A proprietary blend, made by Founder and Winemaker Dave Phinney, from Chardonnay, Roussanne, Viognier, Chenin Blanc, Muscat, and Vermentino from California. Golden yellow color with aromas of tropical and citrus fruit and melons, aged, 25% in new oak, 60% neutral & 15% stainless for 10 months. On the palate flavors of melons, citrus, and pears, hints of cinnamon spice and toasty oak. Long finish, lively acidity, good balance ending with fruit and mineral character. — 2 months ago
Interestingly, this was the best-conditioned white of the night. Of course it had to be one I’m not particularly fond of, but I’m still very thankful that there wasn’t even a hint of discernible [premature] oxidation. The nose hits you with a melange of fruits ranging from pineapples to mangoes to peaches and candied orange peels, followed by notes of cream, honey, and some woody, floral nuances. On the palate, it was expectedly rich and rounded, yet still maintained some juicy energy. Finished lightly bitter with a herbaceous touch. An archetypal CDP blanc! Would be better with the right food. — a month ago
The 1994 was initially a bit shy on the nose but after many hours in the decanter, it showed such amazing character. In fact, it shared some characteristics with a lightly peated single malt scotch, with light smoke, marmalade, honey, golden raspberry and wet stone. More of its character was unlocked with food. In this case, monkfish, sweet potato, leek, and winter truffle. Drink now through 2034+ — 2 months ago
Vegetal, but with dark fruit like blackberries, and red fruit like cherries. Tannins are smooth, unobtrusive but muscular. — a month ago
A tasting of six aged white Rhônes, including 20 and 35-year-old Hermitages vs a Chapoutier Saint-Joseph Blanc (Les Granits) a 19-year-old Esprit from Tablas Creek, and a Calera Mount Harlan Viognier. This 2009 Chapoutier was the winner for me, and the group. — 3 months ago
Great qpr — 4 months ago
David T
Independent Sommelier/Wine Educator
94 that leans into 95.
42% Grenache, 24% Mourvedre, 21% Syrah, 8% Coundise & 3% Roussanne. 15.8% ABV but drinks like 14.5-14.9. Pairing is Allen Brother’s Cowgirls.
This has nice evolution & integration.
It is ripe, juicy, lush grapey, very Grenache style with a bit of funk-gym locker. Blackberries, black raspberries, stewed plum, spiced dark cherries, cherries, deep, dark spices, black pepper, tary notes, steeped fruit tea, dry leaves, cigar with ash, dry, crushed rocks, dry river stone, limestone minerals, clove, dark spice, cinnamon stick, mid berry cola, liquid violets, lavender with dark & red flowers, excellent waterfall acidity. Balanced, excellent tension, richness, elegance and refined polish. — 21 hours ago