Doug Cranmer

9.2

Nuanced and balanced fruit, tannins were balanced/subtle. Hits above the average Barolo for quality at this price point. A perfect wine for lunch to wrap up an Italy trip at a hidden gem of a wine bar in Firenze. — 2 years ago

with Mary

Sipping Fine Wine

9.4

Dark Ruby with aromas of black fruits and complex notes of spice, herb and earth. It was a cooler season in 2010, resulting in higher acidity that made this wine big and needed a lot more time in the bottle, than the last time I tried in order to soften the massive tannin structure. On the palate plum and blackberry flavors with some nutty notes, wet stone and earthy herbs show harmoniously on the palate. Full body, fine tannins with a deep rich long finish. A Gem! Tasting well now! — 4 years ago

David Walser

9.4

At home eating leftovers tonight enjoying this surprise. I bought 6 bottles based on Russell Bevan being the winemaker. My experience with the first few bottles was disappointing, but tonight was special. I wish I could understand these differences; bottle variation???...dumb phase???...I just don’t know.

I’m generally not a Merlot drinker as a varietal but I also have fond memories of the 2008 Bevan Cellars Showket Vineyard Merlot...a wonderful wine. — 5 years ago

Nick

9.2

Absolutely caught me off guard. This was a simple gift from family. Now my wife and I are scrambling to buy another bottle. A phenomenal blend. Full bodied and spice. I would love for someone who actually knows what they’re talking about to try and this lol — 2 years ago

Jason Troendle

9.4

Sweet and not too strong — 4 years ago

with Mandy

Deborah M

9.4

Was looking for something profound tonight and pulled this gem. RIP Mamba. This wine - pop and pour and perfection in the glass. Medium tawny color. Dried fruit on the nose. Dried cherries flavor at the forefront. Smooth mouthfeel. Effortless elegance. Nice acidity and balance. 19 years and still demonstrating greatness. — 5 years ago

ESF

9.2

See previous note, some time has really improved this wine - represents outstanding QPR. Again, very international style Rioja - super generous & delicious — 3 years ago

Nathan Renfro

9.5

Inky dark purple. Solid fruit. Short decant all that is needed but this wine sings after an hour plus. Ripe blackberry and plum, some black cherry. Solid acidic backbone with medium tannins. Smooth chocolate finish. This wine is a gem of a deal from Realm. — 3 years ago

Ericsson

9.2

Wine of the night. Impressive nose. Full, bold and round. A gem. — 4 years ago

Scott Soren

9.2

Pleasantly surprised by this little gem. As a super Tuscan lover was drawn to this by the age statement from this little restaurant. Not a big nose, but medium bodied with nice acidity. Black raspberries and currants on the pallet with some Smokeyness. Lovely wine — 5 years ago