Justin James

9.2

I think the best 19.99 at Costco as of June 2026. — 18 days ago

Jay Kline

9.2

Presented to me double-blind. The wine pours a dull purple/garnet color with a translucent core and significant rim variation, moving towards a rust color. The wine has medium viscosity with light staining of the tears and signs of sediment. On the nose, the wine is vinous with notes of cassis, dried blackberries, dried red and purple flowers, old leather bound books, tobacco, a touch of menthol, some earth, old wood and a sprinkle of warm spices. On the palate, the wine is dry with medium tannin and medium+ acid. Confirming the notes from the nose. The finish is medium+. Super high quality but a touch thin.

Initial conclusions: Due to the observable characteristics of color, rim variation, sediment, smell and flavor, I think this wine has significant age; 30+ years. However, this is still very alive and showing more than enough markers to give an indication of place. Subsequently, this could be a Cabernet-based blend or a Tempranillo-based blend from the United States, France, or Spain. For me, I’m getting new French oak vibes instead of American so I’m eliminating Spain. I also think this leans more towards its fruit than its structure and since this comes across a little on the thin side, I’m going to say this comes from a tougher vintage. My final conclusion is this is a Cabernet Sauvignon-based blend from the USA, Napa, 1981. Wow! This showed really well.

It never ceases to amaze me how analogous the 1981 vintage was in both Napa and Bordeaux. I find it equally amazing how well that vintage has held up; particularly when considering its poor reputation, mostly based on the prevailing thought at the time. From my perspective, well stored examples are not going to fall off of a cliff but I would drink now through 2031. — 5 months ago

Freddy R. Troya

9.5

Armagedon 2017 – Hevron Heights Winery
Judean Hills, Israel 🇮🇱

Overview
A bold red blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot, and 5% Syrah, aged for 24 months in French oak. Produced by Hevron Heights Winery, this wine reflects the unique terroir of the Judean Hills — one of the oldest winemaking regions in the world, now regaining global recognition for producing structured, world-class wines.

Aromas & Flavors
Deep and concentrated, with aromas of ripe blackcurrant, plum, and dried herbs, layered with espresso, cedar, and a touch of vanilla from the extended oak aging. The palate shows dark fruits, cassis, blackberry compote, and hints of spice and earthy tobacco.

Mouthfeel
Full-bodied, robust, and structured with firm tannins and notable concentration. The finish is long, lingering with both fruit and savory oak-driven notes. Still youthful but beginning to soften beautifully.

Winemaking Notes
Carefully selected fruit, traditional vinification, and extended oak maturation (24 months in French barriques) yield a wine that balances richness with complexity. Built for longevity.

Food Pairing
Pairs perfectly with roasted lamb, beef short ribs, or spiced Mediterranean dishes. Also a great match with aged cheeses.

Verdict
A powerful, age-worthy red from the Judean Hills, Armagedon 2017 showcases both the depth of the blend and the rising reputation of Israel’s terroir. A bottle that commands attention and rewards patience. Cheers! — 10 months ago

Jay Kline

9.2

Popped and poured from magnum; enjoyed over the course of two days. Best on Day 2 as the wine came into better balance. The 2015 “Caravina” pours a deep ruby with a nearly opaque core. Medium+ viscosity with moderate staining of the tears. One the nose, the wine is developing with notes of black cherry, brambles, tobacco, violets, herbs, and soft baking spices. On the palate, the wine with dry with medium+ tannins and medium+ acid. Confirming the notes from the nose. The finish is medium+ and the acid plays a significant role, giving some real lift to the lush fruit. And while we’re on the topic, I’ll just share an observation that the acid is a significant characteristic for Seavey. In their youth, they are somewhat tough to fully appreciate (Ridge also has this reputation). I’m not suggesting Seavey is an analogue to Monte Bello, rather just stating they seem to be playing the long game…and I’m here for that. That being said, these are good now but will be more pleasurable in another couple years (at least in this format) and should be lovely through 2035. — 3 years ago

Benno

9.4

First try of Foillard and it does live up to the (high) reputation. There’s such a lovely tamed softness here with exceptional integration and length on the palate that I don’t feel the need to qualify that in the context of the grape/region. This is a sophisticated wine that I’m happily drinking now but will surely age well for 5-10 years. — 5 years ago

Sipping Fine Wine

9.2

Had this a year+ ago, tried a new batch, noticed label color changed. A big fan of Tawny Ports, especially the 20 year blends are a Fav. Fonseca Port was founded in 1822 and successive generations of the Guimaraens family have upheld the Company’s reputation. Medium amber color with aromas of honey and pronounced nutty notes. On the palate ripe dried fruits with sweet cinnamon spice and oak emerge from the glass. Soft tannins long smooth finish ending with a sweet nutty character. Very nice. — 6 years ago

Ceccherini Cristiano

9.1

The reputation is so amazing that I can't be happy with a complex spicy nose, due mainly to the oak and a palate that drops pretty drastically
Yes it is a 9.1, but I reckon it would not be worth for the effort to source it and what comes out of your pocket
Definitely disappointed — 7 years ago

KP

9.0

Strawberry on the nose but on the palette I only get oak and dark ripe cherry, with dry leather finish. High tannins and high acidity — 2 months ago

Jay Kline

9.6

Conterno’s “Monfortino” Barolo Riserva (early vintages like this one were labeled as “Stravecchia” and “Extra Barolo”) practically defined the Riserva style. In many ways, one could make the arguement that it blazed the trail for Barolo’s reputation as being the age-worthy wine it is today. Back in the early days, Monfortino was a blend of purchased fruit. Control of Cascina Francia, in Serralunga d’Alba, did not come until the late 1970’s. I can’t be sure but I believe the fruit used to be sourced from Monforte d’Alba and specifically from Le Coste, Bussia and possibly others.

This bottle was opened several hours prior to service. The 1941 Monfortino pours a pale garnet/rust color with significant rim variation and a translucent core; medium viscosity with no staining of the tears and light sediment. On the nose, the wine is vinous with notes of Maraschino cherry, menthol, Tootsie Roll, espresso macchiato, walnut, and truffle. On the palate, the wine is dry with medium tannin (fully integrated) and medium+ acid. Confirming the notes from the nose. The finish is long. Sublime. Getting to experience an 80+ year old wine is always a special treat. Getting to experience a Barolo from World War II, during one of the darkest periods in Italy’s past, is extraordinary. Getting to experience early Monfortino (pre-estate) made by Giacomo himself…well, it is drinking history. I nearly got emotional. While it’s clearly is showing its age, the 1941 shows its class and has some impressive moves. We delighted as it danced across the palate, proving that it still has stories to tell. Drink now if you ever see a bottle. — 6 months ago

Freddy R. Troya

9.0

Clos Floridène – 2021
Graves, Bordeaux – France 🇫🇷

Overview
Founded by the late Denis Dubourdieu, Clos Floridène has built a reputation for producing approachable yet refined wines from Graves. This 2021 vintage is a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Petit Verdot, delivering structure with easy drinkability. (Educational note: Graves, one of Bordeaux’s oldest appellations, is famed for its gravel soils that add freshness and balance to its reds and whites.)

Aromas & Flavors
Juicy red fruits (cherry, raspberry, plum) with blackberry and cassis, framed by cedar, oak spice, and a subtle earthy note.

Mouthfeel
Medium-bodied with polished tannins and balanced acidity. Solid yet affable structure, making it an effortless “uncork and pour” wine.

Food Pairings
Great with roasted chicken, duck breast, grilled lamb chops, or charcuterie. Also pairs with earthy mushroom dishes or semi-aged cheeses.

Verdict
A charming Graves red — approachable, structured, and thoroughly enjoyable. The 2021 Clos Floridène captures Left Bank elegance in a wine ready to drink today. 🍷

Did You Know?
Clos Floridène was founded in 1982 and guided by Denis Dubourdieu, one of Bordeaux’s most respected enologists, often called the “pope of white wine.” — 9 months ago

Bob McDonald

9.0

Blackcurrant and leather notes. Very savoury on the palate - a little disappointing to be honest. See previous Delectable note. I haven’t had a lot of experience with Cornas and was looking forward to this because of its stellar reputation. I have a reasonable collection of Clape Cornas in my cellar which are not ready to drink yet. To be honest this was a bit underwhelming compared to many stellar Shiraz we are lucky enough to have in Australia. Hopefully the Clape, the Rostaing and the Jamet with time in my cellar will be impressive. — a year ago

Shay A

9.3

Very similar to the 2016 I opened 6-8 months ago, yet more open for business. Some of these wines have a reputation for “large and in charge”, but this was supremely balanced, toeing the line between Sonoma and white burgundy with richness. Whereas Aubert’s chards can be more powerful (and is normally my favorite), I’m always pleasantly surprised at how these show.

Aromatically it revealed sugar frosted stone fruits, guava, white peach, caramel dipped golden delicious apples and baking spices. It has a beautifully textured palate that starts as though it’s going to be dense, but finishes with a gorgeous lifted profile and plenty of acidity. Added notes on the palate of powdered lemon bar, floral honeysuckle, whipped lemon cream and even some honey roasted cashews. I’d pop this 2017 before the 2016 with how open it is, but it will cruise another 7-10yrs, easily. — 5 years ago

with Mark

Stefan Dolhain

9.3

2015 vintage. A blend of Merlot (90%) and Cabernet Franc (10%). Certified organic since 2015 and now biodynamically farmed. The estate was bought in 2015 by the Labrune family, but it had a very good reputation before. This wine certainly does not disappoint. Smells like a mix of red and black fruit (raspberry, cherry, blackberry) with attractive floral hints and a discrete vanilla touch. In the mouth it has impeccable balance, the ripe concentrated fruit balanced by fresh acidity and probably the most civilised tannins I have ever tasted in Fronsac (they tend to be a bit rustic over there). This has class, great length and purity. Well worth the 22,50 price tag. The 14,5% alcohol is perfectly integrated. What's not to like? — 6 years ago

Jay Kline

9.5

I have dreamed of the 1981 Grange for many, many years. Why? Well, it’s quite simple: I’m an ‘81 baby and that year doesn’t have the strongest reputation for producing great wines. Spain and Italy faired better and of course, there were always exceptions. However, most have long been drank or forgotten as it was a tough year in many of the classic wine growing regions. All of that being said, Australia didn’t suffer the same conditions and Penfold’s managed to make a very good expression of Grange in 1981…if only one could find it and then of course, afford it. But, sometimes you just have to put it out into the universe and she answers. Tonight, a dear brother in wine who also happens to share 1981 as a birth year, provided this bottle from his cellar to share. And while my 45th remains a couple months off, we were celebrating life and friendship tonight!

Opened prior to dinner and enjoyed over the course of a few hours. The 1981 pours a deep purple color moving towards a garnet rim and a near opaque core; medium viscosity with moderate staining of the tears. On the nose, the wine is developing with notes of ripe and desiccated tart black, red and blue fruits and rotundone: blackberries, raspberries, plum, tobacco, purple flowers, black olive, cocoa, coffee, eucalyptus, leather, toasted coconut, earth and baking spices. On the palate the wine is dry with medium+ tannin and medium+ acid. Confirming the notes from the nose. The finish is looooong. What a stellar showing and this bottle certainly lived up to hype. Drink now through 2041+. — 3 months ago

Freddy R. Troya

9.3

Champagne Cattier – Brut Rosé Premier Cru (N/V)
Montagne de Reims, Champagne – France 🇫🇷

Overview
Produced by the Cattier family (vinegrowers in Champagne since 1763, now in their 13th generation), this Premier Cru Brut Rosé blends 31% Chardonnay, 26% Meunier, 43% Pinot Noir from the Montagne de Reims. Crafted with precision, it highlights the house’s reputation for balance and finesse.

Aromas & Flavors
Delicate raspberry and wild strawberry notes, lifted by citrus zest and a whisper of brioche. Hints of red currant and rose petals add charm.

Mouthfeel
Crisp, creamy, and elegant with fine bubbles. The mousse is persistent yet delicate, and the finish is both refreshing and silky.

Food Pairings
Pairs beautifully with smoked salmon, tuna tartare, charcuterie, or fresh berry desserts. Also excellent as an aperitif.

Verdict
A well-made Premier Cru Champagne rosé that delivers finesse, freshness, and subtle complexity. A fine choice for those seeking elegance at a relatively approachable price point. 🥂cheers!

Did You Know? 📌
Cattier is also the family behind the ultra-prestige label Armand de Brignac (“Ace of Spades”), but their own Cattier-branded Champagnes often deliver outstanding value for their pedigree. — 9 months ago

Freddy R. Troya

9.0

Macchia – Delicious Barbera 2023
Lodi, California – USA 🇺🇸

Overview
Barbera may be native to Italy, but in Lodi it thrives in the warm days and cool nights, producing generous, fruit-driven wines. Macchia has built a reputation for crafting some of the most expressive New World Barberas, with a track record of winning international medals (including Gold at the International Barbera Competition in Italy for earlier vintages). This 2023 vintage keeps that pedigree alive with a vibrant, approachable style.

Aromas & Flavors
Explodes with blackberry, ripe plum, and dark cherry layered with chocolate, spice, and hints of licorice. There’s an intensity of fruit without losing freshness, showing why Barbera adapts so beautifully outside its homeland.

Mouthfeel
Juicy, full of energy, with supple tannins and balancing acidity. Medium-plus body with a long, fruit-forward finish dusted with cocoa and spice.

Food Pairing
Pairs effortlessly with rich tomato pasta, grilled lamb chops, or a hearty sausage pizza. Also excellent with strong cheeses that complement its ripe fruit core.

The Verdict
Macchia delivers again with a Barbera that’s as delicious as its name. The 2023 vintage stands out as a casual yet compelling New World take on an Old World classic—backed by a winery whose style already carries international pedigree.

✨ Personal highlight: This wine style has pedigree from past events, but the 2023 is very much its own statement. It’s “delicious” in every sense and shows how consistent Macchia has been across vintages. Cheers! — 9 months ago

Pooneet K

9.1

The Albe always has a reputation for being a well valued Barolo and with this example I have to agree. I do think the 5 years have helped. Pretty classic Nebbiolo perfumed nose. Dried flowers and nice fruit. Some leather. On the less intense side, nice lifting acid on the finish. — 2 years ago

Jim Wagonfeld

9.3

A singular expression of SB that with this bottle matches the reputation and expectation. I keep these no more than 10 years and like others on CT have experienced multiple oxidized bottles. — 4 years ago

with Judy

Jay Kline

9.4

The wines of Roger Sabon have been on my radar for about ten years now and I have always thought the “Prestige” designation was, pound-for-pound, one of the better values in all of Chateauneuf-du-Pape. However, for one reason or another, I never seem to drink them that often. This particular bottle of “Le Secret des Sabon” was a lone singleton resting in my cellar since release. My wife, after an unusually exhausting week of work, said she wanted to drink something “impressive”...which means to me that the juice better not suck. And while “Le Secret” has a reputation for being one of the great wines from the entire appellation, I was taking some risk when I selected this bottle since I had no personal experience with it. As soon as I pulled the cork, it was clear this was going to be a special experience. Glass staining garnet with a touch of color that looks almost brown-ish however, there are no signs of decomposition. There is, however, a fairly decent amount of fine sediment. The fruit...well...the fruit is simply sensational. We’re talking fistfuls of the purest raspberries and cherries with some star anise, slightly burned pie crust and black pepper. This is a wine of tremendous texture and balance. Medium acid and medium plus tannins, the latter of which are so fine and silky. The ABV is stated as 15% but it’s so well hidden you would hardly notice. My only wish was that “Le Secret des Sabon” wasn’t so expensive...but there is no doubt about its quality. Drinking so well now but could easily hold for longer if necessary. — 5 years ago

Clive McNish

9.2

Delicious Barossa Shiraz, classic flavours of blackcurrant, blackberry and plum with some spicy sweetness, vanilla and oak on the smooth finish. Deep purple in colour, I enjoyed it slightly cooler and I really recommend it. In general I am finding that 2016 seems to be living up to its reputation of being a top one in Barossa. — 6 years ago