EpochMD

Tasting Notes

• 2016 Martinelli Zinfandel Jackass Hill

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  12/14/2022 - EpochMD Likes this wine: 99 Points

  Still the pinnacle of CA Zin (maybe the world) - this is a bit of a great departure - previous vintages had a lot of secondary notes and were much deeper - current releases are just massive - and now we have Goldilocks! Amazing fruit, with currant, blackberry, fruit cake - but ever smooth, a hint of alcohol at the end, but unique to this vintage is a lovely floral tone that meanders throughout the palate. Just an amazing wine, can certainly age, but this appears to be the “just right” moment for this wine.

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• 2016 SENS3S Cabernet Sauvignon

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  8/16/2022 - EpochMD Likes this wine: 97 Points

  Well, I guess I didn’t intend to open something this nice on a random Tuesday, maybe I can do TRB Tuesdays…This is a PnP, opened nose immediately of cassis, the palate is expansive, it’s got the great 2016 structure, but is very smooth with a hint of acid, this is well-balanced, with a slightly underripe blackberry and raspberry finishing this off. The finish is very long, and tastes like fresh fruit. Not getting much oak here despite 20 months in 100% new french. Really awesome wine and one of the best from TRB I’ve had - this is easily up there with the 2016 Kinsella heirloom and Jersey boys combo but a more elegant, balanced, and less mocha/sucrosity palate, overall befitting an Oakville masterpiece. Ultimately it’s got poise, fruit, structure, and absurd balance. Sure it can age, it’s still primary (but not monolithic), but damn it’s really good in a glass on a random Tuesday. Cheers!

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• 2012 Merryvale Cabernet Sauvignon St. Helena

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  6/6/2022 - EpochMD Likes this wine: 96 Points

  Sometimes things just come together - PnP, this has blackberry and cassis notes with a touch of acid and finely integrated tannins; not a harsh moment to be found, this finishes nicely with a touch of spice. It’s not the most majestic or noteworthy of cabs, but this was the right moment for the right wine. Could age for another few years easily but this is in its prime drinking window and I would encourage popping it now.

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