Charles Heidseick

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

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

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

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

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

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

Domaine Serene

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Westborn

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chateau de Beaucastel

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

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

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

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

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

Marques de Caceres

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

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

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

Frescobaldi

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Doubleback

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

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

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

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

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

Rhys Vineyards

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Starmont

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

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

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

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

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

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

BACA

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

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

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

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

St. Innocent

One of the great value lineups in Oregon wine, St. Innocent was founded by Oregon Wine Pioneer, Mark Vlossak. Mark made his first single vineyard wine in 1989 from the O’Connor Vineyard. The wines that Mark makes have a beginning, middle and end. They are textural beauties that age so gracefully.

Mark has a deft touch for white wine and his whites have consistently been on my Top 100 wines of North America over the past five plus years. Check out the 2024 ‘Freedom Hill Vineyard’ Pinot Blanc (OB, 93) which is rich and dense stuff with serious mouthfeel and great flavor range. Learn more about these awesome wines at https://stinnocentwine.com Here are the great new releases by St. Innocent. 

2021 St. Innocent ‘Cremant Rose’ Sparkling Wine- Made from mainly Pinot Blanc (87%) grapes fro the Freedom Hill Vineyard, this is a vibrant pink in the glass. This is both dense and weighty with serious salty tension. Gorgeous red fruits parade with nutty nuances on the palate. There isn’t a wine quite like this in the new world, offering both a refined mousse and glorious length, with the faintest kiss of sweetness. Drink 2026-2034- 93

2024 St. Innocent ‘Freedom Hill Vineyard’ Pinot Blanc- Rich, fleshy and delicious, the 2024 ‘Freedom Hill Vineyard’ Pinot Blanc has just a kiss of sweetness on the palate. Peach and green papaya flavors parade with nutty nuances and copious minerals on this highly-complex bottling. Enjoy this beauty over the next seven plus years to come. Drink 2026-2033- 93

2022 St. Innocent ‘Cavalier Cuvee Freedom Hill Vineyard’ Chardonnay- The 2022 ‘Cavalier Cuvee’ comes from old vine Chardonnay sourced from the acclaimed Freedom Hill Vineyard. This is wonderfully reductive and flinty on the nose with beeswax, white flowers and Japanese pear notes. The palate comes off big, rich and fat despite the coolness of the vintage. Beautifully-textured, with serious length, be sure to not serve too cold! Drink 2025-2035- 95

2022 St. Innocent ‘Freedom Hill Vineyard’ Chardonnay- Sourced from this location in the Mt. Pisgah AVA, roughly ten miles southwest of Salemon, this is old-vine Chardonnay set on marine sedimentary soils. It is viscous stuff with great salty character. Pastry crust, mango and shades of nectarine skin all combine with baking spices on the palate. Both nervy and rich, enjoy over the next ten years to come. Drink 2026-2036- 94

2024 St. Innocent ‘Villages Cuvee’ Pinot Noir- A seriously good value, the 2024 ‘Villages Cuvee’ Pinot Noir is loaded with loganberry, strawberry and red cherry fruits alongside wet gravel and bergamot nuances on the palate. Medium-bodied, with good lift and texture, enjoy now. Drink 2026-2032- 92

2022 St. Innocent ‘Freedom Hill Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- Coming from this accliamed location in the Mt. Pisqah AVA, the 2022 ‘Freedom Hill Vineyard’ Pinot Noir comes off salty and savory, loaded with tension and bright red fruits. Medium to full-bodied, with terrific texture and mouthfeel, this is already drinking beautifully at the four year mark. Enjoy over the next ten plus years. Drink 2026-2038- 94

Chateau Ste. Michelle 'Eroica Single Berry Select' Riesling

Today we share one of the great dessert wines made in the United States. The ‘Eroica Single Berry Select’ is made in partnership between two of the world’s leading Riesling producers, Chateau Ste. Michelle of Washington state and Ernst Loosen of Germany. Eroica Single Berry Select Riesling is made as a German Trockenbeerenauslese (TBA) style and is one of the only TBA-style wines in North America today. This is a lush and complex TBA with gobs of richness and world-class tension and finesse.

Grapes for this wine come from the Horse Heaven Hills. Each grape is individually hand-picked and hand-sorted. For years I have admired this wine that is truly one of the wines of its kind in the world. This is a must-try for any lover of top dessert wine. The wine is made in a half bottle (.375L) format. It is a stunning, mesmerizing wine that for my palate does not come short of perfection in the glass. This is also the first 100 point dessert wine that I have ever awarded from any wine in North America. Learn more at https://www.eroicawine.com/wines and here is my review of the thrilling 2017 ‘Eroica Single Berry Select’ Riesling.

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

Elevee

Today we share the wines of Elevee. UC Davis educated, Burgundy trained Winegrower, Tom Fitzpatrick, and wife France, began their journey in 2002 with Hunter's Wines in New Zealand, Pine Ridge Winery in Napa Valley, and Domaine Hubert Lignier in Morey-St-Denis. They arrived in Oregon in 2007, when Tom became the Associate Winemaker with Hamacher and then Winemaker/GM with Alloro Vineyard.

The new wines are really good. I thoroughly enjoyed the 2022 ‘Departure’ Pinot Noir (OB, 92) which is very mineral-laden and shows excellent range from this slightly cooler vintage. Learn more at https://www.eleveewines.com/ and here are my reviews of the new Elevee wines.

2022 Elevee ‘Meredith Mitchell Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- Translucent in the glass, the 2022 Elevee ‘Meredith Mitchell Vineyard’ Pinot Noir delivers lighter to medium bodied red fruits that mingle with copious minerals and citrus rind accents on the palate. A touch linear, enjoy now and over the next eight to ten years. Drink 2026-2034- 91

2022 Elevee ‘Elevee Vineyard’ Pinot Noir-Very lightly colored in the glass, the 2022 ‘Elevee Vineyard’ shows off red florals and cloves on the nose alongside lighter red fruits. The palate is a touch lean and linear with copious minerals and delicate red cherry and salmonberry tones. Drink 2026-2031- 90

2022 Elevee ‘Bjornson Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- Also standing translucent in the glass, the 2022 ‘‘Bjornson Vineyard’ shows off cranberry and teaberry notes on the palate, with orange peel and bergamot notes. Light on its feet, enjoy this elegant, lighter bodied Pinot Noir now and over the next eight years. Drink 2026-2034- 91

2022 Elevee ‘Madrona Hill Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- Sleek and filled with minerality, the 2022 Elevee ‘Madrona Hill Vineyard’ Pinot Noir shows a soft mouthfeel on the approach with plenty of lip-smacking tension. Lighter red fruits parade with kumquat zest and salty minerals on the palate. Drink 2026-2032- 91

2022 Elevee ‘Departure’ Pinot Noir- The 2022 ‘Departure’ is an excellent wine that comes off both complex and delicious. Lithe and mineral-laden on the tongue, this shows off medium-bodied cranberry and Yakima cherry flavors, with hints of damp earth and salty nuances on the palate. Already nicely evolved, enjoy over the next eight plus years to come. Drink 2026-2034- 92

The Winemakers Reserve

Today we share the outstanding wines of The Winemakers Reserve. The winery was founded by Matt Loso in 2017. The space has a tasting room and event space. Loso is the founder of Matthews Cellars, and now focuses on The Winemakers Reserve and

Matteo Wines.The inaugural release of Matthews Cellars in 1993 saw its first vintage completely sell out within 30 days! By 1997, Matthews Cellars had firmly established itself as one of Washington State's most respected wineries. Loso’s wife, Zoie, handles the business side of The Winemakers Reserve.

I love the new wines by Loso. Check out the incredible 2018 Matteo Grenache (OB, 93) which is heady and intense with gorgeous range. The same is true for the 2018 Matteo Syrah (OB, 93) which is a gorgeous example of Washington Syrah. Learn more at

2024 The Winemakers Reserve Sauvignon Blanc- This 2024 Sauvignon Blanc shows up dense on the palate, with good weight and underlying minerality. Rich stone and tropical fruits combine with salty minerals and nutty nuances. Drink 2025-2030- 91

2024 The Winemakers Reserve Pinot Gris- A great Gris bottling from 2024, this delivers a solid combination of weight and tension as pear and starfruit flavors give way to suggestions of salted cashew nut on the palate. Drink 2025-2031- 91

2022 The Winemakers Reserve Chardonnay- The 2022 The Winemakers Reserve Chardonnay is a great new bottling by Matt Loso. Once on the nose this exudes class with toasty brioche and banana alongside shades of Japanese pear. The palate is soft and elegant with a good sense of viscosity and weight. Enjoy this great wine now and over the next six plus years to come. Drink 2025-2031- 92

2022 The Winemakers Reserve ‘GSM’ Red Wine- The 2022 ‘GSM’ combines 50% Grenache with 25% Mourvèdre and smaller portions Syrah and Cinsault. It is elegant and soft with lighter to medium-bodied red fruits that mingle well with chocolate and fresh sage. Drink 2025-2031- 91

2018 Matteo Grenache-The outstanding and very pretty 2018 Matteo Grenache is brimming with bright red fruits alongside blood orange zest, wintergreen and shades of red licorice on the palate. Medium-bodied with good richness and flavor density, this is a beautiful rendition of Columbia Valley Grenache that is already nicely evolved. Drink 2025-2031- 93

2018 Matteo Syrah- Deeply performed in the glass, the 2018 Matteo Syrah opens with heady dark currants, smoked brisket and white pepper dusted bacon on the nose. The palate is lush and nicely concentrated with a seriously great texture and sense of dense dark fruits, with a chocolate and wet granite edge. Complex and delightful to savor now, enjoy over the next few years. Drink 2025-2032- 93

2018 Matteo Red Wine- The 2018 Matteo Red Wine is mostly Cabernet Franc (57%) with 36% Merlot and a dash of Cabernet Sauvignon. It is rich and viscous stuff with terrific energy and weight. Black currants and blackberry compote flavors combine with chocolate covered coffee bean on the palate. This seems to be really peaking right now. Drink 2025-2033- 93

2022 The Winemakers Reserve Merlot- This 2022 Merlot offers sagebrush, pencil lead and black florals on the nose with hints of Arabica bean. The palate is plump, rich and downright delicious, as this seamless bottling is both gratifying in terms of flavor density but also has excellent nerve. Enjoy this black fruit and chocolate-driven bootleg now and over the next decade. Drink 2025-2035- 93

2021 The Winemakers Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon- Inky in the glass, the 2011 The Winemakers Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon is lined with a beautiful bouquet of dark rose petals that combine with espresso grounds, cassis and anise notes. This is round and generous on the mid-palate, with a terrific push/pull of weight and flavor density alongside energy and tension. A gorgeous wine to devour now, enjoy over the next fifteen years to come. Drink 2025-2040- 94

2022 The Winemakers Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon- A delicious wine from this slightly cooler vintage, the 2022 The Winemakers Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon opens with dark florals and potpourri notes alongside black plum, dark chocolate shavings and sandalwood accents. The palate is neatly-balanced as medium to full-bodied dark fruits parade with dark licorice and fennel accents. Drink 2025-2038- 93

Chateau Palmer

Today we present one of the standout houses on the left bank of Bordeaux. From 1814 to 1831, Palmer bought up surrounding land and vineyards until Château Palmer stretched 163 hectares from Cantenac, to Issan to Margaux.The wine is one of the fourteen Troisièmes Crus (Third Growths) in the historic classification of 1855. Located between the towns of Margaux and Cantenac, this is seen as one of the most famed third growths. It is by far the most expensive third growth as well.

There have been changes at the chateau and they began producing ‘Alter Ego’ their other wine since 1998. Roughly 40% of the estate's production, is now sold as Alter Ego de Palmer. The result has been a significant reduction in the quantity of wine sold as Château Palmer. I had the chance to revisit the incredible 2017 Chateau Palmer (OB, 97) which is at an amazing spot to enjoy now. It is rich, viscous and very terroir-focused wine. Learn more at https://www.chateau-palmer.com/en/article/charles-palmers-claret and here is my review of the 2017 Chateau Palmer.

2017 Chateau Palmer- A glorious wine, the 2017 Chateau Palmer is a heavyhitter that has a long way to go in the cellar. Dense creme de violette, anise, dark chocolate shavings and dark cherry flavors combine with silky tannins and copious stony minerals. This is seamless throughout the drinking experience. Enjoy now and over the next twenty plus years. Drink 2024-2044- 97

Leonetti Cellar

I’ll never forget my first Leonetti Merlot. It was a bottle of 2000 that I sampled when I was in graduate school more than 20 years ago. For years Leonetti has been producing world class red wines from the Walla Walla Valley.

Leonetti has always been a highly traditional winery, making several wines each year and not branching out to new projects.  For the past few years they are producing an amazing single vineyard project is a great chance for owner and winemaker Chris Figgins to show how different terroirs are reflected in his Cabernet Sauvignon. He makes the finest Aglianico you will taste in the Pacific Northwest.

I love the new 2020 Leonetti Cellar Aglianico (OB, 94) which is amazing considering the vintage.  I think that you will be completely enamored by the 2023 Leonetti Cellar ‘Reserve’ Red Wine (OB, 100) which is a perfect wine by them. This is the finest edition of the ‘Reserve’ that I have ever tasted. Learn more about these stunning new wines at http://leonetticellar.com/ Here are my reviews of the beautiful new Leonetti Cellar wines. 

2022 Leonetti Sangiovese- Always 100% varietal and needing an hour in the decanter to fully develop the astonishingly good 2023 Leonetti Sangiovese was stored for 22 months in new and once-filled French oak barrels and neutral oval Botti before bottling. Intriguingly, the last three editions of this wine all come from the Holy Roller, Loess, Seven Hills and Mill Creek Upland Vineyards. It shows off its deep core in the glass, delivering alluring sandalwood and potpourri aromatics alongside wintergreen, tart red fruits and orange peel notes. The palate is rich and viscous — unlike anything you will find in the Pacific Northwest. This has both the weight and finesse to cellar well for at least another fifteen years. Try to resist this beauty for one more year. Drink 2027-2042- 95

2024 Leonetti Merlot- The 2024 Leonetti Merlot also needs considerable time in the decanter if enjoying in its heady youth. Also 100% varietal, this comes from the Loess, Mill Creek Upland and Leonetti Old Block Vineyards. It is loaded with chocolate and Arabica bean flavors that combine with damp earth, cedar, rich dark fruits and gobs of finesse. Like the ’23 Sangiovese, this really does need another year in the bottle — but you can see the incredible potential here. If opening now, consider popping the cork the night before and leaving it in the bottle. Drink 2028-2045- 96

2023 Leonetti Cabernet Sauvignon- A stunning wine from this warmer vintage, the 2023 Leonetti Cabernet Sauvignon has a small portion of Petit Verdot and Malbec blended in. It comes from the Mill Creek Upland, Serra Pedace, Loess, Seven Hills and Holy Roller vineyards in the Walla Walla Valley. It stands very inky in the glass, offering intense aromatics of scorched earth, sagebrush and shades of creme de cassis, alongside shades of violets and pencil lead. The palate is extremely gratifying and deep with sensational tension, texture and weight. A total stunner, this just might be the finest edition of this wine that I have tasted. Opulent, broad-shouldered and extremely gratifying to consume, give it at least another year in the bottle to fully evolve. Drink 2027-2050- 98

2023 Leonetti ‘Reserve’ Red Wine- A mesmerizing wine, the 2023 Leonetti ‘Reserve’ melds 83% Cabernet Sauvignon with 14% Malbec and the reminder Petit Verdot. It begins with purple rose petals, tar, Turkish coffee and green herbs from the PV alongside opulent black and blue fruits. The palate is plush and seamless throughout the downright ethereal drinking experience, as this effortlessly glides, showing both sensational weight and poise. You can see each varietal working here with clockwork efficiency. This is the best I have yet tried from Leonetti and eminent winemaker Chris Figgins. Give this remarkable wine at least another year in the bottle. Drink 2028-2055- 100

2020 Leonetti Aglianico- A great wine from a tough vintage, the 2020 Leonnetti Aglianico was stored for 44 months in terracotta amphorae, as well as new and neutral French oak barrels prior to bottling. It is tannic, rich and bold with shades of tar and blueberry compote alongside rocky soils and shades of black licorice on the palate. Considering the vintage this is a resounding success. Drink now. Drink 2026-2030- 94

Pasxa

One of the electric wine brands of the Pacific Northwest, Pasxa focuses on producing wines sourced from the vineyards of The Rocks District of Milton- Freewater. The Pášxa wines were a huge hit right out of the gate, and back in their inaugural 2018 vintage they focused on River Rock Vineyard fruit. They now have an estate program with the 2020 purchase of ‘Rockgarden Vineyard.’ This is a huge development for this program. The wines have been consistently great.

I really love the 2024 Pasxa ‘White Blend’ White Wine (OB, 95) which is very stony and beautifully-textured. Check out the 2023 Pasxa ‘Rockgarden Estate’ Syrah (OB, 95) which has amazing Umami character. Learn more about this truly thrilling new project at pasxa.com Here are the downright

killer new wines by Pášxa.

2024 Pasxa ‘White Blend’ White Wine- The 2024 ‘White Blend’ is a compelling blend of Marsanne and Roussanne. This has terrific viscosity and verve with rich tropical and melon fruits alongside shortbread notes, laden with stony mineralogy. Gorgeous now, enjoy over the next eight plus years. Drink 2026-2034- 95

2023 Pasxa ‘Rockgarden Estate’ Grenache- Another sensational edition of this wine, the 2023 Pasxa ‘Rockgarden Estate’ Grenache opens with cardamom laced ripe strawberry and wet rock with a green herbal edge on the nose. This comes off fresh and viscous with a terrific texture and good sense of weight. Drink 2026-2034- 94

2023 Pasxa ‘River Rock Vineyard’ Grenache- The 2023 ‘River Rock Vineyard’ Grenache opens up with red florals on the nose alongside bright red fruits and citrus rind accents. The palate is fresh and viscous with ultra-pure red fruits with rocky nuances and shades of orange peel. This is already nicely evolved stuff, with a Umami edge. Drink 2026-2032- 94

2023 Pasxa ‘Rockgarden Estate’ Syrah- The downright delicious 2023 Pasxa ‘Rockgarden Estate’ Syrah opens with Hoisin sauce, seaweed and shades of black currants on the nose, with black florals. The palate is fresh and lithe with a polished texture and terrific sense of weight and length. Enjoy this earthy and savory beauty now and over the next eight to ten years. Drink 2026-2034- 95

The Walls

It is my pleasure to share the great wines of The Walls. The winery is located in Walla Walla and has a beautiful interior and great backyard space. It is an amazing spot for a glass of wine.

WinemakerSally Johnson Blum and Associate Winemaker Peter Urian joined the team a few yeas back. Johnson Blum has a massive amount of experience, formerly being at St. Francis and Pride in Sonoma County. She also has served as winemaking consultant at Mullan Road under Dennis Cakebread. She is a great person who also makes a world-class Rose from Napa.

I love the 2023 The Walls ‘Wonderful Nightmare’ (OB, 93) which is a dense and chewy wine made form Tempranillo grapes. I adore the 2023 ‘Curiositas’ Cabernet Sauvignon (OB, 96) which is just as good as last year’s wine, with serious flavor density. Learn more about these outstanding new wines at https://www.thewallsvineyards.com Here are the great new releases from The Walls. 

2023 The Walls ‘The Ramparts’ Red Wine- Sourced from the Yakima Valley is a blend of mainly Grenache and Mourvèdre. Smoked meats, red currants and dried herbs all fill the nose. The palate is soft and elegant with a great core of red fruits alongside meaty and herbal accents. This is very well-done. Drink 2026-2034- 94

2023 The Walls ‘Mahana’ Red Wine- Their Syrah-based wine from The Rocks District, this is a gorgeous, beautifully-textured bottling that is drinking great now. Soy sauce, bacon fat and shades of Umami all fill the nose with suggestions of loganberry compote. The palate is elegant and concentrated with a great core of black fruits with Nori and compote accents. Drink 2026-2034- 94

2023 The Walls ‘Wonderful Nightmare’ Red Wine- The 2023 ‘Wonderful Nightmare’ is a stunning Tempranillo wine from the Walla Walla Valley. This is deep and heady with good stony minerality. Roasted dates, dark cherry and blackberry compote. Neatly textured, with good concentration and length, this is already drinking beautifully. Drink 2025-2031- 93

2022 The Walls ‘Bellamy’ Red Wine- The 2023 The Walls ‘Bellamy’ is all Cabernet Sauvignon from the Walla Walla Valley. This is soft and refined on the mouth. Deep dark fruits parade with wintergreen and milk chocolate notes. Concentrated and showing a smooth mouthfeel, enjoy now and over the next ten years. Drink 2026-2034- 94

2023 The Walls ‘Curiositas’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The stunning 2023 The Walls ‘Curiositas’ Cabernet Sauvignon comes from Red Mountain. Concentrated and powerful, this delivers sagebrush, scorched earth and creme de violette on the nose. The palate is complex and powerful with serious finesse and power. Drink 2026-2042- 96

Aubaine

One of the excellent producers of Oregon Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, Aubaine focuses on single vineyard and estate only wines  Founder Andy Lytle has a love of Burgundy and Champagne, as he is half of Lytle-Barnett. An iconic winemaker, Isabelle Meunier, has made a range of wines for producers across the Willamette Valley.  Meunier is native of Quebec, and she studied winemaking and viticulture at the University of Dijon in Burgundy, as well as in New Zealand at Lincoln University. Following her eduction she worked at famed producers Felton Road in New Zealand, as well as Dominique Lafon of Domaine des Comtes Lafon.

Isabelle moved to the Willamette Valley in 2007 to work with Evening Land and had incredible success with that program. She later started her own winery venture, LAVINEA, an artisan production of distinctive single-vineyard Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. 

I love the 2023 Aubaine ‘Joie’ Pinot Noir (OB, 93) which is very pretty and shows great viscosity and a core of tart red fruits. Learn more about this outstanding producer at aubainewine.com and here are my reviews of the new Aubaine wines.

2023 Aubaine ‘Anhata Vineyard’ Chardonnay- Lush and delightful, the 2023 ‘Anhata Vineyard’ is loaded with pear and starfruit flavors alongside a soft mouthfeel on the palate. Enjoy now and over the next few years. Drink 2026-2031- 91

2023 Aubaine ‘Athas’ Chardonnay- A delicious new bottling, the 2023 ‘Athas’ is a single-block wine from the Anhata Vineyard made by famed winemaker Isabelle Meunier. It is rich and viscous with rocky soils alongside rich melon and citrus fruits on the palate. The richness and tension with serious focus indicates this will easily cellar for another ten years. Drink 2026-2036- 93

2023 Aubaine ‘Vreugde’ Chardonnay- The 2023 Aubaine ‘Vreugde’ Chardonnay is also a single block bottling from this warm vintage. This comes off fat and round on the mouth with loads of minerality. Rich cashew nut and melon tones collide with wet stone, crushed white flowers and a lengthy finish. A joy to consume now, enjoy over the next ten to fifteen years. Drink 2026-2038- 94

2023 Aubaine ‘Anhata Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- A great wine to enjoy now, the 2023 Pinot Noir shows a good melange of black and red fruits on the palate alongside rocky soils and wild mushroom notes. Medium-bodied and fresh, enjoy over the next few years. Drink 2026-2031- 91

2023 Aubaine ‘Joie’ Pinot Noir-Sourced from the Anahata Vineyard in the Eola-Amity Hills, this 2023 Pinot Noir opens with red flowers and cardamom on the nose alongside red raspberry tones. The palate is soft and delicious as tart red fruits parade with citrus rind and baking spice notes on the palate. Showing a lengthy finish, enjoy this beauty over the next ten years. Drink 2026-2036- 93