-2040- 98
13) 2016 Alpha Omega ‘ERA’ Cabernet Sauvignon
California I Napa Valley I $315.00 I 98 Points
The 2016 ‘ERA’ by Alpha Omega is a show-stopping Cabernet Sauvignon that is up there with the best wines made in the Napa Valley. Entirely Cabernet Sauvignon and showing off its deep hue, the ‘ERA’ shows beautiful aromatics of sweet pipe tobacco, blueberry pie, Turkish coffee and creme de cassis. The palate reveals a silky texture and a marvelous mouthfeel. Mocha, anise, creme de cassis and graphite with earthy terroir flavors all collide. With great acidity and tension, this wine is meant for the cellar but is drinking seriously good in its youth. Enjoy this over the next twenty plus years. Drink 2020-2045- 98
14) 2017 St. Innocent ‘Vitae Springs’ Pinot Gris
Oregon I Willamette Valley I $25.00 I 94 Points
One of the great Pinot Gris bottling in Oregon, the 2017 ‘Vitae Springs’ Pinot Gris by St. Innocent is a dazzling new release. On the nose this shows really good range from sourdough bread to ripe Japanese pear to grassy tones that all fill the bouquet. The palate shows incredible texture and tension, with gobs of mouth-watering acidity that excite. Harmonious throughout with ripe pear, starfruit and brioche flavors, this is a complete wine that is one of the best of its kind that I have ever sampled. Simply put, this wine is a masterpiece. Drink 2019-2025- 94
15) 2017 Merry Edwards Sauvignon Blanc
California I Russian River Valley I $30.00 I 94 points
The 2017 Merry Edwards Sauvignon Blanc is a head-turning wine by one of Sonoma’s great talents, Merry Edwards. The nose takes on really good range with ripe pear, kumquat and nutmeg accents with gooseberry. The texture is light and beautifully layered with vanilla cream, bright pear and pineapple flavors, giving this an exotic edge. Rich and layered, this gorgeous effort will cellar well over the next five to eight years. Drink 2018-2024- 94
16) 2016 W.T. Vintners ‘Stoney Vine Vineyard’ Syrah
Washington I Walla Walla Valley I $49.00 I 94 Points
One of they great wines in this excellent new W.T. Vintners portfolio, the 2016 ‘Stoney Vine Vineyard’ Syrah opens with seductive bulls blood with Mandarin orange rind, Umami, smoke and green olive tapenade aromatics that all take shape in the glass. The palate has wonderful freshness and a silky texture. Red and dark fruits mingle with shades of black truffle crudo, bacon fat, Umami and red cherry cordial. Absolutely impossible to resist now, I think this beautiful wine will show best in its youth while the brightness stays together. Drink 2019-2025- 94
17) 2016 Domaine Serene ‘Evenstad Reserve’ Pinot Noir
Oregon I Willamette Valley I $75.00 I 95 Points
This is the 30th anniversary of this iconic producer of Pinot Noir. This particular edition was aged for sixteen months in 65% new French oak prior to bottling. The nose here is simply sensational ranging from cardamon accents to peat moss and black truffle shavings to bright red fruits and citrus zest that all amalgamate marvelously. The texture is beautiful as this silky wine effortlessly dances across the mid-palate. The seamlessness of this wine really entices. Dense dark and red fruits pack this incredible new release. I realize that I have written this before but this 2016 ‘Evenstad’ is up there with the best of its kind ever produced. If enjoying in its youth I beseech you to afford at least a two hour decant prior to enjoying this seductive, hedonistic Oregon Pinot Noir. Drink 2020-2040- 95
18) 2008 Argyle ‘Extended Tirage’ Sparkling Wine
Oregon I Willamette Valley I $80.00 I 96 Points
The 2008 Argyle ‘Extended Tirage’ Sparkling Wine is a simply marvelous effort from this storied vintage in Oregon. Spending ten years on the lees until disgorgement in 2018, the 2008 ‘Extended Tirage’ opens with a highly complex bouquet of marzipan layered with orchard fruits and baking spices, with pear moss undertones that all take beautiful shape in the glass. The combination of weight and balance of the wine is exquisite. A beam of salinity runs through ripe pear, kumquat, Shiitake mushroom and green papaya flavors. Seductive and rich from this incredible vintage in Oregon this will continue to evolve well over the next fifteen plus years. I have found that this wine tends to show more beautifully a touch on the warmer side and is even more expressive in an Oregon Pinot Glass. This is truly one of the glorious sparkling wines of North America. Drink 2019-2035- 96
19) 2016 Long Shadows ‘Saggi’ Red Wine
Washington I Columbia Valley I $55.00 I 95 Points
The 2016 Long Shadows ‘Saggi’ is the best bottling of this storied wine that I have tried since they began producing this wine more than a decade ago. The ‘Saggi’ is a thrilling blend of Sangiovese (Boushey and Candy Mountain Vineyards) with 29% Cabernet Sauvignon (Weinbau Vineyard) and the remainder Syrah (Den Hoed Dutchman and Bacchus Vineyards). The nose is drop-dead gorgeous with bacon fat, black olive tapenade, mocha and fennel. The stunning range of aromas bring you back to the glass for more. Revealing a silky texture and a wonderfully ripe mouthfeel, the ‘Saggi’ slowly unveils smoked pork shoulder, black tea, milk chocolate covered cherry and roasted fig flavors. Decadent, layered and downright delicious, this beautiful wine will enjoy an exceedingly long life in the cellar. The If enjoying in its youth be sure to give this a two hour decant. Drink 2019-2033- 95
20) 2016 Ramey Wine Cellars ‘Ritchie Vineyard’ Chardonnay
California I Russian River Valley I $65.00 I 95 Points
The 2016 ‘Ritchie Vineyard’ Chardonnay is a stunning effort from this exciting vintage in the Russian River Valley. Sourced from vines planted in 1972, the vineyard is located right in the center of the Russian River AVA. the wine shows seductive white tea with clove and Challah bread and vanilla creme brûlée Arons that all shine brightly in the glass. The palate has wonderful texture and richness as this wine effortlessly glides across the mid-palate. The wine shows gorgeous tropical fruit with shades of cinnamon infused sourdough bread and wild mushroom. Drink 2019-2035- 95
21) 2016 Brooks ‘Bois Joli Vineyard’ Riesling
Oregon I Willamette Valley I $30.00 I 94 Points
This Eola-Amity Hills AVA vineyard wine shows bright pear and green papaya aromas that connect with lighter stony character on the nose. The palate is highly refreshing and delivers gobs of mouth-watering acidity with bright pear, Granny Smith apple, kumquat and cantaloupe with wet stone flavors. A delight to savor, this will continue to evolve well fort the next fifteen years. Drink 2019-2033- 94
22) 2018 Toil Oregon Rose
Oregon I Willamette Valley I $25.00 I 93 Points
The nose is quite compelling once in the glass, as this beautiful Pinot Noir Rose awakens to unveil pink grapefruit blossom, rose water and red cherry candy aromatics that all mingle in the glass. The palate shows a beautiful texture and weight as this silky, stand along Rose shows a flair of Provence. Blood orange, guava puree and Meyer lemon zest flavors with lighter suggestions of peat moss combine with lip smacking acidity on the palate. The finish lasts for nearly a minute. Exceedingly good, highly poised and satisfying, this classy effort will be enjoyed over the next eight years, picking up tertiary notes as it ages. Drink 2019-2025- 93
23) 2016 Sanguis ‘The Ten Wings’ White Wine
California I Santa Barbara County I $50.00 I 96 Points
The 2016 ‘The Ten Wings’ is comprised of of Central Coast Chardonnay, Roussanne and Viognier that truly captures the art of blending. Deeply hued, the wine shows off plenty of exotic appeal with its lychee and star jasmine aromas that mingle with shades of apricot and wet stone that all march in unison in the glass. The palate offers a gorgeous combination of freshness, weight and verve, with a dazzling display on the mid-palate ranging from green apple, to mango jelly to stony and earthy tones, as well as shades of Challah bread. The scintillating finish lingers. What an incredible blend by one of the California masters, Mattias Pippig. Drink 2019-2033- 96
24) 2016 Avennia ‘Justine’ Red Wine
Washington I Columbia Valley I $45.00 I 94 Points
A blend of 56% Grenache with the remainder 32% Mourvedre and 12% Syrah, the ‘Justine’ was aged for 16 months in a combination of concrete (20%) and neutral oak (80%) prior to bottling. The wine shows very pretty rose water and red cherry candy aromas that combine with dried herbs and smoke to round out the aromatics. The palate is fresh, mineral-driven, complex and truly sumptuous, evoking a wonderfully rich mouthfeel. Red and dark fruits dance with minerals and citrus rind on the palate with shades of smoke rounding out this delicious wine. A delight to savor in its youth, this will provide drinking enjoyment for the next decade. Drink 2019-2029- 94
25) 2016 Bevan ‘Tench Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon
California I Napa Valley I $250.00 I 97 Points
The 2016 ‘Tench Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon is a show-stopping wine by superstar winemaker Russell Bevan. Right out of the gate this impresses with decadent black currant jelly, tar, anise and exotic spice aromas. The texture is both soft and inviting as the wine seamlessly glides across the mid-palate. While quite intense, there is a gorgeous elegance to this wine that shows creme de cassis, mocha, tar and spiced black licorice flavors. The wine finishes big and long with black fruits and minerals. While obviously delightful now, the ‘Tench Vineyard’ Cabernet will have a long life in the cellar. Drink 2020-2040- 97
26) 2016 Beringer ‘Private Reserve’ Chardonnay
California I Napa Valley I $48.00 I 94 Points
The 2016 ‘Private Reserve’ Chardonnay by Beringer is a stunning wine by superstar winemaker Mark Beringer. Sourced from the Gamble Ranch Vineyard in the Oakville AVA, this wine starts off with beautiful aromas of apricot creme brulee, vanilla cream and kumquat with macadamia nut. The palate is plush and shows a seductive mouthfeel as the wine unveils vanilla cream, buttered popcorn, white peach, butterscotch and roasted pineapple flavors. Seductive and rich, yet beautifully balanced and layered, this is a complete wine by Beringer that will cellar marvelously for the next fifteen years. Drink 2019-2033- 94
27) 2015 Harbison Estate ‘The Trail’ Cabernet Sauvignon
California I Napa Valley I N/A I 97 Points
The 2015 Harbison Estate ‘The Trail’ Cabernet Sauvignon is a simply magical wine at this young stage in its development. The aromatics of the wine are quite powerful immediately, as the wine showcases mocha, tar and exotic spices with creme de cassis and shades of black tea all entering the fray. Dense and plush, with a chewy mouthfeel and wondrous texture, this silky wine is not only rich but shows great freshness and finesse. Intense creme de cassis, espresso bean, dusty terroir, creosote with minerals all impress on this gratifying palate. An absolute delight to savor in its youth, this beautiful wine will provide drinking enjoyment for decades. Drink 2020-2045- 97
28) 2017 Tablas Creek ‘Espirit Blanc de Tablas’ White Wine
California I Paso Robles I $45.00 I 95 Points
The 2017 ‘Espirit Blanc de Tablas’ is a downright heavyhitter of a wine, and is primarily comprised of Roussanne (75%) with smaller portions Grenache Blanc and Picpoul Blanc. Good richness marks the nose with toasted Challah bread, Pazzaz apple, kiwi and apricot undertones. The palate is both refreshing and highly gratifying, revealing a wonderful fatness and viscosity. Seamless throughout, lychee, starfruit, honeydew melon and wet stone flavors with kumquat tones all collide on the palate. The extremely long, cream and mineral-driven finish completes this simply stunning Rhone style white wine. While this is marvelous now, this has both the stuffing and acidity to cellar well over the next fifteen to twenty years. Drink 2019-2035- 95
29) 2017 Big Table Farm ‘Pelos Sandberg Vineyard’ Pinot Noir
Oregon I Willamette Valley I $62.00 I 95 Points
The Pelos Sandberg Vineyard is carefully managed by Don Sandberg, as I have been captivated with this bottling since Brian Marcy first made this wine. The nose is beautifully perfumed, showing serious aromatic range from peat moss and smoke undertones to ripe strawberry to guava and pomegranate puree with citrus rind accents. These delightful scents bring you back to the glass for more. Showing a silky texture, this beautiful wine glides across the mid-palate. Elegant, yet jam-packed full of red fruit, citrus zest and earthy flavors, this Pinot Noir by Big Table Farm simply has it all. Irresistible now, this will cellar well for the next two decades. Drink 2019-2033- 95
30) 2017 Sleight of Hand ‘The Funkadelic’ Syrah
Washington I Walla Walla Valley I $60.00 I 95 Points
The 2017 ‘The Funkadelic’ Syrah is a stunning effort entirely sourced from The Funk Estate Vineyard, managed by Richard Funk. The wine was aged for twenty months in 33% new French oak prior to bottling and underwent 100% native yeast fermentation. The stony character is quite pronounced with damp stone aromatics that combine with bulls blood, horse manure, red cherry candy and exotic spices that all mingle in unison in the glass. The palate is generous, showing a flat out sexy mouthfeel and texture that lingers long on the tongue. Black fruits combine with teaberry, citrus zest, smoked pork shoulder and black olive tapenade flavors on the palate. A complete wine and sensational in its youth, this will continue to evolve for another decade. I think this wine will shine most brightly in its youth, while the wonderful combination of minerality and texture sing in harmony. Drink 2019-2027- 95
31) 2016 Figgins Estate ‘Figlia’ Red Wine
Washington I Walla Walla Valley I $85.00 I 96 Points
The 2016 Figgins Estate ‘Figlia’ is the inaugural effort for this wine. Entirely sourced from the Figgins Estate Vineyard, the wine is a proprietary bend of Petit Verdot and Merlot which was aged for 23 months in French oak barrels prior to bottling. The ‘Figlia’ needs a one hour decant prior to consuming. Upon entry the nose is quite intense with toasty oak that connects with smoky undertones, chocolate covered cherry and tar tones that fill the nose. The palate is not only highly viscous but has a beautiful sense of balance. Green bell pepper, Black Forest cake, and sweet pipe tobacco flavors all collide on the palate. While marvelous in its youth, this outstanding new wine will cellar well for decades. Only 250 cases made of this outstanding new wine. Drink 2020-2040- 96
32) 2017 Goodfellow Family Cellars ‘Durant Vineyard’ Chardonnay
Oregon I Willamette Valley I $35.00 I 94 Points
Intriguingly enough, Goodfellow made a second bottling of their ‘Durant Vineyard’ Chardonnay and this one was even a lower case production (95 cases). The wine was sourced from blocks first planted in 1993 and 1998, essentially when many vineyards were not planting Chardonnay. Bright lemon cream and shades of white truffle with wet stone all fill the glass on the nose. The palate shows off a silky texture with a wonderfully rich texture and mouthfeel. The exceedingly long mineral and lemon cream-driven finish accentuates this fantastic new bottling. Enjoy this gorgeous wine over the next fifteen years. Drink 2019-2033- 94
33) 2016 K Vintners ‘Royal City’ Syrah
Washington I Columbia Valley I $120.00 I 96 Points
The 2016 ‘Royal City’ Syrah by the talented winemaking team at K Vintners is another show-stopping effort that shows incredible range and poise from this warm vintage in Washington. Sourced from the famed Stoneridge Vineyard, the ‘Royal City’ shows off its garnet color and opens with beautiful aromatic range from cloves, to suggestions of wild mushroom, potpourri and olive tapenade aromatics that dance in harmony in the glass. The palate shows great freshness, evoking a deep core of dried cherries that mingle with with tightly structured peppery tannins, citrus zest and earthy undertones. The finish imparted is both persistent and unrelenting. While outstanding in its youth, this beautiful, terroir-driven Syrah will cellar well over the next decade. Drink 2019-2029- 96 (J.H.)
34) 2017 DeLille Cellars ‘Chaleur Blanc’ White Wine
Washington I Columbia Valley I $35.00 I 94 Points
The 2017 ‘Chaleur Blanc’ is a spectacular effort from this exciting vintage for white wines. A blend of 70% Sauvignon Blanc with the remainder Semillon, the wine shows better at a warmer temperature. The nose is impressive with tropical fruits that mingle with brilliant melon and nutty tones that resonate in the glass. The palate is showing a wonderful texture and viscosity, giving off an almost unctuous mouthfeel. The salinity really comes out when the wine is warmed up. Lemon zest and brioche flavors combine brilliantly with shades of banana and minerals. Hugely complex and satisfying, the exceedingly long finish lingers. This brilliant effort will evolve well over the next decade or more. Drink 2019-2029- 94
35) 2015 Matthiasson White Wine
California I Napa Valley I $30.00 I 94 Points
The 2015 Matthiasson White Wine is a silly blend of Sauvignon Blanc (50%), Ribola (25%) and Semillon (20%) with just a touch of Tocai Friulano blended in. This opens with serious range on the nose from grapefruit blossom to green papaya to mango and starfruit to earthy and wet stone tones that all take shape in the glass. Bright, with a seriously good mouthfeel, the wine slowly unveils layers of macadamia nut, brioche, lemon curd and suggestions of starfruit puree. Rich, yet lively, this fantastic new wine will have al long life in the cellar picking up lovely tertiary notes. Drink 2019-2029- 94
36) 2017 Chateau Ste. Michelle ‘Eroica’ Riesling
Washington I Columbia Valley I $20.00 I 93 Points
Chateau Ste. Michelle has been making this special bottling for nearly twenty years now and I have sampled every vintage of the wine since 2003. This version is every bit as good as any that has been made in this partnership with Ernst Loosen and Chateau Ste. Michelle head winemaker Bob Bertheau. On the nose there is lovely Gravenstein apple and lemon blossom aromas that mingle with shades of wet stone on the complex bouquet. Once on the attack the palate displays gobs of mouth-watering acidity. Bright lemon zest with shades of wet stone and kumquat with green apple accents round out this beautiful wine. While a delight to savor in its youth, this beautiful wine will cellar well over the next five to seven years. Drink 2019-2025- 93
37) 2015 Maybach ‘Amoneus’ Cabernet Sauvignon
California I Napa Valley I $175.00 I 97 Points
The ‘Amoneus’ Cabernet Sauvignon by Maybach is sourced from a hillside vineyard located just west of Calistoga. A dense, glass-staining purple, this wine needs a two hour decant to be fully aroused. Once awakened the wine yields copious and layered dark fruits that are woven into shades of dark chocolate, roasted dates and creme de cassis that all shine brightly in the glass. Dense and decadent on the attack, the ‘Amoneus’ provides a luxurious mouthfeel. Chocolate covered espresso bean, tar, blueberry compote and suggestions of black currant cordial flavors all march together on the palate. While delightful in its youth, this will only get better with some bottle age. Drink 2020-2040- 97
38) 2015 Rasa Vineyards ‘Veritas Sequiter SJR VIneyard’ Syrah
Oregon I Walla Walla Valley I $95.00 I 96 Points
The 2015 ‘Veritas Sequiter’ Syrah is a true heavyhitter of a wine made by superstar winemaker Billo Naravane, MW, which was sourced from the esteemed SJR Vineyard and underwent 100% whole cluster fermentation The wine was stored in 90% new French oak prior to bottling. On the nose there is wonderful range from exotic spices to Satsuma orange peel to shades of blueberry pie and horse manure with green olive tapenade. The seductive nose constantly takes you back to the glass for more hedonism. The plush texture truly entices as black cherry compote, leather, espresso bean, blueberry pie and shades of milk chocolate and a savory edge all meld marvelously together on the mouth. The texture and mouthfeel dazzles, as the rich, almost unctuous texture adds to the drinking. enjoyment. While fantastic in its youth, this will cellar well for a decade or more. Drink 2019-2029- 96
39) 2016 Pahlmeyer Merlot
California I Napa Valley I $95.00 I 96 Points
The 2016 Pahlmeyer Merlot is a simply magical effort from this warm vintage in the Napa Valley. Nearly all Merlot (96.5%) with just a touch of Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon added, the wine was aged for 20 months in 85% new French oak before bottling. The nose is downright seductive with its black tea, exotic spice and chocolate tones that meld with the dark fruits in the glass. The palate is exceedingly elegant, showing a silky mouthfeel and marvelous texture. Intense black tea, blackberry cobbler, Turkish coffee, dusty terroir and minerals come together on the palate. The marvelously long and inviting black fruit and mineral-driven finish lingers long on the tongue. While sensational now, the 2016 Pahlmeyer Merlot will have an exceedingly long life ahead of it. Drink 2019-2038- 96
40) 2016 Evening Land ‘La Source’ Chardonnay
Oregon I Willamette Valley I $75.00 I 94 Points
The ‘La Source’ Chardonnay by Evening Land is a sensational effort from this warm vintage in the Willamette Valley. The nose takes on flinty and wet stone tones with toasty oak accents alongside ripe pear and Meyer lemon cream that fill the nose. The gorgeous aromatics bring you back to the glass for more. The palate is lithe and highly Burgundian, showing lemon zest, green apple, kumquat, wild mushroom and heavy whipping cream. The near minute-long finish lingers. Sensational now, this will continue to evolve over the next ten to fifteen years. Drink 2019-2035- 94
41) 2016 Darioush ‘Signature’ Merlot
California I Napa Valley I $50.00 I 95 Points- The 2016 ‘Signature’ Merlot by Darioush is a stunning new wine by the talented winemaking team at Darioush. Sourced from the Darioush Estate Vineyard as well as their vineyard in Mt. Veeder. The wine was aged for 22 months in largely new French oak prior to bottling. The nose is perfumed and simply gorgeous as ripe dark plum with shades of red cherry tomato and black cherry cordial. The palate shows a silky character with lovely tension. The weight of the wine is fantastic as the wine unveils black cherry liquor with blackberry pie and shades of dusty terroir and shades of sandalwood. While fantastic now, this will evolve marvelously for fifteen plus years. Drink 2019-2035- 95
42) 2016 Beaux Frères ‘The Beaux Frères Vineyard’ Pinot Noir
Oregon I Willamette Valley I $90.00 I 95 Points
The 2016 Beaux Freres ‘The Beaux Freres Vineyard’ Pinot Noir is a simply marvelous new effort from this storied estate. The Ribbon Ridge AVA wine shows wonderful earthy terroir on the nose. This shows a wonderful combination of red and dark fruits on the nose with Asian spice and forest floor aromatics. The palate shows good richness and tension with red currant, red cherry candy, strawberry puree and orange rind flavors with a touch of peat moss. Rich and focused, this will cellar well for the next fifteen years. Drink 2018-2033- 95
43) 2016 Dunham Cellars ‘Columbia Valley’ Syrah
Washington I Columbia Valley I $35.00 I 93 Points
The 2016 ‘Columbia Valley’ Syrah is a fantastic new wine that was sourced from the Kenny Hill, Lewis and Phinny Hill Vineyards. Aged in 35% new French oak for eighteen months, this opens with a bouquet of smoked pork shoulder that mingles with thyme and lavender as well as wild blackberry and suggestions of milk chocolate that all sing in harmony in the glass. The palate has wonderful freshness and elegance, showing a racy acidity and soft texture that really impresses. Long and generous, with layers of dark fruits that mingle with dark chocolate shavings, creosote and sagebrush flavors, with citrus rinds undertones, this expressive Syrah is drinking marvelously now and will provide drinking enjoyment for the next decade. Drink 2019-2029- 93
44) 2016 DuMol ‘Hyde Vineyard’ Chardonnay
California I Carneros I $75.00 I 95 Points
One of the great vineyards in California owned and managed by Larry Hyde, the Hyde Vineyard is located in the Carneros AVA and has a strong maritime influence with its close proximity to the San Francisco Bay. Buttercream, brioche and lemon zest aromas all fill the glass. The palate reveals serious power with a wonderful texture and viscosity. This seamless glides through the mid-palate delivering creamy and citrus rind flavors, all leading to a minute-long finish. A complete wine, this gorgeous effort will continue to evolve over the next fifteen years. Drink 2019-2033- 95
45) 2017 Liquid Farm ‘White Hill’ Chardonnay
California I Santa Barbara County I $42.00 I 94 Points
The ‘White Hill’ Chardonnay is sourced from the Clos Pepe, La Riconada, Bentrock, and Kessler-Haak Vineyards as this wine has been crafted since the 2009 vintage. Smoky, stony and showing a striking salinity on the nose, the wine unveils a beautiful, soft texture that entices. The sense of freshness and bright minerality produces gobs of mouth-watering acidity on the palate. Bright orchard fruits mingle with lemon oil, and shades of smoky tones with wild mushroom on this highly complex palate. Impossible to resist right now, this beautiful Chardonnay will evolve well for the next decade or more. Drink 2019-2029- 94
46) 2016 Caliza Grenache
California I Paso Robles I $60.00 I 94 Points
The 2016 Caliza Grenache opens with a bright bouquet of red currant jelly, red cherry candy, pomegranate seed and blood orange zest. The palate is plush and bright, showing a great minerality. Red fruits collide with citrus rind and minerals. Satisfying and showing both good tension and weight, this delicious and downright sexy Grenache will continue to evolve for a decade or more. Drink 2019-2029- 94
47) 2017 Alexana ‘Revana Vineyard’ Riesling
Oregon I Willamette Valley I $25.00 I 92 Points
The 2017 ‘Revana Vineyard’ Riesling is a stunning effort from this famed Willamette Valley estate. On the nose this takes on petrol with white flower and Gravenstein apple aromatics that impress in the glass. The palate is lithe and has the lightest kiss of sweetness with beautiful astringency. White flower, wet stone, green apple and kumquat flavors all impress. Bright and showing wonderful energy, this will continue to evolve over the next seven plus years. Drink 2019-2026- 92
48) 2016 Leonetti Cellar Cabernet Sauvignon
Washington I Walla Walla Valley I $100.00 I 96 Points
The 2016 Leonetti Cellar Cabernet Sauvignon is a simply irresistible new wine made by superstar winemaker Chris Figgins. Sourced from the Mill Creek Upland, Loess, Seven Hills, Serra Pedache and Holly Roller Vineyards, the wine is a silky blend of 82% Cabernet Sauvignon with smaller portions Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Malbec. Showing off its brooding core, the 2016 Leonetti Cellar Cabernet Sauvignon opens with sagebrush with red bell pepper, Turkish coffee, and dark chocolate shavings. The palate shows incredible richness with a silky mouthfeel. Blackberry cobbler, creme de cassis, anise, graphite and exotic spice flavors with toasty oak all mingle brilliantly on the palate. A long-ager, be sure to give this beautiful wine at least a two hour decant if savoring in its early years. This is truly one of the best of its kind in Washington. Drink 2020-2040- 96
49) 2015 Epoch ‘Veracity’ Red Wine
California I Paso Robles I $65.00 I 94 Points
The ‘Veracity’ is a compelling blend of 47% Grenache with 34% Mourvedre and 19% Syrah. On the nose this takes on fantastic rose water elements that mingle with ripe dates and cigar box aromas. The perfumed side of the aromas from the Grenache really entice here. The palate reveals a wonderfully plush and decadent texture with chocolate covered red raspberry, pipe tobacco, coffee grounds and shades of orange zest. The range here on the palate is really fantastic. I really enjoy this wine right now but it will cellar well for another ten plus years. Drink 2019-2029- 94
50) 2017 WALT ‘Bob’s Ranch’ Pinot Noir
California I Sonoma County I $85.00 I 95 Points
The ‘Bob’s Ranch’ Pinot Noir is a stunning new wine by WALT, and shining brightly amongst the best wines that I have tasted from this winery. The cherry cola and black tea elements are powerful with shades of life err on the nose. The wine is incredible dense with a massive core. Dark fruits mingle with cherry cola and cinnamon flavors with peat moss undertones. The seriously good mouthfeel entices, as foes the vibrant minerality. Drink 2019-2033- 95
51) 2016 ROCO ‘RMS’ Rose Sparkling Wine
Oregon I Willamette Valley I $85.00 I 95 Points
The 2016 ‘RMS’ Rose Sparkling Wine is a limited production bottling by superstar winemaker, Rollin Soles, who first began making this style of Oregon sparkling wine in 1987. The nose is highly perfumed with red rose petal, guava puree, teaberry and melon tones that fill the aromatic profile. The palate is refined as there is a wonderful elegance and seamlessness to this beautiful Rose Sparkling Wine. Red fruits and lighter earthy and citrus rind notes dance with the bright sense of minerality on the palate. While refined, this wine has some seriously good weight. A stunning wine that is truly one of the best of its kind, I can imagine this great bottling will cellar well for two decades. But why wait? Drink 2019-2035- 95
52) 2017 Villa Del Lago Cabernet Sauvignon
California I Napa Valley I $250.00 I 97 Points- A monumental new wine, the 2017 Villa Del Lago Cabernet Sauvignon was entirely sourced from the Pritchard Hill AVA. Exotic and highly dense on the nose this shows exotic spices that mingle with sandalwood, mocha, blueberry compote and tar on the bouquet. The palate is plush, showing incredible elegance and poise. Black tea, anise, blueberry compote, mocha and sweet pipe tobacco flavors all meld together brilliantly on the palate. Showing some medium tannins now, this seductive, deep and highly gratifying Cabernet Sauvignon wine will cellar well for decades. Drink 2022-2045- 97 2016
53) 2017 Kerloo ‘The Princess’ Syrah
Washington I Walla Walla Valley I $75.00 I 95 Points
A new wine to the Kerloo portfolio, the 2017 ‘The Princess’ Syrah is Ryan Crane’s first soirée into the North Fork of the Walla Walla River. The wine is sourced from the Resurgent Vineyard and was co-fermented with 4% Viognier. The wine was aged for eighteen months in neutral oak prior to bottling. The wine shows great stony character with dried Provencale herbs, bulls blood, orange zest and Umami and white pepper that all mingle brightly in the glass. The palate has incredible elegance and verve with a seamless quality that runs through the wine mid-palate. Wet stone, bulls blood, lavender puree and shades of Hoisin sauce all combine with a bright sense of minerality on the palate. A serious salinity runs through the core of the wine. Showing a gorgeous texture and great length, this beautiful wine is best enjoyed over the next decade. Only 120 cases of this beautiful wine made. Drink 2019-2029- 95
54) 2017 Frank Family Vineyards ‘Carneros’ Pinot Noir
California I Carneros I $50.00 I 93 Points
Winemaker Todd Graff has crafted another beautiful wine with this new release Pinot Noir. The wine starts off with good range from orange rind to black tea to black cherry and cola accents on the nose. There is a beautiful texture to this wine that unveils rose water, red cherry candy, pomegranate seed and blood orange flavors. Delicious now, this has a slightly hedonistic bent that makes it nearly impossible to put down right now. This will continue to evolve for the next decade or more. Drink 2019-2029- 93
55) 2016 Upchurch Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon
Washington I Red Mountain I $75.00 I 95 Points
The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon by superstar winemaker Chris Upchurch is a revelation. On the nose this takes on gorgeous Cabernet character with red bell pepper, anise, brandy soaked red cherry and milk chocolate aromas that build in the glass. The texture to this wine borders ethereal. Mocha, crushed mint, blackberry cobbler and creme de cassis flavors all beautifully dance on the palate. The balance and richness is sumptuous here. Mineral-driven and rich, this gorgeous effort will cellar well for the next fifteen to twenty years. Drink 2019-2037- 95
56) 2017 Ayoub ‘Brittan Vineyard’ Pinot Noir
Oregon I Willamette Valley I $65.00 I 94 Points
One of the great vineyards of the Willamette Valley, I have been enamored by the stony terroir of the Brittan Vineyard for quite some time. The 2017 ‘Brittan Vineyard’ Pinot Noir opens with an intense bouquet of white truffle alongside wet stone and shades of cran-orange that all build on this expressive nose. The palate shows a vibrant sense of minerality, as the lip-smacking acidity truly entices once on the mouth. Shades of blood orange rind, cigar ash, cran-pomegranate and a lovely wet stone character all impress on the palate. This beautiful wine has at least a decade ahead of it. Drink 2019-2032- 94
57) 2016 VIADER ‘Black Label’ Red Wine
California I Napa Valley I $175.00 I 96 Points
The 2016 VIADER ‘Black Label’ Red Wine is a simply magical new wine by the talented winemaking team of Delia and Alan VIader. A gorgeous blend of 57% Cabernet Sauvignon, with 26% Syrah, 14% Malbec and 3% Cabernet Franc which was barrel selected all from the VIADER Howell Mountain estate. Needing more than an hour in the decanter to fully arouse, the wine awakens to compelling aromatics of exotic spices, Earl Grey tea, mocha and milk chocolate with wild blackberry cobbler rounding out this expressive nose. The mouthfeel is plush and decadent, unveiling a downright sexy texture that satisfies. Creme de cassis, Asian spices, sweet pipe tobacco, leather and copious dark fruits all enter the fray on the palate. This is a polished, pensive wine that is meant to savor. Seriously good in its youth, this beautiful wine will evolve well over the next two decades. Drink 2020-2040- 96
58) 2017 Lingua Franca ‘Bunker Hill’ Chardonnay
Oregon I Willamette Valley I $55.00 I 94 Points
The ‘Bunker Hill Vineyard’ was planted in 1995 and is located in the Salem Hills as it has a very strong maritime influence from strong Pacific Ocean winds that move winds through the Van Duzer corridor. The 2017 Lingua Franca ‘Bunker Hill’ Chardonnay is a terrific new release wine by this talented winemaking team. The nose evokes toasty brioche with wild mushroom and green apple that all combine in the glass. The palate unveils a silky texture and a bright minerality. Kumquat, green papaya and shades of white truffle with earthy undertones round out this outstanding flavor range. This finishes exceedingly long with lemon cream and minerals. Highly Burgundian and downright thrilling now, this highly nuanced Chardonnay will cellar well for a decade or more. Drink 2019-2032- 94
59) 2014 Sbragia ‘Monte Rosso Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon
California I Sonoma County I $85.00 I 94 Points
One of the great historic sites for Cabernet Sauvignon, the Monte Rosso Vineyard is located in the Moon Mountain AVA and was first planted in the 1880s. The nose is quite high toned with red and dark fruits that connect with exotic spices and dusty terroir that all connect nicely in the glass. The palate is plush, yet the wine delivers an incredible balance and harmony. Red and dark fruits dance with minerals, Asian spices and shades of black licorice on the palate. A delight to enjoy in its youth, this will evolve well over the next two decades. Drink 2019-2039- 94
60) 2016 Gramercy Cellars ‘John Lewis Reserve’ Syrah
Washington I Walla Walla Valley I $100.00 I 95 Points
The 2016 ‘John Lewis Reserve’ Syrah by Gramercy Cellars is another scintillating effort from the superstar winemaking team of Brandon Moss and Greg Harrington. Entirely sourced from the Les Collins Vineyard, this wine underwent 100% whole cluster fermentation. It comes off initially quite reticent as this is needing at least a one hour decant to fully evolve. Once aroused the wine slowly unveils exotic spices that collide with the fresh herbs, black fruits and dusty terroir that all settle in the glass. The palate evokes a wonderful feeling of elegance, as this shows off brilliant sagebrush, blood orange peel, cigar ash, pomegranate seed and shades of huckleberry that give this serious range and an exotic edge. A nice beam of salinity also runs through this wine, as the mouth-watering acidity adds to the enjoyment. If enjoying in its youth, be sure to give this stunning new wine at least a one hour decant. Drink 2020-2035- 95
61) 2018 Kobayashi Viognier
Washington I Red Mountain I $50.00 I 94 Points
The 2018 Viognier by Kobayashi and the talented Travis Allen is a gorgeous effort that was entirely sourced from the WeatherEye Vineyard, perched high above Red Mountain. Needing more than a one hour decant to fully be aroused, the wine opens with a gorgeous bouquet of honeysuckle with lychee, Meyer lemon cream and shades of orange zest that all mingle together in the glass. Showing off a soft and inviting texture, this takes on an exotic appeal with its ripe cantaloupe, starfruit, kumquat and vanilla cream flavors that linger with a bright sense of minerality. Fantastic now, this beautiful wine will cellar well for the next decade. Tried in several stemware choices, this wine shows considerably better in a Riedel Pinot Noir glass at a warmer temperature. Drink 2019-2029- 94
62) 2017 Sojourn ‘Gap’s Crown’ Pinot Noir
California I Sonoma Coast I $65.00 I 94 Points
The Gap’s Crown Vineyard is one of the great vineyards of the in the Sonoma Coast AVA, set between 300 and 800 feet, right next to the Sangiacomo VIneyard. This wine opens with a bouquet of white rose, cran-pomegranate and orange zest. The salinity of the wine shines through as bright red cherry candy, guava puree, Mandarin orange rind and cola flavors all marvelously combine on the palate. This marvelous wine shows not only serious range but a beautiful, soft texture. Enjoy this over the next decade or more. Drink 2019-2030- 94
63) 2017 Rotie Cellars ‘Northern Blend’ Red Wine
Washington I Walla Walla Valley I $55.00 I 94 Points
The 2017 ‘Northern Blend’ is a compelling melange of 95% Syrah with 5% Viognier all sourced from their estate vineyard in the Walla Walla Rocks AVA. This begins with wonderful stony character on the nose that combines with blood orange cordial, red cherry preserves and shades of green olive tapenade that all blend marvelously together. The soft, silky texture is stunning. Black olive, exotic spices, Mandarin orange rind and wet stone with minerals all really sing in the glass. A delight to savor now, this beautiful effort will cellar well for a decade or more. Drink 2019-2029- 94
64) 2016 Brittan Vineyards ‘Gestalt Block’ Pinot Noir
Oregon I Willamette Valley I $48.00 I 94 Points
The 2016 Brittan Vineyards ‘Gestalt Block’ is a scintillating new release by this storied Oregon winery. Sourced from their vineyard in the McMinnville AVA, as the ‘Gestalt Block’ is set on their western facing hillside that is set on broken basalt. Deeply colored once in the glass, the ‘Gestalt Block’ starts off with deep wet stone influence that connects with the shades of cran-pomegranate and guava with peat moss aromas that all collide in the glass. The mouth-watering acidity of the wine is truly gorgeous, as is the great sense of stony terroir. Silky and soft on the mouth, this delivers gobs of racy acidity and a light dusting of salinity that runs through the dark fruits and earthy undertones on the palate. Truly novel and esteemed in the land of Oregon Pinot Noir, the ‘Gestalt Block’ will have a decade or more in the cellar. Drink 2019-2032- 94
65) 2016 Goldeneye ‘Ten Degrees’ Pinot Noir
California I Sonoma County I $125.00 I 95 Points
The 2016 ‘Ten Degrees’ Pinot Noir is a dazzling new barrel selection wine from the talented winemaking team at Goldeneye. Aged for sixteen months in 60% new French oak, this shows some seriously good aromatic range from blood orange to peat moss and white truffle shavings alongside red and dark berry aromatics. The palate has remarkable depth, complexity and precision. Wild blackberry, guava puree, pipe tobacco, leather and kirsch cordial with cola flavors all mingle brilliantly together. While a downright stunner in its youth, this will evolve well for the next fifteen to twenty years. Drink 2020-2035- 95
66) 2015 Beaulieu Vineyards ‘Georges de Latour’ Cabernet Sauvignon
California I Napa Valley I $125.00 I 95 Points
The 2015 ‘Georges de Latour’ is another stunning release of this storied wine by Beaulieu Vineyards. Coming from a warm vintage in the Napa Valley, this gorgeous Cabernet Sauvignon shows off an inky core, slowly unveiling exotic spices, espresso bean, blackberry cobbler and hints of pipe tobacco that all build on this expressive nose. The palate shows some serious weight and elegance as the wine gracefully dances across the mid-palate. Polished and layered with dark fruits, chocolate, minerals and herbal undertones, the 2015 ‘Georges de Latour’ is surprisingly open in its youth. If enjoying in its nascency be sure to give this beautiful wine at least a one hour decant. Drink 2020-2040- 95
67) 2017 Bergström ‘Bergstrom Vineyard’ Pinot Noir
Oregon I Willamette Valley I $95.00 I 95 Points
The ‘Bergström Vineyard’ was first planted in 1999 and is set on a broken basalt hillside. On the nose this evokes a strong volcanic earth influence alongside red and dark fruits with lemon zest undertones. Sinfully good, the wine has a silky texture that effortlessly glides through the mid-palate. Black cherry cordial, wild blackberry preserves, peat moss and forest floor flavors all come together beautifully. While marvelous in the glass now, try to resist this stunning new wine for at least another year. If enjoying in its youth, be sure to give this at least a one hour decant. Drink 2020-2040- 95
68) 2015 Tendril ‘Tightrope’ Pinot Noir
Oregon I Willamette Valley I $75.00 I 94 Points
The 2015 Tendril ‘Tightrope’ Pinot Noir is a spectacular effort by the talented Tony Rynders. This limited production bottling which was aged for eighteen months in 50% new French oak prior to bottling. On the nose this takes on beautiful aromatic range from red and dark fruits to hints of cloves and black truffle shavings. The mouthfeel is downright seductive as layers of dark and red berries connect with earthy undertones and the toasty oak. While this has excellent mid-palate weight, there is also a seamless quality to the wine. The extremely long finish completes this gorgeous new wine. Delightful in its youth, this will continue to cellar well for the next fifteen to twenty years. Drink. 2019-2035- 94
69) 2017 Lange ‘Freedom Hill Vineyard’ Chardonnay
Oregon I Willamette Valley I $45.00 I 93 Points
The Lange family has been sourcing from the Freedom Hill Vineyard since 1989. The wine was aged in nearly all neutral oak prior to bottling. The palate is plush and bright showing white, vanilla creme brûlée and Meyer lemon zest. This is simply fantastic. Drink 2019-2028- 93
70) 2017 The Unnamed Series ‘Christmas Cuvee’ Red Wine
Washington I Walla Walla Valley I $25.00 I 92 Points
The 2017 ‘Christmas Cuvee’ is another sensational release by Matt Reynvaan. As this slowly builds momentum in the glass the wine slowly unveils lovely wet stone character that mingles with the umami with dried herbal notes on this expressive nose. The palate has a plush texture and wonderfully soft mouthfeel that entices. A bright and lifted sense of minerality captivates with the underlying blood orange zest and red currant flavors that mingle with shades of damp stone. This is seriously good for the price. Drink 2019-2025- 92
71) 2017 Rochioli ‘River Block’ Chardonnay
California I Russian River Valley I $120.00 I 95 Points
Quite different than the ‘South River’ bottling, the ‘River Block’ opens with intense tropical fruits that combine with tones of kumquat rind and green apple and wet stone in this absolutely intoxicating nose. The palate reveals a silky texture and an oily, almost unctuous mouthfeel. Despite the obvious mid-palate richness, the wine unveils a seamless quality that runs through the wine. Ripe pineapple, banana, golden delicious apple and saline infused lemon flavors all dance together in harmony. A delight to savor in its youth, this beautiful wine will cellar well over the next fifteen years. Drink 2019-2033- 95
72) 2016 Chalk Hill ‘Estate’ Chardonnay
California I Sonoma County I $50.00 I 93 Points
The 2016 Chalk Hill ‘Estate’ Chardonnay is a beautiful new wine by this talented winemaking team. Right away you are intrigued with the ripe melon and tropical fruit aromatics that all meld in the glass. The palate shows wonderful richness and viscosity, giving off a great sense of power. Ripe banana, honeydew melon and shades of wild mushroom with creme brûlée accents all impress on the palate. While a beautiful wine in its youth, this will continue to evolve well for a decade or more. Drink 2019-2029- 93
73) 2018 EFESTĒ ‘Oldfield Estate’ Rose
Washington I Columbia Valley I $28.00 I 92 Points
The 2018 ‘Oldfield Estate’ Rose is a simply stunning new bottling by the talented Mark Fiore. On the nose this takes on beautiful citrus blossom with green papaya and watermelon notes that come together marvelously in the glass. The Rose combines fantastic minerality with a silky texture that entices on the palate. Bright citrus rind with red fruits dominate the palate. An outstanding effort, this fantastic new release will be best enjoyed over the next five plus years. Drink 2019-2024- 92
74) 2017 Betz ‘Domaine de Pierres’ Syrah
Washington I Walla Walla Valley I $62.00 I 94 Points
The ‘Domaine de Pierres’ Syrah is the second release of this estate sourced wine from the Ancient Stones Vineyard. This was aged for thirteen months in 100% French oak. The savory and smoky aromatics entice with umami and bright red fruits with lighter citrus zest tones. The palate shows wonderful viscosity and freshness with a silky mouthfeel. Red cherry preserves, with wet stone and seaweed flavors all combine with lighter white truffle shaving flavors. While wonderful in its youth this will develop well for a decade or more. Drink 2019-2029- 94
75) 2018 L’Ecole No. 41 ‘Columbia Valley’ Chardonnay
Washington I Columbia Valley I $20.00 I 92 Points
The 2018 ‘Columbia Valley’ Chardonnay follows the excellent long line of releases by L’Ecole No. 41. Nutmeg infused sourdough bread and shades of ripe pear that round out the beautiful aromatics in the wine. The soft texture greets you as the wine shows a seamless quality that runs through the wine on the palate. Seriously good right now, this will age well for a decade, picking up tertiary notes as it develops. Drink 2019-2026- 92
76) 2017 Hazelfern ‘Willamette Valley’ Chardonnay
Oregon I Willamette Valley I $35.00 I 92 Points
The 2017 Hazelfern Chardonnay was aged for 11 months in 100% new French oak prior to bottling. On the nose this takes on bright lemon zest and brioche with wild mushroom aromas that build in the glass. The palate shows off a rather opulent mouthfeel, delivering ripe orchard and tropical fruits with wet stone and earthy undertones. Delightful to savor now, this fantastic effort will cellar well for a decade or more. Drink 2019-2029- 92
77) 2017 Cline ‘Ancient Vines’ Zinfandel
California I Contra Costa County I $20.00 I 90 Points
The 2017 ‘Ancient Vines’ Zinfandel by Cline was stored for 10 months in 38% new American oak prior to bottling. On the nose this shows toasty oak that wraps around ripe red fruit and dill flavors. The palate shows good balance and restraint with ripe red cherry, loganberry and guava flavors with a touch of cran-cherry and earthy tones. Delicious now, this will cellar well over the next seven plus years. Drink 2019-2025- 90
78) 2016 Cuvaison ‘Spire’ Pinot Noir
California I Carneros I $55.00 I 93 Points
This excellent Pinot Noir by Cuvaison was aged for 18 months in French oak (50% new) prior to bottling. I really enjoy this nose that shows copious red fruits with spicy and earthy undertones. The beautiful mouthfeel gives this a seamless quality on the mid-palate. Red fruits collide with peat moss, wild blackberry jam and citrus rind flavors. Similar to the ‘ATS’ Chardonnay, while obviously rich, there is a good sense of poise and balance here. A complete wine, this is a stunning effort that is drinking marvelous now but will continue to evolve over the next ten to fifteen years. Drink 2018-2030- 93
79) 2014 Lauren Ashton ‘Proprietor’s Cuvee’ Red Wine
Washington I Columbia Valley I $65.00 I 93 Points
The 2014 ‘Proprietor’s Cuvee’ is an outstanding red blend made by the talented Dr. Kit Singh. Cabernet Sauvignon (50%) takes the lead in this wine, with smaller portions Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot. Aromatically the Cabernet Franc seems to be singing with its red bell pepper and herbal tones that collide with coffee grounds and shades of black licorice that all take their shape in the glass. Soft, silky, juicy and generous, the red fruits dance with black tea, Asian spices, blackberry pie and shades of chocolate covered espresso bean. This is seriously good stuff that will cellar at least for another fifteen years. Drink 2019-2033- 93
80) 2017 Illumination Sauvignon Blanc
California I Napa Valley I $35.00I 94 Points
Sourced from almost equal parts Sonoma and Napa AVAs, this shows really nice cantaloupe tones that mingle with lemon zest and shades of sourdough bread that all are woven together in the glass. The soft texture entices as ripe starfruit and cantaloupe flavors collide with minerals and light damp earth tones on the palate. This really satisfies especially warmed up a touch. Drink 2019-2025- 94
81) 2017 Robert Biale ‘Varozza Vineyard’ Zinfandel
California I Napa Valley I $55.00 I 94 Points
The 2017 ‘Varozza Vineyard’ Zinfandel is a stunning new wine by the talented winemaking team at Robert Biale. Sourced from the St. Helena AVA, the ‘Varozza Vineyard’ dates back to the 1800s as this beautiful new wine was aged for eleven months in 25% new French oak prior to bottling. The wine shows great aromatic range from Asian spices to tar and leather which mingle with the high toned red fruits in the glass. The palate is plush and dense, as the wine has a seamless quality that really impresses. Milk chocolate covered red cherry and sagebrush combine with the tobacco leaf and cardamom flavors on the palate. The exceedingly long finish lingers long on the tongue. Drink 2019-2033- 94
82) 2018 Andrew Will ‘Cuvee Lucia’ Rose
Washington I Yakima Valley I $28.00 I 92 Points
Sourced from the Two Blondes Vineyard in the Yakima Valley, the 2018 Rose by Andrew Will opens with intense aromas of red raspberry cordial, green apple and shades of wild mushroom with citrus blossom that round out this beautiful bouquet. The texture entices as ripe strawberry and melon tones combine with citrus blossom accents. Refined and elegant, yet showing good richness, this outstanding new release is irresistible right now. Drink 2019-2024- 92
83) 2017 a’Maurice Cellars ‘Sparrow’ Viognier
Washington I Walla Walla Valley I $30.00 I 92 Points
This estate Viognier shows intense aromas of banana, roasted pineapple and lychee with hints of vanilla cream. The palate is bright, showing a rich mouthfeel. Pineapple upside down cake, lemon zest and with buttercream flavors all nicely combine. This is seriously good Viognier. Drink 2018-2024- 92
84) 2018 Purple Star Rose
Washington I Red Mountain I $15.00 I 90 Points
The unique aromatics grip you with peat moss and wild mushroom tones that combine with delicate red fruits all mingling on the nose. The palate has good freshness and balance, with a silky texture. Bright pear, starfruit, and ripe strawberry flavors all connect with the bright sense of minerality. This is a serious value. Drink 2019-2023- 90
85) 2016 Doubleback ‘Estate Reserve’ Cabernet Sauvignon
Washington I Walla Walla Valley I $150.00 I 95 Points
The ‘Estate Reserve’ combines Cabernet Sauvignon (78%) with equal parts Petit Verdot and Malbec. Seductive aromas of this wine impress you immediately as the wine reveals a seductive nose with Black Forest Cake, coffee grounds, anise and creme de cassis. The mid-palate weight to this wine is exceedingly good, as is the sense of balance. Anise, green bell pepper, mocha and shades of blueberry puree flavors all come together marvelously. A long-ager, try to resist this beautiful wine for at least two more years. Drink 2021-2040- 95
86) 2017 00 Wines ‘VGW’ Chardonnay
Oregon I Willamette Valley I $75.00 I 93 Points
The 2017 00 Wines ‘VGW’ Chardonnay is another stunning new wine from this exciting winery in the Willamette Valley. This wine opens with a bouquet of smoke with shades of wet stone, peat moss, citrus zest and orchard fruits that all mingle in the glass. The palate shows wonderful freshness and tension, unveiling bright lemon cream infused Challah bread, toasted hazelnut and forest floor flavors. While this is delicious now, the wine will cellar well over the next decade or more. Drink 2019-2029- 93
87) 2016 Morlet ‘Passionement’ Cabernet Sauvignon
California I Napa Valley I $150.00 I 95 Points
The 2016 Morlet ‘Passionnement’ Cabernet Sauvignon is a barrel-select wine which was dedicated to the winemaker’s wife, Jodie Morlet. On the nose this shows beautiful fresh red rose petals with deep dark fruits, tobacco leaf and a touch of milk chocolate. Dense and marvelously layered, this wine seamlessly glides across the mid-palate, delivering creme de cassis, blackberry pie, dusty terroir and shades of red cherry tomato flavors that mingle harmoniously together. While impressive now, this will only improve with some bottle age. Drink 2020-2040- 95
88) 2016 Roserock ‘Zephrine’ Pinot Noir
Oregon I Willamette Valley I $75.00 I 94 Points
The ‘Zephrine’ is a barrel selection wine named after the Zephrine Drouhin varietal of rose. Lighter earthy tones with copious red fruits and citrus rind fill the nose. The palate is soft and lithe, revealing a wonderful mouthfeel and showing good decadence. Red cherry candy, cran-pomegranate, peat moss and white truffle shaving flavors all marvelously combine. Highly elegant and delicious now, enjoy this beautiful wine over the next two decades. Drink 2019-2035- 94
89) 2017 Woodward Canyon ‘Old Vines’ Cabernet Sauvignon
Washington I Columbia Valley I $99.99 I 95 Points
The ‘Old Vines’ Cabernet Sauvignon is sourced from the Sagemoor Vineyard, as well as the Champoux Vineyard and Woodward Canyon Estate Vineyard. The final blending is 93% Cabernet Sauvignon with smaller portions Malbec and Petit Verdot. Deeply perfumed aromatics greet you with gorgeous black tea, exotic spice, blackberry cobbler and shades of anise that all sing in unison in the glass. The palate is plush, showing off a silky mouthfeel. While obviously dense, the feeling of elegance is really enticing. Blackberry compote, Turkish coffee, creosote and suggestions of chocolate covered kirsch flavors all collide on the palate. Impressive at only two years of age, this stunning wine will have an exceedingly long life in the cellar. Drink 2020-2040- 95
90) 2015 Corison ‘Sunbasket Vineyard’ Cabernet Franc
California I Napa Valley I $100.00 I 95 Points
Located a few blocks from the Corison estate, the Sunbasket Vineyard has six acres of Cabernet Franc planted. The wine opens with aromas of green peppercorn with ripe dark fruits and shades of Turkish coffee. The palate shows wonderful freshness as perfumed dark fruits mingle with chocolate, black tea and Asian spices with violets. Fantastic in its youth, this will cellar well for decades. This has fantastic elegance, leading to the exceedingly long finish. Drink 2020-2035- 95
91) 2016 Melka Estates ‘Metisse Martinez Vineyard’ Red Wine
California I Napa Valley I $225.00 I 96 Points
This is the second vintage that they have sourced from the ‘Martinez Vineyard’ which is located on Pritchard Hill at 1200 feet in elevation above St. Helena. The ‘Metisse’ is a seductive blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon with 23% Petit Verdot and 17% Cabernet Franc. The deep and highly perfumed aromatics impress with creme de cassis, creosote, coffee grounds and shades of dusty terroir that all take their shape in the glass. The palate has a plush texture, showing plenty of exotic appeal. Light tannins frame the deep and dark fruit flavors that collide with shades of bittersweet chocolate, pipe tobacco and tar. While remarkable at the three year mark, this stunning new release will cellar well for the next two decades. Drink 2020-2040- 96
92) 2017 Block Wines ‘Boushey Vineyard Golden Block’ Grenache
Washington I Yakima Valley I $35.00 I 93 Points
This is the second time in a row that this fantastic value has landed on my WWB Top 100. The 2017 ‘Boushey Vineyard Golden Block’ is another magical effort by the talented Morgan Lee. Translucent in the glass, the wine stands out delivering guava puree with Mandarin orange rind, red cherry candy and shades of clove that all mingle nicely together in the glass. The palate is plush, delivering a delightfully soft texture. Bright cran-cherry, teaberry, and freshly picked strawberry flavors with minerals add to the enjoyment on the palate. The combination of freshness and viscosity here is really lovely, as is the exceedingly long finish. A delight to savor in its youth, the ‘Boushey Vineyard Golden Block’ Grenache will provide drinking enjoyment over the next decade. Drink 2019-2029- 93
93) 2016 Melville ‘Estate’ Chardonnay
California I Santa Rita Hills I $30.00 I 93 Points
2016 Melville ‘Estate’ Chardonnay- The 2016 ‘Estate’ Chardonnay by Melville follows up their tremendous 2015 bottling and is another seriously good wine made by the talented Chad Melville. On the nose this takes on toasty brioche with shades of wild mushroom and salted praline which round out the expressive aromatics. The palate has wonderful freshness and a soft mouthfeel that really entices. Bright orchard fruits and lemon zest combine with shades of ripe pineapple and sourdough bread on the palate. Beautiful now, this outstanding value Chardonnay will have a long life in the cellar. Drink 2019-2029- 93
94) 2016 Yao Family Wines ‘Family Reserve’ Cabernet Sauvignon
California I Napa Valley I $250.00 I 95 Points
The 2016 Yao Family Wines ‘Family Reserve’ Cabernet Sauvignon is a barrel selection Cabernet Sauvignon (97%) wine with 3% Petit Verdot that is a scintillating effort by the talented Tom Hinde. The highly perfumed aromatics really entice with mocha, blueberry cordial, blackberry compote, black tea and exotic spices which all take shape in the glass. There is a seamless quality to this wine as it deftly glides across the mid-palate. Bright acidity and a silky texture awaits, with deep dark fruit flavors, with mocha, creme de cassis and shades of black licorice that all meld together on the palate. This is sensational in its youth and will continue to evolve well for decades. Drink 2020-2040- 95
95) 2016 Stag Hollow ‘Reserve’ Pinot Noir
Oregon I Willamette Valley I $45.00 I 93 Points
The ‘Reserve’ Pinot Noir by talented winemaker Mark Huff is another fabulous effort from this storied Oregon winery. Vibrant and beautifully astringent o the nose, the wine leads on teaberry, cran-cherry and black truffle aromatics that all impress in the glass. The palate shows off a silky texture and marvelous mouthfeel. Black tea, cran-orange, black truffle crudo, wild blackberry cobbler and black cherry cordial all combine in the glass. The flavor range here is exceedingly good. Only 73 cases of this brilliant new wine made so try to grab some while you can. Drink 2019-2029- 93
96) 2016 Duckhorn ‘Three Palms Vineyard’ Merlot
California I Napa Valley I $100.00 I 94 Points
The 2016 Duckhorn ‘Three Palms Vineyard’ is another stellar release by the talented Renee Ary. Aged in 100% new French oak for eighteen months, the Merlot has 6% Cabernet Sauvignon and 1% Malbec blended in. The nose exudes class with ripe chocolate covered bing cherry and shades of sweet pipe tobacco that mingle with the dusty terroir tones on the nose. The palate is plush, giving an err of decadence. The silky mouthfeel really gives a feel of opulence. Black Forest cake and dark licorice flavors collide with the dusty minerals and cigar box flavors. Simply outstanding in its youth following a one hour decant, this stunning Merlot will cellar well for decades. Drink 2020-2040- 94
97) 2016 Spottswoode ‘Estate’ Cabernet Sauvignon
California I Napa Valley I $200.00 I 96 Points
The 2016 ‘Estate’ Cabernet Sauvignon is a stunning blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Cabernet Franc, with 6% Petit Verdot. Needing a one hour decant to fully awaken, the 2016 ‘Estate’ Cabernet Sauvignon slowly unveils deep Turkish coffee, creme de cassis, cocoa powder and sweet pipe tobacco aromas with lighter suggestions of blueberry pie and graphite that all meld in the glass. The palate is dense and powerful yet shows a wonderful restraint and vibrant sense of tension that runs through the core of the wine. Moderate tannins frame the dense dark currant jelly, mocha, black tea, anise, exotic spice and herbal undertones round out this expressive palate. Fantastic and literally thrilling in its youth, the 2016 ‘Estate’ Cabernet Sauvignon will provide drinking enjoyment for the next two plus decades. Drink 2020-2040- 96
98) 2014 Corliss Estates Red Wine
Washington I Columbia Valley I $100.00 I 94 Points
A combination of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot, the 2014 Corliss Red Wine was aged in 65% new French oak for 28 months prior to bottling. Needing a one hour decant to fully express itself, the wine slowly unveils ripe blueberry compote, sagebrush, Turkish coffee and shades of black licorice candy that all meld together in the glass. The palate is silky smooth and decadent, while also elegant. With a soft mouthfeel, this gracefully glides across the mid-palate revealing copious dark and blue fruit flavors with chocolate covered espresso bean. Marvelous now, this beautiful red blend will have a long life in the cellar. Drink 2020-2038- 94
99) 2016 Cote Bonneville ‘DuBrul Vineyard’ Chardonnay
Washington I Yakima Valley I $45.00 I 93 Points
The aromatics are quite seductive with bright lemon zest, starfruit, heavy cream and suggestions of nutmeg. The soft texture entices here with ripe pear, apricot, vanilla cream and minerals. The exceedingly long, near minute finish lingers long on the tongue. This outstanding wine will cellar well for another decade or more. Drink 2019-2029- 93
100) 2014 Domaine Ste. Michelle ‘Luxe’ Sparkling Wine
Washington I Columbia Valley I $25.00 I 92 Points
The 2014 ‘Luxe’ by Domaine Ste. Michelle is another fantastic bottling from this great estate. Aged sur lie in the bottle for over 3 years prior to disgorgement, the ‘Luxe’ opens with toasted brioche and apricot with shades of lemon zest and nutmeg that take shape in the glass. The palate shows wonderful weight and texture, as lemon infused sourdough bread and green apple flavors with suggestions of green papaya all mingle together with the wonderful sense of minerality. This is top notch stuff from this warm vintage in Washington. Drink 2019-2026- 92