Jan A

9.4

This was firing on all cylinders tonight. Caught at a point v.s. my palate preferences. This still had fruit power but also polished, pleasantly drying tannins. It had a lot of spices braced by just the right amount of sweetness. Truly a joy to drink tonight. — a day ago

Jay Kline

9.1

Popped and poured; enjoyed over the course of two days. Better on Day 2. The 2023 Zinfandel pours a ruby/purple color with a magenta rim; medium+ viscosity with light staining of the tears. On the nose, the wine is youthful with notes of ripe and tart black, red and some blue fruits: black berries, black cherries, raspberries, fig, green herbs, a touch of rubber pool toy, black pepper, dry earth and some gentle warm spices. On the palate, the wine is dry with medium+ tannin and medium+ acid. Confirming the notes from the nose. The finish is medium+. From my experience, this is the most youthful expression of Rafanelli Zinfandel I can recall. Good, but to my palate this will probably be better after 2028. — 5 days ago

GaryWEdwards

9.8

What a gem! Still broad-shoulders with hint of smoke and more than ample fruit. Absolutely delightful nose and palate that provides a long, rewarding finish. Wow! — 8 hours ago

with Logan

Ericsson

9.4

New vintage release tasting at Vega Sicilia in Ribera del Duero. The 2015 Unico presented an elegant profile, while the 2020 Valbuena showcased a bolder character. Traditionally, Unico is known for its power and structure, whereas Valbuena tends to be the more refined and elegant wine. Staff assured me it is not a reversal in winemaking techniques but rather a juxtaposition of their respective vintages. — 22 days ago

Scott Kahn

9.6

My first exposure to Don Melchor was rewarding! Rich, dark fruit maturity on the nose was consistent with long lasting dark cherries and red plum on the palette. Soft tannins reminiscent of a well aged Cabernet, the softness of this young cab was surprising and delightful! An absolute treat to taste!! — a month ago

with Timothy

Jeroen Koenen

9.7

Surprisingly smooth and enjoyable. A point? — a day ago

Ericsson

9.8

New vintage release tasting at Vega Sicilia in Ribera del Duero. The 2015 Unico presented an elegant profile, while the 2020 Valbuena showcased a bolder character. Traditionally, Unico is known for its power and structure, whereas Valbuena tends to be the more refined and elegant wine. Staff assured me it is not a reversal in winemaking techniques but rather a juxtaposition of their respective vintages. — 25 days ago

Conrad Green

9.0

Very grape-y. Intense sappy fruit. Plum and red flowers. A little simple. — 14 days ago

with Peter and Gregg

Lee Pitofsky

9.5

America’s wine! What a nose! — 17 hours ago

Nathan Renfro

9.8

Always one of my favorites. The 06 is a beutiful wine. Black and blue fruit, great minerality, tender tannins, wonderfully balanced. Regal texture, just wonderful with my steak tonight. The 06 are drinking wonderfully now. Always a pleasure! — a day ago