Dear Friends,
I want to offer my warmest holiday greetings from Owen Bargreen. We are very humbled by your support and following. 2022 has been a year of promise, coming out of this hideous pandemic. Wineries have greatly suffered during the past several years and they need your support more than ever. You will never see a hard seltzer in my hand. I have been working hard over the past several years to promote the great wines of Washington, Oregon and California. This past year I discontinued being Washington wine critic for Vinous and decided to focus on my own website. I have been thoroughly enjoying the independence that brings to me.
Over the past year we have contributed hundreds of articles that focus on Washington, Oregon and California wine and wineries, as well as many features from France, Australia, Italy and Spain. We will work hard to push more events that highlight the best wines of these regions in the future. 2022 has brought many challenges to peoples’ budgets and this year I have chosen 100 exceptional domestic wines to comprise my Top 100 for 2022, including many highly collectable wines but also wines that embody good value.
Out of thousands of wines that I tasted in the past year I adjudged several wines to be nothing short of perfection in a bottle. Our Owen Bargreen #1 wine of 2022 was a very difficult choice. Vigneron Christophe Baron and Bionic Wines Director of winemaking Elizabeth Bourcier have produced a scintillating range of wines and none more so than their 2019 Horsepower Vineyards ‘Fiddleneck Vineyard’ Grenache which is a perfect wine. Taste this vs. Rayas or any top Southern Rhone wine and you will see that the Horsepower is not only one of the finest of its kind in North America, but also rivals anything in the world.
I want to offer my deepest thanks for all of your support and I want to wish you all the absolute best during this holiday season and as we usher in the new decade I wish you all a Happy Holidays and hope that 2023 brings you all great joy and prosperity, with beautiful wines in your glass.
1) 2019 Horsepower Vineyards ‘Fiddleneck Vineyard’ Grenache
Washington I Walla Walla Valley I $120 I 100 Points
It has been such a pleasure to taste this ebullient wine now several times over the past year. The mouth-watering acidity presented in this beautiful, very sexy Grenache is just second to none. Years ago Christophe Baron acquired this site set on large cobblestones and let it sit for several years before planting in 2015. After time he noticed Fiddleneck flowers that were appearing all across the vineyard. The Grenache from the ‘Fiddleneck Vineyard’ comes off as very stony and elegant but also very floral. Right away the beautiful red florals amaze on the nose, with shades of smoldering stones, green olive tapenade, and suggestions of hoisin sauce, with a pure core of red fruits. The palate is soft and pillowy, giving off an opulent approach to the wine, as this effortlessly glides throughout the drinking experience. Enjoy this beauty now and over the next decade. Drink 2022-2032- 100
2) 2020 Quilceda Creek ‘Galitzine’ Cabernet Sauvignon
Washington | Columbia Valley | $225.00 | 100 Points
Stored in 100% new French oak, the single varietal 2020 Quilceda Creek ‘Galitzine Vineyard Clone 8’ Cabernet Sauvignon shows off its stunning aromatics with black tea, blueberry liquor, Turkish coffee and rocky soil notes alongside deep black and blue florals. The palate is deep and concentrated with intense black and blue fruit flavors. With more air intense mocha and graphite tones emerge with creme de cassis, cedar, and scorched earth flavors brilliantly combine. While very full-throttle, there is brilliant underlying finesse. Finishing exceedingly long, this is a masterpiece by director of winemaking Paul Golitzin. Be sure to give this three plus hours in the decanter before consuming. Drink 2022-2045- 100
3) 2019 HALL ‘Rainin Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon
California | Napa Valley | $350.00 | 100 Points
The Rainin Vineyard is a warm, 8 acre site located in Diamond Mountain. HALL has this site under long-term lease, as the vines are set on volcanic soils. The 2019 HALL ‘Rainin Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon is a simply magical effort that is already drinking beautifully. On the nose this chocolate covered espresso bean, black currants and creme de violette with stony undercurrents. The palate is impeccably balanced and seamless throughout the drinking experience. This is jam-packed with black and blue fruits but does not come off at all heavy. Finishing exceptionally long, with ripe black fruits and cocoa powder, sweet pipe tobacco, with copious minerals, this is a stunning rendition of Rainin Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon that is already nicely evolved and will continue to shine on for decades to come. Drink 2022-2042- 100
4) 2019 Cayuse Vineyards ‘God Only Knows’ Red Wine
Washington | Walla Walla Valley | $100.00 | 99 Points
One of the great Grenache wines of North America, the ebullient 2019 Cayuse Vineyards ‘God Only Knows’ Red Wine has a small portion of Syrah blended in, as this was entirely sourced from the Armada Vineyard. Showing a dark core once in the glass, the captivating aromatics bring you back to the glass. Mandarin orange rind dusted seaweed, flint, Yakima cherry puree and pretty strawberry tones combine with lighter red florals on the nose. The palate is utterly seamless and soft once on the mouth, with serious minerality. The combination of bright acidity and weight really adds pleasure. Very stony and finishing long with bright red fruits and kumquat rind accents, this dizzying Grenache is truly one of a kind. Enjoy this beauty over the next decade and give this at least 30 minutes of air if savoring now. Drink 2022-2031- 99
5) 2021 Kobayashi ‘Sans Soufre WeatherEye Vineyard’ Syrah
Washington | Columbia Valley | $85.00 | 99 Points
The stunning 2021 Kobayashi ‘WeatherEye Vineyard Sans Soufre’ Syrah is a blockbuster effort by winemaker Travis Allen. Sourced from this north-facing vineyard, each cluster was placed into the barrel and this received no punchdowns or pump-overs as the barrels were rotated and then the wine was pressed into one neutral puncheon. This was topped once a week and oxygen content was extremely limited before bottling in May 2022. Inky in the glass, this reveals copious purple flowers with tar and tobacco age alongside huckleberry pie. This is a massive, hedonistic wine with a serious tannic backbone and incredible finesse. Very concentrated black and blue fruits collide with graphite, iodine, scorched earth, purple rose water and suggestions of Turkish coffee grounds. This is deep, massive, and complex wine that is absolutely irresistible to consume now and over the next five to seven years. Drink 2022-2028- 99
6) 2019 Force Majeure ‘Red Mountain’ Cabernet Sauvignon
Washington | Red Mountain | $120.00 | 98 Points
Truly one of the great wines made this vintage, this is now the third chance that I have had to taste this beautiful 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon produced by the hands of Todd Alexander and his winemaking team. The heady aromas literally scream Red Mountain once in the glass, showing scorched earth tones with shades of black currants, tobacco leaf and espresso ground notes. The palate is rich and concentrated with firm tannins that hold everything marvelously in line. A generous core of black and blue fruits greet you, as this finishes wth tar and mocha notes. Enjoy this astonishingly good wine now and over the next two decades. Drink 2022-2042- 98
7) 2019 Reynvaan Family Vineyards ‘Foothills Reserve’ Syrah
Washington | Walla Walla Valley | $85.00 | 98 Points
I am always amazed what top winemakers can produce in challenging vintages. Such is the case with this beautiful wine by Matt Reynvan coming from the somewhat cooler 2019 vintage. The ‘Foothills Reserve’ has developed a cult following in Washington State, as this is truly one of a kind Syrah that shows the beautiful stony and umami tones from this high elevation site in the Walla Walla Valley. This 2019 edition shows good viscosity and verve, with wintergreen, black cherry compote, iodine and coffee grounds with plenty of wet stone character on the palate. The level of finesse here is absolutely wonderful as this beautiful wine is already beautifully evolved and will cellar well over the next decade. Drink 2022-2030- 98
8) 2019 TOR ‘Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon
California | Napa Valley | $300.00 | 100 Points
The utterly fabulous 2019 TOR ‘Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the great wines that I have tasted this past year. The nose is a very pure expression of Oakville terroir, with creme de cassis, dried herbs and violets that collide with freshly tilled loamy soils. The palate is seamless and expresses a weightless drinking experience. Very compact now, showing a deep concentration of black and blue fruits, with graphite, cigar box and creosote notes, this is nothing short of perfection in a bottle. Savor this stunner over the next twenty years. Drink 2022-2045- 100
9) 2014 Domaine Serene ‘Recolte Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs’ Sparkling Wine
Oregon | Willamette Valley | $120.00 | 96 Points
Quite simply a masterpiece in Oregon wine, the 2014 Domaine Serene ‘Recolte Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs’ Sparkling Wine may just be the finest 100% Chardonnay sparkling wine from Oregon that I have tasted. Once on the nose this revels in its rich lemon rind dusted brioche tones alongside ripe pineapple and golden delicious apple. Seamless and soft throughout the drinking experience, this effortlessly glides, with a refined mousse and lovely, lengthy finish. Delicious and defined, and already nicely evolved, this is scintillating, deep and concentrated bubbles to enjoy right now and over the next ten years. Drink 2022-2032- 96
10) 2021 Merry Edwards ‘Russian River Valley’ Sauvignon Blanc
California | Russian River Valley | $48.00 | 95 Points
Always big and loaded with finesse, the gorgeous 2021 Merry Edwards ‘Russian River Valley’ Sauvignon Blanc is a superlative effort by the talented Heidi Van Der Mehden. Very soft upon entry, this leads with nutmeg infused honeydew melon, cashew nut, salted brioche and suggestions of nectarine pie, displaying both a dazzling mineralogy and a downright unctuous texture. Truly a complete wine, enjoy this beauty at a slightly warmer temperature to take in the full range of flavors and aromatics. Drink 2022-2030- 95
11) 2021 Lange ‘Estate’ Chardonnay
Oregon | Willamette Valley | $65.00 | 94 Points
From their estate vineyard in the Dundee Hills, this 2021 Chardonnay delivers flinty and nutty accents that combine with serious finesse, stony minerals and rich orchard fruit flavors. This is everything that you want in an elegant Oregon Chardonnay. Drink 2022-2030- 94
12) 2015 Domaine Carneros ‘Le Reve’ Sparkling Wine
California | Carneros | $105.00 | 96 Points
The brilliant new 2015 Domaine Carneros ‘Le Reve Blanc de Blancs’ Sparkling Wine is a warm vintage masterpiece by winemaker Remi Cohen. Given a small amount of dosage (.9G/L), this slowly unveils delicate white tea and lemon oil aromas with biscuit notes. The palate is deep and concentrated, with a silky mousse. Heady citrus oil flavors combine with cashew nut, juicy nectarine and Japanese pear notes, with lighter ginger accents. This is refined, highly nuanced, sparkling wine that also deftly reflects this warm vintage. With more and more air this becomes more intense and more complex. Enjoy this masterful effort now and over the next fifteen years and don’t serve too cold to take in the fabulous range of flavors and aromatics. Drink 2022-2037- 96
13) 2018 Rasa Vineyards ’Veritas Sequitur SJR Vineyard’ Syrah
Oregon | The Rocks District | $120.00 | 97 Points
A total show-stopper, the sensational 2018 Rasa Vineyard ‘Veritas Sequitur SJR Vineyard’ Syrah stored in 100% new French oak for 24 months in barrel and then was stored in the bottle for two years prior to bottling. The nose shows insanely good range from seaweed to red currants and orange rind, potpourri and freshly tilled rocky soils. The palate is deep, concentrated and beautifully textured, showing a finish that just won’t end. With more air you see more and more Umami notes, as this beautiful, stony Syrah has a long way to go in the cellar. Drink 2022-2036- 97
14) 2018 Andrew Will ‘Sorella’ Red Wine
Washington | Horse Heaven Hills | $85.00 | 97 Points
One of the great wines of the vintage, the 2018 ‘Sorella’ is a barrel selection wine made by Will Carmada that is mainly Cabernet Sauvignon (80%) sourced from the Champoux Vineyard in the Horse Heaven Hills AVA. The resultant wine is a mesmerizing blend that is absolutely stunning now in its fourth year. Creme de cassis and anise aromatics combine with purple rose petals, cedar and blackberry pie on the nose. The palate shows really lovely herbal undertones that combine with a head-turning core of black and blue fruits with Turkish coffee accents and copious minerals. If enjoying now, be sure to give this at least an hour in the decanter. Drink 2023-2045- 97
15) 2019 Leonetti Cellar ‘Serra Pedace Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon
Washington | Walla Walla Valley | $150.00 | 97 Points
Located in the SeVein project, the Serra Pedace is a southern Walla Walla Valley site that is set at roughly 1,200 feet. The nose is intense and hedonistic with black rose petals and dark currants that combine with black tea notes that all mingle in the glass. The palate is very deep and concentrated, with beautiful underlying finesse and a lengthy finish. Smooth tannins line the core of concentrated black fruits, as this beautiful wine will live on for at least another twenty years to come. Give this beauty at least an hour in the decanter prior to enjoying, Drink 2022-2042- 97
16) 2018 Sanguis ‘Loner The Golden Hour’ Chardonnay
California | Santa Rita Hills | $75.00 | 96 Points
Sourced from the John Sebastiano vineyard, the wine utilizes one Wente clone block at the top of the hill at one thousand feet, as well as a block utilizing clone 76. This was stored in neutral oak puncheons before bottling, as the wine shows some very good cellaring potential. The mesmerizing aromatics bring you back to the glass, arousing the senses with honeysuckle, white peach, wet stone, and Pazazz apple. The palate is very focused and concentrated with unbelievably good length. Wait for the minute long finish. Drink 2022-2032- 96
17) 2020 Delmas Syrah
Oregon | The Rocks District | $80.00 | 96 Points
The 2020 Delmas Syrah is one of the great wines from this vintage that I have tasted in the past year. Picked before the smoke in 2020, the wine is a blend of Syrah and Viognier ( 8.2%) that was stored in 50% new French oak before bottling in February 2022. The nose is hedonistic and highly complex with hoisin sauce, blackberry pie, smoked brisket, green olive tapenade, Nori and suggestions of white pepper dusted bacon. The heady aromas bring you back to the glass for more enjoyment. The palate is soft and inviting with a pillowy texture that shows no rough edges, as this seamlessly glides throughout the drinking experience. The finish just won’t quit. Enjoy this beauty over the next eight to ten years. Drink 2022-2030- 96
18) 2019 Continuum Cabernet Sauvignon
California | Napa Valley | $250.00 | 98 Points
The stunning and hedonistic 2019 Continuum Cabernet Sauvignon has a good amount of Cabernet Franc (37%) blended in — all coming from the Sage Mountain Vineyard. The high-toned red florals from the Cabernet Franc are really entering their crescendo as blackberry compote, tar, mocha and shades of menthol all enter the nose. The palate is very concentrated and shows a seamless texture. Almost weightless throughout the drinking experience, this is already beautifully evolved, and will provide drinking enjoyment for at least another twenty years. Drink 2022-2042- 98
19) 2019 Saxum ‘James Berry Vineyard’ Syrah
California | Paso Robles | $150.00 | 97 Points
You have to be enamored by the new 2019 edition of the ‘James Berry Vineyard’ Syrah which blends 58% Grenache, 27% Mataro, 6% Syrah, 6% Graciano, and 3% Counoise. While this weighs in at 15.9% alcohol, this comes off very weightless and plush, with absolutely no rough edges. Layers of black currant cordial, creme de violette, espresso grounds, and salty minerals all brilliantly combine on the palate. Finishing very long, this inky and massive wine is already beautifully evolved and will be sure to satisfy for at least another fifteen years. Drink 2022-2037- 97
20) 2019 Saviah Cellars ‘The Funk Estate’ Syrah
Washington | Walla Walla Valley | $75.00 | 95 Points
Located in The Rocks District of Milton-Freewater, the famed Funk Estate Vineyard is set on alluvial soils, including basalt pebbles, cobbles and boulders. Winemaker Richard Funk has blended in 4% Viognier, as the wine was stored in 40% new French oak for eighteen months prior to bottling. The nose is distinctly Rocks Syrah, with beef drippings, Umami and black olive tapenade with green peppercorns and creme de violette aromatics that simply dazzle in the glass. The palate is refined and soft as medium to full-bodied dark fruit flavors collide with milk chocolate, smoked brisket, sweet pipe tobacco and blackberry pie flavors. Sensational to enjoy right now, this beauty has another decade of life in front of it. Drink 2022-2032- 95
21) 2019 Audeant ‘Seven Springs Vineyard’ Chardonnay
Oregon | Willamette Valley | $75.00 | 94 Points
Sourced from this famed site in the Eola-Amity Hills AVA, this reveals nectarine and flinty tones on the nose, with shades of peat moss and roasted hazelnut. The palate is seamless and sensational in terms of finesse, weight and length. The exceedingly long, Meyer lemon zest, wet stone and sourdough bread-driven finish really entices. Be sure to enjoy this beauty at a warmer temperature as the 2019 ‘Seven Springs Vineyard’ Chardonnay will live on for at least another ten years. Drink 2022-2032- 94
22) 2018 Spottswoode Cabernet Sauvignon
California | Napa Valley | $200.00 | 98 Points
A monumental blend of nearly all Cabernet Sauvignon (89.5%) from this estate on the western bench of St. Helena, the 2019 Spottswoode ‘Estate’ Cabernet Sauvignon is right up there with some of the great wines that I have tasted from this estate. Obviously deep and brooding, this shows impeccable balance and a literal cornucopia of flavors, ranging from tobacco leaf, salted dark fruits and smoky tones to creme de violette and Arabica bean tones. Finishing long, this is nervy, intense wine that really can benefit from two to three hours in the decanter prior to enjoying. Savor this beauty over the next twenty plus years. Drink 2024-2044- 98
23) 2020 Ramey Wine Cellars ‘Hyde Vineyard’ Chardonnay
California | Sonoma County | $70.00 | 96 Points
Talk about a world-class Chardonnay, the 2020 Ramey ‘Hyde Vineyard’ Chardonnay is a mouth-watering, intense and satisfying journey from the beginning to the end. Old Wente and Calera clonal selections, this runs the gamut of flavors — from tropical and melon fruits, to suggestions of salted Macadamia nut and wet stone — all leading to the exceedingly long, and very gratifying finish. Don’t serve this too cold! Drink 2022-2036- 96
24) 2020 Melville ‘Santa Rita Hills’ Pinot Noir
California | Santa Rita Hills | $35.00 | 93 Points
Entirely aged in neutral oak for twelve months, this has 17 different clones blended in. Gorgeous red currants, red florals and red cherry candy all mark the nose, with salty undertones. The palate is rich and layered with soft tannins that frame a great core of saline dusted red fruits. Finishing long, this will easily hold for another decade. Drink 2022-20232- 93
25) 2019 Avennia ‘Red Willow Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon
Washington | Columbia Valley | $95.00 | 96 Points
Coming from old plantings (1991) at the top of the hill at the Red Willow Vineyard, the 2019 ‘Red Willow Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon shows off tar and pencil lead notes alongside dusty soils, cigar ash and black currant jelly. The palate is deep and refined with very elegant tannins. Intense dark fruits parade with espresso grounds, dried herbs and suggestions of creme de violette. Drink this beauty over then ext two decades. Drink 2022-2040- 96
26 ) 2019 Bevan ‘Tench Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon
California | Napa Valley | $250.00 | 97 Points
Coming from this famed site in the Napa Valley, the 2019 ‘Tench Vineyard’ shows wonderful earthy and wet gravel tones on the nose, with dense cassis, loganberry syrup and dark chocolate shavings that all take shape in the glass. On the mouth this comes off as very plush and exotic, with light tannins that frame a brilliant core of blue and black fruits. Seductive and rich in its heady youth, enjoy this beautiful wine now and over the next twenty years to come. Drink 2022-2042- 97
27) 2018 ROCO ‘RMS’ Sparkling Wine
Oregon | Willamette Valley | $65.00 | 95 Points
Even more big and dense than the 2017 edition, but every bit as good, the gorgeous 2018 ROCO deftly showcases the wonderful weight and tension produced in this warm vintage. Once on the mouth, the soft sense of texture and refined mousse entices. Layers of buttered brioche and lemon rind combine with notes of cardamom, baked pear and light flinty undercurrents. Complex and delicious now, this has at least another fifteen years in front of it. Drink 2022-2037- 95
28) 2020 Liminal ‘Block 47’ Cabernet Sauvignon
Washington | Columbia Valley | $125.00 | 98 Points
The final number in this stunning lineup, the 2020 Liminal Cabernet Sauvignon is a masterclass that was sourced from a lower elevation block which is a one acre site, southwest facing with tight spacing in the WeatherEye Vineyard. The underlying acidity and salty of the character really make this sing. Very concentrated with huckleberry, Turkish coffee, dark chocolate shavings and black florals, this is singular, one of a kind wine that is already beautifully evolved. Get your hands on this beauty if you can and be sure to give it plenty of air prior to enjoyment. Drink 2022-2042- 98
29) 2019 Cardinale Red Wine
California | Napa Valley | $350.00 | 97 Points
The 2019 Cardinale Red WIne is a stunning effort by winemaker Chris Carpenter. Needing two plus hours in the decanter to fully develop, the wine leads with layers of toasty oak and blackberry compote that mingle with dark chocolate covered Arabica bean, and huckleberry cordial notes. With more air the beautiful aromas become more intoxicating. Once on the mouth you sense the core being beautifully textured and structured, with firm tannins holding everything together. Rich anise, and black currants amalgamate with espresso grounds, and creme de violette, with copious minerals. Try to avoid consuming this beautiful wine for at least another year. Drink 2024-2048- 97
30) 2018 Chateau Ste Michelle ‘Cold Creek Vineyard’ Chardonnay
Washington | Columbia Valley | $30.00 | 93 Points
A hotter site for this varietal and a hotter vintage equals a world-class Chardonnay bottling in 2018 for Chateau Ste, Michelle. Everything is in balance here with good richness, texture and tension. Bright Bartlett pear and starfruit tones combine with baking spices and an exceedingly long finish. Rich and delicious to consume now, enjoy this beauty over the next seven plus years. Drink 2022-2029- 93
31) 2019 Larkmead ‘LMV Salon’ Red Wine
California | Napa Valley | $275.00 | 97 Points
A stunning wine by Larkmead, the 2019 ‘LMV Salon’ is a dazzling blend of near equal parts Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Aged for 18 months in 53% new French oak prior to bottling, this unveils a mesmerizing bouquet of cigar ash, yellow bell pepper, anise and suggestions of creme de violette on this captivating nose. The palate shows off a killer combination of weight and tension, as everything is in beautiful balance here. Seamless throughout the drinking experience, with its intense combination of black and blue fruits, as well as red and dark florals, just wait for the exceedingly long finish. Enjoy this weightless beauty over the next fifteen to twenty years. Drink 2022-2039- 97
32) 2020 Tablas Creek ‘Espirit de Tablas’ Red Wine
California | Paso Robles | $65.00 | 96 Points
The wonderful, soft and complex 2020 Tablas Creek ‘Esprit de Tablas’ Red Wine is a silky blend of 40% Mourvedre with 30% Grenache and smaller portions Syrah, Vaccarese, Cinsault and Counoise. Utterly fabulous on the nose, this is currently displaying a dizzying array of aromas from tobacco leaf and red currants to cigar ash, cedar and potpourri. The palate is seamless and intense, showing a slight hedonistic bent with its brilliant core of voluptuous red fruits. Showing brilliantly now, this has a long way to go in the cellar. Give this at least two hours in the decanter if enjoying now. Drink 2022-2038- 96
33) 2020 FIGGINS ‘Figlia’ Red Wine
Washington| Walla Walla Valley | $75.00 | 95 Points
The 2020 FIGGINS ‘Figlia’ Red Wine is a stunning blend of Petit Verdot and Merlot which was aged for 20 months in French oak (62% neutral) prior to bottling. Pencil lead and green herbs combine with blackberry compote and mocha tones on the nose. The palate is rich and volupuous with a silky texture and refined tannins. Very concentrated, with intense black and blue fruits, with herbal undertones, this is delicious and novel Bordeaux inspired wine to consume now and over the next fifteen years. Give this at least an hour in the decanter prior to enjoyment. Drink 2022-2038- 95
34) 2019 Mt. Brave ‘Mt. Veeder’ Merlot
California | Napa Valley | $95.00 | 95 Points
The absolutely delicious 2019 Mt. Brave Merlot comes from eastern-facing slopes on Mt. Veeder.. It immediately gratifies with chocolate covered kirsch notes alongside black raspberry, graphite and loamy soils. The intense aromatics bring you back to the glass for more enjoyment. The wine showcases velvety tannins that frame a beautiful core of red and dark fruits, with espresso grounds, mocha and lighter dried herbal notes. Finishing very long, this is soft, complex and stunning high-elevation Napa Merlot to consume now and over the next twenty years. Give this at least an hour in the decanter if enjoying now. Drink 2023-2043- 96
35) 2020 Lingua Franca ‘Inspiras’ Chardonnay
Oregon | Willamette Valley | $95.00 | 94 Points
Coming from a neighboring vineyard of the Lingua Franca Estate, the 2020 Lingua Franca ‘Inspiras’ is a barrel selection wine in which nearly two thirds of their crop was removed. The 2020 Chardonnay delivers toasty oak with banana, marzipan and suggestions of white cherry on the nose. The palate shows good viscosity and richness, reveling in wonderful veil of tension and stony accents. The very lengthy finish complete this beautiful wine that is only now starting to come into its own. Give this a one hour decant if enjoying now. Drink 2022-2035- 94
36) 2019 Foxen ‘Willamson-Dore Vineyard’ Syrah
California | Santa Rita Hills | $45.00 | 95 Points
Truly one of the great Syrahs made in this region, the 2019 Foxen ‘Williamson-Dore Vineyard’ Syrah has 5% Viognier co-fermented. Stored in French and Hungarian oak (33% new), this offers white pepper dusted bacon, lavender, and potpourri tones that combine with bulls blood accents. The palate shows serious weight and finesse, with a brilliant core of black fruits. Highly nuanced, and irresistible to consume now, enjoy over the next ten to twelve years. But why wait? Drink 2022-2033- 95
37) 2021 UpsideDown Wine ‘Konnowac Vineyard’ Viognier
Washington | Columbia Valley | $45.00 | 94 Points
This beautiful Viognier from the 2021 vintage comes off with white peach and gardenia with shades of salted Macadamia nut. The palate is deep and concentrated, with beautiful underlying finesse. This is well-orchestrated, and finishes very long with starfruit and vanilla cream. Beautiful to savor now, this has both the stuffing and bright acidity to cellar for another eight years. Drink 2022-2030- 94
38) 2020 Robert Biale ‘Varozza Vineyard’ Zinfandel
California | Napa Valley | $75.00 | 95 Points
One of the most consistently great Zinfandel wines that I have tasted over the past decade, the brilliant 2018 Robert Biale ‘Varozza Vineyard’ Zinfandel comes from this site in Saint Helena which was planted over a century ago. Once on the nose this takes on layers of black tea and blackberry compote with shades of ripe plum and salty undertones. The palate is deep and concentrated, as this comes off very seamless and elegant. Finishing long with black currants, freshly tilled soils and salty accents, this is a stunning effort that will surely live on for at least another decade. Drink 2022-2035- 95
39) 2019 Alexana ‘Zena Crown Vineyard’ Pinot Noir
Oregon | Willamette Valley | $75.00 | 93 Points
Really good in this cooler vintage, the 2019 Alexana ‘Zena Crown Vineyard’ Pinot Noir shows off tart red fruits on the nose, with sandalwood, cigar box and a dusting of volcanic earth. The palate is very salty and savory, with a beam of salinity that runs through the core of bright red fruits. Very pretty and downright sexy, this is outstanding Oregon Pinot Noir that will cellar well for another ten to twelve years. Drink 2022-2034- 93
39) 2019 Ridge Vineyards ‘Monte Bello’ Chardonnay
California | Santa Cruz Mountains | $75.00 | 96 Points
The 2019 ‘Monte Bello’ Chardonnay was stored for fifteen months in primarily American oak barrels before bottling. This is a seamless and elegant wine that shows great depth, weight and poise. Sweet corn, pineapple, creme brûlée and toasty oak notes combine seamlessly on the palate. This comes off as very weightless and just wait for the near minute long finish. Give this an hour of air and this will get better and better. Drink 2022-2032- 96
40) 2019 Sleight of Hand ‘The Psychedelic’ Syrah
Oregon | Walla Walla Valley | $65.00 | 95 Points
The outstanding 2019 ‘The Psychedelic’ Syrah is a touch lighter and more finesse-driven than the 2018 bottling. Aromatically brimming with Rocks character, this shows serious range from smoldering stones and red peppercorns to roasted dates and shades of Hoisin sauce that all meld in the glass. The palate is fresh, viscous and beautifully textured, with glorious length. A rich combination of bright red and dark fruits combine with wet stone and salty/savory undertones. Complex and utterly delicious to consume right now, this beautiful wine is really singing now and will continue to provide drinking enjoyment over the next eight years. Drink 2022-2030- 95
41) 2019 Andrew Januik ‘Stone Cairn’ Cabernet Sauvignon
Washington | Columbia Valley | $45.00 | 94 Points
The 2019 ‘Stone Cairn’ was sourced from the Red Mountain AVA and was stored for 21 months in 55% new French oak before bottling. Scorched earth and smoked brisket notes combine with rich dark fruits and milk chocolate on the nose. The palate is soft and round with a seamless texture and good finesse. Layers of toasty oak and mocha combine with the herbal undertones, showing really nice flavor range. Finishing long, this is gorgeous, generous Cabernet Sauvignon that will cellar well for another fifteen years. Drink 2022-2037- 94
42) 2021 Long Shadows ‘Poet’s Leap’ Riesling
Washington | Columbia Valley | $25.00 | 93 Points
Deeply concentrated, with terrific underlying finesse, the outstanding 2021 Long Shadows ‘Poet’s Leap’ Riesling shows kiwi, wet slate and shades of lemon blossom on the nose. Just the slightest kiss of sweetness hits you from the sub 1.0 G/L. The viscosity is sensational here as layers of lemon oil, pink grapefruit and wet stone all combine, with a fantastic underlying minerality. Drink 2022-2028- 93
43) 2019 WeatherEye Grenache
Washington | Columbia Valley | $90.00 | 96 Points
This is now the second time that I have tasted this beautiful and novel Grenache made by Todd Alexander. Very dense and dark once in the glass, the 2019 WeatherEye Grenache offers intense boysenberry and black cherry fruit flavors on the palate, with dried herbs, and a dusting of white pepper. Very stony almost ‘Rocks District’ in this quality, this offers beautiful viscosity and tension. Enjoy this beauty now and over the next ten years. Drink 2022-2032- 96
44) 2020 J. Bookwalter ‘Fourth Edition’ White Wine
Washington | Columbia Valley | $45.00 | 93 Points
One of the very cool and unique blends that you will find in Washington State, the ‘Fourth Edition’ by J. Bookwalter blends 57% Semillon, with smaller parts Sauvignon Blanc and Muscadelle. Sourced from the Connor Lee Vineyard, this offers a soft mouthfeel, with banana, lychee, white grapefruit and cashew nut flavors alongside a seamless texture. Rich and concentrated, enjoy at a warmer temperature to take in the gorgeous flavor range. Drink 2022-2032- 93
45) 2019 Januik ‘Red Mountain’ Merlot
Washington| Red Mountain | $38.00 | 93 Points
A limited case production (100 cases), the 2019 ‘Red Mountain’ Merlot has small portions of Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec blended in. Very soft and approachable on the mouth, this delivers rich dark fruit flavors with tobacco leaf, scorched earth and dark chocolate shavings. Delicious now, this has both the weight and finesse to cellar well for another ten to twelve years. Drink 2022-2034- 93
46) 2018 Tendril ‘Pretender’ White Pinot Noir
Oregon | Willamette Valley | $65.00 | 95 Points
One of the great white pinot noirs that you will taste, the 2018 ‘Pretender’ offers honeysuckle and white peach aromas with lighter red raspberry and flinty accents on the nose. The palate is soft and provides a seamless drinking experience, with a wonderful veil of salinity that runs through the core of the wine. With more air macadamia nut and forest floor accents shape the palate, showing serious weight and verve. Finishing very long, this is generous, intense wine that is best enjoyed at a warmer temperature. Drink 2022-2034- 95
47) 2019 Goldeneye ‘Ten Degrees’ Pinot Noir
California | Anderson Valley | $150.00 | 95 Points
A stunning new wine by winemaker Katie Larwood, the 2019 Goldeneye ‘Ten Degrees’ Pinot Noir is up there with the finest Anderson Valley Pinot Noirs I have sampled in the past year. A barrel selection wine from estate vineyards, this dense Pinot Noir is loaded with intense dark fruits with exotic spices, loamy soils and shades of peat moss once on the nose. The palate is refined with very soft tannins that frame a core of loganberry, black tea and blackberry compote flavors. With more air suggestions of cola and sassafras enter, as this glorious wine really needs two hours of air if enjoying in its scintillating youth. Drink 2022-2038- 95
48) 2019 The Devil Is A Liar Red Wine
Washington | Columbia Valley | $95.00 | 95 Points
A field blend of Grenache, Syrah, and Viognier, this shows off beautiful white florals from the Grenache with worn leather, red cherry, cigar ash, green peppercorns and smoked meats on the nose. The palate is soft and seamless, with great viscosity and verve, alongside a serious underlying mouth-watering acidity. This is complex, novel and delicious, one of a kind, wine. Enjoy now and over the next ten years. Drink 2022-2032- 95
49) 2019 WALT ‘Bob’s Ranch’ Pinot Noir
California | Sonoma County | $95.00 | 95 Points
The stunning 2021 WALT ‘Bob’s Ranch’ Pinot Noir is a masterclass by this winemaking team. This Sonoma Coast AVA property has a wide range of Pinot Noir selections and is in close proximity to the Pacific Ocean. Stored in roughly 30% new French oak, this shows off dense blackberry and black cherry notes on the nose with shades of cola. Very seamless on the mouth, this effortlessly glides throughout the drinking experience. The salty and savory aspects, as well as the length, all add to the enjoyment. Drink 2022-2038- 95
50) 2018 Ladera ‘Napa Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon
California | Napa Valley | $80.00 | 93 Points
Sourced from sites on Howell Mountain as well as Atlas Peak, Pritchard Hill and Calistoga, the 2018 ‘Napa Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon was stored for 22 months in 81% new French oak before bottling. Black licorice, iodine and pencil lead notes combine with rich huckleberry tones on the palate. Delicious and beaming with bright acidity, savor this beauty now and over the next fifteen plus years. Drink 2022-2038- 93
51) 2021 Dossier Rose
Washington | Columbia Valley | $35.00 | 93 Points
The 2021 Dossier Rose is Syrah-based that sourced from the Weinbau Vineyard. This is a Bandol-inspired bottling that was stored in a combination of neutral oak and stainless steel. This underwent partial malolactic fermentation, as this leads on the nose with bright cranberry, red florals and Yakima cherry alongside wild mushroom and damp earthy undertones. This is highly complex and nuanced Rose that not only gratifies in terms of finesse but also shows generous texture. Quite simply this one of the finest Rose wines from Washington that I have tasted in the past year — so don’t pass this one up and serve at a warmer temperature to take in the beautiful range of flavors. Drink 2022-2028- 93
52) 2019 Fidelitas ‘Estate’ Malbec
Washington | Red Mountain | $85.00 | 94 Points
This is now the second vintage of this wine. Sourced from Block 9 of the Estate Vineyard, this was stored in a combination of new and used French and American oak. Utterly complex and delicious, this reveals black currants, blueberry pie, cigar box and shades of dark chocolate shavings on the palate. Sensational to savor now, this is generous, well-structured Malbec that is built to age. Drink 2022-2039- 94
53) 2020 Upchurch Vineyard ‘Southwest Facing’ Sauvignon Blanc
Washington | Yakima Valley | $37.00 | 93 Points
This beautiful 2020 Sauvignon Blanc was sourced from the Boushey Vineyard in the Yakima Valley. Stored for eighteen months in concrete egg tanks, this offers white peach, toasted cashew nut and saline drenched gooseberry notes that all sing in unison. The palate is rich and concentrated with a seamless texture and generous length. Enjoy this beautiful wine over the next seven plus years. Drink 2022-2029- 93
54) 2019 Doubleback Cabernet Sauvignon
Washington | Walla Walla |$120.00 | 95
The beautiful new 2019 Doubleback Cabernet Sauvignon was sourced from the McQueen, LaFore, Bob Healy and Figgins vineyards. Stored for 23 months in a combination of new and neural French oak barrels before batting in August 2021, this Cabernet Sauvignon has small portions of Malbec, Petit Verdot and Malbec blended in. Needing some air to be fully aroused, this delivers sagebrush, mocha and scorched earth notes with heady dark fruits that sing in unison on the nose. The beautiful range of aromas brings you back to the glass for more. Very refined on the mouth, this comes off more herbal than other vintages, but has plenty of dense dark fruits to gratify. Arabica bean notes and creme de cassis notes meld well with firm tannins and good freshness that hold things in place. Finishing long, this is very refined and nuanced Cabernet Sauvignon that will surely hold well for another fifteen plus years. Give this at least an hour in the decanter if enjoying now. Drink 2022-2038- 95
55) 2018 Darioush Cabernet Franc
California | Napa Valley | $120.00 | 96 Points
The 2018 Darioush Cabernet Franc was sourced from Darioush estate vineyards in Mount Veeder, Atlas Peak and throughout the Napa Valley. Aged for 22 months in 70% new French & European oak barrels, this 100% Cabernet Franc wine shows boysenberry liquor aromatics woven together with exotic spices, loamy soils and dark chocolate shavings that all meld in the glass. The palate is deep and intense, with wonderful dark currants, dark chocolate covered espresso bean, and creme de violette tones, mingling with the dusty terroir. The combination of viscosity and freshness is gorgeous, as this splendid bottling reminds you why Darioush has such a sterling reputation for Cabernet Franc. Be sure to give this a long decant if enjoying in its youth. Drink 2022-2040- 96
56) 2020 Matthews ‘Red Mountain Claret’ Red Wine
Washington | Red Mountain | $90.00 | 94 Points
The 2020 ‘Red Mountain Claret’ Red Wine is mostly Cabernet Sauvignon (61%) with small portions Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot sourced from the Canyons, Hedges, Shaw, Red Mountain and Quintessence Vineyards. Once on the nose this takes on layers of creosote, blackberry cordial, and suggestions of chocolate pie. The palate is concentrated and plush with a seamless texture and good length. This is seriously good and generous Left Bank inspired wine that is best consumed now and over the next fifteen years. Drink 2022-2037- 94
57) 2018 Prospice Wines ‘Phinny Hill Vineyard’ Cabernet Franc
Washington | Walla Walla Valley | $65.00 | 94 Points
Coming from this high elevation site in the Walla Walla Valley, this offers high-toned red rose petals with red bell pepper, sandalwood and suggestions of boysenberry. The palate is soft and lovely once on the mouth, as silky tannins restrain a core of red and dark fruits. Refined, elegant and seriously good, enjoy this beautiful wine now and over the next fifteen years. Drink 2022-2037- 94
57) 2020 Clos Solene ‘Cuvee Jean’ Syrah
California | Paso Robles | $85.00 | 96 Points
The deeply colored 2020 ‘Cuvee Jean’ has 3% Viognier blended in. Sourced from the Santa Maria Valley, this offers lemon blossom with black currant cordial, espresso grounds and scorched earth notes on the nose. The palate shows great underlying acidity with serious weight, displaying a massive wall of dark fruit flavors. Finishing long with loads of mouth-watering acidity, this beauty is already showing brilliantly. Drink 2022-2036- 96
58) 2018 Epoch ‘Block B’ Syrah
California | Paso Robles | $85.00 | 96 Points
100% varietal, this hails from the Paderewski Vineyard and sent nineteen months in 82% new French oak prior to bottling. Very inky in the glass, this shows off violets and black currant jelly alongside dark chocolate shavings on the nose. The more warmed up this get, the black florals both on the nose and mouth really begin to sing their high octane. Finishing long with rich dark fruits and copious minerals, this is exceptionally balanced, deeply concentrated Syrah that has a long life ahead of it. Drink 2022-2038- 96
59) 2021 DeLille Cellars ‘Chaleur Blanc’ White Wine
Washington | Columbia Valley | $35.00 | 94 Points
The fabulous DeLille Cellars ‘Chaleur Blanc’ White Wine is a blend of Sauvignon Blanc (67%) and Semillon (33%) sourced from a range of vineyards that span the Columbia Valley. Once on the nose this shows ripe papaya notes alongside mango, buttered brioche and suggestions of white grapefruit blossom. The palate is soft and beautifully textured, with a killer combination of weight and bright acidity. Right now the Semillon with its nutty and Don’t serve this too cool so you can take in the electric range of flavors and aromas. Gratifying in its bright youth, this beauty will easily go for another eight to ten years. Drink 2022-2032- 94
60) 2021 DeLancellotti ‘La Sorella’ Chardonnay
Oregon | Willamette Valley. | $35.00 | 92 Points
Sourced from a range of sites throughout the Willamette Valley, the 2021 ‘La Sorella’ opens with Bartlett pear and star jasmine aromas as well as hay and shades of honeydew melon. The palate is very smooth and opulent with a silky texture. Showing great weight and underlying verve, this beautiful wine is best enjoyed now and over the next eight years. Drink 2022-2030- 92
61) NV Tirriddis ‘Washington Blend’ Sparkling Wine
Washington | Columbia Valley | $22.00 | 90 Points
The kitchen sink ‘Washington Blend’ by Tirriddis is a one of a kind combination of 47% Chardonnay, 12% Riesling, and 12% Merlot, with smaller portions Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Pinot Grigio, and Viognier. Juicy green apple and kumquat flavors combine with suggestions of nectarine and wet stone. This is really good for 24 bucks. Drink 2022-2026- 90
62) 2016 PerUs ‘Armaan’ Cabernet Sauvignon
California | Napa Valley | $395.00 | 98 Points
The 2019 ‘Arnaan’ Cabernet Sauvignon is largely sourced from the 61 acre Tench Vineyard in the Oakville AVA. Once on the nose this takes on layers of huckleberry cordial, Turkish coffee grounds, pencil lead and shades of Black Forest cake. The palate is soft and seamless throughout the drinking experience. Dense and chewy, the wine shows an underlying verve and tension that makes this nearly impossible to put down once opened. Finishing long with wet gravel and hedonistic black and blue fruits, this is a seductive, beautiful example of Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon. Drink 2022-2040- 98
63) 2019 VIADER Red Wine
California | Napa Valley | $195.00 | 98 Points
A blend of 58% Cabernet Sauvignon with the remainder Cabernet Franc, this truly needs two hours in the decanter prior to enjoying. Once aroused, this complex edition might be one of the great VIADER wines ever produced. Seamless and sinfully good on the mid-palate, with textual opulence, this delivers plenty of wet stone character alongside creme de cassis, mocha, tar, anise and exotic spices on the palate. Velvety tannins frame everything marvelously as this finishes exceedingly long. If you love Napa with terroir and balance, do not look any further. Drink 2022-2042- 98
64) 2020 Beaux Frères ‘Willamette Valley’ Chardonnay
Oregon| Willamette Valley | $90.00 | 94 Points
Lively and bright, with tons of tension and chalky minerality, the very Burgundian 2020 ‘Willamette Valley’ Chardonnay by Beaux Freres is one of the great Chardonnays that I have tasted from this challenging vintage in the Willamette Valley. Once on the nose this shows off white flowers with shades of Japanese pear and sourdough bread notes. The combination of richness and underlying finesse really drives this wines, as the salty soil tones all add to the enjoyment. Finishing very long with vanilla cream and saline drenched pears, enjoy this beauty now and over the next eight years. Drink 2022-2030- 94
65) 2019 Cadence ‘Bel Canto’ Red Wine
Washington | Columbia Valley | $75.00 | 96 Points
The 2019 ‘Bel Canto’ is a stunning new Right Bank-inspired red blend from Red Mountain. Utilizing 83% Cabernet Franc with the remainder Merlot, this was stored in 50% new French oak (Taransaud, Darnajou and Gamba barrels) before bottling. The pretty red florals immediately capitative as potpourri and freshly picked red raspberry aromas combine with suggestions of creosote, black currants and allspice. The palate is soft and very inviting upon approach, showing very silky tannins. A glorious range of red and dark fruits, with cocoa powder and suggestions of pencil lead. Very seamless, this is a stunning new wine that is truly one of the best of its kind in the state. Enjoy this beauty over the next fifteen to twenty years and give it an hour in the decanter if savoring in its vibrant youth. Drink 2022-2040- 96
66) 2021 Massican ‘Gemina’ White Wine
California | Napa Valley | $60.00 | 95 Points
The beautiful 2021 ‘Gemina’ combines 75% Pinot. Bianco with the remainder Greco. Roasted cashew with nectarine and suggestions of sweetened gooseberry all fill the nose. Very polished and smooth once on the mouth, this shows an oily, almost unctuous texture. The level of nuance and flavor complexity here is really impressive, as the downright killer combination of weight, finesse and mouth-watering acidity really makes this tick. This scintillating white wine will become more nutty and earthy as this ages. Drink 2022-2030- 95
67) 2020 Passing Time ‘Horse Heaven Hills’ Cabernet Sauvignon
Washington | Horse Heaven Hills | $85.00 | 96 Points
The gorgeous and also very generous 2020 Passing Time ‘Horse Heaven Hills’ Cabernet Sauvignon comes fro mostly the Discovery Vineyard (61%) as well as the Wallula and Champoux Vineyard. Winemaker Chris Peterson has blended in 8% Merlot, as this was stored in 80% new French oak before bottling. Black florals with toasty oak, dark currant cordial and suggestions of black licorice all fill the nose. The palate is soft and inviting with a silky texture and wonderful sense of weight. Very elegant, refined tannins frame a brilliant core of black plum, blackberry compote and espresso grounds. This is seriously good stuff that will age brilliantly over the next fifteen plus years. Drink 2022-2038- 96
68) 2019 Brittan Vineyards ‘Basallt Block’ Pinot Noir
Oregon | Willamette Valley | $65.00 | 94 Points
The 2019 ‘Basalt Block’ Pinot Noir comes from a southern facing aspect at their estate vineyard which is set on broken basalt. Once on the nose this revels in tart red fruit tones alongside freshly tilled soils and stony undercurrents. The palate is soft and polished with plenty of tension and stony minerality. Rich red and dark fruits combine with shades of pipe tobacco and a soft texture. Finishing long with black fruits and minerals, this is a downright awesome new bottling that has plenty of stuffing and finesse to cellar over the next fifteen years. Drink 2022-2035- 94
69) 2019 Hazelfern ‘Rock Block’ Chardonnay
Oregon | Willamette Valley | $65.00 | 94 Points
Sourced from this small site on the eastern edge Willamette Valley, the 2019 ‘Rock Block’ unveils wonderful stony undertones on the palate, alongside lemon zest, white peach and shades of buttered brioche. Medium-bodied, wait for the exceedingly gratifying finish. Drink 2021-2029- 94
70) 2020 Kerloo Cellars ‘Upland Vineyard’ Grenache
Washington | Columbia Valley | $45.00 | 95 Points
Stored in a combination of puncheons and concrete, as this saw no new French oak before bottling. This shows very pretty and clean with guava puree, green olive tapenade, Mandarin orange rind and suggestions of horse manure. The utterly sensational aromatics bring you back to the glass for more enjoyment. The sensational sense of texture really drives this wine, as does the underlying acidity and salty tones. Complex and delicious, with incredible flavor complexity, this is up there with the finest wines that I have tasted from Ryan Crane and Kerloo Cellars. Drink 2022-2032- 95
71) NV XOBC Rose Sparkling Wine
Washington | Columbia Valley | $25.00 | 91 Points
The NV XOBC Sparkling Rose is a beautifully nuanced new effort by winemaker Sean Boyd that weighs in at a mere 11.8% alcohol. A blend of 90% Syrah with the remainder Grenache and Mourvedre, this unveils a soft mousse upon entry. With more air very pretty red rose petals collide with red currants, wild strawberry and undertones of sourdough bread and bergamot. Delicious to consume now, this has another five to seven years in front of it. Drink 2022-2028- 91
72) 2020 Herman Story ‘Larner Vineyard’ Syrah
California | Paso Robles | $65.00 | 95 Points
Inky in the glass, the 2020 ‘Larner Vineyard’ blends 67% Syrah with the remainder Grenache. The wine is wonderfully weighted and heady, with plenty of minerality to back things up. Espresso grounds and dark chocolate shavings meld well with the vibrant core of dark fruits. Delicious, hedonistic and unabashedly bold, enjoy this beauty over the next ten years. Drink 2022-2032- 95
73) 2019 The Walls ‘Mahana’ Syrah
Oregon | The Rocks District | $75.00 | 95 Points
The gorgeous 2019 ‘Mahana’ is polished and lithe, showing plenty of finesse from this slightly cooler vintage. On the nose this takes on smoldering stones with red currants, cigar box and red cherry candy notes. The palate is very fresh and showing a brilliant underlying tension and stony essence that really carries this wine. This is stunning Syrah to savor now and over the next eight years. Drink 2022-2030- 95
73) 2012 Appassionata ‘Fortissimo’ Pinot Noir
Oregon | Willamette Valley | $150.00 | 95 Points
As the name suggests, this is the most full-throttle approached Pinot Noir of this collection. Coming from the outstanding 2012 vintage, the ‘Fortissimo’ is silky and elegant with generous Linzer torte, tangerine zest and suggestions of forest floor, with light salty accents. This shows not only the potential of cellaring great Oregon Pinot Noir but beautifully showcases this stunning vintage in the Willamette Valley. Drink 2022-2035- 95
74) 2020 Massalto ‘Sauvalanche’ Sauvignon Blanc
Washington | Columbia Valley | $35.00 | 93 Points
This is made with 60% Sauvignon Blanc and 40% Sauvignon Blanc that was aged in natural 300L French oak barrels before bottling. This saw extended battonage which was once a week. The nose shows off nutmeg infused Challah bread, honeydew melon and shades of white raisin on the nose. The palate is very soft and seamless with a gorgeous texture. Opulent and soft, with bright acidity and a light salinity holding everything in place, this is gorgeous white wine that is not only novel but nearly impossible to put down. Watch this beauty evolve over the next eight to ten years. Drink 2022-2030- 93
75) 2019 Goodfellow ‘Whistling Ridge Vineyard’ Chardonnay
Oregon | Willamette Valley | $35.00 | 93 Points
Sourced from the ‘Whistling Ridge Vineyard’ in the Ribbon Ridge AVA, the wine showcases hazelnut and lime zest aromas alongside sourdough bread and flinty undertones that all take shape in the glass. The palate reveals an insanely good texture with loads of minerals and lemon oil flavors alongside salted French bread and shades of Macadamia nut and mango on the palate. Drink 2021-2033- 93
76) 2021 L’Ecole No. 41 ‘Columbia Valley’ Chardonnay
Washington | Columbia Valley | $20.00 | 92 Points
This mainstay from the Columbia Valley come from a range of vineyards including Heritage and Stillwater Creek Vineyards. This saw extended battonage and was left on the lees for four months before bottling. The nose screams buttered brioche with bright pear and marzipan notes. The palate shows good weight and finesse with excellent length. Drink 2022-2028- 92
77) 2019 Soos Creek ‘Sundance’ Cabernet Sauvignon
Washington | Columbia Valley | $25.00 | 91 Points
While ‘Sundance’ might be their entry level wine, the 2019 edition is no simple red wine. This comes off very soft and inviting with layers of black currants, Arabica bean and huckleberry with creosote notes. Complex and delicious, enjoy this medium-bodied effort over the next five to seven years. Drink 2022-2029- 91
78) 2016 Argyle ‘Nuthouse’ Riesling
Oregon | Willamette Valley | $30.00 | 93 Points
Stored in neutral oak barrels, the vibrant 2021 ‘Nuthouse’ Riesling comes from the Lone Star Vineyard in the Eola-Amity Hills AVA. Made in the Trocken style, this shows sensational texture and weight, as this bone-dry bottling delivers Japanese pear, ginger, and white peach flavors alongside stony minerals. The tension and weight really drives this beautiful Riesling that will cellar well over the next seven plus years. Drink 2022-2029- 93
79) 2013 Marcassin ‘Estate Sonoma Coast’ Chardonnay
California | Sonoma Coast | $125.00 | 96 Points
The 2013 Marcassin ‘Estate Sonoma Coast’ Chardonnay is dense and delicious without coming off heavy. Once on the nose this takes on layers of toasty oak, buttered brioche and vanilla cream alongside salted Pink Lady apple and shades of wild mushroom. The palate is rich and viscous with a great underlying acidity — and formidable length. A complete wine, enjoy now and over the next five to seven years. Drink 2022-2029- 96
80) 2019 Trisaetum ‘Family Reserve’ Pinot Noir
Oregon | Willamette Valley | $125.00 | 95 Points
A barrel-select wine, the 2019 ‘Family Reserve’ is a stunning new bottling by James Frey. Once on the mouth this becomes completely weightless as you can really get a feel for the marine sedimentary salty soils as well as the Jory soil notes. Shades of anise and wild blackberry combine with red rose water, red currant and hints of cran-orange on the palate. Complex and delicious to consume now, this has yet to fully hit its stride. Give this at least a two hour decant if enjoying in its youth. Drink 2022-2040- 95
81) 2021 EFESTE ‘Oldfield’ Rose
Washington | Columbia Valley | $28.00 | 92 Points
The 2021 EFESTE ‘Oldfield’ Rose is an outstanding blend of 65% Grenache with the remainder Mourvedre, that was fermented in stainless steel before being aged in neutral oak barrels for three months prior to bottling in February 2021. Pretty red fruits collide with honeydew melon and wet stone on the nose. Texturally this is outstanding, as the wine shows great weight and a beautiful mineral-laden backbone alongside a very pretty core of red fruits, rose water and stony undertones. This goes down exceedingly easy. Drink 2021-2027- 92
82) 2018 Big Table Farm ‘The Funk Estate’ Syrah
Oregon | The Rocks District | $48.00 | 95 Points
For several years now Big Table Farm has been making this unique bottling from the Rocks District of Milton-Freewater, located in northeast Oregon. Aged mostly in neutral oak barrels, this reveals very classic Rocks notes of bacon fat, cigar ash and green peppercorns alongside rich dark fruits on the nose. The palate is seamless and soft, as this is an effortless drinking experience. Very pretty red and dark fruits parade with shades of milk chocolate, Nori and white pepper dusted smoked brisket. The combination of texture and finesse really works wonders here, as this beautifully evolved wine is best consumed over the next seven years. Drink 2022-2029- 95
83) 2019 Opus One Red Wine
California | Napa Valley | $390.00 | 97 Points
Rich, layered and showing gobs of aging potential, the 2019 Opus One is a marvelous effort that really needs a few more years of bottle age prior to consuming. Once on the nose this shows gorgeous red and dark floral tones alongside freshly tilled loamy soils and suggestions of huckleberry cobbler The palate is dense and plush with a luxurious texture. Layers of black fruits parade with copious minerals and firm tannins on the palate. Enjoy this beauty over the next twenty years to come. Drink 2024-2044- 97
84) 2019 Corison ‘Napa Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon
California | Napa Valley | $125.00 | 95 Points
The brilliant 2019 Corison ‘Napa Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon is a powerful effort that really needs an hour of air prior to consuming. Once aroused this reveals dark currant and espresso bean aromas alongside suggestions of kirsch cordial and wet stone with black florals. The palate is utterly seamless throughout the drinking experience with no rough edges. Finishing long with graphite and black fruits, this downright delicious, weightless effort will surely live on for another two decades. Drink 2022-2042- 95
85 ) 2018 Dunham Cellars ‘Lewis Reserve Artist Series’ Syrah
Washington | Columbia Valley | $85.00 | 95 Points
The outstanding 2018 Dunham Cellars ‘Artist Series Lewis Vineyard’ Syrah lays tribute to founding winemaker and artist Eric Dunham with his red cherry drawing on the label. Needing an hour in the decanter to fully be aroused, this shows amazing aromatic range from creosote and black cherry cordial to smoked brisket, violet and sagebrush tones that all take shape in the glass. The palate is soft and seamless, effortlessly gliding throughout the drinking experience. Finishing very long, this concentrated, yet well-structured, effort will surely cellar well over the next fifteen years. Drink 2022-2037- 95
86) 2020 Benom ‘Origin’ Cabernet Sauvignon
California | Paso Robles | $70.00 | 95 Points
This 100% Cabernet Sauvignon bottling is a sensational new release from this somewhat challenging vintage. An inky core greets you, with chocolate covered coffee bean, black currants, creosote and very refined tannins. The underlying freshness is fantastic, as is the weight, as this beautiful wine will cellar well over the next fifteen years. Drink 2022-2037- 95
87) 2020 Hundred Suns ‘The Rocks District Cabernet Sauvignon/Syrah
Oregon | The Rocks District | $60.00 | 94 Points
A blend of mainly Cabernet Sauvignon (80%) with the remainder Syrah from the River Rock Vineyard, this comes off very stony on the nose with boysenberry compote, iodine and shades of red rose petals. The palate is push and voluptuous with a seamless texture and great sense of weight. Finishing long with stony tones and rich dark fruits, this gorgeous wine will provide drinking enjoyment for at least another six years. Drink 2022-2028- 94
88) 2020 Devison ‘Phantom Lamb’ Syrah
Washington | Columbia Valley | $70.00 | 95 Points
This sensational 100% Syrah wine by Peter Devison was sourced from the Scarline Vineyard. Heady aromas of black licorice and black olive tapenade combine with mocha and tar tones aromatically. Silky with a soft texture, this is dense and intense without being overly heavy. This finishes exceedingly long as this beautiful bottling has another decade or more to go. Drink 2022-2031- 95
89) Baer ‘Shard’ Chardonnay
Washington | Royal Slope | $30.00 | 92 Points
Entirely aged in stainless steel, the Stillwater Creek Vineyard 2021 ‘Shard’ offers banana and Japanese pear flavors with toasty brioche on the palate. Fresh and showing a silky mouthfeel, with a lengthy finish, this is beautiful, well-balanced Chardonnay that is best consumed over the next five to seven years. Drink 2022-2028- 92
90) 2019 W.T. Vintners ‘Rainmaker’ Chardonnay
Washington | Columbia Valley | $45.00 | 93 Points
This is now the second occasion that the ‘Rainmaker’ has made the Top 100. This new edition is even more finesse-driven and shows a wonderful bright acidity with diatomaceous earthy accents on the palate. Showing good depth and weight, with an exceedingly long finish, and plenty of lemon rind and melon fruits, this is beautiful wine to consume now and over the next eight plus years. This is magical work by a very old-world style of winemaker, Jeff Lindsay- Thorsen. Drink 2022-2030- 93
91) 2021 Airfield Estates Riesling
Washington | Columbia Valley | $15.00 | 91 Points
The 2021 Airfield Estate Riesling is made in the Kabinett style, with a kiss of sweetness. Ripe pear and peach flavors mingle well with wet stone and good finesse on the palate. This is seriously good on a hot summer day. Drink 2022-2026- 91
92) 2019 Bergstrom ‘Bergstrom Vineyard’ Pinot Noir
Oregon | Willamette Valley | $100.00 | 95 Points
Big and rich considering some of the challenges of the vintage, the 2019 ‘Bergstrom Vineyard’ is a glorious effort that is already nicely evolved at the two year mark. Sourced from this south-facing, 13 acre site located in the Dundee Hills with expansive views of the Willamette Valley. Once on the nose this takes on rich dark fruits with dried herbs, volcanic earth and shades of cardamom. Rich and nicely astringent from the sour red and dark fruit/citrus rind profile, this is already showing some earthy secondary tones. Complex, novel and delicious, the 2019 ‘Bergstrom Vineyard’ will provide drinking enjoyment over the next twenty years. Drink 2021-2038- 95
93) 2019 Open Claim Chardonnay
Oregon | Willamette Valley | $75.00 | 95 Points
The 2019 Open Claim Chardonnay saw extensive time in barrel and is really impressive now after three years of aging. The wine utilizes clone 95 and 76, and was stored in months in 33% new French oak before bottling. Right now this is very aromatically appealing with its honeysuckle and lemon zest dusted brioche notes alongside shades of salty soils and ripe cantaloupe. The palate is soft and seamless, as this glides through the drinking experience — all leading to the near minute-long finish. Very broad-shouldered and dense, the 2019 Open Claim Chardonnay is an extraordinarily good effort by the talented Tony Rynders that is gorgeous now but will age gracefully for at least another decade. Drink 2022-2034- 95
94) 2019 Sparkman ‘Wonderland’ Grenache
Washington | Columbia Valley | $45.00 | 93 Points
A joy to drink right now, the 2019 ‘Wodnerland’ Grenache is fresh and beautifully polished already now at the three year mark. Immediately appealing and aromatically bright with wet stone and gorgeous red fruits, the 2019 ‘Wonderland’ delivers pretty red fruit flavors with rose water and stony minerals on the palate. Enjoy this beautifully textured wine over the next eight years. Drink 2021-2029- 93
95) 2019 Sojourn ‘Oakville Ranch Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon
California | Napa Valley | $125.00 | 95 Points
The seriously good 2019 Sojourn Cellars ‘Oakville Ranch Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon is a stunning new wine that is built to age but also is appealing in its hedonistic youth. Stored in 75% new French oak, this gives off a touch of toasty wood, alongside blackberry pie and black forest cake tones on the nose, with loamy soil undercurrents. Once on the mouth this displays a beam of tension that plays well with refined tannins and a deep core of dark fruit flavors, with espresso ground accents. Give this at least an hour of air if consuming now. Drink 2022-2042- 95
96) 2018 Corliss Syrah
Washington | Columbia Valley | $85.00 | 95 Points
I have now tasted this beautiful Syrah on three occasions — and I am floored each time I savor each sip. The 2018 Corliss Syrah is deep, concentrated and wonderfully smoky, with an umami edge. Bacon fat, roasted figs and blood orange zest with plenty of stony minerals all contend with firm tannins that hold things in place. Its marvelously full-bodied and full-throttle, as this is finally really starting to come into its own. Give this at least an hour in the decanter first. Drink 2022-2037- 95
97) 2018 Nine Hats Merlot
Washington | Columbia Valley | $25.00 | 92 Points
The 2018 Nine Hats Merlot is a killer value made by winemaker Gilles Nicault. Fresh sage and cocoa powder fill the nose with suggestions of baking spices and coffee grounds. The palate is soft and inviting with a silky texture. Enjoy this beauty now and over the next seven plus years. Drink 2022-2029- 92
98) 2019 Gramercy Cellars ‘John Lewis Reserve’ Syrah
Washington | Walla Walla Valley | $ 95.00 | 95 Points
For many years I have admired the incredible John Lewis Reserve’ Syrah. I fondly recall the 2012 edition being one of the finest wines that I tasted in my vintage retrospective several years back. 2019 has been a really nice vintage for Rhone varietals and this new ‘Reserve’ comes entirely from the high elevation Les Collines Vineyard that sits in the foothills of the Bluewood Mountains. It embodies the stony and herbal aspects of Syrah from this site, as the wine shows impeccable balance and finesse, with silky tannins that frame a brilliant core of red fruits, with tobacco leaf, leather, wet stone and iodine notes that all meld on the palate. Give this an hour of air before enjoying. Drink 2022-2036- 95
99) 2019 Gard ‘Thunderstone’ Syrah
Washington | Royal Slope | $60.00 | 94 Points
This outstanding, downright stunning 2019 ‘Thunderstone’ is a one of a kind 100% Syrah which was sourced from the Royal Slope AVAVery stony as the name suggests, this offers a literal cornucopia of flavors. Green olives and charcuterie notes combine with boysenberry preserves, and salted black truffle all brilliantly meld together on the palate. Really serious, don’t sit on this beauty and enjoy now. Drink 2022-2028- 94
100) 2018 Cuvaison ‘Hedon’ Chardonnay
California | Napa Valley | $60.00 | 94 Points
The gorgeous ‘Hedon’ is a utterly fabulous Estate Vineyard bottling by winemaker Steve Rogstad. Stored for 18 months in a combination of French and American oak, Immediately appealing, this offers lemon zest dusted brioche with creme brûlée and shortbread notes on the palate. Finishing long, with good viscosity, texture and verve, this beautiful Chardonnay is irresistible now and will cellar well for at least another decade. Drink 2022-2032- 94