Peter Sultan

9.3

Possibly one of my desert island wines ( assuming there is food & a few other wines I can bring…). Jura chard w some Savignin, done in an oxidative, full bodied style. Have come back to this most years & never tires. The color! Amber yellow w orange & sienna tints; on nose my old painting studio with oils, hearts of palm, & orange peel. On palate full & more refined than the nose, with white asparagus, dried mango, & cooked fennel, amongst other flavors. Had post meal, was like a meal unto itself. — 2 months ago

Tom Garland

9.4

+1 hour decant(some fine/chunky sediment). A splendid crimson red color. On the nose: wonderful bouquet with plum, stewed meat, cassis, sweet tobacco, funky earth, leather. Taste: silky, finessed, balanced wine with red berries/plum, coffee grounds, cedar, tobacco, and a nice peppery pencil lead long finish. YUM! Pure class in a glass. — 4 months ago

with Brenda

Delectable Wine

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9.5

The 2018 Vieux Château Certan, which contains 30% Cabernet Franc, has a commendable bouquet given the heat of that season. Blackberry, a touch of damson, scorched earth and light violet scents emerge with aeration. That said, it doesn't fully have the delineation of the previous vintage. The palate is powerful and typically burly for VCC, yet it has a lovely powdery texture (less silky than before) with a vibrant, peppery and persistent finish. Maybe not as opulent as it once was, but it is unquestionably one of the superior Pomerols. Tasted at the VCC vertical in Etikhove, Belgium. (Neal Martin, Vinous, July 2024)
— 5 months ago

James Naphen

9.2

**Wine Review: 2008 Silver Oak Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon (Opened November 2024)**

The 2008 Silver Oak Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, opened today, showcases an impressive balance and complexity, affirming its status as a finely aged wine. Its deep ruby hue remains vibrant, with exceptional clarity that invites exploration.

On the nose, ripe aromas of blackberry syrup and dark fruits are prominent, complemented by elegant notes of dried ginger and a subtle floral undertone. These aromas suggest both maturity and freshness, creating a captivating bouquet.

The palate offers a bold, full-bodied experience, featuring flavors of graphite and pencil lead that add intrigue and depth. The oak is beautifully integrated, enhancing the wine's harmony without overshadowing the fruit. The tannins, while still present, are soft and smooth, allowing the wine’s fruity core to take center stage.

Despite its 16 years of aging, this wine retains a youthful vibrancy, with its primary fruit flavors shining through. The finish is balanced and moderate in intensity, leaving a lasting impression of refinement.

Enjoyed today, this wine is a testament to the careful craftsmanship of Silver Oak. While it has clearly benefited from its time in the cellar, it remains dynamic and will continue to develop nuances for years to come. — 23 days ago

with Melissa

web bond

9.0

Not as clean or expressive as previous bottles. Will see if it opens up this evening. — 4 months ago

Shelly Murray

9.7

This was pretty good! — 6 months ago

Josh Morgenthau

9.2

Nutty, sweet, floral and bright. Bruised apple, pear, and spice. Very complex and juicy, with a pleasantly astringent finish. — 2 months ago

Lyle Fass

Founder Fass Selections

9.9

Wow. Just perfect. Totally elegant, salty, nutty and so so fine. More notes later. Too good! — 3 months ago

Marc Melser

9.1

We had the 2014 Vintage on 8/18-19/24. A Napa wine that is influenced by Bordeaux. A bouquet of black fruit, tabacco and menthol. Black cherry, black currant and sandalwood spice. Full bodied, New World with a hint of Old. Very good — 4 months ago

Delectable Wine

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9.0

The 2004 Montrose has a slightly rustic bouquet but is quite charming. It offers mainly red fruit, bacon fat, undergrowth and peaty scents, which are very Saint-Estèphe in style. The palate is medium-bodied with melted tannins. It is savory and a little dry, especially towards the finish, though there is good weight, and it is well balanced. Perfect to drink now. (Neal Martin, Vinous, June 2024)
— 6 months ago