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sources the best vineyard fruit to produce only 26 barrels of this exceptional blend . 67 % malbec and 33 % cabernet . Extended fermentation and maceration are complemented by 18 months in French oak . Beautiful black fruit notes , silky and smooth . Tobacco and rye flavors harmonize in smooth lingering finish . ($ 139.99 )
( 96 ) Grgich Hills Cabernet Sauvignon 2020 ( CA ). It was time to taste the legend , and the “ grape whisperer ” speaks the best through his wines . This is from the “ Legacy series ,” which sources old vine grapes planted in 1959 based on the classic Inglenook clone , grafted to St . George rootstock . Mike Grgich , celebrated winemaker from the 1976 Paris tasting , works his
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magic with classic Napa fruit . Opulent and rich , great structure with dark fruit notes , dark chocolate and rich minerality . Perfect wine for the holiday smoked prime rib . ($ 249.99 )
( 95 ) Ciacci Piccolomini Pianrosso Brunello di Montalcino 2008 ( Italy ). Brick color with a vibrant cherry / berry , graphite nose . Leather , blackberry and cedar round out a smooth mouthful of lush tannins . Went very well with fried artichokes and pasta at our local trattoria . ($ 85 )
( 95 ) San Felice Vigorello 2019 ( Italy ). From one of the pioneers of the Super Tuscan movement , the usual regional blend is augmented and elevated by the use of Pugnitello ,
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a native variety that contributes complexity and structure to the wine . Intensely dark ruby in the glass , the nose and palate both reflect the dark red fruit , with spice and subtle floral character . Wonderfully flexible in terms of the wide range of dishes that the wine complements . ($ 57.99 )
( 94 ) Oberon Sauvignon Blanc 2023 ( CA ). Oberon has proven to be one of the most reliable sauvignon blanc producers in the country . The 2023 bottling further confirms the reputation is well earned . Brilliant straw gold in the glass , the nose and palate are dominated by bright and clean tree fruit , with hints of honeydew . Vivid and focused on the palate , a versatile and lovely wine . ($ 19 )
( 94 ) J . Lohr Riverstone Chardonnay 2022 ( CA ). A beautifully done new label along with a Stelvin closure updates this classic . Ten different clones , including the classic Wente , give overlapping layers of flavor . 72 % malolactic fermentation , hand-stirring the lees for 7-9 months , and a proprietary cooperage program of American
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, French and Hungarian coopers add complexity to the barrel fermentation . Lemon , tangerine and peach flavors add to the sweet oak finish . This wine consistently overdelivers for the money . ($ 12.99 )
( 94 ) Whitehall Lane Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 ( CA ). Originally founded in 1979 , today the winery is owned by the Leonardini family who source 200 acres from eight prime vineyard sites . Primarily cab , with touches of merlot , malbec , and petite verdot for complexity . Concentrated dark fruit , with toasted vanilla and cedar notes . ($ 59.99 )
( 94 ) Stoller Estate Pinot Noir 2022 ( OR ). Produced in the heart of the Willamette Valley , this outstanding pinot noir is supple and complex . The dark fruit is accented by spice and floral notes . The finish is lengthy and balanced , highlighting red fruit and subtle spice notes . ($ 35 )
( 94 ) McPherson ’ s Copains Rosé 2023 ( TX ). A beautifully crafted rosé utilizing the best Provence and Rhone
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