Wine Reviews: Gundlach Bundschu & Peju

I received new releases from Sara Fowler, who has been making wine at Napa’s Peju Winery. This Rutherford estate, found by Tony and Herta Peju in 1982, and a well-known spot for Napa wine tourists. They produce a wide range of wines (about 40), but I tasted six wines with wide national availability.

I also tasted some new wines from Sonoma stalwart Gundlach Bundschu (a.k.a., “Gun Bun”). An historic estate, it dates back to 1858, when Jacob Gundlach founded the Rhinefarm Vineyard. I’ve been enjoying these wines for a long time, and I think Gun Bun wines can show a lot of quality for the price.

These wines were received as trade samples and tasted sighted.

2018 Gundlach Bundschu Gewürztraminer Estate Vineyard - California, Sonoma County, Sonoma Coast
SRP: $25
Pale lemon color. So juicy on the nose, with pineapple, lychee and lime, along with mint, orange flowers, verbena and rich honey. Plump texture, a waxy feel, yet vibrant acidity, which is great to see in a Gewurztraminer. This tastes dry (tiny hint of sugar), fresh, yet it’s so tropical and juicy. Pineapple, apricot, lychee and mango nectar, but the fruit is topped in spiced tea, honey, with chalk and minerals. Lovely stuff, a pure, lively California Gewurztraminer. 14.3% alcohol, aged in stainless steel and old oak. (90 points)

2017 Gundlach Bundschu Mountain Cuvée - California, Sonoma County, Sonoma Valley
SRP: $20
Vibrant purple color. Aromas of lush black cherries, red and black currants, juicy but fresh fruit topped in spicy pepper, tobacco and mint, cocoa and coffee. Full-bodied, velvety tannins, but medium acidity keeps it lively. Smooth, yummy but fresh fruit (blackberries, all sorts of currants), mixed well with notes of peppery spice, earth, cocoa and coffee. This has a lot of class, balance and a whole lot of deliciousness for such a reasonable price. Drink or hold for a few. Merlot with 7% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc, 7% Petit Verdot, 5% Malbec, aged eight months in 15% new French oak. (89 points)

2016 Gundlach Bundschu Cabernet Sauvignon - California, Sonoma County, Sonoma Valley

SRP: $55
Deep purple color. Concentrated aromas of dark currants, blackberries, along with smoky charcoal, graphite, mint chocolate chip, tobacco, vanilla. Built well on the palate, but the tannins are nice and smooth, and moderate acidity. Black currants and blackberry, deep but crunchy fruit, laced with fallen leaves, graphite, mint, mocha and vanilla notes. Round but fresh, structured but opens nicely with just a bit of air. This is already showing lots of nuance and smoothness, but could benefit from a few years as well. Includes 8% combined of Merlot, Petit Verdot and Malbec, the wine is aged 18 months in 45% new French oak. (89 points)

2016 Gundlach Bundschu Merlot - California, Sonoma County, Sonoma Valley
SRP: $35
Medium purple color. Nose boasts juicy black cherries and deep currants, topped in roasted coffee, vanilla, mint, and a cool mix of black pepper and red pepper flakes. Full but smooth on the palate with moderate acidity, this is fun, fresh, and tangy, but shows plenty of depth, and solid complexity. Tart red and black currants and blueberries, juicy and suave, with notes of tobacco, mint and mocha. Fun now but could develop well over the next few years easily. Includes 9% Petit Verdot and 9% Cabernet Sauvignon, aged 17 months in 40% new French oak. (89 points) 

2018 Peju Province Winery Sauvignon Blanc - California, Napa Valley
SRP: $25
Pale lemon color. On the nose, a burst of kiwi, white peach, with honeysuckle, saline, mint and oregano elements. Brisk acidity frames the wine so nicely on the palate, but there’s a lot of juicy texture, with sweet white peach, topped in kiwi and lime. Notes of white tea, saline, fresh white flowers, mountain stream minerals, adding a lot of complexity and a mouthwatering feel. Pure, vibrant and pretty Napa Sauvignon Blanc. All SB, all stainless steel. (90 points)

2013 Peju Province Winery Cabernet Franc Petit Trois - California, Napa Valley
SRP: $75
Rich purple color. Gorgeous nose. Waves of red and black currants and plums, rich and saucy but vibrant fruit, topped in lots of menthol, black pepper, mushroom, cocoa and vanilla. Full-bodied and suave with velvety tannins, this is a rich and juicy wine (highly delicious), but also shows some medium acidity. The depth of the cherry and currant fruit is impressive. Ditto for the complex sage, methol, cigar shop, pepper and earth. Cocoa, coffee and cedar woven in well. This has aged nicely, but I’d be curious what this does with another 3-5 years of cellar time. 100% Cabernet Franc. (92 points)

 2016 Peju Province Winery Merlot - California, Napa Valley
SRP: $48
Light purple color. Nose of sweet red currants, fig past, blueberry jam, along with violets, clove, sweet eucalyptus and vanilla. Plush texture on the palate, soft tannins, with medium-low acidity. Accessible and fruit-forward, with sweet black cherry, roasted plums and figs. Lots of coffee, vanilla, sweet cocoa and sweet pipe tobacco. A juicy, jammy, velvety style to drink in the near term. Includes 4% Cabernet Sauvignon and 1% Petit Sirah, aged 18 months. (87 points)

2017 Peju Province Winery Cabernet Sauvignon The Experiment - California, Napa Valley
SRP: $100
Saucy purple color. Nose shows sweet blueberries, black cherries, with earth, roasted chestnut, leather, clove and mint chocolate chip. Velvety, jammy presence on the palate with a chewy, medium-low acidity kind of feel. Saucy blueberries and black cherries, topped in earth, violets and graphite. There are a lot of intense oak signatures in here (espresso, cocoa, dark chocolate, sweet vanilla), so be aware of that going into this wine. Perhaps time in the cellar will help it integrate. That said, the underlying fruit is yummy and there are other solid elements as well. All Cabernet aged 16 months in all new French, American and Hungarian oak. (87 points)

2015 Peju Province Winery Cabernet Sauvignon - California, Napa Valley
SRP: $60
Light purple color. Deep nose of black currants, sweet blueberry, with roasted chestnut, cocoa powder, mint and scorched earth notes. On the palate, this is a big wine, but it holds itself well, with round tannins and fresh acidity. Tangy black cherries, juicy currants, roasted fig, the fruit is complemented by eucalyptus, leather, earth, cocoa, subtle vanilla. Expressive and integrated already, but this should do well with three or four years. Includes 8% Petit Verdot and 7% Merlot, aged 18 months in 45% new French and American oak. (90 points)
 2015 Peju Province Winery The Farm - California, Napa Valley
SRP: $80
Medium purple color. Aromas of juicy red and black cherries, with violets, rose petals, some savory spice, leather, dark chocolate. Full-bodied, velvety, suave and vibrant on the palate, this is expressive and vibrant with juicy black cherries and dark currants. Complex elements of violets, pipe tobacco, scorched earth, and notes of cocoa, vanilla and clove. This could benefit from three or four years in the cellar, but a very pretty blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Sangiovese. (91 points)


This post first appeared on the daily wine blog Terroirist.

Wine Reviews: Long Live California Wines

Like many people, I’ve been so saddened to see the loss of life and the massive destruction from the series of wildfires all over Northern California. So, it’s hard to write about delicious California wines when so many people are suffering. But I recently received a lineup of stellar California wines and, as I tasted them and followed the news of the fires, I was reminded of what makes places like Napa and Sonoma so special. Not just the finished wines, but the people who farm the vineyards, pick the grapes, make the wine, and sell it to eager consumers like myself. 

So let’s all raise a glass to those who have passed, and to the future of the resilient California wine industry. 

This report includes some exciting Santa Maria Valley Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs from Dierberg, and some solid Sonoma wines from Gary Farrell. I also tasted through two Merlots (La Jota and Mt. Brave) from mountain vineyards in Napa that I found to be flat-out gorgeous. Oh, and a few wines from Napa’s Shafer, including the new releases of their ever-popular Relentless Syrah and their iconic Hillside Select Cabernet. 

These wines were received as trade samples and tasted sighted. 

2015 Gary Farrell Chardonnay Russian River Valley - California, Sonoma County, Russian River Valley
SRP: $35
Light gold color. Aromas of plump yellow apple, bruised pear, some lime, mixed with peanut shell, buttercream, daisies. Big and bold with plump, creamy texture, moderate acidity. Apricot, bruised apple, pears, the fruit blurs together with honeyed biscuits buttercream, and also some chalky and floral tones. Yummy and crowd-pleasing but shows some solid complexity. Aged 9 months in 30-40% new French oak. (88 points) 

2014 Dierberg Chardonnay Dierberg Vineyard - California, Central Coast, Santa Maria Valley
SRP: $32
Medium yellow color. Nose shows raw almond, sea salt, honeycomb and lilies on top of yellow apples, limes and lemon curd. Pithy and bright on the palate with saline-infused acidity but some plump texture. Green apples, salted lime, kumquat, the fruit is laced with chalky minerals, sea salt and limestone, but also some richer elements of nougat, honeyed tea, and biscuits. Long, brisk finish. I’d love to re-taste this in three or four years as it has lots to show. 13.8% alcohol, aged 14 months in 15% new French oak. (93 points)

2015 Gary Farrell Pinot Noir Russian River Valley - California, Sonoma County, Russian River Valley
SRP: $45
Deep ruby color. Aromas of crisp raspberry, juicy strawberry, cranberry jam, along with a pretty combination of smoky, earthy and floral tones. Medium-bodied, silky tannins and juicy acidity, with some raspberry, strawberry and sweet cranberry fruit. I also get some cola, sweet pipe tobacco, rhubarb. Lively and fresh but shows some balance and excitement. Delicious for drinking of the next year or two. Aged 10 months in 40% new French oak. (88 points) 

2014 Dierberg Pinot Noir Dierberg Vineyard - California, Central Coast, Santa Maria Valley
SRP: $44
Deep ruby colored. Aromas of fresh strawberries, raspberries, juicy red currant, along with rhubarb, tangy herbs and rose petals. Crisp acidity throughout, but structured tannic grip, this wine shows aging potential but vibrancy and balance in its youth. I get bright raspberries and strawberries, mixed with tobacco, sage, rose petals, cinnamon spice and leather. Gorgeous now but this has many years ahead of it. Another stunner from this producer. Aged 14 months in 20% new French oak. (93 points) 

2014 Dierberg Pinot Noir Drum Canyon Vineyard - California, Central Coast, Sta. Rita Hills
SRP: $52
Medium ruby color. Exquisite aromas of black cherries, red and black plums, mixed with roses, rhubarb, incense, earthy/clay notes – wow. Medium-bodied presence on the palate, solid grip on the tannins, medium acidity keeps it refreshing. Black cherry and crunchy plum fruit, ripe but nuanced, laced with cola, roses, rhubarb, clove, cedar, eucalyptus. Juicy and fruity but layered and complex. This will improve for five+ years easily. Aged 14 months in 20% new French oak. (92 points) 

2014 Shafer Relentless - California, Napa Valley
SRP: $92
Dark, dark purple color. Intense, extracted nose of boysenberry, blueberry, black pepper, sweet coffee, vanilla and nutmeg — a lot of time need to coax out these aromatics, but lots in here. Deep and dense with a huge, chewy mouthfeel but there’s also velvety tannins, medium-low acidity. Rich and plump with suave black and blue fruit, rich but so delicious, and mixed with black pepper glaze, charcoal, coffee, anise, clove and vanilla, all woven in so well. Lots of time, obviously, I’d bury a bottle for five to ten years. 89% Syrah and 11 % Petite Sirah, aged 30 months in all new French oak. (93 points) 

2013 Shafer Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select - California, Napa Valley, Stags Leap District
SRP: $285
Deep purple color. Gorgeous aromatics of black currant, plum skin, blackberry compote, laced with graphite, tobacco, smashed rocks, cedar, mint chocolate chip, so much aromatic complexity to unwrap. Full-bodied and brawny with serious tannic structure but surprising acidity that wraps up the bold fruit. Waves of blackberries, blueberries, crunchy plums, the fruit is packed with cocoa, coffee, charcoal, pencil shavings, birch wood, cola. So complex and expressive despite its depth, concentration and youth. A pure and alive Cabernet, but I’d love to bury this and forget about it for a few presidents. All Cabernet aged 32 months in all new French oak. (95 points) 

2014 La Jota Merlot - California, Napa Valley, Howell Mountain
SRP: $85
Bold purple color. On the nose, I get waves of black currants, gushing plums, black cherries and pomegranate, along with rich earth, eucalyptus, sage, sweet pipe tobacco, vanilla and violets — just lovely stuff. Gorgeous structure on the palate, velvety but sturdy tannins, moderating acidity. Plums, currants, black cherries, blackberries, exquisite fruit. Tons of charcoal, graphite, iron, mineral, notes of mushroom and soy, along with cocoa, vanilla, cedar and violets. Deep and complex yet effortless and elegant. So much time ahead. From a 1,800 foot vineyard, this contains 10% Petit Verdot and is aged 19 months in French oak. (94 points) 

2014 Mt. Brave Merlot - California, Napa Valley, Mt. Veeder
SRP: $75
Bright purple color. Gorgeous aromatic blend of red and black currants and crunchy plums, mixed with violets, espresso, potting soil, tobacco, some pencil lead. Vibrant acidity, structured tannins, a velvety feel that is both deep and fresh at the same time. Tart black cherries, blackberry and juicy cherries come in waves, and the fruit is backed up by graphite, cocoa powder, espresso, rich earth, charcoal and pencil shavings notes. Complex, rich but also vibrant – although this has years of development in the cellar. Beautiful mountain vineyard Merlot. All Merlot aged 19 months in French oak. (93 points)

This post first appeared on the daily wine blog Terroirist.

Wine Reviews: International Grab Bag

This week is another hodgepodge of wines from around the world — mostly from California and New Zealand.

These wines were received as trade samples and tasted sighted.

2014 Grgich Hills Chardonnay - California, Napa Valley
SRP: $43
Light gold color. Pretty aromatics of lemon curd, juicy white peaches, limes, green apples – rich and juicy fruit bit lots of crushed chalk, rocks, minerals, honey butter. Bold and juicy on the palate but vibrant, lip-smacking lovely balance. Tangy lime and lemon play off baked pear, guava, white honey, nougat, vanilla contrast with mountain stream and chalky, dusty minerals. Rich but zesty, with a long, crisp and lightly-toasted finish. A perennial performer when it comes to Napa Chards that I love, and this 2014 (like many other wines from Napa) is excellent. Aged 10 months in 40% new French oak. (92 points)

2014 Mount Veeder Winery Reserve - California, Napa Valley
SRP: $100
Bold purple color. On the nose: black currant, saucy plums, smoky charcoal, black pepper, violets and vanilla. The palate is full and supported by a deck of solid tannins, although some moderate acidity and juicy fruit help balance it all out. Black currant, tangy blackberries, roasted fig paste, the fruit melds with charcoal, vanilla, cedar shavings, cocoa powder, and dark roast coffee grounds. Complex, long, mineral and earth finish – those mountain vineyard qualities really show through in this wine. Delicious but this will really improve over the next four to five years easily, and hold for quite some time. Cabernet with 7% Malbec and 4% Petit Verdot, aged 20 months in all new French oak. This is a reliably excellent wine, vintage in and out, but the 2014 is gorgeous. (93 points)

2014 Franciscan Estate Magnificat - California, Napa Valley
SRP: $55
Vibrant purple color. Aromas of violets, sage, lavender, cola and cedar on top of plums and tangy black currants. Bold and punchy, chewy tannins, but surprising freshness. Plush but tangy black currants and blackberries, laced with cedar, cocoa powder, charcoal and iron. Notes of cedar, star anise and cola woven in nicely, with a deep, earthy finish. Lovely but could use two-to-four years of cellaring. 75% Cabernet Sauvignon blended with Merlot, Malbec, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc, aged 20 months in 70% new French oak. (91 points)

2015 Shafer TD-9 - California, Napa Valley
SRP: $60
Deep purple color. Rich waves of blackberry and black cherry on the nose, fig paste, violets, vanilla, rocky notes and potting soil. The palate is velvety and suave, solid tannic structure but so, so smooth, with moderate acidity. Black cherry, cassis, wild blueberry, gorgeous fruit, laced with graphite, violet petals, pencil lead, clove, and backed up with vanilla bean and coffee. Long life ahead but surprisingly gorgeous right out of the bottle. A blend of 56% Merlot, 28% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Malbec. Aged 20 months in all new French oak. (93 points)

2015 Parducci 85 - California, North Coast, Mendocino
$45 (available only at winery)
Light purple color. Lovely, warm, inviting aromas of roasted figs and plums, currants, cola, dark chocolate and earthy/charcoal notes. Plush texture despite solid tannins, medium acidity. Gushing black cherry and blackberry mixed with cola, roasted chestnut, vanilla, dark chocolate shavings. I get a complex mix of clove, cinnamon and earthy, rocky notes. Lovely now but I’d like to age this at least a few years, but it’ll improve for many. 69% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Merlot, 8% Petit Verdot, 5% Cabernet Franc, aged in 30% new American oak. A special release honoring this iconic Mendocino winery’s 85th anniversary. (91 points)

2004 Parducci Petite Sirah True Grit - California, North Coast, Mendocino County
$50
Rich purple color. Love the smoky, savory aspects on the nose (grilled bell peppers, black pepper, mushroom, charred meat), on top of some black currant and blackberry compote flavors. Full and bold but has fleshed out with age, showing moderately-structured tannins with rounded edges and medium/low acidity. Black cherry and dark plum fruit is still holding on, but the fruit is doused in grilled meats, beef drippings and cracked black pepper, along with mushroom broth and fallen leaves. Gorgeous non-fruit complexity, but this wine isn’t done yet – it’s still put together well for at least five more years. Includes 3% co-fermented Viognier, aged in about 25% new French and American oak. (92 points)

2005 Parducci Petite Sirah True Grit - California, North Coast, Mendocino County
$50
Rich purple color. Concentrated aromas, but they open up to show more blackberry and black currant fruit, backed up by black pepper, grilled steak, anise and fennel. Full but suave, the tannins aren’t harsh but the grip is serious, medium-low acidity. Black currant and black cherry fruit is still there and delicious, but matched in intensity by a combination of pepper, leather, charcoal, beef brisket. Dry, structured finish with black olive and espresso. Time in the cellar ahead, but the fruit may fade before the tannins do. Still very impressive. Includes 8% Grenache, aged 18 months in old French and American oak. (90 points)

N.V. Locations Sauvignon Blanc NZ-6 - New Zealand, South Island, Marlborough
SRP: $20
Medium straw color. Huge aromatic burst of ruby red grapefruit, guava, lime, along with sliced jalapenos and onion grass. Medium-bodied, bright and mouth-watering with lime, ruby red grapefruit and white peach flavors. Some honeysuckle mixes with sea salt, floral perfume, sliced bell peppers. More depth and dynamism that a lot of New Zealand Sauv Blancs in this price point. Impressive. The fruit comes from Wairau, Awatere and Waihopai valleys. (88 points)

2016 Discovery Point Sauvignon Blanc - New Zealand, South Island, Marlborough
Aromas of lemons, apricots, white flowers, sea salt, less of the spicy green Marlborough calling card (just a hint of white pepper), this is a brighter and oceanic aromatic profile, and I love it. On the palate, fresh acidity and juicy fruit (lemon, guava, green melon), along with white tea, honeysuckle, sea salt. Slight note of white pepper. A juicy, vibrant, oceanic, delicious Marlborough Sauv Blanc. (88 points)

2015 Discovery Point Pinot Noir - New Zealand, North Island, Wairarapa, Martinborough
The nose shows tart strawberries, raspberry jam, some rose hips, sage, mushroom, light roast coffee, an interesting display. Medium+ bodied, light-dusty tannins, moderate acidity. Black cherry and raspberry jam, along with cola, rose hips, sweet clove, caramelized mushrooms. Juicy, easy-drinking but also vibrant and quite complex. Good to drink now but this should do some interesting things over the next 1-2 years. (89 points)

2016 Concha y Toro Cabernet Sauvignon Casillero del Diablo Reserva - Chile, Maipo Valley
SRP: $11
Bright ruby color. Aromas of smoky cherries and sweet plums, bell pepper, cola, sweet coffee, some cigar box. Light-medium bodied with soft tannins and medium acid. Tangy cherries and red plums mix with bell pepper and red peppers. Lean, a bit tart, but fun stuff for the price. (85 points)

This post first appeared on the daily wine blog Terroirist.

Wine Reviews: New Releases from California

This week I’m back with another round-up of new releases from all over California.

The Quilt wines are a new brand from Copper Cane, Joe Wager's project, sourced from various Napa appellations. This is a higher-level brand, with some gutsy pricing, but the deliciousness delivers. In keeping with the company style of producing bold, decadent wines, these are massive and highly delicious examples.

J. McClelland is producing some exciting wines from Napa’s Oak Knoll appellation, three of which I tasted for this report. Named for John McClelland, who spent 50+ years making wine in California for labels like Steele Canyon Cellars, these are moderately priced but very high quality wines.

The Malibu-based winery Dolin Estate wowed me with two impressive offerings, especially the Blue Note red blend from a Malibu Coast vineyard. We also have some reliably delicious wines from Napa’s Frank Family, a stunning Cabernet from Grgich Hills, and some Zinfandel from Dry Creek.

These wines were received as trade samples and tasted sighted.

2014 J. McClelland Chardonnay - California, Napa Valley, Oak Knoll

SRP: $35
Rich yellow color. Aromas of yellow pears, juicy green apples, buttered toast, a host of honey and floral tones. Creamy and plush texture with vibrant acidity makes a balanced but bold Chardonnay. Lime drizzled on apricots and baked pears, followed up with integrated elements of almond, nougat and butter with some mineral dust on the finish. Delicious, long, impressive depth. 30% barrel-fermented, aged in oak for 12 months. (90 points)

2014 Dolin Estate Chardonnay Bien Nacido - California, Central Coast, Santa Maria Valley
SRP: $39
Light yellow color. Aromas of lemon curd, apricot, melted butter, graham cracker. Full-bodied with pleasant creaminess and fresh acidity. Rich but pure and vibrant with lime, apricot, bruised apple, richer elements of toasted nuts, lemon curd and honey mix well with sea salt and chalk dust. Packed with flavor, delicious but so lively. Fermented in 1/3 new French oak, 100% maloactic fermentation, aged 13 months in oak. (90 points)

2015 Quilt Chardonnay - California, Napa Valley
SRP: $35
Light gold color. Nose shows buttercream, lemon cake, key lime pie, yellow flowers, some chalk notes. Decadent, full-throttle style, this is but partially balanced out by quite fresh acidity. Bruised apple and rich yellow pear fruit mixes with roasted peanuts, candied pecans and orange marmalade flavors. 15 months in 70% new French oak, all maloactic fermentation, this is a burly style, but a delicious expression of Napa Chardonnay. (88 points)

2015 Frank Family Vineyards Chardonnay - California, Napa, Carneros
SRP: $35
Rich yellow color. Aromas of almond paste, whipped honey, buttercream, but also peaches and pears drizzled with lime. On the palate, this is bold but balanced, creamy but moderate acidity. Bruised apple, peach, apricot, rich fruit but stays fresh. Pretty yellow flowers, clover, honeysuckle, lemon curd, notes of peanut brittle and buttercream are mixed together well. A Chardonnay that should please many a palate, fermented and aged in 1/3 new French oak. (89 points)

2016 Pedroncelli Dry Rosé of Zinfandel - California, Sonoma County, Dry Creek Valley
SRP: $12
Medium watermelon color. Juicy red apples and watermelon on the nose with some white pepper, basil and green tea leaves. Medium-bodied, moderate acidity, fleshy texture with flavors of cherries and watermelon. Notes of white pepper and basil mix with whipped honey and cream notes. Tasty, crowd-pleasing stuff. (86 points)

2015 Frank Family Vineyards Pinot Noir - California, Napa / Sonoma, Carneros
SRP: $35
Deep ruby/light purple color. Nose shows spiced cranberry jam, black cherries, rhubarb, rose hips, chewing tobacco. Fleshy texture with velvety tannins and medium acidity. Juicy red plums, Thanksgiving cranberry sauce, rhubarb pie, rose petals, pepper. This is ripe and plush but fresh, earthy, complex, and it finishes with notes of cocoa and clove. Two to four years could do interesting things for this wine, but shows well right out of the bottle. 10 months in 1/3 new French oak. (89 points)

2012 Dolin Estate The Blue Note - California, South Coast, Malibu
SRP: $45
Light purple color. Awesome aromas of black cherries, raspberry jam, roasted fig, coffee, candied pecans. Lovely balance on the palate with bold texture, velvety tannins, moderate acidity keeps it fresh. Tart plum, blackberry, the fruit is loaded with coffee, charcoal, tar, cedar and cola. This was an eye-opening wine for me in the sense that it was absolutely delicious, showed solid balance, lots of depth, and it’s the first wine from this area I’ve tasted. A blend of 44% Merlot, 36% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Cabernet Franc, aged 21 months in oak. The vineyard sits 1,450 feet above the Malibu coast. Intriguing and special stuff. (91 points)

2013 J. McClelland Merlot - California, Napa Valley, Oak Knoll

SRP: $35
Light purple color. Rich, pretty aromas of violets, sweet pipe tobacco and cola on top of juicy red and black cherries and plums. Full but not heavy with velvety tannins and moderate acidity. Dark plums, tart black cherries, the fruit meshes with tobacco, violets, potting soil and notes of cedar and vanilla. This could unfurl for a few years, but it’s good to go now, although it really opens up with air. Includes 17% Cabernet Sauvignon, this wine spends 28 months in French oak. (90 points)

2013 J. McClelland Cabernet Sauvignon - California, Napa Valley, Oak Knoll
SRP: $45
Light purple color. Nose shows juicy blackberries, saucy dark currant, and a whole lot of chewing tobacco, mint, coffee grounds, fallen leaves, bell pepper – the aromas are complex and firing. Full-bodied on the palate with nice grip to the tannins with medium acidity to balance it all out. Tart but rich black currants and black cherry fruit, and I love the level of earth and spice complexities: tobacco, mint, charcoal, charred herbs, bell pepper. Notes of cedar linger on the finish. Structure and depth are impressive but it maintains a spicy and fresh style, which balances out very nicely. (92 points)

2014 Frank Family Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon - California, Napa Valley
SRP: $52
Light purple color. Tart black currants, black cherry, plum skins, mixed in with vanilla, cola, but also some mint, eucalyptus and spicy pepper. The palate shows dry but velvety tannins and some moderate acidity, surprising balance and freshness. The black cherry, tart blueberry and cassis fruit is fresh and vibrant but plenty ripe, and mixed with notes of tobacco, soy sauce, potting soil, and integrated cedar, vanilla and coffee notes. Yummy but also structured, this could do nicely with three to six years in the cellar, but delicious now. Includes 8% Merlot, 4% Petit Verdot and 3% Cabernet Franc, this wine is aged 20 months in 1/3 new French oak. (90 points)

2014 Grgich Hills Cabernet Sauvignon - California, Napa Valley

SRP: $72
Rich purple color. Gorgeous aromatics of currants, dark plums, so much spicy, herbal and savory tones as well: pepper, sage, mint, dusty earth, leather, soy. Full and structured well with taut tannins and lively acidity. Gushing plums and tart currants glide over the palate despite the youthfulness of the wine. So much earth, charcoal, pepper, leather, sage, woven in with cedar, mocha and clove. Gorgeous stuff but built for the long haul, this is another killer vintage of a perennial performer (in my book). Includes 14% Merlot and a combined 7% Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc, aged 21 months in 60% new French oak. (93 points)

2013 Quilt Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve - California, Napa Valley
SRP: $100
Bold purple color. Nose shows dark currants, black cherries, lots of violets, vanilla, graphite, charcoal, lots going on. Bold and ripe on the palate with gushing dark plums and blueberries on a frame of chewy tannins, plush mouthfeel, and moderate acidity that helps it from being too intense. Creamy vanilla, coffee, sweet pipe tobacco, roasted chestnut, this is an extracted, gushing style, but it’s all held together quite well, and straight delicious. 70% new oak, all Cabernet from valley floor fruit. (90 points)

2014 Frank Family Vineyards Zinfandel - California, Napa Valley
SRP: $37
Deep ruby/light purple color. Dark and saucy red and black berry fruit on the nose, along with coffee beans, black pepper, tobacco, root beer and eucalyptus. Full-bodied, dry but rounded tannins, medium-low acidity. The palate is loaded with blackberry and raspberry, some roasted fig and plum cake, and mixed with cocoa, coffee, roasted chestnut, root beer and chewing tobacco. Hedonistic and rich but nuanced. Includes 14% Petite Sirah, this wine is aged 16 months in 1/3 new French oak. (89 points)

2014 Mounts Family Winery Zinfandel Old Vine - California, Sonoma County, Dry Creek Valley
SRP: $36
Rich ruby color. Aromas of dark cherries, jammy blackberry and raspberries, also cola, sweet barbecue, roasted chestnut and vanilla. Full-bodied and burly, this is a chewy, rich wine with velvety tannins and low acid, but it’s so delicious. Plump black cherries, jammy raspberries and blackberries, fig paste. I get complex notes of bourbon, cola, coffee, sweet barbecue sauce, black pepper. Big, bold, but quite nice. 15.8% alcohol, this spends 17 months in 60% new French oak. (88 points)

2014 Mauritson Wines Zinfandel Dry Creek Valley - California, Sonoma County, Dry Creek Valley
SRP: $35
Light purple. Nose of fig paste, plum cake, black cherry ice cream, with some scorched earth mixed in. Full-bodied, so smooth, velvety tannins, low acidity, a chewy wine. Rich black fruit and roasted figs, laced with milk chocolate, sarsaparilla, roasted chestnut, also some earthy, peppery tones. A burly hedonistic Zinfandel for near-term consumption. All Zin, 14.6% alcohol, this spends 14 months in mostly French oak. (87 points)
This post first appeared on the daily wine blog Terroirist. 

Wine Reviews: New Releases from California & Washington State

Good morning, everyone. This week, I have a round-up of recent wines from California and Washington State. There are a few Sauvignon Blancs and Chardonnays from California that represent a good spread on the spectrum of price and style. Napa’s Ehlers Estate impresses with their Bordeaux blends, per usual. And I also received some seriously good value wines from Washington State, which is consistently a good source of wines high in quality and value.

These wines were received as trade samples and tasted sighted.

2016 Freemark Abbey Sauvignon Blanc - California, Napa Valley, St. Helena
SRP: $25
Pale straw color. Smells of ruby red grapefruit, guava and lemon with honey, perfume and hints of sliced green peppers. Medium+ bodied with a pleasantly plump texture but vibrant acidity. Chunky pineapple and guava fruit with a drizzle of lime juice, and I get some waxy/honeyed elements, white tea, vanilla, almond. A rich style but stays vibrant and crisp. The French oak barrel-fermented notes are woven in well and don’t dominate the other elements. Includes 5% Semillon. (88 points)

2016 Matanzas Creek Winery Sauvignon Blanc - California, Sonoma County
SRP: $15
Medium yellow color. Lots of ruby red grapefruit on the nose with guava and gooseberry along with sliced jalapeno and cut grass. Fresh and lip-smacking on the palate on a medium-bodied frame with lots of ripe fruit: chunky pineapple mixes with grapefruit and gooseberry. Honeysuckle and oregano add some interesting spice, but it’s balanced quite nicely. Solid for the price. Includes 4% Semillon, fermented in stainless steel with 8% old French oak, made from three different vineyards in Knights, Alexander and Bennett Valley. (87 points)

2016 Matanzas Creek Winery Sauvignon Blanc - California, Sonoma County, Alexander Valley
SRP: $20
Light yellow color. On the nose, I get grapefruit with white peaches and lime juice along with white and yellow flowers, some saline and chalk notes. Medium-bodied with zesty acid on the palate and pleasant creaminess, but the wine stays bright. Green pear, white peach, drizzled with lime juice, laced with green tea, lilies, chalk dust and ocean spray. Crisp, vibrant, lip-smackingly good stuff. Includes 7% Semillon, fermented in mostly stainless steel with 15% old French oak. (88 points)

2016 Rombauer Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc - California, Napa ValleySRP: $24
Light yellow color. Bursting with aromas of guava, pineapple, lime, lemongrass, honeysuckle. Plenty of texture on the palate, a plush feel but bright and crisp acidity. Lemon/lime on top of pineapple, guava, banana peel, with notes of lemongrass, nettle and honeycomb. Lots of flavor and fruit but solid complexity and this retains such a sense of freshness and vibrancy. Lovely stuff. 90% stainless steel, 10% old oak. (89 points)

2016 Shooting Star (Jed Steele) Sauvignon Blanc - California, North Coast, Lake County
SRP: $14
Deep straw color. Nose shows lemons, apricot and guava with some white pepper and green onion elements. Medium-bodied with creamy texture and moderate acidity. Tropical approach with pineapple, guava, a squeeze of lime, and hints of white pepper, lemongrass and whipped honey. Fun, crowd-pleasing stuff at a solid price. (86 points)

2015 Shooting Star (Jed Steele) Chardonnay - California, North Coast, Mendocino County
SRP: $14
Pale yellow color. Nose of buttered bread, baked pears and rich yellow apples with some whipped honey and toasted almond. Full-bodied with a bold and creamy texture but some moderate acidity keeps it balanced. Juicy apricot and yellow plum fruit mixes with baked pear, cinnamon apple, and some toasted nuts and whipped honey. Straightforward, tasty stuff. (86 points)

2015 Shafer Chardonnay Red Shoulder Ranch - California, Napa, Carneros
SRP: $52
Rich golden color. A gorgeous nose of lemon crème, apricot jam, baked apples, lime juice, walnut, crumb cake, some floral and salty notes thrown in there as well – wow. Full-bodied, rich and waxy with plenty of creaminess, but the acidity is so clean and refreshing. Tart lime mixes with guava, lemon curd and baked apple, backed up by complex elements of ginger, buttercream, honeyed tea, almond, chalk dust – the complexity is awesome. This wine would be heavy and way too rich, weren’t for the brisk acidity and vibrancy, so the balance is very impressive. Aged 14 months in 75% new French oak, the rest stainless steel. (93 points)

2015 J. Rochioli Chardonnay - California, Sonoma County, Russian River Valley
SRP: $49
Light gold color. Aromas of nougat, walnut and honey butter mix well with sea salt and chalk dust, on top of lemon meringue and juicy apricot. Plump and rich texture but this is bright and shows a refreshing personality. Lemon curd, key lime pie, apricot and green apple, the fruit is mixed with complex almond, caramel, ginger, sea salt and sea shell notes. Complex, balanced, an exciting Russian River Chardonnay, aged 9 months in 30% new French oak. (91 points)

2014 Shooting Star (Jed Steele) Cabernet Sauvignon - California, North Coast, Lake County
SRP: $15
Deep ruby color. Bursting with sweet plums, red cherries, even pomegranate, with some cola and bell pepper. Full-bodied with chewy tannins and medium/low acidity. This is a rich but balanced Cabernet with an accessible style and friendly black cherries and summer plums. Notes of vanilla, dark chocolate and eucalyptus add some complexity. In the dice-rolling category of $15 California Cabernets, this is solid stuff. From Dorn Family Vineyards and Shannon Ridge vineyards in Lake County, this is aged 15 months in 20% new oak. (87 points)

2014 Ehlers Estate Cabernet Franc - California, Napa Valley, St. Helena
SRP: $60
Deep ruby color. Gobs of vibrant red and black cherries on the nose along with a medley of violets, graphite, loamy earth, balsamic glazed mushroom. Medium/full-bodied with structured but velvety tannins and gushing black cherries and dark plums. Waves of fruit with notes of loam, pencil lead, black tea, mushroom and cedar. Rich, complex, but also approachable and downright fun. Delish. All Cab Franc aged in 50% new French oak. (91 points)

2014 Ehlers Estate Merlot St. Helena - California, Napa Valley, St. Helena
SRP: $55
Deep ruby color. Suave and enticing aromas of red and purple flowers, accenting juicy plum and red currant fruit, with notes of red clay, roasted herbs and cigar box. Such fresh acidity on the palate, which frames the wine nicely while velvety tannins give it backbone. Tart red currant and some dark cherry notes, mixed with allspice, tobacco, sage, roses and cedar. A rocky mineral and floral finish. Very pretty but should age nicely for at least 4-6 years. Includes 7% Cabernet Franc, the wine’s aged in 50% new French oak. (92 points)

2014 Ehlers Estate Cabernet Sauvignon “1886” - California, Napa Valley, St. Helena
SRP: $110
Rich purple color. Aromas of tart black currant and blueberry with lots of graphite, loam, eucalyptus, hint of tomato leaf, and add in some cedar and vanilla notes. Full-bodied but so, so silky with suave but structured tannins and delightfully refreshing acidity. Crushed blackberry, tart blueberry, such pretty fruit with elements of coffee, dark chocolate, pencil shavings, sage and eucalyptus. Long, stony, earthy minerality on the finish. This has a ton of fruit and flavor, but it’s not your extracted, overly heavy, brooding style of Napa Cabernet – this is vibrant, fresh, gorgeous, gravelly St. Helena Cabernet. (94 points)

2013 Jordan Vineyard & Winery Cabernet Sauvignon Alexander Valley - California, Sonoma County, Alexander Valley
SRP: $55
Rich purple color. Aromas of tart black cherries and currants, loamy soil, graphite, charcoal, spiced coffee and eucalyptus. Full-bodied with silky but structured tannins and refreshing acidity that keeps the wine bright despite the rich black currant and dark plum fruit. Notes of incense sticks, roasted coffee, black tea mix with toasted nuts, vanilla and cedar elements. Packed with flavor and fruit but shows significant complexity and freshness. Ready to go but should age nicely for 3-5. Includes some Merlot, Petit Verdot, Malbec and Cabernet Franc, this wine is aged we months in a mix of French and American oak. (90 points)


Washington

2016 Long Shadows Wineries Pinot Gris Nine Hats Benches Vineyard - Washington, Columbia Valley
SRP: $14
Pale yellow color with a slight spritz. Aromas of peach, guava, sea salt, cucumber slices, honeysuckle and dandelion. Medium-bodied with fresh, crisp acidity, this wine has an exciting minerality and vibrancy to it but shows some creamy texture. Flavors of apricot, white peach, salted lime, crisp but generous fruit, with notes of orange blossom, floral perfume and sea salt. Very impressive for the price. (90 points)

2016 Long Shadows Wineries Julia's Dazzle Rosé Benches Vineyard - Washington, Columbia Valley, Horse Heaven Hills
SRP: $20
Medium copper color. Aromas of sour cherries, strawberries, nettle, white pepper, some hops and basil notes. Medium-bodied with a fruity/chunky mouthfeel but bright acidity. Plump peach and melon meets red apple and tart strawberry, backed up with honeyed tea, nettle, spicy white pepper and basil notes. Finishes with crispness and a shot of minerality. This is a Pinot Gris rosé sourced from the Benches Vineyard, and it’s a cooperation from Long Shadows founder Allen Shoup and winemaker Gilles Nicault. (88 points)

2013 Shooting Star (Jed Steele) Blaufränkisch Blue Franc - Washington
SRP: $14
Pretty ruby color. Crisp, cool red cherries and red apple peel on the nose with black pepper, tobacco and some bay leaf and earthy elements. Medium-bodied, soft tannins, moderate acidity, this is a pleasant and easy-drinking wine but very tasty with its ripe red cherries, plums and red apple. Notes of clove, pepper, rose hips and tobacco. Juicy and playful but also interesting and complex, especially for the price. All Blaufrankisch from Horse Heaven Hills, Washington. (88 points)

2015 Long Shadows Wineries Nine Hats - Washington, Columbia Valley
SRP: $20
Light purple color. Aromas of black cherries, a mix of blackberry and raspberry jams, with vanilla, cola and some pepper. Plush texture on the palate with light tannins and medium/low acidity. Bold and fruity with black cherries and blackberries, some roasted figs, and ntoes of cocoa powder, vanilla and slight earth. Simple, fun, early-drinking, crowd-pleasing. 50% Syrah with 41% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Merlot and 2% Malbec. (86 points)
This post first appeared on the daily wine blog Terroirist. 

Burly California Reds for the Cold Winter Months

This post first appeared on the daily wine blog Terroirist. 

This group of California red wines arrived late in the season, after I had already conducted several single-blind tastings. So, I threw them all together. There are some serious goodies in here from Shafer, Galerie and Stonestreet.

These wines were received as trade samples and tasted sighted.

2013 Galerie Cabernet Sauvignon Pleinair - California, Napa Valley

SRP: $50

Rich purple color. Gorgeous blackberry and cassis, rich but elegant, and deep aromas of violets, cinnamon, vanilla and coffee mixed with dark earthy/spice elements – a lovely combo. Study tannic backbone on this wine but the refreshing acidity keeps it feeling silky. The black currant and blackberry fruit is a big dense at this young age, but shows tons of flavor and lots of potential for further development. I already get a host of cinnamon, charcoal, rocky soil, espresso. A complex and pretty wine that has its best to come. Definitely a winner in this price range of Napa Cabs. Aged 20 months in about half new French oak. (92 points)

2013 Frank Family Vineyards Petite Sirah - California, Napa Valley)

SRP: $35

Dark purple color. Dark and deep on the nose, with saucy plums and blackberry pie, a lot of other nuances: clove, coffee, vanilla, violets and potting soil. A massive and chewy presence on the palate with sturdy tannins and medium-low acidity (but just enough to keep this from being too dense. Blackberry and boysenberry, the fruit is chewy but shows a fresh edge, and I get lots of espresso, charcoal, black pepper and smoke. Rich, delicious, a bit compact now but this will age nicely for quite a bunch of years. Aged 20 months in 1/3 new French oak. (90 points)

2014 Shafer Merlot - California, Napa Valley

SRP: $55

Dark purple color. On the nose, a dark core of saucy plum, black cherry and black currant, along with mocha, crushed rocks, violets, cola, campfire smoke and coffee. Very full-bodied with a huge and viscous presence on the palate, medium/low acidity. Black cherries, roasted plums and black currant, the fruit is dense but laced with flavors of violets, loamy soil, charcoal, vanilla, cedar, bourbon and spiced coffee. Huge and hedonistic, this goes for the jugular, but it is excellent for this style. I’d love to bury a bottle for five to seven years. Includes 14% Malbec and 8% Cabernet Sauvignon, the wine is aged 20 months in 85% new French oak. (92 points)

Teeth-staining deliciousness from Shafer.

2013 Shafer Relentless - California, Napa Valley

SRP: $87

Deep purple color. Intensely dark aromas of blueberry, blackberry and boysenberry topped in charcoal, magic marker, black pepper glaze and vanilla. Massive texture on the palate, this has a glycerin-like feel with grippy tannins and just enough acidity. Dense blackberry and blueberry fruit doused in shaved coconut, espresso, mint chocolate chip, black pepper glaze and sarsaparilla. Wow this is so delicious but so young. Can’t wait to see what happens to it in five to eight years. Aged 30 months in all new French oak, this contains 3% Petite Sirah. (93 points)

2013 Stonestreet Cabernet Sauvignon Alexander Valley - California, Sonoma County, Alexander Valley

SRP: $45

Deep purple color. Smells of black currant, plums and roasted figs, peppered with eucalyptus, sage, rich earth and spiced chai. Full but fresh with sturdy tannins but vibrant acidity that keeps it balanced. Plum and black currant fruit, rich but tart, topped in smoky earth, eucalyptus, cedar, graphite and violets. Complex now but will be better in 3-4 years. This outperforms a lot of Napa stuff in this price point. Aged 18 months in 37% new French oak. (91 points)

2013 Bruce Patch Zinfandel Equavinity Landy Vineyard - California, Sonoma County, Russian River Valley

SRP: $30

Juicy purple color. Smells of vibrant black cherries and juicy raspberries, sweet cola, eucalyptus and pepper. Full-bodied with velvety tannins and surprisingly fresh acidity. Tart black cherries and plums blend so well with sweet violets, eucalyptus, vanilla cola, and really interesting notes of barbecue sauce, cayenne and black pepper. Long and complex but fresh with great balance and some structure for aging. Wow, and for $30?! Aged 20 months in American oak. (91 points)

Some Stunning Merlot From California

Good lord this is some good Merlot!

This post was first published on the daily wine blog Terroirist.

It's been a while since I've sat down with a handful of Merlots for a single-blind tasting. These selections make for a great re-entry. Some of these wines are quite expensive, full-bodied, oaky and packed with fruit, but I can't deny the beauty of poise of the wines that jumped out at me.

Apparently October is "Merlot Month" — one of those ubiquitous months marketers ascribe to a certain grape variety, region, etc. But it means I've been receiving some really solid Merlot samples, so I'm fine with it.

Go Merlot!

These wines were received as trade samples and tasted single blind (except for the Goldschmidt, which was received late and tasted sighted).

2013 Pahlmeyer Merlot - California, Napa Valley
SRP: $85
Deep purple color. Gobs of complex fruit on the nose: black cherries, saucy currants and blackberry jam, backed up by cedar, menthol, mint, vanilla and magic marker. Extracted and deep with velvety but structured tannins and medium-low acidity. Deep black cherries, blackberries and blueberry pie along with black licorice, mocha, vanilla, menthol and charcoal. A hard-punching style but very, very good. Will show better after a few years in the cellar, and continue to improve for quite some time, but it’s delicious to taste in its hedonistic youth. Aged 20 months in French oak (includes 4% Cab Sauv and 1% Petit Verdot). (93 points)

2013 Rombauer Vineyards Merlot - California, Napa, Carneros
SRP: $35
Juicy purple color. Smells vibrant yet dark, with a mix of black cherries, plums and red and black currant, along with notes of clove, cedar, coffee, and some violets and earthy elements. Full-bodied with velvety tannins, although they provide some structure, and medium-low acidity. Black cherries, red plums, juicy currants, the fruit is mixed with cola, coffee, roasted chestnut, earth and violet notes. Smooth, velvety and delicious. Fine to drink now or hold for a few years, easy. Includes 12% Cabernet Sauvignon, aged 17 months in 30% new French oak. (88 points)

2013 Duckhorn Vineyards Merlot - California, Napa Valley
SRP: $54
Deep purple color. Aromas of saucy black cherries and tart red and black currants, along with violets, coffee, loamy soil and licorice. Full but juicy with a fleshy tannic approach and some moderate acid that helps keep it balanced. Black cherries, tart currants, the fruit is deep and juicy but also tart. Some mint, vanilla, smoky oak, cedar, but also some earthy and graphite notes. Shows well right out of the bottle but could unfold nicely in the near term. Includes 7% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cabernet Franc, this wine is aged 15 months in 25% new French oak. (88 points)

 2013 Mt. Brave Merlot - California, Napa Valley, Mt. Veeder
SRP: $75
Vibrant purple color. Smells dark and loamy, with black cherries, juicy currants, warm mulling spices, lots of earthy complexity. On the palate, a concentrated and voluptuous wine, good grip from the tannins, medium acidity. Flavors of dark currants and waves of black cherry — some vanilla, clove, dark roast coffee but plenty of dark earthy notes, hints of savory spice. Oak is evident but woven in well and not dominant. A bold and saucy wine, but beautiful through and through. If drinking soon, decant vociferously, but I’d love to taste this in four to six years. Includes 5% Malbec, this is aged 19 months in 85% new French oak. (92 points)

2013 La Jota Merlot - California, Napa Valley, Howell Mountain
SRP: $85
Deep black cherry color. Smells of juicy black cherries, black currants, mixed with violets, vanilla, a hint of tobacco — concentrated aromas that need lots of air. Full-bodied with velvety tannins and some moderate acid, it’s mouth-filling but feels precise on the palate. Tart currants mix with roasted plum and jammy black cherries – but a really interesting streak of green herbs and savory spices. Underlying complexities of minerals, crushed rocks and pencil shavings. Concentrated and young, but very, very pretty. This should be a stunner in 2020 or so. Includes a bit of Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot, this is aged 19 months in 80% new French oak. (93 points)

2014 Goldschmidt Vineyard Merlot Chelsea Goldschmidt - California, Sonoma County, Alexander ValleySRP: $18
Juicy ruby color. Pretty aromatics of tart red and black currants, some lighter toned strawberry notes, and some roses, eucalyptus, tobacco. Full-bodied but wrapped in velvety tannins, some moderate acidity, a big and juicy wine. Black cherries and tart blueberry fruit, bold but stays fresh, the fruit is backed by cedar, eucalyptus, tobacco, mint and notes of vanilla coffee. Ready to drink but should improve for a few years. All Merlot aged 12 months in a mix of new and used French, American and Hungarian oak. (87 points)