Jay Kline

9.4

Presented to me double-blind. The wine pours a deep garnet/purple with an opaque core; medium+ viscosity with significant staining of the tears and some signs of very fine sediment. On the nose, the wine is developing with notes of mostly ripe with some tart and drying fruits: cassis, blackberries, pipe tobacco, Serrano pepper, purple flowers, leather, and a pleasant mix of cool and warm spices. On the palate, the wine is dry with medium+ tannin and medium+ acid. Confirming the notes from the nose. The finish is long and the alcohol is medium+. FWIW, this is an impressive wine on the nose and the palate.

Initial conclusions: this could be a Cabernet Sauvignon (or blend there of) or Sangiovese-blend, or Tempranillo (or blend) from the United States, France, Italy or Spain. However, the shear generosity of fruit and lavish oak treatment leads me to Napa. Additionally, there’s a structure that gives me mountain fruit vibes. Final conclusion: this is a Cabernet Sauvignon-based blend from the United States, California, Napa Valley, Howell Mountain, 2015. Perhaps I was trying to be a bit too clever but scoring lots of points nonetheless. Probably one of the more memorable, contemporary Freemark Abbey’s I’ve had. Really impressive. Drink now through 2050. — a month ago

Jay Kline

9.3

Presented to me, double-blind. The wine pours a deep garnet color with an opaque core; medium viscosity with moderate staining of the tears, and some signs of light sediment. On the nose, the wine is vinous with a mix of ripe and desiccated, mostly dark fruits: cassis, black cherry, plum, mixed brambles, old leather, pipe tobacco, pencil shavings, and fine baking spices. On the palate, the wine is dry with medium+ tannin (that is mostly integrated) and medium+ acid. Confirming the notes from the nose. The finish is long.

Initial conclusions: this could be a Cabernet-based Bordeaux blend, Tempranillo (or based blend) or Grenache-based blend from France, Spain or the United States. I feel like this leans more towards its fruit than its structure, even though it is a fairly well balanced wine in both regards. As a result, I am calling this a Cabernet-based Bordeaux blend from the United States, California, Napa Valley, Howell Mountain from a producer like Dunn, 2006. Shiiiiiit. To be honest, I’m not terribly surprised since this is Cos and from a warm vintage no less. Drinking well now and should through 2050+. — 6 months ago

Jay Kline

9.5

Popped and poured; enjoyed over the course of dinner. The 2015 Judge Family Vineyard Syrah pours a deep, inky, ruby/purple color with an opaque core; medium+ viscosity with significant staining of the tears. On the nose, the wine is developing with pungent notes of bacon fat, dark brambles, toasted blueberry crisp, lavender, dried green herbs and fine baking spice. On the palate, the wine is dry with medium+ tannin and medium+ acid. Confirming the notes from the nose. The finish is long. This is aging slowly and gracefully. This remains my favorite Syrah made in the United States. Drink now through 2045. — a year ago

Freddy R. Troya

9.4

Amici Cellars — Reserve Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2022 — Napa Valley, California. United States 🇺🇸

Overview:
A standout Reserve expression of Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon crafted predominantly from Cabernet Sauvignon under the expert hand of winemaker Tony Biaggi. The 2022 vintage delivers a masterful balance of elegance and power, combining layered concentration, precision structure, and long-term aging pedigree that positions it as a benchmark for modern Napa Cabernet.

Aromas & Flavors:
Black cherry, blueberry, cassis, spearmint, cocoa, coffee, violet, subtle vanilla, and refined oak spice.

Mouthfeel:
Full-bodied and multi-layered with vibrant acidity, polished tannins, and excellent structural tension. Ripe blackberry, dark chocolate, and baking spice flow seamlessly into a long, resonant finish built for extended cellaring.

Food Pairings:
Dry-aged steak, lamb rack, short ribs, porcini-driven dishes, truffle pasta, aged hard cheeses.

Personal Pick:
I revisited this bottle again in December 2025 and it absolutely confirmed its trajectory, still youthful, tightly composed, and clearly built to age beautifully. This is a wine I’d confidently cellar for 15+ years without hesitation. Simply lovely!

Verdict:
A refined yet powerful Reserve Cabernet delivering depth, precision, and longevity. A serious collector-worthy Napa wine that continues to impress with consistency and evolution.

🍷 Did You Know?:
Winemaker Tony Biaggi is widely respected in Napa for crafting structured, age-worthy Cabernet Sauvignon with polished tannins and precise balance, a signature clearly reflected in Amici’s Reserve bottlings. — a year ago

Freddy R. Troya

9.5

Amici Cellars — Windsor Ridge Chardonnay 2021 — Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California. United States 🇺🇸

Overview:
A milestone vintage marking Amici Cellars’ 30th harvest, this estate Chardonnay sourced from the eastern ridges of the Russian River Valley showcases craftsmanship, energy, and precision. Crafted entirely from Chardonnay, the wine is barrel-fermented with native yeast, undergoes 100% malolactic fermentation, and is aged 14 months in French oak — a technical regimen that builds layered texture while preserving freshness and site expression.

Aromas & Flavors:
Crisp green apple, lemon oil, vanilla bean, grilled pineapple, roasted hazelnut, white florals, and subtle mineral lift.

Mouthfeel:
Textured and layered with vibrant acidity, polished oak integration, and excellent structural clarity. The palate flows seamlessly into a long, mineral-driven finish that feels energetic, focused, and refined rather than heavy.

Food Pairings:
Butter-poached lobster, roast chicken with herbs, seared scallops, creamy risotto, grilled vegetables, aged Comté or Gruyère.

Personal Pick:
Having worked with the Amici team during a special summer program, this wine holds extra meaning for me — the precision and care behind this Chardonnay truly show in the glass. It’s a beautiful example of how technical discipline can translate directly into elegance and drinkability.

Verdict:
A sophisticated, site-driven Russian River Chardonnay delivering depth, finesse, and age-worthy structure. A benchmark expression of modern California craftsmanship.

🍷 Did You Know?:
Native-yeast barrel fermentation combined with full malolactic fermentation enhances texture, aromatic complexity, and mouthfeel while allowing vineyard character to remain clearly expressed when handled with restraint. — a year ago

Jay Kline

9.0

Presented to me double-blind at Tasting Group. The wine appears a garnet color with a near opaque core with significant rim variation; medium viscosity with moderate staining of the tears and significant signs of sediment. On the nose, the wine is vinous with notes of desiccated and ripe dark and red fruits: currants, plums, brambles, old leather, cigar box, and warm spices. On the palate, the wine is dry with medium tannin (integrated) and medium acid. Confirming the notes from the nose. The finish is medium.

Initial conclusions: this could be Cabernet Sauvignon (or based blend), Tempranillo, Grenache-based blend from the United States, Spain, France or Italy. I felt like this leaned more towards the fruit than the non-fruit character and/or structure. Additionally, the color and desiccated nature of the fruit leads me to believe this bottle has significant age. So, my final conclusion: this is a Cabernet Sauvignon (or based blend), from the United States, California, Napa Valley with 30+ years of age. We’ll call it 1985. Awfully close! Drink now. — a year ago

Freddy R. Troya

9.0

Pedroncelli — Giovanni & Giulia Sauvignon Blanc 2024 — Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma County. United States 🇺🇸

Overview
A brighter, more expressive take on Pedroncelli’s Dry Creek Valley Sauvignon Blanc, crafted entirely from Sauvignon Blanc and emphasizing freshness, balance, and immediate drinkability. The 2024 vintage leans into a cleaner, fruit-driven profile with less herbal intensity and more precision.

Aromas & Flavors
Fresh lime, grapefruit, green apple, subtle melon, and delicate citrus blossom with a clean mineral edge.

Mouthfeel
Light-bodied and vibrant with beautifully balanced acidity and gentle tartness. The palate feels fresher and more polished than the previous vintage, with a crisp, uplifting finish and no aggressive grassy notes.

Food Pairings
Ceviche, oysters, grilled shrimp, fresh salads, goat cheese, or light seafood dishes.

Personal Pick
I enjoyed this noticeably more than the previous vintage — brighter, cleaner, and more balanced. It hits that perfect sweet spot between acidity and tartness, making it incredibly easy to enjoy glass after glass.

Verdict
A fresh, approachable Sauvignon Blanc with excellent balance and clarity. A casual sipper that overdelivers on vibrancy and drinkability.

🍷 Did You Know?
Small vintage shifts in Sauvignon Blanc can significantly change its profile, warmer, even ripening conditions often reduce grassy notes and enhance citrus and fruit purity, as seen in this 2024 release. I also have rated the 2023.
— 3 months ago

Jay Kline

9.1

Presented double-blind at Tasting Group. The wine pours, a pale straw color with medium viscosity. On the nose, the wine is developing with notes of bright, tropical fruit, lemon, match stick, white flowers, and minerals. On the palate, the wine is dry with medium+ acid. Confirming the notes from the nose. The finish is medium+ with generous minerality.

Initial conclusions: this could be Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio or Chenin Blanc from the United States, France or Italy. However, it doesn’t have the textural elements of Chenin and there’s too much character for Pinot Grigio. I also feel this leans a little bit more towards its fruit than I want from the Beaune, let alone Chablis (and not leesy enough for the latter). Yet, this is an elegant wine and can’t easily place this in California, so I like this being Chardonnay from Oregon. Final conclusion: this is Chardonnay, from the USA, Oregon, Willamette Valley, 2021. How about that! Drink now through 2033. — 6 months ago

Freddy R. Troya

9.7

TOR Kenward Family Wines — Melanson Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2019 — Pritchard Hill, Napa Valley. United States 🇺🇸

Overview:
A commanding expression of Pritchard Hill intensity and refinement, this single-vineyard bottling is driven predominantly by Cabernet Sauvignon with a small supporting blend typical of Bordeaux varieties. The wine captures Napa power in a polished, disciplined frame, balancing concentration, structure, and aromatic depth with serious aging intent.

Aromas & Flavors:
Intensely perfumed black cherry, cassis, mahogany, dried herbs, licorice, forest floor, and subtle dark spice.

Mouthfeel:
Dense and dry with authoritative structure, firm yet polished tannins, and layered concentration. Dark fruit, cocoa powder, tobacco, and mulberry build across the palate into a long, resonant, tightly coiled finish that promises evolution.

Food Pairings:
Dry-aged ribeye, herb-crusted lamb, short ribs, venison, mushroom risotto, aged hard cheeses, or truffle-forward dishes.

Personal Pick:
This is a wine I approach with intention, slow decant, big glass, no distractions. It’s thrilling now for its power and depth, but clearly built for long-term cellaring and future fireworks.

Verdict:
A serious, cellar-worthy Napa Cabernet delivering precision, authority, and pedigree. Best for collectors and structured wine lovers willing to exercise patience.

🍷 Did You Know?:
Pritchard Hill sits on volcanic soils high above Napa Valley, producing some of the region’s most structured, age-worthy Cabernet Sauvignon, often rivaling cult-status bottlings for depth, minerality, and longevity.
— a year ago

Freddy R. Troya

9.0

Amici Cellars — Napa County Cabernet Sauvignon 2022 — Napa Valley, California. United States 🇺🇸

Overview:
An approachable, fruit-forward expression of Napa Cabernet Sauvignon crafted predominantly from Cabernet Sauvignon, positioned as the entry tier of Amici’s luxury portfolio. The 2022 vintage shows a deliberate stylistic shift toward earlier accessibility, emphasizing plush fruit, polished texture, and immediate drinkability while maintaining Napa depth and structure.

Aromas & Flavors:
Dark cherry, ripe plum, blackberry, cocoa, dark chocolate, and well-integrated toasty oak.

Mouthfeel:
Silky tannins, rounded structure, and a creamy, open-knit texture deliver generous mid-palate richness with a long, lingering finish. Fuller and more expressive than the 2021, this vintage is truly cork-and-pour with no decanting required.

Food Pairings:
Grilled steak, burgers, roast chicken, barbecue ribs, mushroom pasta, aged cheddar or gouda.

Personal Pick:
I genuinely appreciate the 2022 shift, this drinks beautifully straight out of the bottle and makes Napa Cabernet feel effortless and inviting. It’s a great example of luxury sensibility without luxury fuss.

Verdict:
A polished, crowd-pleasing Napa Cabernet offering immediate gratification with enough structure to age short- to mid-term. Ideal for weeknight indulgence or casual entertaining.

🍷 Did You Know?:
Many Napa producers fine-tune vintage expression based on growing conditions and market preferences, sometimes intentionally crafting certain releases for earlier drinkability rather than extended cellaring.
— a year ago

Freddy R. Troya

9.5

Amici Cellars — Rutherford Sauvignon Blanc 2024 — Napa Valley, California. United States 🇺🇸

Overview:
A limited-production Rutherford Sauvignon Blanc crafted entirely from Sauvignon Blanc, designed to highlight freshness, texture, and elegant balance. Partial aging in French oak alongside stainless steel fermentation adds subtle polish while preserving vibrant varietal expression and regional brightness.

Aromas & Flavors:
Zesty lemongrass, fresh citrus, subtle herbal lift, light stone fruit, and clean mineral accents.

Mouthfeel:
Crisp yet refined with smooth texture and well-integrated acidity. A short period in approximately 30% French oak contributes gentle roundness and polish, finishing clean and energized without heaviness.

Food Pairings:
Arugula and goat cheese salad with walnuts, sockeye salmon with capers and onions, grilled shrimp, citrus-driven seafood dishes, fresh herb salads, soft cheeses.

Personal Pick:
This is exactly the kind of Sauvignon Blanc I love to keep on hand, refreshing, food-driven, and quietly sophisticated. When you find it, grab it, because these small-production bottles disappear fast.

Verdict:
A vibrant yet polished Napa Sauvignon Blanc offering freshness, texture, and serious food versatility. A standout seasonal white worth seeking out.

🍷 Did You Know?:
Rutherford is better known for Cabernet Sauvignon, but its warm days and cool nights can also produce expressive Sauvignon Blanc with ripe aromatics balanced by natural acidity when yields are kept low. — a year ago

Jay Kline

9.1

Presented double-blind at Tasting Group. The wine pours a straw color with medium viscosity and no signs of sediment or particles. On the nose, the wine is developing with notes of green apple, passion fruit, nuts, brioche, nuts and minerals. On the palate, the wine is dry with medium+ acid. Confirming the notes from the nose. The finish is medium. Alcohol seemed a touch elevated. Initial conclusions: this could be Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, Albariño or maybe even Riesling from the United States, France, Spain, Germany or even Australia. This was tricky because the fruit was pretty forward and yet, there was really good acid and the oak use seemed deft. I was pretty confident in Chardonnay ended up vacillating between United States and France, ultimately calling Chardonnay, United States, California, Sonoma County, 2022 as my final conclusion. I don’t hate my call. I often forget Pouilly-Fiussé. I should sharpen up a bit. Tasty stuff. Drink now through 2033. — a year ago

Jay Kline

9.2

Presented to me blind at Tasting Group. The wine appears bright yellow with medium viscosity; no signs of sediment, gas or particles. On the nose, the wine is developing with ripe orchard fruit: stone fruits, lemons, white flowers, lanolin and minerals. On the palate the wine is off-dry with high acid. Confirming the notes from the nose. The finish is long and full of character. The alcohol is medium+. Initial conclusions: this could be Chenin Blanc, Riesling or Chardonnay from France, Germany or the United States. But I didn’t get any petrol so I eliminated Riesling and I don’t think you could get the balance of fruit and high acid from California Chardonnay (and the oak would probably be so pronounced). So I called Chenin Blanc from France, from the Loire, Vouvray Demi-Sec. Well…I should have known this could be Joly! Close…but some miles away from each other and I’d like to have the confidence to call producer in this case. Drink now through 2034. — a year ago

Jay Kline

8.9

Splash decanted prior to service and presented to me double-blind. The wine pours a deep garnet color with an opaque core, moving towards a light orange garnet rim; medium viscosity with moderate staining of the tears and some signs of sediment. On the nose, the wine is vinous, with notes of ripe and slightly dried red and black fruits: plum, blackberry, raspberry, dried flowers, leather, cocoa, earth and some 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.

Initial conclusions: this could be a Cabernet Sauvignon-based blend or a Merlot-based blend from the United States or France. Due to the appearance and secondary characteristics, I think this has 15+ years of age. And, because this was leaning heavily towards its fruit, rather than its structure, I’m calling this being from the United States. Final conclusion, this is a Cabernet Sauvignon-based blend from Napa, valley floor, from a warm vintage like 2009. Dammit, I should have clued into the softer tannins from Alexander Valley. Scoring significant points though. Drink now through 2029. — 5 months ago

Jay Kline

9.5

Presented to me double-blind. The wine pours a deep garnet with an opaque core and some rim variation; medium viscosity with moderate staining of the tears and signs of sediment. On the nose the wine is vinous with notes of cassis, blackberry, black plum, tobacco, menthol, leather, and mix of cool and warm spices. On the palate the wine is dry with medium+ tannin and medium+ acid. Confirming the notes from the nose. The finish is long. This is really delicious.

Initial conclusions: this could be a Cabernet Sauvignon based blend or other Bordeaux-styled blend or a Tempranillo based blend from the United States, France or Spain. This saw French oak so I eliminated Spain. I thought the fruit was outshining the structure…so I liked the USA over France. And, based off the appearance, I thought this probably had 30+ years of age. Final conclusion: this is a Cabernet Sauvignon based blend from the United States, from California, Napa, Rutherford; 1994. Ugh…the 1990 vintage in Bordeaux has bit me twice now recently. Really awesome stuff! Drink now through 2040+. — 5 months ago

Chris Blanchard

9.4

Still one of my fav pinots from the states. Terra de promisso delivers a good grape. Loved the slight spice to this. — 7 months ago

Freddy R. Troya

8.9

Cambria Estate Winery — Julia’s Vineyard Pinot Noir 2021 — Santa Maria Valley, Santa Barbara County, California. United States 🇺🇸

Overview:
An estate-grown Pinot Noir crafted entirely from estate fruit at Cambria’s Julia’s Vineyard, delivering a fresh, approachable expression of cool-climate California Pinot with bright fruit purity and everyday elegance.

Aromas & Flavors:
Red plum, strawberry, cranberry, cherry compote, hints of sage, lavender, rose petal, and light leather.

Mouthfeel:
Medium-bodied with smooth tannins, lively acidity, and gentle spice through the finish. Bright red fruit keeps the palate energetic and easy-drinking while maintaining enough structure to feel polished.

Food Pairings:
Roast chicken, salmon, mushroom pasta, grilled vegetables, pizza with prosciutto or mushrooms, soft cheeses.

Personal Pick:
This is my kind of reliable weeknight Pinot — easy to love, versatile at the table, and always satisfying without demanding too much attention. A bottle I happily keep in regular rotation.

Verdict:
A charming, estate-driven Pinot Noir offering freshness, balance, and excellent everyday value. Perfect for casual dinners and relaxed enjoyment.

🍷 Did You Know?:
Santa Maria Valley’s east–west orientation funnels cool Pacific winds deep into the valley, extending hang time and preserving natural acidity — a key reason the region excels with Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. — a year ago

Freddy R. Troya

9.2

Amici Cellars — Russian River Valley Pinot Noir 2023 — Sonoma County, California. United States 🇺🇸

Overview:
Crafted entirely from Pinot Noir sourced from premier vineyard sites in Russian River Valley, this wine captures the region’s hallmark vibrancy and fruit purity. Stainless steel fermentation preserves freshness, while French oak aging adds polish and subtle structure, positioning it as a refined yet highly approachable entry into Amici’s luxury lineup.

Aromas & Flavors:
Blackberry, raspberry, cranberry, subtle toast, gentle spice, and lifted red-fruit brightness.

Mouthfeel:
Medium-plus body with moderate tannins and a smooth, polished texture. Energetic acidity keeps the palate fresh and appetizing, delivering immediate charm with the structure to evolve gracefully over the next several years.

Food Pairings:
Roast chicken, salmon, duck confit, mushroom risotto, pizza with prosciutto or mushrooms, soft cheeses.

Personal Pick:
I opened a bottle again recently and the wine absolutely confirmed itself — vibrant, balanced, and dangerously easy to enjoy. A Pinot that consistently delivers pleasure without trying to impress.

Verdict:
A confident, fruit-driven Russian River Pinot Noir combining elegance, freshness, and excellent approachability. A smart everyday luxury option.

🍷 Did You Know?:
Russian River Valley’s cool fog influence and long growing season allow Pinot Noir to develop layered aromatics while retaining natural acidity and finesse.
— a year ago

Jay Kline

9.2

Presented double-blind at Tasting Group. The wine pours a deep ruby/purple color with a near opaque core; medium+ viscosity with significant staining of the tears. On the nose, the wine is developing with notes of ripe, mostly dark fruits: plums, black cherry, dark brambles, purple flowers, sweet tobacco, anise, leather, vanilla and baking spices. I believe this wine sees some new, small format oak. On the palate, the wine is dry with medium+ tannin and medium+ acid. Confirming the notes from the nose. The finish is long and the texture is smooth and luxurious. Alcohol is medium+. The wine is fairly well balanced.

Initial conclusions: this could be Merlot or a Merlot-based blend, Cabernet Franc (or based blend), Syrah, Tempranillo, Malbec or Carménère from the United States, France, Spain or Argentina. From my experience, I didn’t think it was purple or single-toned enough for Malbec. There wasn’t any rotondun or reductive qualities I usually get from Syrah; so I eliminated that as well. There weren’t enough pyrazines for Cab Franc. It left me with Tempranillo or Merlot and since this was lavishly oaked (I felt most new French oak), I veered towards Merlot and since it was leaning pretty heavily towards its fruit and the ABV was elevated, I was going New World instead of Right Bank. Final conclusion: Merlot or Merlot-based blend from the United States, from California, Napa Valley from 2015. Gosh dammit. I forgot about the possibility of Tempranillo from Toro. I totally get it but don’t hate my analysis or call. I’ve had Termes and Numanthia countless times but this was the first time trying Termanthia. It’s a big boy…but pretty well balanced considering the power. Drink now through 2032+. — a year ago

Somm David T

Independent Sommelier/Wine Educator

9.2

What were you doing in 1970? It’s what I always think of when I have a very elderly wine. It also is the question I ask friends I share older wine.

Some 1970 highlights. The number one song was Simon & Garfunkel’s, “Bridge Over Troubled Water.” The President of the United States was Richard M Nixon and one of the kindest friends I have known was born. Last but not least, the Napa Valley was just beginning to rise. Louis Martini was one of those pioneers!

This bottle has survived & flourished over those 55 years and is a fine piece of history.

Many would say this is past its prime and they wouldn’t necessarily be wrong. But I am one who appreciates wine on its still solid downslope. While on its decent, this bottling still shows nice fruit, complexity and elegance that just can’t be mistaken for good young wine w/ a long decant.

The nose shows a fig & date quality. Older, brambly; blackberries, black raspberry reduction, sweet & sour cherries, that slide into liquor, baked rhubarb, slightly overripe strawberries. Soft sandalwood w/ dry cedar tones, undertones of rusted metal, dry soil & crushed limestone, vanillin, very dry twig, old, slightly used tobacco, reminisce of dark spices, tomato leaf, sun tea, dry & withering dark & red flowers, understated violets w/ a sprinkle of potpourri.

The palate is still fresh & ripe; older, brambly, blackberries, black raspberry reduction, sweet & sour cherries that slide into liquor, baked rhubarb, slightly overripe strawberries, figs & dates. Soft sandalwood w/ dry cedar tones, undertones of rusted metal, dusty top soil & limestone gravel, dry river stone, crumbled, grey volcanics, cherry cola, vanillin, nutmeg, cinnamon stick, clove, very dry twig, old, slightly used tobacco, dark spices still w/ soft but impactful palate backbone, tomato leaf, sweetened sun tea w/ a spritz of lemon, dry & withering dark & red flowers, understated violets w/ a sprinkle of potpourri, excellent rainfall acidity with an elegant, round, balanced, well knitted, still tensioned, polished finish that falls on sandalwood, earth and spice that lasts 90 seconds.

12% ABV which I have said many times is my strong preference like w/ all amazing Clarets. I wish it had never changed. 92 on the wine, but a perfect 10 on the history scale. — a year ago