Freddy R. Troya

9.2

Kanonkop – Kadette Pinotage Rosé 2022
Stellenbosch – South Africa 🇿🇦

Overview:
Crafted from Pinotage, a grape born from crossing Pinot Noir and Cinsault, this rosé highlights the unique South African innovation with a refreshing, modern expression.

Aromas & Flavors:
Delicate red berries, watermelon, and pomegranate on the nose, with crisp citrus undertones. The palate follows through with juicy red fruit, a whisper of floral notes, and a refreshing mineral streak.

Mouthfeel:
Light, bright, and energetic. Crisp acidity keeps it lively, with a clean, thirst-quenching finish.

Food Pairings:
Excellent with grilled shrimp, sushi, light salads, or simply as a refreshing aperitif on a warm day.

Verdict:
A distinctive rosé that showcases the brilliance of Pinotage beyond its traditional red wine style. Juicy, crisp, and not so common, a refreshing take on a proudly South African grape. Cheers!

Did You Know?
Pinotage was created in 1925 by South African scientist Abraham Perold, who crossed Pinot Noir and Cinsault (locally called Hermitage). While often debated for its red wine style, Pinotage has found new life in rosé and sparkling versions, loved for their vibrancy and freshness. — 16 days ago

Freddy R. Troya

9.5

Boars’ View “The Coast” Pinot Noir 2018
Fort Ross–Seaview AVA, Sonoma Coast, California, USA 🇺🇸

Overview
Handcrafted by Thomas Rivers Brown at the dramatic West Sonoma Coast site, this Pinot Noir highlights maritime fog, Goldridge loam soils, and heritage clones. The 2018 “Coast” includes 100% heritage clones—Calera, Mt. Eden, and Swan—meticulously fermented and aged to express both elegance and power.  

Aromas & Flavors
Plush and aromatic: expect cranberry compote, lavender, sandalwood, and hints of violet. On the palate, it delivers black cherry, plum paste, nutmeg, quince, forest floor, and licorice—all layered over a finely tuned mineral edge.  

Mouthfeel
Full-bodied yet refined. Silky tannins and well-integrated acidity support rich fruit without heaviness. A harmonious finish unfolds with persistence and grace.  

Winemaking Notes
Destemmed fruit underwent fermentation and then aged 10 months in French oak barrels, 50% new, from François Frères, Remond, and Gauthier cooperages. The result is focused power with nuanced oak influence.  

Food Pairing
Perfect with grilled duck, game birds, roasted pork, or truffle-scented risotto. Its depth and savory complexity also pair beautifully with hearty stews or mushroom-forward dishes. 

Verdict
Boars’ View “The Coast” PINOT NOIR 2018 is a masterclass in West Coast Pinot—intensely flavorful, texturally rich, and meticulously crafted. A cellar-worthy wine with both grace and longevity. A rare Napa-level Pinot Noir priced in the $145–160 range. Cheers! — 2 months ago

Matt Waring

9.2

Brilliant high toned red fruit, grippy acid, leather — a lovely and stately Syrah — 18 hours ago

with Andy

David White

9.4

See earlier note, this is a great Bordeaux blend- 75% Cab Sauvignon , 14% Cab Franc and 11% Merlot.
A deep ruby colour with nice berry fruit nose and good acidity and long finish.
Excellent wine — a month ago

Audrey Nadeau

9.4

Bonbon à la prune et cerise noire, avec des touches de cacao et de café. — 2 months ago

Henry Fuseler

9.0

8/2025. Very nice cab Merlot blend. Nice flavor and finish. Nice on the palate. — 2 months ago

Chris MacLean

9.0

Still a solid value — 19 days ago

with Sarah

Austin Hohnke

9.3

Great now and will age beautifully. Typical Muscat florals, but I love the balancing act of sugar concentration and acidity in this vintage. Elderflower and bruised stone fruit. Wonderfully fresh. 👌🏼 — a month ago

Carter White

9.2

Mineral driven with orchard fruit, racy and textured, fantastic value! — 2 months ago

Martin Mazner

9.1

Smooth, rich balanced cab. Pure berry flavor with a touch of tannin. Flinty bouquet moderated by a hint of spice. Simply fantastic. — 2 months ago

with Naveen