At Bacara w/Shana - mineraly / Shana like lots. — 3 months ago
Well totally closed on opening. Put cork back in and let sit 3 days and it is way better. Huge wine but so freaking good. Blueberry pie, green peppercorns, blackberries, plums, tomato, fresh herbs, flowery perfume, mixed berry jam. It has so much texture. Just keep smelling and tasting new stuff. The prices have increased so not quite as much value, but if you’re into huge CA Rhône’s that have just enough balance, this is a fantastic wine. — 2 months ago
We liked it with grilled meats especially lamb chops — 7 months ago
Simply one of the best domestic Syrahs, from the storied Bien Nacido vineyard. — 10 months ago
Darkly floral and intense, the 2021 Casual Encounters blends black raspberries with cedar shavings, tobacco, and exotic spice. This is elegant in feel, with silken textures and decadently ripe red berry fruits. Cooling acidity maintains a fantastic balance as dark chocolate and balsamic spice firm up the finish, tapering off long and gently tannic. The 2021 is juicy yet expertly balanced. (Eric Guido, Vinous, July 2024)
— 2 months ago
Brandon Boesch
So freaking good, huuuugggee! It’s so amazingly different from tribute to Grace which I’ve been drinking lately, but I love them both in each way. But only want to drink this one a few times a year. So much fruit, cigar box, cherry, apple jam, herbs, lavender, a bit of flowers, meat, so rich. — 14 days ago