90 + Very Good Wine

Dec 282011
 
2007 Caymus Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, CA, $75 (S) – Rating 95

A very expressive Cabernet that needs at least 2 hours to fully open. Patience will be rewarded with rich fleshy fruit and flavors of dark cherry, blackberries, dark fruit, ripe plum, spice with espresso and cocoa on the finish. Well-integrated, yet sturdy, tannins add to the complexity.

Dec 282011
 
2009 Lava Cap Reserve Viognier. El Dorado, CA, $30 (S) – Rating 90

An excellent example of California Viognier from Lava Cap Winery and a wonderful Chardonnay alternative. Rich flavors of ripe pineapple, honeysuckle, vanilla and peach enhanced by a touch of crême brulée and minerality. A bit of zippy acidity adds complexity and makes for better food pairing.

Dec 282011
 
2007 Hawk and Horse Vineyards, Red Hills Cabernet Sauvignon, Lake County, CA, $65 (S) – Rating 91

Hawk and Horse has created one of the better Lake County Cabernets. Full-bodied with bold black cherry and blackberry flavors accentuated with notes of cocoa, toasty oak and dark spices. Well integrated and supple tannins add to the complexity and depth. Both Demeter Biodynamic and CCOF Organic certified.

Dec 282011
 
2009 MacPhail Family Wines Vagon Rouge, Anderson Valley, CA, $56 (S) – Rating 91

This select blend from MacPhail Family Wines is a bit shy so give it a little time to open up to really see the subtle complexity shine through. A medium-bodied yet rich Pinot Noir with a rustic nose of smokey cherry, cinnamon and cola gives way to jammy flavors of blueberry, dark cherry, rhubarb, spice-box and cola. Should get even better over 2012-2014.

Dec 272011
 
2008 Sullivan Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon , Estate Bottled, Rutherford, Napa Valley, CA, $56 (S) – Rating 91

A striking example of Napa – Rutherford Cabernet. Be patient and decant for at least an hour. You’ll be rewarded with a powerful yet balanced Cabernet with flavors of dark cherry, blackberry, plum, cocoa, spice box and just a hint of the famous Rutherford dust. Well integrated tannins complete this beauty from Sullivan Vineyards.