94 Points - Chris Sawyer "Sommelier to the Stars"
This is one of those powerhouse California blockbuster blends that just works. It just begs you to bring some to the party, splash it around, you get the idea. Approachable now or cellar for up to a decade... if you can wait that long. Grab a handful, bring on the meats and enjoy!
Food Pairings: To match the lavish flavors and grip in this brilliant blend, serve this wine with blue cheese aside nuts and dried fruits, charcuterie, risotto with wild mushrooms, juicy burgers, roasted squab, pan-seared duck with blueberry reduction sauce, Korean barbeque, gamey meats, or Osso Buco.
Varietals: 76% Petite Sirah and smaller portions of Zinfandel, Grenache & Syrah
Appellation: Mendocino County
Alcohol: 14.8% by volume
Total acid: 6.59 g/L
pH: 3.65
Aging: 20 months on American oak
97 Points
Aromas of blackberries, graphite, and crushed rock, along with cedar, tobacco leaf, cassis, and a medley of dry herbs and spice.
A substantial mouthfeel, full-bodied structure, firm tannins gracefully interweave, establishing a flawless equilibrium of acidity and pleasing fruit. Well-balanced acidity collaborate harmoniously to accentuate the intricate flavors of berry compote, spices, and oak nuances reminiscent of mocha.
97 Points
Lush and fleshy, with cassis, boysenberry, and blackberry notes guided by hints of alder and mesquite. Stays open but defined through the finish, with a buried hint of sweet tobacco. A rich, layered beast, this has a nose rife with currants, blackberries, vanilla, and light toast with flavors of mocha, plum, and Bing cherry that mingle harmoniously on the tongue.
95 Points
This stellar Napa Valley Red Blend marries lush plum and cherry with Malbec's dark berry depth and Petit Verdot's structure and spice. Layered with notes of blackberry, violet, and cocoa, this silky wine finishes with smooth tannins and a whisper of toasted oak. Robust and mouth-filling, with spicy nuances, smooth tannins, firm structure, and a long lingering finish.
Gold Medal
Generously packed with black cherry, cola, cassis, and plum that all intermingle together in a creamy, velvety texture with great layering, finishing with delightful notes of oak and spice. Persistent, well-defined structure, wonderfully balanced.
98 Points
Deep purple hue and an alluring aromatic profile of fresh blue fruits and delicate violets. On the palate, it delivers a seamless and layered texture, framed by supple, polished tannins and a refined sense of balance. Elegantly structured, it offers remarkable purity and finesse, finishing with graceful length and poise.
