Ming L

9.2

Each time that I tasted a PN from FRS reenforces my belief that it’s the best AVA for Pinot in Northern California, if not the entire CA.

The nose shows black cherry, plum, raspberry, wrapped in cedar, cinnamon, sea breeze and hint of forest floor. The palate is concentrated and robust, combining ripe berry note with wild herbs, and a subtle earthy minerality. Firm, fine tannins with good length. Powerful, polished, and quite expressive.

From estate vineyard blocks closest to the Pacific Ocean. Give it another 4-5 years to blossom. — 3 days ago

Ming L

9.3

Formerly the legendary Domaine René Engle, acquired by François Pinault owner of Chateau Latour, this Vosne-Romanée based estate makes very little white.

The 2022 Les Perclos from a 0.24 hectares plot is taut and energetic. It offers crisp green apple, white flowers, and a pronounced flinty minerality. While nicely textured, it is defined by a linear, racy acidity that provides superb focus and a long, saline finish.

A worthy effort! — 12 days ago

Ming L

9.1

Have not had a bottle from the winery for a long time. I believe this used to have the single “Lock Vineyard” designation. Not sure why it was removed as the fruits are still 100% from the vineyard.

Quite different than the ‘16 Retro Syrah, this is powerful with dark chocolate and licorice underpinning the ripe dark fruits such a plum and black currant. Rich and dense on the palate with long candied finish. Equally delicious. — 17 days ago

Ming L

8.9

My first vintage Crémant, this shows some development. Ripe citrus, lightly baked apple, pear, with hint of toasted brioche. The effervescence remains fine and persistent.

Easy drinking. — 8 days ago

Ming L

9.3

The nose opens with ripe yellow apple, poached pear, and a touch of roasted almond, all lifted by floral notes of acacia and a subtle, crushed stone minerality. On the palate, it is medium to full and layered, with a beautifully satiny texture that glides to a long, harmonious finish.

Expansive and elegant. — 10 days ago

Ming L

9.2

From 4 lieux-dits in Meursault, aged in barrel for 12 months, 20% new, and in concrete eggs for 8 months.

This Meursault is radiant and expressive in the stellar ‘22 vintage. Aromas of yellow peach, baked apple, and a hint of hazelnut. Broad palate with creamy texture balanced by a fresh, citric line. Good depth and long finish. A charming Meursault with finesse. — 12 days ago

Ming L

9.2

A project by the current winemaker of Dunn Vineyards with its own small vineyard, this Syrah shows its pedigree.

On the nose it bursts with concentrated blackberry, blueberry, and peppery spices with hint of grilled meat and purple floral. It’s full and velvety on the palate with good balance. Silky dusty tannins on the long finish. Will hold and drink beautifully for the next 5-8 years. — 17 days ago

Ming L

9.2

The winery was founded by Mark Tarlov, co-founder of Evening Land, and Louis‑Michel Liger‑Belair.

This is very good for an entry-level bottling. The fruits are remarkably fresh at 10 years. BlackBerry, raspberry, cranberry, strawberry along with steeped black tea and hint of cinnamon.
Salivating acidity with round edge. Great pairing for turkey.

Happy Thanksgiving! — 10 days ago

Ming L

9.4

Certainly not as rare as the Ponsot’s Clos des Monts Luisants, but as soon as I saw this on the wine list at reasonable price, I knew this was what I wanted to order.

The nose opens with lemon oil, white peach, crushed stones, and subtle hazelnut. The palate is supple yet lively, with vibrant acidity framing ripe orchard fruit and a cool, chalk-driven core. A faint floral note and gentle oak spice add complexity. Elegant with refined balance. — 12 days ago

Ming L

9.2

Amongst the 25 or so climats of Corton Grand Cru, Les Renardes is generally considered one the powerful ones.

The nose reveals aromas of blackcurrant, red cherry, liquorice, autumn leaves, and hint of rusty iron. Medium to full body with a deep and assertive palate. Minerally crunchy fruits that are still quite fresh. Underbrush and hint of spice leads the long finish. — 16 days ago