Screaming Eagle Part 3, ?The final Chapter?

After another 2 year break, back at it, tasting Screaming Eagle this time out of Magnums. I have to pinch myself knowing that I am one of a very few individuals including all of the top writers that have tasted this many Screaming Eagle vintages. Again the venue was at the Ritz Carlton Amelia Island 5 Diamond restaurant “Salt” with Chef Okan providing the dinner. The dinner was held to help fund a new project in Nassau County Florida building a tiny home neighborhood for affordable housing for lower income citizens of the area. Well attended the event eventually provided enough funds to start and hopefully finish the project.

I recommend you review my 2 previous Blogs on February 25, 2021 as well as May 7, 2023 to help getting up to speed for this review. As a review, since 2021 these are the wines reviewed in date order with the professional ratings.

Screaming Eagle Cabernet Red

2005 Screaming Eagle RP98 WS95 ST94

2009 Screaming Eagle RP96 WS96 ST96

2010 Screaming Eagle RP100 WS96 ST97

2011 Screaming Eagle RP94-99 JS94

2012 Screaming Eagle RP100 WS97 ST95-98 JS100

2013 Screaming Eagle RP97 WS95 JS100 750cc 2021 1.5L 2025

2014 Screaming Eagle RP97 WS95 JS99

2015 Screaming Eagle WA100 JS100

2016 Screaming Eagle WA100 JS100

2019 Screaming Eagle D100 750cc 2023 1.5L 2025

2020 Screaming Eagle JS99 750cc 2023 1.5L 2025

2021 Screaming Eagle RP98 JS100 V100 D100 1.5L 2025

Screaming Eagle 2nd Flight

2014 Second Flight RP96 JS97 D95

2021 Second Flight WI100

Screaming Eagle Sauvignon Blanc

2019 Screaming Eagle Sauvignon Blanc RP99

2021 Screaming Eagle Sauvignon Blanc RP100

Wines Tasted March 29, 2025

2021 Screaming Eagle Sauvignon Blanc RP 100

Talk about an embarrassment of riches. This is my second bottle of what may be one of the rarest wines on the planet as I had the 2019 2 years ago. My first impression a bright, high acid, grapefruit predominate wine. It was by no means overoaked which you should expect here. It was a nice complex wine, I could pick up 4 or 5 flavors easily. In addition to grapefruit I tasted lemon and pineapple. The balance was exceptional with all flavors complimenting each other. The finish was exceptional over 10 minutes and lingering, complex, and impressionable. I have nothing but praise and agree with the 100 point rating. I do apologize in that there are only a couple of hundred bottles made so it is near impossible for most to have this wine.

2021 Screaming Eagle 2nd Flight RP 100

In many ways this is a historic wine in that it is one of the first 2nd bottling that have been rated 100 points. This was rated 100 by Robert Parker. It should also be noted that this wine has more Merlot than most which may play into that rating. It has a rich, elegant nose and the oak is well integrated in all aspects. As with all Screaming Eagles there is exceptional balance here while maintaining complexity. I tasted cedar, cigar box, black currant, prunes, eucalyptus, and mint. In many respects the fruit was somewhat subdued allowing for a more mineral taste bringing forth some old world Cab style.

2013 Screaming Eagle Cabernets in Magnum RP 97 WS 95 JS 100

For me hands down the wine of evening. I had this wine previously in the 2021 tasting and here is what I said tasting 2013 out of a 750cc bottle.

“On the nose and taste I found an abundance of smoky meat and barbecue. The tannins were exceptionally smooth and balanced along with balanced acid and alcohol. I found I agreed more with Robert Parker on this year and it was one of my favorites of the evening”

Out of Magnum again the best Cabernet of the evening. Parker rated it 97 whereas James Suckling gave it the full 100 points. For me again this was a smooth operator. The opening stanza was a spectacular spiritual nose and aroma highly complex. The oak was just enough to enhance the wine and blends in seamlessly with the fruit. There is a perfect harmonious pleasant blend of flavors. Multiple flavors were showcased including cedar, oak, blackberry, raspberry, strawberry, and Cassis which Screaming Eagle is known for. The final stanza was a lingering complex finish to die for. No question a 100 point experience. The main difference out of Magnum for me was continued evolution of complexity and it was smoother and more mellow than what I remember 4 years ago. I also was blown away with the nose.

2019 Screaming Eagle D100 750cc 2023 1.5L 2025

An extraordinary wine. From the start unmistakable aroma, bouquet, and taste with layer upon layer of complexity. I smelled and tasted Blackberry, Cassis, prune, fig, cedar, a light hint of oak that did not overwhelm the fruit. An overlay of nice smoky flavor. There was outstanding acid and balance and for me the finish lasted for 10 minutes or more. It was just an amazing complex pleasant well balanced wine that lingered in the memory. A perfect example of my description of Screaming Eagle being a “berry complex well balanced wine”.Since my last tasting on May 7, 2023 the 2019 has clearly improved with age.

2020 Screaming Eagle JS99 750cc 2023 1.5L 2025

An outstanding wine but to me a little less impressive than the 2019. There was cedar on the nose but less oak than the 2019. Still lots of berry flavors including blackberry, raspberry, and strawberry with plenty of cedar flavors. The finish was not as long as I would have liked. It is still a young wine so may just need more time to evolve. Plenty of fruit to go forward. My review from May 7, 2023 is similar and I still like the wine I just found the evolution of the 2019 more to my taste. Reality both are great.

2021 Screaming Eagle RP98 JS100 V100 D100 1.5L 2025

The 2021 is just too young to really judge and appreciate. It was harsh on the taste and very, very strong tannic structure that overwhelmed the fruit. 2021 wines were noted to have small berry size and high skin to pulp ratios with lower yields which may explain the strong tannins. The oak flavors were also there but for me they were just enough to enhance the wine and blend in. I did detect from eucalyptus and mint on the nose but the tannins overwhelmed everything in the taste. I do suspect that it will prove to be more complex than I could tell. I also think the balance is there More than one writer gave it 100 points but I just could not really judge it due to its tannic youth. Clearly will need at least 10 years to evolve. Lisa Perrotti-Brown stood out recommending up to 10 years of cellaring.

1997 Huet Vouvray Cuvee Constance 1.5 L 100 WS 99 WA

Sweet wines generally last for decades and this Vouvray is an outstanding example. Our group had this years ago out of magnum and we enjoyed it again this evening out of magnum and OMG was it so good and continues to be close to a spiritual wine. It starts with a delicate honey nose bursting in aroma. A concentrated sweetness with honey, lemon, and pear flavors well balanced. An excellent, long, lingering finish into the evening star studded sky. Being from 1997 it is already a rare wine to find and impossible in magnum. My friend who acquired it was offered it as the last of it’s vintage so in magnums that is true. But it was so good we could not foresee life without some in our cellar so I started my world wide search and low and behold I found 20 750cc bottles in London and purchased them. In Europe at least there are a few 750cc’s left but alas no magnums. But we now have 20 that should last our lifetimes. When you visit we will crack a bottle. I have provided the professional reviews on this rare wine below.

100 points Wine Spectator: " *Cellar Selection* Extraordinarily rich. An amazing amount of botrytis gives this sweet white a powerful, spicy character, its masses of ripe fruit kept lively by electrifying acidity. So concentrated it tastes as though all the flesh has evaporated, leaving only the spirit behind. Will easily last your lifetime and mine. (TM)" (02/2000)

99 points Wine Advocate: "The stunning, virtually perfect, 1997 Vouvray Moelleux Cuvee Constance (named after his daughter) sports 150 grams of residual sugar per liter, 7.5 grams of acidity, and 12.5% alcohol. Tasting this sublime dessert wine brought tears to my eyes. It is so captivatingly pure, focused, and intricate as to be all but impossible to adequately describe. Its green and straw color reveals hints of gold. Aromatically, it titillates with scents of apricot jam, candied grapefruits, quince, bergamots, and flowers. On the palate fresh peaches, citrus fruits, honey, acacia blossoms, quinine, chalk, and lemony mangoes can be found. Additionally, this medium-to-full-bodied, penetrating, yet perfectly balanced wine has a finish that seemingly lingers forever, revealing even more waves of minerals and fruit. It will require patience yet should easily evolve for 50 years or more. Bravo! (PR)" (08/1999)

The wine soapbox

As an amateur I must hold the worlds record for tasting 12 vintages of Screaming Eagle including some 2nd Flights and their Sauvignon Blanc. Going back to my initial tastings in 2021 and 2023 I can continue to state these wines are “berry, and complex well balanced”. I see no reason to change my past opinion so in closing I offer my editorial from 2023 as follows:

“Now onto the elephant in the room the price-value ratio. These wines are one of the most expensive wines on the planet and you have to ask yourself if the difference in style and taste and quality is worth the price differential over an equally compelling California Cabernet. That is a question you have to answer yourself. I think it says a lot that a significant number of these bottles end up at auction in the after-market having never been drunk by the original owner. Last week at dinner a friend gave me a great line that says “Wine is made to be enjoyed not exploited”. Wine is made to be drunk, period. If all you are doing is buying and selling something over and over again to squeeze every ounce of profit out of it then please go buy NFTs. At least that is more honest. I have confirmed that for many of my friends who have the palate Screaming Eagle offers a subtle hedonistic taste difference that only they can appreciate and they have the funds to indulge this vice. So I say go ahead with my blessing and joy that you are in fact enjoying these wines. But please eventually drink them. Some things are more important than money. For the rest of us, there are hundreds of similar quality and tasty wines at a much lower price point. Please see my blog on California Cabernets from October 22, 2021. In the first Screaming Eagle tasting a 2015 Hall Jacks Masterpiece was included and I wrote then and confirm now it is as close to Screaming Eagle as you can get and is 5% of the cost of Screaming Eagle. “

Again I offer my sincerest congratulations and thanks to both Executive Chef Okan Kizirilbay and Collin Thornton, Food and Beverage Manager of the Ritz Carlton Amelia Island for volunteering to provide this dinner to provide affordable housing to the Nassau County residents.

Happy Holidays! California Dreaming, The Good, The Bad, The Ugly and the Final Chapter, Restaurant, Wine Shop, and Market Reviews

Alas, my work is done.  It has been a long but rewarding effort to provide you with some great information to help with your next trip to San Francisco, Napa, and Newport Beach.   All, especially Napa are magical places with some of the best the world has to offer.  After close now to 40 years of visiting still gives me goose bumps while I am there and when I leave I have a longing to return.  A place that you will never grow tired of.  As the year ends I wish my loyal readers a safe, healthy, happy, and joy-filled Holiday season and Happy New Year!

Restaurant Reviews

Newport Beach California

R+D Kitchen

Newport Beach CA in Fashion Mall

555 Newport Center Drive

949-219-0555

My wife and I have now eaten here multiple times on each trip to Southern California and it has turned into one of our favorite places, especially for lunch. They have absolutely the best French Dip sandwich I have ever had with mountains of fresh finely cut roast beef on a fresh-baked soft baguette and tasty dipping sauce. There is always a line out the door with locals cramming to get in. They also have one in Napa Valley in the Rutherford area and our friends had dinner at that one who also stated their dinner was great. The one in Napa Valley you definitely need reservations because it was close to impossible to get into that one. In general fresh well-prepared food by well-trained professional and friendly servers. I can’t wait to return in the future.

San Francisco California

Miller and Lux San Francisco

700 Terry A Francois Blvd

San Francisco, CA

415-872-6699

Miller and Lux is a steakhouse owned and operated by celebrity chef Tyler Florence whom we met briefly as we departed after dinner. The food and service are excellent and the decor is high-end and relaxing. Immediately after sitting down, you are offered a selection of sparkling wine to choose from at various price points. I was impressed with the Lobster Thermador one of my old favorite dishes you almost never see anymore. The restaurant has a wide variety of classic steak cuts and accompaniments also. They allow you to bring your own wine with a modest corkage fee. Overall it was a memorable meal but the prices were the highest we paid on our trip and the wine prices on the wine list were in La La land. Chef Tyler made many visits into the dining area to speak with regular customers and friends but otherwise, he did not visit your table, something I find a problem. To me, if the Chef comes out to speak with friends it only takes a minute or two extra I would hope to just stop by every table and say hello, how’s dinner.

Kokkari Estiatorio Greek Restaurant

200 Jackson St.

San Francisco, CA 94111

415-981-0983

This was our second favorite place in San Francisco. It is primarily a high-end Greek Restaurant with all your favorites like great lamb souvlaki. They had an extensive wine list and I had my first bottle of Kongsgaard Chardonnay during the trip. Both the sommelier and busboy went to extreme trouble to help us find suppliers of that wine in the area and their recommendations led us directly to places where we were able to buy it by the case. Very friendly and helpful staff and well prepared fresh food. I had the lamb souvlaki with a Greek salad that was sublime. It was a very nice long relaxing lunch and we will return. The only downside if any was the bill was the second-highest during our trip and it was for lunch no less but to us worth the price.

Johns Grill, San Francisco

63 Ellis St.

San Francisco CA 94102

415-986-0069

John’s Grill is one of the oldest continuous restaurants in the city. It has been there for decades. Nothing fancy but good well-prepared food with friendly service and a reasonable price. The menu is pretty basic but a good selection and something for everyone. A good selection of seafood and plenty of great steaks.

Bix

56 Gold Street

San Francisco CA 94133

415-433-6300

Another oldie but goodie that will take you back to the good old days. Bix is a supper club with a 1930’s ambiance with live jazz and serving American-French cuisine. The menu leans towards seafood and at the same time serves marrow bones as a separate item which I have never seen on a menu before. The service was excellent and the live jazz piano was definitely a plus. I really felt like I was in the Casablanca Movie. Play it again Sam!

Mathilde San Francisco

315 5th St.

San Francisco CA 94107

415-546-6128

It is no secret we like French cuisine and this place satisfied all of our French desires. Everything is a classic French presentation and all of our favorites. I eventually settled in for the basics having escargots and Coq au Vin. The escargots were identical in taste and quality to any I have ever had in Burgundy. The Coq au Vin was classic and just downright delicious. The service was professional and friendly. Coffee and dessert were again classic and we had an obscene number of Profiteroles and probably gained 10 pounds just from dessert. It’s a small and out-of-the-way place but worth the trip for classic French.

Foreign Cinema San Francisco

2534 Mission St.

San Francisco CA 94110

415-648-7600

Let me be very clear here. This is absolutely the best most fun and unique dining experience and high-top shelf experience I have had in years. You would never know it looking at the front door with a bitcoin seller next door and a payroll advance store across the street. It is in one of those urban recovery areas where the area used to be a high crime and drug den area the city is trying to rehabilitate. As we speak today it is a safe area but it still looks rough and the only way you know where the restaurant is, is for the small sign over the door. What a wonderful dinner and Clark and I are seriously thinking of a weekend trip to SFO just to return there and have dinner again. The restaurant is in an old movie theater and inside the dining room is divided into two rooms one of which shows an old movie each evening and that is the theme of the night. The night we were there the movie was “Gentleman Prefer Blonds” with Marilyn Monroe. You sit at the usual white cloth dining table with family and friends while they play the movie as you eat. I didn’t recall any sound so you just see the movie. The menu was extensive and everything is made in-house fresh. One example. They make their own sardines. I am not a sardine fan but they were recommended and wow, unbelievable. I now like sardines. Fresh, not fishy, tasty, and great. The menu both for food, wine, dessert wines, cocktails, drinks is extensive and takes some time to take in. You had to be impressed that they had 5 different renditions of “Pappy” Old Rip Van Winkle Whiskey from 12 years old to 23 years old. It is one of the rarest whiskey in the world and to find all of them on one menu is impressive. The American Whiskey choices alone were over 50 choices. Dining choices were unique. Just one example is Saffron risotto galettes with roasted honeynut squash with matsutake mushrooms, English pea puree, tapenade, and toum and zoug. They also had an extensive list of oysters and caviar as well. Service was professional and attentive and the overall ambiance was relaxed and calming. It was just a truly unique and wonderful dining experience that we will remember for a long long time.

Napa and St. Helena Area

Bistro Don Giovanni

4110 Howard Ln

Napa, CA 94558

707-224-3300

Don Giovanni's was one of the first places we had dinner close to 40 years ago and it is still going strong and expanded to 3X the size we recall.  Fresh pasta, fresh fish, and attentive friendly service, and just great Italian food.  Reservations are a must, though we had no real trouble getting in.  They were full and busy but you do learn when you go to Napa the "Napa lifestyle" and Napa cuisine seems to reign supreme here.  I had pasta with fresh in-house made basil pesto sauce and I can assure you once you have freshly made basil pesto you won't be able to go back to store-bought again.  In fact, we now make our own in-house fresh basil pesto at home.  We had a great meal at Don Giovanni's and we will return in the future.

 

Mustard's Grill

7399 St Helena Hwy

Napa CA 94558

707-944-2424

Directly across from Del Dotto's caves one of the best and oldest places in Napa.  A word of warning don't eat lunch here and then do a tour of Del Dotto after in that for us at least Del Dotto includes a pizza lunch with your tasting and we were absolutely stuffed by 4 PM.  Mustard’s has been here for now over 40 years to our knowledge and we come to every visit and in all those years it remains probably the top 3 places in the valley. Food and service are top-notch and like everyone else farm to table fresh and well prepared. Their wine list is 13x19 inches small fine print front and back and labeled “Way too Many Wines”. Think Bern’s Steakhouse in Tampa on one piece of paper. They had many wines you will never ever see anywhere. One example we had was John Kongsgaard Albarino which I did not know existed. Another one you will not find often is American Expat in France is Alex Gamble Aligote. I always look forward to going to Mustards and you should also.

Goose and Gander St. Helena

1245 Spring St

St Helena CA 94574

707-967-8779 

Another very unique place to dine. A great eclectic menu with standard favorites thrown in with unique items like roasted bone marrow, garden radishes with dip, and fried olives and pistachios. One entree a bone in salmon chop I have never seen before. Like other establishments in the valley, they had an extensive wine list again close to 1000 wines. Selections were primarily red and the prices were 3x retail and sometimes over so I recommend corkage here especially if you want white wine. Service was friendly and attentive and not overblown. We enjoyed it very much

Farmstead Long Meadow Branch St. Helena

738 Main St

St Helena CA 94574

707-963-4555

The poster child for the farm-to-table movement. Great food, extensive food, and wine menu you really cannot go wrong here. For some insane reason I and another friend had the 12 hours pulled pork sandwich and coming from the South we know barbecue and would think we would have ordered something more in line with California cuisine. But I must tell you surprisingly it was a great barbecue and very tender. They also serve ribs. Overall the food was very fresh and well prepared. There are way over 500 to 600 wines to choose from and the prices are OK at 2X retail. It’s a great place to go and recommended.

Gott's Roadside

933 Main St (Highway 29)

St Helena CA 94574

This is a bucket list kind of place.  They are like the original McDonalds burger joints with outside wooden tables to sit on and the best hamburger, hot dog, and fries you will ever have as you drink your own bottle of Screaming Eagle.  In our case Scarecrow.  I have only been able to eat there once and this last trip there was a 2-hour wait just to order.  The place was jammed and parking was blocks away.  Is it that good?  Yes, it is.  They are now branching out and we saw the establishment at Oxbow Market which we also recommend you visit in downtown Napa.  You really have to go to experience it and I recommend you try and show up when they first start serving to shortcut the lines.

Wine and Market Shops worth Visiting

California offers extensive places to eat and shop providing items you simply will not find elsewhere.  The following places are ones that we go to almost every time we go as they provide us with opportunities we cannot find in Florida.  We highly recommend all of them as they provide reasonable prices and exceptional help and service during your visit.  Most all of them have mailing lists we recommend you join and all will ship directly to your home dependent on your State laws, but definitely to Florida as we have had no problems with any of them.

Newport Beach Area

Hi-Times Wine Cellars

250 Ogle St

Costa Mesa CA 92627

949-650-8463

A very large wine store with thousands of selections, great specials, and unique wines from all over the world.  Every visit just walking around and looking takes me close to 2 hours.  I purchased wine here for a large birthday party for a friend and brought in the cost at well over 20% of what he intended to pay.  Plenty of bargains.

Wine Exchange

1544 E Warner Ave

Santa Ana CA 92705

714-979-1509

Located in an industrial area it is somewhat difficult to find but worth the effort.  Again lots of unique and unknown high-quality wines.  They have a "Grand Cru" or "1st Growth" room with plenty of wine to bankrupt you but at times some of the best prices I have seen.  One example is I have purchased most of the French Richeborgs in my cellar at around $250 a bottle which is at least 1/2 anywhere else.  No guarantee you find anything but when you do it is worth the visit.  They sell on an internet mailing list which I am on and ship directly to Florida and elsewhere when permitted with no problems.

San Francisco Area

K&L Wine Merchants, San Francisco Store

855 Harrison Street

San Francisco CA 94107

415-896-1794 

Another wine merchant from who I buy a lot of wine.  Multiple stores the one on Harrison Street is their main shop and is huge with an extremely varied selection of hard-to-find wines.  I have visited the Pitray Vineyard in the Cadillac region of the Right Bank in Bordeaux and visited with the Count and his wife in their castle there twice and it is a very low production good wine that we have shipped from France.  I was blown away K&L had it at $15 a bottle.  I also spent almost the entire trip looking for Hirsch Chardonnay and never found it until the last day of our trip visiting K&L.  I am on their "advantage" list or internet mailing list and so far their prices have been some of the lowest I have seen even with door-to-door shipping.

Napa Valley Winery Exchange

Rick Jones, Owner

415 Taylor Street

San Francisco CA 94102

415-297-1074 cell

415-771-2887

A much smaller wine shop in town but well worth the trouble.  The owner and staff are extremely knowledgeable regarding all wines and attend wine tastings extensively and take extensive notes and share them with you.  They provided some of the most wine knowledge and recommendations we received on our trip.  The owner is a stand-up guy and will help you a lot.  I was a lot of fun just to stop by and talk shop.

Napa Valley Area

Gary's Napa

607 St Helena Highway

St Helena CA 94574

707-531-7660

This used to be a Dean & Deluca and was recently purchased by a private owner.  It is the same place with lots of gourmet food and wine, cheese, food, etc.  Most of the wine is very high-end.  If you want Scarecrow and such this is the place to go.  A good selection of wine and helpful knowledgeable staff.

Oxbow Cheese & Wine Merchant

Michael Meyers, "Chief Wine Wisdom Officer"

610 First Street

Napa CA 94559

707-819-6126

The Oxbow Market in downtown Napa is now a bucket list kind of place.  It has about 20 inside cafes and shops with lots of goodies, none better than the Oxbow Cheese & Wine Merchant at the back of the building managed by a wonderful wine expert Michael Meyers and a pleasure to speak with.  Tell him Ross sent you.  He provided me with my first ever significant allocation of John Kongsgaard Chardonnay in my life and has other extensive wine holdings.  He also has lots of great cheese.  He will ship direct and has a internet following I recommend you get on.

Oakville Grocery

7856 St Helena Hwy

Oakville CA 94562

707-944-8802

Just like Mustard's Oakville Grocery has been in Napa since the beginning of time.  Lots of great gourmet food and nick-nacks for home and an extensive wine cellar and more importantly an extensive Champagne and very high-end wine selections to include Scarecrow and Screaming Eagle.  On our last day, I purchased a mixed case to take home on the plane and one example purchased 3 bottles of Nature-Champagne and in the past 30 years, I have only found 2 bottles of Nature-Champagne so they have some rare stuff.  They have recently added a wine tasting room next door and they have Scarecrow for sure at something like $40 a pour and yes it is a little high but a good price so you can say you tasted Scarecrow.  I assume in the future they will feature other high-end wines like that but you cannot beat the setup they have and plan on a visit while in Napa.

 

Contact List for Napa Valley California

Contacts to use for any upcoming trip to Napa Valley California. Feel free to contact them directly for appointments and visits. All are highly recommended.

Eric Tracy

Vine View Tours & Transportation

vineviewtours.com

eric@vineviewtours.com

707-337-3056

Drew Neiman

Neiman Cellars

drew@neimancellars.com

707-322-7478

Michael Meyers

Oxbow Cheese & Wine Mechant

Oxbow Market Napa CA

610 First Street, Napa CA 94559

www.oxbowcheese.com

michael@fpwm.com

707-819-6126

866-991-9400 toll-free

Scotti Stark

Stark Advantage

scotti@starkadvantage.com

707-628-7600

Justin Vazquez

General Manager Ellman Family Wines

justin@ellmanwine.com

707-312-2684

Patrick Quigley, Assistant Winemaker

Amulet Estate

patrick@amuletestate.com

509-844-2076

Billy Dewey Cellar Master

Dakota Shy

billy@dakotashwine.com

601-278-2126

Lydia Stafford

Morlet Family Vineyards

lydia@morletwines.com

707-967-8690 ext 105

Trefethen Family Vineyards

trefethen.com

707-255-7700


Aero Packing

Great shipping agent for Napa

They will accept your wine and ship it to your home

707-554-2088


Strala Vineyards

stralavineyards.com

707-339-2244


Theorem vineyards

theoremvineyards.com

Sequoia Grove Winery

Oscar Escareno

www.sequoiagorve.com

707-944-2945

2018 California Cabernets Quality Price Ratio

Wine Spectator has just published their November 15th issue and the lead article is “Blockbuster Cabernets From Napa”. For one thing, it is an exciting article in that I leave for a wine tasting trip to Napa in 4 days so it could not be more timely. To be sure it is an extensive article and covers the 2018 vintage, one of the best in the past 10 years. On page 50 and 51 of the magazine you will find listings for the Top-scoring 2018s, Top-Scoring Late Releases, and Smart Buys. If you have been reading my blog you will find previous articles discussing wine pricing in general as well as prices for what many consider “marquee” or top shelf cult wines as compared to ordinary everyday wines. On those two pages mentioned you could not find a more starker comparison. After years of tasting thousands of wines including the top-shelf ones I have said that yes there is a difference and for those who can taste that difference and have the money by all means enjoy those wines. 

But to me and others that difference is marginal and for me I have trouble justifying buying a bottle of Harlan Estate for $1,620 that is listed on the same page with Kirkland Signature Cabernet. The difference in rating is 97 to 90. For you math nerds out-there that is $230 difference per point. Another way to look at it is you can own 108 bottles for what you pay for the Harlan. I have had more than one glass of Harlan. I have met John Harlan. He is a visionary and has made spectacular wines, but at some point you just cannot justify what I would consider price gouging despite the winemaker being a great guy. Number 2 on the list are wines from Colgin. Again, I have visited the vineyard, I have tasted the wines, in fact the IX Estate is one of the greatest Cabernets I have ever tasted. When I visited the vineyard the wines had been offered under $500 a bottle. After my visit Colgin was sold and the new owner now sells the wine on release at $675. My question to myself is the greatest Cabernet I have ever tasted worth $675? I have had and purchased Bryant and have met the family but at $600 is it that good? Also listed are Hall and Spottswoode both of which I have had and visited. For the most part their wines are more reasonable around $200 a bottle and are presented along with the other higher priced wines. 

Now look at the Smart Buys. Mount Veeder Winery Cabernet is the pick of the litter at $44 and 93 points. I can unequivocally state that this wine totally deserves the top pick here and I have tasted it multiple times and it is a spectacular wine. I know more than one restaurant who feature it as their house Cabernet. I had a CEO ask me once what Cabernet he should stock to serve at corporate events and with friends that would not embarrass him and bankrupt the company and I recommended Mount Veeder Cabernet. I say again if you want the best Cabernet available at the best rating and the best price I recommend Mount Veeder Winery Cabernet. You can buy 37 bottles of it compared to the same price as the Harlan. 

And don’t be too quick to be embarrassed by Costco’s Kirkland brand. Two of their Cabernets made the list at 90 points and cost $15 and $20. For a nice everyday wine for dinner you cannot beat those wines and I have had many and they live up to the ratings. They are good wines. Years ago an individual published a quarterly magazine called QPR, quality, price, ratio, where he collated and listed in order all wines by their price and professional rating. At the top at number 1 was always the highest quality score with the lowest price compared against similar wines, for example all California Cabernets, or all California Chardonnays. Regrettably he stopped doing it most likely due to insufficient return on investment and excessive time and effort to publish the information. But with Wine Spectators list you can view what is there and sort of do it yourself as I have demonstrated above. 

There are a ton of great wines out there and only you can decide what your price points are. They are different for all of us. But my main point here is don’t feel you have cheated yourself by paying $15 for a bottle of Kirkland Cabernet, and I am not saying just buy the Kirkland either. But you can feel good knowing the Kirkland made the same list as $1,620 Harlan.  And finally, Mount Veeder Winery Cabernet 2018 is the best wine at the best price available.

The Piazza Del Dotto with Dave Del Dotto Part 7

What an unbelievable afternoon. I still have trouble getting my head around it. I have over a dozen cards from the barrel tastings and I know we tasted way more than that. The lunch? OMG! White truffle pizza with fresh shaved white truffles. Bottle after bottle of world-class top-shelf wine. A host with passion and hospitality that should define all vineyards in the world. It cannot get any better and again what a wonderful experience I for one will never forget. I know I will miss some wines here so please forgive me but what I can remember is a good representation of one of the top vineyards in the world. Forgive me also for not finding professional ratings on most of these wines. Dave's wines are only sold at the vineyards so until they go into the auction market a few years after release there is not much out there, especially in the current release or the ones in the barrel which are the ones we primarily tasted.  My wife and I were able to attend a dinner recently with Desiree & Giovanni Del Dotto tasting some of the 2019 vintages at a wine pairing dinner and the same wines continue to impress.  So much so I purchased an additional case of the Sparkling Rose, Chardonnay, and Pinot!

2017 & 2019 Rose Sparkling Wine

I liked this Sparkler a lot. I am finding that the Sparkling Rose's from this area is getting better and better every year. This wine was bright and light and had good fruit and great balance and a pleasant finish. I detected some cherry flavor in it also. For the price, it is a great value wine and is remarkably consistent year to year.

2016 & 2019 Chardonnay Fort Ross-Seaview Sonoma Coast

Did anyone order popcorn? Lots of popcorn butter flavor in the nose and taste on this one. The flavor profile had a good showing of apple and pear flavors and the acidity was moderate and well balanced with the other aspects of the wine. It is a good fruity buttery Chardonnay with a good finish, food-friendly, and no flaws.  We love it so much we just received an additional case.

2016 Giovanni's Tuscan Reserve Napa Valley Washington Wine Blog95

A blend of largely Cabernet with Sangiovese, this shows a deeply perfumed nose with creme de cassis, smoke, Asian spice, and dusty terroir on the nose. The palate shows wonderful brightness and intensity with red currant, red cherry, cassis, and a touch of espresso bean. This shows some incredible range here as I can’t think of a wine if this type made as well as this edition of ‘Giovanni’s Tuscan Reserve.’ Drink 2018-2035-To me it was comparable to Tignanello by Marchesi Antinori.

2014 Rutherford Estate Cabernet Sauvignon Single Cluster

We had this wine with lunch out of Magnum and I bought a bottle being totally enamored with the wine. Sweet young balanced tannins with a complex flavor profile. Despite being a fairly young wine that will age for a long time it was approachable and pleasant to drink and went great with food, especially white truffles. Clearly had the Rutherford "dust".

2016 St. Helena Moutain Cabernet Sauvignon Alain Fouquet carved and grooved American Oak Block 2

Another example of Dave's experimentation. The oak barrels in this wine are carved and grooved and monitored by a computer program this of course determines how the barrel ends up after toasting. The result is the wine flavors are plush showing off mocha, anise, creme de cassis, and tart flavors

2016 St. Helena Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon Vicard Privilege French Oak Block 2

It is interesting how the barrels of this wine is made. Dave is doing a lot of experimentation with his wine and with this one he uses a computer program to toast the barrels. For this wine, the barrel is done in a medium toast and I thought the oak was a little better than some of the other wines tasted. It seemed to have a lot more balance to me. Plus it was French Oak which I personally prefer.

2016 The David Howell Mountain

Made with American Oak I picked up aromas and tastes of Black cherry and cinnamon as well as aromas of baking spices, some tobacco, creme de cassis, and mocha. The aromatics are downright intoxicating. The mouthfeel is gorgeous as dark chocolate-covered cherries, sweet pipe tobacco, and mocha flavors deliver. It should age well.

2016 Villa Del Lago Cabernet Sauvignon Washington Wine Blog97

One of the great wines in Napa Valley, the Villa Del Lago Cabernet Sauvignon shines for its combination of concentration and silky elegance. The nose is gorgeous and highly perfumed with rose petals, black tea alongside creme de cassis. Silky smooth through the palate, the wine shows wonderful elegance and terroir with dark fruits parading with creme de cassis. Turkish coffee, and bake tea with leather. Complex and seductive this is shockingly good right now but will cellar marvelously for decades. Drink 2018-2040-

2016 The BEAST Cabernet Sauvignon RP100

What? Leave out the "Beast"? Simply not going to happen. The wine is a blend of all of Dave's best Estate Vineyards including Howell Mountain, Rutherford Estate Oakville Vineyard, St. Helena Mountain, Vineyard 887, and Villa Del Lago. It has a huge body and structure. The tannins are young, they will age seemingly forever. Lots of black cherries and plenty of balanced fruit. Just a young powerful puppy at this point in time. Parker says the 2016 Del Dotto ‘The Beast’ Cabernet Sauvignon is every bit as good as their 2015 bottling and is one of the best wines that I have sampled all year. ‘The Beast’ is a barrel selection that sources from a host of great vineyards in four different Napa Valley. Inky dark in the glass, the nose is intense and aromatically gorgeous, currently displaying a dazzling level of complexity with creme de cassis, mocha, Turkish coffee, Asian spice, anise, and a touch of toasty oak. The weight and mouthfeel of this wine is simply stunning with creme de cassis, mocha, anise, black tea, leather, and black cherry cordial flavors all slowly building in the glass. This is a head-turning combination of bright acidity and fruit weight on the palate that makes it nearly impossible to resist right now. Intense and lively, this has an extremely long life in the cellar. Drink 2018-2040- Parker has rated this vintage at 100 points as well as the 2015 and the 2014 but I was unable to find the detailed write-ups of the 2016 as of yet. But consider this how many wines do you know that have a Parker rating of 100 points 3 years in a row. Few that I know of.

Afternoon with Morlet Family Vineyard hosted by Luc Morlet Part 5

Luc Morlet, whose brother Nicolas Morlet is the principal winemaker at Peter Michael Winery, preceded his brother but has his own winery just north of St. Helena and the Culinary Institute of America. It sits adjacent to Route 29 in a beautiful old building from the late 1800s. Morlet, who hails from the Champagne region of France, is on a hot streak in terms of the quality of the exquisite wines he is producing. This is an extraordinary lineup of Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Pinot Noir, and possibly the finest 100% Cabernet Franc ever made in California, his Force de la Nature. Morlet is hoping to use about 70% or more estate-grown fruit, as he has been busy acquiring property. He was a gracious host during our visit and passionate about his wines.

2009 Millesime Champagne Pierre Morlet WS90

I particularly liked this Champagne I found it to be clean and crisp and comparable to other high-end Champagnes and I bought a 6 pack. Only produced in the very best years. From the producer: "The Pierre Morlet Champagne style is rich, harmoniously balanced, and refined. The body is round and elegant with fruity notes of raspberry and wild strawberry, intermixed with hints of violet, expressing the predominance of the Pinot Noir. The Chardonnay adds structure and finesse as well as zesty lemon flavors with classic notes of William pear and acacia. The chalky subsoil into which the vines plunge their roots, provides the wines with a strong mineral background. The Champagnes exhibit complexity and depth brought by the diversity of the terroirs, the old age of the vines, the vivification, and the élevage (barrel ageing) in French oak barrels. Finally, the superbly small size and persistence of the bubbles in the glass prove that only the highest quality techniques are applied and that the Champagnes are released only at maturity." Just had a bottle with dinner and everyone raved about it. To me it is much better that the score indicates. It is bright and fresh with lots of well balanced fruit.

2016 Chardonnay Ma Douce JB97 RP95+

A very nice Chard, I gave it 2 stars. Starts with a lemon rind nose with lots or apple, pear also in the nose that follows through in the taste. Nice buttery oak with a complex flavor profile and nicely balanced. Had mild acid concentration and a moderate finish.

 Jeb Dunnuck has this to say "

Leading off the Chardonnays, the 2016 Chardonnay Ma Douce (which translates to “My Sweet”) is a rich, full-bodied, blockbuster effort that still stays incredibly pure, seamless, and elegant. Heavenly notes of crushed citrus, flower oil, brioche, toasted nuts, and ample crushed rock notes all emerge from the glass, and it has vibrant acidity and is perfectly balanced. It’s a world-class Chardonnay."

Robert Parker says "The 2016 ‘Ma Douce’ is from a vineyard in Fort Ross-Seaview not far from Marcassin, on the second ridge in from the ocean and located at 1,300-1,500 feet in elevation. The vines are Old Wente clones planted on Goldridge soils. It begins a little youthfully reticent, opening out to notes of warm peaches, grapefruit, pear tart and toasted almond with hints of baking bread and chalk dust. Medium to full-bodied, the palate has a beautifully satiny texture with a racy line lifting the savory layers to a nice long finish"

2014 Coteaux Nobles Pinot Noir RP92

A hugh very sweet blackcherry and honey nose and taste. Mild earthiness and a long finish. To me a sweet Pinot but it was not overextracted. Robert Parker says "The 2014 Pinot Noirs behaved like most Sonoma Coast Pinot Noirs did on my trip. Showing lots of potential but coiled tightly, they are still somewhat monolithic, with lots of minerality, but difficult to coax open. It's hard to believe that the three cuvées of 2014 Pinot Noir will equal the 2012s and 2013s, but lets see what they do over the next 12 months, when I have a chance to taste them again"

2016 La Proportion Doree White Bordeaux Style RP98

This is a White Bordeaux varietals. The nose is oaky and smoky with tobacco and cedar in a complex flavor profile that carries over to the taste. At the same time is is light and somewhat sweet and I could detect some honey in it. To me it is one of those white wines you could fool the experts into saying it was a red wine. Robert Parker says The 2016 ‘La Proportion Dorée’ is a blend of 67% Sémillon, 32% Sauvignon Blanc and 1% Muscadelle from 30+- year-old dry-farmed vines barrel fermented with bâtonnage. It comes strutting out of the glass like a total rock star, singing notes of ripe grapefruit, lemon meringue pie and white peaches with hints of beeswax, lime blossoms, candied ginger and nutmeg. Medium to full-bodied, the palate lends a seductively satiny texture with layer upon layer of citrus and stone fruit notions and a racy backbone to support, finishing on a long-lingering chalky note"

2016 Chardonnay Coup De Coeur JB100

Clark loved this wine so we bought it and we both agreed that too us it was in fact a 100 point wine. But we had it later at home and compared it to the "Ma Douce" and changed our minds in that we prefer the "Ma Douce" a little better after second thought. In fact Robert Parker rated the 2015 100 points also though I could not for the life of me find a RP rating for the 2016 but no matter. To me it had a herbaceous nose with lemon pear and butter that followed in the taste. It had a wonderful velvet mouth feel and was fruit forward . I also picked up honeysuckle in the taste as well. The acid was moderate and I felt it would be very food friendly. It also had a great pleasant nice finish. It is a very well made wine. This is what Jeb Dunnuck had to say: "Pure perfection in the glass is the 2016 Chardonnay Coup de Cœur, a selection of Luc’s favorite barrels. It offers extraordinary notes of caramelized citrus, toasted brioche, marzipan, white flowers and a liqueur of rocks-like minerality. With full body, incredible purity, a layered, huge palate presence, yet a weightless, elegant texture, it needs to be tasted to be believed. Hats off to Morlet for an incredible Chardonnay. Give it a year and enjoy over the following decade or more.

2012 Passionnement Cabernet RP97

Started with a smoky tobacco and cigar nose but was very balanced. Also noted some smoked meat flavors on the nose and taste. Had a great velvet smooth mouthfeel. I picked up cherry here which I am finding more and more in higher quality Cabs. To me it is a nice blackberry flavor. This wine was not over oaked in fact my notes stated "hidden oak" which infers there is an oak presence and flavors but just the right amount to complement the wine. The finish was moderate lasting. Robert Parker said: The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Passionnement is lush and opulent with gorgeous fruit, super-ripeness, and plenty of black currant, blackberry, vanillin, toast and licorice characteristics. It is front end-loaded with enough gorgeous depth, stuffing and richness to ensure 20 years of longevity

2012 Mon Chevalier Cabernet RP96

It started with a sweet fruity nose with some stone thrown in. On the taste lots of chocolate. Acid was moderate. Again to me lots of fruity sweetness. Parkers comment regarding Christmas fruitcake is right on. Parker says: "Another killer effort from Luc Morlet is the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Mon Chevalier (91% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot from Knights Valley). This beautiful wine displays a deep ruby/purple color, lots of minerality and plenty of blackberry and blueberry fruit intermixed with hints of menthol and Christmas fruitcake. The minerality is much more noticeable in this wine, no doubt because it comes from a higher elevation (600-800 feet) vineyard

2014 Coeue de Vallee Cabernet DW95

The nose and taste have a light smoke flavor with prominent cigar flavor. The mouthfell is velvet. On the taste lots of cassis and leather. To me the tannins were tight and young. I also detected some "candy" flavors reflective of the fruit in the wine. Doug Wilder had this to say: "The nose is all measured precision of carbon, herb, camphor, coffee and chocolate. I commented to Luc that I could just smell it all afternoon I was so captivated. The palate entry is the most vibrant and structured of all the wines showing a bright herb, coffee and firm red cherry fruit with solid acidity throughout. Drink 2019 - 2032."

2014 Morlet Estate Cabernet DW98

An earthy nose and taste but with a velvet mouth feel. Plenty of fruit taste and I noticed some lime flavors here. Had a very long finish. Doug Wilder has this to say: "The nose is ebulliently dense earth, cranberry, cedar, plum and blackberry with notes of fresh cut herbs. The palate entry is exceptionally rich and supple with a core of blue and black fruit that are polished, silky and effortlessly poised. With well-integrated oak, the 60-second finish is creamy, balanced black fruit, coffee and herb that grows even more appealing between 45 and 120 minutes after opening."

2014 Force De La Nature Cab Franc DW97

A very complex nose. I detected a very subtle buttery flavor along with lots of floral flavors and lavender. On the taste I picked up blackberry. The finish was long and smooth with very few hints of bitterness. Doug Wilder says: "The nose is a gorgeous black fruit, mint, warm notes of herb and mocha. The palate is firm, well structured and vibrant with a chocolate and espresso focused core. The finish is superbly integrated - polished and velvet-like blackberry, spice and carbon. It should be noted that Robert Parker rated the 2015 vintage of this wine at 100 points. Drink 2017 - 2032.

2012 Late Harvest Billet Doux DW99 RP97

I loved this wine, in fact I rated it 100 points and felt it compared right up there with Chateau D'Yquem especially the 1990 D'Yquem which I find to be a spiritual wine. Here are two reviews from Wilder and Parker

Doug Wilder A nose of dried meat, lemon curd, sea salt, apricot, white peach, pineapple with a note of toasted vanilla, blossoms and pine resin. The flavors are richly textured orange, apricot and verbena with fresh acidity. Finishes with crème brulee and integrated acidity. Gorgeous. Drink 2016 – 2040. d

Parker 2012 ‘Billet Doux’ Late Harvest White Wine 97 points Produced from 65% Sémillon, 31% Sauvignon Blanc and 4% Muscat, the 2012 ‘Billet Doux’ has a medium golden color and profoundly scented nose of beeswax, honeyed nuts, orange marmalade, Manuka honey and preserved lemons. Full-bodied, full-on sweet, rich, concentrated and oh-so-unctuous, it delivers powerful flavor layers and epic length.

Napa Valley November 2018 The 100 Point Weekend with the genius of Russell Bevan Part 3

It is obvious that Russell Bevan borders on genius level in his wine making. His reputation in the valley is unsurpassed and his attention to detail is legendary as are his party habits. To me he has the energy level of the Tasmanian Devil. It is hard to keep up with him. But he makes great wine and continues to produce huge amounts of 100 point wines.  I believe many feel he is the greatest wine maker in Napa Valley today.  I have been buying a few of his wines since my visit and I particularly love his "mountain" wines best but I also am somewhat prejudice towards "mountain" wines in general.  My belief is the cool mountain early morning tempertures allow those wines to be a little softer than the valley wines.  When you consider the prices for Screaming Eagle, Scarecrow and others Bevan prices are a complete bargain and his prices are more than reasonable for a large portfolio of 100 point wines.

2016 Ontogeny Bevan Cabernet

Russell says this is an introduction to his Bordeaux Blend style wines. It has 8% Petit Verdot. There are 4 grape varieties in the wine. It has an interesting nose which along with the taste is a complex blend of smoky cedar, cigar and tobacco. It has a nice velvet mouth feel. Tannins are young and tight and will age well.

2016 Sugarloaf Mountain Bevan Cabernet

Starts with a fruity nose and the taste is a rich dark chocolate. It has a nice finish. Again young with young tannins but not as pronounced. One thing I like about mountain grapes is the higher elevation allows for less harsh tannins and a softer body.

2016 Wild Foote Cabernet Stags Leap District Cabernet

This wine had an interesting floral jasmine nose. The alcohol was a little higher but well balanced. Again lots of dark chocolate as well as a hint of berries particularly blackberries.

2012 Tench EE Cabernet Franc 50%/Cabernet Sauvingnon 50%

A vineyard adjacent to Screaming Eagle and Russell has a long term lease on the vineyard. Again an interesting floral nose and the taste has a nice flavor of chocolate and cedar. Russell says he does not punch down his wines and uses a technique he perfected where the wine is circulated using air from bottom to top. This prevents the seeds in the grapes from being bruised hence a softer and less harsh taste from the Cab Franc.

2016 Tench EE Cabernet Franc

Obviously a younger version of the 2012 and the Cab France/Cab ratio is a little different.(60/35/5 Merlot) A dark black color leads to a tobacco, cigar nose with lots of smoke. The taste is again chocolate and cigar flavors with blackberry showing through. Will age well.

2016 Howell Mountain Sentinel Ridge Cabenet/Cab Franc

Another deep dark wine with a chocolate noses. Very nice velvet mouth feel. A much more complex taste profile with tobacco and licorice in this one. Will age well.

Lunch and tasting at Brasswood Restaurant Saint Helena California Hosted by Jay Wesley Selections Monday, November 12, 2018 Part 2

It was a great lunch with Jay and thank you to all for setting it up. Understanding these wines are very low production I was unable to find any tasting notes or ratings on the web with the exception of the Per Us and the Addax Tench both of which are made by Russell Bevan

2015 Argo Cabernet Sauvignon Sugarloaf Mountain Borrowed Jewels

The wine had a light nose but the interesting thing about this wine was it is 100% French Oak but it was very soft and wasn't overdone. The nose in The Taste had lots of chocolate and Cedar flavors the acid was mild, I felt it was a very food-friendly wine.

2016 Argo Cabernet Sauvignon Sugarloaf Mountain Borrowed Jewels

Had a deep complex nose much more so than the 2015 it also has lots of chocolate and Jasmine on the nose and taste it's a very young wine with tight tannins I felt that the oak was what I described as hidden I mean they're there but it's clearly not overdone. Acid content for the 2016 was a little higher

2016 Montague Baron Cabernet

Had a bar of excellent rich chocolate and cedar nose that followed through in the taste with the addition of a complex rich dark chocolate flavor. The wine had a fairly high alcohol content and it was tannic but not overdone. Overall the wine was very well-balanced and had a good finish.

2015 Morgado Sugarloaf Mountain Cabernet

A fairly tannic wine and alcohol were also fairly high. Despite this, it had a rich dark chocolate nose and taste that was very complex. With the usual Cedar tobacco and leather flavors to me, it was one of the best wines of the tasting I liked it so much I purchased a 6 pack. It was also highly balanced very nice wine with a good finish. I like the mountain Vineyards better and this is no exception

2015 Per Us Alessio Cabernet

Had a nice floral Jasmine nose and the taste continued with Flora flavors. Also in the taste, I can pick up chocolate and Cedar very well balanced moderate alcohol nice finish 70% of the grapes are Cabernet Sauvignon from the famous Oakville vineyard: Tench. 30% are Cabernet Franc from the Sugarloaf Mountain vines in southern Napa. One star winemaker: Russell Bevan. A 100-point beneficiary many times over and champion of the top lot at Napa Valley’s Premiere barrel auction in recent years for his Chateau Boswell Cabernet creation, Russell headlines the team of artisans who have achieved greatness with this incredible project, giving us all a wine that is something to savor, to enjoy and to collect.

2016 Per Us Alessio Cabernet

Really didn't like the 2016 and to me, it had what I call a cough syrup it had a very high tannin and the alcohol content was very young and tight just didn't feel that it was my kind of wine. Others said the following. Like in past vintages of their ‘Alessio’ Napa Valley Red, Russell was able to source from the famed Tench Vineyard in Oakville(apparently Russell now has a long term lease on this vineyard) for its highly sought-after Cabernet Sauvignon and Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard, the perfect site for Cabernet Franc and Merlot. In the glass, this delicious 2016 offers black fruit with cocoa dusting and a gratifying finish. 400 cases were produced.  2016 marks the fourth vintage for PerUs and Russell Bevan continues to make singular, focused wines as their winemaker. “A serious student of wine most of his adult life, Russell first made his mark as a writer with a syndicated column published in Wine Spectator. In 2004, Russell stepped away from the typewriter and into the vineyard, to begin making memorable wines and joining an elite group of winemakers who have received Robert Parker's 100-point score.

2016 Per Us Janeen Cabernet

The 2016 had an intense complex nose. I note a lime taste here and the tannins were tight and young but they were sweet and were well integrated with the oak. It was a very balanced wine. I liked it better than the 15 but again it's very young and needs age. The most refined of the PerUs wines, this newly released Red displays the purity that can be achieved from high elevation vineyards. Winemaker Russell Bevan crafted this new PerUs offering mostly from a vineyard atop Atlas Peak in Napa's eastern mountain range. The 90% Cabernet Sauvignon is buttressed by 10% Cabernet Franc from Sugar Loaf Mountain resulting in a wine with great balance and lively acidity. Like the Alessio Red, this 2016 carries the trademark of what this vintage will be known for – generosity in aromas and fruit with structure in line with the 2015 offerings. 375 cases were produced.

2015 Addax Tench Cabernet

For those who are unfamiliar with the Tench Vineyard, it is adjacent to Screaming Eagle and in fact as I understand it many of Screaming Eagle vintages were made from the same vines. I really like this wine especially the 2016. The 2015 had lots of chocolate and candy on the nose. The Taste was full of chocolate and smooth cedar. It was a very well-balanced nice basic wine. This delightful new release from the renowned Tench vineyard (next door to Screaming Eagle) exudes aromas of blackcurrant and loads of red berries, hints of tobacco leaf, and lavender. A mouthwatering entry coats the palate with elegant and well-defined layers, while the flavor and texture are complemented by notes of creamy French oak. This is a wonderful example of Cabernet from a very special site. Enjoy this up-and-coming gem tonight (decanting recommended) or anytime through 2025. Deep garnet-purple in color, the Addax 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Tench Vineyard gives up notions of black cherries, cassis, and red and black plums with hints of dried Mediterranean herbs, pencil shavings, and underbrush. Full-bodied, rich, ripe, and seductive in the mouth, it has a satisfying core of black fruit and earthy layers with firm, grainy tannins, and a long, savory finish.  Score: 95, Lisa Perrotti-Brown, December 29, 2017

2016 Addax Tench Cabernet

But again I thought that the 2016 was much better and had a really Smoky Cedar knows the mouthfeel was very velvety again lots of chocolate and Cedar in The Taste and it all the wines tasted that this tasting and have the best finish Deep and inky purplish ruby red. A bit raw on the nose but it is just a baby, having been bottled recently. A bit of tar and smoked cigars on the attack followed up by juicy black fruits and rich cinnamon paste. Heavy tannins (8.5/10) that need some time to mellow out with a full body. Rich and voluptuous with black and blue fruits, baking spices, black tea, and gravel. Long and lingering finish. Lots of potential and patience will be rewarded.

Napa Valley November 2018 The 100 Point Weekend Part 1 Scarecrow Wines

This is the beginning of reports for a very special weekend in Napa Valley in 2018.  I have thought often regarding publishing this but waited so as to clean it up a little and again to remove any names to protect the innocent so to speak.  Most of the wines are available though many in the auction market and they are not the lower priced wines I strive to report on.  But if you read all the articles I am certain it will add significantly to your wine knowledge.  Frankly many of these wines are for myself and a lot of friends worth the cost but also are special occasion wines not to be enjoyed frequently.

Hundred Acre Cabernet Sauvignon 2014 RP 99

The week started with dinner at Gott's in St Helena California hamburger stand which is a unique experience in and of itself along with our hamburgers we had the Hundred Acre 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon. What a complete decadent combination. It's a great wine. The bouquet and taste had licorice Cassis and leather. It was very well-balanced and had a nice prolonged finish and Rich fruit flavors along with the ones mentioned above. Clearly a superior wine. Of Interest we went to Dean & DeLuca the next morning and they had a ton of it sitting on the shelf so it's apparently pretty popular.

Scarecrow Vertical

After dinner back to the house and an embarrassment of riches. A big thank you to our hosts for a epic 3 year vertical of Scarecrow where the lowest rated wine was 99! Go figure. To me they of course were fairly similar as you might expect. For me the 2014 was the star and I detected both in the nose and taste a hint of black cherry which to me is unusual for a cab. The others in our group seemed to prefer the 2013 as it was the first empty glass for most of us. Here are Robert Parkers description which I found to be right on track.

2013 Scarecrow RP 100

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "The prodigious 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, including fruit from some of the oldest Cabernet vines still in existence in Napa. This full-bodied classic displays notes of forest floor, earth, crème de cassis, blackberry liqueur, licorice and some pen ink. It is dense, full-bodied, prodigiously rich, massive in intensity, yet relatively light on its feet. This great ballerina of a wine has extraordinary ripeness but pulls back from the edge before going over the top. There are 1,000 cases of this classic, which should age effortlessly for 30+ years.

2014 Scarecrow RP100

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "The utterly perfect 2014 Scarecrow Cabernet Sauvignon (1,500 cases) has everything one could possibly want in a Cabernet. Inky purple-colored to the rim, with a glorious nose of white flowers, crème de cassis, hints of blackberry and boysenberry, some licorice and forest floor are followed by an enormously concentrated wine with fabulous purity, a skyscraper-like mid-palate and texture, a length of nearly a minute, and stunning flavors, with flawless integration of acidity, tannin, wood and alcohol. This is a great, great wine and certainly one of the Cabernet Sauvignons of this vintage. Drink it over the next 25-30 or more years.

2015 Scarecrow RP 99

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "Produced from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon leaps from the glass with gorgeous floral notes of red roses and lilacs over a core of black and red cherries, crushed black currants and baking spices plus hints of iron ore and dusty earth. The voluptuous, rounded, soft and sexy fruit slinks across the palate with incredible seamlessness and expression. Make no mistake, it is full-bodied and decadently powerful, but with a myriad of aromatic nuances, finishing long, layered and boldly perfumed

Seven Vintages of Screaming Eagle

One of my favorite movies is 48 Hours with Nick Nolte and Eddie Murphy starring as cops reluctanly paired as partners for 48 hours.  They are chasing down some criminal and they find a ticket to claim his car in a nearby parking garage so they go there and present the ticket to the clerk to pick up the car.  The clerk looks at the ticket and says "you do realize this car has been here for 3 years?" whereapon Nick Nolte responds "Yea, I've been busy".  So my apologies for a 2 month delay in articles on the blog but I am back in the saddle so to speak with a great one on Sceaming Eagle that I was fortunate to be able to attend a charity event and taste 7 years of these wines.  Please enjoy.  I will try and get at least one article out a month as things start opening up a little post Covid. 

Seven Vintages of Screaming Eagle Dinner

“We hear of the conversion of water into wine at the marriage in Cana as of a miracle. But this conversion is, through the goodness of God, made every day before our eyes. Behold the rain which descends from heaven upon our vineyards, and which incorporates itself with the grapes, to be changed into wine; a constant proof that God loves us, and loves to see us happy.” Benjamin Franklin

Amelia Island's answer to Barbettes Feast and the Three Emperor's Dinner was held starting with a Friday night dinner as a prelude to the epic vertical tasting of Screaming Eagle on Saturday night. A gourmet's dinner was prepared by a local chef matched with outstanding wines shared by all. Saturday night the Screaming Eagle tasting was held with dinner prepared by Chef Jared Gilbert of the Jacksonville Capital Grille who contributed the dinner to support Micah's Place home for victims of domestic violence. All funds from the dinner were donated to Micah's  Place and were matched by an anonymous donor.

For those unfamiliar with these historical events The Three Emperors Dinner was prepared by chef Adolphe Dugléré at the request of King William I of Prussia who frequented his cafe, Cafe Anglais, Paris, France during the Exposition Universelle on June 7, 1867. He requested a meal to be remembered and at which no expense was to be spared for himself and his guests, Tsar Alexander II of Russia, plus his son the tsarevitch (who later became Tsar Alexander III), and Prince Otto von Bismarck. The cellar master, Claudius Burdel, was instructed to accompany the dishes with the greatest wines in the world, including a Roederer champagne in a special lead glass bottle, so Tsar Alexander could admire the bubbles and golden color.

The banquet consisted of 16 courses with eight wines served over eight hours. The cost of the meal was 400 francs per person (over €9,000 in 2018 prices). The high price of the wines served contributed to the high price of the meal.  Of interest in the late 20th century this dinner was recreated as best it could be and was attended by Angelo Gaja from Italy.

Babette's Feast is a short story Written in 1958 by Baroness Karen Christenze von Blixen-Finecke. Beautiful but pious sisters Martine and Philippa grow to spinsterhood under the wrathful eye of their strict pastor father on the forbidding and desolate coast of Jutland, until one day, Philippa's former suitor sends a Parisian refugee named Babette to serve as the family cook. Babette's lavish celebratory banquet tempts the family's dwindling congregation, who abjure such fleshly pleasures as fine foods and wines.

These two dinners exemplify the highest form of culinary art and demonstrate that great food and great wine are to be enjoyed by all. From the emperor's of France to the peasants of Jutland exceptional food and wine are to be enjoyed and celebrated by all. Saturday September 29th now joins The Three Emperor's Dinner and Babette's feast as one of the greatest historical dinner's ever done that pleased the palates of many while providing help for those who are less fortunate.

Friday Night Celebration First Dinner

Beau Vignes Reserve Chardonnay 2014 Rated 95 by community tasters

Elegance and sophistication blesses this offering. Perfectly balanced with a mild acid firmness enables this chardonnay to stand up and lay down into a very easily drank wine. The bouquet produces Aromas and tones of honeydew, spring flowers with tropical accents caress the body of this chardonnay. There is also pear and apple on the nose which carries over to a fruit bomb taste balancing all of the above flavors with a mild tartness. There is light oak with vanilla coming across the taste. Sourced from the world-renowned “Baccigalupi” vineyard, this block one hillside old clone vine is known for producing character-driven fruit. Unrefined and unfiltered allows this chardonnay to pull layered fruit tones through your pallet providing a creamy textured finish. The 2014 Beau Vigne Reserve Chardonnay will drink well from 2015 until the bottom of 2020.

Ruinart "Dom Ruinart" Brut Rosé Champagne 2002 WS 95 James Stuckling

With a true 'eye of partridge' nose, this has the boldness of the 2002 vintage and is unique in that the wine is based on 80% Chardonnay as a top rosé Champagne. The aromas are floral with sweet decayed rosehip and a clear toasty edge showing through, as well as fine wild red fruits and some peach and stone fruits. I also picked up some effervescent cherry flavor. There's a completely unique style here in terms of the chardonnay making a statement of gentle nougat, while some dried red berries lurk beneath. The palate has a precise, sleeve-like long texture and is really focused and even. The freshness is startling, meanwhile, and this really looks very young and unevolved. There's some very gentle tannin in the mix here, adding nutty toasted hazelnut elements on the finish which to me was a little short. Acidity is pronounced and, having the last say, keeps everything really fresh. Drink now as there are hints of aging beginning to show.

Dom Pérignon "P2" Brut Champagne 2000 97 WS/James Suckling

A Champagne that has turned to a very fine texture with dried pineapple and lemon character. Medium to full body, complex and flavorful palate. Shows length and beauty. Pie crust, cooked apple, and lemon rind continue on the finish. A truly great 2000 with a combination of finesse and strength. It’s very, very minerally to a point of sea salt. It was disgorged in first half of 2016. A beautiful nose of baked peach, lime blossom and graphite draws as well as apple tart draws you into the glass of this stunning 2000, whose flavors of brioche, salted almond, and spun honey are wrapped around sleek, mouthwatering acidity and a streak of smoke-tinged mineral. There is mild tart acid and it has a pleasant prolonged finish. This deftly meshed Champagne is hard to stop sipping. Drink now through 2030.

Morlet "La Proportion Dorée" Sonoma County White Blend 2014 RP 100

A perfect wine is the 2014 La Proportion Dorée, a blend of 65% Semillon, 24% Sauvignon Blanc and 1% Muscadelle. This 650-case cuvée is from 29-year-old, dry-farmed vines and was barrel-fermented. The wine is absolutely out of this world. With a light greenish gold color and a killer nose of lanolin, caramelized citrus, honeysuckle, orange marmalade, and candle wax, the wine displays great acidity, a magnificent, massive, full-bodied mouthfeel, and seems to come across like a Sonoma County version of a dry Haut Brion blanc. It was paired with a cold lobster salad bisque dish and matched well. I also found it to have a complex nose and taste including passion fruit and pear. It had a long finish. This is singular wine - profound, compelling, whatever! It should drink well for at least 10 years if you can resist its early charms. Drink now through 2026.

Dominus Napa Valley Bordeaux Blend 2006 RP 96

Very deep garnet-purple color. A wonderfully perfumed nose of violets, crushed blackberries, black cherries, mace, and cloves leading into some smoked meat and mocha aromas with swirling. In short, a very complex flavor profile and I detected a hint of petrol like you see in a Riesling. There was also cigar, hickory smoke as well as an overall smoky taste Very structured on the palate with high acidity, a medium to a high level of fine tannins which were smooth and a full body providing plenty of flesh in the mid-palate. Very long layered finish that to me was elegant.

Morlet "Morlet Estate" St. Helena Cabernet Sauvignon 2013 RP 97

From Luc Morlet's own estate just north of St. Helena, the 2013 Morlet Estate comes across like a first-growth Pauillac. Again 100% Cabernet Sauvignon with creamy blackcurrants and blackberry fruit, some licorice, graphite, and background oak, the wine displays excellent minerality, superb fruit intensity, and a multi-dimensional mouthfeel. A complex nose and taste with cedar, cigar box, and hints of sweetness and chocolate. The acid structure is low to moderate and there is a smooth tannin backbone so It should drink well for at least 25-30 years

Rieussec, Sauternes 2001 WS 100 JS

This is a crazy wine! It’s sweet, but not sugary. Mushrooms, furniture wax, spices then dried oranges, lemons, pineapples, and just a hint of vanilla. Full-bodied, with great density and power, yet balanced and refined. So amazing, but give this five to six years still. Pull the cork in 2016. Like lemon curd on the nose, turning to honey and caramel. Full-bodied and very sweet, with a fantastic concentration of ripe and botrytized fruit, yet balanced and refined. Electric acidity. Lasts for minutes on the palate. This is absolutely mind-blowing. This is the greatest young Sauternes James Suckling has ever tasted. Best after 2010. Wine of the Year 2004

7 Vintages of Screaming Eagle Dinner

Hall "Jack's Masterpiece" 2015 RP 100

When you taste wines of this magnitude in my opinion you need to compare them with other wines who may not be as famous but are close enough and in addition perhaps have a lower price point.  I have been with wine experts multiple times and heard the comment "this wine is as good as wine X and costs only 10%".  I ask them oh so you have tasted wine X in order to make that judgement only to have them tell me no.  Sorry, but unless you taste wines side by side you cannot make those comments, hence using Jack's Masterpiecee here which stood up to the Screaming Eagles very well.  Jack's Masterpiece has lots of fruit on the nose with a good toast of cedar and cigar. A very velvety smooth wine with some spicy tannins. Somewhat higher acid than others but well balanced and well-integrated with the alcohol. To me Parkers description is right on. Of interest, this wine was the first red opened with some intent on comparing the Screaming Eagles against it. Sort of using it as a benchmark so to speak. The fact that this wine would be chosen to compare Screaming Eagle against says a lot.

98-100 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

The other 2015 I tasted from barrel, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Jack’s Masterpiece is another brilliant wine, with more charcoal, burning embers, an almost Graves-like characteristic, a dense purple color, rich crème de cassis and blackberry fruit, a full-bodied, multi-dimensional mouthfeel, and a long, long finish. This should turn out to be a prodigious effort from Hall, capable of being drunk young, but for those with some patience, also cellared for three decades or more

Screaming Eagle 2011 RP 94 99 JS 94 ST

Most raters mention a floral bouquet and taste. To me, my first impression was rose petals as well as lavender. As Stephen Tanzer stated it has a gentle oak influence on what I described as light oak. There is definitely a cherry profile in the wine. I also found hints of lightly smoked meat which others described as cedar and cigar box flavors. The wine is well balanced with moderate acid and a nice moderate finish.

99 points James Suckling

Mind-blowing nose with spearmint, cloves, and blackberries. Floral, too. Full body with phenomenal detail featuring delicate but intense blackberry, espresso, toasted oak, caramel, and dark chocolate. Cedar and sweet tobacco. Finesse all over. The wine of the vintage? Everything is there. Great energy. Best in 2018. 

94 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar

Bright ruby-red. Highly perfumed scents of cassis, musky cigar tobacco, and bitter chocolate, lifted by floral and cedar nuances. Youthfully tight today but boasts terrific youthful intensity and lavender lift to its dark berry and cigar box flavors. Broad tannins saturate the palate on the very long back end. Winemaker Nick Gislason uses five 'core coopers,' seeking a gentle oak influence. A star of the vintage, with a serious structure for mid-term aging.

91-94 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

Made from a blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest equal parts Merlot and Cabernet Franc, the 2011 Screaming Eagle Cabernet Sauvignon is a sexy, upfront, precociously styled wine exhibiting a dense ruby/purple color as well as lots of licorice, camphor, black currant jam, new oak, and spice box characteristics. Dense, rich and impressive, the early drinking charm of the 2011 vintage gives it immediate appeal. It should keep for 10-15 years. (RP)

Screaming Eagle 2009 97 WS 96 RP 96 ST

I found this year to be heavily tannic but at same time it was balanced but when first approached the tannins just jump out on you. I found smoky flavors in the wine including cigar and cedar. There was also chocolate and berry fruit such as blackberry. I found a hint of cassis. It had a nice finish. Moderate alcohol and acid making it food-friendly went very well with a spicy gumbo.

97 points Wine Spectator

A stunningly seamless effort, rich and elegant, this delivers perfumed black currant aromas that are supple and graceful, building and gaining with subtle tannins, laced with loamy earth. A dash of black licorice marks the long finish. Drink now through 2028

96 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

The 2009 Screaming Eagle Cabernet Sauvignon (87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Cabernet Franc and 5% Merlot) displays a slightly peppery nose, but ratchets up the level of concentration with pure black currant and black cherry fruit as well as licorice and lead pencil shavings. This beautiful, dense, full-bodied 2009 is exceptionally elegant, pure and seamless. Drink it over the next 20-25 years.

96 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar

Good bright ruby-red. Vibrant aromas of crushed cassis, ripe redcurrant, licorice, bitter chocolate, tobacco, and spearmint. Smooth and impressively concentrated, with a hint of medicinal austerity to the flavors of black fruits, violet, bitter chocolate, and menthol. Penetrating, gripping wine with great flavor intensity. Powerfully structured too, finishing with firm tannins and outstanding, slowly building, juicy length. The pH here is 3.8, according to estate manager Armand de Maigret, but the wine boasts an outstanding lift.

Screaming Eagle 2014 JS 99 RP 97 WS 95

I pretty much disagreed with most on this one. During our dinner between the 2014 and the 2009, at least half of the diners preferred the 2014. The professional ratings are fairly consistent also. I just felt this wine had a lighter nose and taste than the others. To me, there was some lack of tannin and body. I did pick up a moderate amount of smoky flavors but again to me it just was not that powerful a wine. I also felt the finish was a little bitter. I would agree more with Parker on this one as he did notice less structure and mass as say compared to the 2013.

99 points James Suckling

Extremely perfumed with blackberries, currants, and flowers. Rose petals, too. Seductive. Medium to full body. It grows on the palate with an extremely long finish that goes on for minutes. The tannins are ultra-fine and polished. Purity and essence to this. Feminine yet wild and unpredictable. Available in March. Better in 2021

97 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

The 2014 Screaming Eagle is an 880-case blend of 79% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Merlot and the rest Cabernet Franc. The telltale sign of this iconic wine is its extraordinary purity of crème de cassis fruit, which is displayed abundantly in the 2014. It doesn’t quite have the structure and mass of the 2013, but this sexy, up-front, opaque ruby/purple-colored wine is seamlessly constructed, full-bodied, and has a long finish with silky tannins. This seems to float across that palate with that great fruit purity

95 points Wine Spectator

Beautifully crafted, young and energetic, with a vibrant core of rich blackberry, gravelly earth, and smoky, toasty oak. Lively acidity and firm tannins provide a backbone, promising a long life ahead.

Screaming Eagle 2013 JS 100 RP 97

On the nose and taste I found an abundance of smoky meat and barbecue. The tannins were exceptionally smooth and balanced along with balanced acid and alcohol. Again I found I agreed more with Parker on this year and it was one of my favorites of the evening.100 points James Suckling

Breathtaking aromas of blueberry, wet earth, black truffle, vine bark and lavender undertones. Full-bodied, yet tight and compressed with fabulous savory and dark fruit flavors. It lasts for minutes on the finish. The classicism in this wine is second to none. Incredible subtlety. Lovely austerity. Beauty in simplicity. Glorious to taste, yet a wine for decades ahead.

97 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

The 2013 Screaming Eagle flagship wine is a blend of 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Merlot and 11% Cabernet Franc. As one might expect, the purity of the cassis, which is always a hallmark of this estate and wine, is well-displayed in this beauty. Dense purple in color, it offers up some floral notes intermixed with damp earth, blackcurrant jam, blackberry and hints of licorice and incense. This reminds me somewhat of the 2010 Screaming Eagle. Full-bodied, rich, but perfectly balanced, it’s another terrific example of this iconic estate. It should drink well for 30 more years

Sceaming Eagle 2005 98 RP 95 WS 94 ST

To me another heavy floral nose and taste with a predominance of lavender. I picked up hints of cassis. Well structured with strong tannin and body. A moderate amount of alcohol but well balanced with other attributes of the wine. A nice pleasant prolonged finish. A very smooth wine. As the oldest Cabernet of the evening is holding up very well for being 13 years old. It is still in it's youth.

98 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

The 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon, which I loved last year, has gotten even better, something I saw across the board with the bottled 2005s (a superb year for Bordeaux varietals). This blend of 98% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Cabernet Franc was aged in 67% new French oak for 21 months. It possesses a gorgeous, Pauillac-like bouquet of cedar, creme de cassis, licorice, smoke, and earth as well as sweet tannins, full body, fabulous layers of fruit, a noble sweetness, and outstanding length. This 2005 can be drunk now or cellared for 25+ years.

95 points Wine Spectator

Pure, rich and concentrated, offering a wonderful mix of cedar-laced currant, black cherry and wild berry fruit that's both intense and supple, with excellent depth, focus and persistence on the finish.

94 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar

Full ruby-red. Pure aromas of cassis, mocha and nutty oak, with bright red berry and tobacco notes emerging with air. Super ripe and thick but with strong acidity giving sharp definition to the middle palate. The blackcurrant and smoky oak flavors are sexed up by subtle hints of caramel, spices and burning cinders as the wine opens in the glass. I love the balance of lush texture and firm acidity, not to mention the wine's sheer intensity of flavor without excesses, but this highly distinctive cabernet really needs at least six or seven years of patience to come into full harmony.

Screaming Eagle 2012 100 JS 100 RP 98 ST 97 WS

For most of us this was the wine of the night. There was a fair amount of discussion if you were on your death bed would you want this or the 1945 Mouton to be your last taste of wine. Of all the wines tonight this had the most unique nose and flavor profile. Lots of floral notes on the nose including cherry, pear, pencil, and flint. To be sure very complex. A velvet smooth body with moderate well structured tannin and acid. To me perfectly balanced. It had a great long finish which I would describe as tangy.

100 points James Suckling

Incredible purity to this wine with fresh spearmint, lavender, sage and blackcurrants. Full body, mind-blowing structure, depth and length. What complexity. A new bench market for Napa Valley. This is the new legend, like the 1958 Beaulieu Vineyard George de Latour Private Reserve (my vintage and a wine my father and I drank many times early in my life). Savory. Needs at least 10 years to come around. Try in 2025. A blend of 79% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Merlot, and 4% Cabernet Franc. 820 cases made. Such precision, decadence and layers of sexy fruit. 

100 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

The perfect 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Screaming Eagle is composed of 79% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Merlot and 4% Cabernet Franc. Made in the classic, iconic Screaming Eagle style that the original proprietress, Jean Philips, first showcased in the early 1990s, before the winery was sold to Stan Kroenke, the inky/purple-colored, seamless 2012 possesses an extraordinary set of aromatics consisting of pure blackcurrant liqueur, licorice, acacia flowers, graphite and a subtle hint of new oak. Full-bodied, opulent and voluptuous, this profound wine is as prodigious as I thought it would be last year when tasted from barrel. It should age effortlessly for 20 or more years

95-98 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar

Bright medium ruby. Very deep aromas of blueberry, flowers, licorice and wild herbs show a medicinal reserve. Thick but vibrant, with deep, fully ripe, layered flavors of blackberry and blueberry syrup and graphite minerality dominating the middle palate. Offers compelling sappiness and definition. Noble tannins spread out to saturate the entire palate on the inexorable, steadily building finish. Still an infant but utterly seamless from the outset.

97 points Wine Spectator

A seamless, graceful, ebullient effort that's pure, even exotic, with dusty blackberry and wild berry flavors at the center. Though the fruit is broad and expressive, this is amazingly refined, supple and persistent overall. Tempting now for the expansive fruit definition, this should only gain over the next decade. Drink now through 2029.

Screaming Eagle 2010 100 RP 97 ST 96 WS

Nice smooth pleasant nose and taste with floral flavors and again a rose petal and lavender taste profile along with cigar smoke and cedar hints. Moderate tannin but a more pronounced acid profile but balanced out well. Again with this wine I find myself pretty much agreeing with Parker's description of the wine.

100 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

Utter perfection, the 2010 Screaming Eagle Cabernet Sauvignon (a 610-case blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Merlot and 9% Cabernet Franc; 14.5% natural alcohol) boasts a dense ruby/purple color along with a staggering bouquet of spring flowers, graphite, creme de cassis, kirsch, licorice and subtle toast in the background. Opulent and full-bodied with a multidimensional personality, gorgeous purity and a stunning, flawless texture, this spectacular wine is among the wines of the vintage.

97 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar

Brilliant ruby-red. Urgent aromas of crushed boysenberry, wild herbs, licorice and spearmint are complemented by sexy oak tones. Densely packed and electric, with great energy to the highly concentrated, pliant flavors of black fruits, cocoa powder and flowers. Still quite youthfully backward, but the inexorable slowly mounting finish and big but noble tannins suggest a long and glorious evolution in bottle. Owing to the small clusters, thick skins and concentration of tannins, this wine got a longer elevage than usual, with the bottling done at the end of November 2012. 97+ (ST) (6/2013)

96 points Wine Spectator

No denying the power and finesse of this wine, which is very Bordeaux-like in its rustic, muscle-bound personality, somewhat atypical of this vineyard early on. Combines deep, firm, rich and potent flavors built around a core of earthy currant, cedar and tobacco leaf, with subtle mocha touches. No denying the power and finesse of this wine, which is very Bordeaux-like in its rustic, muscle-bound personality, somewhat atypical of this vineyard early on. Best from 2015 through 2030

And with dessert the following offerings:

Louis XIII Cognac 95 WE

Wow, too me this was an exotic Cognac! Lots of sweet cherry, pineapple, leche, and chocolate in the nose a taste. Really smooth and silky on the palate. Just an exotic different Cognac with essentially no rough edges.

90-95 points Wine Enthusiast

The aroma features fig, prune, pastry dough, honey and maple scents. On palate, Louis XIII offers long and intensely woody flavors; additional layers of flavor, including figs, dates, prunes, dried apricot and vanilla, are featured at midpalate. Finishes elegantly, warm, smooth and more oaky than fruity succulent.

Chateau d'Yquem 2011 99 WS 98 JS 98 ST 94 RP

Lots of apple, pear, pineapple, and grapefruit on the nose and taste. Just a very complex fruity flavor profile that is well balanced. The body was a little light but that made the wine not overbearing, one could say elegant.

99 points Wine Spectator

A lovely, creamy, tropical style, with mango, papaya and guava notes lending a caressing feel, while singed almond and warm piecrust accents blossom through the lush finish. Just when you think that's all there is, toasted coconut, fig, orange blossom and persimmon details kick in, lending length and dimension. The finish is ridiculously long. Best from 2020 through 2060.

98 points James Suckling

Crazy minerality to this, with lots of dried mango, pineapple and papaya on the nose. Botrytis-spice and nutmeg undertones. Full body, very sweet, with superb depth of fruit and richness. It goes on for minutes. Turns dense and concentrated on the palate. Speechless. Better in 2019

98 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar

Luminous golden yellow. Cool, pure aromas of white peach, honeyed mango, guava nectar, white flowers and saffron are complicated by elements of crushed stone and spicy lemony botrytis. Suave and intensely flavored, with mineral-spiced apple, mango, passion fruit and grapefruit flavors offering outstanding purity, precision, and depth. The brisk but harmonious acidity gives this great Sauternes a penetrating quality and provides a powerful spine to the very deep flavors, making it seem less opulent than it really is. This Yquem has the depth of the 2007 but boasts even greater purity and focus. Finishes bright and extremely long, with repeating suggestions of white flowers and lemony botrytis. Though it lacks the depth of the 2001 or the opulence of the 2009 at a similar stage of development, this is one of my favorite young Yquems ever: it will age spectacularly well. (ID)

94 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

The Château Yquem 2011 has a complex bouquet, one that is very well defined with hints of petrol infusing the rich honeyed fruit, later melted wax and fresh peach coming through. The palate is well balanced with a strong viscous entry. There is plenty of residual sugar here and I would have preferred a little more acidic bite to offset that rich, decadent finish (this is despite their correct policy of blending non-botrytized berries in order to increase acidity.) Powerful, burly even, I would give this several years in the cellar to allow this Yquem to mellow and enter its stride.

Chateau d'Yquem 2014 99 WS 98 JS 98 RP 98 WS $400

Clearly the Sauterns of the evening. Everyone raved about the wine. The flavor profile is a smoky pear, apple flavor. It has a well structure and firm body with all the flavors being complex and well balanced. Parker mentions harmony in the wine that I strongly agree with. Just a great Sauterns to end the evening on paired with Creme Brulee.

97-99 points Wine Enthusiast

Apricot tones with lively acidity give this rich wine a vein of freshness. Pear and white peach notes offer weight, while a lime backbone brings levity. There is a richness from the botrytis that is lifted by this wines delicious freshness

98 points James Suckling

Very subtle Yquem on the nose with dried pineapple, lemons, green apples and hints of botrytis. The palate grabs you by the arms and shows you superb concentration of spices, dried fruit, phenolics and incredible energy. Nothing is like this from Sauternes this vintage! Drink whenever you like. Spellbinding

96-98 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

The Château Yquem 2014 was picked over 9 weeks this year, with one-quarter of the grapes picked prior to 15 September. It delivers 134 grams per liter residual sugar and 7.3 grams per liter tartaric acid, with a pH 3.60. It has a captivating bouquet (I know...I know...what else were you expecting) But it entrances with its pure, wild honey notes mixed with almond and white chocolate scents, bestowed with beguiling delineation and focus. The palate is very poised with the acidity nigh on perfect. Occasionally an Yquem only reveals its components parts at this early juncture, necessitates conjecture. However the 2014 has a sense of harmony and completeness already, as if the élevage is merely there to usher it on to its finished state. There is undeniably great depth here, perhaps less conspicuous than other vintages because of that silver thread of acidity: notes of lemon sherbet, orange zest, shaved ginger and again, a few "flakes' of white chocolate. It is extremely long with tenderness rather than power on the finish. It's not quite up there in the rarefied heights of say, the 2001 or 2009, but it is what we call in the trade, "the business

98 points Wine Spectator

A stunner, sporting tropical mango and papaya notes that glide along beautifully, while heather honey, pineapple chutney and toasted coconut flavors fill in through the finish. Delivers an amazing mouthfeel that is both creamy and intense, with a pretty inner floral brightness that contrasts with the fruit. Best from 2020 through 2045

Broadbent Madeira Malmsey(or Malvasia) 1933 91 WS

The sweetest style of Madeira. Malvasia vineyards are located all around the island, planted at lower elevations towards the ocean. The wines are dark, rich and concentrated, with coffee-caramel flavors. Malmsey production has always been small, and as a result vintage Malmseys are very sought after. Madeira takes its name from the island of Madeira, which sits in the Atlantic about 380 miles west of Morocco. It was discovered in 1419 by the Portuguese mariner João Gonçalves Zarco in the service of Prince Henry the Navigator. Malvasia vines were planted around 1453, and as ships stopped at the island on their way to the New World in subsequent decades, they invariably loaded barrels of wine as ballast for their voyages. Overall to me it was the wine of the night. I found this wine to be close if not spiritual. It clearly demonstrated how well a wine can age and what pleasure comes from drinking wine that has in fact aged well. The tannins smooth out and the wine becomes a hedonistic pleasure.