2022 Rare & Fine Wine Auction Gala

NOVEMBER 5, 2022

TOAST. FEAST. GIVE BACK.

5:30PM

Auction Preview Hour

Featuring: 2019 Hillick & Hobbs Estate Vineyard Dry Riesling, Seneca Lake

6:30PM

Program Begins

Featuring Quita Culpepper, Emcee

Opening Remarks

Denise Silverman, Executive Director, Wine & Food Foundation

Andrew West, Auction Committee Chair, Wine & Food Foundation

Jerry Valdez, Board President, Wine & Food Foundation

Keynote

Featured Winemaker, Paul Hobbs

7:00PM

Live Auction

Featuring Todd Kercheval, Auctioneer

The 2022 Rare & Fine Wine Auction Beneficiary – Lift Collective

Rania Zayyat, Founder & President

Cara Bertone, Vice President

9:45PM

—

Silent Auction Closes

11:00PM

Live Auction Closes

Thank You and Good Night!

CHEERS!

PAUL HOBBS

Paul earned his BS in Chemistry from the University of Notre Dame in 1975, and MS in Viticulture & Enology from the University of California, Davis in 1978. Shortly thereafter, he became a member of the enology team at Robert Mondavi Winery, and one year later, at the behest of Mr. Mondavi, Paul was invited to be a member of the inaugural team of Opus One.

A first trip to Argentina in March 1988 marked the beginning of a South American winemaking career that carries on today with Viña Cobos in Argentina, and his status as the pioneer who played an instrumental role in launching malbec’s rise to fame.

Today Paul is owner/winemaker for Sebastopol, California based wineries, Paul Hobbs Winery and Crossbarn Winery, as well as his international partnerships, Viña Cobos, Mendoza (1999); Crocus, Cahors (2011); and Yacoubian-Hobbs, Armenia (2014). His two latest ventures are Alvaredos-Hobbs, Galicia (2018) and Hillick & Hobbs, Finger Lakes (2019).

Regarded as an international visionary for his accomplishments in the vineyard and winery, Paul Hobbs combines his childhood roots on the family farm in Upstate New York with an innovative scientific approach to refine the art of winemaking. He is recognized across the globe for breaking with tradition and forging new paths in the pursuit of excellence; both in stewardship of the land, and the crafting of wines that represent the purist concept of place – leading the way in the early 90’s as a pioneer of site specific, vineyard designate wines. His passion for viticulture, winemaking, and innovation has been widely recognized by the wine media, as well as by the consumer.

2022 RARE & FINE WINE AUCTION GALA FEATURED WINEMAKER

A LETTER FROM THE AUCTION COMMITTEE

On behalf of the Wine & Food Foundation, welcome to the 36th Annual Rare & Fine Wine Auction Gala! This is a special night here in Austin, and we could not be happier to spend it with you, our friends, and supporters.

Tonight, you have an exceptional opportunity to support the Wine & Food Foundation’s work to cultivate and invest in the wine and food community through education, appreciation, and enjoyment. We extend our gratitude to our longstanding, generous sponsors and donors that continue to make this celebratory evening of giving possible. We also welcome several new sponsors and donors this year and look forward to building a long and fruitful partnership with you.

The Foundation provides direct financial support to sommeliers, chefs, winemakers, and organizations that positively impact our viticultural and culinary community. For the 2nd consecutive year, we are proud to have Lift Collective, a leader in supporting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the wine industry, as our beneficiary.

It has been my honor to chair the 2022 Auction Committee. As the Chief Development Officer for UT’s Jackson School of Geosciences, and a longtime wine enthusiast and collector, I was excited to put my skills to the test for the Wine & Food Foundation. I was fortunate to have a dedicated committee that was creative, generous, and fun to work with. Thank you, Auction Committee, for all you did to make this night a success. I’d also like to extend my gratitude to Jerry Valdez, WFF Board President, for his leadership and generosity. And finally, a huge thank you to my wife, Mandy, and daughter, Abigail, for their support and patience this past year.

On behalf of the Wine & Food Foundation’s Auction Committee, we thank you for your generous support tonight. We hope you enjoy an evening of fine wine, good company, and friendly competition. Remember, bid early, and bid often!

Cheers!

2022 AUCTION COMMITTEE

Andrew West CHAIR

Todd Kercheval AUCTIONEER

Steve Alley

Daniel Bleier

Jaime Chozet

Daniela DaSuta

Don Heath Brooke Hester

David Jabour

Harvey Kronberg

Lisa Miller

Paul Mims

Caleb Noel Brooke Paup

Amber Pearce

Justin Sanders

Caleb Troxclair

Jerry Valdez

Traci Velebil

Andrew West AUCTION CHAIR

Todd Kercheval AUCTIONEER

2022 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Jerry Valdez

PRESIDENT, EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE CHAIR

Daniel Bleier

Mike Brown Jaime Chozet

Joelle Cousins Daniela DaSuta Don Heath

Amber Pearce

PRESIDENT-ELECT, GOVERNANCE COMMITTEE CHAIR

Lauren Holbrook David Jabour Harvey Kronberg Don Neville Holly Noel DEVELOPMENT & MARKETING COMMITTEE CHAIR

Soncy Chin

SECRETARY, RELATIONSHIP DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE CHAIR

Fredrik Osterberg Paul Ozbirn Brooke Paup Linda Poole Mari Robinson PHILANTHROPY COMMITTEE CHAIR

Brad Compere

TREASURER, FINANCE COMMITTEE CHAIR

Maura Sharp Stephanie Simpson Ellen Troxclair Kristin Waddington Andrew West AUCTION COMMITTEE CHAIR

WINE & FOOD FOUNDATION STAFF

Denise Silverman

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Sarah Neve

DEVELOPMENT & MARKETING MANAGER

Emily Pratte

AUCTION MANAGER

Pam Taylor EVENT MANAGER

Katie Little OFFICE & EVENTS COORDINATOR

OCTOBER 2023 Details coming soon!

O U N D A T I O N

Lift Collective is a community-centered, non-profit organization advocating equity and inclusion in the wine industry. Through an annual two-day conference, scholarship opportunities, and collaborative programming, Lift Collective works with experts and key opinion leaders across the beverage space to address the needs of often overlooked communities in the wine industry.

A portion of the proceeds of tonight’s event will be donated to Lift Collective’s scholarships, which are awarded for educational development and entrepreneurship.

The Wine & Food Foundation is proud to support Lift Collective in its mission to assist aspiring entrepreneurs from overlooked communities who want to make their mark in the wine industry. WFF is committed to opening new doors that help people reach their highest potential in the wine industry. Achieving that goal benefits us all immeasurably.

@liftcollectiveorg www.liftcollective.org

THANK YOU TO OUR EVENT SPONSORS

PRESENTING SPONSOR

FEATURED WINEMAKER

SILVER BRONZE COPPER

IN-KIND SPONSORS

KICKOFF BBQ WINEMAKER

WINEMAKER LUNCHEON

BBQ

THANK YOU TO OUR DINNER WINE SPONSORS

SAVE THE DATE

Ranch

Wine & Food Foundation

and their mission to cultivate and invest in our industry through education, appreciation, and enjoyment.

More Opportunity. More Support.

NFP is proud to support the Wine & Food Foundation.

Together, we enrich the community with our shared commitment to education, philanthropy and appreciation.

Insurance and consulting solutions

For your business. For your people. For your life.

HERE'S TO THE

DAVID JABOUR & MARGARET JABOUR

GENERATION SIBLINGS CO-OWNERS OF TWIN LIQUORS

TWINLIQUORS.COM

LEARN MORE ON THE HISTORY OF TWIN LIQUORS

Creative Sponsor for the

Fine Wine

Accept what life offers you and try to drink from every cup. All wines should be tasted; some should only be sipped, but with others, drink the whole bottle.

– Paulo Coelho, Brida

Title is proud to raise a glass in support of The Wine & Food Foundation as they continue to enrich our community through their grant and scholarship programs.

BUYING GUIDE

STANDARD NOTICES

1. The Wine & Food Foundation’s Rare & Fine Wine Auction (hereinafter designated WINE & FOOD FOUNDATION) and the JW Marriott Austin reserve the right to refuse admission to the premises and the auction subject to their discretion.

2. Any statement as to authorship, attribution, origin, date, age, provenance, and condition is a statement or representation of fact. The WINE & FOOD FOUNDATION reserves the right, in forming their opinion, to consult and rely upon any expert or authority considered by them to be reliable.

CONDITIONS OF SALE FOR THE RARE & FINE WINE AUCTION

The printed catalog, as amended by addendums & announcements during the sale, constitutes the entire statement of Wine & Food Foundation relative to the wines listed herein.

The following Conditions of Sale and any glossary contained herein are the complete terms and conditions of which all wines are listed herein shall be offered for sale, sold or purchased. The wines will be offered and sold by Wine & Food Foundation.

1. All bottles are 750ml unless otherwise noted.

2. All wines are sold 'as is' and Wine & Food Foundation makes no warranties or representations of any kind or nature with respect to the wines, and in no event shall be responsible or liable for the correctness of the catalog or other description of, nor deemed to have made any representation of assumption of liability with respect hereto.

3. Wine & Food Foundation will provide a good faith estimate of the value of each purchase upon request. Each donor and/or purchaser should consult a tax professional if further guidance is needed.

4. Wine & Food Foundation reserves the right to withdraw any item at any time before actual sale.

5. Unless otherwise announced by the Auctioneer at the time of sale, all bids are per lot as numbered in the printed catalog. After the sale, Wine & Food Foundation’s sale record and invoice shall be conclusive in all respects.

6. Wine & Food Foundation reserves the right to reject a bid from any bidder. The highest bidder acknowledged by the Auctioneer shall be the purchaser. In the event of any dispute between bidders, or in the event of doubt on the part of the Auctioneer as to the validity of any bid, the Auctioneer will have sole and final discretion either to determine the successful bidder or reoffer and resell the Lot. If any dispute arises after the sale, the auctioneer’s sale records shall be conclusive.

7. If the Auctioneer determines that any opening bid is not commensurate with the value of the item offered, he may reject the bid and withdraw item from sale; and if having acknowledged an opening bid, he decides that any advance thereafter is not of sufficient magnitude, he may reject the advance.

8. When Auctioneer declares an item 'sold', the highest bidder shall be deemed to have purchased the offered Lot in accordance with all conditions set forth herein and, there, upon

a. Assume full risk and responsibility therefore,

b. Will sign a confirmation therefore, and

c. Will pay the full purchase price therefore.

8. All wines shall be removed from the Premises by the purchaser’s expense immediately after the Auction. The purchaser must be present, with personal identification or must be represented by proxy approved by WINE & FOOD FOUNDATION. If the foregoing conditions or any other applicable conditions herein are not complied with, in addition to other remedies available to WINE & FOOD FOUNDATION by law, including without limitation, the right to hold the purchaser liable for the bid price, WINE & FOOD FOUNDATION at its option may either:

a. Cancel the sale retaining as liquidated damages all payments made by the purchaser, or

b. Resell the property for the account of and at the risk of the purchaser, either publicly or privately, & in such event the purchaser shall be liable for the payment of any deficiency plus all costs of resale and incidental damages.

9. All Lots expire on January 15, 2023, unless otherwise indicated in the printed catalog or announced by the Auctioneer at the time of sale. Any Lots not redeemed by that date will be deemed expired and become obsolete therefore. WINE & FOOD FOUNDATION shall not be responsible or liable for refunding or replacing obsolete Lots.

10. In rare cases, due to weather or other factors beyond our control, wine may not be physically present. Some wineries or shipment facilities have chosen to wait to ship their wine until weather conditions are suitable. In those cases, we will reach out to the winners as soon as the wine has arrived.

11. All checks for items purchased shall be made payable to The Wine & Food Foundation. Unless exempted by law from payment thereof, the purchaser may be required to pay Texas state and local retail taxes at the rate applicable at the time of purchase.

LIVE AUCTION LOTS

LOT #1

The Paul Hobbs Experience – Single Vineyard Magnum and Tour

Donated by: Paul Hobbs Winery

Estimated Value: $2,210

1. Vineyard Designate Experience & Tasting at Paul Hobbs Winery in Sebastopol After touring the winery and surrounding vineyards you will sit to a tasting of six hand-selected, vineyard designate wines paired with seasonal bites by the estate chef.

2. 2014 Paul Hobbs Beckstoffer To Kalon Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, 1.5L

Rated 98 by Robert Parker

Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard reveals notes of blackberry preserves and blueberry compote with chocolate box, star anise, sandalwood, dried meat, and black loam nuances. The full-bodied palate is earthy and muscular, with a solid frame of ripe, grainy tannins and just enough freshness to support the taut earthy and savory flavors, finishing on a lingering spicy note.

Katherine Lindsay Estate. Photo Credit: Paul Hobbs Winery

Vintage Napa Gems

Donated by: Kaycee & Justin Sanders

Estimated Value: $1,300

1. 1993 Beringer Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

Rated 93 by Robert Parker

Tobacco, deep, dark syrup, black fruit, ripe cherries, cocoa, dried herbs and spice. Nice acid balance and firm tannins. Lots of blackberry, cherry and cherry cola. Mushroom at the beginning, then toffee, candy character.

2. 1995 La Jota 14th Anniversary Cabernet Sauvignon, Howell Mountain

Rated 94 by Robert Parker

A monster, the tannic 1995 Cabernet Sauvignon 14th Anniversary Release is unquestionably a huge, mountainstyled Cabernet. It exhibits a black/purple color and a reticent but promising nose of minerals, smoke, black currants, and underbrush. Although full-bodied and excruciatingly tannic, there is enough fruit to balance out the wine’s structure. It may be as backward as the Cabernet Sauvignon made by Dunn on another Howell Mountain slope; this wine needs 5-8 years of cellaring.

3. 1995 Viader Napa Valley Rated 91 by Vinous

Similar in style to the 1996, the 1995 reveals an opaque purple color, remarkably sweet tannin for a wine from this vintage, and gorgeous levels of black currant fruit nicely complemented by toast, smoke, and floral scents. This rich, medium to full-bodied wine fills the mouth without any sense of heaviness or harshness.

4. 1996 Robert Mondavi Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon

Rated 92 by Robert Parker

The color is opaque purple, and the wine reveals more vanillin, a touch of mint, and plenty of black currant fruit in its moderately intense aromatics. Some of the vintage’s dry tannin (from this year’s stressed vineyard conditions) is present in the wine’s finish. A more stylish, restrained, less exuberant example than the 1996 Oakville, it is an outstanding offering that should be consumed between 2002-2025.

5. 1996 Smith-Madrone Cabernet Sauvignon

Rated 92 by Wine Enthusiast

From the producer’s dry-farmed estate, the grapes for this wine are grown at 1,800-feet in elevation. Dried herb, black pepper and clove arise on the nose. The elegant, restrained palate brings notes of forest floor, red currant and cigar, all wrapped in a mountainous tannic structure.

6. 1997 Staglin Family Cabernet Sauvignon, Rutherford

Rated 92 by Robert Parker

A fine plummy, black truffle and mushroom nose. Very good definition—it becomes smokier the more I nose it. The palate has a fine balance with blackberry and cassis. Quite an attacking wine, one that grabs your attention more than others although it does not quite have the length to match its ambition.

7. 1999 Nickel & Nickel Dragonfly Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon

Rated 92 by Wine Enthusiast

Rarely does a wine with such a mellow, subdued nose shine in the mouth as this does. Below the aromatic veil of boysenberry and chocolate is ripe cassis and berry fruit, which gives way to a tight, clean, structured finish that oozes coffee, character and class.

8. 1999 Lewis Cellars Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon

Rated 93 by Robert Parker

A beauty! This opaque purple-colored Cabernet boasts an explosive bouquet of crushed plums, creme de cassis, licorice, Asian spices, and graphite. The wine is full-bodied, sweet, and exuberantly fruity with surprisingly good acidity. It deftly balances power and juicy fruit with freshness and vibrancy.

9. 2001 Carter Cellars, Beckstoffer Vineyards, Cabernet Sauvignon, Oakville

Rated 95 by Robert Parker

A brilliant wine from this renowned site, this youthful 2001 exhibits a dense purple color, classic notes of creme de cassis, cedar, licorice, camphor, graphite and a full-bodied, young, vigorous mouthfeel. Purity, texture and length are all present in this beauty, which is just becoming approachable at age ten. Brilliant!

10. 2002 Ladera Cabernet Sauvignon, Howell Mountain

Rated 92 by Wine Enthusiast

The acid and tannin ballet is an exciting one, joined by rich smoky oak and a ripe Cabernet expression of black currants and cassis that’s delicious.

11. 2004 Sherwin Family Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Spring Mountain District

Rated 93 by Wine Spectator

A big, rich, intense and tightly focused style, with layers of red cherry, wild berry, earth, mineral and savory herbs and spices. Picks up a nice touch of anise and ends with firm, ripe, integrated tannins, with a dash of cedary oak. Decant.

12. 2010 Hewitt Vineyard Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Rutherford

Rated 95 by Wine Spectator

Deliciously pure, rich and deep, featuring tiers of spicy red berry, blackberry and red and black licorice flavors, with pretty wilted rose scents and a long seamless finish that slowly reveals an underlying tannic grip. Ranked #4 on Top 100 Wines of 2013, Highly Recommended.

Standout Sparklers

Donated by:

Terlato Wine Group, Twin Liquors Fine Wine & Spirits, Heather & Jerry Valdez, Amanda & Andrew West

Estimated Value: $1,000

1. NV Bruno Paillard Première Cuvée Extra Brut Champagne

Rated 92 by Robert Parker

Disgorged in June 2021, the latest release of Paillard’s NV Extra-Brut Première Cuvée is showing very well out of the gates, and it’s already expressive, bursting with aromas of ripe orchard fruit, freshly baked bread, brioche and citrus oil. Medium to full-bodied, fleshy and precise, with a pinpoint mousse, bright acids and chalky grip on the finish, it’s approachable now but also built to evolve with grace.

2. NV Bruno Paillard Première Cuvée Extra Brut Champagne

Rated 92 by Robert Parker

Disgorged in June 2021, the latest release of Paillard’s NV Extra-Brut Première Cuvée is showing very well out of the gates, and it’s already expressive, bursting with aromas of ripe orchard fruit, freshly baked bread, brioche and citrus oil. Medium to full-bodied, fleshy and precise, with a pinpoint mousse, bright acids and chalky grip on the finish, it’s approachable now but also built to evolve with grace.

3. NV Champagne Agrapart & Fils, À Avize, 7 Crus, Brut

Rated 93 by Robert Parker

Based on the 2019 vintage and disgorged in April 2022, Agrapart’s NV Brut 7 Crus wafts from the glass with scents of crisp green apple, freshly baked bread, white flowers and buttery pastry. Medium to full-bodied, fleshy and enveloping, it’s an ample, incisive wine, with racy acids and a saline finish. When the range begins like this, you know you’re in the presence of one of Champagne’s greatest producers.

4. NV Champagne Agrapart & Fils, Complanteé Extra Brut Avize Grand Cru

Rated 94 by James Suckling

Remarkable depth of mature aromas - tons of candied lemon peel, dried pear and brioche - plus wonderful textural richness on the palate make this stand out amongst the regular Brut NVs.

5. NV Charles Heidsieck Brut Cuvée

Rated 90 by Wine Enthusiast

The basic idea of this wine is to test the terroir strength with rural old varieties. The result is an exceptional Champagne, with fine foam and great minerality.

6. NV Champagne Agrapart & Fils,Terroirs Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut Avize Grand Cru

Rated 92 by Robert Parker

A super fine, elegant, yet powerful Champagne showcasing the terroirs of Avize, Oger, Cramant and Oiry. A poor man’s Clos de Mesnil, perhaps?!

7. NV Étoile Brut Domaine Chandon

Rated 93 by Wine Spectator

The Étoile Brut has a bubbly personality and elegance to boot. With an elegant aperitif style, refined texture, and superior layers of depth from a unique blend of reserve wines, it’s a refreshing take on the classic sparkling wine.

8. NV Lanson Le Black Label Brut

Rated 92 by Wine Enthusiast

This classic nonvintage cuvée has a dominance of red grapes. A rich wine, it shows dryness as well as balanced acidity and ripe spice. It is easy to enjoy and ready to drink.

9. NV Ruinart Brut Rosé

Rated 94 by Wine Spectator

A gorgeous rosé in a rich, vinous style, this shows a satiny mousse and well-honed acidity, which buoy a detailed range of macerated raspberry fruit, dried apricot, grated ginger, graphite and chopped roasted almond flavors. Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

10. 2013 Bisol Prosecco Brut Valdobbiadene Superiore di Cartizze Private Cartizze Prosecco

Rated 92 by Cellar Tracker

Aromas recalling toasted walnut, underbrush and bread crust make themselves known. The vibrant, rather lean palate offers yellow apple, pear and lime alongside small, persistent bubbles and zest acidity. Bitter almond closes the finish.

11. 2014 Taittinger Domaine Carneros Ultra Brut

Rated 91 by Wine Enthusiast

Ultra Brut is a rare style of Sparkling wine that relies on flawless balance and, hailing from the stellar 2014 vintage, this latest expression succeeds beautifully. Intriguing aromas of yuzu fruit vanilla bean, lime and a hint of walnut lead to a pure, fresh palate of lemon zest, passion fruit and wild flower. With a surprising mouthwatering complexity, its bright, crisp fruit and dusty minerality ride on a serious structure, the persistent, palate-cleansing finish lingering on.

12. 2015 L. Aubry Fils Le Nombre d’Or Sablé Champagne Brut Nature Blanc de Blancs

Rated 92 by James Suckling

The 2015 Brut Le Nombre d' Or Veteres Vites is exotic, beguiling and effusive. A whole range of floral and savory notes lifts from the glass. There's terrific energy and verve here. There are some slightly vegetal notes, which is typical of the year. For that reason, I would prefer to drink the 2015 sooner rather than later. This is nicely done.

Collection Kick-off Kit – Chardonnay

Donated by:

Harvey Kronberg, Diana McIver & Pat Conroy, Amber Pearce, Casey Tatham, Vine Vault, Amanda & Andrew West

Estimated Value: $900

1. 2004 Château Boswell Chardonnay Sonoma Coast

Rated 92 by Cellar Tracker

Beautiful floral and citrus notes with a touch of smoke. Rich but still elegant.

2. 2009 Patz & Hall Chardonnay Carneros Hudson Vineyard

Rated 92 by Wine Enthusiast

Lots of dry acidity in this wine, marked by steely minerals that give it a tang. New oak gives it rich additions of buttered toast, while sur lie aging adds a creamy, yeast sourness. With citrus and apple fruit flavors, it’s one of the best Carneros Chards of the vintage.

3. 2017 Maison Louis Latour Puligny-Montrachet

Rated 92 by James Suckling

Pale yellow color with a floral nose and notes of walnut. The palate is a very energetic and fresh with an array of ripe peaches, a thread of citrus and plenty of round, fleshy texture.

4. 2018 Amapola Creek Jos. Belli Vineyards Chardonnay, Russian River Valley

The color of this wine is best described as pale straw with a slight tint of emerald green. The nose opens as a classic Chardonnay, with big aromas of pear and honeysuckle, accented with citrus zest and a tiny bit of flint. Stay with the glass a moment and you will note that the floral component opens up, delivering graceful notes of jasmine woven through with hints of butterscotch and oak.

5. 2018 Arnot-Roberts Chardonnay, Watson Ranch

Rated 92 by Decanter

The 2018 Chardonnay Watson Ranch is creamy, open-knit and expressive, and also the most approachable of the Chardonnays in the range. Orchard fruit, chamomile, almonds and dried flowers all meld together seamlessly. This is a very pretty Chardonnay from a cool site at the southern end of Napa Valley.

6. 2018 Arnot-Roberts Chardonnay, Trout Gulch Vineyard

Rated 93 by Vinous

The 2018 Chardonnay Trout Gulch is loaded with personality and class. Citrus, dried flowers, mint and sage are some of the many nuances that grace this Chardonnay from the southern reaches of the Santa Cruz Mountains. In 2018, the Trout Gulch has more overt body and less of the sizzling cut it has had in some previous editions, which means it will drink nicely with just another year or two in bottle. There is still plenty of energy, but more mid-palate depth and less austerity than in some years.

7. 2018 Aubert Chardonnay Sonoma Coast CIX Vineyard

Rated 99 by Robert Parker

The 2018 Chardonnay CIX Estate is wonderfully intense, exploding from the glass with lime cordial, apricot and mandarin peel scents of citrus, followed by suggestions of jasmine, honey toast and marzipan with a touch of coriander seed. The full-bodied palate is jam-packed with expressive citrus and stone fruit layers, framed by an electric line of freshness and finishing long with amazing purity and precision.

8. 2018 Benovia Chardonnay Russian River Valley

Rated 94 by Wine Enthusiast

This Chardonnay is bursting with aromas of sun-ripened Golden Delicious Apple, poached pear and marzipan. The nose is filled with dried apricot and white rose, knit together by balanced acidity and a long-complex finish. Barrel fermentation and oak aging for 12 months have added hints of toasted almond, and spice cake to a subtle minerality on the finish.

9. 2018 Sanford Chardonnay Santa Rita Hills La Rinconada Vineyard

Rated 93 by Wine Enthusiast

Clean while creamy aromas of Meyer lemon zest, honeysuckle and butter show on the nose of this single-vineyard expression. The tense palate delivers a strong mineral kick from chalk and chiseled stone, offering tight yuzu and lime-peel flavors.

10. 2018 Taylor Family Vineyards Hillside Chardonnay, Oak Knoll District

Rated 94 by Cellar Tracker

This aromatic wine is richly balanced with bright acidity and a silky texture. On the nose are aromas of fresh Fuji apple, brioche, white flowers and soft vanilla spice. The palate is creamy and lush with bright freshness, leaving you dreaming of apple pie. The Musque clone of Chardonnay that creates this wine hails from the Oak Knoll District on the southern end of Napa adjacent to the Mayacamas Mountain range. It gets beautiful morning sun that creates rich, classic flavors and cool shade in the afternoon to preserve the fresh mouthfeel. Enjoy now or over the next decade.

11. 2019 Cast Chardonnay Quail Hill Vineyard, Russian River Valley Rated 95 by Cellar Tracker

Our 2020 Chardonnay is beautifully layered with notes of tree-ripened stone fruit, lemon curd, Asian pear and sliced almonds. The palate is bright with crisp granny smith apple, peach blossom and lemon meringue pie. The finish lingers for days. This wine is absolutely delicious right now but will continue to be vibrant for 5 years at least.

12. 2021 Alpha Omega Two Squared Chardonnay Napa Valley

Rated 91 by Cellar Tracker

On the nose, fresh-cut flowers, hazelnuts, cotton, marzipan, wet clay, flint, freshly cut red apples, truffle oils, and hints of dill. Fresh, bright acidity, mandarin, tamarind, oyster sauce, underbrush, fennel, strawberry, white peach, and kiwi syrup.

Around the World

Donated by:

Maria & Daniel Bleier, Joan & Paul Mims, Mari Robinson & Greg Ritzen, Polly Ryan & Steve Alley, Traci Velebil, Amanda & Andrew West

Estimated Value: $1,100

1. 2001 Château Rieussec Sauternes

Rated 100 by Wine Spectator

Like lemon curd on the nose, turning to honey and caramel. Full-bodied and very sweet, with fantastic concentration of ripe and botrytized fruit, yet balanced and refined. Electric acidity. Lasts for minutes on the palate. This is absolutely mind-blowing. This is the greatest young Sauternes I have ever tasted. #1 Wine Spectator Top 100 of 2004.

2. 2005 Noon Winery Eclipse Red Blend, McLaren Vale, South Australia

Rated 95 by Robert Parker

A distinctive minty note signals this tightly structured red. The core of bright cherry and currant is complemented by licorice, tar and leafy underbrush flavors. Shows plenty of density and power. Best from 2022 through 2040. 5,000 cases made, 1,800 cases imported.

3. 2010 Piccini Villa al Cortile Brunello di Montalcino Riserva

Rated 90 by Wine Enthusiast

Aromas of underbrush, charred earth, truffle, star anise and a hint of menthol come together in the glass. The ripe palate shows dried black cherry, blackberry jam, licorice and mocha alongside solid, assertive tannins. Drink 2019–2025.

4. 2011 Viña San Pedro Kankana del Elqui Solar No 10 Syrah

Rated 91 by Robert Parker

The Elqui region results in really wild wines like this one. It displays a roasted nose of barbecued meat and smoked bacon, with notes of black olives and hints of tar and violets, textbook cool-climate Syrah descriptors. The palate is full-bodied with glossy tannins and enough acidity.

5. 2012 Le Mesnil Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs

Rated 91 by Cellar Tracker

Mesnil has of course been made famous by the rare and expensive bottlings by Krug and Salon of Clos de Mesnil. This 'Blanc De Blancs' Champagne is made by blending various parcels of Chardonnay specially selected for their finesse and ethereal qualities, giving the wine, complex and mouth-watering flavors, all from the vineyards of Le Mesnil, 100% Grand Cru and a fraction of the cost those celebrated bottlings.

6. 2015 Il Poggione Brunello di Montalcino

Rated 97 by Robert Parker

Ruby red in color, with a very intense, persistent nose and with red fruit notes. Warm, balanced flavor with velvetsmooth tannins. Long-lasting aroma.

7. 2016 Castello di Neive Barbaresco

Rated 92 by Wine Spectator

A distinctive minty note signals this tightly structured red. The core of bright cherry and currant is complemented by licorice, tar and leafy underbrush flavors. Shows plenty of density and power. Best from 2022 through 2040. 5,000 cases made, 1,800 cases imported.

8. 2017 Auguste Clape Cornas

Rated 99 by James Suckling

Plenty of sexy graphite and dark stony aromas cast across showy dark fruits seen here, all presented in a vibrant and seductive form. Plenty of spices and fragrant lift, too. The palate is astonishingly rich, layered and seamlessly complete. The tannins are dense, compressed and commanding, whereas the tension is entrancing. Flavors run from red to darker fruits. The finish is already long and majestic. Exceptional wine.

9. 2017 Clos Cibonne, Cuvée Spéciale des Vignettes

Rated 93 by Vinous

Vivid onion skin. Powerful red berry, pit fruit, blood orange and exotic floral qualities on the expansive, mineraland spice-accented nose. Stains the palate with vibrant red currant, bitter cherry, orange pith and candied lavender flavors that steadily deepen on the back half, with no loss of energy. The mineral and floral notes drive a strikingly long, incisive finish that shows excellent delineation and lingering pit fruit character.

10. 2017 Joh. Jos. Prüm Riesling Kabinett Mosel Wehlener Sonnenuhr

Rated 94 by Wine Spectator

Graceful, floral and flavorful, filled with elderflower, melon and star anise notes. This is very harmonious and complex, picking up durian and mineral details midpalate, coming together on the long conclusion. Drink now through 2029. 160 cases made. Drink between 2021-2031.

11. 2018 Domaine Weinbach Pinot Noir Altenbourg Vin d’Alsace

Rated 94 by Wine Enthusiast

An intense hue and a complex and deep nose with black cherries and a hint of undergrowth. Due to mastered aging, the wine reveals notes of juicy red fruits and ripe grapes with supple and smooth tannins—beautiful balance and concentration, leading to a profound texture and ending on a long finish.

12. 2018 Ben Glaetzer Amon-Ra Shiraz

Rated 98 by Robert Parker

Certainly one of the best vintages of young Amon Ra I've ever tasted, the 2018 Amon Ra Shiraz is a stupendous effort. From old vines in the Ebenezer section of the northern Barossa, it starts off with a whirlwind of mocha, blackberry and dried spices, then actually gets more red-fruited as it sits in the glass. Full-bodied, rich and concentrated without being jammy or overdone, the wine finishes long and savory, framed by dusty tannins and mouthwatering black olives. Winemaker Ben Glaetzer compares 2018 to 2004 (which continues to drink well).

A Stroll Through Bordeaux

Donated by:

Harvey Kronberg, Joan & Paul Mims, Holly & Caleb Noel, Twin Liquors Fine Wine & Spirits

Estimated Value: $1,350

1. 2005 Giscours

Rated 93 by Wine Spectator

Conspicuously deep in color, both the aromatics and palate replicate the strong performance from earlier this year. The bouquet offers very fine intensity with blackberry and cedar, here a tinge of cassis that becomes accentuated with time. The palate is medium-bodied with fine, slightly grainy tannin. It is very well balanced and almost Saint Julien in style. It is clearly very focused with a sustained, mineral-rich finish that (as I said before) contains real energy.

2. 2007 Leoville Barton

Rated 92 by Wine Spectator

This has a wonderful nose, with blackberry, currant and cigar box. Complex and full-bodied, with layers of ripe, polished tannins and a very long finish. Juicy, yet refined and agile.

3. 2007 Vieux Château Certan Pomerol

Rated 95 by Decanter

A cool and uneven summer led to a slow growing season, and those who picked too soon had angular tannins. This Pomerol property didn't begin harvesting until the end of September, so no such problems here, where the wine is a triumph. The nose is exquisite, with ripe, elegant cherry and blackcurrant aromas that are lifted and pure. Although very concentrated, the palate is medium-bodied and graceful, with a fresh and taut structure. Fine acidity gives the wine nuance and exceptional length.

4. 2009 Château Brane-Cantenac Margaux

Rated 92 by Wine Spectator

Ripe and fleshy, with an enticing mix of linzer torte, currant confiture and crushed plum fruit offset by hints of briar and bay leaf. The long finish lets roasted apple wood, singed iron and tobacco leaf notes fill in, while staying plush in feel. Combines the ripeness of the vintage with a nice old-school feel. Best from 2013 through 2025. 12,500 cases made.

5. 2010 Château Pavie Macquin Saint-Émilion

Rated 97 by Wine Spectator

This takes the fruit of 2009 but harnesses it even more quickly, with rivets of graphite and apple wood studding the core of plum sauce, blackberry reduction and raspberry pâte de fruit. Ample singed apple wood lines the finish, melded wonderfully with the fruit, while the minerality lingers on and on in the background, waiting in reserve. Around it all, a beguiling violet note dances. The combination of power and purity is a wonderful thing.

6. 2010 Les Pagodes de Cos Saint-Estéphe

Rated 93 by Robert Parker

Probably the best second wine ever made at Cos (although the 2009 should not be discounted), the 2010 Les Pagodes de Cos is a blend of 62% Cabernet Sauvignon and 38% Merlot finishing at 14% natural alcohol. This wine exhibits beautiful, silky tannins as well as sweet, rich mulberry and black currant fruit with hints of spring flowers, licorice and subtle toast.

7. 2012 Château Ausone La Chapelle d'Ausone

Rated 93 by Wine Enthusiast

The second wine of Château Ausone is impressive in its own right. It reflects the fruitier, Merlot side of the vineyard, with ripe black fruits coming through the tannins. The wood aging does show in a vanilla character that will disappear as it matures. It's ripe, full of juicy fruit and ready to age over the medium term. Drink from 2019.

8. 2012 Château Clerc-Milon Pauillac

Rated 95 by Robert Parker

Juicy and round in feel, with a core of fleshy plum and blackberry fruit. A light briary edge frames the core, revealing enticing savory and chalk notes on the finish. While fully ripe on the palate, this wine also boasts acidity and a black-currant freshness. It shows the quality of Cabernet from Pauillac in 2012.

9. 2016 Château Beychevelle St Julian

Rated 95 by Robert Parker

Medium to deep garnet-purple colored, it is a little broody to begin, opening slowly to reveal subtle savory notes of dried herbs, charcuterie and black olives before breaking through to a profound core of warm cassis, baked black plums, red currant jelly and candied violets. The palate is medium-bodied and delicately played with a quiet intensity of tightly wound nuances and fantastic freshness, finishing with a lingering savory lift. This latent beauty will require a bit more time than most 2016s, but promises to over-deliver to those prepared to wait.

10. 2016 Domaine de Chevalier, Pessac-Léognan

Rated 99 by James Suckling

The intensity and perfumes on the nose are extremely impressive, offering pure blackberries and violets, as well as bark, wild-mushroom and raw-tile notes. It’s full-bodied with creamy tannin's that envelop the wine and a gorgeous, subtly complex center palate with all the flavors found on the nose. Endless finish. Love the finesse and length to this. Greatest ever. 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot and 5% Petit Verdot. Try after 2026.

11. 2016 Domaine de Chevalier, Pessac-Léognan

Rated 99 by James Suckling

The intensity and perfumes on the nose are extremely impressive, offering pure blackberries and violets, as well as bark, wild-mushroom and raw-tile notes. It’s full-bodied with creamy tannin's that envelop the wine and a gorgeous, subtly complex center palate with all the flavors found on the nose. Endless finish. Love the finesse and length to this. Greatest ever. 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot and 5% Petit Verdot. Try after 2026.

12. 2017 Château Calon Segur Saint-Estéphe

Rated 95 by Robert Parker

Medium to deep garnet-purple colored, the 2017 Calon-Ségur features warm plums, cassis, baked cherries and mulberries, earth, meats and cedar on the nose with notes of lavender and olives. The palate is medium-bodied, elegant and intense with firm, fine-grained tannins and great length, finishing minerally. This wine was aged in 100% new French oak barrels for 20 months. The blend is 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot.

Oh Oh Aubert! (Chardonnay)

Donated by: Don Neville

Estimated Value: $1,270

1. 2017 Aubert Chardonnay Sonoma Coast Lauren Vineyard

Rated 100 by Robert Parker

The 2017 Chardonnay Lauren Estate starts out with a quiet intensity of ripe pears, apricot tart and spiced apples notes, growing exponentially to reveal a whole spectrum of savory/earthy nuances: marzipan, cashews, yeast extract, oolong tea, chalk dust and nutmeg. Full-bodied, the palate truly lets off the flavor fireworks, giving up loads of citrus, stone fruit, pears and savory flavors plus a racy backbone, finishing very long and very moreish.

2. 2017 Aubert Chardonnay Sonoma Coast CIX Vineyard

Rated 99 by Robert Parker

The 2017 Chardonnay CIX Estate is so delightfully savory, you could make a whole meal of it! It opens with bags of praline, pain grille, allspice and dill seed notions over a core of baked apples, pear tart, aniseed and lime leaves plus a touch of sea spray. Full-bodied, the palate has fantastic texture with a little chewy grip countering the slight oiliness and supporting the savory layers beautifully, finishing long and refreshing.

3. 2018 Aubert Chardonnay Russian River Valley Eastside Vineyard

Rated 100 by Jeb Dunnuck

The 2018 Chardonnay Eastside reveals incredible intensity in its buttered citrus, white peach, nectarine, white flowers, stony minerality, and almond paste-laced aromas and flavors. A rich, powerful, straight- up awesome Chardonnay, it has riveting focus and precision paired with that richness and opulence that Mark Aubert seems to find in just about every vintage.

4. 2018 Aubert Chardonnay Napa Valley Sugar Shack Vineyard

Rated 99 by James Suckling

Flinty and steely with dried-apple, cooked-apple, pineapple, stone and honeysuckle aromas and flavors. Full-bodied and layered. Dense and agile with a vivid, flavorful finish. Complex, rich and so long. Still tight. But ever so serious and complex. Another triumph from Aubert from this vineyard. Drinkable now, but better in a year or two.

5. 2019 Aubert Chardonnay Sonoma Coast Park Avenue Vineyard

Rated 100 by Robert Parker

The 2019 Chardonnay Park Avenue leaps out of the glass with provocative notes of white peaches, fresh pears, lemon curd and chalk dust plus spicy hints of coriander seed, nutmeg and white pepper. The full-bodied palate is super intense with wonderful tension and lots of mineral accents to the concentrated flavors, finishing with epic length and long-lingering spicy kick.

6. 2019 Aubert Chardonnay Carneros Hudson Vineyard

Rated 99 by Robert Parker

The 2019 Chardonnay Hudson delivers a full-on exotic nose of tropical fruits, pineapple upside-down cake, beeswax and spiced pears with an undercurrent of cashews and brioche plus a touch of yuzu zest. Full-bodied, the palate is satisfyingly savory and multilayered, with tons of mineral sparks accenting the opulent fruit, and the long, decadent finish is beautifully offset by racy freshness.

Sips & Swings – Dinner and Golf at Austin Country Club

Donated by: Don Neville

Estimated Value: $1,250

Play a round at Austin Country Club and relish in a wine-filled afternoon with Wine & Food Foundation Board Member and supporter, Don Neville, and Wine & Food Foundation Auction Chair, Andrew West. You and a guest will enjoy a round of golf (and some fine beverages) with Don and Andrew on the acclaimed ACC course, home to the Dell Match Play. Afterwards, you can regale the play-by-play at a wine-centric dinner in the Club House.

Golf and dinner for two to be scheduled on a mutually agreed upon date before November 2023.

Women in Wine

Donated by:

Joan & Paul Mims, Amber Pearce, Jaclynn Renée, Traci Velebil

Estimated Value: $1,200

1. 2008 R. López de Heredia Viña Tondonia Rioja Reserva

Rated 95 by Robert Parker

The nose of the 2008 Viña Tondonia Reserva is very elegant, fresh and with an herbal twist, starting to show the complexity of the aged wines that are sometimes still too young when they are released 10+ years from the vintage!

The palate is medium-bodied, with lightness and depth, very classical with extra freshness and all that is needed for a long development in bottle. This is the more Tondonia of the two vintages I tasted side by side. There are notes of maple syrup, smoke, licorice and crisp fruit. The palate is more austere, crunchy and reveals the chalkiness of the soils. There’s more definition and precision here.

2. 2015 Bindi Sergardi Mocenni Numero 91 Toscana

Rated 94 by James Suckling

This offers up a decadent nose of blackberry pie, vanilla, resin, elderberry reduction, five spices, dried herbs and a touch of plum liqueur. Full body, ripe yet structured tannins and a long, chewy finish. The fine line of acidity keeps this in check. Drink in 2022.

3. 2016 Ashes & Diamonds Cabernet Sauvignon, Oak Knoll District, Red Hen Vineyard, Napa Valley

Rated 93 by Wilfred Wong

This is a beautiful wine. Its powerful fruit and flavors stay refined and delicate from start to finish. Pair it with a wellmarbled grilled ribeye.

4. 2016 Domaine du Pégaü Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée Réservée

Rated 97 by Wine Enthusiast

Inflections of violet and rose petal mingle into crushed earth and dried mushroom in this deeply complex red. Black cherry and black-currant flavors are profoundly ripe but muted by shades of leather, fur and garrigue. A nuanced, deeply satisfying wine, it offers both concentrated ripeness and old-world restraint.

5. 2016 Jaclynn Renee Pinot Noir Russian River Valley Bacigalupi Vineyard

Rated 92 by Robert Parker

Winner of GOLD Medal – International Women’s Wine Competition and Sonoma Magazine Top 100 wines. This sophisticated Pinot Noir is lifted with fresh ripe cherry, black tea, wild sage, cinnamon, and vanilla. The palate is expressive and medium-bodied with a burst of fresh red berry fruit and soft earthy notes, bright acidity, balanced tannins, and a lengthy, seamless finish.

6. 2016 Raymond District Collection Cabernet Sauvignon St. Helena Napa Valley

Rated 93 by Robert Parker

The deep garnet-purple colored 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon St Helena District Collection (aged 20 months in 70% new French oak) opens with baked cherries, warm plums and crème de cassis with hints of dusty soil, iron ore, mossy bark and tobacco. Big, concentrated and full, the palate is packed with rich fruit and framed by firm, grainy tannins, finishing long and earthy. 477 cases produced. Features a range of red and black currant, violet, savory, dried anise and sagebrush notes that weave together harmoniously, scored with a mineral accent on the finish that adds cut and freshness. Best from 2020 through 2030. 477 cases made.

7. 2017 Duckhorn Vineyards The Discussion

Rated 94 by Wine Spectator

Majestic and elegant wine that immediately demands attention with alluring aromas of black cherry compote, chocolate-covered blueberry, fig and cinnamon. As it opens up, hints of clove, toasted hazelnut and espresso bean emerge. On the palate, juicy blueberry, raspberry and pomegranate flavors meld with creamy oak to create a generous palate structure, with focused tannins and hints of sage and savory spice adding complexity to a long, stately finish.

8. 2017 Keplinger Sumō Amador County

Rated 91 by Wine Spectator

Inky purple in color, opaque and bright. The nose has black raspberries, gravel, anise and black pepper. Full bodied. Juicy acidity. On the palate, black raspberries, blueberries over char and gravel. Long finish. This is open and drinking well now but will undoubtedly continue to develop and improve over the next seven to ten years. It should drink well for ten to twelve more after that.

9. 2018 Corison Cabernet Sauvignon St. Helena Napa Valley

Rated 95 by James Suckling

Violet and dried rose perfume jumps out of the glass along with tart cherry, blueberry, plum and cassis fruit. Flavors follow with cocoa and refreshing minerality joining the party, and a tantalizing white pepper note for interest. Signature velvety tannins add texture and a gentle grip to complete the picture.

10. 2018 Robert Mondavi To Kalon Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon

Rated 94 by James Suckling

The 2018 To Kalon Vineyard Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon has aromas of blackberry, summer plum, violet, tobacco, licorice, and molasses. On the palate, dark fruits and a trail of lovely herbal notes. It is deep, vivacious, and juicy with a beautiful flow from start to finish.

11. 2019 Lillian Syrah California

The bouquet is a complex dance of dark fruit preserves, sandalwood, sweet flowers and spice-cake with mineral notes in the background. The fleshy, vivacious palate is packed tight with blueberry and violet. The finish is oh so long, framed in flowers and velvety tannins. Truly a knockout Syrah with the bones to age beautifully if you can keep your hands off it.

12. 2020 Antonella Corda Vermentino di Sardegna

Rated 90 by James Suckling

Green-apple, lime-curd, fresh-herb and peach-blossom aromas. It’s medium-to full-bodied with bright acidity and a creamy, dense texture. Fruity finish.

Château La Mondotte Vertical

Donated by: Twin Liquors Fine Wine & Spirits

Estimated Value: $2,000

1. 1997 Château La Mondotte Saint-Émilion

Rated 94 by Robert Parker

A stupendous effort, and unquestionably one of the wines of the vintage, La Mondotte's 1997 boasts a saturated purple color as well as an explosive nose of blackberries, violets, minerals, and sweet toasty oak.

2. 1998 Château La Mondotte Saint-Émilion

Rated 98 by Wine Spectator

Quite ripe, almost Port like. Loads of density and opulence, but a bit more freshness would make this an even better wine. Layers of ripe and overripe, black cherry and plums with a good touch of salt to the tannins on the palate and in the finish. You can drink now, as I am not sure this is going to get better. Drink from 2022-2030.

3. 1999 Château La Mondotte Saint-Émilion

Rated 94 by Robert Parker

Along with the 1997, the 1999 is the most forward and accessible La Mondotte yet produced. Its opaque purple color is followed by a glorious nose of candied black fruits, graphite, licorice, and underbrush. It is full-bodied and sumptuous, possessing amazing extract and richness for the vintage. Its high tannin is hidden by a wealth of glycerin, fruit, and extract. Moreover, the finish lasts for 35-45 seconds. This is an amazing achievement in 1999. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2020.

4. 2002 Château La Mondotte Saint-Émilion

Rated 98 by Robert Parker

This is really seductive, with lush boysenberry pâte de fruit, warmed plum sauce and alluring black currant reduction notes that have melded wonderfully with subtle ganache and roasted apple wood flavors. There's serious depth and power through the finish, but this is ultimately driven by a long, minerally spine. A rather ravishing wine.

5. 2006 Château La Mondotte Saint-Émilion

Rated 97 by Robert Parker

Young, rich, powerful and tight, with strong, but refined tannins, rich textures and ripe, dark red fruits, spice, thyme, floral, earth and crushed stone characteristics. Give this another 5-8 years for further development.

6. 2012 Château La Mondotte Saint-Émilion

Rated 95 by Robert Parker

Truffle, burning wood, smoke, incense and plum create the bouquet. Pure, stony, fresh, long and concentrated, the wine is plush, tannic and rich, demanding at least a decade before it comes together, softens and offers it complexities.

BottleRock Napa Valley Music Festival Experience

Donated by: Fran & Steve Burman

Estimated Value: $1,600

Wanna party with the best in Napa? With past headliners like Foo Fighters, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Pink, and Luke Combs, BottleRock is the must see music and wine festival in Napa. Presented by JaM Cellars, BottleRock will take place May 26-28, 2023. Your two festival VIP Tickets include access to premium bars and wine menus, culinary experiences, live acoustic performances, and more.

Winner provides own transportation and accommodations.

West Coast Round-Up – California & Oregon Pinot Noirs

Donated by:

Maria & Daniel Bleier, Harvey Kronberg, Holly & Caleb Noel, Ellen & Caleb Troxclair, Heather & Jerry Valdez

Estimated Value: $1,070

1. 2010 Domaine Serene Pinot Noir Willamette Valley Evenstad Reserve

Rated 95 by Wine Spectator

A vibrant, focused and deliciously complex red, offering raspberry, cherry, cinnamon, mocha and subtle sage notes rolling through the long and expressive finish. Deft. *Highly Recommended, Ranked #3 Wine Spectator Top 100 of 2013.

2. 2010 WillaKenzie Estate Emery Pinot Noir Willamette Valley

Rated 90 by Robert Parker

Lovely, sweetly suggestive scents of mocha, nutmeg, and ripe fresh cherry emerge from the WillaKenzie 2010 Pinot Noir Emery whose more than half new barrel makes only a slight, toasty impression on a palate for now surprisingly lean as well as tartly bright.

3. 2011 WillaKenzie Estate Emery Pinot Noir Yamhill-Carlton District

Rated 90 by Wine Spectator

Light and sleek, with a tart edge to the red berry, currant and hibiscus flavors, coming together harmoniously against fine tannins on the finish. Best from 2015 through 2018.

4. 2014 Domaine Serene Pinot Noir Willamette Valley Evenstad Reserve

Rated 92 by Wine Spectator

Elegant and delicately expressive, with floral cherry and stony mineral aromas and sleekly complex raspberry, tea and spice flavors that build depth toward refined tannins.

5. 2016 Aubert Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast UV Vineyard

Rated 100 by Jeb Dunnuck

Incredible ripe cherries, strawberries, exotic spices, blood orange, and floral notes all soar from this transparently colored, multi-dimensional, layered Pinot Noir that has no hard edges, ultra-fine tannin, and a finish that just won’t quit. It’s the finest Pinot Noir ever made from this address.

6. 2016 Davies Vineyards Pinot Noir Fort Ross-Seaview Nobles Vineyard

Rated 92 by Wine Enthusiast

Soft in wild blue fruit, black tea and stemmy earth, this wine has a brooding earthiness that’s exotic and beguiling. It invites with a perfume of violet and rose as well as coastal salt and crushed rock, mineral components that accent a grainy texture.

7. 2016 Hirsch Vineyards Block 8 Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast

Rated 95 by Robert Parker

The 2016 Pinot Noir Block 8 has a medium ruby color and youthfully subdued nose of peppercorn, tobacco, dried tea leaves, bergamot and bitter citrus peel over a red and black fruit core. Light to medium-bodied, it gives wonderful concentration and layers in the mouth—fruit, earth and spice are all here—with very fine, grainy tannins and a very energetic, almost buzzing, long and layered finish. This will benefit from decanting. 466 cases produced.

8. 2017 Beaux Frères Pinot Noir Ribbon Ridge The Upper Terrace

Rated 96 by Wine Spectator

Seduces you immediately, with expressive violet and dark raspberry aromas that open to polished and brilliantly structured blueberry, savory anise and tea flavors that take on richness on a long finish.

9. 2018 Donum Pinot Noir Anderson Valley Angel Camp Single Vineyard Reserve

Rated 95 by Wine Spectator

Lusciously spiced, with plenty of vanilla notes to the ripe cherry and raspberry flavors. Toasty midpalate, with a long, burnished finish that is filled with juicy richness. Unctuous and hard to resist.

10. 2018 Paul Hobbs Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast Goldrock Estate

Rated 95 by Wine Spectator

Rich and contoured, with ferrous notes to the well-structured red currant, dark cherry and dried blackberry flavors. Supple minerality shows on the spicy finish, where light creamy accents linger.

11. 2019 Penner-Ash Pinot Noir Willamette Valley

Rated 93 by Wine Spectator

Savory, bright and elegantly structured, with hints of underbrush, raspberry and pomegranate building tension toward refined tannins. Drink now through 2029.

12. 2019 Penner-Ash Pinot Noir Willamette Valley

Rated 93 by Wine Spectator

Savory, bright and elegantly structured, with hints of underbrush, raspberry and pomegranate building tension toward refined tannins. Drink now through 2029.

Wines of Washington

Donated by:

Maria & Daniel Bleier, Harvey Kronberg, Holly & Caleb Noel, Amber Pearce, Stephanie & Chad Simpson, Amanda & Andrew West

Estimated Value: $1,255

1. 2013 Fidelitas Petit Verdot Red Mountain Ciel du Cheval Vineyard

Rated 91 by Cellar Tracker

This wine is all varietal, coming from one of the state's top sites. Despite the warm vintage and site, it opens with aromas of herbs along with barrel spice and tightly wound dark fruit. The black fruit flavors are fresh and lively, showing elegance and persistence with a tight core of fine grained tannins.

2. 2013 Quilceda Creek CVR Columbia Valley Red Wine

Rated 92 by Robert Parker

Always a terrific value, the 2013 CVR Columbia Valley Red Wine is a medium to full-bodied, ripe, sexy 2013 that has tons of plums, licorice, lead pencil shavings and spice to go with a rounded texture, ripe tannin and a great finish.

3. 2013 Quilceda Creek Red Wine Horse Heaven Hills Palengat Vineyard

Rated 94 by Robert Parker

This exotic Merlot-based wine displays beautiful layers of aromatic plum and black cherry fruit with nuances of anise, soy, graphite and minerals. It has stunning purity and delineation, with superfine tannins. Aged in 100% new French oak for 20 months.

4. 2013 Quilceda Creek Cabernet Sauvignon Red Mountain Galitzine Vineyard

Rated 98 by Robert Parker

An utterly prodigious effort that would most likely be the wine of the vintage if not for its big brother, the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Galitzine Vineyard comes all from Red Mountain and was raised in 100% new French oak. Revealing a healthy ruby/purple color and classic notes of sage brush, graphite, black cherries, currants and chocolate, it hits the palate with full-bodied richness; building, present, yet ripe and polished tannin; perfect integration of its fruit, alcohol and oak; and awesome length. This is a powerhouse Cabernet Sauvignon that still holds onto a sense of elegance and finesse. Forget it for 4-5 years and drink bottles over the following two decades.

5. 2013 Sheridan Vineyard Block 1 Cabernet Sauvignon Yakima Valley

Rated 97 by Robert Parker

One of the wines of the vintage, the 2013 Block 1 (100% Cabernet Sauvignon) is a sensational effort that offers a Lafite-like elegance and purity as well as textbook Cabernet notes of lead pencil shavings, cassis, graphite, cedar and forest floor. Full-bodied, seamless, silky and weightless on the palate, it’s less exuberant and decadent than past vintages, yet excels for its seamless texture, impeccable balance and incredible overall harmony. Give bottles 6-7 years of cellaring and enjoy through 2043.

6. 2014 Reynvaan Family Vineyards Stonessence Syrah Walla Walla Valley

Rated 97 by Robert Parker

The 2014 Syrah Stonessence checks in as 100% Syrah that’s all from the In The Rocks Vineyard in the rocks region of Walla Walla. Notes of blackberries, blueberries, crushed violets and peppery herbs all emerge from this tight, backward, concentrated Syrah that has thrilling purity. With air, it shows a touch more meat and game, but it desperately needs 2-3 years of cellaring and will keep for a decade or more after that. It’s a killer bottle of wine!

7. 2014 K Vintners King Coal

Rated 95 by Robert Parker

The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon King Coal Stoneridge Vineyard is another 80/20 split of Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah from the Stoneridge Vineyard. It offers notes of black cherries, red currants, dried flowers and dried soil/ sandy notes, full-bodied richness and a seamless, silky, lightly textured and elegant style. It’s impeccably balanced and while already straight up delicious, is going to age gracefully.

8. 2017 Cayuse Syrah Walla Walla Valley Armada Vineyard

Rated 97 by Robert Parker

The 2017 Syrah Armada Vineyard bursts out of the glass with complex and expressive aromas of blackberry, black tea, savory and umami tones of crushed black pepper, grilled meat and dried lilac and lavender. Medium to fullbodied, the wine is elegant and seamless on the palate, unfolding beautifully with precision and intention, offering up instant gratification in youth. The wine unfolds its wings across the mid-palate and takes flight, leading to the elongated and continually evolving finish, which grows in complexity and amplitude in the mouth. The 2017 is more approachable in youth than the 2016 vintage of the same bottling. If you enjoy wines in their youth, this vintage is a no-brainer.

9. 2017 Reynvaan Family Vineyards In the Rocks Syrah Walla Walla Valley

Rated 93 by Wine Enthusiast

A bit reductive out of the gate, this wine opens to reveal aromas of black pepper, moist earth after a rain, nori, olive and herb. The blueberry, black-olive and other savory flavors are rounded in feel while bringing a lovely sense of freshness. An orange-peel note lingers on the finish. Yum.

10. 2018 Figgins Figlia Walla Walla Valley

Rated 96 by James Suckling

Dark to the rim. The nose of the wine is loaded, ironically, with dried figs and mixed florals. The palate is saturated in freshly harvested black and blue fruits, is fat and juicy, and has a long, silky finish. It’s an absolutely delightful wine that is drinking fantastically today and will lay down for a decade if desired.

11. 2018 No Girls Grenache Walla Walla Valley La Paciencia Vineyard

Rated 94 by Wine Enthusiast

One sniff and there is no question where this wine comes from. The aromas dazzle, with notes of potpourri, smoked meat, mountain strawberry, wet stone, black olive juice, tapenade and orange peel. The palate is broad and full, showing more overt richness than recent vintages. A savory, flower-filled finish caps it off. It wins on grace.

12. 2019 Leonetti Cellar Merlot Walla Walla Valley

Rated 93 by Jeb Dunnuck

Perfumed aromas of violets, dried lavender, blueberries, blackberries, asphalt, cocoa powder and walnut husk. It’s full-bodied with firm, creamy tannins. Polished, velvety and caressing with a plush core of dark fruit and spices and a subtle, smoky note.

The Century Club Dinner at The Chadha Residence with Olamaie's Chef Michael Fojtasek

Donated by:

Anu & Punit Chadha

Estimated Value: $8,500

Indulge in a world-class meal curated to pair perfectly with a slate of 100-point wines straight from the cellar of Drs. Anu & Punit Chadha.

Long-time supporters of the Wine & Food Foundation, The Chadhas invite you (and nine of your guests) to join them at their home and be treated to a coursed meal prepared by Olamaie's Chef Michael Fojtasek. Chef Fojtasek has held positions at Thomas Keller’s Per Se (New York), The French Laundry Garden (Napa), and Jonathan Benno’s Lincoln (New York). In addition to Fojtasek’s three James Beard finalist nominations for Best Chef and one for Best New Restaurant, Olamaie has been named Austin’s best restaurant three times by the Austin-American Statesman.

This exclusive dinner for 10 guests will take place on April 22, 2023 at the Chadhas' home in Austin, TX.

1. 2008 Louis Roederer Cristal Brut Champagne

Rated 100 by Jeb Dunnuck

The 2008 Cristal is a perfect wine, and Champagne simple does not get any better. This incredible wine offers a beautiful perfume of clean, crisp fruits, layers of complexity in its toasted spice and white flowers, and an utterly seamless, yet powerful style on the palate. This is a rich, decadent expression of Cristal yet it’s still crystalline and elegant, with no sensation of weight, and it just glides over the palate. Haut Couture at its finest and this majestic, profound, legendary Cristal can be drunk anytime over the coming 2-3 decades.

2. 2017 Aubert Lauren Estate Chardonnay

Rated 100 by Robert Parker

Mark Aubert notes that this is a complex vineyard. It is planted to four different clones: two Old Wente clones, Mount Eden and Corton Charlemagne. The 2017 Chardonnay Lauren Estate starts out with a quiet intensity of ripe pears, apricot tart and spiced apples notes, growing exponentially to reveal a whole spectrum of savory/earthy nuances: marzipan, cashews, yeast extract, oolong tea, chalk dust and nutmeg. Full-bodied, the palate truly lets off the flavor fireworks, giving up loads of citrus, stone fruit, pears and savory flavors plus a racy backbone, finishing very long and very moreish.

3. 2018 Paul Lato Il Padrino Bien Naciedo Syrah

Rated 100 by Jeb Dunnuck

There are two Syrahs from Lato, both brilliant wines yet distinctly different. The most masculine, peppery, and gamey is the 2018 Syrah Il Padrino, which comes from the Bien Nacido Vineyard located just outside the town of Santa Maria. Its deep ruby purple color is followed by textbook Bien Nacido notes of bacon fat, cracked pepper, beef blood, bouquet garni, blackberries, and darker currants. It's a heavenly, concentrated, powerful wine that offers everything

I look for in a great wine: richness without heaviness, incredible complexity, a singular character, and the ability to deliver both intellectual and hedonistic pleasure. Drink this incredible Syrah over the coming 10-12 years.

4. 2013 The Royal Tokaji Wine Company SZT Tamas Aszu 6 Puttonyo

Rated 100 by Wine Enthusiast

Brilliant gold-flecked-amber in the glass, this Hungarian stunner hails from the Szt. Tamas vineyard located on one of Tokaj's most iconic hills. It has aromas of wildflower honey, ripe peach, honeysuckle blossom, freshly sliced apricot and acacia flowers. It is an ethereal blend of Furmint, Harslevelü and Muscat. Silky smooth on entry, it offers enticing flavors of white peach, apricot preserves, honeycomb and acacia honey. It has beautiful heft on the palate with balanced acidity and crisp minerality. The elegant sweetness is perfectly foiled by bracing acidity and crispness in the finish. This is how Hungarian Tokaj Aszü wine should be made. Drink through 2045.

5. 2013 Paul Hobbs Beckstoffer to Kalon Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley

Rated 100 by Robert Parker

Lead pencil shavings, cedar wood, blueberry and blackberry liqueur as well as hints of forest floor and tobacco leaf are all present in this fragrant, sumptuously textured, full-bodied, massively rich yet sensationally well-balanced Cabernet Sauvignon. It has a finish of well over 55 seconds. This is amazing work, and interestingly, I believe Hobbs was the first to offer a Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard designated Cabernet Sauvignon.

6. 2018 Morlet La Proportion Doree

Rated 100 by Jeb Dunnuck

Awesome notes of caramelized lime, honeyed nectarines, orange blossom, spice, and exotic flowers all soar from the glass, and it tastes like a top vintage of La Mission Haut-Brion Blanc on steroids. Despite all its richness and size, it’s elegant, seamless, and offers intensity with no sensation of weight or heaviness. I have no idea how long it will keep, but I've no doubt it has a solid decade of longevity ahead of it.

7. 2015 Morlet Force Del La Nature Cabernet Franc

Rated 100 by Robert Parker

Produced from 100% Cabernet Franc from the Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard, the 2015 Cabernet Franc Force de la Nature reveals a deep garnet-purple color and nose of crushed mulberries, black plums and black cherries with touches of pencil shavings, tapenade, underbrush, moss and dusty earth. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is taut and packed with vibrant red and black fruit flavors, framed by firm, grainy tannins and a lively backbone, finishing with wonderful length and depth.

8. 2016 Sine Qua Non Grenache Eleven Confessions Vineyard Pajarito del Amor

Rated 100 by Robert Parker

Composed of 85.4% Grenache, 7.1% Petite Sirah, 6.9% Syrah and 0.6% Viognier, employing 56% whole cluster, the nose of this opaque, garnet-purple colored uber-Grenache completely explodes with a candied violets, mandarin peel and Indian spices perfume, giving way to a core of bursting-ripe red berries—redcurrants, Morello cherries and raspberries—with an undercurrent of earth, earth and more sweet, fragrant earth. The numbers are telling me this is a full-bodied wine (16.9% alcohol), but the palate is deceptively ethereal, possessing more of a medium to fullbodied feel, thanks in part to bags of well-integrated freshness and fantastic harmony, with soft, silt-like tannins, finishing with loads of savory layers and a fragrant, floral breeze. Yowza, that's good.

La Dolce Vita – Fine Italian Wine

Donated by:

Maria & Daniel Bleier, Holly & Caleb Noel, Mari Robinson & Greg Ritzen, Kaycee & Justin Sanders, Amanda & Andrew West

Estimated Value: $1,100

1. 1998 Falesco Lazio Montiano Merlot

Rated 94 by Robert Parker

Cotarella's flagship wine, his 100% Merlot called Montiano, is aged in 100% new oak casks for 12 months, and bottled with neither fining nor filtration. The terrific opaque purple-colored 1998 Montiano exhibits a spectacular bouquet of black cherry liqueur, licorice, and toasty vanillin. The wine explodes on the palate, offering copious quantities of glycerin, cassis, black cherries, and blackberries. As it sits in the glass, aromas and flavors of melted chocolate and toasty oak emerge. The finish lasts for 40+ seconds. This 1998 should drink well for 10-15 years. Bravo!

2. 2011 Masi Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Serègo Alighieri Vaio Armaron

Rated 94 by Wine Spectator

A dense and smoky Amarone, with long, sculpted tannins and finely meshed flavors of baked black raspberry and forest floor, showing accents of citrus peel, dried fig and espresso. Silky on the palate, this should open nicely with air, while the length and harmony make the case for time in the cellar. Offers a long, spiced finish.

3. 2015 Ciacci Piccolomini d’Aragona Brunello di Montalcino Pianrosso

Rated 96 by Robert Parker

Lots of ripe and rich fruit with a decadent undertone of meat and spice that turns to pure fruit and licorice. Medium to full body, refined tannins and a fresh and bright finish. All about harmony.

4. 2015 Il Poggione Brunello di Montalcino

Rated 97 by Vinous offers up a dark, earthy, almost animal-like expression, showing black soil and undergrowth, giving way to crushed black cherry, dusty spice, and dried florals which lift the experience. On the palate, soft, fleshy textures usher in fresh cherry and strawberry, as brisk acids add energy, with savory herbs and minerals saturating, as the 2015 Il Poggione’s fruit nearly masks its structural core. The finish is long yet fresh, with classic, fine tannins, dried red fruits and pretty inner floral tones lingering throughout this perfectly balanced expression.

5. 2015 Tenuta di Arceno Arcanum

Rated 97 by Robert Parker

The dark and intense fruit aromas jump out of the glass with ripe plums, blackberries on the vine, and tones of sweet mint. The mouthfeel is full, balanced by gentle acids and rich tannins. Flavors are reminiscent of dark chocolate covered cherries and spicy black pepper. The long finish shows cigar box and cedar spice. A vintage that will age well into the next decade.

6. 2015 Val di Suga Brunello di Montalcino

Rated 94 by Robert Parker

This is a very well balanced Brunello with sharp and classic lines. The Val di Suga 2015 Brunello di Montalcino offers attractive energy and brightness that is transmitted through the cherry fruit and wild berry aromas at its core. That primary fruit is surrounded by light spice, grilled herb and potting soil. There is a nice purity and linearity to this wine that reminds you of the natural depth and complexity of Sangiovese when given a little time to age.

7. 2016 Aeris Wines Etna Bianco Superiore

Rated 96 by Vinous

Luminous pale yellow. Delicate but deep and very pure aromas of white flowers, lemon, and minerals with just a hint of almond paste for added complexity. Archetypal Carricante nose. Then boasts a delightful acid-sugar balance in the mouth, with a noble, tannic mouthfeel and lively acidity extending the floral and pomaceous orchard fruit flavors on the long, nuanced lemony back end. In this outstanding Etna Bianco Superiore, Carricante’s typically sharp lemony note is buffered by a noteworthy sweet herb component that does not camouflage Carricante’s personality. A very impressive, standout complex white that is still very young; easily one of the best Italian white wines of the 2016 vintage.

8. 2016 Bibi Graetz Testamatta Toscana

Rated 96 by Robert Parker tasted this wine on three separate occasions and was blown away each time. There is a seductively wild side to the wine that comes forth with chiseled intensity. Dark fruit, spice, tar, licorice and toasted spice make for a beautifully elegant bouquet. The mouthfeel remains mid-weight in approach, with polished tannins and a tightly knit texture that should relax and grow in volume as the wine evolves in the bottle.

9. 2016 Tenuta di Arceno "Valadorna" Toscana IGT, Italy

Rated 95 by Decanter

The first impression of the nose is earthy with notes of cypress, vanilla bean, and spice. There are deep fruit flavors of black cherries, plums and blueberries followed by pleasant hints of chocolate and dried rose petals. On the palate, the tannins are chewy and accompanied by lively acidity; contributing to a long finish dominated by flavors of dried figs and licorice. The 2016 Valadorna is a time bomb of joy that will stand the test of time and age well in the cellar if patience permits.

10. 2016 Tenuta Torciano Cavaliere Toscana

Rated 92 by Cellar Tracker

'Cavaliere' is an aristocratic wine with an elegant and personal taste. With an intense ruby red tending to garnet with aging, it is a blend of Sangiovese and Merlot . Its bouquet is round, complete and elegant . It has a dry, full and soft flavor. The quality and structure of this wine require excellent first courses and risottos with game sauces, red meat and spicy aged cheeses.

11. 2017 Castello dei Rampolla Sammarco Toscana

Rated 98 by James Suckling

Such beautiful balance and refinement to this legendary red with cherries, chocolate, walnuts, hazelnuts and autumn leaves. It’s medium to full-bodied with wonderful, creamy tannins and a persistent and complete finish. Better than the exquisite 2015? A blend of Cabernet sauvignon, sangiovese and Merlot. Needs three to four years to show all it has. Definitely one for the cellar.

12. 2017 Fontodi Flaccianello della Pieve Toscana

Rated 97 by Vinous

The 2017 Flaccianello della Pieve is fabulous. Dark, sensual and enveloping, the 2017 captures the essence of the house style in its textural richness and baritone inflections. Black cherry, plum, spice, new leather, licorice and chocolate infuse the 2017 with tremendous richness. The 2017 spent 18 months in barrique followed by 6 months in cask, the same aging regime as the Vigna del Sorbo, but with a bit more new oak. That approach worked very well, as the Flaccianello stands out for its exceptional textural elegance and finesse. It is a positively stellar wine.

Toast of Texas

Donated by:

Susan Salch & Tyrone Sanders, Traci Velebil, Amanda & Andrew West, Wine For The People

Estimated Value: $800

1. 2012 Lewis Wines Newsom Reserve Texas High Plains Newsom Vineyard

2. 2016 Kulhman Cellars Reserve Merlot, Texas High Plains

Rich cherry notes pop up to greet you on the nose and across your palate. The full mouthfeel experience hits all the high points and more. The tannins and acids have balanced nicely for this one. The finish teases with some lingering tobacco flavors, yet they are not too overpowering. This wine was well worth the wait.

3. 2018 Calais Winery 'La Cuvée du Ruisseau' Merlot Texas High Plains

4. 2018 William Chris Vineyards Mourvèdre Texas High Plains Timmons Estate Vineyard, 1.5L Beautiful garnet color, smelled heavily of blueberry, had a mild acidity, notes of blueberry mixing well with red fruit and dark fruit on the palate, had a very light cranberry finish, finish was clean and quick, did not linger.

5. 2018 William Chris Vineyards Tannat Texas Hill Country Hye Estate Vineyard, 1.5L

Crazy dark red—almost onyx. Earthy aromas with some barn and elements of a humid river bank. The taste is blackberries and other dark fruits with a very, very long and lingering finish of gentle building drying tannins and peppery spices. This is a robust wine and I love it. These vines have always produced great fruit and this vintage is no exception.

6. 2019 C.L. Butaud Cease & Desist, Texas High Plains

Balancing the sophistication of the Tempranillo and Cinsault with the wild personalities of the Grenache and Counoise, this wine fills the glass with dark cherry and cocoa, with exotic spice, orange zest, and rose petals, beautiful tannic texture, and a strong, smooth finish.

7. 2019 Bent Oak Sangiovese

We age our Sangiovese in French oak to allow the wine to mature gracefully, rounding out it’s earthiness and complexity, revealing fresh fruity flavors of tart cherry and spice with a hint of strawberry on the nose, and medium tannins.

Vinho Chardonnay Texas Hill Country

9. 2020 Barons Creek Vineyards 'Boots' Cabernet Sauvignon Texas

Aromatics of black cherry, cinnamon and cherry start your journey. In your mouth it bursts with flavors ripe black cherries along with ginger and vanilla. Moderate tannins invite you to sip slowly. Enjoy with smoked beef ribs or a night of kicking your boots off with your partner...

10. 2020 C.L. Butaud Grenache/Mourvedre Texas High Plains Desert Willow Vineyard

Nice ripe and savory red. It smells like sour cherries with a dash of cinnamon. The fruit concentrates on the palate, but good natural acidity breaks it apart, making for a nicely balanced wine.

11. 2020 La Valentía Dolcetto

A very limited production. Bold fruit tannins, drink now or cellar. WFF Toast of Texas' Top 5 Wines of 2022!

12. 2019 La Valentía Syrah Blend

Full-bodied with savory dark fruit. A great selection to cellar.

Winemaker Rae Wilson of Wine For The People & La Valentía at Toast Of Texas 2022.

Photo Credit: Taylor Prinsen Photography

Bottles Up

LEVELS: $2,500, $1,000, $500, $100

The Wine & Food Foundation cultivates and invests in the wine and food community through education, appreciation, and enjoyment. When you raise your paddle tonight, you are supporting the Wine & Food Foundation and creating a more vibrant wine and food culture in central Texas.

Established in 1985, and incorporated in 1997, WFF has awarded more than $1.6 million in grants, scholarships, and hospitality industry support. In 2020, we donated more than $80,000 to the hospitality industry in crisis due to the pandemic, and funneled more than $24,000 worth of business to Austin restaurants.

Your donations enable us to bring you unique and educational programming. We are known for our Premier Events, the IMBIBE education series, wine dinners, and our Member Happy Hours and Bottle Shares.

This year, a portion of the Auction’s proceeds will be donated to Lift Collective, a communitycentered, non-profit organization advocating equity and inclusion in the wine industry through an annual two-day conference, proprietary research, community partnerships, and scholarship opportunities. The Wine & Food Foundation is proud to support Lift Collective in its mission to assist aspiring entrepreneurs from overlooked communities who want to make their mark in the wine industry.

Thank you for so generously supporting the Foundation so that we may continue to create unique programming and events like the Rare & Fine Wine Auction Gala.

Delights from the Douro – Quinta do Crasto Magnums

Donated by: Quinta do Crasto

Estimated Value: $1,380

1. 2016 Quinta do Crasto Vinha Maria Teresa Douro, 1.5L

Rated 97 by Robert Parker

From a field blend of vines that are now 110-years-old, this is a magnificent wine. Its rich tannins, dark fruits and perfumed acidity are just a part of the extreme concentration and considerable potential. Named after a granddaughter of the founder of estate, the wine is ageless. Drink at the earliest from 2023.

2. 2016 Quinta do Crasto Vinha Maria Teresa Douro, 1.5L

Rated 97 by Robert Parker

From a field blend of vines that are now 110-years-old, this is a magnificent wine. Its rich tannins, dark fruits and perfumed acidity are just a part of the extreme concentration and considerable potential. Named after a granddaughter of the founder of estate, the wine is ageless. Drink at the earliest from 2023.

3. 2016 Quinta do Crasto Vinha Maria Teresa Douro, 1.5L

Rated 97 by Robert Parker

From a field blend of vines that are now 110-years-old, this is a magnificent wine. Its rich tannins, dark fruits and perfumed acidity are just a part of the extreme concentration and considerable potential. Named after a granddaughter of the founder of estate, the wine is ageless. Drink at the earliest from 2023.

4. 2016 Quinta do Crasto Vinha da Ponte Douro, 1.5L

Rated 96 by Wine Enthusiast

This originates from a field blend from a vineyard that is now at least 100-years-old. The wine is concentrated and dense. Fermented in open lagars, the wine has great potential for opulence and generosity. As the wine’s tannins soften, it will reveal amazing richness. Drink from 2024.

5. 2016 Quinta do Crasto Vinha da Ponte Douro, 1.5L

Rated 96 by Wine Enthusiast

This originates from a field blend from a vineyard that is now at least 100-years-old. The wine is concentrated and dense. Fermented in open lagars, the wine has great potential for opulence and generosity. As the wine’s tannins soften, it will reveal amazing richness. Drink from 2024.

6. 2016 Quinta do Crasto Vinha da Ponte Douro, 1.5L

Rated 96 by Wine Enthusiast

This originates from a field blend from a vineyard that is now at least 100-years-old. The wine is concentrated and dense. Fermented in open lagars, the wine has great potential for opulence and generosity. As the wine’s tannins soften, it will reveal amazing richness. Drink from 2024.

Vintage Champagne

Donated by:

Maria & Daniel Bleier, Daniela DaSuta, Scott Hoffman, Mandi Nelson, Chris Ruhland, Twin Liquors Fine Wine & Spirits

Estimated Value: $1,500

1. 2002 Gosset Celebris Extra Brut Millesime

Rated 96 by Wine Enthusiast

Aged for 10 years before disgorging and a further time before release, this is Gosset's top wine from a great vintage year. Extra Brut means it is dry, although the age of this wine has softened the intense acidity and turned it into an elegant, mature wine of great complexity as well as immediate attraction.

2. 2006 Piper-Heidsieck Rare Brut Millesime

Rated 95 by Wine Enthusiast

Piper-Heidsieck's luxury cuvée with its beautifully decorated bottle is a well-matured blend of mainly Chardonnay with some Pinot Noir. Great drive and energy comes from the ripe fruit with its hints of almonds and toast.

3. 2007 Gardet Cuvee Prestige Charles Gardet Premier Cru Brut

Rated 90 by Cellar Tracker

4. 2008 Andre Heucq Histoires HI VIII

Rich and ripe, this is a dry blend of meunier and pinot noir, aged in cellar for a long time. The best fruit from vineyards around Cuisles, picked in 2008, received oak aging. After second fermentation the champagne was allowed ten years of aging on its lees in cellar. Dried fruit, vanilla, pie crust: this is a special champagne with rich flavors.

5. 2008 Pehu-Simonet Fins #3 Les Poules

Rated 91 by Cellar Tracker

You can feel the oak, very Burgundian, brioche, oak, balanced, nice creamy texture, nutty, almond, med finish.

6. 2012 Bollinger Champagne La Grande Année

Rated 97 by Wine Spectator

This goes from zero to 60 right out of the gate, with an intense spine of acidity driving tightly meshed flavors of crushed black currant, ground coffee, candied grapefruit peel and toasted almond. The profile expands on the palate, carried by the fine, raw silk–like mousse. Richly aromatic and expressive from start to lasting, spiced finish.

7. 2012 Le Mesnil Blanc de Blanc

Rated 91 by Cellar Tracker

Mesnil has of course been made famous by the rare and expensive bottlings by Krug and Salon of Clos de Mesnil. This 'Blanc De Blancs' Champagne is made by blending various parcels of Chardonnay specially selected for their finesse and ethereal qualities, giving the wine, complex and mouth-watering flavors, all from the vineyards of Le Mesnil, 100% Grand Cru and a fraction of the cost those celebrated bottlings.

8. 2013 Geoffroy Brut Emprinte

Rated 93 by Wine Spectator

On the nose, a coated, flattering bouquet of a complex palette of aromas of red fruits; airy, bright and vigorous in the mouth. Boasting great freshness, generous doses of strawberry and redcurrant dictate, punctuated by hints of fragrant flowers, such as peonies. It maintains a beautiful balance with a persistent finish.

9. 2015 Taittinger Brut Millesime

Rated 93 from Wine Spectator

Vibrant and harmonious, with a pleasing range of ripe pear and nectarine, toast point and salted almond, candied lemon peel and spun honey riding the finely detailed bead. Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

10. 2014 Gimonet Chouilly Grand Cru

Rated 94 by Vinous

Ample, broad and dramatic in scale, the 2014 Brut Spécial Club Chouilly Grand Cru shows just how well many wines turned out in a vintage that was not highly regarded at the time. Lemon confit, marzipan, chamomile and light pastry open effortlessly in the glass. The Chouilly is a big wine, but it remains translucent in feel, with plenty of cut driving through to the finish.

11. 2012 Dom Pérignon

Rated 96 by Wine Spectator

This eloquent Champagne has an enticing waft of Mandarin orange on the nose that continues on the palate, which is layered with flavors of crushed blackberry and cassis, toast, chopped almond, graphite and oyster shell. A bright, finely-knit and harmonious version, with a lovely, raw silk-like mousse, and a lasting, expressive finish.

12. 2015 L. Aubry Fils 'Le Nombre d’Or Sablé' Champagne Brut Nature Blanc de Blancs

Rated 92 by James Suckling

The 2015 Brut Le Nombre d' Or Veteres Vites is exotic, beguiling and effusive. A whole range of floral and savory notes lifts from the glass. There's terrific energy and verve here. There are some slightly vegetal notes, which is typical of the year. For that reason, I would prefer to drink the 2015 sooner rather than later. This is nicely done.

Pretty in Pink

Donated by:

Rachel & Robert Allen, Brooke & Spivey Paup, Twin Liquors Fine Wine & Spirits, Heather & Jerry Valdez, Amanda & Andrew West, Sarah & Zach Whitley

Estimated Value: $600

1. 2017 David Arthur Annalyce Rosé Napa Valley

Rated 93 by Cellar Tracker

This 100% Sangiovese Rosé has a bright strawberry-pink color with orange hues offering aromas of red plum and ripe strawberries, cranberry, and notes of citrus blossoms. Rich fruit flavors of ripe red plum, with hints of watermelon and kiwi fill the mouth. The palate is crisp and refreshing with bright acidity and a long, clean finish.

2. 2019 Blackbird Arriviste Rosé Napa Valley

Rated 93 by Wilfred Wong

This bright wine shows excellent red currant aromas and flavors that stay persistent and pleasing to the end.

3. 2018 Château de Pibarnon Bandol Rosé

Rated 91 by Wine Spectator

Nicely defined, with blood orange, wet stone and herb notes, backed by juicy acidity. Floral, peach and spice details add complexity through the long, focused finish.

4. 2019 Domaine de la Mordoree Tavel La Dame Rousse Rosé

Rated 93 by Wine Enthusiast

Perfumed notes of fresh boysenberry and black cherry are lifted by a cutting mineral edge in this rosé. Black fruit flavors are intensely ripe and penetrating, accented by shavings of black pepper and a firm, fine-grained grip of tannins. This solidly structured, thrilling wine should improve through 2023.

5. 2019 Domaines Ott Château de Selle Rosé Côtes de Provence

Rated 92 by Wine Enthusiast

Bringing out freshness as well as the richness of the Ott style, this wine is generous, full of red fruits while also having an attractive, lip-smacking mineral acidity.

6. 2020 Domaines Ott By.Ott Rosé Côtes de Provence

Rated 88 by Wine Spectator

Vibrant blush hue. Expressive, fruity nose with aromas of wild peaches and redcurrants. Fresh and bright with a nicely balanced body which reveals a silky, velvety texture. On the palate, the wine bursts with notes of peach and citrus fruits and finishes with a fusion of plum and cardamon aromas.

7. 2021 Fluent Rosé Napa Valley

The weather was excellent this year in 2021, the early rains and dry growing season provided an ideal environment for grapes to flower, bloom and set in early spring. Yields were naturally low but early budbreak allowed the grapes to hang as long as winemakers wanted to achieve optimal ripening and taste. The small-sized clusters and berries led to exceptional flavored wine with deep concentration. The 2021 Rose has an intense color and flavor this year with lower alcohol levels. Bright and zesty, flavors of juicy melon, citrus rind, mineral driven acidity, incredible texture, peach blossom, vibrant acidity.

8. 2021 Lynmar Rosé of Pinot Noir Russian River Valley

Rated 92 by Wine Enthusiast

This is a crisp and complex mix of floral and fruity tension and verve, brimming in beautiful bursts of white peach and blood orange. Refreshing and structured, with meat on its bones, it offers length and breadth within a balanced whole.

9. 2021 Château Peyrassol Rosé Côtes de Provence, 3L

Rated 92 by Robert Parker

Very pale, lychee pink in color. The nose is fine and elegant. Complex, releasing white fleshed fruit and citrus fruits aromas, along with white floral notes. The palate is straightforward and clean. Fine and silky, it is soft, delicate and lively. The freshness of the finish is balanced with a subtle hint of saltiness.

10. 2021 Chene Bleu Rosé

Rated 90 by Wine Spectator

Bright red currants and citrus fruits. Very fresh and bright. Drink up.

11. 2021 Clos D’Albizzi Rosé Cassis

Nice Rosé from Provence. On the nose - strawberry, melon, peach with floral accents. On the palate - white peach, strawberry, rhubarb, lemon. Light and fresh with pleasant soft aftertaste. Nice pairing for white sauce pasta.

12. 2021 Regusci Rosé of Pinot Noir Stags Leap District Napa Valley

Aromas of strawberry and kiwi intermingle with orange blossom. The palate offers notes of white peach and watermelon that give this wine bright fresh fruit characteristics. Notes of underripe raspberry and strawberry balance the bouquet for a nice dry finish.

Tour de Bordeaux 2018

Donated by: The Wine Cellar

Estimated Value: $1,340

1. 2018 Château Cos d’Estournel Saint-Estèphe

Rated 98 by Robert Parker

The 2018 Cos d’Estournel is a blend of 74% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot, 2% Petit Verdot and 1% Cabernet Franc, aged in 50% new oak barriques. Sporting a deep purple-black color, it needs a lot of swirling to begin to unlock a powerful nose of crème de cassis, stewed plums, wild blueberries and chocolate-covered cherries, followed by nuances of Sichuan pepper, star anise, tree and clove oil, plus a waft of charcoal. A very impressive behemoth, this is going to need a good seven to 10 years to truly show its stuff.

2. 2018 Château Ducru-Beaucaillou Saint-Julien

Rated 100 by Wine Enthusiast

Vintage 2018 was generous to the style of Ducru-Beaucaillou. The rich character of wines from this estate is enhanced by the ripeness and concentration of this wine. At the same time it keeps an amazing freshness that comes out of the acidity. It is not likely to approach drinkability before 2028.

3. 2018 Château La Fleur-Pétrus Pomerol

Rated 99 by James Suckling

This is a very linear red and layered at the same time, showing blackberry, blueberry, black-truffle, bark and stone character. Chalk and minerality, too. It’s full-bodied and well framed with gorgeous intensity and freshness. Muscular with wonderful structure and brightness. Salty and savory notes on the finish. Try after 2024.

4. 2018 Château Lynch Bages Pauillac

Rated 97 by James Suckling

Aromas of blackberries, cloves, licorice, dried leaves, graphite and black olives. It’s full-bodied with firm, tight tannins. Structured and tannic with beautiful austerity and a long, mineral and layered finish. The tannins grow on the palate.

5. 2018 Château Malescot St. Exupery Margaux

Rated 97 by James Suckling

A seductive Margaux with an intense nose of black fruit and red plums. Some herb and wood notes, too. It’s full-bodied with pretty, pure-berry flavors with some crushed stones and cement. The texture is silky and fine-grained and the tannins melt into the wine. Precise, flavorful finish with length. Try after 2024.

6. 2018 Château Pape Clément Pessac-Léognan

Rated 97 by James Suckling

Aromas of wild blackberries, blueberries, dried lavender, cloves and eucalyptus with gravel and cocoa butter. It’s full-bodied with firm, powdery tannins. Polished and creamy with a core of ripe fruit that evolves to herbs, spices and chocolate. Fantastic concentration and seamless integration.

7. 2018 Château Pichon Baron Pauillac

Rated 100 by Wine Enthusiast

This great estate in southern Pauillac, facing the Latour vineyard, is at the top of its game. In this release, the tannins are as impressive and dense as the black fruits. Together they form a harmonious ensemble, richly structured, concentrated from the many old vines in the blend, and very age-worthy.

8. 2018 Château Troplong Mondot Saint-Émilion

Rated 98 by James Suckling

This is a very linear red and layered at the same time, showing blackberry, blueberry, black-truffle, bark and stone character. Chalk and minerality, too. It’s full-bodied and well framed with gorgeous intensity and freshness. Muscular with wonderful structure and brightness. Salty and savory notes on the finish. Try after 2024.

California vs. Oregon

Donated by: Maria & Daniel Bleier, Ellen & Caleb Troxclair, Twin Liquors Fine Wine & Spirits

Estimated Value: $1,000

1. 2015 Walter Scott 'Les Fleurs' Chardonnay Eola-Amity Hills

Rated 91 by Cellar Tracker

2. 2016 Beaux Frères Pinot Noir Ribbon Ridge The Beaux Frères Vineyard

Rated 95 by Wine Spectator

Remarkably and seamlessly complex, with a polished and refined core wrapped in silky raspberry and blueberry flavors, accented by savory spice and orange zest hints. The long finish builds toward polished tannins.

3. 2016 Hiyu White Box Falcon

It's an alpine wine with the power and swelling richness of chardonnay, the breed and precision of Aligoté and Pinot Blanc, the exotic red essences of Pinot Noir, Meunier and Pinot Gris and the salinity of Melon de Bourgogne. Its a chameleon and at moments can remind one of Belluards Gringet based wines from the Savoie, Huet Chenin or the incredibly focused Meursault’s of Arnaud Ente. 117 cases produced.' *Natural Wine*

4. 2016 Kistler 'Cuvee Natalie' Silver Belt Pinot Noir

Rated 97 by Jeb Dunnuck

The 2016 Pinot Noir Cuvée Natalie is a mix of Calera and Swan clones as well as cool, more iron oxide-driven soils. It offers more red fruits with sensational notes of strawberries, spice, and wet stone literally soaring from the glass. Perfectly balanced, with ultra-fine tannin and a seamless texture, drink this complex, layered, multidimensional Russian River Valley Pinot Noir anytime over the coming 10-15 years.

5. 2016 Lynmar Estate Pinot Noir Russian River Valley Quail Hill Vineyard

Rated 92 by Robert Parker

The 2016 Pinot Noir Quail Hill Vineyard has a medium ruby-purple color and nose of warm cranberries and red cherries with touches of baking spice and smoked meats. Medium-bodied with concentrated red and blue berry notions in the mouth, it has firm, finely grained tannins and a layered finish.

6. 2016 Walter Scott 'Sojourner' Pinot Noir Eola-Amity Hills

Rated 92 by Robert Parker

Nose of black and red cherries and licorice with touches of saline, lilac, bark and bitter peel. Medium-bodied, it fills the mouth with ripe black fruits and perfumed earth notions, with a great frame of grainy tannins and plenty of freshness, finishing very long and minerally.

7. 2017 Antica Terra Syrah

Outstanding Willamette Syrah from a very reputable Pinot Noir producer with a consistently strong track record—for Pinots! It was hard to find much of anything online about their Syrahs, but this one has dark fruit, is well-rounded, balanced, rich…absolutely delicious!

8. 2017 Raen Homefield Pinot Noir

Rated 96 by James Suckling

Impressive freshness and purity of fruit here, making for an enticing young pinot with an air of grace and great potential. Such compelling, earthy sous bois, spices and fresh red cherries. The palate has a captivatingly layered and seamless feel, building fresh red-cherry and deeper blueberry flavors. The rhythm and depth here are magnificent. Superb. Try from 2022.

9. 2017 Twomey Russian River Pinot Noir

Rated 91 by Wilfred Wong

Black-red with a lighter edge. Complex yet delicate nose of white pepper, fig reduction, black raspberry, cardamom and prosciutto. The palate is layered and packed with fruit. Round with powdery tannins that are both balanced and concentrated. Dense tannins carry the layered fruit for a lasting finish.

10. 2018 Sojourn Gaps Crown Pinot Noir

Rated 97 by Jeb Dunnuck

A gem of a wine, the 2018 Pinot Noir Gap's Crown Vineyard comes from one of the great sites on the Sonoma Coast and saw a touch of stems (10%) and 50% new French oak. Tasting like a mix of a Russian River Valley Pinot Noir with its richness and depth and a Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir with its elegance and finesse, this brilliant wine is loaded with wild strawberry and darker berry fruits intermixed with lots violets, spice, pine cone, and forest floor aromas and flavors. It packs plenty of richness and depth on the palate, has awesome tannins, a stacked midpalate, and no shortage of length on the finish. Don't miss it!

11. 2018 Donum 'Single-Block Reserve' Pinot Noir Carneros West Slope

Rated 94 by Jeb Dunnuck

More mulberry, red cherry, Asian spice, and dried herb/flower notes emerge from the 2019 Pinot Noir SingleBlock Reserve West Slope. It has a richer, rounded, more expansive, slightly softer style on the palate, with supple tannins, good mid-palate depth, and still plenty of juiciness and freshness on the finish. This is another beautifully complex, already approachable Pinot Noir from this team with lots of character.

12. 2019 Siduri Pinot Noir Eola-Amity Hills Zena Crown Vineyard

Rated 92 by Jeb Dunnuck

The nose of the 2019 Pinot Noir Zena Crown Vineyard is expressive of some black fruit as well as iron-rich minerality and moss-covered earth. The palate is savory with iron-rich earth, red cherry pit, and crunchy red plum skin.

Paul Hobbs Cabernet Round-Up

Donated by: Karen & Thomas Vaughn

Estimated Value: $1,970

1. 2007 Paul Hobbs Beckstoffer To Kalon Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley

Rated 94 by Wine Spectator

An ultrarich Cabernet whose ripe fruit is as elaborate as you can get. Ditto for the soft, plush tannins and the wealth of fine, sweet oak. Despite the wealth of blackberry, currant, dark chocolate and cola flavors, it’s not a wine to drink now, because the tannins and acids are so pert. Give it a good six years in the cellar.

2. 2008 Paul Hobbs Beckstoffer To Kalon Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley

Rated 95 by Wine Spectator

Not surprisingly, the 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To-Kalon Vineyard is reminiscent of a great firstgrowth Pauillac. The phenomenal 2008 boasts sweet, juicy creme de cassis, incense, blackberry, toasty oak, licorice and spice box characteristics. Deep and full-bodied with great intensity, freshness, laser-like precision, copious tannin and a 60+ second finish.

3. 2008 Paul Hobbs Beckstoffer To Kalon Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley

Rated 95 by Wine Spectator

Not surprisingly, the 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To-Kalon Vineyard is reminiscent of a great firstgrowth Pauillac. The phenomenal 2008 boasts sweet, juicy creme de cassis, incense, blackberry, toasty oak, licorice and spice box characteristics. Deep and full-bodied with great intensity, freshness, laser-like precision, copious tannin and a 60+ second finish.

4. 2008 Paul Hobbs Beckstoffer To Kalon Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley

Rated 95 by Wine Spectator

Not surprisingly, the 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To-Kalon Vineyard is reminiscent of a great firstgrowth Pauillac. The phenomenal 2008 boasts sweet, juicy creme de cassis, incense, blackberry, toasty oak, licorice and spice box characteristics. Deep and full-bodied with great intensity, freshness, laser-like precision, copious tannin and a 60+ second finish.

5. 2008 Paul Hobbs Beckstoffer To Kalon Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley

Rated 95 by Wine Spectator

Not surprisingly, the 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer To-Kalon Vineyard is reminiscent of a great firstgrowth Pauillac. The phenomenal 2008 boasts sweet, juicy creme de cassis, incense, blackberry, toasty oak, licorice and spice box characteristics. Deep and full-bodied with great intensity, freshness, laser-like precision, copious tannin and a 60+ second finish.

6. 2009 Paul Hobbs Beckstoffer To Kalon Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley

Rated 96 by Wine Enthusiast

This is a pinnacle of the modern style of winemaking in Napa Valley. The tannins are strong but not aggressive. The acidity is just enough to provide balance for the tremendously rich blackberry, black currant, Kahlua and olive flavors. The oak is powerful, but the wine wears it easily. The finish is thoroughly dry, long and spicy. And although the alcohol is high, it’s not impossible. You can drink it now, although the tannins could benefit from 6–8 years in the cellar.

VIP CDP

Donated by: Harvey Kronberg, Eddie Safady

Estimated Value: $1,400

1. 2006 Clos des Papes Châteauneuf-du-Pape, 3L

Rated 96 by Jeb Dunnuck

It's always a joy to taste at this estate, as Vincent almost forces you to taste older vintages. The 2006 Châteauneuf-du-Pape was singing and is a gem in this often overlooked and underrated vintage. Currants, black cherries, garrigue, Asian spices and licorice notes all flow to a medium to full-bodied, impeccably balanced (the hallmark of this vintage) Châteauneuf-du-Pape that has sweet tannin, loads of fruit, and a classic, character-filled personality.

2. 2003 Domaine du Pegau 'Cuvée Reservée' Châteauneuf-du-Pape, 3L

Rated 98 by Robert Parker

Starting with the 2003 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée Reserve, this wine showed spectacularly on release, closed down for a few years, and has now emerged, at close to full maturity, and is straight-up fabulous. Out of the entire tasting, it remained my favorite. Giving up gorgeous blackberry, currants, garrigue, pepper and beef blood, it hits the palate with a massive, full-bodied texture that carries layers of sweet fruit, awesome concentration and blockbuster length. Tasting like the essence of both this estate and the terroir, it’s an incredible wine that I’m happy to taste/drink anytime. It will continue to evolve gracefully, but I see no reason to delay gratification.

A Collection of Cali Reds Donated by:

Austin Wine Merchant, Harvey Kronberg, Joan & Paul Mims, Brooke & Spivey Paup, Amber Pearce, Karen & Thomas Vaughn, Amanda & Andrew West

Estimated Value: $2,400

1. 2014 Peter Michael ‘Les Pavots’ Knights Valley

Rated 98 by James Suckling

Incredible aromas of pine tree, mineral, cigar box and tobacco leaf but then it turns to currants and black truffle. Forest fruit and forest floor. Soya. Full body, round and decadent with a combination of ripe fruit and earth, spice and long finish. The uniqueness of Pavot is streaming here.

2. 2014 Spottswoode Cabernet Sauvignon

Rated 98+ by Robert Parker

Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon has a drop-dead gorgeous nose of Sichuan pepper, hoisin, peppered salami and fertile loam over a core of blackberry preserves and redcurrant jelly with touches of kirsch and pencil shavings. Medium to full-bodied and concentrated yet still maintaining that wonderful purity and elegance that is the signature of this estate, it has layer upon layer of earthy nuances and a very long finish.

3. 2015 Alpha Omega Merlot Napa Valley

Rated 91 by Cellar Tracker

Dark fruit and warm spices. Thriving and in its drinking window right now.

4. 2014 Inglenook Rubicon Estate Rutherford Napa Valley 1.5L

Rated 94 by Wine Enthusiast

Tiny amounts of Merlot and Petit Verdot were added to this succulent, elegant wine with cassis, cranberry and black cherry flavors and rounded structure. A light note of cocoa dust and soft texture balance its exotically spiced lushness with delicious integration.

5. 2017 Caymus Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

Rated 92 by Wine Spectator

This embraces the ripe, lush style head on, with creamed plum, cassis and blackberry preserve flavors gliding through, showing seamless structure and hefty dollops of mocha and Ganache on the finish. For the hedonist crowd.

6. 2017 Peter Michael 'L’Esprit des Pavots' Knights Valley

Rated 93 by Vinous

Bright acids and lifted floral notes give this mid-weight Bordeaux blend energy and a real sense of precision. Red cherry fruit, mocha, spice, licorice and cedar add nuance throughout.

7. 2018 Groth 'Reserve' Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville

Rated 96 by Wine Spectator

Purple-ruby in color with notes of blueberry and black current, cinnamon, mocha, lavender and clove on the nose. On the palate, boysenberry, blackberry and ripe plum. Smooth finish.

8. 2018 Hillside Select

Rated 98 by Robert Parker

Made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select displays a deep garnet-purple color. It charges out of the gate with bold crème de cassis, blueberry pie and black cherry preserves notes, plus hints of smoked meats, fragrant earth and tar, with a fragrant waft of violets and Provence herbs. Full-bodied, the palate is packed with muscular black fruits, supported by a solid foundation of firm, grainy tannins and compelling freshness, finishing long with an enticing herbal lift.

9. 2018 Morlet 'Estate' Cabernet Sauvignon St. Helena

Rated 99 by Robert Parker

A deep garnet-purple color, striding confidently out of the glass with classic notes of cassis, baked plums, ripe blackberries and pencil lead, plush nuances of tobacco leaf, black olives, violets and bay leaves with an exotic touch of cardamom. The full-bodied palate explodes in the mouth with crunchy black and blue fruits, supported by firm, grainy tannins and bags of freshness, finishing long with loads of mineral sparks.

10. 2018 Peter Michael 'Au Paradis' Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville

Rated 98 by James Suckling

The 2018 ‘Au Paradis’ appears near-black to ruby in color with perfumed aromas of red rose and distinct black currant and cassis. Equally, the flavor delivers dark fruit reminiscent of plum and crème de cassis aside bright and savory notes of raspberry, rose petal, and graphite. Well-rounded on the palate, showing refinement with complexity and the hallmark aromas and flavors characteristic of the acclaimed iron-rich, red dirt soils of Oakville. Ripe blackberries and pencil lead, plush nuances of tobacco leaf, black olives, violets and bay leaves with an exotic touch of cardamom. The full-bodied palate explodes in the mouth with crunchy black and blue fruits, supported by firm, grainy tannins and bags of freshness, finishing long with loads of mineral sparks.

11. 2018 Quintessa Rutherford

Rated 99 by James Suckling

This is beautifully polished with firm, dusty tannins to the blue fruit, as well as chocolate and cedar character. Some much earthier character, too, from mushrooms to bark. Forest flowers. Perfumed. It’s full-bodied with round tannins and a soft, creamy finish. Some iron and iodine to this. So attractive at the finish. From biodynamically grown grapes.

12. 2019 JCB Enrapture Red Wine Napa Valley

Rated 95 by Jeb Dunnuck

A brilliant value based on 94% Cabernet Sauvignon and 6% Cabernet Franc, the 2019 Enrapture has a balanced, full-bodied, structured, almost Mountain fruit-like character as well as darker, herbal, mineral, and chocolaty aromas and flavors. It’s unquestionably one of the top Napa Valley Cabernets out there at the price.

Radiant Rhones

Donated by:

Maria & Daniel Bleier, Harvey Kronberg, Joan & Paul Mims, Ellen & Caleb Troxclair, Amanda & Andrew West

Estimated Value: $1,090

1. 1995 Domaine Lucien Barrot et Fils Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Rated 92 by Cellar Tracker

Translucent, medium garnet. Nose has very earthy mushroom, grilled meat, some tobacco, vanilla and dark fruit. Decent remaining acidity, so it doesn’t taste tired at all. Lovely, rich mouth feel. A melange of mixed dark fruits, earthy mushroom and meat...Just delicious. Moderately long finish.

2. 1998 Domaine du Pégaü Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée Réservée

Rated 96 by Wine Spectator

One of the riper, more exotic wines of the vintage, this gushes with black currant, fig and blackberry fruit, all of which has melded together and is starting to show a corrupt edge, while the sweet bacon, spice, mesquite and clove-studded blood orange notes fill out the background. The long, very juicy finish is multilayered and supported by fresh acidity.

3. 2006 Château de Beaucastel Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Rated 95 by Robert Parker

Powerful, with a round, almost creamy core of blackberry and raspberry fruit all layered with cocoa, sweet toast, mesquite and fig paste. Long and rich through the finish. Still quite primal, with lots in reserve. Best from 2010 through 2030.

4. 2007 Le Vieux Donjon Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Rated 94 by Wine Spectator

Crackles with an urgency atypical for the vintage, with juniper, cassis bush and tobacco notes that manage to be more prominent than the well of dark plum and currant fruit this has in reserve. Racy and invigorating, with the fruit’s sappy intensity offset perfectly by the mouthwatering minerality. Best from 2010 through 2028.

5. 2015 Château de Beaucastel Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Rated 97 by Wine Spectator

All 13 grapes. This has a dark fruited, blueberry and blue plum nose with wide swinging tannins. Some white peppery elements, violets, brooding dark spices, blue fruits and dark plums. Builds from the ground up. Dark stones. Impressive, powerful wine. Drink from 2025. *Top 100 of 2017*

6. 2015 Clos des Papes Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Rated 98 by Wine Spectator

This offers a drop-dead gorgeous core of cassis and raspberry pâte de fruit flavors that hold center stage but still allow notes of Lapsang souchong tea, anise, incense and shiso leaf to chime in. Very long, with a sublime feel through the mineral-tinged finish.

7. 2015 Domaine de la Janasse Châteauneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes

Rated 98 by Robert Parker

The 2015 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée Vieilles Vignes is a tour de force. Raspberry and apricot-scented fruit, rich chocolate notes and an incredible whirlwind of spice are delivered in this full-bodied wine that shows no heat, just waves of flavor. It should drink well for 20 years or more.

8. 2017 Louis Bernard Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Rated 91 by Wine Spectator

Fresh and direct, with pure plum and cassis notes lined with light lavender and violet hints. Shows a touch of grip but is otherwise accessible now. Grenache and Syrah. Drink now through 2028. 2,000 cases made, 500 cases imported. Hints of chocolate ganache and cinnamon mingle into strawberry preserves on the nose and palate of this voluminous but softly structured blend of 75% Grenache and 25% Syrah. It’s fleshy and open knit, with a finish framed by fine, feathery tannins. Best enjoyed now–2024.

9. 2017 Domaine de la Vieille Julienne 'Les Trois Sources' Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Rated 97 by Jeb Dunnuck

Leading off the three Châteauneuf-du-Papes, the 2017 Châteauneuf-du-Pape 'Les Trois Sources' comes from more sandy soils just across the road from the estate. It always shares more stylistic similarities with the Réserve and is more opulent, sexy, and fruit loaded compared to the Hauts-Lieux cuvée. This 2017 is spectacular, offering loads of black fruits, black licorice, ground herbs, violets, and some obvious loamy soil and mineral-like aromas and flavors. Full-bodied, expansive, and multi-dimensional, this is another singular wine from Jean-Paul Daumen that tastes like the essence of this stunning terroir.

10. 2017 Domaine de la Vieille Julienne 'Les Hauts-lieux' Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Rated 96 by Jeb Dunnuck

Leading off the three Châteauneuf-du-Papes, the 2017 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Les Trois Sources comes from more sandy soils just across the road from the estate. It always shares more stylistic similarities with the Réserve and is more opulent, sexy, and fruit loaded compared to the Hauts-Lieux cuvée. This 2017 is spectacular, offering loads of black fruits, black licorice, ground herbs, violets, and some obvious loamy soil and mineral-like aromas and flavors. Full-bodied, expansive, and multi-dimensional, this is another singular wine from Jean-Paul Daumen that tastes like the essence of this stunning terroir.

11. 2017 Domaine Brun-Avril Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Love powerhouse French reds? Then this delicious Châteauneuf-du-Pape needs to be on your radar. Punchy flavors of red and black fruits, smoke, crushed rocks, and signature garrigue spice dominate the wine’s lively palate. Chewy tannins and bright acid assure that this wine will withstand the long haul. Drink now, lay down, or do both.

12. 2019 Château de Beaucastel Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Rated 97 by James Suckling

Love powerhouse French reds? Then this delicious Châteauneuf-du-Pape needs to be on your radar. Punchy flavors of red and black fruits, smoke, crushed rocks, and signature garrigue spice dominate the wine’s lively palate. Chewy tannins and bright acid assure that this wine will withstand the long haul. Drink now, lay down, or do both.

Premium Bordeaux

Donated by:

Harvey Kronberg, Holly & Caleb Noel, Heather & Jerry Valdez, Amanda & Andrew West

Estimated Value: $2,200

1. 1994 Léoville-Barton, Saint-Julien

Rated 90 by Robert Parker

It is no secret that Anthony Barton's efforts over the last decade at his St.-Julien estate, Léoville-Barton, is resulting in terrific wines at still reasonable prices. This estate has been extremely successful in recent vintages. An impressive, serious, classic Bordeaux for collectors who are willing to forget about it for at least a decade, this well-endowed offering is a 30-year wine. The dense, murky, purple color, closed aromatics, massive flavor richness, and high tannin recall the old, non-compromised, beefy, blockbuster Medocs produced thirty years ago.

2. 1995 Château Pontet-Canet Grand Cru Pauillac

Rated 94 by Wine Spectator

Fabulous nose of crushed currants, blackberries and forest flowers. Full-bodied, with plenty of ripe fruit and silky tannins. This is really holding back. *Ranked #15 Wine Spectator Top 100 of 1998*

3. 2000 Chatêau Les Hauts-Conseillants

Rated 92 by Cellar Tracker

A fresh, vibrant nose of wild strawberry, cherry and crushed stone with good delineation and vivacity. A mediumbodied palate with tensile tannins. The angular entry gives way to fresh, pure fruit and proper weight on the crisp, taut finish.

4. 2003 Léoville-Barton, Saint-Julien

Rated 95 by Wine Spectator

Intense blackberry and cherry, with hints of currant. Toasted oak and sweet tobacco too. Roses and other flowers, such as lilacs. Full-bodied, with masses of tannins yet incredibly long and seductive.

5. 2005 Château Clerc Milon, Pauillac, France

Rated 95 by Wine Spectator

Offers fabulous aromas of currant, tar, lead pencil and mineral. Full-bodied, with supersoft tannins that caress the palate. Beautiful and impressive. A fabulous wine. The best Clerc in a very long time. Best after 2014. 10,000 cases made.

6. 2016 Château Pichon-Longueville Baron, Pauillac

Rated 99 by James Suckling

The concentration and largesse of the 2016 Pichon Baron is apparent from the get-go with incredibly alluring, ripe and expansive fruit aromas in the blackberry, dark-cherry, mulberry and plum zone. Espresso and cedar, as well as a slate-like, stony mineral edge add complexity. The palate has incredible depth, drive and detail. Fine and plush tannins stretch the palate in every direction. So fresh and vivacious, this is the greatest Pichon Baron since 1989 and has a long future. Try from 2024.

7. 2016 Château Pichon-Longueville Baron, Pauillac

Rated 99 by James Suckling

The concentration and largesse of the 2016 Pichon Baron is apparent from the get-go with incredibly alluring, ripe and expansive fruit aromas in the blackberry, dark-cherry, mulberry and plum zone. Espresso and cedar, as well as a slate-like, stony mineral edge add complexity. The palate has incredible depth, drive and detail. Fine and plush tannins stretch the palate in every direction. So fresh and vivacious, this is the greatest Pichon Baron since 1989 and has a long future. Try from 2024.

8. 2016 Château Pontet-Canet Grand Cru, Pauillac

Rated 100 by Wine Enthusiast

A voluptuous wine, this is rich and fruity yet properly balanced by a magnificent structure. Pure, crisp and packed with a black currant flavor, this will be a remarkable wine as it develops. Still young, it needs many years to develop. Don’t think about drinking before 2025.

9. 2017 Cos d'Estournel Saint-Estéphe

Rated 98 by James Suckling

Composed of 66% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Merlot, 1% Petit Verdot and 1% Cabernet Franc, yields for the grand vin in 2017 were 43 hectoliters per hectare, and it was aged in 60% new oak. It came in at an alcohol of 13% and an IPT of 68. Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2017 Cos d'Estournel needs a little coaxing to unfurl, revealing beautiful expressions of preserved plums, boysenberries, blackcurrant pastilles and wild blueberries with hints of Indian spices, menthol, lilacs and mossy tree bark plus a compelling suggestion of iron ore. Medium to full-bodied, the palate has a solid backbone of firm, grainy tannins and well-knit freshness supporting the tightly wound blue and black fruits layers, finishing long and fragrant. This wine will need a good 5-7 years in bottle before it begins to blossom and should go on for at least another 40 years.

10. 2018 Château Pavie Macquin Saint-Émilion Premier Grand Cru Classé

Rated 99 by Robert Parker

The 2018 Pavie Macquin is a blend of 78% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc and 2% Cabernet Sauvignon. Medium to deep garnet-purple colored, it slowly, sensuously unfurls to reveal a gorgeous perfume of Black Forest cake, Morello cherries, baked plums and violets, with nuances of licorice, Indian spices and fertile loam. Medium to full-bodied, the palate has achingly plush tannins and fantastic freshness framing the spicy black fruit and mineral layers, finishing long and so, so fragrant. Wow—just stunning!

11. 2018 Château Rauzan-Ségla Grand Cru Classé 1855 Margaux - 2nd growth Bordeaux

Rated 99 by James Suckling

Aromas of crushed blackberries and blueberries with dried flowers and bark, following through to a full body with a tight and powerful palate of beautiful fruit and chewy yet polished tannins that are compressed and impressive. Extremely linear and intense. Muscular, in a toned way. Yet it opens in the mouth at you taste it. 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Merlot. Drink after 2025.

12. 2018 Gran Vin de Léoville du Marquis de Las Cases Saint-Julien-Medoc Rated 99 by Robert Parker

The 2018 Léoville Las Cases is composed of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Cabernet Franc and 9% Merlot, harvested September 15 to October 4 with yields of 35.5 hectoliters per hectare, it has 14.49% alcohol and was aged in 90% new barriques. Deep purple-black colored, it needs a fair bit of coaxing to reveal striking scents of blackcurrant pastilles, wild blueberries and redcurrant jelly, giving way to notions of crushed rocks, lavender, Indian spices, unsmoked cigars and black truffles, plus a provocative waft of rose oil. The full-bodied palate is densely laden with black fruit preserves and earthy layers, accented by bright, lively red berry and floral sparks. It has a rock-solid frame of firm, ripe, grainy tannins and bold freshness, finishing very long and wonderfully minerally. The tannins are so beautifully approachable even at this youthful stage, making it delicious to drink now, but afford it 5-6 years in bottle to allow those finer nuances to emerge and drink it over the next 40+ years.

LOT #28

Morlet Family Vineyards Methuselah

Donated by:

Susan & Gary Farmer

Estimated Value: $2,100

2016 Morlet 'Estate' Cabernet Sauvignon St. Helena, 6L Rated 96 by Robert Parker

Composed of 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from Margaux cuttings, the deep garnet-purple colored 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Morlet Estate features bold notions of crème de cassis, mocha, Black Forest cake and hoisin with hints of chargrill, sautéed herbs and truffles. While generously fruited and full-bodied, the palate reveals beautiful elegance and bags of finesse, displaying super ripe, grainy tannins with great freshness, finishing very long and mineral laced.

LOT #29

Bond Trio

Donated by: Anonymous, Harvey Kronberg

Estimated Value: $1,195

1. 2007 Bond 'Matriarch' Red Wine Napa Valley

Rated 93 by Wine Spectator

Tight, firm and focused, with a trim, concentrated, structured mix of blackberry, wild berry, currant, mineral, cedar and sage. Full-bodied, then clamps down on the finish, where this shows its cedary cigar box edge.

2. 2011 Bond 'Quella' Red Wine Napa Valley

Rated 93 by Robert Parker

The 2011 Quella Proprietary Red Blend is performing better from bottle than it did last year from barrel. Lots of black raspberry and blueberry fruit intermixed with notes of wet rocks and spring flowers jump from the glass of this medium-bodied, fleshy, beautifully evolved 2011 that is already showing secondary nuances and complexity. This vintage offers immediate gratification and drinkability. It should age effortlessly for another decade or more.

3. 2011 Bond 'Vecina' Red Wine Napa Valley

Rated 94 by Robert Parker

The 2011 Vecina Proprietary Red Blend possesses Pauillac-like notes of scorched earth, new saddle leather, spice box, vanillin and blackcurrants. With great fruit, stunning depth and a distinctive earthiness, this open-knit, opulent, juicy, fleshy 2011 should drink well for 15-20 years.

California Syrah & Grenache

Donated by:

Amber Pearce, Polly Ryan & Steve Alley, Ellen & Caleb Troxclair

Estimated Value: $1,120

1. 2005 Alban Vineyards 'Reva' Syrah Edna Valley Alban Estate Vineyard

Rated 94 by Vinous

Glass-staining purple. Explosively perfumed bouquet of spicy red and dark berries, olive, tobacco, iodine and charred meat; I could smell this for hours. Spicy blackberry, cassis and bitter cherries are complicated by violet pastille and suave vanilla and cinnamon. Gains weight but retains clarity on the long, juicy finish. The tannins make a late appearance but are quickly buried under the sheer volume of fruit.

2. 2014 Booker Oublié Paso Robles

Rated 95 by Wine Spectator

Expressive and impressively structured, with savory blackberry aromas and accents of rosemary, thyme and crushed stone, opening to complex, densely layered flavors of currant, pepper and espresso. Grenache, Mourvèdre and Counoise. Best from 2018 through 2028.

3. 2015 Venge Vineyards Syrah Napa Valley Stagecoach Vineyard Block I-4

Rated 92 by Robert Parker

The 2015 Syrah Stagecoach Vineyard has a deep garnet-purple color and very spicy nose with notes of Chinese five spice, hoisin and cardamom over a core of plum preserves, violets and blackberry pie with a waft of earth. The full-bodied palate is beautifully perfumed with firm, fine-grained tannins and plenty of freshness, finishing with great length.

4. 2015 Ramey Syrah Sonoma Coast

Rated 94 by Wine Enthusiast

This is a well-made wine from several sites, including Cole Creek, Rodgers Creek and Alegria, all vineyarddesignates of their own. Together, they sizzle in floral lavender, smoke and gamy meat. The Syrah is co-fermented with 6% Viognier. The body is concentrated in ripeness and grip; let it mellow in the cellar and enjoy best 2025–2030. Cellar Selection

5. 2015 Pax Syrah Russian River Valley Castelli-Knight Ranch

Rated 92 by Cellar Tracker

Black pepper and intense black currants hold down the deep and brooding aromas. Brown spices, pink peppercorn, blackberries and black cherries show up with air. This Syrah is dense and concentrated but lifted by natural acidity and firm aromas and flavors from the stems. Not quite as fleshy as the 2012 (in a good way), but very enjoyable and approachable on release and guaranteed to improve in your cellar like every other Castelli-Knight Ranch before it.

6. 2016 Pax Syrah Mendocino County Alder Springs Vineyard

Rated 91 by Cellar Tracker

Black fruits, scorched earth, purple flowers and smoky bacon fat all show up in the classic Syrah aromas of this 2016. Slightly more concentrated than the 2015, this 100% whole-cluster wine has more depth and fruit richness, while also being less tannic and overall more supple. This wine will improve in your cellar for a dozen years or more, but frankly is ready to drink now with some food and a decent chill.

7. 2016 Shafer Relentless Napa Valley

Rated 95 by Wine Enthusiast

This combination of 90% Syrah and 10% Petite Sirah is memorable in its mix of wild herb and violet. Bright, thick layers of blackberry and blueberry dance along a mineral-laden core of crushed rock, wet stone and supple tannins.

8. 2017 Outpost Grenache Howell Mountain

Rated 91 by Jeb Dunnuck

Lots of white pepper, candied orange, red plums, and meaty, spicy notes. Classic expression of Outpost Grenache.

9. 2017 Saxum 'G2 Vineyard' Paso Robles Willow Creek District

Rated 99 by Jeb Dunnuck

The 2017 G2 Vineyard reminds me of a great vintage of Raymond Usseglio’s Châteauneuf-du-Pape Cuvée Imperiale. Flirting with perfection and one of the greatest Rhône blends I’ve tasted from California, it offers a smorgasbord of sweet black and blue fruits, crushed violets, flowery incense, and pepper.

10. 2017 Saxum 'Heart Stone Vineyard' Paso Robles Adelaida District

Rated 97 by Jeb Dunnuck

There was a single foudre of the Showing even better from bottle than barrel, it offers a stunning nose of ripe blueberries, black raspberries, ground pepper, and violets. Full-bodied, rounded, and seamless on the palate, it has a beautiful sense of complexity and purity paired with serious depth of fruit and opulence on the palate.

11. 2018 Booker 'Fracture' Syrah Paso Robles

Rated 95 by Wilfred Wong

The 2018 Booker Fracture Syrah is impressive with an excellent palate presence. TASTING NOTES: This wine shines with aromas and flavors of savory spices, blue fruits, and lively pomegranate.

12. 2019 Booker 'Fracture' Syrah Paso Robles

Rated 96 by Robert Parker

Inky black with intense aromas of graphite, gun powder and blackberry cobbler. Flavors on the palate mirror the aromas and yet are almost completely eclipsed by the sheer weight, volume, and length of this graceful giant.

Cellar Standouts from Neighborhood Vintner

Donated by: Neighborhood Vintner

Estimated Value: $4,000

1. 1998 Château Vannières Bandol Rouge Rated 91 by Cellar Tracker

2. 2018 Domaine Jacques-Frédéric Mugnier 'Clos de la Maréchale' Nuits-Saints-George Premier Cru Rated 94 by Decanter

Clos de la Maréchale was hit by two hail storms in 2018, so yields in this 9.06ha monopoly vineyard were down by 40% overall. The quality of the resulting wine didn’t suffer in the slightest, as this is one of the best bottlings of recent years, with fine, savory red fruit flavors, graceful tannins and a stylish frame of 25% new wood.

3. 2019 Domaine de la Romanée-Conti 'Prince Florent de Merode' Corton Grand Cru Rated 95 by Decanter

Fermented with 90% whole bunches, it’s sweeter, spicier and less rustic than many Cortons, showing considerable finesse, sweet spices, fine-grained oak and some grip.

Fluent Trio + Tasting

Donated by:

Fluent Wine Company, Amanda & Andrew West

Estimated Value: $1,000

Have a profound moment on your palate. Fluent takes pride in the grapes selected from the finest California vineyards to create wine and a experience beyond most in California. At Fluent Wine, the entire process from vineyard to bottle is meticulously completed by hand. We create wine to interpret what the land and the environment unveils with each vintage. Forged in small batches means choosing the best parcels in each vineyard, harvesting each cluster of fruit by hand, pressing with minimal mechanical influence, preserving in separate small French oak barrels until bottling and then aging until the wine arranges itself to express its true interpretation.

You will not only get to take a selection of their finest bottles this evening, but you will also enjoy a tasting at their tasting room in St. Helena for up to four.

Redeemable until November 2023 on a mutually agreeable date.

1. 2018 Fluent 'Glass Cat' Sauvignon Blanc Napa Valley

This wine exudes all the best qualities of the Sauvignon Blanc grape including an amazing acid profile with mineral, flint and honey. Citrus notes are abundant while allowing apple and pear profiles to show through with just a hint of tropical fruit. The finish is stunning and it remains on your palate seemingly forever. The purity of fruit and graphite allow the 2018 to be sexy, zippy and playful.

2. 2019 Fluent 'Glass Cat' Sauvignon Blanc Napa Valley

The growing season had copious rainfall which provided plenty of moisture in the soil for a wonderful growing season has a layered aroma and texture. If one word was used for 2019, it would be complex. It is silky and sexy on the palate and complete with a long drawn-out finish which makes you want to come back for more. The longer veraison gives you mouthwatering acidity and a weighty feel with lifted fruit: think Meyer lemon and Asian pear with an interesting mix of fresh stone fruit and even a little guava that is both vibrant and fresh. A very intellectual wine.

3. 2020 Fluent 'Glass Cat' Sauvignon Blanc Napa Valley

2020 was a trying year for growers, working through a pandemic and a series of fires, but we produced a bright, fresh and savory wine. Fortunately, the initial growing season was perfect, and as one of the best requirements for making a Rosé is that you pick early, we picked before the smoke settled on the vines. The resulting harvest and processing of these grapes created a savory wine that glides through your palate. It was such a success, we have introduced the Rosé into our portfolio of wines. Perfect amount of acidity, the right amount of fruit to quench your thirst. While stone fruit and melon is balanced on the finish, the 2020 hits your tongue with an almost effervescent intensity followed by notes of citrus and lavender.

Curated Cabs

Donated by: Twin Liquors Fine Wine & Spirits

Estimated Value: $1,750

1. 2006 Saddleback Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon

Rated 92 by Robert Parker

The outstanding 25th Anniversary bottling, which includes 25% Cabernet from the estate vineyards in Oakville, reveals a dense ruby/purple color, abundant cedar, black currant, and licorice notes, medium to full body, and 12-15 years of aging potential.

2. 2007 Fischer Vineyards Lamb Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon

Rated 93 by Robert Parker

...beautiful blueberry and blackberry fruit along with a subtle gravelly, smoky component, a full-bodied, rich, silky mouthfeel that builds incrementally, outstanding purity and texture...

3. 2011 Carte Blanche Cabernet Sauvignon

Rated 91 by Cellar Tracker

The nose opens to reveal dried fig, wet cedar, with high notes of black cherry and white pepper. On the palate, the attack reveals silky tannins showcasing blackberry, cassis, dried Provençal herbs and graphite. Bittersweet chocolate, black cherry and tobacco linger on the finish. Fine grain tannins and lively acidity will allow for cellar aging.

4. 2011 Montagna Cabernet Sauvignon

5. 2012 Vineyard 7 & 8 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon

Rated 95 by Robert Parker

The dense purple-colored 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate possesses copious notes of blueberries, black raspberries, graphite and forest floor. Medium to full body, sweet tannin, luscious dense fruit and a beautiful finish characterize this 2012, which may be the strongest effort I have yet tasted from Vineyard 7 & 8.

6. 2013 'M' by Michael Mondavi

Rated 95 by Robert Parker

The purity and brilliance to this wine is fantastic with blueberry, black currant, and boysenberry. Full body, very fine tannins and a bright finish. The tannin texture is sublime. Give it two or three years to develop. A wonderful example of new Napa.

7. 2013 Miner Stagecoach Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon

Rated 95 by James Suckling

Aromas of blackberry, walnut and light, wet earth follow through to a full to medium body, light chocolate and a long finish. Refined and polished. Classic style.

8. 2013 Ulysses Oakville Cabernet

Rated 98 by James Suckling

Fabulous subtle aromas of black currants, violets and lilacs with a hot stone undertone. Full-bodied and dense, it shows such wonderful energy and synergy that delivers a firm yet gentle tannin backbone and complex mouthfeel that seduces you. Evolves wonderfully. Second wine from this new estate, which is owned by Christian Moueix of Dominus and Bordeaux.

9. 2014 Abreu Cabernet Sauvignon Rothwell Hyde

Rated 94 by Robert Parker

Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2014 Rothwell Hyde Proprietary Red has a very classic nose of cassis, black plums and black cherries with hints of unsmoked cigars, pencil shavings, camphor and underbrush with a waft of bay leaves. The full-bodied palate is lively, velvety, generous and packed with fruit, finishing long and spicy.

10. 2014 Tor Kenward Cabernet Sauvignon Tierra Roja

Rated 95 by Robert Parker

Aromas of blackcurrants, red fruit, rust and tile. Medium to full body and firm and chewy tannins. A solid and powerful wine. Needs at least five years to soften.

11. 2015 Raymond Generations Cabernet Sauvignon

Rated 98 by Robert Parker

The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Generations is deep garnet-purple in color with an earthy, dried herbs and scorched earth-scented nose over a core of blackberry pie and cassis with Indian spices and menthol. Fullbodied, concentrated and rich in the mouth, with firm, grainy tannins and a savory/earthy character, it finishes long with a mineral hint.

LOT #34

E. Guigal Brune et Blonde Côte-Rôtie Magnum

Donated by: Heather & Jerry Valdez

Estimated Value: $1,000

2010 E. Guigal 'Brune et Blonde' Côte-Rôtie Magnum, 1.5L Rated 94 by Wine Spectator

Shows energy and range, with mouthwatering, briary tannins carrying the core of blackberry and plum paste notes. Fruitcake, pastis and alder details fill in the background. The sneakily long finish presents heft and cut.

LOT #35

Pine Ridge Premiere Napa Valley Exclusive from H-E-B

Donated by: H-E-B

Estimated Value: $2,070

2017 Pine Ridge Vineyards '4 x 5' Cabernet Sauvignon (6 bottles)

This remarkable one-of-a-kind blend of the five noble classic red wine varieties is from four different vineyards across Napa Valley in the Stags Leap District, Oakville and Rutherford nested appellations. Winemaker Michael Beaulac’s masterful blend has produced an elegant, layered, balanced wine with great depth of flavor, explicitly for Premiere Napa Valley.

Susan Thomas’ Legendary Wine Dinner

Donated by: Susan Thomas

Estimated Value: $17,500

Enjoy a one-of-a-kind wine and culinary experience for up to eight guests in the exquisite home of Susan Thomas. Nineteen rare and fine wines have been carefully selected by Susan herself and will be paired with a carefully curated culinary journey. This will be an intimate evening of extraordinary food, wine, art, and conversation!

Dinner will be scheduled on a mutually agreed upon date before November 2023.

Flight One: Champagne

1. 2002 Salon 'Le Mesnil' Champagne Brut Blanc de Blancs

Rated 100 by Decanter

The nose reveals notes of ripe yellow fruit associated with fine notes of dried apricot (in the background), minerality as well as touches of apple and touches of white pepper. The palate is fruity, mineral, fat, suave, well balanced, deep, dense and structured. On the palate this Champagne expresses notes of mandarin, sweet citrus and crushed pear associated with a few fine notes of honey as well as notes of dried yellow fruit. Beautiful finish.

2. 1999 Jacques Selosse Champagne Brut Millésime

Rated 96 by Robert Parker

The 1999 Extra Brut Blanc de Blancs is 100% Chardonnay from Avize with zero dosage made from two parcels, one with southern exposure, the second facing east. This is another voluminous, expansive wine that flows from the glass with a multitude of menthol, licorice and sweet spice aromas and flavors that lend complexity to the deep expression of fruit. This bottle was disgorged in January 2008.

3. 1996 Krug 'Clos d'Ambonnay' Champagne Brut Blanc de Noirs

Rated 98 by Robert Parker

Medium straw in color, the nose is profoundly scented of apple tart, lightly toasted hazelnuts, orange blossom, brioche, and granola with subtle nuances of crushed stones, musk and honeycomb. The palate is incredibly concentrated, crisp and taut with great richness matched by very fine bubbles and a very long, steely finish. There’s definitely a lot more to come from this wine but it’s looking very fine now.

Flight Two: Unicorn Whites

4. 1986 Bodegas Marqués de Murrieta Castillo Ygay Blanco Rioja Gran Reserva Especial

Rated 100 by Robert Parker

An amazing white showing roasted pineapple, dried apple, flowers and hints of lemon curd on the nose. Full-body, closed and tight with amazing depth and beauty. Waxy, salty, and creamy. Goes on for minutes. twenty-one years in wood, seven in concrete and about three years in bottle. First year since 1978. Viura with a hint of Malvasia. I have the same mindtingling sensation tasting this as tasting the 1963 Viña Tondonia Gran Reserva Blanco. Another perfect wine.

5. 2005 Château Haut Brion Blanc Pessac-Léognan

Rated 100 by Wine Spectator

Vibrant and exciting, with intense aromas of light toasty oak, pineapple skin, lemon, gooseberry, acacia honey and peach tart. Flowers even. Full-bodied, layered and refined, with tropical fruit, honey, vanilla, cream and light toasty oak. The length is amazing. White wine doesn’t get better than this.

6. 2017 Cantina Terlano 'Terlaner I Primo Grande Cuvée' Trentino-Alto Adige

Rated 96 by Robert Parker

The top-shelf Cantina Terlano 2017 Alto Adige Terlaner Grand Cuvée Primo is mostly Pinot Bianco (70%) with smaller parts Chardonnay (27%) and Sauvignon Blanc (3%). Although the Chardonnay only clocks in at about one-third of the blend, this grape ultimately makes the biggest impact both in terms of bouquet and mouthfeel. For a white blend there is a good amount of oak tannin and even a touch of phenolic bitterness that softly disappears with time in the glass.

Flight Three: White Burgundy

7. 2007 Domaine des Comtes Lafon Montrachet Grand Cru

Rated 95 by Cellar Tracker

The restrained but fantastically complex aromas are ripe, pure and elegant. Like the Perrières, there are copious amounts of dry extract, which imparts a wonderfully seductive character to the textured and classy flavors that possess excellent mid-palate fat on the opulent, refined, mouth coating and palate staining finish that is mildly austere as well as hugely long. This will require plenty of patience from those fortunate enough to acquire a few bottles but the good news is that it will live for years to come.

8. 2007 Etienne Sauzet Montrachet Grand Cru

Rated 95 by Cellar Tracker

This is ever-so-slightly riper and less restrained aromatically than the Chevalier with a densely fruited nose offering lightly spiced pear, white peach, lemon-lime and a hint of honeysuckle plus a touch of clove and anise that merge seamlessly into concentrated, powerful and weighty flavors that are not massive but are focused, wellmuscled and impressively scaled. In sum, an absolute knockout.

9. 2008 Domaine Amiot Guy et Fils Le Montrachet Grand Cru

Rated 95 by Cellar Tracker

This rich Montrachet comes from a tiny plot (.1 hectare) that actually straddles Puligny and Chassagne and produces an average of only 360 bottles per year.

Intermezzo

10. Mystery Wine – Red Burgundy

Flight Four: Old World Reds

11. 1981 R. López de Heredia Viña Tondonia Rioja Gran Reserva

Rated 95 by Robert Parker

The 1981 Viña Tondonia Gran Reserva has a vibrant nose reminiscent of coeval Burgundy, with scents of citrus peel, orange rind, singed leather and a Tuscan delicatessen. The palate has a penetrating orange peel and tart cherry entry with potent earthy notes at its core. It is supremely well-balanced with an energetic finish underpinned by crisp dry tannins. This wonderful Rioja is drinking perfectly now and will age effortlessly.

12. 1998 Château Cheval Blanc Saint-Émilion

Rated 100 by Robert Parker

An intense, deep color, black in the middle with purple glints on the rim. Rich with luxuriant fruit and hints of eucalyptus and bay leaves. The Palate develops beautifully with finesse and complexity and coated, non-aggressive tannins.

13. 2001 Tenuta dell'Ornellaia Masseto

Rated 100 by Decanter

Dense garnet in colour, this vintage of Masseto is restrained with a lavish elegance on the nose, displaying mint, milk, wild fennel, leather and white truffle. It is vibrant and mineral on the big palate, creamy at first then velvety on the mid-palate and super-ripe on the finish, woven with refreshing acidity and cassis meatiness. One of the greatest Masseto ever, and one of the best wines produced in Bolgheri (alongside Ornellaia 1998 and Sassicaia 1985). Simply perfect!

Flight Five: New World Reds

14. 1996 Henschke Hill of Grace

Rated 100 by Wine Spectator

Exceptional vintage. A very youthful and fresh looking wine that has bright and lively redder-tinged fruits, some bright raspberry and cassis on offer as well as sage and fine, savoury spice here. The palate has terrific purity and drive, superb composure, lovely assertive and dynamic tannins.

15. 1996 Penfolds Grange

Rated 95 by Wine Spectator

This is so classy and amazing with such composure and finesse. All about fine grain and perfect tone. Sensational from the start. Full body, tight and silky. Will go on forever.

16. 2002 Paul Hobbs Beckstoffer To Kalon Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley

Rated 95 by Robert Parker

This wine has hardly changed since its release. Still incredibly youthful, it reveals a blue/black color along with notes of black currants, camphor, graphite, high quality unsmoked cigar tobacco, blackberries and a touch of oak. This young, exuberant, slightly flamboyant classic offers an interesting contrast in style with other top producers that also farm parcels of the Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard. Like most young Cabernets, this wine can be drunk now because of the sweetness of its tannins, but it is a good decade away from full maturity. Bravo!

Flight Six: Dessert

17. 1999 Egon Muller Auslese No 21 or 26

Rated 95 by Cellar Tracker

The bouquet is deep and youthfully primary, as it offers up a fine mix of pears, apples, a bit of custard, petrol, a fine base of soil and a top note of spring flowers and cress-like herbal tones. On the palate the wine is medium-full, tight and beautifully focused, with a fine core of fruit, snappy acids, and beautiful length and grip on the refined finish.

18. 2010 Château d’Yquem Sauternes

Rated 96 by Robert Parker

Pale to medium lemon-gold color, the 2010 d'Yquem has retreated into its shell at this youthful stage, offering spritely suggestions of lemon curd, lime cordial and green mango with wafts of honeysuckle, spice cake, sea spray and beeswax plus a hint of gingerbread. The palate really comes through with super intense, tightly wound citrus, savory and mineral layers carried by a laser-precise backbone of freshness, finishing with crazy persistence that lingers a full three minutes and then some. This is going to be a very exotic, opulent Yquem!

19. 1946 Pedro Ximenez Don PX

Rated 96 by Robert Parker

The 1946 Don PX Convento Seleccion produced with Pedro Ximenez grapes dehydrated under the sun at the time of the Second World War, was only bottled in September 2011. It is unbelievably powerful, both in the nose and the palate, full of umami, with sweet cinnamon, Christmas cake, camphor, petrol, lemongrass, Belgian chocolate and butter. Incredibly complex and rich, sweet, balanced and smooth in the palate, it is both very sweet and somehow salty, and with time it develops a black olive note. This wine will survive all of us.

Magnificent Magnums

Donated by:

Heather & Jerry Valdez, Karen & Thomas Vaughn, Amanda & Andrew West

Estimated Value: $550

1. 2015 Pomum Cellars Shya Red Cabernet Sauvignon Yakima Valley, 1.5L

Rated 87 by Wine Enthusiast

The 100% varietal, light herb, cherry and spice aromas lead to medium-bodied fruit flavors. The tannins bring some dryness and grit that softens a bit with time open.

2. 2015 Pomum Cellars Tinto Tempranillo Columbia Valley, 1.5L

Aromatically enticing with pretty dark fruits followed by flavors of licorice, stone and dark berries. The rich and pronounced tannins contributed structure to the blend and have softened slightly while aging in the bottle. Enjoy from now through 2027.

3. 2016 Pomum Cellars Syrah Columbia Valley, 1.5L

Rated 90 by Wine Enthusiast

The aromas are locked up on first pour, with the notes of garden herb, cherry and spice not ready to reveal themselves. The palate is similarly shy, with sleek fruit flavors, taught tannins and a lively sense of acidity. It has all of the stuffing but needs some time in the cellar to show itself. Best after 2023. Have it on the dinner table to see it at its best.

4. 2017 Ovid Napa Valley, 1.5L

Rated 95 by Jeb Dunnuck

Deeper colored, the 2017 Proprietary Red Wine is based on 73% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Cabernet Franc, 3% Merlot, and the rest Petit Verdot that saw the same 60% new French oak for 21 months. It offers an incredibly classic, classy style as well as notes of black raspberries, cassis, jammy raspberries, toasted bread, dried flowers, and tobacco. Rich, full-bodied, concentrated, and structured, it’s another elegant, seamless wine that’s going to benefit from short-term cellaring and keep for 20-25 years or more.

5. 2018 Chimney Rock Cabernet Sauvignon Stags Leap District, 1.5L

Rated 94 by Wine Enthusiast

Silky red fruit and plum dot the landscape of this powerfully soft and velvety wine. Blended with 23% Merlot and 1% each of Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc, it exudes classic structure, integrated oak and floral beauty, finishing on a fig note. Cellar Selection.

Family Favorites Vertical

by:

Pearce

Value:

the

Brilliant Brunellos

Donated by: Tako & Charlie Parker

Estimated Value: $885

1. 2009 Conti Costanti Brunello di Montalcino

Rated 92 by James Suckling

Soft and fruity with a pretty balance of plum, chocolate and walnuts, following through to a medium to full body with soft tannins and a delicious finish.

2. 2009 Livio Sassetti Brunello di Montalcino Pertimali

Rated 91 by Wine Spectator

Rich, with black cherry and blackberry flavors tinged by tobacco and spice accents. Intense and elegant, with fine balance and a long, refined finish. Offers beautifully integrated tannins for the vintage. Drink now through 2023.

3. 2010 Casanova di Neri 'White Label' Brunello di Montalcino

Rated 96 by James Suckling

Gorgeous aromas of sea salt, savory, smoked meats and dried fruits follow through to a full body with fine tannins and a long, intense finish. So beautiful and enticing. Goes on for minutes. Excellent quality for the standard bottling of this winery.

4. 2009 Conti Costanti Brunello di Montalcino

Rated 96 by Wine Enthusiast

Aromas of menthol, leather, pressed violet, forest floor and woodland berry lead off this intense Brunello. The firm, delicious palate offers dried red cherry, crushed raspberry, ground white pepper and licorice alongside a backbone of assertive but fine-grained tannins and racy acidity. It’s impeccably balanced and elegant but still young, so give it time to develop to its full potential. *Cellar Selection*

5. 2010 Fuligni Brunello di Montalcino

Rated 98 by James Suckling

I really appreciate the dark-berry and burnt-orange aromas that follow through to a full body, very integrated tannins and a ripe, juicy fruit character. Savory, succulent and salty. Hints of chocolate and salted nuts. So juicy and gorgeous. A fabulous red. Drink now but also hold for years ahead.

6. 2012 Conti Costanti Brunello di Montalcino

Rated 98 by Wine Enthusiast

Immensely inviting, this opens with fragrant pipe tobacco, crushed berry, new leather and pressed violet aromas. On the palate, firm, refined tannins underpin juicy black cherry, raspberry and cinnamon flavors, while orange zest accents and an energizing mineral note lift the finish. It’s beautifully balanced with bright acidity and will reward a bit of cellaring. Drink 2020–2032.

7. 2012 Il Poggione Brunello di Montalcino

Rated 95 by Robert Parker

Il Poggione is a Brunello superstar and a vintage like this reveals every reason why that affirmation is true.

From the second the 2012 Brunello di Montalcino pours into the glass, you know you are in for something special. The wine is darkly saturated and rich in appearance. Absent are those slightly amber or browning hues you often get with Sangiovese in a hot vintage. Nor does the wine show flat or tired characteristics. Instead, the quality of fruit is vibrant and rich. This is a healthy, generous and exuberant Brunello with dark density and succulent fruit flavors that are followed by integrated spice and tobacco. The balance is impressive and one thing you get here is fresh acidity. This is not to be underestimated, because the acidity quota in the 2012 vintage across the appellation is not as high or evident as usual. This is one of the year’s best Brunellos.

8. 2013 Fuligni Brunello di Montalcino

Rated 96 by James Suckling

A balanced and firm red with plum, light chocolate, walnut and spice character. Medium to full body and silky tannins. I love the flavorful finish.

9. 2013 Il Poggione Brunello di Montalcino

Rated 96 by Robert Parker

The 2013 Brunello di Montalcino lives up to the impeccable reputation garnered by this estate over the years. This is a profound and beautifully rendered Sangiovese that delivers bold and luscious fruit quality with black cherry and spicy plum at the start. The bouquet follows through with mild oak notes of smoke, tar and toasted nut. There is another aromatic component that includes crushed stone and dried herb or mint. This Brunello shows elegant evolution in the glass and promises a very long aging future ahead.

10. 2015 Il Poggione Brunello di Montalcino

Rated 97 by Robert Parker

The Il Poggione 2015 Brunello di Montalcino shows a darker and more concentrated appearance than many of its peers. The wine is beautifully abundant and fragrant in the most exuberant and expressive manner. You will recognize aromas of moist soil, tobacco and smoke. Candied cherry hovers over the entire bouquet. Fruit is sourced from older vines (all over 25 years old). Il Poggione occupies a special spot within the Montalcino appellation, and the area always produces slightly more concentrated and powerful wines. I find that to be particularly true in this gorgeous 2015 vintage. I am also very attracted to that almost dusty note of crushed mineral that rides long on the full-bodied finish. Il Poggione’s Brunello is also distinguished by firm, youthful tannin that need a few more years to unwind. Luckily, there are quite a few bottles to go around, with some 200,000 made.

11. 2016 Caparzo Brunello di Montalcino

Rated 96 by Wine Spectator

Ripe, sweet cherry and raspberry fruit are accented by floral, mineral and wild herbs in this alluring red. A backbone of dense, dusty tannins provides support, and the ripe fruit returns on the savory finish. Excellent length. Best from 2023 through 2043.

12. 2016 Il Poggione Brunello di Montalcino

Rated 96 by Wine Spectator

This Brunello leads with black cherry, black currant and violet aromas, augmented by flavors of iron, tobacco and spice. Dusty tannins emerge on the lingering finish, while the sweet fruit persists. Should be compelling in a decade.

Bryant Family Vineyards 'Bettina' Vertical

Donated by: Karen & Thomas Vaughn

Estimated Value: $1,580

1. 2015 Bryant Family Vineyards 'Bettina' Napa Valley

Rated 98 by James Suckling

Wonderful floral, fresh and bright aromas with excellent nuances of dark fruit, spices and fresh tobacco. Pencil shaving. Leafy. Mushrooms, too. Full-bodied, tight and clean. A racy and balanced Bettina. The balance is extremely impressive for this vintage. Drink in 2021.

2. 2016 Bryant Family Vineyards 'Bettina' Napa Valley

Rated 97 by James Suckling

Aromas of blueberries, blackberries and flowers follow through to a full-bodied, dense and layered palate with lots of dark chocolate, hazelnuts and berries at the end. A hint of white pepper. Shows lots of tannins, but they are round and polished.

3. 2017 Bryant Family Vineyards 'Bettina' Napa Valley

Rated 96 by Robert Parker

Very deep purple-black colored, the 2017 Bettina Bryant Proprietary Red is a little youthfully subdued to start, soon unfurling to display notes of dark chocolate, fertile loam, beef drippings and wild mushrooms over a core of creme de cassis, plum preserves, wild blueberries and Morello cherries plus a waft of underbrush. Full-bodied, the palate bursts with bold red and black fruit notes, framed by firm, grainy tannins and oodles of freshness, finishing long and perfumed.

LOT #41

The Wonder Years: 1982

Donated by: Susan Salch & Tyrone Sanders

Estimated Value: $2,065

1. 1982 Château Gruaud-Larose St.-Julien

Rated 98 by Robert Parker

A massive wine that is clearly of first-growth quality in this vintage, the 1982 Gruaud Larose remains a youngster. A broodingly dense, thick, unctuously textured, inky/plum/garnet/purple color offers up scents of beef blood, steak tartare, cassis, herbs, tobacco, and underbrush. One of the most concentrated wines of the vintage (as well as one of the most concentrated Bordeaux’s I have ever tasted), it is a huge, full-bodied, weighty, rich wine whose tannins are getting silkier and silkier. It appears set for another 30-40 years of life. This behemoth is a singularly profound example of Gruaud Larose that continues to justify its legendary status.

2. 1982 Château Pichon Longueville 'Comtesse de Lalande' Pauillac

Rated 100 by Decanter

May Eliane de Lencquesaing had been at Pichon since 1978, so four years by the time the 1982 rolled around. The Merlot levels are a little higher than they are today (it was a favorite grape of her father’s), but this flamboyant, fleshy style is exotic in all the right places. In fact it jumps out of the glass, with its caramel-edged sweet black fruits. The aromatics are still full-on wow, the fruits and tannins melded perfectly together. It’s been two years since I last tasted this wine, and it was every bit as good back then.

LOT #42

Alright, Alright, Alright!

Donated by:

Amanda & Andrew West

Estimated Value: $1,500

Treat yourself to a UT experience fit for McConaughey! Winner receives two premium tickets in the Touchdown Club at DKR Texas Memorial Stadium for a UT Football game in Fall 2023.

Food and bar tab included. Game date to be mutually agreed upon for the 2023 Football Season. Exclusions may apply.

Taylor Family Reunion

Donated by:

Danielle Taylor Cooper, Amber Pearce, Stephanie & Chad Simpson, Amanda & Andrew West

Estimated Value: $1,210

1. Tasting for six at the Taylor Family Vineyards Tasting for six guests will be scheduled at a mutually agreeable time and date before November 2023.

2. 2018 Stags Leap District Cabernet Sauvignon

Taylor Family Vineyards’ Reserve Cabernet is a stunning expression of the Estate in the Stags Leap District. Grown on a hillside, this wine is bright and opulent with dark fruit notes of dark cherry and blueberry compote and hints of baking spice, cedar, violet and crushed stone. This full bodied wine delivers a palate that is rich with beautiful structure, smooth balance and polished tannins. Drinking well now, but can age 20+ years.

3. 2018 Stags Leap District Cabernet Sauvignon

Taylor Family Vineyards’ Reserve Cabernet is a stunning expression of the Estate in the Stags Leap District. Grown on a hillside, this wine is bright and opulent with dark fruit notes of dark cherry and blueberry compote and hints of baking spice, cedar, violet and crushed stone. This full bodied wine delivers a palate that is rich with beautiful structure, smooth balance and polished tannins. Drinking well now, but can age 20+ years.

4. 2018 Diamond Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon

Grown at 1800 feet in elevation on a rugged slope at the top of the Diamond Mountain. This location, combined with the loamy volcanic light colored soil create a unique, rich and bold wine. The aromatic profile consists of ripe blackberry, fresh boysenberry, nutmeg, allspice and dark roast coffee. The palate is rich and supple, consisting of flavors of mocha, vanilla, cedar spice, bramble berries, cigar box and toffee. The tannins are indicative of the mountain location, being broad and firm but already well integrated creating a lovely structure with a long, lingering finish.

5. 2018 Diamond Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon

Grown at 1800 feet in elevation on a rugged slope at the top of the Diamond Mountain. This location, combined with the loamy volcanic light colored soil create a unique, rich and bold wine. The aromatic profile consists of ripe blackberry, fresh boysenberry, nutmeg, allspice and dark roast coffee. The palate is rich and supple, consisting of flavors of mocha, vanilla, cedar spice, bramble berries, cigar box and toffee. The tannins are indicative of the mountain location, being broad and firm but already well integrated creating a lovely structure with a long, lingering finish.

6. 2018 Cumulus Cabernet Sauvignon

It is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon – composed of our best barrel from Stags Leap District and our best barrel from Diamond Mountain District. There is a powerful complexity to this wine that delivers from start to finish. The animated nose has an inviting bouquet of dark fruit including blackberry and red cherry, with hints of graphite, wet stone, anise, cocoa powder and cigar notes. On the palate we find bramble berry and blackberry with notes of chocolate and toasted caramel. This well-structured, rich wine has integrated tannins and powerful complexity.

7. 2018 Cumulus Cabernet Sauvignon

It is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon – composed of our best barrel from Stags Leap District and our best barrel from Diamond Mountain District. There is a powerful complexity to this wine that delivers from start to finish. The animated nose has an inviting bouquet of dark fruit including blackberry and red cherry, with hints of graphite, wet stone, anise, cocoa powder and cigar notes. On the palate we find bramble berry and blackberry with notes of chocolate and toasted caramel. This well-structured, rich wine has integrated tannins and powerful complexity.

Highlights From Wine Spectator 2021 Top 10

Donated by:

Wine & Food Foundation Auction Committee, Holly & Caleb Noel

Estimated Value: $1,020

1. #1 - 2018 Dominus Estate Napa Valley

Rated 97 by Wine Spectator

This is tightly packed, with sleek, pure, driven notes of cassis, plum reduction and blackberry puree allied to an iron spine, while subtle alder, juniper, sweet bay leaf and tobacco notes peek in throughout. Very fine-grained, but impressively sturdy in feel, with a long, lingering note of iron piercing the finish. For the cellar. Best from 2024 through 2040.

2. #1 - 2018 Dominus Estate Napa Valley

Rated 97 by Wine Spectator

This is tightly packed, with sleek, pure, driven notes of cassis, plum reduction and blackberry puree allied to an iron spine, while subtle alder, juniper, sweet bay leaf and tobacco notes peek in throughout. Very fine-grained, but impressively sturdy in feel, with a long, lingering note of iron piercing the finish. For the cellar. Best from 2024 through 2040.

3. #2 - 2018 Château Pichon Longueville Lalande Pauillac

Rated 98 by Wine Spectator

Offers a deep well of dark currant, blackberry paste and plum preserves fruit that needs time to unwind fully, as it’s shrouded in warm earth, tobacco, singed cedar, sweet bay leaf and savory notes. A ramrod of graphite adds to the racy, structured feel. Best from 2030 through 2050.

4. #5 - 2016 Le Chiuse Brunello di Montalcino

Rated 98 by Wine Spectator

Pretty strawberry, currant and cherry flavors take center stage in this taut and linear red, flanked by floral, mineral and tobacco notes, with fine balance and intensity on a slim frame. This is ample, yet the refined tannins provide structure. Best from 2024 through 2048.

5. #7 - 2018 Château Léoville Poyferré St.-Julien

Rated 97 by Wine Spectator

Waves of warmed cassis, mocha and warm tar aromas lead the way, while the core of macerated plum, blackberry and blueberry fruit waits its turn, showing admirable breadth and depth when it arrives, with roasted apple wood, bramble and cast iron buried deeply through the finish. This is a powerfully rendered wine with a cashmere scarf as accent. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Best from 2024 through 2040

6. #9 - 2018 Salvestrin Cabernet Sauvignon St. Helena Dr. Crane Vineyard

Rated 95 by Wine Spectator

Bright and fresh, with lots of red currant, plum and black cherry fruit notes driving along nicely, while a subtle tug of iron runs underneath. Late floral and warm earth flashes on the finish add more range and contrast. Focused, detailed and really well built. Best from 2022 through 2035.

10 Bottles, 10 Years

Donated by:

Maria & Daniel Bleier, Harvey Kronberg, Amber Pearce, Polly Ryan & Steve Alley

Estimated Value: $1,250

1. 2012 Aubert Chardonnay Sonoma Coast Ritchie Vineyard

Rated 95 by Robert Parker

Mark Aubert farms 39-year-old vines in the famous Ritchie Vineyard. At 1,200 cases, the 2012 Chardonnay Ritchie Vineyard is the largest production Cuveé of these Chardonnays. It reveals a more evolved nose of smoky hazelnuts, honeysuckle, and tropical fruits, less minerality, and full-bodied unctuosity buttressed by crisp acids. It is a fatter, richer, complex, more California-styled Chardonnay.

2. 2012 Blue Rock 'Best Barrels' Cabernet Sauvignon Alexander Valley

The 2012 Blue Rock, produced primarily from the Estate’s oldest vines most dating to 1987,was aged for 22 months in 50% new French Oak and 50% once used barrels. The wine is very aromatic with notes of mint, blueberry and black fruits. Deep flavors of black cherry are balanced with well-endowed but fine grained tannins. There is excellent balance and a persistent finish. It is very approachable and ready for either early consumption or long term cellaring.

3. 2012 Brut Blanc De Blancs Le Mesnil

Rated 91 by Cellar Tracker

Mesnil has of course been made famous by the rare and expensive bottlings by Krug and Salon of Clos de Mesnil. This 'Blanc De Blancs' Champagne is made by blending various parcels of Chardonnay specially selected for their finesse and ethereal qualities, giving the wine, complex and mouth-watering flavors, all from the vineyards of Le Mesnil, 100% Grand Cru and a fraction of the cost those celebrated bottlings.

4. 2012 Cade 'Reserve' Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain

Rated 98 by Robert Parker

Aromas of coffee, boysenberry, graham cracker and black cherries. The palate holds flavors of cream de cassis, milk chocolate, toasted marshmallow, blueberry pie and dark fruits.

5. 2012 Groth 'Reserve' Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville

Rated 95 by James Suckling

Mineral, black current, spices, hints of earth. Velvety on the palate and spicy on the nose.

6. 2012 Palmaz Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

Wine is extroverted and braggadocios. The warm weather of 2012 produced fruit with exceptional ripeness and plush tannins. Aromas of blackberry and vanilla.

7. 2012 Quilceda Creek Red Wine Horse Heaven Hills Palengat Vineyard

Rated 94 by Robert Parker

A single-vineyard blend of 59% Merlot, 29% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot, the 2012 Palengat Vineyard offers a deep, decadent style to go with classic blackberry liqueur, blueberry, graphite, toasted spices and licorice. A big, beefy, layered and full-bodied effort, it has building tannin, a supple mid-palate and terrific length.

8. 2012 Snowden Vineyards 'The Ranch' Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Rated 92 by Wine Spectator

Pure, rich and taut, with a tasty core of blackberry, plum and wild berry, accented by hints of savory herb, cedar and crushed rock. Offers complexity, structure and style.

9. 2012 Taylor Family 'Five, Six, Seven Three-Generation Blend' Napa Valley Aromas of black forest fruits, graphite and supple oak. Full, creamy mid-palate with flavors of blackberry compote and toasted caramel.

10. 2012 Williamson Wines 'Indulge' Cabernet Sauvignon Dry Creek Valley Rated 91 by Cellar Tracker

The eye is greeted with a rich dark garnet color. The nose is rich plum with a hint of spice and tobacco. Then an exciting, well rounded mouthful of peppered plum with hints of caramel, tobacco, black licorice and toffee accompanied by robust tannin from start to finish.

LOT #46

Scarecrow Magnum

Donated by:

Amber Pearce

Estimated Value: $2,000

2019 Scarecrow Cabernet Sauvignon Rutherford Napa Valley Magnum, 1.5L Rated 100 by Robert Parker

The aromas in the glass immediately suggest purple-black notes of currant, blackberry and boysenberry, with toasty vanilla and spice playing supporting roles. Bright, fresh and somewhat restrained at entry, the mid-palate offers a blend of fruit, spice, toasty oak and cedar notes. While the finish offers plenty of structure to age beautifully, the plush tannins offer the warmth.

Ten-Year California Pinot Noir Retrospective

Donated by: Anu & Punit Chadha

Estimated Value: $1,200

1 2012 Pisoni Vineyards Estate Pinot Noir. Santa Lucia Highlands Rated 96 by Robert Parker

Offers rocking aromas and flavors of crème de cassis and black raspberry fruit, big minerality, spring flowers and forest floor to go with a full-bodied, structured and classy feel on the palate.

2. 2012 Pisoni Vineyards Estate Pinot Noir. Santa Lucia Highland

Rated 96 by Robert Parker

Offers rocking aromas and flavors of crème de cassis and black raspberry fruit, big minerality, spring flowers and forest floor to go with a full-bodied, structured and classy feel on the palate.

3. 2012 Littorai: The Haven Vineyard

Rated 92 by Vinous

There is a sense of verticality and overall structure that is impossible to miss. Light purplish crimson. Clean, spicy and sweet. Excellent modern Pinot. Racy and already juicy and a good drink. Polished and pleasurable. Long. Liquorice. The Haven is likely to always remain a powerful, incisive Pinot.

4. 2012 Littorai: The Haven Vineyard

Rated 92 by Vinous

There is a sense of verticality and overall structure that is impossible to miss. Light purplish crimson. Clean, spicy and sweet. Excellent modern Pinot. Racy and already juicy and a good drink. Polished and pleasurable. Long. Liquorice. The Haven is likely to always remain a powerful, incisive Pinot.

5. 2012 Williams Selyem: Burt Williams Morning Drew Ranch Vineyard

Rated 94 by Vinous

Bright ruby. Aromas of fresh red berries, rose pastille, blood orange and smoky minerals, along with a hint of Asian spices. Fresh, penetrating and pure, offering gently sweet strawberry and raspberry flavors that put on weight and become spicier with aeration. Shows very good intensity with no excess weight. Finishes silky and extremely long, with subtle tannins coming on late.

6. 2012 Williams Selyem: Burt Williams Morning Drew Ranch Vineyard

Rated 94 by Vinous

Bright ruby. Aromas of fresh red berries, rose pastille, blood orange and smoky minerals, along with a hint of Asian spices. Fresh, penetrating and pure, offering gently sweet strawberry and raspberry flavors that put on weight and become spicier with aeration. Shows very good intensity with no excess weight. Finishes silky and extremely long, with subtle tannins coming on late.

7. 2012 Wayfarer: Wayfarer Vineyard

Rated 95 by Vinous

Dark cherries, red stone fruits, menthol, flint and sweet spices all race out of the glass as the 2012 Pinot Noir Wayfarer Vineyard shows off its personality. Exotic and vibrant on the palate, the 2012 dazzles from the very first taste. The combination of sumptuous fruit and Sonoma Coast minerality is simply compelling. What a beautiful wine this is. The 2012 is power and class personified.

8. 2012 Wayfarer: Wayfarer Vineyard

Rated 95 by Vinous

Dark cherries, red stone fruits, menthol, flint and sweet spices all race out of the glass as the 2012 Pinot Noir Wayfarer Vineyard shows off its personality. Exotic and vibrant on the palate, the 2012 dazzles from the very first taste. The combination of sumptuous fruit and Sonoma Coast minerality is simply compelling. What a beautiful wine this is. The 2012 is power and class personified.

9. 2012 Rhys: Family Farm Vineyard

Rated 93 by Vinous

The 2012 Pinot Noir Family Farm Vineyard is wonderfully supple and radiant, with the fruit front and center and aromatics more in the background. Silky tannins support a core of dark red stone fruits, spices, new leather and pine. I expect the 2012 will provide a wide and relatively long drinking window of pure pleasure. The 2012 was done with 60% whole clusters, all beautifully integrated, even at this early stage of the game.

10. 2012 Rhys: Family Farm Vineyard

Rated 93 by Vinous

The 2012 Pinot Noir Family Farm Vineyard is wonderfully supple and radiant, with the fruit front and center and aromatics more in the background. Silky tannins support a core of dark red stone fruits, spices, new leather and pine. I expect the 2012 will provide a wide and relatively long drinking window of pure pleasure. The 2012 was done with 60% whole clusters, all beautifully integrated, even at this early stage of the game.

11. 2012 Ceritas: Hellenthal Vineyard

Rated 93 by Vinous

Here what stands out is a compelling interplay of rich, powerful fruit and equally intense, pulsating acidity. Crushed rocks, red cherries, mint and rose petals are some of the notes that weave together in a complex, exotic fabric that captivates all the senses. The 60% whole clusters are very nicely balanced. Still very much tightly wound and virile in style, the 2012 is going to need a bit of time to come around, but it offers outstanding potential.

12. 2012 Ceritas: Hellenthal Vineyard

Rated 93 by Vinous

Here what stands out is a compelling interplay of rich, powerful fruit and equally intense, pulsating acidity. Crushed rocks, red cherries, mint and rose petals are some of the notes that weave together in a complex, exotic fabric that captivates all the senses. The 60% whole clusters are very nicely balanced. Still very much tightly wound and virile in style, the 2012 is going to need a bit of time to come around, but it offers outstanding potential.

#48

Big Cali Cabs

Donated by:

Joan & Paul Mims, Casey Tatham, Karen & Thomas Vaughn, Vine Vault, Sarah and Zac Whitley, Frederick Wildman & Sons, Ltd.

Estimated Value: $1,955

1. 2003 Château Boswell Estate Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Rated 86 by Wine Enthusiast

From a St. Helena vineyard on the Silverado Trail, a ripe, somewhat rustic Cab that’s powerful in cassis and chocolate flavors.

2. 2006 The Napa Valley Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

3. 2006 The Napa Valley Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

4. Spottswoode Family Estate Grown Cabernet Sauvignon St. Helena Rated 100 by Robert Parker

Deep garnet colored with a lingering hint of purple, the 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon comes sashaying out of the glass with provocative notions of warm cassis, blueberry compote, blackberry pie and violets with chocolate box, licorice and menthol nuances plus wafts of wilted roses, lavender and kirsch. Medium-bodied, the intensely perfumed black and blue fruit flavors glide gracefully across the palate, revealing a myriad of earth and spice accents, all framed beautifully with super ripe, fine-grained tannins and invigorating freshness, finishing very, very long. Wow!

5. 2010 Anthem Cabernet Sauvignon St. Helena Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard

Rated 93 by Wine Spectator

Pure, rich and velvety, offering tiers of mocha-laced oak, red berry and blackberry, with touches of espresso, anise and cedar.

6. 2014 Duckhorn The Discussion Napa Valley

Rated 90 by Wine Enthusiast

This hearty red wine is a blend of 57% Cabernet Sauvignon, 37% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot. The palate twists together flavors of cedar and sage with black cherry and blackberry, supported by a full-bodied, powerful structure.

7. 2014 Peter Michael Au Paradis Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville

Rated 99 by James Suckling

Extremely perfumed with iron, clay and currant character. Copper pennies and hints of steak. Then this turns to flowers, iodine and oyster shells. Full body that’s juicy and defined by hefty blackcurrant flavors and real meatiness. Dark-chocolate and orange-peel undertones. Extremely long and flavorful. About three-fourths Cabernet Sauvignon with the rest being Cabernet Franc. Excellent follow-up to the 2013.

8. 2015 Lail J. Daniel Cuvée Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

Rated 98 by Robert Parker

Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2015 J Daniel Cuveé bursts forth with gregarious blackcurrant pastilles, black cherries and warm plum notes backed up by notions of spice cake, mocha and licorice. The full-bodied palate is powerfully fruited with opulent exotic spices accenting the black forest cake notions, framed by plush tannins and finishing with epic length. A beautifully buxom showstopper!

9. 2016 J. Davies Cabernet Sauvignon Diamond Mountain District Rated 94 by Wine Enthusiast

This Cabernet opens with rich aromas of red raspberry and red plum, accentuated by undertones of cocoa powder and cola spice. Supple tannins anchor the wines well-structured palate, where a concentrated entry of baked strawberry and blackberry leads to a juicy acidity and lengthy finish.

10. 2016 Brandlin Estate Grown Cabernet Sauvignon Mount Veeder

Rated 93 by Wine Enthusiast

With 76% Cabernet Sauvignon leading the way, this wine includes 12% Malbec, 7% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot. Herbal, with a supple midpalate of cassis and cherry, it offers specks of sage, crushed rock and firm, well-integrated tannin.

11. 2016 Brandlin Estate Grown Cabernet Sauvignon Mount Veeder Rated 93 by Wine Enthusiast

With 76% Cabernet Sauvignon leading the way, this wine includes 12% Malbec, 7% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot. Herbal, with a supple midpalate of cassis and cherry, it offers specks of sage, crushed rock and firm, well-integrated tannin.

12. 2016 Secret Indulgence Tarot Le Diable Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Rated 93 by Robert Parker

The 2016 Tarot Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is a blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot and 5% Petit Verdot aged 20 months in 34% new French oak. Very deep purple-black in color, it gives up gregarious notions of blackcurrant pastilles, blueberry compote and blackberry pie with hints of wood smoke, cedar chest, menthol and fragrant soil. Full, concentrated and with a lovely structure of firm, very fine-grained tannins, it has great freshness and depth. 824 cases produced. Another terrific value from Stephanie Putnam, the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Tarot Napa Valley is another charming, balanced, incredibly drinkable effort. Blackcurrants, tobacco leaf, and earthy notes all flow to medium to full-bodied, sweetly fruited, supple Cabernet Sauvignon that has loads to love. It too is ideal for drinking over the coming decade.

A Seat at the Table in the Home of Mari Robinson & Greg Ritzen

Donated by:

Chef Jaime Chozet, Harvey Kronberg, Don Neville, Holly & Caleb Noel, Amber Pearce, Mari Robinson & Greg Ritzen, Kaycee & Justin Sanders

Estimated Value: $1,000 per seat

Do not miss your chance to buy a seat in this Dutch-style auction for a fun dinner and wine tasting experience with a stellar view at the home of WFF Board Member, Mari Robinson and Greg Ritzen. This event will be held on March 25th. 2023, join the wine donors as they uncork rare wines from their private collections during this dinner prepared by Chef Jaime Chozet and expertly presented by a few of Texas' most talented sommeliers.

1. 2005 Argyle Extended Tirage Brut Willamette Valley

Rated 93 by Wine Enthusiast

Two-thirds Pinot Noir and one-third Chardonnay, this aged a decade in bottle on the yeast, before being disgorged in August 2015. Amazingly fresh, it bursts with subtle, well-integrated flavors of citrus rind, peach, almond and pastry. The length and imposing structure suggest it can age for another decade. Drink now through 2025.

2. 2010 Ruinart Champagne Brut Millésimé

Rated 92 by Cellar Tracker

A very balanced vintage champagne, complex and refined, offering floral and fruity aromas, it will gain complexity with some bottle age.

3. 2001 Dönnhoff Schlossböckelheimer Felsenberg, Spatlese Trocken

Rated 92 by Robert Parker

Quite subtle, discreet, orchard fruit skin aromas, with a stony, cool precision. Lovely delicacy, with orange and tangerine flavours, racy fruit quality and lots of precision and finesse. The balance is just thrilling again here, with such lovely mouth-wateringly fresh and juicy fruit, that tight, restrained minerality, and fine, delicate but decisive acidity.

4. 2017 Aubert Chardonnay Sonoma Coast Lauren Vineyard

Rated 100 by Robert Parker

The 2017 Chardonnay Lauren Estate starts out with a quiet intensity of ripe pears, apricot tart and spiced apples notes, growing exponentially to reveal a whole spectrum of savory/earthy nuances: marzipan, cashews, yeast extract, oolong tea, chalk dust and nutmeg. Full-bodied, the palate truly lets off the flavor fireworks, giving up loads of citrus, stone fruit, pears and savory flavors plus a racy backbone, finishing very long and very moreish.

5. 2007 Mas de Boislauzon Cuvée du Quet Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Rated 100 by Robert Parker

A huge, monster of a wine is the 2007 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Quet! This Grenache-dominated beauty offers crazy amounts of black currants, black licorice, beef blood and Provencal herbs in a thick, unctuous, full-bodied yet ethereal and seamless package. And while it carries an incredible amount of fruit and texture, it remains graceful and lively on the palate, with no hard edges, sweet, still present tannin and a huge finish. This is a tour de force in wine that has another two decades of longevity.

6. 2014 Caldwell Silver Proprietary Red Wine Napa Valley

Rated 92 by Cellar Tracker

Absolutely fantastic. The nose is a bouquet of dark red and blue fruits with a tinge of tobacco. The palate has deep, rich dark fruit with light smoke and graphite/lead tinged tannins. The acidity is perfectly balanced and lasts for days. This wine could become a 6 star with some time in the cellar.

7. 2001 Araujo Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Eisele Vineyard

Rated 99 by Robert Parker

A compelling example of this noble terroir in the northeastern sector of Napa Valley, the 2001 Cabernet Sauvignon Eisele Vineyard still has a dense purple color and possesses a seamless personality with spectacular notes of licorice, incense, black raspberries, black currants, crushed rock, and spring flowers. Stunningly full-bodied, multilayered, with great purity and expression, this fabulous wine is still youthful but very accessible, as the tannins are velvety and well-integrated. Bravo!

8. 2005 Château Pichon Baron Pauillac

Rated 96 by Wine Enthusiast

A great, classic Pauillac, with its dark, dense, almost black currant flavors stirred together with immense tannins. The layers of dryness, fresh fruits, acidity and ripeness are all coming together into a magnificent structure.

9. 2015 Donnafugata Ben Ryé Passito di Pantelleria, 375ml

Rated 94 by Wine Enthusiast

#68 Wine Enthusiast Top 100 of 2018. With a brilliant amber color, the nose offers a fragrant bouquet of fresh apricot and orange zest combined with the scents of the Mediterranean scrub. The palate is fresh and intense with a pleasant sweetness and minerality.

10. 2015 Donnafugata Ben Ryé Passito di Pantelleria, 375ml

Rated 94 by Wine Enthusiast

#68 Wine Enthusiast Top 100 of 2018. With a brilliant amber color, the nose offers a fragrant bouquet of fresh apricot and orange zest combined with the scents of the Mediterranean scrub. The palate is fresh and intense with a pleasant sweetness and minerality.

11. 1994 Taylor Fladgate Vintage Port

Rated 100 by Wine Spectator

In a word, superb. It's full-bodied, moderately sweet and incredibly tannic, but there's amazing finesse and refinement to the texture, not to mention fabulous, concentrated aromas of raspberries, violets and other flowers. Perhaps the greatest Taylor ever, it's better than either the '92 or the '70, though it's very like the '70 in structure.

Cellar Starters: Burgundy Donated by:

Joan & Paul Mims, Greg Pierce, Daniela DaSuta, Twin Liquors Fine Wine & Spirits

Estimated Value: $1,100

1. 2008 Domaine William Fèvre Chablis Grand Cru Valmur

Rated 96 by Wine Enthusiast

A great waft of ripe fruits, wood spice and tense acidity. A Valmur is a model for great Chablis, a taut wine, like a spring of green fruits waiting to burst out. This impressive wine needs aging, give it at least five years.

2. 2009 Domaine Nicolas Rossignol Volnay 1er Cru Clos des Angles

Earthy scents of forest and bilberry bush on the nose. Full-bodied and well structured with a nice concentration of dark cherries, herbs and subtle tannins on the palate. Velvety and lengthy finish. Even better now than last time I tried it.

3. 2010 Domaine de Montille Volnay 1er Cru En Champans

Rated 93 by Robert Parker

Medium red. Aromas of redcurrant, tobacco, dusty spices and rose petal. Suave, precise and intense if still youthfully tight; this appears to possess the density and saline extract to support the whole-cluster vinification. Finishes with very fine-grained tannins, a light peppery note and lovely lingering perfume.

4. 2011 Domaine Dominique Mugneret Vosne Romanee 1er Cru Au-dessus des Malconsorts

Rated 92 by Cellar Tracker

Lovely sipping now, offering a melange of cherries, raspberries and plums, laced with spice, flowers and blossoming nuance. Very Vosne - and promising more over time.

5. 2015 Domaine Antonin Guyon Corton Bressandes

A more elegant, pure and beautifully layered nose presents a range of red berries that are nuanced by plum, floral and soft earth hints. There is outstanding volume to the dense and serious yet relatively refined flavors that possess excellent size and weight while remaining impeccably well-balanced on the lingering finish. This is a classic Bressandes that is at once built-to-age yet should drink reasonably well after only 5-ish years or so.

6. 2015 Famille Carabello-Baum Volnay Premier Cru

A delicate example of an aged Burgundy, with aromas of dried rose petals, cherry, and herbs de Provence.

7. 2017 Jean-Claude Boisset Marsannay Blanc

Rated 93 by James Suckling

Complex, floral and herbal nose, then rich and very silky with quite a serious structure beneath the smooth surface. The tannins build beautifully at the long, clean finish. Better from 2020.

8. 2017 Jean-Claude Boisset 'Les Murots' Gevrey-Chambertin

Rated 94 by James Suckling

A remarkably fragrant and filigree interpretation of an appellation that’s famous for ripeness and boldness. The finely etched tannins are beautifully married to lively acidity and the bright red-fruit aromas harmonize the firm, mineral finish beautifully. Effortless! Try from 2020.

9. 2018 Jacques Prieur Clos de la Feguine Rouge

Rated 89 by Vinous

The 2018 Beaune Clos de la Féguine 1er Cru is completely de-stemmed and matured in 25% new oak. It has an attractive bouquet, a mixture of red and black fruit plus a little earthiness coming through with aeration. The palate is well balanced with fine tannins and quite sturdy.

10. 2019 Famille Carabello-Baum Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru White

Rated 95 by Cellar Tracker

A rich, complex, and impossibly balanced white Burgundy with aromas of white flower, apricot, and toast.

11. 2020 Berthelemot Puligny-Montrachet

The deep soil gives the wine its intensity and elegance particularly characteristic of the land around Puligny; aromas are floral with hints of almond and hazelnut and the wine is fresh and rich in the mouth.

12. 2020 Berthelemot Vosne-Romanee

On the nose there is a delicate, fruity aroma of small red berries and morello cherries; it is elegant and refined in the mouth with a smooth and prolonged finish. 100% organically farmed Pinot Noir planted in 1962 and 1973.

Paradise from Paso

Donated by:

Justin Vineyards & Winery, Holly & Caleb Noel, Amber Pearce, Heather & Jerry Valdez

Estimated Value: $1,120

1. 2013 Jacob Toft 'Sarah’s Cuvée' Paso Robles

Rated 92 by Cellar Tracker

Slo-oxed for 20 minutes but the wine was better after 40 minutes. An attractive deep purple color in the glass. Lots of dark red fruits and some ground brown spices (cinnamon & allspice) on the nose. All of these follow on to the medium bodied palate along with touches of blue fruit and cocoa. The acidity was juicy and balancing, and there was a touch of tannin of the finish.

2. 2014 Terry Hoage TH Vineyards 'Skins' Grenache Paso Robles Willow Creek District

Rated 91 by Wine Spectator

Precise and expressive, with smoky beef and blackberry aromas and densely layered plum, pepper and grilled herb flavors. Drink now through 2025. 200 cases made.

3. 2016 Booker Fulldraw Paso Robles

Rated 93 by Jeb Dunnuck

The last vintage of this cuvée as these grapes will be moved into the Oublie cuvée, the 2016 Fulldraw Vineyard offers serious Syrah notes in its chocolate, jammy blackberry, licorice, and crushed rock aromas and flavors. This is a big, rich, brooding red that packs serious amounts of fruit and texture without ever going over the top.

Eric Jensen’s Booker Vineyards continues to make a ripe, sexy, pedal-to-the-metal style of wine and these latest 2016s don’t disappoint.

4. 2016 Booker Vertigo Paso Robles

Rated 99 by Jeb Dunnuck

I suspect the finest vintage to date, the 2016 Vertigo is a rock star effort and one of the top wines to ever come out of Paso Robles. Just loaded with notions of blueberries, incense, ground pepper, and crushed flowers, it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a multi-dimensional, layered texture, no hard edges, and incredible purity of fruit. A blend of 52% Syrah, 30% Grenache and 18% Mourvèdre brought up in 50% new French oak, it’s a monumental wine from Paso Robles to enjoy over the coming 10-15 years.

5. 2014 Booker Oublié Paso Robles

Rated 96 by Jeb Dunnuck

The 2017 Oublie is a blockbuster, ranking with the finest wines in the vintage. Based on 56% Grenache, 22% Mourvèdre, 22% Syrah, brought up in 50% neutral barrels, its vivid purple color is followed by a full-bodied, powerful, yet elegant red that has a great nose of cassis, blackberries, white flowers, leafy herbs, and hints of pepper. It packs some muscle yet stays flawlessly balanced. Drink it over the coming decade.

6. 2017 L’Aventure Côte á Côte Willow Creek District Red Blend

Rated 98 by Jeb Dunnuck

The only Grenache-dominated release is the 2017 Côte A Côte, a blend of 48% Grenache, 32% Mourvèdre, and the rest Syrah that spent 14 months in 30% new French oak. It's one sexy red that offers full-bodied richness and depth as well as brilliant notes of blackberries, black raspberries, ground pepper, potpourri, and flowery incense aromas and flavors. This smoking Grenache is elegant, with no hard edges, beautiful purity, and a great finish. It shows how successful Grenache was in 2017 and is a magical wine.

7. 2018 Caliza Syrah Paso Robles Willow Creek District

Rated 95 by Jeb Dunnuck

Purple-colored, the 2018 Syrah saw 18 months in 60% new French oak. Lots of classic Paso Robles cassis and jammy blackberry fruits as well as notes of vanilla, peppery herbs, and charred steak all emerge from this full-bodied beauty that has a voluptuous texture, ripe tannins, and a great finish.

8. 2018 Justin Isosceles, Paso Robles

Full-bodied with ripe black cherry and blackcurrant fruit complemented with baking spice and oak notes on entry. Sustained fruit and spice are joined by savory autumn leaf, cedar and leather on the mid-palate with mouth filling, fine tannins that lead into a long, complex and balanced finish with attractive fruit, spice, cedar and subtle camphor notes.

9. 2018 Saxum 'Booker Vineyard' Paso Robles Willow Creek District

Rated 98 by Robert Parker

The 2018 Booker Vineyard, a blend of 74% Syrah and 26% Mataro, has gregarious aromas of baked blackberries, coffee, dark earth and licorice with loads of spicy accents. The full-bodied palate bursts with concentrated, nuanced fruits, pure notes of chocolate and floral perfume lingering in the mouth. The sheer concentration of flavor is expertly foiled by its fine, silt-like tannins and seamless freshness, and it finishes with tremendous length and detail. I appreciate how drinkable this is straight from the bottle, though it will have more to show with time in the cellar.

10. 2019 Saxum White Paso Robles Willow Creek District James Berry Vineyard

Rated 95 by Robert Parker

A blend of 46% Grenache Blanc, 31% Roussanne and 23% Chenin Blanc, it has lush quince paste and apple pie aromas with tones of jasmine and beeswax. The medium-bodied palate offers intense, ripe, savory fruits and bursts of fresh acidity, finishing with great length.

California Dreaming – Tours and Magnums

Donated by:

Continuum Estate, Gemstone Vineyard

Estimated Value: $2,330

Come on out to Yountville in the heart of Napa Valley to enjoy two boutique and unique private vineyard tastings for four people with Continuum and Gemstone. You and three guests will get to take in all that these estate vineyards have to offer.

Both tastings will be redeemable until November, 6, 2023 on a mutually agreeable date. Transportation and accommodations not included.

1. 2019 Continuum Proprietary Red Napa Valley Sage Mountain Vineyard, 1.5L

Rated 99 by James Suckling

A cold wet winter replenished the soil and heartened the fruit set pushing budbreak later. Spring warmed gradually through August making for a slightly warmer growing season overall. The 2019 Continuum vintage expression is an elevated and lush dance of power and grace. The highest percentage of Cabernet Franc to date, this wine shows a lively nose with lifted hibiscus and floral notes. The entry on the palate reveals a generous dark fruit expression, with youthful black mulberry, savory wild herb and a ferrous minerality. Exquisitely balanced, 2019 Continuum is deliciously approachable now, and will continue to evolve and improve through time.

2. Private Tour and Tasting at Continuum Estate for Four Guests.

Redeemable until November 6, 2023 on a mutually agreeable date.

3. 2019 Gemstone Vineyard 'Estate' Cabernet Sauvignon Yountville, 1.5L

Our Cabernet Sauvignon is concentrated and rich, with bright fruit tones of raspberry and cassis across the palate. Notes of cloves and cocoa add to the complexity. The finish is long with elegant and soft tannins.

4. Tasting for 4 at Gemstone Vineyard located in Yountville – the heart of Napa Valley.

Redeemable until November 6, 2023 on a mutually agreeable date.

LOT #53

2015 Château Mouton Rothschild Pauillac

Donated by:

Heather & Jerry Valdez

Estimated Value: $760

2015 Château Mouton Rothschild Pauillac

First Growth. Premier Grand Cru Classe in 1973

Rated 99 by James Suckling

Decadent and rich aromas of black cherries and plums with wet earth and sandalwood. Turns to dried mushrooms. Full-bodied, tight and closed with big, polished tannins, yet this is very closed and shy right now. Despite this, underneath it shows such depth and beauty. Tangy acidity. This is a combination of 2005 and 2009. Try it in 2024.

LOT #54

2016 Château Mouton Rothschild Pauillac

Donated by: Heather & Jerry Valdez

Estimated Value: $950

2016 Château Mouton Rothschild

First Growth. Premier Grand Cru Classe in 1973

Rated 100 by Robert Parker

Composed of 83% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot, 1% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot, the 2016 Mouton Rothschild has an opaque garnet-purple color. WOW—the nose explodes from the glass with powerful blackcurrant cordial, black raspberries, blueberry pie and melted chocolate notions, plus suggestions of aniseed, camphor, lifted kirsch and the faintest waft of a subtle floral perfume in the background. Full-bodied, concentrated, bold and totally seductive in the mouth, it has very fine-grained, silt-like tannins, while jam-packed with tightly wound fruit layers, finishing in this wonderful array of mineral sparks. Magic.

Château Musar Vertical

Donated by: Broadbent Selections

Estimated Value: $1,500

1. 1997 Château Musar Rouge Bekaa Valley, Lebanon

A rich, warm color, now paling towards the rim, with a smoky nose full of spices and fruits. On the palate there are mixed berry fruits – cherries, redcurrants, pomegranates and Christmas spices of cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves. Good acidity with good tannin levels results in a wine of classic structure with long aging potential.

2. 1998 Château Musar Rouge Bekaa Valley, Lebanon

Rated 94 by Decanter

Such a pale color and a beautiful nose, with gentle spice and floral notes, and soft, bracken and gently truffly, mushroomy notes. The palate is delicious, with a cappuccino softness and such lovely flavors with rhubarb and sweet black fruits, the flavors fully melded. This is drinking beautifully, with such lovely balance and freshness, with elegance and really long finish. Though Serge thinks this is not yet ready, I thought it was delicious and drinking perfectly.

3. 2000 Château Musar Rouge Bekaa Valley, Lebanon

Rated 93 by Decanter

Exceptional concentration, structure and balance mark this 11-year old blend of Cab, Cinsault and Carignan that’s ripe with cassis and plums and a plume of smoke, earth and barnyard funk. Tannins subdued into a powdery softness, it’s elegantly textured yet full and forward with a rich, layered complexity.

4. 2003 Château Musar Rouge Bekaa Valley, Lebanon

Rated 91 by Robert Parker

Lots of lift with a big, leafy and vegetal aromas with fennel, nuts and herbs. There is good berry fruit too, in a typically wild, but complex and forward style. Beautifully sweet fruit on the palate, the liquorice concentration and twist of chicory adding grip and tension, but sweet fruit plays into the finish.

5. 2004 Château Musar Rouge Bekaa Valley, Lebanon

Rated 91 by Robert Parker

Enticing whiffs of spice, dried herb and ripe, briary berries emerge from this rich, structured wine. The fruit on the palate is lavish, almost pulpy, but it’s framed by lush tannins and brisk acidity. The finish is herbal and bracing.

6. 2012 Château Musar Rouge Bekaa Valley, Lebanon

Château Musar Red 2012 has a dark burgundy color, a nose of matured stone fruits, plums and figs with liquorice and spicy notes. It has big developed ripe fruit on the nose and a bold taste profile of juicy, black fruits plus mocha and leather and a beautiful lingering finish.

7. 2012 Château Musar Blanc Bekaa Valley, Lebanon

Fine lemon-yellow, bright and still fresh-looking but also showing some reassuring maturity; dry honey on the nose, dry spices with a controlled richness of fruit on the palate that reminds me of Ygrec: complex and dry with sweetness in its DNA before natural acidity lifts the slightly exotic aftertaste on the finish.

8. 2014 Château Musar Blanc Bekaa Valley, Lebanon

Golden-yellow color with a complex aroma of beeswax, orange peel and a delicate savory character. Its bursting with flavor, ranging from herb-scented runny honey, to ripe peach, banana, fresh almonds and hazelnuts. A fullbodied white despite having fresh acidity and a saline edge which results in an attractive textural balanced wine. Good length and if cellared well, will keep for decades.

9. 2015 Château Musar Rouge Bekaa Valley, Lebanon

Deep ruby color and an aroma of fresh hedgerow berries—bramble, blackcurrant and cherry, also more complexity coming through later with leather and delicate, peppery-spice notes. The flavors are similar, with some soft vanilla, warming spice and a cocoa note. Fresh acidity and supple tannins make the wine a perfect accompaniment to richer, fattier meats like duck or a ribeye steak

10. 2016 Château Musar Rouge Bekaa Valley, Lebanon

Our 2016 vintage is deep ruby in color with high viscosity. Red cherries, plums, carob and figs dominate the nose with a hint of eastern spice. Kirsch and plums follow through to the palate with blackcurrant and chocolate. The tannins are velvety soft and this wine has a lot of depth and fruit concentration with a long finish.

11. 2018 Château Musar Rosé Bekaa Valley, Lebanon

Quite different compare with others rose. Impressive scarlet color (never seen before such intensively colored rose!). Nose - grass with red berries. Mouth - minerality, red berries, some rubber. Light special bitterness. Average acidity. Recommend.

12. 2020 Levantine de Musar Bekaa Valley, Lebanon (Inaugural Vintage)

Beautiful blue red with a little bit of pink youth on rim. Very harmonious, balanced and elegantly fragrant wine. Almost like a great Beaujolais or other good Gamay. Good depth but not too intense. Nice deep fruit aromas but elegant. Touch of tannin on the finish. Elegant, great length and very good texture and great aftertaste. Lovely weight. Not intense of concentrated, which is a good thing. Just a beautifully, evocative wine. Delicious as is but no doubt a winner in food pairing.

Selections from the Perfect 2013 Vintage

Donated by:

Rachel & Robert Allen, Maria & Daniel Bleier, Mari Robinson & Greg Ritzen, Heather & Jerry Valdez, Karen & Thomas Vaughn, Amanda & Andrew West

Estimated Value: $1,800

1. 2013 Cascina Adelaide Barolo Elen Riserva

Rated 94 by Wine Spectator

A blend from two vineyards, 70% Cannubi and 30% Baudana that spends two year in wood and three years in bottle. The nose is big and rather outgoing with a lovely notes of strawberry licorice, hot gravel, dried flowers and forest floor. Very deep. The taste is rich and concentrated with notes of assorted dried red fruits, dry licorice, mushrooms and rosehip. An old school finesse. Very, very long. Great wine.

2. 2013 Clos du Val Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

Rated 95 by Vinous

The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon is striking. Powerful and dense in the glass, with utterly mesmerizing balance, the 2013 hits all the right spots. Graphite, smoke, grilled herbs, black cherries and incense form a tapestry of aromas and flavors that simply dazzles. The 2013 needs time in bottle for the tannins to soften, but it is a real head-turner. The combination of intense tannin and opulent fruit is classic 2013.

3. 2013 Figgins Estate Red Wine Walla Walla Valley

Rated 94 by Robert Parker

The flagship is the 2013 Estate Red Wine, which is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot that spent 20 months in 62% new French oak, with the balance in second fill barrels. Coming from a cooler, higher elevation site on the eastern edge of Walla Walla, this beauty possesses fabulous purity in its cassis and black raspberry fruit, violets, graphite and spring flower-like aromas and flavors. These give way to a full-bodied impeccably balanced 2013 that has fine tannin, nicely integrated acidity and a great finish. I don’t think it has the density of the 2012, but it shines for its overall harmony and purity. This beauty is enjoyable now, but should be at its best from 2020-2033.

4. 2013 Hall Cabernet Sauvignon Kathryn Hall Napa Valley

Rated 96 by Robert Parker

The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Kathryn Hall from Napa is another blockbuster, exhibiting an opaque bluish purple color, notes of charcoal, graphite, blackberry, chocolate and exotic spices, a full-bodied mouthfeel, and a long, long finish. Like most 2013s, it is just hinting at its ultimate potential, but this wine is loaded and exciting. Forget it for another 4-5 years and drink it over the following three decades. (Drink 2020-2051)

5. 2013 Hartford Court Jennifer’s Chardonnay Russian River Valley

The 2013 Hartford Court Russian River Valley Chardonnay offers subtle aromas of jasmine flower, citrus oil, ripe apple and pear. The elegant aromatics are complemented by fresh kiwi, lemon drop and Pippin apple flavors. The fruit focused mid-palate is followed by subtle mineral notes and a hint of crystallized ginger in the finish.

6. 2013 Jacob Toft Sarah’s Cuvée Paso Robles

Rated 92 by Cellar Tracker

Slo-oxed for 20 minutes but the wine was better after 40 minutes. An attractive deep purple color in the glass. Lots of dark red fruits and some ground brown spices (cinnamon & allspice) on the nose. All of these follow on to the medium bodied palate along with touches of blue fruit and cocoa. The acidity was juicy and balancing, and there was a touch of tannin of the finish.

7. 2013 Lewis Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Rated 95 by Wine Spectator

A silky entry is just the beginning of this elegant, rich and densely flavored effort. The tannins make their presence felt on the finish amid a wave of dark berry and spicy oak. Drink now through 2028.

8. 2013 Ovid Napa Valley

Rated 98 by Robert Parker

The 2013 Proprietary Red, a slightly different blend from the 2012 of 84% Cabernet Sauvignon and 16% Cabernet Franc, is a much smaller production of 350 cases. This wine, which ratchets up the level of intensity, has an opaque purple color and a beautiful nose of blackberry, blueberry and cassis as well as hints of espresso, white flowers, and subtle background toast. The wine hits the palate with a cascade of gorgeous fruit, sweet tannin, great delineation and acidity, and a long, velvety, voluptuously textured mouthfeel. This big, inky, thick, juicy wine should age beautifully for 25-30 years.

9. 2013 Peter Michael Au Paradis Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville

Rated 99 by James Suckling

The complex aromas are amazing with hot stones, blackcurrants, meat, and iron. Turns to porcini and wet earth. Cassis leaf, too. Full-bodied, velvety, and savory with blueberries, iron, iodine and oyster shell. Classic texture. So fabulous to taste now but will age beautifully for decades to come.

10. 2013 Peter Michael Au Paradis Cabernet Sauvignon Oakville

Rated 99 by James Suckling

The complex aromas are amazing with hot stones, blackcurrants, meat, and iron. Turns to porcini and wet earth. Cassis leaf, too. Full-bodied, velvety, and savory with blueberries, iron, iodine and oyster shell. Classic texture. So fabulous to taste now but will age beautifully for decades to come.

11. 2013 Quilceda Creek Cabernet Sauvignon Red Mountain Galitzine Vineyard

Rated 98 by Robert Parker

An utterly prodigious effort that would most likely be the wine of the vintage if not for its big brother, the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Galitzine Vineyard comes all from Red Mountain and was raised in 100% new French oak. Revealing a healthy ruby/purple color and classic notes of sage brush, graphite, black cherries, currants and chocolate, it hits the palate with full-bodied richness; building, present, yet ripe and polished tannin; perfect integration of its fruit, alcohol and oak; and awesome length. This is a powerhouse Cabernet Sauvignon that still holds onto a sense of elegance and finesse. Forget it for 4-5 years and drink bottles over the following two decades.

12. 2013 Saxum Paderewski Vineyard Paso Robles Willow Creek District

Rated 97 by Robert Parker

One of the more accessible 2013s is the 2013 Paderewski Vineyard, which checks in as a blend of 34% Mourvedre, 33% Zinfandel, 13% Petite Sirah, 12% Syrah and the rest Tempranillo. Its deep ruby, vibrant color is followed by sensational notes of caramelized black cherries, spice box, peppery herbs and chalky minerality. Rich, full-bodied, utterly seamless and gorgeous on the palate, it’s an incredible expression of this higher elevation, warm site that readers shouldn’t miss.

South of the Equator

Donated by: Twin Liquors Fine Wine & Spirits

Estimated Value: $1,850

1. 2006 Torbreck RunRig

Rated 96 by Robert Parker

Made from a blend of 92% Shiraz & 8% Viognier from a single vineyard planted with cuttings from one of the old RunRig vineyards. Aroma of dried ripe apricots, blackberry, vanilla and spice with violet end note showing strong perfumed lift. Explosive palate, excellent weight and mouthfeel, with flavors of white and black pepper, dried apricots, blackberry and dark chocolate.

2. 2010 Catena Zapata Argentino

Rated 96 by Decanter

Packed with generous flavours of ripe red fruit and spices, this is a vibrant, full-bodied, tense Malbec; the vineyard (1,600m, one of the highest in the Uco Valley) delivers intense freshness and crisp acidity in a wine to cellar.

3. 2010 Catena Zapata Nicasia

Rated 93 by Wine Enthusiast

Laser-like cassis and black cherry aromas come with an accent of toasted oak. A pure, well-balanced palate isn't at all pushy or heavy, while snappy, fresh flavors of raspberry and spiced plum finish racy, toasty and the slightest bit herbal. Drink through 2022.

4. 2010 Catena Zapata Nicolas

Rated 95 by Robert Parker

Nicolás Catena Zapata has an intense, deep purple color with bluish-black tones. On the nose, aromas of black fruits – black berries, black cherries, black plums –predominate with subtle notes of vanilla and dark chocolate intermingled with savory hints of green olive and a stony minerality. On the palate, the wine is tremendously complex, unfolding layer upon layer of red currant, eucalyptus, and black pepper flavors . Black cherries and black berries give way to cassis followed by a hint of saline minerality. The wine is remarkably concentrated with a firm tannic structure providing the back bone for the lush fruit. The finish is long, a foretoken of the long aging potential of this Argentine masterpiece.

5. 2010 Penfolds Cabernet Bin 707

Rated 97 by Wine Spectator

A towering Cabernet, tightly wrapping its supple, expressive core of currant and boysenberry with subtle hints of cream, espresso and dried herbs, flowing seamlessly into the long and vivid finish. Offers depth and power without apparent weight. A knockout. Best from 2015 through 2030.

6. 2011 Archival Ferrer Altaira

Rated 96 by Wine Spectator

7. 2011 Ventisquero Enclave

Rated 93 by Wine Enthusiast

This is a stately Cabernet housing classic Chilean aromas of spicy, berry fruits mixed with earth notes. It's supremely fresh on the palate, with layers of briar fruit and integrated oak. Baked berry, hard spice and exotic chocolate flavors end toasty and warm, but lively and complex. Drink through 2024.

8. 2012 Catena Chardonnay White Box

Rated 89 by Wine Enthusiast

Stony, minerally aromas show a pinch of toast on top of white peach and apple cider scents. On the palate, this stays on the straight and narrow, with high acidity. Clementine and tangerine flavors finish as stony as the name implies; drink this shellfish-friendly, unique Argentinean Chardonnay through 2022.

9. 2014 Colome Altura Maxima

Rated 93 by Wine Spectator

The true expression of terroir in this Malbec comes from the extreme altitude at which the vineyard sits, it receives much more sun, much less UV protection, producing thicker skinned grapes that deliver a more robust mouthfeel supported by fresh acidity.

10. 2015 Sena Red

Rated 100 by James Suckling

The 2015 Sena shines by its perfect balance and seamless structure, marked by its many layers of pure fruit and silky tannins. The wine displays wonderful complexity, along with unique tension, energy and elegance. This is a definite recognition that Chile belongs to the major leagues of wine, and is a righteous reward to the team's hard work and dedication.

11. 2016 Almaviva

Rated 97 by James Suckling

Deep, intense and brilliant ruby red color. The nose reveals delicate aromas of red fruits and berries, such as raspberry and blackberry, which are harmoniously integrated with notes of toffee and coffee, offering a refined and distinguished nose. The elegance of the wine is underscored by its round and fresh mouthfeel. Subtle, but present tannins frame the blend, leading to a vanilla and peppery finish. Complex and luxurious, Almaviva 2016 is a remarkably graceful and silky wine, faithful to its predecessors in style and precision. #10 Wine Spectator Top 100 of 2019.

12. 2018 Don Melchor

Rated 100 by James Suckling

The Don Melchor 2018 is a wine that highlights the expression of the fruit and the quality of textures achieved by the Don Melchor vineyard. This vintage displays a remarkable presence of red fruits and a clear expression of the Puente Alto Cabernet Sauvignon, with fine, delicate tannins that give the wine great elegance and density, different layers of aromas and flavors, very smooth, elegant tannins, and a long, persistent finish. The wine manages to produce that unique sensation you only get from great wines and great harvests.

City Guide: Seattle – A Weekend with Ryan Crane of Kerloo Cellars

Donated by:

Ryan Crane of Kerloo Wines

Estimated Value: $5,000

Hang with rockstar Pacific Northwest winemaker Ryan Crane of Kerloo Cellars while he shows you the best of the best in what the PNW has to offer.

This is two days that you and up to seven of your family or friends don't want to miss. Ryan and his wife Erin will host you and seven of your guests for a wine led, chef curated meal at their spacious modern home where you can catch the sun set over Puget Sound while sipping a glass of Washington's finest!

Ryan isn’t known to do anything small - The next day Ryan and his team at Kerloo Cellars will provide transportation for you and your guests to head out to the Kerloo Cellars’ Woodinville location for some barrel tastings with Ryan and his team as your guides. You will taste through some of Kerloo’s award-winning wines. Everyone is always hungry after a good barrel tasting, so Ryan will take you your group to the coveted Wine Spectator's Best of Award of Excellence winning restaurant, Barking Frog. There you will be treated to a fine dining experience like no other in the Northwest complete with a wine selection from the gods. Take in the ambiance and the sights while savoring an incredible wine and culinary experience.

Must be scheduled in advance on a mutually agreed date with host before December 2023. Blackout dates may occur. Winner provides transportation and accommodations.

2019 Kerloo Cellars Rock Garden Vineyard Syrah, Walla Walla Valley WA

Rated 90 by Robert Parker Coming from a vineyard in the Rocks District, the aromas are perfumed, initially dominated by notes of potpourri and Stargazer lily followed by orange rind, firepit, plum and fresh asparagus. The flavors are light and show a lot of delicacy. It's a bit one-note at present but starts hitting others over time.

LOT #59

Hillside Party

Donated by: Karen & Thomas Vaughn

Estimated Value: $1,250

2012 Shafer 'Hillside Select' Cabernet Sauvignon Stags Leap District (3 bottles) Rated 98 by Wine Enthusiast

The highly sought-after, perennially beautiful and brawny Hillside Select is 100% estate grown and 100% varietal. It wows after three years in barrel, painting a lush picture of tobacco, tea and firm, integrated tannin dusted in smoky clove scents. Intensely peppery, its youthful blackberry and cherry flavors shine through but will benefit from even more time in bottle, through 2032.

LOT #60

Crazy in Cabo

Donated by:

Adonis McNeal, Amanda & Andrew West

Estimated Value: $3,500

Enjoy this slice of paradise in Mexico. Beach views, ocean smells, and all of the best that Cabo San Lucas has to offer. These five night, six day accommodations are fit for royalty. The modern two-bedroom, three bath condo with a fully appointed kitchen is the perfect way to settle into an excellent Mexican adventure. During your stay, you will have access to the clubhouse with a fitness center, multiple pools, steam room, and tennis/pickleball court. You and your guests can enjoy an assortment of outdoor activities such as fishing in the Pacific or horseback riding. If low key is more your style, partake in shopping or just roaming the streets in this bustling town.

This is a 5-night, 6-day package. Must be scheduled in advance on a mutually agreed date with host before December 2023. Blackout dates may apply. Transportation not included.

A Seat at the Table at the Home of Holly & Caleb Noel

Donated by:

Maria & Daniel Bleier, Don Neville, Chef Darren Noel, Holly & Caleb Noel, Kaycee & Justin Sanders, Heather & Jerry Valdez, Amanda & Andrew West

Estimated Value: $1,000 per seat

Do not miss your chance to buy a seat in this Dutch-style auction for a fun dinner and wine tasting experience at the home of WFF Board Member, Holly Noel, and WFF Auction Committee Member, Caleb Noel. This event will be held on Auguest 26, 2023. Join the wine donors as they uncork rare wines from their private collections during this dinner prepared by Chef Darren Noel and expertly presented by a few of Texas' most talented sommeliers.

1. 1993 Château d’Yquem Sauternes

Inarguably the world’s most famous dessert wine, d’Yquem is a collector’s benchmark wine, through and through in vintage. This 1993 falls on the more elegant side of the d’Yquem profile. Light gold color. Lemon tea, almond and honey character. Medium-bodied, medium sweet, with some spicy flavors and an herbal, sorbet-like finish.

2. 1995 La Jota Vineyards 'Howell Mountain' Cabernet Sauvignon

Rated 91 by Robert Parker

The 1995 is deep, muscular, rich, and impressive, but it is in need of 5-6 years of cellaring. I suspect this wine will age effortlessly for another two decades. La Jota’s two Cabernet Sauvignon cuveés are similar in quality.

The Howell Mountain Select and Anniversary Release share dense, concentrated, full-bodied personalities with superlative levels of fruit and extract.

3. 1997 Joh. Jos. Prüm Riesling Auslese Mosel-Saar-Ruwer Wehlener Sonnenuhr

Rated 93 by Wine Spectator

Wow. This ‘97 Auslese almost overpowers the sensory receptors with its succulent, pure aromas and flavors of peach, apple and slate, rapier-like acidity and brilliant clarity. But it’s never too much, as it remains balanced and harmonious all the way through.

4. 2010 Château Pavie Saint-Émilion

Rated 100 by Robert Parker

Deep garnet in color, the 2010 Pavie delivers tantalizing suggestions of candied violets, star anise and tapenade over a core of prunes, blueberry compote, Morello cherries and fruitcake with touches of underbrush and bouquet garni. Full-bodied, rich and exotically opulent, the palate has a rock-solid texture of velvety tannins and bold freshness supporting the generous palate of black and blue berry preserves, finishing long and fragrant.

5. 2010 Renieri Brunello di Montalcino Riserva

Rated 100 by James Suckling

A young Brunello with precision and complexity showing violets, blackberries, bramble berries, tea leaf and minerals. Stone undertones, too. Full body, a compressed palate and firm and velvety tannins. Powerful and long. Truly fantastic. Breathtaking. Better in 2018.

6. 2011 Schramsberg J. Schram Brut Rosé North Coast

Rated 97 by Wine Enthusiast

This tightly balanced wine is laser-focused yet full-flavored in a way that’s very enticing. Vivid acidity binds together extraordinary peach, ginger and baking spice flavors that start out crisp and then blossom on the palate and linger on the finish. Made from 69% Chardonnay and 31% Pinot Noir, it’s delicious now but will be even better after 2024.

7. 2011 Taittinger 'Comtes de Champagne' Champagne Brut Blanc de Blancs

Rated 94 by Robert Parker

After the tightly coiled, hyper-concentrated 2008, Taittinger’s 2011 Brut Blanc de Blancs Comtes de Champagne represents a more immediate, charming rendition of this cuvée. Bursting from the glass with aromas of orchard and stone fruit mingled with notions of pastry cream, blanched almonds and mandarin, it’s medium to full-bodied, pillowy and fleshy, with a soft and enveloping profile, lively acids and a pretty pinpoint mousse. Readers might think of the 2011 as a somewhat less reductive and less intense stylistic sibling of the 2006, and as it takes on more toasty complexity with bottle age, it will make for immensely seductive drinking.

8. 2012 Opus One Napa Valley

Rated 97 by James Suckling

Glorious purity of fruit here with black currants, blueberries, dark chocolate, fresh herbs and forest floor. Hints of mint too, plus hazelnut and chocolate. Full body with seamless tannins and balance. Tight and compacted tannins with beautiful fruit and great length. Goes on for minutes. One of the best Opus’ in years. Hard not to drink now but better in 2018.

9. 2018 Sine Qua Non 'Aperta' White Blend Central Coast

Rated 100 by Robert Parker

The nose opens with alluring notions of honeycomb, toasted almonds, orange blossoms, musk melons and poached pears with surfacing scents of lemongrass and preserved ginger. The rich, full-bodied palate is built with exciting tension, delivering a satiny texture and layers upon layers of apple, citrus and melon-inspired flavors with a spicy/savory undercurrent. Minerals and toasted nuts emerge on the long, long, long lingering finish. This is an astonishingly complex dry white, which I anticipate will age gracefully like an epic white Burgundy. Readers should note that this wine was decanted three hours prior to tasting, and it opened considerably over the one to two hours that I had it in the glass. During its first 4-6 years in bottle, I would certainly recommend decanting it for a least an hour prior to serving.

10. 2019 Aubert Chardonnay Sonoma Coast Park Avenue Vineyard

Rated 100 by Robert Parker

The 2019 Chardonnay Park Avenue leaps out of the glass with provocative notes of white peaches, fresh pears, lemon curd and chalk dust plus spicy hints of coriander seed, nutmeg and white pepper. The full-bodied palate is super intense with wonderful tension and lots of mineral accents to the concentrated flavors, finishing with epic length and long-lingering spicy kick.

Riesling Round-Up

Donated by: Anonymous, Kaycee & Justin Sanders

Estimated Value: $900

1. 2000 H. Dönnhoff Riesling Spätlese Nahe Niederhäuser Hermannshöhle

Rated 92 by Wine Spectator

Highly Recommended. Rich and creamy in texture, this ‘00 Riesling projects amplitude through its guava, peach and mineral notes, yet relies on a light-weight, vibrant structure. Brilliant finish. A top spätlese of the vintage.

2. 2000 H. Dönnhoff Riesling Spätlese Nahe Niederhäuser Hermannshöhle

Rated 92 by Wine Spectator

Highly Recommended. Rich and creamy in texture, this ‘00 Riesling projects amplitude through its guava, peach and mineral notes, yet relies on a light-weight, vibrant structure. Brilliant finish. A top spätlese of the vintage.

3. 2001 Schloss Lieser Riesling Spätlese Mosel-Saar-Ruwer Lieser Niederberg Helden

Rated 92 by Wine Spectator

Gorgeous. Fireworks of tropical fruit, peach, lime and slate aromas and flavors, on a generous yet elegant profile. Lively acidity and a smooth texture complete the package. Only the long, mineral-drenched aftertaste suggests holding this Riesling for several years to experience its full charm. Drink now through 2015. 300 cases made, 250 cases imported.

4. 2001 Weingut Max Ferd. Richter Riesling Auslese Mosel-Saar-Ruwer Brauneberger Juffer-Sonnenuhr

Rated 96 by Robert Parker

Creamed anise, acacia, honeysuckle blossoms, and baby powder are found in the luxuriant aromatics... flavors of spiced apples, juicy candied limes, and poached pears.

5. 2001 Weingut Max Ferd. Richter Riesling Auslese Mosel-Saar-Ruwer Brauneberger

Juffer-Sonnenuhr

Rated 96 by Robert Parker

Creamed anise, acacia, honeysuckle blossoms, and baby powder are found in the luxuriant aromatics... flavors of spiced apples, juicy candied limes, and poached pears.

6. 2001 Selbach-Oster Riesling Auslese Mosel-Saar-Ruwer Zeltinger Schlossberg

Rated 90 by Wine Spectator

This starts off rich, then the bracing acidity takes over, bringing the pear, cream and mineral notes into sharper focus. Lovely purity and definition.

7. 2001 Selbach-Oster Riesling Auslese Mosel-Saar-Ruwer Zeltinger Schlossberg

Rated 90 by Wine Spectator

This starts off rich, then the bracing acidity takes over, bringing the pear, cream and mineral notes into sharper focus. Lovely purity and definition.

8. 2002 H. Dönnhoff Riesling Spätlese Nahe Norheimer Dellchen

Rated 97 by Robert Parker

This Spätlese is extraordinary, hovering in that zone bordering perfection in which wines touch the soul. A wine that demands introspection, the 2002 Riesling Spätlese Norheimer Dellchen reveals enormous ripeness in its slate and pear aromas. Light to medium-bodied, displaying mind-blowing focus, refinement, and depth, it demands silence and awe. Portobello mushrooms, candied limes, and flint can be detected in its highly nuanced character as well as throughout its extensive finish. All Hail the King of Spätlese! Donnhoff’s line-up of Spätlesen is second to none.

9. 2002 H. Dönnhoff Riesling Spätlese Nahe Norheimer Dellchen

Rated 97 by Robert Parker

This Spätlese is extraordinary, hovering in that zone bordering perfection in which wines touch the soul. A wine that demands introspection, the 2002 Riesling Spätlese Norheimer Dellchen reveals enormous ripeness in its slate and pear aromas. Light to medium-bodied, displaying mind-blowing focus, refinement, and depth, it demands silence and awe. Portobello mushrooms, candied limes, and flint can be detected in its highly nuanced character as well as throughout its extensive finish. All Hail the King of Spätlese! Donnhoff’s line-up of Spätlesen is second to none.

10. 2002 Joh. Jos. Christoffel Erben Riesling Spätlese Mosel-Saar-Ruwer Ürziger Würzgarten

Rated 90 by Wine Spectator

Strawberries in cream on the palate, with a striking expression of slate that can only be described as liquid stone. This shares its creamy, custardy textural allure with Christoffel’s best 2001s.

11. 2002 Joh. Jos. Christoffel Erben Riesling Spätlese Mosel-Saar-Ruwer Ürziger Würzgarten

Rated 90 by Wine Spectator

Strawberries in cream on the palate, with a striking expression of slate that can only be described as liquid stone. This shares its creamy, custardy textural allure with Christoffel’s best 2001s.

12. 2003 H. Dönnhoff Riesling Spätlese Nahe Niederhäuser Hermannshöhle

Rated 95 by Wine Spectator

Fireworks of mineral and fruit. Berries, mandarin orange, flowers and minerals mark this complex, vivid Riesling. It’s all supported by a vibrant structure, ending in a long, long citrus- and mineral-laced aftertaste

13. 2014 Schäfer-Fröhlich Riesling Qualitätswein Trocken Nahe Felsenberg GG, 1.5L

Rated 91 by Wine Spectator

Very minerally and focused, with well-spiced flavors of Fuji apple, ripe melon and lemon bar. Rich and juicy midpalate, presenting a finish that lingers with glazed apricot details. Drink now through 2019. 300 cases made.

Port Aransas Beach House Rental + Private Dinner For Eight with Chef Matt Axtell, CEC

Donated by:

Chef Matt Axtell, Kristin & Erin Waddington

Estimated Value: $3,500

Come enjoy a week-long vacation to Port Aransas with up to seven of your nearest and dearest. Stay at a fabulous 3-bedroom, 3-bath house, close to the community pool and a short walk to the beach. Recently remodeled inside and out, this home is large enough to share with family or friends and has plenty of room to relax and be comfortable. The home is far enough outside of downtown that the beach is quiet and the fishing and shelling are great.

Chef Matt Axtell, CEC will also prepare a delectable dinner for you and your guests one evening during your stay.

This is a six-night, seven-day package. Must be scheduled in advance on mutually agreed dates with both venue host and chef before December 2023; blackout dates may apply. Transportation not included.

A Favia 2018 Lineup by Annie Favia and Andy Erickson

Donated by: Amy & Dale Laine

Estimated Value: $750

Annie Favia and Andy Erickson began Favia Wines in 2003 while both were juggling multiple responsibilities at some of Napa’s most lauded wineries and vineyards. Annie, with a tutelage in the cellars of John Kongsgaard and Cathy Corison as well as a decade as a viticulturist under David Abreu, and Andy’s resume from the cellars of Screaming Eagle, Ovid, and Dalla Valle, together set up a longstanding commitment to Coombsville with a home and ultimately, a winery on the historic Carbone property. Wine Spectator dubbed them Napa’s Dynamic Duo in March of this year.

1. 2018 Favia La Magdalena Red Wine Napa Valley Rated 99 by Jeb Dunnuck 58% Cabernet Sauvignon and 42% Cabernet Franc from Oakville Ranch. Blueberry and dark currant, violets, tobacco, crushed gravel, licorice, cast iron, spices and pencil shavings on the nose. Full body richness, structure and balance with delicious ripe dark fruit flavors showing a long finish.

2. 2018 Favia 'Cerro Sur' Red Wine Napa Valley Rated 97 by Jeb Dunnuck Notes of red and black currants, mulled cherries, tobacco, roasted herbs and chocolate. Rich, full-bodied, mid-palate depth.

3. 2018 Favia Cabernet Sauvignon Coombsville Napa Valley Rated 97 by Jeb Dunnuck

Using a mix of new and used French oak, it has a dense purple color with cassis, candied violets, toasted spices, and tobacco on the nose. Full-bodied, balanced with seamless tannins and a lovely finish.

Silver Oak Vertical

Donated by:

Twin Liquors Fine Wine & Spirits

Estimated Value: $2,500

1. 1994 Silver Oak Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

Combines ripe, rich, complex fruit with a sense of finesse and harmony. The core of anise, currant, sage and cedar unfolds to reveal more depth and complexity. Finishes with a long, satisfying aftertaste. Drink now through 2006. 39,000 cases made.

2. 1996 Silver Oak Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

Shows an unusual roasted dill oak character. Dilute and woody on the palate, with a glimmer of dried currant fruit and a dry, tannic aftertaste. –1996 California Cabernet retrospective. Drink now. Tasted twice, with consistent notes.

3. 1998 Silver Oak Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

Fading but still complex, with vibrant anise, smoked herb, dried currant and sage notes. Full-bodied, with dry, gritty tannins, this is a bit hollow midpalate. –1998 California Cabernet retrospective.

4. 2000 Silver Oak Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

Smooth and polished, with a mix of mature cedar, currant and cherry-scented fruit, framed by a dash of smoky vanilla- and coconut-shaded oak, but finishing with a complex mix of fruit and oak.

5. 2002 Silver Oak Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

Supple, with creamy vanilla and mocha oak providing a nice flavor dimension, joining dried currant, anise, and sage flavors. Tasted twice, with consistent notes.

6. 2004 Silver Oak Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

Fresh and vibrant, with a nice smoky mocha oak overlay joining the dried currant, sage, plum and berry flavors. Has wonderful balance, harmony and finesse, ending with a long, complex finish and just the right amount of tannins.

7. 2006 Silver Oak Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

Built around creamy mocha, cedary oak and dill flavors, with dried currant, sage and underbrush notes. Full-bodied and balanced, this smoothes out on the finish, where it gains a black licorice and mineral edge.

8. 2008 Silver Oak Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

Presenting a subtle, graceful mix of herb, ripe berry, black tea and tobacco, this is intense without being weighty, ending with firm, fine-grained tannins.

9. 2010 Silver Oak Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

Aromas of vanilla, mocha, dill and anise impart complex scents, while the flavors fold over to the palate, joining taut dark berry and cherry notes, supported by firm, tight tannins.

10. 2012 Silver Oak Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

Exhibiting a mix of dusty, savory roasted herb, tobacco leaf, road tar and green underbrush flavors, this is a solid effort that needs time. Best from 2020 through 2030. Tasted twice, with consistent notes.

11. 2014 Silver Oak Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

A direct core of black cherry and black currant fruit is flanked by light tobacco and singed cedar notes. There's a flash of olive through the finish.

12. 2016 Silver Oak Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

The 2016 Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is ruby in color with a magenta rim. It has an enticing nose of cassis, blackberry, vanilla, sage and spearmint. Upon entry, this wine builds from potpourri and bramble to a bright pop of raspberry on the mid-palate. A juicy finish with chewy tannins and a medium length, it will provide drinking pleasure through 2042 with proper cellaring.

#66

Darioush Napa Valley Darius Salmanazar (9L)

Donated by: Susan & Gary Farmer

Estimated Value: $4,500

2011 Darioush 'Darius II' Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley, 9L

From an uncharacteristically cool vintage, this elegantly complex and graceful wine rewarded patience and scrupulous selectivity in the vineyard and cellar. The final wine possesses dark, concentrated blackberry elements and savory, wild sage and herb notes. With a more feminine and lush profile than the similarly cool 2005 and 2000 vintages, the wine delivers its trademark treasure of rich bittersweet cocoa and earthbound flavors, as well as classic Mt. Veeder aromatics of licorice and blueberry.

Collection Kick-off Kit – Sauvignon Blanc

Donated by:

Blurred Vines, Fluent Wines, Holly & Caleb Noel, Brooke & Spivey Paup, Amber Pearce, Amanda & Andrew West, Sarah & Zac Whitley

Estimated Value: $670

1. 2016 Shared Notes Les Leçons des Maîtres Russian River Valley

Rated 92 by Jeb Dunnuck

The nose is well-focused herb, citrus and wild peach, crisp green fruit, and whiffs of white pepper. Always stunning in its elegance, the palate is effortlessly layered white stone fruit and melon with notes of herb and crisp green apple.

2. 2017 Lail Blueprint Sauvignon Blanc Napa Valley

Rated 93 by Wine Enthusiast

Always impressive, this is a fleshy, boldly structured white wine, offering a tremendous palate of exotic flavor. Lemon rind, wet stone, peach and a grittiness of background oak mingle effortlessly within a moderate richness of balanced complexity.

3. 2018 Fluent Glass Cat Sauvignon Blanc Napa Valley

The silky, smooth palate is layered with a mélange of tropical fruit: guava, pineapple, green mango, and kiwi. Bright notes of Meyer lemon and peach along with Asian pear and subtle hints of vanilla are intertwined with the luscious, yet mouth-watering finish. Just 10 barrels produced.

4. 2019 Aqualini Sauvignon Blanc Red Mountain

Rated 90 by Wine Enthusiast

The aromas bring notes of fig, herb, citrus and tropical fruit. Full-bodied kiwi and citrus flavors follow. It’s an unabashedly warm appellation offering of this variety, with all of the goodness that can bring.

5. 2019 Hill Family Estate Atlas Peak Sauvignon Blanc

Complex aromas of orange peel, lime leaf, vanilla cookies and honey. The palate offers ripe peach, honey flavors, balanced acidity, and generous viscosity.

6. 2019 Fluent Glass Cat Sauvignon Blanc Napa Valley

Glass Cat Sauvignon Blanc has a layered aroma and texture. It is silky and sexy on the palate and complete with a long drawn-out finish which makes you want to come back for more. The longer veraison gives you mouthwatering acidity and a weighty feel with lifted fruit: think Meyer lemon and Asian pear with an interesting mix of fresh stone fruit and even a little guava that is both vibrant and fresh.

7. 2020 Perliss The Serpents Sémillon Knights Valley Bavarian Lion Vineyard

Aged 18 months on its lees in Tuscan terra-cotta amphora and neutral French oak barrels. Richness and brightness in perfect balance. A wine for immediate enjoyment or for cellaring. Hand-dipped in beeswax. 248 cases produced. Citrus and citrus peel notes infuse this light yet textured wine. Its minerality make it a standout when paired with crustaceans and other riches from the sea.

8. 2020 Fluent Glass Cat Sauvignon Blanc Napa Valley

Glass Cat Sauvignon Blanc has a layered aroma and texture. It is silky and sexy on the palate and complete with a long drawn-out finish which makes you want to come back for more. The longer veraison gives you mouthwatering acidity and a weighty feel with lifted fruit: think Meyer lemon and Asian pear with an interesting mix of fresh stone fruit and even a little guava that is both vibrant and fresh.

9. 2020 Gamble Family Sauvignon Blanc Yountville Gamble Vineyard

Rated 93 by James Suckling

A light and crisp, dry wine that showcases tropical aromas of stone fruit, white peach, lychee, guava, and honeysuckle. Its delightfully creamy mid-palate brims with zesty citrus and minerality, balanced by flavors of pink grapefruit, mango, kumquat zest, and yuzu curd.

10. 2020 Gamble Family Sauvignon Blanc Yountville Gamble Vineyard

Rated 93 by James Suckling

A light and crisp, dry wine that showcases tropical aromas of stone fruit, white peach, lychee, guava, and honeysuckle. Its delightfully creamy mid-palate brims with zesty citrus and minerality, balanced by flavors of pink grapefruit, mango, kumquat zest, and yuzu curd.

11. 2021 Arrow & Branch Sauvignon Blanc Napa Valley

Fresh and clean, this wine is full of sweet orange and the ripe flesh of nectarine. It is perfumed with a touch of ginger and has notes of salinity and minerality. Although it doesn’t have any residual sugar, the palate naturally has the feeling of round, fullness and the flavors have a pleasant sweetness. Its vibrancy makes for a mouthwatering finish, and an easy-to-drink wine.

12. 2019 Quintessa Illumination White Wine North Coast

Rated 91 by Wine Spectator

Stands out for its fresh, fragrant profile, with fresh grated ginger, lemongrass and orange blossom notes and a core of mango and citrus flavors. There's a sleek, seamlessness here, and a mouthwatering finish. Drink now. 5,000 cases made.

Best of Burgundy

Donated by:

Greg Pierce, Twin Liquors Fine Wine & Spirits

Estimated Value: $1,600

1. 2012 Bouchard Pere et Fils Beaune 1er Cru Greves Vigne de L’Enfant Jesus

Rated 93 by Wine Spectator

Blackberry, black currant, violet, licorice and tar aromas and flavors signal this dense red. Fresh and firmly structured, with a taut finish. Shows fine purity and elegance.

2. 2013 Jacques-Frederic Mugnier Nuits St. Georges 1er Cru Clos de la Marechale

Rated 91 by Robert Parker

Red and black fruit and well integrated oak. The palate is smooth in the mouth, supple and quite plush.

3. 2014 Domaine Perrot-Minot Grand Cru Chambertin Clos de Beze

Rated 96 by Vinous Bright, dark red. Much more closed on the nose than the Mazoyères-Chambertin, offering aromas of dried rose petal and smoky minerality. Less demonstrative on the palate as well, but aeration brings up wonderfully intense, penetrating flavors of red berries, brown spices, peony, pepper and smoky minerality. Conveys a powerful impression of dry extract in a very silky, subtly sweet package. Finishes very long, with noble tannins, repeating red fruits and a vibrant spiciness that perks up the salivary glands. This knockout wine is fresher in bottle that it was from barrel in late 2015, when it was more dominated by lower-toned soil components.

4. 2017 D'Angerville Volnay 1er Cru

Rated 94 by Decanter

This 1.6-ha parcel is in the middle of the slope, two meters above the Clos des Angles on poor, stony soils over a limestone base. Crunchy, elegant and refined, it has lovely texture, raspberry sweetness and fine-boned tannins, finishing with a saline, mineral bite.

5. 2017 Dom des Lafon Volnay Santenots-du-Milieu

Rated 93 by Robert Parker

The 2017 Volnay 1er Cru Les Santenots-du-Milieu confirms its strong showing from barrel, soaring from the glass with scents of ripe cherries, red berries, rose petals, orange rind and a deft touch of toasty new oak. On the palate, it's medium to full-bodied, ample and fleshy, with melting tannins, succulent acids and a charming, supple profile that makes it hard to resist.

6. 2017 Hudelot-Noellat Les Petits Vougeots

Rated 95 by Decanter

Not old by the standards of this domain's other vineyard holdings -- it was planted in 1980 -- this 0.5-ha piece of Les Petits Vougeots always seems to produce a delightfully scented, hedonistic Pinot in the hands of Charles van Canneyt. It's crunchy, juicy, and vibrant, with chalky minerality and enticing raspberry and red cherry fruit. Drinking Window 2023 - 2029.

Best Kentucky Bourbon Bundle

Donated by:

Brooke & Randy Hester, Holly & Caleb Noel, Twin Liquors Fine Wine & Spirits, Heather & Jerry Valdez

Estimated Value: $2,100

1. Weller Wheated Bourbon Antique 107 Single Barrel Select

Rated 96 by Whisky Advocate

Tilled earth, tobacco, and leather meet clover honey, maple syrup, and pecan pie sweetness. It pours broad and mouth-coating across the palate, with a lovely softness and pervasive vanilla and apple sweetness, gently tugged at by oaky tannins and more tobacco leaf. A touch floral and gently spiced, with cinnamon leading the way. Overall, this exudes beautiful balance right through the long finish that resonates both prettily and powerfully with dried citrus. Collectible.

2. Blade & Bow 22-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon

Rated 90 by Whisky Advocate

This is a re-release of the 2015 bottling. A tapestry of confectionery delights begins this journey, followed by fruit, cigar box, saddle leather, cotton candy, roasted pecans, caramel, and marshmallow. Then, it’s smoked paprika, fig, cinnamon, strawberry, and dark cherries. In the form of walnut shells, a powerful and somewhat pleasant bitterness finds the finish, with a hint of chocolate. But that bitterness does supersede the more pleasant notes, making it slightly unbalanced.

3. Garrison Brothers Guadalupe Bourbon

107 proof (53.5% A.B.V.) Texas Straight Bourbon aged for four years in 30-gallon American white oak barrels, followed by a secondary maturation in 59-gallon ex-port wine casks for two additional years. Clear, with an ochre to red tint on the top, blending into an orange and brown hue. Must on the first approach. Molasses and brown sugar present on a second inspection, with worn leather and pipe tobacco lingering on the aroma. The lingering must and leather on the nose are mingled with some spice on the first sip. Stewed fruit and astringency linger before giving way to a black berry cobbler finish. Reminiscent of Granddad’s leather jacket that he smoked a pipe in.

4. Elijah Craig 18 Year

Rated 92 by Whisky Advocate

Back after a three-year hiatus. Well-rounded, with lovely caramel, creamy vanilla, toasted oak, nougat, and candied fruit, along with a peppering of cinnamon and subtle mint. Pleasant, lingering finish. Great structure with seamless flavors.

5. Bardstown Prisoner

Rated 91 by Whisky Advocate

A syrupy sweet nose of maraschino cherry, peanut butter cookie, and strawberry rock candy. With water, savory barbecue smoke emerges, as does dusty oak. There’s more sweetness on the palate: peanut brittle and strawberry shortcake with whipped cream, along with coffee bean, vanilla cream, and water with lemon. The finish finds pipe tobacco, bitter chocolate, and barrel char. A rich and intense showcase for the finishing cask.

6. Blanton’s Original Single Barrel 'Letter N'

A deep, satisfying nose of nutmeg and spices. Powerful dry vanilla notes in harmony with hints of honey amid strong caramel and corn. A medium finish composed of returning corn and nutmeg flavors.

Boutique Napa Wineries Experience

Donated by:

Anomaly Vineyards, Arrow&Branch Napa Valley, Holly & Caleb Noel, Zeitgeist Cellars

Estimated Value: $2,375

1. 2019 Anomaly Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley, 1.5L

The 2019 Anomaly Cabernet Sauvignon is a perfect reflection of the vintage in Napa. It has bold waves of fruit on the nose; cleanly accented with notes of orange peel, sweet cream, and subtle hints of licorice. The palate is textural, reminiscent of a complex compote with a multitude of married flavors such as fresh baked bread, dark cherry, violet candy, and hazelnut. The entry is luscious and velvety, with integrated tannins that frame the wine nicely and coat the palate softly.

2. Anomaly Vineyards Napa Valley Tasting for Four Guests

3. 2016 Zeitgeist Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Sleeping Lady Vineyard, 1.5L Rated 96 by Robert Parker

The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon is a blend of 92% Cabernet Sauvignon and 8% Cabernet Franc from the Sleeping Lady vineyard (Yountville), Oakville Station vineyard (Oakville), Lewelling vineyard (St. Helena) and Farella vineyard (Coombsville). Deep garnet-purple, it opens with expressive red and black cherries, wild blueberries and lavender with hints of chocolate box and menthol. The palate is full, rich, concentrated, firm and plush with loads of fruit and floral layers, finishing long.

4. Zeitgeist Cellars Tasting for Four Guests with Winemaker Mark Poremski.

Tasting for 4 to occur in Napa County, CA and to be redeemed on a mutually agreeable date with at least 30 days notice and outside the calendar dates of Aug 15 through Oct 31, 2023. Expires in December of 2023.

5. 2017 Arrow & Branch Black Label Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley, 1.5L Rated 93 by Robert Parker

The 2017 Black Label Cabernet is full-bodied, layered with deep, dark fruit flavors, crushed-rock minerality, savory dried herbs, and finishes long with salted dark chocolate notes.

6. The Arrow & Branch 'Current Release' Experience for Four Guests

Premiere, Premier with Vice Versa Donated by:

Maura & Dan Sharp, Vice Versa Wines

Estimated Value: $1,600

Head to St. Helena in style. Join Vice Versa proprietor, Samantha Breton and her husband on a VIP tasting. That's not it though. You and your guest will stay in the one bedroom detached guest house in Calistoga for a three night stay.

Tasting and three-night stay for two will be scheduled at a mutually agreeable time and date for winner and host before November 2025. Wines will be delivered to winner's home following the event.

1. 2018 Vice Versa Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

Rated 95 by Jeb Dunnuck

There were 32 barrels of the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley produced. It’s a great wine, offering fullbodied richness and depth in a rich, concentrated, satisfying package. Classic Cabernet notes of cassis, tobacco, and chocolate all emerge from the glass, and it has ripe tannins, no hard edges, and the purity that’s the hallmark of the vintage front and center. A blend of 97% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3% Petit Verdot, enjoy bottles any time over the coming 20 years or more.

2. 2019 Vice Versa Mysterons Cabernet Sauvignon

Rated 98 by Jeb Dunnuck

The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Mysterons is blend of the single vineyards that saw 18 months in new barrels. It’s another remarkable, borderline perfect wine that has an incredible nose of both red and black fruits as well as new leather, incense, espresso, and floral nuances. It’s a full-bodied, rich mouthful of a wine on the palate, yet it’s amazingly graceful, light on its feet, and balanced. It shows more and more structure and tannins with time in the glass and will benefit from at least 4-5 years of bottle age, but if you can hold it that long, you have more willpower than I do.

3. 2018 Vice Versa Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon

Rated 99 by Jeb Dunnuck

There are 12 barrels of the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Las Piedras, which is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon brought up in 90% new French oak. Dense purple/blue-colored, it has an extraordinary bouquet of crème de cassis, black raspberries, crushed flowers, candied violets, and loamy, rocky earth-like nuances. Massively textured, full-bodied, opulent, and seamless on the palate, this monster of a wine is just about pure perfection in a glass

Canyon Lake Getaway Weekend

Donated by:

Denise & Mike Silverman, Chef Jaime Chozet, The Leaning Pear

Estimated Value: 2,500

Enjoy a restful Hill Country weekend (4 days/3 nights) at a three-bedroom, three-bathroom ranch home on a large, quiet property in Canyon Lake, TX - just an hour drive from Austin. Relax in the hot tub, or in the cowboy pool. Enjoy cocktails while playing lawn games by the outdoor fireplace. The back deck has huge shade trees, and a top-notch grill. The house, owned by the Wine & Food Foundation's Executive Director, Denise Silverman, is a five-minute drive from the lake and can comfortably accommodate up to six guests.

Guests will also be treated to a pizza party courtesy of Chef Jaime Chozet. Chef Chozet will make homemade pizza in the property's outdoor wood-burning pizza oven for up to six guests.

And finally, The Leaning Pear restaurant - less than 20 minutes away from Canyon Lake in beautiful Wimberley, TX - has donated a $150 gift card to make this Hill Country getaway package complete.

This 4 Day/3 Night package must be scheduled in advance on mutually agreed dates with both the homeowner and chef before December 2023. Blackout dates may apply.

Sweet Surrender

Donated by:

Don Neville, Twin Liquors Fine Wine & Spirits

Estimated Value: $500

1. 2004 Hetszolo Tokaji Aszu, 500ml

Rated 93 by Wine Spectator

Concentrated and smooth, despite being on the lean side, sporting beeswax, spice, pineapple and lemon pie aromas and flavors. Picks up some mineral tones on the firm finish. Drink now through 2025. Concentrated and smooth, despite being on the lean side, sporting beeswax, spice, pineapple and lemon pie aromas and flavors. Picks up some mineral tones on the firm finish. Drink now through 2025.

2. 2005 Chateau Guiraud

Rated 97 by James Suckling

This appears to be the synthesis of the fabulous 2001 and 2003. It shows wonderful aromas of botrytis spice, honey and citrus rind. Lots of fruit with a tropical fruit undertone of mango and papaya on the palate. Intense finish. Too excellent not to drink.

3. 2005 Chateau Rieussec

Rated 97 by Robert Parker

The 2005 Rieussec is a blend of 90% Semillon, 8% Sauvignon Blanc and 2% Muscadelle picked between 23 September and 27 October. It has a fabulous bouquet that is mineral-rich and tensile. The palate repeats its performance from last year: focused, tense, laden with botrytis-rich fruit with a crystalline and sorbet-fresh finish that seals the deal. One of the best releases from the estate in recent years.

4. 2011 Château Suduiraut, 375ml

Rated 93 by Wine Enthusiast

Very fresh and strongly fruity, with just the right amount of dry botrytis, this is already approachable. However that botrytis does promise aging, with peach and ripe orange flavors pushing forward. Drink this attractive wine from 2019.

5. 2013 Far Niente Dolce Late Harvest, 375ml

Rated 92 by Cellar Tracker

The 2013 Dolce offers lifted and youthful aromas of orange zest, vanilla bean and butterscotch with subtle notes of minerality and oak-derived spices. The entry is juicy, and Dolce’s signature texture is lively and enduring on the palate leading to a mouthwatering finish. Flavors of orange, pear and dried apricot mingle together with rich caramel notes and hints of minerals that make this vintage a delicious expression of the season’s exceptional ripeness.

6. 2019 Inniskillin Ice Riesling, 375ml

Rated 92 by Wine Enthusiast

This Riesling Icewine offers sweet, honeyed flavors of apple sauce and peach pie, with accents of candied apricots and dried papaya. The acids balance out the sugar, which is finished at 230 g/L.

Casanova di Neri

Donated by: Kaycee & Justin Sanders

Estimated Value: $1,455

1. 2009 Casanova di Neri - Brunello di Montalcino, Tuscany, Italy

Rated 94 by Robert Parker

This vintage marks a stylistic shift in this retrospective. The 2009 Brunello di Montalcino Tenuta Nuova proudly demonstrates a level of energetic brightness and crispness that you taste with unquestioned intensity here. This quality is buried in most of the previous editions of Tenuta Nuova. This vintage in particular exhibits ripe fruit with blackberry, prune and plum. But the mouthfeel is anything but heavy or flat. Instead, it shows buoyancy and verve.

2. 2009 Casanova di Neri - Brunello di Montalcino, Tenuta Nuova, Tuscany, Italy

Rated 90 by Robert Parker

From vineyards in the southern part of the appellation, the 2009 Brunello di Montalcino Tenuta Nuova does show some of the hallmarks of the warm vintage. Compared to the base Brunello, the aromas here are slightly less delineated and you do get whiffs of overtly ripe raspberry and blackberry that intermingle with exotic tones of Asian spice, licorice and incense. In the mouth, the wine's fabric is lush and rich with sweet tannins and opulent consistency.

3. 2010 Casanova di Neri - Brunello di Montalcino, Tuscany, Italy

Rated 96 by James Suckling

Gorgeous aromas of sea salt, savory, smoked meats and dried fruits follow through to a full body with fine tannins and a long, intense finish. So beautiful and enticing. Goes on for minutes. Excellent quality for the standard bottling of this winery.

4. 2010 Casanova di Neri - Brunello di Montalcino, Tenuta Nuova, Tuscany, Italy

Rated 100 by Robert Parker

This is a gorgeous wine. The 2010 Brunello di Montalcino Tenuta Nuova is just as impressive now as when I first tasted it three years ago. The only edit I would make to my original 100-point review is an extension to the drinking window. The bouquet is absolutely seamless, yet it shows pencil-point precision with dark fruit that flows into spice, tobacco and crushed mineral. The wine's aromatic intensity is forthright and compelling, as is the polished and fine nature of the mouthfeel. This is a cellar keeper.

5. 2011 Casanova di Neri - Brunello di Montalcino, Tuscany, Italy

Rated 96 by Robert Parker

The 2011 Brunello di Montalcino is plump and juicy with loads of dark fruit and mild spice at the back. It doesn't have the depth or complexity of the gorgeous 2010 vintage, but the wine does a very good job presenting the main traits you look for in Brunello. The fruit is lively and the acidity gives the wine a sense of buoyancy and brightness. The tannins are very well integrated.

6. 2011 Casanova di Neri - Brunello di Montalcino, Tenuta Nuova, Tuscany, Italy

Rated 95 by Robert Parker

The 2011 'Tenuta Nuova' opens with alluring aromas of ripe blackberries and dark currant woven together with both sweet and exotic spices, floral and hints of leather. This possesses a full, rich and velvety texture with remarkable balance of ripe fruit and acidity. It continues to impress with wonderful focus and depth as leads into the long, expansive finish.

7. 2012 Casanova di Neri - Brunello di Montalcino, Tuscany, Italy

Rated 95 by Wine Spectator

Effusive aromas and flavors of raspberry, cherry, floral, mineral and tobacco are at the center of this linear, vibrant red. Well-structured, this offers terrific length on the sinewy finish. Best from 2020 through 2035. *#4 of the Top 100 Wines of 2017*

8. 2012 Casanova di Neri - Brunello di Montalcino, Tenuta Nuova, Tuscany, Italy

Rated 96 by Robert Parker

This edition of Casanova di Neri's celebrated single-vineyard wine opens to a luminous garnet color and exuberant fruit aromas. The 2012 Brunello di Montalcino Tenuta Nuova offers a lot to the bouquet, from sweet cherry aromas to savory tones of tobacco and leather. This wine shows a powerful inner motor of flavor concentration and density that propels it forward. All that density and richness wraps thickly over the palate. This is a lasting wine of brawn and muscle.

9. 2013 Casanova di Neri - Brunello di Montalcino, Tuscany, Italy

Rated 93 by Robert Parker

Luminous deep red. Captivating aromas of sweet red berries, cinnamon, violet and licorice. Then also very fruity in the mouth; refined, juicy red plum and raspberry flavors linger brightly on the fresh back end. Has a delightful red fruit cocktail quality that makes it practically impossible to put the glass back down. And though it is simply bursting at the seams with early appeal, this truly lovely Brunello will also age well

10. 2013 Casanova di Neri - Brunello di Montalcino, Tenuta Nuova, Tuscany, Italy

Rated 97 by Robert Parker

A vivid and bright red with intense blueberries and raspberries. Floral undertones and tons of citrus, too! Fullbodied, dense and layered. Polished tannins and fantastic fruit. The muscularity of the structure is what gives this wine focus and intensity. So serious for the vintage. Give it time to show its greatness.

11. 2015 Casanova di Neri - Brunello di Montalcino, Tuscany, Italy

Rated 94 by Robert Parker

There’s beauty and drinkability to this wine that really is enticing with blueberry and cherry aromas, as well as hints of hot stone and licorice. Medium to full body, integrated tannins and a fresh and polished finish. Shows focus and brightness.

12. 2015 Casanova di Neri - Brunello di Montalcino, Tenuta Nuova , Tuscany, Italy

Rated 98 by Robert Parker

The purity of fruit in this wine really strikes you with black cherries, combined with sage, lavender and rosemary. Extremely aromatic. Full-bodied, yet so tight and polished with incredible tannin structure that gives the wine an endless mouth feel of caressing tannins, acidity and fruit. There's a fabulous saltiness and oyster-shell undertone to the fruit. Unique. Drinkable already, but this year there's the structure to last decades.

Ready to Drink

Donated by:

Maria & Daniel Bleier, Joan & Paul Mims, Holly & Caleb Noel, Denise & Mike Silverman, Amanda & Andrew West

Estimated Value: $1,000

1. 1995 Alejandro Fernández Ribera del Duero Tinto Pesquera Tempranillo

Rated 94 by Robert Parker

A Spanish red of brute force, this powerful wine shows a deep color, ripe aromas of plum and prune and plenty of chocolate and toasty oak flavors. Full-bodied and packed with ripe tannins, it's a muscular wine of good pedigree that should develop well. *Cellar Selection*

2. 1995 Domaine Lucien Barrot et Fils Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Rhone, France

Rated 92 by Cellar Tracker

Translucent, medium garnet. Nose has very earthy mushroom, grilled meat, some tobacco, vanilla and dark fruit. Decent remaining acidity, so it doesn't taste tired at all. Lovely, rich mouth feel. A melange of mixed dark fruits, earthy mushroom and meat...just delicious. Moderately long finish.

3. 1998 Falesco Lazio Montiano Merlot

Rated 94 by Robert Parker

Cotarella's flagship wine, his 100% Merlot called Montiano, is aged in 100% new oak casks for 12 months, and bottled with neither fining nor filtration. The terrific opaque purple-colored 1998 Montiano exhibits a spectacular bouquet of black cherry liqueur, licorice, and toasty vanillin. The wine explodes on the palate, offering copious quantities of glycerin, cassis, black cherries, and blackberries. As it sits in the glass, aromas and flavors of melted chocolate and toasty oak emerge. The finish lasts for 40+ seconds. This 1998 should drink well for 10-15 years. Bravo!

4. 1998 Vignobles Mayard Châteauneuf-du-Pape La Crau de ma Mère

Rated 92 by Robert Parker

Of this producer's three excellent special cuvée, this Grenache-Syrah-Mourvèdre blend is the most exuberantly perfumed. Fermented in concrete and matured in foudre, it's intently focused on pure, brilliant blackberry and raspberry flavors. A luxurious, glossy sip that sweeps the palate with plumes of silky, supple tannins. Delicious already but powerful enough to enjoy well past 2030.

5. 2000 Chateau les Hauts-Conseillants

Rated 92 by Cellar Tracker

A fresh, vibrant nose of wild strawberry, cherry and crushed stone with good delineation and vivacity. A mediumbodied palate with tensile tannins. The angular entry gives way to fresh, pure fruit and proper weight on the crisp, taut finish.

6. 2005 Noon Eclipse, Australia, Grenache Blend

Rated 95 by Robert Parker

The 2005 Eclipse was aged in a mix of French and American oak, small and large, for 18 months. Composed of 65% Grenache and 35% Shiraz ranging in age from 40-70 years, it offers up a sublime perfume of garrigue, scorched earth, lavender, licorice, black cherry, and black raspberry. Full-bodied yet elegant, this succulent, sweet, layered blend has gobs of spicy blueberry, kirsch, and black fruit flavors, great balance, and a 60-second finish. Drink it now and over the next 15-20 years.

7. 2009 La Pèira en Damaisèla Terrasses du Larzac La Pèira, Rhone Blend

Rated 97 by Wine Spectator

I tasted on this occasion the 2009 Coteaux du Languedoc Terrasses du Larzac La Peira -- roughly two-thirds Syrah, one-third Grenache -- in both its (pre-) assemblage and as individual components. Bursting with heady, lilaclike sweet floral perfume that could be traced to its Grenache, along with liqueur-like cassis and black raspberry, this expands thrillingly on a viscous, subtly creamy yet persistently vibrant, juicy, and buoyant palate, with fresh ginger, nutmeg, and licorice adding complex spice and a Syrah-induced savor akin to salted roasted meat pan drippings serving for an umami rating approaching three digits on a hundred-point scale. An attractively rich undertone of chocolate is apt to recede slightly once this acquires its modest pre-bottling dosage of sulfur.

This dynamic show should be worth following for the better part of a decade. (The raw materials for the 2010 La Peira were similarly – well, to clarify, actually quite distinctly – sensational.)

8. 2009 Rudius Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

Rated 91 by Wine Spectator

Pure and rich, featuring vivid dark berry, mocha, dried herb, cedar, black licorice and subtle mint notes. Firms nicely, offering a deep and supple texture, with a long, lingering finish.

9. 2010 Pinot Noir Willamette Valley Domaine Serene Evenstad Reserve

Rated 95 by Wine Spectator

A vibrant, focused and deliciously complex red, offering raspberry, cherry, cinnamon, mocha and subtle sage notes rolling through the long and expressive finish. Deft. *Highly Recommended, Ranked #3 Wine Spectator

Top 100 of 2013*

10. 2011 San Pedro Kankana del Elqui Solar No 10 Syrah

Rated 91 by Robert Parker

Amazing and incredibly good Vino: Red, Big, Bold, Rich and Intense 14% ABV Syrah with an exuberant personality. Aromas of blackberry, blueberry and dark olives play nicely on the nose. On the palate slightly oaky with graphite mineral notes; the mouth is succulent, its maturity fills with creamy dark chocolate. All combining in rewarding the senses with impeccable delicious tastefulness and a satisfying delicate finish! Extraordinario!!

11. 2012 Reynvaan Family Vineyards Syrah The Contender

Rated 98 by Robert Parker

The 2012 Contender is just another incredible effort from this estate. A big, full-bodied, layered, decadent and exotic Syrah, it gives up loads of blackberry, plum, earth, cracked pepper and assorted bacon/meaty qualities that continue to change and evolve in the glass. Incorporating 3% Marsanne, it has the texture and balance to shine on release, yet will have no problems over the following decade either.

12. 2020 Corazon del Sol Revana Vineyard Padma Grenache Rosé

Rated 92 by Cellar Tracker

Limited production of 4,000 bottles from our single acre of Grenache planted in the high elevation and stone covered area of Los Chacayes. The bespoke bottles were created for what has become South America’s most celebrated and most sought after bottle of Rosé.

Wine & Food Foundation Presidents of Past, Present, & Future

Donated by:

Pat Conroy, Amber Pearce, Stephanie Simpson, Jerry Valdez

Estimated Value: $1,100

5. 2013 Odette Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, California

Rated 95 by Robert Parker

The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate exhibits graphite, blackberry and cassis, chocolate and a touch of mineral in a full-bodied, layered and impressively pure style. It’s a big wine for Stags Leap (15.4% alcohol), but gorgeously pure, with everything well-knit into a sensational equilibrium. This is only a baby, but promises to hit its peak in 7-10 years and last 25-30.

2. 2013 Ornellaia Bolgheri Superiore

Rated 98 by James Suckling

Amazing graphite and violet aromas with dark fruits. Medium to full body, ultra-velvety tannins and a long and beautiful finish. Formed and tight. I love the fresh ginger underneath it all. This has a cool profile to the wine. So approachable yet this has wonderful length.

3. 2016 Hartford Court Chardonnay Stone Côte

Rated 97 by Jeb Dunnuck

Another heavenly Chardonnay is the 2016 Chardonnay Stone Côte Vineyard, which comes from a single block in the Durell Vineyard, on the Sonoma Coast. Fermented and aged in 30% new barrels, bottle unfined and unfiltered, it offers a huge bouquet of caramelized lemons, pineapple, hazelnuts, and white flowers, with just a kiss of toasty oak in the background. Made in a richer, more powerful style, it nevertheless has beautiful acidity, a fresh, focused texture, obvious minerality, and a great finish. Count yourself lucky if you have some of this in the cellar. It should continue drinking brilliantly for another 6-7 years and keep even longer in cool cellars.

4. 2014 Le Reve Blanc de Blancs, Domaine Carneros, California

Rated 94 by Wine Enthusiast

From estate-grown grapes and aged seven years in bottle, this lovely sparkler is high-toned, floral and earthy. Dry, and impressively structured, it has an inviting richness of apple, lemon and melon on the midpalate that evolves to a crispness of oyster shell and wet stone.

5. 2015 Haber Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain

Rated 90 by Wine Enthusiast

From a low-yield year, this is a spicy, herbal and tension-filled wine has good build and breadth, with brooding elements of black cherry, blackberry and dark chocolate. The tannin and oak are well integrated, with youthful grip and concentration.

6. 2019 Fidelitas Red Mountain Malbec

Rated 88 by Wine Enthusiast

The aromas bring a mixture of freshly peeled satsuma, peppery spice, flower, herb, cigar box, plum and stem. Lighter-styled orange rind and plum flavors follow, with citrus notes lingering on the finish. The fruit doesn't seem to have fully ripened.

7. 2019 Saxum - James Berry Vineyard

Rated 98 by Wine Spectator

A powerhouse wine, deeply structured and a bit decadent, but not weighty. Plump with personality, this reveals bold blackberry, garrigue, dusky spices and smoked pepper tones, building richness on the long, polished finish. *Highly Recommended*

8. 2019 Saxum - James Berry Vineyard

Rated 98 by Wine Spectator

A powerhouse wine, deeply structured and a bit decadent, but not weighty. Plump with personality, this reveals bold blackberry, garrigue, dusky spices and smoked pepper tones, building richness on the long, polished finish. *Highly Recommended*

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