100 Points

Featured Wine Review

CIRQ Pinot Noir Russian River Valley 2021

This is an awe-inspiring example of Pinot Perfection that simply must be tasted to believed. Three-dimensional aromas of ripe cherry, bright red berries, and spices. Layers of bright red fruit on the palate and a towering structure that puts this into a category of its own when compared to its peers. So much charisma in... Read Full Review →
96 Points

Miura Pinot Noir Rochioli Vineyard 2015

This impressive new Pinot launches forth with intense aromas of red berries, strawberry, crushed stone and hints of black truffle. The palate is smooth and densely packed with red cherries, pomegranate, minerals and spices that glide along soft tannins. The pure and pristine style is a captivating mélange of the finest Burgundy flavors plus Russian... Read Full Review →
96+ Points

Merry Edwards Chardonnay Olivet Lane 2019

This new release is a quintessentially Big, Bold, and Buttery California Chardonnay featuring initial notes of honeysuckle, hazelnut and pineapple. On the palate, we enjoyed balance of apple, pear and citrus flavors that provide beam of brightness and lift. A beautiful Chardonnay that can be enjoyed now or over the next 5 years. Read Full Review →
96+ Points

Molino di Sant’Antimo Brunello di Montalcino 2015

This bargain of the vintage from Molino di Sant’Antimo showcases the quality of the vintage in an approachable style that you can enjoy over the next 5-10 years while you wait on other producers that would benefit from more cellar time. The nose is full of fresh cherry, strawberry, violets and tobacco, leading to a... Read Full Review →
96 Points

Nicolas-Jay Pinot Noir L’Ensemble 2022

Seriously FUN to drink, this outrageously delicious & silky smooth new release is a bottling of the winery’s ‘best of the best’ {as described by the world-famous wine team} selections. This knock-out winner showcases an array of bright fruit flavors and complexity including cherry cola, pomegranate, cranberry, subtle spice and notes of herbal tea. Finishing... Read Full Review →
96 Points

Nicolas-Jay Pinot Noir L’Ensemble 2023

A vividly expressive Pinot Noir, the 2023 L’Ensemble opens with violet, rose, and hibiscus tea before unfolding into dark red fruits, deep plum, and a hint of prune for added depth. Captivating brightness and presence give the wine its drive, while notes of cinnamon, black licorice, and botanical nuances add complexity. This is a beautifully... Read Full Review →
96 Points

Nicolas-Jay Pinot Noir Willamette 2016

A big rush of juicy cranberry, strawberry preserve, raspberry leaf, lingonberry and hints of dried sage. Silky mouthfeel with an umami component within a caramel, brown sugar sweetness in the middle that lends a distinctly Burgundian feel towards the long, fruit-forward, cherry-rich finish. A true representation of the best of Willamette Valley.s, and the wine... Read Full Review →
96 Points

Noemi Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2021

This still undiscovered jewel is at it again, offering a flamboyant, ultra-rich and opulent thrill ride that reminds us of prized Cabernets trading for much higher prices. Think espresso, caramel covered walnut brownies, and sweet coconut, with a hedonistic velvety texture. Full-throttle flavors include crème de cassis, and vanilla oak plus savory notes of balsamic... Read Full Review →
96+ Points

Occidental Pinot Noir Freestone-Occidental 2017

This is a vibrant wine, full of red cherry, pomegranate, and boysenberry, balanced with sweet baking spice and savory herbs. Insanely drinkable, the palate is long and luscious, where dark fruit mingles seamlessly with notes of earth, white pepper, and discreet tannins. Perfect to drink now or over the next 5 years. Read Full Review →
96+ Points

Paloma Merlot 2013

ULTRA rich and rounded, cashmere-like texture. Extraordinarily delicious. One of our editor’s immediately declared ‘I gotta’ get this for my Cellar’! Dark rich plums, figs, dates, and Cuban cigar plus hints of espresso on the savory finish. Enjoy now through 2026. Read Full Review →
96 Points

Paloma Merlot 2017

Spicy nose of black cherry and pepper. Juicy, soft and concentrated on the palate. A particularly flashy and full-bodied vintage of this wine. Flavors of black cherry, dark berries, espresso and backing spices. dusty, elegant finish with plenty of length. Best now through 2026. Read Full Review →