1978 Chuck Hope left beverage job, moved to Paso Robles, became farmer, & top grape grower. Working with his father, Austin led family into winemaking in ‘95, creating his label in 2000. Grapes from 5 small blocks of Paso Robles AVAs, aged in 75% new French oak, 18 mos. Dark Ruby, aromas of sweet ripe black fruits & dried smoky spices. Flavors of ripe blackberry, sweet cacao, espresso & vanilla oak. Big wine, fine tannins that needed 45 minutes, long fruit finish. The 15% ABV, slight burn, but ok. Nice! — 4 years ago
A beautiful Pinot from start to its lingering finish. Aromatics and palate melded together seamlessly with darker fruits, think cherry and plum, leading the way. This bottle was in that spot where everything is working together. I have a few more and look forward to revisiting this Pinot sooner than later — 5 years ago
After 14 years, quite an impressive showing. The usual two players-Mr. Tanin and Mr. fruit -still working together and near perfect harmony. It was a delight to drink.  — a year ago
Smooth and light red fruits on the palate — 4 years ago
We opened this bottle late on Friday night and poured off a small glass to see what we were working with. As I suspected, far too young with loads of energy, rolls of baby fat and frankly, not very well behaved. So we pressed the cork back in the bottle and figured we would try our luck the next day when my parents stopped by for a socially distant glass of wine to “celebrate” Easter together. I’m so glad we waited. Twelve or so hours of slow-ox made a huge difference. While it was still very primary, it was much more enjoyable showing a strong core of dark berries, tobacco, leather, coffee and baking spices. But again, where Seavey really excels is texture and sense of place. To be expected for mountain fruit at this age, the tannins are firm but reasonable and there is such lovely acid that screams Howell Mountain. I have no doubt this will have a very bright future! In my mind, Caravina is probably the greatest “second” wine in Napa. This is Seavey’s 19th and latest vintage of Caravina. After an extended drought, 2017 began with torrential rain that flooded the valley. The fruit comes entirely from steep hillside blocks on the estate and is otherwise made in the same fashion as the Grand Vin. If you’re going to drink one now, I highly recommend a lengthy decant as these are easily 10 years away from their best. — 5 years ago
New pix,
Used @Severn Goodwin decant time recco,👍🏼🥩
Tried to delete the last post, not working🤷🏼♂️ — 4 years ago
Grilling some excellent pork chops on a beautiful warm San Diego evening, and my pairing instincts took me to an aged St-I. This from arguably the best Oregon vintage of the 2000’s, it represents perhaps the most Burgundian effort by Mr Vlossak during his “tenure” working the hallowed Seven Springs vineyard. Savory, smoky, brambly, with moderate acidity and tannins, an undertone of grilled herbs, brilliant restrained red fruit, and a hint of brett to round it out. Wine outshined the chop, but all goodness. — 5 years ago
Perfect after being quarantined and recovered from Covid-19 and now working from home with kids still home school closed... appropriate time to open this bottle — 5 years ago
GaryWEdwards
Wow. Both fruit and brioche working together in the best way.. At 20 years, still a mere babe. Thanks to 67 Pall Mal for offering this by the glass. I have 12 bottles in home storage and might have to start working them through the rotation. — 20 days ago