Duckhorn 'Three Palms Vineyard' Vertical Tasting

Today we share the famed wines from the Three Palms Vineyard by Duckhorn. One of Napa’s historic vineyards, the Three Palms Vineyard is a 73-acre estate in Calistoga. Named for the three palm trees planted in the 1890s, the site was planted in 1967 by Sloan Upton and his brother. The location is set on rocky, volcanic stone soils and the inaugural release from this site was Duckhorn’s Merlot from the 1978 vintage.

At the time no other wineries were making single vineyard Merlots but Dan and Margaret Duckhorn saw this vision to create single site wines from a single vintage in Napa. Today Duckhorn has Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon primarily planted at this location.

I have loved these wines over the years. They are typically dense and opulent but have good poise and rocky/loamy soil character. Three Palms Merlot is typically aged in 50% or more new French oak. The oak character in the wine gently caresses the fruit and non-fruit elements.

I am enamored by the new release which celebrates 50 years of Duckhorn. The 2023 Duckhorn ‘Three Palms Vineyard’ Merlot (OB, 95) is pillowy and soft with amazing flavor density. Learn more about these social wines at duckhorn.com and here are my reviews of the Three Palm Vineyard wines by Duckhorn.

2021 Duckhorn ‘Three Palms Vineyard’ Merlot- A thrilling bottle of wine to enjoy right now, the 2021 Duckhorn ‘Three Palms Vineyard’ Merlot has 11% Cabernet Sauvignon, 1% Malbec, and 1% Cabernet Franc blended in. Roasted fig, dates, and black currants combine on the palate with loamy soils and terrific texture and flavor density. Finishing long, this is drinking beautifully now. Drink 2026-2040- 95

2022 Duckhorn ‘Three Palms Vineyard’ Merlot- The 2022 Duckhorn ‘Three Palms Vineyard’ Merlot comes from this warm vintage in Napa. It is full-bodied, velvety and soft with a refined mouthfeel. Mocha, espresso grounds and loamy soils all combine on the palate. This is already beautifully-evolved stuff that will cellar well over the next decade. Drink 2026-2036- 94

2023 Duckhorn ‘Three Palms Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon- A great wine from a slightly cooler vintage, the 2022 Duckhorn ‘Three Palms Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon has 10% Merlot and 4% Malbec blended in. Inky in the glass, this shows off exotic spices with dark currants, huckleberry and shades of violets on the nose. The palate is lush and refined with serious weight and length. This is a resounding success from this year that saw a very late harvest. Enjoy now and over the next ten years. Drink 2026-2036- 94

2023 Duckhorn ‘Three Palms Vineyard’ Merlot- A world-class wine, the 2023 Duckhorn ‘Three Palms Vineyard’ Merlot is the 50th anniversary edition of this historic wine. Nearly all Merlot with 8% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Cabernet Franc, and 1% Malbec blended in, this opens with a gorgeous bouquet of black florals with roasted meats, creme de cassis and Turkish coffee notes that all take shape in the glass. The palate is lush and refined with great weight and length, with salty mineral notes. While marvelous now, this clearly has a long way to go in the cellar. Drink 2026-2043- 95

Review: The Lindy Renaissance Charleston -- Disappointment After Disappointment

I don’t always expect a four star hotel delivering four star quality. But my stay at The Lindy Charleston was closer to a two star than a four star for a hotel that unfortunately advertises as a four star hotel. Service was not good. We had one day where they failed to clean our room even when we called down and asked several times. You leave this place feeling like you were ripped off, considering its price tag. Somehow this place is getting 4.3 stars on TripAdvisor.com

The Lindy Renaissance Charleston Hotel is a supposedly upscale, 166-room hotel located at 68 Wentworth Street in the heart of Charleston, SC. It was chosen by me because of its saltwater outdoor pool, as well as on-site dining at Lenoir Restaurant. It is steps away from King Street. I chose the hotel for one main reason — so my 3 year old would have a pool to play in. Other four star hotels in the are do not have pools.

I had a special surprise waiting for me at check-in. . . I was informed that the pool was closed and there was no timetable about it reopening. I told them that the only reason why I chose to stay at The Lindy was because it had a pool. I asked them at check-in if we could use another property’s pool and they told me that we could not.

Ironically, I asked again about this the following morning and they said that we could use the pool at The Courtyard hotel which was roughly a 15 minute walk from The Lindy. This was better than nothing, although it was quite a trek for our three year old to get to the pool and then get back home.

This was the hallway leading to our room, 402. I had purchased a fancier room, the nicest that they had available. It was 1 King Bed, Executive Guest Room which was a ‘larger’ room than the other room choice.

This was our ‘larger’ room. It had to be less than 300 square feet. This was going to house myself, my wife and kid for four nights. And the price you are probably wondering? If I told you that this room costs over 500 dollars per night, you would think I was joking, right?

Well, unfortunately I am not joking. This room costs OVER 500 dollars per night. I told the manager that it is not acceptable to charge this much for what you are marketing as a larger room. That is pure deception.

The bathroom was tiny. It was the size of a Motel 6 or Ramada bathroom from the 1980s. This picture doesn't do justice how small the bathroom was, but it did have a small vanity to the right of the toilet.

The bed itself was adequate but nothing like the Westin Heavenly bed. It was very firm so if you do not like a firm mattress you are going to be very uncomfortable.

Here is a photo of the pool that was closed throughout our four night stay. They had chairs outside that you could use. The treadmills were fortunately not all out of order.

The gym is functional but somewhat crammed. This is not typically what you expect from a four star hotel to have something this crammed. When there were a lot of people using the gym it felt particularly crammed.

The room was very noisy. We were awoken several times by people making noise upstairs. The rooms also were not good with sealing out outside noise. We heard people cleaning in the mornings. The noise awoke our 3 year old several times and made it difficult for her to get her nap during the day.

Food at Lenoir, their hotel restaurant, was adequate American cuisine. They made a decent breakfast that was decently priced. Coffee at their coffee shop, Handy & Hot, was weirdly bitter. Fortunately there was a coffee shop across the street.

Service was inadequate here. I did not like that they initially told us that we cannot use another property’s pool and then said that we can. They did not try very hard to recover when I complained on how small the room was which was advertised as ‘larger.’ It is clearly not a large room as they advertise. The photos in the Mariott page for The Lindy, also show a balcony which the room does not have. This is weirdly deceptive. We left the room for three hours and came back and the room was not cleaned. We called downstairs and they promised to clean the room. When we came back from dinner the room was still not cleaned. This is a really poor standard for a hotel that says that they are four star. I could stay at a one star Holiday Inn and still have a clean room each night.

BOTTOM LINE:

The Lindy Renaissance Charleston has a good location and is close to King Street. It is not at all a four star hotel as advertised. Rooms are small, dated, flooring was cracked and the construction quality is very poor. For over 500 dollars a night, this is not good value for your money.

Trisaetum

Today we share one of the outstanding producers of the Willamette Valley. Trisaetum utilizes the talents of fellow Arsenal supporter James Frey. Wines are well-balanced and speak to the AVAs. I love the wines by Frey. He has a tremendous range of wines that he produces and they are all of exceedingly good quality.

The new Trisaetum lineup was amazing. I love the 2024 Trisaetum ‘Estates Reserve’ Pinot noir (OB, 95) which is another gorgeous rendition of this wine from a warm vintage.  Learn more about this fantastic Willamette Valley winery at http://www.trisaetum.com Here are the fantastic new wines by Trisaetum. 

2024 Trisaetum ‘Willamette Valley’ Pinot Noir- A great edition of this wine, the 2024 Trisaetum ‘Willamette Valley’ Pinot Noir comes off forward and juicy on the palate. Soft on the mouth, with lively acidity, this offers guava and red raspberry notes alongside shades of dried herbs on the palate. Gorgeous now, enjoy over the next eight to ten years. Drink 2026-2034- 92

2024 Trisaetum ‘Ribbon Ridge Estate’ Pinot Noir- The really good 2024 ‘Ribbon Ridge Estate’ Pinot Noir comes from this site set on marine sandstone and planted back in 2007. The wine was aged in 20% new oak and underwent 60% whole cluster fermentation. It comes off round and soft on the mouth, with terrific texture, weight and length. A core of ultra-pure red fruits greets you alongside damp soils and orange peel notes. Drink 2026-2038- 94

2024 Trisaetum ‘Coast Range Estate’ Pinot Noir- The 2024 ‘Coast Range Estate’ was sourced from the Yamhill-Carlton AVA as this vineyard has both volcanic and marine sedimentary soils. The palate is plush and laden with minerality. A glorious core of red and dark fruits greets you alongside pine needles, salty minerals and fresh sage. Drink 2026-2038- 94

2024 Trisaetum ‘Wichmann Dundee’ Pinot Noir- The 2024 ‘Wichmann Dundee’ comes from this location set on Jory soils in the Dundee Hills AVA. Wafts of smoldering stone and boysenberry compote combine on the nose with heady black florals. The palate has amazing salty and stony tension, as this screams terroir with its rocky profile alongside peat moss and forest floor undertones. This is really well-done stuff that will cellar well for decades. Drink 2026-2040- 95

2024 Trisaetum ‘Estates Reserve’ Pinot Noir-The 2024 ‘Estates Reserve’ was sourced from the three Trisaetum properties and needs an hour or two of air before enjoying. Red florals combine with red currants on the nose, with cloves, damp rocky soils and shades of red licorice. The palate is lush and inviting with bright acidity and a seamless texture. This is really good stuff that has a long way to go in the cellar. Drink 2026-2042- 95

2024 Trisaetum ‘Family Reserve’ Pinot Noir- Another sensational bottling by James Frey, the 2024 ’Family Reserve’ is a complex, refined and delicious wine that will power on for two decades. On the nose this shows wafts of black truffle shavings and shades of iodine and charcuterie alongside rich dark fruits and stony accents. The palate is seamless throughout the drinking experience, with exceptional weight and underlying verve. A joy to savor now, watch this ridiculously complex Pinot Noir evolve over the next twenty years. Drink 2026-2046- 97

Fidelitas

Today we share the great wines of Fidelitas and founder Charlie Hoppes. Former winemaker at both Col Solare and Chateau Ste. Michelle, Hoppes has been crafting his own wines on Red Mountain for nearly two decades. I love how he has attention to detail on white wines from Red Mountain.

Do not miss out on the sensational 2023 ‘Red Mountain’ Semillon (OB, 93) which has to be one of the best wines of its kind that you will taste in Washington. Learn more about the great Fidelitas lineup at http://www.fidelitaswines.com/ Here are the great new wine releases from Fidelitas.

2023 Fidelitas ‘Red Mountain’ Semillon- The 2023 Fidelitas ‘Red Mountain’ Semillon shows off a great core of macadamia nut, lychee and green melon on the palate. Medium to full-bodied, with excellent volume and underlying verve, enjoy now and over the next eight years. This will build nutty and earthy nuances as it ages gracefully. Drink 2026-2034- 93

2023 Fidelitas ‘Red Mountain’ Sauvignon Blanc- The 2023 ‘Red Mountain’ Sauvignon Blanc comes off dense and delicious on the mouth. Loaded with tropical and citrus fruits, with nutty nuances, enjoy this beautiful wine now and over the next six plus years to come. This is best enjoyed on the slightly warmer side. Drink 2026-2032- 92

2022 Fidelitas ‘Blackwood Canyon’ Malbec- Inky in the glass, the 2022 Fidelitas ‘Blackwood Canyon’ Malbec offers violets, tar and tobacco leaf with rocky soil notes on the nose. The palate is dense and delicious with a soft mouthfeel and bright underlying acidity, with good mid-palate depth. Drink 2026-2038- 94

2022 Fidelitas ‘Red Mountain’ Malbec- Inky in the glass, the 2022 ‘Red Mountain’ Malbec is loaded with black and blue fruits on the palate, with a chocolate edge. Medium to full-bodied, with terrific volume and underlying freshness, enjoy now and over the next decade. Drink 2026-2036- 93

2022 Fidelitas ‘Blackwood Canyon’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The really good 2022 Fidelitas ‘Blackwood Canyon’ Cabernet Sauvignon is a dense and delicious bottling that is already showing its stride. Once on the nose this takes on shades of dark currants, mocha, tar and sweet pipe tobacco that all meld in the glass. The palate is beautifully-balanced and soft with a refined mouthfeel and good sense of length. Drink 2026-2038- 94

DeLille Cellars

Today we share the beautiful wines of DeLille Cellars. I have known their director of winemaking, Jason Gorski, for more than a decade. His team makes one of the best overall lineups in Washington. DeLille sources from their estate, 20-acre vineyard in Red Mountain as well as premier vineyards in the Yakima Valley. I love visiting their Woodivinlle winery that even has views of Mt. Ranier. It has an awesome restaurant that is adjacent their tasting room with great bites to pair with their beautiful wines.

They recently opened a tasting room in University Village that is a gorgeous spot to enjoy their lineup. Gorski and his team did a great job navigating 2022. They have been making what is consistently one of the finest Rose wines in the state. I adore the 2025 DeLille Cellars Rose (OB, 93) which has amazing flavor range and comes off dense and generous. Learn more about this fantastic winery at www.delillecellars.com Here are the great new release wines from DeLille.

2025 DeLillle Roussanne- The amazing 2025 DeLille Cellars Roussanne comes from the famed Ciel du Cheval Vineyard on Red Mountain. The wine was aged in a combination of neutral oak, concrete and stainless steel. The nose is powerful and intense, showing honeysuckle and mango notes on the nose alongside shades of cantalope. The palate is lush, round and generous with a sensational texture and great sense of weight, with bright underlying acidity. This is dense and bold Roussanne that has a long way to go in the cellar. Drink 2026-2033- 94

2025 DeLille Cellars Rose- This 2025 DeLille Cellars Rose is a complex blend of near equal parts Grenache and Mourvèdre and 13% Cinsault. This saw some lees contact in stainless steel tanks. This comes off fat and round on the tongue, with loads of salty tension. Bright guava and red raspberry fruits parade with blood orange zest and shades of damp, loamy soils on the palate. This is drinking beautifully right now. Drink 2026-2033- 93

2023 DeLille Cellars ‘Marguerite’ Sauvignon Blanc- Another gorgeous rendition of this wine, the 2023 ‘Marguerite’ is a world-class Sauvignon Blanc that was stored in mainly cigar-shaped barrels. This comes off fat, rich and unctuous on the mouth, with bright underlying finesse. Loaded with stony minerals, this exudes class with its papaya, citrus fruit and nutty core on the plate. Finishing long with walnut, and vanilla cream, enjoy this beauty now and over the next ten years to come. Drink 2026-2036- 95

Corliss

One of the great Washington wineries, Corliss is an ultra-premium producer of red wines founded in 1999 by Michael and Lori Corliss. Over the years Mike Corliss has bought vineyard land throughout the state, including more holdings on Red Mountain. Corliss has been met with some serious critical acclaim since their first release in 2008. It has been such a pleasure seeing how well these beautiful wines age. Corliss is also well-known for performing exceptionally well with tough vintages. I have had some of their older wines from my cellar and they have some massive cellaring potential.
Corliss did a great job in 2019 which was not the easiest year for Bordeaux varietals. They made some beautiful 2020 wines from this tough vintage.

The wines have less oak impact over time. I adore the 2021 Corliss Cabernet Sauvignon (OB, 99) which has incredible flavor density and is a stunning edition of this wine that is a must-buy for any collector of top Washington wine. Learn more about these incredible wines at corlissestate.com and here are my notes on the pre-release wines by Corliss.

2021 Corliss Red Wine- The 2021 Corliss Red Wine is quite different than the ’19 with considerably more Cabernet Franc (84%), as this blends in smaller portions Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot. Stored for 22 months in 60% new French oak barrels, this will be released in September 2026. Mainly coming from their estate on Red Mountain, this comes off silky and refined on the mouth with a pillowy texture. Heady black and blue fruits parade with dried herbs and copious herbs with espresso ground accents. A stunner and total head-turner, enjoy now and over the next two decades to come. Drink 2026-2046- 99

2021 Corliss Cabernet Sauvignon- An opulent and downright stunning rendition of this wine, the 2021 Corliss Cabernet Sauvignon was stored in nearly all new French oak before bottling. It offers alluring aromatics of black rose, creme de violette, tar and anise seed alongside suggestions of oud and sweet pipe tobacco. The palate is dense and delicious with serious tension that combines with Arabica bean, rocky soils, scorched earth and a glorious melange of black and blue fruits. Full-bodied, with terrific salty minerality, enjoy now and over the next twenty years to come. Drink 2026-2046- 99

2021 Corliss Syrah- The stunning 2021 Corliss Syrah comes from several sites in the Columbia Valley and was aged for 22 months in 23% new French oak before bottling. This spent an additional three years in bottle before release. It is a dense, massive and highly hedonistic effort that beautifully showcases this warm vintage. Jet black in the glass, this offers sagebrush and black currants with violets on the nose. The palate is powerful and also well-structured, with serious concentration and underlying finesse. Quite simply a joy to drink now, give this an hour or two in the decanter if savoring in its heady youth. Drink 2026-2040- 98

Malibu Wine Company

Today we share the story of Malibu Wine Company. Psychiatrist Dr. Steve Ruths studied viticulture and enology, completing the UC Davis winemaking certificate program in 2008. 2009 was his first crush as a home winemaker starting with a half-ton of Syrah from the Estelle Vineyard in the Santa Ynez Valley. Since then, he has made wine with Alta Colina Grenache and Roll Ranch Syrah. In 2016, Dr. Ruths purchased a 6-acre property in the Malibu Coast AVA. In 2017, preparing the land for planting began and in 2018 the first vines were planted. Additional plantings continued yearly through 2024 with approximately 6500 vines over 3 acres.  Varietals include 3 clones of Syrah, 2 clones of Grenache, Durif/Petite Sirah, Touriga Nacional, Viognier, and Roussanne. Vines are spaced either at 4x6 or 3x5 feet. The vineyard was planted and is farmed by Martin Ramirez of the Ojai Vineyards. 2023 was their first commercial vintage with Nick Elliott making our wines at his winery Nicora in Tin City.

This is now the second time that I have tasted Dr. Ruths’s wines. The wines are big and bold, with terrific texture and good underlying finesse. The wines from the Malibu Coast in particular are really novel and unique. This location clearly has some serious potential.

I love the 2024 ‘The Monk’ Syrah (OB, 94) which has amazing flavor density and is irresistible to enjoy now. Learn more at https://www.malibuwinecompany.com/ and here are my reviews of the new wines by Dr. Steve Ruths and Malibu Wine Company.

2024 Malibu Wine Company ‘The Jungfrau’ Red Wine- The 2024 ‘The Jungfrau’ is different than the ’23 as this edition is all Grenache from the Dr. Ruths Vineyard on the Malibu Coast. Damp earth and red rose petals mark the nose alongside cranberry and orange peel notes. The palate is fresh and viscous with amazing texture and depth. A stunning edition of this wine that is hugely novel and delicious, enjoy now and over the next eight years. Drink 2026-2034- 93

2024 Malibu Wine Company ‘The Monk’ Syrah- Sourced from Paso Robles, the 2024 ‘Frogtown Vineyard’ Syrah is a dense, intense and highly hedonistic bottling that is not for the weary. Black currant compote, damp earth, white pepper dusted brisket and shades of creme de violette all combine on the palate. Loaded with richness and texture, enjoy now and over the next ten years. Drink 2026-2036- 94

2024 Malibu Wine Company ‘The Eiger’ Petite Sirah- A truly unique wine sourced from the Malibu Coast, the 2024 ‘The Eiger’ Petite Sirah is a gorgeous rendition of this bottling. Once on the nose this takes on green peppercorns, dense black and blue fruits alongside shades of milk chocolate covered pastry crust. The palate is filled with both verve and flavor density, with serious texture and mouth-watering acidity. Glorious in its heady youth, watch this evolve over the next decade. Drink 2026-2036- 93

Cuvaison

I have long admired the wines of Cuvaison. These were some of the wines that I bought for my personal collection more than twenty years ago. Steve Rogstad has been at the helm for more than two decades and has helped shape not only these wines but wines from this windswept region. Founded back in 1969, ten years later Cuvaison acquired 400 acres of highly prized land north of San Pablo Bay in the Los Carneros district of Napa Valley which is a site that is highly influenced by fog and cooler temperatures from the bay.

The new Cuvaison are outstanding. Check out the 2024 Cuvaison ‘Kite Tail’ Chardonnay (OB, 94) which is a treat to savor now. Learn more about this outstanding producer at https://www.cuvaison.com and here are the killer sparkling wine, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir releases by Cuvaison.

2025 Cuvaison Rose- Made from Grenache grapes, this 2025 Rose offers a soft mouthfeel on the approach. Laden with tension, texture and bright red fruits, with citrus rind notes, this is a beautiful bottling that is best not served too cold. Drink 2026-2032- 92

2024 Cuvaison ‘Kite Tail’ Chardonnay- The outstanding 2024 Cuvaison ‘Kite Tail’ Chardonnay was sourced from older Wente Clone vines at the estate vineyard.  Salted peaches, juicy pear and shades of buttered French bread all mark the nose. The palate is rich, silky and refined, beautifully showcasing this salty terroir. Offering gorgeous length and weight, enjoy this beautiful bottling now and over the next eight to ten years. Drink 2026-2034- 94

2023 Cuvaison ‘Spire’ Pinot Noir- The outstanding 2023 Cuvaison ‘Spire’ Pinot Noir was sourced from the Tai Vineyard in the Carneros region. It is juicy, round and beautifully-weighted with serious concentration and power. Salted orange peel flavors combine with cran-cola and hints of blackberry compote on the plate. Considering the coolness of this vintage, this offers serious flavor density. Drink 2026-2036- 94

Baer

It is my pleasure to share one of the jewels of Woodinville. Winemaker Erica Orr took over this program more than a decade ago and began in 1998, working her first harvest with eminent winemaker Cathy Corison in the Napa Valley. She immediately caught the wine bug and enrolled in the enology master’s degree program at UC Davis where she completed her master’s degree in 2003. Erica also has a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry from UC Berkeley and three years of research experience as a biochemistry lab technician for 2009 Nobel Laureate Dr. Elizabeth Blackburn at UC San Francisco. She is a great person to chat wine with.

The wines are really outstanding across the board. I love the 2024 Baer Rose (OB, 92) which is a stunning, beautifully-textured wine. I love the 2022 Baer ‘Ursa’ Red Wine (OB, 93) which is smooth and silky stuff from this slightly cooler vintage. Learn more about this great Woodinville winery at at baerwinery.com Here are the great new releases by Baer

2025 Baer ‘Shard’ Chardonnay- The 2025 ‘Shard’ is another terrific edition of this wine that was aged in stainless steel before bottling. No doubt from lees stirring it brings serious texture and finesse, with honeysuckle water, beeswax, and dense melon fruits. 100% from the Stillwater Creek Vineyard in the Royal Slope AVA, this is already enticing stuff that will show slightly more brightly served on the cooler side. Drink 2026-2032- 92

2025 Baer Rose- A delicious and nuanced edition of this wine, the 20245 Baer Rose is Cabernet Franc-based wine from the Royal Slope AVA.It shows some wild mushroom tones on the nose with red rose petals, red currants and shades of red licorice. Soft and inviting on the mouth, with lively acidity, and a smooth texture, this is best served not too warm. Drink 2026-2032- 92

2022 Baer ‘Star’ Merlot- The 2022 ‘Star’ is nearly all Merlot coming from the Royal Slope AVA. It comes off smooth and dense, with terrific viscosity. Ripe red fruits parade with chocolate, wet rock and shades of dried herbs on the palate. Smooth throughout the drinking experience, this is a great effort in a slightly cooler vintage. Drink 2026-2038- 93

2022 Baer ‘Ursa’ Red Wine- The 2022 ‘Ursa’ is a silky combination of equal parts Merlot and Cabernet Franc with 12% Cabernet Sauvignon and small parts Petit Verdot and Malbec. It shows great aromatic and flavor range, offering roasted fig flavors that parade with milk chocolate, tar and pipe tobacco on the palate. Medium-bodied and fresh with a smooth texture, enjoy now and over the next ten plus years to come. Drink 2026-2038- 93

2022 Baer Malbec- Coming from the Royal Slope AVA, the  2022 Malbec has a large amount of Syrah blended in. Inky in the glass, this shows dried herbs and blueberry compote on the nose with shades of tar and wintergreen. The palate is well-structured and powerful, as this is very refined throughout the drinking experience. Sowing excellent freshness, alongside the viscosity, enjoy now and over the next twelve years to come. Drink 2026-2038- 94

2022 Baer ‘Callisto’ Red Wine- The 2022 ‘Callisto’ is composed of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon and 45% Syrah with the remainder Petit Verdot all sourced from the Stillwater Creek Vineyard in the Royal Slope AVA. Coffee ground and dark chocolate shavings combine with pencil lead and anise on the palate. Showing good poise and texture, with lively acidity, enjoy now and over the next ten plus years to come. Drink 2026-2038- 93

2022 Baer ‘Arctos’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2022 ‘Arctos’ has a much smaller portion of Petit Verdot blended in than the ’21. Mainly aged in neutral oak barrels, this opens with a rich bouquet of potpourri and cassis notes that combine with suggestions of espresso grounds. The palate is smooth and nicely textured, with a seamless mouthfeel as this simply glides throughout the drinking experience. Dense and delicious, enjoy now and over the next ten plus years to come. Drink 2026-2038- 94

2022 Baer Cabernet Franc- The brilliant 2024 Baer Cabernet Franc is marvelously herbal, offering a smooth mouthfeel, with dense dark fruits that parade with tobacco leaf, worn leather, and sea salt dusted green bell pepper notes on the palate. Medium to full-bodied, with terrific varietal typicity, enjoy now and over the next twelve plus years to come. Drink 2026-2038- 94

Rasa Vineyards

It is my pleasure to share the wines of Rasa Vineyards. For many years now Master of Wine, Billo Naravane, has been crafting beautiful expressions of Washington State wine. He has one of the finest lineups in the state — from crisp Rieslings to inky Syrahs. Billo also has a remarkable story in wine. If you have never tried these wines then you are in for a serious treat. A scientist by trade, Billo Naravane initially was inspired by wine while living Austin, Texas. During that time Naravane was exposed to some of the finest wines in the world and he fully caught the wine bug. Over time he and his brother, Pinto, made the bold decision to start Rasa Vineyards in 2007. 

These are wines that are seriously crafted with a beginning, middle and an end. The wines he crafts show tremendous texture, richness, poise and terroir — and are only getting better by each vintage. 

We chatted about wine and tasted together over Zoom.

I am amazed with the overall quality and do not miss out on the 2021 Rasa Vineyards ‘Veritas Sequitur’ Syrah (OB, 99) which is otherworldly wine that flirts with perfection. A very special and also expensive wine, the 2022 Naravane Cabernet Sauvignon (OB, 100) is one of the wines of the vintage. It is a perfect wine made in a somewhat challenging vintage for Bordeaux varietals. Learn more about this fantastic Walla Walla winery at rasavineyards.com Here are the sensational new wines by Rasa Vineyards. 

2023 Rasa Vineyards ‘The Composer’ Riesling- Coming from three separate clones of Riesling, this is made in a completely dry, Trocken style. This comes off fat and mineral-laden with serious texture. Ripe peach and apricot combine with shades of wet rock and freshly cut limes on the palate. Drink 2026-2034- 93

2020 Rasa Vineyards ‘The Composer Encore’ Riesling- The 2020 ‘The Composer Encore’ is a GG-inspired Riesling that was sourced from old vines at the Bacchus Vineyard. This saw extended battonage and was released six years after being aged in barrel. Honeysuckle and shades of juicy nectarine combine with citrus blossoms on the nose. The palate is deep and rich with serious weight and finesse. This has a beautiful push-pull between fruit and non-fruit flavors. Coming off clean from this highly challenging vintage, enjoy now and over the next eight plus years. Drink 2026-2034- 95

2023 Rasa Vineyards ‘Dream Deferred’ Chardonnay- The 2023 ‘Dream Deferred’ was entirely sourced from the Frenchman Hills Vineyard set on soils that have some limestone. On the nose this takes on buttered brioche and Macadamia nut aromatics that combine with lemon blossom. The palate is plush and rich with amazing texture, weight and mouth-watering acidity. A stunning wine that saw some extended battonage, enjoy now and over the next eight years. Drink 2026-2034- 95

2024 Rasa Vineyards ‘Occam’s Razor’ Red Wine- The 2024 Rasa Vineyards ‘Occam’s Razor’ Red Wine comes from some choice vineyards throughout the state. Ripe red currants and tobacco leaf combine with milk chocolate notes on the nose. The palate is forward and juicy with good finesse. Drink 2026-2032- 92

2024 Rasa Vineyards ‘Occam’s Razor’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2024 Rasa Vineyards ‘Occam’s Razor’ Cabernet Sauvignon shows off black currants and tar notes on the palate with a soft mouthfeel. Enjoy now. Drink 2026-2032- 92

2023 Rasa Vineyards ‘Tilting At Windmills’ Red Wine- The Priorat-inspired ‘Tilting At Windmills’ combines mostly Grenache (54%) with the remainder Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. On the nose this shows cedar, tar and red licorice with beautiful red florals. The palate is elegant, with terrific weight and underlying finesse. A totally unique wine that is showing beautifully now, watch this evolve over the next ten plus years to come. Drink 2026-2038- 95

2023 Rasa Vineyards ‘QED The Strong Law’ Red Wine- The 2023 ‘QED The Strong Law’ combines Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot coming from several locations including the Ciel du Cheval Vineyard. Stored in 40% new French oak, this offers black tea and exotic spices on the nose with tar and dark chocolate shavings. The palate is beautifully balanced, with refined tannins and a glorious core of black fruits, alongside a graphite edge. Drink 2026-2038- 94

2023 Rasa Vineyards ‘Humane’ Red Wine- The 2023 ‘Humane’ is a blend of mainly Cabernet Sauvignon (63%) with the remainder Cabernet Franc and Malbec all sourced from the Rattlesnake Hills. Nearly all the proceeds from this wine go to charity. Anise, dark currants and pencil shavings all combine on the nose. The palate is silky and elegant with a terrific texture. This is drinking marvelously right now. Drink 2026-2038- 94

2024 Rasa Vineyards ‘Living in the Limelight’ Petit Verdot- The 2024 Rasa Vineyards ‘Living in the Limelight’ Petit Verdot is a world-class single variety wine from the Dionysus Vineyard in the White Bluffs AVA. Inky in the glass, this delivers mocha, tar and green herbs on the nose. The downright killer aromatics bring you back to the glass for more enjoyment. The palate is dense and inky with amazing fleshy character and also mouth-watering acidity. This is somehow drinking magically right now as the refined tannins really sing in unison with the dark fruit and chocolate core. Drink 2026-2040- 95

2023 Rasa Vineyards ‘QED Choice Function’ Red Wine- Made from Cabernet Franc, the 2023 ‘Choice Function’ is all Cabernet Franc from the Columbia Valley. Stored in a third new French oak, on the nose this takes on orange bell pepper alongside shades of black licorice and garrigue notes. The palate is lush and ripe with a terrific mouthful and marvelous length. Drink 2026-2038- 95

2024 Rasa Vineyards ‘QED Convergence’ Red Wine- The 2024 ‘QED Convergence’ is a great blend of mainly Syrah (83%) with small portions Grenache and Mourvèdre as well as a dash of Viognier. This wine was first made with the 2007 vintage. Beautiful white florals mark the nose alongside blood orange zest, bulls blood, smoked meats and bright red fruits. The palate is silky and refined with a terrific mouthfeel and great sense of weight. Very savory and seductive, enjoy now and over the next few years. Drink 2026-2036- 95

2022 Rasa Vineyard ‘En Passant’ Merlot- 100% varietal, the 2022 ‘En Passant’ comes from the Pinebrake Vineyard in the Rattlesnake Hills AVA. Inky in the glass, this delivers incredible aromatics of red florals, tar and tobacco leaf alongside milk chocolate covered black cherry. The palate is rich and viscous with amazing texture and underlying salty nuances. Gorgeous to enjoy now, with loads of mouth-watering acidity, watch this evolve now and over the next ten plus years. Drink 2026-2040- 96

2019 Rasa Vineyard ‘Fianchetto’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2019 Rasa Vineyard ‘Fianchetto’ is primarily Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc from the Firethorn Vineyard. This comes off silky and refined on the mouth. Generous black fruits combine with mocha, tar and anise on the palate. Showing beautifully right now, enjoy now and over the next eight plus years. Drink 2026-2035- 95

2019 Rasa Vineyard ‘In Order To Form A More Perfect Union’ Red Wine- Primarily Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, the ‘More Perfect Union’ is a downright killer blend by Rasa. This is dense, rich and neatly balanced stuff right now. Red cherry compote, wild mushroom, blackberry and mocha notes combine with shades of soy sauce and salty soils on the palate. Drink 2026-2034- 95

2022 Rasa Vineyards ‘Creative Impulse’ Red Wine- Sourced from the famed DuBrul Vineyard, the 2022 ‘Creative Impulse’ is a stunning wine that is built to age. On the nose this shows gorgeous red florals, with damp earth, cedar, creme de cassis and shades of black licorice. The palate is lush and round as this glides throughout the drinking experience. A stunning wine, with amazing length, flavor density and flavor complexity, this is a magical wine made from a somewhat difficult vintage for Bordeaux varietals. 68% Cabernet Sauvignon with 32% Merlot. Drink 2026-2042- 98

2020 Rasa Vineyard ‘Veritas Sequitur Naravane Vineyard’ Syrah- An amazing edition of this wine, the 2021 ’Veritas Sequitur’ comes from the Naravane Vineyard. Given all whole cluster fermentation and and all new French oak before bottling, this opens with crushed wet gravel, bacon fat, Satsuma orange zest and shades of bulls blood alongside pretty red florals. The palate is lush and deep wth loads of mouthwatering acidity with an exceedingly long finish. A world-class wine from the Rocks District, enjoy this now and over the next ten plus years. Drink 2026-2036- 99

2022 Rasa Vineyards ‘For The Love Of The Game’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2022 ‘For The Love Of The Game’ is a 100% varietal wine from the Columbia Valley. This is a knockout wine, showing amazing flavor density and underling freshness. The weight and salty nuance really grips you, as chocolate and tar notes combine with refined black fruits — and is almost pushing blue fruits. Refined tannins frame this beauty that has a long way to go in the cellar. Drink 2026-2043- 97

2022 Rasa Vineyards ‘Naravane’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2022 ‘Naravane’ is in its second edition and is only released in vintages where they feel they have made their highest level of wine. This edition was stored for 36 months in new French oak barrels prior to bottling. This is a perfect wine made from a challenging vintage for Bordeaux varietals. Turkish coffee and creme de violette notes combine with sandalwood tones that caress the black fruits. It is astonishingly seamless throughout the drinking experience. A world-class wine from 2022, give this several hours in the decanter before enjoying. Bravo! Drink 2026-2050- 100

Dusted Valley

Today we share the great wines of Dusted Valley, founded by the Johnson and Braunel families founded Dusted Valley. They are both originally from Wisconsin and are big time Packers fans. Dusted Valley sources from some of the great vineyards in Washington, including the Olsen Vineyard and Stoney Vine Vineyard. The wines from their estate Southwind Vineyard continue to improve.

I really enjoy the sparkling wine they make and they have expanded tasting rooms to Edmonds, if you live on the north side of Seattle. I adored the 2023 Dusted Valley ‘Columbia Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon (OB, 93) which is elegant and seamless through the drinking experience. Learn more about these beautiful new wines at https://www.dustedvalley.com Here are my reviews of the great new wines by Dusted Valley.

2023 Dusted Valley ‘Tall Tales’ Syrah- The 2023 ‘Tall Tales’ comes from the famed Stoney Vine Vineyard in the Rocks District. It is salty, savory and neatly-textured stuff with bacon fat, iodine and black olive flavors. Medium to full-bodied, with amazing length, enjoy now and over the next eight plus years. Drink 2026-2034- 94

2023 Dusted Valley ‘Stained Tooth’ Syrah- The 2023 ‘Stained Tooth’ Syrah has a small amount of Viognier and Petite Sirah blended in. The white florals from the Viognier entice, as yo are greeted to a concentrated core of black fruits, with green olives, sage and shades of milk chocolate. Delicious and complex, enjoy now and over the next few years. Drink 2026-2034- 94

2023 Dusted Valley ‘BFM’ Red Wine- The 2023 ‘BFM’ is mainly Merlot with smaller parts Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot and a dash of Malbec. It is full-bodied, rich and viscous stuff with a boysenberry and black cherry core alongside milk chocolate, sagebrush and shades of black licorice. Dense and heady, with a great acid backbone, enjoy now and over the next ten years. Drink 2026-2036- 94

2023 Dusted Valley ‘Columbia Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2023 Dusted Valley ‘Columbia Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon has a small amount of Petit Verdot blended in. On the nose this takes on violets, tar and tobacco leaf notes that meld well with dense dark fruits. The palate is medium to full-bodied, showing refined tannins and excellent flavor range. Drink 2026-2036- 93

2023 Dusted Valley ‘Sothwind Vineyard Estate’ Cabernet Franc- A really nice wine from this warmer vintage, the 2023 ‘Southwind Vineyard Estate’ Cabernet Franc offers cloves, tar and wintergreen notes on the nose. The palate is concentrated and full-bodied with good richness and refined tannins showing salty nuances. Drink 2026-2036- 93

Dunham Cellars

One of the oldest wineries in Walla Walla, Dunham Cellars was founded by the Dunham family in 1995. These have consistently been great wines that totally over-deliver for the price. The lineup has become one of the most impressive range of wines that do not break the bank.

At the helm is winemaker Rob Campisi, who was formerly assistant winemaker at Dunham. Rob trained under eminent Washington winemaker, Dan Wampfler and he crafts quite a wide range of wines including Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Trutina (Bordeaux style blend), Three Legged Red (red table wine) and the "Shirley Mays" Chardonnay, a dedication to Eric's grandmother.  

I love the new 2025 Dunham Cellar ‘Columbia Valley’ Sauvignon Blanc (OB, 92) which shows beautiful texture and weight.  I was blown away with the 2021 Dunham Cellars ‘Lewis Vineyard Artist Series’ Cabernet Sauvignon (OB, 96) which shows off the heat from this warmer vintage, with great opulence and richness, with outstanding flavor range. Learn more about these beautiful wines at dunhamcellars.com Here are the great new wines by Dunham Cellars.

2025 Dunham Cellars ‘Columbia Valley’ Sauvignon Blanc- Coming from the McNarry and Gamache Vineyards, this is 100% varietal wine that was stored in mainly stainless steel before bottling. Lychee and pineapple combine with nutty nuances on the nose. The palate is rich and layered with amazing length and freshness. Dense and delicious, enjoy now and over the next eight plus years. Drink 2026-2034- 92

2025 Dunham Cellars ‘Shirley Mays’ Chardonnay- The 2025 ‘Shirley Mays’ was sourced from the Lewis Estate and Kenny Hill Estate Vineyards. This was stored in roughly 30% new French oak, this offers pie crust and cardamom notes on the nose alongside ripe banana and shades of rich melon. The palate is silky and refined mouthfeel and has a terrific push/pull between richness, flavor density and mouth-watering acidity. Drink 2026-2034- 93

2024 Dunham Cellars ‘Three Legged Red’ Red Wine- The outstanding 2024 Dunham Cellars ‘Three Legged Red’ Red Wine is comprised of equal parts Cabernet, Merlot, Syrah, this shows black tea, tar, dark currants and milk chocolate notes on the nose. The palate is medium-bodied and fresh with a soft mouthfeel. Drink 2026-2032- 91

2023 Dunham Cellars ‘Trutina’ Red Wine- The 2023 ‘Trutina’ combines near equal parts Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon with smaller parts Malbec, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Cedar, dark currants and tar alongside black floral all mark the nose. The palate is lush and refined with terrific weight. Well-balanced with terrific weight and texture, enjoy now and over the next ten years. Drink 2026-2036- 93

2023 Dunham Cellars ‘Columbia Valley’ Syrah- The 2023 ‘Columbia Valley’ Syrah comes from the Lewis and Kenny Hill Vineyards and was stored in a small amount of new French oak before bottling. Purple florals combine with iodine, tar, blackberry compote and black licorice. The palate is dense and viscous with terrific texture, richness and finesse. A glorious wine that is already drinking beautifully, watch this evolve over the next ten plus years. Drink 2026-2036- 93

2022 Dunham Cellars ‘Columbia Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The astonishingly good 2022 Dunham Cellars ‘Columbia Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon is nearly all Cabernet Sauvignon coming mainly from the Lewis and Kenny Hill Vineyards. This has a really small amount of new American oak with 25% new French oak before bottling. Dark in the glass, this delivers sandalwood, creme de cassis and sagebrush with bitter chocolate notes that combine on the nose. The palate is plush, round and generous with a seamless mouthfeel and good underlying sense of freshness. Everything has come together nearly here. Enjoy now and over the next fifteen years. Drink 2026-2041- 94

2022 Dunham Cellars ‘Lewis Vineyard Artist Series’ Syrah- The 2022 Dunham Cellars ‘Lewis Vineyard Artist Series’ Syrah saw roughly 21 months of barrel age. It is inky in the glass, offering tar, purple flowers, charcuterie and black currant candy alongside shades of sweet tobacco leaf. The palate is fresh and refined with a smooth mouthfeel and terrific viscosity considering the coolness of the vintage. This is a beautiful wine from this slightly cooler year. Drink 2026-2036- 95

2021 Dunham Cellars ‘Lewis Vineyard Artist Series’ Merlot- This 2021 ‘Lewis Vineyard’ Merlot was aged for 23 months in 25% new French oak before bottling and has 12% Cabernet Sauvignon blended in. The color is ultra-dark, as this offers black cherry compote, tar, black licorice and baking spices on the nose. The palate is ultra-refined as this glides throughout the drinking experience. A complex, delicious bottling that has a long way to go in the cellar, enjoy over the next fifteen plus years. Drink 2026-2041-96

2021 Dunham Cellars ‘Lewis Vineyard Artist Series’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2021 Dunham Cellars ‘Lewis Vineyard Artist Series’ Cabernet Sauvignon is 100% varietal that was stored for 22 months in 53% new French oak before bottling. Anise, purple rose petals, pipe tobacco, pencil lead and shades of huckleberry compote all mark the nose. The palate is dense and heady with amazing verve, richness and balance. This is unbelievably good to enjoy now and has a long life ahead of it. Drink 2026-2043- 96

2022 Dunham Cellars ‘Lewis Vineyard Artist Series’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2022 Dunham Cellars ‘Lewis Vineyard Artist Series’ Cabernet Sauvignon shows off coffee grounds, blackberry compote, and shades of creosote on the nose with meaty accents. The palate is beautifully-textured, with a seamless mouthful and terrific sense of weight and balance, with good salty nuance. Drink 2026-2042- 95

Nysa Vineyard

Today we share the wines of Nysa Vineyard which is a family-owned operation that was founded back in 1990. Owner and winemaker, Michael Mega purchased a parcel of orchards high in the Dundee Hills of Oregon in anticipation of growing world-class pinot. It was with passion, hard work and patience that Nysa Vineyard has become one of the most prestigious in the hills, providing Pinot noir to acclaimed producers throughout the Willamette Valley.

It was 2004 that Michael made his first vintage of Nysa Vineyard Pinot Noir. I really enjoyed the new wines.

I was really impressed with the 2023 Nysa Vineyard Chardonnay (OB, 93) which shows loads of texture and flavor range. Learn more at https://www.nysavineyard.com/ and here are my reviews of the new Nysa Vineyard releases.

2019 Nysa Vineyard ‘Blanc de Noir’ Sparkling Wine- Sourced from Dundee Hills Pinot Noir grapes, this 2019 opens with red raspberry and Bing cherry notes on the nose with beautiful orange blossom notes. The palate is loaded with tension and freshness with oyster shell nuances alongside bright melon and delicate red fruits. Drink 2026-2032- 92

2023 Nysa Vineyard Chardonnay- The delicious 2023 Nysa Vineyard Chardonnay comes from vines set on Jory soils. It is well-balanced and poised stuff, laden with tension. Salty nuances combine with walnut, freshly baked French bread and hints of passion fruit on the palate. A beautifully-balanced wine, enjoy now and over the next seven plus years to come. Drink 2026-2033- 93

2021 Nysa Vineyard ‘Dundee Hills’ Pinot Noir- Utilizing 115, Pimmard and Wadenvil clonal selections, the 2021 ‘Dundee Hills’ Pinot Noir opens with black raspberry notes and hints of Morel mushroom alongside pine needles and wet rocky nuances on the nose. The palate is smooth and wonderfully flinty, with a medium-bodied core of red and dark fruits. Drink 2026-2033- 92

2021 Nysa Vineyard ‘Pontero’ Pinot Noir- The 2021 ‘Pontero’ comes from three clones planted at the Nysa Vineyard. Stored in mainly neutral oak, this delivers a generous mouthfeel with loads of texture. The push/pull between salty and stony character is lovely, as bright red fruits parade with kumquat zest flavors on the palate. Drink 2026-2036- 93

2019 Nysa Vineyard ‘Leda’ Pinot Noir- The 2019 ‘Leda’s Reserve’ is a great wine from a cooler vintage. Wafts of white pepper and dark truffle shavings fill the nose alongside tart red fruits. The palate is silky and refined with a seamless texture, as medium-bodied red and dark fruits parade with peat moss undertones on the palate. Drink 2026-2034- 93

2024 Nysa Vineyard Grenache- Coming from the Columbia Gorge AVA, the 2024 Grenache is pretty and alluring with medium bodied pomegranate flavors that combine with salted orange zest and stony nuances on the palate. Drink 2026-2033- 92

Hambledon

One of the historic wineries in England, Hambledon Vineyard was originally planted back in 1952 by Major-General Sir Guy Salisbury-Jones. Hambledon is set in the 'Cradle of Cricket’ and vines are planted on chalky soils that resemble some found in champagne. In fact, the soils are the Newhaven Chalk formation that developed between the Santonian and Campanian eras of the Upper Cretaceous period (known as the Senonien period in Champagne). The same chalk, with the same Belemnite content, is found in some of the most famous Chardonnay areas of the Côtes des Blancs in Champagne. Hambedon has a very impressive winemaking team. Hervé Jestin has overseen the production of more than 200 million bottles of Champagne and sparkling wine during his career and was chef des caves at Champagne Duval Leroy for over 20 years.

Jestin’s new wines were fabulous. I love the nuance in the NV Hambledon Rose Sparkling Wine (OB, 92) which offers very delicate red fruits and flinty tones. Learn more about this historic winery at https://hambledonvineyard.co.uk/ and here are my reviews of the new Hambledon wines.

NV Hambledon ‘Classic Cuvee’ Sparkling Wine- The outstanding NV Hambedon ‘Classic Cuvee’ Sparking Wine is another dense and rich edition of this wine that was aged on the lees for 35 months. Composed of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier sourced from South East facing chalk slopes of Windmill Down, this offers heady melon and citrus oil fruits that combine with shades of sourdough bread and baking spices on the palate. Drink 2026-2033- 92

NV Hambledon Rose Sparkling Wine- The excellent NV Hambedon Rose was stored on the lees for three years prior to disgorgement. It comes off laden with minerality and salty tension. Delicate red fruits parade with wet rock, kumquat rind and shades of crushed seashells on the palate. Drink 2026-2033- 92

Duckhorn Vineyards

Duckhorn Vineyards began with a mere 800 cases of Cabernet Sauvignon and 800 cases of Merlot in 1978, and now has a range of producers under its portfolio. Since 2014, Renée Ary has served as head winemaker for Duckhorn Vineyards winemakers that began with Tom Rinaldi in 1978. Her promotion came after 11 years after serving as both assistant and associate winemaker. Originally from the East Coast, Renée moved to California to attend Saint Mary’s College, where she earned a degree in chemistry and art. Fascinated by the intersection between science and an art, winemaking quickly became Renée’s passion, career and way of life. Her first job was working in the lab at Robert Mondavi Winery in Oakville, as she trained under famed winemakers Genevieve Janssens, Steve Leveque and Richard Sowalsky. During that time she took classes in winemaking and viticulture at UC Davis and Napa Valley College. Renee handles this program with a deft touch. She makes a ton of high quality wines. I love the new 2025 Duckhorn ‘North Coast’ Sauvignon Blanc (OB, 91), which is a killer value and shows great varietal character. Learn more about this famed winery at duckhorn.com Here are the beautiful new wines by Duckhorn.

2025 Duckhorn Vineyards ‘North Coast’ Sauvignon Blanc- Another great edition of this wine, the 2025 ‘North Coast’ shows pear and gooseberry tones that mingle well with wet rock and shades of cantalope. Rich and viscous, enjoy now. Drink 2026-2031- 91

2024 Duckhorn Vineyards ‘Napa Valley’ Chardonnay- Well-balanced, poised and rich, the 2024 ‘Napa Valley’ Chardonnay offers copious tropical and melon fruits on the palate with a soft mouthfeel. Showing excellent length and weight, enjoy now and over the next few years. Drink 2026-2032- 92

2023 Duckhorn Vineyards ‘Napa Valley’ Merlot- The 2023 Buckhorn Merlot is soft, juicy, and delicious with classic chocolate covered cherry notes on the palate alongside loamy soils. Medium to full-bodied, with refined tannins and excellent weight, enjoy this beauty now and over the next decade. Drink 2026-2036- 93

Force Majeure

Happy Memorial Day to you all. Located  on Red Mountain, the Force Majeure Vineyard is one of the region’s most impressive sites for a magical range of varietals from Viognier to Cabernet. These have been some of the best wines on Red Mountain. New releases come from the warmer 2023 vintage and I was blown away with the overall quality. Do not miss out on the sinfully good 2023 Force Majeure ‘Red Mountain’ Syrah (OB, 99) which is powerful, burly and complex, with incredible flavor range. Learn more about these great wines at  https://forcemajeurevineyards.com Here are the fantastic new wines by Force Majeure. 

2023 Force Majeure ‘Red Mountain Estate’ Grenache- The 2023 Force Majeure ‘Red Mountain Estate’ Grenache shows off amazing red currant and potpourri notes on the nose alongside shades of red licorice and smoked meats. The palate is dense and delicious with terrific richness, texture, tension and salty nuance. Big and bold, enjoy now and over the next decade. Drink 2026-2036- 96

2023 Force Majeure ‘Les Voles’ Mourvedre- The 2023 Force Majeure ‘Les Voles’ Mourvedre is a refined, complex, delicious bottling that is drinking marvelously right now. Once on the nose this shows venison and dark currants with black florals, tar and anise notes. The palate is heady and delicious with a refined texture and great weight and lift. Glorious now, watch this evolve over the next decade. Drink 2026-2036- 97

2023 Force Majeure ‘Red Mountain Estate’ Syrah- The 2023 Force Majeure ‘Red Mountain Estate’ Syrah stands inky in the glass. Black rose petals and scorched earth combine with black cherry compote and hints of lavender on the nose. The palate is deep, concentrated and powerful with amazing texture, weight and underlying freshness. This is hedonistic and delicious stuff that is built to age. Drink 2026-2040- 99

Spottswoode

Today we share the wines of one of Napa’s most historic properties. Spottswoode can date back to 1882. Founded by Mrs. Albert Spotts in 1910 and was later acquired by Mary and Jack Novak in 1972, Mary released Spottswoode’s first Cabernet Sauvignon in 1982, exactly one hundred years after the estate’s founding. The wines are well-structured, with gobs of aging potential. I have enjoyed the early ‘90s Spottswoode wines that seem to be timeless. Innovators in viticulture, they began organic farming all the way back in 1985.

Today Mary’s daughter Beth Novak manages the winery, and daughter Lindy Novak serves as the winery’s Marketing Ambassador. Every year Spottswoode produces an Estate Cabernet Sauvignon and an Estate Sauvignon Blanc in honor of their founder, Mary Novak. Spottswoode also crafts a Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon called Lyndenhurst, a dual-appellation Spottswoode Sauvignon Blanc, and two limited-production wines for club members only (Spottswoode Estate “Mary’s Block” Sauvignon Blanc and Field Book Syrah). Locted on the western edge of St. Helena at the foot of the Mayacamas mountains, estate vines are planted on alluvial clay loam while a strong maritime influence runs through Spring Mountain and the Mayacamas range. The estate has forty acres of mainly Cabernet Sauvignon, with portions of Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Sauvignon Blanc which have been organically farmed since 1985.

I was so impressed with the 2025 Spottswoode Sauvignon Blanc (OB, 94) which is primarily fruit from Sonoma and is sinfully good with its power and poise. Learn more about this famed Napa winery at https://www.spottswoode.com Here is my review of the new Spottswoode wine.

2025 Spottswoode Sauvignon Blanc- Another year, another magnificent bottling of the Spottswoode Sauvignon Blanc. This 2025 edition comes from primarily Sonoma County fruit (72%) and has 5% Semillon blended on. On the nose this takes on white grapefruit blossom, green herbs and dense melon tones that collide with hints of freshly cut kiwi. The palate is rich and layered with great nutty nuances coming from the Semillon. Rich and vibrant, this beauty will live on for at least another eight years. Drink 2026-2034- 94

2023 Lyndenhurst Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2023 Lyndenhurst Cabernet Sauvignon comes from a range of sites throughout Napa valley. Aged in 40% new French oak for ten months this has 16% Merlot blended in with smaller portions Malbec, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Medium-bodied kirsch and black raspberry flavors collide with milk chocolate and hints of fresh sage on the palate. The flavor range is outstanding, with stony mineral accents, enjoy now and over the next seven plus years to come. Drink 2026-2033- 92

Champagne Billecart-Salmon

With great pleasure I share the wines of Billecart-Salmon one of the outstanding smaller producers in Champagne. They control an estate of 100 hectares, obtaining grapes from an area spanning 300 hectares across 40 crus of the Champagne region. The majority of the grapes used for vinification come from a radius of 20km around Epernay, where the Grand Crus of Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay co-exist, in the vineyards of the Montagne de Reims, the Vallée de la Marne and the Côte des Blancs.

Now in its seventh generation, the house was initially formed with the marriage of 1818 when Nicolas François Billecart and Elisabeth Salmon in 1818. This remains a family winery since the beginning with Louis Salmon, brother of Elisabeth and a passionate oenologist, getting involved in the creation of the wines.

They have a range of wines including their flagship ‘Nicolas Billecart’ and the two world-class champagnes that I tasted, their ‘Cuvee Louise Blanc de Blancs’ as well as their ‘Cuvée Elisabeth Salmon' Brut Rosé.’ Their NV Rose Champagne remains one of the most popular Rose bottlings you will find in the United States. CEO Mathieu Roland-Billecart has been at the helm since January 2019 and he brings a vast knowledge of his house and the surrounding Champagne region.

I was totally blown away with the sumptuous 2013 Billecart-Salmon Cuvée Elisabeth Salmon' Brut Rosé’ Champagne (OB, 98) which is one of the finest editions of this wine that I have ever tasted. Learn more about this famed champagne house at https://www.champagne-billecart.fr Here are the beautiful new Champagnes by Billecart-Salmon.

2013 Billecart-Salmon ‘Cuvee Louise Blanc de Blancs’ Champagne- The dazzling 2013 Billecart-Salmon ‘Cuvee Louise Blanc de Blancs’ Champagne was given 4G/L dosage and was disgorged in January 2024. It can benefit from 20-30 minutes in the decanter as it comes off initially a bit reticent. Once aroused, this is a dense, very nervy and heady bottling that shows a glorious core of lemon oil and melon fruits alongside nutty and stony nuances. The length and weight here is really outstanding. Drink 2026-2042- 96

2013 Billecart-Salmon ‘Cuvée Elisabeth Salmon' Brut Rosé’ Champagne- The brilliant 2013 Cuvée Elisabeth Salmon' Brut Rosé  is comprised of 53% Pinot Noir from Aÿ as well as Bouzy, as well as the remainder Chardonnay. It shows off its gorgeous light pink hue in the glass, with a light effervescence. The nose is very pretty and highly nuanced, with walnut notes that combine with bright raspberry and poem grate seed alongside blood orange zest notes. The palate is very mineral-laden and intense, with a glorious core of bright red fruits and a silky mousse. The length is sumptuous here as this is best enjoyed over the next fifteen plus years. Drink 2026-2044- 98

2026 Paso Robles Report

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Heat It, Cool It: Paso Robles in 2023 and 2024

I had a marvelous March visit to Paso Robles. We had some warm weather and there was green everywhere from the winter rains. Crop cover looked really intense for the second straight years. The last day of my visit it was nearly 80 degrees!

2022 was not an easy year for Paso wines, but there were many great wines made. The September 2022 heat dome clearly did not have the same impact in Paso as it did in Napa. Those who were patient made really great wines that are slightly more on the hedonistic side. This is a vintage to drink early.

2023 was a polar opposite vintage and shows strong aging potential. It was an extremely long harvest with some picking their fruit all the way in November. 2023 wines have impeccable balance. Jordan Fiorentini of Epoch, explained that her ‘23s are arguably the best wines I have made.” Her lineup has a hallmark beginning, middle and an end. Similarly, Booker winemaker Pete Turrone sees 2023 as “a great vintage and one that will age for decades.”

Rhys Vineyard

We share today an incredible winery that utilizes some extreme farming. Slopes at these locations reach 40% grade The founder of Rhys Vineayrds, 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.

Check out the outstanding 2023 Rhys ‘Mt. Pajaro Vineyard’ Chardonnay (OB, 96) which is dense, salty and highly nuanced.  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 ‘Mt. Pajaro Vineyard’ Chenin Blanc- A sensational Chenin Blanc bottling, the 2023 ‘Mt. Pajaro’ shows off its oily mouthfeel. Rich melon fruits collide with stony minerals and diatom notes on the palate. Drink 2026-2033- 93

2023 Rhys Vineyards ‘Mt. Pajaro Vineyard’ Chardonnay- The salty and highly nuanced 2023 ‘Mt. Parajo’ Chardonnay  is loaded with minerality and tension. Rich tropical fruits parade with shades of crushed seashells, lemon oil and sage undertones. Complex and highly delicious enjoy now and over the next ten years. Drink 2026-2036- 96

2023 Rhys Vineyards ‘Mt. Pajaro Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- Coming from this slightly cooler vintage, the 2023 Rhys Vineyards ‘Mt. Pajaro Vineyard’ Pinot Noir offers shades of black truffle shavings on the palate, with a glorious melange of red and dark fruits, alongside chocolate and wintergreen notes. Dense and mineral-laden with fabulous freshness, enjoy now and over the next ten plus years. Drink 2026-2040- 96