Jeb Dunnuck (97)

The 2018 Eaba is another wine from Jim that puts its foot firmly on the ripeness pedal and offers a blockbuster-like style of ripe black fruits, wood smoke, cured meats, and peppery goodness. Full-bodied and concentrated on the palate, it’s flawlessly balanced, has gorgeous tannins, and a great finish. Drink it over the coming 10-12 years or so. The 2018 is 59% Syrah, 23% Mourvedre, 15% Grenache, and the rest Viognier, aged 22 months in 50% new French oak.

Jeb Dunnuck (99)

The EABA is more Syrah-dominated and checks in as 65% Syrah, 22% Mourvèdre, 10% Grenache, and the rest Viognier that saw plenty of stems and close to two years in 50% new French oak. Its inky purple hue is followed by a sensational bouquet of bloody blue fruits, black raspberries, iron, ground pepper, baking spices, and who knows what else. Incredibly complex and nuanced (yet intense) aromatically, it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a deep, layered, concentrated mouthfeel, and a finish that won't quit. It’s certainly one of the biggest, richest wines in the lineup, yet like all of Jim's wines, it remains light on its feet, has brilliant purity of fruit, and is as drinkable as could be.

Pridefully showcasing the best of Santa Ynez Valley, the Andrew Murray Roasted Slope Vyd Syrah 2020 is indeed a masterpiece. Andrew Murray, renowned for his prodigious talent in winemaking, seamlessly infuses the robust character of Syrah grapes grown in the perfect Mediterranean climate of California. Methodically handpicked, the grapes are then fermented in small lots, capturing the elegant essence of the fruit without compromising the depth of flavour.

This captivating red wine rivals even the best French Rhône varieties with its dark, smoky complexity and vibrant fruitiness, marked with rich, ripe, blackberry flavours—all underlined by a subtle hint of roasted meat. Its velvety tannins lend a sophisticated structure, and the finish is long and opulent. This exponent emulates the traditional French style, while keeping it uniquely 'Andrew Murray'. A bottle of Andrew Murray Roasted Slope Vyd Syrah 2020 is surely an experience catered for the discerning palate.

Vinous (92)

The 2019 Pinot Noir Isabelle is bright and effusive, with tons of aromatic presence and fine balance. Sweet red cherry fruit, orange peel, spice and dried herbs open first, followed by a host of perfumed floral notes that lead into the mid-palate and finish. The 2019 is silky and quite elegant, all it really needs is another year or two in bottle to come into its own.

The Au Bon Climat Pinot Noir Isabelle 2020 heralds from California’s Santa Barbara County, bearing the distinct stamp of Au Bon Climat, a renowned name synonymous with craftsmanship and elegance. Counterfeit to traditional Burgundian practices, this luxurious gem undergoes meticulous hand-harvesting and sorting exercises, ensuring only the most ripened clusters are vinified. Aged in high-quality French oak barrels for 22 months, the winemaking process rewards us with a silky, velvety texture and remarkable depth.

Blended from different vineyards around California, the Au Bon Climat Pinot Noir Isabelle 2020 epitomises the region's unique terroir. Succumb to its garnet hue, inviting layers of dark cherries, ripe strawberries, understated spice, and earthy notes. It's a splendid expression of a sophisticated, balanced Pinot Noir with exceptional longevity. This wine encapsulates the skill and passion of Jim Clendenen, Au Bon Climat's master winemaker, whose commitment to quality and detailed artisanship is met by global acclaim.

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.

Immerse yourself in the exquisite bouquet of the Paul Lato Space Cadet 2020, a wine that exudes sophisticated charm. This remarkable Californian red wine, crafted by noteworthy artisanal winemaker Paul Lato, marks a sensational standout in the world of fine wines. Renowned for his meticulous craftsmanship, Paul Lato utilises traditional, handcrafted winemaking methods, laying emphasis on minimal interference to showcase the natural elegance of grapes sourced from world-class vineyards in Santa Maria Valley and Santa Rita Hills.

Ruby-red in colour, the Paul Lato Space Cadet 2020 unveils layered nuances of ripe cherries, pepper spice, and smoky cedar that elegantly transition into a smooth velvety finish on the palate. Aged for 18 months in high-quality French oak barrels, it predicates harmonious ageing potential. The attention to detail during vinification and Lato’s commitment to sustainable farming practices are discernible in each sip. Allow yourself to succumb to the alluring allure of the majestic Paul Lato Space Cadet 2020.

Vinous (89)

The 2014 Chardonnay (Santa Barbara County) is a super-polished appellation-level Chardonnay. Pear, white flowers and mint give the 2014 its brightness and aromatic lift. This is an especially appealing, mid-weight Chardonnay built on freshness. I would prefer to drink the 2014 over the next few years. The key vineyard sites are Bien Nacido, Dierberg, La Rinconada, Zotovich and Sanford & Benedict, with an increasing reliance on Santa Maria fruit.

Vinous (89)

The 2014 Chardonnay (Santa Barbara County) is a super-polished appellation-level Chardonnay. Pear, white flowers and mint give the 2014 its brightness and aromatic lift. This is an especially appealing, mid-weight Chardonnay built on freshness. I would prefer to drink the 2014 over the next few years. The key vineyard sites are Bien Nacido, Dierberg, La Rinconada, Zotovich and Sanford & Benedict, with an increasing reliance on Santa Maria fruit.