Andrew Cullimore

9.4

Deep and quite opaque , narrow ruby rim . Quite a lot of wood spice though with time in the glass there is a lot underneath that oak , dark cassis , ripe blackberry and a mineral undertone . Quite round and ripe on the palate , almost ‘new world’ in style compared to some of the preceding vintages , rounded but gritty tannin , balanced acidity . Generous and round, but with balanced alcohol , good length. Dark cassis , blackberry dark cherry notes. A strong oyster shell , saline component after a while in the glass . Needs time obviously , even though this is quite round and ripe. Intense with great potential. Better in 10-15 years will last well a further 10-15. — 3 days ago

Delectable Wine

Follow to learn about our favorite wines & people.

9.6

The 2012 Insignia is in great shape today. Bright acids lend tremendous energy to a mid-weight Insignia that is more about finesse rather than power. Sweet red-fleshed fruit, cedar, tobacco, mint and rose petal are all beautifully delineated. There's not much left to say. The 2012 offers tons of pure pleasure. (Antonio Galloni, Vinous, May 2024)
— 2 days ago

John Van Trijp

9.5

Very classic BDX style. The Owner and the winemaker of La Conseillante were convinced drinking Bordeaux left bank — 16 days ago

Sipping Fine Wine

9.5

Blend of 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Merlot, 3% Petite Verdot, 1% Syrah, 1% Malbec & 2% Cabernet Franc, aged for 17 months in 48% new French oak, deep Ruby with aromas of dark berry fruits, oak and sweet spice. On the palate flavors of blackberry, cherry and currants with tobacco and herb spice. Fine smooth tannins, approachable, long finish ending with fruit, oak, spice and herb mineral character. Nice! — 12 days ago

Juan Pablo Perez

9.0

Nariz: mora, arandano, ciruela, cassis, vainilla, especies, algo de madera

Boca: Tanino M, Acidez M, Alcohol M/M+

— 9 days ago

Shay A

9.4

Annual birthday WWC hosting. As normal, 1 sparkler, 3 whites, 4 reds, 1 dessert, all presented blind.

Here we are six years after my last ‘88 Montelena and I’m looking at my old review as if I wrote it about this current bottle! So bright and lively. Gorgeous deep ruby color (darker than the ‘88 Leoville Barton). There is a Christmas spice (maybe more mint-driven) aromatic with bing cherries and floral notes. Red fruit to the core with some spiced blackberries, earthy/herbal savoriness, great acidity and a snappy/youthful finish. Cedar and espresso. Held strong over a few hours open. Not falling off a cliff, but don’t miss this window if you have some! — 22 days ago

Steven Heydemann

9.1

The 99 is a favorite vintage for the sweetness of the fruit and the intense Mediterranean notes but this bottle was a little short on the finish. — 10 days ago

Neil Valenzuela

9.0

Deep purple color. Aromas of blackberry, forest floor, graphite and dark chocolate. Delicate, soft wine, blue and black fruit on the palate, balanced wine.

🏅 97 Points - James Suckling
🏅 96 Points - Robert Parker
🏅94 Points - Decanter — 12 days ago

Lars

9.2

2018 in 2024. Could use some more time in the cellar. — 16 hours ago

Kevin Dale

9.4

Took about an hour to open up. — 8 days ago