High-mountain Cabernet with altitude in its bones: Ao Yun 2014 lifts dense black fruit on a cool herbal current, tannins fine as silk-road dust, and a finish that hangs like twilight over the Meili range.
Old-vine Grenache in a classic key: Mont-Thabor 2021 layers black-cherry and blackberry depth with cigar-box spice and a faint smoky line, then finishes long and tidy. It’s poised rather than showy—CdP clarity with a quiet streak of power.
Tuscan heritage, sharpened: Pugnitello 2021 carries dark-berry depth and lavender spice along a graphite line—polished, savory, and quietly distinctive from first sip to finish.
The 2021 vintage of this Rutherford-grown Cabernet delivers a focused, age-worthy profile with firm structure and aromatic depth. Polished tannins, integrated oak, and persistent black fruit define this wine, supported by a track record of excellence and top-tier scores from critics and the Cork and Journey panel alike.
The 2022 Tenuta Guado al Tasso Il Bruciato brings together Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc in a full-bodied, expressive Super Tuscan blend. With rich dark fruit, spice, and herbal notes, it’s a wine that offers both complexity and approachability. A well-balanced, rewarding red that’s ready to drink now
The 2017 Le Lucere is a polished Brunello from San Filippo, showcasing an elegant side of Sangiovese. With high praise from critics and a cult-like following, this wine brings layered aromatics, refined tannins, and a long, savory finish. Though we came in slightly below the consensus, it’s undeniably well-crafted.
The 2017 Le Lucere is a polished Brunello from San Filippo, showcasing an elegant side of Sangiovese. With high praise from critics and a cult-like following, this wine brings layered aromatics, refined tannins, and a long, savory finish. Though we came in slightly below the consensus, it’s undeniably well-crafted.
The 2019 Melville Estate Syrah is a striking example of cool-climate Syrah from California’s Sta. Rita Hills. With layers of black pepper, dark berries, and a touch of smoky intrigue, this wine balances power and finesse. It’s structured, aromatic, and built to age, making it a compelling choice for Syrah
A bold blend of Grenache, Mourvèdre, and Syrah from California’s Sta. Rita Hills, the 2019 Second Street Cuvée leans into ripe black fruit, spice, and earthy undertones. With pronounced aromatics, firm tannins, and elevated alcohol, this wine shows off the region’s warmer tendencies while retaining structure for near-term cellaring.
From a breezy, coastal vineyard in the Sta. Rita Hills, this 2021 Pinot Noir delivers savory aromatics, firm structure, and persistent length. Winemaker Samra Morris builds a detailed, site-reflective wine that balances ripe black cherry fruit with herbaceous and earthy notes. A poised expression suited for decanting or mid-term cellaring.
The 2020 Hidden Asset from Santa Barbara County is a full-bodied red blend that showcases black fruit, spice, and savory complexity. Aged in French oak for 16 months, it brings structure and depth without veering into excess. Approachable now, it’s built to evolve through 2035.
The 2019 Wädenswil Block Pinot Noir from Irvine & Roberts showcases what makes Oregon’s Rogue Valley so special. With layers of black cherry, olive, and cedar, this wine balances elegance and complexity, making it a rewarding sip now and a promising bottle for the cellar. It’s a gem worth exploring.
All things wine, and food you could ever need or want — straight to your email!
