Lovely and bright! Well balanced. — 2 years ago
Ahh, varietally correct tannat :) While a little thin in the late-palate finish, there is a richness on the attack that make for a raised eyebrow. One could see a 93-4pt gem if this was blended with 30% PV. Nevertheless, a fab expression of varietal that make Virginia shine. — 4 years ago
Really nice blend and in a good drinking window — 8 months ago
Yummmm, the poetic potential of PV is on display here. Solid build by Shaps team of a really special estate program near Fieldale-Collinsville. Classic and varietally correct! Not heavy-handed, rather more feminine in the same way CF can have a softer side. — 4 years ago
Ridiculously delicious...will acquire more ASAP. 2017 vintage offered full ripening + 100% vineyard management of precise pick moment. Shaps’ oak treatment is perfectly tailored to the terroir/fruit profile. One of the most regal Cali-Style VA offerings in a long while. Tremendous with food...top shelf stuff 93pt for the mouthfeel and finish! — 4 years ago
Even though 18 was a dramatically wet vintage, Michael knows how to coax enough tannin and acid from the rain logged clusters. Sorting must’ve been the real key here as the blend retained quite a bit of structure associated with other quality vintages. While a bit mellow and buttery, it was still very pleasant with the floral component. — 10 months ago
Class…Shaps understands Chardonnay as well as anyone on the east coast. Barrel Fermented and aged. Wow….again :) — 2 years ago
Like mountain spring water: pure & natural. Nothing contrived here - just clean / pure varietal taste. Northern Italy’s Sangiovese or Spain’s Tempranillo take notice - this build is legit and coming for your market share!! Medium weight with balance / structure with dried & fresh fruit elements. A true gem for mid-week cuisine. Shaps is a genius not to muck up Virginia Hamlet’s work in the vineyard. — 4 years ago
Ron from VA
Spectacular at 15.5 years from harvest. Acid and tannin structure are in fabulous balance. Black cherry and dark raspberry dance with thyme and sweet anise. easily one of the finest Virginia single varietals I’ve ever had! — 8 months ago