Richard Davenport

8.9

Knockout nose of strawberry jam and raspberry preserves (nose is a ringer for 2002 Martinelli Reserve Pinot) that leads to a soft, even flabby mouthfeel, but one that greatly improves with air. Good, but not great, wine that has high expectations due to the superb aromatics, ultimately disappointing somewhat on the back end. If we had another bottle I'd decant for an hour before serving. — 10 years ago

Richard Davenport

9.3

Fantastic wine -- blueberry, licorice, graphite, well integrated tannins. This 2009 is drinking superbly. Excellent with both veal Bolognese and Orechiette. — 10 years ago

Richard Davenport

9.1

2010 vintage. Old-school Italian wrapped in new-world Cali-style clothes. Earthy yet fruit forward with lots of cherries, licorice, cigar box, and very fine tannins. Fabulous with fusilli and a sauce Bolognese. — 10 years ago

Richard Davenport

9.6

Tasted blind, you'd think this was a serious, high-end Cali cab -- just don't tell your friends you paid $13 for it at the local Costco. Sturdy, finely-integrated tannins suggest this will age well, but plenty of cassis and a good hint of vanilla make this drinkable now. Parker gave the 2010 vintage 93 points and this, the 2011, can't be far off. Incredible value. — 10 years ago