Competent Cabernet from consistent producer Nozzole. Their unique terroir in the Greve in the heart of Chianti gives them the opportunity to make a special Super Tuscan. Il Pareto doesn't disappoint with massive bursts of cassis and leather on the nose. The mouthfeel is warm and moderately heavy with beautiful flavors of raspberry accented with cinnamon and clove. — 10 years ago
For many California wine afficionados, Hundred Acre represents the top tier of Napa Valley Cabernets. Kayli Morgan Vineyard is very close to winemaker Jayson Woodbridge's heart...and his actual home. The harmonious terroir of St Helena was tailor made for Cabernet Sauvignon. Add in the fact that this is a very quality-oriented, hand-made endeavor and you've got yourself a sure-fire 95+ point wine. The hand selecting of not only the wood for the barrels but the individual grapes is not lost on the drinker. On the nose you get ripe, over-sweet raspberry, vanilla and cassis. On the palate it leans more towards blackberry, currant, cooked plums paired with solid salinity. Perfectly structured, Kayli Morgan ends with incredibly smooth, supple tannins from both the grape skin and the barrel. This '04 is ready to go but based on the precise vinification techniques it will likely keep for 15+ years. — 10 years ago
A truly remarkable expression of what a Super Tuscan can be. Antinori's innovative blend started the craze back in the 1970's. This vintage is worthy of the admiration. A bold blend of not only local favorite Sangiovese but Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. On the nose you're immediately hit with rose petals, allspice and forest floor. On the palate the structure truly reveals itself. Dark, sour cherry, raw cocoa, a little oaky vanilla and a hint of charred orange rind. Incredibly diverse flavor profile backed up with plenty of soft, dusty tannins and enough acidity to hold for years to come. One of the greats.
-ToasT Enoteca & Cucina — 10 years ago
This St Helena offering from Salvestrin does not disappoint! If you're looking for a complex, creamy Chardonnay alternative in Napa Valley, look no further. Stone fruits, particularly ripe, white peach, jasmine & honeysuckle. On the palate, the residual sugars help to soften the acidity and pronounced alcohol. Flavors run the gamut from Vanilla and toasty almond to créme de citron and lychee. — 10 years ago
Everything you could ask for from a single vineyard Napa Cabernet. The 06 vintage was a particularly good one for Dalraddy Vineyard and Alex took advantage of it. On the nose you're presented with ripe blueberries, plum and tobacco. On the palate the dark berry flavor takes over and is enhanced by generous notes of chocolate covered bing cherries. A jammy, fruit-driven, serious Cabernet that gives many of the "big" names a run for their money. — 10 years ago
Toast Enoteca & Cucina
Excellent Veneto blend that proves not only is the region good for blending its traditional varietals but the noble ones as well. In this case it's Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot & Carmenere. On the nose you're hit with currant, black truffle and cocoa. On the palate it shows toasted caramel compote, stewed raspberry and dark roast coffee notes. Excellent acidity and refined tannins. — 10 years ago