Hamilton Russell

A journey down to the beautiful coast of South Africa today. As one of the most southerly wine estates in Africa and one of the closest to the sea  Hamilton Russell winery is located in cool, maritime Hemel-en-Aarde Valley appellation, just behind the old fishing village of Hermanus. The winery focuses on producing limited amounts of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Anthony Hamilton Russell took over from the founder, Tim Hamilton Russell, in 1991, and bought the property from the family in 1994. Tim originally purchased the undeveloped 170 hectare property in 1975, searching for a great site to make Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

Vines are set on stony, clay-rich, shale-derived soil which create lovely earthy and terroir-driven wines. Their new releases were really outstanding. 

One of the best new world Sauvignon Blanc wines that I have sampled this year, the 2016 ‘Southern Right’ Sauvignon Blanc (WWB, 91) has gobs of bright flavors and a silky mouthfeel. Even better was the new release 2016 Hamilton Russell Pinot Noir (WWB, 92) which showed a wonderful range of red fruits and a marvelous acidity. Learn more about these outstanding wines at http://www.hamiltonrussellvineyards.com Here are the new release wines by Hamilton Russell. 

2016 Hamilton Russell ‘Southern Right’ Sauvignon Blanc- Made by Hamilton Russell, this Sauvignon Blanc wine opens with a bouquet of gooseberry, white peach, Serrano pepper and Gravenstein apple. Bright and beautifully balanced, this has a lovely rich texture and a ripe mouthfeel. Brioche, green papaya, New York apple and kiwi flavors sit alongside lively minerality. Drink 2017-2022- 91

2016 Hamilton Russell Pinot Noir- The 2016 Hamilton Russell Pinot Noir is sourced from a 52 hectare vineyard set on shale. Translucent in color, this wine begins with earthy aromatics of forest floor, tobacco leaf, with red currant jelly. Lithe, with a strong salinity, the wine shows red cherry, marionberry, sweet tobacco and cran-pomegranate flavors that connect with beautiful tension. The finish lingers. This beauty will cellar for a decade or more. Drink 2017-2030- 92

Pepper Bridge

Elegance and poise marks these great wines by Pepper Bridge. Located in a gorgeous country setting outside of Walla Walla, the winery is perched on a hill with stunning views of the estate vineyards —Pepper Bridge, Seven Hills and Les Collines, some of the famed vineyards in Washington. Head winemaker Jean-François Pellet, has a longstanding history in the Washington wine industry. A third generation wine grower, Pellet’s wines have received considerable acclaim. 

Pellet has degrees in both enology and viticulture and has previously interned in Germany, Switzerland and the Napa Valley. After graduating, he managed vineyards and made wine in Switzerland and Spain. Along with making wine in Spain, he was responsible for managing 500 acres of vineyards, designing a new winery and developing a market for the product. He then worked at famed Heitz Cellars for four years until he was recruited to work at Pepper Bridge. His new release wines were fantastic and maintained his trademark elegance but contained wonderful richness from these warm vintages. Look to the 2014 Pepper Bridge Merlot (WWB, 92) which has wonderful weight and tension. Pepper Bridge not only has a tasting room at their Walla Walla winery but also has a tasting room in Woodinville, not far from the center of town. Learn more about Pepper Bridge at www.pepperbridge.com. Here are the great new release wines from Pepper Bridge winery.

2014 Pepper Bridge Merlot- Composed of 77% Merlot, 16% Cabernet Franc and 7% Malbec, this is a nice showing from a consistently high quality producer. Rich aromas of fresh sawdust, blackberry pie and tar are followed by rich flavors of black currants, vanilla, cocoa powder and black pepper. Tannin structure is quite firm, especially for a Merlot. Drink 2018-2030- 92 $50 (J.H.)

2013 Pepper Bridge ‘Trine’ Red Wine-  This Bordeaux blend is named after the three main families that is involved the Pepper Bridge brand. It is a blend of all five Bordeaux grapes: 37% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34 % Cabernet Franc, 16% merlot, 8% Malbec and 5% Petit Verdot. This excellent wine was aged 17 months in 37% new French Oak. It starts with aromas of ripe red currants, espresso bean and coconut. Mouthfeel is silky with good weight and flavors of dark cherries, mocha, and black pepper. Tannins are tight with a long, persistent finish. This wine is definitely ageworthy for 10 or more years. Drink 2018-2030- 92 $65 (J.H.)

2013 Pepper Bridge Cabernet Sauvignon- This flagship wine from Pepper Bridge is 83% cabernet sauvignon with 9% Merlot, 4% Malbec, 2% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot. Aged in 44% new French oak for 19 months. Aromatics are predominantly black fruit, tar, bramble and coconut. The depth on the palate is impressive with flavors of baked blackberry pie, milk chocolate, Pipe tobacco and fresh asphalt. Complexity will continue to improve over the next 5 – 10 years. Drink 2018-2030- 92. $60 (J.H.)

Domaine Serene

One of the top estates in Oregon, Domaine Serene has earned a national reputation for incredible Chardonnay and Pinot Noir wines. Founded in 1989 by Grace and Ken Evenstad, is located at the top of the Dundee Hills, with absolutely stunning views of the valley. A visit to this gorgeous setting is sure to impress. Domaine Serene also has now built a spectacular neighboring building, their ‘Club House’ which is for wine club members. If you’ve never been tasting at Serene, there is never a better time to go. The new releases were simply stunning, coming from warm vintages, 2014 and 2015. 

Domaine Serene makes some of the best Chardonnay in Oregon, and their incredible 2015 ‘Evenstad Reserve’ Chardonnay (WWB, 95) follows in the extremely strong line of Evenstad Reserve Chardonnay wines. This release is vibrant, mineral driven and downright intoxicating. Just as good is the 2014 Domaine Serene ‘Recolte’ Chardonnay (WWB, 95) which shows incredible opulence and tension. Their 2014 Pinot Noir wines were just as scintillating. One of the best Pinot Noir wines that I have reviewed in the past year, the 2012 Domaine Serene ‘Monogram’ Pinot Noir (WWB, 96) is intense, earthy and has a stunning mouthfeel and poise. Learn more about Domaine Serene at http://domaineserene.com/ Here are the incredible new wines from Domaine Serene.

2015 Domaine Serene ‘Evenstad Reserve’ Chardonnay- The 2015 'Evenstad Reserve' Chardonnay by Domaine Serene saw 40% new French oak for 13 months prior to bottling. is another stunning release from Domaine Serene. This beautiful wine shows moderate oak on the nose with brioche toast, nectarine, Pazzaz apple and suggestions of heavy whipping cream. Balanced and poised, yet showing serious mid-palate weight, this seamless wine shows off a silky texture. Key lime creme brulee, challah bread, whipping cream and New York apple flavors impress. The near minute long finish ends with a crescendo. This is a masterful effort by Domaine Serene and their winemaking team. Enjoy this great wine over the next dozen years. Drink 2017-2028- 94

2015 Domaine Serene ‘Clos du Soleil Vineyard’ Chardonnay- The 2015 Domaine Serene 'Clos du Soleil Vineyard' Chardonnay is another awesome effort. The Chardonnay begins with baking spice, banana, creme brulee and whipping cream aromatics. Lemon zest flavors immediately drive the mid-palate combined with a silky texture and a lovely cream driven finish. You have to love the combination of range and fruit weight -- which seduce you. Smooth and seductive, this seriously good wine will drink well for a decade or more. Drink 2017-2027- 94

2014 Domaine Serene ‘Etoile Vineyard’ Chardonnay- Showing off a beautiful golden hue, the 2014 Domaine Serene 'Etoile Vineyard' Chardonnay impresses with its ripe fruit and silky mouthfeel. The wine opens with bright aromatics reminiscent of lemon zest, kumquat, whipping cream and nutmeg. The weight of this wine is downright seductive. Lemon creme brulee, Gravenstein apple pie and suggestions of nutmeg and cardamom flavors drive this full-throttle effort. The wine finishes long with heavy cream. Enjoy this gorgeous wine over the next decade.  Drink 2017-2027- 94

2014 Domaine Serene ‘Recolte Grand Cru’ Chardonnay- An epic wine, the 2014 Domaine Serene 'Récolté Grand Cru' Chardonnay shows tremendous weight and poise in this warm vintage. The wine needs more than an hour to unwind in the decanter. Once aroused, the wine settles into intense flavors remsiniscent of Meyer lemon zest, kumquat, creme brulee and nutmeg. The mouthfeel of this wine is exotic and unctuous. Marzipan, vanilla creme brulee, Pazzaz apple, and nutmeg flavors sit alongside some brisk minerality. Stunning, profound and every bit Oregon, this is a complete Chardonnay by Domaine Serene. While this will cellar marvelously for more than a decade, it is impossible to resist at this stage in its development. If enjoying young, be sure to give this massive Chardonnay at least an hour decant. Drink 2017-2030- 95

2015 Domaine Serene ‘Coer Blanc’ Pinot Noir- The 2015 Domaine Serene 'Coer Blanc' is a white wine made from Pinot Noir grapes. Domaine Serene were the first winery in North America to make this downright awesome style of wine. Coming from a warm vintage in Oregon, this white Pinot Noir begins with aromas of lemongrass, Welches white grape juice, and Granny Smith apple. The smooth texture coats the mid-palate. Generous, and showing serious length, the flavors of white peach, Pink Lady apple and nutmeg with citrus blossom accents glide to the long, vanilla cream driven finish. This is another stunner by Serene. Drink 2017-2028- 94

2014 Domaine Serene ‘Yamhill Cuvee’ Pinot Noir- This is Domaine Serene’s entry level bottling which is as good as many winery’s reserve wines. The wine was sourced from the Dundee Hills, Eola-Amity Hills, and Yamhill-Carlton AVA’s. This opens with a bouquet of pomegranate seed, blood orange, peat moss and suggestions of white pepper. This has a creamy texture and a wonderfully ripe mouthfeel with mouth-watering acidity. Red raspberry, red cherry and forest floor flavors with a touch of guava impress. While obviously manipulated, this is downright delicious Oregon Pinot. Drink 2017-2024- 91

2014 Domaine Serene ‘Jerusalem Hill Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- The 2014 Domaine Serene ‘Jerusalem Hill Vineyard’ Pinot Noir is another standout wine made by this storied estate. The wine was aged for 18 months in 58% new French oak prior to bottling. Showing off a deep core, this wine opens with a bouquet of cran-pomegranate, red cherry preserves and forest floor. The creamy and rich texture is absolutely gorgeous. Generous and round, the wine shows off red cherry, pomegranate, guava puree and black tea flavors with peat moss. This finishes long with red fruits and cream. Enjoy this great wine over the next decade or so. Drink 2017-2030- 94

2014 Domaine Serene ‘Cote Sud’ Pinot Noir- This great wine is sourced from a southern slope of the Evenstad estate. Showing a darker profile, and somewhat muted at first, the wine begins with aromas of black cherry, black tea, and earthy tones with black truffle and forest floor. Smooth and silky on the mouthfeel, this wine shows off cherry pie, Mandarin orange rind, guava and black tea flavors that sit alongside some sterling acidity. This finishes long with red fruits and cream. Enjoy this memorable wine over the next decade or more. If enjoying young, be sure to give this at least an hour decant to show its full flavor and aromatic range. Drink 2017-2030- 93

2014 Domaine Serene ‘Fleur de Lis Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- The 2014 Domaine Serene 'Fleur de Lis Vineyard' Chardonnay is another sensational effort in this vintage. The Pinot Nori was aged for 15 months in 62% new French oak prior to being bottled. This great wine begins with bright aromatics of red raspberry preserves, baking spices and cran-pomegrate. The citrus elements to this wine are really classy. Smooth and silky on the mouth, the wine reveals bright flavors of tobacco leaf, red raspberry cordial and red cherry preserves with a touch of forest floor. The wine finishes long with cherry pie accents. This wine will show beautifully for a decade or more. Drink 2017-2029- 94

2014 Domaine Serene ‘Two Barns’ Pinot Noir- Sourced from a vineyard set on Willakenzie soils, the 2014 Domaine Serene ‘Two Barns’ Pinot Noir is a standout effort from the talented winemaking team here. This wine was aged for 18 months in 59% new French oak prior to bottling. Opening with a bouquet primarily of red fruits and wet earth, this wine shows off a beautifully silky texture and round mouthfeel. Flavors of red cherry candy, red raspberry, black truffle and suggestions of spicebox impress. The minerality and weight of this wine is fabulous. Drink 2017-2030- 93

2014 Domaine Serene ‘Winery Hill’ Pinot Noir- The 2014 Domaine Serene 'Winery Hill Vineyard' Pinot Noir is sourced from a high elevation site in the Dundee Hills AVA. This outstanding wine begins with intense aromas of black truffle, forest floor and black cherry cough syrup. The weight and texture to this wine is irresistible. Black forest cake, white truffle and sage with peat moss flavors impress. Dense, round and generous, this awesome effort is best enjoyed in the next fifteen years. If enjoying in its youth, be sure to give this beauty at least a one hour decant. Drink 2017-2030- 94

2014 Domaine Serene ‘Aspect’ Pinot Noir- The Domaine Serene 'Aspect' is another outstanding wine made from the esteemed 2014 vintage. Sourced from the Dundee Hills, the 'Aspect' Pinot Noir is made to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the estate and showcases the East, South and West exposures of the Evenstad estate. The wine begins with aromas of black truffle, black tea, and black cherry compote. Simply delicious, this wine has an intense dark fruit flavor profile with earthy tones like black truffle and peat moss. Finishing long with dark fruits and vanilla, this is a downright scintillating effort by Serene. Gorgeous straight out of the gate, enjoy this great wine over the next decade or so.  Drink 2017-2030- 94

2014 Domaine Serene ‘Mark Bradford Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- The Mark Bradford Vineyard is a high elevation site located on the west facing slope of the Evenstad Estate. This great wine  was aged for 16 months in 69% new French oak prior to bottling. This opens with aromas of black tea, forest floor, black truffle and suggestions of black cherry compote. Rich and layered, this shows off a wonderful tension and mouthfeel. Ripe and polished, the black fruit flavors connect with forest floor, white truffle and wet earth elements. Silky smooth, be sure to give this great wine at least a two hour decant if enjoying in its nascency. Drink 2017-2033- 95

2014 Domaine Serene ‘Grace Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- Sourced from an east facing site on the Evenstad estate, this awesome wine was aged in French oak (59% new) for 15 months prior to bottling. Showing off a dense core, this great Pinot Noir begins with an aromatic profile of black truffle oil, forest floor, black cherry preserves and suggestions of wild blackberry pie. The mouthfeel and texture to this wine is stunning, as is the combination of fruit weight and minerality.  Showcasing black fruits parading with forest floor and wet stone, this is a stunning wine that reveals great tension and poise from this warm vintage. A complete wine, this will bring drinking enjoyment over the next fifteen plus years. Drink 2017-2033- 95

While not released yet, the 2013 Domaine Serene 'Monogram' Pinot Noir has a ton of potential. When I tried it, the wine was not yet quite as open as the intense and generous 2012 'Monogram' bottling. 

2012 Domaine Serene ‘Monogram’ Pinot Noir- This absolute majestic Pinot Noir from Domaine Serene utilizes 75% new oak (aged for 17 months) and was chosen from winemaker Erik Kramer's finest barrel selection. The wine opens with intense aromatics of red cherries and red raspberries woven together with herbs de Provence, black truffles and black pepper which all come together and make this simply irresistible. As the wine expands on the palate it leads to dense, beautifully concentrated flavors of red cherries, red raspberries, cran-pomegranate and cremini mushroom. The texture and mouthfeel of this wine borders ethereal leading to an long expressive finish. There is a seamless quality to this wine that showcases the fruit and balance of the 2012 vintage. Hats off to the Domaine Serene winemaking team for creating this incredible Pinot Noir, which is the finest that I have tasted from this amazing vintage. Drink 2016-2033- 96

2014 Domaine Serene ‘Grand Cheval’ Red Wine- This downright killer blend of Syrah and Pinot Noir is dedicated to the winery owner’s grandfather and his favorite horse. The 2014 ‘Grand Cheval’ is was aged in 65% new French oak for 18 months prior to bottling. Both vintages were stellar in the Dundee Hills and in the Walla Walla Valley. Since this first was made a few years back I still have not tried a wine quite like this. Dense dark fruits hit you on the nose, as the wine shows a smoky edge with creosote and black tea, as well as pipe tobacco. The acidity to this wine is quite striking, as the wine showcases dark cherry, coffee grounds, black tea and pomegranate seed flavors. The weight and texture is gorgeous. This wine will cellar beautifully over the next fifteen years. Drink 2017-2033- 94

2017 California Petite Sirah Report

The original king of California wine, Petite Sirah acts like nothing like it sounds, as this dense and brooding wine stains the glass and typically offers penetrating dark fruit aromas and flavors. To better understand the varietal, we go back to 1880 where Dr. Francois Durif, a grape botanist and grape breeder at the University of Montpellier in Southern France, released a new variety that he named after himself. The varietal grew from a seed he extracted from fruit of the old French variety Peloursin. Dr. Durif didn’t know the pollen source at the time, but we now know that it was Syrah. The combination of Peloursin and Syrah resulted in fruit with saturated color and very dense fruit clusters. Four years later Durif was brought to California by Charles McIver which entered the US through the East Bay Area. Growers there began calling it Petite Sirah, which others in France had been calling the varietal. 

There are some historical records from 1890 which indicate that Concannon Vineyard had 540 acres of Petite Sarah planted. Sadly that same decade phylloxera destroyed nearly all the Syrah vines in California and in 1897 Petite Sirah was replanted all across California. Over the next few years the varietal grew in popularity which continued until prohibition hit in the 1920s. Then Petite Sirah saw several shifts, as 7500 acres were planted in California in the 1930s, which dipped to 4500 acres in the 1960s and finally peaked around 14,000 acres in 1976. In a mere twelve years, acreage across California dipped more than half, from 14,000 to 5,000. Following a further dip in the 1990s and then a recent spike, there are currently roughly 10,000 acres devoted to Petite Sirah planted in California. 

While somewhat unfairly playing second fiddle to other varietals, there are some seriously good Petite Sirah wines being made right now. Over the past few months I have compiled a list of recommended Petite Sirah bottlings and I am hugely impressed with the level of value that Petite Sirah offers on the retail market. One of the most outstanding value wines that I have tried this year, checking in well under ten dollars is the 2015 Bogle Petite Sirah (WWB, 89) which shows wonderful structure and richness. Another outstanding new release was the 2015 Michael David ‘Petite Petit’ Red Wine (WWB, 92) which is a deep and complex wine that is one of the best values you will find out of California. 

One of the standout Petite Sirah wines from this report, the 2013 Robert Biale ‘E.B.A.’ Petite Sirah (WWB, 94) has just an incredible sense of place and a wonderful combination of mouthfeel and tension. For those who want to push intensity and viscosity, look no further than the stunning 2015 Orin Swift ‘Machete’ Petite Sirah (WWB, 94) which is a stunning, inky colored wine that has incredible fruit weight and maintained a wonderful acidity despite the obvious heat of the vintage. I have also included some beautifully aged Petite Sirah wines, including the stunning 2006 Ridge ‘Dynamite Hill’ Petite Sirah (WWB, 93) which still has incredible youth considering it is more than ten years old. Here are our recommended Petite Sirah releases from California.

Recommended Petite Sirah

2015 Line Shack Petite Sirah- Sourced from the San Antionio Valley in Monterrey County, this wine starts with black tea, blackberry jam and red cherry preserves with tar on the nose. Fruity and forward, this delivers black fruit flavors with coffee ground and a touch of dark chocolate. This sweet fruit driven wine is an outstanding value out of Monterrey County that is best enjoyed in the short-term. Drink 2017-2022- 89

2015 Bogle Petite Sirah- This wine was sourced from a host of AVAs in California. The wine opens with mulberry, blueberry, and milk chocolate. Plush and soft on the mouth, this shows off black tea, black cherry cough syrup, milk chocolate and blueberry compote flavors that sit alongside some nice structure. At under ten dollars, this is just a killer value by Bogle. Drink 2017-2022- 89

2014 Barra Petite Sirah- This Mendicino County AVA Petite Sirah opens with aromatics of milk chcolate shavings, blueberry compote and crushed mint. Graphite, dark chocolate shaving and black cherry with blackberry cobbler flavors impress. This is deep, balanced and intense. Drink 2017-2025- 90

2014 Harney Lane Petite Sirah- This Lodi bottling begins with aromatics of milk chocolate, blueberry pie, bramble and Chinese black tea. This has wonderful poise and a purity of fruit. This structured effort shows off blueberry compote, black cherry, black olive and milk chocolate flavors that connect with some light tannins. This finishes long with black fruits and light tannins. Drink 2017-2027- 92

2015 Michael David ‘Petite Petit’ Red Wine- A blend of 85% Petite Sirah and 15% Petit Verdot, this inky colored wine begins with aromatics of rose petals, black tea, blackberry pie and suggestions of baking spices. Dense and intense flavors persist, showcasing coffee grounds, crushed mint, coffee grounds and dark chocolate connecting with a nice minerality. This is another outstanding value by Michael David. Drink 2017-2024- 92

2015 Michael David ‘Earthquake’ Petite Sirah- This brooding color instantly entices. Blueberry cobbler, black tea and milk chlorate aromatics show their stuff. Mineral driven and intense, this wine shows gorgeous blue fruit with blackberry cordial and dark chocolate shaving flavors. This is just an awesome release that showcases the intensity of the varietal. Drink 2017-2022- 91

2015 Orin Swift ‘Machete’ Petite Sirah- The 2015 'Machete' by Orin Swift is an utterly compelling blend primarily comprised of Petite Sirah, with smaller parts Syrah and Grenache. As this slowly begins to unwind in the glass it releases aromas of cigar box, creosote, smoke, black cherry compote and Turkish coffee. Moderate tannins coat the mid-palate alongside profound weight and length, as this burly wine delivers flavors of black olive, Earl Grey tea, mocha, black cherry syrup and crushed mint which cascade on to the long finish. This needs another year to settle, but it is a hedonistic delight to take in right now. Drink 2017-2029)- 94

2013 Renwood ‘Granmere’ Red Wine- The 2013 Renwood 'Granmere' is an outstanding effort from this winery. This is a blend of 42% Petite Sirah, 33% Zinfandel and 25% Syrah. This impressive aromatic expression begins with aromas of blackberry cobbler, blueberry, guava puree and creosote. There are flavors of blueberry compote, blackberry pie, cassis and has lovely weight. This is hard to deist right now. Drink 2017-2025 - 92

2015 Robert Biale ‘Royal Punishers’ Petite Sirah- One of the most impressive wines from Robert Biale is the 2015 ‘Royal Punishers’ Petite Sirah. With a deep opaque colored, this begins with a ripe aromatic profile of crushed mint, black cherry pie, mocha and tar. The texture to this wine is simply marvelous. Blackberry pie, mocha and dark chocolate flavors impress. Seductive and delicious, this marvelous wine will drink well into the next decade. Drink 2017-2025- 93

2013 Robert Biale ‘E.B.A.’ Petite Sirah- An exceedingly profound and deep wine, 2013 Robert Biale 'E.B.A.' Petite Sirah is the most compelling of its kind that I have tasted in the past year. Seductive, dense and simply delicious, this wine was sourced from the Biale Family Vineyard, which is planted to Stags Leap clone Petite Sirah. As this begins to open it releases intoxicating aromatics of ripe black cherries, blueberry compote, cardamom and black tea. There are gorgeous ripe flavors of black cherries, crème de cassis and blueberry pie along with black tea and anise. Today this is showing extremely well, and should continue to drink well over the course of next decade. Drink 2017-2027- 94

2014 Stags Leap Petite Sirah- Having a dense and brooding inky color, this wine opens with bright aromatics of violets, milk chocolate shavings, black tea and blackberry cobbler. The viscosity and texture and gorgeous. Black tea, blackberry jam, dark chocolate and black cherry flavors provide marvelous fruit weight. This is just an awesome bottling with a wonderful mineral streak. Drink 2017-2026- 93

2006 Ridge ‘Dynamite Hill’ Petite Sirah- Distinctly Bordelaise is not something that typically describes Petite, but other than the inky color, this might pass for a well-made Cabernet wine. Sourced from the York Creek Vineyard, this checks in at only 13.8% alcohol. The mouthfeel is very plush and inviting as black fruit flavors connect with blueberry compote and a touch of Turkish coffee. Rich, ripe and highly structured, this is a simply awesome age-worthy Petite Sirah by Ridge. This still has a long life in the cellar and needs an hour decant if enjoying now. Drink 2017-2027- 93

2010 Eighty Four Petite Sirah- This aged bottling is made by Elias Hernandez and Doug Shafer. It begins with a dark fruit bouquet with a touch of mocha. There is a decadent mouthfeel to this wine that coats the mid-palate. Flavors of milk chocolate, black plum and boysenberry pie sit alongside some nice structure. The viscosity and tension of this wine is awesome as it is currently drinking at its peak. Drink 2017-2022- 92

Rochioli Vineyards

One of the standout wineries in the Russian River, Tom Rochioli traces his family heritage back to some of the area’s first plantings on Cabernet Sauvignon. In 1959 his father and grandfather planted Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc which was a great learning experience. The Cabernet did not grow well and was pulled out in the 1970s.  However, the Sauvignon Blanc planted became a huge success. Today these same vines are still in production and are considered some of the oldest Sauvignon Blanc vines in California. Inspired by the wines of Burgundy, Tom’s father planted Pinot Noir in 1968, as he likened the cool climate to Burgundy.
The Rochiolis began selling their grapes to Bynum winery in the 1970s and then later Williams Selyem in the 1980s but Tom was inspired to make his own wines. Then in 1987 they released their first estate wine. Utilizing a minimalistic style of winemaking, Rochioli focuses on individual blocks of wine that show subtle differences in fruit and terroir. Their new releases were some of the best that I have sampled from the Russian River in the past year. Look to their outstanding 2015 Rochioli ‘South River’ Chardonnay (WWB, 94) which is a stunning and layered crisp Chardonnay that finishes incredibly smooth. Just as good was their 2015 Rochioli ‘Little Hill’ Pinot Noir (WWB, 94) which is rich, intense and captures the heat of the vintage. Learn more about these outstanding wines at http://www.rochioliwinery.com Here are the great new wines by Rochioli. 

2015 Rochioli ‘Russian River Valley' Chardonnay- Toasted hazelnuts, brioche and creme brûlée aromatics come into play here. The wine is a blend of 48% percent from the Mid-40 vineyard, 38% from River Block, and 14% Little Hill. The mouthfeel here is excellent, showing off Meyer lemon zest, heavy whipping cream and brioche flavors that sit alongside some wonderful minerality. Drink 2017-2025- 92

2015 Rochioli ‘River Block’ Chardonnay- The 2014 Rochioli ‘River Block’ Chardonnay is sourced from old Wente clone vines placed near the Russian River. Showing a golden hue, this wine begins with aromatics of challah bread, vanilla cream, butterscotch and suggestions of golden delicious apple. This has gorgeous mid-palate weight showing deep flavors of vanilla bean custard, Pazzaz apple, roasted almonds and suggestions of baking spices. The long, nearly one minute long finish lingers. Enjoy this great Chardonnay wine over the next decade. Drink 2017-2027- 93

2015 Rochioli ‘South River’ Chardonnay- The 2015 ‘South River’ Chardonnay by Rochioli is a stunner by winemaker Tom Rochioli. Showing a beautiful golden color, the wine begins with toasted hazelnut, nectarine and New York apple flavors. The palate shows delightful flavors of vanilla creme brûlée, brioche, Pink Lady apple and nutmeg. The exceedingly long finish impresses. The texture is oily and the vibrant minerality completes this impressive Chardonnay wine. Drink 2017-2028- 94

2015 Rochioli ‘Russian River Valley’ Pinot Noir- This Estate is a blend of 24% Little Hill, 18% Sweetwater, 18% West Block, 14% Big Hill, 14% East Block and 12% River Block.This deep colored Pinot Noir wine begins with aromatics of teaberry, red cherry pie, cola and suggestions of guava puree. The wine has wonderful weight and balance. Downright delicious flavors reminiscent of red cherry pie, red raspberry cordial, huckleberry and cola. The weight and balance makes this impossible to resist right now. Drink 2017-2026- 93

2015 Rochioli ‘Little Hill’ Pinot Noir- This great wines starts with intense aromatics of cherry cola, teaberry, sage and forest floor. The aromatic range takes you back to the glass for more. With vibrant acidity, this shows great poise and weight leading to red cherry pie, cola, red raspberry, thyme and peat moss flavors. Extremely long on the finish, this is a memorable effort from Rochioli. Drink 2017-2030- 94

2015 Rochioli ‘Sweetwater’ Pinot Noir- The 2015 Rochioli ‘Sweetwater’ Pinot Noir is translucent in color. Aromatically this has lovely red cherry pie, sagebrush and cola elements at play. The mouthfeel is gorgeous and plush. Red cherry, red currant, guava puree and cola flavors sit alongside strong minerality. Layered and luscious, this memorable wine will cellar well past the next decade and is nearly impossible to resist right now. Drink 2017-2030- 94

Horsepower Vineyards

Happy Halloween to you all! Today we feature a real treat, one of the greats out of Washington, Horsepower Vineyards. More than 100 years ago draft horses had changed farming practices in Europe for the better. Soon after in the United States thousands of horses were working on American farms. Growing up in the Champagne region of France, superstar vigneron, Christophe Baron, saw how horses beautifully work the vineyards. His horses help cultivate vineyards ranging from 3,555 to 4,840 vines per acre with as little as 3' x 3' spacing—planted 1 vine per stake, or “sur echalas” in French. One of the most exciting vineyards in Washington State, the Sur Echalas Vineyard creates wines that are so profound they’re nearly impossible to describe. The struggle of the vines in these close quarters creates a remarkable tension and intensity. These stunning wines are made by Christophe and his highly talented assistant vigneronne, Elizabeth Bourcier. 

Starting with their first 2011 vintage, the 2014 Horsepower releases are some of the best wines that I have tried in the past year from Washington. Stunning, and captivating, the 2014 Horsepower ‘Sur Echelas Vineyard’ Grenache (WWB, 98) can be up there with the world’s best Grenache. This scintillating bottling shows incredible range and tension. Not far behind is the ridiculously good 2014 Horsepower ‘Sur Echelas Vineyard’ Syrah (WWB, 97) which has loads of mouthwatering acidity and an intoxicating bouquet. Learn more about these very special wines at https://horsepowervineyards.com/horsepowervineyards/

2014 Horsepower ‘Sur Echelas Vineyard’ Grenache- The 2014 Horsepower ‘Sur Echelas Vineyard’ Grenache is a true heavyhitter by Cayuse. Sourced from this high density vineyard, this wine has stunning aromatics. Poppori, white pepper, Umami, horse manure and blood orange rind. The aromas create a mouth watering experience that is hard to describe. The tension of this wine is unlike any other. Cherry starburst candy, Umami, blood orange, lemon oil, black truffle and white pepper. This wine makes you think about the terroir. Poised and downright delicious, this wine will cellar marvelously for a decade or more. Drink 2017-2027- 98

2014 Horsepower ‘Sur Echelas Vineyard’ Syrah-The vines from this vineyard were planted 3X3, as this is extremely high density. The wine was aged in neutral oak for 8 months prior to bottling. Green peppercorn, black olive tapenade, ash, smoked pork shoulder and Umami as well as citrus elements on the nose. The bouquet is intoxicating as is the purity of fruit on the palate. Hoisin sauce, black tea, Umami and black olive tapenade as well as blood orange show off this highly refined wine. This is another stunner by the superstar winemakers at Cayuse. Drink 2017-2027- 97

2014 Horsepower ‘The Tribe’ Vineyard’ Syrah- Sourced from a 3.2 acre vineyard, this wine begins with aromatics reminiscent of smoked brisket, black olive, wild boysenberry liquor and creosote. This has a wonderful freshness and intensity. This has ripe blackberry, black olive tapenade, smoked pork shoulder, bacon fat and creosote with blood orange flavors. This has wonderful intensity and balance. Drink 2017-2027- 95

Structure Cellars

A mainstay in the SoDo district of Seattle, Structure Cellars was founded by Brian and Brandee Grasso — great people that make great wine. Brian got his start in the restaurant industry where he caught the wine bug and later served as cellar rat at Baer and also interning under the iconic guidance of Chris Sparkman of Sparkman Cellars before starting his own winery. Brian is humble, knowledgable and a downright awesome guy to talk wine with. 

A few weeks back I had the chance to visit his new space in the SoDo district. The new wines by Structure beautifully showcased a hot vintage in Washington. 2015 had the earliest harvest in history, so achieving acidity was paramount especially in red wines.  The Structure releases had marvelous poise and fruit weight. Look to the 2015 Structure Cellars ‘Foundation’ Cabernet Franc (WWB, 91) which has a wonderful herbaceous edge and shows a lovely texture and feminine quality. Even better was the 2015 Structure Cellars ‘Foundation’ Syrah (WWB, 92) as the wine showed really good range and downright delicious black fruit flavors with good acidity. Learn more about these excellent wines at structurecellars.com Here are the great new wines by Structure Cellars.

Brian Grasso checking on some of his fruit in a fermenter from the 2017 vintage. 

2015 Structure Cellars ‘Foundation’ Cabernet Sauvignon- Weighing in at 14.9% alcohol, this wine begins with aromatics of red bell pepper, green olive, cassis and anise. This shows off a plush texture and the wine delivers deep creme de cassis, anise, coffee grounds and green bell pepper. This finishes long with dark fruits and coffee grounds. Drink 2017-2026- 92

2015 Structure Cellars ‘Foundation’ Syrah- This inky colored Syrah (mostly sourced from the Wallula Vineyard) begins with aromas of sage, mocha, black cherry and cassis. This has a rich texture and a wonderful mouthfeel. Plush flavors of cassis, mocha, and crushed mint with blackberry jam. This is outstanding wine that will cellar well into the next decade. Drink 2017-2025- 92

2015 Structure Cellars ‘Foundation’ Cabernet Franc- This Destiny Ridge, Upland, Stillwater and Boushey Vineyard wine begins with aromatics of creme de cassis, anise, dried herbs and crushed mint. This shows a nice mouthfeel and texture as the wine leads to black cherry, anise and red bell pepper flavors. The long finish impresses. Drink 2017-2027- 91

2015 Structure Cellars ‘Craftsman’ Cabernet Sauvignon- Sourced from largely the Hedges Vineyard, the wine begins with aromatics of dried herbs, red bell pepper, creme de cassis and milk chocolate. The texture here is really nice. The plush mouthfeel showcases black fruit flavors with dark chocolate and coffee grounds. Drink 2017-2025- 91

2015 Structure Cellars ‘Spire’ Merlot- This 100% Merlot (Olsen and Boushey Vineyards) has a wonderful nose showing off black cherry, boysenberry and milk chocolate. This shows nice poise and a smooth mouthfeel. Black cherry, anise, creme de cassis and milk chocolate flavors impress as does the he long chocolate driven finish. Drink 2017-2025- 91

2015 Structure Cellars ‘The Newel’ Red Wine- This wine is sourced from a host of great vineyards including Destiny Ridge, Upland, Hedges and Wallula as well as Stillwater Creek. The wine is a blend of 58% Syrah and 42% Cabernet Franc. This has dark fruit aromatics that lead to wild blackberry jam, black cherry and sagebrush flavors that connect with milk chocolate additions. Drink 2017-2025- 90

2015 Structure Cellars ‘Piloti’ Cabernet Franc- This wine was sourced from the Destiny Ridge Vineyard as well as the Stillwater Creek, Boushey and Upland Vineyards.This has very pretty aromatics of rose petals, red bell pepper and spice box with red cherry. You love the herbal nose. This has really nice texture  Red fruits connect well with savory aspects and sagebrush. Only 137 cases of this excellent wine produced. Drink 2017-2025- 91

2015 Structure Cellars Malbec- Sourced from the Olsen and Upland Vineyards this deep colored wine begins with aromatics of sagebrush, black tea, milk chocolate and white pepper. This shows a rich flavor profile with dark cherry, mocha and mint. This has marvelous texture and a long, intense finish. Drink 2017-2025- 91

Besserat de Bellefon

We wanted to offer a little toast of Champagne for the pending weekend. Initially founded in 1843 by Edmond Besserat, Besserat De Bellefon is one of the great historic sites in Champagne. In 1927, Edmond Besserat, a grandson of the founder, married Yvonne de Meric de Bellefon, who came from another prestigious Champagne family, and the house of Besserat de Bellefon Champagne was created. Located in Épernay, Besserat de Bellefon is currently part of the Lanson-BCC Group’s portfolio of Champagnes and produces about 40,000 cases of the Cuvée des Moines range. 

I think that it is generally challenging to find great value Champagnes and the new releases by Bellefon fit that mold. The house relies on the winemaking talents of Cédric Thiébault, who joined Besserat de Bellefon in 1999 and spent seven years learning Besserat’s style of Champagne before becoming winemaker in 2006. What is particularly unique about these Champagnes is that they are produced at only 4.5 atmospheres of pressure across the range rather than the standard 6. They are lithe, light on their feet and are great for pairing with food. Learn more about these great Champagnes at http://besseratdebellefon.com/en Here are the awesome new Champagne releases by Besserat De Bellefon.

NV Besserat De Bellefon ‘Cuvee Des Moines’ Champagne- A silky mousse shows off this classy champagne by Bellefon. Aromatics of kiwi, kumquat and Meyer lemon with unripe pear show impressive range. The wine has a gorgeous texture leading to pink grapefruit, nectarine rind, Granny Smith apple and brioche flavors. This will drink beautifully over the next decade, as this Cuvee is an awesome value out of Champagne. Drink 2017-2027- 92

NV Besserat De Bellefon ‘Cuvee Des Moines’ Rose Champagne- This excellent Rose Champagne starts with aromas of brioche, red cherry, and guava. There are bright flavors of watermelon, red cherry, and Mandarin orange rind. The citrus aspect adds to the astringency, as the salinity of the wine rounds out the long-lasting finish. The mousse is lovely as is the creamy texture and lithe minerality. This focused Rose Champagne will cellar beautifully for a decade or more. Drink 2017-2027- 92

Brewer-Clifton

Founded by Greg Brewer and Steve & Crystal Clifton, Brewer-Clifton has become one of the top producers of red and white wine in Santa Barbara County. In 2015 Brewer-Clifton was sold to a group of investors, that wanted to continue to strong run of quality. This year the winery was sold to the Jackson Family who add this outstanding winery to their growing portfolio. First founded in 2006, Brewer-Clifton originally made 240 cases of wine. Today they make 10,000 cases. Brewer oversees the winemaking and his new releases were stunning. All wines are estate produced 

Look to their 2015 Brewer-Clifton ‘Santa Rita Hills’ Chardonnay (WWB, 93) which is one of the best entry level Chardonnay bottlings that I have sampled from this region in the last year. Even better was their 2014 Brewer-Clifton ‘Santa Rita Hills’ Pinot Noir (WWB, 94) which is a downright awesome value, showcasing wonderful range and red fruit flavors. Not to be outdone, the 2014 Brewer-Clifton ‘Hapgood’ Pinot Noir (WWB, 95) is a heavyhitter of a wine, showing off a stunning texture and tension. Learn more about these awesome wines at http://brewerclifton.com

2016 F + B Sauvignon Blanc- This wine begins with bright aromatics of lemongrass, white peach and gooseberry. This leads to ripe flavors of Meyer lemon, nectarine and suggestions of baking spices. This is lithe and has a wonderful structure. Drink 2017-2022- 91

2016 Diatom Chardonnay- This wine is 100% unoaked and was sourced rom the Hilliard Bruce vineyard. This wine begins with ripe aromatics of baking spices, banana, cantaloupe, and suggestions of Pazzaz apple. The mineral structure of this wine is lovely. Honeydew melon, vanilla cream and Meyer lemon rind flavors come to mind. This is wonderful wine that has great structure and dense fruit. Drink 2017-2024- 91

2015 Brewer-Clifton ‘Santa Rita Hills’ Chardonnay- This wine is a blend of Machado, 3D and Acin Vineyards. This has a highly Burgundian nose with wild mushroom, Golden Delicious apple and ripe pear. Dense and delicious, this wine has flavors of banana, roasted pineapple and suggestions of white tea with gooseberry accents. The weight and texture of this Chardonnay is absolutely gorgeous. Drink 2017-2027- 93

2012 Brewer-Clifton ‘Acin Vineyard’ Chardonnay- This wine is sourced from the Acin Vineyard which is located in the Santa Rita Hills AVA. The wine begins wth bright aromas of white truffle, white peach, grapefruit blossom and Red Delicious apple. The plush mouthfeel leads to rich flavors of bananas foster, white peach and creme brûlée. Polished and downright delicious, this wine is currently drinking beautifully and will cellar well for another decade. Drink 2017-2027- 93

2014 Brewer-Clifton ‘Santa Rita Hills’ Pinot Noir- This wine opens with a bouquet of cinnamon sticks, red cherry, guava puree and suggestions of pomegranate seed with orange rind. Lithe and deep, this shows very pretty flavors of red cherry, lavender, raspberry and pomegranate with Satsuma orange accents. Smooth and seductive, this is absolutely outstanding wine. Drink 2017-2028- 94

2014 Brewer-Clifton ‘Hapgood’ Pinot Noir- This excellent wine begins with bright aromatics of red cherry, guava puree, pomegranate seed and orange rind. The texture is absolutely stunning. Plush flavors of red cherry, red raspberry, sage and baking spices persist alongside some light tannins. This stunning wine will cellar beautifully for decades. Drink 2017-2030- 95

Lewis Cellars Chardonnay

Today we bring you a special spotlight on a Napa producer with a sterling reputation. Founded in 1992 by Randy and Debbie Lewis, Lewis is a relatively small Napa winery whose annual case production is approximately 9,000 of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. They produce some of the best Chardonnay in Napa, as evidenced by their absolutely stunning 2014 and 2015 bottlings. The small lot Chardonnay is whole cluster pressed, barrel fermented and aged sur lies with batonnage in 100% French oak for 11-15 months, undergoing 100% malolactic fermentation, then bottled unfined and unfiltered. It is hard to describe the richness, viscosity and beautiful texture of these wines. I think there are only a handful of California producers that capture this entire picture so brilliantly. 

Josh Widaman serves as Lewis winemaker. Josh has a B.S. in Viticulture & Enology from UC Davis, and brings 15 years of winemaking experience to Lewis. Josh previously served as winemaker at Pahlmeyer and has previously worked for 4 years as assistant winemaker at Chimney Rock Winery and has held multiple roles at Stags' Leap Winery, Gloria Ferrer, and Viña Tarapaca in Chile. His 2014 and 2015 ‘Napa Valley’ Chardonnay wines were absolutely superlative, offering gobs of rich fruit and a scintillating texture. Learn more about these stunning Chards at lewiscellars.com Here are the gorgeous past two ‘Napa Valley’ Chardonnay releases by Lewis Cellars.

2014 Lewis 'Napa Valley’ Chardonnay- This outrageously good, heavyhitter of a Chardonnay by Lewis, shows a gorgeous combination of poise, opulent fruit and condensed oak treatment in a hot vintage. There are rich aromatics of butterscotch, toasted Macadamia nut, bananas foster, Meyer lemon zest and ripe golden delicious apple. This leads to dense flavors reminiscent of creme brulee, butterscotch, vanilla cream, buttered popcorn, poached pear and meringue, with hints of Meyer lemon zest. With rich weight on the mid-palate, and marvelous acidity, this is a stunner from this estate. There is an oily and sexy Chardonnay, bordering unctuous, as the stunningly plush texture coats the palate. The finish is exceedingly long, as this Chard is one that will only improve with a few years of bottle age. This Chardonnay wine is up there with the best California Chardonnay releases that I have reviewed in the past year. Drink 2016-2028- 95

2015 Lewis 'Napa Valley' Chardonnay- Drinking brilliantly straight out of the bottle this warm vintage bottling is an absolute home run by Lewis and superstar winemaker Josh Widaman. Tropical fruits immediately grip you aromatically and bring you back to the glass for more seduction. The silky texture, almost unctuous quality to this wine borders ethereal. Ripe flavors of creme brulee, bananas foster, pineapple upside down cake and Meyer lemon zest merge tropical with citrus cream. The astoundingly long finish lingers. The minute long finish astounds. Drink this stunner over the next ten plus years. Drink 2017-2027- 95

Kerloo Cellars

A few days ago I visited the modern Kerloo tasting room in the SoDo district of Seattle and tasted with superstar winemaker Ryan Crane. Ryan founded Kerloo Cellars seven years ago in Walla Walla, Washington. He has created quite an empire as he has created a pretty serious following for his wines which always sell out quickly. His winemaking story began at Animale Cellars in Seattle, many years before starting Kerloo. Ryan later trained under Marie-Eve Gilla at Forgeron Cellars and later completed an AAAS in Enology and Viticulture in Walla Walla.

While in Walla Walla he became Assistant Winemaker at Va Piano Vineyards for three years under Justin Wylie and finally got the nerve to start his own gig. I was highly impressed with the new Grenache release by Kerloo, his 2015 Kerloo Cellars ‘Upland Vineyard’ Grenache. Ryan crafts one hell of a Cabernet. His 2015 Kerloo Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon (WWB, 92) is a beautiful wine that combines lovely herbaceousness and dark fruit flavors. 

Speaking with Ryan, he is very exited about the current 2017 vintage which is becoming more of a moderately warm year. He showed me some of the fruit in the fermenters which is already showing some really beautiful aromas. Ryan will only continue to grow as a winemaker and has certainly emerged as one of the top young talents in the state. Go check out these new release wines while you can. Learn more about Kerloo and their impressive lineup of wines at www.kerloocellars.com. 

2016 Kerloo Cellars ‘Celilo Vineyard’ Chardonnay- This cool vineyard 100% Wente clone Chardonnay was 100% whole cluster fermented. The winemaker picked this wine at 21 brix.  This saw six months battonage. This begins with aromas of banana, lemon curd and white peach. This has as wonderful salinity and minerality as the wine reveals tree fruit flavors with lemon rind and a touch of cream. The freshness of this wine is really lovely as this shows an old world feel. Drink 2017-2022- 91

2015 Kerloo Cellars “Majestic’ Red Wine - This is a classy blend of 69% Grenache, 26% Mourvedre and 5% Syrah. Sourced from the Den Hoed and Upland Vineyards as well as the Stone Tree Vineyards, this wine begins with pretty aromatics of red rose, red cherry and suggestions of bulls blood and orange rind. The texture is downright killer. This shows serious range and reveals black olive, red cherry, orange rind and pomegranate seed with smoke flavors. The acidity is also fabulous. Drink 2017-2025- 92

2015 Kerloo Cellars ‘Upland Vineyard’ Grenache- This wine is 100% whole cluster fermented Grenache sourced from the Upland Vineyard which was aged in neutral oak on the lees. This saw constant battonage until malolactic fermentation had been completed. This has very floral aromatics with rose petal, red cherry and pomegranate with lemon blossom accents. The texture is rich as this produces a wonderful mouthfeel. Red cherry starburst, bright strawberry, orange rind and suggestions of Shitake mushroom flavors complete this excellent wine. The saline streak is also impressive. Only 160 cases produced of this outstanding wine. Drink 2017-2027- 93

2015 Kerloo Cellars ‘Upland Vineyard’ Syrah- This great Syrah had 6% Viognier co-fermented and was given 100% whole cluster fermentation. The wine begins with aromas of black olive tapenade, wild mushroom, peat moss and slight suggestions of iodine. The savory aspects are intense as is the rich mouthfeel an beautiful texture. Bacon fat, peat moss, blood orange and red cherry flavors impress. This is a gorgeous wine made by superstar winemaker Ryan Crane. Drink 2017-2027- 93

2015 Kerloo Cellars ‘Stone Tree Vineyard’ Tempranillo- This Tempranillo sourced from the Stone Tree Vineyard was aged in 60% new French and American oak prior to bottling. The 100 case production wine begins with aromatics reminiscent of orange rind, red cherry, with wild mushroom. The mouthful is plush as the wine delivers bright flavors of red cherry cough syrup, blood orange, red raspberry and suggestions of black truffle. Tannic and somewhat backwards now, this has a bright acidity and will have a long life in the cellar. Drink 2017-2027- 91

2015 Kerloo Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon- Sourced from the Dionysis and Klipsun Vineyard this Cabernet was aged for 23 months in French oak prior to bottling. You have to love the herbal aromatic qualities here. Red fruits collide with dark fruits on the palate with chocolate accents. This finishes very long and has mouthwatering acidity. This is another outstanding wine made by Kerloo. Drink 2017-2027- 92

Two Vintners

One of the standout Woodinville wineries, Two Vintners continues to impress with their latest releases. A highly talented winemaker, Morgan Lee has roots in the Midwest and was originally inspired to pursue the wine industry by a wine appreciation class that he enjoyed while attending Purdue University. Previously interning at Columbia Crest, Morgan makes a range of outstanding wines, including one of the best, if not the best, Zinfandel in Washington.

Be sure to check out their 2016 Two Vintners Grenache Blanc (WWB, 91) which shows marvelous tension and green fruit flavors that is a perfect pair for most Asian foods (think spicy!!!). Also outstanding was the great value 2015 Two Vinters ‘Columbia Valley’ Syrah (WWB, 92) which is a dense and loaded treat. Showing great Walla Walla Rocks character, the 2015 Two Vintners ‘Some Days Are Stones’ Syrah (WWB, 93) has great range and poise from a warm vintage in this region. Learn more about these great new releases at https://twovintners.com Here are the great new wines by Two Vintners. 

2016 Two Vintners Grenache Blanc- This wine is sourced from the Boushey Vineyard. The wine was picked very early and Morgan Lee added 25% Roussanne (Olsen Vineyard) to the wine. The wine begins with aromatics of green apple, green papaya, and mango. The tension to this wine is really lovely. There is a silky mouthfeel and flavors of green papaya, Gravenstein apple and kumquat. This is refreshing and perfect for a hot summer day. Drink 2017-2022- 91

2016 Two Vintners ‘O’G’’ White Wine- This wine was first made in 2012. This is an orange wine made from Gewurtztraminer sourced from a block in the north slope in the Olsen Vineyard in the Yakima Valley AVA. The wine was left on the skins for eight weeks following fermentation and then was pressed and set in neutral French oak for ten months. There are highly fragrant aromatics of lychee, white peach and star jasmine. The mouthfeel is gorgeous as the wine showcases white peach, vanilla cream and crushed gardenia flavors. Drink 2017-2022- 91

2015 Make Haste Red Wine- This wine was originally a mistake wine made from Syrah and Sauvignon Blanc. It is now 100% Olsen Vineyard Cinsault fermented with native yeast. This is weighing in at 15.4% alcohol and wine is an aromatic blend of Asian spices, red currant and red cherry preserves. The mouthfeel and texture is lovely. Red fruits dominate the palate with vanilla cream and red raspberry liquor flavors impress. Drink 2017-2022- 91

2015 Two Vintners ‘Claire’ Grenache- This is the first vintage of this wine. Sourced from the Boushey Vineyard, this wine begins with aromatics of prune, red cherry preserves and hints of baking spices with dill. This has wonderful freshness considering the heat of the vintage. The wine shows off red cherry preserves, rose water and suggestions of baking spices with pomegranate puree. This a gorgeous feminine style wine with sterling acidity made by the talented hands of Morgan Lee. Drink 2017-2027- 92

2015 Two Vintners ‘Columbia Valley’ Syrah- This wine is a blend of fruit from the Olsen, Pepper Bridge, Discovery, Dineen, Stone Tree and Boyshey Vineyards. This has an inky core and begins with aromatics of Chinese black tea, black olive and suggestions of smoked pork shoulder. Ripe and downright delicious, the wine delivers milk chocolate, red cherry cough syrup and boysenberry pie flavors. Drink 2017-2024- 92

2015 Two Vintners ‘Some Days Are Diamonds’ Syrah- Sourced from the Discovery Vineyard the wine was aged in largely neutral oak prior to bottling This deep colored wine begins with aromas of smoked meats, black olive puree and suggestions of milk chocolate with baking spices. The minerality here is wonderful. The wine shows off milk chocolate, prune, baking spices and suggestions of smoked brisket flavors that sit alongside wonderful tension. The wine will cellar beautifully for a decade or more. Drink 2017-2027- 92

2015 Two Vintners ‘Some Days Are Stones’ Syrah- The wine shows off an inky color as the Syrah is entirely sourced from the Stoney Vine Vineyard. The wine was sourced in largely neutral oak with a touch of new oak puncheon fermentation. The wine was bottled following 18 months of fermentation. The Syrah begins with smoky aromatics of black tea, Asian spices, smoked short rib and Hoisin sauce with Umami. The mouthfeel is deep and plush. The minerarality there is outstanding. Burnt orange peel, red raspberry preserves, pomegranate seed and suggestions of seaweed complete this awesome bottling. Drink 2017-2026- 93

2015 Two Vintners ‘Lola’ Red Wine- The wine is 100% Walls Walla fruit sourced from the Stoney Vine, Yellow Jacket and the Pepper Bridge Vineyards. This inky wine begins with aromatics of bulls blood, black tea, smoke and soy sauce. This has marvelous weight and length. Black forest cake, black tea, baking spices and milk chocolate flavors impress. The tension in the wine completes this excellent bottling that finishes with some light tannins. Drink 2017-2027- 92

2015 Two Vintners Merlot- Sourced form largely the Pepper Bridge as well as Sheridan and Stone Tree Vineyards, the wine has 5% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot blended in. The wine was aged in 60% new French oak (22 months). The wine opens with a ripe bouquet of rose petals, back tea, blackberry pie and black cherry. The tension in the wine is outstanding. Black fruits connect with black tea and milk chocolate flavors that sit alongside some serious acidity, This is an outstanding wine made by the talented hands of Morgan Lee. Drink 2017-2028- 92

2014 Two Vintners ‘Legit’ Red Wine- Primarily Cabernet, this wine has some lesser parts Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc and Merlot blended in. The wine is sourced from the Discovery, Stone Tree, Pepper Bridge, Dineen, Kiona Vineyards. This inky colored wine opens with a bright bouquet of mocha, cigar box, creme de cassis and black olive, The mid-palate wight is really nice, as is the minerality. Black tea, black olive, coffee grounds and milk chocolate flavors impress. Lithe and downright delicious, this wine will have a long life in the cellar. Drink 2017-2030- 92

2014 Two Vintners ‘Sal’ Cabernet Sauvignon- Sourced from the Discovery Vineyard, this wine is named after the winemaker’s wife. Mocha, black tea and smoked pork shoulder dominate the aromatics. The tension here is really nice considering the obvious heat of the vintage. Blackberry, black tea and coffee ground flavors impress. The wine will cellar marvelously for a decade or more as this has marvelous balance and is made in the Bordelaise style. Drink 2017-2028- 92

2015 Two Vintners ‘Oliver’ Red Wine- Named after the winemaker’s son, the inky colored wine is an intriguing blend of 60% Petite Sirah, 20% Syrah and 20% Grenache. The wine opens with a bright bouquet of smoked meats, black olive, crushed mint and sagebrush accents. This has serious weight and tension. Black tea, smoked brisket, dark chocolate shavings and blueberry pie flavors impress. This has marvelous length, showing off a long finish. Drink 2017-2027- 93

2015 Two Vintners Zinfandel- Uber-dark and intense, this wine begins with brambly flavors of red cherry, dill, spice box and anise. This is burly and downright unctuous on the mid-palate. Cigar box, black tea, red cherry preserves and sagebrush flavors impress. Downright delicious, with serious acidity, this wine is one of a kind out of Washington state. Drink 2017-2026- 91

Ardor Cellars

Many might say that Syrah is the the single most important varietal in Washington. Founded by Brandon and Emma Kubrock, Ardor focuses on Syrahs from distinct vineyard sites across the Washington state. The rely on the winemaking talents of Aryn Morell who crafts wines for Gard, Alleromb as well as Matthews and Tenor. He is a seriously talented winemaker who makes great wine no matter the varietal.

His new Syrah releases from the hot 2015 vintage were rich while showing a nice sense of place and tension. Tension was hard to create in 2015 due to the heat spikes, as it was the hottest vintage and earliest harvest on record in Washington. The 2015 Ardor Cellars ‘Quarternarium Reserve’ Syrah (WWB, 94) was a stunner which shows really serious intensity and range. Nearly as good was their 2015 Ardor Cellars ‘Stoney Vine Vineyard’ Syrah (WWB, 93), which offers gorgeous terroir and wet stone character. Learn more about this awesome lineup of Ardor wines at http://www.ardorcellars.com Here are the great new releases by Ardor Cellars.

2015 Ardor Cellars Red Wine- Weighing in at 15.5% alcohol, this wine is a blend of 53% Grenache and 47% Syrah sourced from the Art Den Hoed, Lawrence and Stony Vine Vineyard. Slightly stony on the nose with red currant ad red cherry aromatics. The mouthfeel is plush and there is a nice purity of fruit here. Red currant, red cherry, pomegranate seed and suggestions of baking spices complete this great value. This is ripe and downright delicious wine from this warm vintage. Drink 2017-2025- 91

2015 Ardor Cellars ‘Quarternarium Reseve’ Syrah- The wine is sourced from equal parts of the Den Hoed, Lawrence, Red Heaven and Stony Vine Vineyards. The wine underwent roughly 25% whole cluster fermentation. This inky colored Syrah begins with aromatics reminiscent of tangerine, black tea, black cherry and sea salt, showing some really nice aromatic range. Plush and downright voluptuous, the wine shows Earl Grey tea, black olive, black cherry, coffee grounds and smoked brisket flavors. Decadent and delicious, this is smooth and silky. Drink 2017-2027- 94

2015 Ardor Cellars ‘Den Hoed Vineyard’ Syrah- The Syrah was aged for 15 months in used puncheons prior to bottling. This shows plush aromatics of black plum, asian spices, cigar box and black cherry cough syrup. There are lovely ripe red fruits like red cherry and pomegranate with a Mandarin orange rind edge and black olive. This represents ripe yet feminine style wine shows nice poise considering the heat of the vintage. Drink 2017-2027- 92

2015 Ardor Cellars ‘Lawrence Vineyard’ Syrah- This great Syrah underwent 25% whole cluster fermentation and is sourced from theLawrence Vineyard, located in the Royal City area. Showing off a dark core the wine begins with aromatics of black cherry cordial, blackberry pie, black olive tapenade and smoked meats. Meaty and savory, the wine shows a wonderful salinity. Black cherry, black olive, smoked pork shoulder and tar flavors combine to create an awesome effect. With mouthwatering acidity, this is impossible to resist right now. Drink 2017-2027- 93

2015 Ardor Cellars ‘Red Heaven Vineyard’ Syrah- The site is located below the Force MajeureVineyard and above theHedges Vineyard on Red Mountain. This shows an ultra dark fruit profile with wild blackberry preserves, mocha, black tea and baking spices. The weight and texture of this wine is lovely. Black tea, coffee grounds and milk chocolate flavors sit alongside some strong minerality. Drink 2017-2024- 92

2015 Ardor Cellars ‘Stoney Vine Vineyard ‘Syrah- The excellent Syrah underwent 40% whole cluster fermentation. Immediately you are drawn to the wet stone aspect of this great wine. Smoked meats, Mandarin orange and star jasmine with wet rock aromatics impress. The texture is gorgeous and plush. Blood orange rind, red cherry, pomegranate puree and suggestions of smoked brisket flavors show gorgeous range. This is another outstanding wine made by the talented hands of Aryn Morell. Drink 2017-2025- 93

2015 Ardor Cellars ‘Stoney Vine Vineyard’ Grenache- There is a wonderful purity of fruit to the nose with red cherry preserves, pomegranate, orange rind and seaweed. Slightly sweet, the wine shows delicious red fruit flavors with a slight stony aspect and nice salinity. The silky texture impresses. Drink 2017-2025- 91

Long Shadows 'Saggi'

A wine with serious prestige, the ‘Saggi,’ meaning ‘wisdom’ in Italian, is Long Shadows creation that is a one of a kind Washington wine. The wine is made by Ambrogio and Giovanni Folonari from the famed Folonari house in Tuscany, whose family has been in the wine industry since the 1700s. The ‘Saggi’ usually has more than 50% Sangiovese and utilizes Syrah and Cabernet all from the Columbia Valley. These wines are beautifully age-worthy as I have recently had the 2005 ‘Saggi’ which showed wonderful poise and richness. The wine seemed to be drinking right in its sweet spot. Recent releases of the ‘Saggi’ were simply gorgeous and showcased the heat of the vintage. While the ’14 ‘Saggi’ had less Sangiovese blended in, the 2015 had 10% more Sangio and showed wonderful red fruits with citrus elements. Both wines were simply spectacular.  Learn more about these great wines at http://www.longshadows.com Here are the last two releases of the Long Shadows ‘Saggi’ Red Wine. 

2014 Long Shadows ‘Saggi’ Red Wine- Following up the highly impressive 2013 'Saggi' bottling, this 2014 edition is packed with dense aromatics and flavors. Head winemakers Ambrogio and Giovanni Folonari from the famed Folonari house in Tuscany, head this project. The red wine highlights Candy Mountain and Bouchey vineyard Sangiovese as well as Stone Tree Vineyard Cabernet, as this is a blend of 52% Sangiovese, 32% Cabernet Sauvignon and 16% Syrah. This wine begins with aromatics of red cherry, anise, spicebox and hints of red raspberry and dried thyme. There are bright flavors of smoked pork shoulder, red cherry, coffee grounds and hints of white pepper with sagebrush. The finish lingers in this one of a kind Washington red blend. While this is absolutely stunning right out of the bottle, this will also cellar well into the next decade. Drink 2016-2027- 93

2015 Long Shadows ‘Saggi’ Red Wine- this compelling wine is a blend of 62% Sangiovese with 28% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Syrah. This wine begins with highly perfumed aromatics of baking spices, Earl Grey tea, pipe tobacco and red currant. The mouthfeel here is downright seductive, as the plush texture coats the mid-palate. This red wine delivers flavors reminiscent of black tea, red currant, red cherry preserves and suggestions of orange rind. The powerful finish impresses. This is another outstanding effort by the superstar winemaking team of Long Shadows. Drink 2017-2028- 94

Lagana Cellars

An excellent Walla Walla Winery focusing on high quality white wines, Lagana Cellars was founded by Jason Fox in 2013. Jason is asomewhat recent graduate of the Walla Walla Community College Enology and Viticulture program, and sources from some of the best vineyards in the state, including Sagemoor and Seven Hills vineyards. A downright awesome guy to chat wine with, I recently had a chance to stop by his downtown Walla Walla tasting room, located near the Marcus Whitman hotel. Jason talked about his excitement for the recent vintages in Washington.

I think he has done an excellent job with his white wines in some warm and challenging vintages where acidity is paramount. He performed well with a warm vintage Sauvignon Blanc as his 2014 Lagana Cellars ‘Sagemoor Vineyard’’ Sauvignon Blanc (WWB, 90) shows a wonderful astringency and cut grass flavors. Even better was his 2014 Lagana Cellars ‘Minnick Hills’ Syrah (WWB, 92) which has wonderful terroir and range, as well as tension. Learn more about these wines at http://www.laganacellars.com Here are the new wine releases by Lagana Cellars. 

2016 Lagana Cellars ‘Cockburn Ranch’ Chardonnay- The Cockburn Ranch Chardonnay was aged in 100% stainless steel. There are aromatics of red delicious apple, white peach and white flowers. This leads to flavors of vanilla cream, Bartlett pear and a touch of banana. The structure is lovely as this is done in the refreshing style. Only 82 cases made. Drink 2017-2022- 90

2014 Lagana Cellars ‘Sagemoor Vineyard’ Sauvignon Blanc- The 2014 Sagemoor Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc is a wine that shows wonderful freshness. Sourced from block 309, on the eastern side of the esteemed Sagemoor Vineyards, this opens with a bouquet of honeysuckle, Pazzaz apple and lychee with cut grass accents. The mineral streak is impressive, showing Key lime, white grapefruit and tamarind flavors. While the fruit is subtle, the structure is marvelous.  Drink 2017-2022- 90

2014 Lagana ‘Breezy Slope Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- The 2014 Lagana Cellars 'Breezy Slope Vineyard' Pinot Noir is a great warm vintage wine. The wine underwent 33% whole cluster fermentation and was aged in largely neutral oak barrels prior to bottling. This vineyard is located just outside of Walla Walla on the foothills of the Blue Mountains. The wine begins with aromas of rose petals, red cherry and hints of blood orange. This has a plush texture as the wine shows off red fruits and has a famine edge and finishes with some lighter citrus elements. Drink 2017-2025- 90

2015 Nox Perpetua ‘Seven Hills Vineyard’ Carmenere- Crafted by Jason Fox of Lagana Cellars, the 2015 Nox Perpetua Carmenere was aged in 42% new French oak for 18 months prior to bottling. This has a very deep core with aromatics of dark fruits, white pepper and suggestions of baking spices. This has marvelous weight and texture, showcasing blackberry jam, black tea, Asian spices and suggestions of nutmeg. This is delicious, rich and lithe wine that will cellar beautifully over the next decade. Drink 2017-2025- 91

2014 Lagana Cellars ‘Minnick Hills’ Syrah- The 2014 'Minnick Hills Vineyard' Syrah by Lagana Cellars is an outstanding, terroir driven release from a warm vintage. Smoky, earthy and aromatically gorgeous, this wine opens with creosote, bacon fat, red currant and red cherry aromatics. This leads to deep flavors of smoked pork shoulder, black olive tapenade, crushed mint, and sagebrush accents. This has wonderful weight, poise and concentration, as this is a gorgeous effort that is best enjoyed in the short-term made by talented head winemaker Jason Fox. Drink 2017-2024. 92

Melka Wines

One of the great consulting winemakers in North America, Philippe Melka has his hand in everything from Paso Robles Syrah to Washington Cabernet. He even makes a stunning Rose! Originally from France, Melka holds a degree in Geology at the University of Bordeaux. After he took a class in winemaking in his final year of undergraduate, he went on to earn a Master’s degree in Agronomy and Enology. Wirth previous stops at Chateau Haut-Brion and Chateau Petrus, in 1994 Melka returned to Napa full time and has been consulting for some of the great wineries in North America. Melka and his wife, Cherie produce four labels from different terroirs: Metisse from Napa Valley, Mekerra from Sonoma Valley, Majestique from around the world and CJ, also from Napa Valley.

I recently had a chance to taste these great wines with Cherie Melka and she talked about how she and Philippe met and the story behind Melka Wines. These are simply stunning and age worthy wines that deserve some serious attention. One of the great wines that I have sampled from Paso Robles in the past year, the 2014 Melka Wines ‘Majestique’ Syrah (WWB, 95) is sourced from the esteemed Paderewski Vineyard that is owned by Epoch. This dense monster of a wine is a true heavyhitter that shows tremendous range and concentration. Not to be outdone was their 2013 Melka Wines ‘Mekerra La Mekerra Vineyard’ Red Wine (WWB, 96) which is a simply scintillating bottling that would compete with any of the best Right Bank Bordeaux wines in the world. Learn more about these special wines at https://www.melkawines.com Here are the great new release wines by Melka Wines. 

2016 Melka WInes Rose- This is 100% Cabernet Franc from a vineyard in Knight’s Valley just made for Rose. This has aromatics of cantaloupe, rose water and suggestions of watermelon. The acidity is gorgeous as there are light red fruit flavors with a touch of orange rind. Only 25 cases made. Drink 2017-2024- 92

2014 Melka Wines ‘Mekerra Proprietary White’ White Wine- This Sauvignon Blanc wine was 100% barrel fermented in cigar shaped barrels for 23 months. The vineyard is set on 2400 feet elevation which is extremely high elevation for the varietal. Seductive aromatics of honeydew, brioche and white flowers impress. The mouthfeel to this wine is gorgeous as flavors of honeysuckle, white peach, pink grapefruit and brioche. The weight is marvelous here. Drink 2017-2026- 92

2014 Melka Wines ‘Majestique’ Syrah- This wine is sourced from the Paderewski Vineyard in Paso Robles. The vineyard is set on limestone and is known for inky and highly concentrated Syrah. The wine is fermented in open top fermenters. The wine was aged for 22 months in 70% new French oak prior to bottling. The wine opens with a bright bouquet of Turkish coffee, spicebox, anise and black cherry cough syrup. The texture is simply gorgeous and downright scintillating. Flavors of creme de cassis, dark chocolate shavings, blueberry pie and suggestions of baking spices impress. The fruit weight is there as is an elegant side. Drink 2017-2030- 95

2013 Melka Wines ‘Mekerra La Mekerra Vineyard’ Red Wine- This vineyard is named after Philippe Melka’s Algerian roots. The wine is a blend of 53% Cabernet Franc and 47% Merlot. Set on limestone, the vineyard is planted entirely to Cabernet and Merlot.This homage to Right Bank Bordeaux wine was aged for 20 months in 60% French oak prior to bottling. This has an intense nose, yielding rather intoxicating aromatics of creme de cassis, coffee grounds, milk chocolate and sagebrush. Plush, hedonistic yet elegant, this has a gorgeous mouthfeel and silky texture as the wine glides along the mid-palate. The velvety textural experience brings you back to the glass. Mocha, anise, creme de cassis, spice box and sweet pipe tobacco flavors impress. This is a stunner by Melka Wines. This has some very serious aging potential. Drink 2018-2040- 96

2013 Melka Wines ‘Metisse Jumping Goat Vineyard’ Red Wine- This is sourced from a small, 3 acre vineyard planted in 1997 which is owned by Jim and Stephanie Gamble. The wine is a blend of 82% Cabernet Sauvignon with 15% Petit Verdot and 3% Merlot. This is their take on a left bank style wine. This inky colored wine begins with an intense aromas of Chinese black tea, anise creme de cassis and black olive tapenade with black cherry preserves. Dense, deep and layered the texture of this wine is downright delicious. Graphite, creme de cassis, anise and black olive with mocha flavors impress. The silky texture is incredible here as this is another heavyhitter by Melka Wines. The elegance is there. Drink 2018-2040- 96

Amavi Cellars

One of the great stops in Walla Walla, Amavi is a small, family owned winery that uses some of the best of Walla Walla Vallley fruit. Amavi sources from vineyards such as Seven Hills, Pepper Bridge and Les Collines to create their rich and ready to drink wines. Head winemaker Jean-François Pellet is a third-generation winemaker and grape grower. Pellet also makes wines for Amavi’s sister property, Pepper Bridge, which have also impressed with his outstanding new release wines. 

The Amavi red wines come from the warm 2014 vintage and are every bit outstanding. Unlike some of his Pepper Bridge wines, the winemaking at Amavi is geared towards less structure and more fruit. I think Pellet has hit a home run with his new Syrah and Cabernet bottlings — both of which are fruity but have a nice mineral backbone. The 2014 Amavi Cellars ‘Walla Walla Valley’ Syrah (WWB, 92) is beautifully textured and shows great ripeness. Even better was the 2014 Amavi Cellars ‘Walla Walla Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon (WWB, 93) which was decadent but showed excellent elegance. Learn more about Amavi at http://www.amavicellars.com

2016 Amavi Semillion- This blend of 85% Semillion and 15% Sauvignon Blanc from Amavi showcases fruit from Les Collines and Seven Hills vineyards. It has a clean and aromatic nose consisting of lemon zest and flowers, followed by flavors of honeydew melon and touch of gravel and wet stone. The fresh acid is well balanced with a hint of vanilla from the neutral French oak. This is a really memorable effort by Amavi. Drink 2017-2020- 92 (J.H.)

2014 Amavi ‘Walla Walla Valley’ Syrah- The 2014 Amavi Syrah is a spectacular wine composed of 96% Syrah and 4% Grenache, which was aged in 14% new French oak. This delicious Syrah is both earthy and savory, current displaying green olives, crushed pebbles on the nose, and balanced flavors of black currant, cloves, white pepper and mushroom on the palate. The mouthfeel here is rich and elegant. Drink 2017-2024- 92 (J.H.)

2014 Amavi ‘Walla Walla Valley’ Cabernet Sauvignon- The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon from Amavi is an outstanding effort made from predominantly 77% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Cabernet Franc.  It starts with intense aromatics of ripe red currants, black olives and coconut.  Its flavor profile is earthy and rustic with a dense core of pomegranate and Bing cherries accompanied by secondary notes of black truffles, spice box, wet stone and gravel.  It is a tremendously complex integration of flavors that attacks the palate from all directions and will only improve with time.  Drink 2017-2024- 93 (J.H.)

K Vintners

Founder of K Vintners, Charles Smith remains is one of the biggest players in Washington wine. This larger than life man has received incredible acclaim for his wines over the years and he has amassed brands such as K Vinters, Sixto, Secco, as well as his famous Charles Smith label wines. While he has traditionally been based in Walla Walla, he is a city man at heart and created an amazing place to taste his wines in south Seattle in the Georgetown district, his iconic Jet City tasting room.

Brennan Leighton serves as winemaker for K Vintners. Brennan produces some amazing wine of his own under his own label. Known for world class Syrah, Brennan’s 2013 K Vintners ‘Royal City’ Syrah landed on my Top 100 last year. His new release wines by K Vintners label were impressive bottlings. Look for the awesome 2014 K Vintners ‘Rock Garden’ Syrah (WWB, 93) which shows a wonderful range of aromatics and flavors, maintaining the stony quality of The Rocks of Milton-Freewater region. Also downright gorgeous was the 2014 B Leighton ‘Gratitude’ Red Wine (WWB, 93) which is largely a Mourvedre wine that shows a silky texture that Leighton is known for. Learn more about these outstanding new wines at http://winesofsubstance.comwww.charlessmithwines.com 

2016 K Vintners ‘Art Den Hoed’ Viognier- This wine was partially fermented in concrete and neutral oak prior to bottling. This wine begins with bright aromatics of lychee, green apple and poached pear, The palate is lithe showcasing vanilla cream, Key lime and green apple flavors. This has wonderful balance. Drink 2017-2022- 91

2014 K Vintners ‘Rock Garden’ Syrah- This wine was aged for 18 months in 40% new French oak prior to bottling. The wine begins with intense aromatics of bulls blood, orange rind and red cherry preserves as well as wild mushroom. The weight on the mid-palate is outstanding as this shows wonderful length and texture. This has bright red cherry, dill, red raspberry, orange rind and bulls blood flavors that lead to a long and lingering finish. Drink 2017-2025- 93

2014 K Vintners ‘El Jefe’ Tempranillo- Sourced from the Stoneridge Vineyard, this wine begins with a bouquet of smoked meats, scorched earth, black tea and black olive with roasted fig accents. The weight is lovely, as is the texture to this ripe wine. Black tea, black olive tapenade, black cherry and suggestions of orange rind flavors build to a slightly tannic finish. Drink 2017-2025- 92

2014 K Vintners ‘Broncho’ Malbec- This wine was sourced from the Stoneridge Vineyard and opens with aromatics of black tea, black olive, mocha and black cherry pie. The palate has nice weight showing off black tea, milk chocolate and black olive flavors.that sit alongside some mild to moderate tannins. Drink 2017-2025- 92

2014 B Leighton ‘Gratitude’ Red Wine- This wine is a blend of 70& Mourvedre, 25% Grenache, 5% Syrah. The translucent colored wine has aromatics of ripe prune, red cherry, fennel and suggestions of blood orange. The wine has downright sexy flavors of black tea, black olive red raspberry and Asian spices. You have to love the tension and texture here. Drink 2017-2024- 93

Red Car

Makers of one of the best Rose wines you will find, Red Car has a stunning lineup. If you want to have tasting room staff talk endlessly about themselves, then visit their Russian River Valley tasting room. Otherwise seek these great wines out elsewhere or on their website. Seriously, our tasting room guy was talking about how one of the Pinot Noir releases reminded him of the velvet curtain at his favorite artist’s house. My colleague and I politely rolled our eyes at one another. 

As for the wines, they are seriously good. As mentioned, this new release Rose (WWB, 92) is worth seeking out as it is shows wonderful intensity and a silky mouthfeel. Seriously delicious, with a wonderful tension is the 2014 Red Car ‘Estate Vineyard’ Pinot Noir (WWB, 92) which shows wonderful red fruits and a great saline streak. Look for these wines at https://redcarwine.com

2016 Red Car Rose- Made from Pinot Noir grapes this great wine begins with aromas of rose petals, red cherry and suggestions of red raspberry. The palate is lithe showing flavors of red cherry, guava and strawberry. You have to love the brightness and silky texture to this great Rose. Drink 2017-2022- 92

2014 Red Car 'Manchester Ridge' Chardonnay- This small production wine is sourced from Mendocino County set at 2,000 feet. The wine begins with bright aromatics of Pazzaz apple, vanilla cream and hazelnuts. This leads to flavors of red delicious apple and vanilla cream. The minerality of this wine is gorgeous. Drink 2017-2026- 92

2014 Red Car 'Manchester Ridge' Pinot Noir- This excellent Pinot Noir wine begins with aromatics of red cherry, rose petals and red raspberry with teaberry accents. The palate is lithe showcasing red fruit flavors and spicebox elements. Drink 2017-2027- 91

2014 Red Car 'Estate Vineyard' Pinot Noir- The Estate Vineyard is located in the Fort-Ross AVA which was planted in 2005. The wine opens with a ripe bouquet of Asian spices, ash, red cherry and red raspberry. This leads to flavors of red cherry, pomegranate seed, and blood orange. This has wonderful texture and minerality, as well as salinity. This wine will age gracefully for a decade or more. Drink 2017-2027- 92

2012 Red Car 'Estate Vineyard' Syrah- This limited production wine begins with aromas of smoke, black tea and black olive aromatics. The salinity of the wine is lovely. Black olive tapenade, pipe tobacco and black tea flavors impress alongside lovely minerality. You have to admire the terroir here. Drink 2017-2027- 92

Foxen

One of the drop dead gorgeous spots in the Santa Rita Hills, Foxen is set in the countryside roughly an hour outside of Santa Barbara. Foxen has two lines of wines – one that focuses on Bordeaux style wines and another that produces Burgundian styles, along with an some gorgeous single vineyard Syrah wines. Sideways decided to film one of their big scenes here but these wines are the true showstopper. Foxen has gained a national reputation for outstanding Pinot Noir but their Bordeaux wines are also very impressive. Bill Wathen and David Whitehair stand at the helm of Foxen’s superstar winemaking team. 

I’ve been tasting wines at Foxen for more than a decade and have always been impressed with the consistency of their red and white wines. The new wines by Foxes were gorgeous. Look for their stunning new Chardonnay release, the 2015 Foxen ‘Bien Nacido Vineyard Block UU’ Chardonnay (WWB, 93) which is one of the best Chardonnay bottling that I have sampled from this AVA in the past year. Even better was the scintillating 2014 Foxen ‘Melville Vineyard’ Pinot Noir (WWB, 95) which is a true heavy hitter of a wine, showing copious red fruits and a downright sexy mouthfeel and texture. Learn more about these outstanding wines at http://www.foxenvineyard.com/ Here are some of the fantastic new release wines from Foxen.

2014 Foxen ‘Ernesto Wickenden Vineyard’ Chenin Blanc- This wine saw four months in neutral oak. This wine opens with a bouquet of pear, honeydew melon and nutmeg. This leads to ripe flavors of ripe pear, pink grapefruit, Pazzaz apple and suggestions of baking spices. This has a plush mouthfeel and a lovely texture. Drink 2017-2022- 91 $28

2015 Foxen ‘Bien Nacido Vineyard Block UU’ Chardonnay- This hot vintage wine was aged in neutral oak for eight months prior to bottling. This begins. with bright aromatics of butterscotch, white peach, New York apple pie and nutmeg accents. The Chardonnay has beautiful flavors of Meyer lemon rind, creme brulee, ripe banana and a lingering, m cream driven finish. The plush texture is outstanding. Drink 2017-2022- 93 $32

2014 Foxen ‘Santa Maria Valley’ Pinot Noir- This wine was sourced from Solomon Hills, Bien Naciedo and River Bench Vineyards. This wine was aged for 9 months in varying aged French oak aged from 1-6 years. This lovely wine begins with aromatics of ripe cherry, red raspberry, orange rind and rose petal accents. This has a lovely lush texture, as the wine glides through the mid-palate. There are dense flavors of red cherry starburst, red raspberry, cola and spice box accents. A complete wine, this is another outstanding value from Foxen. Drink 2017-2027- 93 $38

2014 Foxen ‘Bien Nacido Vineyard Block 8’ Pinot Noir- This gorgeous wine spent 17 months in 30% new French oak prior to bottling. The Pinot Noir was sourced from an 11 acre block was was planted exclusively for the Foxen winemaker. This wine begins with aromas of spicebox, Asian spices, red cherry pie and black raspberry with earthy tones. The palate shows very ripe flavors of black tea, black cherry, baking spices and red raspberry. This is plush, dense and exceedingly delicious as the dark fruits shine through. Drink 2017-2028- 94 $62

 2014 Foxen ‘John Sebastiano Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- This gorgeous wine was aged for 17 months in 50% new French oak prior to bottling. This wine begins with beautiful aromatics of pomegranate puree, red cherry, red raspberry pie and suggestions of baking spices. Cola, Asian spices, red cherry pie and lavender accents coat the mid-palate. Delicious, delicate and seductive, this has a marvelous cross between weight and feminine red fruit flavors. The purity of fruit is exceptional. Drink 2017-2029- 94 $62

2013 Foxen ‘La Encantada Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- Sourced from a vineyard planted by Richard Sanford in 2000, this wine was aged for 17 months in 40% new French oak our to bottling. The wine begins with aromatics of spicebox, red cherry, pomegranate and orange rind. Lithe and plush, this wine has wonderful salinity, showing red cherry, guava and red raspberry flavors. This is feminine and delicious while showing a silky mouthfeel and a wonderful minerality. Drink 2017-2029- 93 $62

2013 Foxen ‘Fe Ciega Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- This is sourced from an eight acre vineyard near Sanford Winery. The wine begins with bright aromatics of cinnamon, loganberry jam and red cherry,. This mouthfeelis plush and intense. This has a wonderful red currant and citrus astringency to go with the lovely red fruit flavors, as this also shows a touch of salinity. This gorgeous Pinot Noir wine will be another long ager by superstar winemaker Billy. Drink 2017-2029- 93 $62

2014 Foxen ‘Melville Vineyard’ Pinot Noir- One of the outstanding regional bottlings that I sampled this year, the 2014 Foxen ‘Melville Vineyard’ Pinot Noir is an absolutely stunning effort. This Pinot Noir wine was sourced from esteemed Melville Vineyard and sat in 33% new French oakfor 17 months and utilizes Dijon 115 and Dijon 777 clones. The wine begins with strawberry jam, red cherry preserves, orange rind and suggestions of hazelnut aromatics. This has a plush texture and a lovely mouthfeel as flavors of Asian spices, red cherry preserves, loganberry jelly and white pepper. This has a wonderful structure and weight, as this glides through the mid-palate. This is another stunner from Foxen. Drink 2017-2030- 95 $62

2013 Foxen ‘Range 30 West’ Red Wine- An blend of 54% Merlot, 48% Cabernet Franc, this wine was aged for 22 months in French oak prior to bottling. This plush wine begins with aromatics reminiscent of dill, red bell pepper and red raspberry with red cherry accents. Flavor's of red cherry, green bell pepper, marionberry pie and asparagus impress. This has a wonderful texture and silky mouthfeel. Drink 2017-2027- 92 $32

2013 Foxen ‘Vogelzang Vineyard’ Cabernet Sauvignon- Showing some nice depth, this wine was aged for 22 months in 60% new French oak prior to bottling. This dense colored Cabernet bottling begins with ripe aromatics reminiscent of black cherry cough syrup, black tea, spice box and blackberry pie. Dense flavors of wild blackberry, red raspberry, thyme and free bell pepper persist with light tannins. Drink 2017-2026- 91 $52

2014 Foxen ‘Los Potreros’ Cabernet Sauvignon- This wine was mostly sourced from the Starling Vineyard. The Cabernet begins with ripe aromatics of black tea, blackberry cobbler and milk chocolate. The mouthfeel is silky, leading to ripe flavors of black cherry, black tea, milk chocolate and suggestions of baking spcies. This is fruity and delicious forward style Cabernet wine that shows some moderate tannins at this juncture. Drink 2017-2026- 91 $52

2014 Foxen ‘Tinaquaic Vineyard’ Cabernet Franc- The wine is sourced from their estate vineyard that is set on an ancient seabed and loamy soil. Cabernet Franc was planted there in 2008 and has 18% Petit Verdot blended in. The wine begins with aromatics of black tea, red bell pepper, and blackberry pie. The palate shows earthy characters of black tea, green bell pepper, radish and milk chocolate with red cherry accents. This shows tremendous range and ha a wonderful mouthfeel and minerality. Drink 2017-2027- 92 $42

2013 Foxen ‘Tinaquaic Vineyard’ Syrah- This wine has 7% Viognier blended in. The wine begins with bright aromatics of black tea, black cherry and mocha accent/s with a floral edge. The palate is plush as the wine currently displays bright favors of red cherry, pomegranate, black tea and mocha accents. This is rich and juicy wine that shows a great minerality. Drink 2017-2025- 92 $48

2013 Foxen ‘Willamson-Dore’ Syrah- Rich and round, this gorgeous 100% Syrah wine begins with black plum, blackberry pie and mint with coffee grounds. The palate is dense and shows wonderful flavors of bulls blood, black tea, mint, black cherry and black raspberry liquor. The range of flavors at play entices. This is an absolute stunner from this estate. Drink 2017-2027- 94 $48