Paul Hobbs Winery
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94 points Wine Spectator
2009 Pinot Noir
Lindsay Estate Vineyard
Russian River Valley“An elegant, graceful young Pinot, with perfumed ripe plum, blackberry, raspberry and cherry fruit. Full-bodied, ending with a long, tapered finish and a pleasantly subtle tannic backbone. Drink now through 2019. ”
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89 points Wine Spectator
2009 Chardonnay
Russian River Valley“Appealing for its mix of ripe green apple, pear, citrus and honeydew melon flavors. Full-bodied, grainy and pithy in texture, but likely to grow out of that. Drink now through 2015.”
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94 points Wine Spectator
2009 Pinot Noir
Ulises Valdez Vineyard
Russian River Valley“A fragrant, delicate style, exhibiting violet, red berry and blackberry fruit scents, with touches of black cherry and wild berry. Full-bodied and spicy, ending with a mouthwatering minerality. Drink now through 2018.”
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93 points Wine Spectator
2009 Pinot Noir
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Rich, with dark berry fruit, but also elegant and detailed. Dense, with blackberry, wild berry, spice, mineral and floral scents that are full-bodied and expansive on the palate, ending with a pleasing mix of mineral and loamy earth. Drink now through 2018.”
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92 points International Wine Cellar
2009 Chardonnay
Russian River Valley“Bright gold. Complex, heady bouquet of pear nectar, melon, licorice and ginger, with a smoky mineral undertone. Spicy and precise on the palate, showing gently sweet orchard fruit flavors with complicating notes of anise, buttered toast and white pepper. This complex chardonnay finishes with strong bite and lingering smokiness. ”
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93 points International Wine Cellar
2009 Chardonnay
Ritchie Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Vivid gold. Spicy vanillin oak complements aromas of pineapple, nectarine and honey. Supple and ripe but dry, with a strong mineral component firming the exotic fruit and honeysuckle flavors. A densely packed but graceful midweight that finishes with solid grip, a touch of smokiness and excellent persistence. Offers an uncanny blend of power and vivacity. ”
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94 points International Wine Cellar
2009 Chardonnay
Ulises Valdez Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Bright yellow-gold. Pungent, mineral-accented aromas of pear skin, lemon rind, smoky lees and baking spices, plus an intriguing iodine quality that reminded me of serious Burgundy. Pliant orchard fruit and citrus flavors are complicated by smoke, juniper and minerals, with a note of anise emerging on the back half. Very suave, deeply pitched chardonnay with excellent finishing delineation and power. ”
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92 points International Wine Cellar
2009 Chardonnay
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“Vivid yellow. Vibrant, mineral-dominated bouquet displays fresh pear, green apple, lemon and talc, along with a sexy floral quality and a touch of smoke. Racy citrus and floral flavors gain flesh with air, picking up juicy melon and candied ginger flavors and finishing with excellent cut. This offers a suave balance of energy and depth and is built for aging.”
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93 points International Wine Cellar
2009 Chardonnay
Cuvee Agustina
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“Bright gold. Heady, complex aromas of fresh apple, lemon zest, iodine, licorice and herbs, plus a strong blast of smoky minerals. Deeply concentrated, but energetic acidity gives lift and clarity to the powerful citrus and orchard fruit flavors. Notes of licorice, spices and minerals resonate on the extremely long finish. ”
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90 points International Wine Cellar
2009 Pinot Noir
Russian River Valley“Vivid ruby-red. Perfumed aromas of black raspberry, nutmeg, cinnamon and rose. Concentrated, broad and densely packed, with good lift and tang to its red berry flavors. Shows refreshing minerality on the taut, focused, long finish.”
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93 points International Wine Cellar
2009 Pinot Noir
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Deep ruby. Expressive aromas of raspberry, candied cherry, dried flowers and spicecake, with an intense mineral overtone. Creamy and sweet, offering energetic red berry and bitter cherry flavors, an exotic rose pastille quality and a strong impression of umami-like saltiness. Presents a fat-free red fruit expression and hints of herbs and minerality on the long, precise finish.”
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93 points International Wine Cellar
2009 Pinot Noir
Ulises Valdez Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Bright ruby. High-pitched aromas of raspberry, cherry, blood orange, Asian spices and fresh rose. Bright red berry flavors are framed by silky tannins and complemented by notes of cinnamon, allspice and cracked pepper. The fresh, extremely persistent finish displays lively minerality and floral character. This pure, vivacious pinot should age well on its balance. ”
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93 points Wine Spectator
2009 Chardonnay
Ritchie Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Charming for its delicacy and finesse, this full-bodied, smooth, rich and elegant white delivers fresh, lively notes of white peach, nectarine, honeysuckle and honeydew melon, gaining depth and lingering. Drink now through 2017.”
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91 points Wine Spectator
2009 Pinot Noir
Russian River Valley“Complex and layered, with loamy earth, roasted coffee, spice, sage and cedar flavors that are well-distributed and focused. The flavor themes repeat on the finish. Best from 2012 through 2020. ”
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92 points Wine Advocate
2009 Chardonnay
Ritchie Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Covers every inch of the palate with rich, expressive fruit. It shows terrific depth and plenty of texture through to the long, caressing finish. This is a terrific, nuanced Chardonnay that captures the essence of Ritchie. ”
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93 points Wine Advocate
2009 Chardonnay
Cuvee Agustina
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“It is a decidedly seamless, round Chardonnay that emphasizes textural richness and lushness. ”
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94 points Wine Advocate
2009 Chardonnay
Ulises Valdez Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Big, bold and beautiful. The explosiveness of these Wente clones comes through loud and clear. Layers of fruit build effortlessly towards a textured finish laced with smoke, licorice, honey and butter. ”
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92 points Wine Advocate
2009 Pinot Noir
Russian River Valley“A gorgeous, mid-weight wine layered with expressive red berries, flowers and sweet spices. Silky tannins frame an exceptionally polished, refined finish. This is another flat-out beautiful wine from Paul Hobbs.”
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93 points Wine Advocate
2009 Pinot Noir
Ulises Valdez Vineyard
Russian River Valley“A plush wine loaded with dark red fruit. This is a fairly straightforward, fruit-drive style. It shows terrific balance, if not quite the delineation and nuance of the best 2009 Pinots. Spices, new leather and licorice wrap around the muscular, dense finish. ”
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96 points Wine Advocate
2009 Pinot Noir
Lindsay Estate Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Extraordinary. Fresh cut flowers, roses, spices, mint and black cherries are some of the many nuances that flow from this layered, textured Pinot. The 2009 Lindsay possesses marvelous depth and richness form start to finish. Finesse and power – this dazzling Pinot has it all. ”
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93 points Wine Spectator
2008 Cabernet Sauvignon
Stagecoach Vineyard
Napa Valley“Sleek and polished up front, with a rich core of spicy currant, mineral, loamy earth and floral scents, this is deceptively tannic and muscular in a positive way on the finish, so even as you chew through it, the flavors glide along gracefully. Best from 2013 to 2024.”
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95 points Wine Spectator
2008 Cabernet Sauvignon
Beckstoffer To Kalon Vnyd
Napa Valley“A graceful, refined effort that offers a supple, polished mix of currant, plum and black cherry flavors, with loamy earth, spice, mineral and crème de cassis notes. Full-bodied and notably refined, this firms nicely on the finish, revealing more cedary, woody touches. Best from 2014 through 2027.”
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91 points International Wine Cellar
2008 Syrah
Kick Ranch Vineyard
Sonoma County“Inky ruby. Energetic blueberry and boysenberry aromas display an exotic hint of licorice and slow-building florality. Taut, youthful black and blue fruits on the palate, with an exotic candied violet nuance on the back half. Finishes sweet, sappy and long, with the blueberry note echoing. This will be approachable in its youth. ”
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91 points International Wine Cellar
2008 Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley“Youthful purple. Potent, expressive aromas of cassis and cherry pie, with an intense spicy overtone. Round but quite structured and assertive on the palate, offering sweet red and dark berry preserve flavors and a touch of bitter cherry. Silky tannins add shape to the very long, spicy, penetrating finish. Nicely structured without being at all hard.”
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93 points International Wine Cellar
2008 Cabernet Sauvignon
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Glass-staining purple. Candied cherry, blackberry and minerals on the nose, with intense floral lift. Supple and sappy in the mouth, with spicy blackberry, bitter cherry and floral pastille flavors showing superb clarity and power. Sexy floral and spice nuances carry through the extremely long finish, which features sweet, harmonious tannins.”
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93 points International Wine Cellar
2008 Cabernet Sauvignon
Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vnyd
St. Helena, Napa Valley“Opaque ruby. High-pitched aromas of black raspberry, redcurrant, violet, minerals, cedar, black pepper and tobacco. Sweet, densely packed and smooth in texture, but with a firm mineral spine giving energy to the dark berry, licorice and floral flavors. This very suave, silky-smooth cabernet stains the entire palate and clings impressively on the succulent finish.”
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93 points International Wine Cellar
2008 Cabernet Sauvignon
Stagecoach Vineyard
Napa Valley“Inky purple. Potent, liqueur-like aromas of cherry-vanilla and cassis, with an array of floral and spice notes adding complexity. Pliant and silky in the mouth, offering sweet red and dark berry flavors and a touch of candied rose; manages to be both ripe and vivacious, thanks to strong peppery spices and minerality. Tannins make a late arrival and add structure and depth to the seductively sweet fruit, which doesn't let up on the finish. ”
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94 points International Wine Cellar
2008 Cabernet Sauvignon
Beckstoffer To Kalon Vnyd
Napa Valley“Deep ruby. Hypnotic bouquet of red and dark berries, cherry-vanilla, Asian spices, cola, dark chocolate, violet oil and smoky minerality. Deep, sappy and pure, offering luscious, mineral-tinged black raspberry, cherry and floral pastille flavors and turning spicier with air. Supple tannins add finishing grip but are overwhelmed by the wine's energetic fruit. The minerality adds cut and urgency to the extremely long, pliant finish. Very sexy stuff. ”
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92 points Wine Spectator
2008 Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley“Firm, tight and compact, with a trim mix of dried currant, berry and red and black licorice. This unfolds gracefully, showing a mineral and sage edge, before firming on the finish. Drink now through 2019. ”
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95 points Wine Spectator
2008 Cabernet Sauvignon
Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vnyd
St. Helena, Napa Valley“Bold, rich, intense and generous, with a perfumed, aromatic mix of ripe blackberry, currant anise, sage and licorice. Full-bodied, gaining depth and richness on the finish, where this gains an even tighter focus. Drink now through 2020. ”
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93 points Wine Spectator
2008 Cabernet Sauvignon
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Juicy and lively, elegant and stylish, with taut vanilla bean, blackberry, cherry and cedar notes. Full-bodied, focused and persistent, gaining length, depth and nuance. Drink now through 2019. ”
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92 points Wine Advocate
2008 Chardonnay
Russian River Valley“Offers abundant notes of orange blossoms, tropical fruits, white peaches and a hint of smoky oak. This fleshy, full-bodied Chardonnay exhibits a steely backbone because of good acidity. Enjoy it over the next 2-3 years.”
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91 points Wine Advocate
2008 Chardonnay
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“Delicate with fresh white currant, nectarine, apricot and pear characteristics. Medium to full-bodied, it is a more restrained but still substantial Chardonnay to drink over the next 3-5 years.”
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92 points Wine Advocate
2008 Chardonnay
Ritchie Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Elegant white peach, honeysuckle, orange marmalade and white currant aromas intermixed with earthy undertones are followed by a crisp, medium to full-bodied, impressively ripe white wine. Drink it over the next several years.”
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94 points Wine Advocate
2008 Chardonnay
Cuvee Agustina
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“Reveals a greenish hue to its light gold color and offers up scents of white peaches, honeysuckle, caramelized tropical fruits and notions of butter and smoke. It also possesses undeniable minerality. Considered to be the finest Chardonnay in the Paul Hobbs portfolio, in 2008 I agree with them, but I do think the Ulises Valdez cuvee is as stunning. Drink the Cuvee Agustina over the next 4-5 years. ”
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94 points Wine Advocate
2008 Chardonnay
Ulises Valdez Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Outrageously tasty, it reveals caramelized tropical fruits such as oranges and pineapples intermixed with brioche, crème brulee and hazelnuts. Deep, rich and full-bodied, this authoritative Chardonnay is classically Californian with a nod to French structure and minerality. Consume it over the next 4-5 years. ”
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92 points Wine Advocate
2008 Pinot Noir
Russian River Valley“Abundant plum sauce and black cherry jam intermixed with roasted herb, damp earth and currant notes are found in this impressive, full-bodied, spicy, luscious Pinot. It should drink well for 3-5 years.”
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94+ points Wine Advocate
2008 Pinot Noir
Cuvee Agustina
Lindsay Estate Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Firmer structured, more tannic and reserved effort than the regular bottling. It cuts a broad swath across the palate with lots of berry fruit and foresty notes, but it is less revealing than its sibling. Give this impressive Pinot 2-3 years of cellaring and drink it over the following 10-15 years.”
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95 points Wine Advocate
2008 Pinot Noir
Lindsay Estate Vineyard
Russian River Valley“It exhibits copious aromas of black currants, black cherries, raspberries, underbrush and spring flowers as well as a dense, full-bodied mouthfeel and a multilayered texture. This dazzling Pinot Noir can be enjoyed over the next decade.”
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94 points Wine Advocate
2008 Pinot Noir
Ulises Valdez Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Forest floor/mossy notes intermixed with fresh porcini mushrooms, black raspberries and black cherries emerge from this medium to full-bodied luscious Pinot Noir. It is ideal for drinking over the next 5-7 years.”
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93 points Wine Advocate
2008 Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley“Offers up complex aromas of tobacco leaf, graphite, damp earth, blackberries and black currants, full-bodied power and more density, depth and structure than the CrossBarn. Already drinkable, it should age effortlessly for two decades. ”
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96 points Wine Advocate
2008 Cabernet Sauvignon
Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vnyd
St. Helena, Napa Valley“Exhibits classic notes of burning embers, hot gravel, steel, blueberries, flowers and blackberries followed by an intense, full-bodied, profoundly concentrated wine. This riveting effort should drink nicely for 25+ years. There is a flinty underpinning to this offering that comes from the 20-acre vineyard in St. Helena. Despite being aged in 100% new oak, there is no evidence of wood in the aromatic or flavor profiles. This profound Napa Cabernet Sauvignon is as grand as the 2007.”
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97+ points Wine Advocate
2008 Cabernet Sauvignon
Beckstoffer To Kalon Vnyd
Napa Valley“Reminiscent of a great first-growth Pauillac. One of Napa’s true first-growth vineyards. Hobbs obtains just about everything one could want from this extraordinary site. The phenomenal 2008 boasts sweet, juicy crème de cassis, incense, blackberry, toasty oak, licorice and spice box characteristics. Deep and full-bodied with great intensity, freshness, laser-like precision, copious tannin and a 60+ second finish. This cuvee is best forgotten for 2-4 years and drunk over the following three decades. It comes close to rivaling the 2007 and the virtually perfect 2002 (which I recently drank and was blown away by).”
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94 points Wine Advocate
2008 Cabernet Sauvignon
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Exceptional example from this source. Notes of tobacco leaf, licorice, spice box, fruitcake, black currants and blueberries soar from the glass this inky/blue/purple-colored wine. Revealing a voluptuous texture as well as beautiful density, it is almost as provocative and compelling as the 2007 Hyde. The 2008 should keep for more than 20+ years.”
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92+ points Wine Advocate
2008 Cabernet Sauvignon
Stagecoach Vineyard
Napa Valley“Still an outstanding effort. As usual, the 2008 seems firmer, more tannic and austere than the other wines in this portfolio. A dense ruby/purple color is followed by aromas of crushed rocks, loamy soil, tobacco leaf and red and black currants offered in a full-bodied, gritty, tannic, muscular style. Forget this 2008 for 2-4 years and drink it over the following two decades.”
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94 points Wine Advocate
2008 Pinot Noir
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“One of the finest Pinots I tasted from the 2008 vintage. Made from the Pommard and Calera clones, it exhibits a dark, saturated plumb/ruby/purple-tinged color as well as an enormous bouquet of plums, soy, forest floor, black cherries and black currants, stunning, full-bodied, rich fruit and a supple, luscious finish. This decadent, full-throttle Pinot Noir can be consumed over the next decade or more.”
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94 points Wine Spectator
2008 Chardonnay
Cuvee Agustina
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“Offers a delightful purity of flavor, with a fireworks show of complex flavors, combining a tight core of vibrant mineral, citrus, apple and melon fruit with a supple texture. Full-bodied, elegant, focused and persistent. Drink now though 2017. ”
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94 points Wine Spectator
2008 Pinot Noir
#6 of Top 100 for 2010
Russian River Valley“Paul Hobbs made this exceptional Pinot Noir in a tricky year and made it in considerable volume, a challenge to most vintners. Hobbs founded his own label in 1991, but also consults for dozens of clients in California, Argentina, Chile and Hungary. This bottling is one of six different 2008 California Pinot Noirs from Hobbs; the grapes from this one come from six vineyards in the Russian River Valley including Lindsay Estate, Valdez and Walker Station.”
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94 points Wine Spectator
2008 Chardonnay
Cuvee Agustina
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“Offers a delightful purity of flavor, with a fireworks show of complex flavors, combining a tight core of vibrant mineral, citrus, apple and melon fruit with a supple texture. Full-bodied, elegant, focused and persistent. Drink now through 2017.”
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92 points Wine Spectator
2008 Chardonnay
Online Review
Ulises Valdez Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Creamy-textured, rich and layered, with a smoky oak edge to the ripe fig, melon, apricot, tangerine and crème brûlée notes. Full-bodied, ending with a long, persistent finish that repeats the core flavor themes. Drink now through 2016. ”
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88 points Wine Spectator
2008 Pinot Noir
Lindsay Estate Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Rich and extracted, a dense, chewy youngster, offering a mix of smoky oak, blackberry and black licorice flavors that are tightly wound and slow to unfold. Gains complexity on the finish, where the flavors are more detailed. Best after 2011. ”
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88 points Wine Spectator
2008 Pinot Noir
Cuvee Agustina
Lindsay Estate Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Firm and concentrated, featuring a mix of smoky oak, ripe plum, wild berry and fresh earth flavors, as well as chewy tannins. This is a rustic, rough-hewn wine now that may reward cellaring. Best from 2011 through 2017. ”
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92 points Wine Spectator
2008 Syrah
Kick Ranch Vineyard
Sonoma County“Firm, tight and concentrated, with a rich mix of loamy earth, dried currant and berry, mineral, sage and cedary oak. Full-bodied, fanning out nicely on the finish, where the tannins give the flavors traction. Best from 2012 through 2022. ”
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89 points Wine Spectator
2008 Chardonnay
Russian River Valley“Elegant and stylish, with ripe pear, melon, nutmeg and subtle citrus shadings, full-bodied and gaining depth on the finish. Drink now through 2014. ”
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92 points Wine Spectator
2008 Chardonnay
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“Intense and focused on pure, ripe, mineral-laced apple, melon and floral honeysuckle scents. Full-bodied, layered, rich and concentrated, this exhibits a vibrant, youthful personality. Drink now through 2014. ”
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88 points Wine Spectator
2008 Chardonnay
Ritchie Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Offers a mix of tight ripe pear, melon and green apple. Medium- to full-bodied, clean and refreshing, ending with a citrusy edge. Drink now through 2014.”
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94 points Wine Spectator
2008 Pinot Noir
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Shows the vintage at a peak-ripe, intense and savory, with layers dried berry, currant, herb, mineral and sage. Full-bodied, focused and persistent, this is rich and expansive on the finish, where the flavors unfold and gain complexity. Drink now through 2015. ”
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91 points International Wine Cellar
2008 Chardonnay
Russian River Valley“Bright yellow-gold. Initially reticent, mineral-driven nose hints at green apple, quince, white flowers and iodine. Juicy and tight, with bright acidity and a distinctly saline, iodiney character to its citrus and orchard fruit flavors. Becomes smokier on the back half and finishes with very good clarity and lingering spiciness.”
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91 points International Wine Cellar
2008 Chardonnay
Ulises Valdez Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Bright yellow-gold. A wild, expansive bouquet displays saffron, tangerine, sweet butter and minerals. Lush, smoky citrus fruit and floral flavors are underscored by a strong mineral quality; shows surprising focus for such richness. The finish repeats the mineral note and clings with real authority.”
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92 points International Wine Cellar
2008 Chardonnay
Ritchie Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Vivid yellow. Vibrant, exotically perfumed nose offers orange marmalade, nectarine and a livelier note of lemon zest. Tight and high-pitched on entry, then gains flesh and depth in the middle palate, offering lush pit fruit and lemon custard qualities. Distinctly rich chardonnay, but nervy acidity gives brightness and energy to the fruit. Finishes with building minerality and very good persistence. ”
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91 points International Wine Cellar
2008 Chardonnay
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“Hazy gold. Pungent aromas of orange and grapefruit peel, smoky minerals, honeysuckle and spicecake. Juicy, intense and nicely focused, with very good extract to the smoky flavors of pit fruits and citrus pith. The wine's lively acidity adds intensity to the long, sappy and penetrating finish. ”
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93 points International Wine Cellar
2008 Chardonnay
Cuvee Agustina
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“Bright yellow-gold. An exotic, highly pungent bouquet shows iodine, orange zest, pear and minerals, with sexy oak spices gaining strength with air. Deep, sappy, mineral-driven orchard fruit and bitter citrus flavors are enlivened by zesty acidity. The iodine note lingers on the finish, which is extremely long and smoky. This packs a real punch. ”
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89 points International Wine Cellar
2008 Pinot Noir
Russian River Valley“Vivid red. Musky spices, black raspberry, cherry and woodsmoke on the nose. Silky-sweet and dense, with good breadth and volume to the suave red and black fruit flavors. Offers a supple texture and a spicy undertone and finishes with very smooth tannins and a kick of candied licorice. ”
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91 points International Wine Cellar
2008 Pinot Noir
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Bright ruby. Assertive aromas of raspberry, iron and Asian spices. A broad, palate-staining midweight, with silky flavors of red berries, musky brown spices, candied rose and smoky minerals. The gentle tannins add focus to the finish but don't get in the way of the sexy fruit. This is delicious now. ”
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90 points International Wine Cellar
2008 Pinot Noir
Ulises Valdez Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Deep, bright ruby. Deeper in pitch than the Hyde, offering dark berry and cherry-cola aromas and a hint of licorice. Weighty blueberry and boysenberry flavors are firmed by a zesty mineral spine and gain sweetness with air. Pliant, juicy and penetrating on the finish, with the dark fruit and cola notes repeating. ”
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91 points International Wine Cellar
2008 Pinot Noir
Lindsay Estate Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Vivid ruby. An intensely perfumed, exotic bouquet of red and dark berry preserves, incense, cinnamon and gingerbread. Juicy raspberry and boysenberry flavors provide excellent palate coverage and become spicier with aeration. Extremely suave pinot with a long, sappy, sweet finish that echoes the floral note. ”
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92 points International Wine Cellar
2008 Pinot Noir
Cuvee Agustina
Lindsay Estate Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Saturated red. Very expressive, pure aromas of raspberry, blackberry, violet, Asian spices and bitter chocolate. Then velvety and broad, with sweet, fruit-driven flavors of black raspberry and boysenberry. An alluring, suave style, expanding on the back half and finishing with a fine dusting of tannins and spices. ”
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92 points Wine Spectator
2008 Pinot Noir
Ulises Valdez Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Aromas of ripe, baked-blackberry and cherry pie are soft, fleshy and full-bodied, picking up spice, floral and lavender scents that are focused and complex. Drink now through 2014.”
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93 points Wine Spectator
2007 Cabernet Sauvignon
Stagecoach Vineyard
Napa Valley“Tightly wound, yet rich and generous, offering a mix of power and finesse, driven by a thick, mouthcoating core of blackberry, wild berry, black licorice, mineral, floral and spicy notes that are long and persistent. Best from 2012 through 2023. ”
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92 points Wine Spectator
2007 Cabernet Sauvignon
Beckstoffer To Kalon Vnyd
Napa Valley“Combines firm, ripe layers of black cherry, blackberry, spice and savory notes that are at points rustic and chewy, with touches of black licorice and mineral. Full-bodied and concentrated, ending with a thick, layered finish. Best from 2012 through 2022. ”
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91 points International Wine Cellar
2007 Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley“Inky ruby. Highly perfumed aromas of blackberry, cassis, black pepper and licorice. Broad, sweet and lush, with a strong spicy character to the juicy blackberry and spicecake flavors. As deep and fleshy as this is, it also delivers energetic cut. Very long on the finish, with silky, seamless tannins lending focus. ”
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93 points International Wine Cellar
2007 Cabernet Sauvignon
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Glass-staining ruby. Seductive, high-pitched aromas of blackberry, cherry, minerals, Indian spices and dried flowers. Ripe and silky, combining sweetness with enticing spiciness of cabernet fruit and a mounting floral quality. Finishes sappy and very long, with a dusting of ripe tannins and a lingering hint of vanilla. ”
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93 points International Wine Cellar
2007 Cabernet Sauvignon
Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vnyd
St. Helena, Napa Valley“Vivid ruby. Inviting, sexy aromas of black raspberry, bitter chocolate and smoky oak, plus a hint of rose oil. Wonderfully sweet and dense, with a liqueur-like quality to its dark berry flavors buffered by a nervy spine of acidity. This shows an almost liqueur-like quality but doesn't come off as heavy; really stains the palate on the smoky, lingering aftertaste.”
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93 points International Wine Cellar
2007 Cabernet Sauvignon
Stagecoach Vineyard
Napa Valley“Inky purple. Captivating, deeply pitched aromas of cherry-vanilla, cassis, licorice and tobacco. Dense, sweet and intense, with serious grip and underlying structure to the bitter cherry, dark berry and oak spice flavors; an intriguing floral element comes up as the wine sits in the glass. Full but surprisingly light on its feet. This dense, sappy wine really stains the mouth, finishing long and sweet, with youthfully gripping tannins and a lingering perfume of crystallized flowers. ”
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94 points International Wine Cellar
2007 Cabernet Sauvignon
Beckstoffer To Kalon Vnyd
Napa Valley“Opaque purple. Expansive, flamboyantly perfumed bouquet of black cherry, raspberry, cassis and whiffs of incense and licorice. Then sweet, creamy and suave on the palate, offering sappy dark berry preserve and floral flavors that are utterly seamless. Extremely long and gently tannic on the finish, leaving behind sweet berry and floral pastille notes. This wonderfully vibrant, deep, elegant wine will be even better with another five years or so of bottle age but I'd have no trouble knocking one off now, all by myself. ”
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90 points Wine Spectator
2007 Cabernet Sauvignon
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Complex aromas of bay leaf, sage, currant and berry are sleek, elegant and stylish, medium- to full-bodied, finishing with touches of smoke and mocha. Drink now through 2017.”
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92 points Wine Spectator
2007 Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley“Notable for its richness, intensity, focus and persistence, this full-bodied red shows spicy currant, black cherry and wild berry fruit that’s supple and layered, yet light on its feet with gentle tannins. Drink now through 2016.”
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97 points Wine Spectator
2007 Cabernet Sauvignon
Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vnyd
St. Helena, Napa Valley“Wonderfully exotic, with complex aromas of spice, cedar, currant, kirsch and blackberry that fold over to the rich, firm and full-bodied palate. Elegantly styled, layered and persistent. Simply a joy to drink. Drink now through 2012.”
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94 points Wine Advocate
2007 Chardonnay
Ulises Valdez Vineyard
Russian River Valley“The 2007 Chardonnay Ulises Valdez possesses a caramelized, candied, nectarine, peach, and pineapple-like character with a smoky, hazelnut note, very good acidity, a full-bodied, powerful mouthfeel, and underlying minerality. This elegant yet substantial Chardonnay should drink well for 4-5 years.”
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93 points Wine Advocate
2007 Pinot Noir
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“The dense, elegant, dark ruby/purple-hued 2007 Pinot Noir Hyde Vineyard Carneros comes from primarily the Calera and Pommard clones. It offers up notes of rose petals, plum sauce, raspberries, kirsch, cola, and earth followed by a rich, full-bodied finish. Enjoy this beauty over the next 7-10 years.”
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94 points Wine Advocate
2007 Pinot Noir
Lindsay Estate Vineyard
Russian River Valley“The 2007 Pinot Noir Lindsay Estate exhibits a distinctive nose of chocolate, cocoa, black cherries, plums, earth, and pomegranate. Displaying terrific fruit as well as an expansive, full-bodied mouthfeel, the wine has filled out considerably since last year.”
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95 points Wine Advocate
2007 Pinot Noir
Cuvee Agustina
Lindsay Estate Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Hobbs’ top cuvee which comes from the Calera and Swan clones is the 2007 Pinot Noir Lindsay Estate Cuvee Agustina. Deep ruby/plum-colored, it boasts abundant notes of black cherries, cola, and smoke in its intense, full-bodied personality as well as a layered texture, sweet, velvety tannins, and a rich, concentrated mouthfeel. This is the first Pinot Noir Cuvee Agustina made by Paul Hobbs since 2002. The 2007 should drink well for a decade.”
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94 points Wine Spectator
2009 Chardonnay
Cuvee Agustina
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“A seamless expression of ripe, layered fig, melon, ripe peach and grilled fig flavors that show touches of roasted marshmallow. Full-bodied, yet dances along, ending with a long, layered finish, reverberating with flavor. Drink now through 2018.”
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94 points Wine Spectator
2009 Pinot Noir
Lindsay Estate Vineyard
Russian River Valley“An elegant, graceful young Pinot, with perfumed ripe plum, blackberry, raspberry and cherry fruit. Full-bodied, ending with a long, tapered finish and a pleasantly subtle tannic backbone. Drink now through 2019.”
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94 points Wine Spectator
2009 Chardonnay
Ulises Valdez Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Beautifully crafted, rich and layered, with a steady life or creamy fig, juicy peach, honeydew, honeysuckle, anise and light toasty, vanilla-laced oak strutting its stuff on the finish, where the flavors are long and persistent. Drink now through 2018.”
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96 points Wine Advocate
2007 Chardonnay
Cuvee Agustina
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“Orange, nectarine, pineapple, citrus oil, and pear notes emerge from the 2007 Chardonnay Richard Dinner Vineyard Cuvee Agustina. A thick, juicy white with good underlying acidity as well as hints of crushed rocks/minerality, it should drink well for 7-8 years.”
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95 points Wine Advocate
2007 Chardonnay
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“The superb 2007 Chardonnay Richard Dinner Vineyard offers abundant notes of tropical fruits, mangoes, pineapples, orange marmalade, and subtle smoke in a rich, full-bodied, dense style displaying good acidity, fruit, and one of the signs I always look for in high quality Chardonnay, a greenish hue to its light yellow/gold color. This is a big wine that appears to have some tannin.”
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95 points Wine Advocate
2007 Chardonnay
Ritchie Vineyard
Russian River Valley“The 2007 Chardonnay Ritchie Vineyard offers beautiful aromas of lemon and orange blossoms intermixed with honeysuckle, white peaches, pineapples, and a touch of quince. Full-bodied with loads of complexity, nicely integrated, subtle oak, and a broad mouthfeel, it will provide plenty of pleasure over the next 3-4 years.”
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96 points Wine Advocate
2007 Chardonnay
Walker Station Vineyard
Russian River Valley“A fabulous effort, the 2007 Chardonnay Walker Station is one of the top Chardonnays of the vintage. Sadly, this will be the final vintage of this offering as the old vines from which it was produced were torn out. It offers notes of unbuttered popcorn, white peaches, quince, mango, and brioche in a full-bodied, fresh, lively yet substantial style. With terrific intensity as well as a long (over 35 seconds) finish, this brilliant Chardonnay should evolve for 7-8 years.”
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95 points Wine Advocate
2009 Pinot Noir
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Emerges from the glass with dark red fruit, spices, tobacco, new leather and licorice. This is a fleshy, generous Pinot loaded with class and pedigree. The flavors build effortlessly to the rich, textured finish. This is a gorgeous showing from Paul Hobbs. The 2009 was fully destemmed. The clones are Calera and Beba. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2019.”
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93 points Wine Advocate
2007 Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley“A blockbuster, it offers up classic notes of charcoal, subtle smoke, back currants, black berries, lead pencil shavings, and earth. This deep, opulent, full-bodied Cabernet possesses terrific purity as well as length. It should drink well for 15+ years.”
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86 points Wine Spectator
2006 Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley“A burly style that’s firm, intense and tannic, big and tight, with extracted currant, berry, mineral and sage flavors that are full-blown. Ends with dry, chewy tannins. Decant. Best from 2010 through 2016. ”
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91 points International Wine Cellar
2006 Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley“Ruby-red. Bright red berry and cherry aromas are complemented by dusty rose and mineral notes. Sweet raspberry and cherry flavors are smooth in texture and supported by fine-grained tannins. The red fruit notes linger impressively on the precise finish. ”
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90 points Wine Advocate
2006 Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley“Offers plenty of blackberry and black currant fruit intermixed with licorice, smoke, and earthy undertones. It is ideal for consuming over the next decade.”
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89 points Wine Spectator
2005 Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley“Intense and focused, with firm, spicy currant, sage, mineral and cedary oak flavors that are tight and complex and in need of short-term cellaring. Best from 2009 through 2015. 4,856 cases made. ”
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90 points International Wine Cellar
2005 Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley“Dark purple. Smoky black currant and candied plum on the nose, with dusty minerals adding focus. Juicy and concentrated, with powerful dark fruit flavors, velvety texture and building spiciness. Offers impressive vivacity for a wine with such depth, finishing brisk and clean.”
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92 points Wine Advocate
2005 Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley“Offers beautiful black currant fruit interwoven with notions of licorice, cedar, and tobacco leaf. Full-bodied, opulent, and fleshy, it should drink nicely for 12-15+ years. ”
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90 points International Wine Cellar
2004 Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley“Deep red. Ripe cherry and redcurrant aromas, with a deeper note of dark chocolate. Full and round, with flavors of cherry compote and plum jam supported by gentle tannins. A round, sweet cabernet with very good depth and length. You could drink this now.”
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90 points Wine Advocate
2004 Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley“There are 3,640 cases of this dense ruby/purple-tinged Cabernet. Its big, sweet bouquet of chocolate, cassis, and loamy soil scents is followed by a wine revealing an opulent texture as well as 10-12 years of longevity.”
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87 points Wine Spectator
2006 Cabernet Sauvignon
Online Review
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“There's much to admire in this rich, intense, savory wine, bold and fleshy, firm and concentrated. Dried currant and berry fruit is herbal, tightening up with a tannic finish. The best of two bottles tasted. Best from 2010 through 2015. ”
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93 points International Wine Cellar
2006 Cabernet Sauvignon
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Bright ruby. Intensely perfumed nose offers black raspberry, cherry-cola and a strong spiciness. Brighter red berries in the mouth, with an exotic note of candied rose adding interest. A zesty mineral quality lends urgency to the long, strikingly sappy finish. This wine's clarity is excellent. ”
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94 points Wine Advocate
2006 Cabernet Sauvignon
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“One of the finest Cabernet Sauvignons to come out of the Carneros area. Aromas of flowers, charcoal, blackberries, cassis, and pain grille characterize this full-bodied wine. With sweet tannin, a broad, expansive mouthfeel, and a long finish, this superb effort is about as good as Carneros Cabernet Sauvignon can be. It should drink well for 15-20 years.”
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92 points Wine Spectator
2005 Cabernet Sauvignon
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“A rich, supple yet dense and savory style, with herb-and sage-laced currant, loamy earth, anise, tea and cedary oak flavors that are intense and wrapped in firm tannins. Drink now through 2014. ”
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92 points International Wine Cellar
2005 Cabernet Sauvignon
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Deep ruby. Vibrant, intensely spicy bouquet of red- and blackcurrant, candied cherry, black cardamom and anise. Lively, sharply focused dark berry flavors are firmed by juicy acidity, which carries into the finish. Closes with impressive lift and cut, repeating the anise quality. Really energetic stuff. ”
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93 points Wine Advocate
2005 Cabernet Sauvignon
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“This beauty boasts a dense ruby/purple color, refreshing, sweet aromas of subtle menthol, black cherries, and black currants, full-bodied power, elegance, cool climate acids, and a long layered finish. Enjoy it over the next 15 years.”
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89 points Wine Spectator
2004 Cabernet Sauvignon
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Ripe plum and wild berry fruit is plush and opulent, with aromas of dark berry fruit that are supple and elegant on the palate, ending with smooth tannins. The best of four bottles tasted. Drink now through 2012. 136 cases made.”
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91 points International Wine Cellar
2004 Cabernet Sauvignon
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Bright red. Fresh cherry, redcurrant, iron and raw meat aromas, with a dusting of dried flowers. Zesty red berry and cherry pit flavors display impressive energy and cut; there's a spicy tone to the bright, long finish. I'd sit on this for a few years.”
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91+ points Wine Advocate
2004 Cabernet Sauvignon
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“A deep ruby/purple color as well as a refreshing; elegant nose of black raspberries, black cherries, mint, and tobacco leaf. Beautifully rich, medium to full-bodied, stylish, and elegant, it represents a gorgeous expression of cool climate viticulture and impeccable winemaking. Drink it over the next 10-15 years. ”
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96 points Wine Advocate
2007 Cabernet Sauvignon
Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vnyd
St. Helena, Napa Valley“Exhibits a rocky, stony, gravelly, hot pebble-sort of nose that I often associate with wines such as Haut-Brion and La Mission Haut-Brion. Beautifully sweet blueberry and blackberry fruit along with a note of led pencil shavings jump from the glass of this opaque purple-colored, full-bodied, intense wine. This brilliant Cabernet Sauvignon should evolve gracefully for 25-30+ years.”
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87 points Wine Spectator
2006 Cabernet Sauvignon
Online Review
Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vnyd
St. Helena, Napa Valley“Intense, ripe and concentrated, with vivid wild berry, black cherry, anise and sage flavors. Full-bodied, with crisp acidity and firm tannins before veering to drier notes. Best from 2010 through 2017. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. ”
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92 points International Wine Cellar
2006 Cabernet Sauvignon
Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vnyd
St. Helena, Napa Valley“Inky ruby. Red- and blackcurrant aromas, with an array of floral and herbal qualities adding complexity. Rich cherry and blackberry flavors are a touch brooding but gain sweetness and spiciness with air. The long finish features dark fruit and tobacco qualities. This one deserves patience.”
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95 points Wine Advocate
2006 Cabernet Sauvignon
Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vnyd
St. Helena, Napa Valley“Scorched earth/burning ember, blueberry, graphite, and black currant characteristics are reminiscent of a top Bordeaux such as La Mission Haut-Brion. Dense, full-bodied and chewy with fabulous concentration, sweet tannins, and remarkable length, this profound Cabernet Sauvignon should last for 25-30 years.”
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97 points Wine Spectator
2005 Cabernet Sauvignon
Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vnyd
St. Helena, Napa Valley“Amazingly complex, with great structure, depth, richness and concentration. A young and powerful expression of Cabernet, with tiers of dried currant, wild berry, fresh earth and toasty, smoky oak, ending with a long, persistent finish. Drink now through 2013. 601 cases made. ”
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92 points International Wine Cellar
2005 Cabernet Sauvignon
Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vnyd
St. Helena, Napa Valley“Dense ruby-red. Powerfully scented, smoky nose of cherry, tobacco and incense. Deeply concentrated, chewy cherry and cassis flavors are firmed by juicy acidity and complicated by bitter chocolate and licorice. Sweet oak spice builds with air and carries through the finish. A serious, ageworthy cabernet that will require patience. ”
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95 points Wine Advocate
2005 Cabernet Sauvignon
Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vnyd
St. Helena, Napa Valley“Earthy, graphite, and scorched rock-like aromas (the latter nuance reminiscent of top-notch Bordeaux Graves) as well as dense, full-bodied crème de cassis and floral notes. An impressive effort, it reminds me of a cross between a great Pomerol and a Graves. With a sumptous texture as well as a full-bodied, long finish, this beauty should drink well for two decades.”
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95 points Wine Spectator
2004 Cabernet Sauvignon
Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vnyd
St. Helena, Napa Valley“Subtle aromas of ripe currant, black cherry and plum are rich and riveting on the palate, coating the mouth with tiers of flavor. Sleek and polished, with hints of anise and mocha, this finishes with a long, focused, lingering aftertaste. Best from 2009 through 2018. 304 cases made.”
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91 points International Wine Cellar
2004 Cabernet Sauvignon
Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vnyd
St. Helena, Napa Valley“Ruby-red. Strong floral notes accent spicy blackberry and boysenberry on the nose, with an exotic note of cigar box. Restrained dark berry flavors are framed by soft, fine-grained tannins and joined by gentle spice and floral pastille tones that extend through the finish. Impressive for its balance and elegance; I suspect this will repay at least a decade of cellaring.”
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92+ points Wine Advocate
2004 Cabernet Sauvignon
Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vnyd
St. Helena, Napa Valley“A 330-case cuvee of nearly 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. Boasting a dense ruby/purple color along with notes of graphite, crushed rocks, white flowers, and black currants, its plush, Pomerol-like style reveals low acidity as well as heady, concentrated, powerful flavors that linger on the palate. There are no hard deges to this 2004, which offers immediate gratification, but promises to age for 12-15 or more years.”
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90 points Wine Spectator
2003 Cabernet Sauvignon
Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vnyd
St. Helena, Napa Valley“Racy blackberry and wild berry flavors teeter on overripe, but the wine stays in balance, turning elegant, supple and graceful on the finish. Not in the same class as Hobbs' 2002s, yet successful nonetheless, achieving an appropriate balance. Drink now through 2012. 185 cases made.”
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90 points International Wine Cellar
2003 Cabernet Sauvignon
Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vnyd
St. Helena, Napa Valley“Good deep red. Cassis, chocolate, licorice and a floral topnote on the nose; shows an almost roasted ripeness. Highly concentrated, silky and supersweet, with the chocolate and loam flavors that characterize cabernet from this gravelly soil in a warm site. Chunky, substantial wine, finishing with big but fairly fine tannins.”
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95 points Wine Advocate
2003 Cabernet Sauvignon
Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vnyd
St. Helena, Napa Valley“From a St. Helena vineyard, the 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon Crane Vineyard (100% Cabernet Sauvignon) boasts tremendous fruit and ripeness along with hints of graphite, espresso roast, blackberries, crème de cassis, and spice. This rich, concentrated, prodigious effort should be enjoyed between 2008-2020+. ”
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88 points Wine Spectator
2006 Cabernet Sauvignon
Online Review
Stagecoach Vineyard
Napa Valley“Backward, rustic and earthy, with a core of dried currant, blackberry, anise, graphite and mineral. Chewy throughout, ending with drying, cedar-laced tannins. Best from 2010 through 2017. ”
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94 points International Wine Cellar
2006 Cabernet Sauvignon
Stagecoach Vineyard
Napa Valley“Dark purple. Dark berry and mineral scents are complicated by iron, tobacco and dried rose. Livelier red fruits join the dark berries on the palate, which is velvety in texture and seems tannin-free (which it isn't). Luscious red and dark berry compote qualities dominate the long, supple finish. You could easily drink this seductive wine right now, but I wouldn't. ”
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90+ points Wine Advocate
2006 Cabernet Sauvignon
Stagecoach Vineyard
Napa Valley“The tannins are noticeable in the extracted, concentrated, broodingly backward inky/purple-colored Cabernet Sauvignon. This austere, tannic wine has not yet resolved all its issues with tannin, but it is so concentrated taht I think everything is there, it will just require patience. Give it 4-5 years of bottle age, and drink it over the following 25 years.”
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93 points Wine Spectator
2005 Cabernet Sauvignon
Stagecoach Vineyard
Napa Valley“Dense, rich and savory, with earthy hazelnut, dried currant, black cherry and blackberry fruit that slowly unfolds to reveal extra facets of spice, berry, fresh-cut flowers and sage. Returns to the fruit theme on the finish. Best from 2010 through 2017. 525 cases made. ”
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90 points International Wine Cellar
2005 Cabernet Sauvignon
Stagecoach Vineyard
Napa Valley“Opaque ruby. Powerful, brooding aromas of ripe dark berries and cherry. Deeply concentrated bitter cherry and chocolate flavors are complemented by chewing tobacco and candied licorice. Chunky tannins amplify the wine's serious mien and add chewiness to the finish. Became spicier with air, which lightened the mood a bit, but this really deserves cellar time. ”
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93 points Wine Advocate
2005 Cabernet Sauvignon
Stagecoach Vineyard
Napa Valley“As usual, this wine is more primordial and broodingly backward than its sibilings. It offers notes of charcoal and earthy black currants, high tannins, and a full-bodied, powerful personality. While filled with purity and depth, it will need time in the bottle. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2025.”
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92 points Wine Spectator
2004 Cabernet Sauvignon
Stagecoach Vineyard
Napa Valley“Very ripe yet well-proportioned, with rich, zesty black cherry and wild berry fruit that’s fleshy and opulent, turning elegant and refined. Best from 2008 through 2014. 534 cases made.”
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90 points International Wine Cellar
2004 Cabernet Sauvignon
Stagecoach Vineyard
Napa Valley“Dark red. Lush, candied blackberry and boysenberry aromas, with a suggestion of dark chocolate. Creamy in texture and packed with sweet berry and cassis flavors and an exotic fruitcake quality. Takes on a ripe, tarry note on the gently tannic finish, which shows very good grip and length.”
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94 points Wine Advocate
2004 Cabernet Sauvignon
Stagecoach Vineyard
Napa Valley“This broodingly backward, deep ruby/purple-hued effort gives up scents of crushed rocks, smoky oak, blackberries, and cassis. Powerful and rich with exceptional concentration and structure, it requires 2-3 years of cellaring, and should drink well over the next two decades or more.”
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91 points Wine Spectator
2003 Cabernet Sauvignon
Stagecoach Vineyard
Napa Valley“This wine grows and grows on you. Elegant and stylish, with a mix of vivid blackberry and black cherry fruit and a light touch of creamy oak and lavender. The intensity builds, revealing extra facets of depth and concentration, with firm tannins and hints of mineral and herb. Best from 2008 through 2014. 584 cases made.”
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91 points International Wine Cellar
2003 Cabernet Sauvignon
Stagecoach Vineyard
Napa Valley“Good medium ruby. Tight aromas of black cherry liqueur, dark chocolate, iron and minerals. Suave and lush if not hugely concentrated, but this conveys an impression of refinement and offers very good life in the mouth. The tannins hit the palate later, offering the flavors a chance to expand.”
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94+ points Wine Advocate
2003 Cabernet Sauvignon
Stagecoach Vineyard
Napa Valley“From an Oakville hillside vineyard, the 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon Stagecoach Vineyard possesses a dense purple color, a scorched earth/broodingly backward, volcanic style, and extraordinary concentration as well as richness. A tightly-knit personality and a tannic structure suggest patience will be required. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2022.”
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93 points Wine Spectator
2001 Cabernet Sauvignon
Stagecoach Vineyard
Napa Valley“'Impressive for its range of intense, concentrated flavors that fan out on the palate, revealing extra dimensions of richness and depth, with firm, juicy plum, currant, anise and mocha flavors that fold together nicely, ending with a firm rich, tannic aftertaste. Best from 2005 through 2012. 516 cases made.”
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91 points Wine Advocate
2001 Cabernet Sauvignon
Stagecoach Vineyard
Napa Valley“'More rustic tannin as well as a hint of astringency are noticeable in the 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon Stagecoach Vineyard (planted on a hillside above the Oakville Crossroads, near the famed Dalla Valle and Backus vineyards). Full-bodied and powerful, this macho effort needs to calm down. Notes of lead pencil shavings, crème de cassis, smoke, and licorice are followed by a full-bodied, intense red. It should shed enough tannin to become well-balanced.”
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88 points Wine Spectator
2000 Cabernet Sauvignon
Stagecoach Vineyard
Napa Valley“'A rich, loamy, earthy streak runs though this currant-, herb- and olive- laced wine that's dense and concentrated, finishing with a strong earth and coffee ground finish. Some may find it too earthy and lacking in vibrant fruit.”
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88 points Wine Advocate
2000 Cabernet Sauvignon
Stagecoach Vineyard
Napa Valley“'The dark ruby/purple-colored 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon Stagecoach Vineyard (540 cases) is a firmer-structured effort with blue and black fruit notes, medium body, sweet tannin, and a moderately long finish. It is an excellent offering from a vineyard on Pritchard Hill in eastern Napa.”
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92 points Wine Advocate
2007 Cabernet Sauvignon
Stagecoach Vineyard
Napa Valley“Performing better than it did last year, it needs 5-6 years of bottle age, and should keep for 25-30 years. Its dense purple color is followed by notes of wet stones, smoked herbs, black currants, and ink. Deep, rich backward, and ageworthy, it should be forgotten for a few years, and drunk over the following three decades.”
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98+ points Wine Advocate
2007 Cabernet Sauvignon
Beckstoffer To Kalon Vnyd
Napa Valley“A slightly more opulent, broader, savory effort that comes close to the perfect 2002. The 2007 has more noticeable tannin than the 2002 did at the same stage as well as more obvious minerality, but notes of graphite, black currant liqueur, licorice, cedar, and spice box are found in this full-bodied, multidimensional, fabulously concentrated wine. It was aged in 100% new Taransaud French oak barrels. Give it 5-6 years o f cellaring, and drink it over the following three decades.”
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93 points Wine Spectator
2006 Cabernet Sauvignon
Beckstoffer To Kalon Vnyd
Napa Valley“Intense and concentrated, if a bit muddled in its delivery of earthy currant, graphite, mineral and sage. Full-bodied, dense and firmly structured, with tight tannins, this offers a touch of savory herb and underbrush. Needs time. Best from 2010 through 2017. 872 cases made. ”
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94 points International Wine Cellar
2006 Cabernet Sauvignon
Beckstoffer To Kalon Vnyd
Napa Valley“Glass-staining purple. Spicy blackberry and cherry-cola on the nose, with sexy floral and smoky mineral qualities gaining power with air. Deep, forceful dark fruit flavors coat the palate and are framed by gently chewy tannins. The floral and mineral notes build on the finish, which delivers solid punch and betrays no rough edges. These tannins are really suave. ”
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96+ points Wine Advocate
2006 Cabernet Sauvignon
Beckstoffer To Kalon Vnyd
Napa Valley“A profound Cabernet Sauvignon. The equivalent of a Bordeaux first-growth Pauillac, it boasts abundant qualities of creme de cassis, lead pencil shavings, cedar, and subtle smoky oak and espresso notes. Atypically sexy for a 2006, it is full-bodied with oodles of concentrated black fruits, stunning purity and length, and a finish that lasts for nearly a minute. It should hit its apogee in 3-4 years, and last for three decades or more.”
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95 points Wine Spectator
2005 Cabernet Sauvignon
Beckstoffer To Kalon Vnyd
Napa Valley“This has wonderful purity of fruit. Rich, ripe, intense and elegant, with layers of spicy currant, wild berry, black cherry, anise and hazelnut shadings. Gains depth and length on the finish, which sails on. Drink now through 2013. 763 cases made. ”
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95+ points Wine Advocate
2005 Cabernet Sauvignon
Beckstoffer To Kalon Vnyd
Napa Valley“It is a sensational effort. A Pauillac from Napa, it reveals classic aromas of high quality unsmoked cigar tobacco intermixed with graphite, crème de cassis, licorice, and spice. Fabulously rich and complex, with stunning concentration, a terrific mouthfeel, and amazing opulence as well as length, this brilliant Cabernet Sauvignon should provide pleasure for 25-30 years.”
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94 points Wine Spectator
2004 Cabernet Sauvignon
Beckstoffer To Kalon Vnyd
Napa Valley“This pushes ripeness to the edge, yet it’s balanced, with spicy currant, cedary oak and hints of anise and cassis that are complex and deep without being heavy. The tannins are ripe and polished. Best from 2008 through 2015. 534 cases made. ”
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93 points International Wine Cellar
2004 Cabernet Sauvignon
Beckstoffer To Kalon Vnyd
Napa Valley“Deep red. Powerful dark berry aromas are complicated by cured tobacco, licorice, cedar and incense. Very sweet but poised, with expressive red and dark berry flavors supported by gentle acidity and framed by silky tannins. Gains weight with air, finishing lush and chewy, with outstanding length. As I went back to this it seemed to grow fresher.”
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95+ points Wine Advocate
2004 Cabernet Sauvignon
Beckstoffer To Kalon Vnyd
Napa Valley“Offers aromas of tobacco leaf, crème de cassis, graphite, flowers, and licorice in its full-bodied, powerful personality. There are layers of concentration, a multidimensional mouthfeel, and beautiful purity as well as nobility in this stunner. It should drink well for 20-25 years.”
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92 points Wine Spectator
2003 Cabernet Sauvignon
Beckstoffer To Kalon Vnyd
Napa Valley“Supple and elegantly styled, with rich flavors built around a core of creamy oak, ripe currant, black cherry and herbal sage flavors that are intense and complex without being heavy. Finishes with a tight focus and rich tannins. Best from 2008 through 2012. 553 cases made.”
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92 points International Wine Cellar
2003 Cabernet Sauvignon
Beckstoffer To Kalon Vnyd
Napa Valley“Ruby-red. Brooding aromas of cassis, violet and bitter chocolate. Sweet but tightly wound, with a flavor of crystallized dark berries framed by juicy acidity. Finishes with very fine, noble tannins and enticing lingering sweetness.”
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97 points Wine Advocate
2003 Cabernet Sauvignon
Beckstoffer To Kalon Vnyd
Napa Valley“After the perfect 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To-Kalon Vineyard (that’s right, I raised my score by a point), the 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To-Kalon comes across as slightly more mortal. One of the outstanding Cabernet Sauvignons of the vintage, it tastes like a California concoction of La Mission Haut Brion and Montrose. Its deep purple color is followed by a sumptuously pure nose of sweet scorched earth, hot rocks, crème de cassis, graphite, and charcoal. The tannin is sweet, but elevated. Full-bodied and powerful, with 20-25 years of life, this spectacularly rich, dense, multi-layered effort oozes classic Cabernet Sauvignon varietal character.”
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100 points Wine Advocate
2002 Cabernet Sauvignon
Beckstoffer To Kalon Vnyd
Napa Valley“'Is one of the greatest young Cabernets I have tasted from California. Believe it or not, it reminds me of the way the 1986 Mouton-Rothschild tasted at age two or three. It is a classic from the tenderloin of Napa Valley - the Oakville Corridor. This 650-case cuvee has a dense purple color to the rim and an extraordinary nose of cedar, licorice, spice box, and gobs of cream de cassis liqueur-like notes. The wine has tremendous opulence, massive body, but unbelievable intensity, balance, and overall harmony. There is considerable tannin and acidity that offers vibrancy and delineation, but all this is seamlessly integrated into this modern-day classic. This is a fabulous wine made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, aged in 100% new oak, and bottled unfined and unfiltered. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2030. This wine requires patience.”
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92 points International Wine Cellar
2002 Cabernet Sauvignon
Beckstoffer To Kalon Vnyd
Napa Valley“Good saturated ruby. Superripe aromas of cassis, black raspberry, bitter chocolate and licorice; less herbal than this producer's other cabernets from this vintage. A fine-grained fruit bomb, with captivating sweetness. This really expands on the back half yet dances on the palate. The lush tannins reach the incisors.”
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94 points Wine Spectator Online
2002 Cabernet Sauvignon
Beckstoffer To Kalon Vnyd
Napa Valley“Fantastic aromas of black cherry, blackberry, currant, violets, mineral and light toasty oak, it coats the palate with a rich, dense, multifaceted array of flavors. The tannins are bold and concentrated too, though ripe. A potent young stallion of a Cabernet, with an exotic spicy finish. Best from 2007 through 2014.”
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94 points Wine Spectator
2001 Cabernet Sauvignon
Beckstoffer To Kalon Vnyd
Napa Valley“Smooth, dark, rich and seductive; a remarkably complex and concentrated wine brimming up with ripe, silky currant, blackberry, black cherry and a fresh remember and fresh earth and pencil lead nuances. It firms up nicely on the finish exhibiting ripe, flavorful tannis and a long, persistent fish that reveals extra depth facets. Drink now through 2010”
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98+ points Wine Advocate
2001 Cabernet Sauvignon
Beckstoffer To Kalon Vnyd
Napa Valley“A compelling, potentially legendary effort, there are 896 cases of the 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Vineyard To Kalon. An inky/purple color is accompanied by a classic Cabernet nose of tobacco smoke, crème de cassis, licorice, and lead pencil. It boasts massive body, great purity, loads of intensity as well as concentration, and a nectar-like unctousity on the mid-palate and finish. This tannic, unevolved baby tastes like a California version of a Paulliac first-growth. It's that special! Anticipated maturity: 2010-2030.”
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89 points Wine Advocate
2000 Cabernet Sauvignon
Beckstoffer To Kalon Vnyd
Napa Valley“Another elegant, European-styled Cabernet Sauvignon is the 2000 Beckstoffer Vineyard (785 cases). With copious quantities of black currants, cedar wood, spice box, and vanilla, medium body, good underlying acidity, excellent purity, and austere tannin in the finish, it is the least accessible of these 2000 Cabs.”
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93 points Wine Spectator
1999 Cabernet Sauvignon
Beckstoffer To Kalon Vnyd
Napa Valley“Smooth, ripe and seductive, with wonderful purity of fruit centered around ripe plumb, black cherry, blackberry and currant. Gains points for its supple texture, elegance and nuance, with a long, measured aftertaste that picks up anise and mineral flavors. Tannins are ripe and very well-integrated, with some heat on the finish. Best from 2004-2012”
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92 points Wine Advocate
1999 Cabernet Sauvignon
Beckstoffer To Kalon Vnyd
Napa Valley“The potentially most profound and complex of this trio is the 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Vineyard. It boasts cedar, black currant, and toast characteristics as well as great richness, full body, superb purity, layers of fruit, and high tannin. There are 312 cases of this superb 1999. However, patience will be required. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2016.”
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89 points Wine Spectator
2003 Merlot
Michael Black Vineyard
Napa Valley“Ripe and plush, with layers of rich currant, cranberry, roasted plum and rum cake spice. Supple texture and excellent concentration, finishing with a persistent, flavorful aftertaste. Drink now through 2011. 340 cases made.”
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89 points International Wine Cellar
2003 Merlot
Michael Black Vineyard
Napa Valley“Good deep ruby-red. Pungent aromas of plum liqueur, black raspberry and milk chocolate. Sweet, plump and full, with moderate complexity. Finishes with substantial broad, tongue-dusting tannins and a hint of stony soil. This is the last vintage for this bottling; beginning with 2005 Hobbs will offer a syrah from a vineyard in the eastern hills behind Santa Rosa.”
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93 points Wine Advocate
2003 Merlot
Michael Black Vineyard
Napa Valley“The final vintage for the single vineyard Merlot Michael Black Vineyard, the 2003 boasts a dense purple color in addition to a sweet perfume of espresso, white chocolate, black cherries, and figs. With tremendous opulence, density, and a long, lush finish, it will provide plenty of pleasure over the next decade.”
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91 points Wine Spectator
2006 Pinot Noir
Russian River Valley“Aromas of cola, dried currant and blueberry, sage and fresh earth give this a complex mix of flavors. Delicate and balanced, with subtle flavor nuances that are sharply focused on the finish. Drink now through 2011. 3,028 cases made. ”
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89 points International Wine Cellar
2006 Pinot Noir
Russian River Valley“Deep red. Raspberry and blackberry on the nose, along with dark chocolate, rose and musky underbrush. Gentle, fleshy and round, with sappy red and dark berry preserve flavors, silky tannins and good lift. The lucid, persistent finish features riper cherry and plum notes. ”
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87 points Wine Advocate
2006 Pinot Noir
Russian River Valley“A straightforward, chunky, fruit-driven effort displaying notes of plums, ripe cherries, chocolate, and earth. Drink it over the next 2-3 years.”
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90 points Wine Advocate
2006 Pinot Noir
Ulises Valdez Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Plums, allspice, black cherries, bouquet garni, and underbrush aromas emerge. With superb fruit, medium to full body, and a good finish, it should be consumed over the next 3-5 years.”
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91 points Wine Spectator
2006 Pinot Noir
Ulises Valdez Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Well-focused, with fresh, ripe plum, black cherry and blueberry fruit that’s well-proportioned, complex and persistent. Ends with a nice mix of tannins and Pinot flavors that offer depth and length. Drink now through 2011. 432 cases made.”
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91 points International Wine Cellar
2006 Pinot Noir
Ulises Valdez Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Deep, dark red. Jammy red and dark berry aromas are complicated by baking spices, mocha and musky herbs. Broad and strikingly concentrated, offering sweet raspberry and cherry flavors along with gingerbread and bitter chocolate. Plenty going on here. Finishes with excellent lift and cut, with the spicy qualities repeating.”
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90 points Wine Advocate
2006 Pinot Noir
Lindsay Estate Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Reveals classic Cote de Nuits-like aromas of forest floor, plums, black cherries, fresh mushrooms, and hints of autumnal vegetation, a sweet, expansive mouthfeel, super-ripe tannins, and a long, impressive finish. This superb Pinot should drink well for 8-10 years.”
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91 points Wine Spectator
2006 Pinot Noir
Lindsay Estate Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Tasty red plum and black cherry fruit is supple, elegant and delicate. Well-focused and persistent, with a spicy floral edge. Finishes with a light smoky oak nuance. Drink now through 2012. 645 cases made.”
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90 points International Wine Cellar
2006 Pinot Noir
Lindsay Estate Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Dark red. Sexy, oak-spiced aromas of red berries, cherry, sandalwood and cinnamon. Silky in texture, with deep red fruit liqueur flavors accompanied by baking spices and floral pastille. Really stains the palate, with strong spiciness dominating the finish. This boasts very good cling and persistence but needs some time for the oak qualities to recede. ”
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88 points Wine Spectator
2006 Pinot Noir
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“A bit muddled now, with earthy dried cherry and berry fruit, shaded by herb and sage notes. Gains complexity and depth on the finish. Drink now through 2011. 592 cases made.”
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89 points International Wine Cellar
2006 Pinot Noir
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Dark red. Subdued, brooding aromas of dark cherry and chocolate. Fresher red and dark berry flavors are brightened by zesty minerals and given grip by dusty tannins. Finishes with very good persistence but limited definition. A serious, deeply concentrated style of pinot that needs some cellar time to loosen up. ”
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87 points Wine Advocate
2006 Pinot Noir
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Offering raspberry, cherry, and strawberry notes intermixed with hints of roasted herbs and damp forest, this elegant, medium-bodied wine should drink well for 4-5 years.”
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90 points Wine Spectator
2007 Pinot Noir
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Intense and full-bodied, this is focused on a core of loamy earth, dried berry, sage and mineral. Complex and concentrated, ending with a dry edge to the tannins. Best from 2010 through 2015. 859 cases made.”
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93 points International Wine Cellar
2007 Pinot Noir
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Vivid ruby. Exotically perfumed bouquet of red and dark berries, lily of the valley, soy sauce and smoky minerals. Palate-staining black raspberry and candied cherry flavors are deepened by a note of black cardamom and pick up a sexy rose pastille quality on the back end. The finish repeats the red berry note and lingers with excellent clarity and spicy persistence. This is complex enough to drink right now. ”
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93 points Wine Spectator
2007 Pinot Noir
Cuvee Agustina
Lindsay Estate Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Ripe and complex, plush and full-bodied, this well-structured version shows supple, spicy plum, black cherry and wild berry fruit, picking up a pleasing earthy cola edge on the finish. Drink now through 2013.”
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93 points International Wine Cellar
2007 Pinot Noir
Cuvee Agustina
Lindsay Estate Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Deep, vivid red. Explosively perfumed bouquet of black raspberry, graphite, potpourri and incense; almost smells like a northern Rhone wine. Fleshy, seductively sweet red and dark berry flavors stain the palate, with silky tannins providing shape. The floral quality gains strength on the finish, which is impressively pure and persistent. ”
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93 points Wine Spectator
2007 Pinot Noir
Lindsay Estate Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Starts out smooth and spicy, with supple plum and black cherry fruit, before picking up a pleasant earthy cola flavor, gaining depth and structure and ending with a long, elegant finish. Drink now through 2013.”
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91 points International Wine Cellar
2007 Pinot Noir
Lindsay Estate Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Bright ruby. Lively aromas of red and dark berries, blood orange and yellow rose. Sappy red fruit flavors are framed by dusty tannins and lifted by a peppery quality. Deeper dark fruits arrive on the finish, with the tannins gaining strength without masking the fruit. I'd put this away for a few more years, at least. These are Calera and Swan clones. ”
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92 points Wine Advocate
2007 Pinot Noir
Russian River Valley“A brilliant success, Hobbs’ 2007 Pinot Noir Russian River (made from all of the Dijon Pinot Noir clones) boasts a deep ruby/purple color along with delicate notes of blueberries, boysenberries, cola, earth, and spice. Full-bodied, pure, rich, and broad, it is best consumed over the next 4-5 years.”
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89 points Wine Spectator
2007 Pinot Noir
Russian River Valley“Big, rich and full-bodied, with savory herb dired berry, earth and spice, gaining depth and complexity on the finish, where the tannins are firm and tight. Quite tannic. Best from 2010 to 2014. 2,065 cases made.”
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90 points International Wine Cellar
2007 Pinot Noir
Russian River Valley“Deep red. Spicy cherry and black raspberry on the nose, plus a hint of dried rose. Fleshy and smooth in texture, with deep dark berry flavors and a late jolt of smoky minerals. Finishes sweet and smooth, leaving floral and mineral notes behind. Pretty sexy and delicious right now.”
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94 points Wine Advocate
2007 Pinot Noir
Ulises Valdez Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Another brilliant effort is the 2007 Pinot Noir Ulises Valdez. Notes of flowers, raspberries, sassafras, fresh herbs, forest floor, beef juices, red currants, and black cherries emerge from this complex wine. Made primarily from the Calera clone, this fresh tasting 2007 should drink nicely for a decade.”
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86 points Wine Spectator
2007 Pinot Noir
Ulises Valdez Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Starts out supple and graceful, with creamy cherry and berry fruit, but as this firms, the earthier side of the tannins gain hold. The best of two bottles tasted. Drink now through 2012. 545 cases made.”
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92 points International Wine Cellar
2007 Pinot Noir
Ulises Valdez Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Bright purple. Intensely perfumed aromas of black raspberry, cherry preserves, brown spices and minerals. Lively, finely etched red and dark berry flavors show very good depth and betray no rough edges. Becomes juicier on the finish, where the red fruit notes echo strongly. ”
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90 points International Wine Cellar
2005 Pinot Noir
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Light red. Zesty redcurrant and wild strawberry aromas, with an exotic cinnamon accent. Crisp, lively pinot, with fresh red berry flavors, moderate weight and a clean, mineral-driven finish. A very linear wine with a bright, nervy personality. ”
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91 points Wine Spectator
2005 Pinot Noir
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Delivers a complex range of flavors, with cola, raspberry, mocha, herb and earth notes. Balanced and full-bodied, this gains richness and depth on the finish, though it loses focus slightly. Drink now through 2010. 725 cases made.”
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91 points Wine Advocate
2005 Pinot Noir
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Exhibits plenty of cool climate raspberry notes intermixed with cherries, cranberries, earth, spice, and a hint of licorice. Medium to full-bodied, and more complex than the Russian River bottling, but not as fleshy, it should drink well for 4-6 years.”
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94 points Wine Advocate
2005 Pinot Noir
Lindsay Estate Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Deep ruby/purple-hued, offers up aromas of spring flowers, forest floor, pomegranate, kirsch, and raspberries. With good acidity and ripe tannin, this medium to full-bodied, pure Pinot should drink nicely for 7-10 years.”
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93 points Wine Spectator
2005 Pinot Noir
Lindsay Estate Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Smooth, rich and fleshy, with ripe, vivid plum, black cherry and blackberry fruit that’s intense, concentrated and spicy, ending with a long, plush finish that turns elegant and delicate. Drink now through 2011. 384 cases made. ”
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88 points International Wine Cellar
2005 Pinot Noir
Lindsay Estate Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Deep ruby. Powerful, oak spice-accented blackberry and cherry aromas are ripe and assertive. More weighty and rich than your garden-variety pinot, with deep dark fruit flavors and solid tannins on the finish. The oak notes repeat, giving this a distinctly sweet quality.”
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89 points International Wine Cellar
2005 Pinot Noir
Russian River Valley“Bright red. Fresh, racy raspberry and wild strawberry aromas are very pure. A crisp and incisive midweight with clean red berry flavors, silky texture and a refreshing jolt of brisk acidity on the back end. Showing an elegant side and very easy to drink.”
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91 points Wine Spectator
2005 Pinot Noir
Russian River Valley“Firm, rich and concentrated, with a wonderful purity of fruit, built around black cherry, plum and blueberry fruit. Finishes with a dash of cedary oak, but the fruit still holds center stage. Drink now though 2010. 2,051 cases made.”
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90 points Wine Advocate
2005 Pinot Noir
Russian River Valley“A useful introduction to Hobbs' juicy, fruit-forward, upfront style. Its dark ruby/purple hue is followed by scents of plums, raspberries, white chocolate, and earth. This well-made, full-bodied, fleshy Pinot is ideal for drinking during its first 4-6 years of life.”
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92+ points Wine Advocate
2005 Pinot Noir
Ulises Valdez Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Beautiful dark ruby/purple-tinged color, very good acidity, and plenty of black cherry, plum, and chocolatey fruit presented in a full-bodied, fleshy style. It will drink well for 3-4 years.”
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89 points International Wine Cellar
2005 Pinot Noir
Ulises Valdez Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Deep red. Lush, chocolate-covered cherry aroma, plus a spicy cracked pepper note. A bit clenched, with zesty dark berry skin flavors and firm tannins on the finish. Give this air or cellar time.”
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92 points Wine Spectator
2005 Pinot Noir
Ulises Valdez Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Smooth and creamy, with pretty mocha-laced oak and blackberry aromas that turn supple and harmonious on the palate. Ends with a long, fleshy aftertaste that keeps the focus on the berry fruit. Drink now through 2012. 279 cases made.”
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88 points International Wine Cellar
2004 Pinot Noir
Russian River Valley“Medium red. Cherry, raspberry and tarry oak aromas lifted by a floral note. Sweet fruit nicely framed by juicy acids. Not especially complex but offers good intensity and freshness. Finishes with dusty tannins.”
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88 points Wine Advocate
2004 Pinot Noir
Russian River Valley“The 2004 Pinot Noir Russian River is a more clipped, lighted version of the 2003 offering hints of black cherries, raspberries, plumbs, and forest floor. It, too, should drink well for 3-4 years.”
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88 points Wine Spectator
2004 Pinot Noir
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Subtle earth and mineral flavors are woven through the core of sour cherry and raspberry fruit, picking up touches of herb and tea. Finishes clean, with a mouthwatering aftertaste. Drink now through 2009. 683 cases made.”
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91 points International Wine Cellar
2004 Pinot Noir
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Full red-ruby. Refined, complex nose hints at minerals, meat, cola, earth, underbrush and exotic spices, along with a suggestion of chocolatey oak. Very ripe and sweet, with a silky texture and dominant spice and cola flavors. Finishes with firm tannins and very good length. From a blend of Calera, Swan and Pommard clones.”
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91 points Wine Advocate
2003 Pinot Noir
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“The dark ruby/purple-colored 2003 Pinot Noir Hyde Vineyard displays a big, sweet bouquet of black cherries, apple skins and plums along with good underlying acidity, medium to full body, and a heady, spicy finish. All of these Pinots are fruit-forward with good structure as well as aging ability.”
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90 points International Wine Cellar
2003 Pinot Noir
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Full red-ruby. Black cherry, raspberry, minerals, meat and menthol on the nose. Silky on entry, then subtly sweet and juicy, with cherry and mineral flavors. Finishes firmly tannic, subtle and persistent. Very interesting pinot.”
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93 points Wine Spectator
2005 Pinot Noir
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Ripe, rich and intense yet polished, with generous plum and blackberry fruit that’s focused and fleshy, and supported by ripe, firm tannins. On the finish it displays a subtle touch of smoky, toasty oak, which adds a nice dimension, joining the fruit, which takes on a spicy raspberry edge. Drink now through 2009. 899 cases made.”
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93 points Wine Spectator
2003 Pinot Noir
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Ripe, rich and intense yet polished, with generous plum and blackberry fruit that’s focused and fleshy, and supported by ripe, firm tannins. On the finish it displays a subtle touch of smoky, toasty oak, which adds a nice dimension, joining the fruit, which takes on a spicy raspberry edge. Drink now through 2009. 899 cases made.”
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88 points Wine Spectator
2007 Chardonnay
Russian River Valley“Bold, rich fig, honeydew melon and ripe pear flavors have a touch of tropical fruit. Full-bodied and a touch raw on the finish, this need a little time. Drink now through 2012. ”
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91 points International Wine Cellar
2007 Chardonnay
Russian River Valley“Greenish gold. Complex bouquet of Meyer lemon, tangerine, pear and iodine, with a suave floral overlay. Juicy, mineral-driven citrus and orchard fruit flavors provide impressive palate coverage and carry no excess weight. Gains in richness with air and finishes with excellent clarity and mineral cut. This could pass for a Puligny. ”
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90 points Wine Advocate
2007 Chardonnay
Russian River Valley“Exhibits plenty of lemon and orange blossoms as well as hints of pineapple, oak, and earth. Full-bodied with abundant opulence and flavors, it should drink nicely for 3-4 years.”
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92 points Wine Spectator
2006 Chardonnay
Russian River Valley“Well-executed in a rich, smoky, toasty oak style, with layers of spicy fig, apricot, honeysuckle and melon flavors that fan out and coat the palate, ending with a long, persistent finish. Drink now through 2011. 3,003 cases made. ”
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90 points International Wine Cellar
2006 Chardonnay
Russian River Valley“Hazy yellow. Smoky and ripe on the nose, with potent pear and melon aromas underscored by toasted grain and minerals. Surprisingly light in body, offering pure pear and yellow apple flavors and becoming spicier and more tangy on the finish. Nicely melds richness with energy, and has the balance to age. ”
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91 points Wine Advocate
2006 Chardonnay
Russian River Valley“Offers abundant amounts of hazelnut and tropical fruits in an elegant, medium-bodied style. Drink this beauty over the next 2-3 years.”
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89 points Wine Spectator
2005 Chardonnay
Russian River Valley“This is still a bit awkward, but rich and concentrated, with smoky, cedary oak now holding an edge over the ripe pear and floral notes. The finish holds a focus on the fruit. Drink now through 2010. 3,700 cases made.”
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88 points International Wine Cellar
2005 Chardonnay
Russian River Valley“Hazy gold. Leesy, buttery orange and white peach aromas, with a bright peppery lift. Round and supple, with ripe pit fruit and tangerine flavors, gentle acidity and a suggestion of sweet butter on the back. A distinctly warm, easygoing chardonnay, finishing with good length.”
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89 points International Wine Cellar
2004 Chardonnay
Russian River Valley“Good pale color. Leesy aromas of lemon, lime and pit fruits, with a cool suggestion of menthol. Plump and rich but nicely firmed by fresh acidity. Rather soft flavor of mirabelle.”
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90 points Wine Advocate
2004 Chardonnay
Russian River Valley“The 2004 Chardonnays reveal impeccable winemaking, gorgeous textures, and heady perfumes. The elegant 2004 Chardonnay Russian River offers up notions of citrus oil and white peaches in a medium-bodied, refreshing style with great fruit as well as subtle wood. Drink it over the next 2-3 years.”
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90 points Wine Spectator
2003 Chardonnay
Russian River Valley“A notably rich, buttery, smoky style, with a high toasty oak character and an abundance of ripe pear, hazelnut and hints of citrus and fig. Fans of this woody style will find it especially appealing for its layered complexity and depth. Drink now. 2,558 cases made.”
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88 points International Wine Cellar
2003 Chardonnay
Russian River Valley“Good pale color. Aromas of citrus fruit, nuts, minerals and hay. Sweet, supple and soft, with citrus flavors lifted by a floral nuance. Not especially nuanced but offers attractive fruit character.”
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95 points Wine Spectator
2002 Chardonnay
Russian River Valley“You won't find many Chardonnays in this class. Ultra rich and multidimensional, with a fabulous array of creamy flavors built around the cores of a fig, apricot and crème buless and roasted marshmallows. Full-bodied yet elegant and concentrated, it weaves the tapestry of flavors to a long, rich, graceful finish.”
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90+ points Wine Advocate
2001 Chardonnay
Russian River Valley“The least expensive is the Chardonnay Russian River. The 2001 (1,000 cases) is a rich, oily, full-bodied offering revealing notes of caramel, citrus oils, pineapples, and spice. The oak is nicely integrated in this big, chunky, fleshy, lusty white. Drink it over the next 2-3 years.”
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91 points Wine Spectator
2001 Chardonnay
Russian River Valley“Fresh hazelnut, fig, apricot and melon aromas lead to similarly rich and well-centered fruit flavors, turning buttery with hints of smoke, anise and gunmetal. Drink now through 2006”
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90 points Wine Advocate
2000 Chardonnay
Russian River Valley“Floral, honeysuckle, and tropical fruit characteristics along with good underlying acidity are found in this pure, steely elegant effort. Enjoy this tropical fruit-dominated 2000 during its first 2-3 years of life.”
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88 points Wine Spectator
2000 Chardonnay
Russian River Valley“Good intensity and depth, with rich nutmeg, fig, apricot, and a buttery pineapple aftertaste, with lingering flavors. Drink now through 2005. 1,757 cases made.”
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90 points Wine Spectator
1999 Chardonnay
Russian River Valley“Serves up bold, rich, creamy fig, vanilla and apricot flavors that are complex and concentrated, and finishes with a long, intriguing aftertaste Drink now through 2005. 260 cases made.”
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87 points Wine Spectator
1998 Chardonnay
Russian River Valley“Lots of ripe, lively pear, nectarine and peach flavors, turning clean and spicy, with a touch of earthiness. Drink through 2004”
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89 points Wine Advocate
1998 Chardonnay
Russian River Valley“Reveals this fashionable regions rich, honeyed tropical fruit in addition to full body, loads of buttered pineapple and creamy custard-like notes. Well done, with a judicious use of toasty oak, it is a plush Chardonnay to enjoy over the next several years.”
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92 points Wine Spectator
2009 Chardonnay
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“Fresh and snappy, with lively apple, melon, pear and light citrus shadings that are intense, focused and full-bodied, ending with a clean, lively aftertaste. Drink now through 2017.”
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88 points Wine Spectator
2007 Chardonnay
Online Review
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“Shows a subtle smoky oak, cedar, ripe pear and melon mix of delicate, refined flavors. Full-bodied, moderately rich and complex. Drink now through 2011.”
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92 points International Wine Cellar
2007 Chardonnay
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“Yellow-gold. Deep, smoky aromas of poached pear, yellow apple, pit fruits and toasty lees. Weighty orchard fruit flavors are chewy in texture and firmed by a refreshingly bitter lemon pith quality. Showy and impressively expansive on the finish, which strongly echoes the pit fruit and smoky notes. ”
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90 points Wine Spectator
2006 Chardonnay
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“Rich without being heavy or cloying, with a subtle mix of spicy pear, honeysuckle, spice and honeydew melon flavors that are elegant and restrained. Drink now through 2011. 542 cases made. ”
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91 points International Wine Cellar
2006 Chardonnay
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“Bright, hazy gold. Ripe, smoky, complex bouquet of poached pear, yellow apple and toasted grain. Picks up a lively lemon/lime quality with air, which carries onto the palate and brightens the ripe orchard fruit and melon flavors. Turns spicier on the close, leaving behind vibrant tarragon and white pepper nuances. Possesses the balance and concentration to repay cellaring. ”
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91 points International Wine Cellar
2005 Chardonnay
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“Yellow-gold. Intensely perfumed nose offers spicy, floral-accented citrus and pear. Notes of chamomile and jasmine add complexity to ripe, vivid pear and yellow plum flavors, which pick up a licorice note on the back. This has excellent length and precision, finishing on a gently spicy note.”
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92 points Wine Spectator
2005 Chardonnay
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“Rich and concentrated, with plenty of ripe fig, melon and toasty oak flavors, yet slowly unfolds to reveal elements of finesse, polish and depth, ending with a burst of ripe Chardonnay fruit and a hint of marshmallow. Drink now through 2011. 653 cases made.”
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92 points Wine Advocate
2005 Chardonnay
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“Elegant, buttery, spice box, honeysuckle, peach, and tropical fruit aromas, good underlying acidity, and abundant power as well as richness. There are 675 cases of this cuvee. ”
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90 points International Wine Cellar
2004 Chardonnay
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“Good full yellow. Laid-back, nuanced nose offers minerals, nutmeg and citrus skin. Sweet, smooth and harmonious, with good firm acidity keeping the flavors under wraps. Just a hint of warmth on the finish.”
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93 points Wine Spectator
2004 Chardonnay
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“This is the definition of elegance in Chardonnay, rich and polished, with a soothing mix of creamy pear, anise, spice and ginger, turning even more refined on the long, intricate finish. Drink now through 2009.”
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93 points Wine Advocate
2004 Chardonnay
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“The 2004 Chardonnay Richard Dinner Vineyard reveals a greenish hue to its light gold color, more structure, a crushed rock component, and heady, high alcohol, full-bodied flavors with gorgeous layers of fruit and texture. It, too, will drink well for 2-3 years.”
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93 points Wine Advocate
2003 Chardonnay
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“The 2003 Chardonnay Richard Dinner Vineyard offers hints of orange marmalade, crushed rocks, honeyed apple skins, and pineapples along with a huge texture, full body, and good underlying acidity.”
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89 points International Wine Cellar
2003 Chardonnay
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“Nose dominated by butterscotch, smoke and spicy oak. Sweet and dense if a bit tart-edged, with sound acidity currently dominating the wine's fruit flavors. This needs another year or so in the bottle.”
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90 points Wine Spectator
2002 Chardonnay
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“A tight, rich beam of spicy fig, nectarine, tangerine and lemon meringue soothe the palate, with a mouth coating texture and dense, complex aftertaste. Drink now”
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93 points Wine Advocate
2002 Chardonnay
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“More opulent with even greater intensity is the 2002 Chardonnay Richard Dinner Vineyard. This oily, unctuously-textured, full-throttle effort reveals fine underlying acidity along with big, sweet aromas of peaches, citrus oils, and smoky oak. Drink this hefty, rich Chardonnay over the next 2-4 years.”
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90 points Wine Advocate
2002 Chardonnay
Russian River Valley“More structure, acidity, and delineation are present in the 2002 Chardonnay Russian River. While it does not appear to possess as intense fruit, it is still evolving. There is no doubting the impressive honeysuckle, peach-like notes. Just under 2,000 cases are produced from the Sonoma Mountain vineyard called Richard Dinner (planted with an old Wente clone), which produces intense, potentially long-lived wines.”
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88 points Wine Advocate
2004 Pinot Noir
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“The 2004 Pinot Noir Russian River is a more clipped, lighted version of the 2003 offering hints of black cherries, raspberries, plumbs, and forest floor. It, too, should drink well for 3-4 years.”
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92 points Wine Spectator
2001 Chardonnay
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“Wonderful harmony, richness and balance, with ripe, complex, fig anise, and apricot flavors. Shows a deft hand with toasty oak, too, giving it a creamy texture. The finish is long and flavorful.”
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90+ points Wine Advocate
2001 Chardonnay
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“The 2001 Chardonnay Richard Dinner Vineyard exhibits a light gold color in addition to a boldly flavored bouquet of buttered citrus intermixed with honeyed lemons, smoke, spice, and earth. Full-bodied and structured, it should last for 7-8 years.”
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90 points Wine Advocate
2000 Chardonnay
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“Exhibits copious quantities of tropical fruit, honeyed lemons, citrus, and spicy oak in the background. Drink this bold, full-flavored Chardonnay during it's first several years of life.”
-
88 points Wine Spectator
2000 Chardonnay
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“Smoky, toasty oak aromas turn into butterscotch and fig on the palate; offers complex flavors and a good length (though not on the scale of Kunde Vineyard '00 bottling). Turns elegant and delicate on the finish. Drink now through 2004”
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93 points Wine Spectator
1999 Chardonnay
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“A delicious mouthful of Chardonnay. Ripe, lush, rich and full-bodied, with layers of fig, nectarine, pear, hazelnut and just a light touch of toasty oak. Finishes in a long, luxuriant aftertaste. Drink now through 2005”
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92 points Wine Spectator
1998 Chardonnay
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“Intense, rich, and focused, with layers of fig, anise, apricot, earth and citrus, finishing with a broad, supple texture. Drink now through 2004.”
-
89 points Wine Advocate
1998 Chardonnay
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“Medium gold-colored, is evolved aromatically, but in the mouth, it is solid constructed with plush, soft acid, and an expansive mouthfeel. Drink it over the next year as it appears to be on a fast evolutionary track.”
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92 points Wine Spectator
1997 Chardonnay
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“A sleek, elegant, polished style, packed with rich, creamy pear, fig, spice, apricot and toasty oak flavors. Sharply focused and rich on finish. Drink now through 2003.”
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91 points Wine Advocate
2004 Pinot Noir
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“The dark ruby/purple-colored 2003 Pinot Noir Hyde Vineyard displays a big, sweet bouquet of black cherries, apple skins and plums along with good underlying acidity, medium to full body, and a heady, spicy finish. All of these Pinots are fruit-forward with good structure as well as aging ability.”
-
92 points Wine Spectator
1996 Chardonnay
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“Elegant, with a pretty medley or ripe pear, spice, fig and melon, picking up hints of hazelnut and toasty, buttery oak. Finishes with a long stream of complex flavors. Drink now through 2002”
-
90 points International Wine Cellar
2003 Pinot Noir
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Full red-ruby. Black cherry, raspberry, minerals, meat and menthol on the nose. Silky on entry, then subtly sweet and juicy, with cherry and mineral flavors. Finishes firmly tannic, subtle and persistent. Very interesting pinot.”
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91 points Wine Spectator
1995 Chardonnay
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“Rich and ripe, but quiet subtle and reserved on the nose now, with hints of citrus, pear and apple. Quiet forward on the palate, with lots of fruit and lime flavors, but lacks the sort of flawless texture I expect from a top '95 White Burgundy. Turns slightly tough on the oaky, smoky finish. Still, an outstanding My guess is California. Better after 2000?--Chardonnay Challenge”
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89 points Wine Advocate
2003 Pinot Noir
Russian River Valley“Paul Hobbs’ ability to work with different varietals is evident with the fickle Pinot Noir grape. From a challenging vintage, the 2003 Pinot Noir Russian River exhibits a deep ruby/purple-tinged color, elegant, plum, cherry, and anise notes, medium body, and a lusty, heady finish. Drink it over the next 3-4 years.”
-
93 points Wine Spectator
2003 Pinot Noir
Russian River Valley“Layers of ripe, rich black cherry and blackberry fruit, it glides across the palate, revealing uncommon depth and dimension and finishing with an amazing aftertaste. Drink now through 2007.”
-
87 points International Wine Cellar
2003 Pinot Noir
Russian River Valley“Good medium red. Sappy aromas of redcurrant, plum, black cherry and spicy oak. Similar flavors in the mouth, but accompanied by some greener notes of menthol and herbs. Show limited personality today and finished with slightly drying tannins. Mostly from a 1999 planting next to the winery, the only vineyard owned by Paul Hobbs.”
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91 points Wine Advocate
2002 Pinot Noir
Russian River Valley“There are approximately 1,000 cases of the 2002 Pinot Noir Russian River. A deep ruby/purple color is followed by loads of plum, fig, black cherry, and sweet and sour pomegranate aromas. Hints of smoke, licorice, and earth also appear in the complex bouquet. Deep, chewy, and forward, it should be consumed over the next 7-8 years.”
-
89 points Wine Spectator
1994 Chardonnay
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“An openly oaky style, with mature, medium-bodied honey, citrus and earthy pear notes, and an elegant finish. Well balanced. Drink now. Tasted twice, with consistent notes.”
-
92 points Wine Spectator
1991 Chardonnay
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“Ripe, spicy, smooth and buttery. A polished wine, offering layers of honey, pear, apple and nutmeg flavors with a generous and harmonious finish. Delicious now, but best through 1997.”
-
92 points Wine Spectator
2007 Chardonnay
Ulises Valdez Vineyard
Russian River Valley“A rich, exotic style that packs in lots of bold flavors, with smoky oak wrapped around ripe fig, melon and apple flavors. Balanced, intense and persistent. Drink now through 2012. ”
-
90 points Wine Spectator
2002 Pinot Noir
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Openly fruity, with ripe, fleshy plumb, red cherry and wild berry nuances that are elegant and supple in texture, with hardly any tannins to show. Finishes with a touch of nutmeg and hazelnut. Drink now”
-
90 points Wine Advocate
2002 Pinot Noir
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“For whatever reason, the 2002 Pinot Noir Hyde Vineyard did not reveal as much character, flesh, or persistence. Nevertheless, it is a very good effort with a character similar to the 2001, but with the volume turned down.”
-
92 points Wine Advocate
2002 Pinot Noir
Cuvee Agustina
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“More backward, with high tannin levels, the black/purple-colored 2002 Pinot Noir Cuvee Agustina boasts formidable levels of extract as well as ripe, concentrated fruit. Thick, juicy, and heady, it reveals notes of black fruits, smoke, minerals, violets, and toasty oak. Give it 4-6 years of cellaring and enjoy it over the following 12-15 years.”
-
93 points Wine Spectator
2002 Pinot Noir
Cuvee Agustina
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Dark-hued, with intense, rich aromas of ripe plum, blackberry and black cherry, all woven together in a complex package. Firm but polished tannis keep it rich and mouth coating and, given its depth and concentration, it should reward short-term cellaring. Best through 2005-2010”
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92 points International Wine Cellar
2007 Chardonnay
Ulises Valdez Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Pale yellow. Powerfully scented bouquet of orange sherbet, toasty lees, smoked meat and Anjou pear. Fleshy citrus and orchard fruit flavors are underscored by dusty minerals and anise. With air, this gains weight and develops a sexy floral quality that carries through the impressively persistent, smoky finish. ”
-
94 points Wine Advocate
2001 Pinot Noir
Cuvee Agustina
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“The 2001 Pinot Noir Cuvee Agustina (a selection from the Hyde Vineyard planted with the Calera clone of Pinot Noir) is a limited production item (240 cases). Vibrant, dense, unctuously-textured, and full-bodied, it is one of this varietals most concentrated efforts. Readers unfamiliar with deep Pinots may think it tastes like Syrah, which is nonsense. White flowers intermixed with the essence of black cherry and blackberry jam jump from the glass of this inky ruby/purple-colored Pinot. An amazing example of Pinot Noir, it should age for 10-15 years.”
-
86 points Wine Spectator
2006 Chardonnay
Ulises Valdez Vineyard
Russian River Valley“This is intense, offering a mix of spice, floral and apple pie-like flavors, with hints of cedary oak that turn to anise and sage. Ends a bit cloying. Drink now through 2010. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 265 cases made.”
-
93 points Wine Spectator
2001 Pinot Noir
Cuvee Agustina
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Pushing ripeness to the max without overdoing it, this is a ripe, plush, effusively fruity style, with a zesty black cherry and blackberry fruit, lots of exotic spicy aromatics and gentle oak tones, and some heat on the finish. Drink now through 2008”
-
91 points International Wine Cellar
2006 Chardonnay
Ulises Valdez Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Bright gold. Intensely floral bouquet melds lemon zest, pink grapefruit, mandarin orange and honeysuckle. Powerful and concentrated but energetic, with lively citrus and green apple flavors of noteworthy purity. Surprisingly graceful for a chardonnay with such depth of flavor, finishing with excellent cut and persistence. ”
-
90 points Wine Advocate
2006 Chardonnay
Ulises Valdez Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Leaner and more Chablis-like in style. It offers notions of white currants, peaches, and tropical fruits in an austere, less concentrated style than the 2005. A beauty, it should drink nicely for 2-3 years. ”
-
91 points Wine Advocate
2001 Pinot Noir
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“The dense purple-colored 2001 Pinot Noir Hyde Vineyard, made from the Pommard and Swan clones, offers up a sweet perfume of lavender, blue and black fruits, and jammy cherries. The oak is nicely soaked up by this full, fleshy, sexy Pinot Noir. Enjoy it over the next 7-8 years.”
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95 points Wine Advocate
2005 Chardonnay
Ulises Valdez Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Notes of orange blossom, pineapple, and peach nicely buttressed by good acidity, fabulous concentration, and an underlying subtle wood smoke character. Ripe and full-bodied with excellent acidity, it should drink well for 4-5 years.”
-
92 points Wine Spectator
2001 Pinot Noir
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“A tremendous wine, brimming with ripe, rich, fleshy Pinot Noir aromatics and flavors, with tiers of black cherry, blackberry and wild berry, lots of spice and hints of fresh earth and cedar. Drink now through 2009”
-
93 points Wine Spectator
2005 Chardonnay
Ulises Valdez Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Smooth, rich and elegant, with a creamy texture that lets the ripe pear, tangerine and hazelnut flavors weave together. Ends with a long, persistent finish and a hint of smokiness. Drink now though 2011. 270 cases made.”
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92 points International Wine Cellar
2005 Chardonnay
Ulises Valdez Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Hazy gold. Smoky citrus and peach flavors are complicated by hints of tarragon and baking spices. Lush, open-knit pit fruit flavors have a seductive, succulent herbal accent, with gentle acidity providing lift on the finish. Very, very suave, but also offers formidable concentration and persistence. This is from the first leaf of this vineyard.”
-
91 points Wine Spectator
2004 Chardonnay
Ulises Valdez Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Rich and creamy, both in flavor and texture, with vanilla, fig and melon flavors that are smooth and polished, finishing with a dash of herb and sage. Drink now through 2009. 105 cases made.”
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88 points Wine Advocate
2000 Pinot Noir
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“A more low-keyed effort, it reveals high, tangy/tart acidity, giving it a compressed, more tightly knit personality. There is excellent meaty, red cherry fruit intermixed with spice box and earth notes. Elegant and pure, this 2000 is best consumed during its first 5-7 years of life.”
-
88 points Wine Spectator
2000 Pinot Noir
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Combines ripe, rich blackberry and black cherry flavors with a sense of delicacy and finesse, finishing with spice and earth notes, touches of dried fruit and sage. Drink now through 2006”
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88 points International Wine Cellar
2004 Chardonnay
Ulises Valdez Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Sweet aromas of marzipan, nuts and vanillin oak. Broad and dry, in a rather warm style. Less crisp and intense than the Richard Dinner bottling.”
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93 points Wine Spectator
2000 Pinot Noir
Cuvee Agustina
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“A big, rich expensive, decidedly oaky style, but beautifully executed. Smoky, exotic, toasty wrapped around the core of a ripe spicy cherry, raspberry and blackberry scented. Drink through 2009”
-
95 points Wine Advocate
2004 Chardonnay
Ulises Valdez Vineyard
Russian River Valley“One of the finest viticultural managers in northern California is Ulises Valdez, and his 2004 Chardonnay Ulises Valdez Vineyard boasts a wonderful leesy/brioche character intermixed with honeysuckle, orange rind, tangerine, and hazelnut notes. With great fruit, full body, and superb intensity as well as concentration, it should drink well for 5-6 years. Interestingly, Valdez also farms vineyards for both Pahlmeyer and Aubert, so he is unquestionably at the top of his field.”
-
91+ points Wine Advocate
2000 Pinot Noir
Cuvee Agustina
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Oozing with black cherry fruit combined with smoke, dried herbs, and toast, this medium to full-bodied, deep, ripe, concentrated Pinot will hit its prime in 2-3 years, and last for a decade.”
-
92 points Wine Spectator
2007 Chardonnay
Ritchie Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Complex aromatics of fig, melon, guava and spicy, toasty oak are rich and layered on the palate, ending with a long, persistent finish, where the flavors fan out. Drink now through 2013. ”
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94 points Wine Advocate
1999 Pinot Noir
Cuvee Agustina
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“A powerful, intense effort, it will require 2-3 years to display its varietal character. An opaque ruby/purple color is followed by a sweet nose of blackberries, cherry liqueur, smoke, forest floor, and toast scents. Terrific on the palate, with multiple layers, great purity, and a prodigious finish, this is a Pinot Noir for the gluttons. Drink it over the next decade.”
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93 points International Wine Cellar
2007 Chardonnay
Ritchie Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Light gold. A sexy, complex bouquet displays scents of Anjou pear, quince paste, Thai basil and iodine, with a suave overlay of white flowers. Rich citrus and orchard fruit flavors stain the palate, braced by zesty mineral and lemon zest qualities. Offers a deft blend of richness and energy, with outstanding finishing clarity and punch. ”
-
90 points Wine Spectator
2006 Chardonnay
Ritchie Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Smooth, rich and creamy. An opulent style, with fig, vanilla, nectarine and tangerine flavors that have a sweet, rich mouthfeel. Drink now though 2011. ”
-
92 points Wine Spectator
1999 Pinot Noir
Cuvee Agustina
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Gorgeous flavors, and extraordinary (not to mention expensive) effort, almost syrupy in its concentration. Dark, rich, and potent, with layers of complex black cherry, raspberry and stewed plumb. Deep, with pretty floral, fruity and mint aromatics. Lingering aftertaste. Drink now through 2008”
-
92 points Wine Advocate
2006 Chardonnay
Ritchie Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Light gold-hued, it exhibits scents of apricots and peach liqueur intermixed with white currant, lemon blossom, and crushed rock characteristics. It possesses terrific fruit on the attack, medium to full body, and adequate acidity. Drink it over the next several years. ”
-
92 points Wine Spectator
1999 Pinot Noir
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Ripe, rich and full-bodied, with layers of currant, plum, black cherry and blackberry fruit, shaded by spicy, cedary oak and finishing with a long, complex aftertaste. Drink now through 2005.”
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93 points International Wine Cellar
2006 Chardonnay
Ritchie Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Light, hazy yellow. Strikingly complex, exotic bouquet of orchard and pit fruits, smoky peat, iodine and Thai basil; smells like an Islay scotch. Deep and smoky, with concentrated pear, yellow plum and tarragon flavors underscored by intense minerality. This is about much more than simply fruit, finishing with strong smoke, floral and mineral character. Pretty intriguing. ”
-
91 points International Wine Cellar
2005 Chardonnay
Ritchie Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Hazy greenish-straw color. Musky and leesy, with fresh Meyer lemon and tangerine aromas complicated by a hint of tarragon. Very creamy on the palate, with lush citrus and orchard fruit flavors, gentle acidity and a wild iodine quality that reminded me of what I tasted at Kistler. Full, concentrated chardonnay, with very good finishing power and length.”
-
92 points Wine Spectator
2005 Chardonnay
Ritchie Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Superrich, deep and concentrated, with layers of ripe pear, honeysuckle, fig and spice. Ends with a touch of cedary oak. Drink now through 2010. 192 cases made.”
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93 points Wine Advocate
2005 Chardonnay
Ritchie Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Exhibits ripe, heady, orange marmalade, lemon oil, tropical fruit, and leesy brioche/caramelized characteristics. It possesses fabulous fruit as well as the vintage’s hallmark zingy acidity. Enjoy it over the next 4-5 years. 225 cases produced; 75% new oak utilized.”
-
88 points Wine Spectator
1998 Pinot Noir
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Ripe, rich and polished, with pretty cherry, plum and wild berry, turning elegant, with a tapered finish. Drink now through 2005”
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86 points Wine Advocate
1998 Pinot Noir
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Straightforward, offers a pleasant up-front, smoky, cherry, dried herb, and animal-like attack, but falls off a bit at the palate. It is ready to drink and should be consumed over the next 2-3 years.”
-
91 points Wine Spectator
2007 Chardonnay
Online Review
Cuvee Agustina
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“Smooth, ripe and elegant, this is rich with full-bodied flavors of smoky fig, melon, honeysuckle and apple, picking up a touch of butterscotch on the elegant, lingering finish. Drink now through 2013. ”
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93 points International Wine Cellar
2007 Chardonnay
Cuvee Agustina
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“Bright gold. Exotically perfumed aromas of passion fruit, melon, pear skin, iodine and smoky lees. Stains the palate with deep orchard and exotic fruit flavors and picks up a sexy floral quality on the back end. The spiciness comes on strong on the finish, which is broad, sweet and strikingly powerful. This could handle the richest shellfish or poultry dishes. ”
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92 points Wine Spectator
1998 Pinot Noir
Cuvee Agustina
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Delicious complex, with ripe, supple and polished black cherry and wild berry and spicy, cedary notes. Finished with a sense of elegance and finesse and pretty, toasty oak nuances. Drink now through 2005”
-
92 points Wine Spectator
2006 Chardonnay
Cuvee Agustina
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“Ripe and fleshy, with peach, tangerine and nectarine flavors that are fresh and lively, ending with a tasty fruit purity and pretty toasty oak shadings. Drink now through 2012. 219 cases made.”
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94 points Wine Advocate
2006 Chardonnay
Cuvee Agustina
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“Poached pear, sweet red currant, tropical fruit, roasted nut, and smoky oak notes emerge from this exuberant, flamboyantly-styled Chardonnay. Enjoy it over the next 3-4 years.”
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92 points International Wine Cellar
2006 Chardonnay
Cuvee Agustina
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“Light gold. Rich, smoky aromas of pear, melon and iodine, with a floral quality emerging with air. Strikes an impressive balance of weight and finesse, offering deep orchard fruit flavors, energetic minerality and a long, sappy finish. This has the concentration to age but is awfully delicious right now. ”
-
94 points Wine Advocate
2005 Chardonnay
Cuvee Agustina
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“Smells like lemon custard interwoven with orange marmalade, poached pears, tropical fruits, and smoky oak. It is a full-bodied, elegant Chardonnay that should drink well for 3-4 years.”
-
93 points Wine Spectator
2005 Chardonnay
Cuvee Agustina
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“The fresh floral, citrus, green pear and green apple notes are sleek and refreshing, enlivened by snappy acidity and ending with a long, clean, fruity aftertaste. Drink now through 2011. 213 cases made.”
-
90 points International Wine Cellar
2005 Chardonnay
Cuvee Agustina
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“Yellow-gold. Sexy, open-knit aromas of guava, yellow plum and tarragon. Lush and rich, with good depth and sweetness to its tropical and orchard fruit flavors and a gentle acid lift. The finish offers a hint of nectarine and building minerality, and closes on a brisk citrus note. Give this a year or so of bottle age.”
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94 points Wine Spectator
2004 Chardonnay
Cuvee Agustina
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“Offers subtle, delicate flavors that are built around complex notes of creamy pear, apple, fig and vanilla, which fan out nicely on the palate. Exquisite balance and depth, with a finely honed finish that holds the flavors on the palate, ending with a smoky marshmallow note. Drink now through 2009. 216 cases made.”
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89 points International Wine Cellar
2004 Chardonnay
Cuvee Agustina
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“Deep, slightly hazy straw color. Exotic nose hints at tropical fruits and honey. The fattest of these wines to this point, but not the sweetest. Broad, thick and full, but does it have enough flavor intensity for outstanding? One senses a caramelization of the grape sugars here.”
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(92 - 94) points Wine Advocate
2004 Chardonnay
Cuvee Agustina
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“The tightly-knit, relatively closed 2004 Chardonnay Richard Dinner Vineyard Cuvée Agustina is certainly outstanding, but currently is playing it close to the vest, and I could not coax a lot out of it. While it is obviously an outstanding, rich effort, the Walker Station and Ulises Valdez cuvées are revealing more personality at present. The Cuvée Agustina will undoubtedly last 5-6 years.”
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95 points Wine Advocate
2003 Chardonnay
Cuvee Agustina
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“A selection of this vineyard’s finest barrels, the 2003 Chardonnay Richard Dinner Vineyard Cuvée Agustina, is the estate’s top Chardonnay. It was aged in 88% new oak, and possesses superb fruit and ripeness, medium to full body, and notes of honeysuckle, orange marmalade, pineapple, and mango. Exotic, well-delineated, dense, and rich, it should drink well for 2-4 years.”
-
91 points International Wine Cellar
2003 Chardonnay
Cuvee Agustina
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“Pale yellow. Aromas of peach, nectarine and honey, with notes of vanillin oak and minerals. Sweet, dense and lush, showing more vanillin oak and soil-driven minerality today than fruit. Finishes firm-edged and persistent. Like the basic bottling from this vineyard, this chardonnay needs some aging.”
-
93 points Wine Spectator
2003 Chardonnay
Cuvee Agustina
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“A rich, opulent, hedonistic pleasure with layers of fig, apricot, hazelnut and apple, this is potent yet elegantly styled, unfolding to reveal extra facets of citrus, melon and light toasty oak. The flavors gain intensity on the finish, lingering on and on. Drink now through 2008. 201 cases made.”
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91 points Wine Spectator
2002 Chardonnay
Cuvee Agustina
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“Yellow-gold, deep, pure, rich and concentrated, with layers of fig, hazelnut, citrus and smoky oak flavors that fan out and saturate the palate, finishing with a long, lingering aftertaste. Drink now.”
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(91-93) points Wine Advocate
2002 Chardonnay
Cuvee Agustina
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“Also terrific, the 2002 Chardonnay Cuvee Agustina reveals exotic orange marmalade intermixed with smoky French oak, an unctuous texture, and a long, heady finish.”
-
87 points International Wine Cellar
2003 Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley“Good full ruby-red. Currant, chocolate, soy sauce and a whiff of maple syrup on the nose. Fat, lush and sweet if a bit chunky. Solidly constructed cabernet that finishes with big, dusty tannins and a faint greenness.”
-
95 points Wine Spectator
2000 Chardonnay
Cuvee Agustina
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“Ultra-rich and multi-faced, with layers of rich figs, melon and pear flavors. Jazzy toasty, Smokey oak adding a wonderful flavor dimension. Gorgeous mouth filling aftertaste. Drink now through 2006.”
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90 points Wine Spectator
2003 Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley“Sleek, polished and concentrated, with vivid black cherry and blackberry fruit, turning savory and smoky and gracefully unfolding to reveal extra facets of nutmeg, mineral and sage before ending with a firm, tannic backbone. Best from 2007 through 2012. 3,623 cases made.”
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91 points Wine Advocate
2000 Chardonnay
Cuvee Agustina
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“Rich, with notes of smoky hazelnut, buttered candy citrus, and a hint of mineral, it posses outstanding ripeness, but the vintages high acids give it a racy, cool climate personality.”
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90 points Wine Advocate
1999 Chardonnay
Cuvee Agustina
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“Notes of buttery popcorn, smoky hazelnuts, leechy, tropical fruits, honeysuckle, and citrus are heady, dense, full-bodied, and loaded. Not a Euro-styled Chardonnay, this is California power, guts, and lavish fruit and spice. Drink it over the nest 2-3 years.”
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93 points Wine Spectator
1999 Chardonnay
Cuvee Agustina
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“A gorgeous wine. Rich, complex and deeply flavored, yet elegant and graceful, with tiers of creamy pear, butter, fig, apricot, anise and melon that are remarkably long and concentrated on the finish. Drink now through 2005”
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91 points International Wine Cellar
2003 Cabernet Sauvignon
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Saturated ruby color. Complex nose combines black raspberry, plum, black cherry, minerals, currant and mocha; cool but not green. Distinctly more gripping than the Napa Valley bottling, with darker flavors of black cherry, mocha, minerals and tarry oak. Possesses lovely sweetness, not to mention good flesh for its building tannins. In a distinctly cooler, Bordeaux-like style. This wine did not require acidification, Hobbs noted.”
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92 points Wine Spectator
1998 Chardonnay
Cuvee Agustina
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“Rich and intense, with layers of fig, butterscotch, peach, apricot and vanilla, turning smoky and complex on the finish. Drink now through 2004.”
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92 points Wine Advocate
1997 Chardonnay
Cuvee Agustina
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“Superb, is the most multi-textured and complex of the Hobbs Chardonnays. In addition to ripe tropical fruit, there are leechy, hazelnut, smoky, mineral nuances, rich, full-bodied flavors, and a long, honeyed but dry finish. A blockbuster Chardonnay, it is best consumed over the next 1-2 years.”
-
92 points Wine Spectator
1998 Chardonnay
Cuvee Agustina
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“Elegant, with a pretty medley of ripe pear, spice, fig and melon, picking up hints of hazelnut and toasty, buttery oak. Finishes with a long stream of complex flavors. Drink now through 2002.”
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93 points Wine Advocate
2003 Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley“The dark ruby/purple-colored, full-bodied, impressively-endowed 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa offers up notes of charcoal, smoke, crème de cassis, and toasty oak. A wealth of glycerin, concentration, and fruit suggest it will provide ideal drinking now and over the next 10-15 years.”
-
92 points Wine Spectator
1996 Chardonnay
Cuvee Agustina
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“Elegant, with a pretty medley of ripe pear, spice, fig and melon, picking up hints of hazelnut and toasty, buttery oak. Finishes with a long stream of complex flavors. Drink now through 2002.”
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93 points Wine Spectator
2007 Chardonnay
Walker Station Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Smooth, rich and concentrated, with deep pear, fig and melon fruit shaded by a touch of toasty oak and butterscotch, ending with a long, persistent finish. Drink now through 2013. ”
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90 points International Wine Cellar
2007 Chardonnay
Walker Station Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Light chartreuse color. Ripe melon and white peach aromas are complicated by smoky lees and floral honey. Broad, fleshy cantaloupe and pit fruit flavors are braced by zesty minerals and given a bitter edge by a hint of apple skin. The smoky note repeats on the long, lightly chewy finish. Richer than the basic bottling but a bit less graceful. This is all Wente clone.”
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93 points Wine Advocate
2006 Chardonnay
Walker Station Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Orange rind, guava, and mango, along with good fruit purity and medium to full body characterize this wine. It does not reveal the depth of the 2005, but there is plenty of flesh and fruit. It should be enjoyed over the next 2-3 years.”
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90 points Wine Spectator
2006 Chardonnay
Walker Station Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Wonderful spiced apple and pear flavors are pure and ripe, picking up a touch of fig and honeydew melon and then joined by smoky, toasty oak, which gives this a creamy, rich mouthfeel. Drink now through 2011. ”
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93 points Wine Spectator
2003 Cabernet Sauvignon
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Deliciously rich and complex, with a deep, potent core of earthy currant, anise, blackberry and plum. Gains momentum, and despite its richness and abundance of fruit, it's remarkably elegant and polished. Drink now through 2012.”
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92 points International Wine Cellar
2006 Chardonnay
Walker Station Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Light, cloudy yellow. Spicy lemon and green apple on the nose, with zesty herbal and floral qualities adding complexity. Tangy citrus and orchard fruit flavors offer impressive depth and vivacity, picking up white pepper and minerals on the close. Leaves a light smoky quality behind, along with a kick of lemon zest. Hobbs told me that wild mint grows in this vineyard and that it must somehow work its way into the wine. ”
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93 points Wine Advocate
2003 Cabernet Sauvignon
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“From the cool Carneros region, Hobbs fashioned a sensational 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon Hyde Vineyard. Its inky/purple color is accompanied by sweet aromas of graphite interwoven with soil, black currant, and pepper scents. With full body, impressive delineation, and a long, concentrated, deep finish, this 2003 Cabernet will be at its finest between 2007-2020.”
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94 points Wine Advocate
2005 Chardonnay
Walker Station Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Light gold color with greenish undertones, followed by caramelized apricot, poached pear, and roasted nut-like aromas. This impressive, pure, rich, medium to full-bodied 2005 should be consumed over the next 3-4 years.”
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92 points Wine Spectator
2005 Chardonnay
Walker Station Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Fragrant, with rich fig, floral, honeysuckle and spicy ginger and hazelnut-scented oak, this is smooth and polished on the palate, with broad layers of complex fruit and wood. Drink now through 2011. 204 cases made. ”
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91 points International Wine Cellar
2005 Chardonnay
Walker Station Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Hazy yellow. Smoky, iodine-accented peach and pear scents, with an exotic cherry pit quality. Lush and creamy, with intense mineral notes complementing ripe orchard fruit flavors. An intriguing cinnamon element emerges with aeration and carries through the long, juicy finish. The vines here are reportedly 30 years old.”
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92 points Wine Spectator
2004 Chardonnay
Walker Station Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Enticing aromas of spice, ginger and nutmeg turn rich, smooth and layered on the palate, with sumptuous fig, melon and apricot flavors. Finishes with a long, intricate aftertaste. Drink now through 2009. 41 cases made.”
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91 points International Wine Cellar
2004 Chardonnay
Walker Station Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Complex nose offers lemon cream, orange peel, white pepper and spicy oak, with a minty nuance (there is actually wild mint in the vineyard). Spicy, precise and high-pitched, with white fruit and floral flavors. The small berries give the finish a slightly tannic impression. These 30-year-old vines will be replanted soon due to phylloxera and leaf roll virus.”
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94 points Wine Advocate
2004 Chardonnay
Walker Station Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Another superb offering from a cool climate site, the 2004 Chardonnay Walker Station exhibits notes of lemon grass, citrus oil, honeysuckle, and orange blossom. This well-made, full-bodied, ripe effort is gently kissed by subtle French oak. It is a big, well-delineated Chardonnay to drink over the next 4-5 years. ”
-
96 points Wine Spectator
2003 Chardonnay
Walker Station Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Rich and sophisticated, with seamless tiers of ripe and creamy fig, apricot and pear flavors enlivened by acidity.”
-
92 points Wine Advocate
2003 Chardonnay
Walker Station Vineyard
Russian River Valley“The 2003 Chardonnay Walker Station reveals more white currant, peach, and tangerine characteristics in its medium to full-bodied, layered personality. With well-integrated wood as well as a creamy, vanilla, egg custard sort of texture, this subtle but powerful beauty should be consumed over the next 3-4 years.”
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91 points International Wine Cellar
2003 Chardonnay
Walker Station Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Subtle, restrained aromas of minerals, flowers and spices. Fat, sweet and full, with an almost honeyed opulence. Nicely lifted by a floral component. Finishes with noteworthy persistence. This vineyard in Green Valley is now being replanted, but the 2003 is all from older vines.”
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90 points Wine Advocate
2002 Cabernet Sauvignon
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“The 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon Hyde Vineyard (246 cases) boasts sweet notes of black and red currants, loamy soil scents, hints of white chocolate and pepper, and some subtle herbs in a medium to full-bodied, elegant, yet concentrated style. The tannins are silky, and this wine will drink well young yet age nicely for 12-15 years.”
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90 points Wine Advocate
2002 Cabernet Sauvignon
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“The 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon Hyde Vineyard (246 cases) boasts sweet notes of black and red currants, loamy soil scents, hints of white chocolate and pepper, and some subtle herbs in a medium to full-bodied, elegant, yet concentrated style. The tannins are silky, and this wine will drink well young yet age nicely for 12-15 years.”
-
88 points Wine Spectator
2002 Chardonnay
Walker Station Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Rich, complex and concentrated, with a deep core of ripe fig, apricot, melon and smoky oak combining to give this a rich mouthfeel and a long, lingering aftertaste, with a touch of marshmallow. Drink now”
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93 points Wine Advocate
2002 Chardonnay
Walker Station Vineyard
Russian River Valley“The gorgeous 2002 Chardonnay Walker Station Vineyard is an opulent, viscous, fruit-driven monster offering up notes of oregano intermixed with intense orange marmalade, peach, and apricot scents. It is an intense, full-throttle Chardonnay from a cool micro-climate. Drink it during its first 7-8 years of life.”
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90 points International Wine Cellar
2002 Cabernet Sauvignon
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Good deep ruby-red. Cassis, cracked pepper, bitter chocolate, tobacco and menthol on the nose. Concentrated, dense and sweet, with intriguing, Bordeaux-like notes of plum, currant, tobacco, minerals and lead pencil, and well-integrated acidity. Like the Napa cabernet, this is a rather masculine style of wine, with a cool, leafy aspect. The wine's firm tannins call for at least a few years of additional bottle aging.”
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89 points Wine Spectator
2002 Cabernet Sauvignon
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Firm and concentrated, with good intensity to the ripe currant, black cherry and wild berry flavors. Holds its focus on the finish, where the flavors linger and reveal extra elements of complexity. Best from 2006 through 2012. 244 cases made.”
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91 points Wine Advocate
2001 Chardonnay
Walker Station Vineyard
Russian River Valley“The 2001 Chardonnay Walker Station Vineyard possesses crisp acidity as well as a striking liquid minerality intermixed with orange rind and white peach characteristics. Rich, textured, and medium to full-bodied, with a strong mineral character and a Burgundian-like personality, it should drink well for 5-6 years.”
-
93 points Wine Spectator
2001 Chardonnay
Walker Station Vineyard
Russian River Valley“A remarkably complex, rich and elegant wine, with tiers of creamy fig, green pear, nectarine and honeysuckle, punctuated by the scent of spearmint. Finishes with a long aftertaste. Drink now through 2007”
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93 points Wine Spectator
2000 Chardonnay
Walker Station Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Deliciously rich and fruity, with layers of pear, fig, apricot and honeysuckle, turning smooth and creamy. Long intricate aftertaste enlivened by vibrant acidity that keeps pumping out the flavors. Drink now through 2006”
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91 points Wine Advocate
2000 Chardonnay
Walker Station Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Boasts copious quantities of tropical fruits, buttered citrus, and tremendous flavor intensity. There is good underlying acidity, so it should age nicely for 4-5 years.”
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90 points Wine Advocate
2002 Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley“It is obvious Paul Hobbs prefers the influence of Taransaud cooperage on his Bordeaux varietals because they tend to give the wines a chocolatey character, and that is seen in the 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa (3,120 cases), a Cabernet Sauvignon with terrific concentration, remarkable opulence, and layers of cassis- and licorice-infused tobacco leaf notes that just cascade over the palate with an unctuous texture. The wealth of fruit and concentration hides some relatively serious tannin in this large-scaled wine. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2020.”
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90 points Wine Advocate
1999 Chardonnay
Walker Station Vineyard
Russian River Valley“It is a medium to full-bodied elegant Chardonnay with plenty of tropical fruit aromas and flavors, excellent underlying acidity, and terrific purity, with the oak a complementary rather than intrusive element. It should drink well for 5-6 years.”
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89 points International Wine Cellar
2002 Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley“Good full Ruby-red. Subdued aromas of black plum, cassis, menthol and bitter chocolate. Deep and plush but still a bit muscular and unforthcoming in the middle. This has much more sweetness and stuffing than the Cross Barn, and thus the tannins come across as finer.”
-
91 points Wine Spectator
1999 Chardonnay
Walker Station Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Bold, rich and creamy, with layers of fig, apricot, apple and orange blossom, turning spicy and complex. Drink now through 2004”
-
89 points Wine Spectator
1998 Chardonnay
Walker Station Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Fresh and livley, with a spicy pear, apple, fig and citrus flavors that turn a touch green on the finish. Drink now through 2004”
-
94 points Wine Spectator
2002 Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley“This rich, plush, concentrated young Cabernet exhibits layers of firm currant, black cherry and plum that are supple and harmonious. Picks up momentum, with the flavors unfolding gracefully on the finish, revealing extra nuances, and ending in a remarkably complex aftertaste. Best from 2007 through 2014. 3,723 cases made. "Highly Recommended."”
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93 points Wine Spectator
1997 Chardonnay
Walker Station Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Loads of ripe, complex, concentrated fruit flavors, with tiers of spicy green apple, pear, melon, fig and apricot. Holds its focus on a long, rich aftertaste. Drink now through 2002”
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90 points Wine Spectator
2001 Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley“Well-crafted, with excellent balance and a sense of elegance and finesse, it offers aromas of ripe cherry, currant, plum and berry, with pretty toasty oak shadings, a smooth, supple texture and fine-grained tannins that make it approachable. Best from 2005 through 2012. 2,979 cases made.”
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94 points Wine Advocate
2001 Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley“The 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa (2,980 cases) possesses big, sweet, smoky oak, cedary, blackberry, and cassis aromas as well as flavors offered in a rich, voluptuous, full-bodied style. While it is already deliciously drinkable (surprising for a 2001), there is abundant tannin lurking underneath the surface, but it is well-concealed by a wealth of fruit. This selection comes from four sources, the Crane, To-Kalon, Hyde, and Stagecoach vineyards. Drink it over the next 10-15 years, although it may last even longer.”
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93 points Wine Spectator
2001 Cabernet Sauvignon
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Deliciously smooth, rich and polished, with a complex array of currant, blackberry, melted chocolate and mocha flavors, offering a wealth of concentrated flavors and a long, intense, yet graceful and harmonious finish that lingers, echoing coffee and smoky oak. Drink now through 2012. 481 cases made.”
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95+ points Wine Advocate
2001 Cabernet Sauvignon
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“The 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon Hyde Vineyard may be the finest Cabernet I have ever tasted from Carneros (better known for Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Syrah). Sadly, there are less than 500 cases of this sensational offering. Made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon aged in Taransaud barrels, this full-bodied, thick, rich 2001 offers up aromas of licorice, pepper, black currants, and loamy soil. Pure, multi-layered, supple, and rich, it is best drunk between 2004-2018.”
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89 points Wine Spectator
2000 Pinot Noir
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Smooth, with rich, polished mocha, coffee, herb and currant flavors that pick up a pleasing earthy flavor on the finish. Well-focused and easy to drink, with lots of complexity and enough tannins to merit short-term cellaring. Best from 2004 through 2011”
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89 points Wine Spectator
2000 Cabernet Sauvignon
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Smooth, with rich, polished mocha, coffee, herb and currant flavors that pick up a pleasing earthy flavor on the finish. Well-focused ad easy to drink, with lots of complexity and enough tannis to merit short-term cellaring. Best from 2004 through 2011”
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(90 - 92) points Wine Advocate
2008 Syrah
Kick Ranch Vineyard
Sonoma County“The 2008 Syrah Kick Ranch Vineyard reveals chocolaty, earthy, peppery notes intermixed with aromas of black olives and blackberries. While more monolithic, it is still outstanding in its richness, depth, and power. It should be drunk during its first 7-8 years of life.”
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95 points Wine Advocate
2007 Syrah
Kick Ranch Vineyard
Sonoma County“The 2007 Syrah Kick Ranch Vineyard exhibits an opaque purple color as well as lots of peppery meat juices intermixed with creme de cassis and blackberries. It is a dense, full-bodied Syrah with a voluminous mouthfeel, powerful fruit flavors, and sweet tannins. A great Syrah, it should drink nicely for a decade or more.”
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87 points Wine Spectator
2007 Syrah
Kick Ranch Vineyard
Sonoma County“Trim and compact, with spice, cedar, dried berry, pepper and mineral. Slowly comes out of a tight core of flavor, and even now this isn’t forthcoming. Drink now through 2014.”
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93 points International Wine Cellar
2007 Syrah
Kick Ranch Vineyard
Sonoma County“Saturated purple color. Explosively perfumed bouquet of fresh red and dark berries, flowers and minerals, with a strong cola quality. Showing more vivacious fruit than the 2006, displaying raspberry, boysenberry and cherry-cola flavors and a late note of black pepper. The finish is sweet, juicy and pliant, betraying no rough edges and clinging tenaciously. ”
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92 points International Wine Cellar
2006 Syrah
Kick Ranch Vineyard
Sonoma County“Inky purple. Brooding aromas of blackcurrant, violet, smoky peat and black olive. The palate offers fresher red fruits, along with a texture that's silky and impressively incisive. The smoky note repeats strongly on the finish, which leaves sweet raspberry and blackberry notes behind. ”
-
95 points Wine Advocate
2006 Syrah
Kick Ranch Vineyard
Sonoma County“Performing better out of bottle than it did last year from barrel. Tasting like a top-notch Hermitage, it exhibits notes of charcoal, crushed rocks, roasted meat, creme de cassis, camphor, and a hit of truffles. This packed and stacked, full-bodied Syrah possesses super-refined tannins, vibrant acidity, and stunning weight as well as richness. It is a big, northern Rhone look-alike that should drink well for 10-15 years.”
-
93 points Wine Spectator
2006 Syrah
Kick Ranch Vineyard
Sonoma County“Beautifully crafted, this strikes a great balance between richness, complexity, depth and elegance, with ripe, vivid blackberry, wild berry and huckleberry fruit that’s fleshy and concentrated, with a long, persistent finish. There are also lots of spice, pepper and mineral notes. Drink now though 2013. ”
-
91 points International Wine Cellar
2005 Syrah
Kick Ranch Vineyard
Sonoma County“Inky purple. Powerfully scented aromas of cherry, dark berries, fresh flowers, smoked meat and graphite: very syrah. Deep, round and sweet, offering luscious cherry and blackberry liqueur flavors and excellent mineral lift. This broad, smooth wine finishes with excellent cling; the sexy oak notes linger but don't distract from the fruit. ”
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88 points Wine Spectator
2005 Syrah
Online Review
Kick Ranch Vineyard
Sonoma County“Firm, tight and concentrated, with a dense, chewy core of earthy mineral, blackberry, herb, sage and dusty berry flavors. Turns firm and tannic on the finish. Best from 2008 through 2014. 135 cases made.”
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92 points Wine Advocate
2005 Syrah
Kick Ranch Vineyard
Sonoma County“It is a big, black/purple-colored, ball-buster sort of Syrah with plenty of pepper and cassis as well as hints of graphite and charcoal. The finish is full-bodied and peppery. Best drunk during the first 5-6 years of life. ”
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93 points Wine Advocate
2002 Merlot
Michael Black Vineyard
Napa Valley“The 2002 Merlot Michael Black Vineyard has a saturated bluish/black color and a big, sweet nose of espresso roast, blackberries, cherries, and smoke. It is long, opulent, with amazing concentration, a huge mid-palate, and a blockbuster finish. All of this is presented in a seamless, supple texture that offers current drinking, but promises to evolve for at least 10-12 years.”
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89 points International Wine Cellar
2002 Merlot
Michael Black Vineyard
Napa Valley“Good full ruby-red. Expressive aromas of plum, tar, licorice, herbs and light weediness. Offers good mid-palate sweetness, with subtle notes of smoke, herbs, meat and menthol. Finishes with substantial dusty tannins.”
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90 points Wine Spectator
2001 Merlot
Michael Black Vineyard
Napa Valley“Rich and complex, with a tasty blend of ripe currant, blackberry, sage and cedary oak, it picks up hints of tar and smoke, and finishes with a long, intricate aftertaste supported by firm tannins and some heat. Best from 2005-2012”
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93+ points Wine Advocate
2001 Merlot
Michael Black Vineyard
Napa Valley“The Michael Black Vineyard is a cool site in the southern Coombsville area of Napa Valley. The 2001 Merlot Michael Black Vineyard (aged completely in Taransaud barrels) exhibits a dense purple color in addition to a big, thick, chocolately, espresso roast, and sweet fruit-scented bouquet. This serious, big, full-bodied, rich, moderately tannic Merlot should drink well for 10-12 years.”
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87 points Wine Spectator
2000 Merlot
Michael Black Vineyard
Napa Valley“Intense, with ripe, raw, stalk, mint, raw meat and herbaceous flavors that flex their tannic muscle. What's missing at this point is a focus and a sense of texture, though a touch of red currant appears on the finish. Best from 2004 through 2008”
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89 points Wine Advocate
2000 Merlot
Michael Black Vineyard
Napa Valley“Medium-bodied, exhibits a deep ruby/purple color as well as a sweet nose of black fruits, fudge, and licorice. Shorter, softer, and more accessible than the '99, it will drink well for 7-8 years.”
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91 points Wine Advocate
1999 Merlot
Michael Black Vineyard
Napa Valley“An opaque blue/purple color is accompanied by a full-bodied wine revealing notes of mocha, dense black fruits, chocolate, and toasty oak, sweet tannin, and a long finish. Anticipated maturity now-2014”
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90 points Wine Spectator
1999 Merlot
Michael Black Vineyard
Napa Valley“A ripe, generous, fleshy style, with lots of flavor, depth and personality. The sweet ripe plumb and blackberry fruit are on a supple, fleshy frame that makes this very appealing to drink now. Finishes with a light cedary oak and well-integrated tannins. Drink now through 2009”
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90 points Wine Spectator
1998 Merlot
Michael Black Vineyard
Napa Valley“Silky smooth, rich and polished, with a pretty core of spicy currant, plum, anise and cherry. Turns graceful and supple on the long, complex finish. Drink now through 2007.”
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91 points Wine Spectator
1997 Merlot
Michael Black Vineyard
Napa Valley“Complex and rich, with a pretty array of currant, anise, cedar, bacon and spice. Long, concentrated aftertaste. Drink now through 2006.”
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89 points Wine Advocate
1997 Merlot
Michael Black Vineyard
Napa Valley“Exhibits melted chocolate, smoke, and ripe berry fruit. Medium-bodied and complex for Merlot, with a good spice, a lush texture, and an attractive finish, it should drink well for 5-8 years.”
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88 points Wine Spectator
2000 Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley“Well-structured, with a complex array of herb, olive, currant and coffee flavors that are complex and concentrated, finishing with tannins and an earthy, new leather shoe character. Best from 2004 through 2011”
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88 points Wine Advocate
2000 Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley“Round, seductive and sweet, the 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa reflects the vintage's superficial aspects, but is very charming. There are loads of fruit on the attack, but that quickly dissipates in the mouth, without much length or finish. Enjoy it over the next 7-8 years.”
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93 points Wine Spectator
1999 Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley“A tremendous wine, dark, polished and deeply concentrated, with layers of plush plumb, blackberry and black cherry, showing touches of herb and black olive. Finishes with a broad, rich, supple texture and wonderful length. Best from 2004 through 2012”
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91 points Wine Advocate
1999 Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley“The superb 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa (1,857 cases) is more California-styled with lavish toasty new oak intermixed with jammy black cherries, black currants, licorice, and tobacco notes. A dense, opulent, cassis-flavored effort with loads of fruit and glycerin, this seductive Cabernet will drink well for 10-15 years.”
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90+ points Wine Advocate
1999 Cabernet Sauvignon
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“The sweet, Bordeaux-like 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon Hyde Vineyard (274 cases) presents aromas of cedar, spice box, and black currants in a medium to full-bodied, well-balanced, ripe, structured style. It will benefit from 2-3 years of cellaring, and keep for 15+ years.”
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93 points Wine Spectator
2000 Cabernet Sauvignon
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“A touch of herbaceous, it works its way into ripe, rich, supple earthy currant, mineral, sage and leather, with a hint of coffee. It firms up, revealing taut, structured tannins on the finish. Drink through 2012”
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93 points Wine Spectator
1999 Cabernet Sauvignon
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“A touch of herbaceous, it works its way into ripe, rich, supple earthy currant, mineral, sage and leather, with a hint of coffee. It firms up, revealing taut, structured tannins on the finish. Drink through 2012”
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88 points Wine Spectator
1998 Cabernet Sauvignon
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“A wine of finesse and grace, complex and well-focused, with a supple cherry, plum, anise and blackberry. Firms up nicley on the finish, but avoids dry tannins and pungently earthy flavors. Drink now through 2007”
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92 points Wine Spectator
1998 Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley“Wonderful richness, with a silky texture and gobs of currant, mineral, cedar, plumb and earthy flavors that are concentrated and sharply focused. Finishes with a gush of mocha and ripe fruit. Best from 2003 through 2010”
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94 points Wine Spectator
1997 Cabernet Sauvignon
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Ripe, round and polished, with pretty coffee, black cherry, currant and mineral, turning elegant and detailed, with lots of blackberry and cherry gushing through on the finish. Best from 2001 through 2012”
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89+ points Wine Advocate
1997 Cabernet Sauvignon
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Exhibits a textbook tobacco, spice box, and cassis-scented nose, in addition to smoky, full-bodied, black currant, moderately tannic flavors. This wine needs time, but it could merit an outstanding score with another year of bottle age. It should evolve for 15+ years.”
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89 points Wine Spectator
1996 Cabernet Sauvignon
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Soft and polished, with delicate layers of earthy tobacco, cedar, tar and ripe berry with black cherry flavors that finish with an impressive push. Tannis are ripe and well integrated. Drink now through 2004”
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89 points Wine Spectator
1994 Cabernet Sauvignon
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Smooth and polished in texture, with a flavor profile built around dill, sage, tea and currant that slowly unfold to gain complexity and interest. Best after 1999”
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89 points Wine Spectator
1993 Cabernet Sauvignon
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Marked by herb and black olive flavors, with hints of curant and strawberry. Turns elegant and refined on the finish, where the flavors linger and the tannins are smooth and polished.”
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93 points Wine Spectator
1992 Cabernet Sauvignon
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Intense and concentrated, a big complex wine marked by earthy currant, mineral, berry and spice flavors. Despite its size, the tannins are smooth and polished, although cellaring into 1997-98 should do the trick.”
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91 points Wine Spectator
1991 Cabernet Sauvignon
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Firm, ripe and intense, with a rich, focused core of currant, black cherry, mineral and herb notes. Supple and complex on the finish, where the tannins kick in, and the buttery oak flavors add dimension to the aftertaste. Tempting now but it should soften and be more appealing in 1996. 784 cases made.”
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93 points Wine Advocate
2009 Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley“A rich, juicy wine loaded with dark fruit, mocha, spices and new leather. This rich, expansive Cabernet boasts tons of class and sheer personality. Mint, licorice and spices add complexity as the dark fruit fleshes out on the finish. This is a fabulous wine for the money. The Cabernet is made from To Kalon, Dr. Crane, Las Piedras, Stagecoach and Hyde, and includes a dollop of Petit Verdot from Stagecoach. It is a fabulous effort from Paul Hobbs. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2021.”
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(94 - 96) Points Wine Advocate
2010 Pinot Noir
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Reveals considerable aromatic lift, brightness and focus. Freshly cut flowers, spices and licorice are some of the notes that emerge from this absolutely beautiful, delineated wine. The 2010 comes across as more refined, subtle and elegant than the more muscular 2009. The 2010 Hyde was made with 6% stems and shows quite a bit more aromatic lift than the 2009. Both wines are striking. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2030.”
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96 points Wine Advocate
2009 Cabernet Sauvignon
Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vnyd
St. Helena, Napa Valley“Deep, seductive and powerful. It shows stunning richness and intensity, with layers of dark red fruit, smoke, licorice and tobacco in a style that is very expressive but not at all heavy. The 2009 is Clone 4. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2029.”
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(88-90) points Wine Advocate
2010 Chardonnay
Russian River Valley“Gorgeous in this vintage. It shows fabulous depth and richness, with less of the overtness of the 2009. Especially like the cut and focus that are such a large part of the wine’s personality. ”
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(90-92) points Wine Advocate
2010 Chardonnay
Ellen Lane Estate
Russian River Valley“Emerges from the glass with expressive varietal fruit, butterscotch, smoke and sweet spices. It captures a very nice, stylistic middle ground in the range of the Hobbs Chardonnays in its attractive marriage of fruit and minerality. ”
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(92-94) Points Wine Advocate
2010 Chardonnay
Ritchie Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Shows terrific energy, cut and focus, with bright shades of lemon, flowers, mint and crushed rocks. It is a beautifully delineated, energetic Chardonnay to drink over the next few years. ”
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(92-94) Points Wine Advocate
2010 Chardonnay
Richard Dinner Vineyard
Sonoma Mountain“Shows a gorgeous textural depth and richness. Lemon, vanillin, sweet spices and butter are some of the notes that flow through to the creamy, expansive finish. This is another terrific wine in 2010. ”
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(91-93) points Wine Advocate
2010 Pinot Noir
Russian River Valley“Beautiful. It has a bit more depth and darker fruity than the 2009. Sweet spices, new leather and licorice are some of the notes that wrap around the finish. This is a terrific showing. ”
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(94-96) points Wine Advocate
2010 Pinot Noir
Hyde Vineyard
Carneros, Napa Valley“Considerable aromatic lift, brightness and focus. Freshly cut flowers, spices and licorice are some of the notes that emerge from this absolutely beautiful, delineated wine. The 2010 comes across as more refined, subtle and elegant than the decidedly muscular 2009. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2030. ”
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(93-95) points Wine Advocate
2010 Pinot Noir
Ulises Valdez Vineyard
Russian River Valley“Impresses for its superb elegance and pedigree. Dark fruit, flowers, spices and licorice are some of the notes that come together in the glass. The 2010 expresses plenty of the size and volume that are typical of this site, but with more finesse, elegance and delineation that found in the 2009. Mint, licorice and flowers add nuance on the bright, high-toned finish. ”