Top Source

Today we share the gorgeous wines of Meredith Hyslop and her Top Source brand. A fellow Whitman grad and Washingtonian, Hyslop also has an importing company and stays very busy!

She has been in the wine business in Walla Walla Valley for many years and studied at the Enology and Viticulture program in Walla Walla before going to France to study wine in Dijon. She has a beautiful range of wines that she imports and Top Source are her wines from Washington State. They offer some serious value. Founded in 2020, Top Source has been a consistently great producer with wines that show marvelous stony character. Learn more about this new producer at https://www.skurnik.com/producer/top-source/ and here are my reviews of the outstanding new Top Source wines.

2022 Top Source ‘Walla Walla Valley’ Syrah- The 2022 ‘Walla Walla Valley’ Syrah is like a baby Cayuse bottling. It comes off wonderfully flinty, showing bacon fat, dried herbs, anise and violets on the palate, alongside smoky undertones. Medium-bodied, showing beautiful tension and texture, enjoy this beautiful wine now and over the next few years. Given 50% whole cluster fermentation. Drink 2025-2031- 94

2022 Top Source ‘Columbia Valley’ Grenache/Syrah- An awesome new wine that is soft and approachable, the 2022 ‘Grenache/Syrah’ offers flinty tones alongside bright red fruits with tobacco leaf and shades of black plum on the palate. Juicy, forward and delicious, enjoy now and over the next six to eight years. Drink 2025-2031- 93

Jachter

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

These were the first releases that I have tasted from this estate and I was really impressed. I love the 2022 Jachter ‘The J. Reserve’ Chardonnay (OB, 93) which is a marvelous wine from this slightly cooler vintage. Learn more about this exciting new Oregon house at https://www.jachterwine.com/ and here are my reviews of the new wines by Jachter.

2022 Jachter ‘Chehalem Mountains’ Chardonnay- The 2022 ‘Chehalem Mountains’ Chardonnay is soft and elegant on the mouth, leading to lemon zest and lime flavors that mingle well with salty minerals on the palate. Drink 2025-2031- 91

2021 Jachter ‘The J. Reserve’ Chardonnay- The 2022 ‘The J. Reserve’ is a barrel selection Chardonnay that was aged in roughly 50% new French oak before bottling. This is dense and mineral-laden stuff that is showing beautifully right now. Lemon curd and shades of honeydew melon collide with stony minerals on the palate. Quite nervy, enjoy now and over the next ten years. Drink 2025-2035- 93

2022 Jachter ‘Chehalem Mountains’ Pinot Noir- The 2022 ‘Chehalem Mountains’ Pinot Noir is a beautiful bottling by winemaker Jared Etzel. On the nose this takes on layers of red currants, menthol and salty soils with pine needle accents. The palate is fresh and very pure with bright red fruits that parade with orange zest and copious minerals. Medium-bodied and delicious, showing a soft mouthfeel, enjoy now and over the next decade. Drink 2025-2035- 93

2021 Jachter ‘Cuvee Karen Ann’ Pinot Noir- The 2022 ‘Cuvee Karen Ann’ is sourced from the Ribbon Ridge AVA and made from 25 year old Pommard clone Pinot Noir grapes. This is wonderfully earthy with black truffle shavings that meld well with pure red fruits, citrus zest and stony minerals on the palate. This is not big and bold but shows refinement and really speaks to the slight coolness of the vintage. Elegant and refined, enjoy now and over the next ten plus years to come. Drink 2025-2035- 94

Hors Categorie

It has been rare for Washington wines to achieve perfection in the 2022 vintage. Translated to ‘beyond categorization’ Hors Catégorie is an ultra-pure expression of terroir in a bottle. Sourced from a very hilly, 2-acre vineyard hidden in the foothills of the Blue Mountains, the Hors Catégorie Vineyard is a sight to be seen. The views from the top of the vineyard are otherworldly. The vineyard has incredibly tight spacing and Syrah clusters are cropped at less than a ton an acre. The terroir is largely stony with thick broken basalt sprinkled everywhere. When you are there you can truly feel the struggle of the vines in this stony terroir.

The 2022 vintage was difficult and was saved by a warm fall. Needless to say, without that warmth at the end of the season ’22 could have easily been a complete disaster. The wine by Hors Categorie falls nothing short of perfection in a bottle. I can’t wait for you to try this wine that shows a perfect push-pull in terms of richness and finesse. Learn more about this world-class Syrah at https://horscategorievineyards.com/horscategorievineyards/ Here is the new review for the incredible 2022 Hors Catégorie Syrah. 

2022 Hors Catégorie Syrah- Every bit a world-class wine, the 2022 Hors Categorie Syrah is reminiscent of the gorgeous 2017 edition. The aromatics are mind-numbing in terms of range from menthol, sweet pipe tobacco, Nori and bulls blood alongside shades of compost and black truffle shavings with black florals that all meld in the glass. The palate has formidable power considering the coolness of the vintage. Very flinty and soft on the mouth, this is seamless throughout the drinking experience. The amalgamation of tension and mouth-watering acidity alongside heady stony essence makes this impossible to put down. One of the few prefect wines made in 2022, savor this beauty over the next decade. Drink 2025-2035- 100

La Rata

Today we share one of the unique wines of the New World. Former Bionic Wines Director of Winemaking Elizabeth Bourcier’s La Rata Red Wine has a cult following in the Pacific Northwest. Elizabeth was inspired by the world-class Clos Erasmus wines of the Priorat region, and she made the bold decision blend both Grenache and Cabernet Sauvignon together, since they wines tend to ripen at the similar times on the stony terroir of Milton-Freewater. Elizabeth chose to use Grenache from Armada Vineyard and Cabernet Sauvignon from En Cerise Vineyard. Now she has added a touch of Syrah to the equation. The wine was named “The Rat” and then Spanglish-cized: ‘La Rata’. The name ‘La Rata’ also connects with Elizabeth, as her zodiac sign which is the rat. This truly novel wine retails for under 100 dollars and is sold by Full Pull. I think it is a total steal.

The new 2022 edition of La Rata (OB, 96) is absolutely dazzling. This is fully ready to drink right now and is marvelous especially after about 20-30 minutes of air. Uncork this beauty and you are going to be so impressed. Learn more at http://laratawines.com/wines.html Here is my review of the thrilling 2022 La Rata Red Wine by Elizabeth Bourcier of Cayuse Vineyards.

2022 La Rata Red Wine- The 2022 La Rata has a high percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon (39%) blended in, alongside 56% Grenache and the remainder Syrah. Stored for 21 months in natural oak barrels, only 147 cases of this beautiful wine were made this vintage. Coming from the En Cerise, Armada and La Paciencia Vineyards, this offers beautiful red rose petals on the nose with tar, sweet pipe tobacco, worn leather and shades of Kalamata olive tapenade. The palate is seamless and stony with serious verve and texture. Absolutely no reason to cellar this beauty as the 2022 La Rata is quite frankly a complete joy to consume now. Enjoy over the next eight to ten years. Drink 2025-2032- 96

Tendril

For years I have admired the wines of winemaker Tony Rynders. Tony has worked a range of head winemaker positions over the years, formerly at Domaine Serene and Hogue. He has an esteemed master’s degree in Enology and Viticulture from UC Davis, and obtained more 90+ point scores from the Wine Spectator magazine than any other winemaker during this period of time.

Tony makes the amazing wines of Open Claim Vineyards. He as a brilliant range of wines and is even making some excellent bubbles and Rose. I love the 2024 Child’s Play Rose  (OB, 91) which is a steal at this price. Don’t miss out on the 2021 Tendril ‘Tightrope’ Pinot Noir (OB, 95) which is another fabulous and dense release of this limited production wine. Learn more about these beautiful wines at http://www.tendrilwines.com Here are the gorgeous new wines by Tony Rynders and Tendril.

2023 Child’s Play Chardonnay- The excellent 2023 Child’s Play Chardonnay offers pie crust and green apple on the palate with good tension and texture. Lively and delicious, enjoy now. Drink 2025-2030- 90

2024 Child’s Play Rose- Made from Pinot Noir grapes, the 2024 Child’s Play Rose comes off absolutely delicious on the palate. Loaded with strawberry and watermelon candy alongside kumquat zest, this is delicious and neatly-textured stuff that is best consumed in its mineral-laden youth. Drink 2025-2031- 91

2022 Child’s Play Malbec- Coming from the Columbia Valley, this 2022 Malbec offers generous dark fruits with creosote, tar, anise and cassis tones. Rich and polished considering the coolness of the vintage, enjoy over the next eight to ten years. Drink 2025-2033- 92

2021 Tendril ‘Enchanter’ Chardonnay- The 2021 Tendril ‘Enchanter’ Chardonnay was stored in mainly neutral French oak before bottling. Rich and round on the mouth, this is elegant stuff that glides throughout the drinking experience. Rich orchard and citrus fruits parade with vanilla cream on the palate. Enjoy now and over the next ten years. Drink 2025-2035- 94

2021 Tendril ‘Saffron Fields’ Pinot Noir- The 2021 ‘Saffron Fields’ Pinot Noir comes from this location just east of Yamhill. Beautiful red rose petals and potpourri mark the nose alongside Mandarin orange rind and bergamot notes. The palate is well-structured and dense with great tension and salty mineral accents. Drink 2025-2037- 94

2021 Tendril ‘Maverick Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- This 2021 Pinot Noir comes from the Maverick Vineyard which is located in the center of the Yamhill-Carlton AVA. Damp earth and a waft of black truffle mark the nose alongside tart red fruits. The palate is smooth and elegant with a silky texture. Generous and rich, enjoy now and over the next ten plus years to come. Drink 2025-2037- 94

2021 Tendril ‘Extrovert’ Pinot Noir- The outstanding 2021 ‘Extrovert’ Pinot Noir is a limited production (210 cases) that was stored for 17 months in only 20% new French oak before bottling. Mainly coming from the Yamhill-Carlton AVA this offers loads of crunchy red fruits on the palate, with orange peel, salty soils and shades of white pepper. Drink 2025-2037- 94

2021 Tendril ‘TightRope’ Pinot Noir- The 2021 ‘TightRope’ Pinot Noir was given 30% whole cluster fermentation and was stored for 17 months in 50% new French oak before bottling. This is texturally beautifully showing a gorgeous combination of dense red and dark fruits, with peat moss and damp earthy notes. Complex and delicious, enjoy over the next fifteen plus years. Drink 2025-2040- 95

Argyle Names Kate Payne Brown as Winemaker

We have some massive news out of Oregon today as Kate Payne Brown has been named as new Argyle winemaker. Building on the legacy of her winemaking predecessors, Founder Rollin Soles and Winemaker Nate Klostermann, Payne Brown becomes only the third winemaker since Argyle was established in 1987. Recognized as one of the leading winemakers in the Pacific Northwest, Payne Brown comes to Argyle after an illustrious 20-year career that includes key roles at Archery Summit, Burgundia Oenologie, Stoller Family Estate and Ambar Estate, as well as her own winery, Dolores Wines, where she earned a reputation for producing some of Oregon’s most exciting sparkling wines.

We want to offer our heartfelt congratulations to Kate at her new post at Argyle. 🍾

Rare Rose Champagne

Today we present one of the brilliant Rosé Champagnes of the world. Rare Champagne is a brand that was originally started by Piper Heidseick. Rare Champagne's history dates back to 1785, when Florens-Louis Heidsieck presented a "tête de cuvée" to Marie Antoinette at Versailles. Rare was originally a prestige cuvée of Piper-Heidsieck, but has been a house in its own right since 2019. In 2011 Piper Heidseick was purchased by the EPI Group. Rare Champagne is only made in select vintages. In fact since 1976, only 14 vintages have been released: 1976, 1979, 1985, 1988, 1990, 1998, 1999, 2002, 2006, 2008, 2013, and Rare Rosé vintages 2007, 2008, 2012, and 2014.

This 2014 edition of Rare Rosé Champagne is composed of 60% Chardonnay and 40% Pinot Noir coming from12 separate Crus of which 8 are classified as Grand Crus and 3 are classified as Premier Crus. The Chardonnay is sourced from Villers Marmery, Vertus,Mesnil-sur-Oger, Oger, Chouilly, Avize while the Pinot Noir comes from Verzy, Ay, Verzenay,Ambonnay, Ville-Dommange. The wine is given a moderate level of dosage, 7G/L. The 2014 Rare Rose Champagne (OB, 96) is a stunning wine that is only starting to come into its own at the eleven year mark. It is marvelously earthy, big and rich on the mouth. Learn more about this stunning wine at https://www.rare-champagne.com and here is my review of the 2014 Rare Rosé Champagne.

2014 Rare Rosé Champagne- A dazzling brownish-pink hue in the glass, the 2014 Rare Rose Champagne is a combination of 60% Chardonnay & 40% Pinot Noir coming from nearly all Grand Cru vineyards. Given 7G/L dosage, this opens with gorgeous red rose petal aromatics that combine with salmonberry, cranberry and hints of forest floor.  The palate is round and generous with a silky mousse and refined sense of texture. Showing glorious weight and a light beam of salinity, this is already drinking marvelously now at the eleven year mark. Drink 2025-2040- 96

TOIL Oregon

It is my pleasure to share the new wines by TOIL Oregon and winemaker Chris Figgins. For my palate of the finest producers of Rose wines in Oregon, Toil Oregon is the brainchild of famed Leonetti winemaker Chris Figgins who planted his vineyard in the Willamette Valley nearly a decade ago. Toil Oregon started with a production of 200 cases then in 2016 Chris planted his estate vineyard in the Chehalem Mountains AVA. His first wine fully from his estate vineyard was the 2019 Rose.

I love these wines. Figgins has an incredible hand in his Rose. The 2024 Toil Oregon Rose (OB, 93) which is one of the top Rose wines that I have tasted in the past year. Do not miss out on the 2023 Toil Oregon Pinot Noir (OB, 95) which is very concentrated and shows amazing depth and underlying tension. Learn more about this great winery at toiloregon.com Here are the brilliant new wines by Toil Oregon. 

2024 TOIL Rose- A vibrant pink, the 100% Pinot Noir 2024 TOIL Rose spent time in stainless steel before bottling and release. It is juicy and vibrant wine that is already showing marvelously. Pink bubblegum and bright red fruits parade with citrus rind, and stony minerals on the palate. Beautifully textured, showing really nice weight and lovely earthy undertones, enjoy this beauty now and over the next six to eight years to come. Don’t serve too cold! Drink 2025-2031- 93

2023 TOIL Chardonnay- A gorgeous wine from this warm vintage, the 2023 TOIL Chardonnay saw time in a small amount of French oak barriques before bottling. This is a world-class edition of this wine, offering sensational aromatics of baking spice laced pie crust, crushed wet rock, honeydew melon and suggestions of orang rind. The palate is big, full and voluptuous for Oregon. Despite its weight, this shows dazzling tension that runs through a generous core of melon and citrus fruits. Full-bodied and delicious, enjoy now and over the next ten years to come. Drink 2025-2035- 95

2023 TOIL Pinot Noir- The 2023 TOIL Pinot Noir was stored in a small amount of French oak barriques prior to bottling. Like the ’22 edition, the ’23 is a dizzying rendition that is already beautifully evolved. Once on the nose this takes on layers of blood orange zest, diatomaceous earth, red raspberry compote and suggestions of black licorice that all take shape in the glass. The palate is full-bodied and broad-shouldered, showing off the heat of the vintage. Marvelously salty, showing great tension, depth and texture, enjoy this beautiful wine now and over the next fifteen plus years to come. Drink 2025-2039- 95

Tablas Creek 'Esprit Blanc' Vertical Tasting

A little over a week ago I descended upon Tablas Creek which is without a doubt one of the great wineries of California. It was decades ago that Jean-Pierre and François Perrin and Robert Haas purchased a former alfalfa farm that is set on limestone soils in the Adelaida Hills. This was the birth of Tablas Creek with the unique terroir that they felt would create a novel minerality. From the beginning they focused on Rhône-style wines made organically. The first plantings took place in 1994 and the first Tablas Creek Vineyard wines produced in 1997. The winery has been an incredible success since that time, reaching worldwide acclaim particularly for their Rhone style red and white blends. I remember first tasting these beautiful wines more than twenty years ago.

I hads a chance to taste an epic range of ‘Esprit Blanc’ wines with CEO Jason Haas. We had some really impressive bottlings including one from their first vintage. The 2001 ‘Esprit de Beaucastel Blanc’ White Wine (OB, 95) is still going strong and has at least five to seven years left. Marvelously complex and round, this is a tremendous effort. I love the new edition of this wine, the otherworldly 2023 Tablas Creek ‘Esprit Blanc’ White Wine (OB, 97) which is without a doubt one of the great white wines that you will taste on the West Coast.  Learn more about these outstanding wines at https://tablascreek.com Here are the outstanding new wines by Tablas Creek. 

2023 Tablas Creek ‘Esprit Blanc’ White Wine- This 2023 edition of the ‘Esprit Blanc’ is led with 48% Roussanne with Grenache Blanc, Picpoul Blanc, Bourboulenc, Picardy and Clairette Blanche. Standing golden in the glass, this is wonderfully earthy and nutty on the nose with roasted Macadamia nut and hay tones that combine with shads of honeydew melon suggestions of green papaya. The palate is silky and refined, this really has it all for a Rhone-style blend. Poise, texture, richness, salinity and flavor range, enjoy this total stunner over the next ten plus years. Drink 2025-2042- 97

2018 Tablas Creek ‘Espirit Blanc’ White Wine- This 2018 ‘Espirit Blanc’ has 66% Rousanne added with smaller portions Picpoul Blanc, Picardin, Grenache Blanc and Clairette Blanche. The nose offers really beautiful melon fruits alongside salted Marcona almonds and shades of beeswax with mossy undertones. The palate shows beautiful body and poise with great length and a silky mouthfeel. Gorgeous now, this has a long way to go in the cellar. Drink 2025-2040- 96

2014 Tablas Creek ‘Esprit Blanc’ White Wine- This 2014 has nearly all Roussane (72%) with 23% Grenache Blanc and a touch of Picpoul Blanc. The nose is exotic with papaya and One lady apple alongside toasted mixed nuts and suggestions of marzipan. This is right between primary in tertiary and in a perfect spot to be enjoyed. This is marvelously nutty and earthy stuff that still has a long life ahead of it. Drink 2025-2035- 96

2010 Tablas Creek ‘Esprit de Beaucastel Blanc’ White Wine- The 2010 ‘Esprit Blanc comes fro this cooler vintage that led to a late harvest. This edition is 60% Roussanne alongside 35% Grenache Blanc and the remainder Picpoul Blanc. This is showing loads of nutty tones on the nose alongside green papaya, banana and shades of cantaloupe. The palate shows bright tension and salinity despite its age. Offering great depth and viscosity, this is a marvelous edition of this wine that seems to be right in its sweet spot. Drink 2025-2032- 96

2001 Tablas Creek ‘Esprit de Beaucastel Blanc’ White Wine- This was the first ever edition of this wine. This is also the only vintage where Marsanne was blended in, as four Rhone varietals were blended in utilizing 6-7 year old grape vines. This is a total stunner, with mesmerizing depth and concentration as well as really good finesse despite its age. Marmalade and bergamot notes combine with honeycomb and walnut notes on the palate. Complex and highly delicious, this is right in its wheelhouse. Drink 2025-2031- 95

Evesham Wood

Today we share a focus on one of the great older producers in the Willamette Valley. Evesham Wood. The winery was founded by Russ Rainey and Mary Raney in 1986. After a comprehensive search throughout the Willamette Valley, they chose a site for the estate vineyard, “Le Puits Sec” (French for “the dry well” which we have in the vineyard). In 1986 Evesham Wood first produced Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, using grapes purchased primarily from Temperance Hill & Seven Springs vineyards. In August 2010, Erin Nuccio and his wife, Jordan, became the owners of Evesham Wood Winery & Le Puits Sec Vineyard.

The new wines were really good. I love their entry level Pinot, the 2023 Evesham Wood ‘Willamette Valley’ Pinot Noir (OB, 91) which has lots of texture and freshness, showing good flavor range. Learn more about these great wines at https://eveshamwood.com/ and here are my reviews of the new Evesham Wood wines.

2023 Evesham Wood ‘Willamette Valley’ Pinot Noir- The excellent 2023 Evesham Wood ‘Willamette Valley’ Pinot Noir was sourced from several sites throughout the valley. On the palate this offers tart cranberry and pomegranate seed flavors that mingle well with dried herbs and shades of forest floor. Enjoy now and over the next few years. Drink 2025-2031- 91

2022 Evesham Wood ‘Eola-Amity Hills Cuvee’ Pinot Noir- The 2022 Evesham Wood ‘Eola-Amity Hills Cuvee’ Pinot Noir delivers forward and juicy red cherry and red raspberry flavors on the palate that mingle well with marine soils and shades of tobacco leaf on the palate. Light to medium-bodied, this is delightful stuff to savor now. Drink 2025-2031- 91

2022 Evesham Wood ‘Temperance Hill Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- The outstanding 2022 ‘Temperance Hill Vineyard’ comes from this 100-acre site in the Eola-Amity Hills AVA. The nose is beautifully performed with peat moss and forest floor notes alongside wafts of black truffle and bright red and dark fruits. Medium-bodied and marvelously earthy on the palate, this is a really intriguing rendition of Pinot Noir from this vineyard. Enjoy now and over the next fifteen years. Drink 2025-2039- 94

2022 Evesham Wood ‘Mahonia Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- The 2022 ‘Mahonia Vineyard’ comes from this 12-acre site that is farmed at roughly two tons an acre. This shows good power and concentration on the palate, loaded with red and dark fruits, with Shiitake mushroom and Nori accents. Medium-bodied and delicious, showing serious verve, enjoy now and over the next fifteen plus years. Drink 2025-2040- 94

2022 Evesham Wood ‘Le Puits Sec’ Pinot Noir- A really good bottling from 2022, the ‘Le Puits Sec’ opens with cloves and red cherry compote on the nose with beautiful red florals. The palate is soft and refined with good elegance and a smooth texture. This has both the stuffing and verve to cellar well for another fifteen years. Drink 2025-2037- 93

Domaine Carneros

It is my pleasure to share one of the jewels of west coast wine. Domaine Carneros is perched high on a hill, overlooking the valley. The winery has world-class food pairings including Kaluga to match with their outstanding wines. It is hard to believe that this house was started all the way back in the 1970s as Claude Taittinger, of famed Champagne house Taittinger, began his search for a good spot to make California Sparkling Wine. Finally in 1987 he selected a 138-acre parcel in the Carneros region of the Napa Valley. The spot he selected is truly unique, as it has a massive maritime influence being perched near the bay. The vineyard is quite windy and produces highly concentrated berries that are very small in size. At the helm is Remi Cohen who serves as CEO and director of winemaking. She took over Napa pioneer Eileen Crane, who had been crafting sensational, age-worthy sparkling wines in the Napa Valley for over 30 years. Their top wine, the ‘Le Reve,’ is one of the finest sparkling wines made in North America.

I love their new lineup of wines. I’m amazed at their quality in the entry level, their 2020 Domaine Carneros ‘Brut’ Sparkling Wine (OB, 93) which is fresh, vibrant and wonderfully nuanced. They did remarkably well in 2020 so buy these wines with confidence. Learn more about these outstanding wines at https://www.domainecarneros.com Here are the new sparkling wines by Domaine Carneros

2020 Domaine Carneros ‘Brut’ Sparkling Wine- The 2020 ‘Brut’ comes from this challenging vintage, as the wine combines 60% Chardonnay with the remainder Pinot Noir. This is wonderfully salty and offers a smooth mousse upon entry. Lime zest and nectarine skin combines with shades of salted pear and honeydew melon on the palate. This is just a killer value in sparkling wine. Drink 2025-2033- 93

2019 Domaine Carneros ‘Ultra Brut’ Sparkling Wine- The 2019 ‘Ultra Brut’ has zero dosage and saw extended less aging. This is marvelously fresh and nervy, with great richness. Layers of melon fruits and salty minerals combine with suggestions of roasted mango and Japanese pear on the palate. Very finesse-laden and nuanced, with lovely stony and nutty accents, enjoy now and over the next decade. Drink 2025-2035- 93

2021 Domaine Carneros ‘Brut Rose’ Sparkling Wine- The 2021 ‘Brut Rose’ comes from the warm 2021 vintage. The blend is exactly the same as the 2020 edition (57% Pinot Noir, 43% Chardonnay) with .9% dosage. Brioche and bright red raspberry tones mark the nose with red rose petals and dried cranberry notes. The palate is round and generous on the mouth, loaded with texture and salty minerals. A joy to drink now, enjoy over the next eight plus years. Drink 2025-2033- 92

2018 Domaine Carneros ‘Late Disgorged Brut’ Sparkling Wine- The 2018 Domaine Carneros ‘Late Disgorged Brut’ Sparkling Wine is near equal parts Pinot Noir and Chardonnay coming from their Carneros estate. This is round and generous stuff on the mouth, with buttered French bread, salted cashew nut, starfruit and shades of mango on the palate. Rich and voluptuous on the mouth, enjoy now and over the next decade. Drink 2025-2035- 94

Sea Smoke

It is hard to fathom that Sea Smoke began all the way back in 1999 by Bob Davids in Santa Barbara County, California. The winery is named after the cooling fog that rolls in from the Pacific Ocean. After great success and acquiring Rita’s Crown Vineyard, Sea Smoke was sold to Constellation in 2024. Over the years that wines have been consistently great and certainly helped put Santa Barbara County Pinot Noir on the map. They now farm 80 acres of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay plantings.

The new release comes from the warm 2022 vintage. I adored the 2022 Sea Smoke ‘Ten’ Pinot Noir (OB, 95) which is round, generous and filled with beautiful red fruits. Learn more about these outstanding wines at seasmoke.com and here is my review of the new 2022 release by Sea Smoke.

2022 Sea Smoke ‘Ten’ Pinot Noir- The 2022 ‘Ten’ Pinot Noir is a stunning effort that is already beautifully evolved from this slightly warmer vintage. Winemaker Don Schroeder. makes this wine from its 10 "clones" of Pinot Noir. The palate is deep, fresh and fragrant with serious weight, texture and tension. Red rose petal water combines with bright cranberry and red cherry fruits alongside salty soils on the palate. Full-bodied and absolutely delicious, enjoy now and over the next ten plus years. Drink 2025-2035- 95

Cellar Selection: 2009 Chateau d'Yquem

It isn’t every evening that you have a chance to enjoy a perfect wine. Such was the case last night with a friend. I decided to open one of my .375ML bottles of 2009 Chateau d’Yquem. This was my second visit to this wine in several years. The storied Sauternes estate was the only Sauternes property to be given the the Premier Cru Superior designation from the Bordeaux Wine Official Classification of 1855. The world wine community recognizes this estate as producing the best wines from Sauternes. The site itself is perfectly situated for achieving a high degree of botrytis in even the most challenging of vintages. 

I was absolutely blown away with the 2009 Chateau d’Yquem (OB, 100) which is nothing short of perfection in the bottle. My friend and I looked at each other dazed while drinking this beauty. It was too good for words! Enjoy this bottle with a friend, as I did. Learn more about the storied estate at http://yquem.fr/int-en/ Here is my review of the Sauternes wines from Chateau d’YQuem.

2009 Chateau d’Yquem Sauternes- Weightless and irresistibly good, the scintillating 2009 Chateau d’Yquem is one of the best wines that I have tasted in the past year. A beautiful golden hue, this opens with serious concentration and texture, yet effortlessly glides throughout the drinking experience. Rich roasted pineapple, vanilla creme brûlée and bananas foster all come to mind, with cardamom dusted shortbread and honeyed pear. Still quite fresh and elegant, this will easily go for another twenty years — but is completely irresistible now. Drink 2025-2035- 100

Cellar Selection: 2018 Bollinger 'PN AYC18' Champagne

When I was in Paso Robles I had the chance to visit one of my favorite restaurants in California, Les Petites Canailles which exemplifies top class French food. On their wine list I ordered a gorgeous wine by Bollinger, featuring the warm 2018 vintage, Bollinger ‘PN AYC18’ Champagne. I was really looking for a big and bold champagne and this did the trick — particularly pairing beautifully with a fresh oyster appetizer.

The ‘PN AyC18’ is a 100% Pinot Noir wine, predominantly from the Aÿ cru. It is blended with other villages on the Montage de Reims, such as Tauxières and Verzenay. I love great Pinot Noir champagnes and this is absolutely one of them. For those who enjoy a bigger style of champagne, I suggest you try this bottling. Check out my review of the 2018 Bollinger ‘PN AYC18’ Champagne

2018 Bollinger ‘PN AYC18’ Champagne- Big, broad-shouldered and sturdy, the 2018 Bollinger ‘PN AYC18’ Champagne is a world-class wine from this warmer year. Made from Pinot Noir grapes mainly from the Ay cru. It is a deep and rich bottling, loaded with bright red fruits that mingle well with orange zest, chalky soils and beautiful tension. Ripe and robust on the mouth, enjoy now and over the next ten plus years. Drink 2025-2035- 95

Left Bend

Richard Hanke and Gary Robinson are lifelong friends that started Left Bent and Mashup WInery in the Santa Cruz Mountains. They wanted to do something different in the industry noting that most commercial wineries release wines quickly and before they are ready to drink. They came up with the idea to craft a multi-vintage blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah and in 2010 Left Bend was founded. Their winery uses a solar system that blends each year.

I had the chance to enjoy most of these wines that had been created since their inception. I love wines from the Santa Cruz Mountains and the overall theme of these wines was poise, structure and good flavor density. I particularly love the NV Left Bend ‘Mashup Version Seven’ Red Wine which is mainly Cabernet and Syrah. This is delicious stuff to enjoy now. Learn more at https://www.mashupwine.com/our-story and here are my reviews of the Left Bend wines.

NV Left Bend ‘Mashup Version 3’ Red Wine- The ‘Version 3’ comes from the Solera established in 2010 and this version was bottled in 2017. Black tea and rich figs mark the palate alongside a silky texture and bright underlying acidity. Drink 2024-2030- 91

NV Left Bend ‘Mashup Version Five’ Red Wine-The ‘Version Five’ comes from the Solera and was bottled in 2019. This is rich and elegant wine with dense dark fruits, chocolate pie and shades of black licorice. Delicious now, enjoy over the next six plus years to come. Drink 2024-2031- 92

NV Left Bend ‘Mashup Version Six’ Red Wine- The NV Left Bend ‘Mashup Version Six’ Red Wine was bottled in May 2020 during the heat of the pandemic. This is fresh and smooth with a great combination of red and dark fruits, with shades of pencil lead and coffee grounds. Mainly Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. Drink 2024-2031- 92

NV Left Bend ‘Mashup Version Seven’ Red Wine- The really good NV Left Bend ‘Mashup Version Seven’ Red Wine combines 47% Cabernet Sauvignon with 40% Syrah and the remainder Tempranillo, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Dried herbs and red bell pepper mark the nose alongside dense dark fruits and pencil lead. The palate is soft and elegant with a smooth texture. Enjoy this beautiful wine know and over the next ten years. Drink 2024-2034- 92

NV Left Bend Mashup Version Eight Red Wine- The NV Left Bend Version Eight was established with the 2010 vintage as this Santa Cruz Mountains wine offers blackberry and black currants with refined tannins, espresso grinds and suggestions of black tea on the palate. Medium to full-bodied, enjoy now and over the next eight to ten years. Drink 2024-2032- 92

NV Left Bend ‘Mashup Version Nine’ Red Wine- The really good NV Left Bend ‘Mashup Version Nine’ Red Wine is soft and approachable right now. Loganberry and black currants mark the palate alongside pencil lead and shades of coffee grounds. Great now, enjoy over the next ten years. Drink 2024-2034- 92

Mirror Napa Valley

It is my pleasure to share the story of Mirror Napa Valley — the wines of NFL veterran Rick Mirer. Mirer is a former Seattle Seahawk quarterback who was also one of the famed high school quarterbacks in Indiana state history. At Notre Dame Mirer won three bowl games and accounted for more points running and throwing (350) than any other player in Notre Dame history. 

The Seattle Seahawks were struggling when they drafted Mirer in 1993. Still, Mirer finished his rookie season 5th in the AFC with 274 completions and 2833 yards and was AFC Rookie of the Year by United Press International. Mirer’s remaining seasons were not as successful in Seattle, being set behind an abysmal offensive line. Having gone to those games in the 1980s, all of us in the stands knew that Mirer was really not given a fair chance with such poor protection. Mirer continued to play as a backup quarterback until 2004. 

Close friends with Drew Bledsoe, and drafted right behind him in 1993, Mirer admits that his friendship with Bledsoe helped lead him to start Mirror Napa Valley. Bledsoe and Mirer even took off-season­ vacation with their wives to Napa Valley. During the off-season they would also try to stump each other with wines from Port or Brunello di Montalcino.They both have created world-class wineries post-football. While playing for the Raiders and 49ers Rick became even more passionate for wine, being so close to Napa Valley. Finally in 2008 Rick started Mirror Napa Valley, utilizing the winemaking talents of Kirk Venge, formerly of Mumm Napa Valley. Mirer also has an outstanding foundation that gives to a range of charities.

The wines have been consistently great over the last several years. I adored the 2022 Mirror ‘Stagecoach Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon (OB, 95) which is deep and concentrated, with some seriously good aging potential. This is a home run from a very hot vintage. For more about Rick Mirer’s great winery go to https://www.mirrorwine.com Here are the beautiful new wines by Mirror Napa Valley.

2022 Mirror ‘Napa Valley Calistoga’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2022 Mirror ‘Napa Valley Calistoga’ Cabernet Sauvignon comes off big and deep from this ripe vintage. Creme de cassis, mocha and dark currants all fill the palate alongside sweet pipe tobacco and baking spices. Delicious, plump and full-bodied, enjoy now and over the next ten years. Drink 2025-2035- 93

2022 Mirror ‘Napa Valley Rutherford’ Cabernet Sauvignon- A beautiful wine from this warm vintage, the 2022 Mirror ‘Napa Valley Rutherford’ Cabernet Sauvignon delivers loamy soils and creme de cassis notes on the palate, alongside fresh herbs, chocolate pie and Turkish coffee notes. Full-bodied and delicious, enjoy now and over the next ten years. Drink 2025-2035- 93

2022 Mirror ‘Stagecoach Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2022 ‘Stagecoach Vineyard’ comes from this mountain location set on volcanic soils. Tar, violet rose petals and tobacco leaf fill the nose ealongside huckleberry fruit tones. The palate is heady and viscous with serious flavor density and verve. Decadent black and blue fruits greet you with chocolate cake and espresso bean tones. A delicious rendition of this wine, enjoy now and over the next fifteen years. Drink 2025-2040- 95

Haden Fig

Today we share one of the outstanding value producers in the Willamette Valley. Haden Fig is the brainchild of Erin Nuccio. For years Nuccio worked for a wine retailer in Washington D.C. He later entered wine distrubitoon and later headed west to Northern California. It was there that he built his wine education by attending enology and viticulture school. After working in Napa he decided to move northwards to the Willamette Valley. He drove up to Evesham Wood and met Russ Raney who became a mentor and a good friend. It is from this relationship that Haden Fig was built. Nuccio is now at the helm of Evesham Wood.

The new Haden Fig wines were really good. I love the great value 2022 Haden Fig ‘Juliette’ Chardonnay (OB, 92) which is beautifully textured and rich. Learn more at https://eveshamwood.com/our-story-haden-fig/ and here are my reviews of the new Haden Fig wines.

2022 Haden Fig ‘Juliette’ Chardonnay- The 2022 ‘Juliette’ Chardonnay comes from the Mahonia Vineyard. It is rich and creamy on the mouth, loaded with bright pear and peach flavrors, showing nutty accents. Drink 2025-2031- 92

2023 Haden Fig ‘Willamette Valley’ Pinot Noir- The 2023 ‘Willamette Valley’ Pinot Noir is loaded with crunchy red raspberry, pomegranate and tart red cherry fruit flavors, showing damp earth and orange peel tones. Nicely textured, enjoy this great value now and over the next few years. Drink 2025-2032- 92

2022 Haden Fig ‘Croft Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- The 2022 ‘Croft Vineyard’ comes this cooler Willamette Valley location that has a sneaky good reputation for Sauvignon Blanc. This is medium-bodied and shows lovely damp earth notes on the palate with white truffle shavings and forest floor alongside a smooth texture and bright red and dark fruits. Nicely poised, enjoy now and over the next ten years to come. Drink 2025-2035- 93

2022 Haden Fig ‘Cancilla Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- The 2022 ‘Cancilla Vineyard’ comes from the Tualatin Hills AVA. Translucent in the glass this shows off pretty red currant, strawberry and Bing cherry aromatics alongside salty soils. The palate is smooth and silky throughout the drinking experience. Soft and refined on the palate, enjoy now and over the next decade. Drink 2025-2035- 93

2022 Haden Fig ‘Freedom Hill Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- The ‘Freedom Hill Vineyard’ has some  of the oldest plantings in Oregon for Pinot Noir. This is smoky and savory on the nose with bay leaf and flinty nuances that connect well with wild blackberry and boysenberry tones. The palate is refined and generous in terms of weight and freshness. A joy to drink now, enjoy over the next ten plus years to come. Drink 2025-2035- 94

Bergstrom

Today we share one of the west coast’s greats for Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Bergström Wines was founded by John and Karen Bergström as they planted their Bergström Vineyard on a 13-acre, south-facing slope overlooking the Willamette Valley back in 1999. One of their sons, Josh Bergström, moved back to Oregon after completing a postgraduate program in Viticulture and Enology in Burgundy in 1999. That fall Bergström Wines harvested their first vintage of Pinot Noir from purchased fruit and the rest has been history. Josh serves as general manager, winemaker and vineyard manager at Bergström Wines, and has been rather quietly producing some of the top wines in Oregon.

The wines come from the 2023 vintage which was another warm year and excellent growing season. I loved these wines across the board which beautifully showcase the range of terroirs throughout the Willamette Valley. I am enamored by the thrilling 2023  Bergström ‘Bergström Vineyard’ Pinot Noir (OB, 97) which is one of the finest Oregon wines I have tasted this past year. Dense and showing gorgeous tension, this has the ability to cellar well for two decades. Learn more about these sensational wines at https://www.bergstromwines.com Here are the beautiful new wine releases by Bergström.

2023 Bergstrom ‘Cumberland Reserve’ Pinot Noir- The 2023 ‘Cumberland Reserve’ is a blend from the five estate vineyards owned by Bergstom. This is a medium-bodied beauty that offers pomegranate seed and salty minerals on the palate alongside shades of orange zest and black plum notes. Fresh and elegant, enjoy now and over the next ten years. Drink 2025-2035- 93

2023 Bergstrom ‘Le Pre Du Col Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- The 2023 ‘Le Pre Du Col Vineyard’ Pinot Noir is sourced from this Ribbon Ridge Vineyard which is set on 60-million-year-old sandy sea-beds. This is marvelously salty, with ultra-pure saline-drenched red fruits that combine with blood orange zest and shades of pipe tobacco on the palate. Delightful now, with a smooth texture, good viscosity and weight. Savor over the next fifteen years to come. Drink 2025-2040- 95

2023 Bergstrom ‘Silice Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- The sensational 2023 ‘Silice Vineyard’ comes from this Chehalem Mountains AVA site that was first planted back in 2001. Wet rock and wild strawberry mark the palate alongside a smooth viscosity and loads of salty minerals. Fresh and polished, this is already beautifully evolved stuff that will go on for decades. Drink 2025-2042- 95

2023 Bergstrom ‘La Spirale Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- The outstanding 2023 Bergstrom ‘La Spirale Vineyard’ Pinot Noir was sourced from the Ribbon Ridge AVA, as this location set on ancient marine sedimentary soils was planted back in 2005. This is marvelously salty stuff, loaded with pure red fruits with red rose water and shades of Satsuma orange zest on the palate. Medium to full-bodied, with great underlying verve, and slight wafts of white truffle, enjoy now and over the next fifteen plus years. Drink 2025-2042- 95

2023 Bergstrom ‘Bergstrom Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- The otherworldly 2023 Bergstrom ‘Bergstrom Vineyard’ Pinot Noir was sourced from this Dundee Hills AVA location planted more than 20 years back. The tension and mouth-watering acidity really entices, as volcanic soils, pomegranate seed and guava puree all meld together on the palate, offering kumquat rind accents. Full and fleshy, this is a terrific edition of this wine that speaks to the vintage and site. Enjoy over the next twenty years. Drink 2025-2045- 97

Tensley

One of the greats in Santa Barbara County, Tensley began all the way back in 1998. Joey Tensley linitially started Tensley Wines with a one hundred case production. He set out craft reasonably priced Syrah wines from great vineyards of Santa Barbara County. In 1993 Joey first began working as a “cellar rat” for Fess Parker Winery in Santa Barbara County. He later became assistant winemaker at Babcock Vineyards and in 1998 Joey moved on to become the assistant winemaker at Beckmen Vineyards where he first created his own label. Having visited the winery and tasting room on several occasions, I have been very impressed with Tensley releases for more than a decade as there are few California Syrah wines that offer this much value. 

The wines have been remarkably consistent. Do not miss out on the stunning 2023 Tensley ‘Tensley Vineyard’ Syrah (OB, 96) which has fantastic range with a great salinity. Learn more about this amazing range of wines at  which is a massive yet structured wine that will cellar beautifully for a decade or more.

2022 Joey Tensley ‘Fundamental’ Chardonnay- The 2022 Joey Tensley ‘Fundamental’ Chardonnay offers juicy pear, papaya and apple flavors that mingle well with shortbread and shades of marzipan on the palate. Rich and polished with a smooth texture and plenty of salty minerals, enjoy now and over the next eight years. Drink 2025-2033- 93

2023 Tensley Clairette Blanche- Golden in the glass, this 2023 Clairette Blanche offers good finesse with plenty of stuffing on the palate, showing toasty brioche and banana notes alongside rich melon flavors. A total knockout in terms of verve and richness, enjoy this beautiful wine over the next six to eight years. Drink 2024-2030- 93

2023 Tensley ‘Santa Barbara County’ Syrah- This outstanding 2023 Syrah offers serious bang for your buck. Smoke and beef drippings mark the nose alongside black raspberry coils and shades of iodine on the nose. The palate is rich and layered with good texture and tension. Salty and showing plenty of finesse, enjoy now and over the next eight plus years. Drink 2025-2032- 93

2023 Tensley ‘Santa Barbara County’ Syrah Noir- The savory and sultry 2023 Tensley ‘Santa Barbar County’ Syrah Noirs shows a wonderful purity of red and dark fruits on the palate, alongside fennel seed, tobacco leaf and hints of chocolate. Full-bodied and delicious, enjoy now and over the next few years. Drink 2025-2032- 93

2022 Tensley P2KV ‘Zaca Mesa Vineyard’ Syrah- The 2023 ‘Zach Mesa Vineyard’ Syrah comes from plantings that originated all the way back in 1978. This comes off inky and bold with dense dark fruits that parade with smoke, brisket and shades of black olive tapenade on the palate. Very meaty and delicious, enjoy now and over the next ten years. Drink 2025-2035- 94

2023 Tensley P2KV ‘Colston Canyon Vineyard’ Syrah/Grenache- The heady 2023 Tensley P2KV ‘Colston Canyon Vineyard’ Syrah/Grenache comes from vines planted back in 1997. It is beautifully textured stuff that offers menthol and scorched earth alongside bright red and dark fruits, with a chocolate edge on the palate. Full-bodied and delicious, enjoy now and over the next eight to ten years. Drink 2025-2033- 94

2022 Tensley ‘Noir’ Syrah- Inky in the glass, the 2022 ‘Noir’ Syrah is very smooth on the mouth, loaded with dense black fruits with bacon fat, cigar ash and salty nuances. Its full-bodied and hedonistic stuff that is drinking marvelous in its heady youth. Drink 2024-2032- 93

2023 Tensley ‘Colson Canyon Vineyard’ Syrah- This sensational 2023 Syrah comes from the Colsen Canyon Vineyard which is set at 1400 feet. There is marvelous flavor density and beautiful tension through the core of the wine. Creme de violette, tar, menthol and molten chocolate flavors all come together marvelously on the palate. Enjoy this beauty over the next ten plus years. Drink 2025-235- 96

2023 Tensley ‘Turner Vineyard’ Syrah- The delightful 2023 Tensley ‘Turner Vineyard’ Syrah is sourced from this location in the Santa Rita Hills. This is a dense and heady effort with marvelous nerve. Boysenberry compote, and dark currants mingle well with bacon fat and violets on the palate. Delightful to consume now, enjoy over the next ten years. Drink 2025-2035- 96

2023 Tensley ‘Thompson Vineyard’ Syrah- The amazing 2023 Tensley ‘Thompson Vineyard’ Syrah is a killer wine from this hot vintage. On the nose this shows off red currant tones that mingle well with white pepper dusted brisket and fresh sage. The palate is lifed with serious freshens and finesse. Herbal and wondederully salty, this is showing beautifully now with an iodine and beef dripping edge, at the two year mark. Enjoy over the next ten plus years to come. Drink 2025-2035- 96

2023 Tensley ‘Tensley Vineyard’ Syrah- The sensational 2023 Tensley ‘Tensley Vineyard’ Syrah opens with a beautiful bouquet of black florals alongside dark currants and loganberry cordial.  The palate is fleshy and ripe with good tension and a marvelous core of black and blue fruits. Full-bodied and showing a light saline streak, enjoy now and over the next ten plus years to come. Drink 2025-2037- 96

2021 Joey Tensley ‘Fundamental’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2021 ‘Fundamental’ offers black tea and exotic spice on the nose alongside dark currants. The plate is rich and layered with good tension. Enjoy now and over the next few years. Drink 2025-2032- 92

Cairdeas

It is my pleasure to share one of the greats from Chelan. Cairdeas is an ancient Gaelic word meaning friendship, goodwill or alliance. Founded by Charlie and Lacey Lybecker in 2009, Cairdeas is named after Charlie’s Irish heritage and Lacey’s goodwill (that is how they met). Lacey and Charlie are some of the nicest people you will find in the Washington wine industry.

For many years now they have been sourcing their grapes from outstanding sites throughout Washington including the acclaimed ‘Boushey Vineyard’ in the Yakima Valley and the ‘Lawrence Vineyard’ in the new Royal Slope AVA. The winery is perched atop the lake with stunning views of Lake Chelan and the surrounding valley. It is a gorgeous spot to enjoy their fantastic Rose wine.

The new edition of their 2022 Cairdeas ‘Caiselan An Papa’ Red Wine (OB, 95) is a world-class Chateauneuf inspired bottling that has great freshness and flavor complexity. This one is all about balance and moving parts. Learn more about this excellent Chelan outpost at https://cairdeaswinery.com/winery/about-us/ and here are my reviews of the new Cairdeas wines.

2023 Cairdeas Viognier- The 2023 Cairdeas Viognier comes from the Boushey and Coyote Canyon vineyards. Stored in a range of vessels, this offers honeysuckle and white peach on the nose alongside sweetened gooseberry. The palate is fresh and elegant with a smooth texture, good sense of weight and vibrant underlying acidity. A joy to consume now, enjoy over the next six to eight years. Drink 2025-2032- 93

2023 Cairdeas ‘Nellie May’ White Wine- The 2023 ‘Nellie May’ combines Viognier (64%) and Roussanne (36%). The wine was sourced from both the Lawrence and Coyote Canyon Vineyards.  This is lush and ripe on the palate, with beautiful texture, tension and vibrant acidity. Melon and citrus fruits parade with shades of salted macadamia nut on the palate. Complex and delicious, enjoy over the next eight years. Drink 2025-2032- 93

2023 Cairdeas Grenache Noir- The 2023 Grenache Noir comes from the Thunderstone Vineyard in the Royal Slope AVA. Red rose petals and orange peel with tobacco leaf and red currants all mark the nose. The palate is vibrant and downright sexy, showing lovely verve and texture that combine with a pure core of bright red fruits. Highly enjoyable now, enjoy over the next ten years. Drink 2025-2035- 94

2022 Cairdeas ‘Concrete’ Syrah- Inky in the glass, the 2022 ‘Concrete’ Syrah comes from the Lawrence Vineyard in the Royal Slope AVA. Dense dark fruits combine with iodine, tar, menthol and shades of pencil lead on the palate. Beautifully weighted and textured, this is already drinking beautifully in its heady and vibrant youth. Drink 2025-2035- 93

2022 Cairdeas ‘Stone Ridge Vineyard’ Syrah- This 2022 Syrah comes from the acclaimed Stone Ridge Vineyard in the Royal Slope AVA. 2% Viognier has been blended in, as this is offering pretty white florals with tar, anise, black currants and shades of scorched earth. The palate shows loads of mouth-watering acidity, with a smooth mouthfeel. Loganberry preserves, espresso bean, graphite and wet stone all combine on the palate. Drink 2025-2035- 94

2022 Cairdeas ‘Consonance’ Red Wine- The 2022 ‘Consonance’ combines mainly Petite Sirah and Syrah with a small amount of Mourvèdre blended in. Fresh and neat on the mouth, the wine delivers blackberry and blueberry fruit flavors alongside shades of wet rock, wintergreen and dark currant compete. Delicious now, enjoy over the next ten years. Drink 2025-2035- 93

2022 Cairdeas ‘Tri’ Red Wine- The 2022 ‘Tri’ combines mainly Syrah (73%) with smaller portions Mourvèdre and Grenache.  Dried herbs and white pepper dusted bacon all mark the nose alongside beef drippings and suggestions of iodine, with blackberry compote. The palate is fresh and beautifully-textured showing good weight and acidity. Fabulous now, enjoy over the next eight to ten years. Drink 2025-2032- 93

2022 Cairdeas ‘Caislean An Papa’ Red Wine- The 2022 Cairdeas ‘Caislean An Papa’ Red Wine is a gorgeous wine made from Grenache, Mourvèdre, Syrah, Cinsault and Counoise. The nose is highly complex, offering garrigue and white pepper dusted smoked meats alongside black olives, menthol and shades of huckleberry. The palate maintains beautiful freshness and softness, loaded with red and dark fruit flavors, alongside cigar ash, bacon fat and fresh thyme.  Enjoy this beauty now and over the next ten plus years. Drink 2025-2035- 95

2022 Cairdeas ‘Finial’ Red Wine- The 2022 ‘Finial’ combines mainly Syrah and Petite Sirah with smaller parts Mourvèdre and a dash of Viognier. It is a lush and dense red blend, showing black and blue fruits on the palate alongside tar, anise and sagebrush accents. Offering good freshness and texture, enjoy now and over the next ten years to come. Drink 2025-2035- 93