name
stringlengths
9
102
region
stringlengths
5
97
variety
stringclasses
8 values
rating
float32
85
99
notes
stringlengths
1
2.02k
Laurenz V Charming Gruner Veltliner 2013
Kamptal, Austria
White Wine
90
Aromas of ripe apples and a typical Veltliner spiciness marry to create a fascinating fruit bouquet. On the palate, the wine is soft and juicy, supported by a fine fruit acidity. Very harmonious, allowing for perfectly smooth drinking. Simply charming!
Laurenz V Charming Gruner Veltliner 2014
Kamptal, Austria
White Wine
90
Aromas of ripe apples and a typical Veltliner spiciness marry to create a fascinating fruit bouquet. On the palate, the wine is soft and juicy, supported by a fine fruit acidity. Very harmonious, allowing for perfectly smooth drinking. Simply charming!
Laurenz V Singing Gruner Veltliner 2007
Austria
White Wine
90
A very attractive fruit bouquet yields apple, peach and citrus aromas along with a typical Veltliner spiciness and a touch of white pepper. The soft and juicy palate is supported by fine acidity. It sings on the palate!
Laurenz V Singing Gruner Veltliner 2010
Austria
White Wine
88
A very attractive fruit bouquet yields apple, peach and citrus aromas along with a typical Veltliner spiciness and a touch of white pepper. The soft and juicy palate is supported by fine acidity. It sings on the palate!
Laurenz V Singing Gruner Veltliner 2011
Austria
White Wine
88
A very attractive fruit bouquet yields apple, peach and citrus aromas along with a typical Veltliner spiciness and a touch of white pepper. The soft and juicy palate is supported by fine acidity. It sings on the palate!
Laurenz V Singing Gruner Veltliner 2013
Austria
White Wine
89
A very attractive fruit bouquet yields apple, peach and citrus aromas along with a typical Veltliner spiciness and a touch of white pepper. The soft and juicy palate is supported by fine acidity. It sings on the palate!
Lava Cap American River Red
El Dorado, Sierra Foothills, California
Red Wine
90
This wine was created as a table wine. We wanted the wine to be enjoyable and distinguishable as an El Dorado AVA wine, but varietal character takes a back seat to the the smooth and flavorful structure. During the blending process, we selected wines with supple tannins, smooth spice, and a decadent body that work together while never dominating with one varietal character. Great fruit, great body, a little toasty oak, and the smooth, rich Lava Cap finish!
Lava Cap Barbera 2010
Sierra Foothills, California
Red Wine
90
The plump, rich cherry, raspberry and plum fruit is immediately appealing when first poured, feeling soft and rich. The robust fruit coupled with acidity and soft tannin makes this one of the best, most versatile food wines, which can carry everything from vegetable to meat dishes.
Lava Cap Battonage Chardonnay 2012
Sierra Foothills, California
White Wine
91
This perfectly balanced wine begins with inviting aromas of dried flowers, twist of lime and lightly toasted oak. On the palate, enticing flavors of pear, lime, vanilla and butterscotch. The wine pairs nicely with roast chicken, turkey or pasta with cream sauce.
Lava Cap Cabernet Sauvignon 2013
El Dorado, Sierra Foothills, California
Red Wine
90
Lava Cap’s estate grown Cabernet Sauvignon grapes have long been recognized for producing a wine with lovely structure and vibrant fruit character. The fragrant must of fruit was cold-soaked for three days to enhance color and flavor.
Lava Cap Cabernet Sauvignon 2016
El Dorado, Sierra Foothills, California
Red Wine
93
Lava Cap’s estate grown grapes have long been recognized for producing a wine with lovely structure and vibrant fruit character. The moderate weather produced a wine that stretches from the leaves to the roots with a tightly balanced, pure fruit. The fragrant must of fruit was cold-soaked for three days to enhance color and flavor. The wine was barrel aged giving a lovely balance between tannins and the layers of flavo
Lava Cap Petite Sirah 2013
El Dorado, Sierra Foothills, California
Red Wine
90
Lava Cap's 2013 Petite Sirah is a BIG one for the ages. The early growing season, mellow summer, and intense fall allowed near perfect ripening conditions. The 2013 Petite Sirah has notes of elegant wild licorice, blueberries, and complex oak. With a sip, the massive wine slams the palate with a stampede of plum and white pepper flavors which perfectly transition to blackberry and a long vanilla-kola finish. Will age beautifully into 2025.
Lava Cap Petite Sirah 2014
El Dorado, Sierra Foothills, California
Red Wine
92
On the nose, the 2014 Petite Sirah has notes of elegant wild licorice, blueberries, and complex oak. With a sip, the wine slams the palate with a stampede of plum and white pepper flavors which perfectly transition to blackberry and a long vanilla-cola finish.
Lava Cap Petite Sirah 2016
El Dorado, Sierra Foothills, California
Red Wine
92
The 2016 Petite Sirah has notes of elegant wild licorice, blueberries, and complex oak. With a sip, the massive wine slams the palate with a stampede of plum and white pepper flavors which perfectly transition to blackberry and a long vanilla-cola finish.
Lava Cap Reserve Chardonnay 2015
El Dorado, Sierra Foothills, California
White Wine
92
Zesty lemon and apple blossom aroma lead into pleasant apple and pear flavors. Vanilla notes complement a lightly toasted pie crust finish.
Lava Cap Reserve Chardonnay 2018
El Dorado, Sierra Foothills, California
White Wine
92
The 2018 vintage continues to consistently elevate Lava Cap’s Chardonnay. Zesty lemon and apple blossom aroma lead into pleasant apple and pear flavors. Vanilla notes complement a lightly toasted pie crust finish.
Lava Cap Reserve Chardonnay 2016
El Dorado, Sierra Foothills, California
White Wine
92
Zesty lemon and apple blossom aroma lead into pleasant apple and pear flavors. Vanilla notes complement a lightly toasted pie crust finish.
Lava Cap Reserve Merlot 2015
El Dorado, Sierra Foothills, California
Red Wine
90
Pleasant forest greenery and plum scents highlight the aroma of dark cherry. Toasted oak fill the palate and bright acidity define a nicely focused finish.
Lava Cap Sauvignon Blanc 2015
El Dorado, Sierra Foothills, California
White Wine
90
An expressive aromatic wine displays note soft kiwi, celery and asian pear. The wines liveliness accents flavors of grapefruit, white peach and casaba melon. The finish is smooth and long with a touch of supple fleshiness.
Lava Cap Sauvignon Blanc 2017
El Dorado, Sierra Foothills, California
White Wine
89
After the grapes are crushed, they are 100% fermented with 2 distinct yeast strains in small 500-gallon stainless steel tanks. After fermentation, the wine remains in the stainless steel tanks where it ages for an additional 4 months. The wine was bottled the first week of February and bottled aged for 4 weeks before being released.
Lava Cap Syrah 2009
California
Red Wine
91
Lava Cap's Syrah vineyard is located on a gentle, south facing slope. This location allows for extended hang-time which yields fully developed aroma, flavor and tannin resulting in wine of intensity and depth. Dark cherry and plum provide mouth-filling intensity with a hint of carob and spice.
Lava Cap Syrah 2014
El Dorado, Sierra Foothills, California
Red Wine
92
The wine opens with a touch of allspice, which transitions to rich, deep flavors of blackberry and blueberry. The body is elegant and smooth, leaving lingering tannins that will mature with age. A powerful wine with a stylistically rich, smooth finish.
Lava Cap Syrah 2013
El Dorado, Sierra Foothills, California
Red Wine
92
The Syrah Vineyard grows on a beautiful south facing slope reminiscent of the Hermitage hill in the Rhone Region of France. With the cooling breezes from our vineyards 2500' Elevation, rich, and well drained soils, our Syrah vines develop the lengthy flavors consistent with acclaimed Syrah wines. The wine begins with black and blue berry, and a touch of allspice highlight the wine’s presentation. Sweet tannins frame the gentle focused finish.
Lava Vine Winery Knights Valley Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2013
Knights Valley, Sonoma County, California
Red Wine
92
Extreme focus, and unparalleled balance from start to finish. Blood orange with clove, and hints vanilla bean on the nose mingle with fresh cranberry on the palate. From high on the hills of Knights Valley, the deep wet-stone minerality mingles on top of a rich, velvet entrance to a full, creamy mid-palate.
Lava Vine Winery Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2014
Napa Valley, California
Red Wine
91
A wonderful representation of how amazing the 2014 vintage could be and how to balance Napa Valley’s Intensity. A ripe cherry and cassis entry with dusted cocoa and a touch of graham cracker entice. The silky rich entry is so balanced there seems to be no separation from mid-palate through the lengthy finish with multitudes of fruit and spice to accompany. This Cabernet Sauvignon is fully integrated, super complex and will age beautifully.
Lava Vine Winery Napa Valley Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2012
Napa Valley, California
Red Wine
92
Black berries and hints of strawberry invite with muddled cherry cola spices. Deep earthy tones on a silk entry proceed to a rich, full mid-palate. Expressive tannins make for a beautiful finish.
Lava Vine Winery Napa Valley Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2013
Napa Valley, California
Red Wine
92
A slight minty nose with dark chocolate and fresh blueberry captivate the senses. Notes of a baking spice dance on the pallet before giving way to rich, dark, and earthy finish. This extremely balanced gem will continue to show plenty of structure and integrity for years to come. Enjoy!
Lavau Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2016
Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Rhone, France
Red Wine
92
Complex nose of plums and black cherries with a hint of cocoa and cloves. Full and well-balanced on the palate, showing extreme finesse and remarkable length.his Châteauneuf will pair nicely with duck in green pepper, guinea fowl or pheasant, and will be at home with any festive fare.
Lavau Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2014
Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Rhone, France
Red Wine
91
Complex nose of plums and black cherries with a hint of cocoa and cloves. Full and well-balanced on the palate, showing extreme finesse and remarkable length.
Lavau Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2015
Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Rhone, France
Red Wine
91
Complex nose of plums and black cherries with a hint of cocoa and cloves. Full and well-balanced on the palate, showing extreme finesse and remarkable length.
Lavau Gigondas 2013
Gigondas, Rhone, France
Red Wine
91
The natural exposure of this vineyard delivers a wine with high concentration, rich and well balanced. This wine is perfect with elaborated sauce dishes, a piece of meat and cheese. You can also enjoy this wine on its own.
Lavau Gigondas 2013
Gigondas, Rhone, France
Red Wine
91
#72
Lavau Gigondas 2014
Gigondas, Rhone, France
Red Wine
90
Lavau Gigondas exhibits a dense ruby/purple color and notes of blueberries and blackberries. The wine is layered and full-bodied.
Lavau Gigondas 2015
Gigondas, Rhone, France
Red Wine
90
Deep on the nose with pronounced spicy aromas (pepper, nutmeg), typical of the appellation and which accentuate the aromas of blackcurrants and raspberry jam. On the palate, the wine shows a solid yet nicely coated structure, volume and superb length.
Lavau Gigondas 2016
Gigondas, Rhone, France
Red Wine
92
Deep on the nose with pronounced spicy aromas (pepper, nutmeg), typical of the appellation and which accentuate the aromas of blackcurrants and raspberry jam. On the palate, the wine shows a solid yet nicely coated structure, volume and superb length.
Lavau Rasteau 2015
Rasteau, Rhone, France
Red Wine
90
A wine with strong Mediterranean accents, both in terms of its aromas of garrigue scrubland, spice and ripe fruit on the nose, and in terms of its power and intensity on the palate. A generous yet well-balanced wine with long-lingering aromas.
Lavau Rasteau 2016
Rasteau, Rhone, France
Red Wine
91
A wine with strong Mediterranean accents, both in its aromas of garrigue scrubland, spice and ripe fruit on the nose, and in terms of its power and intensity on the palate. A generous yet well-balanced wine with long-lingering aromas.
L'Aventure Cabernet Sauvignon 2006
Paso Robles, Central Coast, California
Red Wine
90
Classic, extremely well balanced palate, peppery, herbal notes in the nose, bright, good density and breed.
L'Aventure Chloe 2014
Paso Robles, Central Coast, California
Red Wine
97
Blend: 67% Syrah, 33% Old Vine Grenache
L'Aventure Cote A Cote 2006
Paso Robles, Central Coast, California
Red Wine
96
Blend: 40% Mourvedre, 30% Grenache, 30% Syrah
L'Aventure Cote A Cote 2007
Paso Robles, Central Coast, California
Red Wine
95
40% Mourvedre estate, 40% Grenache estate, 20% Syrah estate. Ruby in color with garnet edges, the aromas are diverse, with a spice bouquet, mineral notes, and blueberries leading the way. The attack on the palate is vibrant, with rich violet and wild berry flavors standing over a stream of cherry, pomegranate, and tar. The finish is opulent, with vanilla spice sounding a final note.
L'Aventure Cote A Cote 2010
Paso Robles, Central Coast, California
Red Wine
93
An explosive nose of fresh fruit and pastille candies. The palate is broad and vibrant, with great acidity that carries the complex red and blue fruit flavors of fresh plum, dark cherries and blueberries long towards a well integrated finish. Wonderful pepper and anise notes flirt with the fruit, and give great form to this wine.
L'Aventure Cote A Cote 2011
Central Coast, California
Red Wine
96
Ruby in color. Intensely floral nose of violets, jasmine, and soft red fruit. A firm attack of vinous, mineral, citrus and soft, round, red fruit. Brilliant Syrah flavors. Smoky, peppery, toasty finish with cardamom notes. This is an excellent Cote a Cote that will be enjoyed immensely at table.
L'Aventure Cote A Cote 2014
Paso Robles, Central Coast, California
Red Wine
96
Blend: 50% Grenache, 28% Mourvedre, 22% Syrah
L'Aventure Cote A Cote (slightly stained labels) 2012
Paso Robles, Central Coast, California
Red Wine
96
Blend: 60% Grenache, 30% Mourvedre, 10% Syrah
L'Aventure Estate Cuvee (1.5 Liter Magnum) 2008
Paso Robles, Central Coast, California
Red Wine
94
Purple/ black, with like aromas of cedar box, wild blackberries, black cherry, and fresh, raw, beef. Anise and cola flavors ride the big attack, resolving themselves in tight flavors of blueberries and acacia in the enormous middle palate, finishing long with orange rind, spice and everything.
L'Aventure Estate Cuvee 2004
Paso Robles, Central Coast, California
Red Wine
98
This wonderfully "juicy" 2004 Estate Cuvee is unique in that a percentage of the blend was "co–fermented," due to the fact that all three of the varieties that comprise Estate Cuvee - Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Petit Verdot - arrived at maturity simultaneously. For the first time in his 24 years as a wine maker, Stephan saw these grapes fermenting in the same tank. The result is a seamless, complex work of art. Fresh aromas of plums, macerated blackberries, and blueberries in the nose, and dark, intense fruit on the palate. The mouth and lengthy finish are made more complex by hints of leather, tar, and tobacco leaf. An augmentation of Petit Verdot puts the 2004 on the classic track of the 2001 vintage.
L'Aventure Estate Cuvee 2005
Paso Robles, Central Coast, California
Red Wine
96
Blend: 52% Syrah, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Petit Verdot
L'Aventure Estate Cuvee 2006
Paso Robles, Central Coast, California
Red Wine
97
"A thrilling, nearly perfect efforts is the 2006 Estate Cuvee. A blend of 49% Syrah, 37% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 4% Petit Verdot, the 2006 Estate Cuvee may be even better. Tasting like a superb example of a premier grand cru St.-Emilion made from California-s limestone soils, it exhibits a dense purple color as well as a perfume of sweet creme de cassis, fruitcake, licorice, incense, tobacco leaf, and spice box. A voluptuous texture, fabulous opulence, and thrilling concentration as well as purity make for a prodigious example of blended red wine that will provide enormous pleasure and complexity for 12-15+ years.
L'Aventure Estate Cuvee 2007
Central Coast, California
Red Wine
95
49% Syrah estate, 37% Cabernet Sauvignon estate, 14% Petit Verdot estate. Opaque ebony center, purple margins. Powerful, complex aromas of graphite, "viande", dark fruit, licorice, tea-leaf...have we forgotten anything? Spicy notes introduced in the aroma linger like cloves and sage in a rich tapestry of flavors that include wild blackberry, tar, gooseberry, and acacia. The length of the finish is memorable. You really need to try this wine for yourself– words do not do it justice!
L'Aventure Estate Cuvee 2008
Central Coast, California
Red Wine
94
Purple/ black, with like aromas of cedar box, wild blackberries, black cherry, and fresh, raw, beef. Anise and cola flavors ride the big attack, resolving themselves in tight flavors of blueberries and acacia in the enormous middle palate, finishing long with orange rind, spice and everything.
L'Aventure Estate Cuvee 2010
Paso Robles, Central Coast, California
Red Wine
92
This is one of the more "classic" versions of the iconic Cab/ Syrah blend. While generously juicy, in the spirit of the vintage, it captures the essence of the blend, with exuberant Syrah notes brought to heel by an almost austere Cabernet. The attack is grand, with cassis and cola, licorice and graphite, ending in a gripping, long, deep, complex finish. As usual, there are so many complexities and layers of flavor in this wine, that you really need to lay down a few cases and watch it develop over the years. This is definitely the "creme de la creme" from the 2010 range.
L'Aventure Estate Cuvee 2011
Paso Robles, Central Coast, California
Red Wine
90
A powerful spotlight for the vintage, Estate Cuvée 2011 attacks with plenty of push! Deep purple with an opaque, almost black center. Subtle cigar box aromas above, graphite below, dark fruit all around. The mouth is well balanced, with wood and alcohol integrated seamlessly with the dark purple, vinous fruit. Great acidity and elegant mineral and spice notes carry the wine to an immense finish that lasts…. a long time! As always, our best effort.
L'Aventure Estate Cuvee 2013
Central Coast, California
Red Wine
97
The most densely colored of all wines in a vintage of great extraction; Estate Cuvee exhibits a powerful perfume of anise, lavender candies, and dark fruit, with smoky accents in the background. The attack isimpressive, with a velvety mouth feel from start to finish. Rich, robust blue and black fruit, with hints of cocoa,big, but with soft resolved tannins, give a "total" palate experience in the finish.
L'Aventure Estate Cuvee 2012
Paso Robles, Central Coast, California
Red Wine
98
The most densely colored of all wines in a vintage of great extraction; Estate Cuvée 2012 exhibits a powerful perfume of anise, lavender candies, and dark fruit, with smoky accents in the background. The attack is impressive, with a velvety mouth feel from start to finish. Rich, robust blue and black fruit, with hints of cocoa, big, but with soft resolved tannins, give a "total" palate experience in the finish.
L'Aventure Estate Cuvee 2014
Central Coast, California
Red Wine
98
Blend: 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Syrah, 15% Petit Verdot
L'Aventure Estate Cuvee 2016
Paso Robles, Central Coast, California
Red Wine
99
Blend: 52% Syrah, 32% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Petit Verdot
L'Aventure Optimus (1.5 Liter Magnum) 2012
Paso Robles, Central Coast, California
Red Wine
94
Bright red and deep blueberry aromas underpinned by soft cola and faint graphite notes hint at the complexity that one finds on the palate. The fruit is seamlessly integrated, and the wine is long and well structured in the mouth.
L'Aventure Optimus 2005
Central Coast, California
Red Wine
94
"The least expensive red wine is the Optimus cuvee. The 2005 Optimus (51% Syrah, 44% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 5% Petit Verdot) barely qualifies as a Rhone Ranger, but it offers classic chocolate, cassis, espresso, and subtle wood notes along with a dense ruby/purple hue, gorgeous concentration, and plenty of spice, cedar, and a Pauillac-like complexity and richness. This serious effort is more French than Californian. It should drink well for 6-10 years.
L'Aventure Optimus 2007
Central Coast, California
Red Wine
95
45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Syrah, 15% Petit Verdot. Our best Optimus ever. Ruby color, with soft aromas of candied currants, fir, and cardamom. A very sharp attack of somewhat high–tone red fruit on the palate cedes to blueberries, black currant, and spicy notes which finish long. 1,400 cases produced
L'Aventure Optimus 2008
Central Coast, California
Red Wine
90
48% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Syrah, 24% Petit Verdot – is simply luscious. Integrated aromas of fir, graphite, and acacia make an excellent nose. A focused attack of crushed flowers, geranium oil, cherries, and plums wash over the palate, and finish with orange peel and toast. Best Optimus ever?
L'Aventure Optimus 2011
Central Coast, California
Red Wine
94
Optimus sets the pace for the vintage with a delicious and classic blend. Purple hued, Optimus 2011 offers aromas of fresh blueberries, sharp cola, and a little anise. The attack is soft and round in the mouth. Firm acidity across the palate stands behind complex tobacco leaf, violet, and red and dark berry flavors. A soft finish, with some spicy wood notes, this wine is very characteristic of the vintage.
L'Aventure Optimus 2015
Paso Robles, Central Coast, California
Red Wine
93
Optimus is a classically- styled wine that truly embodies oursaying: L’Aventure...where the Bordeaux meets the Rhône!
L'Aventure Optimus 2016
Willow Creek District, Paso Robles, Central Coast, California
Red Wine
94
The 2016 has balance, silkiness and length. The wine is big, super intense, rich and flavorful but at the same time is super delicate, pure and vibrant.
L'Aventure Optimus 2017
Willow Creek District, Paso Robles, Central Coast, California
Red Wine
93
Blend: 50% Syrah, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Petit Verdot
L'Aventure Optimus 2012
Paso Robles, Central Coast, California
Red Wine
94
Bright red and deep blueberry aromas underpinned by soft cola and faint graphite notes hint at the complexity that one finds on the palate. The fruit is seamlessly integrated, and the wine is long and well structured in the mouth.
Lavinea Elton Chardonnay 2016
Eola-Amity Hills, Willamette Valley, Oregon
White Wine
92
Pale straw in color with chartreuse and silver edge, the nose opens with mineral, wet rocks and umami notes laced with citrus and orange cream soda, and soft anise. The entry is delicate on the palate with a light creamy core, the layers of pears, white peaches, and honeysuckle flavors compete on the flinty and mineral finish. An elegant and long-lasting wine, with fresh layers upon layers which may demand another glass.
Lavinea Elton Pinot Noir 2016
Eola-Amity Hills, Willamette Valley, Oregon
Red Wine
91
Bright and deep purple in color with a bluish edge, the first nose opens with lovely aromas of sweet cherries in kirsch, fragrant rose and herbaceous rosemary, hints of lavender and boasting fresh cherries. Smooth and lush yet restrained and nervous, the lovely palate travels with a smooth beginning, vibrant core of fresh dark cherries and marionberries, wet bedrock and closing on an elegant finish sustained by silky tannins. The quintessential definition of a beautiful pinot noir, very complete and showing promises of getting better over time.
Lavinea Lazy River Pinot Noir 2016
Yamhill-Carlton District, Willamette Valley, Oregon
Red Wine
94
Shiny and ruby red with violet hues, deep in color yet crystalline. The first nose reveals approachable boasting aromas of sour cherry, earthy minerals on a finely tightened core. Pure and elegant, the nose opens up towards blueberry and black raspberries as you swirl with hints of earl grey tea and baking spices. Rich and lush with a smooth entry on the palate that carries a lovely velvety texture of refined tannins wrapping finely around the sour cherry & iron fist minerality. Broader, yet with a long finish and a beautiful texture that provides a lasting impression. This highly complex wine with its silky open mouthfeel is a crowd pleaser.
Lavinea Nysa Pinot Noir 2016
Dundee Hills, Willamette Valley, Oregon
Red Wine
93
Clear and shiny, beautiful purple color with a softer edge, the initial aromas of iron fist mineral, passionfruit and floral notes of orange blossoms & dried lavender open to sweet cherries wrapped around wet stony bedrock notes. A bright and nervous palate entry with a youthful mid palate as it jumps around from classic Dundee Hills cherry fruit to earthy and firm mineral core that tightens on the long finish with finely textured and coating tannins. Overall, a youthful wine with a wonderful structure to age.
Lavinea Tualatin Pinot Noir 2016
Willamette Valley, Oregon
Red Wine
90
Brilliant and deep purple with a youthful purple edge, lovely initial aromas of rose petals, raspberry cobbler and exotic spices opens in the glass elegantly to fragrant orange blossoms, mixed stone fruit aromas intertwine with lavender notes on a distinctive bedrock character. A smooth entry and soft palate travels along seamlessly, with an elegant texture that lingers on a fresh and focused cherry core. The wine comes full circle with bright pie cherry and pomegranate notes traveling along the seamless finish with supple yet youthful tannins. This wine will seduce greatly by its refinement and polish, with a wonderful aging potential.
Lavinea Tualatin Pinot Noir 2017
Willamette Valley, Oregon
Red Wine
90
Brilliant and deep ruby with a youthful purple edge, lovely initial aromas of raspberry cobbler, fresh red cherries and hints of rose petals opens in the glass to fragrant orange peel, and mixed berry aromas intertwined with bergamot notes and hints of cardamom. A smooth entry and soft palate travels along exquisitely, with an elegant texture that lingers on a fresh and focused cherry core. The wine comes full circle with lively acidity, and notes of fruit and earth that carry the palate seamlessly on a long finish. This wine is seductively elegant and polished, refreshing and refined.
Lavradores de Feitoria Tres Bagos 2003
Portugal
Red Wine
86
Lavradores de Feitoria Tres Bagos 2004
Portugal
Red Wine
89
Produced from grapes from three different subregions: Baixo Corgo, Cima Corgo and Douro Superior from some of the best viticultural talent in Portugal. The idea behind this novel project is to take advantage of the climatic and terroir advantages that each of the three Douro sub-regions has to offer. The Douro Superior tends to produce wines of greater strength while the Cima Corgo and Baixo Corgo tends to produce wines with higher levels of natural acidity and elegance.
Law Estate Wines Audacious 2016
Paso Robles, Central Coast, California
Red Wine
93
32% Grenache, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Carignan, 18% Syrah At the cornerstone of the Law lineup, our Audacious has graciously earned its place in the cellars and hearts of many. On the nose, it exhibits rose petal, vanilla and lavender. The Grenache unveils red currants, while the Cabernet has complementing notes of dark fruit and herbs. The Carignan has found its place in this blend by playing off of the Syrah's succulent salinity and clove like spice. The flavor, complexity and intensity on the palate is certainly adventurous, as this aptly named wine virtually defines itself.
Law Estate Wines Sagacious 2016
Paso Robles, Central Coast, California
Red Wine
93
36% Grenache, 34% Syrah, 30% Mourvèdre Providing the most complete depiction of our estate vineyard as a whole, the 2016 Sagacious shows sensational complexity that stems from the combination of the three varieties housed in this trademark Paso-style blend. It’s hard to name a better trio, with the dark berries, both fresh and dried sage, heaps of spice and zest like freshness. Strong and structured, its powdered tannins encompass an incredibly long finish that keeps this wine energized to carry its killer density effortlessly.
Lawson's Dry Hills Gewurztraminer 2009
New Zealand
White Wine
90
The 2009 Lawson's Dry Hills Gewürztraminer is a wonderful expression of a great vintage. The wine is luscious and round with gentle acidity, balanced by a hint of sweetness(9.2g/L). Lemon peel, marmalade, candyfloss, coriander, ginger and floral notes can all be found on the nose. The palate is mouthfilling and rich with lovely concentration. Lychee, lemon and Turkish delight flavours lead on to a long spicy finish. As the wine develops it will become more expressive on the nose and increasingly complex.
Lawson's Dry Hills Gewurztraminer 2014
Marlborough, New Zealand
White Wine
89
The bouquet of this wine is beautifully scented with notes of rose petal, clove, lychee, ginger, citrus and much more... The palate is rich and round with a lovely mid-palate volume and a luscious texture. A sliver of sweetness provides softness to the finish. Overthe next eight to ten years this wine will develop musk, honey and toasty characters, while retaining its distinctive varietal appeal.
Lawson's Dry Hills Pinot Noir 2005
Marlborough, New Zealand
Red Wine
90
: Deep ruby.
Lawson's Dry Hills Sauvignon Blanc 2014
Marlborough, New Zealand
White Wine
89
Beautiful ripe passion fruit and citrus aromas leap from the glass. The palate display's a full array of flavour's from passion fruit, lime and tropical fruits, through to gentle fresh green herbs. This wine is finely balanced, the dry palate has crisp acidity and a lovely minerality.
Layer Cake Cabernet Sauvignon 2010
California
Red Wine
90
This wine offers generous aromas of ripe Bing cherries, blackberry, candied violets, cedar, and tobacco, plus hints of minerals and graphite. Sweet, densely packed and creamy in the mouth, but with firm, underlying structure that gives lift to the dark berry, chocolate, and coffee flavors. This is a very lush, soft, complex wine that coats the palate and spreads out on the long, lingering finish.
Layer Cake Chardonnay 2011
Central Coast, California
White Wine
88
The nose is reminiscent of Meyer lemons, preserved then diced up later in the year for seasoning in a meal, wet stones and Kaffir lime blossoms waft in and out as well. The wine builds in body and texture as it sits in your mouth. Layers of Kaffir lime, guava, andpineapple pour in at first, and then the light creamy texture of whipped lemon curd fills in the flavor palate. The finish is clean and crisp, lingering enough to make you want another sip… goahead, we'll make more next year, don't worry.
Layer Cake Garnacha 2011
Spain
Red Wine
90
Our Layer Cake Garnacha from Calatayud, Spain is rich and powerful, yet clean and balanced. Layered with aromas of ultra ripe black fruit. On the palate, the wine shows intense dark fruit with abackground of rich dark chocolate and fresh ground coffee with a long creamy finish. The intensity of flavor from these ancient vines is beautifully offset by the great freshness from the high-altitude vineyards; the Layer Cake Garnacha is not to be overlooked.
Layer Cake Malbec 2008
Argentina
Red Wine
91
Pure, rich and very elegant; a powerhouse of lush black fruit, silky cocoa, black spice and cream, wrapped around blackberry, cherry and ripe plum. Layered and complex with a nose to linger over, a finish that never ends. Sweet anise, hints of tobacco, black chocolate, more cherries and exotic spices, layers of jam. This wine will stand and perform anytime you think of a Cabernet and want something just a little more exotic. Born at the base of the Andes and fed by the purest spring waters… this wine is made to be loved.
Layer Cake Primitivo aka Zinfandel 2008
Italy
Red Wine
89
A balance of elegance and power; inky black fruit, spice and white pepper, jammy black cherries, plums, blackberry fruit, truffles, tar, and espresso. Warm and rich in the mouth with a creamy texture; slight notes of chalky Puglia terroir, the ripe fruit is well supported by the deep structure of the wine. Imagine a cool fall evening, a warm blaze crackling in the fireplace, the wine rich and intriguing, like stories told by old friends.
Layer Cake Shiraz 2008
South Australia, Australia
Red Wine
90
Dark, dense and creamy, complex aromas of black plum, Bing cherry, blackberry and pepper merge with licorice, tobacco, mocha and dark chocolate. This is one inky Shiraz; an explosion of dark, super ripe, wild blackberry, with a touch of cigar box finishing with a melange of exotic spices. A pure fruit bomb… complete from attack through a long, lingering finish. Chefs will save this cake for themselves…
Layer Cake Shiraz 2009
South Australia, Australia
Red Wine
91
Dark, dense and creamy. Aromas of spice, anise, tobacco and mocha emerge from the inky Shiraz; an explosion of dark berry, black cherry, exotic spices and chocolate. Complete from attack through a long, lingering finish. What about the next slice…
Layer Cake Shiraz 2014
South Australia, Australia
Red Wine
89
The aromas of cocoa, warm spice and dark fruit are very powerful from the first whiff. In the mouth, the wine is layered with rich blackberry, dark cherries and hints of dark, creamy chocolate ganache. The finish lingers on, hanging on your palate while the fruit and spice flavors slowly change and fade.
Layer Cake Shiraz 2013
South Australia, Australia
Red Wine
88
Spicy black and blue fruit aromas show good power and just a hint of black pepper. Supple and seamless in texture, offering layers of Bing cherry and cassis flavors and a touch of mocha. Exceptional balance for its big power, finishing with a gentle creamy note, leaving dark berry and cracked pepper notes behind.
Layer Cake Shiraz 2010
South Australia, Australia
Red Wine
88
The 2010 Layer Cake Shiraz is outstanding due to virtually perfect growing conditions and rigorous vineyard selections. The wine is incredibly layered and richer than in past years. Bold spice, black plums, dark chocolate, mocha and cherries and black berries abound with a hint of red soil and a faint trace of anise with layers of spice box. Loaded with glycerol mouth feel and capped off with a long creamy finish that just hangs on your palate.
Layer Cake Virgin Chardonnay 2009
Central Coast, California
White Wine
87
The Virgin Chardonnay is so named because it never comes in contact with any oak. Our fellow wine lovers have expressed our shared interest in getting back to what Chardonnay used to be: Clean, crisp, layered, refreshing fruit, a hint of summer, with none of the overbearing heaviness of oak. If the taste of buttered popcorn is what you crave, you'd do better finding it at the movies than in a bottle of wine.
Le Berne Vino Nobile di Montepulciano 2011
Tuscany, Italy
Red Wine
90
The grapes, about 90% of which are Sangiovese (known as Prugnolo gentile in Montepulciano) and small quantities of Canaiolo Nero and Mammolo, are gathered after an accurate selection at the precise moment of ripening. After vinification the wine is aged for at least two years in oak barrels and six months in bottles. The result is a ruby red wine tending to garnet red, which has a delicate fragrance and violet aroma, with a dry and slightly tannic flavor.
Le Bonheur Cabernet Sauvignon 1997
South Africa
Red Wine
87
This dry wine, deep ruby in color, with aromas of blackcurrant and mulberry, is full-bodied and well rounded. The berry flavors are endorsed by silky vanilla aromas and well-structured tannins. A wine with excellent ageing potential, Le Bonheur Cabernet Sauvignon will gracefully complement any gourmet dish.
Le Bonheur Chardonnay 1999
South Africa
White Wine
88
Medium-bodied, fresh and dry, this wine has characteristic lemon/clove flavors. These delightful flavors are balanced with vanilla tones, which create the lingering, refreshing aftertaste of a fine, new-style Chardonnay. Delicious with lobster and other seafood, Parma ham, thinly sliced smoked salmon, as well as lightly prepared pork, veal and chicken dishes.
Le Brun de Neuville Authentique Brut Assemblage
Champagne, France
Sparkling & Champagne
90
The first nose is a floral farandole with honeysuckle, white rose, wallflowers, together with hints of candid lemon, bergamot and toasted bread. When aerated, it turns towards notes of blackcurrant, biscuit, wet chalk, raspberry, peach. The approach in the palate is soft and fresh with a creamy and melted effervescence. The wine develops in a gentle and pulpy way reminding of white, red and black fruit. The whole is delicately stitched to a chalky minerality giving a creamy tactile and an elegant patina. The flavored return rich with fruity, floral and Viennese pastry notes comes to reinforce the sensation of tenderness and fusion.
Le Cadeau Vineyard Diversite Pinot Noir 2014
Willamette Valley, Oregon
Red Wine
93
Rich and opulent, very reminicent of the beautiful 2012 Diversite. This was the first vintage Diversite was crafted from ten different Pinot clones, not just seven!
Le Cadeau Vineyard Diversite Pinot Noir 2015
Willamette Valley, Oregon
Red Wine
91
The Diversité cuvee showcases a unique and diverse range of characteristics that reflect its varied soil, sunlight exposure, and clonal blend. It is sourced from four blocks on our estate vineyard, primarily covering the Northern end, containing 7 clones – Dijon-113, -114, -115, -667, -777, Pommard, and a few rows of the Swiss clone Mariafeld. The latter in particular lends natural smoke and spice notes to the wine, which have become a definitive character in the cuvee. The soil variation for Diversité ranges from heavily broken volcanic basalt on the Northwestern block of Dijon-667, to the more lush Nekia soil of the Northeastern block of Dijon-114.
Le Cadeau Vineyard Rocheux Pinot Noir 2015
Willamette Valley, Oregon
Red Wine
90
The Rocheux cuvee is sourced from the rockiest portion of our estate – the warmer Western slope of the vineyard, an area high in content of volcanic basalt found throughout the soil.
Le Cadeau Vineyard Rocheux Pinot Noir 2016
Willamette Valley, Oregon
Red Wine
90
The Rocheux cuvee is sourced from the rockiest portion of our estate – the warmer Western slope of the vineyard, an area high in content of volcanic basalt found throughout the soil.
Le Cadeau Vineyard Rocheux Reserve Pinot Noir 2014
Willamette Valley, Oregon
Red Wine
94
Expertly crafted from the rocky Western blocks, this exemplifies the soft floral notes of Rocheux with the minerality Le Cadeau Vineyard's soil is known for. Barrel selections were carefully made with long-term aging in mind; this drinks well now, but they are enthusiastic to see what this does over the next 10 years.