to a finish kissed with hints of cocoa powder and toasted oak . Made by deliciously talented Thomas Rivers Brown , this wine is a winner from a challenging vintage . ($ 59.99 )
( 95 ) Rex Hill Jacob-Hart Estate Chehalem Mountains 2017 Pinot Noir ( OR ). Silky blue and black fruit , baking spices , mushroom and cedar lead to dusty tannins and a long luxurious finish . Sip it with grilled salmon . ($ 85 )
( 95 ) Domaine R . H . Coutier Grand Cru Brut NV ( France ). A dazzling blend of 80 % pinot noir and 20 % chardonnay . A wonderful nose of toasted bread and tropical citrus flirts with the senses . Wonderfully vibrant in the mouth , showing flavors of ripe apple , pear nectar and lemon zest , before finishing with a delicate touch of toasted almonds . A tremendous value . ($ 44.99 )
( 95 ) Altesino Brunello di Montalcino 2013 ( Italy ). A wine that can exceed your expectations . The 2013 took a few minutes to open up , but when it did , it was singing . The aromatics of earth , tobacco and leather were met on the palate with rustic notes of fruit and tannin . I was actually sad when I realized the bottle was empty . ($ 65 )
( 94 ) Hermann J . Wiemer Dry Estate Riesling 2016 ( NY ). This bottle shows how this grape , when made well , has such longevity . Vibrant aromatics of mineral and fruit on the nose . On the palate , every time I took a sip , there was a new nuance to enjoy : fruit , rock , acid , body . If I tried this blind , I might have thought it was from the Mosel . Lovely . ($ 24 )
( 94 ) Chateau De Thauvenay Sancerre 2020 ( France ). Beautiful floral notes blossom from the glass as candied mango , lemon sorbet and pineapple flavors lay down a luxuriously lively river of fun on the palate . Well-balanced fruit and acidity begs to be paired with shellfish and a beach . ($ 22.99 )
( 94 ) Frederick & Jacob Cabernet Sauvignon ( CA ). Created by renowned and historic Napa Valley producer , Beringer Vineyards , this wine has a mouthfeel like velvet . Black currants , white pepper and huckleberry dominate this wine , and a lingering finish leaves you wanting more . ($ 59.99 )
( 93 ) Petites Secondes Pinot Noir ( OR ). A great example of a classic pinot from the Willamette Valley region . Overripe cherries and cola on the nose with subtle notes of licorice and anise . This is delicious and tart . Would be a great addition to any holiday table . ($ 37.99 )
38 • Winter 2022 www . cheersonline . com