Elevate

François Villard

Le Grand Vallon Condrieu Viognier 2004

Opened and decanted about an hour prior to service and presented double-blind. The wine appears deep yellow nearing gold in color; medium+ viscosity. On the nose, the wine is vinous and super floral with peaches and marzipan and some signs of oak, a portion new French oak. On the palate, the wine is dry with medium- acid. Confirming the notes from the nose. The finish is long, weighty with a pronounced oily texture. Alcohol is elevated. I called Marsanne/Roussanne blend from France, Northern Rhône, Hermitage Blanc with 15+ years of age. Close! The florals and elevate alcohol should have steered me to Condrieu but that’s hindsight. Regardless, this was a delicious reminder to allow Northern Rhône whites to age. Drink now. — a month ago

Daniel, Peter and 7 others liked this

Pie De Palo

Mendoza Malbec 2021

Elevate holiday party — a year ago

Domaine de Montille

Bourgogne Pinot Noir 2018

This 2018 Bourgogne Pinot Noir from Domaine de Montille is a delightful expression of the varietal. With its medium ruby color and light to medium body, it exhibits an elegant and approachable nature. The wine boasts a medium finish that leaves a pleasant impression on the palate, while its medium acidity provides a refreshing balance.

As you raise the glass to your nose, a symphony of floral aromas unfolds, dominated by the captivating scent of roses and a bouquet of mixed flowers. The bright red cherries add a vibrant fruit-forward character, complemented by subtle undertones of thyme that lend an herbaceous touch. A hint of white pepper adds an intriguing spiciness, enhancing the aromatic complexity of this exquisite Pinot Noir.

In terms of recommendation, I must say this wine is truly amazing. Its vibrant personality and beautifully expressive nature make it an excellent choice to enjoy over lunch, particularly when paired with lamb. The wine's liveliness and interplay of flavors will undoubtedly elevate the dining experience, adding an extra layer of enjoyment. With its exceptional qualities, I confidently assign this Domaine de Montille Bourgogne Pinot Noir a rating of 95, recognizing its excellence and finesse.

Savor the Domaine de Montille 2018 Bourgogne Pinot Noir and allow it to transport you to a realm of floral enchantment and vibrant fruit. Cheers to a beautiful and remarkable Pinot Noir!
— a year ago

Douglas, Byron and 10 others liked this

Comte Armand

Clos des Epeneaux Monopole Pommard 1er Cru Pinot Noir 2017

So much going on this, but most notable is the pronounced savory cola note on the mid plate, maybe more time will subdue it and elevate it. Great wine balanced and earthy. — 4 months ago

Bob, Paul and 6 others liked this

Alpha Estate

Hedgehog Vineyard Xinomavro 2010

On the nose, this is all red current... Raspberry takes over for me on the palate... Tart but not overly acidic. Graphite. Light vegetal. Tannins are smoothe... Red plum skins. Very powdery pepper. The finish is just medium and there the raspberry turns more candied or artificial. We paired with serious BBQ fare... Brisket and smoked chicken legs... I think the raspberry notes here really worked with the BBQ as we didn't include any rich molasses-y BBQ sauces. The Greek origin of the wine had me include quite a bit of oregano in the rub for the chicken which also seemed to elevate with the wine. — 6 months ago

Anita Beishuizen
with Anita

R. López de Heredia

Viña Tondonia Reserva Rioja Tempranillo Blend 2010

Vina Tondonia Réserva 2010 is a captivating wine that embodies elegance and complexity. With its 13% alcohol content, it presents itself with a mesmerizing medium ruby hue, gracefully transitioning into garnet at the edges, which hints at its well-deserved age.

On the nose, this wine offers a delightful bouquet of ripe raspberries and cherries, their natural sweetness harmoniously intermingling with the captivating aromas of tobacco leaf, vanilla, spice, cedar, and subtle undertones of sun-dried tomato. Each inhalation reveals new layers, enticing the senses with its intricate aromatic profile.

Upon tasting, the Vina Tondonia Réserva 2010 showcases a medium body that elegantly caresses the palate. The wine's vibrant acidity adds a refreshing zing, invigorating the taste buds, while the sumptuous tannins provide a luscious, dry texture that is both refined and inviting.

This beautiful wine truly excels, delivering a symphony of flavors that dances across the palate. Its remarkable balance and structure make it a perfect companion for a wide range of culinary delights, enhancing the dining experience. With every sip, one's anticipation is rewarded, leaving a lingering desire for more.

In conclusion, the Vina Tondonia Réserva 2010 is an exceptional wine that captivates both the nose and the palate. Its meticulous craftsmanship and enticing flavors make it an excellent choice for any wine enthusiast. I wholeheartedly recommend savoring this wine alongside a delectable meal, as its sumptuousness is sure to elevate the dining experience. A truly remarkable wine deserving of a score of 96 out of 100.
— a year ago

Byron, Dick and 4 others liked this

Turley

Dusi Vineyard Zinfandel 2016

Shay A
9.2

If you can calibrate your mind for Turley (or Zins in general), these are fun and hedonistic wines to simply enjoy.

My first experience with the Turley Dusi. Initial impression is this has Paso all over it (as it should, since it’s a Paso vineyard) with a sense of weightless gravitas. Wave after wave of ripe fruits from the entire spectrum (red, blue and black berry fruits), cedar, espresso all on the nose. Little bit of EA sharpness (as I’ve found common with Turley) but only at levels to elevate the aromatics, not enough to detract from the overall profile. Mixed berry pie richness on the palate with more cedar, spiced plum, dark cocoa and just a faint profile of chewing tobacco leaves (not sure if that’s the profile of Dusi, or if that’s evolution after almost 8yrs). ABV is noticeable when warm but drinks nice closer to cellar temp. Pop corks and enjoy over the next few years.
— 5 months ago

Scott@Mister, Michiel and 27 others liked this

W. & J. Graham's

Aged 20 Years Tawny Port Blend

ESF
9.4

I think @Josh Morgenthau really nailed this note: recently finished Taylor Fladgate 20 yr which was always a favorite, but I picked this up in Duty Free and was blown away. Similar notes & flavor profile as TF, but the mouthfeel really sets this apart & above. So elegant, so refined, such great tension & harmony - the defined acidity highlight & elevate intense flavors. Bravo! — a year ago

Severn, Daniel and 11 others liked this
Josh Morgenthau

Josh Morgenthau Influencer Badge

@ESF thanks and Happy Thanksgiving! 🍷🦃❤️
ESF

ESF

Right back at ya Josh - looking forward to seeing everyone’s thanksgiving wines!

Terredora di Paolo

Loggia Della Serra Greco di Tufo 2021

Delectable Wine
9.0

The 2021 Greco di Tufo Loggia della Serra’s alluring bouquet combines honeyed florals, peaches and mint. It’s soft-textured and sleek, with vibrant acidity and tropical citrus to elevate ripe orchard fruits. Mango and chamomile stick around on the dramatically long and complex finish. Wow. $24.00 (Eric Guido, Vinous, July 2023) — a year ago

Tom, Doug and 12 others liked this

Hospices de Beaune

Cuvée Blondeau Volnay 1er Cru Pinot Noir 2019

Our barrel from the 2019 Hospices auction with elevate by Domaine Lafarge. Ultra pure fruit. Decades ahead of it. 1er cru fruit. — 2 years ago

Daniel P., Tom and 2 others liked this