Grille 66 - Ft Lauderdale, FL

Scotch Bonnet Ginger Mignonette, Bloody Mary Sauce & Mango-Cucumber Salsa

w/ a double Mustard Dipping Sauce

w/ a traditional red horseradish sauce

Oysters on the Half Shell, Jumbo Shrimp & Maine Lobster Cocktail

w/ Sweet Corn, Jalapeno Relish and Sauce Remoulade

w/ Julienne Vegetables & Tamari Vinaigrette

w/ Spicy Hot Chile Sauce

w/ Beefsteak Tomatoes & Roasted Peppers

Imported artisanal Cheese, Sausages, Prosciutto & Marinated Vegetables

w/ arugula, red onion, parmesan reggiano & garlic aioli

w/Asian Vinaigrette Wasabi Creme Fraiché & Cassava Crackers

w/ Cherry Tomatoes, Pignoli Nuts, Feta Cheese, Nicoise Olives & White Balsamic Vinaigrette

w/ Shaved Reggiano parmesan & Crusty Garlic Croutons

w/Seasonal Greens, Tomato Carpaccio & Aged Sherry Vinaigrette

w/ Gorgonzola and Red Wine Vinaigrette

w/ Cherry Tomatoes, Cucumbers, Apple Smoked Bacon, Spiced Pecans & Gorgonzola Vinaigrette

Steak Frites 12 oz. 28 Day Aged New York Strip w/Parmesan Fries and maitre D’Butter

W/ Homemade French Fries

Sea Salted Baked Potato w/ Vermont Butter, Apple Wood Smoked Bacon Bits & Chive Sour Cream

w/ Sautéed Spinach, Slivered Shallots & Citrus-Mango Sauce

w/ Edamame Bean Succotash, Grilled Asparagus & Chipotle Chile Butter

w/ Sweet PepperPignoli-Basmati Rice Pilaf & Curry Ginger Butter

w/ house made coleslaw & tartar sauce

w/ Frites, Roasted Sweet Corn & Jalapeño Relish

w/ Lemon Caper Sauce

w/ Arugula Salad, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Fresh Lemon & Shaved Reggiano

Center Cut Marinated in Cracked Fennel, Garlic & Olive Oil w/ Cherry Peppers

w/ oven roasted tomato & garlic, asparagus, mashed potatoes & natural jus

2 LB. Maine Lobster baked & stuffed w/rock shrimp, sea scallops, jumbo lump crabmeat & lemon-garlic butter

8 Oz. Lobster Tail W/ 8 Oz. Barrel Cut Filet Mignon

w/ Lobster & Gulf Shrimp “Fra Diavolo”

w/ Meat Ragu, Carrots, Celery, Onions, Nutmeg, Tomatoes & Basil

w/ Fresh Cream

w/Pineapple Rum Coulis

w/Fresh Berries

w/Whipped Cream

w/Raspberry Sauce

“great balance and a lingering finish mark this zesty, full-flavored brut as something special. rich in fruit flavor, crisp in balance, with an underlying tangy quality that begs for another sip.” the wine spectator

“brandlin’s 2010 cabernet sauvignon estate is loaded with varietal character and nuance. with time in the glass, the wine opens up nicely, revealing pretty shades of aromatic and flavor nuances, all supported by firm, yet wellbalanced mountain tannins. anticipated maturity: 2014-2026.” wine advocate rating “91”

“though still in its youth, this is a wonderfully aromatic and fragrant wine, with vibrant, lifted aromas of spearmint, blackcurrant, violets, graham cracker crumbs and loganberry. on the palate blackberry and blueberry flavors mingle with cocoa and cola notes. though the tannins impart a touch of youthful dryness, decanting reveals this wine’s classic cabernet character, with a lovely structure, generous mouth-filling flavors and a long, satisfying finish.” tasting notes

“the 2010 cabernet sauvignon is big and lush with huge gobs of fruit in the aroma and flavor. the texture... of the wine is soft and supple, typical of cabernet sauvignons grown in our area of the oakville ava. patience during bottle aging will reward the “steward” with an outstanding bottle over the next 10 to 15 years.” tasting notes

“shows the soft, mellow feeling a fine merlot should possess, although it’s certainly tannic enough, in the duckhorn style. however, the tannins are intricate and accessible, and frame lush cherry, red currant, licorice and cinnamon spice fl avors. hard to resist now, and should hold over the next four years.” wine enthusiast rating “92”

“openly fruity, juicy and inviting, with complex plum, strawberry and blueberry flavors that are supple and elegant. supported by lively acidity, the right amount of tannins and the hint of a mineral aftertaste.” tasting notes

“produced by the award-winning cattier family who have been owners of champagne vineyards since 1763. in parker’s guide of fine wines, armand de brignac was nominated for the “best prestige cuvee”. the champagne is produced in limited quantities through a traditional, entirely handmade method by a staff of only eight people, each integral to the champagne’s creation.”

“the bouquet spirals through a light-filled, floral softness to the gritty minerality that epitomizes dom pérignon, evocative of candied fruit, plant life and exquisite camphor leaf freshness, and finally plunges into darkness, spices and liquorice root. after an initial cloud of softness, we hit a mineralized verticality that gradually opens out to suggest a bitter, iodized and saline nobility.” tasting notes

"la cuvee is a blend of the three most exceptional vintages in memory: 1988, 1990 and 1993. very fine, strong mousse knockout, musky nose combines orange pith, honeysuckle, spices and chalk. offers nearly painful intensity of lemon and wet stone flavor without any excess weight. dense, extremely concentrated material is leavened by brilliant acidity. wonderfully chewy and sappy in the middle palate and on the extremely long finish. it's hard to get this out of your mouth! still, the wine's finishing austerity suggests that it's nowhere near its peak today. a great value in tete de cuvee champagne." stephen tanzer's international wine cellar rating “95”

“displays precision focus and detail, framed by well-honed acidity and offering fine, pointillist -like texture. rich, with layer upon layer of flavor, showing fruit and floral notes of dried apricot and pineapple, chamomile and crystallized honey and savory notes of ground coffee, roast almond, dried herbs and oyster shell. ends with a long, long, mouthwatering finish.” wine spectator rating “97”

“super texture, like velvet, offers the perfect backdrop for a kaleidoscope of flavors?coconut, ginger, vanilla, berries and tobacco. beautifully integrated, with a firm underpinning of acidity keeping it all focused and fresh. terrific length. drink now through 2010.” wine spectator rating “95”

"this elegant version shows beautiful texture and a sense of finesse despite the underlying power of vibrant acidity and smoky minerality. the palate offers a finely layered mesh of blackberry, poached pear, almond pastry, lemon zest and pickled ginger flavors.” wine spectator rating “95”

“elegant, with lovely texture and focused, lively acidity. flavors of currant, candied lemon zest, honey and white peach lead to the creamy, biscuit-tinged finish.” wine spectator rating “92”

“very distinctive. bold and complex, exhibiting roasted elements of toasted bread, nuts and coffee, along with dried fuit and citrus nuances. the structure is firm and fresh, with a superlong finish evoking walnuts.” wine spectator rating “94”

“roederer’s brut rosé, a maceration of unusually ripe, low-yielding pinot noir from cumières blended with about 30 percent chardonnay, is consistently an exceptional rosé champagne, perhaps the finest value in the house’s portfolio." wine & spirits rating “95

“a firm version that integrates racy acidity with a lively bead, yet showcases flavors of macerated cherry, whole-grain toast, dried currant, ground anise and clove, showing a smoky undertow of minerality. features a rich, pastry-tinged finish." wine spectator rating "93"

“a delicate rosé, with a smoky undertow and hints of black cherry and nut. there's a creaminess to the texture and a ripeness overall, with a modest finish.” wine spectator rating “90”

“intense and deep pink with beautiful fine bubbles. clean and sophisticated aromas of red fruits with a slight note of rose petal. fresh and elegant flavors of strawberry.” tasting notes

“a fruity bubbly, showing red cherry flavors, with some spicy notes on the slightly off-dry finish. drink now.” the wine spectator

100% pinot noir from 100% grand cru vineyards “pale salmon color. brisk, pinot-like aromas of raspberry, strawberry, smoke, toast and honeysuckle. bright and frothy in the mouth, with vibrant, firm-edged red berry flavors that call to mind a russian river valley pinot noir. a real fruit bomb, but dry and brisk on the back end.” stephen tanzer's international wine cellar rating "90"

“traditional but exciting style of dry rosé, designed for dinner. has a copper color, toasty aromas, firm texture and subtle fruit and spice flavors that linger on the finish.” wine spectator rating “91”

“a distinctive rosé champagne that smells like potpourri or christmas punch with its cinnamon and clove accents. there’s depth and intensity to the berry and whole-grain bread notes, matched to a raw silk texture and vibrant structure. excellent length.“ wine spectator rating “92”

“drawing on the success of the yellow label, the pink twist is sure to attract trendy drinkers. with a fine mousse and dark salmon hue, this champagne greets you with raspberry and strawberry aromas. what follows is deep, intense and strong—all characteristically veuve.” tasting notes

"very fresh, precise aromas lime, chalk and golden raisin. lively, spicy and concentrated; rich and round but light on its feet thanks to perfectly integrated acidity. intriguing note of green cardamom." stephen tanzer's international wine cellar rating "90"

“its aromas reveal an exotic fruitiness – yellow peach, plum, pineapple and honey and elegant blond notes. the palate is seductive and generous, combining intensity with roundness, fullness with suppleness, followed by a lively crisp finish to reveal the magical balance of champagne.” tasting notes

“this is a deliciously floral, light-bodied, wonderfully subtle yet effervescent champagne that stood out in my tastings as one of the finest values in the non-vintage category.” wine advocate rating “91”

“bright gold color, fine and creamy mousse. the nose reveals the fruity aromas of the pinot, but also leather and underwood. in the mouth, the attack is bold and fruity, the finish is long and vinous.” tasting notes

“great balance and a lingering finish mark this zesty, full-flavored brut as something special. rich in fruit flavor, crisp in balance, with an underlying tangy quality that begs for another sip.” the wine spectator

“toast, honey, peach, and citrus flavors come together effortlessly in this balanced, elegant champagne. the fine mousse adds to the textural component, and this ends on a refreshing note.” wine spectator rating “90”

“the blend shows good maturity and earth. the texture is rich and creamy, then the acidity sweepsit up into a long finish, the champagne flavors are clear as a bell. a super non-vintage brut.” the wine & spirits buying guide rating “90”

“this j non-vintage brut gracefully opens up with crisp lemon peel, honeysuckle and delicate yeast aromas. upon entry, these notes follow through to a mix of fuji apple and grapefruit interlaced with toast, caramel and almond flavors on the mid-palate.” tasting notes

"it exhibits a refined bouquet of yeasty bread, dried apricots, pear, and citrus. this wine, which spent three years on its lees, is rich, fresh, medium-bodied, and long in the mouth, with tiny pinpoint bubbles and a lot of frothiness." wine advocate rating "91"

“the non-vintage, light-bodied prosecco di valdobiaddene rustico offers gorgeously elegant, fresh, lively fruit, notes of bread dough and citrus, and persistent effervescence. it is almost impossible to believe this low-priced wine is so good.” wine advocate rating “90”

“a lovely wine with lemon and blanched almonds on the nose and palate. medium body and fine bead, with a refreshing aftertaste. always a good value. drink now. ” the wine spectator

“delivers a beam of ripe pear, green apple, floral and spicy scents that are fresh, lively and full-bodied, ending with a snappy fruit and mineral edge.” wine spectator rating “90”

“displaying a bit more elegance than recent vintages, the wine is still wonderfully intense and powerful with notes of baked apple, hazelnuts, lemon peel, nutmeg, brioche and cream.” tasting notes

“gavilan chardonnay reveals a delightful array of white flower, peach, pear and citrus notes. hints of minerality come from the limestone soils, while the oak nuances and silky texture were developed during barrel fermentation and sur lie aging.” tasting notes

“layers of ripe pineapple, tangerine, apple, white flower and meyer lemon fill the aromas and crisp rich flavors.slight oak notes come from barrel fermentation, while its silky texture developed during sur lie aging.” tasting notes

“captivating aromas of apple, pear, fresh herbs, dried spices and flowers. boasts very good density of texture and flavor intensity.” stephen tanzer, international wine cellar rating “90”

“bright and jazzy, with pretty pineapple, grapefruit, elderflower and spice flavors that lingers on the finish without excess weight. this just floats on for a while.” wine spectator rating “90”

“overflowing with notions of honeyed peaches, sauteed apples, brioche, vanilla custard and subtle mineral components on both the nose and palate. fleshy, full-bodied and thrillingly textured, with a rich, almost creamy feel that somehow stays well-defined and pure.” wine advocate rating “93”

"aromas of apricot, white peach and honeysuckle; flavors of citrus, green melon, pear and vanilla; a creamy, mouth-filling texture; and a crisp, refreshing citrus end-note." jon bolta winemaker

“nuanced aromas and flavors of fuji apple, jasmine and mineral, with a delicious pineapple finish.” tasing notes

“when allowed a moment or two to throw off its initial aromatic impressions of matchstick, this moderately fruity, mildly grassy wine focuses on a nice mix of melons and hard-charging herbs. it sports a bit more richness than many and shows fine length and overall balance, and another year in the bottle should prove an enormous boon.” connoisseurs’ guide to california wine “90”

“with no oak or malolactic fermentation, this wine is all pure, savory fruit. made from a combination of clarksburg, in the delta, and monterey fruit, it combines warm climate ripeness with coastal acidity to produce a crisp wine with intricate lime and spice flavors.” wine enthusiast rating “90”

"young and fresh, it hits the palate with lip-puckering acidity, rolling on flavors of lemons, oranges, citrus rind, and then into mango and papaya. though the residual sugar is listed at 1.6%, it shows only in a pleasing roundness in the lengthy finish. delicious now, but entirely cellar-worthy for a decade or longer.” wine enthusiast magazine

“ripe honeydew, lanolin, warm spice (nutmeg, all spice, ginger). finely balanced with layers of ripe fruit, juicy acidity, a well-rounded texture, and a clean, invigorating finish. there is an indescribable warmth to this wine a comfort wine." tasting notes

“light citrine hue. powerful scents of orange blossom, slate and acacia. creamy flavors of white peach and lemon custard. impressions of green papaya carry the juicy close.” the wine news rating “90”

“ripe and smooth, this wine’s peach, passionfruit and jasmine tea fl avors have a nutty edge, structured with a hint of tannin. its fresh almond richness adds depth without weight. for seared scallops.” wine & spirits rating “91”

"very flinty and fruity, with citrusy aromas and flavors. full-bodied, featuring a good balance of mango and pineapple character, with a medium finish." wine spectator rating “90”

“the 2011 cervaro della sala flows from the glass with delicate layers of mineral-infused yellow fruit, smoke and flowers. the 2011 is a somewhat lithe, linear cervaro della sala, that is best enjoyed sooner rather than later. cervaro della sala is chardonnay and grechetto aged in french oak barrels.” the wine advocate

“its straw yellow color with faint greenish highlights leads us into a floral fragrance of wisteria and a fruity sensation of green apples. the flavour is dry, with good acidity, and it is persistent and delicately mineral.” tasting notes

“intense straw yellow with a delicate shade of rose; the bouquet is ample, fruity and intense, with excellent persistence. on the palate, full body, mellow and especially well balanced. expected cellar life: 2-3 years.” winemaker’s tasting notes

"dry and full-bodied, the wine's spicy bouquet, crisp character, and firm structure, is perfectly enjoyable as an aperitif, or with light fish or cheesy pasta." tasting notes

“pale yellow in color with greenish highlights. a wine to be enjoyed while it is young and shows the freshest fruit. refreshing and soft with a smooth, dry finish. very balanced and harmonious.” winemaker’s tasting notes

“delicate and fresh with floral notes. dry, well balanced with lively acidity.” tasting notes

“plenty of exotic fruit, with apple, lime and mineral character. medium-bodied, with a crisp finish. one of my summer whites!” james suckling, the wine spectator

“vanilla and custardy notes mark the nose, while the flavors turn toasty and cereal-like, backed by plenty of mixed citrus fruit. it’s not overly rich or ripe, but has long, mouthwatering finish.” wine enthusiast rating “91”

“smooth, round and polished, this is balanced with lively acidity. offers a generous mouthful of gooseberry-accented apple and cream flavors that are beautifully integrated and long on the finish. has integrity and depth. should develop with bottle age.” wine spectator rating “94”

“frisk is a frisky riesling with a pleasing level of prickly spritz lifting the ample fruity flavors. it has a pale straw color, lively bubbles, loads of tropical fruit and jasmine aromas, off-dry fruity flavors, a refreshing 9.8% alcohol and a sweet/tart finish.” wine review online rating "90"

“2009 riesling “art series” exhibits a bouquet of mineral, spring flowers, and lemon-lime. this leads to a dry, crisp wine with plenty of citrus fruit, ripe flavors,” wine advocate rating “90”

“very pretty, with floral, passionfruit and pineapple aromas and flavors up front, settling into a nice apricot silkiness on the finish.” wine sepctator rating “90”

“dry and nervy, with expanding citrus and orchard fruit flavors and a jolt of white pepper. the spiciness builds on the finish, which features a salty mineral tone and very good juicy length.” stephen tanzer's international wine cellar rating “90”

“sharp in its acidity and citric flavors, this is tense and refreshing, to serve with oysters and other raw shellfish with lemon.” wine & spirits rating “90”

“elegant aromas of sweet flowers and fresh tropical fruits.very round and elegant mouth feel, fresh, with a lively acidity and a long finish.”tasting notes

“plenty of almonds and beeswax aromas and flavors to this elegant, concentrated white. the bracing acidity drives the flavors to a lingering conclusion.” wine spectator rating “90”

“aromatic, showing lilac, freesia and violet notes, followed by baked apple. elegant and tightly wound, with a racy structure well-fused to the rich texture. ” wine spectator rating “94”

“intense and creamy, offering floral, tangerine, herb and stone aromas and flavors. an anise accent pops up as this plays out on the lingering aftertaste. very harmonious.” wine spectator rating “92”

“the 2012 sauvignon blanc offers intense notes of gooseberries, passion fruit, grapefruit zest and grass with a hint of fresh herbs. crisp, dry and medium bodied with a good concentration of grapefruit and herb flavors, it gives a long tropical fruit laced finish.” wine advocate rating “90”

“elegant and vibrant, this mouthwatering wine offers lime and tequila flavors that are reminiscent of a margarita, but remains light, refined and distinctive. ” the wine spectator

“a slightly riper style of marlborough sauvignon blanc, with hints of ripe stone fruits accenting passion fruit and grapefruit aromas. light-bodied, smoky and minerally on the palate, the wine picks up a tinge of anise on the finish “ wine enthusiast rating “91”

“the nose is fresh and lively with a mix of lemon, grapefruit, jasmine blossom and white peach. on the palate is soft and bright with abundant fruit including lime and white melon with savory, smoky characters leading to a fine, long, and elegant finish.” the wine taste by tyson stelzer rating “95”

“pale and vibrant in color. the 2012 pascal jolivet sancerre is fresh, clean and screaming with racy acidity. on the palate it is fresh and tightly wound; acidity is tempered by very subtle residual sugar; very clean; alive, racy, youthful. overall, a dry and elegant wine.” tasting notes

“pale and vibrant in color. it is fresh, clean and screaming with racy acidity. fruit on the palate, fresh and tightly wound; acidity is tempered by very subtle residual sugar; very clean; alive, youthful. overall, a dry and elegant wine." tasting notes

“delivers fascinating and deep aromas, lemon/lime juice, white currant, grapefruit, orchard fruits, flowers and wet stone-like aromas jump from the glass of this 2010 muscadet sur lie. it reveals more body than its siblings, but would be called a medium-bodied wine.” tasting notes

“soft, but with nice depth to the lemon verbena, straw and stone notes. lengthy finish. drink now. 10,000 cases made.” wine spectator rating “90”

“pretty flavors of peach and beeswax are accented by grapefruit and green almond notes in this lively, medium-bodied white, with bright acidity and a fresh, minerally finish. not complex, but delivers a lovely purity. drink now through 2016.” wine spectator rating “90”

“a taut, steely, very mineral wine, showing a tense, textured character. fruit flavors run from grapefruit to peach, with a delicious tang of zest along the way. with its acidity and structure, this is a wine for long-term aging.” wine enthusiast rating “94”

“yellow fruits, crushed stone, menthol and a whiff of smoke on the nose. voluptuous, round and quite suave, with sappy spice and stone fruit flavors. conveys an impression of density without weight. builds impressively on the back half, finishing saline, spicy and very long." s.tanzer international wine cellar rating "94"

“this is also beautifully refined, pure and elegant with a discreet touch of wood setting off floral aromas that are nuanced by hints of citrus and stone, possess ample amounts of oyster shell on the chiseled finish." burghound rating "92"

“vivacious and buoyant yet with a fine sense of underlying, chalky extract, its bitter hints of citrus pip are nicely integrated into a satisfyingly persistent finish, and it should continue to drink well for at least the next two years” wine advocate rating “90”

“an interesting nose contrasts notes of grapefruit and melon while sprinkling hints of sea breeze around the edges. the rich, round and obviously concentrated middle weight flavors possess a racy finish and fine length. this relatively opulent effort evidences a strong saline character if limited depth at present." burghound rating "91"

“offering a mix of citrus, apple, vanilla and crushed stone, this white expands on the palate to a long conclusion. nicely put together, keeping its power under control and letting the aftertaste linger on and on. 100 cases made. wine spectator rating “93”

“rich yet structured, this village wine from meursault is made in a taut, tight style. its acidity pushes through the toast flavor, which creates a nervy texture. ready to drink in 1–2 years.” wine enthusiast rating “90”

“this off-dry white shows lush flavors of orange blossom, pomegranate, clementine and spice, with a delicate, honeyed finish. the texture is silky, and there's enough acidity for balance.” wine spectator rating "90”

“finely knit, with a vibrancy to the refined acidity that focuses the flavors of ripe peach, pear, guava and kumquat. silky in texture, with a core of smoky minerality that pushes through on the lasting finish. drink now through 2022." wine spectator rating “92”, #39 of top 100

“the alsace riesling is better known for the elegant balance of acidity and fruit. it is a late maturing varietal and continues to mature even at quite low temperatures with wonderful results when the vintage ends with a warm and sunny harvest month.” tasting notes

“mature, with a stylish paraffin edge to the chamomile, dried papaya and melon notes, giving way to flashes of ginger and heather honey on the light toasty finish, which is still juicy.” wine spectator rating “91”

“ripe and very pure, with unadorned jonagold apple, chamomile and cavaillon melon notes that sail along, carried by fine minerality, with a long, salted butter-tinged finish. drink now through 2012. 1,695 cases made.” wine spectator rating “92”

“a blend of 50% grenache, 35% cinsault, and the rest the white grape clairette, the 2011 rose can fill a small room with its aromas of raspberries, spring flowers, roasted herbs and strawberries.” wine advocate rating “92”

“a rich and fruity rosé, with lots of lush cream and smoke notes behind the dark plum, white chocolate and glazed citrus flavors. long, spicy finish." wine spectator rating "90"

“a ripe, lush, crowd-pleasing style, with lots of mouthfilling creamed melon, buttered brioche and pear flavors that glide along. yet there's plenty of buried zip for balance, with a long, lingering finish that should stretch out nicely with short-term cellaring.“ wine spectator rating “91”

“ripe notes of red apple, honeydew, orange blossom and a touch of nuttiness are all augmented by a backdrop of gorgeous assorted wild flowers, adding complexity and liveliness to the bouquet and lush, round palate. dried apricot drizzled with honey and gingery spice unfold on the close, but balanced acidity keeps the long finish mouthwatering and bright “ wine advocate rating “93”

“shines aromatically with rich, dark fruit and beautifully integrated notes of oak. as it opens up, there are layers of red berries, rose petals, black cherries, leather, mocha and mint. the palate is sleek and concentrated with dark fruit, spice, cola and cedar.” tasting notes

“its keen focus on varietal character is matched by the supportive, wonderfully complementary oak in its makeup, and is a wine of size, it is also a wine of great sophistication. " connoisseur's guide to california wines rating "94"

“it has the fruit and depth of the former and the silkiness of the latter. juicy dark cherries, plums, smoke, incense and tobacco are some of the aromas and flavors that take shape as this powerful, intense wine shows off its considerable pedigree.” wine advocate rating “95”

“trim and focused, with spice, dill, cedar, black cherry and plum flavors. full-bodied and elegant, ending with delicate fruit and cedar notes." the wine spectator

“this big, brawny cabernet sauvignon is loaded with dark red fruit, smoke, tar and licorice. it shows gorgeous balance and fabulous length in an up-front style that is sure to find many admirers for many reasons, not the least of which is its soothing price tag.” wine advocate rating “90”

“blends ripe, fleshy plum and black cherry flavors with a subtle backbone of acidity and tannins. slow to unfold, but does so gracefully, revealing dusty earth, cedar and black licorice in an elegant style." wine spectator rating "91"

“impressive for its stylish delicacy, finesse and subtle details, this firm red offers complex loamy earth, cherry, currant and plum flavors that build and gain traction on the finish, where the tannins have a pleasing loamy edge.” wine spectator rating “93”

“intense and well-focused, showing layered aromas of blackberry, espresso and toasty herbs, with complex flavors of briary plum, sage and hints of leather. the tannins are firm but ripe, with a hint of heat on the finish. merlot and cabernet franc. drink now through 2013.” wine spectator rating “92”

“densely structured yet beautifully polished, showing aromas of currant and espresso, with complex flavors of plum, cinnamon and cedar that finish with firm but ripe tannins. merlot, cabernet franc and malbec.” wine spectator rating “93”

“smooth and generous, focusing its currant and mocha flavors through a lively finish against supple tannins.” the wine spectator

“blackberry and threads of raspberry and cocoa aromatics continue onto the palate. velvety soft in the mouth, this merlot offers a complex, seductive balance of fruit and toasty oak on the lingering finish.” winemaker’s tasting notes

“this appealing napa valley bottling highlights the elegance of the merlot varietal. since 1978, duckhorn vineyards has been producing merlot that reflects the rich diversity of the valley’s many appellations and offers signature flavors of black cherry, plum and spice. 85% merlot, 15% cabernet sauvignon” tasting notes

“our napa valley merlot is a complex blend of several individual vineyard lots, incorporating fruit from our estate vineyards and from top independent growers throughout the napa valley. the final wine is a rich and cohesive expression of the entire napa valley, reflecting the varied microclimates and soils of this unique appellation." wine enthusiast rating "91"

“this rich and fleshy red offers bold aromas of black cherry and toasty oak, with ripe, plush currant, mocha and spice flavors. a backbone of firm, slightly minerally tannins runs throughout.” wine spectator rating “94”

“plush, opulent texture; good structure and balance; long finish. lush, complex pinot with delicious flavors and great texture.” wine & spirits magazine rating “90”

“the 2011 pinot noir reserve is darker in color with aromas of violets, incense, cinnamon, black cherry, and black raspberry. richer and more structured than the willamette valley cuvee." wine advocate rating "90"

“look for dark fruit aromatics like black berry, black cherry with nice spice route spicy complexity. the flavor is rich and robust as well. black cherry folds nicely into lovely fresh earth on the middle palate. the ending is ripe black cherry and plum fruited.” tasting notes

“supple, silky, rich and layered with flavor, offering clove-scented blueberry, black currant and plum, nicely reined in to glide smoothly against refined tannins. deft, and classically proportioned.” wine spectator rating “93”

“a rich, extracted style that's dense, but also very complex and detailed, with spicy berry flavors that fan out nicely while retaining their focus, gaining depth on the finish. 2,777 cases made." wine spectator rating "93"

“earthy sage, mint and dried berry flavors are tight and focused, with a hint of mineral and pebble on the finish.” tasting notes

“clean, pure, ripe and vivid flavors of spice, wild berry and raspberry are tight and structured in this tannic red.” wine spectator rating “92”

“a blend of 45% syrah, 44% zinfandel, 9% merlot, and 2% cabernet sauvignon that comes from primarily lodi as well as sonoma, the central coast, and napa. a hedonist’s dream, this fruit-bomb exhibits loads of berry fruit, pepper, and spice, silky tannins, and an attractive mouthfeel. neither heavy nor overly alcoholic, there are 15,000 cases of this beauty, which will provide enormous relief for weary, recession-challenged wine consumers.” the wine advocate

“this vintage has a deep ruby hue that is nearly opaque. the aromas elevate from the glass starting with black currant, dark blackberry, cherry, and cassis rounded out by subtle hints of seasoned french and american oak. the entry of the wine is massive and leads into a lush middle framed by bright acid and supple tannins. the finish is long, lingering and filled with soft velvety tannins lasting for nearly thirty seconds.” tasting notes

“well-built, yet rich and stylish, with spicy blackberry aromas and zesty, layered flavors of black cherry and licorice framed by toasty oak. offers a long, satisfying finish. drink now through 2015.” wine spectator rating “91

"this is an excellent zinfandel based blend. it is opaque and very dark purple colored. it opens with an inviting mild blueberry bouquet. on the palate, this wine is impressive, full bodied, ridiculously smooth and silky. the flavor profile is a delicious blueberry with nicely integrated mild oak with notes of black cherry, plum, and a dash of black pepper." ken's wine guide rating "95"

“ripe, exotic and loaded with personality. aromas of ripe blackberry, underbrush and licorice lead to concentrated huckleberry and cracked-pepper beef flavors that finish with lively tannins. zinfandel, carignane, petite sirah and mataro. best from 2010 through 2015” wine spectator rating “91”

“aromas of bright cherry, rhubarb and peppercorn extend through the senses, from the entry on the nose through the finish in the mouth. the flavors are fresh and vibrant with a depth of darker fruit developing on the back of the palate. generous, approachable tannins guide this medium -bodied zinfandel into a long finish.“ tasting notes

“plum and cherry aromas open the nose, cradled by warm molasses and caramel notes. black fruit leads the big, full palate, accentuated by a popof boysenberry and red currants on the finish. substantial, mouthfilling tannins structure the finish and hold the flavors into a long, lingering finale.“ tasting notes

“lots of red fruit upfront. interwoven bright and bold cherries, raspberries, and a little plum toward the back. a hint of sweetness...smooth, round, and very easy drinking.” tasting notes

“it’s an aromatic combination of perfume, cinnamon spice and toasty oak. the palate is dense and smoky, with strong raspberry and currant fruit.“ the wine enthusiast

“this soft, juicy red offers lively flavors of black cherry, bitter chocolate and roasted herb. sangiovese, malbec and syrah.” the wine spectator

“lean and lithe, balancing its cherry, raspberry and blackberry fruit against tomato leaf and smoke notes, lingering expressively on the jazzy finish. fine tannins wrap gently.” wine spectator rating “92”

“the 2007 syrah stagecoach vineyard black bart is a big, dense, chewy, meaty syrah with abundant fruit as well as a boatload of tannin and earthiness. northern rhone-like in its structural profile, it should drink well for 7-10 years.” wine advocate rating “90”

“the dense purple-colored 2008 reveals a classic perfume of camphor, pepper, smoke meats, black berries and cassis. more concentrated than previous versions.” wine advocate rating “90

“brimming with spicy, zesty wild berry, pepper, mineral and fresh earth flavors presented in a tight, focused, concentrated manner.” wine spectator rating “92”

“the spicy 2003 the coppermine road cabernet sauvignon reveals copious quantities of black currants, cedar, vanilla, and white chocolate aromas, followed by spicy, tannic, full-bodied, powerful, dense, well-structured flavors.” wine advocate rating “94”

“opaque purple-colored with legs that ooze down the glass, it displays a reticent bouquet that with coaxing reveals wood smoke, violets, black currant and blackberry. this is followed by a full-bodied wine with a glossy texture, succulent fruit, and excellent concentration.” wine advocate rating “90”

“opaque purple-colored, it presents a perfume of pain grille, earth, tar, vanilla, pepper, blueberry, and blackberry. opulent on the palate, it has gobs of ripe fruit, complexity, superb balance, and exceptional length.” wine advocate rating “94”

“this is a spicy, fruit-laden wine with juicy layers of rhubarb, stewed plum, black jube and berry fruit compote. the tannin structure of mourvèdre and some time in old oak provide a tightness and definition to its otherwise soft, supple tannins.” clear about wine rating “93”

“purple-colored, the wine offers meaty black currant, blackberry, and blueberry aromas. on the palate the wine exhibits remarkable focus and structure for its humble price. the fruit is grapy and primary as well as intensely flavored.” wine advocate rating “91”

“polished, ripe and generous with its blackberry, mocha and sage flavors, brilliantly focused and elegantly balanced, lingering effortlessly on the seamless finish. complex and inviting, this should develop beautifully with cellaring.” wine spectator rating “92”

“a deeper, richer, fuller-bodied offering that spent time in equal parts french and american oak, it possesses an opaque purple color, great intensity, and a fabulously sweet nose of blackberries, cassis, asphalt, earth, and oak. powerful, super-concentrated, and obviously fashioned from low yields and old vines, this is a classic mclaren vale old vine shiraz that should age nicely for 15+ years.” wine advocate rating “95”

“a strong followup to the excellent 2005, amisfield’s 2006 pinot noir seems riper and weightier, marrying dark black cherry and plum fruit with hints of chocolate and spice cake. finishes with soft tannins and a slightly dusty feel.” wine enthusiast rating “91”

“our 2011 pinot noir captures your senses with immense florals including violets, boronia and flowering wild thyme. raspberry liquorish entices further along with wild strawberry, dark cherries, tobacco & spice. the palate is juicy but balanced by rich forest floor, clove and savoury flavors. good tension between acid and fine tannins offers a well-rounded palate with appealing length.” tasting notes

“complex and generous, delivering velvety tannins that beautifully frame flavors of ripe black cherry, plum and pomegranate, with terrific details of violet, dried rose, mineral and spicy tobacco leaf. powerful and elegant at the same time.” wine spectator rating “92”

“this wine is bright ruby in color. the nose shows notes of red cherry with a underlying savory touch. the palate is supple yet juicy with ripe fruit and soft tannins on the finish." wine enthusiast rating "91”

“made from 100% merlot grown in varied estate vineyards in umbria. the wine was aged in french oak barrels for 5 months. this merlot is unfiltered and exhibits a deep ruby-red color and rich, spicy aromas. blackberry, tobacco and vanilla come through on the palate. the finish is long and pleasant. recommended with spicy dishes and sauces.” winemaker’s tasting notes

“the 2005 marciliano (70% cabernet sauvignon, 30% cabernet franc) is a big wine that explodes from the glass with dark fruit, sweet herbs, licorice and french oak. this engaging, harmonious wine possesses terrific overall balance, not to mention enough freshness to continue to drink well for several years. it is a commendable effort in this challenging vintage.” wine advocate rating “91”

“this sleek, polished red offers juicy blackberry and black fruit flavors, backed by refined tannins and well-integrated acidity. hard to stop sipping. corvina veronese, rondinella and sangiovese." wine spectator rating "90"

“aromatic with floral, spice and graphite accents, showing flavors of juicy kirsch, black raspberry ganache and date. focused and well-structured, with polished tannins, this features hints of coffee liqueur and mineral on the finish.” wine sepctator rating “92”

“opaque ruby red with violet reflections on the edges. very complex and powerful on the nose, where supporting alcoholic strength shows through aromas of dried plums and balsamic bouquet. characteristic baked cherry flavours with clear hints of chocolate and cinnamon. attractively long and satisfying with obvious, but exptremely delicate tannins.” tasting notes

“a firm, fresh red, with a smoky baseline and balanced flavors of black cherry, damson plum, violet, polished oak and spice. this is structured by bright acidity and chewy tannins that come to the fore on the finish.” wine spectator rating “91”

“the nose of this wine is so precise, with perfume, rose, blackberry and raspberry aromas, and the full-bodied palate builds and builds and then overflows with ripe fruit and layers of rich, ripe, velvety tannins. this has amazing opulence, yet it’s profound and structured. a fabulous wine. the best sperss ever made. 1,250 cases made.” wine spectator rating “98”

“the wine is aged for three years, two of which are in slavonian oak barrels, ruby red in color the wine's aroma is a harmony of roses, licorice and berry fruit with subtle notes of vanilla and tobacco. it has structured layered flavors, a round velvet – textured palate and a lingering finish.” tasting notes

“le cinque vigne (“five vineyards”) represents select fruit from the parcelle castellero, monvigliero, fossati, bussia and parussi crus. the combination has produced a lovely wine with full intensity and longlasting flavors of wild berry, smoke, mineral and cola. it tastes rich and opulent and ends with a fresh dose of acidity that could pair with braised wild duck or pheasant.””wine enthusiast rating “91”

“this austere barolo opens with a ripe note of prune and blackberry followed by sweet spice and moist pipe tobacco. the wine is chewy and rich with a succulent quality of tannins." wine enthusiast rating "91"

“the 2008 barolo cannubi emerges from the glass with freshly cut roses, sweet raspberries and spices, all supported by french oak. it is a very pretty, attractive wine with plenty of vineyard character and personality.” wine advocate rating “92”

“barbera d’alba vignota is a bit less exuberant than the 2011, but in exchange it has the essential minerality and vibrancy of this great piedmont vintage. brisk saline notes frame expressive dark red fruit in this polished, silky barbera.” wine advocate rating “90”

“beautiful and elegant, with silky, ripe fruit. medium-bodied, with medium, fine tannins and a caressing finish. very fine. excellent value.” the wine spectator

“the 2007 sfursat 5 stelle is a drop-dead, gorgeous wine laced with dark red fruit, licorice, new l eather and french oak. all of the elements meld together with notable grace in this rich, expansive 5 stelle. the fragrant, silky fruit flows through to an enveloping, generous finish.” wine advocate rating “94”

“black cherries, tobacco, smoke and licorice are some of the notes that come through on the finish. the flavor profile is decidedly on the dark side, but the wine’s structure is medium in body and intensity.”wine advocate rating “94”

“this wine has great intensity and offers aromas of red berry fruit sweet spice. on the palate, the wine is richand full in flavor and structure and has a long and persistent finish.” tasting notes

“sweet grilled herbs, mocha, spices and black cherry jam are woven into a generous, expansive frame. there is a wonderful sense of richness and warmth to the fruit that carries through to the round harmonious finish, where clean, minerally notes add freshness.” wine advocate rating “94”

“a full and very juicy red, with loads of blackberry, toasty oak and intense coffee character. very intense. superb.” wine spectator rating “95”

“deep and intense mauve red color. gentle aromas of vanilla, tobacco and coff ee, with hints of cherry jam and prunes. harmonious with soft, well-balanced tannins. persistent fi nish and a great potential for aging.” tasting notes

“at the palate it is full-bodied, harmonious and characterized by the finesse of its silky tannins. the taste is exalted by a remarkable pleasantness and a texture in which each varietal adds its own distinctive trait.” tasting notes

“the 2010 mediterra emerges from the glass with espresso, mocha, blackberries and menthol, all supported by firm yet polished tannins. this is a relatively cool, introspective vintage for the mediterra, less immediate than is typically the case. the 2010 impresses for its energy and length. over” wine advocate rating “90”

“the 2007 montevetrano is the product of an unusual vintage characterized by hot temperatures that were virtually uninterrupted throughout the year. bright red fruit, flowers and spices are some of the nuances that emerge from this silky, beautifully balanced montevetrano. the combination of explosive ripe fruit, richness and finesse is utterly breathtaking.” wine advocate raing “95”

“the 2006 shardana wraps around the palate with imposing layers of black olives, spices, grilled herbs and licorice. the 2006 is a muscular shardana in which the 15% syrah seems to speak loudly. i especially like the way the finish builds towards an intense crescendo here." wine advocate rating "93"

“a solid, mouthfilling, slightly gutsy style, with briary grip carrying the blackberry, fig and espresso notes, all laced with hints of dark olive and bittersweet ganache. taut tannins on the finish will need to soften in the cellar. merlot and cabernet franc. drink now through 2015. 6,000 cases made” wine spectator rating “90”

“medium garnet colour going brick at the rim. the nose is beginning to showing signs of evolution with aromas of leather, game, warm cassis, dried plums and cloves. medium to high acidity, medium body and medium to firm, fine tannins support earthy, blackcurrant-preserve fruit. long finish. drink now – 2030+. tasted february 2009.” wine advocate rating “95”

“muscular yet classy. breathtaking aromas of black licorice, violets, berry and cherry, with light hints of spices and minerals. it's all there in the nose. full-bodied, with an ultrafine tannin structure and a finish that goes on for minutes. this may turn out even better than 1995 due to its layers and layers of fine tannins and fruit but i can't give more than 100 points.” wine spectator rating “100”

“dense purple, with an extraordinary nose of sweet forest floor, blackberry jam, pen ink and graphite, this wine soars from the glass, giving it an aromatic dimension and intensity i have never seen from this estate. the tannins are present, as they are in most cantenac browns, but the wine’s sweetness, broad, skyscraper-like mouthfeel, dense, purple color and spectacular length (close to a minute) make this a giant classic and a fabulous sleeper of the vintage that still remains under -priced, considering how great its potential may be.” wine advocate rating “94”

“a gorgeous example of lascombes, the 2005, a blend of 52% cabernet sauvignon, 45% merlot, and the rest petit verdot, continues the remarkable turn-around in quality that began five years ago. a stunningly opulent wine with a dense purple color, the 2005 possesses a beautiful perfume of spring flowers, blueberries, blackberries, creosote, and graphite, full body, silky but noticeable tannins, a layered mouthfeel, and a stunning, 45+-second finish. this is a brilliant, modern-styled margaux that should age for 30-35 years.” wine advocate rating “95”

“very enticing, with lovely mocha and vanilla aromas giving way to fleshy, mouthfilling raspberry, cassis and plum sauce notes. very suave on the finish, with the toasty edge showing for now, but plenty of fruit to soak that up after modest cellaring. merlot, cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc and petit verdot.” wine spectator rating “91”

“very fleshy, this delicious red shows plum, raspberry and blackberry pâté de fruit notes backed by spice cake, anise and toasty vanilla. the finish is long and polished. merlot, cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc and petit verdot. drink now through 2017.” wine spectator rating “91”

“classic vosne spice notes add plenty of breadth and depth to the pure cassis, black cherry and warm earth aromas that introduce exceptionally rich, velvety and generous medium-bodied flavors that culminate in a supple, mouth coating and long finish.” burghound rating “94”

“an elegant wine from the relatively cool lavaux st.-jacques vineyard. soft tannins surround sweet fruit. the structure is fine, delicate, but certainly present, giving a final solid aftertaste.” wine enthusiast rating “92”

“a ripe and nicely complex if not particularly elegant nose of red and dark berry fruit aromas before sliding into intense earthy and sauvage flavors that are delicious, persistent and offer better overall depth.“ burghound rating “92”

“lovely cherry and raspberry aromas and flavors highlight this elegant, juicy red, which is firmly structured, with fine balance and length. best from 2012 through 2020. 604 cases imported.” wine spectator rating “90”

“strikingly pure and persistent fruit juiciness and fine-grained, well-integrated tannins, while incorpor -ating a complex array of floral, mineral, and animal shadings suggesting iris, peat, forest undergrowth, iodine, chalk, and beef marrow.” wine advocate rating “90”

“the villa ponciago 2010 fleurie la reserve seems to have to upped its game since i tasted it for issue 196, and there is now a deep sense of toasty, nut oil richness to complement the tart-edged, piquantly accented bright fruit that was already in evidence on that previous occasion. hints of mint and basil reminiscent of those found in the corresponding beaujolais-villages add further interest to a fine value apt to be worth following at least through 2015.” wine advocate rating “90”

“salted plum and its pit; elderberry; beef marrow; bay laurel; crushed stone; and bittersweet inner -mouth perfume of iris and gentian combine for a complex, savory, and intriguingly as well as mouthwateringly lingering finish.” wine advocate rating “92”

“it has a bright purple colour, a very intense nose, reminiscent of violets, peonies and red berries. on the palate, it has a silky smoothness, and its delicious fruit lingers for a long time.” tasting notes

“densely layered, with nearly exotic fig, plum sauce, mocha, incense and black licorice notes. has a dense core that will need to wait for the formidable structure to resolve itself. a powerful rendition of côte-rôtie. best from 2010 through 2028. 245 cases imported.” wine spectator rating “95”

“fresh and round tasting with a finish of stewed fruits all in finess. aromas of red fruits, blackcurrant and raspberry.” tasting notes

“the 2007 crozes-hermitage les clos possesses elegant blackberry and black cherry fruit, a hint of brined olives, high acidity, and soft tannin. i prefer the 2006, but the 2007 is not far off the mark. it should drink nicely for 7-8 years.” wine advocate rating “92”

“good red-ruby color. ripe, brooding aromas of plum, cherry and raspberry complicated by hints of pepper, game and eucalyptus. sweet but taut in the mouth, with an urgent quality and lovely peppery tang. very concentrated, vibrant saint-joseph with more density and extract than the francois de tournon. finishes with rich, ripe tannins and very good length.” steven tanzer’s international wine cellar rating “90”

“the ripe core of anise, plum and blackberry is tightly framed for now by sleek graphite and black tea notes. a flash of shiso leaf cuts in on the finish, which is long and graceful, despite its density. rock-solid.” wine spectator rating “92”

“the 2009 chateauneuf du pape tradition is a blend of 60% grenache, 20% mourvedre and the rest syrah and muscardin aged in tank and small oak. this estate believes in small oak barrels even though their style is clearly not atypical or modern. the extremely successful 2009 tradition is performing better out of bottle than it did last year. notes of damp earth, truffles, graphite, black currants, kirsch and roasted herbs are found in this dense, chocolaty, deep, fullbodied, generously endowed wine.” wine advocate rating “92”

“from the biodynamically farmed domaine de terre ferme, the 2010 chateauneuf du pape exhibits lots of mediterranean sea breeze/seaweed, kirsch, fig, black currant and cherry notes in its complex, heady, succulent personality. with good acidity and ripe tannin, this 80% grenache/20% mourvedre blend is the finest offering from domaine de terre ferme in over two decades. it should drink well for 15+ years.” wine advocate rating “94”

“performing extremely well, the 2010 chateauneuf du pape la bernardine (100% grenache) exhibits copious aromas of bay leaf/bouquet garni, sweet cherry jam, licorice and hints of new saddle leather, earth and pepper. with medium to full body, velvety tannins and more concentration than one normally sees in this cuvee, this cement-aged red should drink well for 10+ years.” wine advocate rating “91”

“really perfumy up front, displaying lots of singed spice and mesquite, followed by a solid, mouthfilling core of blackberry and anise flavors. this shows a lightly firm edge through the finish, as the toasted spice notes take over, but should settle in with modest cellaring.” wine spectator rating “91”

“offers up an already complex nose of cedar, exotic spices, incense, lavender, espresso, and blackberry. this is followed by a supple, spicy, ripe, layered wine that will evolve for another 3-4 years and drink well through 2021 if not longer.” wine advocate rating “93”

“it exhibits greater intensity on the nose with elegant red fruit, mingling with lavender and terracotta aromas. it is well-defined and speaks of its place. the palate is medium-bodied with a fleshy, welldefined entry. crisp red fruit, sage and a touch of orange rind vie for attention, while the oak is succinctly well-integrated. the cocoa-tinged finish is both satisfying and long.” wine advocate rating “90”

“fresh, fruity notes (black fruits, raspberry, dark chocolate and sherry), nicely integrated with spices, tobacco and toasted aromas (vanilla, chocolate and cinnamon). silky texture, concentrated, well -structured and very elegant. the finish is long and complex.” wine enthusiast rating “94”

“bright ruby. spicy, mineral-accented aromas of red- and blackcurrant, cherry and licorice, with a sexy floral quality. juicy, expansive red fruit flavors turn firmer in the mid-palate, picking up notes of black pepper and candied violet. nicely balanced wine with zero excess fat and very good finishing clarity.” stephen tanzer's international wine cellar rating “91”

“it has a very enticing bouquet with dark cherry, christmas cake, dried fig and espresso with fine delineation and bags of exuberance. the palate is medium-bodied with taut tannins, underpinned by a keen citric thread that cuts through the licorice-tinged, dark berry and allspice-tinged fruit with style. it is simply delicious on the bittersweet finish.” wine advocate rating “93”

“the 2004 balcons includes garnacha, carinena, cabernet sauvignon, and merlot in the mix. the wine was aged for 14 months in french oak. purple-colored, it delivers a complex perfume of crushed stone, pepper, clove, black cherry, and blueberry. full-bodied, layered, and ripe, it offers good depth of flavor, soft tannins, and a long, pure finish.” wine enthusiast rating “90”

“the 2004 an is predominantly callet with a dollop of mantonegro and fogoneu. the total yields for this wine were an amazingly low 0.8 tone per acre. purple in color, it has a superb nose of toasty, smoky oak, earth, black cherry and crushed flowers that jumps from the glass. full-bodied, it has oodles of ripe fruit, lots of depth, and excellent concentration and length.” wine advocate rating “92”

“the 2007 pintia was sourced from 50% ungrafted tinta de toro (tempranillo) vines and aged in 100% new french and american oak. a glass-coating opaque purple color, it shows off a compelling bouquet of wood smoke, scorched earth, mineral, incense, blackberry, and licorice. already complex on the palate, this full-bodied offering is dense, succulent, and structured." wine advocate rating "93"

“the 2000 unico is deep crimson-colored with an ethereal perfume aided by its extended up bringing. aromas of asian spices, lavender, incense, truffle, and confiture of black fruits are compelling. sweet, forward, rich, and hedonistic, it nevertheless has the balance and structure to continue evolving for another 5-10 years. in strong vintages vega sicilia drinks well at age 50 and i would expect the same of the 2000. ” wine advocate rating “97”

“caro is a blend of 60% malbec and 40% cabernet sauvignon. this vintage is balanced from the beginning. black fruit, oak, balsamic complexity and floral hints define the bouquet. the nose is backed by a firm palate with plump edges and dark, oaky flavors of blackberry, vanilla and spice. some heat rises up on the finish; drink through 2018.” wine enthusiast rating “92”

“a dark, tarry style, with crushed plum, fig and hoisin sauce flavors backed by an invigorating licorice snap note on the ripe, muscular finish. powerful but driven, this brings you back for more.” wine enthusiast rating “92”

“has a pinched bouquet of raspberry, mulberry and a touch of banana skin. the palate is medium -bodied, with sappy, ripe red berry fruit on the entry. the acidity is well-judged and builds nicely with copious raspberry jam and boysenberry notes, towards the satisfying, structured finish that is pure and silkysmooth in the mouth. “ wine advocate rating “90”

“an elegant malbec from altitudes of 2,300 to 3,900 feet. lively and delicious, with seductive raspberry flavors & creamy texture.” wine & spirits rating “92”

“it reveals notes of cedar, spice box, mineral, black cherry and black raspberry in its excellent nose. on the palate it offers elegance, spicy flavors, excellent balance and a lengthy finish. it is a very good value.” the wine advocate

“there are no doubts about the 2007 cheval des andes, always a candidate for wine of the vintage. composed of 60% malbec, 35% cabernet sauvignon, and the balance merlot and petit verdot, it spent 18 months in new french oak. this leads to an enthralling nose of sandalwood, floral notes, exotic spices, a velvety texture, complex flavors, and an overall suave personality in the manner of a first growth bordeaux.” wine advocate rating “95”

“intense inky hue with a purple rim. heady aromas of mint, raspberry and plum.” the wine news rating “90”

“intense fruit notes such as strawberry, blackberry, black cherry & plum. the aromas of liquorices & rose are perfectly combined with bitter chocolate & smooth toasted notes, coming from barrel ageing. yet there's firm tannins, with hints of spice and mineral on the finish.” the tasting panel rating “90”

“classically built, with a compact and fine-tuned frame giving way to rich cassis, black cherry reduction, fig paste, spice box and licorice notes woven with fine tannins, juicy acidity and a firm minerally spine. the finish reverberates the focused flavors, but should expand with mid-term cellaring. cabernet sauvignon, carmenère, cabernet franc and merlot. drink now through 2020.” wine spectator rating “96”

“ripe and expressive fruits such as plums, red cherries, dry figs with mocha notes and sweet spices. it has a round and packed attack followed by velvety, polished tannins.” wine spectator rating “96”

“a glass-coating opaque purple color, it offers up a brooding bouquet of sandalwood, exotic spices, dried herbs, lavender, blueberry, and black currant. voluptuous on the palate with layers of spicy black fruits, nicely concealed ripe tannins, and incipient complexity, all this beauty needs is another 3-4 years of cellaring to reveal its full potential.” wine advocate rating “93”

“a full-bodied, ripe red, mixing dark cherry, cassis and raspbery ganache notes with layers of spice, coffee bean and licorice that linger on the savory finish. cabernet sauvignon, syrah, carmenère and merlot." wine enthusiast rating "91"

“dense and solid, this is top-flight chilean merlot without any hints of green to drag it down. the nose has polished oak and bright berry aromas; the palate offers a perfect feel and impressive plum, berry, chocolate and vanilla flavors. properly tannic and balanced.” wine enthusiast rating “91”

“85% cabernet sauvignon, 15% merlot.with black cherry flavors at its core, this is embellished on all sides by scents of herbs and mint, a pure andean cabernet. it’s also firm and tense, encased by tannins that need time to evolve, while its sense of place remains intact.” wine & spirits rating “92”

“rock-solid, with nicely integrated structure for the vintage, allowing the full-bodied core of loam, blackberry, fig sauce and raspberry to stretch out, with lingering mint and cocoa notes on the plush, fleshy finish.” wine spectator rating “90”

“this delicious, crowd pleasing cabernet – consistently named a wine enthusiast “best buy” – delivers serious bang for the buck! it’s packed with lip smacking flavors of blackcurrant, black cherry, and plum, with subtle hints of dark chocolate and spice. “ tasting notes

“there’s a prominent herbal streak to the nose of this wine, but it’s not jarring thanks to the support of rich black cherry and black currant fruit core. the savory herbs, menthol and licorice herbaceousness continues through to the palate, where again it’s matched by equally intense dark fruit flavors and a mouthwatering finish. silky wood-spice accents the long finish.” wine advocate rating “91”

“quite juicy, this features nice grippy briar and licorice snap notes coursing through the core of steeped black currant and fig fruit. toasted, but integrated, with the licorice edge hanging nicely on the finish. merlot, cabernet sauvignon, malbec, cabernet franc and petit verdot. drink now through 2014. 750 cases imported “ wine spectator rating “90”

“this wine shows an enchanting blast of candied apricot, pear, green tea and orange blossom. transcendent when paired with crème brülée or fruit tarts.” winemaker’s tasting notes

“with this wine, dolce cements its status as california’s most consistently great dessert wine. this year’s blend is 80% sémillon and 20% sauvignon blanc, and the grapes were infected with the botrytis, resulting in the fantastic sweetness. devastating in apricot, orange, pear, honey, vanilla and créme brûlée flavors, in an unctuous, viscous texture, with wonderfully clean acidity, it’s certainly one of the greatest sweet california wines in memory.” wine enthusiast rating “98”

“it is amazing how many sensational efforts emerge from this country. this luxurious offering possesses such extraordinary unctuosity, thickness, complexity, and richness that it must be tasted to be believed. it is not just a big, thick sugar ball, because it has sound underlying acidity as well as remarkable complexity and freshness. a spoonful or two is enough for most non-gluttons to appreciate the riveting heights this cuvee represents. the wine possesses notes of smoke, roasted nuts, coffee, brown sugar, maple syrup, prunes, honey, fruitcake, overripe orange/apricots, and remarkable spicy characters. this is a riveting example of a fortified dessert wine that i enthusiastically recommend.” wine advocate rating “96”

“rosa regale brachetto d'acqui is a unique red sparkling wine. sweet and appealing, brachetto may be enjoyed as a delicious after-dinner sparkler.” winemaker’s tasting notes

“this louminous moscato d’asti delivers sweet aromas of stone fruit, lavender honey and delicate wild flowers, backed by creamy, foamy effervescence and delicate sweetness. pair this dessert wine with sponge cake or fruit pies” the wine enthusiast

“pure nectar. ripe with apricot and mango aromas and flavors, augmented by grapefruit, rose and burnt sugar, all on a lively, concentrated framework. it maintains grace and harmony, too. nice smoky note on the finish.” the wine spectator rating “94”

“honey, apple tart and lemon rind. full-bodied, medium-sweet and very spicy with intense flavors of mace, apple and honey. long finish. thick and powerful. best after 2010. 4,165 cases made.” wine spectator rating “95”

“shows enticing aromas of toffee, cream, dried apricot and caramel. full-bodied, very sweet and thick, with honey and caramel flavors. long and rich, oozing with sweet, ripe fruit, this is like liquid candy.” wine spectator rating “96”

“this singular sweet wine delivers jaw-dropping fruit—mango, papaya, blood orange and glazed peach—with a nervy spine buried in its creamy texture. marzipan- and mineral-filled finish evaporates slowly, leaving a firm but mouthwatering impression behind. drink now through 2025.” wine spectator rating “99”

“nose detects stewed red berries with additional notes of cocoa and tobacco. intense initial burst of jammy fruit finishes with a complex array of fruit, pepper and spice.” tasting notes

“aromas of apple blossoms, apricot with hint of cinnamon-raison bread. on the palate, this beautifully rich dessert wine follows through nicely with mix of apricot, mango and a strong honeyed fig component. the overall finish has good length with tantalizing flashes of exotic fruit and spice.” tasting notes

“butterscotch, honeyed almonds and candied ginger-orange peel lead the way on the nose of this late harvest muscat. rich, overripe mango and honeydew add levity to the palate, lifting the heady spice and viscous, syrupy flavors. the long finish carries a tinge of pithiness, adding some tongue-smacking texture to the close.” wine advocate rating “95”