Tripp Kaelin

9.5

Intensely lifted, fresh, and concentrated and showing incredible youth at nearly a decade in bottle. Perfectly ripe blackberries and black cherries are enveloped by aromas and flavors of fresh ground coffee, wet fall leaves, leather, menthol, and vanilla. The wine finishes long and with a crave-worthy mineral/graphite finish. This can cellar for years to come but is excellent now with herb-roasted lamb chops or grilled steak tips. Delicious! — 2 years ago

Tripp Kaelin

8.6

A refreshing, versatile porch-pounder with ample approachability and pairing capabilities. On the nose, the wine showcases notes of pear, white peach, green apple, gooseberry, citrus pith, parsley, and river stones. On the palate, these orchard fruits, along with some underripe tropical notes (papaya, mango, pineapple), take center stage with the slightest effervescence and a delicate bonus white tea bitterness on the wine’s shorter finish. There is more body and weight than might be expected at 12% ABV, and it certainly contributes to the wine’s ability to compliment a wider range of foods from lighter shellfish to poultry and fresh cheeses. Drink now and pair with littlenecks on the half shell or a turkey club. — 2 years ago

Tripp Kaelin

9.0

A lively and complex Nebbiolo under $30. Ruby in the glass, the wine smells of tart cranberries and cherries, flamed orange peel and struck match, cedar, rose petals, menthol, and fresh asphalt. The mid-palate and finish carry these forward along with a lovely crushed rock dimension that gives the wine added complexity and intrigue. The acidity is well-balanced by the taught fruit flavors, though the wine’s tannins and noticeable alcohol may do well with some additional years of bottle aging before they integrate fully. Cellar for an additional 3-5 years or drink now with polenta, sautéed mushrooms, and Moliterno al Tartufo. — 2 years ago