The Wine Independent (100)

James Suckling (97)

EnRoute Pinot Noir Pommiers 2019, crafted by the esteemed EnRoute winery, exemplifies superior winemaking tradition. Nestled in the prestigious Russian River Valley appellation of California, the winery employs meticulous artisan techniques to capture the distinctive flavours of various vineyard sites.

Proprietary clones are hand-selected, and meticulously farmed until they reach optimal maturity, then hand-sorted at harvest to ensure pristine quality. Each small lot is fermented separately to preserve the individual character. Vinted utilising traditional Burgundian practices including open top fermenters and native yeast fermentation, this Pinot Noir bursts with complex, layered red fruit tones.

The 2019 vintage marries rich intensity with graceful elegance, offering enticing aromas of ripe black cherry, dried flowers and exotic spice, leading to plush, full-bodied palate, with a harmonious, lingering finish. Trust this meticulously crafted, iconic EnRoute Pinot Noir Pommiers 2019 for an elevated wine experience.

Dive into the exquisite world of the EnRoute Pinot Noir Pommiers 2021, a quintessential expression of the Russian River Valley in California. This robust yet elegantly balanced Pinot Noir is produced by the esteemed Far Niente family of wineries, known for crafting meticulous and refined wines. The unique terroir of their Pommiers vineyard, with its cool, fog-kissed climate and well-drained Goldridge sandy loam, brings out an enchanting blend of opulent fruit notes and earthy undertones.

Aged for 10 months in French oak barrels, it yields an intoxicating nose of cherry, raspberry, and spiced plum, with subtle notes of savoury herbs and toasty oak. The palate is vibrant with red and black berry flavours, underscored by lively acidity and smooth, mouth-coating tannins. A typical Pinot Noir with expressive complexity, the EnRoute Pinot Noir Pommiers 2021 continues the winemaker's commitment to expressive, terroir-driven wine. It's truly a profound, indulgent experience for the discerning oenophile.

Vinous (94)

Heralding from the esteemed Pritchard Hill region of Napa Valley, Fairchild Sigaro Cabernet Sauvignon 2015 is an illustrious testimony to Californian viticulture. This sophisticated libation, crafted by the distinguished Fairchild Estate, exudes an aromatic complexity hinting at dark cherry, blackberry and cassis, cloaked in elegant oak spices. Immaculately curated, this outstanding Cabernet Sauvignon is meticulously cultivated on volcanic soils, bestowing an unparalleled richness unambiguously influenced by the unique terroir. Fairchild's dedication to authenticity and superior quality is echoed in the meticulous production process, employing handpicked, borough-specific grape clusters. An aging process in new French oak barrels solidifies prominent yet supple tannins, while ensuring a smooth, velvety mouthfeel, culminating in a depth of flavor which is unequalled. A personification of luxury, Fairchild Sigaro Cabernet Sauvignon 2015 encapsulates the allure of sumptuous Californian red wines, making a coveted addition to any connoisseur’s collection.

Showcasing the epitome of Napa Valley winemaking, Fairchild Sigaro Cabernet Sauvignon 2016 is an exquisite expression of terroir and skill. Crafted by renowned estate Fairchild, known for their uncompromising dedication to quality, this prized bottle reveals the precise artistry applied to each vine.

Sourced from the Pritchard Hill region of Napa Valley, famed for its rocky, volcanic soils, Sigaro displays the characteristic intensity and power of the area. The meticulous, hand-harvested selection of Cabernet Sauvignon grapes imbues a bold, brooding depth. The wine’s 20-month maturation in new French oak endows it with a dramatic structure and superb longevity.

Fairchild Sigaro Cabernet Sauvignon 2016 offers a profound, concentrated fruit core enveloped by plush tannins, leading to a prodigious finish. A fine balance of elegance and intensity, this exceptional vintage invites a symphony of blackcurrant, earthy truffle, and warm spice notes. An insatiable encounter for any discerning palate.

Discover the luxurious taste of Fairchild Stones No 1 Beckstoffer Las Piedras Cabernet Sauvignon 2016. Born from the renowned terroir of Napa Valley, California, this elegant vintage is defined by its superb complexity and exquisite finesse. It is the proud creation of Larry Fairchild, who collaborates with celebrated winemaker, Philippe Melka. Together, they've crafted a wine showcasing remarkable layers of ripe dark fruits, exotic spices, and structured tannins.

Matured in 100% new French Oak for 21 months, the bold flavours have been allowed to evolve to unparalleled harmony. From its outstanding Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard, the exceptional stones in the soil give the wine an intense minerality, further enhancing its desirability. Fairchild Stones No 1 Beckstoffer Las Piedras Cabernet Sauvignon 2016 is not just a wine, but an expression of terroir and expertise, making it a valuable addition to any connoisseur's collection.

Heralding from the esteemed Pritchard Hill region in Napa Valley, California, Fairchild Stones No 2 Pritchard Hill Cabernet Sauvignon 2015 is a product of exquisite craftsmanship. This full-bodied, intensely flavoured wine is the result of meticulous manual harvest and vinification, ensuring highest quality of each bottle. The propitious terroir, with its rocky, volcanic soil and maritime influenced climate, imparts unique complexity and layers to the wine.

Fairchild Estate, the mastermind behind this prestigious wine, boasts stringent viticultural practices led by a philosophy of minimal intervention. The varietal richness of Cabernet Sauvignon 2015 is further intensified by aging in 100% French oak barrels, lending it an unparalleled structure and tannic backbone. Notes of dark fruits, spice, and chocolate are delicately intertwined, culminating in a long, satisfying finish.

Let a bottle of Fairchild Stones No 2 Pritchard Hill Cabernet Sauvignon 2015 enthrall your senses, captivate your palate and illustrate the finesse of Napa Valley viticulture.

Indulge in the sublime taste of Fairchild Stones No 2 Pritchard Hill Cabernet Sauvignon 2016, a true testament to the art of winemaking. This esteemed bottle hails from the revered Pritchard Hill area in Napa Valley, California, and is the result of meticulous production methods by the Fairchild Stone vineyard. Hand-picked and sort brushed, the berries underwent a prolonged maceration and oak-ageing process, enhancing the intrinsic flavours and refinement.

Despite its youth, this 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon exhibits a sophisticated maturity, radiating elegance and depth. Swirling in your glass, dark fruit aromas are punctuated with subtle earthy hints. Upon tasting, textured tannin and a magnificent balance grace your palate, accompanying an exalted finish.

With Fairchild Stones No 2 Pritchard Hill Cabernet Sauvignon 2016, you're not only buying a bottle of wine, but a piece of Napa Valley's winemaking legacy. Its character speaks volumes about the magic of its terroir; a true gem for any connoisseur's collection.

2x75cl Perihelios - 100 points | Jeb Dunnuck

2x75cl Polysipine - 98+ points - Jeb Dunnuck

2x75cl Sine Fine - 98 points | Jeb Dunnuck

100 points | Jeb Dunnuck (Perihelios)

One of two perfect wines in the lineup of 2018s, the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Perihelios comes from Thomas Rivers Brown and is another seamless, elegant, yet powerful wine that’s just a joy to taste. Cassis, blackberries, tobacco, graphite, licorice, and a kiss of iron define this incredible beauty, and it's full-bodied, with a multi-dimensional, layered mouthfeel, ultra-fine tannins, and an incredible finish. Coming mostly from the Upper Range Vineyard and brought up in new barrels, it has ample up-front appeal given its balance, purity, and texture, yet there's no shortage of tannins, and it's going to evolve gracefully for 20-25 years or more.

98+ points | Jeb Dunnuck (Polysipine)

98 points | Jeb Dunnuck (Sine Fine)

Jeb Dunnuck (100)

Vinous (89)

Vinous (89)

Vinous (89)

Unveiling the majestic Far Niente Cabernet Sauvignon Estate 2020, an exemplification of fine Californian winemaking. Produced in the eminent Oakville region of Napa Valley, it hails from the historic Far Niente winery, renowned for their unwavering commitment to crafting high-quality estate wines since 1885. The rich, fertile soils of their vineyards imparts a unique depth and complexity to the wine.

This Cabernet Sauvignon was meticulously fermented in stainless steel tanks and aged twenty months in French oak barrels, yielding robust tannins with an exquisite balance. It unfurls with captivating aromas of blackberry and plum, intermingled with subtle hints of vanilla and toasted oak. Upon tasting, one experiences an enrapturing interplay of cassis, dark chocolate and dried herbs, completing in a velvety, opulent finish.

Vibrant yet graceful, the Far Niente Cabernet Sauvignon Estate 2020 offers an awe-inspiring adventure for the discerning palate, reconfirming Far Niente's hallmark artistry.

Far Niente Dolce 2017 is an exquisite dessert wine hailing from the famed Napa Valley. Produced by Far Niente, this vintage showcases a blend of late-harvest Sémillon and Sauvignon Blanc. Nestled amidst the rolling hills of Oakville, Far Niente skillfully crafts decadent wines with an unwavering commitment to elegance and precision. Dolce 2017 impresses with its harmonious balance of lush sweetness and vibrant acidity. Delicate notes of apricot, honey and peach mingle enticingly with subtle undertones of hazelnut and butterscotch. Each bottle, meticulously handcrafted, matures for 32 months in French oak barrels, adding complexity and finesse. Enjoy the Far Niente Dolce 2017 as the perfect accompaniment to rich desserts or sipped leisurely on its own, embodying the undeniable luxury of time well-spent. A testament to the skill and passion of Far Niente, Dolce 2017 captures the essence of the vineyard's terroir and captivates with flavours as engaging as the memories they inspire.

Decanter (100)

Vinous (98)

Steeped in the lineage of grand-cru Burgundy, the Ferren Sonoma Coast Chardonnay 2015 emanates an air of quiet sophistication. Born in the verdant vineyards of the rugged Sonoma Coast, this fine wine amasses its distinctive palate from swathes of rich California soil. Matt Courtney, former winemaker at Marcassin, meticulously produces these small-lot Chardonnays focusing on the unique terroirs of premier Sonoma Coast vineyards. The vintage was nurtured using traditional methods, allowing the essence of the region to flourish in its composition.

The wine reveals an exquisite profile of ripe citrus, orchard fruit and brioche uplifted by nuanced minerality, reflective of its Pacific influenced roots. The finish is elegantly layered with lingering flavours, rewarding the palate with its complexity. A testament to Courtney's careful hand and unwavering vision, the Ferren Sonoma Coast Chardonnay 2015 is undoubtedly the connoisseur’s choice for a memorable fine wine experience.

Experience an unprecedented tasting odyssey with the Faethm Assortment Case 2020. Exclusively curated by master vintner Nikolas Krankl, these exceptional California wines deliver an exploration of unique varietals that exemplify genuine winemaking passion. The Faethm journey begins with grapes meticulously chosen from distinctive vineyards in state's most renowned wine regions, each handcrafted vintage unfolding an intimate narrative of the terroir's soul.

The 2020 Assortment Case features a compilation of wines that embody balance and finesse, from robust Grenache to elegant Syrah, each bottle undergoes an exacting vinification process, ensuring unparalleled individuality and cellar-worthy longevity. Savour the volley of sophisticated aromatics and intricate palate surprises, masterpieces crafted under the revered Faethm label. These limited-production bottles are a testament to Krankl's dedication to New World viticulture influenced by Old World tradition.

Undertake this multisensory experience - the Faethm Assortment Case 2020 heralds an invitation into the fascinating world of world-class Californian viticulture.

Wine Advocate (96+)

Experience the distinctive taste of Fortunate Son The Warrior 2019, exquisite wine crafted in the renowned vineyards of Sonoma County, California. This bold red blend exhibits a smooth, harmonious composition of Syrah, Grenache, and Mourvèdre grape varieties, matured splendidly in a balanced climate of cool nights and warm days.

Employing a traditional fermentation process in stainless steel vats with gentle pump-overs, the Warrior 2019 demonstrates the Fortunate Son winery's commitment to preserving the integrity and characteristics of each varietal. Aged in French oak barrels, this grand cuvée unveils intricate layers of blackberry, cassis and anise, underscored by notes of mocha and subtle earthiness.

Fortunate Son The Warrior 2019 encapsulates the unwavering dedication of its producers to quality and complexity. A testament of excellence, it seamlessly melds time-honoured techniques and modern innovation, making this full-bodied wine a precious addition to any well-curated collection.

James Suckling (99)

Vinous (95)

Vinous (95-98)

Vinous (95-98)