Richard Stetler's Fine Wines & Tastings

The Best Cellar  *  New Location - June 1, 2009 - 1408 NE 26th St..  *  Wilton Manors, FL  *  33305
Telephone (954) 630-8020                    e-mail

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EACH WEEK WE TASTE 7 - 9 DIFFERENT WINES + BONUS WINES
LISTED BELOW IS JUST A SAMPLING OF THE WINES
WE HAVE TASTED IN THE PREVIOUS WEEKS

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Wine Tasting December 29 & 30, 2021 / January 1 & 2, 2022

2018 Mischa Rousanne Wellington, South Africa
2020 Delaille Cheverny Salvard Rose Loire Valley
2019 Tassajara Pinot Noir Monterrey
2015 Axel Primero Red Blend Colchagua, Chile
2018 Revana Terroir Series Cabernet
2018 Hedges Estate Red Mountain Bordeaux Blend
2012 Puro Uno Mega Malbec
2016 Marques de Murrieta Rioja Reserva


Wine Tasting December 22 ~ 24 & 26, 2021

2020 Miraflors Lafage Novellum Chardonnay
2020 Cherry House Rose Paso Robles
2018 Scaia Corvina Veneto, Italy
2014 Tournon Chapoutier Shays Flat Pyrenees Shiraz
2015 Northstar Merlot Columbia Valley
2018 Auctioneer Cabernet Napa
2018 Foley Johnson Cabernet Rutherford
2018 Gravel Pit Cabernet Napa


Wine Tasting December 15 ~ 19, 2021
Champagne & Red Wine Fest

2013 Le Mesnil Blanc de Blanc Grand Cru Champagne
Piper Heidsick Rose Sauvage Brut Champagne
Chateau Collet Blanc de Blanc Premier Cru Champagne
Chateau Collet Brut Champagne N/V
Chateau Collet Rose Brut Champagne N/V
Lanson Brut Rose N/V Champagne
Chateau Thibault Schloesser Brut Origine Champagne
2019 Saint Hillaire Blanquette de Limoux Brut
Cleto Chiarli Ecchia Moderna Sparkling Lambrusco N/V

2019 Tassajara Pinot Noir Monterrey
2019 Textbook Cabernet Pey Family
2016 Mullan Road Red Blend Columbia Valley
2018 Hedges Red Mountain Estate Red Blend


Wine Tasting December 8 ~ 12, 2021

2020 Collefrisio Pecorino Terre De Chieti
2020 Ciollefrisio Rose Abruzzo, Italy
2019 Collefrisio Apassimento Rosso Italy
2017 Markham The Altruist
2018 Bacio Davino Pazzo "Call me Crazy"
2017 Bruce Patch Harris Kratka Zinfandel Alex Valley
2012 Collefrisio Semis Montepulciano D'Abuzzo Italia
2018 Gravel Pitt Napa Cabernet


Wine Tasting December 1 ~ 5, 2021
CabFest

2018 Russel Bevans Ontogeny
2018 Scrader Double Diamond Oakville Cabernet
Far Niente "Bella Union" Napa Cabernet
2016 Davis Estate Cabernet
2016 Galerie "Latro" Knights Valley Cabernet
2019 Titus Andronicus Cabernet Blend
2018 Chappelett Mountain Cuvee Cabernet
2018 Auctioneer Cabernet
2016 Jackson Estate Cabernet
2017 Powers Champoux Cabernet Reserve
2018 Scattered Peaks Napa Cabernet
2016 Gravel Bar Cabernet Red Mountain
2018 Brady Cabernet Paso Robles
2019 One Stone Cabernet Paso Robles


Wine Tasting November 24 & 26 ~ 28, 2021

2018 Matanzas Creek Chardonnay Sonoma County
2020 CasaSmith Vino Rose Washington
2019 Roserock Drouhin Eola-Amity Pinot Noir
2016 Bolland Cellars One Formation Western Cape
2018 Badia a Coltibuono Chianti Classico
2017 Seghesio Cortina Zinfandel
2019 My Favorite Neighbor Cabernet
2016 Galerie Plainair Napa Cabernet
Plus Bonus Wines!


Wine Tasting November 18 ~ 21, 2021

2021 Allan Scott Sauvignon Blanc NZ
2020 Salvard Chevergny Rose Delaille
2019 Roserock Drouhin Eola-Amity Pinot Noir
2019 One Stone Cabernet Paso Robles
2019 Chateau Lapstolle Cuvee Alexandre Carmenere
2013 Lassiter Paysage Bordeau Blend
2017 Chateau Lassegue St Emilion Grand Cru
2019 Chateau De St Cosme Gigondas


Wine Tasting November 11 ~ 14, 2021
ZinFest

2019 Ridge Three Valleys Zinfandel
2019 Ridge Geyserville
2019 Ridge Each Bench Dry Creek
2019 Ridge Lytton Springs
2019 Venge Scouts Honor Napa Blend
2019 Bela Voda Tikves Zinfandel/Cabernet Macedonia
2017 Acre Napa Valley Oakville Zinfandel
2018 Klinkerbrick Old Ghost Zinfandel
2017 Bruce Patch "Call Me Scarlet" Sonoma Valley
2017 Bruce Patch Harris Katka Zinfandel Alexander Valley
2018 Brady Zinfandel Paso Robles
2018 "Wanted Zin" Primativo Italy


Wine Tasting November 4 ~ 7, 2021

2019 Bennett Valley Cellars Chardonnay Sonoma Coast
2020 Raeburn Rose Russian River
2015 Red Car Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast
2017 Museum Reserva Tinta del Pais (Cigales)
2014 Chateux du Retoput Haut-Medoc
2012 Puro Uno Artist Series Mega Malbec Blend
2018 Duckhorn Napa Cabernet
2007 Vinedo de los Vientos Angel's Cuvee Ripasso de Tannat


Wine Tasting October 28 ~ 31, 2021

2019 MacRostie Sonoma Coast Chardonnay
2020 Materra Cunat Family Yoshino Napa Rose
2019 Kermit Lynch Cote de Rhone
2015 Cantele Salice Salentino Doc Reserva
2020 Penley Estate Cabernet Franc Coonawarra, Australia
2018 Duckhorn Napa Valley Merlot
2019 Brown Estate Chaos Theory Napa Valley Red Blend
2018 Leviathan Red Blend
2018 Hacienda Monasterio Ribero del Duero


Wine Tasting October 21 ~ 24, 2021

2018 Mastroberardino Nova Serra Greco di Tufo Campania
2020 Dom de Salvard Cheverny Rose
2013 Kiser Pinot Noir "En Haut" Anderson Valley
2016 Bodegas Borsao Syrah Campo De Borja Zarihs
2017 Keenan Merlot Napa Valley
2015 Cass Estate Cabernet
2018 Scattered Peaks Cabernet Napa Valley
2016 Galerie Latro Cabernet Knights Valley


Wine Tasting October 14 ~ 17, 2021

Italian Fest

N/V Cardamaro Vino Amaro
Argiolas 2020 Is Argiolas (Vermentino di Sardegna)
2019 Casa Marrone Appassimento Vino Passito Blanco Puglia
2017 Ferzo Montepulciano D'Abruzzo
2017 La Giaretta Amorone Valpolicella
2018 Badia A Coltibuono Chianti Classico
2019 Vietti Barbera D'Alba Trevigne
2017 Vajra Barolo Albe Piemonte
2006 Tenute Cisa Asinari Marchesi di Gresy Langhe Rosso Virtus
2016 Azienda Bisceglia Aglianico del Vulture Gudarra
2017 Arcanum "IL Fauno"
2016 Tolaini Valdisanti Toscana
2016 San Giorgio Ugolforte Brunello di Montalcino


Wine Tasting October 7 ~ 10, 2021

NV Collet Brut Champagne
2020 Argiolas Is Argiolas Vermentino
2018 Mastroberardino Greco di Tufo Nova Serra
2016 Belleview Estate Pinotage Stellenbosch
2017 Ferzo Montepulciano D'abruzzo
2018 Badia A Coltibuono Chianti Classico
2016 Bisceglia Gudarra Aglianico del Vulture
2017 Seghesio Dry Creek Cortina Zinfandel
2017 Far Niente Bella Union Cabernet Napa


Wine Tasting September 30  ~ October 3, 2021

2018 Mischa Estate Rousanne South Africa
2017 Brewer-Clifton Sta Rita Hills Pinot Noir
2018 Chateau de La Graviere Bordeaux
2014 Chateau du Retout Haut-Medoc
2017 Marco Felluga Russiz Superiore Cabernet Franc
2019 Delas Cotes-du-Rhone Saint-Esprit
2018 Miguel Torres Carmenere Cordillera
2019 Ridge Lytton Springs Zinfandel Sonoma
2018 Faust Napa Cabernet Oakville


Wine Tasting September 23 ~ 26, 2021

2018 Matanzas Creek Chardonnay Sonoma County
NV Cardamaro Vino Aromatizzato Muscat Italy
Block Nine Pinot Noir Caidens Vineyard
2020 Arrgyle Pinot Noir Rose Oregon 2020
2019 Bevan Cellars Petaluma Gap Pinot Noir Sonoma County
2019 Trentadue Las Storia Estate Alexander Zinfandel
2015 Louis 57 Open Champion Syrah, Stellenbosch
2018 Clos La Coutale Cahors Malbec France
2018 ZD Cabernet 50th Anniversary Napa Valley


Wine Tasting September 16 ~ 19, 2021

2020 Rombauer Sauvignon Blanc
2020 Raeburn Rose Russian River
2017 Patz & Hall Sonoma County Pinot Noir
2019 Ridge Three Valleys Sonoma Zinfandel
2019 The Prisoner Wine Company Unshackled Cabernet Sauvignon
2016 Stonestreet Estate Cabernet
Louis 57 2016 Jasoma Conclusion Red (Western Cape)
2016 Marques de Marietta Rioja Reserva
2017 Mt brave Mt Veeder Cabernet


Wine Tasting September 9 ~ 12, 2021

2020 Hahn Pinot Gris Monterrey California
2015 Red Car Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
Grayson Cellars Cabernet Lot 10 Napa
2020 Penley Estate Francis Cabernet Franc
2018 Duckhorn Napa Merlot
2018 Duckhorn Napa Cabernet
Red Schooner Voyage 9 Malbec Argentina (Wagner Family of Wine)
2018 Mt Veeder Estate Cabernet


Wine Tasting September 2 ~ 5, 2021

2019 Withering Hills Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough, NZ
2017 Belle Glos Eulenloch Pinot Noir Napa
2019 Garnacha de Fuego Spain Ordonez
2018 Black Slate La Vilella Alta Priorat, Spain
2016 Chateau Cormeil-Figeac St Emilion Grand Cru
2016 Galerie "Latro" Knights Valley Cabernet
2018 Leviathan Oakville Red Andy Dickerson
2018 Mathews Claret Walla Walla, Washington


Wine Tasting August 26 ~ 29, 2021

Lanson Champagne Pere et Fils Black Label Brut
2020 Emmolo Sauvignon Blanc
2017 Slates of Bonmont Priorat Spain
2019 Mollydooker Shiraz "The Boxer"
2018 Jolete Summit View Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Walla Walla
 2018 FJ Foley Johnson Estate Rutherford Cabernet
2018 Tuck Beckstoffer Mad Hatter Red Blend Oakville
2016 Davis Cabernet Napa Phillipe Melka
Plus Bonus Wines!


Wine Tasting August 19 ~ 22, 2021

2017 Stonestreet Chardonnay
2017 Selby Old Vines Zinfandel Sonoma County
2020 Marcelo Bocardo Cabernet Mendoza, Argentina
2019 Y. Rousseau Son of a Butcher Red Blend North Coast
2018 Ballentine Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
2018 My Favorite Neighbor Harvey & Harriet Red Paso Robles
2015 Ferrari Carrano Tresor Sonoma
2016 Turnbull Cabernet Reserve Oakville


Wine Tasting August 12 ~ 15, 2021
ZinFest

2019 Venge Scouts Honor Napa Blend
2017 Sbragia Gino's Zinfandel Sonoma
2018 Martinelli Vigneto Di Evo Zinfandel
2018 Rombauer Vineyards Napa Zinfandel
2018 Ghost Block Pelissa Zinnfandel Napa
2019 Orin Swift "8 Years in the Dessert" Zinfandel
2017 Hook & Ladder Zinfandel Russian River
2019 TikeVes Vranec Special Selection., Macedonia
2019 Bela Voda Tikeves Zinfandel/Cabernet Macedonia
2019 Dry Creek Vineyards Heritage Zinfandel
2018 Kokomo Estate Dry Creek Zinfandel
2018 Ancient Peaks Zinfandel Paso Robles
2018 Trentadue "La Storia" Zinfandel Alex Valley
2019 Scotto Cellars " Veavyweight Zinfandel


Wine Tasting August 5 ~ 8, 2021

2018 L'Ecole Semillion Columbia Valley
2016 Biggio Hamina "Holmes Gap" Pinot Noir Willamette
Cantele Salice Salentino Riserva 2015 Negroamaro
2019 Grayson Cellars Cabernet Lot 10
2016 Inglenook Rutherford Napa Cabernet Sauvignon
2018 Jolete Cabernet Summit View Vineyard
Stringer Stagecoach Cabernet Napa 2017
2014 Mastroberardino Agianico Radici Taurasi Reserva


Wine Tasting July 29 ~ August 1, 2021

2018 Misha Rousanne South Africa
2018 Mer de Soleil SLH Pinot Noir Reserve
2019 Belle Glos Dairyman Pinot Noir
2019 Gravel Bar Alluvial Red Columbia Valley
2018 Chateau Laplagnotte Bellevue Saint Emilion Grand Cru
2016 Bodegas Borsao Syrah Campo De Borja Zarihs Spain
2017 Numanthia Termes Toro Spain
2015 Neumanthia Toro Spain


Wine Tasting July 22 ~ 25, 2021

2018 Misha Roussanne South Africa
2017 Selvapiana Villa Petrognano Red (Pomino)
2015 Louis 57 Open Champion Syrah
2016 Louis 57 Open Champion Cabernet
2012 Laus Vitae Montepulciano D'Abruzzo
2018 Auctioneer Cabernet Napa
2018 Ch. Laplagnotte-Bellevue St-Emillion Gran Cru
2018 Stewart Cellars "Tartan" Bordeaux Blend


Wine Tasting July 15 ~ 18, 2021

2019 Siduri Chardonnay Willamette Valley
2019 Royal Prince SLH Pinot Noir
2017 Storypoint Select Cabernet
2017 Tenuta di Arceno Il Fauno di Arcanum Toscana
2019 Lapostolle Carmenere Cuvee Alexandre
2016 Stonestreet Estate Cabernet
2016 Jackson Estate Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
2015 Tenuta di Arceno ArcanumToscana


Wine Tasting July 8 ~ 11, 2021

2020 Elk Cove Pinot Gris Willamette Valley
2019 Excelsior Cabernet Robertson, S. A.
2015 Louis 57 Open Champion Syrah Stellenbosch S.A
2018 Matthew's Blackboard€ Red Washington.
2016 Marquis de Grinion Cabernet Valdepusa
2015 La Playa Axel Primero Colchagua, Chile
2018 Duckhorn Merlot Napa Valley
2019 Caterwaul Cabernet Napa Valley


Wine Tasting July 1 ~ 3, 2021

2018 L'Ecole Chenin Blanc Old Vines
2020 Le Charmel Rose de Provence
2017 Moss Roxx Ancient Vines Zinfandel
2019 Chateau de L'Orme de Pilon Bordeaux
2019 Grayson Cellars Cabernet Lot 10
2018 Summers Adrianna's Cuve Cabernet
2016 Summers Cabernet Reserve
2016 Powers Champoux Cabernet Reserve Washington
2018 Chappellet Signature Cabernet


Wine Tasting June 24 ~ 27, 2021

2020 Rombauer Napa Sauvignon Blanc
2016 Twenty Rows Napa Chardonnay
2019 Belle Glos Los Alturos
2018 Chateau La Graviere Bordeaux
2016 Regalaeli Tasca Lamuri Nero D'Avola Italy
2019 Penley Estate Francis Cabernet Franc (Coonawarra)
2019 Penley Estate Phoenix Cabernet
2019 Kanankop Kadette Cabernet Stellenbosch
2018 Booker "Harvey & Harriet" Paso Robles Red Blend


Wine Tasting June 10 ~ 13, 2021
Pinot Noir Fest

2020 Block Nine Caiden's Vineyards Pinot Noir
2019 Scotto Cellars Silver Peak Pinot Noir Sonoma County
2017 Nielson Pinot Noir Santa Barbara
2019 Jolete Le Verre Cuvee Pinot Noir Oregon
2018 Le Cadeau Rocheux Pinot Noir Chehalem Mountains
2019 Royal Prince Pinot Noir Santa Lucia Highlands
2015 Red Car Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir
2017 Pike Road Shea Vineyard Yamhill-Carlton
2017 Brewer-Clifton Santa Rita Hills Pinot Noir
2017 Hartford Court Land's Edge Pinot Noir Sonoma Coas
2017 Zena Crown Vineyard Slope Pinot Noir
2017 Eola-Amity Hills, Willamette Valley
2019 Rivers Marie Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir


 Wine Tasting May 27 ~ 30, 2021

Taittinger Champarne "Brut La Francaise" Reims
2018 Daou Chardonnay Reserve Willow Creek
2018 Zenato Alanera Rosso Veranese
2017 Selvapiana Pomino Villa Petrognano
2015 Qupe Grenache Sawyer Lindquist Edna Valley
2018 Brady Estate Cabernet Paso Robles
2018 Kokomo Zinfandel Dry Creek Valley Sonoma
2019 Orin Swift Palermo Cabernet St. Helena Napa
2019 Orin Swift Palermo Cabernet St. Helena Napa
2017 Mad Hatter Beckstoffer Oakville Bordeaux Blend


Wine Tasting May 21 ~ 23, 2021

2019 Caymus Emmolo Sauvignon Blanc, Napa
2019 Block Nine Pinot Noir Caiden's Estate
2017 Volver  Quinta del '67 Vino Generacional Garnacha Tintorera
2019 Grayson Cellars Estate Cabernet California
2018 Brady Estate Cabernet Paso Robles
Aerena 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon (Red Hills) Lake County
2018 Prisoner Unshackled Cabernet Oakville
2017 Lassegue Les Cadrans St Emilion Grand Cru
Borsao Zarihs Syrah 2016 {#28 Wine Spectator Top 100 of 2020
}
2016 Lateral Red Blend Napa


Wine Tasting May 14 ~ 16, 2021

2019 Siduri Chardonnay Willamette Valley
2017 Willakenzie Estate Pinot Noir Willamette Valley
2018 Gassier Cotes Du Rhone Grenache
2017 Mathews Claret Columbia Valley
2019 Torbreck Woodcutters Shiraz Barossa
2011 Puro Uno Malbec Gran Reserva Mendoza
2016 Artadi Vinas De Gain Tempranillo
2017 DeLille D2 Estate Red 2017, Columbia Valley
 (#63 of Wine Spectator's Top 100 of 2020)


Wine Tasting May 6 ~ 9, 2021
ZinFest

2019 Venge Scouts Honor Calistoga Zinfandel
2017 McCauley Estate Old Vine Zinfandel Napa
2018 Ghost Block Oakville Zinfandel
2017 Napa Robert Biale Black Chicken
2018 Hartford Old Vine Zinfandel Russian River
2018 Orin Swift Eight Years in the Desert
2017 Selby Old Vines Zinfandel Sonoma
2017 Acre Estate Napa Zinfandel
2019 Prisoner Saldo Zinfandel
2019 Trentadue La Storia Alexander Valley
2019 Brady Estate Zinfandel Paso Robles
2017 Scotto Cellars Heavyweight Zinfandel


Wine Tasting April  21 ~ 25, 2021
 23rd Anniversary
Wine Tasting Celebration
"Blind Tasting of Merlots vs. Cabernets"

2017 Trentadue La Storia Merlot
2015 Cotarella Sodali Merlot
2016 Chateaux Lasseque St Emilion Grand Cru
2017 Peju Estate Merlot Napa
2018 Textbook Estate Merlot Napa
2015 Northstar Merlot Columbia Valley
2015 Keenan Merlot Napa Valley

2016 Stonestreet Estate Cabernet
2016 Galerie Pleinair Napa Cabernet
2018 Textbook Napa Estate Cabernet
2016 L'Ecole No 41 Cabernet Columbia Valley
2017 One Stone Cabernet Paso Robles
2015 Keenan Cabernet Napa
2018 Mount Veeder Winery Cabernet


Wine Tasting April  16 ~ 18, 2021

2017 Mer Soleil Reserve Chardonnay, Santa Lucia Highlands
90 points, Wilfred Wong of Wine.com: How much butter can I stand? More than I thought. A wine that I would sip on a beach while watching the sunset. Ultrarich, with decadent aromas and flavors of ripe apple and cream that will pair well with Asiago and dry-cured salami.

2019 Podere Grattamacco Bolgheri Rosso
93 points James Suckling: Aromas and flavors of crushed blackcurrants and berries to this fresh, medium-bodied red, together with a hint of black tea. Tight, youthful tannins. What's there not to like? Drink or hold.

2019 G D Vajra Nebbiolo Langhe Piedmonte
All previous 5 vintages of this wine have scored 90 to 92 points. Winery Notes: Aromas of cherries, cherry stone, candid pear and pomegranate nectar are vivid. This complex bouquet is completed by orange blossom, sweet spices and lifted mineral tones. The mouthfeel is vibrant, with red fruits and the sweet spices refreshed by a zesty acidity. Pairs with an amazing array of diverse food, from aperitifs and appetizers to spicy dishes, fried delicacies and BBQs.

2016 Slo Down Wines Love Hammer Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa
Winery Notes: 2016 is the inaugural vintage of our Pine Mountain Vineyard-Cloverdale Peak Love Hammer Cabernet. The wine expresses all the qualities that made us fall in love with this rugged, high elevation AVA. The nose flaunts aromas of vanilla, black pepper, green olive and cherry pipe tobacco. The palate drips with flavors of dark cherry and ripe blackberry, finishing with notes of cigar spice and baking chocolate.

2018 Brady Zin
96 points, Wine Enthusiast (#14 in Wine Enthusiast Top 100 wines from 2020): Dense aromas of black currant, red flowers and charred meat are wrapped in a rocky edge on the nose of this bottling. There is great cohesion to the palate, where rich red fruits are cut by crushed stone flavors, lifted by savory spice and framed by ample acidity and tannins.


Wine Tasting April  9 ~ 11, 2021

2018 Belle Glos Dairyman Vineyard Pinot Noir Russian River, Sonoma County
91 Points, Wine Spectator: Very suave and rich-tasting, with concentrated dark cherry and plum  tart flavors, flanked by toasty notes. The creamy finish is filled with  chocolaty richness.

2017 Orion Wines Sette Vigne Italia
Winemaker's Notes: Sette Vigne has an intense dark red color. The aroma recalls cocoa,  dark fruit, spices and roasted coffee beans. In the mouth it is full  bodied yet subtle, velvety, elegant and incredibly layered. The finish  is full of spiciness and soft tannins, long and lingering. Best served  decanted and at room temperature. It is perfect with grilled and roasted meats, game dishes and strong cheeses. {Grapes: Corvina, Primitivo, Barbera, Nebbiolo, Montepulciano, Aglianico,  Sangiovese. All in equal amounts - just above14% of each grape variety.}

2015 Vinosia Neromaro Aglianico Irpinia Italy
Tasting Notes (from Opici Wines): Deep dark fruits, round tannins, hints of toasted oak with substantial  cherry and herbal finish that is smooth and velvety. Great with aged  cheeses, grilled stuffed peppers, veal and pork meats, and pasta with  tomato sauce. {100% Aglianico}

2017 Canvasback Red Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon Yakima Valley, Washington
93 Points, Wine & Spirits: Duckhorn's estate at the higher elevations of Red Mountain, planted in  2013, is becoming a precocious fruit source. This 2017 offers a lot of  wine for the price, with intriguing tension between its savory  elementsâ€"tobacco leaf, sun-dried tomato skin, cedar frond, mochaâ€"and  firm dark-plum fruit. It's a weighty wine, with formidable tannins, but  it's delivered wholly on the rails, detailed and on point for steak. {Blend: 84% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Merlot, 2% Mourvedre, 2% Petit Verdot, 1% Syrah}

2017 Bella Union by Far Niente Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley
95 Points, Wine Enthusiast ~ #74 of Wine Enthusiast's Top 100 Cellar Selections of 2020:  Sinewy, earthy and full of spice, this well-made wine is lush and sumptuous,  with firm, focused tannins and integrated oak. Black cherry, cinnamon  and nutmeg meld on the  structured, full-bodied palate, with a graceful hint of dark chocolate on the finish. This will do well in the cellar; enjoy 2025 -2030. {Blend: 90.3% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4.2% Merlot, 2.5% Malbec, 1.6% Petit Verdot 1.4% Cabernet Franc}


Wine Tasting February 12 ~ 14, 2021

2016 Stonestreet Estate Chardonnay (Alexander Valley, Sonoma, CA)
93 points Vinous: A terrific introduction to the Stonestreet Chardonnays. Citrus, apricot, mint and a dash of new oak add nuance to this finely cut mountain Chardonnay. A wine that delivers serious quality for the money. Silky and textured, the 2016 hits all the right notes. What a gorgeous wine it is.

2016 Cottanera Barbazzale Etna Rosso (Sicily, Italy)
92 points, James Suckling: Aromas of dried berries, walnuts, dried herbs and spices. Full-bodied, integrated and very fine with ultra-fine tannins. Rich, tight and balanced. A blend of Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Cappuccio. Drink or hold.

2018 La Fage Narassa Cotes Catalanes (Languedoc-Roussillon, South France)
The Narassa is almost too good to be true, based on 82% Grenache and 18% Syrah, with the Grenache coming from the black slate soils of Maury and the Syrah from the higher elevation, sandy, granitic soils of Saint Martin de Fenouillet. Brought up in used barrels, this full-bodied, deep, meaty Syrah has a rocking nose of pepper, olives, cedar, and black fruits.

2019 Torbreck Woodcutters Shiraz (Barossa Valley, South Australia)
Not yet reviewed, but the vintages from 2016 to 2018 received scores in the 93-95 range. Amazingly low priced considering the old vines and great combination of power, intensity, complexity and finesse.

2016 SLO Down Wines Love Hammer Pine Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa, CA)
Winery Notes: 2016 is the inaugural vintage of our Pine Mountain Vineyard-Cloverdale Peak Love Hammer Cabernet. The wine expresses all the qualities that made us fall in love with this rugged, high elevation AVA. The nose flaunts aromas of vanilla, black pepper, green olive and cherry pipe tobacco. The palate is dripping with flavors of dark cherry and ripe blackberry, finishing with notes of cigar spice and baking chocolate. Unlike a passion that may grow cold in the light of dawn, the memory of this wine will linger and inspire many more affairs of the heart.


Wine Tasting February 4 ~ 7, 2021
ZinFest

2019 Botromagno Primitivo (Puglia, Italy)
90 points, Wine Enthusiast: A mix of earth, violet, blackberry, and plum and hibiscus carry this enticing Primitivo. The medium-bodied palate is driven by juicy dark fruit, with savory tones of earth, flowers and spice adding depth. Brilliant ruby-red in color, aromas of black cherries and baking spices complement undertones of tobacco and mint.

2018 Kokomo Dry Creek Zinfandel (Sonoma, CA)
93 points, Decanter: A near perfect growing season produced an above average crop of well balanced fruit. The wine spent 11 months in 20% new French oak and opens with Zin spice, leading to black cherries and plums and finishing with lingering anise and dried herbs.

2018 Ridge Three Valleys Red (Sonoma, CA)
93 points, Jebb Dunnuck:
  Blends 70% Zinfandel, 14% Petite Sirah, 12% Carignan, and 4% Mataro.  Medium-bodied, elegant end of the spectrum and has wonderful purity in blue fruits, peppery herbs, violets, and sandalwood aromas and flavors. Nicely textured, elegant, and seamless on the palate, with good acidity, this ethereal, balanced beauty can be drunk today.

2017 Hartford Russian River Old Vines Zin
93 points Wine Spectator: Offers a lively beam of crisp acidity, paired with complex and precise blueberry, raspberry, white pepper and licorice flavors that build richness toward a long finish.

2017 Limerick Lane Russian River Zin
94 points Jeb Dunnuck: A dark, brooding Zin, block  in Teldeschi Vineyard offers a super-classic expression of Dry Creek. Black fruit, leather, lavender and spice give baritone inflections to match its substantial depth and resonance. Better patiently aged.

2018 Brady Zin (Paso Robles, CA)
96 points, Wine Enthusiast - #14 Top 100 Wines 2020: Dense aromas of black currant, red flowers and charred meat are wrapped in a rocky edge on the nose of this bottling. There is great cohesion to the palate, where rich red fruits are cut by crushed stone flavors, lifted by savory spice and framed by ample acidity and tannins.


Wine Tasting January 29 ~ 31, 2021

2018 D'Arenberg Hermit Crab Viognier Marsanne (McLaren Vale, South Australia)
93 points, James Suckling: A dense, fresh, layered and delicious white wine that combines flavors of cream, lemon-curd, cooked-pear and sliced-apple. Medium full bodied. Flavorful finish.

2018 Garzon Tannat Reserva (Uruguay, South America)
93 points, Decanter: A wonderfully stylish expression of the Tannat grape variety that handles its alcohol well, showing flavors of bramble and blackberry with darker liquorice, fine-grained tannins and very subtle vanilla spice.

2013 Vinosia Taurasi Santandrea (Taurasi,Campania, Italy)
95 points, James Suckling: Fantastic aromas of dark fruits and walnut, sweet tobacco, dark tea and balsamic. Some oysters, too. Full body, powerful and rich. So much going on here. A great wine from Campania. Drink in 2019.

2015 BV Tapestry Reserve (Napa, CA)
93 points, Decanter: Dark black berries, notes of cassis on nose and palate. Intense, focused and precise, it shows a lovely purity of flavor. Excellent oak, concentrated and fresh, very good ageing potential. A fine example from Napa Valley. Blends 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Merlot, 7% Malbec, 4% Cabernet Franc and 3% Petit Verdot.

2016 Owl Ridge Napa Cabernet Sauvignon (Oakville and Calistoga, Napa, CA)
96-99 points, Jeb Dunnuck: Tasted in barrel before the wine was finished. On the palate, the wine's impressive structure is framed by unabashedly big fruit flavors of blueberry and plum, offset by complex, deeper notes of cedar, coffee and pencil lead. The full mid-palate transitions seamlessly into a long, interwoven finish of fig, tobacco and a subtle hint of oaky, sweet vanilla. Pair with grilled eggplants, heaty blue cheeseburgers or beef and ginger stir fry. Drinking great now, this intense but balanced cab will also age for up to ten years.


Wine Tasting January 22 ~ 24, 2021

2017 Maritana La Riviere Chardonnay (Russian River, CA)
95 points, James Suckling: Subtle and complete with cooked lemons and apples and a complement of straw and gunpowder. Full-bodied, deep and layered with a very attractive finish of fruit and minerals. Very drinkable now.

2013 Vinum Scrapper Cabernet Franc
92 points, Wine Enthusiast: Very rich and ripe, but also very firm and well built, this full-bodied wine has all the elements for great balance: robust and dry fruit flavors, good acidity, firm but not harsh tannins and appropriately strong alcohol. Great to drink now with something rich and fatty, but will be best after 2020.

2013 Northstar Merlot (Columbia Valley, Washington State)
92 points, Wine Spectator:
 Supple and expressive, plush in texture but not weighty, layering blueberry and currant flavors with hints of cream and green olive. Lingers well. Best from 2018 through 2023.

2018 Kanonkop Estate Pinotage (Stellenbosch, South Africa)
94 points, Tim Atkins: "Hot, long and tiring" is how Johann Krige describes the 2018 vintage, but Kanonkop more than coped with the challenge. The tannins are quite serious here, lending the wine structure and ageing potential. The palate is sweet and layered, with notes of sweet spices and patisserie and a long, tapering finish.

2015 Mullan Road Cellars (Columbia Valley, Washington State)
94 points, Wine Advocate:
 Opens in the glass with aromas of cassis, plums, sweet spices and burning embers. On the palate, it's medium full-bodied, deep and layered, with lovely concentration, an abundance of fine-grained tannins and a pure, penetrating finish. A blend of 49% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34% Merlot and 17% Cabernet Franc. 3,570 cases of this excellent red were produced.


Wine Tasting January 15 ~ 17, 2021

2018 Benziger Tribute Sauvignon Blanc(North Coast, CA)
91 points, Tasting Panel: A clean, crisp, and lively white, with a bouquet of grapefruit and freshly mowed grass that's followed by flavors of pineapple, gardenia, and honeyed cashew as well as floral, fragrant notes of white tea leaves. Hightoned acidity and a line of minerality offer a salty finish of stone fruit.

2018 Belle Glos Dairyman Russian River Pinot Noir
91 points, Wine Spectator: Very suave and rich-tasting, with concentrated dark cherry and plum tart flavors, flanked by toasty notes. The creamy finish is filled with chocolaty richness.

2017 Argiano Non Confunditur Toscana (Tuscany, Italy)
93 points, James Suckling: A savory, spicy red with dark berries and chocolate and a hint of vanilla on the palate. Medium full body, very chewy tannins and a flavorful finish. A balanced blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Sangeovese, and Syrah. Will drink better starting from 2021. Consistently an excellent value.

2016 Tenuta Di Arceno Classico Reserva (Tuscany, Chianti, Italy)
93 points, Wine Advocate: A nicely integrated and seamless wine, with satisfying fullness and richness. Reveals a very contemporary bouquet with black cherry covered in chocolate. The wine is thinner in the mouth, and the tannins make their presence known. But overall, it shows a very streamlined construction. Superb paired with French onion soup. The blend is 90% Sangiovese and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon aged in French barriques for 12 months. Gives you great value for your money.

2015 Tenuto Arceno Valadorna Toscana (Tuscany, Italy)
95+ points, Wine Advocate: The 2015 Valadorna (65% Merlot, 19% Cabernet Sauvignon 11% Cabernet Franc, 5% Petit Verdot) is a dark and thickly endowed red wine that boasts a rich and lasting grip on the palate. The bouquet offers depth and complexity with dark fruit, leather, cured tobacco and spice. There are also softer notes of chocolate and ground espresso beans. The wine's seamless integration of flavors leads to increased momentum and intensity as the wine continues to open in the glass.


Wine Tasting Janaury 8 ~ 10, 2021

2018 Chardonnay Cakebread Cellars (Napa, CA)
91 points, James Suckling: Aromas of peach, sliced apple, cream and crushed stones. Medium-bodied with crisp acidity. Creamy and straight forward. Drinkable now.

2015 Red Car Pinot Noir (Sonoma Coast, CA)
93 points, Wine Enthusiast:  Delicate layers of raspberry and strawberry define this coastal wine, which is deliciously layered and lightly complex. Pomegranate and blood orange flavors give it an additional lift of freshness and focus within its restrained style.

2017 Duckhorn Merlot (Napa, CA)
92 points, James Suckling: A nicely crafted and thoroughly tasty red with berries, plums and hints of dark chocolate on the nose and palate. Medium body, creamy tannins and a savory finish. Pretty fruit at the end. Fine drinking now but will improve with more aging. 

2017 Benziger Cabernet Reserve(Sonoma, CA)
92 points, Tasting Panel: A focused aroma of cinnamon and oak accents ripe plum in this approachable, incredibly great value red, which is sumptuous, bright, and sleek on the palate. Spiced blue fruit melds with supple tannins for easy drinking; balanced acidity offers superb food-pairing abilities.

2016 Auros Cabernet (Napa Valley, CA)
93 points Tasting Panel: Aged 18 months in French oak, this wine was made with fruit sourced from three of Napa Valley's sub-appellations: Oak Knoll, Oakville, and the Stags Leap District, with 15 different soil types among them. Aromas of fresh blackberry and plum combine with a hint of mocha on the inspired nose as grainy tannins, a rich mouthfeel, and balanced fruit and acid make this red work to its optimal ability. Leather and fennel come in for a savory finish. Blends 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7.5 % Petit Verdot, 5.7% Malbec, 0.5% Merlot, and 0.3% Cabernet Franc.

 


Wine Tasting Janaury 2, 2021

2016 Stonestreet Estate Chardonnay (Alexander Valley, Sonoma, CA)
93 points, Vinous: The 2016 Chardonnay Estate is a terrific introduction to the Stonestreet Chardonnays. Citrus, apricot, mint and a dash of new oak add nuance to this finely cut mountain Chardonnay. The Estate Chardonnay is another wine that delivers serious quality for the money. Silky, textured, and gorgeous. 

2017 Paul Hobbs Cocodrilo Corte (Mendoza, Argentina)
92 points, Tim Atkin: A blend of both sub-regions and grapes, this Cabernet Sauvignon-led cuvée with 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Malbec, 5% Petit Verdot, and 4% Merlot.Another assured red from the Viña Cobos team. Scented, subtleand beautifully oaked with some underlying grip and a refreshing finish.

2016 Ruffino Modus (Tuscany, Italy)
95 points, James Suckling: A fantastic red, showing such depth and intensity. Rich, plum and berry aromas and flavors with some light undertones of oak and cedar. Full body. Flavorful finish. Needs time to come together. Drink after 2020, but already a beauty. Blends 50% Sangiovese, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon and 25% Merlot.

2016 Turnbull Cabernet Reserve (Oakville, Napa, CA)
94 points, Wine Spectator: Solidly built, with layers of warm cassis, cherry puree and raspberry coulis stretching out over long, fine-grained tannins and juicy acidity. The plushness of the sweet fruit marries wonderfully with the grippy underlay on the lengthy finish. Best from 2022 through 2035. Aged in 100% French oak. Blends 93% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3%  Malbec, 2% Cabermet Franc, and 2% Petite Verdot.

2014 Mastroberardino Taurasi Aglianico
94 points, Vinous: A mix of crushed tart cherries, black berry and plums, offset by savory herbs, orange and a hint of mocha. Velvety textures coat the senses, slowly giving way to a complex blend of citrus-tinged dark fruits and saline minerals, as fine tannin. The finish is long and classically structured, clenching the palate, yet leaving a pretty display of spiced orange and inner florals. Will improve for years of storage