The Tasting Panel magazine

October 2018

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58  /  the tasting panel  /  october 2018 WINES Levendi 2015 Sweetwater Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley ($70) Grown on rocky red soils in Yountville's Mill Race Vineyard, this savory red is concentrated and well-structured. Aromas of mountain brush and mocha are broad and inviting. Satin-textured with grainy, round tannins, it shows seasoned notes of tarragon, chervil, sage, and sassafras that hit mid-palate. Penetrating hints of deep plum liqueur and mulberry go big on the creamy finish. 96 Buena Vista Winery Chateau Buena Vista 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley ($50) Earthy-cherry aromas linger in this elegant, restrained red. Great acidity integrates with cranberry and sandalwood while red fruits abound. The finish sweetens the palate with a hint of maple but keeps things dry with violet petals. The luxurious mouthfeel can be attributed to 28 months of aging in French oak. 96 BOISSET COLLECTION Dutton Estate Winery 2016 Karmen Isabella Dutton Ranch Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County ($46) Although Dutton farms more than 80 sites, three—Thomas Road, Green Valley, and Manzana Vineyard—are specially selected for this eloquent red (they're all certified Sonoma County Sustainable with Fish Friendly Farming designations). Scents of earth, jasmine, and black cherry lead to flavors of tangerine peel, cedar, and cinnamon. Dark chocolate melds with firm tannins for a sensational mouthfeel; there's brooding here, but it doesn't make us pout. 93 Duckhorn Vineyards 2014 The Discussion Red Wine, Napa Valley ($140) Aromas of rhubarb and Italian roast coffee add to a glossy palate of cinnamon and nutmeg. With a plethora of plushy tannins, this is a textural delight. Its abundant flavors would exceed the word limit of this review, but dark chocolate, plum, licorice, violet, and blueberry compote are the deep and generous starting lineup. 97 In each issue, The Tasting Panel's Publisher and Editorial Director Meridith May selects her favorite wines and spirits of the month. Check here for the latest arrivals in our offices, the hottest new brands on the market, and an occasional revisited classic. Publisher's Worthy of a smooch. French-style double bizou. Wildly infatuated. Seriously smitten. Head over heels in love. PICKS PHOTO: ALEXANDER RUBIN +

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