Robert Parker 97 pts A blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc, 5% Malbec and 2% Petit Verdot, the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain was aged for 22 months in oak barrels, 84% new. Deep garnet-purple colored, it explodes from the glass with bombastic black currants, black cherries and boysenberries notes plus underlying hints of violets, dark chocolate and tobacco leaf. Medium to full-bodied, the palate has a solid structure of firm, grainy tannins and tons of freshness, finishing long and fragrant. 3,997 cases were made.
Medium ruby, the 2018 Pinot Noir Freestone Occidental Bodega has delicate scents of fresh cranberries, strawberries and Bing cherries with nuances of woodsmoke, graphite and earth. The palate is light-bodied with bright fruits, a soft frame and juicy finish. 350 cases produced.
Robert Parker 98 pts Made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2018 Scarecrow is deep garnet-purple in color, slipping slowly, measuredly out of the glass with sensuous notes of blackberry pie, blackcurrant pastilles and Morello cherries, leading to hints of raspberry leaves, oolong tea, cardamom and fragrant earth. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is chock-full of energy, delivering vivacious, mineral-sparked black fruit preserves flavors with a firm, grainy texture and a refreshing lift on the long, long finish. Simply gorgeous!
Robert Parker 94 pts The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Knights Valley, blended with 3% Petit Verdot, has a deep ruby-purple color and alluring aromas of black cherries, blueberries, thyme, aniseed and violet with touches of tobacco leaves and cedar. The medium-bodied palate has smooth, finely grained tannins and bright acidity, finishing long and floral. Its new French oak is integrating gracefully, and its bright, aromatic character makes this ideal for early drinking. 1,641 cases produced.
Unwinding in the glass with aromas of raspberries, smoky cherries, rich soil tones and warm spices, Roumier's 2019 Morey-Saint-Denis 1er Cru Clos de la Bussière is medium to full-bodied, lively and vibrant, with a fleshy core of fruit framed by youthfully chalky tannins that assert themselves on the finish. The most underrated wine in the Roumier cellar, this is a fine prospect for the patient.
