Bob McDonald

9.5

See previous note. This was just as impressive this time around. Balanced and classy. Plum, black cherry, pepper and dried meats. An orange rind character which sounds odd I know, but it’s definitely there. A graphite like texture. A delicious Barossa Shiraz more in the Northern Rhone style than the big chocolate, ripe plum cake and black currant style one normally associates with the Barossa. James Halliday gave this 97 points and said drink by 2048. — 3 years ago

Rand Bass

9.1

#6 of Smithsonian Associates Wines of France and Italy tasting of Northern Italian wines. — 5 years ago

with Debra

Rand Bass

9.2

#3 of Smithsonian Associates Wines of France and Italy tasting of Northern Italy wines. Very unique and long, smooth finish. — 5 years ago

with Debra

Bryan Hopkins

9.0

This has the grassy, pungent aroma one associates with Sauvignon Blanc but a soft, pineapple oaky taste, much less sharp than, for instance, many New Zealand SBs. Pleasant and delicious. Pairs nicely with very spicy Indian food. — 7 years ago

John Tan

9.2

Praleum w SL. Smoky and broody. Preferred the 82 Poggio Antico Brunello to this.

This was a great bottle: fragrant and beautifully defined on the nose that on this occasion offered a more conspicuous graphite scent, which lent it a Pauillac-like personality. Allowing the wine to open and aerate, the traits one associates with the property emerge—wilted violets and rose petals. The palate is medium-bodied, fresh and mineral-laden, that suggestion of candied orange peel on the entry segueing into layers of pure red and black fruit. There is always something effortless about this Chateau Margaux and the pixelation on the finish is up there with the very best. Is it the best 1982 First Growth? No, it's not quite up there with 1982 Latour or Mouton-Rothschild, however, it is a sublime evocation of the vineyard and it will continue to give pleasure for a couple of decades yet. Tasted May 2016. RP97 — 3 years ago

Rand Bass

9.2

#5 of Smithsonian Associates Wines of France and Italy wine tasting of Northern Italian wines. Full bodied, 100% Nebbiolo. — 5 years ago

with Debra

Jason Keefer

8.9

A natural Pinot from the central coast. Have the funkiness associates with natural wines but the Pinot grape profile shines through! Tart cherry jam, a bit of herbs on the back end. Singular but juicy and long lasting! — 5 years ago

with Natasha

Chris Zitzman

9.0

The 2019 Keswick Cabernet Franc (Monticello) is a young, bold, palate-coating piece of work. I have numerous friends and associates who have themselves discovered the different expressions of Virginia Cabernet Franc- those subtle points of personality that define each of the wines made from this royal grape- and I would point them all in the direction of this delightful example of ‘how it’s done’.

After a brief decant, the 2019 Keswick Cabernet Franc not only softens but begins to express ample notes of cherry, violets, and hints of currant.

The approach on the palate is surprisingly approachable, with a mouth-coating concentration of soft tannins and a finish that reprises the expressions of nose & palate as well.

It’s a simple, beautiful example of what Virginia Cabernet Franc can be. — 4 years ago

with Beth

Rand Bass

9.3

#4 Smithsonian Associates Wines of France and Italy wine tasting of Northern Italy wines. Incredible flavors, light tannins, ling, so smooth finish. A killer!!! — 5 years ago

with Debra

Stefan Dolhain

9.2

50% palagrello nero and 50% casavecchia. This wine dates from before the split of the 2 associates who started this estate (Peppe Mancini founding Terre del Principe). Magnum 2001 vintage. — 7 years ago