Ming L

9.2

This is the white capsule.

I chose this to pair with Cantonese roasted duck and it worked nicely as the brisk acidity match fat and saltiness really well.

Lime, chamomile, candied lemon peel, and wet slate to go with subtle petrol note. There is hint of sweetness from dried fruits and honeycomb on the palate with medium body and a long, saline finish. — 3 days ago

Ming L

9.0

My first Sangiovese from the U.S.

The 2010 blends 7% Cab, all from estate vineyard in Yountville. It opens with ripe plum, dried cranberry, and fig, mingling with and savory notes of leather, tobacco leaf, and touch of forest floor. A Napa expression of the Tuscan grape, it balances ripe fruit with earthy complexity. Acidity has turned softer but is still holding up. Resolved tannins. Subtle balsamic and dried herbs notes on the medium finish. — 10 days ago

Ming L

9.4

My first Clendenen Family Vineyards bottling.

It opens with apricot, baked apple, pear, and jasmine, unfolding into light vanilla, lemon curd, grapefruit zest, and just the slightest hint of Sherry. On the palate it’s warm and plush with lively acidity. Compared to ABC typically more mineral-edged style, this bottling feels more opulent, with greater emphasis on texture, offering a fuller expression while still carrying Jim Clendenen’s hallmark balance.

What a treat! — 18 days ago

Ming L

8.9

My first Tavel rose offers bold red berry and citrus zest aromas. On the palate, it's medium-to-full-bodied and dry, with a robust structure underscored by hint of tannins and a pleasing, clean hint of bitter almond on the finish.

Serious yet food-friendly. — a month ago

Ming L

9.1

I seldom buy Kirkland/Costco wines, but with a great Napa vintage combining a reputable vineyard, I decided to give a try.

Nice ripe black fruits with oak spices. Noticeable green note that might be off putting for some palates but I actually like it for it provides a fresh lift. Supple and balanced. Give it another 3-5 years in the bottle. Oh only 13% ABV. All for less than $20.

Will get couple more bottles if it’s still available.



— 6 days ago

Ming L

9.3

2014 is a notoriously difficult vintage in Tuscany, but this showcases the finesses achievable in a challenging season.

The nose shows fresh cherry, red currant, pinecone, violet, and touch of leather and baking spices. Medium-to-full body on the leaner side, the plate is marked by vibrant acidity and refined silky tannins. Hint of sweetness on the long finish.

— 17 days ago

Ming L

8.9

The cork looks fine, or a bit too perfect for a bottle approaching 20 years?

The nose offers classic, appealing notes of toasted hazelnut, baked apple, and faded honey for a mature Chard. However, on the palate, the fruit has receded, leaving the acidity bordering on sour.

Slightly over the hill, it’s nevertheless a good experience. — 22 days ago

Ming L

9.2

I tasted this same 2010 about a year ago and wondered it would improve with further aging. I think the answer is yes.

This time around it shows more layered profile, with bruised apple, honeysuckle, beeswax, citrus peel, and wet stone leading the nose. The palate is broad and textured. Acidity has shaved off some hard edges, yet remains focus and intense. Engaging long finish. — 9 days ago

Ming L

9.4

A wonderful Mount Veeder Cab that has aged elegantly.

The nose shows blackcurrant, blackberry, and plum laced with savory notes of cedar, tobacco and dried herbs. The palate is concentrated yet vibrant with silky tannins has firm grip, finishing long with hints of cocoa and espresso.

Restrained power and finesse, Yannick brought both Veeder’s rugged characters and French precision. Last bottle. — 14 days ago

Ming L

9.1

I think this 2024 vintage is the most aromatic yet for this bottling. Intensely perfumed aromas of peach, nectarine, orange blossom, hint of pineapple and ginger. Lush and soft on the palate yet clean and refreshing. Lovely. — a month ago