Cabernet Sauvignon of the Year Photo: MITCHELL SHENKER
California's Best Wines of the Year
By Steve PitcherIndeed, there was widespread agreement early on among most observers that the Golden State's 2001 Cabs were at least on a par with those from the spectacular 1994, 1997 and 1999 vintages. Yet as more and more of these wines were released, it became evident to this critic that 2001 has, in fact, eclipsed those previous benchmarks to become California's greatest Cabernet vintage in the state's history.
Readers following The Wine News's BuyLine recommendations this year surely noticed a trend. Through the October/November issue, the panel had rated 47 California Cabernets from the 2001 vintage, 37 of which earned scores of at least 90 points or more. Taken altogether, the range of scores averaged 90 points.
Here on the West Coast, I sampled many of the same Cabs, plus dozens of others, and was equally impressed. Those from the Napa Valley and its sub-appellations led the pack, with nearly every one I encountered registering at least "Very Good" and most "Outstanding" and higher. Late-release gems, such as the 1999 Chateau St. Jean Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve from Sonoma County and Shafer's 2000 Hillside Select Cabernet Sauvignon, enriched the pool. The cab-based blends were, for the most part, just behind the varietal wines in their collective quality.
Generally speaking, the 2001 Cabs and blends from all of the state's important appellations for the variety are eminently drinkable right now, offering lusciously ripe fruit, smooth tannins, supple texture and fine acid balance. Yet, as with the 1999 vintage, the most powerful wines will be classic agers.
The task this year was not in assembling candidates for top honors, but sifting through an inordinate number of truly superb wines in order to come to some succinct conclusions. And more wines are on the way, but they did not meet the deadline for this year's assessment.
Vintage 2001 gets its edge from two factors: abnormal but lucky weather and post-phylloxera vines finally coming into full production. The year was a bumpy ride, to be sure, but it turned out splendidly. A drier-than-average winter gave way to rain in February, which was followed in April by the worst frost to hit Northern California in 30 years. The frost caused scattered damage to the fruit set. A very hot May ensued, and random summer heat spikes led to sunburn on some grapes. These climatic vagaries contributed to lower-than-average yields, and some growers reported crop losses of up to 50 percent. But there was a silver lining: The surviving clusters took on more concentrated flavors.
According to Vic Motto, a St. Helena-based wine industry consultant, "The weather was never normal. It was hot in May and June, when it was supposed to be cool, and cool in July and August when it was supposed to be hot." Most growers who went on record agreed that the early summer heat accelerated the growth cycle.
Temperatures cooled off in August and remained cool even through the fall harvest, allowing vintners the luxury of giving the fruit extra hang time - that is, waiting to harvest the grapes until they reached true physiological ripeness and accumulated maximum character. Brad Warner, winemaker at Sawyer Cellars in Rutherford, noted, "You really had to get into the fields and taste the fruit. The numbers for sugar were right, but the acids were still high, so we were patient and waited for the flavor." Even with the extra hang time, harvest was earlier than usual with most of the cabernet picked by the end of September.
Across California, the 2001 harvest was just a little over three million tons, down about six percent from 2000's record-high harvest of 3.3 million tons, in spite of the fact that over 40,000 new acres came into production.
Dirk Hampson, director of winemaking at Far Niente and Nickel & Nickel, observed, at a 25-year retrospective tasting held in July at Far Niente, that 2001 was the first year that most of their replanting occasioned by phylloxera came into production, which mirrored the situation in most Napa vineyards. "In 1989, phylloxera was discovered in the [Stelling] vineyard, and in 1992 we began to introduce cabernet from some of our other Napa Valley vineyards outside of Oakville; replanting continued through 1999. In fact, just this year, all of the replants in Stelling are at last bearing fruit. The 2001 vintage marks our return to being a 100 percent Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon."
The culmination of the replanting phase is central to 2001's quality: New clones have been brought into play; more appropriate locations have been tapped (planting where the variety is best suited); tighter vine spacing instituted; trellising became more efficient; and several other improvements were made that are evident in the bottled wine now and will no doubt contribute to quality harvests down the line.
As for Chardonnay, large numbers of bottlings from vintage 2002 - another terrific year - were rolled out. The scope of the year's releases confirmed the excellence of the vintage that had initially been proclaimed by the Sauvignon Blancs that hit the shelves last year. Pinots, Merlots, Zinfandels, Syrahs and Petite Sirahs from 2002 are also raising the bar for the vintage in terms of quality and varietal integrity.
The 2003 Sauvignons (arguably California's best wine value) and other whites, such as Riesling and Pinot Gris, that were released this year are delivering the same message about that vintage, so those who favor California wine have a trio of excellent harvests from which to choose over the next few years.
Because prices either held steady or retreated somewhat in the face of an abundant supply and lower grape prices combined with a still-soft economy, 2004 marks the beginning of a golden era of California wine-buying opportunities - from wines for everyday consumption to cellar collectibles.
The Criteria
Most of the wines noted in these pages are produced in sufficient quantity - 1,000 cases or more - to be reasonably easy to find. If a diligent search is required, check first with the winery Web site, which may direct you to a particular wine merchant or restaurant in your area; at the very least, you can post a query.
As is my custom, point scores are not assigned because I believe the wines singled out here are best served by description and, where not described, by being listed in association with the described wines. All the wines in the "Best Value" categories are moderately priced bottlings of impressive quality in the "Very Good" to "Outstanding" range and would rank from 88 points to the low 90s on this magazine's 100-point BuyLine rating scale. The pricier listings would earn 90+ points with the top two or three designates in each category worthy of 95 points or more.
With prices in check for a change, this year's releases offer wider choices in the "Best Value" department. Qualifying reds are less than $20 and whites fall under $15.
Here, then, on the pages that follow, are the best California wines I encountered in 2004. They have been painstakingly culled from hundreds of tasting notes recorded throughout the year. While some of the wines were tasted blind, the majority were not.
Case production figures are provided for all the wines mentioned, including the limited-production gems listed separately on page 50.
Publication deadlines precluded consideration of any wines released after October 29; hence late-release wines may be candidates for my 2005 report. - SP
Cabernet Sauvignon
1. Caymus, 2001 Special Selection, Napa Valley - $136 (Cabernet Sauvignon of the Year): Enticing aromas of cassis and black cherry, ripe plum, roasted coffee bean, exotic spice and creamy oak. Intensely concentrated and extracted on the palate, yet superbly balanced, this medium- to full-bodied wine delivers copious, plummy flavors that echo the nose, enhanced by vanilla and a touch of green olive; shows a deep core of sweet black fruit that keeps revealing new layers of flavor with every sip. The tannins are evident, but ripe and supple, making this Special Selection very appealing early on, although the dense structure and fine acid balance, coupled with some obvious oak in the finish, argue strongly for cellaring at least five years. (7,885 cases)
2. Etude, 2001 Napa Valley - $90: Wonderfully fragrant with big, rich scents of ripe cassis, black cherry, mocha, white pepper and subtle dried lavender. Luscious and superbly textured with ripe, medium tannins, this velvety-smooth Cab, sourced from select vineyards in alluvial benchlands of Oakville, Rutherford, St. Helena and Calistoga, is accented with a touch of cab franc. It delivers complex, extracted flavors of cassis and black cherry fruit, mocha and a hint of coconut. Powerful, yet graceful and absolutely delicious. Winemaker Tony Soter's take on this exceptional vintage is awesome in its youth and will only get better with time. (2,200 cases)
3. Shafer, 2001 Napa Valley - $52: Sixty-five percent of the fruit for this elegant, silky wine was sourced from estate vineyards in the Stags Leap District; 25 percent came from its newer vines in the Oak Knoll appellation and the balance purchased from vineyards along the valley's southeastern corridor. Its remarkable texture is a pleasing blend of supple tannins from the Stags Leap fruit and bigger, chalkier tannins derived from the Oak Knoll sites. Attractive, intense, ripe berry-cassis aromas laced with peppery herbs and spicy new oak. Plush and juicy on the palate with medium-full tannins, this massively structured wine exhibits a dense core of plummy black fruit and complex flavors that replicate the nose, finishing with a wisp of smoky oak. (6,000 cases)
Hewitt, 2001 Rutherford - $75: A fabulous inaugural release from the replanted and upgraded Hewitt Vineyard, which sits on Napa Valley's western benchland. Classic Rutherford dust aromas of currant and blackberry mingle with dried herbs and mocha, plus a hint of meatiness. Sleek and nicely concentrated with supple, medium tannins, layer after layer of flavors that replicate the nose enhanced by what winemaker Tom Rinaldi identifies as the vineyard's signature clove, vanilla and black cherry nuances. Overt flavors of cassis and cocoa are unmistakable, and the luscious black fruit finish goes on and on. (1,400 cases)
Pride, 2001 Napa Valley - $56: Fragrant, enticing scents of blackberry, cassis, crushed dried herbs and subtle oak spice. Velvety-smooth and luscious on the palate with ripe, medium tannins, the wine's juicy blackberry flavors fairly explode in the mouth, combining with the wonderful dried herb component suggested in the aromas. Picks up a subtle vanillin note in the long, extended finish. A beautifully crafted, keenly focused Cabernet that delights now and will gain even more complexity with several years of cellaring. (3,304 cases)
Dalla Valle, 2001 Napa Valley - $100: Fragrant, seductive aromas of cassis, raspberry, bittersweet chocolate, exotic spice, vanilla and a touch of leather. Smooth, round and luscious with medium, integrated tannins and a rich core of black fruit. The palate virtually brims with ripe, succulent cassis-red berry fruit accented by the nuances offered by the nose and an attractive tobacco leaf note imparted perhaps by the 15 percent cab franc. Altogether, a rich and powerful wine that also shows excellent balance and finesse. (2,000 cases)
Altamura, 2000 Napa Valley - $60 (3,000 cases)
Araujo, 2001 Eisele Vineyard, Napa Valley - $185 (1,615 cases)
Barnett, 2001 Spring Mountain District - $60 (2,254 cases)
Beaulieu Vineyard, 2001 Georges de Latour Private Reserve, Napa Valley - $85 (10,000 cases)
Caymus, 2001 Napa Valley - $70 (24,000 cases)
Robert Craig, 2001 Mt. Veeder - $50 (1,535 cases)
Duckhorn, 2000 Estate Grown, Napa Valley - $80 (2,978 cases)
Far Niente, 2001 Napa Valley - $100 (8,080 cases)
Nickel & Nickel, 2001 John C. Sullenger Vineyard, Oakville - $75 (1,038 cases)
Joseph Phelps, 2001 Napa Valley - $45 (20,000 cases)
Joseph Phelps, 2001 Backus Vineyard, Oakville - $150 (1,000 cases)
Pine Ridge, 2001 Rutherford - $37 (17,000 cases)
PlumpJack, 2001 Oakville - $58 (9,000 cases)
Provenance, 2001 Oakville - $35 (2,800 cases)
Sebastiani, 2001 Appellation Selection, Alexander Valley - $28: (3,300 cases)
Sebastiani, 2001 Cherryblock Vineyard, 100th Anniversary, Sonoma Valley - $75 (2,000 cases)
Shafer, 2000 Hillside Select, Stags Leap District - $150 (2,500 cases)
Stag's Leap Wine Cellars, 2001 Cask 23, Napa Valley - $150 (2,183 cases)
Whitehall Lane, 2001 Reserve, Napa Valley - $70 (4,440 cases)
Best Value Cabs
1. Kendall-Jackson, 2001 Vintner's Reserve, North Coast - $15 (Best Value Cab of the Year): Vibrant aromas of ripe cassis and black cherry fruit, dried herbs, brown spice and a touch of oak. Plush and well stuffed with smooth tannins, this truly varietal Cab is brimming with cassis-berry fruit tinged with spice. A joy to drink right now. (Apparently, K-J's new approach is to over-deliver with its Vintner's Reserve Cab rather than lower the price to beat the competition, although this wine is often found discounted below $10.) (242,840 cases)
2. Sebastiani, 2001 Sonoma County - $17: Expressive nose of blackberry and cassis accented by vanilla, sweet oak and cinnamon-clove spice. Rich and fleshy on the palate with medium tannins and opulent, fruit-forward flavors that echo the nose. This Sonoma charmer is a lot of Cab for the money. (47,500 cases)
Amberhill, 2001 California - $8 (1,196 cases)
Beaulieu Vineyard, 2001 Napa Valley - $17 (91,000 cases)
Estancia, 2001 Paso Robles - $15 (110,000 cases)
Geyser Peak, 2001 Alexander Valley - $18 (49,400 cases)
Grove Street, 2001 Alexander Valley - $18 (2,100 cases)
Hess Collection, 2001 Select, California - $15 (75,000 cases)
J. Lohr, 2002 Seven Oaks, Paso Robles - $15 (200,000 cases)
Lyeth, 2002 L de Lyeth, Sonoma County - $11 (12,000 cases)
Three Thieves, 2002 Napa Valley - $10/1L (8,500 cases)
Twenty Bench, 2001 Napa Valley - $15 (2,700 cases)
Villa Mt. Eden, 2001 Tall Trees, Napa Valley - $15 (15,000 cases)
Red Blends
1. Peter Michael, 2001 Les Pavots, Knights Valley - $115 (Red Blend of the Year): A blend of 72 percent cabernet sauvignon, 16 percent merlot, 10 percent cab franc and, making its debut in the cuvée, 2 percent petit verdot, Les Pavots reveals intense, complex aromas of ripe blackberry and blueberry,
a hint of meatiness, black licorice, lavender and roasted coffee bean. Very generous and extracted on the palate, the wine's opulent flavors echo the nose, accented by subtle minerality and bolstered by ripe, velvety tannins woven in a voluptuous texture; the wine finishes long with a note of white chocolate. Exciting to drink now, Les Pavots has the richness, extract and structure to age gracefully over the next ten to twelve years. (1,853 cases)
2. Harlan, 2000 Estate, Napa Valley - $210: Cedar and deep, ripe blackberry-cassis define the fragrant nose, which is embellished by wisps of smoky oak, dried lavender, leather and a floral component suggestive of white flowers or heather. Full bodied with substantial, ripe, supple tannins, the Harlan impresses with its great depth, layers of black fruit intertwined with lavender and mocha, an intriguing minerality, its rich, smooth texture and superb balance. Absolutely awesome; this is clearly a wine to cellar. (1,800 cases)
3. Joseph Phelps, 2001 Insignia, Napa Valley - $135: Mostly cabernet with small doses of petit verdot (8 percent) and malbec (3 percent), the 2001 is reminiscent of the extraordinary 1997 with its forward, intense nose of cassis, warm fruitcake-like spice, mocha and vanillin oak. Full bodied and concentrated with medium-full tannins, the wine has an enormous palate presence, yet exhibits excellent balance and an intensity and purity of fruit that is exquisite. The deep, extracted flavors replicate the nose, enhanced by a hint of meatiness and an extended finish. (18,000 cases)
Paraduxx, 2001 Napa Valley - $43: An exotic mix of zinfandel (70 percent) and cabernet (30 percent) aged half in French oak and half in American, it displays even more intensity and depth than the memorable 1999 version, while exhibiting a rounder, smoother core. Luscious dark berry and red currant fruit reveal a spicy edge, enhanced by tiers of mocha, toasty oak and a subtle, sage-like herbaceousness. While fleshy, the wine's medium-full tannins provide the necessary backbone. Enjoyable now for its opulent fruit, it will be at its best over the next five years. (11,775 cases)
Chateau St. Jean, 2001 Cinq Cépages, Sonoma County - $75: Slow-to-open nose of mocha, black cherry-cassis fruit, dried herbs and a hint of leather. Deep, dense and highly extracted, the wine's flavors focus on liqueur-rich blackberry fruit enhanced by notes of red cherry and blueberry, bittersweet chocolate, dried lavender and espresso bean. Silky-smooth and seamless with flavor-enhancing acidity and medium-full tannins, this is a superbly crafted Bordeaux-style blend of cabernet (76 percent), merlot (10 percent), cab franc (8 percent), malbec (4 percent) and petit verdot (2 percent). (15,500 cases)
Robert Craig, 2001 Affinity, Napa Valley - $40: Very fragrant, appealing bouquet of cassis-red cherry fruit, mocha, subtle green olive and vanillin oak. Full bodied and powerful with ripe, medium-full tannins, this blend of cabernet (78 percent), merlot (20 percent) and cab franc (2 percent) is rich and luscious with extracted, concentrated flavors of black fruit, ripe plum, toffee and anise together with noticeable medium-high oak char that argues for several years of cellaring. (3,400 cases)
Alexander Valley Vineyards, 2000 Cyrus, Alexander Valley - $50 (2,287 cases)
Beaulieu Vineyard, 2001 Dulcet Reserve, Napa Valley - $35 (5,000 cases)
Beaulieu Vineyard, 2001 Tapestry Reserve, Napa Valley - $40 (20,000 cases)
Bonny Doon, 2001 Le Cigare Volant, California - $32/screwcap (11,000 cases)
Chateau Potelle, 2000 Cougar Pass, Napa Valley - $25 (1,000 cases)
Cosentino, 2000 The Poet Meritage Red, Napa Valley - $65 (2,205 cases)
Dominus, 2001 Napanook, Napa Valley - $39 (3,800 cases)
Flora Springs, 2001 Trilogy, Napa Valley - $60 (10,000 cases)
Franciscan, 2001 Magnificat, Napa Valley - $40 (20,000 cases)
Opus One, 2000 Napa Valley - $150 (22,500 cases)
Joseph Phelps, 2001 Le Mistral, Monterey - $25 (7,000 cases)
Spring Mountain, 2001 Elivette, Spring Mountain District - $90 (2,700 cases)
Swanson, 2001 Alexis, Oakville - $50 (3,321 cases)
Best Value RED Blends
1. Cline, 2002 Red Truck Red, California - $10 (Best Value Red Blend): This zesty blend of syrah, petite sirah, cabernet franc and merlot offers aromas and flavors of freshly crushed dark berries and licorice. Rich and smooth with easy tannins, the wine finishes with a subtle peppery note. (14,840 cases)
2. Beckmen, 2002 Cuvée Le Bec, Santa Ynez Valley - $15: A Southern Rhône-style blend of grenache (44 percent), mourvèdre (23 percent), syrah (22 percent) and a dash of counoise from Beckmen's Purisima Mountain Vineyard that offers inviting scents of dark berry and strawberry, brown spice and white pepper that resonate on the palate. Smooth and silky with medium tannins, this is a perfect partner for Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. (4,000 cases)
Big Moose, 2002 Red, California - $10 (15,000 cases)
Coppola, 2002 Claret, California - $17 (15,500 cases)
Jade Mountain, 2002 La Provençal, California - $16 (1,660 cases)
Lyeth, 2001 Meritage - $15 (12,000 cases)
Murphy-Goode, 2002 Wild Card Claret, Alexander Valley - $19 (10,957 cases)
Murphy-Goode, 2002 Tin Roof Syrah-Cabernet, California - $9/screwcap (6,000 cases)
St. Francis, 2001 Claret, Sonoma County - $17 (18,000 cases)
MERLOT
1. Shafer, 2002 Napa Valley - $41 (Merlot of the Year): Mildly toasty nose of blackberry and black cherry, dried herbs, violets and a hint of tar. Incredibly rich and luscious on the palate with deep, complex flavors of black cherry and black raspberry fruit, tobacco leaf, vanilla and loamy earthiness; a grace note of red berry emerges after a few sips. Generous, harmonious and the epitome of suppleness, this seamless Merlot, with its ripe, medium tannins, serves up a silky texture that seduces the palate as much as the fruit. (10,000 cases)
2. Duckhorn, 2001 Estate Grown, Napa Valley - $83: Opulent and muscular with plenty of new French oak in evidence, Duckhorn's Merlot from three estate vineyards offers come-hither aromas of ripe black cherry-cassis fruit, exotic spice and caramel, and lush flavors of black fruit and blueberry, crème brûlée, oak spice and cocoa. The texture is velvety-smooth and round, the tannins are ripe, and the fruit is sufficiently rich and concentrated to balance the oak. (1,734 cases)
3. Joseph Phelps, 2001 Napa Valley - $40: Rich and powerful, yet silky-smooth and harmonious, offering aromas of raspberry and black cherry, a bit of oak toast, vanilla and subtle tar. Rich, round and supple on the palate with medium-full tannins, the wine brims with ripe cherry-berry fruit laced with smoky oak, mineral and a hint of green olive. Finishes long and lovely. (15,000 cases)
Etude, 2001 Napa Valley - $48: Fragrant, appealing nose of black cherry-cassis fruit, vanilla, crushed violets, anise and cedar. Voluptuous and rich with a velvety texture and ripe, medium tannins, the wine exhibits a deep core of black fruit accented by notes of dried herbs and mocha with a flourish of vanilla in the finish. (1,200 cases)
Duckhorn, 2001 Three Palms Vineyard, Napa Valley - $78: Complex, deeply fragrant nose of black raspberry-black cherry compote, anise, tobacco leaf, mint, chocolate and a hint of leather. A big Merlot with medium-full tannins, this single-vineyard expression is richly textured and brimming with ripe, juicy black cherry-strawberry fruit enhanced by mocha and dried lavender. It deserves several years of cellaring. (2,073 cases)
Cafaro, 2000 Napa Valley - $35 (1,550 cases)
Chateau St. Jean, 2001 Sonoma County - $25 (29,000 cases)
Clos Du Val, 2001 Napa Valley - $25 (8,500 cases)
Cosentino, 2001 Reserve, Napa Valley - $38 (1,665 cases)
Dry Creek Vineyard, 1999 Reserve, Dry Creek Valley - $30 (2,000 cases)
Duckhorn, 2001 Napa Valley - $48 (22,612 cases)
MacRostie, 2001 Carneros - $26 (2,500 cases)
Nickel & Nickel, 2001 Sori Bricco Vineyard, Diamond Mountain District - $40 (1,310 cases)
Provenance, 2001 Carneros-Napa Valley - $28 (9,000 cases)
Sebastiani, 2001 Appellation Selection, Alexander Valley - $24 (1,250 cases)
Stag's Leap Wine Cellars, 2001 Napa Valley - $40 (8,042 cases)
Sterling, 2001 Reserve, Napa Valley - $65 (1,000 cases)
Whitehall Lane, 2001 Napa Valley - $26 (9,050 cases)
Best Value merlots
1. Chateau St. Jean, 2002 California - $15 (Best Value Merlot of the Year): Forward aromas of black, plummy fruit and spice. A step above an everyday quaffer, this blend of North Coast, Paso Robles and Santa Maria Valley fruit is rich, ripe and forward with flavors that echo the nose backed by a hint of mint and an intriguing note of roasted meat. (20,000 cases)
2. Pepperwood Grove, 2001 California - $9: Mildly spicy cherry fruit aromas lead to lush, succulent flavors of sweet black cherry and blackberry accented by dried herbs and chocolate notes. Remarkably rich for the price. (100,000 cases)
Beringer, 2001 Appellation Collection, Napa Valley - $19 (15,000 cases)
Camelot, 2001 California - $7 (50,000 cases)
Canyon Road, 2002 California - $10 (50,010 cases)
Gallo of Sonoma, 2001 Reserve, Sonoma County - $11 (116,000 cases)
Geyser Peak, 2001 Sonoma County - $18 (53,000 cases)
Best Value Merlots, continued:
Montpellier, 2001 California - $7 (26,000 cases)
Murphy-Goode, 2001 Alexander Valley - $19 (13,600 cases)
Ravenswood, 2002 Vintners Blend, California - $10 (150,000 cases)
PINOT Noir
1. Goldeneye, 2001 Anderson Valley - $48 (Pinot Noir of the Year): Forward, fragrant aromas of black cherry-strawberry fruit, vanilla cream, violets, orange zest and brown spice with undertones of smoked meat and mocha. Ultraplush on the palate with ripe, medium tannins and bright acidity, this intensely varietal Pinot delivers layers of dried cherry-wild strawberry fruit, star anise and roasted coffee bean, finishing long and smooth. (2,500 cases)
2. Patz & Hall, 2002 Sonoma Coast - $33: Vivid aromas of freshly crushed strawberry and black raspberry fruit, sandalwood and lightly charred French oak. Full bodied, velvety, rich and luscious in the mouth with deep, concentrated flavors of red fruit and Asian spices that linger nicely in the finish. This is a well rounded, powerful, generous Pinot that's a joy to drink. (3,900 cases)
3. Chalone, 2002 Estate, Chalone - $25: Attractive aromas of black cherry, cassis and raspberry, pie crust, a touch of earthiness and slightly smoky oak. Medium bodied and powerful with medium tannins and nicely concentrated flavors that replicate the nose, enhanced by notes of anise, vanilla and, again, smoky oak. Big, harmonious, complex and richly textured, this is a lot of Pinot for the money. Benefits from decanting at this stage of its development. (11,800 cases)
Navarro, 2002 Méthode à l'Ancienne, Anderson Valley - $22: Wonderfully fruity nose of freshly crushed wild strawberry, cranberry and pomegranate, accented by subtle floral notes and a hint of sandalwood. Plush and sensuous in the mouth and loaded with strawberry-cranberry fruit, this complex, expressive Pinot has mouthwatering acidity and ripe, medium-full tannins that promise further development over the next three to five years. (5,500 cases)
Merry Edwards, 2002 Klopp Ranch, Russian River Valley - $48: Made in the méthode à l'ancienne-style, this quintessential Russian River Valley Pinot offers seductive aromas and layered flavors of Bing cherry, blackberry and red plum with a grace note of cola, along with toasty oak and a hint of chocolate in the finish. Silky-smooth texture, supple, fine-grained tannins and fine acid balance complete the elegant package. (1,220 cases)
Acacia, 2002 Napa Valley-Carneros - $20 (20,400 cases)
Baileyana, 2002 Firepeak Vineyard, Edna Valley - $23 (4,326 cases)
Belle Glos, 2002 Clark & Telephone Vineyard, Santa Maria Valley - $38 (3,600 cases)
Byron, 2002 Santa Maria Valley - $25 (10,658 cases)
Merry Edwards, 2002 Sonoma Coast - $27 (1,580 cases)
Etude, 2002 Carneros - $40 (7,500 cases)
Laetitia, 2002 Estate, Arroyo Grande Valley - $25 (4,000 cases)
Navarro, 2002 Deep End Blend, Anderson Valley - $39 (1,141 cases)
Patz & Hall, 2002 Alder Springs, Mendocino - $50 (1,000 cases)
Sea Smoke, 2002 Southing, Santa Rita Hills - $45 (1,000 cases)
Talley, 2001 Estate, Arroyo Grande Valley - $28 (1,442 cases)
TAZ, 2002 Santa Barbara County - $25 (2,966 cases)
TAZ, 2002 Fiddlestix Vineyard, Santa Rita Hills - $32 (1,090 cases)
Best Value PINOTs
1. Beringer, 2002 Appellation Collection, Carneros - $16 (Best Value Pinot of the Year): Classic Pinot nose of strawberry, rhubarb and red cherry fruit, lavender and tobacco leaf, complemented by vanilla, light toast and a hint of warm earthiness. Supple, fleshy and eminently drinkable, the wine's rich, vibrant profile focuses on cherry, black raspberry and brown spice, and its silky tannins carry the flavors through to a mineral-tinged finish. (7,000 cases)
2. Navarro, 2002 Mendocino - $15: Attractive scents of freshly crushed strawberry, rose petal and clove. Sleek and smooth with medium tannins, this persistently flavorful Pinot offers delectable, shyly spicy red fruit enhanced by lightly toasted oak and buoyed by bright acidity. (3,194 cases)
Babcock, 2002 Santa Barbara, Monterey, Sonoma - $19 (4,800 cases)
Chateau St. Jean, 2002 Sonoma County - $19 (11,000 cases)
Crosspoint, 2002 Monterey County - $12 (10,000 cases)
Estancia, 2001 Pinnacles Ranches, Monterey - $15 (65,000 cases)
Handley, 2002 Mendocino County - $16 (1,378 cases)
Kenwood, 2002 Russian River Valley - $17 (15,600 cases)
Lafond, 2002 Santa Rita Hills - $18 (1,000 cases)
Meridian, 2002 Santa Barbara County - $11 (24,021 cases)
Meridian, 2002 Reserve, Santa Barbara County - $16 (3,715 cases)
Pepperwood Grove, 2002 California - $9 (30,000 cases)
Sebastiani, 2002 Sonoma Coast - $15 (17,200 cases)
SYRAHS & Petites
1. Shafer, 2001 Relentless, Napa Valley - $60 (Syrah of the Year): This is the third year in a row for this wine in this spot: It just keeps getting better and better, and the spectacular 2001 vintage has simply added to its luster. Bigger and juicier than its predecessors, this intensely flavorful Relentless is a hedonistic mélange of very ripe purple fruit, creamy oak and blackberry jam; the syrah contributes meatiness and black pepper, the 19 percent petite sirah brings deep blueberry and bramble fruit into play. The aromas are heady and vivid, featuring freshly crushed blackberry, plum compote, black pepper and vanillin oak. An enormous wine with big, ripe tannins and great concentration. Decant a full day ahead for early consumption; a perfect candidate for cellaring. (2,500 cases)
2. Rosenblum, 2002 Petite Sirah, Pickett Road, Napa Valley - $24: Ripe, dark berry-cassis nose enhanced by freshly crushed black pepper and subtle rose petal from the 4 percent carignane in the blend. Rich and full bodied with medium-full tannins, this Petite from old bush vines offers copious flavors of jammy, peppery blackberry fruit, vanilla, black olive, sweet oak and brown spice. (1,400 cases)
3. Geyser Peak, 1999 Reserve Shiraz, Sonoma County - $45: An exuberant Shiraz with fragrant scents of ripe boysenberry-blackberry fruit, white pepper, anise and nutmeg. The palate displays tremendous depth and power, offering layers of dark berry and black cherry fruit with hints of tar and white pepper. A richly textured, juicy wine with supple, medium-full tannins. (1,900 cases)
Stags' Leap Winery, 2001 Petite Syrah, Napa Valley - $31: Opulent and powerful, this flagship wine offers intense aromas of blackberry-black cherry fruit, anise, cola and black pepper spice. In the mouth, flavors of raspberry, cassis, chocolate and blueberry meld with vanilla and brown spice. Tannins are bold and ripe, yet they don't mask the fruit. (14,756 cases)
Jade Mountain, 2002 Napa Valley - $28: Aromas of black raspberry and blueberry, smoky oak and dried lavender. Mouth-filling and viscous with medium-full tannins and extracted flavors of ripe blackberry and plum tinged with vanilla, a mild herbaceousness and glove leather. (1,650 cases)
Arrowood, 2001 Grand Archer, Sonoma County - $20 (5,525 cases)
Babcock, 2001 Black Label Cuvée, Santa Barbara County - $30 (1,125 cases)
Chateau Souverain, 2002 Alexander Valley - $20 (3,300 cases)
Chalone, 2002 Chalone - $25 (2,310 cases)
Curtis, 2001 Ambassador's Vineyard, Santa Barbara County - $20 (1,266 cases)
Kunde, 2001 Sonoma Valley - $23 (2,500 cases)
Lava Cap, 2001 Petite Sirah Reserve, Granite Hill Vineyard, El Dorado - $30 (1,100 cases)
Rosenblum, 2002 Syrah, England Shaw Vineyard, Solano County - $30 (1,126 cases)
TAZ, 2002 Santa Barbara County - $25 (1,945 cases)
Truchard, 2001 Carneros - $28 (2,951 cases)
Voss, 2001 Syrah, Napa Valley - $20 (2,267 cases)
Zaca Mesa, 2001 Black Bear Block, Santa Ynez Valley - $50 (1,068 cases)
Best Value Syrahs & Petites
1. Baileyana, 2001 Edna Valley - $18 (Best Value Syrah of the Year): Slow-to-open nose of white pepper, smoke and ripe black fruit plus a hint of leather. Rich and chewy with medium-full tannins and abundant dark berry fruit accented by white pepper. (1,840 cases)
2. Foppiano, 2002 Petite Sirah, Bacigalupi Vineyard, Russian River Valley - $17: A powerful and densely textured Petite with forward aromas of raspberry-strawberry fruit and black pepper. Huge on the palate with full tannins and copious, extracted red berry fruit graced by notes of blueberry and roasted coffee bean. (1,600 cases)
Bonny Doon, 2001 California - $15 (3,800 cases)
Canyon Road, 2001 Shiraz, California - $10 (7,960 cases)
Edna Valley Vineyard, 2002 Paragon, Central Coast - $14 (10,400 cases)
Geyser Peak, 2001 Shiraz, Sonoma County - $18 (10,000 cases)
Hess Collection, 2001 Select, California - $13 (5,000 cases)
Meridian, 2002 Reserve, Santa Barbara County - $16 (3,688 cases)
Pepperwood Grove, 2002 California - $8 (52,000 cases)
Smoking Loon, 2001 California - $8 (15,000 cases)
ZINFANDEL
1. Rosenblum, 2002 Rockpile Road Vineyard, Rockpile-Dry Creek Valley - $26 (Zinfandel of the Year): Spicy aromas of very ripe blackberry and black cherry fruit, black pepper and dried lavender. Ultrasmooth, luscious and juicy on the palate with medium tannins and loads of ripe, extracted blackberry fruit accented by notes of peppery spice and dark chocolate. Drinking fabulously. (3,007 cases)
2. Rosenblum, 2002 Monte Rosso Vineyard, Sonoma Valley - $38: Intense aromas of wild black raspberry, cassis and mocha that expand with airing, enhanced by crushed black pepper. Bold, full bodied and mouth-filling, this old-vine mountain Zin is a powerhouse of a wine, delivering deep flavors of high-extract blackberry-cassis fruit laced with black pepper, chocolate and vanilla cream. Finishes with a flourish of red berry and toasty oak. (1,334 cases)
3. Ravenswood, 2002 Teldeschi, Dry Creek Valley - $30: A field blend that includes 13 percent petite sirah and 9 percent carignane, this dramatic Zinfandel is full of ripe cherry-black raspberry fruit accented by anise, black pepper spice and vanillin oak supported by medium-full tannins. (2,672 cases)
Rosenblum, 2002 Harris Kratka Vineyard, Alexander Valley - $30: Forward nose of sweet black cherry, cassis and ripe plum accented by spicy oak. Silky-smooth with medium tannins and flavors that echo the nose with hints of violets, rose petal and vanilla. An easy-to-drink, claret-style Zin. (1,295 cases) >
Kunde, 2001 Century Vines, Shaw Vineyard, Sonoma Valley - $28: Aromatic nose of ripe raspberry, plum, cocoa and anise. Full bodied with medium-full tannins, this late-release Zin offers concentrated flavors of jammy berry fruit accented by caramel and vanilla. (2,750 cases)
Edizione Pennino, 2002 Rutherford - $35 (2,374 cases)
Kenwood, 2001 Reserve, Mazzoni Vineyard, Geyserville, Sonoma County - $20 (1,400 cases)
Murphy-Goode, 2002 Snake Eyes, Ellis Ranch, Alexander Valley - $35 (1,044 cases)
Ravenswood, 2002 Dickerson, Napa Valley - $30 (1,216 cases)
Ravenswood, 2002 Monte Rosso, Sonoma Valley - $30 (3,044 cases)
Rosenblum, 2002 Annette's Reserve, Rhodes Vineyard, Redwood Valley - $28 (3,028 cases)
Rosenblum, 2002 Maggie's Reserve, Samsel Vineyard, Sonoma Valley - $42 (1,000 cases)
St. Francis, 2001 Old Vines, Sonoma County - $20 (35,000 cases)
Seghesio, 2002 Cortina, Dry Creek Valley - $29 (2,200 cases)
Seghesio, 2002 Home Ranch, Alexander Valley - $29 (2,500 cases)
Best Value ZINS
1. Ravenswood, 2001 Old Vine, Lodi - $15 (Best Value Zin of the Year): Forward, jammy nose of blackberry, blueberry and plum compote accented by brown spice. Fleshy and juicy with medium tannins, this supple, vibrant Zin is loaded with luscious berry fruit tinged with vanilla. (30,000 cases)
2. Castle Rock, 2002 Russian River Valley - $9: Attractive scents of raspberry, red cherry and toasty oak. Lots of jammy red fruit on the palate, enhanced by creamy oak and mocha, and braced by medium-full tannins. (1,800 cases)
Bogle, 2002 Old Vine, California - $11 (68,000 cases)
Eberle, 2002 Steinbeck Vineyard, Paso Robles - $16 (1,123 cases)
Kenwood, 2001 Sonoma County - $16 (15,500 cases)
Mazzocco, 2000 Dry Creek Valley - $16 (2,598 cases)
Murphy-Goode, 2002 Liar's Dice Sonoma County - $19 (14,000 cases)
Napa Wine Co., 2002 Napa Valley - $18 (12,000 cases)
Ravenswood, 2001 Napa Valley - $16 (15,000 cases)
Rosenblum, 2002 Oakley Vineyards, Contra Costa County - $14 (1,875 cases)
Three Thieves, 2002 California - $10/1L (30,000 cases)
CHARDONNAY
1. Nickel & Nickel, 2002 Truchard Vineyard, Carneros - $35 (Chardonnay of the Year): Rich aromas of tropical fruit, sweet Meyer lemon and succulent pear mingle with toasty oak, mineral and vanilla. Very soft on the palate with deep flavors of citrus, pineapple, pear and guava accented by oak spice and a vanilla flourish in the extended finish. This elegant Chardonnay did not undergo malolactic fermentation and thus retains a crisp acidity that heightens the flavors. (1,290 cases)
2. Shafer, 2002 Red Shoulder Ranch, Carneros - $38: This bold wine offers intense, deep aromas of ripe pear, apple, apricot and tropical fruit accented by subtle, smoky oak and toast. It saw no malolactic fermentation, yet it is luscious, rich and palate coating with crisp acidity and a hint of mineral. Flavors focus on tropical fruit, sweet Fuji apple, apricot, toasty oak and hazelnut with bright citrus emerging in the vanilla-tinged finish. (6,500 cases)
3. Patz & Hall, 2002 Dutton Ranch, Russian River Valley - $36: Forward, opulent aromas of green apple, pear, tropical fruit and toasted hazelnut. Rich and viscous with crisp acidity, this cool-climate Chardonnay delivers deep, nicely concentrated flavors of apple, pear, apricot, pineapple and toasty oak; quite Burgundian in style. (2,520 cases)
Mer Soleil, 2002 Central Coast - $42: A hedonistically rich Chardonnay from Santa Lucia Highlands with enticing aromas of pineapple, mango, citrus and honeysuckle accented by a note of mineral. Complex, creamy and mouth coating with bright acidity and a deep core of perfectly ripe fruit. Lightly honeyed flavors replicate the nose and gain some spiciness from the oak, finishing with a surge of lemony crème brûlée. (26,000 cases)
Peter Michael, 2002 Belle Côte, Sonoma County - $65: Seductive nose of apricot, lime zest, apple, mango, toasted hazelnut and a distinct mineral note. This densely textured, mountain-grown Chardonnay offers complex flavors that echo the nose, particularly the mineral component, enhanced by notes of nutmeg and lychee. (1,800 cases)
Beringer, 2002 Private Reserve, Napa Valley - $35 (10,000 cases)
Beringer, 2002 Sbragia-Limited Release, Napa Valley - $40 (5,000 cases)
Chalone, 2002 Estate Grown, Chalone - $25 (24,800 cases)
Chateau Potelle, 2001 VGS, Mt. Veeder - $39 (1,837 cases)
Chateau St. Jean, 2001 Reserve, Sonoma County - $45 (2,300 cases)
Chateau St. Jean, 2001 Reserve, Robert Young Vineyard, Alexander Valley - $35 (1,200 cases)
Far Niente, 2002 Napa Valley - $52 (24,500 cases)
Franciscan, 2001 Cuvée Sauvage, Napa Valley - $35 (7,750 cases)
MacRostie, 2002 Carneros - $20 (15,940 cases)
Melville, 2002 Santa Rita Hills - $22 (2,309 cases)
Peter Michael, 2002 La Carrière, Sonoma County - $65 (1,100 cases)
Navarro, 2002 Premier Reserve, Anderson Valley - $19 (3,185 cases)
Patz & Hall, 2002 Napa Valley - $33 (3,637 cases)
Talbott, 2000 Diamond T Estate, Monterey County - $65 (1,400 cases)
Truchard, 2002 Carneros - $28 (2,937 cases)
Best Value CHARDS
1. Navarro, 2002 Mendocino - $14 (Best Value Chardonnay of the Year): Attractive aromas of Fuji apple, succulent pear, clove-cinnamon spice and toasted hazelnut. Clean, fresh and exciting on the palate with crisp acidity and a luscious combination of tropical fruit, apricot and green apple. An amazing wine for the price. (4,946 cases)
2. Villa Mt. Eden, 2001 Grand Reserve, Bien Nacido Vineyard, Santa Maria Valley - $13: Complex, intense aromas of pear, Fuji apple, lemon zest, lightly toasted oak and vanilla custard. Concentrated, rich flavors of spiced apple, ripe pear and butterscotch shot through with brisk acidity. (13,000 cases)
Beringer, 2002 Appellation Collection, Napa Valley - $16 (80,000 cases)
Beringer, 2002 Founders' Estate, California - $12 (150,000 cases)
Chateau St. Jean, 2002 Sonoma County - $14 (220,000 cases)
Chateau Souverain, 2002 Sonoma County - $14 (64,000 cases)
Edna Valley Vineyard, 2002 Paragon, Edna Valley - $14 (149,000 cases)
Geyser Peak, 2002 Russian River Valley - $13 (2,500 cases)
Geyser Peak, 2002 Sonoma County - $12 (45,000 cases)
Ravenswood, 2002 Vintners Blend, California - $10 (90,000 cases)
Meridian, 2002 Reserve, Santa Barbara County - $16 (30,000 cases)
Simi, 2003 Sonoma County - $16 (93,842 cases)
SAUVIGNON Blanc
1. Gary Farrell, 2003 Redwood Ranch, Sonoma County - $20 (Sauvignon Blanc of the Year): An uncommonly complex and elegant Sauvignon with vibrant, grassy varietal aromas of white grapefruit, honeydew melon, lemon zest and pear accented by subtle oak tones. Smooth and round with lively acidity, this 100 percent Sauvignon is superbly balanced, offering layers of melon, pear, citrus, grassy-to-gooseberry herbaceousness and a touch of oak. Perfectly varietal without herbal excess or heavy-handed oak, and a terrific bargain to boot. (1,865 cases)
2. Geyser Peak, 2003 River Road Ranch Block Collection, Russian River Valley - $19: Fresh-mown, grassy-style bouquet with intense, vibrant scents of white grapefruit and lemon-lime citrus, lemon grass and a flinty note. A dollop of barrel-fermented juice gives a textured roundness to the mid-palate that's balanced by crisp acidity. The core flavors of this exciting, vineyard-designated Sauvignon focus on grapefruit, kiwi, lemon zest and gooseberry. (1,500 cases)
Chateau St. Jean, 2002 Fumé Blanc, La Petite Etoile Vineyard, Russian River Valley - $20: Forward, inviting aromas of lemon grass, white grapefruit, melon, nutmeg and mildly toasty oak. Round and opulently textured, this 100 percent Sauvignon delivers spicy citrus and melon flavors with accents of French oak and vanilla; no malolactic kept the acidity clean and brisk. (3,780 cases)
Peter Michael, 2003 L'Après-Midi, Sonoma County - $42: Attractive, elegant aromas of honeydew melon, juicy pear, lime zest, gooseberry and minerals. Lively on the palate with crisp acidity, this mountain-grown Sauvignon is elegant and poised with rich flavors that replicate the nose, especially the mineral and citrus notes; subtly grassy. (1,770 cases)
Araujo, 2002 Eisele Vineyard - $32 (1,300 cases)
Babcock, 2003 Eleven Oaks Cuvée, Santa Ynez Valley - $25 (430 cases)
Ferrari-Carano, 2003 Fumé Blanc, Sonoma County - $15 (50,000 cases)
Flora Springs, 2002 Soliloquy, Napa Valley - $25 (2,700 cases)
Greenwood Ridge, 2003 Anderson Valley - $16 (1,100 cases)
Kenwood, 2002 Reserve, Sonoma County - $15 (2,000 cases)
Mason, 2003 Napa Valley - $16/synthetic cork (16,000 cases)
Murphy-Goode, 2001 The Deuce, Alexander Valley - $24 (1,350 cases)
Patianna, 2003 Mendocino County - $16 (3,000 cases)
Rancho Zabaco, 2003 Reserve, Russian River Valley - $18 (8,500 cases)
Rochioli, 2003 Russian River Valley - $24 (2,650 cases)
St. Supéry, 2003 Napa Valley - $17 (42,800 cases)
Selene, 2003 Hyde Vineyards, Carneros - $24 (1,742 cases)
Silverado Vineyards, 2002 Napa Valley - $16/screwcap (19,977 cases)
Voss, 2003 Napa Valley - $19 (4,500 cases)
Whitehall Lane, 2003 Napa Valley - $15 (7,450 cases)
Best Value SAUVIGNONs
1. Geyser Peak, 2003 California - $12: Forward, uncompromisingly varietal nose of grapefruit, gooseberry and honeydew melon. Clean, fresh and zingy on the palate with fruit-forward flavors that echo the nose and offer a pleasant roundness with crisp acidity and a lingering close. (75,000 cases)
2. Kenwood, 2003 Sonoma County - $11: Vibrant varietal aromas and flavors of grass, melon, green apple and tropical fruit. One-third of the blend was aged for three months in French oak, which lends a pleasant richness and smoothness to the texture, balanced by crisp acidity. (76,000 cases)
Beckmen, 2003 Estate, Santa Ynez Valley - $12 (3,200 cases)
Brander, 2003 Santa Ynez Valley - $12 (4,300 cases)
Canyon Road, 2003 California - $9 (26,100 cases)
Chateau St. Jean, 2002 Fumé Blanc, Sonoma County - $13 (24,300 cases)
Chateau Souverain, 2002 Alexander Valley - $14 (11,000 cases)
Edna Valley Vineyard, 2003 Paragon, Edna Valley - $14 (4,220 cases)
Firestone, 2003 Santa Ynez Valley - $12 (20,000 cases)
Handley, 2002 Handley Vineyard, Dry Creek Valley - $14 (1,669 cases)
Murphy-Goode, 2002 Fumé Blanc, Sonoma County - $12 (45,000 cases)
Napa Wine Co., 2003 Napa Valley - $14 (2,400 cases)
Robert Pepi, 2003 California - $8 (14,000 cases)
Santa Barbara Winery, 2002 Santa Ynez Valley - $12 (2,478 cases)
Based in San Francisco, Contributing Editor Steve Pitcher has authored this comprehensive, year-end report since 1997. He can be reached via e-mail at wine2words@aol.com.
Wines Worth Seeking
(The highest-rated are noted in bold type)
CABERNET Sauvignon
Hartwell, 2001 Estate Vineyard, Stags Leap District - $115 (760 cases)
Barnett, 2001 Rattlesnake Hill, Spring Mountain District - $95 (305 cases)
Chateau St. Jean, 1999 Reserve, Sonoma County - $90 (369 cases)
Clos du Val, 2000 Reserve, Napa Valley - $95 (900 cases)
Constant, 2001 Diamond Mountain Vineyard, Diamond Mountain District - $85 (971 cases)
Cosentino, 2001 Hoopes Ranch, Oakville - $65 (411 cases)
Robert Craig, 2001 Howell Mountain - $50 (900 cases)
Duckhorn, 2001 Monitor Ledge Vineyard, Napa Valley - $90 (262 cases)
Fisher, 2000 Wedding Vineyard, Sonoma County - $125 (350 cases)
Flora Springs, 2000 Hillside Reserve, Rutherford - $100 (800 cases)
Hall, 2001 Napa Valley - $35 (633 cases)
Kendall-Jackson, 2002 Hawkeye Mountain Estate, Highlands Estates Series, Alexander Valley - $45 (500 cases)
Livingston Moffett, 2001 Estate, Rutherford - $95 (195 cases)
Nickel & Nickel, 2001 Stelling Vineyard, Oakville - $125 (701 cases)
Nickel & Nickel, 2000 Tench Vineyard, Oakville - $65 (1,010 cases)
Nickel & Nickel, 2001 Vogt Vineyard, Oakville - $75 (964 cases)
Pine Ridge, 2001 Oakville - $60 (500 cases)
Screaming Eagle, 2001 Napa Valley - $300 (500 cases)
Silverado Vineyards, 2001 Limited Reserve, Napa Valley - $95 (780 cases)
Tres Sabores, 2001 Rutherford - $45 (104 cases)
Von Strasser, 2001 Estate Vineyards, Diamond Mountain District - $60 (900 cases)
Von Strasser, 2001 Post Vineyard, Diamond Mountain District - $60 (282 cases)
RED Blends
Frog's Leap, 2001 Rutherford - $65 (813 cases)
CE2V, 2000 Meritage, Napa Valley - $75 (410 cases)
Cosentino, 2001 M. Coz Red Meritage, Napa Valley - $100 (397 cases)
Dalla Valle, 2000 Maya, Napa Valley - $140 (480 cases)
Dalla Valle, 2001 Maya, Napa Valley - $185 (350 cases)
Fife, 2000 Scarlet, Napa Valley - $38 (900 cases)
Robert Foley, 2001 Claret, Napa Valley - $100 (600 cases)
Pride, 2001 Claret Reserve, Napa Valley - $115 (400 cases)
St. Francis, 2000 Anthem, Sonoma Valley - $55 (500 cases)
Von Strasser, 2001 Reserve, Diamond Mountain District - $100 (255 cases)
MERLOT
Chateau St. Jean, 1999 Reserve, Sonoma County - $90 (443 cases)
Chalk Hill, 1999 Adele's Vineyard, Chalk Hill - $100 (450 cases)
Cosentino, 2001 Reserve, Oakville - $75 (350 cases)
Murphy-Goode, 2000 Reserve, Robert Young Vineyards, Alexander Valley - $45 (810 cases)
Provenance, 2001 Paras Vineyard, Mt. Veeder - $34 (850 cases)
Yorkville Cellars, 2001 Rennie Vineyard, Yorkville Highlands - $22 (500 cases)
PINOT Noir
Patz & Hall, 2002 Hyde Vineyard, Carneros - $50 (600 cases)
Acacia, 2002 St. Clair Vineyard, Carneros - $50 (488 cases)
Babcock, 2002 Cargasacchi Vineyard, Santa Barbara County - $40 (156 cases)
Belle Glos, 2002 Taylor Lane Vineyard, Sonoma Coast - $50 (950 cases)
Merry Edwards, 2002 Olivet Lane, Russian River Valley - $51 (660 cases)
Merry Edwards, 2002 Windsor Gardens, Russian River Valley - $51 (600 cases)
Etude, 2001 Heirloom, Carneros - $80 (800 cases)
Lazy Creek, 2002 Anderson Valley - $35 (430 cases)
Londer, 2002 Parabol, Anderson Valley - $45 (496 cases)
Lucia, 2002 Garys' Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands - $38 (480 cases)
Melville, 2002 Carrie's Small Lot Collection, Santa Rita Hills - $42 (310 cases)
Patz & Hall, 2002 Alder Springs Vineyard, Mendocino - $50 (800 cases)
Patz & Hall, 2002 Burnside Vineyard, Carneros - $50 (350 cases)
Patz & Hall, 2002 Pisoni Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands - $65 (300 cases)
Pisoni, 2002 Estate, Santa Lucia Highlands - $60 (382 cases)
Roessler Cellars, 2002 Savoy Vineyard, Anderson Valley - $42 (192 cases)
Siduri, 2002 Cargasacchi Vineyard, Santa Rita Hills - $45 (120 cases)
Silver, 2001 Lake Marie Vineyard, Santa Barbara County - $40 (234 cases)
Skewis, 2002 Floodgate Vineyard, Anderson Valley - $45 (110 cases)
Tantara, 2002 Pisoni Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands - $56 (127 cases)
Tantara, 2002 Solomon Hills Vineyard, Santa Maria Valley - $45 (99 cases)
Tantara, 2002 La Grande Colline, Arroyo Grande Valley - $90 (22 cases)
SYRAH & PETITES
Talomas, 2001 Basket Press Reserve, Central Coast - $50 (660 cases)
Crane Brothers, 2001 Napa Valley - $35 (288 cases)
Curtis, 2001 Crossroads Vineyard, Santa Barbara County - $32 (409 cases)
HdV, 2002 Carneros - $49 (616 cases)
Scott Harvey, 2001 Sierra Foothills - $12 (827 cases)
Jade Mountain, 2001 Paras Vineyard, Mount Veeder - $50 (555 cases)
J.C. Cellars, 2001 Caldwell Vineyard, Napa Valley - $40 (52 cases)
J.C. Cellars, 2002 Haley's Reserve, Rockpile, Dry Creek Valley - $40 (426 cases)
Kuleto Estate, 2001 Napa Valley - $40 (360 cases)
La Jota, 2001 Petite Sirah, Howell Mountain - $45 (516 cases)
Longoria, 2001 Santa Barbara County - $22 (560 cases)
Madrigal, 2001 Petite Sirah, Napa Valley - $35 (811 cases)
Nickel & Nickel, 2001 Dyer Vineyard, Carneros - $35 (252 cases)
Rosenblum, 2002 Fran's Vineyard, Rockpile, Dry Creek Valley - $42 (190 cases)
Rosenblum, 2002 Petite Sirah, Rockpile Road Vineyard, Napa Valley - $34 (650 cases)
Russian Hill, 2001 Top Block, Russian River Valley - $30 (304 cases)
Tensley, 2001 Colson Canyon Vineyard, Santa Barbara County - $30 (225 cases)
ZINFANDEL
Madrigal, 2001 Napa Valley - $26 (531 cases)
Chateau Felice, 2001 Chalk Hill - $20: (400 cases)
Clos du Val, 2001 Reserve, Stags Leap District - $55 (950 cases)
Geyser Peak, 2002 Block Collection, Lopez Vineyard, Cucamonga Valley - $30 (501 cases)
Kuleto Estate, 2002 Napa Valley - $28 (504 cases)
Rosenblum, 2002 Carla's Vineyard, San Francisco Bay - $24 (696 cases)
Rosenblum, 2002 Cullinane Vineyard, Sonoma County - $45 (450 cases)
Rosenblum, 2002 Reserve, Hendry Vineyard, Napa Valley - $40 (579 cases)
Rosenblum, 2002 Planchon Vineyard, San Francisco Bay - $20 (568 cases)
Carol Shelton, 2002 Karma Zin, Rue-Wood Road Vineyard, Russian River Valley - $30 (670 cases)
Carol Shelton, 2002 Rocky Reserve, Rockpile Ridge Vineyard, Dry Creek Valley - $32 (420 cases)
Carol Shelton, 2002 Wild Thing, Cox Vineyard, Mendocino County - $28 (840 cases)
Chardonnay
Patz & Hall, 2002 Hyde Vineyard, Carneros - $48 (850 cases)
Acacia, 2002 Sangiacomo Vineyard, Carneros - $30 (300 cases)
Chateau Souverain, 2002 Winemaker's Reserve, Russian River Valley - $25 (750 cases)
Cosentino, 2002 The Sculptor, Napa Valley - $30 (160 cases)
Longoria, 2002 Santa Rita Hills - $23 (442 cases)
MacRostie, 2001 Wildcat Mountain Vineyard, Carneros - $30 (315 cases)
Peter Michael, 2002 Ma Belle-Fille, Sonoma County - $75 (881 cases)
Peter Michael, 2002 Point Rouge, Sonoma County - $150 (260 cases)
Nickel & Nickel, 2002 Searby Vineyard, Russian River Valley - $35 (908 cases)
Patz & Hall, 2002 Durell Vineyard, Sonoma Valley - $38 (551 cases)
Patz & Hall, 2002 Woolsey Road Vineyard, Russian River Valley - $38 (658 cases)
Talbott, 2001 Cuvée Audrey, Diamond T Estate, Monterey - $70 (350 cases)
Trefethen, 2000 Harmony, Napa Valley - $36 (850 cases)
SAUVIGNON Blanc
Origin-Napa, 2002 Gamble Vineyard, Napa Valley - $25 (782 cases)
Dry Creek Vineyard, 2002 Fumé Blanc, DCV3, Dry Creek Valley - $18 (500 cases)
Hall, 2003 Napa Valley - $20 (750 cases)
Robert Mondavi, 2001 Fumé Blanc, To Kalon Vineyard "I Block," Napa Valley - $65 (423 cases)
Origin-Napa, 2002 Heart Block, Napa Valley - $50 (150 cases)
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