IL BARONE

RESERVE CABERNET SAUVIGNON

♦ 96 Points – Jeb Dunnuck

“The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Il Barone (there’s 5% Merlot in the blend) is a selection geared to be a rich, powerful wine and it succeeds admirably, offering full-bodied richness and depth, awesome tannin quality, no hard edges, and a complex notes of black and blue fruits, Asian spices, chocolate, and earthy, forest floor nuances. It’s another brilliant wine in this lineup.”

♦ 94 Points, Cellar Selection – Wine Enthusiast Magazine

“This big, plush, black-fruited wine is the top of the line for Napa Valley’s “castle winery.” It has a soft power, wrapping superfine tannins around deep, dark blueberries and black-currant flavors that saturate the palate with ripeness. Tempting oak spices from cinnamon and nutmeg to toast and graphite come up in the aroma and coast all the way through the finish. Best through 2032.” – Jim Gordon

♦ 92 Points – James Suckling

“This has impressively ripe, rich and composed aromas of blackberries, blackcurrants and spiced fruit bread. The palate is a succulent, luscious array of ripe dark berries and plums with chocolate, too. Long and juicy. Drink or hold.”

♦ 95 Points – Lisa Perrotti-Brown, The Wine Advocate

“A blend of 87% Cabernet Sauvignon with small splashes of Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Malbec, the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Il Barone is deep purple-black in color and has quite an earthy/savory nose to begin, revealing notions of black truffles, char-grilled meats, black olives and cumin seed over a core of crème de cassis and stewed plums. Full-bodied, concentrated, and packed with black fruit and savory layers, it has a rock-solid, grainy frame and just enough freshness to lift the long finish. Drink 2020 – 2037.”

♦ 95 Points – Jeb Dunnuck

“Leading off with the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Il Barone, which is a blend of 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Merlot, 7% Malbec, and 4% Petit Verdot, it reveals a saturated purple color as well as a beautiful bouquet of sweet crème de cassis, blueberries, exotic flowers, orange blossom, and subtle background oak. This medium to full-bodied, elegant, beautifully polished effort is perfectly balanced, has no hard edges, and offers a great finish. It falls into the pretty, elegant end of the spectrum, yet it still has fabulous intensity and length. Drink 2019 – 2039.”

♦ 93 Points – James Suckling

“This is a flamboyant and attractive wine with dark berries and tangerine undertones. Medium to full body, medium round tannins and a flavorful finish. Mostly Cabernet Sauvignon with some Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Malbec. Drink or hold.”

♦ 91 Points – James Suckling

“A little extracted but some solid currant and blueberry character to this generous red. Full body, round and juicy. Clean finish. A blend of 96% cabernet sauvignon and 4% petit verdot. Enjoyable now but better in 2019.”

90 Points – Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media

“The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Il Barone is wonderfully immediate and giving. The dark stone fruit, chocolate, plum, lavender and licorice flavors are super-expressive in this open-knit, alluring Cabernet Sauvignon. Drink it over the next handful of years.”

♦ Gold Medal – 2018 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

♦ 95 Points – Jeb Dunnuck

“The entry effort is the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Il Barone and it spent 18 months in French oak prior to bottling. This inky colored effort offers a killer bouquet of sweet crème de cassis, black raspberries, vanilla bean and candied violets. It’s ripe, full-bodied and sexy, with sweet tannin, no hard edges, and a great texture. With its oak pushed all the way into the background, it’s already hard to resist but is going to keep for 2+ decades. (Expected Maturity: 2018 – 2038)”

♦ 94 Points – Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate

“The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Il Barone is also impressively endowed with plenty of crème de cassis, blueberry, blackberry fruit, a dense purple color, full-bodied mouthfeel, sweet tannin and a long finish. The wine has more fruit and less minerality than the Butala Vineyard and doesn’t quite show the graphite character, but it is a beautiful Cabernet Sauvignon to drink over the next 15-20 years. Drink 2016 – 2036.”

♦ 92 Points – James Suckling

“This is a red with tension and form that delivers plenty of blackcurrant and dark-chocolate character. Medium to full body, polished and chewy tannins and a flavorful finish. Needs a little time to come together. Drink in 2019.”

♦ 90 Points – Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media

“The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Il Barone is dark, juicy and inviting. Black cherry, lavender, mint and sweet spice notes infuse the delicate, lifted finish. This is very nicely done in the restrained style of the year.”

♦ Double Gold Medal – 2019 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

♦ 93 Points – James Suckling

The blackberry, violet, and blueberry aromas follow through to a full body, extremely well-integrated tannins and a lovely depth of fruit. Needs a year or two to open. Better in 2018.”

♦ 90 Points – Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast

“Small percentages of Merlot and Petit Verdot soften this robustly ripe red, hugely extracted in black currant and blackberry. Mocha, cigar smoke and leather saddle contribute a more muscular imprint, as a rounded weightiness holds on tenaciously to the finish.”

Double Gold Medal – 2016 American Fine Wine Competition
Double Gold Medal – 2017 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

♦ 93 Points – Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate

“A selection of the estate’s finest lots, the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Il Barone’s texture and richness are outstanding. A dense ruby/purple color is followed by abundant notes of blackcurrants, licorice, graphite and a hint of new saddle leather. Full-bodied with soft tannins as well as a long, authoritative style, it can be drunk over the next 10+ years.”

♦ 92 Points – Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media

“The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Il Barone is dark, powerful and intense. Red/black fruits, tobacco, smoke, licorice and earthiness are some of the notes that meld together in a compact, energetic wine long on class. The Barone offers plenty of fruit intensity, but the tannins need time to soften. Today, there is very little of the vintage’s early appeal on display. Drink 2017 – 2027”

♦ 90 Points – James Suckling

“A chewy red with ripe fruit and tannins. Lots of wood tannins and dried fruit character too. Full and flavorful. A little jammy but outstanding. Drink or hold.”

♦ 90 Points – Wine & Spirits Magazine

“Cabernet sauvignon blended with four percent merlot, this is a purple-fruited wine with strong tannins. Air takes those tannins toward a velvet texture, bringing out a black mushroom savor against the sweet fruit. Give this several years in the cellar, or hours in a decanter, before serving with roast lamb.”

♦ Double Gold Medal – 2015 American Fine Wine Competition

♦ 91 Points – Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media

“The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Il Barone is one of the leaner, more compact wines in the range. Floral and savory notes develop nicely in the bouquet, but then tannins clamp down hard on the mid palate, making it difficult for the fruit to fully emerge. With time in the glass, the wine opens up nicely, leading to a long, beautifully delineated finish laced with bright floral notes. The 2011 is sculpted and chiseled throughout. If opened within the next few years, the 2011 needs a good bit of air.”

♦ 93 Points – James Suckling

“This is dense and intense with a beautiful velvety texture and ripe fruit, but it remains fresh and clean. Full body. Textured finish. Better in 2016.”

♦ 92 Points – Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast Magazine

A reserve-level 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, this is savory in black fruit and smoky oak, the tannins soft and structured. A richness of cinnamon toast and vanilla play on the palate, followed by more depths of full-bodied blackberry.

♦ Double Gold Medal – 2014 American Fine Wine Competition
♦ Gold Medal – 2014 San Francisco International Wine Competition
♦ Gold Medal – 2014 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

♦ 94 Points – Steve Heimoff, Wine Enthusiast Magazine

“An impressive Cabernet, flashy and dramatic in the “cult” style. It’s smooth and velvety, with imposingly rich tannins that frame, pure black currant, crème de cassis, dark chocolate and anise flavors. There’s a lot of oak, too, but it’s in keeping with the wine’s volume. Should develop over the next 15 years, but you can certainly drink it now.”

♦ 92 Points – Antonio Galloni

“The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Il Barone is a beautifully focused wine graced with expressive dark berries, flowers, spices and mint. It reveals lovely focus and energy from start to finish. The mid-palate sweetness and generosity tapers off a bit on the finish, which is the only thing that keeps the score from going higher. The final blend includes 2% Petite Verdot. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2019.”

♦ Double Gold Medal – 2013 American Fine Wine Competition

♦ 91 Points – Cabernet Shootout, Affairs of the Vine

“Smoky, cherry aromas. The nose is very pretty. The palate is complex – earthy with tart cranberry, cedar, chewy plum, and leather. The long finish shows lots of black cherry and a hint of blackjack chewing gum (anise-like). Lovely mouth watering acid. Bright cherry and raspberry on the nose. Nice balance of fruit and oak on the palate. Classic Cab style. Tobacco, cola, and black tea notes round out the mellow finish.” 287 wines tasted, Il Barone in the TOP 32.

♦ 92 Points – Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate

“The 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Il Barone (91% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Merlot, and 4 % Petit Verdot) is a selection of the estate’s finest lots of Cabernet Sauvignon. Graphite, creame de cassis, black currant and spice box aromas jump from the glass of this opaque ruby/purple-colored 2008. Expansive, rich, authoritative and elegant, with impressive texture and length as well as sweet tannin, it will be even better in 3-4 years, and should last for 15+. Barrel samples of the 2009 Il Barone and 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon revealed well-endowed, deeply colored wines with sweet tannins. The both possessed all the components needed to be as good as their 2008 and 2007 counterparts, but it is too early to pass judgment.”

♦ 93 Points – International Wine Review

“The opaque ruby, slightly brooding Il Barone is the masculine counterpart to La Castellana showing inky aromas of black fruit with charred oak and violet notes. Made from 100 percent estate grown Cabernet Sauvignon, the wine shows great volume in the mouth, a smooth and beautifully structured palate with nice minerality and ripe, firm tannins on a very long finish. To be released in 2012, this wine has a long life ahead of it.”

♦ Gold Medal – 2012 American Fine Wine Competition
♦ Double Gold Medal – 2013 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

♦ 94 Points – Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate

“The brilliant Il Barone boasts an opaque purple color as well as a beautiful sweet nose of blackberries, black currants, camphor, subtle toasty oak, and espresso roast. Rich and full-bodied with sweet tannin, a hint of smoked meats, deep fruit, and an impeccable balance, purity and texture, this stunning wine should drink nicely for 15-20 years.”

♦ Napa Valley Vintners/Saint Helena Star Blind Taste Test

Top 3 Cabernet Sauvignon $95 in the Napa Valley

♦ Double Gold Medal – 2011 American Fine Wine Competition

♦ 94 Points – James Laube, Wine Spectator

“A fantastic effort, aging well, this is firm, rich and youthful, brimming with dense, concentrated blackberry and wild berry fruit, touches of crushed rock and fresh earth, and notes of dried herb, cedar and dill. Ends with ripe, chewy tannins. Remarkably persistent on the finish. 2005 California Cabernet blind retrospective (September 2015). Drink now through 2025. 2,000 cases made.” (retrospective tasting, September 2015)

♦ 92 Points – Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate

“The 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Il Barone, which is the winery’s finest Cabernet Sauvignon, tips the scales at a lofty 14.6% natural alcohol that is well hidden beneath a cascade of blackberry, cassis, and blueberry fruit as well as is some new saddle leather and a touch of oak. The wine is fresh, lively, full-bodied, and very youthful for a wine already ten years of age. Nicely textured, thick and juicy, this is a beauty to drink over the next 12-15 years.” (retrospective review, June 2015)

♦ 91 Points – International Wine Review

“The 2005 vintage of Il Barone exhibits a savory nose with herbal and violet notes and a gorgeous velvet-like palate of rich dark fruit with earth and pepper accents. Somewhat chalky tannins show on the mid-palate and the wine finishes with firm, dry tannins.”

♦ 92 Points – Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate

This beautiful Cabernet Sauvignon was aged 20 months in French oak. While it’s Italian name suggests a super-Tuscan-styled wine, it is a classic Napa Cabernet. A dense ruby/purple color is accompanied by abundant notes of licorice, black currants, spice and background earth. Medium to full-bodied and drinking beautifully, this complex, full-throttle, opulent, stylish 2004 should continue to evolve for another decade.


LA CASTELLANA

RESERVE SUPER TUSCAN BLEND

♦ 91 Points – James Suckling

“Quite mellow and savory with a fairly sleek body, this is a very distinctive Napa red with lots of cherries and mulberries, a blood-orange freshness driving the long, rather dry finish. Where is the salami? Drink or hold.”

90 Points – Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media

“Castello di Amorosa’s 2015 La Castellana is a delicious Cabernet Sauvignon-based blend. Pomegranate, plum, chocolate and sweet French oak infuse this supple, beautifully expressive red. Supple and giving, the 2015 will offer plenty of drinking pleasure over the near and medium term. All the elements are very nicely balanced.”

Double Gold Medal – 2018 American Fine Wine Competition

♦ 92 Points – Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media

“The 2014 Red Blend La Castellana is plump, juicy and expressive, with plenty of bright red fruit and floral overtones. Juicy, supple and highly expressive, the 2014 will drink well over the better part of the next decade. The Castellana is a Cabernet Sauvignon-based wine, with dollops of Merlot, Sangiovese, Petit Verdot and Malbec. The 2014 is very nicely done”

♦ 92 Points – James Suckling

“Very attractive aromas of plums and red wood with hints of wet earth follow through to a full body, a solid core of fruit and a velvety and caressing texture. Give it two to three years to come together. A Bordeaux blend with 15% Sangiovese. Fun and delicious.”

♦ 91 Points – Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate

“The 2014 Proprietary Red La Castellana is a blend of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Merlot, 15% Sangiovese and the rest Petit Verdot and Malbec. This is a sexy, lush, heady wine with plenty of blue and black fruits, spice box and earth in a chewy voluptuous style. There is no doubt that Castello di Amorosa knows how to deliver pleasure and lavish fruit. This wine exhibits that. Drink it over the next 8-10 years. Drink 2016 – 2026.”

♦ Double Gold Medal – 2017 American Fine Wine Competition

♦ Gold Medal -2019 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

♦ 92 Points – James Laube, Wine Enthusiast Magazine

“Intense, with firm, vibrant red and dark berry flavors amid currant, black cherry and licorice note, supported by smoky, cedary oak details and flinty, minerally elements. Ends crisp and lively. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Sangiovese. Drink now through 2032. 2,928 cases made.”

♦ 92 Points – James Suckling

“Very well done with firm tannins and a fresh and lively profile. Full body, cherry, walnut, and cedar. Hints of chocolate. Mostly cabernet sauvignon with merlot and sangiovese. Drink or hold.”

♦ 92 Points – Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate

“The 2013 Proprietary Red La Castellana is a blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Sangiovese and 10% Merlot. A real successful effort of this blend, the wine shows cedar wood, tobacco leaf, blackcurrants and ripe black cherry in a medium to full-bodied, lush, savory, complex style. Drink it over the next 5-8 years. Drink 2016 – 2024.”

♦ 90 Points, Cellar Selection – Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast Magazine

“Tightly woven tannins mark this blend of 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Sangiovese and 9% Merlot. From there, it’s a story of soft leather, black tar and rich, velvety blackberry, given 20 months in large French oak barrels. More time in bottle should help make friends of the disparate elements; drink through 2020.”

♦ 90 Points – Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media

“The 2012 Red Blend La Castellana is an unusual blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Sangiovese. Round, seamless and quite pretty, the 2012 offers plenty of early and medium term appeal. Dark red stone fruits, spices, mint and anise are all supported by silky, polished tannins. Drink 2016 – 2027 ”

♦ 92-94 Points – Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media (Barrel Sample)

“Sweet tobacco, earthiness, dark red cherries, flowers and anise all meld together in the 2012 La Castellana, a wine that deftly balances rich fruit with structure. The long, vibrant finish is exceptionally polished. In 2012 the Castellana stands out for its harmony and overall balance.”

♦ 90 Points – Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate

“The 2012 Proprietary Red Blend La Castellana is composed of 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Sangiovese and 9% Merlot. In central Italy, a wine such as this would be called a Super Tuscan. This outstanding offering reveals background oak, hints of new saddle leather, blackcurrants, cherries, licorice and underbrush, a medium to full-bodied mouthfeel, supple tannins, good acidity and a generous mouthfeel. The result is a wine that begs for a grilled Florentine steak. Enjoy it over the next 7-8 years.”

♦ 92 Points – Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate

“The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon La Castellana Super Tuscan Blend, 66% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Merlot and 15% Sangiovese, is the best of this trio. Rich, tobacco leaf, unsmoked cigar tobacco, black currant and new saddle leather characteristics emerge from this medium to full-bodied, fleshy, opulent 2010. Seductive, impressively concentrated and multilayered, it should drink nicely for a decade or more.”

♦ 92 Points – James Laube, Wine Spectator

“Intense, with firm, ripe, vibrant cedar, red and dark berry, anise and loamy earth flavors, framed by chewy tannins and ending with a long finish laced with notes of black licorice. Drink now through 2024.”

♦ 92 Points – Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast Magazine

“An inspired co-mingling of 66% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Merlot and 15% Sangiovese, this wine offers swirls of spicy cinnamon, plum and tobacco. Rounded on the palate and balanced, while rich, the finish delves into clove and black pepper.”

♦ 92 Points, Cellar Selection – Steve Heimoff, Wine Enthusiast Magazine

“This is a big wine, clearly in need of cellaring. There’s a massive core of blackberries, cherries and baking chocolate on the palate, but it’s rigidly tannic, dry and acidic still. The blend is 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot and 15% Sangiovese, putting it in the super Tuscan category. Give it until 2017 to begin to mellow, and it could still be going strong in 2025.”

♦ 91 Points – Connoisseurs’ Guide to California Wine

“Although driven by undisguised ripeness and a big dose of rich oak in its full-scale aromas, this solidly structured youngster surprises by showing far better balance and a claret-like firmness once in the mouth. It tightens up after a slightly supple entry, and its deep, somewhat brooding flavors are long on concentration and length. It is not overly tannic, but neither is it a wine meant for hasty drinking. It will need another six years to eight years before rounding into shape and is certain to grow for a good many more.”

♦ 91 Points – Ken’s Wine Guide

“This opaque and very dark purple colored red blend opens with blueberry and pomegranate bouquet with a hint of pipe tobacco. On the palate, this wine is full bodied, balanced, chewy, and completely coats your mouth. The flavor profile is an oak infused black cherry and red plum blend. I also detected hints of blueberry and red currant. The finish is rather dry and its sticky dusty tannins last for quite a while. This wine would pair nicely with a well-marbled ribeye steak.”

♦ Double Gold Medal – 2014 American Fine Wine Competition
♦ Gold Medal – 2014 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

♦ 93 Points – Steve Heimoff, Wine Enthusiast Magazine

“Made from Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, with a splash of Sangiovese, this super Tuscan-style blend is powerful in every respect. It shows massively concentrated blackberry and crème de cassis flavors, with notes of dark chocolate and spices. The oak is rich and toasty, the tannins thick but as soft as silk, and the acidity lively enough to give all this richness a racy hit. Best enjoyed now and over the next 2–3 years for sheer Napa exuberance.”

♦ 90 Points – Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate

“The 2008 La Castellana (71% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot and 14% Sangiovese) is a supple textured, dense plum/ruby/purple-tinged wine offering notes of high class, un-smoked tobacco, sweet cherries, black currants, earth and spice. Medium to full-bodied, silky textured, complex and already delicious, it is ideal for drinking over the next 7-8 years.”

♦ Gold Medal – 2012 American Fine Wine Competition

♦ 92 Points – Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate

“The 2007 La Castellana is a proprietary blend of 66% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Merlot, and 6% Sangiovese. An outstanding hedonistic, complex red, it reveals notes of wild strawberries, new saddle leather, black currants, cherries, cedar, and smoked herbs. Full-bodied, lush and seductive, this beautifully mouthfilling, supple wine should be enjoyed over the next 7-10 years.”

♦ 93 Points – International Wine Review

“This voluptuous beauty is dressed in a robe of dark cherry fruit and violets with smoky oak and chocolate notes. A blend of 66% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Merlot and the rest Sangiovese, is a velvet smooth on a beautifully integrated palate. Blessed with fine, ripe tannins, this wine is easily approachable when young. While it is not as powerful as Il Barone, it’s more refined.”

♦ Wine of the Week – Stacy Slinkard, About.com

“The 2005 Castello di Amorosa La Castellana, Super Tuscan blend showcases an ultra-elegant synergy of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Sangiovese. Deep, dark color, thick waves of spice-laden aromatics and impressive primary and secondary palate flavors start this show off with a bang! Dark cherry and black plums dominate the fruit profile with ambitious backup played by black pepper and a dash of dark chocolate and espresso. Make no mistake, this is a full-bodied, full-featured red wine that enjoys a long, distinguished finish and brims with palate complexity, enduring elegance, and rich, supportive tannins. A perfect candidate for pairing with roasted cuts of beef or wild game, sausage or dishes that rely on the traditional Italian spices of garlic, rosemary and thyme.” (September 2005)


SINALUNGA

CABERNET SAUVIGNON, NAPA VALLEY

♦ Jeb Dunnuck (97 Points)

“Lots of cassis, graphite, lead pencil, and scorched earth notes emerge from the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Sinalunga, another powerful, concentrated 2018 from Castello di Amorosa. One of the more structured, tannic wines in the lineup, it has full-bodied richness, a wonderfully pure, layered texture, and terrific balance. Bottles need a good 4-6 years of bottle age, but it should evolve for 30 years or more.”


Morisoli-Borges Cabernet Sauvignon

CABERNET SAUVIGNON

MORISOLI-BORGES VINEYARD

95+ Points – Jeb Dunnuck

“The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Morisoli-Borges from the Rutherford region of the valley is a beautiful 2018 that does everything right. Lots of spiced currants, mulled plums, cedarwood, loamy earth, and dried tobacco give way to a medium to full-bodied, concentrated, spicy, complex wine that needs 3-4 years of bottle age.”

95 Points – Antonio Galloni

“The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Morisoli-Borges Vineyard offers a striking expression of Rutherford. Beautifully layered and ample, the Morisoli-Borges is a stunner right out of the gate. Inky dark fruit, chocolate, licorice, cloves, espresso and lavender all build in a resonant, super-expressive Cabernet that delivers the goods, and then some.”

93 Points – James Suckling

“Black and blue berries, mushrooms, earthy notes and chocolate as well. It is full-bodied with firm tannins and an ample, flavorful and long finish. I liked the slightly herbal undertone at the end. Try after 2023.”

97 Points – Jeb Dunnuck

“Sourced all from the famed “Rutherford-Bench” section of the valley and all Cabernet, the 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Morisoli-Borges Vineyard sports a saturated purple hue as well as loads of spice, crushed violets, leafy herbs, chocolate, and cedar all supported by beautiful blueberry and wild strawberry fruits. Plush and sexy on the palate, with full-bodied richness and more opulence and decadence than most in the vintage, it hits all the right spots and is a beautifully balanced, sexy 2017 to enjoy over the coming 20-25 years or more.”

93 Points – James Suckling

“Attractive aromas of fresh fruit with a ripe array of redcurrants and raspberries, as well as blackcurrant and violet notes. The palate has a sleek, juicy and fleshy feel with plenty of ripe, rich fruit and a smooth-honed, long and plush texture. Drink or hold.”

96 Points – Jeb Dunnuck

“The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Morisoli-Borges Vineyard is cut from the same cloth with its flowery blue and black fruits, complex tobacco, cedary spice, and herbal notes, medium to full body, and sweet, yet certainly present tannins. It shines for its sheer purity of fruit and balance and is another pure class release from this team. It will keep for 3 decades. Drink 2019 – 2049.”

94+ Points – Lisa Perrotti-Brown, The Wine Advocate

“Made of 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, the deep purple-black colored 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Morisoli-Borges gives up scents of warm blackberries, crushed red and black cherries and black currants with hints of cigar box, tilled soil and mossy bark. Full-bodied with a solid, muscular mid-palate of pure black and red fruits, it has a firm line of grainy tannins and an invigorating lift on the long finish. Drink 2019 – 2035.”

93 Points – James Suckling

“A rich and layered red with currant and blackberry character. Full body, round and caressing tannins and a flavorful finish. Pure Cabernet Sauvignon. Drink or hold.”

93 Points – Lisa Perrotti-Brown, The Wine Advocate

“The deep garnet-purple colored 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Morisoli Borges is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon and offers spicy aromas of cedar chest, blackberries and blueberry compote with notes of licorice and fragrant earth. Full-bodied and concentrated in the rich, spicy mouth, it has firm, chewy tannins and finishes long and a bit oaky.”

92 Points – James Suckling

“Intense aromas of blackberries, tar, blueberries and mint, following through to a full body. Round and silky tannins and a flavorful finish. Fruit-forward but still fresh. Drink or hold.”

♦ 98 Points – Jeb Dunnuck

“The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Morisoli-Borges Vineyard comes from a site located in Rutherford, on the valley floor. It too is inky colored and offers a sensational bouquet of crème de cassis, blueberries, graphite/lead pencil shavings, tons of crushed rocks and hints of violets. Layered, gorgeously pure, concentrated and always elegant and silky, with no sense of heaviness, enjoy this blockbuster anytime over the coming 3-4 decades. (Expected Maturity: 2018–2058)”

♦ 96 Points – Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate

“Coming from the valley floor, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Morisoli-Borges Vineyard hails from the tenderloin of the so-called bench area. It shows gorgeous fruit, loads of blueberry, blackberry and cassis notes, licorice and incense followed by an opulent, voluptuously textured, super-sexy style with oodles of glycerin, fruit and extract. This is a stunner and irresistible already. Moreover, it should age nicely for another 15 or more years.

♦ 91 Points – Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media

“The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Morisoli-Borges Vineyard is one of the more powerful wines in the range. It also comes across as a bit compact at this stage and in need of further cellaring, although it is likely to always remain a bit on the linear side of things.”

♦ 94 Points – Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate

“The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Morisoli-Borges Vineyard, which comes from the Rutherford sector of Napa, shows beautiful blueberry and blackberry fruit, camphor and incense, a full-bodied, nicely textured mouthfeel, sweet velvety tannins and a long finish. This is a beauty, and a wine that can be drunk now or cellared for another 20 years.”

♦ 92 Points – Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast Magazine

“Compost aromas open this vineyard-designated wine, a full-bodied, densely concentrated exploration of juicy black licorice, coconut, and dust. Soft and lengthy, it develops slowly in the glass, providing a vibrant showcase for the site.”

​♦ 91 Points – James Suckling

“Lots of ripe and unctuous fruit showing a light raisin and spice character. Full body, soft tannins and a juicy finish. This is ripe and smooth. Drink or hold.”

♦ 93 Points – Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media

“A big, explosive wine, the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Morisoli Borges hits the palate with a rush of dark red and blue fruits, smoke, incense, violets, lavender, orange peel and spices. The firm tannins are going to need time to settle down, so readers should not be in a rush. This is without question the most complex and pedigreed of Castello di Amorosa’s Cabernet Sauvignons. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2027.”

♦ 93-95 Points – Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media (Barrel Sample)

“The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Morisoli-Borges Vineyard is flat-out stunning. Rich, opulent and full-bodied, yet backed up by an imposing sense of structure, the 2012 possesses gorgeous depth and pure power. Mocha, plums, licorice, tobacco, graphite and ash all jump from the glass in an opulent, broad-shouldered wine loaded with class and pedigree. This hugely promising Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the best wines I have tasted from Castello di Amorosa.”

♦ 90-92 Points – Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate (Barrel Sample)

“A barrel sample of the dense ruby/purple-tinged, full-bodied 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Morisoli Borges revealed lots of character as well as copious notes of blueberries, blackcurrants, black cherries, licorice, underbrush and spice. It should turn out to be an outstanding effort to enjoy during its first 10-15 years of life.”

♦ 92 Points – James Suckling

“A soft and silky red with plum, currants, and spice. Fully body and firm tannins that buttress the fruit. Delicious and fruity. Drink now.”

​♦ 91 Points – Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast Magazine

“From decades’ old vines in the heart of the appellation, this wine conveys dusty milk chocolate and baked plum. It’s 100% varietal, aged almost two years in 60-gallon French oak barrels. Softly layered, and full bodied, it’s approachable now, linear in its acidity.”

♦ 91 Points – Wine & Spirits Magazine

“From a vineyard on the western benchlands of Rutherford, this is a voluminous Napa Valley cabernet with bright fruit ripeness that feels refreshing. What richness it delivers is clean and toned, focused by hints of lemon verbena and cherry skin. This should age with grace.”

♦ 90 Points – Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate

“The estate’s 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Morisoli-Borges is a soft, supple wine that will drink beautifully over the next few years. Sweet black cherries, plums, herbs and licorice are some of the notes that take shape in this soft, caressing Cabernet Sauvignon. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2016.”

♦ 90 Points – Antonio Galloni

“The estate’s 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Morisoli-Borges is a soft, supple wine that will drink beautifully over the next few years. Sweet black cherries, plums, herbs and licorice are some of the notes that take shape in this soft, caressing Cabernet Sauvignon. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2016.”


Melanson Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon

CABERNET SAUVIGNON

MELANSON VINEYARD

♦ 97 Points – Jeb Dunnuck

“All Cabernet and aged 20 months in new barrels, the 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Melanson Vineyard comes from a site in the hills east of the town of Saint Helena. It offers a stunning bouquet of red and black currants, tobacco leaves, damp earth, and hints of chocolate to go with a ripe, powerful, yet elegant style on the palate. Flawlessly balanced, with ripe, silky tannins, it’s certainly a gem in the vintage and has everything you could want for a classic, ageworthy, world class Cabernet Sauvignon. It’s going to develop additional nuance with 4-5 years of bottle age and have 2-3 decades of overall longevity.”

♦ 92 Points – James Suckling

“This has a very rich and attractively floral nose with fresh violets, as well as blackcurrants, cola and chocolate. The palate is very fleshy with such smooth and enveloping tannins, carrying attractive chocolate and blackberry flavors. Drink or hold.”

♦ 97 Points – Lisa Perrotti-Brown, The Wine Advocate

“Made of 100% Cabernet Sauvingon, the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Melanson Vineyard has a deep purple-black color and stunning perfume of candied violets, chocolate-covered cherries, potpourri and menthol over a warm cassis and crushed black plums core plus a waft of garrigue. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is built like a brick house, with a firm, grainy texture and tons of freshness lifting the densely packed fruit to a good long finish. Drink 2020 – 2038.”

♦ 92 Points – James Suckling

“This has an entire spectrum of blackberry aromas, but also great freshness and crisp acidity, together with fine tannins, making this feel remarkably light on its feet for a top Napa cabernet. Great energy at the long, clean and dry finish. Try to wait until at least 2021.”

♦ 92 Points – Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media

“Castello di Amorosa’s 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Melanson Vineyard is powerful and deep, with plenty of the mountain structure that is typical of this Pritchard Hill site. Mineral and savory notes abound. Graphite, smoke and exotic spices are some of the many nuances that develop in the glass. Readers should expect a potent, intense Cabernet Sauvignon that is also less overly fruity than the other wines in the range.”

♦ 91 Points – James Suckling

“Lots of cherry and currant character with chocolate and spice. Full body, round and easy tannins and a fruity finish. Drink now or hold.”

♦ 95+ Points – Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate

“From Pritchard Hill, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Melanson Vineyard emanates from those red, volcanic, rocky soils above Oakville in the Vaca Mountains. Rich, concentrated and intense with loads of blackberry and black raspberry fruit, cassis, floral notes and underlying earthy minerality, this is a big, backstrapping, concentrated and dense wine meant for long-term cellaring. It is approachable now, but will be better in 5-6 years and last 25-30.”

♦ 92 Points – Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media

“The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Melanson Vineyard is plush and inviting, with striking textural richness and depth. Black cherry, plum, spice and menthol are all fused together in a sumptuous, striking Cabernet endowed with terrific depth. Mocha, chocolate, new French oak and lavender wrap around the juicy finish.”

♦ 94 Points – Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate

“The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Melanson Vineyard, from a site on Pritchard Hill, shows loads of black raspberry and blueberry fruit, a deep ruby/purple color, a touch of minerality, medium to full body, but is fruit-dominated, lush, seductive and round. It should drink well for at least 15 or so years”

♦ 90 Points – James Suckling

“Lots of dark fruits and dark licorice with some walnuts. Full-bodied with boysenberry character, polished tannins and ripe fruit. Drink now.”

♦ 93 Points, Cellar Selection – Wine Enthusiast Magazine

“From a vineyard atop Pritchard Hill, this wine delivers big, bold flavors and structure. Integrated tannins form around flavors of cloves, baking spices and dried herbs. Blackberry and black cherry pop in between a flinty, earthy side. Drink through 2022.”

♦ 93 Points – Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media

“The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Melanson Vineyard is another dark, voluptuous beauty from Castello di Amorosa. Here, too, the style is deceptively mid-weight, yet there is plenty of complexity in the glass. Sweet herbs, tobacco, licorice and lavender open up as the wine builds through the mid-palate and into the finish with gorgeous intensity.”

♦ 90-92 Points – Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media (Barrel Sample)

“The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Melanson Vineyard wraps around the palate with gorgeous finesse. Soft, seamless and voluptuous to the core, the Melanson is a great example of the vintage. Sweet tobacco, spices and dried flowers all add complexity in the glass, but it is the purity of the fruit that stands out most.”

♦ 92 Points – Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate

“The dense ruby/purple-colored 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Melanson Vineyard comes from the eastern Vaca Mountains, overlooking St. Helena, part of the area known as Pritchard Hill (an incredible source for some great wines). This 2012 possesses beautiful black raspberry and blueberry fruit intermixed with notions of spring flowers. Medium to full-bodied, elegant but intense, it is hard to resist at present, but should evolve gracefully for a decade.”

♦ 91 Points – James Suckling

“A balanced, beautiful cabernet sauvignon. Full body but balanced and refined, with a lovely tension and freshness. Drink now.”

♦ 92 Points – Steve Heimoff, Wine Enthusiast Magazine

“The vineyard isn’t well known, but it’s on Pritchard Hill, near much more famous sources of Cabernet. It’s a deceptive wine, so rich and flamboyant in sweet, jammy blackberries and cherries, chocolate and licorice, you want to drink the whole bottle. Yet it has the tannin-acid balance to age, possibly for a long time. Made from 100% Cab, yet produced in tiny quantities, it shows the Pritchard signature of youthful deliciousness combined with ageability.”

♦ 91 Points – Antonio Galloni, The Wine Advocate

“The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Melanson Vineyard is incredibly primary at this stage. Another super-ripe, opulent wine, the Melanson needs at least a few years in bottle for the flavors to emerge and the tannins to soften. Still, even today, there is a textural richness that is impossible to miss. The huge, powerful finish bodes well for the future. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2025.”


Don Thomas Cabernet Sauvignon

CABERNET SAUVIGNON

DON THOMAS VINEYARD

♦ 96+ Points – Lisa Perrotti-Brown, The Wine Advocate

“Composed of 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Don Thomas Vineyard is deep purple-black in color and features vibrant notes of crushed wild blueberries, black raspberries and red and black currants with wafts of rose hips, raspberry leaves, unsmoked cigars and pencil shavings. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is tautly structured with ripe, grainy tannins and beautiful freshness framing the red and black fruit layers, finishing long and mineral laced. Drink 2020 – 2039.”

♦ 95 Points – James Suckling

“Crazy notes of blackberries, blueberries and spices such as cloves and vanilla. Full-bodied, rich yet dynamic. Silky tannins and a focused, precise finish. Complex and wonderfully crafted. Drink in 2021.”

♦ 92 Points – Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media

“Another fine wine in this range, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Don Thomas Vineyard is soft, open and inviting, with lovely textural resonance and terrific depth. The mocha, black cherry jam, spice and sweet French oak fill out the wine’s voluptuous frame effortlessly.”

♦ 93 Points – Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate

“The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Don Thomas Vineyard comes from the Rutherford benchlands. It has a dense purple color, exhibits plenty of kirsch liqueur, blackberry fruit, dusty/loamy undertones and a full-bodied, opulent mouthfeel. This is a quintessential 2014, with oodles of fruit, a full body and a long, long finish. Drink it over the next 15-20 years.”

♦ 91 Points – Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media

“The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Don Thomas Vineyard is soft, succulent and highly expressive. Mocha, chocolate, lavender and inky blue/purplish fruits all flesh out in the glass. Medium in body and forward, the 2014 will drink well with minimal cellaring.”

♦ 92 Points – Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate

“The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Don Thomas Vineyard is a luscious style of Cabernet Sauvignon, with loads of blackcurrant fruit, silky tannins, licorice and floral notes. The wine comes from the western border of Rutherford and is pure, rich, and while drinkable now, is certainly capable of lasting 15 or more years. ”

♦ 90 Points – James Suckling

“Lots of dark fruits and dark licorice with some walnuts. Full-bodied with boysenberry character, polished tannins and ripe fruit. Slightly one-dimensional. Drink now.”

♦ 92 Points – Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media

“Deceptively medium in body, the 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Don Thomas Vineyard packs a serious punch. The flavors are dark and bold to the core, with plenty of black fruit, smoke, iron and spices woven throughout. A long, persistent finish rounds things out nicely. This expressive Cabernet Sauvignon should drink well for the next decade or so.”

♦ 91-93 Points – Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media (Barrel Sample)

“The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Don Thomas Vineyard stands out for its overall complexity. Intense dark fruit plays off the wine’s insistent minerality beautifully. Plum, dark cherry, graphite and smoke are some of the notes that are totally alive in the glass. The 2012 is all about persistence, structure and intensity. The flavors are vibrant and beautifully delineated throughout in this vivid, expressive Cabernet Sauvignon.”

♦ 91 Points – Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate

“The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Don Thomas Vineyard comes from a site on the western Mayacamas hillsides, not far from Rutherford. This cuvée exhibits more blackberry, cassis and graphite notes as well as medium to full body, attractive pure fruit, and a forward, luscious personality. Consume this refined, well-made Cabernet over the next 8-10 years.”

♦ 91 Points – Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast Magazine

“On the western edge of the appellation, this vineyard provides a juicy, dusty core of full-bodied tannins and black cherry, a generous expression of ripe fruit with a complex edge. It finishes with touches of broth and tomato leaf.”

♦ 91 Points – James Suckling

“A chewy young cabernet with dark berry, blueberry, and coffee character. Full body and slightly bitter wood undertone but shows fruit and style. Drink now.”

♦ 92 Points – James Suckling

“A balanced, fruity red with mineral and berry character, plus hints of currants. Full body with silky tannins and a fresh, tangy finish. Drink or hold.”

♦ 91 Points – Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media

“Dark cherries, plums, graphite, cinnamon and flowers meld together in the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Don Thomas Vineyard. The round, supple style offers plenty of immediacy. Blackberry jam, grilled herb, violets, mint and a hint of sweet tobacco add the final flourishes of nuance. Overall though, the 2011 appears to be built for near and medium-term drinking.”

♦ Luxury Wine of 2014 – KSRO Radio

♦ 94 Points – James Laube, Wine Spectator

“Amazingly complex and refined, tuned to a mix of red and dark berry that’s elegant and graceful without sacrificing Cabernet’s power and torque. Ends with classic Bourdeaux-like cedar and cigar box touches, gliding along with fine-grained tannins. Drink now through 2028.”

♦ 93 Points – James Suckling

“Best red from here with ripe-fruit, caramel, spice and coffee character. It’s full-bodied, with soft tannins and a long finish. Needs a year or two to come together.”

♦ 93 Points, Cellar Selection – Steve Heimoff, Wine Enthusiast Magazine

“The vineyard is in Rutherford, and this 100% Cabernet does show the dusty tannins for which the commune is known. It’s also very ripe and exuberant, with tiers of black and red cherry pie, currant and oak flavors, as well as a delicious, earthy note of green olives. Forward now, but should gain in the bottle of over the next 10 years.”

♦ 92 Points – Antonio Galloni, The Wine Advocate

“Grilled herbs, incense, tobacco and smoke are some of the notes that emerge as the estate’s 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Don Thomas Vineyard shows off its intense personality. The Don Thomas is another wine that needs time for the tannins to start melting away a bit. Although a bit of a brute today, I sense plenty of potential for the future. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2025.”

♦ 91-93 Points – Antonio Galloni (Barrel Sample)

“The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Don Thomas Vineyard is another exciting wine loaded with the essence of blueberry jam, blackberries, cassis, grilled herbs and licorice. It shows gorgeous inner perfume and plenty of richness through to the clean, vibrant finish. It is a bit texturally richer than the Barone in 2010. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2022.”

♦ Year’s Best – Wine & Spirits Magazine


Butala Estate Club Cabernet Sauvignon

CABERNET SAUVIGNON

BUTALA ESTATE VINEYARD

♦ 96 Points – Jeb Dunnuck

“The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Butala Vineyard comes from the cooler Coombsville region of the valley and is 93% Cabernet Sauvignon and 7% Merlot. As always with wines from this region, it shines for its purity and elegance, with pretty notes of cassis and blue fruits, violets, spring flowers, and green tobacco. Showing classic lead pencil and cedar with time in the glass, this beauty is medium to full-bodied and has a pure, elegant texture, ripe tannins, and a great finish. Those who love the more finesse-driven, seamless side to Napa will love this.”

♦ 95 Points – Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media

This is another strong wine in this range. Inky red fruit, blood orange, mint, rose petal and cedar race out of the glass. Opulent and yet bright, with terrific energy, the Butala has a ton to offer in the classic Castello di Amorosa style that is all about exuberance.”

♦ 93 Points – James Suckling

Blackcurrant, dried blueberry, crushed walnut and praline on the nose. It’s medium-bodied with sleek, integrated tannins. So flavorful, fresh and chewy all at once. Drink or hold.”

♦ 96 Points – Jeb Dunnuck

“Leading off with the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Butala Vineyard, which is a blend of 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Merlot, 7% Malbec, and 4% Petit Verdot, it reveals a saturated purple color as well as a beautiful bouquet of sweet crème de cassis, blueberries, exotic flowers, orange blossom, and subtle background oak. This medium to full-bodied, elegant, beautifully polished effort is perfectly balanced, has no hard edges, and offers a great finish. It falls into the pretty, elegant end of the spectrum, yet it still has fabulous intensity and length. Drink 2019 – 2039.”

​♦ 95+ Points – Lisa Perrotti-Brown, The Wine Advocate

“Made of 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Butala Vineyard is deep purple-black in color and slides seductively out of the glass with delicately perfumed scents of roses, lilacs, and kirsch over a core of wild blueberries, mulberries, cassis and warm plums plus suggestions of underbrush and cedar chest. The elegantly played, medium to full-bodied palate provides exhilarating tension and is jam-packed with tightly wound, mineral laced layers, finishing very long.”

♦ 93 Points – James Suckling

“Very well done for the vintage with a density of fruit and freshness. Medium to full body, firm and silky tannins and a flavorful finish. Better in 2019.”

​♦ 91 Points – Lisa Perrotti-Brown, The Wine Advocate

“Coming from Coombsville, the blend for the deep garnet-purple colored 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Butala Vineyard is 93% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Merlot and 1% Petit Verdot. The wine is muted on the nose at this stage, with blackberry preserves, stewed plums, cassis, herbs and earth notions. Full-bodied and concentrated, the mouth is packed with berry preserves flavors, with chewy, firm tannins and a long, earthy finish.”

♦ 95 Points – Jeb Dunnuck

“The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Butala Vineyard comes from the Coombsville region of the valley, just outside the town of Napa. It offers a similar level of minerality to the Morisoli-Borges cuvee as well as a plump, sexy style on the palate. Loaded with notions of black and blue fruits, white flowers, violets and graphite, it’s slightly more forward and opulent than the other two cuvees, yet has plenty of underlying tannin and depth. It’s going to drink nicely for 15-20 years. (Expected Maturity: 2018 – 2038).”

​♦ 93 Points – Robert Parker

“The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Butala Vineyard, which is one of their estate sources, is from a 12-acre parcel in Coombsville with rocky, red volcanic soils. This is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon with a dense ruby/purple color, rich, concentrated, earthy black and red fruits, graphite and mineral notes, a full-bodied mouthfeel and loads of concentration, but still suave, civilized and silky tannins. The wine is big, exuberant and rich, but also approachable. Drink it over the next 15-20 years.”

♦ 93 Points – Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate

The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Butala Vineyard has a slightly more saturated ruby/purple color and comes from rocky soils in the Coombsville AVA. This vineyard is 25 years old. The wine shows notes of blackberry, forest floor and crushed rocks, giving it a distinct minerality. It is deep, concentrated, layered and very impressive, the wine shows soft tannin and has a certain accessibility, but promises to evolve beautifully for another two decades.


Rapp Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon

CABERNET SAUVIGNON

RAPP RANCH

♦ 93 Points – James Suckling

“Amorosa’s Rapp Ranch cabernet bottling has a very suave, cedary nose with regal, dark-berry aromas, typical of cabernet, as well as hints of fresh leather. The palate is so succulent and juicy with very fresh and attractively detailed tannins carrying good length. Fresh finish. Drink or hold.”

♦ 92 Points – Wine Spectator

“Vivid plum, blueberry and açaí berry flavors stream through, flanked with graphite and inlaid with subtle alder and bay accents. Ripe and dense, but racy in feel, with a mineral thread at the very end that brings you back for more. Drink now through 2029. 185 cases made.” – J.W.

♦ 95 Points – James Suckling

“A very deep and intense wine with a gorgeous core of ripe fruit and velvety tannins and a beautiful finish. Full-bodied and flavorful. Energetic finish. Reserved. Better in 2020.”

​♦ 93+ Points – Lisa Perrotti-Brown, The Wine Advocate

“Deep purple-black in color, the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Rapp Ranch displays subtle black raspberries, black and red cherries and black currants with hints of wild thyme, damp soil and tree bark. Medium to full-bodied, firmly textured with plenty of youthful, crunchy fruit, it has a pleasantly chewy finish.”


Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

CABERNET SAUVIGNON

NAPA VALLEY

93 Points – James Suckling

“A rich, layered red with ripe berry, plum and some cedar and oak. It’s medium-to full-bodied with chewy tannins and a medium austere finish. Some toast and bitterness at the end. Give it time to open. Try after 2022.”

92 Points – Jeb Dunnuck

“A wine that’s sold only at the estate, the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon checks in as 90% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Merlot, all from a mountainous terroir in the northern part of the valley. Lots of smoked red and black fruits, saddle leather, dried herbs, tobacco, and cedar all emerge from this beauty, which is medium to full-bodied has a rounded, mouth-filling texture, and by this appellation’s standards, relatively moderate, soft tannins. This charmer is going to evolve for a solid decade or more.”

92 Points, Cellar Selection – Wine Enthusiast Magazine

“This seriously structured and nicely concentrated wine is a keeper. Scented with blueberries and light oak spices, it shows rich, somewhat grippy tannins, full body and pure black-cherry and black-currant flavors that point to continued improvement with time. Best from 2028.” – Jim Gordon

92 Points – James Suckling

“This has very attractive blackcurrant and cedar aromas, in classic cabernet mode. The palate has a very attractive core of ripe blackberries with round and fleshy fruit presence and such approachable, ripe tannins. Drink now.”

91 Points – James Suckling

“Ripe, rich and powerful with tons of blackberry, cassis and pomegranate aromas, but also some nice, moderately dry tannins and enough blood orange freshness to lift the imposing body at the finish of this well grafted Napa Cabernet. Drink or hold.”

90 Points – Lisa Perrotti-Brown, The Wine Advocate

“Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon contains 5% Petit Verdot and 2% Malbec and has a nose of blackberry, cassis, earth, menthol and pencil shavings. The full-bodied palate shows chunky but approachable tannins with good expression and balance, if a little straightforward.”

90 Points – Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media

“Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon contains 5% Petit Verdot and 2% Malbec and has a nose of blackberry, cassis, earth, menthol and pencil shavings. The full-bodied palate shows chunky but approachable tannins with good expression and balance, if a little straightforward.”

♦ Double Gold Medal – 2019 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

♦ 90 Points – Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate

“The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, which is 93% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Petit Verdot, Merlot and Malbec, is a classic 2014. Dense ruby/purple with notes of licorice, blackcurrant and a touch of spice, the wine hits the palate with a nice velvety richness, medium to full-bodied flavors that linger, impressive purity and overall craftsmanship. Tannins are ripe and well-integrated as is the wood, acidity and tannin. This is plush, as most 2014s tend to be, and ideal for drinking now and over the next 10-15 years.”

♦ Gold Medal – 2018 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

♦ 93 Points – James Suckling

“A solid cab with an excellent depth of fruit and core of tannin backbone. Black currant, walnut and dark chocolate undertones with ripe tannins. Shows reserve and focus. Better in 2018 but delicious now.”

♦ 92 Points – Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast Magazine

“Juicy black and red cherry flavors enwrap classic cedar, graphite and peppercorn notes in this brawny, full-bodied wine. Accessible despite its bulk of tannin, its texture leans leathery, with clove scents lingering long on the finish.”

♦ 90 Points – Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast Magazine

“This is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon with smaller amounts of Merlot, Petit Verdot and Malbec, sourced from throughout the Napa Valley, including the winery’s estate Diamond Mountain vineyard. Bold and lush in cranberry and dark chocolate, it’s also robust in black pepper and cedar.”

♦ 90 Points – James Suckling

A fresh and bright cabernet with mushroom, black currant and orange peel character. Full body, firm tannins and a crisp finish. Drink or hold.

​♦ Gold Medal – 2016 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

♦ 88 Points – Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate

“Castello di Amorosa’s 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon is an attractive, supple wine to drink now and over the next few years. Raspberry jam, flowers and spices all flesh out on this inviting, pretty Cabernet Sauvignon.”

♦ Gold Medal – 2015 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

♦ 90 Points, Cellar Selection – Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast Magazine

“A smidgen of Petit Verdot finds its way into this Cab, a cellar-worthy bottling with massive bone structure, accented by savory cedar, herb and black fruit. A taste of espresso dusted in chocolate shavings shows on the finish. Age through 2020.”

♦ 93 Points, Cellar Selection – Steve Heimoff, Wine Enthusiast Magazine

“They held this Cab back for nearly four years, but it’s still pretty closed and tannic. Give it another six in the cellar, to let it begin to throw some sediment, which will let the blackberries and cherries drink sweet and pure.”

♦ 91 Points – Antonio Galloni

“A dark, inky wine, Castello di Amorosa’s 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon explodes onto the palate with dark fruit. this large-scaled, voluptuous Cabernet is all about textural depth and richness, both of which it achieves with plenty of style.”

♦ Best of Class – 2014 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

♦ Double Gold Medal – 2013 American Fine Wine Competition


Diamond Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon

CABERNET SAUVIGNON

DIAMOND MOUNTAIN DISTRICT, NAPA VALLEY

93 Points, Wine Enthusiast Magazine

“This polished and beautifully concentrated wine offers light wood smoke, cardamom and deep blueberry aromas followed by dark chocolate, black plum and a hint of espresso. Firm, fine-grained tannins interlace with the black fruits for a good grip on the palate. Best from 2028.” – Jim Gordon


CABERNET SAUVIGNON

QUATTRO, NAPA VALLEY

♦ 94 Points – American Fine Wine Competition 2021- Gold Medal

“More than 550 wines from 125 wineries vied for top honors at this invitation only event. The Judging was conducted by a 28-member blue ribbon panel from across the wine industry, included educators, restaurateurs, retailers, journalists, and top sommeliers from across the country.”

♦ 93 Points – Owen Bargreen

“The outstanding, deeply-colored 2018 Castello di Amorosa ‘Quattro’ Cabernet Sauvignon spent 20 months in 65% new French oak before bottling. Ripe dark currants and huckleberries mark the nose, alongside wet gravel and graphite notes. The palate is soft and very seamless, creating a weightless effect. Drink 2022-2034.”


Merlot Napa Valley

MERLOT

NAPA VALLEY

Best of Class – 2023 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

“Over 52 judges representing winemaking, trade, media, and food industries. Over 5,500 wines were submitted to the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.”

♦ 90 Points – Connoisseur’s Guide to California Wine

Good Value. The succulent, ripe cherry fruit of good Merlot is on full display here and it is teamed with lots of lovely, crème-brûlée-like oaky sweetness. The wine is moderately full-bodied with an invitingly supple texture and so much outgoing richness that it is, even now, a thoroughly enjoyable Merlot, but hasty drinking is by no means demanded, and its overall balance and fine fruity energy ensures anywhere from three to six, and maybe more, years of steady improvement if laid away.

Double Gold Medal – 2019 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

♦ 90 Points – Kim Marcus, Wine Spectator
♦ Double Gold Medal – 2018 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

♦ Gold Medal – 2016 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition
♦ Gold Medal – 2016 American Fine Wine Competition

♦ Double Gold Medal – 2015 American Fine Wine Competition

♦ Best in Flight – St Helena Star/Napa Valley Vintners Blind Tasting

“If you have not seen it, Mary Davidek has a fun posting on castellodiamorosa.com/blog about merlot. Sip along to the video with this merlot’s blend of red and black fruits, toasty oak and baking spice-infused flavors. This is yet another tasting panel winner from winemaker Brooks Painter and Castello di Amorosa.”

♦ Double Gold Medal – 2014 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

♦ 88 Points – Antonio Galloni

“The 2009 Merlot emerges from the glass with sweet plums, tobacco, spices and dried flowers. It shows lovely mid-palate pliancy, but the slightly advancing aromas and mid-weight structure suggest it is best enjoyed over the next few years. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2014.”

♦ Gold Medal – San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

♦ Napa Valley Vintners/Saint Helena Star Blind Taste Test

Top 5 Merlot in the Napa Valley

♦ Gold Medal – 2010 American Fine Wine Competition


Red Blend Napa Valley

IL BRIGANTE

RED BLEND

♦ 93 Points – Wine Review Online

“The intent here is obviously to capture a Super Tuscan vibe with its Bordeaux varieties taking the lead and getting a nice acid push from just a bit of Sangiovese. Dark berry fruit, sandalwood and sage ride a firm grip and medium plus oak toast through a long finish that blows out in integrated fashion. Bistecca, please.” – Rich Cook

♦ 90 Points – Connoisseur’s Guide to California Wine

“Good Value. Although not 100% Cabernet in composition, this deep and well-defined wine is incisively focused on the curranty characteristics of the grape with elements of cola, fresh loam and creamy oak contributing to its richness and complexity. It is full and slightly supple in feel with nicely integrated tannins lending just the right degree of structural firmness, and, from beginning to end, it exhibits a sense of crafting and depth that makes it nothing short of a genuine bargain at the price.”

♦ Silver Medal – 2014 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition


Napa Valley Sangiovese

SANGIOVESE

NAPA VALLEY

♦ 91 Points – Owen Bargreen

“Novel and complex with its sense of weight and earthy tones, the 2017 Sangiovese unveils ripe red currants that collide with smoky minerals and leather on the palate. Fresh and showing a soft mouthfeel, this has another eight to ten years at least ahead of it. Drink 2021-2031.”

♦ 90 Points – Connoisseur’s Guide

“Distinctly varietal, ripe and yet slightly tart, cherry-like fruit is the steady focus of this concentrated and comparatively sturdy look at Sangiovese, and it is teamed with complementary, never-too pushy oak along with scattered suggestions of clean soils and a touch or two of woodsy spice. The wine is built for aging and has all of the pieces in place to handsomely repay a good half decade of patience.” (November 2017)

♦ Highly Recommended – Fred Tasker, The Sacramento Bee

“Toasty oak, intense aromas and flavors of red raspberries and Asian spices, smooth, ripe tannins, long finish.”

​♦ Highly Recommended – Dan Berger’s Vintage Experiences

“Dark red fruit, a faint earthy aroma and a rustic finish with a layer of tannins that needs to age out in 2-3 more years. Good now if paired with tomato-sauced pastas.”

♦ Gold Medal – 2014 San Francisco International Wine Competition
♦ Gold Medal – 2014 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

♦ 93 Points – BrainWines.com

Nose: Clean, acidic, blackberry. Light cassis reduction. Forest floor. Black earth. Light and spice and confectionary. Leather.
Taste: Medium mouthfeel. Slightly candied stewed, juicy, plums with sweet oaks. Just a tad tannic. Slight chalk and touch of steel.
Her nose is a solid “A,” her taste an “A-/B+”
Excellent wine crafting

♦ International Wine Review

“This is one of the better California Sangiovese wines we’ve tasted over the years. The wine shows rich red fruit with herbal notes on a soft, lush palate. There’s a nice integration of oak and fruit and good acidity that brightens the wine.”


SANGIOVESE

VOYAGER VINEYARD, NAPA VALLEY

♦ 90 Points – Wine Enthusiast Magazines

“Review Coming Soon”

Wine Spectator Magazine (91 Points)

“Blackberry and blueberry flavors at the core are ripe and fleshy, with details of spice, tobacco, Earl Grey tea and dried lavender, with firm tannins and terrific harmony on the finish. Drink now. 992 cases made.” —M.W.)

Wine Enthusiast Magazine (90 Points)

“An entirely varietal wine, this opens in rustic pomegranate, cranberry, earth and cedar, with a juicy midpalate of full-bodied ripeness and rich layers. A hint of gamy deli meat and black pepper round it out on the finish.” – Virginie Boone


Old Vine Zinfandel

ZINGARO

ZINFANDEL, RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY

92 Points, Owen Bargreen

“A blend of 91% Zinfandel with 9% Primitivo, this old vine Russian River Valley Zinfandel shows off potpourri with fresh dill and stewed strawberry notes on the nose. The palate is soft and inviting with a smooth texture and gorgeous length. Great to consume now, enjoy this outstanding new Zinfandel over the next eight years. Drink 2022-2030.”

♦ Double Gold Medal – 2021 American Fine Wine Competition

♦ Gold Medal – 2019 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

Gold Medal – 2018 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

♦ 90 Points – Ken’s Wine Guide

“This dark red colored Zinfandel is very bright in the glass. This wine opens with fragrant boysenberry bouquet with hints of oak and clove. On the palate, this wine is medium bodied, balanced, and savory. It also nicely coats your mouth. The flavor profile is a tasty plum and blackberry blend with notes of nicely integrated gentle old oak. We also detected hints of bay leaf, black pepper and a touch of wild red raspberry. The finish is dry and its flavors and moderate tannins are nicely prolonged. The panel suggested that this Zin would pair well with a pulled pork sandwich or a sharp cheese and salami platter.”

♦ Gold Medal – 2014 San Francisco International Wine Competition
♦ Gold Medal – 2014 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

♦ 89 Points – Tim Fish, Wine Spectator

“Zesty and full of briary black cherry and fresh pine aromas and tart blueberry and licorice flavors that finish with ripe but lively tannins. Drink now through 2016. 1,109 cases made.

Barbera Italian Varietal Wine

BARBERA

SIERRA FOOTHILLS

♦ 93 Points – Editors Choice – Wine Enthusiast Magazine

“This rich and handsomely oaked wine offers a wide range of spices and ripe black fruits on a velvety, inviting texture. Light wood smoke, cloves, leather and tobacco aromas meet dark plum, cassis and dark-chocolate flavors. Moderate tannins add good structure.”


PINOT NOIR

MORNING DEW RANCH

♦ 94 Points – Wine Enthusiast Magazine

“Warm baking-spice accents and mulled plums give this full-bodied and gently textured wine a welcoming expression. Black cherry, sour cherry and balsam flavors flood the palate with richness. The complex wine lingers on the finish.”

♦ 93 Points – Wine Enthusiast Magazine

“Moderate tannins, plenty of ripe strawberry and cherry flavors and a broad texture make this an outstanding, mouthfilling wine. Grown on a 12-acre hillside vineyard, it offers hints of vanilla and cinnamon to integrate with almost jammy red fruits.” – Jim Gordon

♦ 94 Points, Editors’ Choice – Jim Gordon, Wine Enthusiast Magazine

“Tempting fruit flavors run deep and long in this full-bodied, focused and concentrated wine made from a vineyard established by Burt Williams of Williams Selyem. Black cherry and rhubarb ring clear as a bell while subtle clove, ginger and cinnamon add complexity. A mouth-filling texture and lingering finish complete the picture.”

♦ 94 Points, Editors’ Choice – Jim Gordon, Wine Enthusiast Magazine

“Bold and spicy, this firmly built wine is the first Morning Dew Ranch vineyard-designate from the new owners of the estate. It starts with exotic and enticing aromas of fresh mint, basil and clove, then delivers pure, focused black fruits and a generous dose of new-oak spice on the palate. Healthy, lip-smacking tannins and firm acidity give it great structure, yet there’s no hurry to enjoy this wine. Best after 2020.”

♦ 94 Points – Rich Cook, Wine Reviews Online


“A complex, layered expression, featuring black cherry, sage, damp earth and a touch of pepper in the aroma profile.  The palate follows suit, with lively acidity knitting the promised flavors into a long, intriguing glass of Anderson Valley.  This will ride well alongside fish, pork or beef, and I’d lean into the herbs in the food prep.  Another winner from Brooks Painter and his winemaking team.”

♦ 94 Points  – Kirsten Georgi, The Armchair Sommelier


“100% Pinot Noir from the 12-acre Morning Dew Ranch vineyard.  Aged for 10 months in French Burgundy oak barrels.  Medium ruby in color.  Wow.  Layers and layers of complexity.  Strawberry, fresh red cherries, cola, vanilla, clove, cocoa, tobacco.  Gorgeous structure — soft yet strong (but not bullying) tannins, and engaging acidity.  I say again, wow.  Sometimes, in my zeal for Burgundy, I forget just how transformative California Pinot Noir can be when it’s made well.  And this one is made very well.  It’s elegant, classy, and thought-provoking.  13.9% ABV.  Retail = $75.  I’d buy a case of this stuff without hesitation.”

♦ 92 Points  – The Wine Guys


“When we think of @thecastello , we tend to go with incredibly beautiful big castle that every tourist goes to for Italian varietals and Cabernet. But here comes a new vineyard from them and the Pinot Noir from it is pretty good and a nice change of pace. Notes of toasted marshmallow, leather, molasses, black cherries, oak spice, vanilla and ripe raspberries. Big, rich, mouthfeel that punches dark berries with generous oak notes. Despite the big palate, surprising decent amount of acidity on the finish, fairly good structure, and well integrated tannins. Fans of the big and lush, this is your jam, pun intended, this screams California. Enjoy over the next 5-7 years.”

♦ 91 Points – Wine & Spirits Magazine


“Burt Williams planted this 12-acre vineyard west of Philo and later sold it to Dario Sattui in 2016; this is Amorosa’s first release from the property. It’s a cool and generous pinot, rich with grapeskin spice and fleshy fruit density. The acidity comes across in hints of tangy orange and green olive. Pour it with grilled lamb studded with rosemary and garlic.”

♦ 91 Points – Issac Baker, The Terroirist


“Light purple color. Inviting aromas of plums, kirsch, sweet cherries, rhubarb, cola, lightly roasted coffee. Full-bodied on the palate, nicely structured with medium tannins and acidity. Juicy and fruity with black cherries, dark plums, jammy raspberries, saucy but shows a lot of complexity in the form of cola, violets, clove, sarsaparilla, and an earthy/pine resin notes. Rich and forward but well-done.”


PINOT NOIR

CRESTA D'ORO - THREE ARROWS RANCH

Owen Bargreen (93 Points)

“Sourced from this site in the Green Valley of Sonoma County, this offers cran-cola, loamy soils and a bright salinity that runs through the pretty red fruits on the palate. Full-bodied and full of finesse, enjoy this lithe and polished 2019 Pinot Noir over the next ten years. Drink 2022-2032.”

Wine Review Online (93 Points)

“Here is a fine Russian River Valley interpretation of Pinot Noir, one that’s focused on cherry cola, rhubarb and dry earth in both aroma and flavor profiles, with zingy acidity bringing a nice finish bite. The mouth watering texture will keep you sipping, and it will pair perfectly with grilled salmon or roast fowl. If you are starting to think about fall menus for entertaining, this is a can’t miss higher end presentation.” – Rich Cook

Wine Enthusiast Magazine (90 Points)

“Tasting of strawberry cream, this is a lively and fresh wine with cool-climate acidity that keeps it vibrant in contrast to the underlying richness of ripe fruit. Melon, cherry and raspberry fill out a fleshy midpalate that is lightly spiced in nutmeg and rose.” – Virginie Boone

Double Gold Medal – San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

“There were over forty-eight judges, representing various North American wine regions, evaluating 5,816 wines from nearly 1,000 wineries for the 2022 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.”

 American Fine Wine Competition (93 Points)

“Review Coming Soon”

San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition (Double Gold Medal)

“The 2021 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition was completed on March 5. There were over forty-eight judges, representing various North American wine regions, evaluating nearly 5,700 wines from over 1,000 wineries.”

♦ 90 Points – Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast Magazine

“Gamy elements of deli meat, and tight, potent tannins mark this wine, which is elegantly restrained in style. Tangy cranberry and orange flavors emphasize its overall brightness and lasting notes of dried herb.”

♦ Double Gold Medal – 2019 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition


PINOT NOIR

TERRA DE PROMISSIO

♦ 91 Points – Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast Magazine

“Juicy black fruit leads the way to a wealth of black-tea, oak and forest notes in this well-made, elegantly styled wine. Good acidity keeps it fresh and lengthy, the tannins supple and well behaved, providing structure and balance.”

♦ Best of Class – San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

“The 2021 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition was completed on March 5. There were over forty-eight judges, representing various North American wine regions, evaluating nearly 5,700 wines from over 1,000 wineries.”

♦ 93 Points – Connoisseur’s Guide to California Wine

“Here is a Pinot that goes a bit further than most when it comes to substance and fruity fullness, but it does so with a great sense of style and is surprisingly graceful and polished for the ample wine that it is. It keeps its sights set on wonderfully pure, optimally ripened, cherry-like fruit from beginning to end and, at every stop, is sweetened by seamlessly fit oak. By every measure, a layered and lovely Pinot that is downright delicious right now, it is destined to reveal more complexity and finesse over time, but, even if patience will bring sure rewards, we fully admit that waiting will not come easy.”

♦ Gold Medal – 2016 American Fine Wine Competition

♦ 90 Points – James Laube, Wine Spectator

“Marked by smoky, toasty oak that initially covers the raspberry and wild berry flavors. Fine-grained tannins and minerality fill in the gaps on the finish. Drink now through 2021.”


PINOT NOIR

ANDERSON VALLEY

♦ 91 Points – International Wine Review

“The 2017 Castello di Amorosa displays a dark ruby color and offers aromas of ripe blackberry and black cherry fruit. On the palate it reveals a soft round mouth feel resulting from 11 months of sur lie barrel aging in French oak. The wine has medium acidity and sweet oak nuances on a long finish. Sourced from Castello di Amorosa’s 34 acre estate vineyard south of Boonsville planted in the 1990s.”

♦ 92 Points – Jim Gordon, Wine Enthusiast Magazine

“Big but balanced, this wine starts with very ripe fruit aromas, then brings bold black cherry, clove and blackberry flavors on a firm texture of fine-grained tannins and good acidity. The full body, layered fruit and dark spice elements make a great combination.”

♦ 90 Points – Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast Magazine

“Generous, fully ripe fruit flavors and an easy, melting texture make this wine easy to sink into. While it’s full bodied, every sip delivers lively acidity and supportive tannins to give an appetizing grip and help the flavors continue through the finish.”

♦ 89 Points – Jim Gordon, Wine Enthusiast Magazine

“Enticing oak aromas lead to rich fruit flavors, layered tannins and a supple texture on the palate. Yes, the oak element is a bit heavy but it is delicious. Ripe cherry and plum flavors catch up, filling the mouth and lingering on the finish.”

♦ Silver Medal – 2014 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

♦ 93 Points, James the Wine Guy


Pinot Noir California

PINOT NOIR

IL RUBINO

♦ 93 Points – Owen Bargreen

“The 2019 ‘Il Rubino’ comes from several sites in the North Coast AVA. Stored in 45% new French oak, this offers very pretty red rose petals with orange zest and suggestions of cardamom on the nose. Very smooth and soft on the mouth, this is generous, downright delicious red fruit-driven wine that is best consumed now and over the next eight years. Drink 2022-2032.”

♦ 91 Points – Jim Gordon, Wine Enthusiast Magazine

“Spicy and seductive, this full-flavored and full-bodied wine layers cardamom, cinnamon and clove overripe strawberry and red-cherry flavors for a generous, mouthfilling effect.” – Jim Gordon

♦ 91 Points – Jim Gordon, Wine Enthusiast Magazine

“Frankly oaky aromas and flavors put a rich stamp on this full-bodied wine. Cinnamon, vanilla and cedar in the nose lead to full, delicious black cherry, clove and nutmeg on the palate. ”

♦ 92 Points – International Wine Review

“This North Coast Appellation Pinot Noir was scored 92 Points by International Wine Review’s Don Winkler. He said, “Dark cherry with underbrush and a bright note of Montmorency cherry.  Velvet-like on the palate with fresh, rich dark cherry and berry flavors and a hint of briar with good acidity and a firm backbone.  Overall, well balanced and very flavorful.  A blend of grapes sourced from cool climate vineyards in the Anderson Valley, Mendocino Ridge, Sonoma Coast, and Green Valley of Russian River Valley; aged 11 months in 45% new French oak barrels.”

♦ 90 Points – 2019 American Fine Wine Competition

♦ Gold Medal – 2018 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

♦ 94 Points – Wine Splash

100% Pinot Noir from the North Coast and aged 10 months in Burgundian French Oak Barrels. Enchanting aromas of ripe cherries, dark berries, vanilla, and herbs. Intoxicating flavors of Black Cherry, blueberries, cola, earth, and an euphoric vanilla spice finish. Very balanced in flavors with a long, smooth finish. Complex with a wonderful layering of flavors. Pair with Poached Salmon, BBQ pork, baked ham, Mushroom Risotto, fresh salads, and medium cheeses. Close to perfection!

♦ Double Gold Medal – 2016 American Fine Wine Competition


Napa Valley Pinot Noir

PINOT NOIR

LOS CARNEROS

93 Points – Wine Review Online

“Here is a bold Pinot Noir that’s long on aromas and flavors of tart raspberry, fall spice and zippy citrus zest, the latter of which serves to keep everything bright and mouth-watering.  It’s the type of Pinot Noir that will appeal to a wide audience, either as a solo glass or a pair for chicken, salmon, turkey or lean beef.”

92 Points – Wine Enthusiast Magazine

“This flavorful and well-polished wine offers a delicious blend of raspberries and black cherries on a texture of light tannins and good acidity. It is well-balanced, smooth around the edges and lingers long on the finish” – Jim Gordon

♦ 92 Points – Rich Cook, Wine Review Online

“A dark side expression of Los Carneros fruit, whereas a Bay-influenced acid profile lets the ripeness achieved here work, without getting flabby or overly plush. Black cherry, plums and some soft sage lead on the nose and in the mouth, and the finish brings some bright oak spice forward. This makes a great solo glass, or pair it with something from the red meat side of the menu.”

♦ 92 Points – James Suckling

“Star-anise and cardamom notes make this a very striking Napa pinot noir with full body, generous ripe flavors, but moderately dry tannins and a long, complex finish. Drink or hold.”

♦ NVV / St Helena Star Tasting Panel (Top Napa Valley Pinot Noir)

“Leads with baking spice complexity and fresh red cherry and red plum flavors. (August 2018)”

♦ 93 Points – James Suckling

“Intense aromas of dark berry and cherry with some dried strawberry and toasted oak. Bark and dark tea, too. Full body, round and silky tannins and a flavorful finish. Shows such beautiful polish for a big and juicy wine. Drink or hold.”

♦ 93 Points – James Suckling

“Blackberry and cherry aromas and flavors with some dried flowers and spices. Full body, round and silky tannins and a dry and delicious finish. A big and fresh wine at the close. Drink now.”

♦ 90 Points, Cellar Selection – Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast Magazine

“A Pinot unusual for its small percentages of Alicante and Petite Sirah, this wine is tightly wound and intense, but shows promise in its earthy waves of strawberry and silky, structured acidity. Let it lie through 2018–2020.”

♦ Silver Medal – 2014 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition


Bien Nacido Chardonnay

CHARDONNAY

BIEN NACIDO VINEYARD

♦ 93 Points – Wine Review Online

“This famous vineyard became so because of Chardonnay like this offering from Brooks Painter’s team. It combines full throttle pleasure with the structure to gain complexity of its layered varietal character with time — if you can wait. I would bet that to be an unlikely prospect if you taste it now. The current deliciousness factor is seductive.”

♦ 91 Points – Wine Enthusiast Magazine

Ripe peach, sharp Meyer lemon-juice, pineapple and butterscotch aromas come through on this bottling by a winery that was nearly losed in the glass fire. Theres a briny character to the sip, where dried honeysuckle and Meyer lemon-peel flavors slide into a caramel finish.”

♦ Gold Medal – 2019 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

♦ 91 Points – Matt Kettmann, Wine Enthusiast Magazine

“Soft and inviting on the plushly textured nose, this bottling by a Napa winery sourcing from the iconic Santa Maria vineyard offers popcorn, butterscotch, fresh apple blossom and salted stone-fruit aromas. The flavors are classic and straightforward in the citrusy style, with Meyer lemon, nectarine, pineapple and butter.”

♦ 93 Points, Wine of the Week – Bill Eyer, Cuvée Corner

“Love, love the fruit produced from this vineyard. It’s not often that I give domestic Chardonnay this kinda praise, but one deserves it. In both flavor and texture this wine is rich and creamy. Prepare to be dazzled by a Chardonnay that delivers intensity and a depth of focus I rarely see. Bosc pears, peach, sweet tangerine delight the senses, nutmeg and vanilla scented oak take a back seat, while zesty acid drives the soccer moms minivan. Full bodied, vibrant and the finish is memorable.”

​♦ 92 Points – Ken Hoggins, Ken the Wine Guy

“This yellow colored Chardonnay from the Bien Nacido Vineyard opens with a wet stone, mild oak, gentle lemon and apple bouquet. On the palate, this wine is full bodied, slightly acidic and feels creamy in your mouth. The flavor profile is a very tasty pear and gentle minerality blend with light vanilla oak and faint lemon mixed in. The finish is dry and its flavors and acidity sail away nicely. This very nice Chardonnay would pair perfectly with sherry laced lobster bisque.”

​♦ 92 Points – James Melendez, James the Wine Guy
♦ Gold Medal – 2015 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition
♦ Best of Class – 2016 American Fine Wine Competition

♦ Gold Medal – 2014 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

♦ Gold Medal – 2014 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

♦ 92 Points – James Laube, Wine Spectator

“A real treat in exotic Chardonnay. Firm, rich and creamy, with a mix of tropical fruit flavors built around guava, pineapple, fig and melon. Full-bodied, with spicy oak and a long, lingering finish. Drink now through 2017.” November 3, 2010.

♦ Vineyard of the Year – 2010 California State Fair (Bien Nacido Vineyard)
♦ Double Gold Medal – 2011 American Fine Wine Competition
♦ Gold Medal – 2012 American Fine Wine Competition

♦ Double Gold Medal, Best of Class (Chardonnay) – American Fine Wine Competition

Best of 51 other wineries Chardonnay from around the country.


La Rocca Chardonnay

CHARDONNAY LA ROCCABIEN NACIDO VINEYARD

2013 VINTAGE

♦ 95 Points – Ken’s Wine Guide

“Wow! This bright yellow colored Chardonnay from Castello di Amorosa is Excellent! It opens with fragrant apple bouquet with hints of light lemon and faint oak. On the palate, this wine is medium bodied, balanced and super smooth. The flavor profile is a delicious apple and pear blend with hints of nicely integrated oak. I also detected a hint of lemon. The finish is dry and its flavors drift away nicely. This terrific Chardonnay is very food friendly and it won’t last long. I would pair it with lobster with drawn butter.”

​♦ 93 Points – James Melendez, James the Wine Guy


Chardonnay Reserve Napa Valley

CHARDONNAY RESERVE

NAPA VALLEY

94 Points, Wine Enthusiast Magazine

“A deft touch on the oak and great underlying fruit flavors make this wine a standout. It offers layers of nutmeg, vanilla, ginger and hazelnut atop vivid Pippin apples and white peaches for a seamless complexity that’s delicious to taste.” – Jim Gordon

♦94 Points – Wine Enthusiast Magazine

“A deft touch on the oak and great underlying fruit flavors make this wine a standout. It offers layers of nutmeg, vanilla, ginger and hazelnut atop vivid Pippin apples and white peaches for a seamless complexity that’s delicious to taste.” – Jim Gordon

♦Best of Class Chardonnay – SF Chronicle Wine Competition

“Castello di Amorosa 2019 Napa Valley Reserve Chardonnay: Of course any Chardonnay that comes from a castle should be seen as being kingly and queenly, which this is in its golden luminescence, regal carriage, vivid citric fruit and ticklish spiciness. Castello di Amorosa is part of the same royal family that includes V. Sattui Winery, which also won best-of-class for a lighter but nonethess correct interpretation of Chardonnay.”

♦92 Points – James Suckling

“Pretty aromas of apricots, spiced pears, baked apples, cloves, cedar, smoked almonds and flint. Full-bodied, focused and layered with bright, acidity and a phenolic texture. Long and elegant. Drink or hold.”

♦91 Points – Owen Bargreen

“Aged for ten months sur lie, the 2019 ‘Reserve’ Chardonnay shows hazelnut tones alongside brioche and baking spice infused Golden Delicious apple on the palate. The sense of viscosity here is really nice. Drink 2021-2027.”

♦90 Points – Wine Spectator Magazine

“Effusively buttery and filled with concentrated apple and pear flavors that offer plenty of cooking spice accents. The plush finish is big and rich tasting. Drink now through 2023. 2,200 cases made.”

♦93 Points – Jeb Dunnuck

“Starting with the 2018 Chardonnay Reserve, this estate makes a solid white that offers classy notes of caramelized citrus, brioche, honeycomb, and classy oak. It’s a rich, powerful, classic Napa Valley Chardonnay done with style. Drink it over the coming 2-4 years.”

♦92 Points – James Suckling

“This has a spicy melon and peach nose with some gently creamy notes. The palate has flavors of banana cake, peaches and caramel with a rich, smooth texture. Drink now. ”

♦92 Points – James Suckling

“This is quite a hedonistic Chardonnay with butter, crème caramel and dried apple rind, but also a smattering of lemon zest and nectarine. Full body and a dense, oily texture, but some lovely acidity to back it up. If this were just slightly more restrained, it could have scored very highly. Drink now. ”

♦91 Points – Wine Spectator

“Offers a plush texture, with ripe apple, baked pear, and dried quince flavors that are well-framed by exotic spicy notes. Buttery details linger on the rich finish. Drink now through 2023.- KM ”

♦92 Points – International Wine Report

“The Castello di Amorosa ‘Reserve’ Chardonnay is a gorgeous new wine from this Napa estate. On the nose this takes on buttered popcorn, creme brûlée and bright pear aromatics. The soft texture is highly inviting here as the wine shows roasted pineapple, vanilla creme brûlée and shades of Meyer lemon zest flavors. The long, near minute long finish beautifully accentuates this great new wine. Drink 2019-2029.”

♦ Sweepstakes Winner, Best White Wine – 2019 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

♦ 90 Points – Lisa Perrotti-Brown, The Wine Advocate

“The 2016 Chardonnay Reserve gives up spicy ripe pears, baked apples and pineapple tart notes with suggestions of star anise and almond croissant in the background. Medium to full-bodied with a pleasant oiliness to the texture, it delivers plenty of spicy flavors and anise kick on the finish.”


napa valley chardonnay

CHARDONNAY

NAPA VALLEY

♦ 92 Points – James Suckling

“Lots of cooked lemon, tangerine, and ripe pineapple on the nose. Fully body, rich and round with an oily texture and a long and flavorful finish. Drink now.

♦ 93 Points – Jeff Solomon, Stay Rad Wine Blog
♦ 92 Points – James Melendez, James the Wine Guy
♦ 91 Points – Ken’s Wine Guide

“This pale straw colored Chardonnay from Napa opens with a mild oak and apple bouquet. On the palate, this wine is medium bodied, balanced and creamy. The flavor profile is an oak influenced pear with hints of honey, butter and green apple. The finish is dry and its flavors linger and last for quite a while. This Chard is very food friendly and would pair well with chicken and wild mushroom ravioli smothered in a light cream sauce.”

♦ Gold Medal – 2015 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

♦ Gold Medal – 2014 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

♦ 91 Points – Rich Cook

“This wine bolsters my hope that Chardonnay is making a comeback as a wine that is meant to accompany a meal. Still the number one wine variety in sales domestically, Chardonnay has ridden market research into the cocktail hour and forsaken its noble European history as an excellent wine for the table. Winemakers Peter Velleno and Brooks Painter have chosen a different track here, with aromas of lemon crème, mild toast, pear and stone minerality leading you into flavors of mixed citrus fruit, mild sweet oak and roasted nuts, all delivered with mouth watering acidity and a long refreshing finish that will elevate the meal. I’d try something big with this — lobster or cracked crab, or chicken in a bold sauce.”

♦ 91 Points – Ken’s Wine Guide

“This pale yellow colored Chardonnay opens with a mild pineapple bouquet with a hint toasted oak and lemon. On the palate, this wine is medium bodied, balanced and easy to drink. The flavor profile is a very tasty mild pear with notes of toasted oak and a touch of pineapple. The finish is dry and its flavors linger for quite some time. This Chardonnay would pair well with chicken Francese.”

♦ Gold Medal – 2014 Appellation America Best-of-Appellation Program

♦ Gold Medal – 2013 American Fine Wine Competition

♦ 89 Points – Antonio Galloni

“The 2009 Chardonnay is an attractive wine layered with expressive tropical fruit and sweet French oak. It shows lovely balance in an understated style that nevertheless reveals plenty of California and Napa Valley character. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2014.”

♦ Keith Hoffman, BrainWines.com

Color: Amber and dark yellow, reminiscent of a Chardonnay aged more like 10 years, not 2. Nose: Thick tropical fruits, crisp hay, big butterscotch in the California-style but with very crisp toast notes. Tart green apple sprinkled with granite dust.
Taste: Medium-full mouthfeel. An acidic, granite, frontal jolt leading into slightly spiced tropical fruits. Clean, angular lines. A balanced acidity throughout the entire journey.
This wine should be a big hit for fans of the current California-style Chardonnay wine crafting method. A-/B+ for California Chard-style lovers B for non-butter lovers

♦ Gold Medal – American Fine Wine Competition


PINOT GRIGIO

♦ 91 Points – Wine Enthusiast Magazine

“Review Coming Soon”

 

90 Points – Owen Bargreen

“Sourced from North Coast vineyards, the nose shows bright green apple tones that combine with shades of nectarine and orange blossom that all mingle tightly in the glass. The palate has good freshness with a soft mouthfeel. Layers of kiwi and honeydew melon combine with the bright sense of minerality. Enjoy this excellent, brisk new Pinot Grigio in the short term. Drink 2020-2023.”

90 Points – Rich Cook

“Here is a delightful pear and mixed citrus driven Pinot Grigio that will class up your autumn salads and light appetizers. It’s all about freshness and drinkability, and a bright acid pop in the finish keeps the flavors coming.  I am not typically a fan of domestic Pinot Grigio, but I would drink this any time.  Well done!”

91 Points – Rich Cook, Wine Review Online

“This rises above oceans of average domestic Pinot Grigio with attractive interplay between lime and stone fruit flavors, and the crisp acidity keeps your mouth watering for another sip.  More than just a poolside pounder, I would serve this alongside a fine antipasto salad or a creamy whitefish prep – it’s got more than enough punch to handle it.”

♦ 90 Points – Rich Cook

“A refresher: When I mention “minerality” in a wine, I’m usually referring to something akin to what you would get in a cold glass of Pellegrino — it’s usually a taste of granite or dust that adds depth to a wine. It’s a term derided by some, and the reasons are myriad, but I’m sticking with it as a descriptor since all I can do for you is tell you what I sense in a particular glass. Otherwise, what good am I? This particular glass, a blend of Anderson Valley and Sonoma County fruit, shows vibrant lemon, lime, peach and pear, with a lingering finish where some of that stony character comes through clearly. And so, in a way, we’re back to where we started — a refresher.”

 


Pinot Bianco

PINOT BIANCO

♦ 92 Points, James Mellendez

“Nose is presenting apple, pears and floral notation. I love the Granny Smith characterization on the palette, dry lemon peel is coming in the mid palette. A nicely fine tuned wine, absolutely beautiful. Will pair well with roasted meats and seafood. It is not easy to find a good well produced Pinot Bianco that is created here in the United States, but this is one of them.”

♦ Best of Class – 2015 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

♦ Best of Class – 2014 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

♦ Best of Class – 2013 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition


Gewürztraminer Ferrington Vineyard

GEWÜRZTRAMINER

FERRINGTON VINEYARD

♦ 93 Points – Rich Cook

“I’d rush to get some of this wine — at 627 cases produced, there’s a fair amount, but word will spread like wildfire from the tasting room at the castle about the summertime possibilities of this delightful Gewurztraminer. It’s wildly floral on the nose, with classic lychee and spice notes also gaining attention. The palate delivers the lychee and spice, with bright rocky minerality adding character to the bone dry, racy presentation that blooms on the finish. If you’re a party of four, one bottle isn’t going to be enough. Delicious!”

♦ Best of Class – 2013 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition


Dry Gewürztraminer

GEWÜRZTRAMINER DRYANDERSON VALLEY

American Fine Wine Competition (95 Points, Double Gold Medal)

“Over 550 wines were evaluated and judged by a 28-member judging panel of wine industry educators, restaurateurs, retailers, journalists, and sommeliers from across the country.”

♦ 92 Points – Wine Review Online

“Here is another fine Gewurztraminer from the Castello di Amorosa. Sourced from the best area for the variety in the state, it shows fresh floral, lychee and tangerine aromas and flavors, all delivered in a dry, bright, thirst-quenching style. There’s a mint note that I sometimes get from this area, and it plays well with the fruit. Delish!” – Rich Cook

92 Points –James Melendez

“Very lovely wine year-round, especially for autumnal period. 100% stainless steel production. So nicely produced and absolutely appropriate to serve with many foods. Tropical fruit notes on the nose. Bright floral and honeycomb. Palate characterization: citrus; mid stone white stone and apples; nutmeg and clove finish on this wine.”

♦ 90 Points  – Wine Enthusiast Magazine

“This dry but generous wine exudes floral and lychee aromas followed by a full body and rich, ripe pear and pink-grapefruit flavors. It is both tasty and well balanced due to an underlying crispness.” – Jim Gordon

♦ 94 Points  – Wine Review Online

“Castello di Amorosa trips north to Mendocino County and Anderson Valley’s hospitable terroir and brings back a triumphant representative. This Gewurztraminer has the lychee, tangerine and spice that are signatures of the area, and finishes with a lively pop of ginger. Only a few producers keep their commitment to this variety alive, and when you serve this one up at a nice Thai dinner you’ll be glad that the Castello is one of them. Well done!”

♦ 94 Points  – Wine Review Online

“It’s an amazing 94 Points for this delicious Gewurztraminer which was reviewed by Rich Cook at the International Wine Review who said, “A gorgeous fragrant wine rich in aromas of rose petals, spice and tropical fruit . It reveals excellent structure and balance, a focused palate of pure fruit flavors and a long persistent finish. A magnificent wine that shows how well Gewurztraminer does in the Anderson Valley.”

♦ Best of Class – 2020 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

♦ Best of Class – 2019 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

♦ Best of Class – 2018 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

♦ Sweepstakes Winner – 2017 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

♦ Gold Medal – 2016 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

♦ Best of Class – 2014 San Francisco International Wine Competition

♦ 91 Points – Bacchus and Beery

“Think of pairing with grilled scallops, sushi, spicy Thai and even lemon peppered chicken. This “Dry” Gewurztraminer has just a kiss of sweetness that rounds out the flavor profile. Aromas of Meyer lemon, honeysuckle, graham cracker and floral notes. A round and slightly viscous mouth-feel with soft acidity. Flavors of pear, Meyer lemon, tropicals, minerality and spice with honeycomb on the finish.”

♦ 90 Points – Rich Cook

“Mendocino County’s Anderson Valley has long been something of a secret treasure of American wine, particularly when it comes to this variety, and until recently the local wineries had the production market cornered. This release shows the wine acumen of the Sattui Family as they reach for prime fruit that’s a little outside of their Napa Valley home. This wine presents lychee, pear, stonefruit, fall spice and stony minerality with just enough residual sugar to keep the fruit lively and in balance with the other aromas and flavors. The long crisp finish rounds out a wine that awaits the chance to accompany your favorite Thai dishes.”

♦ Best of Class – 2014 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition
♦ Double Gold Medal – 2014 Appellation America Best-of-Appellation Program

♦ Double Gold Medal – San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

Dolcino Gewürztraminer

DOLCINO GEWÜRZTRAMINERANDERSON VALLEY

♦ 92 Points, Editors Choice Wine Enthusiast Magazine

“This semisweet wine has amazing floral and fruit-basket aromas, and rich and soothing flavors of lychee, honeydew melon and elderflower. It will make a great pairing after a meal with a not-too-sweet dessert or a chunk of Parmigiana.” – Jim Gordon

♦ 90 Points  – Wine Enthusiast Magazine

This sweet and full-bodied wine is all rose petals and grapefruit in the aroma and delicious peaches and pistachios on the palate—a perfect picnic wine.” – Jim Gordon


Rosato Wine

ROSATO

CRESTA D'ORO VINEYARD

♦ 92 Points – Owen Bargreen

“Salmon in color, the 2021 Castello di Amorosa Rose delivers pink grapefruit blossom, white rose water and beautiful freshly picked guava fruits on the nose. The palate is fresh and polished with plenty of mouth-watering acidity and richness. The smooth texture entices, as rich red fruits parade with minerals. Enjoy over the next five plus years. Drink 2022-2028.”

♦ 92 Points – Wine Review Online

“You might be thinking that Castello di Amorosa Rosato is pretty pricey as Rosé goes, but it isn’t as pricey as some, and still represents a good value for your dollar. It is fairly delicate on the nose initially, but opens wide as it airs and warms slightly in the glass, showing roses, soft citrus notes and cherry fruit aromas. On the palate, the wine comes alive with bright cherry and lemon, finishing with a kiss of zest that freshens the palate. Serve with your fanciest tossed salads, fish or fowl.” – Rich Cook

♦ 90 Points – Wine Enthusiast Magazine

“Made from 97% Pinot Noir and 3% Gamay sourced from an estate site once known as Three Arrows, this pink wine invites in cherry, strawberry and watermelon on the dry palate. A hint of rose petal gives it an understated elegance as its acidity refreshes.” – Virginie Boone

♦ 90 Points – Virginie Boone, Wine Enthusiast Magazine

“This is from the producer’s estate vineyard in the appellation, and is made entirely from Pinot Noir which is fermented partially in concrete egg. Lush and quenching in strawberry, lemon and grapefruit, it is textured and refreshing, with rich rounded edges.”

♦ 92 Points – International Wine Report

“Sourced from Pinot Noir vines, the Cresta d’ Oro Vineyard is located in the Green Valley of Sonoma County. On the nose this takes on delicate red cherry, guava puree and orange rind aromas that build in the glass. The palate shows really good freshness with intense red fruit and blood orange flavors, with wild mushroom undertones. The texture to this wine is truly outstanding — as is the long, lingering finish. With good minerality, this seriously good Rose is best enjoyed in the short-term. Drink 2019-2024.”

♦ 90 Points – Wine Enthusiast Magazine

♦ 90 Points – Isaac Baker, The Terroirist

“Pale pink color. Bright aromas of lemons, limes, grapefruit, dandelion, lilies, and white pepper (a lot going on!). Tangy as hell, medium-bodied, with flavors of peaches, limes and nectarine. The mineral, quinine, limestone and chalk dust elements are really complex, and I get a mix of spicy white pepper, barley, oregano as well. Complex, zesty, fruity, mineral-driven, balanced so nicely. All Pinot Noir that is fermented and aged in concrete eggs.”

♦ Gold Medal – 2018 American Fine Wine Competition

SPUMANTE

ROSÉ

2017 VINTAGE

Wine Enthuiast Magazine, Virginie Boone (90 Points)

“Made entirely from Pinot Noir, this sparkling wine is dry and copper colored. Orange, peach and strawberry dominate on the palate, with a dry, supple body that finishes fresh in acidity.”

James Suckling (90 Points)

“Aromas of sliced strawberries and a gently lifted, rose-like perfume. The palate has a crisp, pink-berry cut and a refreshing, tangy resolve. Drink now.”

San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition (Best of Class)

“The 2021 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition had over forty-eight judges, representing various North American wine regions, evaluating nearly 5,700 wines from over 1,000 wineries.”


Gioia Rosé Wine

GIOIA

ROSATO DI SANGIOVESE

♦ 92 Points – James Melendez

♦ 94 Points – BrainWines.com

“A Rose of 99% Sangiovese and 1% Castle mystery.
Nose: Green apples, red berries, and strawberries with some nice burlap aromas. Granite and light confectionery wafting.
Taste: Full mouthfeel. Perfectly weighted. Bright acid pop with lovely green apples and cranberries. Graham crackers people! Love it! Nicely acidic and cranberry finish.
Once again, excellent winecrafting and a totally delightful quaff.

♦ 91 Points – Durham Magazine

“If you’ve ever driven over state highway 128/29 on St. Helena Highway, then you’ve been struck by the magisterial estate that is Castello di Amorosa. Dario Sattui opened the doors in 2007 and the wines produced here have, from the beginning, been as imposing as the edifice. This breathtaking reproduction of a medieval castle just glimmers in the sun as one traverses this hilly corner of Napa Valley. Its Rosé entitled Gioia (JOY-uh), is a dream quaff for a thirsty August afternoon.”
“Delightful mountain cherry and melony nose that’s very light on its feet. It tickles the sinuses with an overtone I can only describe as wild Maine blueberries. Leggy and smooth on the palate, it suggests strawberries with great invigoration but absolutely no harshness. One of the lip-smacking, freshest rosés I’ve ever tasted from California. Goes down with alarming ease! Drink now.”


La Fantasia Sparkling Rosé

LA FANTASIA

2013 VINTAGE

♦ Gold Medal – 2014 San Francisco International Wine Competition


Late Harvest Gewürztraminer

GEWÜRZTRAMINER

LATE HARVEST

♦ 95 Points, Cellar Selection – Wine Enthusiast Magazine

“Dripping with honey, apricot and poached pear flavors, this luscious and extremely sweet wine coats the palate and lingers for minutes on the finish. It’s a delicious, low-alcohol indulgence that is made from late-harvest grapes shriveled on the vine. Best through 2030. Cellar Selection”

♦ 94 Points – Wine Enthusiast Magazine

“Amazingly rich, honeyed and delicious, this sweet but not unctuous wine ladles out peach, honey and toasted almond flavors on a creamy but still fresh and vibrant texture. Great balance and complex, nuanced flavors make it special.” – Jim Gordon

♦ Gold – 2020 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

♦ Double Gold – 2016 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

♦ 92 Points – Wine Enthusiast Magazine

This dazzling wine smells like lemon and orange slices drizzled with fresh honey, tastes sweet but balanced with good acidity, and feels rich and viscous but not heavy. The flavors seem layered and complex and the finish lingers a long time.

♦ Best of Class – 2015 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition
♦ Best of Show, Sweet – 2016 American Fine Wine Competition

♦ Bronze Medal – 2014 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

♦ Bronze Medal – 2014 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

♦ Sweepstakes Winner, Best of Class (Dessert Wines) – 2012 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

♦ 90 Points – BrainWines.com

“Nose: Beautiful botrytis signature waftings of thick, ripe, dried apricots and honey. White flower reduction sauce. Gardenias. Hint of citrus.
Taste: Full mouthfeel. Dripping honey-coated apricots and canned peach juice. White pear syrup. Acid work well integrated, but could use just a bit more. Long, coating, honey finish. Wonderful juice.”


Late Harvest Il Passito

IL PASSITO

LATE HARVEST SEMILLON/ SAUVIGNON BLANC

♦ 91 Points – Wine Enthusiast Magazine

“Blending 70% Sémillon and 30% Sauvignon Blanc, this late-harvest wine was fermented and aged in all-new French oak for nearly two years. Dark gold in color and viscous in texture, it tastes of peach candy, applesauce and vanilla bean, while being lengthy and balanced in sweetness.” – Virginie Boone

♦ Gold Medal – 2015 American Fine Wine Competition

♦ 94 Points, Editor’s Choice – Wine Enthusiast Magazine

“Made from Sémillon and Sauvignon Blanc, this wine is luxurious and sweet, while maintaining great balance to keep from being too unctuous. It has a brilliant deep-gold color, generous aromas like toasted peanuts and marmalade, and flavors that are honeyed and floral. It feels nicely viscous, coating the sides of the mouth and helping the flavors linger for long moments on the finish.”

♦ 90 Points – Wine & Spirits Magazine

“This combines sauvignon blanc from the Rolling Hills Vineyard in Lake County with semillon from the winery’s Carsi Vineyard in Yountville, all the fruit affected by naturally occurring botrytis. Aged on its lees in all-new French oak for 19 months, this is a decadent but balanced dessert wine for a cheese course. Its pungent saffron scent and earthy grip provide a counterpoint to its luscious stone fruit flavors.”

♦ Double Gold Medal – 2014 San Francisco International Wine Competition
♦ Double Gold Medal – 2014 American Fine Wine Competition

♦ Best of Show (White Wine) – 2012 American Fine Wine Competition