Dovecote
Red Tail Thompson Vineyard Red Rhone Blend
Visited this gem of a winery last year. 2021 brings 56% Syrah, 8% Grenache, 23% Mourvédre, and 12% Petite Sirah, with 8% whole cluster fruit in the blend. Not much nose, but you'll initially get some savory spices of fennel and thyme in the glass. As it evolves the complexity shines. Cassis, dark currants and a smokiness. Medium to full bodied. Make a point of visiting for a tasting. — 3 months ago
Timberline
Howell Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon
Howell Mtn Cab from the Ladera family. Inky out of the bottle with notes of cherry, blackberry and bright acidity. Chocolate, dried herbs and cocoa on the mid palate. A nice spicy finish but not going to blow your friends away. Good price point for the money. — a month ago
Brave & Maiden Estate
Bequest Los Olivos District Cabernet Franc Blend 2021
Just an exquisite red blend from B&M. Produced in a Bordeaux style. Beautiful nose. Opens with blackberry, a hint of cinnamon and a chocolate sweetness to balance it out. 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Petit Verdot, 12.5% Merlot, 12.5% Cabernet Franc. This will drink well for a while. Don't pass on this winery/winemaker if you're in Santa Ynez. — 4 months ago
Betz Family Winery
Clos de Betz Columbia Valley Red Blend 2018
Deep ruby color right out of the bottle. Aromatics dominate in a great way. Balanced fruit and acidity. Great finesse. One of the best from Washington State. — a month ago
Timberline
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
100% mountain Cab sourced from vineyards in Atlas Peak and Calistoga. This production was a partnership between Ladera Vineyards and a now defunct Napa producer. Opens with blackberry, black cherry and dark chocolate. Big mouthfeel but the wine will need a long decant. Wine should age well. — 3 months ago
Ken Venezio
A little jammy on the initial pour but with 20-30 minutes this really stands out. Cocoa, blackberry and a hint of pencil shaving. Long finish with a fine balance. — 12 days ago