Aaron Krauss

9.2

Rhonda likes, but not as good as mato Bay (which isn't as good as map. Maker) — 8 days ago

David T

Independent Sommelier/Wine Educator

9.2

Raats was an interesting visit from all our others. Raats is considered a small producer in the 8th ranked wine producing country in the world.

Raats buys the majority of their fruit. The vines around their tasting room, they work but, do not own. They produce their wines at another producer’s facility. It’s a daunting expense starting a Cellar Door or Winery. Custom wine crush facilities are a trend not just in Napa but, other parts of the world as well. In this particular case, it saves the owner enough money to drive the very nice cars parked outside their tasting room, one a Ferrari.

This is their no wood/oak Chenin Blanc.

The nose shows; soft tones of wet wool, peach, white, lemon, dry green herbs, grapefruit, chalkiness, volcanic minerals & yellow flowers.

The body is round, full and beautiful. Soft wet wool, peach, white, green melon, a little sour lemon, dry green herbs, grapefruit, chalkiness, palate pressing medium intensity volcanic minerals & yellow flowers. Nice round acidity and a well balanced, polished finish.

Photos of; the view from their tasting room, lots of beautiful original artworks from famous local artists...a few of them the Uncle of our host, examples of some of the soil structures around their tasting room vines and their upstairs tasting room.
— 3 years ago

Ryan Vento

9.4

Alas, a final hurrah in which to say, “Fare thee well, Del Frisco’s Grille!”
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As for the wine itself, really delicious and seductively powerful with loads of potential for the coming years. A bit more feminine than the To Kalon, the MH has some finesse and sensual elegance that makes it less of a Lamborghini and more of a Ferrari. Lots of licorice, plum, blackberry, and cassis. I had the waitress pop the cork and pour me a glass for my steak, but I stopped at one glass. I’ll be taking this selection home to see how it evolves over the next day (or two).
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EDIT: Day two and this wine is on fire 🔥So delicious. Much more balanced; it’s like it knows its own identity now. — 4 years ago

with Krystal

Kelley Raymond

9.1

Really well balanced and reasonably priced bottle choice at restaurants — 4 hours ago

Leah Weisman

9.2

A little dry. Plummy and a little velvety. — 2 years ago

with Brent

Neal Ferry

9.0

As good as it gets — 3 years ago

with Tom

Riccardo Arrigoni

9.4

At Cuvée Como, 04/10/17 festa Laurea — 5 years ago

Anne Richardson

9.1

Citrus and green apple notes. Crisp and tasty. — 12 days ago

Delectable Wine

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9.0

The 2018 Vino Nobile di Montepulciano lifts up perfumed with roses, violets, sage and tea leaves in an exotic and fresh display. Its textures are silky-smooth yet lifted and juicy, staining the palate with purple-tinged florals and blueberries. There is tannin here, yet they are sweet and round, hardly getting in the way of the 2018’s jovial feel. This may not be the longest-lived Vino Nobile, but it sure will win a lot of hearts over the medium term. (Eric Guido, Vinous, December 2021)
— 8 months ago

Sipping Fine Wine

8.9

Family-owned and operated since 1985, from a small, 30-acre plot of grapes to the present 20 estate vineyards, Don and Rhonda Carano's success is based on their commitment to quality. Tried this about a test ago, consistent notes. Dark fruit aromas with cedar and spice notes. On the palate, Blueberry and Plum flavors, a bit jammy, with espresso and cacao tones. Medium body, soft tannins, nice balance on lingering finish. Great value! — 4 years ago