95 to 99 Points - Vinrare - Buy Fine Wine Online - Fine Wines International

1982 La Mission Haut Brion (750ml)

$1,540.00

Robert Parker 100

The greatest La Mission Haut Brion made between the 1975 and 1989, the 1982 is, stylistically, a dead-ringer for the ethereal 1959. One of the most massive wines of the vintage, it remains an adolescent in terms of evolution, but it can be drunk with great pleasure if it is decanted 2-3 hours in advance. A thick, unctuously-textured wine with massive richness as well as abundant notes of black fruits, truffles, creosote, scorched earth, smoke, and camphor, a colossal mouthfeel, a layered texture, incredible depth of fruit and glycerin, and copious, but well-integrated tannins that are largely concealed by the incredible amount of fruit. An old school La Mission, it is a tour de force that should continue to age effortlessly for another 40+ years. A monumental wine! June 2009

Wine Spectator 97

"Herculean in structure, this has an extraordinary amount of fruit and tannins. The last vintage from the Woltners. Super-earthy and fruity, with great structure. Don`t touch for years; try in 1998 to 2000." --1982 Bordeaux horizontal.

Steve Tanzer's International Wine Cellar 95

"Good full medium red. Exotic yet lively aromas of roasted plum, marzipan and grilled nuts. Wonderfully dense but sappy, with grip of steel. Finishes powerfully tannic and extremely long, still with a touch of youthful austerity. A very impressive showing. Drink 2005 to 2025. (My second bottle was equally impressive but came across as even more backward and dominated by its structure.)"

Neil Martin, Wine Journal, eRobert Parker 94

Tasted at the La Mission/Haut-Brion dinner at The Ledbury. Though the La Mission ?82 was out-classed by the ?78, this remains a lovely La Mission probably in the middle of its plateau. This bottle has a warm, voluptuous, still Pomerol-like bouquet with touches of espresso and a stronger mint aroma than encountered on other bottles. The palate has a gentle but insistent grip and is very well balanced with cedar, sandalwood and dried blood inflecting the black fruit on the dense, quite rounded, generous finish. Lovely. Drink now-2020. Tasted September 2010.

1982 Petrus (1.5L)

$11,950.00

Robert Parker 98

"The 1982 Petrus, while never quite living up to my predictions from cask (I thought it to be a perfect wine), is still a colossal Petrus, exhibiting a backward, sweet, expansive nose of ripe fruit, Provencal herbs, chocolate, and spice. Full-bodied, tannic, and super-concentrated, this wine requires another 5-8 years of cellaring. It should keep for 25-30+ years."

Wine Spectator 96

"Dark ruby garnet. Intense tobacco, cedar, berry and blackberry. Full-bodied, silky, firm and fresh. Long. A beauty. One of the best bottles I have ever had."

Neil Martin, Wine Journal, eRobert Parker 95

Tasted at ?Fook Lam Moon? in Hong Kong. This is the best bottle of Petrus 1982 that I have encountered (off the top of my head, this is the fourth.) It has a lifted nose of vibrant red fruit, a little plum, cedar and a hint of dried meats that I have not encountered before. It shimmers with delight. The palate is superbly balanced with perfect acidity, gentle but insistent grip with a silky, almost tart, quite primal finish. Very long in the mouth, this is an exquisite Pomerol, but I have to say, out-classed by the Lafleur 1982 tasted alongside. Tasted November 2011.

1983 Cheval Blanc (750ml)

$645.00

Robert Parker 95

"A classic example of Cheval Blanc's style, the 1983 continues to put on weight and develop favorably in the bottle. A saturated dark ruby color with some faint lightening at the edges exhibits less age than most right bank 1983s. The huge nose of mint, jammy black fruits, chocolate, and coffee is sensational, as well as surprisingly well-developed. The wine offers lusty, rich, unctuous fruit presented in a medium to full-bodied, low acid, concentrated, rather hedonistic style. There are no hard edges to be found, but there is plenty of tannin in the lush finish. Gorgeous for drinking now, this is a great Cheval Blanc that should continue to drink well, and possibly improve for another 20 years. The 1983 is far superior to anything Cheval Blanc has subsequently produced. It remains somewhat undervalued for its quality." Last tasted 12/97

Wine Spectator 96

A giant of a wine. The complex aromas and thickly textured flavors range from plum and raisin to coffee, minerals and mint. Not so elegant as a typical Cheval; more in the mold of the powerful '47 and legendary '21. Drink or hold.--Cheval-Blanc vertical.

Neil Martin, Wine Journal, eRobert Parker 96

Tasted single blind at the Fine Wine Experience horizontal in London. A deep garnet core. A very well defined, herbaceous nose, with tobacco, chestnut, savoury fruit and a touch of dates. Quite complex and with very good vigour, the Cabernet Franc right in the (slightly bretty?) saddle. After thirty minutes, a lovely menthol character coming through. The palate is medium-bodied, very well balanced with fine tannins and superb acidity. Very well poised with great tension. Pure blackberry, raspberry, Chinese tea, tobacco and dried leaves. Lovely, elegant, very focused finish. Superb Cheval, multi-faceted if not as sophisticated as the ?85. Tasted October 2008.

1985 Fonseca (750ml)

$124.00

Robert Parker 90

Fonseca is one of the great port lodges, producing the most exotic and most complex port. If Fonseca lacks the sheer weight and power of a Taylor, Dow or Warre, or the opulent sweetness and intensity of a Graham, it excels in its magnificently complex, intense bouquet of plummy, cedary, spicy fruit and long, broad, expansive flavors. With its lush, seductive character, one might call it the Pomerol of Vintage ports. When it is young, it often loses out in blind tastings to the heavier, weightier, more tannic wines, but I always find myself upgrading my opinion of Fonseca after it has had 7-10 years of age. The 1985 looks to be one of the top successes of the vintage, yet I believe both the superb 1983 and the otherworldly 1977 are far superior. Dense ruby/purple with the Oriental spice-box aroma, the 1985 is an expansive, sweet, broadly flavored wine with outstanding depth, concentration, and balance. It finishes with a solid lashing of alcohol and tannin.

Wine Spectator 93

Very dark and youthful ruby-purple. Very intense aromas of blackberry and black licorice. Full-bodied and lightly sweet, with chewy tannins and a rich licorice, blackberry undertone. Still tight. Drinkable now, but it needs a few more years. '77/'85/'97

1986 Climens (750ml)

$180.00

Robert Parker 96

A totally compelling Climens and every bit as good as the 1988. It is probably the best Climens made since their spectacular 1971. Still light gold in color, it has an expansive bouquet of new oak, oranges, pineapples, and other tropical fruits. In the mouth, there is great richness that seems all the more impressive because of the wine's remarkable clarity and definition. There is as much botrytis in the 1986 as in the 1988. Despite the intensity and extract levels, this sweet wine comes across as crisp and relatively light. The 1986 is a stunning example of Climens at its very best.

1986 Margaux (750ml)

$1,080.00

Robert Parker 96

"The 1986 Margaux continues to be the most powerful, tannic, and muscular Margaux made in decades. One wonders if the 1928 or 1945 had as much power and depth as the 1986? The wine is mammoth, with extraordinary extract, superb balance, and a frightingly tannic finish. A Margaux of immense stature, it is made in a masculine, full-bodied style that is in complete contrast with the 1990. It should prove nearly immortal in terms of ageability."

Wine Spectator 98

"An absolute classic; incredibly concentrated, complex, elegant and firm without a hint of hardness. Layers of blackberry, cassis, plum, cedar, vanilla and spice, yet there is also a sense of reserve, indicating this has plenty of room to grow. Hold until 1995 to 2000."

1989 Louis Latour Batard Montachet (750ml)

$260.00

Robert Parker 96

Among Louis Latour's grands crus, the 1989 Batard-Montrachet is absolutely spectacular, a near perfect example of just how riveting Batard-Montrachet can be. Even though it is much more developed than the 1989 Corton-Charlemagne or 1989 Montrachet, it should last as long as either of them. The bouquet is bursting with flavors of oranges, smoky oak, toast, and butterscotch. In the mouth there is enormous richness, gobs of glycerin and extraction of flavor, and surprisingly high acidity in view of the wine's massiveness and extract levels. Drink this spectacular Batard-Montrachet over the next 10-15 years. This is an outstanding white burgundy by any standard of measurement. Don't miss it!

Allen Meadows, Burghound 92

A huge and enveloping nose of ripe orchard fruit and white flower aromas that are still largely primary in character leads to classic B�tard-like flavors as they're exceptionally powerful and extremely rich and long. This is impressive juice and while not the most elegant '89, this is really quite stylish and still on the way up.

1990 L`Evangile (750ml)

$335.00

Robert Parker 96

"..one of the great modern day l'Evangiles..the wine is exceptionally rich and full bodied, with admirable glycerin and thickness. The finish is full of sweet fruit, with wine's extact concealing moderate tannin. The 1990 is a fabulously pure rich l'Evangile to drink between the turn of the century and 2020."

Wine Spectator 95

Big and ripe. Dark ruby-garnet color. Berry, chocolate, plum aromas. Full-bodied, chewy, lots of tannins. Tight, muscular and concentrated.

Neil Martin, Wine Journal, eRobert Parker 93

Tasted at the Dynasty restaurant in Hong Kong. The Ch�teau l?Evangile 1990 continues to evolve at a glacial pace. This bottle is less open than the one back in 2008, more austere with a quasi-Pauillac-like bouquet at first: cedar and graphite eventually ebbing away to reveal dried herbs and Italian dried meats. The palate is medium-bodied and more tannic than I recall and unlike other 1990 Right Banks in that it is quite linear and symmetrical, eschewing those hot summer fruits that form the leitmotif of the vintage. As they say?moody bugger! Tasted November 2011.

1990 La Conseillante (750ml)

$385.00

Robert Parker 97

This deep ruby/garnet-hued 1990 reveals considerable amber at the edge as well as a knock-out bouquet of cedar, kirsch, licorice, roasted herbs, and spice box. An exuberant, atypically flamboyant effort, it possesses supple texture, medium to full body, sweet fruit, plenty of glycerin, and attractive melted tannin. This wine has been delicious since birth, but additional nuances continue to develop in the bottle. Drink it over the next decade. June, 2009

Wine Spectator 94

"The pure fruit in this wine shows the true personality of the estate. Enticing nutmeg, cinnamon and fruit aromas give way to rich, silky tannins. "

Neil Martin, Wine Journal, eRobert Parker 92

Tasted at the La Conseillante vertical at Chez Bruce. This has a lovely, sensual, rustic, ferrous bouquet with touches of creme de cassis and dried flowers, wafting fragrantly from the glass in a flowing cape of warm alcohol. The palate is medium-bodied with a very savoury, Cabernet Franc dominated entry, fine tannins, very well balanced with a tannic, ferrous finish the lingers beautifully with touches of sage and allspice. Lovely in an exotic way. Tasted December 2010.

1990 Leflaive Batard Montachet (750ml)

$595.00

Wine Spectator 95

A wine with laser-guided flavors. Intense pear, lemon, vanilla and coconut character. Great backbone and superb, fresh finish. Best after 1996

1990 Marcoux Chateauneuf du Pape Vielles Vignes (750ml)

$615.00

Robert Parker 96

The 1990 has been a consistently perfect wine for much of its life. However, it appears to have turned the corner and lost some of its most profound aspects. It is still an immortal Chateauneuf du Pape, with a dense ruby/purple color in addition to a gorgeous nose of licorice, white flowers, blueberries, and blackberries. The wine is heady, with high alcohol, an unctuous texture, and an extraordinary ripe, concentrated finish. However, some bottles tasted seem far older than others. I don't know whether it is a bottle variation problem or a question of improper storage. Nevertheless, pristine bottles remain candidates for perfection. Catherine and Sophie Armenier continue to fashion one of France's greatest wines. There are 750 cases produced from 80% Grenache, 10% Mourvedre, and 10% miscellaneous varietals.

1990 Roederer Cristal (750ml)

$390.00

Robert Parker 98

The Louis Roederer 1990 Cristal is awesome! A classic of power and finesse, richness and delicacy, it may be the greatest Cristal I have ever tasted!" The 1990 Louis Roederer Cristal Champagne is to die for. Dinner Tasting Oct, 2000

Wine Spectator 94

You won't soon forget this vivid and expressive Champagne. It packs in compound layers of citrus, vanilla, pear and nutmeg that harmonize and linger on the finish. Bright acidity makes it extra refreshing and layered.

Wine News 96

Powerful scents of toasted bread, pecan and ginger. Juicy flavors of Golden Delicious apple, Asian pear and quince. Soft acidity and touches of minerals and white peach in the delicate close.

1991 Vega Sicilia Unico (750ml)

$360.00

Robert Parker 95

The current release of Vega Sicilia�s flagship offering, the 1991 Unico Reserva, will have to satisfy lovers of this great Spanish red until the 1994 is released in 2005. The 1991 is a gorgeous, deep ruby/purple-colored, remarkably youthful effort offering sweet vanilla notes intertwined with black currants, cherry liqueur, flowers, spice box, and tobacco leaves. Full-bodied and intense, with sweet tannin, outstanding density as well as purity, and a layered mouthfeel, this unevolved 1991 needs another 3-4 years of cellaring; it should last for 20-25 years. It�s a wine of great elegance as opposed to power.

1995 Bollinger R.D. (750ml)

$220.00

Wine Spectator 95

A dry, oxidative style, with wholegrain bread, ginger, roasted hazelnut and yeast notes lending complexity. Its structure comes into relief due to the dryness, but overall this is balanced and well-integrated, with a very long finish and an expansive aftertaste. Ideal with seafood and rich sauces or game birds. Drink now through 2020.

Neil Martin, Wine Journal, eRobert Parker 93

Tasted at the Bollinger RD vertical in Paris. The 1995 RD has a more exotic nose than the 1996, perhaps more similar to the 1999 RD. It takes more time to unfurl, more introspective and delicate with touches of quince, litchi and mandarin. Good definition and focus. The palate is certainly more forward than the 1996 RD, but it has a beautiful entry with subtle honey notes, dried apricot, a touch of yeast, perhaps a finer thread of acidity that renders this a more elegant RD than the 1996, but not with the same sense of thrust and power and just a tad drier towards the finish. I would be drinking this now, but would cellar the 1996. Tasted July 2011.

1995 Bollinger R.D. (1.5L)

$490.00

Wine Spectator 95

A dry, oxidative style, with wholegrain bread, ginger, roasted hazelnut and yeast notes lending complexity. Its structure comes into relief due to the dryness, but overall this is balanced and well-integrated, with a very long finish and an expansive aftertaste. Ideal with seafood and rich sauces or game birds. Drink now through 2020.

Neil Martin, Wine Journal, eRobert Parker 93

Tasted at the Bollinger RD vertical in Paris. The 1995 RD has a more exotic nose than the 1996, perhaps more similar to the 1999 RD. It takes more time to unfurl, more introspective and delicate with touches of quince, litchi and mandarin. Good definition and focus. The palate is certainly more forward than the 1996 RD, but it has a beautiful entry with subtle honey notes, dried apricot, a touch of yeast, perhaps a finer thread of acidity that renders this a more elegant RD than the 1996, but not with the same sense of thrust and power and just a tad drier towards the finish. I would be drinking this now, but would cellar the 1996. Tasted July 2011.

1995 Grange (750ml)

$360.00

Wine Spectator 97

A massive wine, majestic in its proportions,combining power and grace in equal measure. Flavors of plum, blackberry, chocolate and pepper, with hints of cedar, licorice and mint, swirl through the exotic finish. Tannins swarm but don't overwhelm the finish, which echoes all day and night.

Robert Parker 92

An impressive Grange that may ultimately prove to be underrated, like many wines from this vintage, the 1995, a blend of 94% Shiraz and 6% Cabernet Sauvignon, exhibits a saturated plum/purple color and a sweet blackberry liqueur nose intermixed with cassis, licorice, and new oak. The wine is textured, jammy, full-bodied, with impressive levels of extract, glycerin, and black fruit flavors. It is long, ripe, with unobtrusive acidity and tannin. Anticipated maturity: 2004-2018.

1995 Niellon Chevalier Montrachet (750ml)

$720.00

Wine Spectator 95

Shows great class. A superconcentrated wine, subtle and racy, its loads of mineral, wet stone, and vanilla-cream flavors both powerful and subtle. Remarkable harmony. Full-bodied and a pleasure to taste now, but clearly better after 2005

Allen Meadows, Burghound 95

A definite candidate for wine of the vintage with its superb fruit offering powerful mineral, limestone and intensely detailed citrus aromas followed by muscular, dense and incredibly long flavors of remarkable complexity. The purity this displays rivals that of the spectacular 96 though the tactile impression is quite different between the two wines. More than a few Burgundy lovers believe that the B�tard is Niellon's best wine but for my money and taste preferences, the Chevalier is the clear class of this cellar.

1995 Roederer Cristal (1.5L)

$700.00

Steve Tanzer's International Wine Cellar 93+

Very strong mousse. Deep, yeasty aromas dominated by toffee, butterscotch and toast. Quite powerful but already harmonious, with real thickness of flavor and oily extract leavened by ripe acidity. Very fresh in the mouth, with very ripe hints of yellow fruits and strawberry complicated by leesy and toasty flavors in the background. A large-scaled, extremely backward wine that should develop for a decade or two in bottle. This is looking like a great vintage for both Cristal Brut and Rose.

Wine News 95

Appealing scents of lemon, vanilla and gingerbread. Creamy flavors of lemon custard, vanilla cream and Golden Delicious apple. Rich and round with supple notes of orange and cream in the soft close.

1995 Royal Tokaji ,Tokaji Aszu 6 Puttonyos Mezes Maly (500ml)

$190.00

FineWine International

One of the Great First Growths in Tokaji, the vineyard in on a south-facing slope. Deep loess soil produces wines with great elegance and finess, which are also supremely honeyed; the name in fact translates as honey pot. This single vineyard grand cru offering is loaded with apricot and exotic aromas and flavors all beautifully balanced with a firm acidity that keeps the wine from being cloying. Very impressive.

Wine Spectator 92

Rich and creamy up front, exhibiting caramel, coconut, spice and orange flavors, then a wave of fresh acidity ushers in the refreshing finish. The aftertaste combines citrus and caramel. Drink now through 2010.

Wine & Spirits 97

Mezes Maly means "honey pot", which doesn't even begin to describe the intensity of this wine. Age has taken it into an unusual realm of flavors: leather, cedar, cigars, saffron, hay and roasted coffee are just a few of the scents it offers up. These continue on the palate, joined by fruit flavors of broiled pineapple and caramelized apple, and mineral notes of earth, resin and brine. Even at 11 years old, the acidity is so strong the wine feels like its vibrating, and it shows no sign of settling down.

1996 Shafer Hillside Select California (750ml)

$385.00

Robert Parker 98

"The 1996 Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select is one of the vintage's super-stars. Its opaque purple color is accompanied by super aromatics, immense body, great fruit extraction, superb purity and overall symmetry, as well as a 40+ second finish. Revealing exceptional intensity (but no heaviness) as well as perfectly integrated acidity, tannin, and alcohol, this fabulous Cabernet will drink wonderfully for three decades."

1997 Corino Barolo Vigna Vecchia (750ml)

$163.00

Robert Parker 95

The explosive Barolo Giachini Veccia Vigne (200 cases) is similarly-styled, with additional levels of glycerin and flavor. The plum/garnet color is accompanied by an awesomely layered texture, great purity, abundant quantities of fruit, and complex aromatics as well as flavors.

Steve Tanzer's International Wine Cellar 94

Full deep red. Superrich, profound aromas of cherry/berry liqueur, camphor and nutmeg. Wonderfully rich and deep for the vintage, with compelling sweetness and inner-mouth floral perfume. Solid yet vibrant and light on its feet. Finishes with dusty but very even tannins and superb persistence. A star of the vintage.

Wine Spectator 93

A fruit-forward Barolo, with plenty there. Well-balanced. Loads of cinnamon and red fruits on the nose. Full-bodied, with super fine tannins and a super long finish. Best after 2006.

1997 Giacosa Barbaresco Rabaja (750ml)

$285.00

Robert Parker 96

Giacosa's 1997 Barbaresco Rabaja boasts a fabulous nose of caramel, soy, herbs, black cherries, plums, and kirsch. Dense and full-bodied, with a spectacular, silky texture, gobs of glycerin, and a layered, multidimensional palate, it is immensely satisfying from both hedonistic and intellectual perspectives. Anticipated maturity: 2002-2020.

1997 Justin Isoscles California (750ml)

$98.00

Wine Spectator 95

Absolutely delicious, this blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (mostly), Cabernet Franc and Merlot is brimming with ripe and juicy currant, blackcherry, wild berry, plum and anise flavors that are complex, deep and polished. Finishes long and flavorful. Best from 2002 through 2012.

Steve Tanzer's International Wine Cellar 91

Saturated ruby-red. Explosively ripe aromas of cassis essence, plum, licorice, and smoky, tarry oak. Lush, fat and stuffed with spicy cassis fruit, nicely framed by lively acids and sexy oak. This has a terrific core of fruit and impressive verve. Finishes firm, ripe and young.

1997 Mondavi Reserve California (750ml)

$125.00

Robert Parker 95

"The profound 1997 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve boasts a saturated ruby/purple color. Production (about 20,000 cases) of this sweet, opulently-textured, rich, full-bodied wine should guarantee widespread availability. Aged in 100% new French oak, this blend of 91% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Cabernet Franc, and 1% Petit Verdot offers a textbook varietal nose of cedar wood, licorice, creme de cassis, and pain grille. Full-bodied, with explosive sweetness and fruit on the attack, this gloriously pure, superbly well-delineated wine should be drinkable young, and last for 3 decades. Anticipated maturity: 2002-2025."

Wine Spectator 93

"Packed with currant, black cherry, plum, cedar and spice nuances, finishing long and complete, this Mondavi reserve is a dark, immense, deeply concentrated and sharply focused red."

Steve Tanzer's International Wine Cellar 93+

Very good deep ruby-red. Superripe aromas of crystallized red berries, cassis, graphite and grilled nuts. Lush, sweet and minerally; already displays compelling inner-mouth complexity and superb delineation. Youthful fruit flavors show less of the meaty quality that characterized some recent vintages of this wine. Very strong underlying backbone. The wine's lovely sweetness carries through to the very long finish, which features dusty, even tannins.

1997 Peter Michael Les Pavots California (750ml)

$168.00

Robert Parker 96

The last two vintages of the proprietary red wine called Les Pavots have been spectacular. The 1997 Les Pavots (79% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Merlot, and 9% Cabernet Franc) possesses a hefty 14.5% alcohol. Nevertheless, there is no sense of overweight or flabbiness to this brilliant, Bordeaux-styled blend..The 1997's saturated black/purple color is followed by a gorgeously perfumed nose of licorice, cassis, sweet foresty scents, and toasty new oak. On the palate, the wine offers licorice, black currant jam, and notes of a woodfired oven. Dense, full-bodied, and huge, with superb purity, it performed amazingly well for having been bottled several months earlier.

1997 Sandrone Barolo Cannubi Boschis (750ml)

$235.00

Robert Parker 96

The prodigious 1997 Barolo Cannubi Boschis possesses a dark saturated garnet color. The sweet nose of black fruits, minerals, scorched earth, smoke, dried herbs, and wet stones is stunning. Amazingly concentrated, with tremendous unctuousity yet superb delineation, this large-scaled as well as elegant Barolo possesses fabulous extract as well as a multidimensional mid-palate and finish. It is an amazing effort!

1997 Schramsberg Reserve California (750ml)

$72.00

Wine Spectator 91

Austere, but with a tight, focused beam of spicy pear, ginger and creamy vanilla, all folding together nicely, gaining complexity and nuance, with a long, elegant creamy-textured finish.

Wine Enthusiast 95

Most Americans don't think to age sparkling wine, but this is one for the long-term cellar. It's very good now and will eventually become great. Still very young at six-plus years, it brims with fresh citrusy acids, and is very dry. There's a great undertow of lush peach fruit, vanilla, bread dough and smoke that fades into a long finish. Defines elegance and class.

1998 Boillot, Jean Marc Batard Montachet (750ml)

$225.00

Wine Spectator 97

Amazing mouthfeel to this ultrarich and super silky white Burgundy. Full-bodied, it displays loads of personality, with floral, dried apricot, perfume,late-harvest like notes, and the texture is to die for, as this balanced beauty curls around thepalate and ends with honeyed opulence. Drink now through 2015. 80 cases made.

1998 Cheval Blanc (750ml)

$925.00

Wine Spectator 98

"Subtle, complex and refined, with aromas of cherry, licorice, mineral, berry and other sweet, ripe fruit. Full-bodied, compacted, with fine, silky tannins. Long finish."

Steve Tanzer's International Wine Cellar 95

"Full, bright medium ruby. Nose shows an almost liqueur-like ripeness, along with notes of bitter chocolate and menthol; a great expression of ripe but youthfully unevolved cabernet franc. Extremely dense and pure but still quite tight and showing a minty austerity. Wonderful acids give the wine superb clarity of flavor. This will require another decade to unfold. Finishes impressively persistent and juicy. Drink 2010 through 2030."

Neil Martin, Wine Journal, eRobert Parker 98

Slightly light in colour than Ausone 1998 with a little more maturity on the rim. The nose is more extrovert than Ausone, opulent and fleshy, not dissimilar to a more cultured version of the La Mondotte. It develops further nuances of sloes and black plum with ten minutes in the glass. The palate is very impressive: wonderful structure, a forceful assertive Cheval Blanc with a tad more weight and depth than Ausone. Very harmonious on the finish, the merlot dominating, although you can tell that the Cabernet Franc is lurking in the sidelines waiting to take over from 2010. A great Cheval Blanc fulfilling all its initial promise. Tasted March 2008.

Robert Parker 93

This blend of 55% Cabernet Franc and 45% Merlot exhibits a dark ruby/purple color as well as classic aromas of menthol, plums, mulberries, and assorted black fruits. The oak, texture, acidity, and tannin are all beautifully integrated. While full-bodied, elegant, concentrated, and impeccably balanced, it requires several years of cellaring. Anticipated maturity: 2004-2020.

Steve Tanzer's International Wine Cellar 98

Enticing nose offers minty blackcurrant, rose petal, cedar, and red cherry liqueur aromas. Then rich, suave and dense in the mouth, with voluptuous red cherry, raspberry, mineral and cocoa flavors complicated by tobacco and flinty nuances. The finish is smoothly tannic and extremely long, with a strong mineral nuance and just a hint of phenolic dryness. An extremely refined Cheval Blanc, exhibiting impeccable balance and breed; very cabernet franc-dominated and hence very Cheval Blanc. The year was memorable for a bout of frost on May 29 that sharply reduced crop levels; the summer started hot, then turned cool, but temperatures warmed up again during a magnificent September. The harvest took place from September 18 to 27. Only 160 barriques were made from a freakishly low yield. I have encountered bottle variation with the 1961 Cheval Blanc, which I've tasted 11 times through the years, but this particular bottle was pretty unforgettable. Dan Agata

1998 Clarendon Hills Astralis (750ml)

$260.00

Robert Parker 98

Just beginning to emerge from a relatively dormant state, this prodigious wine was showing the best it has yet performed., suggesting again that Clarendon Hills wines behave more like European wines in terms of needing time in the bottle. The saturated blue/purple color offers up notes of ripe black fruits intermixed with graphite, vanilla, mineral, and spice. Extremely thick, with a viscous texture, good underlying tannin and acidity, and fabulous length (nearly 50 seconds), this is certainly a prodigious effort that is now living up to the fame and extraordinary quality of this vintage. Nevertheless, I thought the wine needed about five years of cellaring two years ago, but now I tend to think it needs at least another 5-7 years of cellaring before it will begin to become an adolescent. It is a majestic, multi-dimensional, individualistic wine that certainly is world-class and undoubtedly profound. Anticipated maturity: 2007-2030.

Wine Spectator 93

"Deep, dark and dense, a powerfully concentrated mouthful of cherry, blackberry, plum and exotic spice flavors that linger on the beautifully crafted finish. Stylish and graceful, it also has power."

1998 Jaboulet Hermitage La Chapelle (750ml)

$109.00

Robert Parker 90-92

Soft and precocious is the 1998. Its deep ruby/purple color is followed by a ripe blackberry and cassis-scented nose that has not yet begun to take on the secondary nuances of leather, dried herbs, and foresty notes. A full-bodied wine, it has a sweet attack, high tannin, and excellent concentration and purity. If my instincts are right, it will require 6-8 years of bottle age, and should keep for 2-3 decades.

Wine Spectator 96

What a great wine. Full-bodied, with crushed berry, smoke and grilled aromas, all presented quite subtly. Stands out for its natural, down-to-earth taste of clean, pure, shining fruit. A pleasure to drink. Tempting now. Best from 2003 through 2015.

Steve Tanzer's International Wine Cellar 92

Red-ruby. Expressive nose combines currant, roast coffee, chicory, underbrush and smoke. Suave yet penetrating in the mouth, with complex flavors of redcurrant, iron, minerals, smoke and tobacco. Finishes with dusty tannins and excellent length, though there still some acidity to be absorbed. This is showing well now, though its slightly more advanced aromatics suggest it will not be as long-lived as the '99.

1998 Meo Camuzet Nuits-St-Georges Murgers (750ml)

$125.00

Clive Coates 17.5

"Full, tannic, oaky, of course, but not to much so. Rich and fat. Fine."

Fine Wine Review 95

"The Nuits-Murgers has more black fruits, especially plums, and is rounder with a nice precision. Tannins are notably present."

1998 Petrus (750ml)

$3,195.00

Wine Spectator 98

"High-toned nose, with violet, floral, berry and toasted oak character. Full-bodied, with an incredible backbone of super-plished tannins. Elegant and powerful."

Robert Parker 98

The 1998 Petrus is unquestionably a fabulous effort boasting a dense plum/purple color as well as an extraordinary nose of black fruits intermixed with caramel, mocha, and vanilla. Exceptionally pure, super-concentrated, and extremely full-bodied, with admirable underlying acidity as well as sweet tannin, it reveals a superb mid-palate in addition to the luxurious richness for which this great property is known. The finish lasts for 40-45 seconds. Patience will definitely be required. Production was 2,400 cases, about 1,600 cases less than normal.

1998 Sandrone Barolo Cannubi Boschis (750ml)

$163.00

Steve Tanzer's International Wine Cellar 92-95

Deep Ruby-red. Redcurrant liquer, roast coffee, minerals,smoked meat and smoky oak on the nose. Wonderfully sweet and expansiveyet with great reserves of structure. Firm acidity keeps the flavors bright and juicy. A suggestion of medicinal austerity augurs well for the future of this Barolo.

Wine Spectator 95

It's harmonious and refined, yet powerful and rich. It has glorious aromas of roses, berries and minerals and is full-bodied, with pinpointed, silky tannins and a long finish. This is wonderfully crafted and classy. From my early tastings, I like the 1998 Cannubi Boschis better than the 1997 (93 points) and '96 (94), but time will tell. It may rival the amazing '90 (97) and '89 (95), which I tasted two years ago and were both going very strong. Best after 2006.

Robert Parker 94-96

The deep ruby/purple-colored 1998 Barolo Cannubi Boschis boasts a spectacular bouquet of mineral-infused black cherry liqueur, new saddle leather, and pain grille. This powerful, ripe 1998 offers full-bodied flavors, silky tannin, low acidity, gorgeous levels of glycerin, and a creamy mouthful of complex, layered, superbly pure Nebbiolo fruit. Anticipated maturity: 2006-2020.

1998 Sandrone La Vigne (750ml)

$180.00

Robert Parker 95

The multidimensional 1998 Barolo La Vigne may be even better than its 1997 counterpart. It possesses huge layers of black cherry fruit infused with rose petals, tar, balsam wood, mineral, and subtle new oak notes. Full-bodied, awesomely concentrated, and extraordinarily pure, this exquisite, youthful Barolo will be at its prime bewteen 2004-2020.

Wine Spectator 93

Le Vigne is a blend of four different vineyards, and the Sandrone brothers fine-tune it to show the vintage at its best. The 1998 shows complex aromas of plums, berries, leather and hints of dried cheese that follow to flowers. It's full-bodied, with polished and refined tannins and a silky, fruity finish. Best after 2005.

1998 Schramsberg J. Schram California (750ml)

$98.00

Wine Spectator 91

Spice, ginger, fresh pear and floral notes lead to a rich, complex array of flavors in this bubbly, with yeast and dough notes. Turns smooth and shows extra layers of concentration, with a long, lingering finish.

Wine Enthusiast 95

Ultarefined, super-elegant, the superlatives go on and on. Pours clear and bright, with the most sublte and inviting aromas, all dough and smoke and custardy vanilla with that tease of strawberry. So silky and light on the palate, and perfectly dosed to a smooth dryness..

1998 Schramsberg, J Schram Rose California (750ml)

$136.00

FineWine International

The first release of a J. Schram Rose only 120 cases were produced. The J. Schram Rose ismade from the vintage's best lots from Schramsberg collection of 80 cool-climate vineyard sites. It is a blend of 76% Chardonnay and 24% Pinot Noir. The wine showcases Schramsberg's signature style of weaving together small lots of wines fermented in stainless steel tanks with lots fermented in French Oak barrels.

Wine- Maker Notes

J. Schram Rose features rich, baked strawberry and raspberry aromas with hints of cinnamon and cloves. On the palate, it is polished and juicy with intense berry and citrus flaovrs, and a long, generous finish. This Rose is aged and complete, with elegance and distinctiion.

Connoisseurs' Guide to California Wine 95+

50% Napa County 1998 21% Mendocino County; 18% Monterey County; 11% Marin County. 76% Chardonnay; 24% Pinot Noir. A true Brut Rose in every sense from its glowing copper-pink color to its deep and very substantial flavors, this involving effort displays a full range of champenized character with lots of yeasty richness neatly fit to its mildly berry-like fruit. Its pinpointy bubbles make for a fine and rounded feel in the mouth, and its lengthy, layered finish is firmed by just the right measure of crisp acidity. It is among the richest, most flavorful wines of the current bubbly crop and its classic Rose vinosity allows it to pair famously with a wide range of rich seafood and chicken dishes. Very limited availability. Three Puffs

Wine Enthusiast 94

This is a first tete de cuvee rose from Schramsberg. The North coast appellation is because the grapes come from four counties. It's 75% Chardonnay, with rest Pinot Noir, and it is seriously good. The residual sugar is noticeable, but the acidity is so high that it balances out, and also ensures a long life. Don't touch until at least 2007, but it's likely to gain interest and complexity through 2015, at least.

Wine News 95

Heady aromas of bread dough, toast, Sherry and banana peel. Soft entry displays a mix of tangerine and Sherry flavors with a wish of toastiness. Acids are apparent, however, they are well melded and balance the lushness of the wine.

1998 Verite California (750ml)

$215.00

Robert Parker 95

A blend of 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, the debut vintage of La Muse is composed of fruit from Sonoma (62%) and Napa (38%) vineyards. It appears to have reached full maturity, but it possesses the density and richness to last another 10-15 years. From a challenging vintage, it reveals a dark plum/garnet color along with a full-bodied nose of coffee, fruitcake, underbrush, forest floor, mocha and chocolate. This outstanding effort is one of the top 1998s from northern California.

Wine Enthusiast 95

"Lush and delicious, this richly fruited wine roars from the glass with a serious, yet still sexy plum, chocolate, spice and cedar nose. Plush tannins and an even mouthfeel, full cherry, plum and cocoa flavors, and this impressive first release finishes long and dry."

1999 Altesino Brunello Montesoli (750ml)

$147.00

Wine Spectator 95

Deep, dense aromas of porcini and wild strawberry turn to fresh tobacco. Full-bodied, with tight and refined tannins. The finish goes on for minutes. A big, muscular, powerful Montesoli. Austere now; needs years of bottle age. Best after 2009. 1,500 cases made.

Robert Parker 91

The single-vineyard 1999 Brunello di Montalcino Montosoli, riper and spicier in aroma than the regular bottling, full and with interesting notes of anisette and tar, features flavors of an important richness and density, slightly backward but very substantial and sustained. The additional intensity on the finish suggests another fifteen years of good drinking ahead.

1999 Bollinger VV Francaises (750ml)

$925.00

Wine- Maker Notes

A unique phenomenon, Vieilles Vignes Fran�aises is produced with grapes coming from three very small pieces of land of Grand Cru which amount to just under 0.6 hectares (1,4 acres) : Chaudes Terres in A� (0.6 acre), Clos St-Jacques in A� (0.5 acre) and Croix Rouge in Bouzy (0.3 acre). These were unaffected by the phylloxera, which destroyed all the Champagne vineyards at the end of the 19th century The vineyards were then re-grafted with American rootstocks. Les Vieilles Vignes Fran�aises miraculously escaped the devastation and therefore were not re-grafted. They continue to be planted en foule, in the historic, layered, self-propagating method and thus perpetuate what can be called the remains of the days of the Champagne region

Robert Parker 95

"The 1999 Vielles Vignes Francaises is simply stunning. Layers of perfumed red raspberries, flowers and spices flow onto the palate with breathtaking beauty. The mousse is exceptionally fine, as is everything about this wine. Although the wine possesses superb density and richness, it remains light on the palate and supremely graceful. This bottle was disgorged in July, 2008." Antonio Galloni

1999 Dalla Valle California (750ml)

$142.00

Robert Parker 94

"The opaque purple-colored 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon boasts exceptionally sweet fruit as well as a tell-tale perfume of melted licorice, black currant liqueur, and hints of blueberries and flowers. This wine is long, ripe, and full-bodied, with the vintage's more noticeable, astringent tannin. It will be at its apogee between 2006-2021."

Wine Spectator 95

"Deep garnet core with a ruby rim. Heady sottobosco aroma reminiscent of sweet pipe tobacco laced with the perfumed scent of violets. Deep plum flavor mingles with cherry jam, bitter chocolate and roasted coffee bean; very fresh and clear. The wine offers a superb sense of depth and harmony on the middle palate, and the tannins are firm but ripe. The long, silky finish is graced by an undercurrent of anise. Generous, suave, and delicious."

Steve Tanzer's International Wine Cellar 93+

"Saturated full ruby. Black fruits, bitter chocolate and graphite on the nose. Superripe and impressively deep; conveys a rather austere impression of thick grape skins. Black fruit and shoe polish flavors sweetened by exotic spice notes of mace and nutmeg. Really builds on the very long finish, which features big, tongue-dusting tannins. An outstanding vintage for this bottling."

1999 Lamborghini Campoleone (750ml)

$158.00

Robert Parker 96

"The compelling 1999 Campoleone was aged in 100% new French oak and bottled without fining or filitration by oenologist Riccardo Cotarella. A dense opaque purple color is accompanied by scents of new saddle leather, blackberry and cassis fruit, licorice, roasted meats, and graphite. Full-bodied and sweet, with a fabulous texture, ripe tannin, adequate acidity, and brilliant definition, this is a tour de force in wine making."

1999 Maya California (750ml)

$385.00

Robert Parker 97

"The virtually perfect 1999 Maya is a wine of stupendous unctuosity, richness, fruit, and elegance. It is remarkable that the Cabernet Franc grown in these red volcanic soils can produce wines of such intensity as well as elegance. Notes of cassis, blueberries, blackberries, espresso, smoke, earth, and vanilla are offered in a full-bodied, profoundly concentrated and layered style. For whatever reason, the 1999 Maya revealed more forwardness than the Cabernet Sauvignon cuvee. Anticipated maturity: 2004-2024."

Steve Tanzer's International Wine Cellar 96+

"Full ruby. Crystallized black cherry, violet, bitter chocolate and espresso on the nose; conveys great ripeness but also outstanding vibrancy. A silky, densely packed wine of great concentration and depth. Extremely young but not hard. Offers great structure and breadth. Finishes with very smooth tannins and great building length."

Wine Spectator 95

"Massive and concentrated, if a bit angular and tightly wound, with chewy, chunky leather, pencil lead, currant and herbal flavors that are framed by rugged tannins. Needs time to soften the tugh edges, but all the ingredients are there for greatness."

1999 Pavie (750ml)

$145.00

Robert Parker 95

The 1999 Pavie is a candidate for "wine of the vintage". It boasts an opaque ruby/purple color in addition to gorgeous aromas of crushed minerals, smoke, licorice, cherry liqueur, and black currants. The wine is exceptionally pure and multilayered, with stunning texture and overall balance. The tannin level suggests 3-4 years of cellaring is warranted; it should age gracefully for 25+ years. If readers are wondering why Pavie has become so much better under the administration of Chantal and Gerard Perse, keep in mind that yields are one-third of what they were under the previous owners.

Steve Tanzer's International Wine Cellar 92

Full red-ruby. Highly nuanced nose combines currant, minerals, earth, coffee and mocha. Silky, suave and consistent from start to finish, with sweet, burnished flavors of currant, minerals and tobacco. Complex and flamboyant. Finishes very long and ripe, with lush, firm tannins. Uncommonly satisfying for the vintage.

2000 Fonseca (750ml)

$98.00

Wine Spectator 94

Fabulous nose of crushed raspberries, blackberries and licorice. Full-bodied and velvety, with superclean fruit and a long finish. Beauty. Very harmonious for Fonseca. Best after 2011.

Robert Parker 95

Dense ruby/purple-colored, with an exotic, exuberant perfume of black fruits, flowers, incense, and licorice, this unctuously-textured, full-bodied port is one of the most concentrated of the vintage. Sweet, expansive, and succulent, this large-scaled, but remarkably well-balanced effort is surprisingly forward and accessible (by Fonseca's standards).

2000 Haut-Brion (750ml)

$1,295.00

Robert Parker 99

Its bigger sister, the 2000 Haut-Brion (a blend of 51% Merlot, 43% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the rest Cabernet Franc) showed incredibly at the tasting, and for me is one of the three or four most prodigious wines of the vintage. A compelling nose of roasted herbs, scorched earth, sweet blueberries, plums, black currants, and a hint of graphite is followed by a deep, layered, sumptuously textured, full-bodied Haut-Brion, but one with extraordinary complexity. This wine seems more evolved and approachable than I had expected it to be at age 10. My window of maturity seven years ago was 2012-2040, but I would change that to 2010-2050.

Wine Spectator 92-94

Really ripe, with a powerful berry and marmalade character on the nose. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a long finish. Very fresh and fine. Almost classic. Not the fabulous 1998 Haut-Brion, but damn good.

2000 Haut-Brion (750ml-12pk OWC)

$18,540.00

Robert Parker 99

Its bigger sister, the 2000 Haut-Brion (a blend of 51% Merlot, 43% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the rest Cabernet Franc) showed incredibly at the tasting, and for me is one of the three or four most prodigious wines of the vintage. A compelling nose of roasted herbs, scorched earth, sweet blueberries, plums, black currants, and a hint of graphite is followed by a deep, layered, sumptuously textured, full-bodied Haut-Brion, but one with extraordinary complexity. This wine seems more evolved and approachable than I had expected it to be at age 10. My window of maturity seven years ago was 2012-2040, but I would change that to 2010-2050.

Wine Spectator 92-94

Really ripe, with a powerful berry and marmalade character on the nose. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a long finish. Very fresh and fine. Almost classic. Not the fabulous 1998 Haut-Brion, but damn good.

2000 Kistler, Cuvee Catherine California (750ml)

$235.00

Robert Parker 96

The profound 2000 Pinot Noir Kistler Vineyard Cuvee Catherine is similar to the Kistler Vineyard offering, with additional ripeness, density, and richness. The Cuvee Catherine is a wine of extraordinary ripeness and richness with intense violet aromas mixed with scents of blackberry and cherry liqueur. This exceptional Pinot Noir should drink well for 10-12 years.

2000 L'Eglise Clinet (750ml)

$365.00

Robert Parker 96

The saturated ruby/purple color offers up pure fruit notes of mulberries, figs, and cassis intermixed with hints of licorice and toasty oak. Revealing great palate presence, tremendous texture, sweet tannin, relatively low acidity, and a finish that exceeds 60 seconds, I assume this wine will close down, not to reopen for nearly a decade. This is a profound example from a proprietor who has never subscribed to the new, progressive/razzle-dazzle techniques being employed by some of the cutting edge producers. Here it is low yields, ripe fruit, and non-interventionalistic winemaking at its purest. Truly spectacular, this could be another of the great classics proprietor Durantou has produced over recent years. For now, it is hard to believe it could rival or eclipse the fabulous 1998 or, for that matter, the 1995, but the 2000 has gone from strength to strength in its evolution. From bottle, it is dazzling. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2035+.

Robert Parker 97+

A stunning wine with extraordinary concentration, but still somewhat backward, this 2000 needs much more time than I projected seven years ago. It boasts an inky/dark purple color along with an intense nose of kirsch, blackberries, licorice, caramel, and flowers. Full-bodied with abundant tannin as well as a multidimensional, thick texture, this unevolved Pomerol has not changed much since its 2003 release. Gorgeous purity and a natural mouthfeel make for a dazzling wine that will benefit from another 5-10 years of cellaring, and last for three decades thereafter. It is a legendary effort! June 2010

2000 L`Evangile (750ml)

$335.00

Robert Parker 96

This fabulous L'Evangile rivals such recent great vintages as 1998, 1995, 1990, and of course, 1982. With aeration, the thick, unctuous, saturated purple color is followed by scents of blueberries, blackberries, truffles, acacia flowers, tar, and graphite. Full-bodied, with tremendous opulence, intensity, and purity as well as silky tannin and a long, powerful, concentrated finish, with a hint of cocoa/chocolate, I initially thought this was a modern-day clone of the 1975, but now I am not so sure. The 2000 is a prodigious, intense, powerful offering, but the tannins are clearly sweeter than those of the controversial 1975. I kept a bottle of this wine open for 11 days, re-corking each evening after pouring an ounce or two for evaluation. The wine simply refused to oxidize, hitting its stride on day 3, and then beginning to drop some fruit by day 8. Anticipated maturity: 2008-2030+.

Steve Tanzer's International Wine Cellar 92-95

Saturated ruby. Superripe aromas of black and red fruits and dark chocolate; almost but not quite pruney. Then pliant, sweet and lush, with explosive black raspberry fruit and lots of early personality. This is downright hedonistic and deceptively soft. Finishes very long and ripe, with extremely fine tannins.

Robert Parker 98

This is an absolutely spectacular L'Evangile. It remains to be seen whether 2009 will eclipse this great effort. Largely a Merlot-dominated blend with some Cabernet Franc in it, the greatness of this terroir is exhibited in the complexity of the nose, which offers up hints of subtle chocolate, blueberry, blackberry, truffle, barbecue smoke, and graphite. Dense, rich, and full-bodied, with an opulence and succulence that are prodigious, the tannins are present but extremely sweet, and the wine multi-dimensional and just emerging as a compellingly complex, head-turning beauty. Drink it now and over the next 20-25 years. Kudos to L'Evangile. June 2010