California
California is one of the most renowned wine regions in the world, known for producing exceptional wines that reflect the unique character of the region.
One of the most famous vineyards in California is the Napa Valley's Robert Mondavi Winery, which produces a range of high-quality red and white wines, including the Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve, the Fumé Blanc Reserve, and the Chardonnay Reserve. The estate is committed to sustainable farming practices and is known for its focus on traditional winemaking techniques.
In California, there is also a strong focus on producing organic and biodynamic wines, with vineyards such as the Frog's Leap Winery and the Benziger Family Winery using these practices to produce exceptional wines that reflect the unique terroir of the region.
Overall, California is a region known for producing exceptional wines, with famous vineyards such as Harlan Estate, Dominus, Opus One, Screaming Eagle, Robert Mondavi and many others. With a focus on sustainable and organic farming practices, and a commitment to traditional winemaking techniques, wines from California are gaining increasing recognition and popularity among wine enthusiasts worldwide.
California
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California | 3 | - |
Inc. TAX
€902.26 |
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Indulge in the splendour of the exceptional Ovid 2018, a testament to the meticulous winemaking practices dating back millennia to the ancient Latin poet, Ovid. This treasured blend is composed of equal parts Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Petit Verdot, weaving together a poetic symphony of rich flavours on the palate. Hailing from Pritchard Hill Estate in Napa Valley, renowned for its distinctive mineral-rich terroir and cool maritime climate, this prestigious wine encapsulates the essence of this unique location. The Ovid 2018 is a breathtaking expression of exquisite harmony and tantalising complexity. Expect an intoxicating bouquet of black fruits, cassis, and hints of spice, expertly balanced by firm tannins and gorgeously integrated oak, inducing a long, satisfying finish. The Ovid 2018 is masterfully crafted in limited quantities, emphasising quality over quantity. A gem among vintages, the Ovid 2018 leaves an indelible impression destined to become a classical chapter in your wine cabinet. |
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California | 1 | - |
Inc. TAX
€1,322.08 |
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As an epitome of elegance and sophistication, the Ovid 2019 is a meticulous blend of Bordeaux varietals, crafted from the prestigious terroirs of Napa Valley, California. This exquisite vintage is born from the selective hand-harvesting of the vineyard's best fruit, then expertly fermented in French oak barrels. The winemaker’s artisan techniques create a harmonious chorus of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Petit Verdot, each contributing their own distinctive nuances. The Ovid 2019 boasts a captivating aroma, lingering on the bouquet with the scent of ripe berries, an enchanting hint of violet and cassis. Its palate delights with a profound depth of flavour, impeccably balanced with an enduring finish. The producer, Ovid Vineyards, is internationally acclaimed for their precise, sustainable farming and skilful cultivation. By pursuing excellence at every step, they've forged a reputation for creating vintages that are virtuosic expressions of their unique, mountainous terroir. |
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California | 3 | - |
Inc. TAX
€1,181.86 |
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Marvel in the supreme quality of Ovid Hexameter Red 2016, a masterful blend from one of Napa Valley's prestigious wineries. A sublime amalgamation of distinct vines like Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot, its precise terroir articulates an unparalleled wine experience. The Ovid winery, nestled in the heart of Pritchard Hill, enjoys a stellar reputation for its craft. Fabulous layers of deep-rooted vines imbue this scarlet opus with complexity, depth, and charisma. An exquisite, full-bodied layering of black and red berries cascades into a bountiful finish, refined by velvety, seductive tannins. Expertly produced under winemaker Austin Peterson's deft hands, Ovid Hexameter Red 2016's ageing occurs in exceptional French oak barrels for 20 months. The result is a balanced blend of power and finesse, intrigue and harmony. A luminous testament to the thriving Californian viticulture, Ovid Hexameter Red 2016 indeed escalates the ritual of wine sipping into an elegant gourmet delight. |
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California | 2 | 94 (JD) |
Inc. TAX
€1,181.68 |
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Jeb Dunnuck (94)The 2017 Hexameter checks in as 47% Cabernet Franc, 41% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 12% Merlot that was brought up in 60% new French oak. It has a terrific, spicy, complex style in its black raspberry and cassis fruits as well as notes of toasted bread, flowery incense, spice, and crushed flowers. Full-bodied, rich, and beautifully concentrated, it shows nicely integrated acidity, building tannins, and a great finish. |
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California | 1 | - |
Inc. TAX
€473.47 |
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The Paring Chardonnay 2018 is a true expression of California's Santa Barbara County. This exquisite wine is produced by the Hilt Estate, known for their meticulous approach to viticulture and vinification. The Chardonnay grapes are hand-harvested and whole-cluster pressed, promoting depth of flavour and aromatic complexity. Cool fermentation in French oak barrels enhances textural elements, while contributing a delicate spiciness. Displaying a vibrant golden hue, the Paring Chardonnay 2018 captivates with its alluring bouquet of ripe pear, fresh citrus, and subtle brioche. On the palate, it is wonderfully balanced, flaunting a harmonious interplay of crisp acidity and opulent fruit. Subtle oak accents underscore an elegantly prolonged finish. A reflection of its marine-influenced terroir, this Chardonnay perfectly encapsulates the sophistication and finesse that connoisseurs associate with the Paring label. Whether you're savouring it alone or pairing it with fine cuisine, the Paring Chardonnay 2018 delivers an extraordinary wine experience. |
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California | 2 | - |
Inc. TAX
€248.14 |
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The Paring GS 2018 is a glorious manifestation of refined winemaking artistry, meticulously crafted at the esteemed Ballard Canyon of Central California. A sumptuous blend of Grenache and Syrah, known worldwide for their affinity, this GSM blend is an epitome of sophistication. Producer Paring is the sister label to Jonata and Screaming Eagle, two revered Californian wine producers. They utilise a mix of traditional and modern techniques in winemaking, notably relying on native yeast fermentation. Paring GS 2018 is a medium-bodied, opulent wine with a dense, purple coluor. Its nose is striking, filled with bold aromas of black and red cherries, mixed with garrigue and warming spices, while the palate is graced by elegant tannins, balanced acidity and a lingering chocolate and spice finish. This wine speaks to both the confluence of terroir and winemaker's deftness; a sensory delight to satisfy the discerning palates of sophisticated wine enthusiasts desiring a memorable taste of Paring GS 2018. |
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California | 4 | - |
Inc. TAX
€248.14 |
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Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, Paring Pinot Noir 2018 is the epitome of fine wine. This sublime Pinot Noir hails from the renowned Santa Barbara County, California, known for its exceptional terroir, ideal for viticulture. It's mastered by the talented winemakers at The Paring winery, a highly esteemed and trusted establishment in the global wine community. Paring Pinot Noir 2018 bears the characteristic elegance and complexity that enthusiasts associate with the iconic Pinot Noir varietal and The Paring's expert production techniques. Harvest is meticulously timed to ensure optimal ripeness, and the grapes are manually sorted. Following fermentation, the wine is matured in French oak barrels, imparting nuanced layers to its inherent aromas. Savour the vibrant red fruit essences, complemented by whispers of spice and earthy undertones. Round, velvet tannins leave a lasting, harmonious finish. An elegant, refined experience, the Paring Pinot Noir 2018 is a true testament to the art of fine winemaking. |
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California | 1 | 97-100 (WA) |
Inc. TAX
€970.66 |
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Wine Advocate (97-100)The 2018 Cave des Lions is a barrel sample of about 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Cabernet Franc, aging in 100% new French oak. It comes from fruit that grows in front of the Daou family home. Opaque purple-black in color, it has the most singular nose loaded with kaleidoscopic aromas: cigar ash, English breakfast tea, rooibos, hibiscus, iron, crushed stone, blackcurrant jam, blackberry pie, vanilla bean, Morello cherries, chocolate box and cigar box. I’ve never smelled anything like this—it's like staring into a well of archetypal Cabernet Sauvignon. Medium to full-bodied, the satiny palate spreads its glorious flavor wings, with unbelievable melting tannins and seamless freshness, finishing very long and very layered. This is unreal! |
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California | 2 | 97-99 (WA) |
Inc. TAX
€1,226.17 |
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Wine Advocate (97-99)The 2019 Caves des Lions is a barrel sample of 53% Cabernet Sauvignon and 47% Cabernet Franc, made from free-run juice and set to age about 22 months in 100% new French oak. Opaque ruby in color, it offers explosive cassis and purple flowers on the nose, with streaks of stony and green pepper character. The palate offers loads of perfume and exotic spice, with a chocolaty texture, seamless acidity and incredible length. |
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California | 5 | 100 (WA) |
Inc. TAX
€693.44 |
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Wine Advocate (100)The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard has a Mission Haut-Brion-on-steroids character, as it seems to be all gravel pit. Loads of wet pebbles, graphite, blueberry and blackberry fruit, a full-bodied opulence, and just a killer, skyscraper-like mouthfeel and stunning finish make for one of the most provocative and fabulous wines in this portfolio. Drink it over the next 25+ years. This is world-class and can stand up against anything made in 2013, as could the following wines as well. |
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California | 4 | 100 (WA) |
Inc. TAX
€5,522.69 |
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Wine Advocate (100)The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard has a Mission Haut-Brion-on-steroids character, as it seems to be all gravel pit. Loads of wet pebbles, graphite, blueberry and blackberry fruit, a full-bodied opulence, and just a killer, skyscraper-like mouthfeel and stunning finish make for one of the most provocative and fabulous wines in this portfolio. Drink it over the next 25+ years. This is world-class and can stand up against anything made in 2013, as could the following wines as well. |
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California | 1 | 100 (WA) |
Inc. TAX
€1,793.48 |
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Wine Advocate (100)Produced from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon and sporting a deep garnet-purple color, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr Crane Vineyard offers up a profound and singular nose of loam, rocks and iron ore over a core of black cherries, baked black berries and preserved plums with hints of licorice, dark chocolate, cedar, sautéed herbs and beef broth. Full-bodied, rich and demonstrating great depth with a wonderfully compelling personality, it delivers a multitude of savory meat and toast layers, framed by firm, fine-grained tannins. It finishes with incredible persistence, allowing those provocative mineral nuances to shine through. |
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California | 3 | 99 (WA) |
Inc. TAX
€1,643.48 |
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Wine Advocate (99)Deep garnet-purple, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr Crane Vineyard leaps from the glass with opulent crème de cassis, raspberry tart and black forest cake notions plus underlying cigar box, mocha, licorice and forest floor suggestions. Full-bodied, rich, spicy and decadently generous in the mouth, it has a firm, velvety foundation and wonderful precision, featuring an invigorating lift on the very long, multilayered and provocatively earthy finish. 815 cases were made. |
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California | 5 | 100 (JD) |
Inc. TAX
€554.35 |
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Jeb Dunnuck (100)Needing plenty of air to show at its best, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard is a sensational, gorgeous Napa Valley Cabernet that delivers the goods like only this region can. Pure Cabernet magic on the nose, with deep blackcurrants, smoked tobacco, lead pencil, and a kiss of spring flowers as well as a beautiful Pessac-Leognan-like scorched earth character, it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, silky tannins, no hard edges, and a great, great finish. It's one of those wines that builds incrementally on the palate and it's only after the second or third sip that you realize how special this wine is. It also offers that rare mix of power and elegance that's the hallmark of all great wines. It needs a couple hours in the decanter if drinking any time soon. It will benefit from 4-5 years of bottle age and cruise for 20-30 years in cold cellars. Hats off to Paul Hobbs for an incredible Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. |
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California | 12 | 95+ (WA) |
Inc. TAX
€454.92 |
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Wine Advocate (95+)Made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon and displaying a deep garnet-purple color, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard opens with pronounced crème de cassis, mocha, black forest cake and cloves over lavender, bay leaf and menthol nuances. Full-bodied, concentrated and seductive, it has a gorgeous velvety texture and plenty of freshness lifting the opulent flavors, finishing with a spices and herbs kick. |
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California | 1 | 98+ (WA) |
Inc. TAX
€2,014.15 |
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Wine Advocate (98+)Inky purple-black in color, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard gives up notes of blueberry compote, preserved plums and ripe blackberries with touches of incense, dried Mediterranean herbs, menthol and aniseed plus a waft of mossy bark. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is very fine and wonderfully elegant, with incredibly ripe, silt-like tannins and just enough freshness to support the black and blue fruit layers, finishing on a lingering exotic spice note. This beauty should age very well indeed. 353 cases were made. |
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California | 1 | 98 (WA) |
Inc. TAX
€454.69 |
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Wine Advocate (98)Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard opens with provocative notions of crushed rocks, fertile loam and truffles with a core of warm cassis, blackberry pie and wild blueberries with touches of camphor and cloves. Medium to full-bodied and built like a brick house, it packs in the muscular fruit layers with compelling red fruit sparks, framed by firm, grainy tannins and finishing very long and very earthy. 402 cases produced. |
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California | 12 | 96 (VN) |
Inc. TAX
€454.75 |
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Vinous (96)The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard is such a gorgeous and highly representative wine off this site. Crushed rocks, graphite, menthol, crème de cassis and spice are so typical of this site. At this stage, the Piedras does not have the sheer appeal or immediacy of the Crane, but then again, that is Piedras. All of this fruit is Clone 4, which in this rugged site yields very small berries with plenty of concentration. And that is exactly what comes through in this majestic Cabernet. |
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California | 9 | 99 (JD) |
Inc. TAX
€454.75 |
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Jeb Dunnuck (99)Coming from a rockier site no more than a stone’s throw from Dr. Crane Vineyard, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Las Piedras is more meaty and savory, with lots of red and black fruits as well as loads of rocky, earthy minerality, spring flower, tobacco, and lead pencil-like nuances. Just beautifully balanced on the palate, it's full-bodied and elegant, with silky tannins, no hard edges, and one incredible finish. It's more red fruited than the Dr. Crane, yet it has a similar ethereal, weightless style that makes it such a joy to drink, even today. Given its balance, purity, and freshness, I have no doubt it will evolve for 25+ years, and I'm probably underrating it by a point. |
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California | 3 | 94+ (VN) |
Inc. TAX
€488.41 |
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Vinous (94+)Dark ruby-red. Urgent aromas of cassis, black cherry, licorice, menthol and violet. Densely packed, chewy and concentrated but less liqueur-like and thick than a sample I tried two years ago for my 2007 Cabernet horizontal, conveying a slightly inky quality to its vibrant dark berry and floral flavors. Quite juicy, and already displaying a captivating subtle sweetness, but this wine still needs time to unfold and knit. Plenty of baby fat here but the tannins are not yet resolved. (My bottle had already thrown a good bit of sediment.) This youthful wine may yet go in the direction of the superb 2001. Hobbs told me he did substantial crop-thinning in 2007 (his ultimate production was just 2.7 tons per acre), and that he aged this wine entirely in new Taransaud barriques. (15.2% alcohol; 3.75 pH; 5.5 g/l acidity) |
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California | 4 | 97 (WA) |
Inc. TAX
€488.27 |
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Wine Advocate (97)A much darker and more virile wine, the 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard opens with beguiling aromatics that meld into a core of blue and black fruit, exotic spices, tar, smoke and violets. The 2010 boasts superb depth, power and richness in a weighty, brooding style that is the essence of To Kalon. A huge, intense finish rounds things out in style. Anticipated maturity: 2020-2032. |
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California | 1 | 97 (WA) |
Inc. TAX
€488.52 |
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Wine Advocate (97)Of the three Beckstoffer Vineyards, it’s pretty much a joyride as to which one readers may prefer. The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard (readers may remember the 2002 merited a 100-point score) has a beautiful blueberry and blackberry fruit note, a hint of incense, charcoal, an opaque purple color, full-bodied opulence and again that first-growth quality, richness, complexity and intensity. I’m not sure this is as compelling as the 2002, but it’s not far away. This is a magnificent, multi-dimensional, skyscraper-like Cabernet Sauvignon to drink over the next 15-20 years. |
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California | 3 | - |
In Bond
€740.00 |
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Indulge in the splendour of the exceptional Ovid 2018, a testament to the meticulous winemaking practices dating back millennia to the ancient Latin poet, Ovid. This treasured blend is composed of equal parts Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Petit Verdot, weaving together a poetic symphony of rich flavours on the palate. Hailing from Pritchard Hill Estate in Napa Valley, renowned for its distinctive mineral-rich terroir and cool maritime climate, this prestigious wine encapsulates the essence of this unique location. The Ovid 2018 is a breathtaking expression of exquisite harmony and tantalising complexity. Expect an intoxicating bouquet of black fruits, cassis, and hints of spice, expertly balanced by firm tannins and gorgeously integrated oak, inducing a long, satisfying finish. The Ovid 2018 is masterfully crafted in limited quantities, emphasising quality over quantity. A gem among vintages, the Ovid 2018 leaves an indelible impression destined to become a classical chapter in your wine cabinet. |
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California | 1 | - |
In Bond
€1,090.00 |
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As an epitome of elegance and sophistication, the Ovid 2019 is a meticulous blend of Bordeaux varietals, crafted from the prestigious terroirs of Napa Valley, California. This exquisite vintage is born from the selective hand-harvesting of the vineyard's best fruit, then expertly fermented in French oak barrels. The winemaker’s artisan techniques create a harmonious chorus of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Petit Verdot, each contributing their own distinctive nuances. The Ovid 2019 boasts a captivating aroma, lingering on the bouquet with the scent of ripe berries, an enchanting hint of violet and cassis. Its palate delights with a profound depth of flavour, impeccably balanced with an enduring finish. The producer, Ovid Vineyards, is internationally acclaimed for their precise, sustainable farming and skilful cultivation. By pursuing excellence at every step, they've forged a reputation for creating vintages that are virtuosic expressions of their unique, mountainous terroir. |
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California | 3 | - |
In Bond
€973.00 |
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Marvel in the supreme quality of Ovid Hexameter Red 2016, a masterful blend from one of Napa Valley's prestigious wineries. A sublime amalgamation of distinct vines like Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot, its precise terroir articulates an unparalleled wine experience. The Ovid winery, nestled in the heart of Pritchard Hill, enjoys a stellar reputation for its craft. Fabulous layers of deep-rooted vines imbue this scarlet opus with complexity, depth, and charisma. An exquisite, full-bodied layering of black and red berries cascades into a bountiful finish, refined by velvety, seductive tannins. Expertly produced under winemaker Austin Peterson's deft hands, Ovid Hexameter Red 2016's ageing occurs in exceptional French oak barrels for 20 months. The result is a balanced blend of power and finesse, intrigue and harmony. A luminous testament to the thriving Californian viticulture, Ovid Hexameter Red 2016 indeed escalates the ritual of wine sipping into an elegant gourmet delight. |
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California | 2 | 94 (JD) |
In Bond
€973.00 |
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Jeb Dunnuck (94)The 2017 Hexameter checks in as 47% Cabernet Franc, 41% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 12% Merlot that was brought up in 60% new French oak. It has a terrific, spicy, complex style in its black raspberry and cassis fruits as well as notes of toasted bread, flowery incense, spice, and crushed flowers. Full-bodied, rich, and beautifully concentrated, it shows nicely integrated acidity, building tannins, and a great finish. |
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California | 1 | - |
In Bond
€347.00 |
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The Paring Chardonnay 2018 is a true expression of California's Santa Barbara County. This exquisite wine is produced by the Hilt Estate, known for their meticulous approach to viticulture and vinification. The Chardonnay grapes are hand-harvested and whole-cluster pressed, promoting depth of flavour and aromatic complexity. Cool fermentation in French oak barrels enhances textural elements, while contributing a delicate spiciness. Displaying a vibrant golden hue, the Paring Chardonnay 2018 captivates with its alluring bouquet of ripe pear, fresh citrus, and subtle brioche. On the palate, it is wonderfully balanced, flaunting a harmonious interplay of crisp acidity and opulent fruit. Subtle oak accents underscore an elegantly prolonged finish. A reflection of its marine-influenced terroir, this Chardonnay perfectly encapsulates the sophistication and finesse that connoisseurs associate with the Paring label. Whether you're savouring it alone or pairing it with fine cuisine, the Paring Chardonnay 2018 delivers an extraordinary wine experience. |
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California | 2 | - |
In Bond
€183.00 |
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The Paring GS 2018 is a glorious manifestation of refined winemaking artistry, meticulously crafted at the esteemed Ballard Canyon of Central California. A sumptuous blend of Grenache and Syrah, known worldwide for their affinity, this GSM blend is an epitome of sophistication. Producer Paring is the sister label to Jonata and Screaming Eagle, two revered Californian wine producers. They utilise a mix of traditional and modern techniques in winemaking, notably relying on native yeast fermentation. Paring GS 2018 is a medium-bodied, opulent wine with a dense, purple coluor. Its nose is striking, filled with bold aromas of black and red cherries, mixed with garrigue and warming spices, while the palate is graced by elegant tannins, balanced acidity and a lingering chocolate and spice finish. This wine speaks to both the confluence of terroir and winemaker's deftness; a sensory delight to satisfy the discerning palates of sophisticated wine enthusiasts desiring a memorable taste of Paring GS 2018. |
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California | 4 | - |
In Bond
€183.00 |
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Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, Paring Pinot Noir 2018 is the epitome of fine wine. This sublime Pinot Noir hails from the renowned Santa Barbara County, California, known for its exceptional terroir, ideal for viticulture. It's mastered by the talented winemakers at The Paring winery, a highly esteemed and trusted establishment in the global wine community. Paring Pinot Noir 2018 bears the characteristic elegance and complexity that enthusiasts associate with the iconic Pinot Noir varietal and The Paring's expert production techniques. Harvest is meticulously timed to ensure optimal ripeness, and the grapes are manually sorted. Following fermentation, the wine is matured in French oak barrels, imparting nuanced layers to its inherent aromas. Savour the vibrant red fruit essences, complemented by whispers of spice and earthy undertones. Round, velvet tannins leave a lasting, harmonious finish. An elegant, refined experience, the Paring Pinot Noir 2018 is a true testament to the art of fine winemaking. |
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California | 1 | 97-100 (WA) |
In Bond
€797.00 |
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Wine Advocate (97-100)The 2018 Cave des Lions is a barrel sample of about 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Cabernet Franc, aging in 100% new French oak. It comes from fruit that grows in front of the Daou family home. Opaque purple-black in color, it has the most singular nose loaded with kaleidoscopic aromas: cigar ash, English breakfast tea, rooibos, hibiscus, iron, crushed stone, blackcurrant jam, blackberry pie, vanilla bean, Morello cherries, chocolate box and cigar box. I’ve never smelled anything like this—it's like staring into a well of archetypal Cabernet Sauvignon. Medium to full-bodied, the satiny palate spreads its glorious flavor wings, with unbelievable melting tannins and seamless freshness, finishing very long and very layered. This is unreal! |
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California | 2 | 97-99 (WA) |
In Bond
€1,010.00 |
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Wine Advocate (97-99)The 2019 Caves des Lions is a barrel sample of 53% Cabernet Sauvignon and 47% Cabernet Franc, made from free-run juice and set to age about 22 months in 100% new French oak. Opaque ruby in color, it offers explosive cassis and purple flowers on the nose, with streaks of stony and green pepper character. The palate offers loads of perfume and exotic spice, with a chocolaty texture, seamless acidity and incredible length. |
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California | 5 | 100 (WA) |
In Bond
€570.00 |
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Wine Advocate (100)The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard has a Mission Haut-Brion-on-steroids character, as it seems to be all gravel pit. Loads of wet pebbles, graphite, blueberry and blackberry fruit, a full-bodied opulence, and just a killer, skyscraper-like mouthfeel and stunning finish make for one of the most provocative and fabulous wines in this portfolio. Drink it over the next 25+ years. This is world-class and can stand up against anything made in 2013, as could the following wines as well. |
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California | 4 | 100 (WA) |
In Bond
€4,555.00 |
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Wine Advocate (100)The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard has a Mission Haut-Brion-on-steroids character, as it seems to be all gravel pit. Loads of wet pebbles, graphite, blueberry and blackberry fruit, a full-bodied opulence, and just a killer, skyscraper-like mouthfeel and stunning finish make for one of the most provocative and fabulous wines in this portfolio. Drink it over the next 25+ years. This is world-class and can stand up against anything made in 2013, as could the following wines as well. |
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California | 1 | 100 (WA) |
In Bond
€1,470.00 |
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Wine Advocate (100)Produced from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon and sporting a deep garnet-purple color, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr Crane Vineyard offers up a profound and singular nose of loam, rocks and iron ore over a core of black cherries, baked black berries and preserved plums with hints of licorice, dark chocolate, cedar, sautéed herbs and beef broth. Full-bodied, rich and demonstrating great depth with a wonderfully compelling personality, it delivers a multitude of savory meat and toast layers, framed by firm, fine-grained tannins. It finishes with incredible persistence, allowing those provocative mineral nuances to shine through. |
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California | 3 | 99 (WA) |
In Bond
€1,345.00 |
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Wine Advocate (99)Deep garnet-purple, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr Crane Vineyard leaps from the glass with opulent crème de cassis, raspberry tart and black forest cake notions plus underlying cigar box, mocha, licorice and forest floor suggestions. Full-bodied, rich, spicy and decadently generous in the mouth, it has a firm, velvety foundation and wonderful precision, featuring an invigorating lift on the very long, multilayered and provocatively earthy finish. 815 cases were made. |
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California | 5 | 100 (JD) |
In Bond
€458.00 |
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Jeb Dunnuck (100)Needing plenty of air to show at its best, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard is a sensational, gorgeous Napa Valley Cabernet that delivers the goods like only this region can. Pure Cabernet magic on the nose, with deep blackcurrants, smoked tobacco, lead pencil, and a kiss of spring flowers as well as a beautiful Pessac-Leognan-like scorched earth character, it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, silky tannins, no hard edges, and a great, great finish. It's one of those wines that builds incrementally on the palate and it's only after the second or third sip that you realize how special this wine is. It also offers that rare mix of power and elegance that's the hallmark of all great wines. It needs a couple hours in the decanter if drinking any time soon. It will benefit from 4-5 years of bottle age and cruise for 20-30 years in cold cellars. Hats off to Paul Hobbs for an incredible Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. |
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California | 12 | 95+ (WA) |
In Bond
€375.00 |
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Wine Advocate (95+)Made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon and displaying a deep garnet-purple color, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard opens with pronounced crème de cassis, mocha, black forest cake and cloves over lavender, bay leaf and menthol nuances. Full-bodied, concentrated and seductive, it has a gorgeous velvety texture and plenty of freshness lifting the opulent flavors, finishing with a spices and herbs kick. |
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California | 1 | 98+ (WA) |
In Bond
€1,655.00 |
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Wine Advocate (98+)Inky purple-black in color, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard gives up notes of blueberry compote, preserved plums and ripe blackberries with touches of incense, dried Mediterranean herbs, menthol and aniseed plus a waft of mossy bark. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is very fine and wonderfully elegant, with incredibly ripe, silt-like tannins and just enough freshness to support the black and blue fruit layers, finishing on a lingering exotic spice note. This beauty should age very well indeed. 353 cases were made. |
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California | 1 | 98 (WA) |
In Bond
€375.00 |
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Wine Advocate (98)Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard opens with provocative notions of crushed rocks, fertile loam and truffles with a core of warm cassis, blackberry pie and wild blueberries with touches of camphor and cloves. Medium to full-bodied and built like a brick house, it packs in the muscular fruit layers with compelling red fruit sparks, framed by firm, grainy tannins and finishing very long and very earthy. 402 cases produced. |
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California | 12 | 96 (VN) |
In Bond
€375.00 |
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Vinous (96)The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard is such a gorgeous and highly representative wine off this site. Crushed rocks, graphite, menthol, crème de cassis and spice are so typical of this site. At this stage, the Piedras does not have the sheer appeal or immediacy of the Crane, but then again, that is Piedras. All of this fruit is Clone 4, which in this rugged site yields very small berries with plenty of concentration. And that is exactly what comes through in this majestic Cabernet. |
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California | 9 | 99 (JD) |
In Bond
€375.00 |
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Jeb Dunnuck (99)Coming from a rockier site no more than a stone’s throw from Dr. Crane Vineyard, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Las Piedras is more meaty and savory, with lots of red and black fruits as well as loads of rocky, earthy minerality, spring flower, tobacco, and lead pencil-like nuances. Just beautifully balanced on the palate, it's full-bodied and elegant, with silky tannins, no hard edges, and one incredible finish. It's more red fruited than the Dr. Crane, yet it has a similar ethereal, weightless style that makes it such a joy to drink, even today. Given its balance, purity, and freshness, I have no doubt it will evolve for 25+ years, and I'm probably underrating it by a point. |
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California | 3 | 94+ (VN) |
In Bond
€403.00 |
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Vinous (94+)Dark ruby-red. Urgent aromas of cassis, black cherry, licorice, menthol and violet. Densely packed, chewy and concentrated but less liqueur-like and thick than a sample I tried two years ago for my 2007 Cabernet horizontal, conveying a slightly inky quality to its vibrant dark berry and floral flavors. Quite juicy, and already displaying a captivating subtle sweetness, but this wine still needs time to unfold and knit. Plenty of baby fat here but the tannins are not yet resolved. (My bottle had already thrown a good bit of sediment.) This youthful wine may yet go in the direction of the superb 2001. Hobbs told me he did substantial crop-thinning in 2007 (his ultimate production was just 2.7 tons per acre), and that he aged this wine entirely in new Taransaud barriques. (15.2% alcohol; 3.75 pH; 5.5 g/l acidity) |
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California | 4 | 97 (WA) |
In Bond
€403.00 |
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Wine Advocate (97)A much darker and more virile wine, the 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard opens with beguiling aromatics that meld into a core of blue and black fruit, exotic spices, tar, smoke and violets. The 2010 boasts superb depth, power and richness in a weighty, brooding style that is the essence of To Kalon. A huge, intense finish rounds things out in style. Anticipated maturity: 2020-2032. |
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California | 1 | 97 (WA) |
In Bond
€403.00 |
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Wine Advocate (97)Of the three Beckstoffer Vineyards, it’s pretty much a joyride as to which one readers may prefer. The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard (readers may remember the 2002 merited a 100-point score) has a beautiful blueberry and blackberry fruit note, a hint of incense, charcoal, an opaque purple color, full-bodied opulence and again that first-growth quality, richness, complexity and intensity. I’m not sure this is as compelling as the 2002, but it’s not far away. This is a magnificent, multi-dimensional, skyscraper-like Cabernet Sauvignon to drink over the next 15-20 years. |
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