Three Killer North Coast California Reds from the Cellar

As readers of this blog know, I review a lot of wines, especially wines from California. Sure I'm an Old World-lover, but I never go too long without sipping some California goodness. Here's a peak into the kinds of California wines that I buy and cellar.

Two of these wines come from Mendocino (which I've visited several times and love), and one is a rare red blend from Humboldt County. All three of these wines stood out in recent weeks as excellent, exciting wines, all of which could have been cellared further, especially the Bedrock Syrah.

My notes on some stellar wines are below...

2009 Cabot Vineyards Confluence
California, North Coast, Humboldt County
Gorgeous aromas of mushroom, savory spice, anise, roses, rhubarb, on top of red currant and cherries (the fruit is still going!). Crisp acidity frames the wine but the dusty tannins provide structure, along with tart, chilled red fruits, some currant compote, The balance is gorgeous, and the complexity is impressive in flavors of: black pepper, broth, mushroom, leather, black tea. Impressive depth and complexity – this would be a great ringer in an aged Bordeaux tasting. A Merlot, Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. (92 points)

2013 Bedrock Wine Co. Syrah Alder Springs Vineyard
California, North Coast, Mendocino County
Aromas of saucy backberry, lots of smoke and meat and charcoal, grilled herbs, violets – just wow. Grippy tannins but vibrant acidity keeps it lively. Black cherry and plum fruit, generous but tangy. A host of complex soy, smoke, peppered steak, tar, olive and leather make this complex and astounding wine. I love Bedrock, and this wine in particular, but I think this may be the best one I’ve tasted from Mogran. Hats off, sir. Well done. This has a decade+ of evolution ahead. The most Cornas-y California Syrah I’ve tasted in a while. (95 points)

2013 Radio-Coteau Pinot Noir Savoy Vineyard
California, North Coast, Anderson Valley
Gorgeous aromatic displays: red apple peel, red cherry, along with bright roses, raspberry leaf tea, herbal oils, mushroom – wow. The palate is medium-bodied, the tannins provide solid structure and crisp acidity. Tart red cherries, red currants and wild strawberry, the fruit is gorgeous, and laced with spicy pepper, broth, mushroom, cinnamon sticks. These elements will be even better in 2-5 years, but this is already gorgeous. (94 points)