November 8, 2018 - In Bermuda with Mike and Andrea.
July 6, 2015 - This is not a poorly made wine. It is just that I have yet to find a California Sangiovese that does justice to the varietal. I haven't opened a bottle in 3 years (see 7/25/12 note). Since then, the oak has integrated. the tannins have faded. The fruit is more present. But it is just not very enjoyable - compared to a good Italian.
June 1, 2013 - DC/Northern Virginia Off-Line II - "Blind Reds: Favorites vs. Underdogs" (My home, Falls Church, VA): tasted blind. deep red color. big nose, sharp tannins, big powerful body. I guessed this as a syrah and was surprised to find it was the sangiovese influence I was tasting.
July 30, 2012 - - Crimsom color with medium forming legs and aromas of blackberry, chocolate and cherry. It's somewhat balanced and has flavours of black pepper, smokey and coffee with a medium body. Round texture with a medium finish.
July 25, 2012 - Over a year since I opened one of these (see 3/15/11 note). Clear dark garnet. Nose of espresso, black cherry and vanilla. Ripe, medium palate of black cherry, blackberry, & sweet toasty oak that could be better integrated. Very good length. Pleasant acidity. Supple tannins. Not as good as previous bottles. Is it fading?
March 15, 2011 - Same as previous notes. Oaky, but delicious.
February 2, 2011 - This was fantastic great nose of dark fruits silky smooth del dotto cab and Sangiovese great blend
December 12, 2010 - I haven't popped a bottle of this wine for two years. It is significantly better now. Dark clear ruby. Nose of cherry, vanilla, and menthol. Medium palate of vibrant, bright strawberry, black cherry, currant, and spice. Excellent length. Racy acidity. Mild tannins. Integrated oak. Really balanced and lovely.
May 29, 2009 - 50+5+13+16+7 Decanted for three hours prior to drinking which really allowed the bouquet to open--we could smell the wine from two feet away in the decanter. Lots of black plum, some raspberry, and a spicey floral on the nose. On the palate was more plum, a bit of oak and very well balanved tannins. The finish offered some leather and spice with the fruit. At it's peak right now, I doubt it will get better.
March 21, 2009 - Tasted at winery – no formal note taken. Earthy, cedar, plum and dark cherries with some underlying green notes. Quite tannic. Needs time. Very good. 88+