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Welcome to 360 Bistro.

Inside this book you will find over 900 different wine selections, covering every major wine producing region. The list is designed with simplicity in mind, as it is organized by varietal with accompanying tasting notes. Should any specific questions arise, please ask for one of our wine stewards. It is our pleasure to serve you, and create a memorable dining experience. Corkage: Our corkage fee is $25 per 750ml bottle, up to 2 bottles. For 3 and more bottles, our fee is $50 per bottle. The corkage fee for any bottle, vintage specific, found on our wine list is $50. All corkage fees will be waived if the table buys more than $50 worth of wine (per 2 adult guests).

Due to the size and ever-changing aspects of our wine list, please refer to our new Ipad wine lists for 99.9% accuracy.
Updates are made to this paper format weekly, but small ommissions or innacurracies in respect to vintage or price may occur. Ipads are updated daily!

TABLE OF CONTENTS
360s (Flights) 3 WINES OF DISTINCTION BY THE GLASS 4 WINES BY THE GLASS Champagne and Sparkling 5 White 5,6 Red 7 SPECIALTY COCKTAILS 8 CLASSIC COCKTAILS 9 WINES BY THE BOTTLE Champagne and Sparkling 10, 11 WHITE Riesling 12-14 Gruner Veltliner 14 Gewurztraminer 14 Sauvignon Blanc 15, 16 Pinot Grigio and Pinot Gris 16 Rhone and Rhone Style 17-19 Chardonnay Domestic 20-24 International 25-30 Other Whites 31, 32 ROSE 33

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RED Pinot Noir Domestic 34-41 International 42-46 Merlot 47 Shiraz 48 Syrah 49, 50 Zinfandel 51 Malbec 52 Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Based Blends 53-62 Other Red Blends 63, 64 Other Varietal Reds 65 Spanish Reds 66, 67 Italian Reds Amarone 68 Barbaresco 69 Barolo 70-72 Brunello di Montalcino 73, 74 Chianti/Chianti Classico 75 Super Tuscans 76-78 Other Italian 79 French Reds Bordeaux 80-85 Rhone Valley 86-97 Other French 98 HALF BOTTLES White 99, 100 Red 101, 102 LARGE FORMAT 103, 104 DESSERT WINES 105, 106 BEER 107 PREMIUM SPIRITS 108-110 LIQUOR 360s (Flights) 111 2

360 FLIGHTS 360 Bistro is proud to offer a selection of six wine flights. The wines are poured in 3 oz. portions and displayed on our special 360 board. Sparkling Wines La Marca Prosecco DOC, Italy Domaine Chandon Blanc de Noirs, California Domaine Carneros by Taittinger Le Rve, California Alternative Whites Don Olegario Albario, Rias Baixas, Spain Chateau de Valmer Vouvray, France Lugana Pilandro Trebbiano, Italy Chardonnay Duckhorn "Migration", Russian River Valley Mer Soleil Silver, California Domaine de la Collonge Pouilly-Fuisse, Burgundy Alternative Reds Ben Marco Malbec, Argentina Concha y Toro Gran Reserva Carmenere, Chile Schild Estate Shiraz, Australia Pinot Noir Ransom, Willamette Valley, Oregon A.P. Vin Turner Vineyard, California Meiomi by Belle Glos, California Bold Reds Kiona Cabernet, Washington State Plan Pegau Cotes du Rhone, France Demarie Barbera DAlba Superiore DOC, Italy Our Finest Ports Taylor Fladgate 10 Year Tawny Taylor Fladgate 20 Year Tawny Taylor Fladgate 30 Year Tawny The Premier 360 A sampling of our finest wines available currently by the glass // 2oz pour. Belle Glos Clark and Telephone Pinot Noir, Santa Maria Valley, CA 2010 Justin Isosceles, Paso Robles, California 2008 Argiano Brunello di Montalcino, Tuscany, Italy 2007 23

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WINES OF DISTINCTION BY THE GLASS These wines change frequently, and offer a chance to taste wines not normally served by the glass in Nashville. ***Please note: These wines are not available for 1/2 bottle nights*** They are offered in 3oz. tastings pours, or the more traditional 6oz. glass. If there is a wine on the list offered by the bottle only, and you would like to buy a glass for 25% of the bottle cost, please ask! We will do our best to accommodate your request, however, please understand it may not always be possible.

WHITE

3oz.

6oz.

Merry Edwards Sauvignon Blanc // Russian River Valley, California 2010 10 20 The aroma is floral and mouthwatering, layered with ripe melon, peach and subtle mineral highlights. In the mouth, it is rich and seamlessly well balanced, kicking in a hint of grapefruit, cirrus and pear on the lingering finish. Domaine Jouard Chassagne-Montrachet // Burgundy, France 2009 15 Floral, white peach and smoky pear aromas, bit of minerality in the center, oak is nicely integrated. 30

RED Belle Glos Clark and Telephone Pinot Noir // Santa Maria Valley, CA 2010 11 Very dense and superconcentrated, this offers an impressive mix of dense blackberry, raspberry and huckleberry, holding its focus and maintaining its supple texture. 93 WS. 22

Justin Isosceles // Paso Robles, California 2008 14 28 Composed of 54% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Merlot, 12% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Petit Verdot. It exhibits sweeter tannins along with dense black fruits intermixed with charcoal, creme de cassis, roasted herbs, and spice box. It is a big, thick, juicy, nearly over-the-top wine with impressive balance. 93 WA. Argiano Brunello di Montalcino // Tuscany, Italy 2007 15 30 The 2007 Brunello di Montalcino is rich, deep and resonant. It shows fabulous depth and richness, with seemingly endless layers of fruit that caress the palate. Dark red cherries, savory herbs, tobacco and licorice linger on the textured, creamy finish. This is another terrific effort from Argiano. 93 WA.

BY THE GLASS CHAMPAGNE AND SPARKLING Glass Prosecco, La Marca, Extra Dry // Italy NV 9 Baked apple, sour lemon and grapefruit, with a lightly creamy mineral texture. 90 WS. Bottle 36

Brut Blanc de Noirs, Domaine Chandon // California NV 12 48 Elegant and lively, pale red in color, with floral red fruits and vanilla aromas, nicely layered, crisp citrus, spice and cream flavors. 88 WS. Brut Blanc de Blanc, Domaine Carneros Le Reve by Taittinger // 20 80 California 2005 Luxurious and complex, blending an opulent texture with lively acidity. Bold aromas of brioche, almond and lemon curd lead to layered flavors of Asian pear and cinnamon spice. 92 WS.

BY THE GLASS WHITE Glass Bottle

Riesling Kabinett, Von Schleinitz "Weissenberg" // Mosel, Germany 2008 13 52 Elegant, yet well-structured, with aromas and flavors of white peach, nectarines, and grapefruit, with wet slate minerality adding to the clean, vibrant finish! Delicious! Conundrum // California 2010 12 48 Bursting with fragrant honeysuckle and jasmine, with ripe melon, peach, nectarine and honeycomb grace notes. Intensely flavored, with a refreshing acidity. Vouvray, Chateau de Valmer // Loire Valley, France 2010 9 36 This beautiful Chenin Blanc has just a hint of sweetness, but soft and well balanced with good fruit and aciditySec Tendre Pinot Grigio, Maso Canali // Trentino, Italy 2010 9 Golden in color with a full, ripe palate. Lemon, apple, and floral notes. Delicious! 36

Pinot Gris, Domaines Schlumberger Les Princes Abbs // Alsace 2009 12 48 Hints of smoke, lemon curd and fresh forest floor add layers of complexity to the flavors of white peach, pink grapefruit and spiced orange peel to this elegant, silky texture, with a tangy, mouthwatering finish. Rioja Blanco, Bodegas Ostatu // Rioja, Spain 2011 9 36 The Bodegas Ostatu Rioja Blanco 2011 is a blend of 90% Viura and 10% Malvasia grapes from 60-70 year old vines, in the Rioja Alavesa region of Spain. Fermented in stainless steel to accentuate the characteristics and quality of the grapes, this white Rioja presents us with some bright citrus, snappy acidity and well balanced fruit. Sauvignon Blanc, Whitehaven // Marlborough, New Zealand, 2011 11 44 A simple wine with great character, showing stunning tropical fruit and grassy aromas, all focused with a razor's edge of zippiness, leading to a clean, mouthwatering finish! A true expression of the wonderful sauvignon blancs from the island of Marlborough in New Zealand! 5

Sancerre, Hubert Brochard // Loire Valley, France 2010 14 56 Fresh and crisp on the palate, with pear, peach and apple notes frolicking about, this is quintessential Sancerre. Add vibrant acidity, great length and a pleasant dose of minerality to the mix, and you've got a wine that does the region proud. Sauvignon Blanc. Albario, Don Olegario // Rias Baixas, Spain 2010 12 48 Striling flavors of ripe peach, pink grapefruit, wet stone and smoke, Fresh, clean finish, delicious! Ros Gamay, Pierre Boniface "Les Rocailles" // Vin de Savoie, France 2011 13 52 The mouth-watering ros offers delicate strawberry and raspberry aromas. Light, crisp,and bone-dry on the palate, benefitting from aging in stainless steel tanks, not oak barrels. 90 WA Trebbiano, Azienda Agricola Pilandro // Lugano, Italy 2006 12 48 Straw coloured yellow with greenish reflections, a pleasant and delicate aroma, with perfumes of flowers and ripe fruit, a fresh and soft taste are the characteristics of this wine. Chardonnay, McWilliams // South Eastern Australia 2010 7 28 A medium-bodied fruit driven Chardonnay with tropical fruit and vanilla flavors, and a crisp finish. Chardonnay, Mer Soleil "Silver" // Santa Lucia Highlands, California 2010 14 56 Mineral-driven nose with citrus shining through. Cement tank fermentation and aging bring out aromas remindful of the first rain of the season or a wet rock. Soft and round entry with a mid-palate that reveals ripe fruits such as lemons, gooseberry and grapefruit. Pouilly-Fuisse, Domaine de la Collonge // Burgundy, France 2010 15 60 This charming Chardonnay from the Maconnaise in Southern Burgundy offers generous aromas and flavors of ripe mountain apples and lemon pie, with a pinpoint minerality to clean the smooth finish. From a small 22 acre, family-owned Estate, and one of our favorites Saint Veran, Joseph Burrier, Reserve // Burgundy, France 2010 15 60 The wine offers a seductive and fruity expression, with a rich mouth that finishes harmoniously on citrus. Chardonnay, Duckhorn "Migration" // Russian River Valley, CA 2010 16 64 Full-bodied and intense, this is a touch raw in texture, with ripe pear, spice, apple and white peach flavors.

BY THE GLASS RED Pinot Noir, Meiomi by Belle Glos // Central Coast, California 2011 13 52 Flavors of bright cherry, cola, dried leaves undertoned with vanilla, leather and high style oak. Pinot Noir, Ransom Selection // Willamette Valley, Oregon 2009 15 60 Light and snappy, with an edge to the red berry and currant flavors, sliding through the finish. 90 WS. Pinot Noir, A.P.Vin Turner Vineyard // Sta.Rita Hills, California 2009 17 Rich plum & ripe red berries with spice, beautiful pinot noir! Only 150 case made! 91 WS 68

Cotes du Rhone, Plan Pegau // Rhone Valley, France 2010 13 52 An approachable, medium bodied wine with loads of cherry fruit, light peppery notes and a touch of Chteauneuf funk. Made by Laurence Feraud of Domaine du Pegau. Merlot, Red Rock Reserve // California 2010 9 36 Lush concentrations of black cherry, plum and boysenberry are complemented by soft, rounded tannins. Schild Estate // Barossa Valley, Australia 2010 13 55 An expressive Shiraz, bursting with dark plum and bright blueberry notes, joined by hints of roasted meat and spice. The finish rolls along with an airy, open texture that lets the flavors sail. Has depth and pinpoint balance. Zinfandel, Seghesio // Sonoma County, California 2010 14 56 This beauty is jammed with pepper & licorice, plus notes of black raspberry, sage, & smoke. 90 WS. Malbec, Ben Marco // Mendoza, Argentina 2010 14 Full bodied and penetrating on the palate with loads of chewy, currant jam flavors. 56

Carmenere Gran Reserva, Concha Y Toro // Cachapoal Valley, Chile 2010 14 56 Spending 14 months in French and American oak, this deep, intense, purplish-red blend of 90% Carmenere and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon shows intense aromas of black fruits, blueberries, black plums, chocolate, and white pepper. Concentrated, with soft, sweet tannins. Give me red meat! Barbera DAlba Superiore, Demarie // Piedmont, Italy 2008 Intense fruity bouquet of prune and mulberry with a hint of spice 16 64

Cabernet Sauvignon, Kiona // Washington State 2004 15 60 This multifaceted, raffish Cabernet, though not all from the estate vineyard, has Red Mountains signature structure, nicely balanced by aromas and flavors of cassis, violets, plum, and smoke. Cabernet Sauvignon, Louis M. Martini // Sonoma County, California 2010 9 Aromas and flavors of red cherry, blackberry and sage with an underlying dry creek dustiness. 36

Cabernet Sauvignon blend, Gilbert Cellars Left Bank // 12 48 Wahluke Slope, Washington 2009 Left Bank was named after the Left Bank of Bordeaux which this delicious blend is styled after. The Doc Stewart Vineyard is also perched on the Left Bank of the Columbia River. It features 53% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Petit Verdot, 10% Cabernet Franc, 9% Merlot, 9% Malbec. 7

SPECIAL COCKTAILS

Dark & Stormy Gosling's Black Seal Rum, Gosling's Ginger Beer, Lemon

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Spiked Spiced Chai Tea 10 Voyant Chai Cream Liqueur, Chai Spiced Hot Tea, Whipped Cream and Cinnamon Mojito (Regular, Black Cherry, Citrus, Strawberry) Your Choice of Flavor with Fresh Mint and Lime, Sugar and Club Soda Orange Blossom New Amsterdam Gin, Muddled Oranges, Pineau des Charentes, Soda 12

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Day in the Sun 12 Hangar 1 Kaffir Lime, Cream of Coconut, Pineapple Juice, Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice The Rich and Sexy 12 Grey Goose L'Orange, Limoncello, Elderflower Liqueur, PAMA, Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice Tres Leches Milk Shake on the Rocks Malibu Rum, Tres Leches Liqueur, Caramel Drizzle, Splash of Biscotti 12

Chocolate Coconut Martini 12 360 Chocolate Vodka, Creme de Cacao dark, Cream of Coconut, Cream, Shaved Coconut, Chocolate Syrup Lychee Cocktail Grey Goose La Poire Vodka, Elderflower Liqueur, Lychee Puree, Lychee Fruit, Fresh Lime Juice Margaritas Mayan KAH Margarita KAH Tequila, Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice, Agave Nectar Pomegranate Margarita La Pinta Pomegranate Tequila, Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice, Simple Syrup, Agavero Orange Liqueur Strawberry Margarita El Jimador Tequila, Fresh Muddled Strawberries, Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice 14

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Classic Cocktails

Pimms Cup Pimms liqueur, Soda, Lemon, Lime, Cucumber

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French 75 Tanqueray Gin, Sugar, Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice, Lemon Twist

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Aviation No. 209 Gin, Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur, Creme De Violette, Lemon Juice

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Old Fashioned Makers Mark, Muddled Cherries and Oranges, Bitters

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Sidecar 15 Christian Brothers Brandy, Agavero, Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice, Candied Lemon/Orange Zest Sazerac Sazerac Rye, Pernod, Bitters, Sugar, Lemon Twist 15

Negroni Plymouth Gin, Campari, Antica Carpano Sweet Vermouth, Orange Slice

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Classic Manhattan Woodford Reserve, Antica Carpano Sweet Vermouth, Bitters, Cherries

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CHAMPAGNE AND SPARKLING 375ml Duval-Leroy Sec Champagne "Lady Rose" (375ml) // France NV Off-dry ros, full of cherry, berry, spice and pastry flavors married to a fine mousse. 55

Taittinger Prestige Brut Rose (375ml) // France NV 60 A beautiful wine best enjoyed as an aperitif. Sweet, perfumed fruit emerges from this crisp, layered Champagne. 90 WA. Saint-Chamant Brut Champagne (375ml) // Epernay, France 1999 Beautiful body, wonderful citrus, touch of oak, long, lingering finish! Magic in a glass! 89

750ml DeBortoli Emeri Pink Moscato // Southeastern Australia NV Lightly sweet and refreshing with pretty lychee nut, pear, and spice flavors. 87 WS Domaine Vigneau-Chevreau "Petillant" Vouvray Demi-Sec // France NV Off-dry, showing breezy apple, melon, pineapple and mint notes, with an open, soft finish. 30

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Cadel Bosco Franciacorta Cuvee Prestige // Lombardia, Italy NV 80 Clean and delicate on the nose, full-bodied and toasty on the palate. This wine is very smooth, creamy, and elegant with a touch of vanilla and hazelnut on the finish. Joseph Perrier Cuvee Royale Brut Champagne // France NV 90 Elegant, with delicate acidity framing subtle notes of white peach, fresh flowers, dried pineapple and biscuit. Very refined in texture, with a lingering, spiced finish. 92 WS. Jacques Copinet Brut Rose Champagne // France NV 90 Pink salmon color. Very floral, with fresh notes of wild strawberry and citrus. Fruity and delicate with a supple mlange of red berries, cinnamon and citrus. Long, zesty red fruit finish. From '99, '00, and '01 vintages. Pol Roger Brut Champagne // France NV 100 Equal parts Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. A beautiful gold straw color, fine bubbles, a bouquet of floral and fruity aromas, ripe on the palate with mouthwatering brioche. Argyle "Extended Tirage" // Willamette Valley, Oregon 1999 140 Elegant, with very fine bubbles and complex spice, coffee, pear and toast aromas and flavors. 95 WS. Bollinger "Special Cuvee" Champagne // France NV 140 A rich, smoky Champagne, with hints of marzipan and fennel seed accenting honeyed malt, bread dough, baked apple and gingersnap flavors. It's all focused by intense acidity, which meshes beautifully into the layers of flavor and refined texture, with a lingering finish. 94 WS. H. Billiot et Fils Brut Grand Cru Champagne // France 2004 150 A powerful, intense wine layered with expressive red berries, mint, licorice and crushed flowers, all of which are wrapped around an intense, mineral-driven frame. 93 WA. 10

Billecart-Salmon Brut Rose Champagne // France NV 170 Bright and elegant, this offers appealing flavors of ripe black cherry, raspberry and orange peel that show hints of toasted raisin bread, anise and sweet smoke. Offers a beautiful texture, with a long, mouthwatering finish. 92 WS. Billecart-Salmon Brut Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Champagne // France NV 180 Elegant, small bubbles dance in the glass with pretty floral, stone fruits, and spice, all gracefully balanced from this 100% Chardonnay blend. 89 RP Moet Chandon Dom Perignon Champagne // France 2000 185 Toasty aromas meld into freshly cut flowers, apricots and pears, with sweet notes of mint and licorice that linger. 94 WS. Nicolas Feuillatte Champagne Cuvee Palmes d'Or // France 1998 200 The open, inviting bouquet leads to an expressive, generous core of fruit with pretty notes of early tertiary character that add complexity. Brioche, hazelnuts, dried pears and dried apricots linger on a long, beautifully articulated finish. 90 WA. 90 WS. Krug Brut Champagne, Grand Cuvee // France NV 275 A smoky, intense wine, with layer upon layer of coffee, roasted nut, golden piecrust, ripe apple, honey and spice flavors. 95 WS. Nicolas Feuillatte Ros Champagne Cuvee Palmes d'Or // France 2002 340 Nicely structured with pure pinot noir, showing red berry and floral aromas, with a seemless finish. One of our select favorite ros champagnes tasted recently! 91 WS Krug Brut Champagne // France 1995 425 A very youthful '95. Delicate. Intense aromas of ginger, citrus, candied berry and multigrain bread turn to honey, roasted almonds and graphite on the palate. It's all underscored by a precise structure and creamy texture. Its structure keeps it persistent through the long finish. A picture of precision and intensity. 98 WS. Moet Chandon Dom Perignon Ros Champagne // France 1996 575 Sweet, expansive and generous, the wine blossoms on the palate with extraordinary grace as layers of silky, perfumed fruit open up in the glass. 97 WA.

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RIESLING

Austria Loimer Qualittswein Trocken Kamptal // Niedersterreich, Austria 2007 44 A crisp, focused Riesling, with apple, citrus and kiwifruit flavors. The powerful, mineral-filled finish gives this extra lift. 90 WS. Stadt Krems Qualittswein Trocken Kremstal Steinterrassen // Wachau, Austria 2008 65 Very fresh and crisp, with lots of mineral, apple and citrus flavors that are backed up by plenty of fresh acidity. 89 WS.

France Ostertag Heissenberg // Alsace, France 2007 75 This dry, creamy Riesling displays spiced flavors of grapefruit sorbet, lychee, honeysuckle and fresh squeezed orange juice. There's an underlying energy, in part from the nervy acidity, but this is so seamless you don't even notice the intensity at first. Delicious, with a lingering, mineral-tinged finish. 94 WS. Rolly Gassmann Kappelweg // Alsace, France 2004 99 Lilies, mint, and black currant in the nose, leading to refined and subtly-sweet, chalky finish with hints of refreshing lemon. Zind-Humbrecht, Brand // Alsace, France 2007 140 Smells gorgeously of iris, lily-of-the-valley, linden, white peach, and grapefruit. Plush and tenderly palate-saturating, dry-tasting at 10 grams residual sugar, its hints of tart and bitter red currant, grapefruit rind, peach pit, hazelnut, and sage offer dynamic counterpoint with its generosity of fruit and texture, persisting with uncanny tenacity, clarity, lift, and energy as well as mysteriously marine minerality and scallop-like sweet-saline savor. 95 WA.

Germany Robert Eymael (Monchhof) Mosel Slate Spatlese // Mosel, Germany 2009 55 Vibrant peach and lemon blossom flavors fill this to the brim, joined by plenty of cream and glazed citrus notes. There's mineral and slate on the finish, with ruby grapefruit accents that offer plenty of fresh acidity. 93 WS. Reinhold Haart Piesport Grafenberg Kabinett // Mosel, Germany 2009 55 Very racy and powerful, displaying a pronounced ripe licorice aroma that leads to flavors of white cherry, smoke, fennel and glazed citrus. Winds up on the finish, with loads of slate and savory notes. 92 WS. St.-Urbans-Hof Ockfen Bockstein Spatlese // Mosel, Germany 2009 60 Hinting at graphite, this white delivers peach, Golden Delicious apple, warm baking spice and citrus aromas and flavors. It's all matched to a firm, tightly wound structure, with the acidity topping the balance now. There's fine, stony length. 94 WS. 94 WA. 12

Joh. Jos. Prum Bernkasteler Badstube Kabinett // Mosel, Germany 2008 60 Extremely bright in aroma as well as palate impression, the wine is dominated by lemon and grapefruit, with village typical cherry and cassis manifesting themselves as an invigorating chew of fruit skin that is delightfully complimented by estate-typical impingement of CO2. 91 WA. Joh. Jos. Prum Graacher Himmelreich Kabinett // Mosel- Germany 2009 60 Features grapefruit and cassis with the bitterness of grapefruit rind as well as hints of stone and salt offering counterpoint. 88+ WA. Marcus Molitor Haus Klosterberg Spatlese // Mosel, Germany 2008 60 Slate, white peach and apple aromas, along with the "cool" black currant predominant in the vintage. 92 WS. Joh. Jos. Prum Wehlener Sonnenuhr Spatlese // Mosel, Germany 2010 65 Creamy and ripe as WS from Prum should be, with slightly lower acid than the GH. Elegant and extremely pure. Explosive in the mouth with incredible depth. Ripe and so juicy due to the higher than normal acids. Still with great balance and a very long finish. Dr. Loosen Wehlener Sonnenuhr Kabinett // Mosel, Germany 2007 65 Lime, grapefruit and peach flavors with an undercurrent of mineral. It's balanced and has a crisp, tangy aftertaste. 91 WS. Karthauserhof Ethelsbacher Spatlese // Mosel, Germany 2009 75 Intense and sleek, with concentrated nectarine, lime and slate flavors that give this plenty of verve. Quite smoky midpalate, with a powerful, seamless finish that oozes minerality. 94 WS. Joh. Jos. Prum Zeltinger Sonnenuhr Spatlese // Mosel, Germany 2007 85 This Zeltinger is a soothing, creamy essence of liquid flowers, accompanied by orchard fruit essences, vanilla, malt, and nut oils. 93 WA. Joh. Jos. Prum Graacher Himmelreich Auslese // Mosel, Germany 2003 85 Terrific Auslese. Pure, vibrant and elegant, with a panoply of peach, lime and slate aromas and flavors matched to a seamless frame. Lovely aftertaste of baked apple and vanilla. 94 WS. Reinhold Haart Piesport Goldtrpfchen Spatlese // Mosel, Germany 2008 90 This haunting wine evokes violet, black currant and slate aromas and flavors, all defined by the taut, racy structure. Light-weight, lean and intense, with a kaleidoscope of flavors. 95 WS. Joh. Jos. Prum Bernkasteler Badstube Auslese // Mosel, Germany 2007 95 Gorgeous aromas and flavors of tropical fruit salad stay vivid and etched across the finish thanks to the vibrant structure. Ethereal yet intense, with a snappy finish. 94 WS. Joh. Jos. Prum Bernkasteler Badstube Auslese // Mosel, Germany 2009 130 Racy and powerful, with loads of bright acidity behind the intense, concentrated green apple, peach and ripe melon flavors. There's a concentrated minerality to this as well, with some fascinating hints of lardons and spice on the finish. 97 WS. Joh. Jos. Prum Wehlener Sonnenuhr Auslese // Mosel, Germany 2005 180 Silky, harmonious and refined, with apricot, apple, lime and mineral aromas and flavors matched to a light-weight frame. Balanced, with its hidden structure evident in the tanginess on the finish and the long, lingering aftertaste of baked apple. Puts it all together. 98 WS. 13

Washington State Long Shadows Poet's Leap // Columbia Valley, Washington 2009 55 Light straw-colored with an alluring perfume of flint, spring flowers, white peach, and melon. Made in a Kabinett style (1.35 grams residual sugar), on the palate it is crisp, vibrant, intense, and impeccably balanced. 91 WA.

GRNER VELTLINER Karl Stierschneider Grner Veltliner Qualitatswein Trocken Steinterrassen Kartauserhof // 45 Niedersterreich, Austria 2008 Intense, ruby grapefruit, apricot, pear tart and white pepper aromas with the palate to match, culminating in a long and creamy finish. Simply gorgeous for that Riesling alternative. F.X. Pichler Grner Veltliner Smaragd Loibner Berg // Wachau, Austria 2009 125 Offering lots of honey, cream and spice, this shows good focus to its ripe, rich fruit flavors, including peach, apricot jam and glazed citrus. The long finish is bright and spicy. 92 WS.

GEWURZTRAMINER Delheim Gewurztraminer // Simonsberg-Stellenbosch, South Africa 2008 40 Soft and forward, with tasty lemon peel, grapefruit and kiwifruit notes that linger on the easygoing finish. Lightly sweet. Zind Humbrecht Gewurztraminer Grand Cru Rangen de Thane Clos St. Urbain 190 Vendange Tardive // Alsace, France 2006 Big and bold, with a deep caramel hue and acidity that cuts like a whip, making this VT seem more like a dry wine than a late-harvest. The layers of flavor include orange and grapefruit peel, dried apricot, raisin, clove and myrrh. Long finish. 93 WA.

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SAUVIGNON BLANC California Merryvale, Starmont // Napa Valley, California 2011 30 Expressive notes of lemon, honeydew melon, alyssum flower, orange, honeysuckle and vanilla bean. Ehlers Estate // Napa Valley, California 2011 60 The flavors of Meyer lemon zest, orange blossoms, white peaches, apricot, and grapefruit define this clean, bold, white wine that is at once rich and creamy, crisp and dry, and made from 100% estategrown, certified organic grapes. Duckhorn // Napa Valley, California 2010 60 Bright lemon, grapefruit, and lime notes are refreshing, with tropical hints of pineapple, mango, and passion fruit that gain momentum on the finish. Stylish, with an intensity and spicy quality. Spottswoode // Napa and Sonoma Counties, California 2009 70 Aromatic with peach, white pepper and hints of paper whites in bloom. Notes of flint whirl delicately around flavors of honey and ripe pear. Merry Edwards // Russian River Valley, California 2010 95 The aroma is floral and mouthwatering, layered with ripe melon, peach and subtle mineral highlights. In the mouth, it is rich and seamlessly well balanced, kicking in a hint of grapefruit, cirrus and pear on the lingering finish.

France Roger and Christophe Moreux Sancerre "Les Bouffants" // Loire Valley, France 2009 Intense aromas of wild flowers, fresh figs and melon, a firm structure rich in glycerin, and a long, refreshing finish. 65

Didier Dagueneau Sancerre Monts Damnes // Loire Valley, France 2008 200 White peach, gooseberry, grapefruit, chalk dust, and saline, alkaline intimations of ocean breeze in the nose. This positively billows into a non-stop finish with bittersweet, musky floral essences (iris, narcissus) adding to a shimmering interactive complexity of fruit, herb, and mineral nuances. 93 WA. Didier Dagueneau Pouilly-Fume Silex // Loire Valley, France 2007 225 Weighty, but lithe and balanced, with gorgeous, alluring notes of honeysuckle, macadamia nut, white asparagus, lemon curd, quinine and straw all carrying through seamlessly on the long, invigorating finish. 94 WS. Didier Dagueneau Pouilly-Fume Silex // Loire Valley, France 2008 Ripe pear and white peach along with sage, and fusil, chalky notes of crushed stone. 93 WA. 205

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New Zealand Clifford Bay // Awatere Valley, New Zealand 2010 28 Blackcurrant, guava and citrus notes. The palate exhibits the same fine fruit flavors with an under lying flinty note typical of Awatere Valley fruit. The finish is long, crisp and dry. Cloudy Bay // Marlborough, New Zealand 2011 65 Intense notes of gooseberries, passion fruit, grapefruit zest and grass with a hint of fresh herbs. Crisp, dry and medium bodied with a good concentration of grapefruit and herb flavors, it gives a long tropical fruit laced finish. 90 WA.

PINOT GRIGIO and PINOT GRIS Esperto Pinot Grigio // Venezia-Giulia, Italy 2009 30 Crisp and complex with notes of jasmine, broom and magnolia flower; notes of white peach, apricot, pear, golden apple, cantaloupe, acacia honey; hints of crushed stone. Principe dei Conti Pinot Grigio // Delle Venezie, Italy 2009 30 On the nose, this wine is rich and flavorful, displaying an ample bouquet with hints of almond. The taste is dry, smooth, and harmonious, and it keeps a good acidity with great fruitiness. Adelsheim Pinot Gris // Willamette Valley, Oregon 2011 Bosc pear, peach and apple flavors dominate the fruit profile, with a bit of spiciness. 30

Cooper Mountain Reserve Pinot Gris // Willamette Valley, Oregon 2008 30 Lush and round fruit flavors ranging from stone fruits to hints of peaches on the palate and are beautifully balanced with elegant minerals. Au Bon Climat Pinot Gris/Pinot Blanc // Santa Barbara County, California 2009 Zippy, fresh-fruit acidity that is matched by plenty of apple, pear, grapefruit, and pineapple. 40

Rene Mure Pinot Gris // Alsace, France 2009 50 This wine has a light yellow and brilliant color, with green tints. The nose reminds white peach and mandarin. The mouth is silky and presents a beautiful freshness. It evokes pineapple, orange and bitterness of grapefruit. A crunchy, well-balanced wine. Astrolabe Pinot Gris // Marlborough, New Zealand 2010 55 Pure, easy-drinking wine with a fine minerality and delicacy of structure. Stonefruit and pear flavors dominate. Zind-Humbrecht Pinot Gris Rangen de Thann Clos St.-Urbain Grand Cru // 145 Alsace, France 2009 Racy acidity frames this white, driving white peach, kumquat, star fruit and cantaloupe flavors, with a rich, smoky subnote. Very refined and well-cut, with all the details attended to. The lingering finish echoes the wine's smoky mineral side, with a pretty floral note of orchard blossoms.

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RHONE AND RHONE STYLE WHITES California Tensley Blanc, Camp Four Vineyard // Santa Ynez Valley, California 2009 60 A blend of 65% Grenache Blanc and 35% Roussanne. Aromas of nectarines, quince, and white currants are followed by a medium-bodied white wine revealing fresh acids as well as a heady finish. 90 WA. Krupp Brothers, Black Bart Marsanne, Stagecoach Vineyard // 70 Napa Valley, California 2006 Rich apple, honeysuckle and citrus notes mingle with spicy almond flavors and refreshing acidity. 88 WA. Dumol Viognier "Lia" // Russian River Valley, California 2008 125 Fresh Lychee nut and tropical fruit notes. Good acidity as well as plenty of flavor intensity. 92 WA.

France

Cotes du Rhone Domaine de la Vielle Jullienne Cotes du Rhone Blanc // Southern Rhone, France 2010 75 Made mostly from Clairette, with a touch of Grenache blanc. This wine is better than 75% of the white Chateauneuf du Papes, but unfortunately there are only 300 or so cases. A serious wine with a light gold color might raise a few eyebrows, but the wonderfully fresh, honeyed marmalade and orange rind notes intermixed with some quince and rose petals are followed by delicious fruit, medium to full body, and surprising complexity and intensity. 90 WA.

Chateauneuf-du-Pape Domaine du Pegau Chateauneuf-du-Pape Blanc // Southern Rhone, France 2009 130 Offers up liquid mineral, licorice, beeswax, citrus and tropical fruit aromas that lead into a medium bodied, clean, balanced palate. Very fresh but with nice texture. NYR. Domaine Saint Prefert Chateauneuf-du-Pape Blanc // Southern Rhone, France 2009 135 Aromas of waxy rose petals and honeysuckle along with good freshness and minerality, plenty of body, and a honeyed finish. 93 WS. Domaine Saint Prefert Chateauneuf-du-Pape Blanc // Southern Rhone, France 2010 135 The 2010 Chateauneuf du Pape blanc, which is 80% Clairette and 20% Roussanne, has wonderfully crisp minerality as well as hints of poached pear, lemon zest and nectarines in a fragrant, medium to full-bodied, crisp and generous, dry white Chateauneuf du Pape. 90 WA. Domaine du Vieux Telegraphe Chateauneuf-du-Pape Blanc // Rhone, France 2009 135 40% Clairette, 30% Grenache Blanc, 15% Roussanne and 15% Bourboulenc. Delicate floral notes interwoven with hints of pears, nectarines, red currants and crushed rocks. 90 WA.

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Chateau Rayas Chateauneuf-du-Pape Reserve Blanc // Southern Rhone, France 2006 199 Buttered brioche, ginger, creamed peach and dried persimmon notes that hang on through the creamy, rounded finish. Good latent acidity holds it all together, with deceptive length. 92 WS. Clos des Papes Chateauneuf-du-Pape Blanc // Southern Rhone, France 2009 210 Superfresh, with blanched almond, green plum, yellow apple and verbena notes carried by almost brisk minerality. The finish is really bright and mouthwatering. 95 WS. Clos des Papes Chateauneuf-du-Pape Blanc // Southern Rhone, France 2010 210 Stony, pure and driven, with melon rind, white peach and verbena notes offset by fine cut and precision, as mineral, salted butter and quinine notes ripple through the very lengthy finish. Lovely now, with the fine acidity to develop nicely. 94 WS. Chateau Beaucastel Chateauneuf-du-Pape Blanc Vieilles Vignes // Rhone, France 2009 325 Aromas of rose petals, exotic fruits such as mango and nectarine intermixed with peach marmalade, honeysuckle and crushed pineapple emerge from this full-bodied white along with good acidity and lavish amounts of fruit and glycerin. It offers a nearly out of body wine tasting experience. 100 WA.

Condrieu Domaine Clusel-Loch Condrieu "Verchery" // Northern Rhone, France 2008 125 This is open now, showing pear and green apple notes alongside a core of peach and honey. NYR. George Vernay Condrieu "Coteaux de Vernon" // Northern Rhone, France 2008 199 Exhibits the lively tangerine and blood orange edges of the vintage, with an ample core of pear, fig and green apple. Long, with lots of minerality showing on the finish. 94 WS. Yves Cuilleron Condrieu "Vertige" // Northern Rhone, France 2009 260 Powerful and dense, showing gorgeous range to the creamed peach, pear, fig and ginger flavors, with lovely mouthfeel on the caressing finish, which is filled with toasted hazelnut and brioche. This has the buried minerality for finesse and balance, despite its obvious power. A stunner. 95 WS.

Hermitage and Crozes-Hermitage Domaine Combier Crozes-Hermitage Blanc, Clos des Grives // 110 Northern Rhone, France 2007 Wildly aromatic nose combines flowers, dried fruits, vanilla, spice and exotic citrus fruits. Medium to full-body with great acidity. 80% Roussanne 20% Marsanne. Jean-Luc Colombo Hermitage Blanc "Le Rouet" // Northern Rhone, France 1999 140 Mature, with creamy almond, straw, coriander, lemon peel, butter, green tea and fig flavors that are harmonious and balanced through the lush yet focused finish. 90 WS. Tardieu-Laurent Hermitage Blanc // Northern Rhone, France 2007 145 Clearly modern, offering lush macadamia, Cavaillon melon and buttered brioche notes, but also superpure and fine, with blazing minerality and a long, graceful, floral-filled finish. A beauty for its combination of weight and precision. Roussanne and Grenache Blanc. 93 WS.

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E Guigal Ermitage "Ex Voto" Blanc // Northern Rhone, France 2007 350 Intense, with gorgeously pure salted butter, brioche, paraffin, creamed yellow apple, anise and persimmon notes all woven together and pushed by a broad but well-focused finish. This has the length to let everything take an encore. 95 WS. Domaine Jean-Louis Chave Hermitage Blanc // Northern Rhone, France 1994 350 Unctuous texture, and superb nose of honeyed white flowers, and minerals are followed by a wine of exceptional depth, richness, and balance. 94 WS. Domaine Jean-Louis Chave Hermitage Blanc // Northern Rhone, France 2009 500 The bottled 2009 Hermitage Blanc is one of the greatest whites ever made chez Chave, and thats saying something given Chaves track record. This spectacular wine, normally a blend of 80% Marsanne and 20% Roussanne, exhibits layers of concentration, superb acidity and minerality, laser-like focus, and plenty of quince, white currant, citrus oil, honeysuckle, anise, white peach and apricot marmalade notes. 99 WA. Chapoutier Ermitage Le Meal Blanc // Northern Rhone, France 2008 400 Caramelized apricot, honeyed orange, white currant and quince notes intermixed with a liqueur of rocks characteristic are found in this dense, full-bodied, ripe, atypically powerful, rich wine. 95 WA. Chapoutier Ermitage l'Ermite Blanc // Northern Rhone, France 2007 550 A nectar of rocks, honeysuckle, quince, pears, and white peaches, this super-expressive, full-bodied, thick, glycerin-endowed wine is another example of a massive white Hermitage that can not be found anywhere else in the world. 100 WA.

Other Domaine Gayda Viognier Vin de Pays d' Oc // Languedoc-Roussillon, France 2008 Peach and apple flavors dominate this medium-bodied white. 35

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CHARDONNAY

DOMESTIC California Ferrari Carano // Sonoma County, California 2010 45 Attractive, generous white laced with pears, lemon, flowers and a hint of vanillin. Though medium in body, it shows gorgeous persistence and length all the way through to the creamy, enveloping finish. 88 WA. Macrostie // Sonoma Coast, California 2008 60 A rich, elegant style, with intense, concentrated citrus, green apple, spice and fresh-cut flowers. Fullbodied, gaining depth and complexity on the finish, where the minerality shines through. 92 WS. Black Dog Cellars Haney, Family Estate // Sonoma Coast, California 2010 60 Newest varietal release from Nashville's own, Mike Haney. Haney sources his fruit from Martinelli's properties. Evening Land, Blue Label // Central Coast, California 2010 60 The 2009 California Blue Label Chardonnay is produced entirely from the great Talley estate in the Arroyo Grande Valley on the Central Coast of California. This Chardonnay was entirely barrel fermented and aged in neutral French oak for 11 months. In the glass, this wine shows a rich golden color with aromas and flavors of lemon zest, green apples, and hints of ginger and nutmeg. Antica // Napa Valley, California 2009 65 The Antica Napa Valley 2009 Chardonnay is pure, fresh, and complex. Aromas of crushed stone fruit are interwoven with flavors of pear, apple, white peach, and a signature terroir-driven minerality. Hazelnut and vanilla add layers of intensity and intrigue. Antica is one of Antinori's US projects. Stag's Leap Wine Cellars "Karia" // Napa Valley, California 2009 65 Part of this cuvee is put through malolactic and about one-third is aged in stainless steel and two-thirds in wood. It offers up aromas of orange blossom, honeysuckle and lemon oil in its medium-bodied, crisp, fresh style. 90 WA. Fort Ross, Fort Ross Vineyard // Sonoma Coast, California 2009 65 This golden Chardonnay finely balances layers of intense fruit with the natural acidity and minerality characteristic of the Fort Ross coastal climate. Generous aromas of white flowers, autumnal pear, and honeydew melon lead a complex palate of succulent apricot, sweet peaches with a drop of honey and spiced hazelnuts. Bottled unfined and unfiltered contributed to the seamless silky texture and lengthy focused finish. 95 WE. Lioco, Demuth Vineyard // Anderson Valley, California 2009 70 A nose of green apple jolly rancher, orange blossom, and white flowers, followed by flavors of fresh meyer lemon, apple skins, and mountain springs. This is quite Chablis-like and very beautiful. Mer Soleil // Central Coast, California 2009 70 Combines ripe, intense peach, nectarine and tangerine fruit, with touches of floral and spice. Gains body and depth. A buttery style. 20

Paul Hobbs Crossbarn // Sonoma Coast, California 2009 75 Aged in 75% stainless steel, was put through 100% malolactic, and 15% was barrel fermented in order to provide a subtle hint of spice. Made in a steely, Chablis-like style, it offers up full-bodied tropical fruit notes intermixed with hints of honeysuckle and crushed rocks. 91 WA. Foxen, Bien Nacido Vineyard "Block UU" // Santa Maria Valley, California 2010 90 Ripe pineapple, pear, peach mango, lime, tangerine and papaya flavors. So much fruit. 96 WE. Plumpjack, Reserve // Napa Valley, California 2010 95 Inviting aromas Granny Smith apples, Bartlett pears, orange blossom, and cinnamon spice. On the palate, flavors of apple pie, pear, banana bread and green tea give into a rich yet racy finish. The acidity is perfectly balanced. Loring, Durell Vineyard // Sonoma Coast, California 2010 95 Another big, buttery Cali chard that Loring seems to have adopted as its signature style. This one has a slight acidic backbone to complement the citrus and vanilla flavors. Brewer Clifton, Mt. Carmel Vineyard // Santa Lucia Highlands, California 2009 95 Quite intense and deep. Layers of expressive tropical fruit fill out the wines broad shouldered frame nicely. 90 WA. Forman // Napa Valley, California 2006 Classic lemon blossom, apple rind, nectarine, and striking minerality. 91 WA. 110

Vineyard Seven and Eight "8" // Napa Valley, California 2007 110 Displays loads of honeysuckle, orange blossom, and tropical fruit in an exuberant, sexy, medium to fullbodied style, with gorgeous purity, length, and intensity. Luc Morlet is the winemaker. 92 WA. DuMol // Russian River Valley, California 2009 115 Light green/yellow color. Intense grapefruit and lemon verbena aromas broaden to cantaloupe then baked apple with a trace of sea spray and hazelnut complexity. Ripe stone fruits dominate the palate entry with an edge of smoky flint then richer baked apple and subtle vanilla bean flavors. Highly focused and agile palate with great lingering mineral freshness and penetrating citrus acidity. An intriguing note of almond richness on the building finish. Patz and Hall, Hyde Vineyard // Carneros, California 2007 115 Orange marmalade, pineapple, honeysuckle, and candied fruit aromas jump from the glass of the deep, full-bodied, elegant, mineral-laced 2007 Chardonnay Hyde Vineyard. The wood is pushed well to the background in this layered, well-textured offering. 94 WA. Lewis // Napa Valley, California 2009 115 Combines ripe, rich fruit with a sense of elegance and finesse, offering a depth of fruit, with spice, pear, apple, honeydew melon and toasty, cedary oak. Full-bodied, intense and concentrated, ending with a long, full finish. 92 WS. Failla, Estate Vineyard // Sonoma Coast, California 2010 120 This ripe and full-bodied white has a sweet, rich core of baked apple, fig and honeydew melon flavors. Gains depth on the finish.

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Paul Hobbs // Russian River Valley, California 2009 120 The 2009 Chardonnay is a gorgeous, polished wine bursting with rich, varietal fruit. Subtle hints of butter and oak frame the finish. This is a great entry-level wine from Paul Hobbs. Shafer, Red Shoulder Ranch // Napa / Carneros, California 2007 Loads of tropical fruit, pear, and honeysuckle. 92 WA. 115

Shafer, Red Shoulder Ranch // Napa / Carneros, California 2008 115 Intense and spicy, delivering a mix of floral scents, with notes of taut pear and green apple. Full-bodied and graceful, ending with a pithy, leesy edge and a long, focused finish. 90 WS. Shafer, Red Shoulder Ranch // Napa / Carneros, California 2009 125 Pure, ripe and richly flavored, with tiers of nectarine, fig, honeysuckle and smoky oak. Full-bodied, with touches of citrus blossom and lemon peel. 93 WS. Far Niente // Napa Valley, California 2007 120 Pure, clean, rich and layered green apple, pear, spice and nutmeg give this a tight focus. Full-bodied, intense yet supple, with a long, fruity finish. 91 WS. Martinelli Zio Tony Ranch // Russian River Valley, California 2008 130 Bold, ripe and fleshy, offering exotic floral and spicy notes, along with flavors of bubble gum, fig, honeydew melon and hazelnut. Full-bodied and viscous, gaining depth and nuance on the long, tapered finish. 95 WA. Newton "Unfiltered" // Napa Valley, California 2007 135 A rich, unctuous, buttery style. Full-bodied, with spicy fig, melon, smoky oak and honeydew melon flavors that gain depth, body and complexity, ending with a roasted marshmallow aftertaste. DuMol "Chloe" // Green Valley, California 2008 140 Comes primarily from the Ritchie Vineyards 36-year old parcel planted with the old Wente clone. A big, extroverted perfume of orange rinds, citrus oil, lychee nuts, quince and white currants intermingled with a hint of crushed rocks soars from the glass of this dry, full-bodied Chardonnay. With exuberant fruit intensity, a structured mouthfeel and amazing length. 95 WS. Ramey, Ritchie Vineyard // Russian River Valley, California 2008 145 Delivers a tight, taut laser beam of flavors, riding lively acidity that carries the green apple, pineapple, citrus and honeydew melon notes. Gains depth and velocity, and is built to gain even more with cellaring. 93 WS. Staglin // Napa Valley, California 2008 149 Smooth and creamy, featuring supple tangerine, nectarine, peach and light toasty oak. Tight, focused, full-bodied and understated, this ends with a fragrant citrus blossom scent. 90 WS. Peter Michael "Ma Belle Fille" // Knights Valley, California 2003 215 Exhibits ripe, plump pear, apple and melon flavors that are shaded by pretty toast and vanilla-scented oak notes. Turns rich and creamy on the delicate, elegant finish. 93 WA. Peter Michael "Ma Belle Fille" // Knights Valley, California 2004 265 Wonderful expression and purity of Chardonnay fruit, accented by smoky oak. The core fig, apple, pear and earthy nuances take on a butterscotch note as the finish sails on, unveiling one layer of flavor after another. Remarkable. 95 WS. 94 WA. 22

Peter Michael "La Carriere" // Knights Valley, California 2002 275 This French-styled offering is made from a vineyard planted in soils filled with white volcanic ash, and is aged completely in Louis Latour barrels. It possesses an exquisite liquid minerality as well as gorgeous aromas of citrus oils intermixed with such exotic tropical fruits as guava and passion fruit. Full-bodied, with dazzling palate penetration, fine balance, and an extraordinary, layered, multidimensional feel. 97 WA. Peter Michael "Mon Plaisir" // Sonoma County, California 2004 255 Profoundly rich and concentrated, yet elegant and svelte, with aromas of hazelnut, ripe fig and pear, anise and citrus, all tightly focused and long and complex on the finish, ending with a glimpse of bubble gum. 94 WA. 94 WS. Peter Michael "Belle Cote" // Knights Valley, California 2002 350 Filled with pure tropical fruit characteristics, it is a full-bodied, exotic Chardonnay offering up tremendous notes of smoky hazelnuts as well as lychee nuts presented in a ripe, gorgeously balanced style with a decidedly California personality, but with more definition than most California Chardonnays of this size and intensity. It is made primarily from the old Wente clone of Chardonnay planted on clay-dominated soils. 98 WA. Peter Michael "Belle Cote" // Knights Valley, California 2003 235 A flashy, flamboyant style, loaded with ripe, rich pear and golden apple flavors and layers of spice and toasty oak. Yet for all its richness and depth, it turns elegant and restrained on the finish. 94 WA. 93 WS. Kistler, Kistler Vineyard // Sonoma, California 2004 285 The fabulous 2004 Chardonnay Kistler Vineyard is reminiscent of a top vintage of Mt. Eden Chardonnay with its floral, honeysuckle, mineral, and buttery fruit notes. It also reveals notions of roasted nuts, orange blossoms, and lemon oil as well as stunning concentration and definition. 96 WA. Kistler, Vine Hill Vineyard // Russian River Valley, California 2003 360 From the vineyard surrounding the winery, the 2003 Chardonnay Vine Hill looks to be one of the candidates for the Chardonnay of the vintage. Truly profound stuff, with a stunning nose of tangerines, orange marmalade, and lemon custard, this layered, full-bodied wine has superb purity, striking minerality, and builds incrementally in the mouth, finishing with rather high-toned flavors that are buttressed by good, crisp acidity. It is a prodigious Chardonnay and comes across like a California version of Chevalier-Montrachet. 98 WA. Kistler, Parmalee Hill Stone Flat Vineyard // Sonoma Coast, California 2009 285 Shows marvelous focus and length in an energetic style that is immensely appealing. This head-spinning Chardonnay boasts tremendous integration of fruit, acidity and overall textural elegance. 95 WA. Kistler, Dutton Ranch Vineyard // Russian River Valley, California 2009 300 Fleshes out beautifully on the mid-palate with layers of expressive, radiant fruit. The wine finds its minerality and center on the mid-palate. Apricots, pears, flowers and subtle, darker hints of earthiness come to life on the finish. This is a very complete, beguiling Chardonnay loaded with complexity and sheer class. 96 WA. Kistler, Durell Vineyard // Sonoma, California 2009 300 A cuvee that always reveals a grand cru Chablis-like style is the Chardonnay Durell Vineyard. The mineral-laced 2009 exhibits notes of white peach, pear, wet rock and a subtle touch of spice as well as a full-bodied, rich, concentrated style. The acid levels give vibrancy and laser-like focus. 95 WA. 23

Oregon Pali, Shea Vineyard // Willamette Valley, Oregon 2009 60 Aromas of wet stone, honeysuckle, fresh apple and pear, opening into steely grapefruit and lime, finishing with a hint of butterscotch. 92 WS. Cancilla Cellars // Willamette Valley, Oregon 2008 60 Sweet toast and yeast notes on the nose open to a much lighter and livelier palate. The palate explodes with lemon zest and lychee. Fresh pear and refreshing acidity leave a long, lingering finish. Domaine Serene, Cote Sud Vineyard // Willamette Valley, Oregon 2008 95 Polished, creamy and nicely focused to show its pear, apple and hazelnut flavors, mingling easily against fine acidity on the long, expressive finish. 93 WS.

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INTERNATIONAL France Bourgogne Domaine Coche-Dury Bourgogne // Burgundy, France 2008 From one of Burgundy's legendary producers. Cote de Beaune Village Joseph Drouhin Puligny-Montrachet // Burgundy, France 2009 115 The color is pure and bright, with light glints of white gold. The aromas evoke trees in bloom and white flesh fruit, like white peaches. 89 WA. Domaine Jouard Chassagne-Montrachet // Burgundy, France 2009 120 Floral, white peach and smoky pear aromas, bit of minerality in the center, oak is nicely integrated. Domaine Frederic Magnien Chassagne-Montrachet // Burgundy, France 2009 125 From the lieu-dit Clos Devant, a petite plot on a slope just before the town proper. Its not often you find village vineyards with such good exposition; it explains the freshness and balance of this not-sosimple village wine. Vincent Girardin Meursault "les Narvoux" // Burgundy, France 2009 125 Balanced toward the acidity, this white offers compact apple, lime and butter flavors. The lean, stony finish goes on and on. Domaine Hubert Bouzereau-Gruere Puligny-Monttrachet // Burgundy, France 2009 140 Nicely structured, with aromas and flavors of grilled almond, hazelnut and dried fruit. Good length. Dublere Puligny-Montrachet // Burgundy, France 2007 140 Subtly silken in feel and exceptionally rich for a village-level wine, its hints of peach kernel and chalk, fresh lime and grapefruit with their zests lend counterpoint, invigoration, and refreshment. 91 WA. Bouchard Pere et Fils Puligny-Montrachet // Burgundy, France 2009 160 Delicious floral and fruit aromas with a nice oaky note. An attractive marriage between power and elegance, this wine also offers lovely smoothness. Domaine d'Auvenay (Leroy) Auxey-Duresses // Burgundy, France 2003 240 The rich, welcoming spiced apple aromas lead to a big, mouth-coating character jam-packed with buttered apples. Deep, suave, and expressive, it also possesses a long, silky finish. 91 WA. 150

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Premier Cru Domaine Michel Niellon Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Clos St. Jean // 130 Burgundy, France 2008 Suave, satin-textured, supple, and straightforward, its sappy white fruit-dominated core lingers in its impressive finish. NYR. Domaine Jouard Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Les Vides Bourses // Burgundy, France 2009 150 Complex even in youth, with layered vanilla, acacia, litchi and cream. Powerful, but retains a sense of elegance. This is a small vineyard located just below the grand cru of Batard Montrachet. Domaine Morey-Coffinet Chassagne-Montrachet 1er Les Caillerets // 155 Burgundy, France 2008 This offers loads of toast and spice, yet it's intense, balancing those flavors with creamy peach, apple tart, butterscotch and mineral notes. 92 WS. Pierre-Yves Colin-Morey Meursault 1er Les Charmes // Burgundy, Francce 2003 199 Broad, ample, and rich, this is a fleshy wine packed with mint-laced pears as well as minerals. Mediumbodied, it has outstanding depth of fruit, a terrific mouth-feel, and admirable length. 90 WA. Pierre-Yves Colin-Morey Meursault 1er Les Perrieres // Burgundy, France 2003 199 This evidences a discreetly oaked nose with superbly fresh white flower fruit and an intense stony quality that beautifully complements the detailed, precise and mineral-infused flavors that are sweet on the mid-palate but almost bone dry on the powerfully long finish. There is another dimension here and this is altogether lovely. 91 Burghound. Domaine Alain Patriarche Meursault 1er Les Genevrieres // Burgundy, France 1995 265 Racy and distinctive, with beautiful, pure, clean fruit and subtle toasted oak flavors. Mature and complex with a smoky spice about it. Domaine Leflaive Puligny-Montrachet 1er Les Pucelles // Burgundy, France 2007 280 Lovely aromas of pastry, citrus and peach lead to lemon, apple and spice flavors in this expressive white, which is beautifully balanced and lingers with a citrus and mineral aftertaste. 94 WS. 94 WA.

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Grand Cru Domaine Ramonet Bienvenues-Batard-Montrachet Grand Cru // Burgundy, France 2008 215 Domaine Ramonet-The master of Bienvenues. Ramonet's Bienvenues is superior to the majority of Montrachets and Batard Montrachets. NYR. Dublere Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru // Burgundy, France 2007 300 Unusually forward and strikingly floral in fragrance for its appellation. Scents of iris, apple blossom, heliotrope, and narcissus usher in a creamy palate that gains contrast from a subtle chew of pit fruit skin while preserving a wafting floral dimension that is practically ethereal. This shows a lightness of touch, buoyancy, and transparency to floral and mineral shadings exceptional even by the exalted standards of this cru. 95 WA. Domaine Leflaive Bienvenues-Batard-Montrachet Grand Cru // Burgundy, France 2007 325 Evokes hazelnut, stone and pastry aromas and flavors. Bright and juicy, turning firmer and tighter on the finish. Spice and mineral flavors play out on the aftertaste. 94 WS. Piere-Yves Colin-Morey Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru // Burgundy, France 2007 350 Aromas of lavender, heliotrope, white pepper, ginger, and crushed stone. Coming onto the palate with an almost austere combination of pungency, chalkiness, and textural firmness, its bright lemon and white peach suffice to inject a note of sheer juiciness. 92 WA. Domaine Morey-Coffinet Batard-Montrachet // Burgundy, France 2008 400 Cream and elegant, exhibiting intense aromas and flavors of roasted hazelnut, peach, apple tart, vanilla and toasted brioche. Focused and harmonious, this just keeps coming at you on the finish. 95 WS. Domaine Debray Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru // Burgundy, France 2009 415 This wine should be matched with refined cuisine to reveal all of its finesse. Its notes of cinnamon, flowers, amber and pepper will give you an idea of its extraordinary elegance. NYR. Bouchard Pere et Fils Chevalier-Montrachet // Burgundy, France 2009 400 Distinguished bouquet, with floral and fruit aromas as well as a toasty note. Complex and rich, without the least heaviness, this wine is elegance itself. NYR. Vincent Girardin Le Montrachet // Burgundy, France 2009 800 Bursts onto the palate with wonderfully detailed, nuanced fruit. Soft and supple through to the finish, Girardins Montrachet shows gorgeous finesse to match its understated personality. The refined finish leaves a lasting impression. Bouchard Pere et Fils Montrachet // Burgundy, France 2009 900 Exquisite bouquet with a variety of aromas skillfully blended with a toasty note. Perfect harmony between power, smoothness and delicacy. The "king of kings". NYR.

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Chablis Village Domaine Raveneau Chablis // Burgundy, France 2008 115 Combines vivid, irresistibly mouth-watering aromas of pink grapefruit, blood orange, quince, jasmine, and nut oils. 91 WA. Domaine Raveneau Chablis // Burgundy, France 2009 130 Generous fruit. It possesses good balance and a round, generous finish. Hints of peaches and flowers add further nuances on the close.

Premier Cru Jean-Marc Brocard Chablis 1er Fourchaume // Burgundy, France 2006 Chalky minerality in a matrix of lemon, grapefruit, and pit fruits. 88 WA. 75

Patrick Piuze Chablis 1er Vaucoupin // Burgundy, France 2008 125 Lemon, grapefruit, and fresh apple in the nose of the Piuze 2008 Chablis Vaucoupin follow on a firm, bright, stone-, salt-, and iodine-suffused palate. 91 WA. Domaine Raveneau Chablis 1er Butteaux // Burgundy, France 2008 170 Scents of green tea, mint, bergamot, gentian, and honeysuckle, along with saline, alkaline maritime notes rise beguilingly from the glass. 92 WA. Domaine Raveneau Chablis 1er Vaillons // Burgundy, France 2009 220 All about delineation, focus and transparency. It is a compelling, marvelously subtle wine in every way. In particular, the Vaillons successfully reconciles the generosity of the year with the minerality that is typical of this site. 94 WA. Domaine Raveneau Chablis 1er Foret // Burgundy, France 2009 200 Long, pure and beautifully delineated. There is a centeredness and focus to the fruit that is compelling. White stone fruits and flowers frame the delicate, haunting finish. 92 WA. Domaine Raveneau Chablis 1er Montee de Tonnerre // Burgundy, France 2008 205 Iris, narcissus, peony, heliotrope, lemon, white peach, and litchi combine for the knockout nose of Raveneaus 2008 Chablis Montee de Tonnerre. Uncannily combining a sense of textural richness, underlying extract, and decisively stony, alkaline, chalky, oyster shell minerality that go beyond its fellow premier crus in this collection. 94 WA. Domaine Raveneau Chablis 1er Montee de Tonnerre // Burgundy, France 2009 275 There is a level of detail, nuance and energy to the fruit that is quite rare in 2009. The Montee de Tonnerre possesses dazzling purity all the way through to the finely articulated, chiseled finish. This is yet another superb effort from Raveneau. 93 WA.

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Grand Cru Francois Servin Chablis Les Clos Grand Cru // Burgundy, France 2009 165 Built for the ages, stunning, with background notes of brioche, mineral, caramel, nuts and lemon. A big center leads to a tight, full, dry, mineral-driven finish. Domaine William Fevre Chablis Bougros Grand Cru // Burgundy, France 2007 180 Sweet lime, buddleia, lily, and hints of the ocean scent Fevres 2007 Chablis Bougros. On a creamy, dense palate, this gushes with liquid floral perfume, citrus, and an uncanny (more Preuses-typical) concentration of shrimp shell reduction and scallop whose sweet, saline, subtly iodine-bitter savor carries into a long, luscious yet lively conclusion. 94 WA. Domaine William Fevre Chablis Bougros Grand Cru "Cote Bouguerots" // 180 Burgundy, France 2008 From the steep, riverside portion of Bougros ripened to an exceptional degree for its vintage, relates Didier Seguier, yet retained the highest acidity. Crushed chalk; alkaline, saline, maritime elements; bright lemon and grapefruit segue from the nose to a silken-textured palate of vibratory vivacity, with tart fruit skin chew and citrus rind pungency adding further invigoration to a wine that already seems to be rumbling on the runway and poised to take off. 95 WA. Patrick Piuze Chablis Les Clos Grand Cru // Burgundy, France 2008 180 There's a salty quality, along with oyster shell and iodine notes. Lemon and apple add depth and interest. This is tight and sinewy, with a long aftertaste and character. 93 WS. Domaine Frederic Magnien Chablis Les Clos Grand Cru // Burgundy, France 2009 185 Melted butter, preserved lemon, white pepper and a hint of small red fruitsa tell-tale sign of nobility in a white wineshow on the nose...NYR. Domaine Raveneau Chablis Blanchots Grand Cru // Burgundy, France 2007 225 Intensely saline and stony statement that finishes with an energetic crescendo of citrus and diverse expressions of things mineral. 95 WA. Domaine Raveneau Chablis Blanchots Grand Cru // Burgundy, France 2008 225 Scents of gunpowder green tea, crushed stone, ocean spray, and grapefruit rind rise from the glass of Raveneau 2008 Chablis Blanchots, which then displays a breadth and richness that one would not have anticipated from the nose. Floral perfume and alkaline, iodine, and maritime mineral notes continue on an almost custardy-rich, seamless palate and into a long, long finish. 94 WA. Dublere Chablis Les Preuses Grand Cru // Burgundy, France 2007 240 Explosively aromatic in its bouquet of iris, buddleia, apple blossom, white peach, fresh lime and nutmeg, this memorable reflection of a great site boasts a creamy, buoyant palate on which scallop-like sweet, saline savor mingles with essence of peach, lime, and liquid floral perfume. Here is an uncanny alliance of the richness that typified 2006 with the refreshment and transparency that bespeak 2007, so that salt, crushed stone, crustacean shells, herbs, citrus zest, and fruit pits seem to shimmer through a pure pool of liquid perfume in a finish somehow at once caressing and invigorating. 95 WA.

29

Argentina Luca // Mendoza, Argentina 2008 70 The 2008 Chardonnay spent 12 months in 30% new French oak-aged sur lies before bottling without filtration. It has an alluring bouquet of toasty oak, baking spices, mineral, and tropical notes. This leads to a creamy textured, round, spicy Chardonnay with tons of flavor, excellent concentration, impeccable balance, and a length, pure finish. Luca is the personal project of Laura Catena. 93 WA. Vina Cobos "Bramare", Marchiori Vineyard // Mendoza, Argentina 2007 75 This is Paul Hobbs' winery in Argentina. Rich and showy, but nicely detailed, with grilled hazelnut and brioche notes weaving through the plump apple, pear and fig flavors. Long and juicy on the finish. 92 WA. 91WS.

Australia Leeuwin Estate, Art Series // Western Australia 2006 135 Medium straw-colored, it offers up a superb perfume of pain grille (toasted bread w/ butter), biscotti, baked apple, poached pear, and tropical notes. Creamy textured, elegant, and concentrated. 95 W

30

OTHER WHITES

Touquinheiras Clemen, Reserva // Vinho Verde, Portugal 2008 29 50/50 blend of Trajadura and Alvarinho, clocking in at 12% alcohol. Fruity, but mouth puckering, with a lemon-tinged finish on opening, this manages to pull its parts together beautifully to become quite charming. Bodega Norton Torrontes // Mendoza, Argentina 2010 33 Citrusy, with hints of chive accenting the nectarine and grapefruit notes. Has a nice acidic backbone for a Torrontes. Tre Monti Vina della Rocca // Romagna, Italy 2009 38 Elegant fragrances of melon and apricot, of honey and wildflowers. Mouthfilling flavors of ripe peach and plum with a touch of almond on the finish. 100% Albana. Saxon Brown Semillon, Cricket Creek Vineyard // Alexander Valley, California 2008 40 Ripe pear, peach and nectarine notes are fresh and fragrant, with a hint of lime peel, appealing juiciness and a detailed and spicy finish of hay and citrus pith. Hecht and Bannier Languedoc Blanc // Southern France 2011 40 This is a real bargain from these master negociants. This crisp and refreshing creation is a blend of picpoul blanc and roussanne and shows tangy minerality with honeysuckle, orange peel, and lemon notes. Domaine Laurent Kraft Vouvray, Sec // Loire Valley, France 2009 45 The wine is semi-dry and straddles a delicate balance between sweetness and acidity. The liveliness is balanced with a certain roundness. V. Girault Clos de Volagre Chenin Blanc // Montlouis-sur-Loire, France 2008 50 Biodynamic-grown. This Chenin has very nice acidity and a small amount of sweetness. A perfect match for white fish. Wimmer-Czerny Traminer // Wagram, Austria 2007 56 This is simply stunning. It bridges minerality, acidity, and stone fruits into the same package. There are also apple and peach nuances to complement the spice. Bouchaine Pinot Blanc "Las Brisas Vineyard" // Carneros, California 2010 65 For those seeking an alternative to Chardonnay, this medium-bodied white offers a beautiful bouquet of white peach, apple, green pear, and a subtle hint of minerality. On the palate, a small, delicate touch of oak melds the aromatic flavors together, culminating in a wine of intense beauty. Antinori, Vermentino "Guado al Tasso" // Tuscany, Italy 2010 65 A crisp white, showing floral, apple and grapefruit notes, with a hint of straw. There's intensity, yet this feels weightless. Tails off a bit at the end, but appealing overall. 88 WS. Vigneau-Chevreau Vouvray "Moelleux" // Loire Valley, France 2009 70 Deliciously pure and beautifully defined, with a wide range of fig, apple, pear, green plum and ginger notes that fan out beautifully through the sweet yet stylish finish, which offers a long, lingering heather note. 92 WS. 31

Krupp Brothers "Black Bart's Bride" // Napa Valley, California 2006 85 Abundant aromas of lychee nuts, rose petals, honeysuckle, and orange marmalade are offered in the complex aromatics. Fruity and juicy with low acidity and a fleshy, full-bodied mouthfeel, it is an enticing white. Marsanne, Viognier, and Chardonnay. 92 WA. Le Vigne di Zamo Friulano // Friuli-Venezia, Italy 2006 90 A bright, deep golden yellow introduces a seriously complex nose of pervasive ripe tropical fruit, citrus and almond paste. These sensations precede an equally intricate palate whose mellow, silky roundness is strongly reminiscent of golden delicious apples and tropical fruit. 100% Friulano. Livio Felluga "Terre Alte" // Northeast Italy 2008 120 Fresh and aromatic, with sliced apple and pear. Full-bodied, with mineral, honey and dried apple notes that follow through to a long finish. Very complex. Friulano, Pinot Bianco and Sauvignon. NYR. Morlet "La Proportion Doree" // Sonoma, California 2008 130 Blend of 68% Semillon, 30% Sauvignon Blanc, and 2% Muscadelle. It is a superb example of what can be done with French savoir-faire and California grapes. Glorious aromas of honeyed caramelized figs, honeysuckle, melons, and orange blossoms are followed by a medium to full-bodied white with beautiful acidity, length, and richness. 93 WA. Phillipe Foreau Vouvray Moelleux "Domaine du Clos Naudin Reserve" // 200 Loire Valley, France 2005 Very rich, but with piercing minerality that drives the panoply of mango, almond, papaya, green tea and acacia flavors. The creamy finish shows gorgeous length, thanks to perfectly imbedded acidity. 95 WS.

32

ROS Commanderie de la Bargemone // Coteaux d'Aix-en-Provence, France 2010 38 Offers a creamy aroma, with concentrated glazed ginger and dried cherry flavors that are accented by smoky notes. The powerful finish features dried currant and spice. 88 WS. Chateau Revelette // Coteaux d'Aix-en-Provence, France 2009 40 Tinge of spice upfront that leads to intense flavors of red fruit confit and ginger. Finishes crisp, with a snap of glazed citrus. 87 WS. Chateau de Segries // Tavel, France 2011 42 The 2011 Tavel Rose is a blend of 50% Grenache, 30% Cinsault, 15% Clairette (the white grape) and the rest Syrah. Deep ruby, with elegant strawberry and kirsch notes, the wine has excellent texture, medium body, and plenty of freshness and personality. Tavel Roses tend to be bigger styled wines than the average Cotes du Rhone rose, and that is certainly true of the 2011. Domaine Serene "R" // Willamette Valley, Oregon NV 60 The barrel-aged, terroir driven R Ros gracefully balances elegance and earthiness with soft tannins, abundant acidity, and rich, luscious red fruit. Cherries, raspberries, and a hint of sage form a creamy richness on the palate, while texture and grip, imparted by the soil, create a lasting, concentrated fullbodied ros that will delight red and white wine lovers alike, and rescue you from any food-pairing quandary. Domaine Tempier // Bandol, France 2011 85 Our guests who truly enjoy a breath-taking, cult-following Ros, here it is! Complex red fruit and mineral-secented nose leads to a softly-textured, medium to full-bodied character. Silky strawberries, raspberries, and spiced minerals make up this lovely Ross flavor profile. Very little produced in its Southern France Bandol region, and well worth its wait!

33

PINOT NOIR

DOMESTIC California 10-4 Londer Vineyards // Anderson Valley, California 2007 50 Elegant, with a mix of ripe cherry, spice, anise and savory herb, building intensity and depth and ending with firm, medium-bodied tannins. 89 WS.

13-31 Copain Tous Ensemble // Anderson Valley, California 2009 50 Complex, yet layered, flavors and aromas of black cherries, plums, and forest floor. Full bodied, and drinling elegantly now! 88 WS 1-27 Roessler "La Brisa" // Sonoma Coast, California 2008 65 Nose with cola, spice, and cured meats along with herbed, foresty notes. Bright fruit on the palate ranges from cherry to plum. Evening Land, Blue Label // California 2009 65 Dark red fruit melds into floral, spiced notes in this understated, feminine Pinot. There is an energy and freshness to the finish that is quite attractive. 90 WA. Miracle One // Carneros, California 2009 65 Strawberry and raspberry explode. Made by Nashvillian Ryan Donnelly, a 2001 graduate of Father Ryan HS.

1-26

14-23 Macrostie, Wildcat Mountain Vineyard // Sonoma Coast, California 2007 70 Complex aromas of wilted rose, sandalwood, spice and loamy earth. Full-bodied, at points delicate and detailed, ending with good length and fine-grained tannins. 91 WS. 5-31 Loring, Cargasacchi Vineyard // Santa Rita Hills, California 2010 75 Both rich and restrained, offering deeply concentrated black and red fruits, with blackberry, raspberry, spice and mineral notes. Showing great acidity, balance, depth and persistence. 93 WS.

14-32 Patz and Hall // Sonoma Coast, California 2009 80 This fresh, vibrant red offers ripe blackberry, wild raspberry, sage and black licorice notes. This is fullbodied, spicy and firming, with the flavors gaining depth on the finish, where the tannins are rustic. 12-22 Copain Les Voisins // Anderson Valley, California 2009 80 Well-made, balanced, and full-bodied, with savory, dried herbs, berries, and mineral overtones, with a whiff of fresh cut cedar. Beautiful! 91 WA. B Bonaccorsi, Fiddlestix Vineyard // Santa Rita Hills, California 2008 90 This wine from Bonaccorsi features a mix of wild berry and black cherry, mineral and spice. 95 WE. Loring, Naylor Dry Hole Vineyard // Chalone, California 2008 99 Ripe, firm, vivid blackberry, wild berry, black cherry, anise and mineral notes that are full-bodied and subtle. 50 cases made. 92 WS.

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1-18

Loring, Brosseau Vineyard // Chalone, California 2008 99 Firm and spicy, complex and concentrated, with a rich, vivid core of wild berry, blackberry, raspberry and mineral. 93 WS. Loring, Russell Family Vineyard // Paso Robles, California 2009 99 Full-bodied, dense and concentrated, featuring a rich, pure mix of dark berry fruit built around blackberry and wild berry jam, cherry and plum flavors. This is a jam-packed, extracted Pinot, but also one of measurable finesse. 94 WS.

7-15

13-29 Loring, Rosella's Vineyard // Santa Lucia Highlands, California 2009 99 Ripe and fleshy, with a gorgeous and generous array of wild berry, raspberry, plum and spice flavors that are full-bodied, and at points both firm and delicate. The finish unfolds to reveal touches of mineral and spice. 94 WS. 2-22 Loring, Gary's Vineyard // Santa Lucia Highlands, California 2010 99 Starts with a burst of wild berry raciness, then tames down. Clean, pure, vibrant and vivacious, with the wild berry and raspberry fruit core tight and well-focused. 92 WS. Loring, Aubaine Vineyard // San Luis Obispo County, California 2010 99 Front-loaded with rich fruit that's deep and layered, offering intense, concentrated plum, wild berry and raspberry. Gains depth and persistence on the finish, where the flavors are all the more impressive. 93 WS. Copain, Wentzel Vineyard // Anderson Valley, California 20009 105 The 2009 Pinot Noir Wentzel emerges from the glass with heady dark cherries, spices, licorice and new leather. This is one of the more textured 2009s Pinots at Copain. Waves of fruit flow effortlessly to the long, pure finish. 95 WE.

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14-3

11-13 A.P. Vin, Gary's Vineyard // Santa Lucia Highlands, California 2009 110 Fresh, firm and vibrant, with a mix of cola-sassafras, wild berry, spice and floral scents. Rich and fullbodied, deep and persistent, featuring a long, pure, focused finish. 93 WS. 12-21 A.P. Vin, Kanzler Vineyard // Sonoma Coast, California 2009 110 This displays excellent richness, focus and density of flavors, with a mix of dark fruit, as well as spicy cola, raspberry, blackberry, black licorice, berry pie, berry jam and mocha notes. The flavors gain depth and complexity. 94 WS. 14-29 A.P. Vin, Rosella's Vineyard // Santa Lucia Highlands, California 2009 120 Ultrarich and layered, boasting complex wild berry, blackberry and plum flavors that tilt toward jam without going overboard. Fleshy, intense and deeply concentrated, the flavors build to a long, saturating finish that covers the palate. 95 WS. 15-26 A.P. Vin, Rosella's Vineyard // Santa Lucia Highlands, California 2010 120 300 Cases of this 2010 Rosella's were produced. Andrew feels his '10's compare favorably to his '09's, but possess a unique texture unlike any past vintages. B A.P. Vin, Turner Vineyard // Santa Rita Hills, California 2009 110 Ripe and full-bodied, showing plum and wild berry jam flavors that have a spicy allure, gaining depth and persistence on the finish, where the flavors linger. 91 WS.

35

10-10 A.P. Vin, Turner Vineyard // Santa Rita Hills, California 2010 Only 125 cases of this beauty. Andrew feels the '10's may very well be his best wines to date. 14-1

115

Papapietro Perry, Leras Family Vineyard // Sonoma, California 2006 105 Complex and well-proportioned, with a mix of smoky, toasty oak and ripe plum, wild berry and plumy Pinot fruit that's clean and refreshing, ending with mineral-pebble notes. 91 WS. Bonaccorsi, Cargasacchi Vineyard // Santa Rita Hills, California 2007 115 Tight, firm and concentrated, with spicy wild berry, black cherry, blueberry, earth and mineral flavors that are full-bodied, complex and persistent on the finish. 91 WS.

6-7

15-22 Paul Hobbs // Russian River Valley, California 2010 115 The 2010 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley is beautiful. It has a bit more depth and darker fruit than the 2009. Sweet spices, new leather and licorice are some of the notes that wrap around the finish. This is a terrific showing. 93 WA. 2-5 Belle Glos "Clark and Telephone" // Santa Maria Valley, California 2009 120 A rich, extracted style that's dense, but also very complex and detailed, with spicy berry flavors that fan out nicely while retaining their focus, gaining depth on the finish. 93 WS. Belle Glos "Las Alturas" // Santa Lucia Highlands, California 2009 120 Bold, rich and layered, exhibiting dense dark berry fruit that shows touches of spice, wild berry and blackberry, with attractive floral scents. Full-bodied, this expands on the finish, where the flavors fan out. 92 WS. Siduri, Sierra Mar Vineyard // Santa Lucia Highlands, California 2010 120 Fresh and snappy, with ripe, vibrant black cherry, wild berry and red plum flavors, this defines pure, ripe dark fruit. Full-bodied and impeccably balanced, ending with a persistent finish. 92 WS.

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1-16

16-30 Roar, Gary's Vineyard // Santa Lucia Highlands, California 2009 120 Rich and layered, with firm yet supple mineral, plum, cherry, blackberry and strawberry rhubarb flavors that are slow to unfold, gaining depth and dimension. 92 WS. 6-1 Roar, Rosella's Vineyard // Santa Lucia Highlands, California 2009 120 Dark ruby in color with a deep, spicy nose of cola, earth, raspberries and lavender.\u00a0 On the palate there's a dense, ripe and mouthfilling texture that's filled with a variety of cherry and berry fruits. Pali, Durell Vineyard // Sonoma Coast, California 2008 120 A distinctive style that's dark, rich and layered, deep in black fruits, with ripe plum, blackberry and raspberry flavors. Full-blown and deeply concentrated, yet for all its depth and richness, this remains elegant and refined. 96 WS. Tied for highest rated Pinot from CA for vintage. Papapietro Perry "777 Clones" // Sonoma, California 2008 120 Sleek, intense, rich and elegant, with a tight beam of spicy cherry, raspberry, rhubarb and wild berry fruit that's pure, focused and full-bodied, ending with a tapered finish that lets the flavors unfold gracefully. 93 WS. 120

1-8

2-12

14-11 Patz and Hall, Chenoweth Ranch Vineyard // Russian River Valley, California 2009 Very impressive, pure and firm, this is marked by a density of flavor, with tight flavors of dark blackberry, cedar, spice and mineral. Full-bodied, deep and persistent on the finish. 93 WS. 36

11-28 DuMol // Russian River Valley, California 2009 130 Bright garnet red. Beautifully pure aromas of ripe red cherry then darker wild berry with a subtle grassy rhubarb edge. Opens with cranberry freshness and intense raspberry then deeper kirsch notes with a licorice/sassafras edge. Supple mid-palate that is harmonious and remains focused and lively despite the building richness. Complex savory elements build toward a spicy/peppery finish. B Martinelli Bondi Home Ranch // Russian River Valley, California 2009 130 This dense plum/purple-tinged pinot noir from the famed Water Trough Vineyard exhibits sweet kirsch, strawberry, and plum fruit as well as a deep, full-bodied mouthfeel, Concentrated and intense, with length and aging potential, and impressive! Landmark, Kanzler Vineyard // Sonoma Coast, California 2007 135 Very ripe, with great depth, touching on berry jam. Yet this is balanced, complex, focused and pure, with lively wild berry. 94 WS. Chasseur, Umino Vineyard // Russian River Valley, California 2006 135 Cherry, red plum, boysenberry, raspberry and wild strawberry impressions rise above the Oriental spice notes. Chasseur, Freestone Station Vineyard // Russian River Valley, California 2006 Red raspberry, red cherry, red plum, and pomegranate lead to a finish that is nearly endless. 135

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2-11

15-9

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Clendenen Family Vineyards "Le Bon Climat" // Santa Maria Valley, California 2006 135 This wine comes from the organically certified Le Bon Climat vineyard, planted in 1998. It is entirely from a central, elevated mesa, planted to the Dijon clone 667. Merry Edwards, Klopp Vineyard // Russian River Valley, California 2008 140 A bit more exotic than usual, with allspice and juniper berries accenting a core of classic toasty, bramble-blackberry fruit. Cola, plum, bacon and cocoa add complex layers to the aroma. The palate is smooth and supple upon entry, becoming increasingly tarry and ripe with aeration. NYR.

5-13

12-30 Williams-Selyem "Eastside Road Neighbors" // Russian River Valley, California 2009 150 Toasted-almond and barrel spice lead right into flavors of berry fruits, sage, espresso, and fennel. NYR. 10-7 Patz and Hall, Pisoni Vineyard // Santa Lucia Highlands, California 2007 150 Intense and structured, this beautifully crafted red offers a core of blackberry, raspberry and blueberry flavors. Full-bodied, pleasantly chewy and gutsy, gaining depth and momentum and finishing with a strong, assertive, flavorful finish. 94 WS. Fiddlehead, Fiddlestix Vineyard "Lollapalooza" // Santa Rita Hills, California 2008 155 Blackberry, dark cherry, and graphic-like minerality. Concentrated blueberry and sweet tobacco leaf flavors are rounded by refined chalky tannins and elegant structure Paul Hobbs, Lindsay Vineyard // Russian River Valley, California 2006 Tasty red plum and black cherry fruit is supple, elegant and delicate. 91 WS. 160

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2-13

15-13 Merry Edwards Coopersmith Vineyard // Russian River Valley, California 2010 165 The fragrant aromas unfold with luscious, mouthwatering black raspberries laced with dark chocolate a consistent signature for this wine. Crushed black fruit, syrupy blue plums, black tea, cinnamom and anise expand its broad profile. A wonderful, mature balance! 37

1-6

Morlet "Coteaux Nobles" // Sonoma Coast, California 2008 170 Lots of herbs, earth, plum and dusty, loamy soil notes intertwined with hints of smoke, black cherries and intriguing barbecue characteristics. Produced by one of my favorite winemakers, Luc Morlet.

10-28 DuMol "Ryan" // Green Valley, California 2008 170 Exhibits a rich mix of loamy earth, dried berry, spice, cedar, cherry rhubarb and red and black licorice flavors. Full-bodied, intense and concentrated. 90 WA. 90 WS. 5-17 DuMOL "Estate" // Green Valley, California 2008 180 Clear bright garnet red; multi layered aromas of cranberry and dried flowers becoming red and black cherry with a slight grassy black tea element. Crunchy red fruits dominate the palate entry with red apple skin notes that deepen to typical Green Valley raspberry and cola flavors. Youthful structure becomes suppler with aeration. Tea leaf and baking spice notes on the fresh savory finish. 92 WA. Kistler, Occidental Vineyard "Cuvee Elizabeth" // Sonoma Coast, California 2000 650 The 2000 Pinot Noir Occidental Vineyard Cuvee Elizabeth is profound. An opaque purple color is followed by gorgeous aromas of white flowers, minerals, black raspberries, cherries, and toast. It boasts layers of flavor, astonishing purity as well as fruit intensity, and a finish that lasts for nearly a minute. This majestic Pinot Noir is one of the most remarkable New World Pinots I have ever tasted. It can easily compete with the most profound French Burgundies. - Parker. 99 WA.

10-8

38

Oregon 1-1 A to Z // Oregon 2010 38 Super sexy and spicy on the nose with aromas of apricots, blueberries, Bing cherries, blood oranges, gingerbread, white pepper, sweet Eastern spices, violets, tea and sweet pipe tobacco. In the mouth, the wine has refreshing acidity with silky tannins and rich flavors mirroring the aromatics.

12-20 Merriman "Cummins Road" // Willamette Valley, Oregon 2010 38 Traditionally, this block is the first harvest pick of the vintage. It always delivers a wonderful freshness that highlights the bright, red plum, cherry fruit characteristics of the 777 clone with lively acids that make this one of the funnest Pinot Noir buys to make the scene in quite a while! A great example of fine winemaking in a challenging vintage. 8-18 Pali "Alphabets" // Willamette Valley, Oregon 2010 45 Rich and penetrating palate of velvety red currant followed by a cherry core that is accented by savory porcini mushroom. Adelsheim // Willamette Valley, Oregon 2009 55 With its broad array of origins and clones, this wine displays red aromas (candied cherry, pomegranate and raspberry), on the nose and the palate. In addition, one finds a light touch of brown spices. Left Coast Cellars "Latitude 45"// Willamette Valley. Oregon 2008 60 Estate grown and bottled, this 300 case Cuvee shows vibrant orange peel, juicy cherry, and spice aromas and flavors, with a graceful, soft finish. A jewel in this price point!

1-3

1-2

14-12 Ken Wright Cellars // Willamette Valley, Oregon 2010 65 Light and satiny, with modest tannins around a delicate core of cherry, raspberry and coffee flavors, fleshing out more on the long finish. 4-31 Roco // Willamette Valley, Oregon 2009 65 Offers up notes of cedar, spice box, rose petal, cherry, and raspberry. Velvety-textured, sweetly-fruited, and well-balanced, this crowd-pleaser can be approached now. 91 WA. Spindrift "Reserve" // Willamette Valley, Oregon 2006 85 Lithe, supple and distinctive for its delicate raspberry, orange peel and fresh sage aromas and flavors, lingering against fine tannins on the light, appealing finish. 90 WS. Spindrift "Reserve" // Willamette Valley, Oregon 2008 90 Silky in texture, this dark, spicy red is fragrant with smoke, toast and mineral overtones as the cherry fruit character rolls nicely through the long finish. NYR. Merriman, Merriman Vineyard // Willamette Valley, Oregon 2009 90 The long, seductive mouthfeel is a slow and contemplative interplay of plush dark fruit, cocoa powder, .cardamom pods and clove oil that cleave with the silky tannins that are only found from outstanding vintages from ideal growing sites. Alexana, Dundee Hills // Willamette Valley, Oregon 2008 90 Smooth and refined, this features an earthy undertone to the red berry and peppery spice flavors. Finishes with juicy acidity, lingering well. Lynn Penner-Ash is the winemaker. 92 WS.

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Cancilla Cellars, Reserve // Willamette Valley, Oregon 2008 90 Chosen from the best four barrels and given an additional six months aging in used Beaux Freres heavy-toasted barrels. This small production beauty (less than 100 cases) exudes black cherry and raspberry. A hidden gem on the wine list. Domaine Serene Yamhill Cuvee" // Willamette Valley, Oregon 2009 95 Superb bouquet of smoke, cinnamon, rose petal, cherry, and cranberry. Spicy, expressive, and mediumbodied on the palate, it displays a racy personality marked by savory flavor and vibrant acidity. Domaine Drouhin // Willamette Valley, Oregon 2008 105 Red and black cherry spice box and cedar. Already elegant and lovely, this cuve has excellent weight, balanced with firm acidity and a very long finish.

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15-24 Chehalem Stoller Vineyard // Willamette Valley, Oregon 2009 110 Light and juicy, this is bright with plum and currant fruit playing against refined tannins and fragile acidity, lingering on the transparent finish. 93 WS. 12-31 Chehalem Wind Ridge Block Ridgecrest Vineyard // Willamette Valley, Oregon 2009 110 Deft, transparent and tangy, playing its lacy acidity and refined tannins against ripe blackberry, cherry and tobacco flavors that dance easily over the sleek finish. 93 WS. 14-4 Beaux Freres // Willamette Valley, Oregon 2009 125 It is a medium to full-bodied wine with sweet tannin, low acidity and an intriguing bouquet of foresty underbrush, red currants and black cherries. With a hint of Asian spices it has undeniable charm, silkiness and velvety texture. 93 WS. Beaux Freres // Willamette Valley, Oregon 2010 110 Light and refreshing, with zip to the cherry and guava flavors, sailing into the soft, inviting finish. This has depth and length on a delicate frame. 91 WS. Ken Wright Cellars, Abbot Claim Vineyard // Willamette Valley, Oregon 2010 Floral and spice focused with primarily dark fruit flavors. Ken Wright Cellars, Canary Vineyard // Willamette Valley, Oregon 2010 Fruit focused with a moderate structure, light tanins and bright acidity. Blue and Red fruits. 120

11-5

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2-16

120

2-20

Ken Wright Cellars, Guadalupe Vineyard // Willamette Valley, Oregon 2010 120 A Floral and spice focused wine that is very forward and attractive in its youth. Flavors of chocolate, cola, raspberry, and black cherry. Beaux Freres, The Beaux Freres Vineyard // Willamette Valley, Oregon 2009 170 Light and spicy, with pretty red berry and cinnamon flavors that linger against refined tannins. The flavors expand with each sip, picking up extra mineral and earth nuances, as the finish sails on unabated. It's the length that makes this special. 94 WS. Beaux Freres, The Beaux Freres Vineyard // Willamette Valley, Oregon 2010 160 Impressive for its clarity, transparency and focused blackberry, raspberry and sassafras flavors, hinting at floral and mineral notes as the finish lingers enticingly. Offers elegance and refinement without losing intensity. 93 WS.

8-16

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40

16-16 Domaine Serene "Jerusalem Hill" // Willamette Valley, Oregon 2008 150 Lovely bouquet and palate of balsam wood, rose petal, smoke, incense, and a predominance of red fruits. 92 WA. 2-19 Penner-Ash, Shea Vineyard // Willamette Valley, Oregon 2008 Ripe, round and complex, delivering black cherry, currant and plum flavors. 94 WS. Argyle Spirithouse // Willamette Valley, Oregon 2005 Cherry, plum and raspberry flavors hover gracefully. It all lingers beautifully. 93 WS. Penner-Ash, Dussin Vineyard // Willamette Valley, Oregon 2006 Smooth, with a lithe feel to the plum, pepper and sweet spice flavors. 90 WS. 150

14-5

160

2-15

160

3-27

Roco "Private Stash" // Willamette Valley, Oregon 2007 160 A focus on the dark fruit side of the spectrum. Aromas of spice box, black cherry, and black raspberry lead to a medium-bodied, intensely flavored yet elegant Pinot with layered savory fruit. 93 WA. Roco "Private Stash" // Willamette Valley, Oregon 2008 175 Light on its feet, sailing its pretty plum and currant flavors into a refined cloud of fragile tannins. The finish lingers evocatively. This feels elegant on the surface, but has a swagger underneath. 93 WA. 94 WS. Domaine Serene Grace // Willamette Valley, Oregon 2006 170 Medium/dark ruby with spicy cherry and raspberry aromas, complex flavors, and a sense of elegance. 93 WA. Penner Ash "Pas De Nom" // Willamette Valley, Oregon 2007 180 A selection of the winerys best barrels. It delivers a superb nose of toast, spice box, black cherry, and black raspberry. This leads to an elegant, structured wine with excellent depth of flavor. Penner Ash "Pas De Nom" // Willamette Valley, Oregon 2008 195 Light on its feet, with gorgeous currant, plum and wet stone aromas and flavors that remain expressive and intense without any apparent weight. The tannins are beautifully integrated, while the finish goes on and on. 250 Cases. 95 WS. Penner Ash "Pas De Nom" // Willamette Valley, Oregon 2009 145 Taut, racy and sleek, with vibrant acidity to support the black cherry, black tea and mineral flavors, finishing with a tarry edge and generous tannins. This has an aristocratic feel. 94 WS.

6-16

15-3

2-17

3-1

1-12

15-15 Beaux Freres "The Upper Terrace" // Willamette Valley, Oregon 2008 195 Elegant, refined and beautifully focused, layering its red cherry, black cherry, blueberry and currant fruit into a seamless package without tremendous weight. The finish picks up cream, chalk and distinctly mineral notes, and this just doesn't quit. 95 WS. 10-11 Beaux Freres "The Upper Terrace" // Willamette Valley, Oregon 2009 205 Taut and focused, this offers a cascade of cinnamon, clove, cherry, raspberry and guava flavors, coming together harmoniously against refined tannins. The finish glides easily. Lingers and lingers. 94 WS.

41

INTERNATIONAL France Bourgogne 1-10 Coche-Dury Bourgogne // Burgundy, France 2009 Even the Bourgogne from this esteemed producer sets itself apart. 165

Cote Chalonnaise Village 6-8 Claudie Jobard Rully "La Chaume" // Burgundy, France 2009 68 Soft entry, with bright ripe black cherry fruit leading the way. The structure comes through on the back end, with some earthy spice showing as well.

Cotes de Beaune Village 6-21 Joseph Drouhin Pommard // Burgundy, France 2009 100 An intense, bright, red color; a powerful nose, with notes of blackcherry and spice, evolving towards aromas of young leather. On the palate, the tannins give a certain impression of firmness, somewhat softened by a nice, harmonious texture. Persistent flavors in the aftertaste.

Premier Cru 3-29 Louis Jadot Beaune 1er Boucherottes // Burgundy, France 2006 Cherry, spice earth and iron notes course throughout from start to finish. 91 WS. 120

12-14 Joseph Drouhin Beaune 1er Clos des Mouches // Burgundy, France 2009 180 It shows gorgeous inner perfume and a weightless, gracious personality. The inner sweetness of the fruit flows nicely to the sensual, radiant fruit. A lovely vein of minerality underpins the subtle finish. 93 WA.

42

Cotes de Nuits Village 13-6 Daniel Rion Cotes de Nuits-Villages "Le Vaucrain" // Burgundy, France 2009 90 Quite pretty though with better overall complexity to the red berry fruit and violet aromas that lead to earth-infused medium-bodied flavors that are textured, round and already accessible. Vincent Girardin Chambolle-Musigny Vieilles Vignes // Burgundy, France 2009 120 Racy mineral acidity, floral and perfumed, too. Dark chocolate flavors with a nice balance of tannins and acidity. A lively, juicy finish. Bouchard Pere et Fils Nuits-St.-Georges // Burgundy, France 2009 Intense aromas of berry fruit and spice. 125

3-9

3-10

4-20

Domaine Roger Chevillon Nuits-St.-Georges // Burgundy, France 2009 130 A deep red color, full-bodied in the mouth with flavors of summer fruits such as black cherry. The 2009 Nuits St. Georges is round, sexy, showy and very 2009 in character. Early notes of aromatic complexity are just beginning to develop in bottle, making this a highly attractive wine to drink now and over the next handful of years. Sweet cherries, tobacco, spices and leather inform the creamy, textured finish. 89 WA.

Premier Cru 4-1 Domaine Tortochot Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Les Champeaux // Burgundy, France 2009 Masculine with smoky red berry and tobacco flavors. Very structured in the mouth. Nicolas Potel Nuits-St.-Georges 1er Les Pruliers // Burgundy, France 2006 Redcurrant, licorice and oak aromas. Ripe and sweet with red berry and good acidity. 155

3-6

160

5-12

Domaine Robert Chevillon Nuits-St.-Georges 1er Les Bousellots // Burgundy, France 2008 170 Its dark color and deep, intense aromas of licorice, black raspberry, beet root, and peat, render Chevillons 2008 Nuits-St.-Georges Les Bousselots a remarkable contrast with its Chaignots sibling. Sweetly-ripe dark berries, peat bogs, fruit pits, and medicinal herbs inform a palpably-dense, finegrained palate and in a long, finish emerges a savory salinity that draws saliva and invigorates. 91 WA. Domaine Jacques Prieur Gevrey-Chambertin 1er // Burgundy, France 2007 225 The Domaine Jacques Prieur Gevrey Chambertin 1er Cru is sourced exclusively from the domaine's young vines from within Le Chambertin Grand Cru itself. The domaine owns two acres of vines idealy located on the mid-level slopes of the Grand Cru of Chambertin. Soil here is rich in organic material, mineral and clay and vines are old and very densely planted to encourage competition amongst the vines, limiting yields and producing fruit of great concentration. Domaine Dujac Vosne-Romanee 1er Les Beaux Monts // Burgundy, France 2007 240 Jasmine, lily, and black tea perfume A tart berry edge to its ripe fruit as well as intense inner-mouth perfume, ginger, cumin, and star anise all inform a long finish. This has real complexity. 91 WA.

13-18

3-25

43

13-21

Domaine Perrot-Minot Chambolle-Musigny 1er Les Echanges // Burgundy, France 2007 240 Deep red. Smoky red and black berries complicated by mocha. A round, rather easygoing wine that finishes with dusty tannins and good length. 90 Tanzer. 240

13-27 Domaine Perrot-Minot Nuits-St.-Georges 1er La Richemone Vieilles Vignes // Burgundy, France 2007 This is round, supple and generous, showing black cherry, vanilla and mineral notes. 91 WS. B

Domaine Perrot-Minot Nuits-St.-Georges 1er La Richemone "Cuvee Ultra" // 300 Burgundy, France 2006 Wild, smoky aromas are followed by cassis, violet, bilberry and vanilla flavors. Ripe and silky, yet with a dense structure. There's terrific harmony and expression already. 94 WS. Domaine Perrot-Minot Nuits-St.-Georges 1er La Richemone "Cuvee Ultra" // 325 Burgundy, France 2007 A deep and dense red, featuring blackberry, black currant, violet and spice aromas and flavors, all fresh and vibrant. 93 WS. Louis Jadot Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Lavaux St. Jacques // Burgundy, France 2002 400 Medium to full-bodied and displaying a nose of spicy dark fruits, bing cherries, and toast, the 2002 Gevrey-Chambertin Lavaux- St.-Jacques is a juicy, rich wine. Loads of blackberries, smoky cassis, meat, and hints of leather can be found in its complex personality. 91 WA.

3-2

Grand Cru 3-15 Domaine Louis Latour Corton Clos de la Vigne au Saint Grand Cru // 130 Burgundy, France 2002 This parcel has perfect southerly exposure on the hill of Corton and lies on a bedrock outcrop towards the bottom of the slope. This wine is concentrated, rich and expressive in its abundant aromatics. It is mineral-driven, more elegant than powerful. Domaine Camus Pere et Fils Mazy-Chambertin // Burgundy, France 2005 175 More earthy in character, with mushroom and earth tones balancing out the ripe cherry, cranberry and dark berry fruit. Nice velvet texture. Domaine Louis Latour Chambertin "Cuvee Heretiers" Grand Cru // 215 Burgundy, France 1997 Displays a robust alliance of intense fruit and noble soil with the vigor and concentration of fine and fully-mature Pinot Noir grapes. It is complemented by a firm, intense finish which mellows out in time and attains heightened complexity with further ageing. Domaine Gabriel Tortochot Clos Vougeot Grand Cru // Burgundy, France 2006 225 A background trace of wood sets off reticent but pure and earth red, blue and violet aromas that are followed by wonderfully intense, dense and powerful broad-shouldered flavors that both coat and stain the palate. 93 Burghound. Nicolas Potel Echezeaux Grand Cru // Burgundy, France 2007 240 An attractive smoky component is reminiscent of the sweet aromas of burning vine cuttings. There are firm tannins, yet overall this red is elegant and fresh, with fine length. 92 WS. 44

3-19

3-7

3-20

3-8

Emmanuel Rouget Echezeaux Grand Cru // Burgundy, France 2006 250 A sweet, spicy profusion of cinnamon, ginger, cocoa powder, lily perfume, maraschino, and kirsch soar. The palate exhibits unexpected depth and richness of roasted meats, chalk, and saline savor, though to be sure, the bright red fruits and spices never flag. 94 WA. Vincent Girardin Echezeaux Grand Cru // Burgundy, France 2009 250 Good full red. Aromas of plum, redcurrant, blueberry, tobacco and iron. Supple and moderately sweet in the mouth.

1-15

16-15 Dominque Laurent Clos de la Roche Vieilles Vignes Grand Cru // Burgundy, France 2006 325 Cedar, concentrated beef bouillon, liqueur-like black fruits and quarry dust rise from the glass of Laurent's 2006 Clos De La Roche Vieilles Vignes, whose three growers are situated in what he calls "the Clos within the 'Clos'." 96 WA. 2-4 Louis Jadot Chapelle-Chambertin // Burgundy, France 2000 375 Well-made, an impressively solid '00. Elegant and rich, showing beautiful midpalate concentration, with mineral, black and red fruit, fig and plum, but also a distinctive chestnut-roasted game note. 93 WS. Louis Jadot Clos Vougeot Grand Cru // Burgundy, France 2002 440 Jadots delicately spicy 2002 Clos Vougeot is medium to full-bodied, structured and loaded with red cherries, licorice, and earth. This fresh, peppery wine is concentrated, deep, and has terrific mouth-feel as well as a long, suave finish. 94 WA. Louis Jadot Clos Vougeot Grand Cru // Burgundy, France 2006 315 Exhibits an unusually dark color for its collection; offers a polished, rich, velvet-textured melange of lightly-cooked black fruits underlain by roasted red meats; and finishes sedately but with memorable savor and length. 93 WA.

2-18

9-32

12-28 Domaine Debray Clos Vougeot Grand Cru // Burgundy, France 2009 420 An always very intense color and a complex bouquet with floral aromas of roses and violets followed by rich, sappy and mellow sensations on the palate which combine finesse and fullness. NYR. 5-27 Bouchard Pere et Fils Echezeaux Grand Cru // Burgundy, France 2009 450 Intense aromas of red fruit and terroir, with oaky touches. In a superb ensemble, this wine is a blend of the elegance of its terroir and the power of its Grand Cru standing. NYR. Bouchard Pere et Fils Clos Vougeot Grand Cru // Burgundy, France 2009 450 Complex bouquet of red berry fruit with a hint of spice and an oaky note. Dazzling elegance on the palate, with a perfect blend of finesse and raciness. NYR. Louis Jadot Bonnes Mares Grand Cru // Burgundy, France 1996 650 This dark ruby-colored wine is unbelievable, and potentially will be Jadot's finest 1996. An awesome nose of deep black cherries intermingled with sauteed mushrooms, underbrush, stones, and minerals is followed by an amazingly powerful yet tense personality. Complex layers of intense, precise, pure, and earthy fruit cascade over the palate in this full-bodied, thickly-textured, muscular, masculine, and welldelineated wine. 96 WA.

6-11

2-24

45

15-4

Louis Jadot Bonnes Mares Grand Cru // Burgundy, France 1997 500 The stunning, dark purple-colored 1997 Bonnes Mares enthralls the nose with its extraordinary baked blackberry aromas. This is a wine of unbelievable power, concentration, and exceptional extraction. Deep layers of cocoa powder-dusted figs and prunes vie with a compote of red cherries, stones, and creamed mocha flavors for the taster's attention. This full-bodied, velvety-textured, sur-maturite-laced wine lingers on the palate for at least 40 seconds. 95 WA.

10-22 Louis Jadot Clos de Beze Grand Cru // Burgundy, France 1996 550 Simply fantastic. As thick, silky and round as they come in '96, this is a mouthful of wine that's fruit- and terroir-driven, full-bodied, ripe yet elegant. Has firm texture, plenty of black fruit flavors and a deftly smoked, toasted oak character that keeps pumping out its sweet wood, grilled meat complexity. The finish just won't stop. A monumental effort for the vintage. 96 WS. 95 WA. 12-12 Louis Jadot Clos de Beze Grand Cru // Burgundy, France 1997 525 This black/purple-colored benchmark-setter displays saliva-inducing cookie dough and cherry syrup aromas. Immensely ripe and concentrated, yet pure, fresh, and noble, it conquers the taster with unending layers of jammy compote-like fruit flavors. Awesomely dense, deep, fresh, and refined, this stunner has the potential to ultimately merit a score in the high 90s. It seamlessly combines the New World's over-ripeness and fruit-forward characteristics with Burgundy's trademark balance, elegance, and structure. 96 WA. 13-23 Domaine Leroy Clos Vougeot Grand Cru // Burgundy, France 2007 1350 Ripe plum, cherry and their pits; roasted meats; salt and crushed stone are all prominent in a Pinot of formidable aromatic and gustatory intensity; abundant but refined tannin; and a reverberative finish that rings changes on your palate. 95 WA

Argentina 1-29 Calathus // Mendoza, Argentina 2007 Black cherry and black raspberry lead to a silky, medium-bodied Pinot. 90 WA. 55

3-31

Bodega Chacra Cincuenta y Cinco // Patagonia, Argentina 2007 190 Rose petal, crushed cherry and sandalwood aromas that lead the way for supple, stylish cherry and red currant fruit.

46

MERLOT (Please note, there are several Merlot's under French and Italian Reds as well) 2-6 Northstar // Columbia Valley, Washington 2008 60 Offers up aromas of balsam wood, spice box, tobacco, violets, cassis, and blackberry. A bit chewy, but nicely packed with dark berry, cigar and tar flavors, which persist with intensity on the balanced finish. A beautiful representation of what WA state is doing with Merlot. 91 WA. Clos du Val // Napa Valley, California 2009 65 Sweet black cherry fruit aromas with hints of cassis and black olive; medium-bodied with dark cherry and blackberry fruit. Reynolds Family, Stags Leap District // Napa Valley, California 2006 Coffee and berry fruit intermixed with hints of toasty oak, sweet cherries, and barbecue smoke. 75

4-7

4-3

4-10

Pahlmeyer // Napa Valley, California 2008 90 Inky purple-colored, the wine offers up chocolatey espresso/mocha/cocoa notes as well as plenty of plum, black cherry and blacker fruits. Medium to full-bodied, with silky tannins, surprising elegance, and good richness. 91 WA. Ehlers Estate // Napa Valley, California 2009 100 Creamy, with notes of milk chocolate, raspberry, black currants and licorice, this wine has a broad mouth filling texture that is adorned with thyme, sage, and kiwi, and finishes with classically silky tannins. Blackbird "Arise" // Napa Valley, California 2007 110 75% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, exhibits a forest floor, Burgundian-like component. 92 WA. Terralsole "Coldoro" // Tuscany, Italy 2005 Very fresh and clean, with strawberry and floral character. Full-bodied, with good fruit. 110

4-29

4-11

4-6

5-9

Plumpjack // Napa Valley, California 2009 110 Bursts from the glass with racy red fruit, mint, flowers and spices. This is a refined, juicy Merlot to drink over the next few years. 92 WA. Pride Mountain // Sonoma-Napa Counties, California 2007 125 Lush and rich, yet impeccably structured, with bold red currant and toasty mocha aromas and layered flavors of ripe plum, loamy earth and spice, finishing with big but ripe tannins. 94 WS. Duckhorn Vineyards, Estate Grown // Napa Valley, California 2005 150 Rich and concentrated, yet supple, with plush blackberry and mocha aromas. Ripe, yet tightly-wound, with black currant, lead pencil, and cedar flavors that finish with firm tannins. 91 WS

4-12

11-8

47

SHIRAZ 4-25 Schild Estate // Barossa Valley, Australia 2009 55 An expressive Shiraz, bursting with dark plum and bright blueberry notes, joined by hints of roasted meat and spice. The finish rolls along with an airy, open texture that lets the flavors sail. Has depth and pinpoint balance. 92 WS.

14-14 Chateau Tenunda, Grand Barossa // Barossa Valley, Australia 2008 55 Dense and juicy, opening out to a lively texture under the cherry, fruitcake and spice flavors. Offers ripeness and intensity, without a lot of weight. 92 WS. 16-6 John Duval Entity" // Barossa Valley, Australia 2006 85 Blackberry, currant and subtle spices, remaining fresh and brilliant through the long, persuasive finish. 92 WS. Mitolo Revier // Barossa Valley, Australia 2006 100 The distinctive flavor profile hits some mint, cedar and red berry notes, touching on guava as the finish lingers. 90 WS. Mitolo Savitar // McLaren Vale, Australia 2006 140 Blueberry and wild blackberry flavors poking through a layer of fine-grained tannins, finishing with real refinement. 90 WS. Glaetzer "Amon Ra" // Barossa Valley, Australia 2009 155 Displays a very deep purple-black color and floral notes of violets and wilted rose petals over mulberries, blueberries, star anise, mocha, fenugreek, cumin seeds, cloves and tree bark plus some toasty oak. Full-bodied and rich yet not overly so, it has refreshingly crisp acid and firm grainy tannins texturing the long spicy finish. 96 WA. Penfolds "Grange" // South Australia 2004 455 Smooth and seductive, this delivers a full-throated chorus of currant, plum, blackberry and spice flavors, hinting at coffee and cardamom as the finish floats and sails easily over a bed of polished, refined tannins. A touch of black olive balances nicely against it all. Beautifully structured, expressive and very long. 99 WA. 98 WS.

4-23

16-1

4-24

4-27

48

SYRAH 5-8 Whetstone, Guidici Family Vineyard // Sonoma Coast, California 2005 60 Wild berry, plum, spice and pepper finishing with a persistent mix of complex flavors and tannins. 90 WS. Maranet // Russian River Valley, California 2008 60 Maranet is the second project of DuMol. Gorgeous ruby color with blackberry, boysenberry, coffee and thyme flavors. Novy // Santa Lucia Highlands, California 2009 75 Beautifully rich, powerful red graced with exquisite finesse and elegance. Sweet dark cherries, flowers, spices and game flow from this large-scaled, sleek Syrah. Varietal black pepper, spice and licorice wrap around the dark, muscular finish. The straight Santa Lucia Highlands bottling is superb. It is the equal of most, if not all, the vineyard designates, and also costs less. 93 WA. Novy // Sonoma County, California 2006 80 A sleek, elegant style that's balanced, slowly building depth, with tight dark berry, pepper and spice. 93 WS.

4-19

10-5

5-4

13-19 K Vintners "The Deal", Sundance Vineyard // Columbia Valley, Washington 2009 90 From the most acclaimed producers of Syrah in WA, this wine always keeps that reputation in-tact. It delivers complex fruit and terroir aspects- cured meat, olive, roast venison and earth, and minerality. A perennial 94+ wine. NYR. 5-11 Bonaccorsi, Larner Vineyard // Central Coast, California 2006 105 Stunning nose of acacia flowers, blueberries, and black raspberries, a full-bodied mouthfeel, sweet, silky tannins. 92 WA. Efeste "Jolie Bouche", Boushey Vineyard // Yakima Valley, Washington 2008 105 Focused, sharply defined and beautifully expressive, this packs an enormous range of red berry, pomegranate, tomato leaf and roasted beet flavors into a taut, savory jet of deliciousness. Stylish, balanced and raucous all at the same time. 95 WS. McCrea Cuvee Orleans // Columbia Valley, Washington, 2004 110 Black cherry, and blueberry. Silky on the palate. 6% Viognier. Stunning Cote-Rotie style blend. 90 WA. Martinelli Terra Felice // Russian River Valley, California 2004 Rich flavors and aromas of plum, violets, and tobacco. Pair this wine with game. 120

2-9

5-6

5-10

15-28 K Vintners "Morrison Lane" // Walla Walla, Washington 2009 120 Black fruit, dark earth undergrowth, liquid smoke, condensed and saturating with luxurious texture. A true classic from the oldest syrah vineyard in Walla Walla. NYR. Always 93+. 5-7 JC Cellars, Halley Rockpile Vineyard "Rockpile" // Sonoma, California 2006 125 Intense and vibrant, with rich, full-bodied blackberry, wild berry and blueberry fruit that's deep and concentrated. 95 WS.

49

11-24 Relic "Scarpa" // Napa Valley, California 2009 130 Deliciously complex, dense, deep and focused, with an array of beefy wild berry, mineral, black licorice, graphite and raspberry. Full-bodied yet graceful, elegant and beautifully proportioned, ending with a long persistent finish. 95 WS. 8-28 Shafer "Relentless" // Napa Valley, California 2008 145 The aromatics are full and distinct, with loads of dark berry and charcoal, then this unfolds touches of black cherry, raspberry and red and black licorice on the palate, sailing along and firming nicely on the finish. Shows all the muscle, density, richness and range of flavor found in many Shafer reds, yet takes it to another level in this vintage. The best Relentless yet. Syrah and Petite Sirah. 96 WS. 95 WA.

10-24 K Vintners "The Beautiful" // Walla Walla, Washington 2009 150 95% Syrah co-fermented with 5% Viognier both from Cougar Hills. Spice, game, camphor crushed with violets, sage and so on... ...Elegant and beautiful. NYR. 5-16 Craggy Range Le Sol // Hawkes Bay, New Zealand 2005 160 2005 Le Sol is simply an incredible wine, a massive nose of black plum, game and a touch of tar, the palate full-bodied with robust tannins and just like the great Northern Rhone producers, delivers a svelte, elegant finish that belies the powerful fruit that charges this wine along. If you doubt New Zealand can make world-class wines, then try this. 95 WA. DuMol Eddies Patch // Russian River Valley, Sonoma, California 2008 160 Showing a beautiful rich purple color, terrific texture, and notes of smoke, pepper, roasted meats, and abundant blackberry and cassis fruit. This inky Syrah possesses superb intensity, richness, and structure. 94 WA

4-25

50

ZINFANDEL 5-19 Rombauer // California 2009 55 Opening with a burst, this wine boasts aromas of blackberry and boysenberry jam. On the palate, rich, juicy fruit loaded with ripe wild berries, plum, fig and black cherry flavors. Supple tannins and smooth oak notes show in the lush, mouth-filling finish. Sanctuary, Mariah Vineyard // Mendocino, Lake County, California 2006 55 Sleek and well-focused, with black cherry and spice aromas and lively plum and smoky licorice flavors. 88 WS. Highlands // Napa Valley, California 2007 70 The brilliant nose of blackberry and ripe plum are complemented by hints of oak vanilla, varietal spice, black pepper, and minerals. Vibrant fruit characters fill the front palate and generously give way to full yet soft and supple tannins with an acid balance setting a structured lingering finish. Ridge // Paso Robles, California 2010 75 Rustic and chewy, with black cherry, herb and mineral aromas and concentrated raisin, pepper and smoke. Novy, Papera Ranch Vineyard // Russian River Valley, California 2009 75 Jammy and easygoing, with raspberry and tons of smoky toast aromas and juicy cherry and spicy vanilla flavors. Mauritson Rockpile "Rockpile Ridge" // Rockpile, California 2009 85 The bright notes of ripe blackberry and raspberry are complimented by hints of vanilla, black pepper, and minerals on the nose. Bright fruit dominates the front palate, giving way to a lush mouth feel and ample tannins. The finish is prototypical of Rockpile, long and focused. Williams Selyem, Feeney Vineyard // Russian River Valley, California 2006 90 Exhibits deep, peppery, earthy, herbal notes intermixed with black raspberry, sweet cherry, and damp earth. It is full-bodied and has lots of glycerin, power, and a long finish. 92 WA. Deerfield Ranch, Buchignani-Garcia Vineyard Old Vine Reserve // 90 Dry Creek Valley, California 2006 Erupts in wild berry, currant, cola, leather, mocha and peppery spice flavors that are so rich and deep and long-lasting. Pricey, but sets a benchmark for Zinfandel. Only 550 cases were produced. 95 WE. Ridge Lytton Springs Proprietary Red // Sonoma, California 2009 90 The 2009 Lytton Springs is the biggest and most structured of these 2009 Zinfandel-based reds, largely owing to the earthier soils and the presence 23% Petite Sirah. Black fruit, plums, tar, licorice and smoke are some of the notes that flow from this generous, inviting red. The blend is 74% Zinfandel, 21% Petite Sirah and 5% Carignane. 95 WA. Martinelli "Lolita Ranch" // Russian River Valley, California 2007 125 Aromas of spice box, ground pepper, ripe strawberries, meat juices, roasted herbs, and damp forest floor. 95 WA.

5-21

6-31

5-26

9-20

13-4

5-23

5-24

3-13

5-25

51

MALBEC 5-28 Bodega Luigi Bosca Lujan de Cuyo Reserva // Mendoza, Argentina 2009 55 Dark, with a core of plum, melted fig and iron covered by dark cocoa and espresso. A flash of minerality peeks in on the long, rich finish. Awesome! Norton "Privada" // Mendoza, Argentina 2009 58 Rich and dense, offering beautifully detailed mocha, boysenberry, fig and black currant notes, all framed by alluring spice, anise and graphite, with a long, rich finish. 92 WS. Achaval-Ferrer "Finca Altamira" // Mendoza, Argentina 2005 140 Starts with a gorgeous nose of crushed plum and bluebell aromas before following up with a very concentrated but deftly balanced palate of plum sauce, spice, blueberry, boysenberry and sweet black licorice, all held together by a vibrant, minerally spine. The finish is superlong and supersilky. 94 WS. Vina Cobos "Bramare", Marchiori Vineyard // Mendoza, Argentina 2007 140 Vina Cobos is Paul Hobbs' winery in Argentina. A big, ripe, powerful rendition of Malbec, with boysenberry, linzer torte and loganberry fruit pumping along mocha-infused toast. The lush finish is loaded with velvety tannins that let the fruit drip on. An impressive, hedonistic style. 93 WS. Alta Vista "Alto" // Mendoza, Argentina 2007 150 A glass-coating opaque purple color, it exhibits a brooding, Bordeaux-like bouquet of exotic spices and black fruits. Combines elegance with power70% Malbec, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon. 95 WA. Bodega Catena Zapata, Nicasia Vineyard // Mendoza, Argentina 2006 160 Dense and layered, with loads of braised fig, currant paste, crushed plum and macerated blackberry fruit. 95 WS. Bodega Catena Zapata, Adrianna Vineyard // Mendoza, Argentina 2006 160 This is powerfully rendered, with dark fig, black tea, melted licorice and plum sauce notes cascading over one another. 94 WS.

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6-2

6-4

6-6

6-5

52

CABERNET SAUVIGNON AND CABERNET BASED BLENDS DOMESTIC California 6-15 The Rule // Napa Valley, California 2009 44 Aromas of black cherries and red raspberries, as well as vanilla and toasty oak. On the palate, the Rule has a silky, round mouth feel and a long finish with mild tannins. Evening Land Sorceror // California 2008 60 This is the latest project from the duo who bring us Evening Land wines, movie producer turned wine prospector Mark Tarlov and winemaker Sashi Moorman. Sorcerer is a spicy, exotic blend of 70% Cabernet with Syrah, Grenache and Petit Verdot rounding out the blend. Conn Creek "Anthology" // Napa Valley, California 2007 75 Anthology is a Greek word that refers to a collection of literary or artistic works. It is the inspiration behind Conn Creeks Anthology, which is made from a collection of Napa Valleys finest vineyards and diverse AVAs for growing Bordeaux varieties. The AVAs are like a gourmet pantry of spices, each contributes distinct characteristics to the blend, resulting in a wine of generous flavor, with layers of depth and complexity.

6-14

12-29 Paul Hobbs "Crossbarn" // Napa Valley, California 2009 80 The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Crossbarn is a gorgeous, fruit-driven wine bursting with dark red fruit, new leather, spices and licorice. Expressive aromatics are woven throughout in this beautifully delineated, entry-level Cabernet. 91 WA. 6-20 Neyers "Neyers Ranch" Conn Valley // Napa Valley, California 2006 85 Pure, ripe and richly flavored, this fruit-driven red offers a complex mix of blackberry, black cherry, plum and wild berry fruit, picking up mineral and cedar notes and ending with a dash of black licorice. 90 WS. Pahlmeyer "Jayson" // Napa Valley, California 2008 85 This delicate, subtle style combines ripe black cherry, wild berry and plum flavors with touches of anise and black licorice. Full-bodied, with a graceful finish. Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. 89 WS. Stags Leap Wine Cellars "Artemis" // Napa Valley, California 2009 90 Shows lovely depth and richness in its expressive dark fruit, flowers, tar and licorice. The influence of Antinori is already felt in this beautiful wine. A supple, generous finish rounds things out nicely. 90 WA.

3-24

6-28

14-17 Ramey Claret // Napa Valley, California 2007 95 Bordeaux-like in its subtlety and restraint, yet rich, flavorful, full-bodied and expansive, with a mix of cedar, currant, cigar box, tar and mineral. Firm and focused, its elegance and refinement are impressive. Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Malbec, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. 93 WS. 6-24 Luna // Napa Valley, California 2005 95 Supple and harmonious, with herb, dried currant, anise, sage and dusty berry flavors that offer subtle hints of spice, floral and sandalwood.

53

6-26

Groth // Napa Valley, California 2008 Big and lush with huge gobs of fruit, yet possessing a soft and supple finish.

99

6-9

Arietta "Quartet" // Napa Valley, California 2009 99 The 2009 Quartet caresses the palate with silky red berries, flowers, licorice and spices. This is a midweight, radiant Quartet loaded with class and personality. In 2009 the blend is 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Cabernet Franc, 17% Merlot and 4% Petit Verdot. 91 WA.

12-25 Ferrari-Carano "Tresor" // Sonoma County, California 2006 115 Ripe, fleshy currant, black cherry and plum flavors, with spicy, herbal, cedary notes. Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Cabernet Franc. 92 WS. 12-32 Justin "Isosceles" // Paso Robles, California 2008 130 Composed of 54% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Merlot, 12% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Petit Verdot. It exhibits sweeter tannins along with dense black fruits intermixed with charcoal, creme de cassis, roasted herbs, and spice box. It is a big, thick, juicy, nearly over-the-top wine with impressive balance. 93 WA. 15-12 Caymus //Napa Valley, California 2009 Simply said, its Caymus, and she needs no introduction! 135

13-32 Paul Hobbs // Napa Valley, California 2008 140 It offers up complex aromas of tobacco leaf, graphite, damp earth, blackberries and black currants, fullbodied power and more density, depth and structure than the Crossbarn. 93 WA. 7-5 Silver Oak // Alexander Valley, California, 2007 140 A profound, fruit-driven wine from a great California vintage. With a dark ruby color and a purple edge, it offers an inviting nose of ripe black plum, blackberry, baking spices and soy sauce. On the palate, this Cabernet is rich and full, with flavors reminiscent of a berry cobbler. Its long, fruity finish and fine-grained tannins are a testament to exquisite ripeness at moderate alcohol. Louis M. Martini, Monte Rosso Vineyard // Napa Vallley, California 2005 140 The gorgeous 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Monte Rosso Vineyard (which has some of northern Californias oldest Cabernet Sauvignon vines) displays abundant aromas of loamy soil, cedarwood, creme de cassis, black cherries, unsmoked cigar tobacco, and spice box. This dark ruby/purple-tinged, elegant, full-bodied 2005 reveals excellent equilibrium among all its component parts. 91 WS. 91 WA.

15-30 Miner Family Vineyards "The Oracle" // Napa Valley, California 2007 150 A rich, gutsy style, with dense, extracted currant, graphite, espresso sage and cedar flavors. Full-bodied and concentrated, finishing with firm tannins. 90 WS. 4-15 Altamura // Napa Valley, California 2008 155 Combines very ripe, spicy dark berry fruit that's even a touch racy, with a firm backbone and a wellstructured mix of acidity and tannins. The fruit is potent and concentrated, yet also shows a suppleness and measure of grace. 94 WS. Dunn, Howell Mountain // Napa Valley, California 2007 155 Layer after layer of flavor saturates the palate in this opulent, full-throttle Cabernet Sauvignon. The 2007 possesses dazzling textural richness, depth and sheer intensity. Purists may prefer more structured vintages, but for a producer known for such slow maturing wines, the 2007 is a huge pleasure to taste today. 97 WA. 54

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Nickel and Nickel, C.C. Ranch Vineyard // Napa Valley, California 2006 155 C.C. Ranch sits along the slope of a knoll west of the Silverado Trail. N&N produces wine from 15 acres of this vineyard. Nickel and Nickel, Rock Cairn Vineyard // Napa Valley, California 2006 155 Dry-farmed site is comprised of deep, gravelly loam with a western exposure. N&N selects grapes from nine acres. Cade Estate, Howell Mountain // Napa Valley, California 2009 160 Layers of expressive dark fruit, licorice, mint and new leather wrap around the palate in this deep, powerful Cabernet Sauvignon. 94 WA. Robert Mondavi, Reserve // Napa Valley, California 1991 355 Deep garnet colored with a touch of brick, this gives earthy / meaty notes over a core of red and blackcurrant preserves, pencil lead and Indian spices. Medium-full bodied with medium-firm, fine grained tannins and crisp acid, theres plenty of expressive fruit in the mouth giving a good long finish. 96 WA. 95 WS. Robert Mondavi, Reserve // Napa Valley, California 2006 Earthy currant, blackberry and plum, with hints of herb, mocha and black licorice. 96 WS 160

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Robert Mondavi, Reserve // Napa Valley, California 2007 200 A wonderful expression of stylish Cabernet that's ripe, fleshy, complex and layered, highlighting ripe currant, wild berry and blueberry, with touches of cedar and cigar box. The flavors gain traction on the finish. 95 WS. Crocker and Starr "Stone Place" // Napa Valley, California 2007 160 Vibrant black currant and dark cherry are followed by raspberry, vanilla, lavender and stones. The mid-palate brings exotic notes of cocoa, espresso bean, dried lavender and rose petals, while moving into the finish with minerality, spice and cigar box. NYR. Hall Kathryn Hall // Napa Valley, California 2006 A big, dense, concentrated wine, with wonderful aromas marked by chewy tannins and a currant core. 96 WS. 160

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Hall "Kathryn Hall" // Napa Valley, California 2008 180 Rich, savory and full-bodied, showing direct, potent young Cabernet flavors built around blackberry and dark berry fruit, with touches of spice, black licorice, mineral and toasty wood. Very impressive for its purity, finesse and graceful finish. 96 WS. #2 Wine of 2011 by WS. Forman // Napa Valley, California 2005 160 One of the finest examples made at this estate in many years. His goal is to produce a California version of Haut-Brion or Ausone, or even better, a combination of those two renowned Bordeaux. A deep ruby/purple color is accompanied by a sumptuous bouquet of white flowers, black fruits, and crushed rocks. 93 WA. Forman // Napa Valley, California 2007 160 The color is a healthy dense purple, and the bouquet reveals plenty of creme de cassis, licorice, wood smoke, and forest floor notes, a soaring, multidimensional, velvety, full-bodied texture, and ripe tannins. 95 WA. 55

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Rodney Strong "Rockaway" // Napa Valley, California 2006 Intense, concentrated and richly flavored, with layers of loamy currant, anise, blackberry, mineral and sage. 94 WS. PlumpJack, Oakville Estate // Napa Valley, California 2005 Full-bodied, chewy effort displaying flavors of black currants, blueberries, and spice. 92 WA.

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PlumpJack, Oakville Estate // Napa Valley, California 2009 185 Freshly cut flowers, dark red berries, mint and crushed rocks are some of the nuances that flow from this highly articulated, engaging red. Despite its richness and obvious size, the 2009 retains remarkable freshness, clarity and precision. 94 WA. Kobalt // Napa Valley, California 2008 175 Boasts an inky/purple color as well as a big, sweet perfume of camphor, charcoal, blueberries, black currants and toasty oak. Superb fruit, a sweet, full-bodied mouthfeel, a multilayered texture and a long finish with abundant but sweet, nicely integrated tannins. 94 WA. Coup de Foudre, Coup de Foudre // Napa Valley, California 2008 175 The obsession with all things French continues with the 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon (90% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Cabernet Franc). Revealing a similar dark ruby/purple color, it possesses lots of camphor, cassis, black cherry and licorice aromas as well as a full-bodied, impressively endowed, concentrated style with abundant texture. 94 WA. Pahlmeyer Proprietary Red // Napa Valley, California 2005 180 Black cherry, wild berry, currant and cherry kirsch flavors that are bold, rich and persistent, ending with intensity. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec. 94 WS. Vineyard Seven and Eight "Estate" // Napa Valley, California 2007 180 Beautiful blueberry and floral notes intermixed with camphor, creme de cassis, licorice, and forest floor. Full-bodied, with terrific texture, sweet tannin, and fabulous length and concentration. 94 WA. Groth "Reserve" // Napa Valley, California 2007 190 Dense, rich, chewy beam of dried currant, mineral, graphite, black cherry and blackberry fruit that's intense and full-blown, both flexing its muscle while displaying deft finish. 94 WS. Stags Leap Wine Cellars "S.L.V." // Napa Valley, California 2007 190 Dark fruit tones (blackberry, black plum) that typically come from the vineyard, as well as notes of cassis, bramble, Chinese five-spice, caramel and vanilla. There is an elegant mineral quality on the nose and lingering finish. 91 WA.

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13-14 Merryvale "Profile" // Napa Valley, California 2007 200 Exhibits an opaque purple color along with classic tobacco leaf, black currant, spicy oak, chocolate, licorice, and graphite characteristics. 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc, 6% Petit Verdot, and 4% Malbec. 94 WA. 7-23 Buccella // Napa Valley, California 2007 200 Extraordinary fragrance of blue and black fruits intermixed with spring flowers, a hint of white chocolate and subtle smoke. In the mouth, more graphite notes are present, but the wine is very fullbodied, with sweet tannins and good acidity. 96 WA.

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Dominus // Napa Valley, California 2007 200 Deep ruby/purple-colored with a sweet nose of incense, cedar wood, black currants, black cherries, licorice, and a subtle hint of roasted herbs, it is an expansive, savory, opulent wine with a full-bodied mouthfeel, silky tannins, and sensational concentration. 98 WA. Dominus // Napa Valley, California 2008 275 Made in a more masculine style, the 2008 Dominus has all of that along with bigger body and more structure, fat, density and texture. Both are brilliant wines and they represent the finest back-to-back vintages for Dominus since 2001 and 2002 or 1990 and 1991. 99 WA. Juslyn, Estate // Napa Valley, California 2006 200 Displays a dense purple color along with a beautiful bouquet of spring flowers, blue and black fruits, and graphite. The perfumed aromatics are accompanied by sweet tannin, full-bodied power, and a beautiful integration of wood, acidity, and tannin. This is a strikingly graceful, elegant Cabernet with considerable flavor intensity. 95 WA. Spottswoode // Napa Valley, California 2008 225 Exhibits a glorious perfume of spring flowers, blueberries and black currants, good acidity and serious tannins as well as concentration. 95 WA. Staglin // Napa Valley, California 2006 225 Rich, focused, supple, plush and layered, showing amazing purity of flavor, with tiers of black currant, black cherry, mineral, sage, anise and cedar. Yet for all its flavor, it's the seductive textural fleshiness that's perhaps most striking. 96 WS. Staglin, 25th Anniversary Selection // Napa Valley, California 2007 275 A pure and seductive style, with enticing aromas of mocha, baking spices, melted chocolate, ripe plum, black cherry and black licorice that are supple, elegant, balanced, rich and layered, ending with an amazingly long and persistent finish. 98 WS. Paul Hobbs, Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard // Napa Valley, California 2005 225 Dried currant, wild berry, fresh earth and toasty, smoky oak, ending with a long, persistent finish. 97 WS. 600 Cases Produced.

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13-15 Opus One // Napa Valley, California 2007 285 One of the strongest wines ever made at Opus One, the 2007 has terrific black currant fruit, licorice, incense, and subtle smoke, an opulent, even voluptuous mouthfeel, dazzling purity and texture, and a skyscraper-like mouthfeel. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec. 95 WA. 15-17 Shafer Hillside Select // Napa Valley, California 1994 750 Combines the vintage's spectacularly ripe, luscious fruit with a rarely seen degree of elegance and finesse. The wine is extremely rich, as well as gorgeously poised and graceful. The saturated ruby/purple color is accompanied by Medoc-like, lead pencil aromas intermixed with cassis, cedar, minerals, and spice. 99 WA. B Shafer Hillside Select // Napa Valley, California 1999 550 A saturated opaque purple color is followed by scents of vanilla, blackberry liqueur, crushed minerals, and a hint of white flowers. There is stunning intensity, tremendous purity, full body, and a remarkable, seamless finish. 97 WA. 57

Shafer Hillside Select // Napa Valley, California 2002 750 A dark purple color is accompanied by a gorgeously powerful nose of pure creme de cassis, pain grille, flowers, licorice, and spice box. Full-bodied with multiple dimensions, superb purity, layers of fruit, and a blockbuster finish, it is an amazing offering. 100 WA. Shafer Hillside Select // Napa Valley, California 2004 295 Black currant liqueur intermixed with toasty new oak, charcoal, smoke, and barbecue spices. 97 WA. Shafer Hillside Select // Napa Valley, California 2005 295 A black purple color, stunningly sweet fruit, and a gorgeous bouquet of underbrush, forest floor, crme de cassis, lead pencil shavings, and toasty barrique are found in this ripe, full-bodied, deep, stunningly well-balanced, substantial wine with undeniable complexity as well as richness. 97 WA. Shafer Hillside Select // Napa Valley, California 2006 295 A candidate for one of the top wines of the vintage, it reveals beautiful aromas and flavors of grilled meats and herbs intertwined with extravagant amounts of blackberry and cassis fruit, licorice, and charcoal. Extremely full-bodied, pure, deep, and layered. 97 WA. Shafer "Hillside Select" // Napa Valley, California 2007 310 It takes concentration, graciousness and complexity to its highest level in Napa Valley. An inky/blue/purple color is followed by sweet aromas of blueberries, blackberries, charcoal and subtle toast. The wine possesses fabulous concentration, a seamless/flawless personality, a textbook integration of alcohol, wood, tannin and acidity, an almost endless finish and a voluptuous texture. 98 WA. Lewis "L Cuvee" // Napa Valley, California 2006 350 Smooth, rich and creamy, with mocha-laced plum and black cherry fruit that's elegant, stylish, fullbodied and complex, ending with a long, firm, concentrated finish. Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. 93 WS. Beringer, Private Reserve // Napa Valley, California 1991 355 Possesses a dense ruby/purple color as well as a sumptuous nose of spring flowers, graphite, loamy soil, creme de cassis, black cherries and blackberries. With sweet tannin, a full-bodied mouthfeel and incredible purity as well as youthfulness, this wine has another 15-20 years of life left in it. If this were a Bordeaux, one would think it was 8-10 years old, not two decades. There are no hard edges, and the seamless integration of all the component parts make it one of the prodigious Beringer Cabernet Sauvignon Private Reserves to drink now as well as over the next 20 years. 96 WA.

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14-13 Paul Hobbs, Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard // Napa Valley, California 2007 360 Notes of graphite, black currant liqueur, licorice, cedar, and spice box are found in this full-bodied, multidimensional, fabulously concentrated wine. 98 WA. 6-32 Dalla Valle // Napa Valley, California 1990 375 A prodigious effort, dark, rich and intense,remarkably youthful and vibrant, with penetrating chocolate, black cherry, violet, plum and currant flavors that are tightly focused, long and complex. Finish goes on forever. 97 WS.

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15-14 Au Sommet // Napa Valley, California 2009 400 The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon, from a vineyard in Atlas Peak, emerges from the glass with layers of dark red fruit, spices, mint and grilled herbs. There is plenty of mountain character in this fleshy, supple Cabernet Sauvignon. The 2009 includes 4% Petit Verdot and was aged in 45-50% new barrels. Heidi Barrett is the winemaker for this new project. 92 WA. 12-9 Viader // Napa Valley, California 1997 415 Beautifully proportioned, rich and complex, with ripe, concentrated plum, currant, black cherry, mocha, toasty oak and spice nuances. Turns smooth and silky on a long, elegant finish. Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. 97 WS. Highest rated Viader ever. Peter Michael "Les Pavots" // Knights Valley (Sonoma), California 1994 445 This deep, saturated purple-colored wine has taken on a gorgeous nose of cassis intermixed with violets, licorice, and attractive spicy oak. Sweet, rich, and surprisingly showy for a Les Pavots, this medium to full-bodied wine possesses a luscious, multi-layered texture, outstanding depth, and attractively integrated tannin and acidity. 94 WA.

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11-22 Chateau Montelena, Montelena Estate // Napa Valley, California 1987 525 Chateau Montelena has made so many sensational Cabernets that it seems almost impossible to believe that their 1987 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate could be even more profound than any of the exceptional wines made previously at this property. The black/purple color, the extraordinary bouquet of rich cassis, violets, and licorice, the massive extraction of flavors, sensational depth, super ripeness, and a length that must last over a minute, suggest to me that this is easily the most concentrated and potentially longest-lived Cabernet Sauvignon that Chateau Montelena has ever made. The extract level is incredible, yet the balance is there. 98 WA. 3-3 Chateau Montelena, Montelena Estate // Napa Valley, California 1991 415 Montelena's incredible 1991 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate is an exceptional wine. It may be the most promising vintage among the bevy of Montelena Cabernets produced over the last two decades, rivaling even the winery's profound 1987. The color is a dense, opaque purple. The nose offers up Chateau Montelena's tell-tale signature - abundant, pure aromas of cassis, minerals, and spicy oak. Full-bodied, spectacularly rich, and highly extracted, with moderate to high tannin, this is a youthful, exuberant, stunning example of blockbuster Napa Cabernet Sauvignon. Its inner core of cassis fruit is something to savor! 97 WA. Chateau Montelena, Montelena Estate // Napa Valley, California 1997 475 Opaque purple-colored with a dense, chewy, full-bodied personality, it displays abundant cassis, mineral, and earth notes. This brilliantly made, super-concentrated, pure, blockbuster possesses sweet tannin as well as a terrific finish. 98 WA.

9-30

14-28 Araujo, Eisele Vineyard // Napa Valley, California 2007 475 Deep plum/ruby/purple hue is accompanied by notes of cassis, blueberries and acacia flowers. 93 WA. 1-32 Bond, Melbury // Napa Valley, California 2007 475 Aromas of cedarwood, barbecue spice, licorice, spring flowers, black currants and sweet kirsch jump from the glass of this dense purple-colored wine. A full-bodied texture, wonderful opulence, sweet velvety tannins and an extraordinary integration of all its component parts make for a prodigious Cabernet Sauvignon. 97 WA.

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Bond, Pluribus // Napa Valley, California 2007 500 The highest elevation vineyard of all these parcels exhibits tell-tale Spring Mountain characteristics of acacia (or is it violets?) flowers interwoven with blueberry liqueur, black raspberries, cassis and crushed rocks. A wine of great intensity and full-bodied power yet with a freshness and delineation that are remarkable. 98 WA. Bond, Quella // Napa Valley, California 2007 475 A magical combination of blueberry liqueur intermixed with crushed rock, spring flowers (violets?), earth, pen ink and burning ember leads to a full-bodied, majestically rich wine with a multilayered texture, silky tannins and a phenomenally long finish of over 50 seconds. 97 WA. Bond, St. Eden // Napa Valley, California 2007 525 Pauillac look-alike, it offers up glorious aromas of cedarwood, creme de cassis, spice box, high class unsmoked cigar tobacco, roasted herbs and a hint of mocha. The complex aromas brilliantly conceal the long aging in new French oak. 99 WA. Bond, Vecina // Napa Valley, California 2007 600 A prodigious display of blackberries, charcoal, black currants, burning embers and a La Mission-HautBrion-like hot rock/gravelly character. The most tannic as well as most concentrated and layered of the 2007s, this is a long-term, but utterly brilliant wine. 100 WA. Pride Mountain, Reserve // Napa Valley, California 2001 515 Robust and concentrated, with chewy tannins along with a wealth of juicy, mineral-laced mocha, blackberry, vanilla and cedary black licorice notes that are youthful and focused. Ends with ripe but quite chewy tannins. 98 WA. 97 WS.

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14-26 Colgin IX Proprietary Red // Napa Valley, California 2005 525 Deep purple in color with an extraordinary nose of scorched earth, blueberries, and black currants intermixed with some subtle charcoal notes, spice, box and spring flowers, it is very full-bodied, but beautifully structured and well-delineated. 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Merlot, and the rest Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. 97 WA. 14-25 Colgin IX Proprietary Red // Napa Valley, California 2006 600 Reveals the noble sweetness of tannin, the extraordinary rich, intense mouthfeel, and sumptuous aromas of flowers, burning embers, blackberries, blueberries, spice box, and cedar. With extraordinary intensity, beautiful purity, a texture and flavors that build incrementally on the palate, and a significantly long finish, this is a perfect wine. 66% Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Petit Verdot. 100 WA. 14-27 Colgin IX Proprietary Red // Napa Valley, California 2007 650 Exhibits aromas of spring flowers, cedarwood, Asian spices, licorice, blueberries, and blackberries. A distinct liqueur of minerals buttresses the full-bodied, massive concentration, giving an overall impression of elegance, purity, and harmony. 100 WA. 12-8 Harlan Estate // Napa Valley, California 1996 1400 The opaque purple-colored 1996 Harlan Estate reveals extraordinary intensity, a spicy, black currant, tobacco, cedar, and fruit cake-scented bouquet, full body, a texture oozing with glycerin and concentrated fruit, and moderate tannin in the blockbuster finish. It is one of the most concentrated and complete red wines one could hope to taste. 98 WA. 97 WS.

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Harlan Estate // Napa Valley, California 1997 1700 Opaque purple-colored, it boasts spectacular, soaring aromatics of vanilla, minerals, coffee, blackberries, licorice, and cassis. In the mouth, layer after layer unfold powerfully yet gently. Acidity, tannin, and alcohol are well-balanced by the wine's unreal richness and singular personality. The finish exceeds one minute. Harlan Estate // Napa Valley, California 2007 875 Dense plum/purple-colored with sweet aromas of barbecue smoke, blueberries, blackberries, cassis, licorice, hot rocks and subtle oak, it is a splendidly opulent, pure wine with a skyscraper-like texture as well as stunningly deep fruit that expands gracefully across the palate. The finish lasts nearly a full minute. 100 WA. 96 WS. Harlan Estate // Napa Valley, California 2008 950 Deliciously ripe, complex and aromatic, yet tight and closed, with dried currant, loamy earth, mocha, cedar, blueberry and plum flavors. The impressive finish shows detailed flavors and nuances. 96 WA. 96 WS.

3-32

Washington 8-8 Cadaretta // Columbia Valley, Washington 2007 75 Dense, complex and distinctive for its earthy, floral, spicy nuances around a rich core of currant and plum fruit, with a supple, deft finish. 91 WS. Columbia Crest, Reserve // Columbia Valley, Washington 2007 90 Highly aromatic, the wine is showing savage notes of wild blackberry and fresh forest scents along with deeper notes of brown baking spices. On the palate, the 2007 Reserve may be even better than the 2005, with a Bordeaux-like expression of concentrated, cocoa-dusted black fruits and terroir driven elements of earth and crushed minerals. 92 WS. Columbia Crest, Reserve // Columbia Valley, Washington 2008 95 Chewy with tannin, but bursting with fresh currant and plum, sneaking in hints of mint and black tea as the finish lingers. A graceful wine that has miles to go. 93 WS. Andrew Will Cellars, Champoux Vineyard // Columbia Valley, Washington 2006 135 The 2006 Champoux Vineyard is made up of 57% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Cabernet Franc, and 8% Merlot. Purple-colored, it sports an aromatic array of wood smoke, pencil lead, cinnamon, clove, black currant and blackberry. This leads to a mouth-filling wine bordering on opulence. Rich, ripe, and impeccably balanced. 93 WA.

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13-17 Andrew Will Cellars "Sorella" // Horse Heaven Hills, Washington 2008 150 Impressive for its intensity and elegance, packed with black cherry, cherry, plum and spice flavors, hinting at roasted red pepper and a tarry minerality as the finish glides smoothly over refined tannins. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot. 95 WS.

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INTERNATIONAL

Argentina 6-10 Bodega Fin del Mundo "Postales" // Patagonia, Argentina 2007 Solid value, showing a plethora of dark fruits. 29

Chile 12-26 Von Siebenthal "Montelig" // Aconcagua Valley, Chile 2005 110 A blend of 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Carmenere, and 30% Petit Verdot. Deep crimson-colored, it reveals a complex perfume of pain grille, mineral, scorched earth, blueberry, and blackberry. Powerful, layered, and firmly structured, it has a finish which goes on for over 60-seconds. 93 WA. 13-7 Vina Sena "Sena" // Aconcagua Valley, Chile 2004 135 Purple-colored with a super-expressive nose of toasty oak, earth, graphite, espresso, black currant, and blackberry liqueur with a hint of mint in the background. Typically 3/4 Cabernet, and the balance Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Carmenere. 94 WA.

16-21 Vina Santa Rita Casa Real // Maipo Valley, Chile 2005 140 A dark, brawny style, with coffee and bittersweet cocoa leading the way for black currant and braised fig fruit notes. There's a long, muscular, loam-filled finish. 100% Cabernet. 90 WS.

Lebanon 14-10 Chateau Musar // Bekaa Valley, Lebanon 1994 125 This caramel-colored wine has elegant cedar, vanilla and brown sugar flavors that manage to stay focused. A pretty sweetness lingers on the finish. Uniquely outstanding, and showing nicely. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cinsault, and Carignan.

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OTHER RED BLENDS

16-23 Tikal "Patriota" // Mendoza, Argentina 2010 50 40% Malbec, 60% Bonarda. A glass-coating opaque purple color, it sports an enticing nose of Asian spices, incense, lavender, plum, and blueberry. In the glass it opens to reveal a ripe, plush, savory wine with no hard edges. 92 WA. 5-30 Niepoort "Vertente" // Duoro, Portugal 2007 Offers a fine balance between the primary red fruit flavors and the mineral and savory herbal elements. The long, fresh finish of smoke and spice, with hints of French roast. Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca, Tinta Amarela, Touriga Nacional and others. 89 WS. 60

14-22 Morgenster, Lourens River Valley // Stellenbosch, South Africa 2005 60 The superb 2005 Lourens River Valley has a touch of Petit Verdot in the blend. The immediate impression upon nosing this wine is: Pauillac comes to Saint Emilion. The palate is very well knit with good acidity and firm tannins. It is dry and masculine on the entry, but the Cabernet Franc is very expressive towards the finish with touches of green bell pepper and dried herbs. Very refined and demonstrating good persistence, this is an excellent wine. Bordeaux-style, with some Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot as well. 3-23 Gargiulo Vineyards "Aprile" // Napa Valley, California 2008 Aprile Super Oakville Blend is our interpretation of the great super Tuscans. Aprile also underscores our commitment to varietal integrity amongst all of our wines because the farming of world-class Sangiovese is difficult and mandates a passion and attention to detail reserved only for the most dedicated winegrowers. We blend a small percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon to add a bit of weight on the palate, but our goal with each vintage is for the pure essence of the Sangiovese grape to shine. 80

12-22 Long Shadows "Saggi" // Columbia Valley, Washington 2007 90 43% Sangiovese, 36% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 21% Syrah. It was aged for 18 months in 55% new French oak. Deep purple colored, it displays an expressive perfume of cedar, Asian spices, black cherry, and cassis. 91 WA. 12-24 Achavel Ferrer "Quimera" // Mendoza, Argentina 2006 90 Lots of currant and fig flavors layered with coffee and dark chocolate. Malbec, Merlot, Cabernet, and Cabernet Franc. 90 WS. 4-9 Spring Valley "Uriah" // Walla Walla Valley, Washington 2008 100 This has density without excess weight, showing a real depth to its cherry, cinnamon, almond and cedar flavors, lingering against crisp tannins. Impressive for its deft balance and the way the finish sneaks up on you. Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec. 93 WS. Lewis Cellars Alecs Blend // Napa Valley, California 2007 115 Combines richness with delicacy, offering a firm, subtle mix of plum, red currant, cedar and spice. Gains depth and finesse, with hints of mocha, sage and dried berry. Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. 92 WS.

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Vinoce // Napa Valley, California 2007 125 Characteristic red fruits light up the front palate red raspberries and bing cherry start the experience the wine stays focused thru the mid-palate and very gracefully moves to the back palate where dark cherry notes highlight the plum, currant and cassis notes of the vineyard. Juslyn "Perry's Blend" // Napa Valley, California 2006 130 47% Merlot, 31% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Cabernet Franc, and 4% Petit Verdot. Possesses seductive, sweet tannins (an anomaly for 2006 mountain Cabernets), a deep ruby/purple color, lots of sweet blue and black fruits, a charming elegance, medium to full-bodied flavors, excellent depth and richness, and impressive purity. 92 WA. Andrew Will Cellars, Ciel du Cheval Vineyard // Columbia Valley, Washington 2007 135 45% Cabernet Franc, 40% Merlot, and 15 % Cabernet Sauvignon aged in 40% new French oak for 20 months. Medium purple in color, it offers up an enticing nose of pain grille, pencil lead, herbs, olives, violets, cassis, and black currant. Ripe, smooth-textured, and mouth-filling, 94 WA. Andrew Will Cellars, Two Blondes Vineyard // Columbia Valley, Washington 2006 135 A blend of 43% Cabernet Franc, 29% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 28% Merlot. It offers up aromas of balsam wood, cinnamon, sage, incense, black cherry, and black currant. This is followed by supple, ripe wine with fine-grained tannins, savory flavors, and excellent balance. 92 WA.

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10-30 Relic "Ritual" // Napa Valley, California 2009 135 Dense and powerful, with firm road tar, black licorice, blackberry, smoke and ripe berry flavors. Fullblown, deep and persistent, long and layered. Mourvdre, Grenache, Carignane, Syrah and Petite Sirah. 94 WS. 14-18 Robert Keenan "Mernet Reserve" // Napa Valley, California 2006 170 A 350-case blend of 50% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Franc, and 25% Cabernet Sauvignon. This is a Spring Mountain version of the famed Bordeaux St.-Emilion, Cheval Blanc. Sweet, rich aromas of subtle menthol, roasted herbs, black currants, black cherries, licorice, and lavender emerge from this fragrant wine. 96 WA. 13-11 Casa Lapostolle Clos Apalta // Colchagua Valley, Chile 2005 199 Rich, velvety palate loaded with currant, fig paste, and black licorice. Carmenre, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot. 96 WS. #1 wine of 2008 by WS! 7-1 Viader V // Napa Valley, California 2000 245 This new red from Viader accents leathery-spicy currant and blackberry flavors, and holds to a tight focus, finishing with firm, detailed tannins. Petit Verdot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. 92 WS. Penfolds "Grange" // South Australia 2004 455 Smooth and seductive, this delivers a full-throated chorus of currant, plum, blackberry and spice flavors, hinting at coffee and cardamom as the finish floats and sails easily over a bed of polished, refined tannins. A touch of black olive balances nicely against it all. Beautifully structured, expressive and very long. Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon. 99 WA. 98 WS.

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64

OTHER VARIETAL REDS 12-19 Villa San-Juliette Petit Sirah // Paso Robles, California 2010 44 Savory Asian spice, with vivid black plum and blackberry fruit. It's a big wine, with super acidity to keep it lively. B Dashe Cellars Les Enfants Grenache // Sonoma, California 2011 55 Very delicate yet velvety, sweet red fruit with hints of black currents, floral, slightly grainy tannins, delicate lush mouthfeel, long, mineral and earthy finish, spice and wild strawberry finish.

12-23 Giornata Sangiovese // Paso Robles, California 2006 60 Lots of grip here, highlighted by dark cherry, pencil lead, an iron minerality, light vanilla, cinnamon and nutmeg. 2-25 Domaine Bernard Baudry Chinon // Loire Valley, France 2009 60 Satiny texture and prominent sense of ripe mulberry and beet root, this is suffused with a savory salinity akin to shrimp shell reduction, nut oils, and crushed stone. Its hard to imagine a much more ideal combination in red wine of saliva-inducing yet richly ripe fruit with almost white winelike freshness and mineral interplay. Cabernet Franc. 91 WA.

11-16 Clendenen Family Vineyards Nebbiolo // Santa Maria Valley, California 2003 75 Jim Clendenen planted 2 clones of Nebbiolo in 1994 on ground leased from the Miller family at Bien Nacido Vineyard. The total size of the vineyard is 1.75 acres. Beautiful New World expression of an Italian classic. 2-7 Von Siebenthal "Toknar" // Aconcagua, Chile 2006 175 The 2006 Toknar, a 100% Petit Verdot cuvee bottled without filtration. A glass-coating opaque purple/black, the nose offers up an aromatic array of pain grille, pencil lead, scorched earth, licorice, and blackberry. Dense, voluptuous, and thoroughly hedonistic. 95 WA.

65

SPANISH REDS 4-14 Pares Balta, Indigena // Penedes, Spain 2008 50 This 100% Garnatxa exhibits fragrant spice box, cedar and cherry aromas. Plenty of savory fruit. 89 WA. Vinedos y Bodegas Garcia Figuero Tinto Crianza // Ribera del Duero, Spain 2005 60 Nose reveals cedar, spice box, violets, mineral, espresso, and black cherry. On the palate notes of balsamic and licorice make an appearance. Tempranillo. Baron de Ley, Gran Reserva // Rioja, Spain 1998 80 90% Tempranillo and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon aged for 24 months in French and American oak followed by 5 years in bottle prior to release. Medium to dark ruby, it offers mature aromas of cedar, spice box, damp earth, red currants, and cherry. 90 WA. Alvaro Palacios "Les Terrasses" Priorat // Spain 2006 90 60% Carinena, 30% Garnacha, with the balance Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. It was aged for 12 months in 20% new French oak. Purple-colored, it exhibits a fragrant bouquet of cedar, mineral, spice box, incense, black cherry, and blackberry. This is followed by a full-bodied, dense, rich wine with excellent harmony, potential complexity, and a fruit-filled finish. 91 WA. Huellas Priorat // Spain 2007 90 80% Garnatxa, 15% Syrah, and 5% Carinena, demonstrates. It displays an expressive nose of mineral, roasted herbs, lavender, and comfiture of black fruits. Smooth textured, rich, and concentrated, it has a bit of structure along with an elegant personality. 91 WA. Noguerals Abellars Priorat // Spain 2005 105 Black cherry, espresso, mineral and smoke flavors in good balance. Garnatxa, Cariena, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. 91 WS. Bodegas Cambrico Rufete // Castilla y Leon, Spain 2004 120 Distinctive character, with black cherry, licorice and floral notes in a gentle texture. 134 Cases made. Rotllan Torra "Tirant" Priorat // Spain 2004 140 Mineral, dark fruits, and cherry with a long caressing finish. 35% Carinena, 35% Garnatxa, 15% Syrah and Cabernet. 91 WA. Rotllan Torra "Tirant" Priorat // Spain 2001 185 A prodigious effort, the 2001 Tirant is a 9,000-bottle cuvee made from 30% Grenache (90-100 years old), 25% Carignan (90-100 years old), 25% young vine Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Syrah, and 10% Merlot. Fermented in large oak foudres and aged 12 months in new French oak, it will be bottled with neither fining nor filtration. Inky/purple-colored to the rim, it boasts a spectacular bouquet of blueberries, blackberries, and the regions classic crushed stone minerality. 98 WA. Conde de Hervias // Rioja, Spain 2004 140 Sexy bouquet of red and dark berries. Mouthfilling red fruit flavors are wrapped in supple tannins. 91 WA.

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8-4

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8-9

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16-2

1-9

8-7

66

10-16 Alvaro Palacios "Finca Dofi" Priorat // Spain 2008 140 Sourced from a relatively youthful single vineyard, is composed of 60% Garnacha with the balance Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Merlot aged in 100% new French oak. Aromas of sandalwood, Asian spices, incense, and black cherry lead to a forward, sexy offering with plenty of spice and floral notes. 93 WA. 1-22 Alvaro Palacios "Finca Dofi" Priorat // Spain 2009 155 The 2009 Finca Dofi is an exotic, slinky beauty with tremendous structure, proportion, and length. 97 WA. Alion "Alion" // Ribera del Duero, Spain 2006 150 Saturated purple color with a fetching bouquet of sandalwood, smoke, Asian spices, incense, and black cherry confiture. In the mouth it has outstanding volume, kinky spice notes, and savory black fruits. 94 WA. Clos Mogador "Manyetes" Priorat // Spain 2005 160 70% Carinena, 25% Garnatxa, and 5% Syrah. Opaque purple-colored, it reveals an alluring bouquet of crushed rock, scorched earth, black cherry, blackberry, and blueberry. Opulent on the palate, this ripe, chewy effort has gobs of flavor. 94 WA. R. Lopez de Heredia, Vina Bosconia Gran Reserva // Rioja, Spain 1991 165 This mature Tempranillo shows a light brick color, with delicate aromas of spice, dried fruit and rose. Supple and still lively, offering flavors of dried berry, tea, vanilla and spice. 90 WS. Vega Sicilia Unico Gran Reserva // Ribera del Duero, Spain 1996 399 Ethereal bouquet of smoke, pencil lead, violets, leather, incense, black cherry, and blackberry. 95 WA.

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ITALIAN REDS

Amarone 9-3 Bolla Amarone della Valpolicella // Veneto, Italy 2006 75 The floral, nutty nose blends with raisin on the full- to medium-bodied palate, with firm tannins.

13-16 Le Ragose Amarone della Valpolicella // Veneto, Itally 2004 115 A pretty, understated wine with lovely inner perfume in its sweet roses, raspberries, spices and licorice. The tannins remain fine and silky throughout, conveying an impression of elegance. The wine offers outstanding length as well as balance. 92 WA. 9-4 Nicolis Amarone della Valpolicella Classico "Ambrosan" // Veneto, Italy 2001 135 Has an intriguing nose, offering concentrated currant and raisin, with hints of tar and freshly ground black pepper. Full-bodied, with fine, fruit- and mineral-coated tannins that provide a long, clean-cut finish. 91 WS. Zenato Amarone della Valpolicella Classico // Veneto, Italy 2000 150 Enticing aromas of slightly raisiny fruit, with spices and wet stone. Full-bodied, with a fresh, fruity palate, a good mineral backbone and a long finish. 90 WS. Bertani Amarone della Valpolicella // Veneto, Italy 2001 160 The perfumed red cherry fruit is remarkably fresh for a wine of this age and the plumpness balances the wines tannins with notable elegance. 92 WA.

9-7

9-5

16-22 Michele Castellani Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Cinque Stelle // 160 Veneto, Italy 2005 Dense, with concentrated, balanced aromas of prune, date and polished oak. Full and compact, delivering layers of ripe fruit and fine, soft tannins that give a light pull on the long, long finish. A super Amarone, with elegance and length. Like cashmere. 96 WS. B Marion Amarone della Valpolicella Classico // Veneto, Italy 2006 215 Notes of mature red fruits such as cherries, dried prunes, woodland fruits, blackberries and blueberries lead to a palate of soft ample structure that confirms the nose, ending with spices, black pepper, canella and licorice. 94 WA. Michele Castellani Amarone della Valpolicella Classico "Cinque Stelle" // 225 Veneto, Italy 2007 Tar and leather notes, with dense tannins, frame and focus this powerful red, which is layered with subtle hints of kirsch, coffee liqueur, dried herbs and grilled nuts. It's tightly meshed right now, but with a seamlessness that creates an overall elegant stylethe proverbial iron fist in a velvet glove. The very long finish echoes smoke and kirsch notes. 95 WS. Allegrini Amarone della Valpoicella Classico // Veneto, Italy 1999 250 A modern style, with densely packed plum and berry on the nose, with light licorice and eucalyptus notes. Full-bodied, with a core of crushed black fruit, firm tannins and a long, long minerally finish. 93 WS.

13-1

2-27

68

Barbaresco 8-22 Rivetto "Ce' Vanin" Barbaresco // Piedmont, Italy 2005 65 Aromas of dried mushroom, tar and rose. Medium- to full-bodied, with fine tannins and a medium finish. Bright and fruity. Balanced. 90 WS. Ceretto Barbaresco, Asij // Piedmont, Italy 2008 85 Expressive up-front fruit and an accessible personality. It shows excellent depth in its dark red cherries, plums and spices. 88 WA.

8-24

13-13 Sottimano Barbaresco, Fausoni // Piedmont, Italy 2005 150 There's very ripe strawberry on the nose, almost overripe. Full-bodied and very concentrated, with layers of chewy tannins and a long finish. 93 WS. 8-23 Sottimano Barbaresco, Fausoni // Piedmont, Italy 2006 120 Offers dried flowers, with hints of oak, plum skin and citrus fruit. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a chewy finish. 92 WS. Sottimano Barbaresco, Fausoni // Piedmont, Italy 2007 135 Dark red fruit, crushed flowers, licorice and sweet baking spices come together beautifully in this ripe, sensual Barbaresco. There is a wonderful richness to the fruit that virtually covers the tannins, all while avoiding any sense of heaviness. Simply put, the Fausoni is an overachiever in this vintage. 92 WA.

10-12 Sottimano Barbaresco Riserva // Piedmont, Italy 2005 215 Dark fruit, smoke, leather and tar are just some of the notes that linger on the massive yet impressively round, harmonious close. 94 WA. 8-27 Bruno Giacosa Barbaresco, Rabaja // Piedmont, Italy 2005 230 There's wonderful perfumes in this young Barbaresco, with flowers and ripe berries, as well as strawberry. Full-bodied, chewy and long. Massive on the finish. 95 WS. Gaja Barbaresco // Piedmont, Italy 1995 485 Hard to tell it apart from the single-vineyard crus because it's so massive while also offering an incredibly dense texture. Shows mineral, stonelike, spicy and black currant character, while some new oak plays subtly in the background. 94 WS.

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69

Barolo 8-15 Damilano "Lecinquevigne" Barolo // Piedmont, Italy 2004 Ripe berry and hints of meat and mushroom. Full-bodied, with round, chewy tannins. 88 WS. 60

5-3

Damilano "Lecinquevigne" Barolo // Piedmont, Italy 2006 70 This perfumed red evokes flowers and spice, with elegance. The wild cherry, licorice, tobacco and mineral notes lead to a lean, tightly wound finish. 90 WS. Marchesi di Barolo, Barolo // Piedmont, Italy 2006 95 Muscular, with cherry, plum, licorice and spice flavors, this red is nonetheless smooth and intense, without being heavy or extracted. Ends with a leather and tobacco finish. 93 WS. Paolo Scavino Barolo // Piedmont, Italy 2007 100 Ripe bilberry and raspberry notes are appealing in this open, approachable Barolo. Moderately firm, integrated tannins hold up the finish. 90 WS. Cordero di Montezemolo Barolo, Monfalletto // Piedmont, Italy 2007 120 Round and forward, showing cherry and strawberry flavors, this is pure and focused, with a bright structure underlining the fruit. Offers lovely balance and a lingering finish. 93 WS.

8-21

11-32 Fratelli Brovia Barolo "Ca' Mia" // Piedmont, Italy 2003 120 The more compact soils of Serralunga give this wine a deeper core of plums and dark cherries, along with tar, smoke and menthol notes that gradually emerge. It offers superb richness and purity in a bold, intense style. 92 WA. B Damilano Barolo, Cannubi // Piedmont, Italy 2006 155 Starts out supple, with the smooth texture framing black cherry, bitter almond and licorice notes. A firm base of tannins is offset by sweet fruit, as this glides to a lingering aftertaste of tobacco, spice and cherry. 94 WS. Marziano Abbona Barolo, Terlo Ravera // Piedmont, Italy 2006 160 Raspberry, cherry, iron and floral notes mark this silky red, which is fresh and complex at once, with a refined structure, great harmony and elegance. Almost approachable now, but the long finish and tight tannins suggest this has plenty of life ahead. 96 WS. Luigi Einaudi Barolo, Costa Grimaldi // Piedmont, Italy 2006 160 The 2006 Barolo Costa Grimaldi reveals superb intensity in its dark cherries, violets, menthol and spices. Medium to full in body, the Costa Grimaldi reveals exceptional length all the way through to the pure, finessed finish. 94 WA. Domenico Clerico Barolo, Ciabot Mentin Ginestra // Piedmont, Italy 1997 425 Dark ruby, with a garnet edge. Violet, toasty oak, blackberry and plum. Full-bodied, with amazing fruit and super-ripe tannins. It's velvety and powerful. Still needs a lot of time. Spellbinding. Huge. 98WS. Domenico Clerico Barolo, Ciabot Mentin Ginestra // Piedmont, Italy 1998 425 A brick house of a wine, with so much structure. Strawberry and raspberry tart on the nose. Full-bodied, with big chewy tannins and a fresh fruit finish. 98 WS.

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8-29

5-2

70

3-18

Domenico Clerico Barolo, Ciabot Mentin Ginestra // Piedmont, Italy 2000 305 Fantastic aromas of cinnamon, violets and blackberries follow through to a full-bodied palate with supersilky tannins and a beautiful long, long finish. All in depth and finesse. A top 2000 Barolo from the 37-acre Ginestra vineyard outside Monforte d'Alba. 95 WS.

13-26 Domenico Clerico Barolo, Ciabot Mentin Ginestra // Piedmont, Italy 2005 225 Endless layers of sweet spices, menthol, violets and dark fruit on a powerful, authoritative frame. This is a beautifully defined, sculpted wine of the very highest level. Tar, smoke and licorice linger on the finish. 96 WA. 95 WS. 1-4 Domenico Clerico Barolo, Ciabot Mentin Ginestra // Piedmont, Italy 2007 285 Deep, sensual layers of fruit flow from the glass as this full-throttle, intense Barolo reveals its profound, breathtaking personality. The 2007 shows tons of Ginestra nuance, but with extra dimensions to the fruit that literally covers every nook and cranny of the palate. 98 WA. Domenico Clerico Barolo, Pajana // Piedmont, Italy 2001 305 Blackberry, spice and chocolate aromas and flavors follow through to a full-bodied palate, with chewy tannins and a long, long finish. 95 WS.

4-32

16-24 Domenico Clerico Barolo, Pajana // Piedmont, Italy 2004 250 Clerico's 2004 Barolo Pajana is an explosive wine loaded with layers of deeply spiced dark fruit. It is a notably pure, focused version of this wine that is totally compelling for its overall balance. The southfacing Pajana vineyard tends to give a more fruit-driven style of Barolo but the 2004 is a beautifully complete wine. 95 WS. 3-12 Domenico Clerico Barolo, Pajana // Piedmont, Italy 2006 265 There is lovely definition to be found as this classic feeling, mid-weight Pajana opens up in the glass. Layers of ripe dark fruit, spices, flowers, licorice and minerals develop seamlessly through to the close. I am floored by the wines volume, depth and length. Quite simply, this is a magnificent effort from Clerico. 96 WA. Domenico Clerico Barolo, Pajana // Piedmont, Italy 2007 280 Waves of intense, beautifully delineated fruit flow onto the palate as the wine opens up in the glass. Sumptuous and elegant through and through, the Pajana shows marvelous delineation and clean, minerally notes that underpin the opulence of the fruit. This is a marvelous, totally complete Pajana of the highest level. 96 WA. Bruno Giacosa Barolo, Le Rocche del Falletto // Piedmont, Italy 2005 300 Displays pure strawberry and raspberry, with notes of rose. Full-bodied, with ultrarefined tannins and a persistent finish. A wine with grace, finesse and wonderful depth. 94 WS. 96 WA. Domenico Clerico Barolo, Percristina // Piedmont, Italy 2000 600 Dark ruby color, with fabulous aromas of blackberries, toasted oak and cedar. Turns to fresh herbs and wild berries. Full-bodied, with big, velvety tannins and lots of ripe fruit. Amazing finish of toasted oak. The greatest wine ever from Clerico. 100 WS. Domenico Clerico Barolo, Percristina // Piedmont, Italy 2004 400 Sweeps across the palate with masses of silky, dense fruit framed by firm, yet almost impossibly elegant tannins. This is an utterly captivating Barolo for its sheer power, richness and opulence. Despite the wines size, there is plenty of detail and nuance to explore in this utterly sensual, captivating Percristina. 97 WA. 71

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8-19

1-23

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5-29

Pio Cesare Barolo, Ornato // Piedmont, Italy 1996 455 Fabulous aromas of plum, flowers and light meat. Full-bodied, with round, lightly chewy tannins and a long, long finish. Concentrated and exotic. 96 WS.

16-19 Pio Cesare Barolo, Ornato // Piedmont, Italy 2000 420 Loads of crushed flowers and berries, with hints of licorice. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a long, long finish. A decadent and wild wine with loads of character. 95 WS.

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Brunello di Montalcino 8-17 Argiano Brunello di Montalcino // Tuscany, Italy 2007 120 The 2007 Brunello di Montalcino is rich, deep and resonant. It shows fabulous depth and richness, with seemingly endless layers of fruit that caress the palate. Dark red cherries, savory herbs, tobacco and licorice linger on the textured, creamy finish. This is another terrific effort from Argiano. 93 WA. Vitanza Brunello di Montalcino // Tuscany, Italy 2005 120 Very impressive for the vintage, with loads of crushed dark berries, spices, hints of leather, and flowers. Full-bodied, with soft and silky tannins and a long finish of sweet fruit. 92 WS. Vitanza Brunello di Montalcino Tradizione // Tuscany, Italy 2006 125 Lively and delicate, offering cherry, raspberry, floral and spice flavors, with touches of chocolate and mineral. Offers fine balance and harmony, but also well-structured, with a sweet, spicy finish. 93 WS. Casanova di Neri Brunello di Montalcino // Tuscany, Italy 2004 Blackberries and blueberries on the nose. Full-bodied, with silky and racy tannin. 91 WS. 130

9-1

8-30

16-29 Collemattoni Brunello di Montalcino // Tuscany, Italy 2004 140 Delivers fabulous aromas of crushed raspberries, cherries and strawberries, with flowers and a hint of vanilla bean. Full-bodied, with a solid core of fruit and silky tannins. 95 WS. 8-31 Corte Pavone Brunello di Montalcino // Tuscany, Italy 2004 150 Beautiful aromas of plum, blackberry and chocolate, with hints of spices. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a long, caressing finish. Long, rich and refined. Classy. 95 WS.

13-28 Capanna Brunello di Montalcino // Tuscany, Italy 2006 160 Smoke, tar, roses and licorice develop on the mid-palate, adding further complexity. The round, harmonious finish is equally impressive. This is a decidedly young, vibrant wine with a long, future ahead of it. The wines sheer concentration and depth are remarkable. 94 WA. 15-29 Poggio Antico Brunello di Montalcino Riserva // Tuscany, Italy 2001 165 Gorgeous aromas of crushed blackberry, rose and mineral follow through to a full-bodied palate, with velvety tannins and a long, long finish. Rich, layered and powerful. 93 WS. 13-22 San Polino Brunello di Montalcino // Tuscany, Italy 2006 170 There's great purity to the black cherry and black currant flavors in this red, with support from tobacco and iron notes, along with a hint of chocolate as this winds down. Well-structured and harmonious, with excellent potential and fine length. 95 WS. 16-12 Corte Pavone Brunello di Montalcino Riserva // Tuscany, Italy 2001 175 Extremely aromatic aromas of blackberry, with hints of vanilla. Full-bodied, with lots of fruit and cream character, tangy acidity and a long finish. 91 WS. 6-19 Il Poggione Brunello di Montalcino // Tuscany, Italy 2006 180 The ripeness of the vintage meets a classic sense of structure as this bold, full-bodied wine takes shape in the glass. The 2006 doesnt have the elegance or finesse of the 2004, instead it offers a decidedly more virile, masculine expression of Sangiovese. Dark cherries, tobacco, smoke and underbrush wrap around a wall of tannin as the finish builds to a majestic close. 94 WA.

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6-13

Salicutti "Piagionne" Brunello di Montalcino // Tuscany, Italy 2004 180 Possesses striking depth, transparency and weightlessness as it opens up in the glass. This deeplyscented, layered Brunello offers superb pedigree and class in its ripe red cherries, wild herbs, tobacco, spices and licorice, with a powerful blast of melted road tar that provides the final exclamation point. 95 WA. Terralsole Brunello di Montalcino Riserva // Tuscany, Italy 2004 185 This changes all the time as you taste it, with aromas of dark fruit and porcini mushroom turning to cigar box and dried flowers. Full-bodied, with masses of fruit and chewy tannins. Really powerful and long. 96 WS.

7-19

14-24 Il Poggione Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Vigna Paganelli // Tuscany, Italy 2004 210 The 2004 Brunello di Montalcino Riserva Vigna Paganelli emerges from the glass with masses of scorched earth, leather, tar, licorice, menthol and dark fruit. The Riserva shows a touch more inner sweetness, richness and depth in its fruit than the regular bottling. 96 WA. 4-2 Altesino Brunello di Montalcino // Tuscany, Italy 1997 250 Wonderfully floral aromas, with plenty of ripe fruit and hints of minerals and spices. Full-bodied and chunky, with well-integrated tannins and a long finish. Fresh and refined. 91 WS. Casanova di Neri Brunello di Montalcino Tenuta Nuova // Tuscany, Italy 1997 265 Wonderfully floral aromas, with plenty of ripe fruit and hints of minerals and spices. Full-bodied and chunky, with well-integrated tannins and a long finish. Fresh and refined. 94 WS.

4-5

14-19 Gaja, Pieve Santa Restituta Brunello di Montalcino "Rennina" // Tuscany, Italy 2006 275 The 2006 Brunello di Montalcino Rennina is super-impressive. The wine literally dazzles the palate with layers of vibrant red berries, flowers and subtle French oak. In 2006, the Rennina shows gorgeous depth and purity, all in the wines signature style of finesse and restraint. A long, beautifully-articulated finish adds the last layers of elegance. This is a fabulous effort from Angelo Gaja and his team. 15-6 Ruffino Brunello do Montalcino, Tenuta Greppone Mazzi // Tuscany, Italy 1997 275 Fantastic red. Complex aromas of spices, tanned leather and ripe fruit follow through to a mediumbodied palate, with a dense mouthfeel and a lengthy finish. 92 WS. Casanova di Neri Brunello di Montalcino "Cerretalto" // Tuscany, Italy 1995 345 Stunning. This blockbuster old-vine wine is dark in color, with beautiful aromas of crushed berries, flowers and grilled meat. It's full-bodied, with big chewy tannins and loads of fruit. The finish goes on and on. 95 WS. Lisini Brunello di Montalcino "Ugolaia" // Tuscany, Italy 1997 395 Dark ruby-garnet. Intense aromas of blackberry and grilled meat. Green and sweet tobacco. Fullbodied, with big and round tannins and a long, caressing finish. 96 WS.

9-8

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74

Chianti / Chianti Classico 9-27 Tramonti Chianti Classico // Tuscany, Italy 2004 Aromas of raisins and spices follow through to a full-bodied palate, with soft tannins. Castello d'Albola "Riserva" Chianti Classico // Tuscany, Italy 2005 Fruity, showing dried cherry and berry on the nose and palate, with a mahogany undertone. 60

3-21

65

1-14

Casa Emma Chianti Classico // Tuscany, Italy 2007 65 Principally produced with Sangiovese grapes, it is a balanced wine, with a rich perfume from which cherry and plum distinguish themselves, combined with a good spice.

13-25 Querciabella Chianti Classico // Tuscany, Italy 2008 70 This Chianti (95% Sangiovese, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon) opens to reveal a super-elegant expression of fresh berries, flowers and tobacco.

75

"Super Tuscans" 2-1 Tenuta Rocca del MonteMassi "Sassabruna" // Tuscany, Italy 2008 60 Dark cherries and red plums are accented by the barrique with a hint of vanillin, but more so there is a floral component backed up by a dark earthy woodsy tree bark tinge to the nose. On the palate the fruits turn a bit darker towards the blueberries and same plums with the flowers and dark earth flavors staying consistent. Campo al Mare // Tuscany, Italy 2009 60 Alluring aromas of flowers, cherry, boysenberry and mineral introduce this complex, silky red. The firm structure emerges as this persists through the long, iron-tinged aftertaste. Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. 93 WS. Bibi Graetz "Grilli del Testamatta" // Tuscany, Italy 2007 75 Shows beautiful, subtle aromas of sweet berries, vanilla, cream and cherry. Full-bodied, with a tight mouthfeel of silky tannins and fresh fruit Sangiovese, Canaiolo and Colorino. 91 WS. Ruffino Modus // Tuscany, Italy 2008 75 A sleek, pristine red, with vibrant acidity behind its cherry, strawberry and mineral aromas and flavors. The oak shows a light touch, and this resonates on the lively finish. Montepeloso "Eneo" // Tuscany, Italy 2008 90 Sangiovese and Montepulciano based blend. Wines from Montepeloso are reference-point wines for Tuscany. Perenial 92+. NYR. Ca'Marcanda (Gaja) "Promis" // Tuscany, Italy 2009 100 Medium-deep red. Complex, scented nose offers red currant, plum, mint and oregano. Juicy, silky and sweet, with highly nuanced flavors of ripe yet fresh red and dark berries complicated by aromatic herbs and flowers. A great value for one of Angelo gaja's wines! NYR Orma "Orma" // Tuscany, Italy 2006 125 Tobacco, chocolate, currant and licorice aromas follow through to a full body, with very refined tannins and a long, caressing finish. Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. 93 WS.

4-25

14-7

2-23

4-17

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9-16

10-25 Ca' Marcanda (Gaja) "Magari" // Tuscany, Italy 2007 130 Gorgeous nose redolent of grilled herbs, menthol, spices and dark fruit. This is a relatively lithe Magari that convinces for its length, balance and finessed personality. Magari is 50% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon and 25% Cabernet Franc. 92 WS. 4-13 Tenimenti d'Alessandro "Il Bosco" // Tuscany, Italy 2006 155 Intense licorice, blackberry, mineral, sandalwood and flowers on the nose. Full-bodied, with silky, superpolished tannins that turn to a butterscotch, toffee, berry and chocolate aftertaste, which has just a hint of meat and spice. Tannic and powerful, yet balanced. 95 WS. Brancaia "Ilatraia" // Tuscany, Italy 2006 155 Super-ripe dark cherries are intermingled with spices, minerals and French oak in this generous, expansive wine. There is tons of length here to go along with the wines sumptuous, generous personality. 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Sangiovese, 10% Petit Verdot. 93 WA.

9-10

76

9-15

Brancaia "Il Blu" // Tuscany, Italy 2006 160 50% Sangiovese, 45% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. is a striking wine loaded with vibrant dark, violets, sweet spices and French oak in a powerful, structured style. Naturally the Blu doesnt show the warmth of the Ilatraia but it does possess a touch more freshness and finesse. 95 WA.

16-28 Antinori, Guado al Tasso // Tuscany, Italy 1998 320 Wonderful balance here. Violet and berry aromas, with intense tarragon and currant character. Fullbodied and gorgeous, with wonderful finesse and subtlety. Very long. 95 WS. 9-11 Antinori, Guado al Tasso // Tuscany, Italy 2006 160 This is racy and refined red shows intense aromas of blackberry, currant and dried flowers that follow through to a full body, with sleek, minerally undertones and superpolished tannins. 65% Cabernet, 30% Merlot, 5% Syrah. 95 WS. Sette Ponti "Oreno" // Tuscany, Italy 2006 170 Loads of black licorice, blackberry and toasty oak. Full-bodied, with supersilky tannins. 96 WS.

9-14

12-16 Antinori "Tignanello" // Tuscany, Italy 2006 175 Masses of dark red fruit, scorched earth and sweet oak emerge as this richly-textured Tignanello flows from the glass. The wine possesses superb density; all it needs is another few years to come together. Today it is remarkably vibrant and primary. Tignanello is 85% Sangiovese, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cabernet Franc. 92WA. 8-10 Antinori "Tignanello" // Tuscany, Italy 2007 195 Wonderfully ripe and seductive in its dark cherries, flowers, spices, tobacco, sage, cedar, mint and minerals. This is as opulent a Tignanello as I have ever tasted but there is just enough acidity and structure from the Sangiovese to keep things from going over the top. The dense, muscular fruit follows through to an impeccable finish with no hard edges and impossibly fine, silky tannins. Simply put, the 2007 is a magnificent Tignanello. The 2007 Tignanello is 80% Sangiovese aged in 300-liter French oak barrels (1/3 new), 15% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cabernet Franc. 95 WA.

15-25 Antinori "Tignanello" // Tuscany, Italy 2008 195 The 2008 Tignanello is unquestionably one of the wines of the vintage. The 2008 isnt a huge or obvious Tignanello, rather it is a wine that impresses for its sublime elegance and precision. Understated layers of fruit caress the palate like cashmere in this impeccable, soft wine. There is not a hard edge to be found. Black cherries, tobacco, smoke and licorice are some of the notes that come through on the finish. The flavor profile is decidedly on the dark side, but the wines structure is medium in body and intensity. In 2008 the Tignanello has more energy, focus and length than the Solaia. It is a fabulous achievement! 94 WA. 9-22 Podere Forte Guardiavigna // Tuscany, Italy 2006 220 Blackberries, blueberries, grilled herbs, minerals and tar emerge from this dark, brooding beauty. The wine possesses gorgeous inner perfume and an utterly captivating personality. Guardavigna is Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Sangiovese. 96 WA. Montevertine "Le Pergole Torte" // Tuscany, Italy 2007 230 The 2007 Le Pergole Torte (Sangiovese) is a rock star wine, and then some. The sheer integrity and purity of the fruit is breathtaking, as is frankly everything about this wine. Wonderfully rich, deep and seductive. 96 WA.

2-10

77

13-8

Fontodi "Flaccianello" // Tuscany, Italy 2007 250 Sweeps across the palate with sensual layers of candied cherries, violets, spices and minerals. Dark, mentholated notes develop in the glass, adding further dimensions of inner sweetness, weight and complexity to this Tuscan thoroughbred. 96 WA. Tenuta San Guido "Sassicaia" // Tuscany, Italy 2007 285 Explodes onto the palate with masses of rich, opulent fruit that caress the palate with gorgeous length and a seamless beauty that is hard to fully capture. Dark wild cherries, plums, spices, minerals and herbs develop in the glass. This is an especially bold, perhaps slightly uncharacteristic Sassicaia in its extroverted personality. 95 WA.

9-12

10-17 Tenuta San Guido "Sassicaia" // Tuscany, Italy 2008 315 The 2008 Sassicaia is a rich, deep wine imbued with notable class in its black cherries, plums, grilled herbs, minerals and smoke. The 2008 is a decidedly buttoned-up, firm Sassicaia that is currently holding back much of its potential, unlike the 2006 and 2007, both of which were far more obvious wines. Readers who can afford to wait will be treated to a sublime wine once this settles down in bottle. Muscular, firm tannins frame the exquisite finish in this dark, implosive Sassicaia. The 2008 Sassicaia is 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Cabernet Franc. The wine spent 24 months in French oak barrels. 96 WA. 13-30 Tenuta San Guido "Sassicaia" // Tuscany, Italy 2009 275 The 2009 Sassicaia is unusually big, rich and opulent. Layers of fruit saturate the palate as the 2009 explodes from the glass with a heady melange of dark berries, plums, menthol, licorice and new leather. This is an especially racy Sassicaia. 94 WA. 9-17 Tenuta dell' Ornellaia "Masseto" // Tuscany, Italy 2007 500 A very powerful and rich Merlot-based red that delivers so much currant bush, tobacco and toasty oak character. Full and layered. Goes on for minutes on the palate. 97 WS.

14-15 Tenuta dell' Ornellaia "Masseto" // Tuscany, Italy 2008 500 Freshly cut flowers, crushed rocks, spices and black cherries are some of the aromas and flavors that emerge from the 2008. This is an exceptionally beautiful Masseto that impresses for its elegance. The wine fleshes out nicely in the glass, while retaining its refined personality. 96 WA.

78

Other Italian

3-11

Allegrini "Palazzo della Torre" // Veneto, Italy 2007 45 Baby Amarone. Enticing scents of chocolate, espresso, dark fruit, licorice and new leather emerge. 70% Corvina, 25% Rondinella and 5% Sangiovese. 90 WA. Vigne Nuove di Musella Valpolicella Superiore // Italy 2009 45 A more traditional style, with a tarry note running through flavors of spiced cherry, plum and tea leaf, all framed by well-meshed tannins and subtle acidity, resulting in a wine more powerful than the first sip suggests. 90 WA. Mustilli Grifo di Rocca // Campania, Italy 2005 Made from 100% Aglianico grapes. Plum, blackberry, vanilla, and fennel. 45

2-29

9-25

9-21

Il Poggione Rosso di Montalcino // Tuscany, Italy 2007 55 Soft, floral wine with pretty red fruits that meld into tobacco, spices and minerals. The wine possesses lovely inner perfume to match its accessible personality. 90 WA. Domenico Clerico Barbera d' Alba "Trevigne" // Piedmont, Italy 2008 60 Pretty, mid-weight style for this wine, with layers of perfumed dark fruit. There is an attractive spiciness to the Trevigne. 88 WA. Villa Girardi Recioto della Valpolicella // Veneto, Italy 2003 95 Considered by some to be a desert wine because of its inert sweetness, it is still considerably less sweet than any port. Gaja Costa Russi// Langhe, Italy 2001 315 A silky, beautiful wine, with plum and berry character. Full-bodied, with fine tannins and a caressing texture. 95 WS. Gaja Sori San Lorenzo // Langhe, Italy 2001 315 A very silky wine with berry, cedar, and tobacco character. Full-bodied, with fine tannins and a fresh finish. 96 WS. Gaja Sori Tildin // Langhe, Italy 2001 315 This is pure fruit. Aromas of raspberries, cherries and blackberries jump from the glass. Full-bodied, with ultrafine tannins. 95 WS.

5-5

9-29

10-3

10-1

9-31

11-10 Gaja Conteisa // Langhe, Italy 2003 350 Offers fabulous aromas of blueberry and lilac. Full-bodied, with a solid core of ripe fruit and round, caressing tannins. This is deep and concentrated, yet wonderfully balanced. Superb. 96 WS.

79

FRENCH REDS

Bordeaux Bordeaux Superieur 12-27 Chateau Bel Air // Bordeaux, France 2009 30 This has a good direct core of black currant and dark tobacco, with a loamy hint hanging on the finish. 87 WS. 15-10 Chateau Haut Nadeau, Bordeaux Superieur // France 2009 50 Deep red colour and red fruit nose. The taste is dominated by red fruit flavours like blackcurrant and blueberry. Very harmonious. 75% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon.

Haut-Medoc 10-9 Chateau Haut Beyzac // Haut-Medoc, France 2005 65 Attractive aromas of cedar, red currants, damp earth, and spice box lead to a medium-bodied, lush palate of black fruits.

10-13 Chateau de Braude // Haut-Medoc, France 2009 75 Silky, with a structured nose of red fruits, vanilla, and small amounts of oak. Elegant and big on the palate. 5-15 Chateau Senejac // Haut-Medoc, France 2005 95 There's lots of grapey character, with blackberry and hints of smoky oak. Full-bodied, with lovely soft tannins and a long, caressing finish. 90 WS.

80

Pauillac 2-8 Chateau Pontet-Canet // Pauillac, France 1995 355 Fabulous nose of crushed currants, blackberries and forest flowers. Full-bodied, with plenty of ripe fruit and silky tannins. 94 WS. Chateau Pontet-Canet // Pauillac, France 2000 345 Extremely pretty aromas of mineral, blackberry and raspberry. Full-bodied, with well-integrated tannins and a medium finish. 94 WA. Chateau Pontet-Canet // Pauillac, France 2009 500 An amazing wine in every sense, this classic, full-bodied Pauillac is the quintessential Pontet Canet from proprietor Alfred Tesseron, who continues to reduce yields and farms his vineyards biodynamically a rarity in Bordeaux. Black as a moonless night, the 2009 Pontet Canet offers up notes of incense, graphite, smoke, licorice, creme de cassis and blackberries. A wine of irrefutable purity, laser-like precision, colossal weight and richness, and sensational freshness, this is a tour de force in winemaking that is capable of lasting 50 or more years. The tannins are elevated, but they are sweet and beautifully integrated as are the acidity, wood and alcohol (which must be in excess of 14%). This vineyard, which is situated on the high plateau of Pauillac adjacent to Mouton Rothschild, appears to have done everything perfectly in 2009. 100 WA. Chateau Lynch Bages // Pauillac, France 1989 515 Delivers so much blackberry, leather and dried fruits on the nose. Full-bodied, with ultrapolished tannins and a silky mouthfeel. The palate turns to leaves, cedar and dried berries on the finish, which goes on and on. 96 WS.

15-7

16-8

10-26 Chateau Mouton-Rothschild // Pauillac, France 1995 525 A blend of 72% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Cabernet Franc, and 19% Merlot, it reveals an opaque purple color, and reluctant aromas of cassis, truffles, coffee, licorice, and spice. In the mouth, the wine is "great stuff," with superb density, a full-bodied personality, rich mid-palate, and a layered, profound finish that lasts for 40+ seconds. 95 WA. 16-11 Chateau Pichon-Longueville Baron // Pauillac, France 1989 550 What a nose here, from crushed mulberry to tanned leather to tar. Full-bodied, with big, velvety tannins that are soft and caressing, like cashmere. 95 WS. 95 WA.

81

Pessac-Leognan 2-3 Chateau de Rochemorin // Pessac-Leognan, France 2005 60 Aromas of blackberry, tobacco and coffee follow through to a full body, with soft, round tannins and a chocolate, berry and smoke aftertaste. 89 WS. Chateau Smith-Haut-Lafitte // Pessac-Leognan, France 2004 180 A sensational effort and one of the stars of the vintage, Smith-Haut-Lafittes 2004 possesses an inky/blue/purple-tinged color as well as a sumptuous nose of lead pencil shavings, spring flowers, blueberries, and blackberries. Surprisingly full-bodied for the vintage with stunning concentration, purity, and overall harmony, this is another brilliant wine. 93 WA. Chateau Haut Bailly // Pessac-Leognan, France 2008 200 Notes of lead pencil shavings, charcoal, damp earth, black cherries and black currants intermixed with a hint of subtle barbecue smoke are present in this classic, quintessential Graves. Medium-bodied with an emerging, precocious complexity, it is a super-pure, beautifully textured, long wine that can be drunk now. 96 WA. Chateau Pape Clement // Pessac-Leognan, France 1998 385 An amazing nose of sweet tobacco, orange peel, cigar box and exotic fruit. Lots of tar too. Full-bodied, with exotic and spicy flavors that are slightly decadent and funky, but wild and wonderful, from leather to dried fruits. 95 WS.

8-25

15-21 Chateau Pape Clement // Pessac-Leognan, France 2000 375 A 50/50 blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, the wine displays loads of scorched earth and smoky barbecue scents along with blueberry, black raspberry and black currant. The wine is expansive, has a savory, broad palate and a full-bodied mouthfeel, yet possesses vivid purity and uplift. 96 WA. 16-3 Chateau La Mission Haut Brion // Pessac-Leognan, France 2005 1200 The Indian spices and blackberry on the nose are so enticing and inspiring, leading to a full-bodied palate, with very polished tannins that caress. Goes on and on as this builds on the palate, with a mineral and berry aftertaste. 97 WS. 97 WA.

82

Pomerol 16-26 Chateau L'Evangile // Pomerol, France 1996 200 Aromas of chocolate, blackberry and spices follow through to a full-bodied palate, with velvety tannins and a long chewy finish. Extremely well done for the vintage. 90 WS. 90 WA. 10-20 Chateau L'Eglise Clinet // Pomerol, France 2004 220 Violet, blackberry, vanilla and fresh leather follow through to a full-bodied palate, with velvety tannins and a long finish. 92 WS. 93WA. 11-12 Chateau Clinet // Pomerol, France 1995 400 The 1995 Clinet represents the essence of Pomerol. The blackberry, cassis liqueur-like fruit of this wine is awesome. The color is saturated black/purple, and the wine extremely full-bodied and powerful with layers of glycerin-imbued fruit, massive richness, plenty of licorice, blackberry, and cassis flavors, full body, and a thick, unctuous texture. 96 WA. 1-31 Chateau Clos l'Eglise // Pomerol, France 2001 400 The 2001 offers a huge spectrum of aromas, including notes of smoke, mocha, chocolate, coffee, and loads of blackberry, cherry, and currant fruit. The superb aromatics are followed by an elegant, medium-bodied, deliciously supple-textured, expansive, fleshy, beautifully pure, well-delineated Pomerol. 95 WA.

16-10 Vieux-Chateau-Certan // Pomerol, France 2000 515 Dark and brooding, with chocolate, game and berry aromas. Full-bodied and very silky, with refined tannins and a long, lingering finish. 95 WS. 16-9 Chateau La Fleur Petrus // Pomerol, France 2000 525 A deep plum/ruby color is followed by aromas of mocha, kirsch liqueur, loamy soil, spice box, and licorice. It is an opulent, medium to full-bodied, big, substantial yet elegant, precise Pomerol displaying beautiful purity. 93 WA.

83

Saint Emillion 1-21 Chateau Grand Bert // St. Emillion, France 2006 65 A powerful nose, large presence in mouth, an almost surprising length on the palate: light and noble leather and currant.

15-19 La Couspaude // St. Emillion, France 1998 155 Displays flamboyant notes of toasty new oak as well as an exotic personality. Unctuous, thick, fullbodied, seamless flavors redolent with plums, cherry liqueur, and vanillin cascade over the palate. Low acidity and plush, concentrated, jammy fruit add to the impressive, hedonistic qualities of this explosively rich wine. 92 WA. 10-19 Chateau Canon // St. Emillion, France 2000 220 Loads of toasted oak on this one, with very ripe fruit character. Full-bodied, and very concentrated, yet the tannins are round and creamy. Smoky finish. 93 WS. 5-20 Chateau Figeac // St. Emillion, France 1982 420 A dense plum/garnet color with a slight lightening at the edge is followed by a sensational Figeac nose of mint, fruitcake, Asian spices, gobs of sweet black and red fruits, and a smoky component in the background. Medium to full-bodied with lovely freshness. 94 WA. 93 WS. Chateau Angelus // St. Emillion, France 1996 210 Complex and intense aromas of forest floor, wild berries and dried flowers. Full-bodied, with ultrasilky tannins and a long, long finish. Racy and classy. 92 WS. Chateau Angelus // St. Emillion, France 2005 750 Black purple in color, with coffee, blackberry and currant on the nose. Full-bodied, with supervelvety tannins and a long aftertaste of toasty oak and ripe fruit. 98 WA. 96 WS. Chateau Cheval Blanc // St. Emillion, France 1983 800 A giant of a wine. The complex aromas and thickly textured flavors range from plum and raisin to coffee, minerals and mint. Not so elegant as a typical Cheval; more in the mold of the powerful '47 and legendary '21. 96 WS. Chateau Bellevue-Mondotte // St. Emillion, France 2005 850 Sadly, there are only 4,000 bottles of this inky/purple-hued St.-Emilion. It boasts an extraordinary perfume of graphite, blackberries, cassis, and sweet kirsch intermixed with notes of incense, spice box, licorice, and subtle wood. Stunningly rich with full body, zesty acidity, and high but velvety tannins, the final blend is composed of 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. 99 WA

7-12

2-31

16-7

9-24

84

Saint Estephe 9-2 Cos d' Estournel // St. Estephe, France 1995 450 A wine of extraordinary intensity and accessibility, the 1995 Cos d'Estournel is a sexier, more hedonistic offering than the muscular, backward 1996. Opulent, with forward aromatics (gobs of black fruits intermixed with toasty pain grille scents and a boatload of spice), this terrific Cos possesses remarkable intensity, full body, and layers of jammy fruit nicely framed by the wine's new oak. 95 WS. 95 WA. 165

10-15 Cos d' Estournel // St. Estephe, France 2002

This beauty has a dense purple color to the rim and a classic, noble nose of graphite intermixed with black currant, spice box, licorice, and red and black fruits. Medium to full-bodied with exceptional precision and definition, this beautifully textured wine stands out as one of the most successful wines of this irregular vintage. 93 WS.

10-31 Chateau Montrose // St. Estephe, France 1989 500 Intense aromas of crushed blackberry and mineral turn to dried flowers and dried fruits, staying fresh on the nose. Full-bodied, offering big, round tannins and loads of ripe, seductive fruit. This is decadent and wild, turning nutty and fruity. 96 WS. 96 WA. 16-13 Chateau Montrose // St. Estephe, France 2008 220 An inky/purple color is accompanied by sweet, pure aromas of black fruits and spice. This full-bodied wine exhibits superb concentration, sweet tannin, and a multilayered, textured, full-bodied mouthfeel with no hard edges. 97WA.

Saint Julien 10-14 Chateau Lagrange // St. Julien, France 2005 Currant, mineral, plum and light toasty oak follow through to a full bodied beauty. 93 WS. 3-22 200

Chateau Ducru-Beaucaillou // St. Julien, France 2005 350 Aromas of blackberry, currant and toasty oak, with a hint of spice, lead to a full-bodied palate, with plenty of blackberry, chocolate and Indian spices. Balanced, refined and very pretty, with a velvety texture and a long, beautifully textured finish. 97 WA. 95 WS.

10-21 Chateau Leoville Las Cases // St. Julien, France 1996 500 The black/purple color is followed by a spectacular nose of cassis, cherry liqueur, pain grille, and minerals. It is powerful and rich on the attack, with beautifully integrated tannin and massive concentration. 100 WA.

85

Rhone Valley Cotes du Rhone and Villages 15-27 Chateau St. Cosme Cotes du Rhone // France 2010 40 This has lush, silky-textured layers of dark plum, anise and crushed blackberry fruit, woven with black tea and graphite notes through the finish. Impresses with its length and depth. 90 WS. 10-23 Feraud-Brunel Cotes du Rhone-Villages // France 2009 50 Quite ripe, but very focused, with a graphite edge taking over quickly and harnessing the ample core of linzer torte, loganberry and blackberry fruit flavors. The long, lavender-tinged finish courses along nicely with ample drive. 91 WS. 16-17 Domaine de la Vieille Julienne Cotes du Rhone Lieu Dit Clavin // France 2007 70 One of the finest wines of the appellation. From an extraordinarily old vine parcel planted just in front of the winery, its dense purple color is followed by abundant berry fruit, licorice, earth, and meat characteristics. 90 WA. 16-18 Tardieu-Laurent Cotes du Rhone Guy Louis // France 2007 75 This wine comes from multiple sectors in the southern Rhone, primarily Rasteau, Cairanne, Coudoulet, and Plan de Dieu. This wine reveals excellent ripeness along with a sexy, alluring personality, copious quantities of strawberry and cherry jam intermixed with cedar, licorice, and garrigue, a superb texture, and gorgeous flesh. Equal parts Grenache and Syrah. 93 WA. 11-6 Tardieu-Laurent Cotes du Rhone-Villages Rasteau Vieilles Vignes // Southern Rhone 2007 90 Lush and creamy, with captivating layers of fig sauce, crushed blueberry and succulent black cherry fruit, all backed by well-embedded acidity and a long licorice and floral finish. 92 WS. Chateau Rayas Cotes du Rhone, Chateau de Fonsallette Reserve // Southern Rhone 2006 110 Very stylish, with elegant mulled red cherry, sandalwood and floral notes backed by a long, mineralfilled finish. A lingering hint of shiso leaf adds more length, with solid acidity. 90 WS. Chateau Rayas Cotes du Rhone, Chateau de Fonsallette Reserve // Southern Rhone 2007 120 Dark and winey up front, with a streak of mesquite running through the core of crushed plum, macerated black currant fruit and anise notes. Turns silky and perfumy on the long, lingering finish. 90 WS.

11-4

86

Chateauneuf-du-Pape 11-20 Feraud-Brunel Chateauneuf-du-Pape // Southern Rhone, France 2009 90 This is a joint effort between two of Chateauneuf du Pape's finest wine producers, Andr Brunel of Les Cailloux and Laurence Fraud of Pgau. They have fashioned the wines from purchases made in the southern Rhone. 80% Grenache, 12% Mourvedre and 8% Cinsault together with Vaccarese. Ageing in cement tank. 11-1 Lucien and Andre Brunel Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Les Cailloux // 90 Southern Rhone, France 2008 Offers a broad, ripe, silky palate of raspberry and blackberry fruit, laced with fruitcake, melted licorice and graphite notes. Long and well-focused, with solid grip. 92 WS. Chateau de Vaudieu Chateauneuf-du-Pape // Southern Rhone, France 2007 100 This is saturated, with braised fig, melted black licorice and freshly brewed espresso notes forming the core, with bittersweet ganache, mesquite and iron notes weaving through the background. The long, tarry finish has really nice drive. 92 WS. Domaine Roger Sabon & Fils Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Cuvee Reservee // 110 Southern Rhone, France 2007 This is elegant, with incense and raspberry notes up front, followed by red plum, roasted vanilla bean and black tea. The finish is long and silky. A very perfumy style. 92 WS.

5-14

11-9

14-20 Selection Laurence Feraud Chateauneuf-du-Pape // Southern Rhone, France 2007 120 Grippy for the vintage, with cedar, coffee and roasted fig notes framing the black currant paste, hoisin sauce and roasted beef flavors. There's a long, tarry note on the finish, with a nice wild edge. 92 WS. 92 WA. 15-8 Domaine Saint Prefert Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Reserve Auguste Favier // 130 Southern Rhone, France 2009 Very rich and caressing, with lovely plum sauce, melted licorice and cassis aromas and flavors all woven together and backed by ample but velvety tannins. The long, tar-stained finish shows wellintegrated grip, while the fruit echoes. 94 WS. 93 WA.

11-14 Le Clos du Caillou Chateauneuf-du-Pape Les Safres // Southern Rhone, France 2006 140 Smoky black cherry and cassis, along with a Provencal herb character emerge from this sumptuous wine. 90 WA. 11-15 Chateau Rayas Chateauneuf-du-Pape "Pignan" Reserve // Southern Rhone, France 2006 150 Very stylish, with tangy red currant, dried blood orange, clove, mesquite, date and licorice root notes that stay fresh and polished through the long, silky, shiso leaf-tinged finish. 91 WS. B Chateau Rayas Chateauneuf-du-Pape "Pignan" Reserve // Southern Rhone, France 2007 285 This offering, aged totally in old foudres and demi-muids, includes some of the declassified Rayas lots, and the 2007 is the finest Pignan since the 1990. A medium ruby color is followed by explosive aromas of sweet kirsch, lavender, licorice, and earth. The wine hits the palate with a blast of fruit and glycerin, full body, and an ethereal lightness and elegance that are remarkable for a wine of such intense fruit. A great effort, it may merit an even higher score after a few years in the bottle. 93 WA.

87

3-5

Domaine du Vieux Tlgraph Chateauneuf du Pape La Crau // 250 Southern Rhone, France 1999 This deep ruby/purple-colored beauty exhibits a sweet perfume of licorice, seaweed, black cherries and plums. Dense, medium to full-bodied, well-structured, it is showing gorgeous now! 155

11-17 Tardieu Laurent Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Vieilles Vignes // Southern Rhone, France 2007 Core of blueberry compote, braised fig and mulled blackberry and boysenberry fruit flavors. 96 WS.

11-19 Domaine de Marcoux Chateauneuf-du-Pape // Southern Rhone, France 2007 160 Dark ruby/purple color in addition to a sumptuous bouquet of black fruits, scorched earth, lavender, truffles, and licorice. The wine reveals the vintages gorgeous freshness and vibrancy as well as sensational concentration, and a tremendous finish. 80% Grenache, 10% Mourvedre, 7% Syrah, and 3% Cinsault. 94 WA. 11-18 Domaine de La Mordoree Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Cuvee de la Reine de Bois // 800 Southern Rhone, France 2001 Tasted on four separate occasions, and awarded a perfect score on three of those, the 2001 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee de la Reine des Bois even surpasses the extraordinary Reine des Bois produced in 2000, 1999, and 1998 ... and thats saying something! An inky/purple color is followed by a heady perfume of graphite, blackberries, kirsch, licorice, truffles, and charcoal. This full-bodied effort displays endless concentration in its pure, dense, generous flavors. It is broadly flavored, with beautifully integrated acidity, tannin, and alcohol. A blend of 78% Grenache, 10% Mourvedre, and small quantities of Cinsault, Counoise, Syrah, and Vaccarese, it is made from 60-year old vines, and aged both in cask and neutral foudres from what are obviously very low yields. Sadly, just over 1,000 cases were produced. 100 WA. 11-21 Domaine de La Mordoree Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Cuvee de la Reine de Bois // 175 Southern Rhone, France 2006 A dense purple color as well as an amazing bouquet of charcoal, blackberries, cherries, licorice, incense, and spring flowers. It hits the palate with a rush of full-bodied opulence and decadence with super-rich fruit, superb purity, a broad, layered, velvety-textured mouthfeel, and a stunningly long finish that lasts nearly 50 seconds. 95 WA. 13-12 Domaine de La Mordoree Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Cuvee de la Reine de Bois // 185 Southern Rhone, France 2009 Boasts a dense ruby/purple color as well as copious aromas of blueberries, blackberries, melted licorice and spring flowers. This full-bodied offering reveals rich, pure fruit notes, a multidimensional mouthfeel and extraordinary elegance and freshness. 96 WA. 11-23 Domaine de la Vieille Julienne Chateauneuf-du-Pape // Southern Rhone, France 2007 180 It exhibits an inky/ruby/purple color, a great texture, and a gorgeous nose of boysenberries, blueberries, blackberries, acacia flowers, licorice, and incense. There is wonderful freshness and vibrancy (because of the good acids) as well as a terrific finish. 95 WA. 3-30 Domaine de la Vieille Julienne Chateauneuf-du-Pape // Southern Rhone, France 2009 170 This deep purple wine has a gorgeous nose of fresh blueberries and kirsch, with almost meaty, chewy richness, loads of glycerin, full body, stunning concentration and purity. 94 WA.

88

14-21 Domaine de Beaurenard "Boisrenard" Chateauneuf-du-Pape // 195 Southern Rhone, France 2007 Ripe, with the lush crme de cassis and crushed plum fruit of the vintage, showing excellent focus and drive, with racy acidity and taut, licorice-tinged structure. Turns flashy and exotic on the finish, with mulled blueberry, incense and fruitcake notes that are laid over impressive, graphite-filled grip. 95 WS. 11-30 Chapoutier "Barbe Rac" Chateauneuf-du-Pape // Southern Rhone, France 2008 200 Core of mulled damson plum, blackberry and sweet tobacco soon takes over, with more than enough flesh for balance. Then the mineral and shiso leaf notes chime in for added length and range. A fantastic effort that's true to the character of the vintage. 94 WS. B Raymond Usseglio Chateauneuf-du-Pape Cuvee Imperiale // 215 Southern Rhone, France 2009 One of the top Chateauneuf du Papes of the vintage is the 2009 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee ImperialeVigne Centenaires (from 100-year-old vines planted in pure sand). A blend of 90% Grenache and the rest Syrah, Mourvedre, Cinsault, Counoise, and Muscardin (a real field blend), this wine is close to rivaling their great 2007. Its stunning blue/purple color (remarkable for Grenache grown in sand) is followed by a full-bodied wine revealing exquisite concentrated notes of incense, lavender, camphor, black cherries and black currant liqueur. Tell-tale licorice and pepper characteristics are also present in this voluptuously textured, fleshy, full-bodied effort that is already drinkable. 95 WA. Domaine St. Prefert Chateauneuf-du-Pape Collecion Charles Giraud // 210 Southern Rhone, France 2010 The celestial 2010 Chateauneuf du Pape Collection Charles Giraud could come very close to equaling the genius of the 2007. This is again a blend of nearly 60% Grenache and 40% Mourvedre, but Isabel said it did include a touch of Syrah, although it probably only represents a tiny percentage. The concentration in the 2010 is absolutely amazing, given that St.-Prefert lost over 50% of their Grenache production due to the poor flowering of this varietal in late May and early June. Notes of burning embers, charcoal, truffle, blackberry, cassis, kirsch, beef blood and forest floor are all present in its remarkably complex set of aromatics. The flavors in this massive, full-bodied wine dont disappoint either. This elegant red displays good acidity and a nice, firm edge to the tannins, but they are wellintegrated. 100 WA. Chateau de Beaucastel Chateauneuf-du-Pape // Southern Rhone, France 1998 410 Juicy blast of red plum and fig fruit flavors on a racy frame, this also has plenty of spice, tar, plum cake and mineral in reserve, as the finish shows more structure and slowly darkens with time in the glass. Only just starting to hit its stride. 95 WS.

9-9

9-19

14-16 Chateau de Beaucastel Chateauneuf-du-Pape // Southern Rhone, France 2001 375 30% Grenache, 30% Mourvedre, 10% Syrah, 10% Counoise, and the balance split among the other permitted varietals of the appellation. This inky/ruby/purple-colored cuvee offers a classic Beaucastel bouquet of new saddle leather, cigar smoke, roasted herbs, black truffles, underbrush, and blackberry as well as cherry fruit. It is a superb, earthy expression of this Mourvedre-dominated cuvee. 96 WA. 11-29 Chateau de Beaucastel Chateauneuf-du-Pape // Southern Rhone, France 2006 200 Big, sweet perfume of black truffles, camphor, earth, incense, new saddle leather, and loads of pepper and blackberry. 95 WA.

89

12-18 Chateau de Beaucastel Chateauneuf-du-Pape // Southern Rhone, France 2007 225 An inky/ruby/purple color is followed by a glorious nose of blue and black fruits, truffles, pen ink, licorice, and meat juices as well as glorious levels of acidity and sweet tannin, buttressing the fruits fabulous freshness and vibrancy. 96 WA. 12-3 Domaine du Clos du Caillou Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Les Quartz // Southern Rhone, 2007 220 85% Grenache, aged totally in foudres and the rest Syrah, which is aged in small barrels. this wine has terrific floral, raspberry, and black cherry notes intermixed with a striking minerality and precision. A Musigny grand cru Burgundian style of wine, with power and elegance. 95 WA. Domaine Gerard Charvin Chateauneuf-du-Pape // Southern Rhone, France 2007 240 85% Grenache and the rest equal parts Syrah, Mourvedre, and Vaccarese, all aged in cement tanks prior to being bottled unfiltered. A terrific nose of kirsch, lavender, licorice, forest floor, and spice box soars from the glass of this full-bodied effort. With fabulous density, a multidimensional mouthfeel, and a 45+-second finish this brilliant, elegant, feminine-styled wine is loaded with concentration and intensity. 97 WA.

12-7

13-10 Domaine du Pegau Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Reservee // Southern Rhone, France 1999 350 Wonderfully fragrant and impressively ripe. What Chteauneuf is all about--plenty of wet earth, mineral, plum, sweet tannins and sweet fruit. A cascade of pleasure, full-bodied and long on the sparkling finish. 94 WS. 10-29 Domaine du Pegau Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Reservee // Southern Rhone, France 2001 335 A spectacular smorgasbord of aromas, including roasted meats, lavender, ground pepper, and thick, sweet blackberry and brandy-macerated cherries. Full-bodied, dense, and chewy, it has high levels of tannin, and a huge finish. 95 WA. 12-1 Domaine du Pegau Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Reservee // Southern Rhone, France 2003 245 Dark plum/garnet with the classic Provencal display of garrigue, lavender, pepper, kirsch and Asian plum sauce, this full-throttle wine has splendid concentration, silky tannins, and a very voluptuous texture. 98 WA.

16-25 Domaine du Pegau Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Reservee // Southern Rhone, France 2004 235 A real powerhouse, with muscular layers of fig and black currant compote, backed by braised beef, chestnut, tobacco and tar flavors. The long, mesquite-filled finish lets additional bittersweet cocoa and dark fruit notes linger, with lots of garrigue. 96 WS. 16-27 Domaine du Pegau Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Reservee // Southern Rhone, France 2005 245 Shows gutsy blackberry and fig fruit up front, with notes of pepper, licorice, Turkish coffee and garrigue. The superlong finish lets roasted herb and beef notes check in, while gaining even more depth as this airs. 94 WS. 14-31 Domaine du Pegau Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Reservee // Southern Rhone, France 2006 200 Ripe and very packed, delivering fig, macerated currant, bittersweet cocoa, roasted chestnut and tar notes. The long finish flows nicely, with lots of buried garrigue and incense hints carried by fresh acidity. 93 WS. 11-31 Domaine du Pegau Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Reservee // Southern Rhone, France 2007 220 Licorice, lavender, roasted herb, and meat juice characteristics. The fruit dominates, and the wine is intense, rich, and full-bodied. 96 WA. 90

14-30 Domaine du Pegau Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Reservee // Southern Rhone, France 2008 160 A dark, lightly chewy style, with roasted mesquite and dark licorice notes leading the way for a powerful core of black Mission fig, blackberry preserve, Turkish coffee and bittersweet cocoa notes. There's a flash of truffle on the finish. 92 WS. 1-30 Domaine du Pegau Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Reservee // Southern Rhone, France 2009 230 The color is a dense black/ruby (one of the more opaque 2009s I saw), and the powerful nose offers up aromas of licorice, smoked herbs, charcuterie, bouquet garni, roasted meats, Peking duck, kirsch, blackberries and cassis. An enormous success. 97 WA. Chateau Rayas Chateauneuf-du-Pape Reserve // Southern Rhone, France 2006 250 Shadings of sandalwood and rose water weaving through the lightly mulled red currant, raspberry and cherry fruit. Blood orange, vanilla bean and mineral hints check in on the finish. 100% Grenache. 93 WS. Chateau Rayas Chateauneuf-du-Pape Reserve // Southern Rhone, France 2007 450 The 2007 possesses a dark ruby color, silky tannins, sweet fruit, and enormous quantities of kirsch, licorice, black raspberries, and incense notes. Even though I tasted it shortly after bottling, it was exceptionally dense and pure. 97 WA.

12-5

9-18

15-16 Chateau St. Jean Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Deux Ex Machina // Southern Rhone, France 2009 350 The 2009 Chateauneuf du Pape Deus-Ex Machina reveals classic Provencal scents of roasted herbs, lavender, charcuterie, blackberries, licorice, kirsch and bouquet garni. This super-complex, layered, multidimensional wine possesses remarkable purity and richness as well as silky tannins. One of the most open-knit and forward Deus-Ex Machinas made to date, it will be difficult to resist when young. 99 WA. 12-10 Clos des Papes Chateauneuf-du-Pape // Southern Rhone, France 2007 350 A sublime expression of the art of winemaking as evidenced by its dense purple color and big, sweet kiss of kirsch, framboise, blackberries, licorice, roasted herbs, and smoked meat. It hits the palate with a fascinating combination of substance, power, full-bodied authority yet extraordinary freshness, elegance, and precision. 99 WA. 6-22 Clos des Papes Chateauneuf-du-Pape // Southern Rhone, France 2008 255 Dark, inviting and very alluring, with captivating black tea, charred mesquite and kirsch aromas and flavors allied to a remarkably silky mouthfeel. Superlong, with mineral, violet, pepper and additional crushed cherry and plum fruit notes all gliding through the finish. 95 WS. Clos des Papes Chateauneuf-du-Pape // Southern Rhone, France 2009 330 Sinewy and reserved, with a light dusting of cocoa powder over the tangy damson plum, red licorice and cassis notes. The long, supple finish, with a lovely wafting note of Lapsang souchong tea, is packed with minerality and tight-grained tannins that will need time to fully evolve. 96 WS.

1-24

91

4-21

Clos des Papes Chateauneuf-du-Pape // Southern Rhone, France 2010 340 The 2010 looks to be extraordinary. A slightly fresher and more elegant version of the 2007, I think it may well be the greatest Clos des Papes since the 1990 and 1978. The 2010 has a dense ruby/purple color, a beautifully precise and pure nose of deep black raspberry, black cherry, boysenberry and blueberry notes with some licorice, garrigue, and bouquet garni. Additionally, there is a meaty richness that probably comes from the Mourvedre and Syrah. It is an extraordinarily intense, fresh, lively wine with great finesse and elegance, which is somewhat unusual given the richness of fruit and the power of this wine. The color is a dense ruby/purple, perhaps slightly less opaque than the 2007, but very dark. 98 WA. Domaine de Marcoux Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Vieilles Vignes // Southern Rhone 2007 360 Composed of 98% Grenache from 100- to 110-year-old vines, and made from incredibly tiny yields, it boasts a dense ruby/purple color followed by a sweet kiss of kirsch liqueur, incense, camphor, truffles, and lavender. The wine hits the palate with sensational richness, a full-bodied, multilayered texture, awesome purity, and remarkable freshness as well as vibrancy. 98 WA. Les Cailloux (Lucien et Andre Brunel) Chateauneuf-du-Pape "Cuvee Centenaire" // 450 Southern Rhone, France 1989 Licorice, black fruits, Asian spices, and vanilla emerge from the dense, saturated purple color. Closed, firm, and powerful, with abundant tannin as well as extraction. 94 WA. Les Cailloux (Lucien et Andre Brunel) Chateauneuf-du-Pape "Cuvee Centenaire" // 400 Southern Rhone, France 1995 1995 was a powerful vintage for Brunel. The Cuvee Centenaire remains a young, promising wine offering notes of licorice, cedar, vanilla, and sweet black currant/cherry fruit presented in a full-bodied, virile style. 94 WA. Les Cailloux (Lucien et Andre Brunel) Chateauneuf-du-Pape "Cuvee Centenaire" // 465 Southern Rhone, France 2001 The Cuvee Centenaire is produced from ancient vine (planted in 1889) Grenache (80% of the blend, along with 8% Syrah and 12% Mourvedre). The 2001 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Centenaire is superior to the 2000, but slightly behind the 1998. This fabulous wine boasts a dense ruby/purple color as well as a provocative perfume of incense, black tea, plums, figs, and kirsch liqueur. As it sits in the glass, this full-bodied, dense 2001 offers up notes of pepper, smoke, and balsam wood. Rich and voluptuous with great length, massive body, and a structured, long, heady, tannic finish. 96 WA. Les Cailloux (Lucien et Andre Brunel) Chateauneuf-du-Pape "Cuvee Centenaire" // 395 Southern Rhone, France 2003 The limited production but exquisite 2003 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee Centenaire is a riper, more concentrated version of the 2000 Centenaire. There are about 500 cases of this Grenache-dominated wine produced from a vineyard planted in 1889 with some Syrah and Mourvedre (about 20%) added to the blend. The latter components are aged in small barrels. The wine has a dense ruby/purple-tinged color to the rim, a strikingly pure nose of kirsch liqueur, creme de cassis, and hints of vanilla and espresso. Hitting the palate with full-throttle opulence, superb concentration, fabulous purity, and striking multiple levels of raspberries and black cherry jam, this is a beautifully full-bodied, brilliantly concentrated and structured wine that reveals sweet but abundant tannin and a finish that goes on for close to a minute. 96 WA.

12-11

4-4

4-8

5-1

8-26

92

7-30

Pierre Usseglio Chateauneuf-du-Pape Cuvee de Mon Aieul // 425 Southern Rhone, France 2003 One of the vintages most profound wines, the 2003 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee de Mon Aieul has a dense purple color as well as a glorious nose of blackberries, licorice, smoke, and some roasted meats and dried herbs. Amazingly opulent, even voluptuous, with extraordinary purity, a huge tactile impression on the palate, but not heavy by any means, this is a stunning Chateauneuf du Pape from ancient vines made with 95% Grenache and the rest Cinsault and Syrah. Production is about 8,000 bottles, and the wine is bottled after spending its entire life in epoxy-lined tanks, so what one gets is the essence of the three separate terroirs it comes from Les Serres, Guigasse, and La Crau. 97 WA. Pierre Usseglio Chateauneuf-du-Pape Cuvee de Mon Aieul // 300 Southern Rhone, France 2004 The 2004 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee de Mon Aieul, which spends 90% of its time in tank and 10% in old barrels, has turned out even better in bottle than it performed from cask. Basically 100% Grenache in 2004, this is clearly better than the 1999, which I own and drink frequently. It exhibits a deep ruby purple color and a wonderful sweet nose of black cherry, raspberry, licorice, spice box, and roasted herbs. Voluminous for a 2004, with full body, beautiful texture, a long, heady finish, and loads of fruit, glycerin, and decent acidity. 94 WA.

8-2

16-20 Pierre Usseglio Chateauneuf-du-Pape Cuvee de Mon Aieul // 600 Southern Rhone, France 2007 It represents an awesome naked/virginal expression of Grenache from three vineyard parcels planted in sand, clay, and limestone soils. The perfume of blueberry liqueur, black raspberries, licorice, roasted meat juices, and lavender is incredible. Full-bodied power, a multilayered mouthfeel, tremendous purity, and awesome concentration put this wine in a class by itself. 100 WA. 3-16 Pierre Usseglio Chateauneuf-du-Pape, "Cuvee de Cinquantenaire" // 425 Southern Rhone, France 1999 The prodigious, saturated, opaque ruby/purple-colored 1999 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee de Cinquantenaire (200 cases) is a candidate for the wine of the vintage. A 100% Grenache cuvee aged in older demi-muids, it is exceptionally full-bodied with a fabulous perfume of blackberry liqueur, cassis, minerals, spice, and flowers. The texture is sumptuous, and the wine accessible. 96 WA. Pierre Usseglio Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Reserve Deux Freres // 550 Southern Rhone, France 2000 The 2000 Chateauneuf du Pape Reserve des Deux Freres, which has been one of the winners in several blind tastings, is a candidate for "wine of the vintage." Sadly, there are only 5,000 bottles. The wine emerges from the estate's oldest vines, and is aged in old barrels. This blend of 95% Grenache and 5% Cinsault tips the scales at a whopping 15.8% alcohol. Its inky purple color is accompanied by succulent aromas of blackberry, cherry, and raspberry liqueur interwoven with licorice, mineral, and acacia flower characteristics. Fabulously concentrated and full-bodied, with a voluptuous texture, sweet tannin, and a flamboyant and accessible personality, this prodigious, majestic Chateauneuf du Pape needs to be tasted to be believed. 98 WA.

7-28

93

7-26

Pierre Usseglio Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Reserve Deux Freres // 550 Southern Rhone, France 2003 The limited cuvee 2003 Chateauneuf du Pape Reserve des Deux Freres, which is aged 40% in tank and 60% in one-, two-, and three-year-old barrels as well as large demi-muids, is essentially the same as Mon Aieul, but additional press wine is added. This beefs the wine up to an even more extraordinarily concentrated character. This is another of the Chateauneuf du Papes of the vintage, a wine of remarkable length and prodigious levels of richness. It is no wimpy wine at 16.5% alcohol, but you would never know that from tasting it. Dense purple to the rim, with a huge nose of scorched earth, blackberry and blueberry liqueur, creme de cassis, roasted meat juices, and a hint of Provencal herbs interwoven with licorice and a touch of balsamic, it is voluptuously textured, with striking body, low acidity, and amazing concentration. 98 WA. Pierre Usseglio Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Reserve Deux Freres // 440 Southern Rhone, France 2005 Formidably dense and structured, with lots of fig paste and currant confiture, layered with espresso, bittersweet cocoa, bramble and hoisin sauce notes. The long, tarry finish really pounds it out authoritatively, with fruit and minerality to burn. 97 WS.

8-32

12-13 Pierre Usseglio Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Reserve Deux Freres // 600 Southern Rhone, France 2007 The bouquet reveals plenty of blackberry, blueberry, and cassis fruit intertwined with notions of melted licorice, spring flowers, and that classic garrigue note that comes across as the seaweed wrapper used in sushi restaurants, nori. There is a certain smokiness that is probably attributable to the oak, and the wine has incredible depth and richness, as well as a finish that seems endless. 100 WA. 12-4 Domaine du Clos du Caillou Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Reserve le Clos du Cailloux // 650 Southern Rhone, France 2000 A wealth of fruit, power, and balance, amazing purity, and a sumptuous, 65-second finish are the stuff of legends. As usual, it is a blend of 45% Grenache, 40% Mourvedre, and the rest Syrah as well as miscellaneous varietals. The Mourvedre must be picked incredibly ripe as there is never any of that grape's astringency or toughness. Possibly the wine of the vintage. 99 WA.

15-20 Chateau de Beaucastel Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Hommage A Jacques Perrin // 750 Southern Rhone, France 2009 A wine of extraordinary density, richness, precision and unreal flavor intensity, it reveals abundant gamey, meaty notes intermixed with smoked duck, Provencal herbs, blueberries, blackberries, kirsch and licorice. This loaded, multidimensional, massively concentrated 2009 is much softer than most Hommages. 99 WA. 5-32 Domaine du Pegau Chateauneuf-du-Pape "Cuvee da Capo" // 1395 Southern Rhone, France 1998 The debut vintage for their luxury old-vine cuvee, which is over 90% Grenache, but in theory made from all 13 authorized red wine varietals in Chateauneuf du Pape, the 1998 Cuvee da Capo is a monumental Chateauneuf du Pape. Opaque ruby/purple to the rim, with notes of camphor, meat juices, roasted herbs, licorice, pepper, and spice. Thick, unctuously textured, but with zesty acidity and sweet tannin. 100 WA. 98 WS.

94

9-23

Domaine du Pegau Chateauneuf-du-Pape "Cuvee da Capo" // 1325 Southern Rhone, France 2000 The 2000 Chateauneuf du Pape Cuvee da Capo is a monument to old vine Grenache as well as traditionally made Chateauneuf du Pape. Boasting a natural alcohol of 16%, this wine, which was bottled in spring, 2003 because its fermentation was extremely slow, has virtually everything you could ever want in a profound Chateauneuf du Pape. The color is inky/ruby/purple to the rim. The extraordinary nose reveals aromas of kirsch liqueur, new saddle leather, animal fur, Provencal herbs, spice box, licorice, and a salty sea breeze character. On the palate, the wine is enormous, with an unctuosity, thickness, and purity that must be tasted to be believed. 100 WA. Domaine du Pegau Chateauneuf-du-Pape "Cuvee da Capo" // 1275 Southern Rhone, France 2003 Dark plum/garnet color as well as a stunning bouquet of aged beef intermixed with pepper, herbes de Provence, and steak au poivre. This unctuously textured, full-bodied Chateauneuf possesses enormous body, huge flavors and sweet, velvety tannins. 100 WA. Domaine du Pegau Chateauneuf-du-Pape "Cuvee da Capo" // 700 Southern Rhone, France 2007 An inky/purple color is followed by aromas of smoked meats, Peking duck, licorice, lavender, aged beef, grilled steak blood, black currants, plums, sauteed cepes and soy. Enormously concentrated, broad, expansive and massive but not over the top, this is a tour de force in winemaking that is impossible to imagine unless one has a bottle to work through over the course of 4 to 5 hours. 100 WA.

4-18

7-3

Cornas 11-2 Domaine Lionnet Cornas, Terres Brulee // Northern Rhone, France 2004 90 A great example of the rustic, traditional style, with lots of grilled game, lavender flower, iron and tobacco notes followed by bracing cherry pit and green olive hints on the structured finish. 90 WS. Jean-Luc Colombo Cornas, Terres Brulees // Northern Rhone, France 2007 100 This is strong, with an impressive core of melted black licorice, dark plum, currant and maduro tobacco all laced together with a dark, loamy note. There's a polished mouthfeel, but also brooding intensity. 92 WS.

11-3

11-11 Jean-Luc Colombo Cornas, La Louvee // Northern Rhone, France 1997 135 The 1997 Cornas La Louvee (from Colombo's most precocious and warmest terroir) sees 80% new oak casks. It is a deep, dark purple-colored, ripe wine offering sweet plum, blackberry, and tar-scented aromatics intermingled with spicy oak. Medium to full-bodied, with low acidity. 90 WA.

95

Cote Rotie 13-24 Louis Barruol "La Doree" by Kermit Lynch // Northern Rhone, France 2006 160 Barruol (winemaker at St. Cosme) and Kermit blend this from vines aging from 30-50 years of age. 11-25 Domaine Jamet Cote Rotie // Northern Rhone, France 2006 180 Really solid, with a still-compact core of braised fig, mulled black currant, grilled chestnut and roasted olive notes, held in check by charred wood and truffle hints. There's burly grip, but it's integrated on the long, dark finish, which is spiked with an iron note. 93 WS. 11-27 E. Guigal, Chateau d'Ampuis Cote Rotie // Northern Rhone, France 2004 180 Mature hints of coffee and sage mingling with a core of black cherry, incense and iron. The long, finegrained finish still has good grip, but is also plenty supple, with a lingering hint of incense. 92 WS.

Saint Joseph 11-7 Yves Cuilleron St. Joseph "L'Amarybelle" // Northern Rhone, France, 2007 110 Toasty espresso and bittersweet cocoa aromas backed by dark plum and ripe blackberry fruit. Long and velvety. 91 WS.

Gigondas 10-27 E. Guigal Gigondas // Southern Rhone, France 2006 55 Really fine, with racy, well-embedded acidity that lets the sandalwood, espresso, mulled plum and tobacco notes mingle together through the finish. Some mature hints of tobacco and game are starting to show as well, though there's grip in reserve. 90 WS. 10-32 Chateau de St. Cosme Gigondas // Southern Rhone, France 2009 90 Dark, with terrific cut despite the heft of the roasted fig, baked plum, macerated black cherry and currant fruit, all pushed by sage, smoldering tobacco and singed apple wood notes. 93 WS. 10-18 Domaine des Espiers Gigondas "Cuvee de Blaches" // Southern Rhone, France 2009 115 A sensational effort made from a blend of 65% Grenache and 35% Syrah aged primarily in 600-liter demi-muids, Domaine des Espiers 2009 Gigondas Cuvee des Blaches is one of the superstars of the vintage. Sweet black cherry and black currant fruit, licorice, lavender, crushed rock and forest floor aromas jump from the glass of this inky/purple-colored wine. Full-bodied and impressively endowed with a long, textured finish. 94 WA. 8-3 Domaine Brusset Gigondas "le Haut de Montmirail" // Southern Rhone, France 2009 115 The 2009 is composed of 50% Grenache, 25% Syrah and 25% Mourvedre. The Grenache is aged in tank and the Syrah and Mourvedre are kept in small barrels, of which one-fifth are new. This is a largescaled, full-bodied, big, dense wine with an inky/purple color as well as notes of graphite, blackberries, blueberries, charcoal and incense, and beautifully integrated tannins, acidity and alcohol. 93 WA.

13-20 Chateau de Saint Cosme Gigondas "Le Poste" // Southern Rhone, France 2008 130 Well-layered, with nice grip carrying sage, maduro tobacco, fig paste, mulled black currant and blackberry fruit, followed by a long, charred apple wood- and mineral-filled finish, where this stays bright and tangy. 94 WS. 96

15-18 Chateau de Saint Cosme Gigondas "Le Poste" // Southern Rhone, France 2009 150 Broad and deep, delivering gorgeous perfumy black tea and warm anise notes up front, followed by dense flavors of bittersweet cocoa, roasted fig, hoisin sauce and smoked alder wood. The long, fleshy finish has great cut, with a singed iron note hanging on. Offers terrific range and length. The most compelling Gigondas being made right now. 96 WS.

Hermitage and Crozes-Hermitage 4-28 Paul Jaboulet Aine Crozes-Hermitage "Thalabert" // Northern Rhone, France 2009 125 The greatest Crozes-Hermitage Domaine de Thalabert since the magnificent 1990 is the 2009. Jaboulet has nearly 100 acres in this appellation, and the 2009, which is bursting with potential, represents a great buy for Syrah lovers. Its dense purple color is followed by an explosive bouquet of blackberries, sweet cherries, licorice, Provencal olives, graphite and subtle smoke. Full-bodied with silky tannins as well as a terrific mouthfeel and palate penetration. 95 WA. Paul Jaboulet Aine Hermitage "La Chapelle" // Northern Rhone, France 1996 300 Delivers a round, clean, pure mouthfeel of vibrant, focused red berry and blackberry flavors. Superb balance, as it walks a tightrope among the relatively high acidity, ripe tannins and delicious fruit. 94 WS. Paul Jaboulet Aine Hermitage "La Chapelle" // Northern Rhone, France 1997 235 Hedonistic and quite delicious but very ripe, with stewed fruit that makes it a bit heavy. Pepper, spice and mocha notes bring it all to a long and exciting finish. 93 WA. Paul Jaboulet Aine Hermitage "La Chapelle" // Northern Rhone, France 2003 375 Deceptively graceful at first, with a Burgundy-like perfume, this quickly delivers a torrent of fruit-blackberry, boysenberry and black currant--that cascades over itself, pushed from behind by flavors of mocha, mineral, tar and violets. Long, sweet and pure through a densely structured finish. 96 WS.

1-19

1-25

15-32 Paul Jaboulet Aine Hermitage "La Chapelle" // Northern Rhone, France 2009 415 The 2009 Hermitage La Chapelle is easily the greatest, most profound La Chapelle since the 1990. Most of this cuvee comes from Le Meal and Les Bessards vineyards, with a touch of Les Roucoules fruit in the blend. It is an opaque purple-colored wine with enormous concentration in addition to an extraordinary bouquet of graphite, creme de cassis, blackberries, licorice, beef blood and a touch of smoked game.-Parker. 97+ WA. 9-26 Domaine Jean-Louis Chave Hermitage // Northern Rhone, France 2009 500 The greatest wines Chave has produced since 2003 are the two cuvees of 2009 Hermitage. The 2009 Hermitage exhibits a black/purple color along with a sumptuous nose of roasted meats, ground pepper, black currants, blackberry jam, and subtle smoke and licorice. The extraordinary bouquet is followed by a wine of extravagant intensity as well as tremendous focus and precision. 100 WA.

97

Other French 12-15 Chateau Saint-Leocadie Minervois, Cuvee Fernand Averoux // Languedoc, France 2007 60 Firm, featuring dark cherry and damson plum flavors that are supported by plenty of fresh acidity, with notes of French roast coffee on the zesty finish. 60% Syrah, 40% Grenache. 88 WS. 12-17 Chateau Paradis, Terre des Anges // Coteaux d'Aix-en-Provence, France 2007 75 A ripe, full-bodied red, with powerful flavors of dark plum, chocolate and dark cherry in an international style. Features intense spiciness on the finish. Cabernet, Merlot, and Syrah. 89 WS.

98

SMALL FORMAT WHITE 375ml Domaine Gresser Gewurztraminer Kritt // Alsace, France 2008 30 A light and tangy Gewrztraminer, with creamy floral, spice and lychee notes, and a hint of candied grapefruit peel. Lucien Crochet Sancerre "Le Chene" // Loire Valley, France 2009 45 Scents of mint and diverse hedge flowers in the nose of Crochets 2009 Sancerre Le Chene lead to a palate of impressive brightness, invigoration, and levity for its vintage. A crystalline, saline, and chalky sense of minerality as well as diverse floral notes are glimpsed through a luscious, pool of lime, tangerine, musk melon, and grapefruit. 90 WA. Patz and Hall Chardonnay, Dutton Ranch // Russian River Valley, California 2010 49 Lemon drop, minerals and a note of white jasmine on the fresh but restrained nose. Juicy and nicely delineated, with a lovely light touch and lively acidity to the citrus, mineral and floral flavors. Vincent Girardin Puligny-Montrachet Vieilles Vignes // Burgundy, France 2007 49 Smells of ripe peach, grapefruit, and lily. Brightly citric and lusciously peachy on the palate, it is underlain by a savory, saline mineral tone associated with Chablis. 91 WA. Merry Edwards Sauvignon Blanc // Russian River Valley, California 2010 Golden delicious and honey crisp apples accented with crme brule and sweet Meyer lemon. 49

Joh. Jos. Prum Wehlener Sonnenuhr Spatlese // Mosel, Germany 2010 55 Creamy and ripe as WS from Prum should be, with slightly lower acid than the GH. Elegant and extremely pure. Explosive in the mouth with incredible depth. Ripe and so juicy due to the higher than normal acids. Still with great balance and a very long finish. Domaine Gressner Riesling Kastelberg Grand Cru // Alsace, France 2005 55 Fresh white, with a pleasant mix of mineral, anise, petrol and lime. This is easy to like, with a light, clean finish. Copain Chardonnay, Brosseau Vineyard // Chalone, California 2009 65 The 2009 Chardonnay Brosseau emerges from the glass with a rich tapestry of lemon, pears, and white flowers. It is texturally striking and totally beautiful for many reasons, not the least of which is its precision and insistent underlying saline notes. The 2009 Brosseau was aged in neutral oak with no stirring of the lees. 93 WA. Jermann "Dreams" Chardonnay // Venezia-Giulia, Italy 2006 Cream and caramel undertones. Full-bodied, with lots of dried tropical fruits. 92 WS. Domaine du Vieux Telegraphe "La Crau" Blanc // Chateauneuf-du-Pape, France 2007 Apple, lime, pear, floral and mineral notes that stretch out on the bright, stony finish. 93 WS. Blanc de Lynch-Bages // Bordeaux, France 2007 Bright and fruity, with lime and lemon aromas and flavors. Medium body. Clean finish. NYR. 70

70

80

99

Yves Cuilleron Condrieu "Les Chaillets" // Northern Rhone, France 2009 125 This is packed with creamed pear, green fig, green plum and toasted anise seed notes. The texture is creamy and the finish long and beguiling, thanks to warm brioche and green tea notes that echo through. 94 WS. Georg Breuer Rudesheimer Berg Schlossberg Riesling Auslese Gold Capsule // 160 Rheingau, Germany 2004 Smells of lime, honey and spices, and comes onto the palate extraordinarily creamy and delicate in texture and tasting like a sorbet of spice tinged lime, quince and white peach. This persists with a delightfully juicy, limey, fresh orchard fruit character alongside rich notes of fruit preserve and honey. Its hard to imagine a much better example of the gravity-defying potential of the vintage or of the extraordinary pains Heinrich Breuer and his team take to capture optimal botrytis and perfectly overripe fruit. 94 WA.

100

SMALL FORMAT RED 375ml McCrea Mourvedre, Ciel du Cheval Vineyard // Columbia Valley, Washington 2006 28 Smoke, earth, mushroom, and spice box make for an alluring bouquet leading to a rustic wine that has plenty of flavor but will never be accused of elegance. It is a well-balanced, well-made wine for serving with ribs and pulled pork. 89 WA. Domaine Raspail-Ay Gigondas // Southern Rhone, France 2008 40 A wine with a mouthful of ripe, dark fruits black cherries, cassis and raspberries with notes of licorice and black pepper in the background. Domaine Raspail-Ay Gigondas // Southern Rhone, France 2009 45 A rich, rounded, open style, with lushly layered fig sauce, macerated black currant and crushed black cherry fruit all laced with alluring black tea and roasted mesquite notes, which add length and grip on the finish. 90 WA. Chateau Haut Piquat "Lussac" Saint Emilion // Bordeaux, France 2009 40 Nose full of berries and fruit along with that hint of cassis that adds such a wonderful undertone to the aroma. Fruit forward, long on the palette and just the right amount of tannin. Joseph Phelps Cabernet Sauvignon // Napa Valley, California 2006 45 Black currant fruit notes intertwined with hints of tobacco leaf, licorice, and forest floor. Ripe tannins, and a long finish. 89 WA. Siduri // Santa Lucia Highlands, California 2009 45 Shows wonderful richness, density, depth and concentration, with pure, ripe, sharply focused wild berry, blackberry and black cherry fruit that has great structure. 93 WS. Patz and Hall Pinot Noir // Sonoma Coast, California 2010 48 Beautiful layers of cherry, raspberry, cedar, clove and cinnamon, as well as more floral notes of rose and carnation. Nicolas Potel Volnay, Vieilles Vignes // Burgundy, France 2007 52 Pale cherry-red. Lovely minty lift to the aromas of red cherry, raspberry and licorice. Juicy, pure and penetrating, with excellent definition to the flavors of red fruits, spices and licorice. A very refreshing 2007 that finishes with a fine dusting of tannins and very good length. And classic Volnay. Duckhorn "Goldeneye" Pinot Noir // Anderson Valley, California 2007 55 Sleek, structured and full-bodied, showing good intensity and vibrancy. Offers dried berry, herb, sage and mineral notes. Stag's Leap Wine Cellars "Artemis" Cabernet Sauvignon // Napa Valley, California 2008 58 The 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Artemis reveals slightly more richness and density than the 2007. The aromatics are similar in this medium-bodied, balanced, pleasant wine. Martinelli "Bella Vigna" Pinot Noir // Russian River Valley, California 2006 58 Aromas of spicy cherry, cinnamon and lavendar. Flavors include cherry cola, strawberry and red cherry fruit. 101

Bernard Burgaud Cote-Rotie // Northern Rhone, France 2007 60 Very grippy, with mouthwatering tobacco and olive notes leading the way for damson plum, crushed red currant and mulled spice. Shows perfumy hints flittering in the background, with anise and violet checking in on the finish. 92 WS. Domaine Perrot-Minot Gevry-Chambertin // Burgundy, France 2007 70 A light-weight style, well-proportioned, offering flavors of cherry, licorice and spice, along with a hint of tobacco. There's intensity and grip through the harmonious finish. 88 WS. Musella Amarone della Valpolicella, Riserva // Veneto, Italy 2004 75 Terrific vibrancy and freshness in its dark fruit, herbs, tobacco, sweet spices and subtle French oak. This beautifully poised, medium-bodied Amarone possesses remarkable balance in a nearly weightless style. 93 WA. La Ferme du Mont "Cotes Capelan" Chateauneuf-du-Pape // 90 Southern Rhone, France 2007 Outrageously rich, complex wine exhibiting beautiful creme de cassis, kirsch, licorice, forest floor, and spring flower-like aromas. It is fresh, voluptuous, and opulent in the mouth, but the fresh acids and vibrancy give it exceptional precision as well as a refreshing style despite its weight, richness, and length. This is a superb, young Chateauneuf du Pape from an up-and-coming star of the appellation. 96 WA. Patrice Rion Nuits-St.-Georges 1er Clos des Argillieres // Burgundy, France 2007 90 Hints of animal and wild herbs highlight the black currant and blackberry flavors in this powerful red. 91 WS. Denis Mortet Gevry-Chambertin // Burgundy, France 2007 90 Exotic aromas and flavors of violet, red currant, blackberry and pomegranate are supported by a supple texture and dense yet ripe tannins. There's a sweetness right through the long finish. 91 WS. Continuum // Napa Valley, California 2008 130 A remarkable effort, offering riveting, expressive aromas of mocha, currant, mineral, herb, black licorice, tar and pebble, this is intense, structured, balanced, nuanced and firm, finishing with a gutsy richness and sophistication. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Merlot. 96 WS. Opus One // Napa Valley, California 2005 130 A big, ripe, fruity yet elegant Bordeaux style blend that offers layers of red currant, black cherry, plum and wild berry. 95 WA. Chateau Montelena Cabernet Sauvignon, Montelena Estate // 150 Napa Valley, California 1998 Possesses an opaque ruby/purple color, a gorgeous perfume of loamy soil, new saddle leather, chocolate, and black cherry and black currant fruit, full body, and ripe tannin in the finish. As it sits in the glass, notes of cedar and spice box also emerge. 93 WA.

102

LARGE FORMAT WHITE 1.5L Morgan Chardonnay, Double L Vineyard // Santa Lucia Highlands, California 2007 135 Leafy pear, green apple and spice are a bit raw in texture, but the firmness gives this a tight structure. 91 WS. Jean-Marc Brocard Chablis Les Clos // Burgundy, France 2007 280 Intense flinty, savory character signals this white's lemon, peach, yellow plum and mineral aromas and flavors. 95 WS. Jean-Marc Brocard Chablis Bourgos // Burgundy, France 1995 295 An opulent grand cru in a sweet-and-sour style, both powerful and racy. Dense, fat and ripe, with honey and tropical flavors accented with fresh, lemon-lime and dried herb notes. Full-bodied, supple, with an intense finish that lasts more than a minute. 91 WS.

RED 1.5L Patz and Hall Pinot Noir, Chenoweth Ranch // Russian River Valley, California 2006 180 Full-bodied, ripe and fleshy plum, black cherry and raspberry fruit is intense yet elegant. Smoothtextured, deep and persistent. 93 WS. Patz and Hall Pinot Noir, Chenoweth Ranch // Russian River Valley, California 2007 180 Intense, rich, ripe and vibrant, showing loads of blackberry, wild berry and raspberry fruit, with floral and spicy scents. Full-bodied, balanced, deep and persistent, ending with firm tannins. Silver Oak Cabernet Sauvignon // Alexander Valley, California 2006 240 Built around creamy mocha, cedary oak and dill flavors, with dried currant, sage and underbrush notes. Full-bodied and balanced, this smoothes out on the finish, where it gains a black licorice and mineral edge. Dunn, Howell Mountain // Napa Valley, California 2007 315 Layer after layer of flavor saturates the palate in this opulent, full-throttle Cabernet Sauvignon. The 2007 possesses dazzling textural richness, depth and sheer intensity. Purists may prefer more structured vintages, but for a producer known for such slow maturing wines, the 2007 is a huge pleasure to taste today. 97 WA. Domaine du Pegau Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Reservee // Southern Rhone, France 2009 460 The color is a dense black/ruby (one of the more opaque 2009s I saw), and the powerful nose offers up aromas of licorice, smoked herbs, charcuterie, bouquet garni, roasted meats, Peking duck, kirsch, blackberries and cassis. An enormous success. 97 WA. Continuum // Napa Valley, California 2008 500 A remarkable effort, offering riveting, expressive aromas of mocha, currant, mineral, herb, black licorice, tar and pebble, this is intense, structured, balanced, nuanced and firm, finishing with a gutsy richness and sophistication. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Merlot. 96 WS.

103

Angelo Gaja "Costa Russi" // Piedmont, Italy 2005 650 The 2005 Costa Russi shimmers on the palate with extraordinary grace. The wine boasts wonderful depth and richness in its dark red fruit in a round, generous style that offers lovely balance to the tannins. Notes of tar, smoke and licorice develop in the glass, adding a touch of complexity and nuance that is sometimes missing in this bottling. The French oak is present, but deftly balanced with the wines other components. As always, Costa Russi comes across as relatively accessible when young. 96 WS. 96 WA. Bodegas Alejandro Fernandez Pesquera "Millenium" // Ribera del Duero, Spain 1996 700 This inky red is plush and mouthfilling, with an amazing concentration of plum, boysenberry, chocolate and licorice flavors over muscular yet graceful tannins. It's thoroughly modern in style, yet remains deeply rooted in its terroir. 95 WS. 96 WA. Paul Jaboulet Aine Hermitage "La Chapelle" // Northern Rhone, France 2009 830 The 2009 Hermitage La Chapelle is easily the greatest, most profound La Chapelle since the 1990. Most of this cuvee comes from Le Meal and Les Bessards vineyards, with a touch of Les Roucoules fruit in the blend. It is an opaque purple-colored wine with enormous concentration in addition to an extraordinary bouquet of graphite, creme de cassis, blackberries, licorice, beef blood and a touch of smoked game.-Parker. 97+ WA. Chateau Lynch-Bages // Bordeaux, France 2000 950 Reveals a blossoming bouquet of blackberries, cassis, graphite and pen ink. Full-bodied with velvety tannins that have resolved themselves beautifully over the last eleven years, this wine is still an adolescent, but it exhibits admirable purity, texture, mouthfeel and power combined with elegance. 97 WA. Clos St.-Jean Chateauneuf-du-Pape Sanctus Sanctorum // Southern Rhone, France 2009 1100 The 2009 Chateauneuf du Pape Sanctus Sanctorum is very close in quality to the 2007, displaying the beauty of Chateauneuf du Pape, the glory of these ancient vines and the outrageous quality and complexity of the Grenache grape. It exhibits amazing kirsch liqueur intermixed with lavender, spice box and roasted herbs as well as a phenomenal purity and unctuosity that lead to a voluptuous texture and a finish that goes on well past a minute. This is an other-worldly wine. An absolutely monumental effort, it is only bottled in magnums (200 or so produced), so the number of people who will ever be able to taste it is, sadly, very limited. 100 WA.

Red 3L Domaine du Pegau Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Reservee // Southern Rhone, France 2003 1100 Dark plum/garnet with the classic Provencal display of garrigue, lavender, pepper, kirsch and Asian plum sauce, this full-throttle wine has splendid concentration, silky tannins, and a very voluptuous texture. 98 WA. 97 WS. Domaine du Pegau Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Reservee // Southern Rhone, France 2009 920 The color is a dense black/ruby (one of the more opaque 2009s I saw), and the powerful nose offers up aromas of licorice, smoked herbs, charcuterie, bouquet garni, roasted meats, Peking duck, kirsch, blackberries and cassis. An enormous success. 97 WA.

104

DESSERT

Domaine des Baumard Cuvee le Paon, Loire Valley, France 2005 95 WS. Merry Edwards Late Harvest Sauvignon Blanc, Russian River Valley 2008

12 25

75 125 100 68 24 92 112 60 150 70

Chateau Suduiraut 1er Sauternes, Bordeaux, France 2004 (375ml) 91 WS. 20 Chateau Pajzos Aszu Tokaji 5 Puttonyos, Hungary 2003 (375ml) 93 WS. Marco Negri Moscato d' Asti, Italy 2010 (375ml) Inniskillin Ice Wine Vidal, Niagara Peninsula 2007 (375ml) Inniskillin Ice Wine, Cabernet Franc, Niagara Peninsula 2007 (375ml) 14 6 23 28

Castello di Monastero Lumanuova Vin Santo del Chianti, Italy 2000 (375ml) 15 Nickel and Nickel Dolce, Napa Valley, California 2006 M. Chapoutier Banyuls, Southern France, 2009 (500ml)

Schloss Lieser Riesling Beerenauslese, Niederberg Helden, Mosel, Germany 2005 98 WS. 190 Joh. Jos. Prum Riesling Beerenauslese, Bernkasteler, Mosel, Germany 2006 Banfi "Rosa Regale" Brachetto d' Acqui, Italy 2005 (187ml) De Bortoli "Emeri" Pink Moscato, Australia NV (750ml) 97 WA. 235 15 28

FORTIFIED Taylor Fladgate 10 Year Tawny Taylor Fladgate 20 Year Tawny Taylor Fladgate 30 Year Tawny Fonseca Porto "Guimaraens," 1995 Graham's Vintage Porto, 2003 Nieport Colheita, 1995 95 WA. 10 16 29 20 23 17 105

16-31 Niepoort Vintage Porto, 2007 16-32 Graham's Vintage Porto, 1970 6-17

95 WS. 93 WA. 98 WS.

145 260 400 500

Taylor Fladgate Vintage Porto, 1970 Fonseca Vintage Porto, 1977 100WS.

106

BEER Amstel Light Bud Light Budweiser Coors Light Corona Extra Fat Tire Amber Ale Heineken Michelob Ultra Miller Lite Moretti (Italy) Sierra Nevada Pale Ale Stella Artois Xingu (Brazil) Yuengling Lager Buckler, Non-Alcoholic Gosling's Ginger Beer, Non-Alcoholic High-Gravity Abita Abbey Ale- Pairs Perfectly with our Bistro Burger Carlsberg Elephant Ale Corsendonk Pater Dubbel Ale Guiness Foreign Extra Stout Innis & Gunn Original Innis & Gunn Rum Cask Lion Lager Mojo India Pale Ale Napa Smith Lost Dog Red Ale Napa Smith Organic IPA Sam Adams Wee Heavy

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Rye Bulleit 95 Rye Copper Fox Corsair Wry Moon High West Renezvous Sazerac Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye Tuthilltown Hudson Manhattan Willet Rye (ri)

108

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Brandy B&B Christian Brothers Brandy Germain-Robin Brandy

Gin Beefeater/ Beefeater 24 Bluecoat Bombay Sapphire Corsair Death's Door Hendrick's New Amsterdam Plymouth Ransom Old Time Gin Small's Gin Tanqueray Tanqueray 10 Tanqueray Rangpur No. 209

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Tequila Asom Broso Cuestion Blanco Don Julio El Jimador Blanco El Jimador Reposado Herradura Silver Herradura Reposado Herradura Anejo La Pinta Pomegranate Maestro Dobel Patron Silver Patron Anejo Patron Reposado Senor Rio Anejo 3 Amigos Organic Blanco KAH Anejo KAH Reposado

Rum 10 Cane Abuelo Atlantico Bacardi Lite Bacardi Limon Captain Morgan Spiced Rum Corsair Spiced Rum Cruzan Black Cherry Rum El Dorado 12 yr Kilo Kai Malibu Meyer's Dark Rum Oronoco Pampero Aniversary Starr African Rum The Kraken

110

Liquor 360s (Flights)

Rum 360 19 Atlantico, Dominican Republic El Dorado 12 yr, Guyana Pampero Aniversario, Venezuela The Kraken, Caribbean

Tequila 360 Herradura Silver Question Blanco El Jimador Reposado Senor Rio Anejo

25

Bourbon 360 Basil Hayden Buffalo Trace Eagle Rare Four Roses Single Barrel

23

Rye 360 22 Corsair Wry Moon, Kentucky (ri), Kentucky Willet Rye, Kentucky Copper Fox, Virginia

Whiskey 360 Old Forester Signature Bushmill's Irish Honey Collingwood Paddy Old Irish

18

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