John Hawkins

9.2

Strong plum notes up front, slightly sharp, but quite smooth. Long, oaky finish. Not very complex, but interesting nonetheless. — 7 years ago

with Charles Smith,

John Hawkins

8.7

Starts very bright and fruity, then quickly mellows to a ripe berry with obvious oak notes. Much smoother than expected on first taste. Velvety and not very dry, even for a Garnacha. Must let this one breathe. — 8 years ago

with Charles Smith,

John Hawkins

8.8

Smooth, easy drinking Cab. Earthy & almost savory. Very nice with sharp cheese. — 8 years ago

with Charles Smith,

John Hawkins

9.8

I was skeptical of this 10 year old tawny when I saw it -- I'm not usually a fan of Australian wines, and this was priced just under $15 on sale. The aroma calmed my nerves, the color got me excited, and the taste topped it all. Super smooth, rich caramelized fruit flavors and a luxurious golden amber color that is exactly what the name "tawny" implies. An amazing port for the price, this can stand up to other tawnys at twice the cost. — 8 years ago

John Hawkins

9.3

Very bold, but much smoother than expected. Rich, dark fruit flavors, notes of vanilla, and a very slight grassiness on the finish. I wasn't expecting to like this one, but it impressed me. Let it breathe for at least 45 minutes, and you can drink it as you please. — 8 years ago

with Charles Smith,

John Hawkins

9.3

Complex yet remarkably smooth. Dark berry flavors blended with oak, vanilla, and gentle spiciness. Cannot wait to see how this Malbec improves with age. — 8 years ago

with Charles Smith,

John Hawkins

8.1

Beautiful garnet red color. Spicy, very woody aroma - almost smokey. The flavor began as a delicate red berry start, almost instantly overpowered by wood and spice. Rough texture and surprisingly dry. Best with grilled meats & sharp cheeses. — 9 years ago

with Charles Smith,

John Hawkins

10

Probably one of the most complicated yet smooth wines I've ever had. It has a bright, juicy black cherry base, bright overtones of lavender, and hints of stony soil, all wrapped in warm oaky vanilla. Like a great guest, it is smooth as silk, and leaves without a trace. A new fave. — 8 years ago

with Charles Smith,

John Hawkins

9.8

I really like this wine. After letting it breathe for half an hour, this was surprisingly smooth, subtly spicy, and well balanced with dark fruit. Amazing on its own, but having it with a "vintage" English white cheddar and an aged havarti was remarkable. The cheddar mellowed out the wine's sharpness, while the havarti seemed to enhance the sharpness. One of the best wines I've had in a few months. — 8 years ago

with Charles Smith,

John Hawkins

9.3

My first French Malbec. Very strong and robust berry flavors, followed by something almost mossy with strong woody notes. Incredibly rich, yet surprisingly smooth. Worth putting away in the cellar. — 8 years ago

with Charles Smith,