Thanks to 2 wine store owners that I became good friends with over the years I’ve had the opportunity to have a good stash of Vatan. For me Vatan is one of those wines that adheres to the cliche, “ there are no great wines just great bottles”. In this instance it was a great bottle. Intoxicating aromas of lychee, lime and florals. One of those wines you’re happy just to smell. There is no disappointment on the palate. Beautiful balance and texture, nothing out of place. Layers of concentrated fruit; mango, green almonds, star fruit and lemons. Ripe fruit that is fresh and managed by the wonderful acid. A finish you never want to end. The only flavor missing, which I often find in Vatan, is “spearmint”. — a month ago
The winery is known for its Petite Sirah, and this bottling from the home estate in Calistoga shows why.
Aromas of blueberry, plum, violet, dark chocolate, black pepper and subtle fresh herbs. Rich and powerful palate, yet surprisingly lifted, with fresh acidity and firm but polished tannins. Finish is long, savory and gently candied.
Will benefit from further bottle aging and drink beautifully for the next 8-10 years. — 3 months ago
a monster wine - big and bold. very complex, very good — 25 days ago
50-year old vines close to Fleurie and Chiroubles (more pink granite soil). Dark garnet color, black tea and strawberry. Fresh with light tannins, but not much structure or acidity. Great for immediate drinking. — 2 months ago
High in pyrazine. Grassy. Grapefruit. More New Zealand style than french. — 3 months ago


Solid at $30. — 2 months ago
Almost effervescent with acidity, bright, with tart cherries, the funk and slight brine of olives, and a pleasant mid-mouth weight. — 2 months ago
Lyle Fass

Founder Fass Selections
A reminder that categories matter less than producers. Beautifully mature and completely alive, showing notes of cheese rind, oyster shell, sea breeze, lemon oil, and savory Chablis minerality. The youthful voltage of Petit Chablis has softened into something broader and more complex, but the freshness remains remarkable. Textured, versatile, and endlessly food-friendly, with a wonderful combination of mature savory character and classic limestone tension. Drinking beautifully and a perfect companion to charcuterie, pâté, and richer appetizers. A fascinating wine and a terrific lesson in what happens when supposedly "simple" Chablis is made by a master. — a day ago