It’s that time of year again…

It is time to announce the TOP 100 WINES OF 2016. We took the thousands of wines that we tasted and narrowed it down to the best of the best. Our rankings are based upon:

Our staff’s ratings during tastings
Popularity with our clients

So here they are, of all the thousands of wines we and our clients were lucky enough to enjoy this year, we narrowed it down to the BEST 100. The wines on this list are from all over the globe and range from $20 to several hundreds of dollars. They include wines from:

Napa
Sonoma
Central Coast
Oregon
Washington
Italy
France
Germany
South Africa
Austrailia

So without futher ado, here are Wine Spectrum’s Top 100 Wines of 2016

#1 – 2014 Silver Ghost (Learn More)

Cabernet Sauvignon | Napa Valley | Available Now

Wine Spectrum Rated 94: Complex, dark fruit aromas of black cherry, blueberry, and cassis burst from the glass along with toast, smoked herbs, and coffee. On the palate, this wine reveals phenomenal purity and opulent fruit with lush and well-integrated tannins supporting a rich texture and depth that continue through the long finish.

#2 – 2014 Lattanzio ‘Umino Vineyard’ (Learn More)

Pinot Noir | Sonoma Coast

Wine Spectrum Rated 94+: Brilliant ruby red. Aromas of Asian spices, black current, cherry and underbrush. The wine has a plush texture due to the ample but rounded out tannins. Flavors match the nose with a nice backbone of acidity to provide lift and energy to the palate There is a mouthwatering dusting of fine, ripe tannins that coat the palate on the finish. 75 cases made.

#3 – 2013 Verite ‘La Muse’ (Learn More)

Red Blend | Sonoma County | Available Now

Wine Spectrum Rated 98, Robert Parker 100: The 2013 La Muse, like all of the 2013s, comes about one-third from Alexander Valley vineyards, 40-plus percent from Chalk Hill, and the rest Knights Valley and Bennett Valley – all high-elevation hillside vineyards. A blend of 89% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc and 3% Malbec at 14.3% alcohol, the wine is amazingly like a great vintage of Petrus, with mulberry, black cherry, licorice, truffle and unctuous, thick, juicy fruit all present in this full-bodied masterpiece. The tannins are still present. The wine has purity and savory presence and is remarkable. The finish goes on for well past a minute. This wine would probably benefit from 5-8 years of bottle age and last 40-50 years.

#4 – 2014 Picayune ‘Padlock’ (Learn More)

Red Blend | Napa Valley | Available Now

Wine Spectrum Rated 94: Deep velvety crushed cranberry color, the nose is immidatley complex, hints of spice, chocolate, red berry fruit and a touch of fine oak, on the palate the wine is rich and equally complex, deep and long with fine tannin and acidity, no wonder they pour this at The French Laundry, it really shines on the dinner table. A blend of 73% Merlot, 21% Malbec and 6% Cabernet Sauvignon

#5 – 2013 Martinelli (Learn More)

Pinot Noir | Sonoma Coast | Available Now

Wine Spectrum Rated 95: The 2013 Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir has aromas of cherry cola, rhubarb, spiced plums and potpourri. On the palate, raspberries with cream and spicy blackberry jam flavors, with great balance and a lengthy finish. Primarily Blue Slide Ridge Vineyard fruit (declassified.) 90% Blue Slide Ridge, a tiny bit of Three Sisters, Wild Thyme (a new Martinelli single vineyard), and Home Ranch (a new Martinelli single vineyard.) Only 634 cases produced.

#6 – 2012 Marcassin ‘Marcassin Vineyard’ (Learn More)

Chardonnay | Sonoma Coast

Wine Spectrum Rated 98, Robert Parker 100: The 2012 Chardonnay Marcassin Vineyard, which will probably be released in a few months, displays great minerality, notes of honeysuckle, orange marmalade, poached pear, and white flowers as well as a touch of quince. A wine of great intensity, yet incredibly ethereal elegance, this light greenish gold-colored wine is full-bodied, stunningly rich, and altogether remarkable. When you consider that they use 100% new French oak and 100% heavy toast for both their Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs, it is remarkable how little oak appears in these wines. This wine should age well for 10-15 years, as most of the Marcassin Estate Chardonnays have done to date.

#7 – 2013 Purlieu (Learn More)

Cabernet Sauvignon | Napa Valley| Available Now

Wine Spectrum Rated 96+: Rich dark purple color. The nose is pure joy, black fruits, espresso, graphite, and cedar. Mouthfeel is concentrated and unctuous, rich and expressive, with smooth tannins leading to swirling flavors of dark berries, plum, chocolate and sweet spice. Purlieu is produced under the guidance of winemaker Julien Fayard (assistant winemaker at Lafite Rothschild and current assistant to Philippe Melka) and viticulturist Steve Matthiasson.

#8 – 2013 Le Pich (Learn More)

Cabernet Sauvignon | Napa Valley| Available Now

Wine Spectrum Rated 95: Purlieu’s sister label, Le Pich, gets its name from a Wappo Indian term meaning “golden eagle.” They are hunting birds, and you can often spot them above our vineyards as they soar, glide, circle and arc. They are beautiful birds — stately and impressive, but not haughty or boasting, with a nimbleness that’s inspiring. We hope that our Le Pich wines live up to the character of their namesake.

#9 – 2007 Villa Le Prata (Learn More)

Sangiovese | Brunello di Montalcino, DOCG Italy

Wine Spectrum Rated 96+, Robert Parker 96+: The 2013 Janzen Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Missouri Hopper Vineyard is from another Oakville site. This wine offers up much more unsmoked cigar tobacco, wet gravel/minerality, crème de cassis, licorice and graphite. It is full-bodied, intense, multilayered, gorgeously pure and long. It can be drunk early on, or cellared for 30+ years.

#10 – 2010 Harris Estate ‘ Lakeview Vineyard’ (Learn More)

Cabernet Sauvignon | Napa Valley | Available Now

Wine Spectrum Rated 95+, Robert Parker 95: The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Lakeview Vineyard is another standout. Here the fruit is so intense and textured that the tannins are virtually unnoticeable. Black cherries, tar, menthol, savory herbs and iron are some of the many notes that seem to explode from the glass. Despite the wine’s opulence, there is plenty of tension and vibrancy to support the fruit. The 2010 boasts tremendous balance, not to mention tons of pure appeal. Anticipated maturity: 2016-2030.

#11 – 2013 Verite ‘Le Desir’

Red Blend | Sonoma County | Available Now

Wine Spectrum Rated 97+, Robert Parker 99: The 2013 Le Desir represents 2,500 cases. This is the softest of the three wines in 2013, and this blend of 61% Cabernet Franc, 23% Merlot, 11% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Malbec emerges with more than half of the cuvée coming from Hillsides in Alexander Valley, 37% from Chalk Hill and the rest tiny dollops from Bennett Valley and Knights Valley. Opaque purple, like its siblings, the wine is showing incredible floral, blueberry and espresso notes, exotic Asian spices, velvety texture, a supple, multilayered mouthfeel and incredible finish, with incense and licorice. This is magnificent young wine, with a good 40-50 years of upside potential. Pierre Seillan is justifiably proud of what he has achieved, and his first vintage of Vérité was only 1998, but they go from strength to strength.

#12 – 2013 Noemi

Cabernet Sauvignon | Napa Valley| Available Now

Wine Spectrum Rated 94+: Noemi certainly doesn’t disappoint with this gorgeous Cabernet Sauvignon from the unbelievable 2013 vintage. Aromas of perfume, violets, lavender, and macerated black cherries emanate from the glass. The palate boasts a silky smooth texture and mouthfeel with flavors of rich red berry fruits, hints of toffee and a touch of brambly chalk and underbrush. The tannin structure and balance are seamless and promise plenty of age-worthiness. A long, mouth-coating finish completes this 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. Aged 20 months in French oak. About 500 cases produced. Made by Rolando Hererra.

#13 – Precious

Syrah | Murica, Spain| Available Now

Wine Spectrum Rated 93+: If you love wine, and you love Burbon, then this is the perfect wine for you! Dan Philips who owns The Grateful Palate and Julien Van Winkle colloborated on this wine, old vine Spanish Syrah aged in Pappy Van Winkle barrels, what you get is a rich and powerful wine with hints of bourbon, deep fruit and a fleshy palate impression. A perfect wine for the Pappy lover.

#14 – Courtesan ‘Ronin’

Red Blend | Oakville | Available Now

Wine Spectrum Rated 93+: A masculine styled red wine consisting of 70% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 10% Cabernet Franc. At first sip, the merlot shines though with big dark cherry and cranberry dominating the palate. The finish though is all Cab. Bold tannin and dark fruit surprise you and offer a finish that goes on for over a minute. This small production (200 cases) blend from the heart of Oakville is ages 29 months in new French oak barrels.

#15 – 2012 Kenefick Ranch ‘Estate’

Merlot | Napa Valley

Wine Spectrum Rated 96: Copious notes of red fruit, strawberry jam and spicy notes. Fresh berry preserve shows on the entry, bright acidity integrates the oak tannin, creating a creamy mid palate. 90% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc. 300 cases produced. Kenefick Ranch’s vineyards are across from Araujo!

#16 – 2014 Gerard Raphet ‘Charmes-Chambertin’, Grand Cru

Red Burgundy | Burgundy, France | Available Now

Wine Spectrum Rated 96: Raphet wines are a Burgundy-lover’s Burgundy. They are best appreciated by those already familiar with the light color and earthy flavors of classic Burgundian Pinot Noir. Always a sexy, supple wine, this vintage is no exception. A concentrated wine with plenty of fruit the aromas lift out of the glass to greet you. The minute long finish rewards those who let it develop in the glass. We call it “An iron fist with a velvet glove” This is a fantastic representation of great grand Cru Burgundy.

#17 – 2012 Penny’s Hill ‘Footprint’

Shiraz | McLaren Vale, Australia | Available Now

Wine Spectrum Rated 94+: A complex nose displaying dark plum, black and blue berry fruits with subtle hints of anise, dark chocolate, spice and smoky oak. The ultra regional, remarkably pure, full-bodied McLaren Vale Shiraz creates a luscious, rich palate. Well balanced with layers of chocolate, leather and earth revealed. Silky tannins complete the picture.

As with each vintage of ‘Footprint’, only the most outstanding Shiraz from the narrow planted rows of the Penny’s Hill vineyard is chosen for this limited edition, super premium release. Vintage 2012 produced fruit of exceptional condition, aiding the creation of a ‘Footprint’ Shiraz which is remarkably pure, layered and ultra-regional. The original Penny’s Hill vineyard is situated on the foothills east of McLaren Vale and experiences a climate, slightly cooler than the valley floor, that contributes to more even ripening temperatures. Planted in 1991 on Kurrajong formation, with geology consisting of clayey sands and silica-cemented conglomerate, these Shiraz vines are low yielding and produce grapes of exceptional quality and complexity. Narrow planted, in east-west orientation, these rows are 2.2m wide with high density 1.5m vine spacing, effectively reducing the yield per vine, dramatically raising quality and yet still retaining the desired crop levels of the vineyard, approximately 2 tonnes per acre. Vines are hand tendered and spur pruned on a single cordon and together with precise canopy and water management the excellence of this Shiraz parcel is captured. As with each vintage of ‘Footprint’, only the most outstanding rows of Shiraz are hand selected for this limited edition, super premium, Scarce Earth release.

#18 – 2013 Chateau Boswell ‘Ritchie Vineyard’

Chardonnay | Russian River Valley | Available Now

Wine Spectrum Rated 96: The 2013 Chateau Boswell Ritchie is ultra-rich and opulent, featuring a symphony of fresh fruit flavors balanced by a sense of harmony and class only found in California’s blue chip Chardonnays (e.g. Morlet, Peter Michael, and Pahlmeyer). Captivating hints of caramel and Hawaiian macadamia nuts come alive on the palate intertwined with notes of nectarine, vanilla, minerals, lemon oil, and honeysuckle on the pristine finish that is still relatively restrained as of this writing. This ultra-impressive new Chardonnay is 100% unfiltered and aged in new French Oak with indigenous wild yeast for 19 months. The result is a powerhouse effort that combines the age-ability of a noteworthy “grand cru” Burgundy with the full throttle Russian River fruit California collectors will adore. Aging potential for 5 – 7 years, peaking around 2020 in our estimate. That said, pop the cork on a bottle now and enjoy after decanting (seriously; it benefits young white wines also!) for a half hour. – California Wine Advisors

#19 – 2013 Janzen ‘Beckstoffer Missouri-Hopper’

Cabernet Sauvignon | Napa Valley

#20 – 2013 Behrens Family ‘Homeland’

Cabernet Sauvignon | Napa Valley

Wine Spectrum Rated 95+, Robert Parker 96: The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Homeland is another blockbuster Cabernet with an inky purple color, sweet crème de cassis and blackberry fruit, licorice, truffle, stunning concentration and a multi-dimensional mouthfeel. This is another tribute to incredible fruit and purity. Drink it over the next 20 years.

#21 – 2014 Clos du Caillou

Red Rhone Blend | Chateauneuf-du-Pape | Available Now

Wine Spectrum Rated 95+: Bright ruby-red. Aromas of ripe raspberry and candied flowers show very good clarity and spicy lift. Supple, sweet and round on the palate, offering red berry preserve and cherry flavors and a touch of candied licorice. Appealingly spherical and seamless in texture; fine-grained tannins shape a long, floral finish.

#22 – 2014 Domaine Bouard-Bonnefoy ‘Maltroie’ Chassagne Montrachet 1er Cru

White Burgundy | Burgundy, France

Wine Spectrum Rated 96: Bouard is one of the smallest estate bottlers in Burgundy’s village of Chassagne-Montrachet. And by small, we mean 20 barrels, as in 500 cases of wine. Thankfully he has another source of income: his pension from the Groupe de Sécurité de la Présidence de la République, the French secret service agency responsible for guarding the President. In the 1980s, Fabrice’s job was to keep François Miterrand in one piece. Today his stress level is considerably lower.

In the heart of Chassagne Montrachet, this Premiere Cru White Burgundy is light on palate and develops into the mid palate with a long finish. Hints of dried grapefruit seamless and balanced on the finish. Only 18 cases imported.

#23 – 2013 Anomaly

Cabernet Sauvignon | Napa Valley | Available Now

Wine Spectrum Rated 96+: 2013 was a spectacular growing season in Napa Valley. The bouquet is bursting with ripe red cherry aromas, delicately followed by hints of oak and allspice. The fruit flavors are dark, layered, and tightly wound; clove and chocolate notes accent the rich blackberry essence. The tannins are chewy, yet fine and elongate the wine’s luxurious finish. This vintage is taut with anticipation and will reward those who are patient. Let’s hope there are a lot of children and grandchildren who were born in 2013, because this vintage is perfect for a celebration down the road. 84% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Cab Franc, 13% Petit Verdot

#24 – 2012 La Quercia

Montepulciano di Abruzzo | Italy

Wine Spectrum Rated 94: Antonio Lamona is the most humble rock star we know. His basic Montepulciano d’Abruzzo is a staple of our portfolio, and now we are thrilled to present his Riserva for the first time. Aged in 50hl Slovenian oak for 12 months, and an additional year in steel, the wine exudes wonderful character from the 40 year old vines. Grown in the classic ‘tendone’ (or tent style), the plantings are pruned to produce about 2/3 of a bottle per plant. Very low yields! A wine not to be missed. 100% Montepulciano d’Abruzzo.

#25 – 2013 Barbour Vineyards

Cabernet Sauvignon | Napa Valley

Wine Spectrum Rated 97+: 2013 Barbour Cabernet Sauvignon displays intense and concentrated aromas resulting from an outstanding vintage for this dry-farmed and meticulously maintained vineyard. Blue and purple-toned fruits dominate the nose with just a touch of sweet sage and dark tobacco providing the foundation for more lifted notes.

Harvested by hand on September 16 and 20, 2013, this wine hails from Jim Barbour’s estate vineyard on the western benchlands of St. Helena. Cluster selection both in the vineyard and winery was exacting. The fruit was destemmed and sorted, then fermented on its skins for approximately three weeks prior to gently pressing. Aged in French Oak barrels for 22 months, the wine shows the body, breadth of palate, and clarity of fruit expression at finish to ensure age-worthiness, yet an elegant, congenial tannin structure to enjoy at release. 340 cases produced.

#26 – 2013 Matthew Wallace

Cabernet Sauvignon | Napa Valley

Wine Spectrum Rated 97: The 2013 vintage of Matthew Wallace is handcrafted by winemaker Julien Fayard (Lafite Rothschild, Melka Consulting, Le Pich, Purlieu…..) from grapes grown in two vineyards located in Stags Leap District and on Howell Mountain by Matt Hardin (of Barbour Vineyards.) The blend is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, classically-styled and fermented in small lots with the intent to choose only those that reflect the best of their site and vintage.

Matthew Wallace Cabernet Sauvignon fruit is grown in the coveted Stag’s Leap District accompanied by grapes from Howell Mountain. In Stags Leap, we isolated the steepest part of the hillside vineyard and fermented it separately in small batches. The wine is rich and dense with a beautiful tannin structure coming from the steep terrain. This West-facing slope brings dark, black fruits which are elegantly ripe and combined with lively spice notes from the barrel. The mouth is balanced with minerality and soil flavors typical of Stag’s Leap. The wine benefits from decanting in its youth. 100% Cabernet Sauvignon.

#27 – 2013 Martinelli ‘Three Sisters’

Pinot Noir | Sonoma Coast | Available Now

Wine Spectrum Rated 96+: The climate is moderate in this area of the far western reaches of Sonoma County due to the closeness of the body of ocean. This grape studded view lies upon the second ridge inland from the coastline at Fort Ross. Here above the fog line the skies are clear and pristine, yet in the winter the rain falls harder and denser than anywhere else in Sonoma County. The 2013 Three Sisters Vineyard Pinot Noir has a lovely nose with cranberry and rhubarb notes, Christmas spices, and hints of smoke, leather and earth. Medium weight on the palate with focused flavors and a long finish of cherries, plums and spices.

#28 – 2013 Delarche Corton Charlemagne Grand Cru

White Burgundy | Burgundy, France

Wine Spectrum Rated 95+: The family’s few older vines in this noble grand cru sit at the top of the slope, and deliver fruit that is well-balanced and complex, with a stony, high-altitude edge. The Corton Charlemagne is a gorgeous wine, with a reserved, brooding nose of smoke and citrus; silky and weighty on the palate, with more citrus and peach.

The wines of Domaine Marius Delarche speak to a secret truth about Burgundy; that no matter how well you think you know the Cote d’Or, there are still wines that have the power to surprise and seduce. Hidden away in the peaceful valley of Pernand-Vergelesses, in the shadow of the Corton hill, is certainly the Cote de Beaune’s best-kept secret – terroir-true wines made by an honest winemaker for prices that reminded of decades past.

#29 – 2013 Hall ‘Kathryn Hall’

Cabernet Sauvignon | Napa Valley

Wine Spectrum Rated 97+, Robert Parker 98-100: The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Kathryn Hall from their Sacrashe Rutherford Vineyard delivers a relatively profound set of aromatics even for a wine that’s only 11 months of age. With almost unreal richness of blue and black fruits, spring flowers, graphite and spice, this is a sensational inky, full-bodied wine that will come close to being a perfect wine when bottled after its full élevage in barrel. Spectacular!

The Halls acquired the historic St. Helena Bergfeld Winery in 2003 and re-opened as HALL St. Helena in July of that year. With a rich history spanning 150 years, HALL St. Helena’s location was once the home of the Napa Valley Co-Op, producing 40% of Napa Valley’s wines. In 2013, The Hall family completed the restoration of the 1885 Bergfeld Winery and merged history and innovation with the completion of California’s first LEED® Gold Certified winery, in addition to a stunning Visitor Center and state-of-the-art gravity flow winemaking facility.

#30 – 2014 12C ‘G3 Beckstoffer Vineyard Georges III’

Cabernet Sauvignon | Napa Valley

Wine Spectrum Rated 94+: The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon is a substantial wine, and bigger than many Cabernets in this vintage while more structure as well. Dense purple. it shows background high-quality oak, loads of blackberry, cassis and a prolonged full-bodied mouthfeel. This is a relatively substantial 2014 that’s by no means front-end loaded like so many. Drink it over the next 15 or so years. 125 cases made. Mike Smith is fast becoming the most sought after winemaker in Napa Valley, he makes wines at Carter, Myriad, Becklin and many others, he has numerous 100 points wines under his belt.

One of the most famous vineyards in Napa Valley was planted in 1895 by Mrs. Thomas Rutherford in you guessed it, the town of Rutherford. The vineyard was then purchased in 1928 by Georges de Latour and was incorporated into Beaulieu Vineyards at which time the vineyard was renamed as BV3. The vineyards grapes were used in numerous bottlings including the famed Rutherford bottles of the 1950’s-1980’s and has been included in Georges de Latour Reserve bottles as well. Andre Tchelistcheff the legendary winemaker at BV tended this vineyard for all of his career at BV and he was the one who recognized its greatness. The vineyard was sold in 1988 to Andy Beckstoffer who has invested considerable resources to improve the vineyard. Today some of the finest Cabernet Sauvignon in Napa come from this legendary vineyard.

#31 – 2014 Martinelli ‘Jackass Vineyard’

Zinfandel | Russian River Valley

Wine Spectrum Rated 96+, Robert Parker 97: RP 97: The 2014 Zinfandel Jackass Vineyard (217 cases clocking in at a whopping 16.6% natural alcohol) is absolutely ravishingly rich, extravagantly full-bodied and unctuously textured, with notes of charcuterie, barbecue meats, smoke, herbs, blackberry, cassis and a finish that just oozes over the palate with no hard edges. This is the quintessential old vine Zinfandel and a remarkable effort. Drink it over the next 15-20+ years.

This could be the winery’s finest Jackass Vineyard Zinfandel to date! Plush, lush and powerful, this is a classic vintage for the vineyard. Immediate aromas of fresh earth and bramble, with hints of orange peel, peaches, dark berries and pepper. Flavors of dark blue fruits, currants and notes of licorice. A very serious, complex Zinfandel. 217 cases produced.

#32 – 2013 Perfect Season

Cabernet Sauvignon | Knights Valley

Wine Spectrum Rated 97, Robert Parker 95: The 2013 vintage of Perfect Season Cabernet Sauvignon was handcrafted by winemaker Philippe Melka from grapes farmed by viticulturist Jim Barbour. In its youth, it benefits from 3 hours of decanting. The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon from the Bidwell Creek Vineyard is 92% Cabernet Sauvignon and 8% Merlot aged 18 months in 75% new French oak. It’s a beauty, with lots of blackberry and cassis fruit, licorice, incense and camphor. It is ripe, full-bodied, opulent and already showing exceptionally well.

#33 – 2011 Cedro do Noval

Red Blend | Vinho Regional Duriense, Portugal

Wine Spectrum Rated 93+, James Suckling 92: A bright, floral red on the nose with violets and dark berries. Full-bodied, soft and silky with fresh mushroom, gunmetal, meat and dark chocolate. So attractive and moreish. 20% syrah with key Douro grape types such as touriga nacional. Drink now.

Noval’s dry table wines are from specially selected parcels of new and mature vines around the spectacular estate, and blended from two classic port varities: Touriga Nacional and Touriga Franca. True to its long history of continuous innovation, Noval has also been among the first to experiment with Rhone varieties in the Douro, with Syrah from estate plantings being blended into the Cedro do Noval. Cedro do Noval is more fruit-forward than its big brother, Noval Tinto, but it stands as a serious wine on its own and a representation of the deep, floral and mineral wines that can be made in the Douro. 40% Touiga Nacional, 40% Touriga Franca & 20% Syrah.

The Syrah component means the wine is not classified as Douro DOC, but Vinho Regional Duriense; all the fruit, however, comes from the Noval vineyards. Cedro is a reference to the famous 100 year old cedar tree that sits next to the Quinta, overlooking the Pinhao and Douro rivers.

#34 – 2015 Domaine Pastou “La Cote de Sury”

Sauvignon Blanc | Sancerre, France | Available Now

Wine Spectrum Rated 93+: This is pure, razor-sharp Sancerre, vibrant nose of herb and mineral, hints of green plum and white flowers. The palate is juicy and mouthwatering with a finish that is lively and long.

Domaine Pastou is located in the commune of Sury-en-Vaux, a sleepy town located amidst the rolling hills in the Northern section of the Sancerre appellation. Jean-Marc Pastou has been making wine under his own label since the early 1980’s, planting his first vines (now his oldest), in that same year. They hold a total of 12 hectares of Sauvignon Blanc vines in Sancerre, including numerous parcels in the lieu dit of ‘Les Boucaults’ – the bulk of which goes into the cuvee for MSW, hence the name of this bottling. This wine is a perennial favorite, delivering minerally driven, beautiful Sancerre fruit for an amazingly good price.

#35 – 2013 Bernard Magrez

Cabernet Sauvignon | Napa Valley

Wine Spectrum Rated 96: A luxurious, rich wine with notes of plum, black cherries / blackberries and mocha. A pure, concentrated wine, with full-bodied depth, finishing with great, intense length. 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. Less than 200 cases produced.

Bernard Magrez Napa Valley Cabernet is the California cult winery label for the owner of famed Bordeaux Chateaux Pape Clement and Magrez Fombrauge. The fruit for this wine comes exclusively from the Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard in Saint Helena. This is the fourth vintage that winemaker Benoit Touquette (Realm Cellars and Hartwell Estate) has produced, and the second vintage sourced from Dr. Crane fruit.

#36 – 2014 Domaine La Croiux Saint Laurent ‘Le Chêne Marchand’

Sauvignon Blanc | Sancerre, France

Wine Spectrum Rated 95: Pale yellow color. Nose of crushed rocks, green melon, dusty white flowers. Smooth, round and pure in the mouth, with bright flavors of nectarine, key lime, plus acid and minerality, leading to a long, expressive finish. This single block of 35 year old vines is planted in 100% clay soils and fermented in 70% stainless steel tanks and 30% in new 500L acacia oak barrels.

#37 – 2012 Linked Vineyards

Cabernet Sauvignon | Knights Valley | Available Now

Wine Spectrum Rated 95+: Deep rich color, velvety palate impression and fine balance are all hallmarks of Linked Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2012 vintage offers up deep cherry fruit on the nose, intense cassis and chocolate with hints of smoke, fine tannin and a long finish round out this excellent wine for the cellar or with an hour decanting.

Linked Vineyards is the true embodiment of small-batch Sonoma County luxury wine. Founded by the Link Family in 2000 as a place to build a family legacy, Linked Vineyards offers ultra-exclusive, handcrafted Knights Valley Cabernet Sauvignon to discerning collectors. Renowned Winemaker Luc Morlet oversees every aspect of every lot, from handpicking to hand sorting, and this meticulous, gentle attention results in wines of extraordinary elegance. Every step of the winemaking process is thoughtful and deliberate. The complete fermentation of this lot was done in French Oak puncheons, allowing the early integration of oak and grapes. Luc’s delicate approach to the entire process allows the terroir of both this amazing vineyard and Knights Valley to emerge in the wine. Each sip is a well-orchestrated progression of dark berries, chocolate, black tea and toasted brioche.

#38 – 2014 Tantara ‘Evelyn’

Pinot Noir | Santa Maria Valley | Available Now

Wine Spectrum Rated 95+: Black current, black cherry and hints of high note cranberry to offer a balance of red fruit to a predominant dark fruit presence. 51 cases made

Since 1997, Tantara has been dedicated to producing the very finest Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Located in the beautiful Santa Maria Valley (Santa Barbara County), our wines are sourced from top Central Coast growers and vineyards such as, Bentrock, Brosseau, Dierberg, La Encantada, Lindsay’s, Radian, Rio Vista, Talley, Tondre and Zotovich. In 2012, our two Los Olivos District estate vineyards, Ingeborg’s and Mateo’s, came online yielding Syrah and Cabernet Franc respectively.

#39 – 2012 Studert-Prum Wehlener Sonnenuhr Auslese

Riesling | Mosel, Germany | Available Now

Wine Spectrum Rated 93+: Fresh green plum, peach and honeydew flavors taste crisp and sweet in this refreshing semi-sweet spätlese. It’s concentrated with fruit yet deft and dancing on the palate, accented by hints of dusty pollen and fennel. High-toned acidity leads a long, squeaky-clean finish.

All of our wines are 100% Riesling. The finefruit acidity of the Riesling grape and the gentle wine-making are warrants for fresh and fruity, finely structured wines with great maturing potential over many, many years. Studert-Prüm wines achieve highest awards at national and international competitions.

#40 – 2013 Macauley ‘Reserve’

Cabernet Sauvignon | Napa Valley

Wine Spectrum Rated 96+, Robert Parker 94+: The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve has an inky blue/black color, tremendous body and richness, and really seems even stronger than the two Beckstoffer cuvées, which is hard to believe. This is intense, full-bodied, with layers of flavor and a great finish. Drink it over the next 20 years. 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, 50% from the To Kalon Vyd./ 50% from the Star Vyd. Barrel fermented, this beautiful wine reveals notes of black cherry, mocha, dark chocolate with a strong tannin structure. Concentrated with cascading layers of luscious textures. Decant and drink now or lay down for 20 years.

#41 – 2008 André Robert ‘Blanc des Blanc’ Grand Cru

Champagne | Le Mesnil, Champagne

Wine Spectrum Rated 96: The wine shows a complex range of aromas from white flower to fresh fruit. The wine is long and refreshing in the mouth, balanced with underlying minerality. A vintage with a great ageing potential. Very limited availability in the U.S.

A stunning Grand Cru GROWER CHAMPAGNE located in the revered hill slopes of Mesnil sur Oger, the Robert Champagne Estate is above all a family business. The Robert family has been cultivating vines for several generations. Henri Robert (1881-1948) began working on vineyards after the 1st World War when vines were planted “en foule”. In the 1930s he established the first group of ‘growers’ to share equipment needed for pressing and wine-making. At the start of the second World War, André Robert (born in 1925) began to work in the vineyard with the use of a horse. In 1960 he bought the Estate (dating back to the 19th century) as it is today with its amazing chalk-stone cellars for ageing. He began to sell his own bottled champagne in 1962. Bathed in the world of champagne throughout his childhood, Bertrand Robert took over the estate in 1961, with his wife Colette joining him in 1990. Bertrand’s daughter, Claire joined her father in 2013 and now works beside him in the vineyards and cellar. These are absolutely stunning champagne offerings …. pure and all Grand Cru.

#42 – 2014 Furthermore

Pinot Noir | Sonoma Coast | Available Now

Wine Spectrum Rated 93+: The Sonoma Coast Pinot from Furthermore is delicate wine in the glass that is both light in body and color but packs a big punch on the nose and in the mouth. Big notes of clove, Chinese five spice but with a gorgeous undertone of cranberry. This is a supple wine that is elegant with a lovely velvety texture . It expands on the palate into a lush fullness. Absolutely delicious and an incredible value.

#43 – 2010 L’Illuminata ‘Colbertina’

Barbera | Barbera d’Alba, Italy

Wine Spectrum Rated 93+, James Suckling 91: A round, fruity red with dried berries, chocolate and hints of cedar character. Full and savory. Ripe citrus acidity. Drink or hold. Intense ruby-red color with violet glints. Ample and complex bouquet with floral tones reminiscent of rose, and pleasant hints of chocolate and vanilla. The flavor is rich and harmonious with a delightful and long lasting aftertaste.

#44 – 2012 Oakville East ‘Exposure’

Cabernet Sauvignon | Oakville, Napa Valley | Available Now

Wine Spectrum Rated 95+: Blue and red fruits, a lot of spice and a mellow finish. Medium to full-bodied, pure, ripe and reassuringly good, this wine quickly grew on me. It should drink nicely for 10-15 years.

The story begins thousands of years ago, when a single mountain within the Vaca Range split in two and collapsed, resulting in a rubble field of volcanic core stones that face the setting sun. This event created what is now the eastern border of the Oakville AVA, and is a site that is exposed to constant and intense daily sunshine. This results in grapes that possess extremely ripe tannins, contributing to the unique elegance and approachability of our wines. Because of the ‘magic’ of this place and to ensure we produce wines reflective of the site, every step in the winemakng and viticulture process is first class. Oakville East’s multi-vineyard Oakville locations surround some of California’s finest Cabernet Sauvignon wines, including Joseph Phelps Backus, Dalle Valle and Sir Peter Michael vines, and are perched above Rudd, Gargiulo and Screaming Eagle.

#45 – 2013 Kathryn Kennedy ‘LATERAL’

Red Blend | Napa Valley | Available Now

Wine Spectrum Rated 94: Dark opaque color…Graphite and cedar nose reminiscent of ripe Bordeaux. Deep brooding fruit aromas with purple plums and dark chocolate aromas followed by hints of loam and cocoa. Plush entry and dense mouth-filling texture. Youthful and structured but with ripe tannins that are fine grained and soft on the finish. A stunning rendition of our “Right Bank” style. A huge and impressive LATERAL vintage: sure to please. A perfect entry with medium-light mouthfeel and elegant texture but not too lean. Small scale, feminine structure. Super attractive Bordeaux texture of fresh mineral laden running water. Attractive oak and Merlot varietal notes appear in light finish. A stunning rendition of our “Right Bank” style. A huge and impressive LATERAL vintage: sure to please.

#46 – 2013 Raptor Ridge ‘Barrel Select’

Pinot Noir | Willamette Valley, Oregon

Wine Spectrum Rated 94: We are thrilled to offer this new blend of 100 percent Pinot noir from our premium Estate Vineyard, and multiple vineyard partners throughout the Willamette Valley. The nose is pretty, with soft notes of red fruits like red currants, red raspberry and a meaty spice, with a hint of Oregon forest floor that cries out for chanterelles. The palate has an ample finish with notes of black tea and cherry compote. Enjoy now with chicken marsala, grilled herbed salmon, or cellar to see how this wine evolves. Feel free to decant this wine to encourage aroma development at the table.

#47 – 2013 Capensis

Chardonnay | Western Cape, South Africa | Available Now

Wine Spectrum Rated 93+, Robert Parker 93, Decanter 94: It is a dry, full-bodied but somewhat reticent Chardonnay, tightly knit with concentrated fresh fruit and firmly structured with high acidity. Aromas and flavors suggest white peach, apple, pear, honey, vanilla, and notes of chalky minerality; the vivid fruit notes are those of succulent, fresh fruits and they carry long into the finish of the wine. The wine’s texture is creamy, but its acidity causes sparks to fly in your mouth, leaving an impression of juicy richness combined with freshness and cleanness.

South Africa’s Western Cape can be called both the oldest wine region of the New World and the newest wine region of the Old World. Capensis skillfully combines these two facets — the oldest and the newest — of Western Cape winemaking. It embodies the unparalleled quality that comes from old, gnarled vines planted in some of the oldest soils in the world, and it represents the young energy of a new generation of winemakers determined to make world-class wines with state-of-the-art techniques.

Capensis, meaning “from the Cape,” is a leader in bringing South Africa to the forefront as a world-class Chardonnay producer. The commitment to Chardonnay comes from the belief that the truly great vineyard sites around the world are revealed by only a few noble grape varieties.

#48 – 2012 Courtesan ‘Blue Mask’ Reserve

Red Blend | Napa Valley | Available Now

Wine Spectrum Rated 95: This new wine from Courtesan has all the making of an instant classic. This is not your typical Cabernet Franc based Red Blend (70% Cab Franc, 20% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon). Due to the extra time and care spent aging in new french oak barrels (30 months) you don’t get any of the green characteristics that Cabernet Franc can sometimes deliver. The nose delivers rich and beautiful dark fruit characteristics highlighted by black cherry and dark raspberry. The first thing you notice on tasting it is how smooth it is drinkable it is. More beautiful fruit shines on the palate with with a finish that is long with hints of chocolate. The dynamic tannin structure on this wine will go perfect with food. This a less than 100 cases production that is amazing now, but has the chops to last 7-10 years in your cellar.

#49 – 2013 Cardinale

Cabernet Sauvignon | Napa Valley

Wine Spectrum Rated 96+, Robert Parker 96: A brilliant wine from winemaker Chris Carpenter and the Jackson family, this blend of 89% Cabernet Sauvignon and 11% Merlot, mostly coming from mountain vineyards owned by the Jackson family, is fabulous. The 2013 Cardinale Proprietary Red Wine is dense purple-colored, a big, sweet kiss of crème de cassis as well as licorice, blackberry and espresso are all present in this full-bodied, rather sublime and intense Cabernet Sauvignon that should drink well for 25 or more years. This was aged in about 91% new French oak for 18-20 months prior to bottling. It is certainly one of the finest Cardinales I have tasted in my experience.

#50 – 2012 The Paring

Red Blend | California

Wine Spectrum Rated 92+: A dark and brooding cabernet sauvignon-based beauty. Gobs of smoky black fruit. Dusty and herbal notes emerge with air. With more time in the glass, attractive notes of baking spice arise. Remarkably powerful fruit on the attack followed closely by massive structure. Ample fine-grained tannins that completely coat the palate with a gentle hold. The next day this wine becomes luxurious and hints at the epic future ahead. An enormous, yet ultimately refined wine for the classic California cabernet lover, the tannin fanatic, the steak aficionado and the patient cellar tender. 53% Cabernet Sauvignon, 24% Merlot, 16% Cabernet Franc, 7% Petit Verdot.

#51 – 2013 Verite ‘La Joie’

Red Blend | Sonoma County | Available Now

Wine Spectrum Rated 97, Robert Parker 100: The 2013 La Joie, which is 46% from Knights Valley, 32% from Chalk Hill and 22% from Alexander Valley, is a blend of 71% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot. Showing loads of graphite, cedar wood, charcoal, crème de cassis and forest floor, this may well turn out to be a 50+-year wine. It tastes like a great first-growth Pauillac and has an amazing amount of complexity and richness.

#52 – 2013 Lewis Cellars ‘Reserve’

Cabernet Sauvignon | Napa Valley

Wine Spectrum Rated 95+, Wine Enthusiast 95: The stunning color and seductive nose, alone, make the 2013 Reserve Cabernet among our most compelling bottles ever. Shining dark and explosively ripe with black fruit, candle wax and brooding oak spice, this 100% Cabernet blend is sexy, smart, and irresistible. The palate forms a massive arc of concentrated blackberry with creamy texture, chocolate, and notes of clove and espresso. Gorgeously fine-tuned tannins drive and define the celestial boundaries of this otherworldly wine. 1,300 cases produced.

#53 – 2013 Araujo ‘Altagracia’

Cabernet Sauvignon | Napa Valley

Wine Spectrum Rated 96: At first, the nose reveals rose petal notes with a hint of peony, then it opens up with blackcurrant, dark cherry aromas and a pinch of licorice. The mouthfeel is unctuous and succulent with a savory black fruit sustained by tight tannins and a finish on blond tobacco notes.

Altagracia, named after Bart Araujo’s grandmother, is a Bordeaux-style blend vinified in the same manner as the Eisele Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon. Fruit for Altagracia is sourced both from the Eisele Vineyard and from certain other Napa Valley vineyards where the winery holds long-term grape contracts and are farmed to their specifications. (The 2013 Araujo Estate Eisele Vyd Cabernet – to be released in August – received 99 points from Robert Parker.) This Napa Valley Red Table Wine, while very ageable, is readily enjoyable in its youth and is a relative bargain considering its source and pedigree.

#54 – 2011 Dark Matter

Zinfandel | Howell Mountain, Napa Valley | Available Now

Wine Spectrum Rated 96+: Generous ruby color, deep nose with spice, pure plum fruit and gentle oak, on the palate the wine is quite powerful but elegant at the same time. Very rich and velvety with a long lingering finish. Aged in 100% new French oak for four years and aged an additional two years in bottle.

60 cases made From the ‘Four Sisters Vineyard’ on Howell Mountain managed by Jim Barbour!

#55 – 2013 Oakville Winegrowers ‘Cuvee’

Cabernet Sauvignon | Oakville, Napa Valley | Available Now

Wine Spectrum Rated 95+: For the serious collector, this is a rare gift to be treasured for years to come. On first pour you see a beautiful dark purple color that gives you a glimpse of the pleasures to follow. Aromas of dark cherry, spices and a hint of chocolate dance from your glass. As you taste it you get a hint of what is to come. Although young, this wine shows wonderfully. Plum, cherry and blackberries dominate your tastebuds with a hint of chocolate on the long finish. This wine was built to last and finishes with smooth yet bold tannins. The winemaker for this special Cuvee rotates avery three years and the 2013 vintage was made by Kristof Anderson of Gargiulo Vineyards.

Each year, acclaimed vintners of the Oakville Winegrowers Association contribute small lots of their prestigious Cabernet Sauvignon to create a unique wine that reflects the essence of the Oakville appellation. The vintners have blended a spectacular cuvee that celebrates the majesty of these vineyards. For the serious collector, this is a rare gift to be treasured for years to come. Only 100 Magnums and 50 Double Magnums are bottled of this ultra-exclusive, ultra-rare wine and each is numbered and etched in gold. We come across more than a few special wines, but this could be the creme de la creme. It is the perfect addition to any collector’s cellar.

#56 – 2013 Arkenstone ‘NVD’

Cabernet Sauvignon | Napa Valley

Wine Spectrum Rated 95+: The deep purple body with a magenta rim gives way to a nose of chocolate, blackberry, red licorice, fresh tobacco and graphite. Ripe black cherry and plum along with fig and white chocolate move through to ripe red cherry, blackberry, sage and gardenia on the mid palate. Brambleberry, coffee, chocolate, lavender and cinnamon linger for a very long finish. This vibrant, well-balanced wine is youthful, yet extremely enjoyable to drink right now.

#57 – 2014 Macauley ‘Old Vines’

Zinfandel | Napa Valley | Available Online

Wine Spectrum Rated 95: The 2014 Old Vine comes from pre-prohibition vineyards; the youngest progeny hail from a 1904 planting in Calistoga. The end results are well-weathered red fruit notes, a bouquet of dried strawberry. Not overly pushy, or brooding, it opens up with zippy and fresh flavors of briar, cola, and white pepper. We made this wine to be consumed now, but if you happen to find one in the recesses of your cellar 15 years from, it will be quite drinkable. 580 cases produced.

#58 – 2014 Davis Estate ‘Hudson Vineyard’

Chardonnay | Carneros, Napa Valley | Available Now

Wine Spectrum Rated 94+: Vibrant hues of pale yellow and sparkling notes of green. Aromas are fresh and complex, with melon, green apple and cantaloupe gliding through a combination of citrus zing and rich toasted oak. Flavors follow with rich tropical fruits, graceful integrated oak and hints of toast. The lingering finish is crisp and elegant. 800 cases

Davis Estates is a family owned and operated boutique estate located in Calistoga, Napa Valley. In 2011, Mike and Sandy Davis purchased the century-old estate winery and began their ambitious restoration project to create a distinguished winery. Mike and Sandy are intricately involved in the fabric of day-to-day operations and, together with their world-class team, are committed to building a sustainable property while crafting premiere Napa Valley wines to be enjoyed today and for generations to come. Davis Estates includes four estate vineyards in Calistoga, Rutherford, Howell Mountain and Carneros in a variety of rich alluvial, hambrich, volcanic rhyolite pale clay and boomer loam soils. The well-draining soils, vast elevation gains and micro-climates produce phenomenal fruit with a robust range of taste profiles. The Davis Estates team is composed of a curated group of amazingly passionate, hardworking individuals whose combined talents culminate to form the basis of our promise. At the winemaking helm is Cary Gott who crafts wines that speak of the vineyard’s true quality as a result of the dedication from the Pina Vineyard Management team.

#59 – 2012 Valdez ‘St. Peter’s Church’

Zinfandel | Alexander Valley, Sonoma County | Available Now

Wine Spectrum Rated 95: This wine’s fruit is sourced from a 5-acre vineyard located behind the St. Peter’s Catholic church in Cloverdale located in the Alexander Valley AVA in Sonoma County, CA. A fourth of this 5-acre vineyard contains 80+ year-old zinfandel vines that produce some intensely concentrated flavors. Our St. Peter’s church zinfandel is fermented with native yeast and is aged in 100% French oak barrels 40% of which is new. This is a fruit forward wine with aromas of black cherries, raspberries, and hints of cracked pepper that are complimented with toasty oak and caramel notes.

#60 – 2012 Eighty-Four

Malbec | Napa Valley

Wine Spectrum Rated 94+: Produced by Elias Fernandez & Doug Shafer, of Shafer Vineyards: Malbec is a newcomer to Napa Valley and we have been loving the challenge of taking on something new. By contrast to Petite Sirah, this wine though quite dark in color emerges from initial fermentation soft, supple and juicy. We only gave it 20 months in 50% new oak to allow it to take on a bit of heft and richness and to speak clearly of its varietal character, a generous mix of black fruit, red fruit and chocolate. 100% Malbec. 600 cases produced.

“Offers complex aromas of violet, wilted rose, crushed rock and graphite amid the dark berry, raspberry and fresh earth notes. A graceful style despite the density and firmness.” — James Laube, Wine Spectator

#61 – 2013 La Pitchoune ‘Pratt Vineyard’

Chardonnay | Sonoma Coast, Sonoma County | Available Now

Wine Spectrum Rated 94+: A pale yellow-green color introduces aromas of ripe pear, green apple, and citrus notes that mingle with an underlying flint-laden, smoky component. Rich nuances of baked apple, lemon curd tartlet, and roasted hazelnuts coalesce on a lingering finish, marked with mineral tension. Drinking well now, but expect this wine to continue to improve with another 6-12 months in the cellar. Crafted to be aged, this wine should provide an extraordinary drinking experience for the next 5-8 years.

#62 – 2014 Peirson Meyer ‘Maquette’

Red Blend | Napa Valley

Wine Spectrum Rated 94+: The 2014 Maquette, a “Right-Bank” blend now with 20% Cabernet Franc is a real beauty. With this new addition the wine hits the palate with deeper blackberry, more intense currant flavors, wrapped around layers of sweet spice, clove and mint. Beautifully structured and well balanced with an exceptional mid-palate, this wine is ready to enjoy in its youth, but will age wonderfully. 35% Merlot, 45% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Cabernet Franc aged in 75% new French oak. 150 cases produced

It was a spring evening in 2001, when my husband Alan Peirson, myself, Robbie and Shannon Meyer were enjoying a bottle of wine together when our discussion turned to the future. We had all met at the Peter Michael Winery Estate, where Robbie was the Assistant Winemaker, and Alan and I were the Winery Estate Managers. In classic fashion we came up with the name and logo for our brand, sketching it out on a cocktail napkin. That evening began our adventure together. In the Fall of 2001 we produced our first vintage, 300 cases of L’Angevin Russian River Valley Chardonnay.”

#63 – 2013 Localism

Cabernet Sauvignon | Coombsville, Napa Valley

Wine Spectrum Rated 93+: Nose of ripe black cherries, black plum, lavender, milk chocolate, and vanilla. This is rich and full-bodied with mouth coating flavors, excellent concentration, beautiful French oak integration, good acidity, and youthful, fine tannins. This Cabernet is sourced from the Wirkus Vineyard, a tiny one-acre vineyard in Coombsville, managed by the legendary Jim Barbour. Only 130 cases made.

#64 – 2014 Wolf’s Head

Cabernet Sauvignon | Napa Valley | Available Now

Wine Spectrum Rated 94+: Upon initial pour, the Wolf’s Head Cabernet has aromas of fresh leather, earthy minerals and dusty graphite. With some time in the glass these characteristics evolve into sweet, dark cherries, dried cranberries and red currants with hints of pencil shavings and dried tobacco. Flavors of fresh dark red cherries and black currants dominate the palate with notes of ripe black plums and graphite. This wine shows great fruit extraction and long, chalky tannins. 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. Wolf’s Head has hit it’s stride with it’s third vintage from proprietor and winemaker Cameron Woodbridge, who also owns the Stormy Weather label.

#65 – 2009 Martinelli ‘Zio Tony’

Syrah | Russian River Valley | Available Now

Wine Spectrum Rated 95: Helen Turley crafted this delicious, no-holds-bar syrah from Russian River Valley.Opaque blue/purple in color, from yields of less than one ton of fruit per acre, this wine demonstrates what can be achieved from ripe fruit fermented dry and aged in 100% new French oak. A classic Syrah, it possesses aromas and flavors of blackberry liqueur intermixed with cassis, eucalyptus, and bacon fat. Tremendous viscosity and unctuosity. Just a few hundred cases produced.

#66 – 2013 Gandona ‘Encosta’

Cabernet Sauvignon | Napa Valley

Wine Spectrum Rated 96: The 2013 Gandona Vineyards Encosta Cabernet Sauvignon, a blend of 97% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3% Cabernet Franc, is a lighter style of wine and their biggest cuvée (just under 750 cases). This wine is on a fast evolutionary track, with complex notes of cedar wood, licorice, blackcurrants and tobacco leaf, all from a medium-bodied wine with light tannin, luscious fruit and a delicious, supple mouthfeel. Drink it over the next decade.

Gandona Estate is owned by Manuel and Cristina Pires, who purchased the Estate on Pritchard Hill in 2006. Made by Phillpe Melka with vineyards managed by Jim Barbour!

#67 – 2012 Saint Helena Winery ‘Sympa Reserve-Estate’

Cabernet Sauvignon | Napa Valley

Wine Spectrum Rated 95: Aromas and flavors of cherry, bramble berry and fleshy plum with notes of milk chocolate, leather, tobacco leaf and cedar. The wine has a seamless transition from a rich mid-palate to a lengthy finish. It has only started to open up and will benefit from aeration before drinking 97% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Petit Verdot

Nathan Pratt saw the magic on this plot when settlers first reached St. Helena in the mid 19th century. Luther Burbank saw the potential in this estate and helped Mr. Pratt plant a variety of apple, prune and walnut trees, which became cash crops during prohibition. Today, Saint Helena Winery is one of Napa Valley’s premium winery estates quietly nestled in the St. Helena viticultural area. The consulting winemaker is Aaron Pott and the consulting viticulturalist is Jim Barbour!

#68 – 2011 Massimino Venturini ‘Calassico’

Amarone della Valpolicella | Italy

Wine Spectrum Rated 96: Venturini is a renowned amarone producer, making wines that are full-bodied, strong and distinguished. The 2011 Classico is a dry, rich wine with a delicate bouquet, balanced acid and tannins and rich in alcohol. The nose is full of cinnamon spice, honey and sugar, while the palate has juicy red fruits and velvety texture with a characteristic vein of sweetness. Amarone is a wine ideally suited to accompany roasted meats, game and strong cheeses. 70% Corvina Veronese, 20% Rondinella and 10% Molinara.

#69 – 2014 Kathryn Kennedy ‘Small Lot’

Cabernet Sauvignon | Santa Cruz Mountains | Available Now

Wine Spectrum Rated 94+: Deep purple, almost black in color, the aroma of sweet creme de cassis , deep mineral notes and high quality oak rises from the glass, the palate is like a great St Estephe, firm yet and structured, supported by sweet fruit and a wonderful balance, the finish is fresh and focused.

#70 – 2013 Horsepower ‘The Tribe’

Syrah | Walla Walla, Washington

Wine Spectrum Rated 96, Wine Advocate 96: More straight and focused than the Sur Echalas Vineyard, the 2013 Syrah The Tribe Vineyard is slightly darker in color, with lots of gunpowder, blackberry, blueberry, smoked game and beef blood aromas and flavors. Full-bodied, yet elegant and silky, with a great finish, it’s a gorgeously complex, balanced and complete Syrah that has lots of Rocks character, as well as 15 years of more of longevity. I have a slight preference for the Sur Echalas Vineyard Syrah, but these share lots of similarities and are both brilliant wines.

The newest project (I suspect there are more in the works) of Christophe Baron, these Horsepower releases focus on two estate vineyards, The Tribe and the Sur Echalas, both of which are located in the Rocks region of Walla Walla and farmed only by horse (hence “Horsepower”). ~ Jeb Dunnuck

#71 – 2013 Bevan Cellars ‘Rita’s Crown’

Pinot Noir | Santa Rita Hills

Wine Spectrum Rated 96: If you have opened one of our 2013 Rita’s you know how unique this wine is. The nose is all about roasted meats, dark cherry and sassafras. Plush and round, the tannins are very refined, but always present. The incredibly steep hills that this wine comes from, produces only 1 to 1 ½ tons per acre. The vines are so stressed, that each cluster weighs less than half of what our Sonoma County clusters weight. The resulting wine ends up having an amazing intensity because of it.

“The irrepressible and virtually bigger-than-life Russell Bevan continues to shake things up in Northern California, not only with his own wines, offered under the label of Bevan Cellars, but also through his consulting work, which has produced a bevy of provocative and high-quality efforts. Few people making wine are more interesting to talk to than Russell Bevan, as his meticulous attention to every detail from rootstocks to clones to the craft of winemaking itself leaves little left to the imagination. One senses that his destiny long ago was to become one of the world’s great craftsman of wine, and he’s proving it time and time again with Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, and even Syrah.” ~ Robert Parker

#72 – 2013 Chester’s Anvil ‘Hattori Hanzo’

Red Blend | Napa Valley

Wine Spectrum Rated 94+: A harmonious blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and other kindred grapes (Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Syrah.) Black currant, blackberry, roasted duck breast, cocoa, coffee, cherry, a rich finish of milk chocolate and cherries. 500 cases produced.

Chester’s Anvil is a collaboration among friends and neighbors — Aaron and Claire Pott of Pott Wines and Steve Lagier and Carole Meredith of Lagier Meredith Vineyard. Forged from long friendship and challenging Mount Veeder surroundings, Chester’s Anvil is the result of fiery discussions over dinner, fueled by countless bottles of shared wine. The two couples have decided to end this partnership and concentrate on their own labels as this is consuming up too much time.

#73 – 2009 Harris Estate ‘Treva’s Vineyard’

Cabernet Sauvignon | Napa Valley | Available Now

Wine Spectrum Rated 95+, Robert Parker 95: The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Treva’s Vineyard is a huge wine that nevertheless maintains extraordinary elegance. Black fruit, smoke, licorice and wild herbs are some of the many notes that emerge from this muscular deep wine. This is a super-impressive showing. The Treva’s is the only wine here aged in 100% new French oak barrels. The 2009 has more than enough stuffing to drink well for a number of years. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2024.

This winery at the bottom of Diamond Mountain in the Calistoga appellation has seven acres planted with nearly all Cabernet Sauvignon and some Petit Verdot. I first tasted these offerings with Mark Herold when he was the consulting winemaker, but now Thomas Rivers Brown has taken over the position.

#74 – 2013 Familiar Air

Cabernet Sauvignon | Napa Valley

Wine Spectrum Rated 95+: The inaugural release of this new label, a collaboration between Benoit Touquette (of Realm, Hartwell & Teeter Totter) and Kimberly Jones. This deep fully extracted Cabernet bursts from the glass with blackberries and cassis dominating the palate with a hint of chocolate. Adding 16% Cab Franc and 4% Petit Verdot gives this Cabernet Sauvignon fantastic structure. The fruit comes from many of the best vineyards in Oakville, St. Helena, and Calistoga. A wonderfully integrated wine that coats the palate. Only 168 cases made.

#75 – 2013 Amizetta

Cabernet Sauvignon | Napa Valley

Wine Spectrum Rated 95+, Robert Parker 93: Dark ruby red in color, this wine is rich on the nose, with notes of vanilla, white chocolate and blackberry jam. On the palate it is rich and round, with flavors of baked cherry. The wine’s oak tannins are structured but supple, filling the mouth through a long and satisfying finish. 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. 500 cases produced.

The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon, which was treated essentially the same way as the Proprietary Red, except for a slightly elevated percentage of new French oak, is a more youthful wine. It is pure, with crème de cassis, blackberry fruit, medium to full-bodied mouthfeel velvety tannin and long finish. This is impressive, well-done and a reasonably fair value in high-end and high-quality Napa Cabernet Sauvignons. Drink it over the next 15 or more years.

The Amizetta property is a steep and rocky 40 acre parcel with southern facing slopes at the tail end of Howell Mountain in the Conn Valley region of Napa Valley. The vineyards are farmed by Jim Barbour. Edward Clark is the winemaker, with Chuck Wagner and Rick Forman consulting.

#76 – 2014 Tantara ‘Talley Rincon’

Chardonnay | Arroyo Grande, Central Coast

Wine Spectrum Rated 95+: Light lemon gold with green tints, it offers up aromas of lemon oil, marmalade and honeycomb. Medium bodied with a touch of exotic oak, tropical fruits and grilled peach. 76 cases made

#77 – 2013 Ramey ‘Platt Vineyard’

Chardonnay | Sonoma Coast

Wine Spectrum Rated 94+, Robert Parker 96: The 2013 Chardonnay Platt Vineyard, under the well-known Sonoma Coast terroir, offers elegant white currant, quince and stony notes with hints of apple blossom, lemon oil and a touch of orange rind. This medium-bodied wine should drink nicely for 3-4 years. Owner/Winemaker is David Ramey (Chateau Petrus and recognizable California notables Chalk Hill, Dominus and Rudd)

#78 – Oasi degli Angeli ‘Kurni’

Montelpulciano | Marche, Italy

Wine Spectrum Rated 95+: Very deep ruby. High-pitched aromas of ripe black fruits and sweet spices, lifted by violet and complemented by notes of loam, sweet pipe tobacco and cola. At once dense and juicy in the mouth, with a sappy, spicy quality buffering its savory black cherry, meat and tar flavors. A real fruit bomb, complex and energetic, with ultra-smooth tannins giving it a velvety mouthfeel. Offers serious palate presence and size. Finishes sappy and long, but with considerable residual sweetness.

100% Montelpulciano. Montelpulciano is capable of producing a reliable quantity of mature, deeply colored grapes that result in wines with a healthy level of alcohol and extract. The variety has a large quantity of anthocyanins (the substances that give color to red wine). The 2012 vintage was aged in 60% vertical barriques and 40% stainless steel. Unfined and unfiltered. We recommend decanting this beauty before serving.

#79 – 2014 Ramey ‘Claret’

Red Blend | Napa Valley | Available Now

Wine Spectrum Rated 94+: This soft, easy-drinking Cabernet is a good introduction to the vintage, and while it will improve over the course of three to eight years, it is not a wine intended for long-term cellaring.” – David Ramey 63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 24% Merlot, 7% Malbec, 3% Syrah, 2% Petit Verdot and 1% Cabernet Franc. Owner/Winemaker is David Ramey (Chateau Petrus and recognizable California notables Chalk Hill, Dominus and Rudd).

#80 – 2011 No Girls ‘La Placiencia Vineyard’

Syrah | Walla Walla, Washington

Wine Spectrum Rated 95+, Wine Advocate 95: In the same mold, with the buzzwords being finesse and elegance, the 2011 Syrah La Paciencia Vineyard offers textbook pepper, olive tapenade, smoke and crunchy berry fruits in its medium to full-bodied, seamless and beautifully textured profile. Showing impressive complexity and already hard to resist, I’d lean towards drinking bottles over the coming decade as well.

No Girls Wines was originally founded as a collaboration between Cayuse Vineyards’ owner and vigneron Christophe Baron and general manager Trevor Dorland. As the project has evolved, other Cayuse employees were involved… including Cayuse assistant vigneronne Elizabeth Bourcier and controller Nancy Nestler.

#81 – 2013 Shea Wine Cellars ‘Homer Vineyard-Estate’

Pinot Noir | Willamette Valley, Oregon

Wine Spectrum Rated 95+: From the ‘American Grand Cru Vineyard’ ~ Wine Enthusiast

Our “best barrel blend”, Homer displays all the best of the vintage: floral and savory aromas with concentrated blue and black fruit on the palate. The wine has concentration, complexity, structured tannins and a very long finish. 370 cases produced.

#82 – 2014 Tantara ‘Tondre H Block’

Pinot Noir | Santa Lucia Highlands

#83 – 2013 Peirson Meyer

Cabernet Sauvignon | Napa Valley

Wine Spectrum Rated 95, Robert Parker 95+: The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon is aged in 75% new French oak for 20 months prior to bottling. This wine, which is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, shows the classic blackberry and creme de cassis nose, with licorice, graphite and underbrush. Mostly from the Kenefick Ranch in Northern Napa, it has a rather viscous, thick, juicy mouthfeel, but with great acidity, purity and overall balance. This is another winner, as are virtually all the wines being made by Peirson Meyer. Drink this Cabernet over the next 15+ years.

#84 – 2012 Mi Sueno

Cabernet Sauvignon | Napa Valley

Wine Spectrum Rated 94+: Great classic Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon aromas of black fruit, coffee, chocolate and wet stone lead into rich layers of ripe berries, nutmeg, black pepper, and caramel. Velvety and well balanced, with approachable tannins and beautiful oak integration, this is a wine to be enjoyed for years to come. The overall impression: vibrant, deep, and elegant. 100% Cabernet Sauvignon

This limited production Cabernet is sourced from Mi Sueño’s estate vineyards in southern Napa Valley, in the Oak Knoll and Coombsville appellations. Their Coombsville vineyards lie in a crescent-shaped section of the foothills of the Vaca Range, where alluvial soils cover volcanic ash from Mt. George with cobblestone- strewn layers of rich, gravelly loams. Their Oak Knoll vineyards, on the valley floor north of the city of Napa, benefit from their location in the heart of the valley’s largest alluvial fan. Both appellations are blessed with very temperate micro-climates, allowing the grapes to ripen slowly and steadily.

#85 – 2014 Pearl Morissette ‘Caldwell Vineyard’

Cabernet Sauvignon | Napa Valley

Wine Spectrum Rated 94: This wine features a uniform dark ruby red color. Nose of black cherries, cassis, tobacco and sweet spices. Mouthfeel is rich and opulent without being heavy and leads to flavors of black cherries, red plums and dark chocolate. Well balanced with smooth tannins.

#86 – 2003 La Jota ’22nd Anniversary Heritage Release’

Cabernet Sauvignon | Howell Mountain, Napa Valley

Wine Spectrum Rated 94+: This is the best block of the entire vineyard and has produced some great wines (the 1992 and 1993 made by Helen Turley were fabulous wines). This shows plenty of creme de cassis fruit, notes of wet rocks, graphite, vanilla and berries, especially black raspberry and black currants. It is medium to full-bodied with light tannin and is close to full maturity, where is should hold for 7-10 more years.

#87 – 2010 Parador ‘Hossfeld Vineyard’

Cabernet Sauvignon | Napa Valley

Wine Spectrum Rated 95: Hossfeld Vineyard is located midway up Soda Canyon on a steep, southeast-facing amphitheater bowl. This site has always been the backbone of the Parador Blend. It has very low-yielding, small berry fruit with tough skins, and is meticulously farmed for maximum quality, not quantity, from 25+ year-old vines. The 2010 Hossfeld Cabernet is supple with nicely developed earthen-fruit flavors with a deep ruby red color hue. The bouquet is reminiscent of black cherry, cassis, cedarwood and graphite, and the palate is full of rich, red fruits, solid structure, and lean tannins. This Cabernet is powerful, yet elegant, with layers of intense complexity and concentration. 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. Just 73 cases produced.

Influenced by Pesquera and Vega Sicilia’s Unico, the great Tempranillos of Spain and blends of Europe, Parador was founded by Steve Ventrello in 1998, and is focused on Tempranillo (sourced directly from the Ribera del Duero and Rioja), Cabernet Sauvignon and blends of both. Parador wines have evolved from the early blends which included Sangiovese, striving for the balanced flavors of the old world utilizing world-class fruit grown in the Napa Valley.

#88 – 2013 Walter Hansel ‘North Slope’

Pinot Noir | Russian River Valley

Wine Spectrum Rated 95, Robert Parker 95: Absolutely magnificent is the 2013 Pinot Noir The North Slope. This wine is deep, rich, with forest floor, blackberry and blackcurrant fruit, licorice and Asian spices. It is full-bodied, somewhat primordial and dense, but muscular, rich, concentrated, and has the biggest upside and potential for complexity of all of the 2013s. Give it another several years of bottle age and drink it over the following decade.

#89 – Omen

Red Blend | Sierra Foothills

Wine Spectrum Rated 93: Omen, Red Blend is an explosion of flavors and intensity. From spices to cassis and dark cherry notes, the complexity of the blend translates into subtle notes of leather and dark chocolate. The mouth feel is rich with luscious and elegant tannins. A very bold and powerful wine that is still approachable and balanced.

In order to create the complex foundation of Omen, we work with a vibrant community of distinguished vineyards across the Sierra Foothills. Each block has been fermented separately to be able to preserve the single characteristics of the varietal and the vineyard. The blend is then created and aged in 30% new French oak for 8 months. 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Zinfandel, 15% Merlot & 5% Pinot Noir.

#90 – 2013 Adler Deutsch (ADV)

Cabernet Sauvignon | Napa Valley

Wine Spectrum Rated 95+: The 2013 vintage is exquisitely crafted by winemaker Aaron Pott from estate-grown fruit sustainably farmed at Adler Deutsch Vineyard located in St. Helena, Napa Valley. This Cabernet Sauvignon is impressively dark in color with aromas of black licorice, toffee, cherry, black currant and pecan pie, beautifully complimented with notes of clove and tobacco. Following suit to the vibrant nose, the palate offers an intensity of blackberry, cherry, toffee and chocolate, while remaining flawlessly balanced with a rich attack of fine grained tannins. Each sip coats the mouth for a long finish that fades to cherry and tobacco. 2013 Adler Deutsch Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon will cellar well for 15-20 years. 140 cases produced.

#91 – 2013 Gamba ‘Starr Vineyard’

Zinfandel | Russian River Valley

Wine Spectrum Rated 95+: A brilliant, dark garnet draws your attention. Aromas of ripe berries, raspberry, boysenberry and mocha are woven with a subtle hint of toasted oak that emerges from the bowl of the glass. Full to medium bodied on the palate, with deep and vibrant flavors of blackberry, plum, black cherry and Asian spice, are deftly countered by creamy, toasty oak components.

#92 – 2014 Tantara ‘Talley Roncon’

Pinot Noir | Arroyo Grande, Central Coast | Available Now

Wine Spectrum Rated 94+: Since 1997, Tantara has been dedicated to producing the very finest Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Located in the beautiful Santa Maria Valley (Santa Barbara County), our wines are sourced from top Central Coast growers and vineyards such as, Bentrock, Brosseau, Dierberg, La Encantada, Lindsay’s, Radian, Rio Vista, Talley, Tondre and Zotovich. In 2012, our two Los Olivos District estate vineyards, Ingeborg’s and Mateo’s, came online yielding Syrah and Cabernet Franc respectively. Strong cherry accents on delivery with prominent fuzzy cherrystone tannins. 92 cases made

#93 – 2012 Russian Hill Estate ‘Estate Vineyards’

Pinot Noir | Russian River Valley

Wine Spectrum Rated 95+: A nice balance of fruit, spice and earth tones on the nose are followed by lush blueberry, plum, black cherry and tobacco flavors on the palate. This is a medium weight Pinot Noir with big flavors, lively acidity, balance and a finish that seems to never want to end.

#94 – 2013 Saxon Brown ‘Fighting Brothers’

Zinfandel | Sonoma County

Wine Spectrum Rated 94+, Robert Parker 93: The 2013 Zinfandel Fighting Brothers (15.5% alcohol) displays notes of Provençal garrigue, pepper, kirsch liqueur and black currants in a complex, intense style. This is very Mediterranean in character, but full-bodied, hedonistic, and just a total joy to smell, taste and appreciate. Drink it over the next 4-6 years.

#95 – 2012 Lattanzio

Chardonnay | Bennett Valley, Sonoma County

Wine Spectrum Rated 93+: Beautiful pale yellow/gold. Aromas of Meyer lemon, pear and lightly toasted brioche bread emerge from the glass. Tangy, mineral infused flavors of lemon, pear and pit fruits caress the palate. A core of ample acidity keeps the mouthfeel refreshing and focuses the long finish. 75 cases made.

#96 – 2012 Martinelli ‘Terra Felice’

Syrah | Russian River Valley

Wine Spectrum Rated 95: The Terra Felice Syrah is a proprietary blend of some of our best Syrah vineyards in the Russian River Valley. The 2012 Terra Felice Syrah has aromas of grilled meats, violets, blackberry compote, and notes of dried lavender. The palate is medium weight and round with flavors of dark cherry, blue plum, with hints of tobacco and white pepper. 195 cases produced.

#97 – 2014 Bruliam ‘Sangiacomo Vineyard’

Pinot Noir | Sonoma Coast | Available Now

Wine Spectrum Rated 94+, Wine Enthusiast 93: Subtle and refined, our 2014 Sangiacomo pinot proffers a ying/yang balance of fruity and savory. Sweet tobacco, cedar, and soft spices marry black plum and berries. Light on her feet and almost ethereal, she finishes with velvety tannins and a whiff of toast. Elegance, nuance, and a feminine touch define this sustainably farmed, Sonoma Coast beauty. Drink now through 2023

#98 – 2013 Calluna ‘CVC’

Cabernet Sauvignon | Chalk Hill, Sonoma County | Available Now

Wine Spectrum Rated 92+, Robert Parker 92+: The 2013 Calluna Vineyards Cuvée performs much like the Estate 2012 and 2013. It is younger, fresher, denser and with more upside potential, but is more closed. Nevertheless it is incredibly promising, shows a dense ruby/purple color, loads of cassis and black cherry fruit with some floral notes. This is a beauty to drink over the next 10-15 years, but I’d give this particular wine another 2-3 years of bottle age.

Calluna Vineyards started in Sonoma County in 2005 with 12 acres in the Chalk Hill AVA planted to traditional Bordeaux grapes. Founded by David Jeffrey who worked in Bordeaux at Chateau Quinault for 3 years while getting his degree in Bordeaux. David has set out to produce wines with great character along the lines of a St Emillion Grand Cru. Production is quite small and quality is high, these are wines to buy when available, drink the CVC in its youth and enjoy the Estate after a few years in the cellar or decant for up to two hours before dinner.

#99 – 2014 The Crane Assmebly ‘Disciples’

Red Blend | Napa Valley | Available Now

Wine Spectrum Rated 93+, Robert Parker 94: Dark crimson in color, the strong, classic Zinfandel aromas of briar fruit and wild strawberries jump out of the glass and are complemented by hints of wet forest floor and high mountain forest. The entry gives way to a rich and textured mid palate of Mexican chocolate, brambly raspberry and a lengthy, caramelized crème Anglaise finish. This wine is a unique expression of old vine Zinfandel grown in the gravel-rich alluvial soils at the base of the Mayacamas mountain range.

#100 – 2013 Bacio Divino ‘Pazzo’ (Call Me Crazy)

Red Blend | Napa Valley

Wine Spectrum Rated 94: Produced by the Janzen Family and consulting winemaker / viticulturalist Kirk Venge, “Pazzo” (crazy in Italian) marries the best features of several varietals to create a unique and sophisticated blend: “With every vintage, our goal is to bring you the best of Napa Valley at an attractive price. The 2013 Pazzo is no exception. We sourced Sangiovese from both the Valley floor and higher elevations and blended it with rich, fruity Merlot and some dark, full-bodied Syrah from the heart of our Valley.”

Rich dark berry fruit with cherry highlights is heightened by bright acidity and a bold tannin structure. Bursting with concentrated fruit on the nose, a second waft reveals notes of roasted herbs, pepper and spice. ‘Delicious’ is the word most used to describe Pazzo. 58% Sangiovese, 22% Merlot, 12% Syrah. 8% Cabernet Sauvignon.