Matthew Jukes (18+)

Wine Advocate (92)

Wine Advocate (92)

Produced by the distinguished winemaker, Massimo di Costanzo, the di Costanzo Napa Valley Di Co 2018 stands as an epitome of artisanal mastery. Sourced from the prized terroirs of Napa Valley, California, one is immediately taken by the balance of opulent dark fruit flavours and polished, understated earthiness. Each vineyard block was hand-harvested separately, meticulously allowing for the expression of individuality and nuance. Subsequently, the winemaking process, taking place in 100% French oak barrels, further underscores the wine's exceptional finesse.

The di Costanzo Napa Valley Di Co 2018 exudes deep intense garnet hues, encapsulating assertive flavours of blackberry, plum, and mocha, underpinned by hints of graphite and sage. The medium-bodied palate couples refined tannins with a vital acidity, leading to a long invigorating finish. This accomplished blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc epitomises the very spirit of its revered producer.

Experience the splendour of the di Costanzo Napa Valley Di Co 2019, a superb representation of Californian artistry in viticulture. This Cabernet Sauvignon shines with a captivating purity of ripe black and blue fruits. The grapes, sourced from premium vineyards located in the gusty cool-climate region of Napa Valley, are hand-harvested and fermented with wild yeasts. The wine matures for 20 months in gently toasted, high-quality French oak barrels, lending it extraordinary complexity and structure.

Producer Massimo Di Costanzo's minimalist intervention approach in the winery allows the terroir's true narrative to unfurl in each bottle. Possessing a rich, silky palate, this 2019 vintage evokes the wild beauty of its origins, along with the quintessential elegance attributed to di Costanzo's craftsmanship. The di Costanzo Napa Valley Di Co 2019 can undoubtedly be held as a crowning jewel in any discerning connoisseur’s collection.

Indulge in the exceptional character of di Costanzo Napa Valley Di Co 2020. Born in the idyllic valleys of Napa, this rare vintage is created by a passion for authenticity and a respect for tradition. Di Costanzo wines, led by winemaker Massimo di Costanzo, are known to have a steadfast commitment to expressing pure, specific terroir. The di Costanzo Napa Valley Di Co 2020 is a testament to this truth.

This exquisite blend is meticulously produced via native yeast fermentation in concrete, coupled with an extended maceration process that enhances the age-worthy structure. It showcases an elegant melange of dark fruit, rugged earthy notes, interwoven with fine-grained tannins that eloquently promise potential for splendid maturity. A bottle of di Costanzo Napa Valley Di Co 2020 provides an enchanting embodiment of site and vintage, making a memorable addition to any fine wine collection. Enjoy a boulevard of sensory indulgence with di Costanzo's proud emblem of Napa artistry.

James Suckling (94)

The Donelan Cuvee Christine Syrah 2012 is an exquisite fine wine, crafted in the heart of Sonoma County, California. This unparalleled vintage stands as a testament to Donelan Family Vineyards' commitment to produce wines of exceptional quality and character.

The Syrah berries, grown in two vineyard locations, were handpicked and carefully sorted to ensure only the finest grapes were fermented in small lots. Aged for 20 months in French oak, the 2012 Cuvee delivers an elegant, nuanced palate of dark fruit, pepper and savoury herbs, beneath a graceful structure.

The wine reveals a layered complexity, a testament to winemaker Joe Nielsen's expertise. Its full-bodied richness and smooth tannins make the Donelan Cuvee Christine Syrah 2012 an excellent partner to robust dishes. A limited production wine that embodies the essence of the cool climate Syrah in the best vintage years, it represents the pinnacle of Donelan's ongoing pursuit of excellence in winemaking.

Donelan Obsidian Syrah 2014 is a captivating blend crafted in California's boutique Donelan Family Wines estate. This exquisite wine embraces 100% Syrah grapes, handpicked from vineyards nestled in volcanic obsidian-strewn soils in Knights Valley. Maturing for 20 months in French oak barrels, this Syrah delivers a remarkable depth of flavours.

With lush, powerful notes of black fruit, the 2014 vintage offers the perfect balance of intensity and elegance. Exhibiting a rich, velvety texture offset against undertones of earthy minerals and subtle exotic spices, it culminates in a layered finish that lingers on the palate. Each sip of Donelan Obsidian Syrah 2014 reveals its complex structure, built on low-yield, high-intensity viticulture and nuanced winemaking.

Endorsed by esteemed wine critics alike, this is indeed a testament to Napa's terroir and Donelan's dedication to producing extraordinary wines. Donelan Obsidian Syrah 2014, a sophisticated choice for discerning connoisseurs.

From one of Santa Rosa's most coveted microclimates, the Donelan Obsidian Syrah 2015 is an elegant masterpiece of viticulture. Revered wine producer, Donelan Family Wines, patiently cultivates Syrah grapes on the rocky, challenging terrain of their Obsidian Vineyard. A unique volcanic soil and climate lead to an astoundingly complex profile in every bottle, matured in frozen French oak barrels for 20 months.

Distinctive for its rich, dark hue, the Donelan Obsidian Syrah 2015 immediately intrigues with an aromatic bouquet of black cherries, dark chocolate, and smoky minerals. On the palate, it boasts elegantly layered flavours from peppery spice, anchored by robust tannins, culminating in a long, satisfying finish. Awarded 95 points by Wine Advocate, this Californian red showcases Donelan's unerring dedication to uncompromising quality and terroir-driven character.

A well-structured wine, cellaring can produce sensational complexity after 5-10 years, further testament to the remarkable longevity of the Donelan Obsidian Syrah 2015.

The Donelan Richards Family Syrah 2013 is the epitome of California's finest viticulture. Brought to you by renowned winemaker Joe Nielsen, this prestigious red wine is born out of meticulously sourced cool-climate fruit from Sonoma County. The Centred in Sonoma vineyards yield small quantities of intense and elegant Syrah grapes, hand-harvested to ensure only the finest quality. With a rich, dark plum hue, the Donelan Richards Family Syrah 2013 offers an alluring nose of dark fruit, pepper, and savoury ancient forest nuances. The velvet-soft palate entices with layers of ripe blueberry, spice, and well-integrated tannins, reflecting the perfect balance and complex character the wine is celebrated for. The unfiltered, unfined production methods amplify the purity of this decadent Syrah. Aged for 21 months in French oak barrels, this varietal resonates with the refined sophistication only achieved with time. Revel in the definitively smooth and long finish of the Donelan Richards Family Syrah 2013.

Relish the opulence of Donelan Sonoma Coast Chardonnay Genevieves Block 2016, a world-class wine capturing the finest elements of Sonoma Coast terroir. Hailing from the prestigious boutique Californian winery, Donelan Family, this brilliant vintage marries traditional craftsmanship with sustainable practices. The meticulously chosen, handpicked grapes, aged in French oak for 11 months, imbue an alluring aroma and complex flavour palette. Burgeoning with nuances of citrus, ripe apple, pear, and honeyed undertones, the Chardonnay captures the perfect balance of acidity and richness. The aged burgundy wine exhibits a buttery texture and an impeccably long finish, promising a captivating tasting experience. This rare gem from Sonoma Coast epitomises Donelan Family's commitment to crafting exceptional, distinctive wines true to their origins. Indulge in the Donelan Sonoma Coast Chardonnay Genevieves Block 2016 experience highlighting lush, full-bodied structure and unwavering quality – the quintessential choice for the discerning oenophile.

The Donelan Sonoma County Syrah Keltie 2012 is a remarkable Californian wine, crafted with intricate attention to detail. It's a testament to the dedication of the Donelan Family, who meticulously handpicked its grape clusters on cool mornings guaranteeing optimal ripeness. Fashioned exclusively from familial vineyards, it boasts compelling provenance.

Situated amidst the diverse microclimates of Sonoma, the unique terroir gifts this wine a distinct character. The growing season of 2012 was remarkably consistent, gifting the grapes a rich concentration and balanced acidity. Each Syrah cluster was fermented individually, using native yeasts, preserving the genuine essence of the fruit textures. The 22-month maturation in French oak imparts a complex, round frame to the wine.

Delivering a sophisticated palette, the Donelan Sonoma County Syrah Keltie 2012 enraptures with its vivacious cassis, truffle and black pepper notes, well-balanced by a sybaritic spice and meaty undertone. A collectable asset for any discerning connoisseur.

Steeped in the spirit of Sonoma County, the Donelan Sonoma County Syrah Keltie 2013 is a fine expression of both vintage and terroir. This exquisite limited release is crafted by Donelan Family Wines, respected custodians of boutique, artisan wines. The Syrah Keltie 2013 exhibits a truly unique character - the result of painstaking hand-picking, whole cluster fermentation and judicious ageing in neutral oak. The wine's incredible intensity and depth are shaped by Sonoma County's diverse climate - cool foggy mornings giving rise to warmer afternoons. Displaying rich, black fruit nuances, punctuated by peppery undertones and a mineral backbone, the Donelan Sonoma County Syrah Keltie 2013 is a triumph of finesse and power. With its well-structured profile and signature cool-climate elegance, it mesmerises the palate and invigorates the senses. This exclusive vintage is a sublime ode to the precision, dedication, and innate understanding of terroir that distinguish Donelan Family Wines.

Indulge in the luxuriously crafted Donelan Sonoma County Syrah Keltie 2016, an exemplary produce from the prestigious Donelan Family Vineyards in California’s renowned viticultural region of Sonoma County. Revered for their minimal intervention approach, Donelan’s artisanal expertise is manifestly expressed in this remarkable Syrah. Produced in limited quantities, this wine artfully reveals the vines' pure expression, ageing 18 months in French oak barrels, fostering a splendid complexity.

The Donelan Sonoma County Syrah Keltie 2016 unveils a harmonious profile of dark fruit, black pepper and a hint of olive tapenade, beautifully married with minerally undertones. Its elevated tannin structure and lively acidity culminate in a perfectly balanced, full-bodied palate. Synonymous with the Donelan legacy, this Syrah epitomises the authentically rich textures and robust flavours of the fertile terroir of Sonoma County.

Savour the meticulously curated elegance of the Donelan Sonoma County Syrah Keltie 2016, a testament to the profound passion and dedication invested by the Donelan family.

Experience the distinguished delight of the Donelan Sonoma County Syrah Keltie 2017. Masterfully produced in the globally recognised vineyards of California's Sonoma County, this treasured wine truly reflects the region's fertile soils and fine weather. Crafted from hand-picked Syrah berries, its exquisite profile is marked by concentrated black fruits, and savoury characteristics. This sophisticated drop is aged for 18 months in traditional French oak barrels, perfecting its complex persona.

The Donelan family, renowned for their fine wine crafting techniques, consistently deliver excellence in their Syrah vintages. Their attention to detail, reflected in every nuanced layer of the Sonoma County Syrah Keltie 2017, creates a harmonious experience for fine wine enthusiasts. A radiant, full-bodied wine, its lingering finish epitomises the elegant craftsmanship intrinsic to the Donelan name. The Donelan Sonoma County Syrah Keltie 2017 truly exemplifies the art of refined winemaking.

Wine Advocate (95)

Wine Advocate (96)

The Duckhorn Napa Cabernet Sauvignon 2014 exhibits the pedigree of Napa Valley’s acclaimed wine terroirs. This sophisticated vintage, crafted by esteemed wine producer Duckhorn Vineyards, reflects their longstanding reputation for deftly blending premier dichotomous characteristics. Developed predominantly in a blend of French and American oak, the wine demonstrates an intriguing juxtaposition of robust intensity and delicate nuance. Enticing aromas of mulberry, blackberry and cassis harmonise with subtle undertones of savoury spice and dark cocoa. On the palate, beautifully balanced wine exhibits fine-grained tannins and remarkable structure, escalating into a prodigious, yet velvety finish. This exclusive vintage indeed echoes Duckhorn's unswerving devotion to crafting richly textured, sophisticated wines that embody the unique spirit of Napa Valley. The Duckhorn Napa Cabernet Sauvignon 2014 transcends mere wine, offering a testament to time, tradition, and the ceaseless pursuit of quality.

Vinous (95+)

Vinous (94)

Vinous (94)

The Eden Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 is an exquisite example of fine winemaking artistry. Expertly crafted in South Australia's renowned Eden Valley wine region, this Cabernet combines the area's unique terroir and ideal climatic conditions to yield immaculate fruit. Made by the highly revered Eden Winery, they meticulously handpick the best-quality grapes to ensure only unabridged excellence graces each bottle. Macerated for 15 days and matured for 10 months in fine-grained French oak, this process honours tradition while incorporating modern techniques. The Eden Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 boasts an alluring nose of ripe black fruits, complemented by subtle hints of tobacco and spice. On the palate, this full-bodied wine offers a balance of powerful blackcurrant, olives, and smart oak flavours, seamlessly integrated with superb tannins. The finish is refined and lengthy, adding to its complexity. Truly, the Eden Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 is an embodiment of timeless supremacy evoking a remarkable wine experience.

Wine Advocate (97+)

Faust Cabernet Sauvignon 2019 hails from Napa Valley, crafted by the iconic proprietor, Agustin Huneeus. This harmonious union of select grapes from premium vineyards in Rutherford and Coombsville imparts the wine with a distinct character. Born of a cooler vintage year, the wine's charisma lies in its restraint and elegance. Faust Cabernet Sauvignon 2019's intensity is revealed through its deep crimson allure in the glass, hinting at the opulence within. A symphony of flavours ensue in the palate – ripe red berry, black tea, and understated oak unfold in a complex dance, underscoring the wine's inherent depth and body. Its finish, lengthened and nuanced, is indicative of the wine's aging potential. The assemblage was matured for 19 months in 100% French oak, 30% new, securing its distinctive structure and style. Faust Cabernet Sauvignon 2019, a masterstroke of winemaking, is the perfect representation of the art of balance in Napa Valley Cabernets.

The Faust Pact 2019 is an elegant Californian Cabernet Sauvignon produced by Quintessa, a renowned winery committed to sustainability. This sumptuous wine offers a masterful blend of grapes hand-harvested from premier appellations in Napa Valley. The fermentation process is meticulously executed, creating robust, bold flavours. An elegant scarlet in colour, the Faust Pact 2019 encapsulates plush dark fruits, leather, and tobacco notes, with a vibrant balance of acidity and well-structured tannins. The winemaker’s skilled use ofaging in French oak barrels weaves in a delightful touch of sweet spice, adding nuance to its layered and velvety palate. One can detect a complex character and compelling freshness in this wine, maintaining its balance and giving it an impressively long finish. For connoisseurs desiring an intriguing and stylish Cabernet Sauvignon, the Faust Pact 2019 is an exceptionally enticing choice.