California
California is one of the most renowned wine regions in the world, known for producing exceptional wines that reflect the unique character of the region.
One of the most famous vineyards in California is the Napa Valley's Robert Mondavi Winery, which produces a range of high-quality red and white wines, including the Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve, the Fumé Blanc Reserve, and the Chardonnay Reserve. The estate is committed to sustainable farming practices and is known for its focus on traditional winemaking techniques.
In California, there is also a strong focus on producing organic and biodynamic wines, with vineyards such as the Frog's Leap Winery and the Benziger Family Winery using these practices to produce exceptional wines that reflect the unique terroir of the region.
Overall, California is a region known for producing exceptional wines, with famous vineyards such as Harlan Estate, Dominus, Opus One, Screaming Eagle, Robert Mondavi and many others. With a focus on sustainable and organic farming practices, and a commitment to traditional winemaking techniques, wines from California are gaining increasing recognition and popularity among wine enthusiasts worldwide.
California
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Wine Advocate (99)
One of the world’s great wines and profound expressions of Cabernet Sauvignon, is the 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select. This wine spends more than 30 months in 100% new oak, and, year in year out, has been one of the most singular and profound examples of Cabernet Sauvignon in the world. It seems Shafer began to ratchet up performance during the 1990s, and the first decade of the 21st century has provided a treasure trove of either perfect or nearly perfect wines, including the 2001, 2002, 2004, 2005, 2007 and more recently the 2010, 2012 and, in all likelihood, the 2013. The 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select (about 2,000 cases produced) is another one of those “wow” wines, but it does it with a sort of measured richness and restraint and extraordinary subtle character, like the Gary Cooper of Napa Cabernet Sauvignons – authentic, tall, straight-boned, but substantial and worthy of introspection. Inky purple, with a classic nose of creme de cassis, licorice, a touch of vanilla and forest floor, the wine hits the palate with a gorgeous display of measured, but substantial fruit, body and intensity. Not a component is out of place, and the wine remarkably pure and persuasive. Combine great winemaking with great viticulture and a special terroir, and this is the result. Readers are in the presence of genius when tasting this wine.Inc. VAT£2,419.24 -
Wine Advocate (100)
Deep purple-black colored, the 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select exudes beautiful notions of violets, dark chocolate, black olives, spice cake and cedar chest with a core of crème de cassis, blackberry pie, plum preserves and fragrant earth plus a waft of unsmoked cigars. Full-bodied, super concentrated and jam-packed with multilayered black and blue fruits, it has a rock-solid frame of grainy tannins and fantastic freshness, finishing long with tons of exotic spice and savory sparks.Inc. VAT£2,840.00 -
(6x75cl) 2010
Jeb Dunnuck (100)
In comparison to the more lavish, sexy 2002, the 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select is more structured and focused, with incredible purity in its cassis and darker currant fruits as well as complex notes of minty herbs, lead pencil shavings, licorice, graphite, and spring flowers. Reminding me of a great vintage of Château Mouton Rothschild with its concentration, structure, and balance, it’s just now at the early stages of its prime drink window, and it will continue to improve for another decade and hold for 20-25 years thereafter.Inc. VAT£2,605.63 -
(6x75cl) 2011
Wine Advocate (96)
Possibly the Cabernet Sauvignon of the vintage is Shafer’s 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select. Last year I thought it was a strong effort, but it’s even better now that it’s been bottled. With an opaque black/purple color and notes of subtle burning charcoal embers, blueberry, blackberry and graphite, the wine has a certain Bordelais minerality, but then the richness of Napa kicks in. It’s full-bodied (somewhat unusual for a 2011) with lighter tannins, and no doubt the wine will be on a faster evolutionary track than vintages such as 2010, 2012 and 2013. Nevertheless, the Shafers and Elias said this was the toughest vintage they’d ever experienced. To be able to produce a compelling wine like this is a testament to their extraordinary skills and craftsmanship. This wine can be drunk now or cellared for another 15-20 years.Inc. VAT£1,424.26 -
Wine Advocate (100)
Shafer’s flagship wine, and one of the world’s greatest Cabernet Sauvignons, is the Hillside Select, which comes from the rocky, volcanic soils on hillsides above the winery. Vineyard production is small, and the wine an incredible example of Cabernet Sauvignon. Aged in 100% new oak for 32 months and bottled unfiltered, this can generally be expected to be one of the top dozen or so Cabernet Sauvignons in virtually any vintage in Napa, and certainly possesses 25 to possibly 50 years of aging potential. The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select is a perfect wine. It elicits more than a few “wows” when you smell the incredible notes of charcoal, graphite and subtle toast, buttressed and dominated by blackcurrant, blackberry and blueberry fruit. The purity of these fruits, the multidimensional mouthfeel, the seamless integration of acid, alcohol, tannin and wood are all flawless. The 2012 signature adds an extravagant opulence and density that is just mind-boggling, and the wine is a total hedonistic and intellectual turn-on already, although it has 30+ years of life ahead of it.Inc. VAT£2,315.60 -
James Suckling (99)
Wonderful floral aromas with perfumed roses plus hints of blackcurrants and spearmint. Full-bodied and so powerful and muscular but always showing the brightness and beauty of fruit. Winemakers say this reminds them of the 1978, their first year. It certainly has the structure — "those tannins" as they put it. Finish is so impressive with tar, iron and spices. Available in September 2017. Try in 2023.Inc. VAT£1,505.86 -
(1x150cl) 2016Jeb Dunnuck (100)
Pure perfection, the prodigious 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select reveals an even deeper purple/blue hue as well as extraordinary notes of unsmoked tobacco, crushed rocks, graphite, crème de cassis, and blueberries. With a massive, full-bodied profile and a texture that builds incrementally on the palate, it has a stacked mid-palate, ultra-fine (yet lots of them) tannins, flawless balance, and a monster of a finish. It’s tight and closed at the moment, so hide bottles for a solid 7-8 years. It should age at a glacier pace.Inc. VAT£879.16 -
Jeb Dunnuck (100)
Pure perfection, the prodigious 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select reveals an even deeper purple/blue hue as well as extraordinary notes of unsmoked tobacco, crushed rocks, graphite, crème de cassis, and blueberries. With a massive, full-bodied profile and a texture that builds incrementally on the palate, it has a stacked mid-palate, ultra-fine (yet lots of them) tannins, flawless balance, and a monster of a finish. It’s tight and closed at the moment, so hide bottles for a solid 7-8 years. It should age at a glacier pace.Inc. VAT£2,425.63 -
Jeb Dunnuck (100)
The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select is another perfect wine, although readers will need to have patience, as it’s still a baby. Deep purple-hued with a perfumed, vibrant bouquet of blue fruits, graphite, spring flowers, and lead pencil, it’s full-bodied, sensationally concentrated, has perfectly integrated acidity, tannin, and alcohol, not a hard edge to be found, and an incredible finish. This monumental Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is 7-8 years away from maturity and will have 40-50 years of overall longevity.Inc. VAT£1,877.83 -
(6x150cl) 2019Wine Advocate (98+)
Sourced from specific blocks of estate-grown fruit, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select is another highly successful vintage. All Cabernet Sauvignon aged 32 months in 100% new French oak, it boasts intense aromas of pencil shavings, dark loam, cassis and plum on the nose, while the palate is full-bodied, super-ripe, rich, dense and concentrated—a truly impressive California vin de garde. Tannic but ripe, it finishes long and firm on the finish, adding a hint of mocha. To be released in September 2023, it's a strong showing and hopefully an indication that quality will remain high under the new ownership.Inc. VAT£3,596.05 -
(6x75cl) 2019
Wine Advocate (98+)
Sourced from specific blocks of estate-grown fruit, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select is another highly successful vintage. All Cabernet Sauvignon aged 32 months in 100% new French oak, it boasts intense aromas of pencil shavings, dark loam, cassis and plum on the nose, while the palate is full-bodied, super-ripe, rich, dense and concentrated—a truly impressive California vin de garde. Tannic but ripe, it finishes long and firm on the finish, adding a hint of mocha. To be released in September 2023, it's a strong showing and hopefully an indication that quality will remain high under the new ownership.Inc. VAT£1,799.86 -
(3x75cl) 2021
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (99)
The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select is insanely beautiful. It's also one of the very finest wines I have ever tasted here. Bright, pliant and resonant, the 2021 offers a beguiling mix of Cabernet Sauvignon aromatics, generous fruit and gentle structure. The stylistic shift at Shafer has been remarkable—the 2021 is a great example. Red-toned fruit, blood orange, menthol, pine and sweet spice build into the eternal finish.Inc. VAT£894.82 -
(12x75cl) 2017Vinous (90-93)
The 2017 TD-9 is juicy, expressive and pliant, with soft edges that seem to push the fruit forward. Succulent and racy in style, the 2017 should drink well right out of the gate. Stylistically, the 2017 is a bit more lush and overt than the 2016 tasted alongside it. The blend is 63% Merlot, 22% Malbec and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon.Inc. VAT£794.69 -
(12x75cl) 2018With unrivalled pedigree, the Silver Oak Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 is an outstanding embodiment of Californian wine craftsmanship. This offering hails from the renowned Alexander Valley, a region celebrated for its remarkable wines. Luxuriously aged for 24 months in American oak, it bestows a sophisticated composition and remarkable balance. Silver Oak, a distinguished winery established in 1972, has devotedly pursued a unique and exceptional Cali-Cab style. This particular vintage encapsulates these qualities with resounding success.
A deep garnet hue hints at the abundance of character contained within. On the nose, it teased with aromas of black fruit and allspice enriched by notes of vanilla. The palate rejoices in a parade of black cherry, plum, and cocoa underscored by a touch of savoury complexity. The Silver Oak Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 concludes with a laudably long and graceful finish. Rich, sophisticated and deservedly sought after, it serves as an impressive highlight to any connoisseur's collection.
Inc. VAT£1,689.26 -
(6x150cl) 2019James Suckling (94)
Handsome and classic for a Sonoma County cabernet, this full-bodied, approachable wine offers abundant aromas of black cherries, toasted oak and tobacco backed by gorgeous black cherries and black olive flavors on moderate tannins. It’s 95% cabernet sauvignon. Best through 2034.Inc. VAT£1,504.73 -
(12x75cl) 2009Vinous - Antonio Galloni (92)
The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley is fully resolved in its structural build, and the fruit has begun to give way to floral tones and worn leather nuances. It’s in a beautiful spot for drinking today. The 2009 is a gentle, elegant wine that deftly reflects the precision of the house style. Wet soil, tobacco leaf and rose stem notes echo through the soft finish. Very pretty. Drink over the next few years.Inc. VAT£1,882.01 -
In the realm of fine wines, the Silver Oak Napa Cabernet Sauvignon 2012 is a distinguished masterpiece that impresses even the most discerning connoisseur. This exquisite delight hails from Napa Valley, California, famed for its optimal grape-growing conditions. The vintners, Silver Oak Cellars, are renowned for their expertise in cultivating Cabernet Sauvignon, deepening its flavours through careful oak maturation.
Each sip of the Silver Oak Napa Cabernet Sauvignon 2012 unravels a symphony of flavours, starting with enticing notes of cassis, blackberry, and violets, streaming into a lavish mid-palate saturated with cardamom, cocoa, and graphite. This extraordinary wine poised between opulence and structure guarantees a delightfully long finish, enhancing the overall sensual experience.
Meticulous hand-harvesting, barrelling in American oak, and devotion to sustainable practices attest to the undiminished dedication Silver Oak pours into every bottle, underscoring its steadfast reputation in the world of fine wine.
Inc. VAT£212.77 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (93)
The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley is a good bit darker and richer than the Alexander Valley bottling from the same vintage tasted alongside. Very primary and open-knit, the 2017 is quite a young wine, but it speaks to a restrained approach that works very well. Cassis, pipe tobacco and spiced plum tones are nicely framed by a warm blanket of supportive yet present oak. Full-bodied and plush, the 2017 is in a fine place to drink today but should also put on some complexity with a few more years in the cellar.Inc. VAT£687.98 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (93)
The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley is a good bit darker and richer than the Alexander Valley bottling from the same vintage tasted alongside. Very primary and open-knit, the 2017 is quite a young wine, but it speaks to a restrained approach that works very well. Cassis, pipe tobacco and spiced plum tones are nicely framed by a warm blanket of supportive yet present oak. Full-bodied and plush, the 2017 is in a fine place to drink today but should also put on some complexity with a few more years in the cellar.Inc. VAT£1,320.77 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (93)
The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley is a good bit darker and richer than the Alexander Valley bottling from the same vintage tasted alongside. Very primary and open-knit, the 2017 is quite a young wine, but it speaks to a restrained approach that works very well. Cassis, pipe tobacco and spiced plum tones are nicely framed by a warm blanket of supportive yet present oak. Full-bodied and plush, the 2017 is in a fine place to drink today but should also put on some complexity with a few more years in the cellar.Inc. VAT£1,833.55 -
(12x75cl) 2018Treasured amongst oenophiles, the illustrious Silver Oak Napa Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 is a testament to dedicated craftsmanship. Sourced from California's acclaimed Napa Valley appellation and produced by Silver Oak Cellars, this prestigious red wine possesses an alluring complexity.
Comprised predominantly of Cabernet Sauvignon with a nuanced addition of Petit Verdot, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc, this offering was matured for two years in new American oak. The result is a beautifully textured wine, boasting aromas of black cherry, cassis, and mocha. On the palate, traces of dark fruit intermingle with subtle oak nuances, framed exquisitely by well-integrated tannins.
Exhibiting the winery's commitment to sustainable farming, the Silver Oak Napa Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 offers an exceptional fusion between California terroir and meticulous viticultural practices. Elegant, full-bodied yet perfectly balanced, it earns its reputation as a majestic Napa Cabernet.
Inc. VAT£2,109.40 -
Introducing Silver Oak Napa Cabernet Sauvignon 2019, one of the prominent agrarian treasures of Alexander Valley. Perfectly harmonised with a unique blend of 81% Cabernet Sauvignon, accompanied by Merlot, Petit Verdot, and a trace of Cabernet Franc, this creation is a testimony to the artisanal craftsmanship of Silver Oak. The grapes undergo meticulous selection, with only the most robust clusters forming this stellar vintage.
Brimming with lush layers of blackcurrant, liquorice, and wild herbs, it unfurls to reveal an opulent mouthfeel marked by satiny tannins and a poignant finish. Aged for 24 months in American oak, it contributes deep-rooted flavours of vanilla and clove, rendering it a harmonious symphony of elegance and restraint.
By venerating tradition and sustainable practices, Silver Oak's commitment to the finest expressions of Cabernet Sauvignon is distinctly evident in this 2019 vintage. Every sip is sure to invigorate your palate with its enduring complexity and profound depth.
Inc. VAT£1,483.78 -
Introducing Silver Oak Napa Cabernet Sauvignon 2019, one of the prominent agrarian treasures of Alexander Valley. Perfectly harmonised with a unique blend of 81% Cabernet Sauvignon, accompanied by Merlot, Petit Verdot, and a trace of Cabernet Franc, this creation is a testimony to the artisanal craftsmanship of Silver Oak. The grapes undergo meticulous selection, with only the most robust clusters forming this stellar vintage.
Brimming with lush layers of blackcurrant, liquorice, and wild herbs, it unfurls to reveal an opulent mouthfeel marked by satiny tannins and a poignant finish. Aged for 24 months in American oak, it contributes deep-rooted flavours of vanilla and clove, rendering it a harmonious symphony of elegance and restraint.
By venerating tradition and sustainable practices, Silver Oak's commitment to the finest expressions of Cabernet Sauvignon is distinctly evident in this 2019 vintage. Every sip is sure to invigorate your palate with its enduring complexity and profound depth.
Inc. VAT£2,366.35 -
The Silver Oak Napa Valley Timeless 2020 is an exquisite union of Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Petit Verdot sourced from Napa Valley's finest vineyards. This wine demonstrates unparalleled craftsmanship from the iconic Silver Oak Cellars, renowned for their commitment to perfection and distinct Californian character. Oak aging in American barrels adds splendid layers of complexity to the blend, marked by notes of ripe blackberry, plum, graphite and cedar. The structure and balance bring forth an impeccable harmonisation of robustness and refinement, a testament to the age-old winemaking traditions of Silver Oak. Indulge in the Silver Oak Napa Valley Timeless 2020 to experience wine of extraordinary depth and longevity, whose exceptional quality is unsurpassed in New World Cabernet Sauvignon. Savour the luxurious texture and captivating aromatics, making it an exceptional choice deserving of the most distinguished cellars.
Inc. VAT£634.96 -
Sine Qua Syrah Capo Dei Putti 2014 1x75cl - 3 bottles in the case
99 points | Jeb Dunnuck
Leading off the reds, the extended barrel-aged 2014 Syrah Capo Dei Putti boasts an insane bouquet of cedarwood, white chocolate, caramelized meats, candle way, and assorted red and black fruits. With full-bodied richness, ultra-fine tannins, and an incredible elegance, it changed every time I came back to the glass and is a multi-dimensional, riveting red wine from California. A blend of 90% Syrah and the balance Viognier, Petite Sirah, and Grenache, partially destemmed and aged 38 months in 94% new French oak, give this beauty 2-3 years of bottle age, count yourself lucky, and enjoy bottles over the following 10-15 years.
Sine Qua Non Grenache Testa Dei Cherubini 2014 1x75cl - 3 bottles in the case
99 points | Jeb Dunnuck
As with the extended aged Syrah release, the 2014 Grenache Testa Dei Cherubini (80% Grenache, 15.5% Syrah, and the rest Petite Sirah and Viognier) comes all from the estate Eleven Confessions Vineyard in the Sta. Rita Hills and spent just under 38 months in 25% new French oak, with the balance in neutral barrels (varying sizes). Layers of black raspberry, cassis, white chocolate, white flowers, and Asian spices flow to a full-bodied, supple, powerful Grenache that has silky, silky tannins, a seamless texture, no hard edges, and a finish that won’t quit. It’s already approachable, yet in my experience, this extended élevage results in a very stable wine, and I suspect this beauty will have another two decades of longevity.Inc. VAT£2,553.98 -
(2x150cl) 2006Wine Advocate (100)
In The Crosshairs (Grenache) - 100 pts 2006 In the Cross Hairs 11 Confessions Vineyard: This is Sine Qua Non’s extended barrel-aged Grenache (meaning that in most vintages since 2003, Krankl has produced two cuvees of Grenache, one aged 18-22 months before bottling, and the other one with extended barrel-aging, in this case 32 months in wood). A blend of 84% Grenache, 12% Syrah and 4% Viognier, all from the 11 Confessions Vineyard in the Santa Rita Hills, this is one of the most extraordinarily elegant Grenaches Krankl has produced. It is an intellectual wine, yet it doesn’t wimp out by any means. It is full-bodied and voluptuously textured, with notes of spice box, licorice and Provencal herbs, copious quantities of black currant and kirsch liqueur, stunning richness and a finish lasting close to a minute. This amazing effort confirms Krankl’s meticulous and nearly obsessively detailed work in both the vineyard and the winery.(31 Aug 2011) Drinking Window: 2011 - 2022 A Shot In The Dark (Syrah) - 100 pts The soon-to-be-released 2006 A Shot in the Dark is composed of 96.5% Syrah and 3.5% Viognier from the 11 Confessions Vineyard in the cool Santa Rita Hills. Performing better from bottle than it did from barrel, this prodigious red exhibits incredibly velvety tannins, a seamless style, and no noticeable oak (which is remarkable given the fact it spent 32 months in barrel). Dense purple to the rim with an extraordinary perfume of blueberry pie, blackberries, soy, Asian spices, and hints of forest floor and charcoal, this is a complex, rich, seamless, well-balanced tour de force in winemaking. A full-bodied, exuberant, unabashedly California Syrah, it will offer stunning drinking over the next 10-15+ years. (31 Aug 2010) Drinking Window: 2010 - 2025Inc. VAT£6,654.94 -
Wine Advocate (100)
In The Crosshairs (Grenache) - 100 pts 2006 In the Cross Hairs 11 Confessions Vineyard: This is Sine Qua Non’s extended barrel-aged Grenache (meaning that in most vintages since 2003, Krankl has produced two cuvees of Grenache, one aged 18-22 months before bottling, and the other one with extended barrel-aging, in this case 32 months in wood). A blend of 84% Grenache, 12% Syrah and 4% Viognier, all from the 11 Confessions Vineyard in the Santa Rita Hills, this is one of the most extraordinarily elegant Grenaches Krankl has produced. It is an intellectual wine, yet it doesn’t wimp out by any means. It is full-bodied and voluptuously textured, with notes of spice box, licorice and Provencal herbs, copious quantities of black currant and kirsch liqueur, stunning richness and a finish lasting close to a minute. This amazing effort confirms Krankl’s meticulous and nearly obsessively detailed work in both the vineyard and the winery.(31 Aug 2011) Drinking Window: 2011 - 2022 A Shot In The Dark (Syrah) - 100 pts The soon-to-be-released 2006 A Shot in the Dark is composed of 96.5% Syrah and 3.5% Viognier from the 11 Confessions Vineyard in the cool Santa Rita Hills. Performing better from bottle than it did from barrel, this prodigious red exhibits incredibly velvety tannins, a seamless style, and no noticeable oak (which is remarkable given the fact it spent 32 months in barrel). Dense purple to the rim with an extraordinary perfume of blueberry pie, blackberries, soy, Asian spices, and hints of forest floor and charcoal, this is a complex, rich, seamless, well-balanced tour de force in winemaking. A full-bodied, exuberant, unabashedly California Syrah, it will offer stunning drinking over the next 10-15+ years. (31 Aug 2010) Drinking Window: 2010 - 2025Inc. VAT£7,539.20 -
(1x75cl) 2005Inc. VAT£746.65 -
(1x75cl) 2005Inc. VAT£746.65 -
(1x75cl) 2005Inc. VAT£746.65
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Wine Advocate (99)
One of the world’s great wines and profound expressions of Cabernet Sauvignon, is the 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select. This wine spends more than 30 months in 100% new oak, and, year in year out, has been one of the most singular and profound examples of Cabernet Sauvignon in the world. It seems Shafer began to ratchet up performance during the 1990s, and the first decade of the 21st century has provided a treasure trove of either perfect or nearly perfect wines, including the 2001, 2002, 2004, 2005, 2007 and more recently the 2010, 2012 and, in all likelihood, the 2013. The 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select (about 2,000 cases produced) is another one of those “wow” wines, but it does it with a sort of measured richness and restraint and extraordinary subtle character, like the Gary Cooper of Napa Cabernet Sauvignons – authentic, tall, straight-boned, but substantial and worthy of introspection. Inky purple, with a classic nose of creme de cassis, licorice, a touch of vanilla and forest floor, the wine hits the palate with a gorgeous display of measured, but substantial fruit, body and intensity. Not a component is out of place, and the wine remarkably pure and persuasive. Combine great winemaking with great viticulture and a special terroir, and this is the result. Readers are in the presence of genius when tasting this wine.In Bond£2,000.00 -
Wine Advocate (100)
Deep purple-black colored, the 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select exudes beautiful notions of violets, dark chocolate, black olives, spice cake and cedar chest with a core of crème de cassis, blackberry pie, plum preserves and fragrant earth plus a waft of unsmoked cigars. Full-bodied, super concentrated and jam-packed with multilayered black and blue fruits, it has a rock-solid frame of grainy tannins and fantastic freshness, finishing long with tons of exotic spice and savory sparks.In Bond£2,346.00 -
(6x75cl) 2010
Jeb Dunnuck (100)
In comparison to the more lavish, sexy 2002, the 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select is more structured and focused, with incredible purity in its cassis and darker currant fruits as well as complex notes of minty herbs, lead pencil shavings, licorice, graphite, and spring flowers. Reminding me of a great vintage of Château Mouton Rothschild with its concentration, structure, and balance, it’s just now at the early stages of its prime drink window, and it will continue to improve for another decade and hold for 20-25 years thereafter.In Bond£2,150.00 -
(6x75cl) 2011
Wine Advocate (96)
Possibly the Cabernet Sauvignon of the vintage is Shafer’s 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select. Last year I thought it was a strong effort, but it’s even better now that it’s been bottled. With an opaque black/purple color and notes of subtle burning charcoal embers, blueberry, blackberry and graphite, the wine has a certain Bordelais minerality, but then the richness of Napa kicks in. It’s full-bodied (somewhat unusual for a 2011) with lighter tannins, and no doubt the wine will be on a faster evolutionary track than vintages such as 2010, 2012 and 2013. Nevertheless, the Shafers and Elias said this was the toughest vintage they’d ever experienced. To be able to produce a compelling wine like this is a testament to their extraordinary skills and craftsmanship. This wine can be drunk now or cellared for another 15-20 years.In Bond£1,167.00 -
Wine Advocate (100)
Shafer’s flagship wine, and one of the world’s greatest Cabernet Sauvignons, is the Hillside Select, which comes from the rocky, volcanic soils on hillsides above the winery. Vineyard production is small, and the wine an incredible example of Cabernet Sauvignon. Aged in 100% new oak for 32 months and bottled unfiltered, this can generally be expected to be one of the top dozen or so Cabernet Sauvignons in virtually any vintage in Napa, and certainly possesses 25 to possibly 50 years of aging potential. The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select is a perfect wine. It elicits more than a few “wows” when you smell the incredible notes of charcoal, graphite and subtle toast, buttressed and dominated by blackcurrant, blackberry and blueberry fruit. The purity of these fruits, the multidimensional mouthfeel, the seamless integration of acid, alcohol, tannin and wood are all flawless. The 2012 signature adds an extravagant opulence and density that is just mind-boggling, and the wine is a total hedonistic and intellectual turn-on already, although it has 30+ years of life ahead of it.In Bond£1,909.00 -
James Suckling (99)
Wonderful floral aromas with perfumed roses plus hints of blackcurrants and spearmint. Full-bodied and so powerful and muscular but always showing the brightness and beauty of fruit. Winemakers say this reminds them of the 1978, their first year. It certainly has the structure — "those tannins" as they put it. Finish is so impressive with tar, iron and spices. Available in September 2017. Try in 2023.In Bond£1,235.00 -
(1x150cl) 2016
Jeb Dunnuck (100)
Pure perfection, the prodigious 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select reveals an even deeper purple/blue hue as well as extraordinary notes of unsmoked tobacco, crushed rocks, graphite, crème de cassis, and blueberries. With a massive, full-bodied profile and a texture that builds incrementally on the palate, it has a stacked mid-palate, ultra-fine (yet lots of them) tannins, flawless balance, and a monster of a finish. It’s tight and closed at the moment, so hide bottles for a solid 7-8 years. It should age at a glacier pace.In Bond£726.00 -
Jeb Dunnuck (100)
Pure perfection, the prodigious 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select reveals an even deeper purple/blue hue as well as extraordinary notes of unsmoked tobacco, crushed rocks, graphite, crème de cassis, and blueberries. With a massive, full-bodied profile and a texture that builds incrementally on the palate, it has a stacked mid-palate, ultra-fine (yet lots of them) tannins, flawless balance, and a monster of a finish. It’s tight and closed at the moment, so hide bottles for a solid 7-8 years. It should age at a glacier pace.In Bond£2,000.00 -
Jeb Dunnuck (100)
The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select is another perfect wine, although readers will need to have patience, as it’s still a baby. Deep purple-hued with a perfumed, vibrant bouquet of blue fruits, graphite, spring flowers, and lead pencil, it’s full-bodied, sensationally concentrated, has perfectly integrated acidity, tannin, and alcohol, not a hard edge to be found, and an incredible finish. This monumental Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is 7-8 years away from maturity and will have 40-50 years of overall longevity.In Bond£1,543.50 -
(6x150cl) 2019
Wine Advocate (98+)
Sourced from specific blocks of estate-grown fruit, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select is another highly successful vintage. All Cabernet Sauvignon aged 32 months in 100% new French oak, it boasts intense aromas of pencil shavings, dark loam, cassis and plum on the nose, while the palate is full-bodied, super-ripe, rich, dense and concentrated—a truly impressive California vin de garde. Tannic but ripe, it finishes long and firm on the finish, adding a hint of mocha. To be released in September 2023, it's a strong showing and hopefully an indication that quality will remain high under the new ownership.In Bond£2,954.00 -
(6x75cl) 2019
Wine Advocate (98+)
Sourced from specific blocks of estate-grown fruit, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select is another highly successful vintage. All Cabernet Sauvignon aged 32 months in 100% new French oak, it boasts intense aromas of pencil shavings, dark loam, cassis and plum on the nose, while the palate is full-bodied, super-ripe, rich, dense and concentrated—a truly impressive California vin de garde. Tannic but ripe, it finishes long and firm on the finish, adding a hint of mocha. To be released in September 2023, it's a strong showing and hopefully an indication that quality will remain high under the new ownership.In Bond£1,480.00 -
(3x75cl) 2021
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (99)
The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select is insanely beautiful. It's also one of the very finest wines I have ever tasted here. Bright, pliant and resonant, the 2021 offers a beguiling mix of Cabernet Sauvignon aromatics, generous fruit and gentle structure. The stylistic shift at Shafer has been remarkable—the 2021 is a great example. Red-toned fruit, blood orange, menthol, pine and sweet spice build into the eternal finish.In Bond£735.00 -
(12x75cl) 2017
Vinous (90-93)
The 2017 TD-9 is juicy, expressive and pliant, with soft edges that seem to push the fruit forward. Succulent and racy in style, the 2017 should drink well right out of the gate. Stylistically, the 2017 is a bit more lush and overt than the 2016 tasted alongside it. The blend is 63% Merlot, 22% Malbec and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon.In Bond£623.00 -
(12x75cl) 2018
With unrivalled pedigree, the Silver Oak Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 is an outstanding embodiment of Californian wine craftsmanship. This offering hails from the renowned Alexander Valley, a region celebrated for its remarkable wines. Luxuriously aged for 24 months in American oak, it bestows a sophisticated composition and remarkable balance. Silver Oak, a distinguished winery established in 1972, has devotedly pursued a unique and exceptional Cali-Cab style. This particular vintage encapsulates these qualities with resounding success.
A deep garnet hue hints at the abundance of character contained within. On the nose, it teased with aromas of black fruit and allspice enriched by notes of vanilla. The palate rejoices in a parade of black cherry, plum, and cocoa underscored by a touch of savoury complexity. The Silver Oak Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 concludes with a laudably long and graceful finish. Rich, sophisticated and deservedly sought after, it serves as an impressive highlight to any connoisseur's collection.
In Bond£1,368.04 -
(6x150cl) 2019
James Suckling (94)
Handsome and classic for a Sonoma County cabernet, this full-bodied, approachable wine offers abundant aromas of black cherries, toasted oak and tobacco backed by gorgeous black cherries and black olive flavors on moderate tannins. It’s 95% cabernet sauvignon. Best through 2034.In Bond£1,215.46 -
(12x75cl) 2009
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (92)
The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley is fully resolved in its structural build, and the fruit has begun to give way to floral tones and worn leather nuances. It’s in a beautiful spot for drinking today. The 2009 is a gentle, elegant wine that deftly reflects the precision of the house style. Wet soil, tobacco leaf and rose stem notes echo through the soft finish. Very pretty. Drink over the next few years.In Bond£1,527.00 -
In the realm of fine wines, the Silver Oak Napa Cabernet Sauvignon 2012 is a distinguished masterpiece that impresses even the most discerning connoisseur. This exquisite delight hails from Napa Valley, California, famed for its optimal grape-growing conditions. The vintners, Silver Oak Cellars, are renowned for their expertise in cultivating Cabernet Sauvignon, deepening its flavours through careful oak maturation.
Each sip of the Silver Oak Napa Cabernet Sauvignon 2012 unravels a symphony of flavours, starting with enticing notes of cassis, blackberry, and violets, streaming into a lavish mid-palate saturated with cardamom, cocoa, and graphite. This extraordinary wine poised between opulence and structure guarantees a delightfully long finish, enhancing the overall sensual experience.
Meticulous hand-harvesting, barrelling in American oak, and devotion to sustainable practices attest to the undiminished dedication Silver Oak pours into every bottle, underscoring its steadfast reputation in the world of fine wine.
In Bond£174.00 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (93)
The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley is a good bit darker and richer than the Alexander Valley bottling from the same vintage tasted alongside. Very primary and open-knit, the 2017 is quite a young wine, but it speaks to a restrained approach that works very well. Cassis, pipe tobacco and spiced plum tones are nicely framed by a warm blanket of supportive yet present oak. Full-bodied and plush, the 2017 is in a fine place to drink today but should also put on some complexity with a few more years in the cellar.In Bond£560.00 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (93)
The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley is a good bit darker and richer than the Alexander Valley bottling from the same vintage tasted alongside. Very primary and open-knit, the 2017 is quite a young wine, but it speaks to a restrained approach that works very well. Cassis, pipe tobacco and spiced plum tones are nicely framed by a warm blanket of supportive yet present oak. Full-bodied and plush, the 2017 is in a fine place to drink today but should also put on some complexity with a few more years in the cellar.In Bond£1,074.00 -
Vinous - Antonio Galloni (93)
The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley is a good bit darker and richer than the Alexander Valley bottling from the same vintage tasted alongside. Very primary and open-knit, the 2017 is quite a young wine, but it speaks to a restrained approach that works very well. Cassis, pipe tobacco and spiced plum tones are nicely framed by a warm blanket of supportive yet present oak. Full-bodied and plush, the 2017 is in a fine place to drink today but should also put on some complexity with a few more years in the cellar.In Bond£1,488.00 -
(12x75cl) 2018
Treasured amongst oenophiles, the illustrious Silver Oak Napa Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 is a testament to dedicated craftsmanship. Sourced from California's acclaimed Napa Valley appellation and produced by Silver Oak Cellars, this prestigious red wine possesses an alluring complexity.
Comprised predominantly of Cabernet Sauvignon with a nuanced addition of Petit Verdot, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc, this offering was matured for two years in new American oak. The result is a beautifully textured wine, boasting aromas of black cherry, cassis, and mocha. On the palate, traces of dark fruit intermingle with subtle oak nuances, framed exquisitely by well-integrated tannins.
Exhibiting the winery's commitment to sustainable farming, the Silver Oak Napa Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 offers an exceptional fusion between California terroir and meticulous viticultural practices. Elegant, full-bodied yet perfectly balanced, it earns its reputation as a majestic Napa Cabernet.
In Bond£1,725.77 -
Introducing Silver Oak Napa Cabernet Sauvignon 2019, one of the prominent agrarian treasures of Alexander Valley. Perfectly harmonised with a unique blend of 81% Cabernet Sauvignon, accompanied by Merlot, Petit Verdot, and a trace of Cabernet Franc, this creation is a testimony to the artisanal craftsmanship of Silver Oak. The grapes undergo meticulous selection, with only the most robust clusters forming this stellar vintage.
Brimming with lush layers of blackcurrant, liquorice, and wild herbs, it unfurls to reveal an opulent mouthfeel marked by satiny tannins and a poignant finish. Aged for 24 months in American oak, it contributes deep-rooted flavours of vanilla and clove, rendering it a harmonious symphony of elegance and restraint.
By venerating tradition and sustainable practices, Silver Oak's commitment to the finest expressions of Cabernet Sauvignon is distinctly evident in this 2019 vintage. Every sip is sure to invigorate your palate with its enduring complexity and profound depth.
In Bond£1,198.00 -
Introducing Silver Oak Napa Cabernet Sauvignon 2019, one of the prominent agrarian treasures of Alexander Valley. Perfectly harmonised with a unique blend of 81% Cabernet Sauvignon, accompanied by Merlot, Petit Verdot, and a trace of Cabernet Franc, this creation is a testimony to the artisanal craftsmanship of Silver Oak. The grapes undergo meticulous selection, with only the most robust clusters forming this stellar vintage.
Brimming with lush layers of blackcurrant, liquorice, and wild herbs, it unfurls to reveal an opulent mouthfeel marked by satiny tannins and a poignant finish. Aged for 24 months in American oak, it contributes deep-rooted flavours of vanilla and clove, rendering it a harmonious symphony of elegance and restraint.
By venerating tradition and sustainable practices, Silver Oak's commitment to the finest expressions of Cabernet Sauvignon is distinctly evident in this 2019 vintage. Every sip is sure to invigorate your palate with its enduring complexity and profound depth.
In Bond£1,932.00 -
The Silver Oak Napa Valley Timeless 2020 is an exquisite union of Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Petit Verdot sourced from Napa Valley's finest vineyards. This wine demonstrates unparalleled craftsmanship from the iconic Silver Oak Cellars, renowned for their commitment to perfection and distinct Californian character. Oak aging in American barrels adds splendid layers of complexity to the blend, marked by notes of ripe blackberry, plum, graphite and cedar. The structure and balance bring forth an impeccable harmonisation of robustness and refinement, a testament to the age-old winemaking traditions of Silver Oak. Indulge in the Silver Oak Napa Valley Timeless 2020 to experience wine of extraordinary depth and longevity, whose exceptional quality is unsurpassed in New World Cabernet Sauvignon. Savour the luxurious texture and captivating aromatics, making it an exceptional choice deserving of the most distinguished cellars.
In Bond£519.00 -
Sine Qua Syrah Capo Dei Putti 2014 1x75cl - 3 bottles in the case
99 points | Jeb Dunnuck
Leading off the reds, the extended barrel-aged 2014 Syrah Capo Dei Putti boasts an insane bouquet of cedarwood, white chocolate, caramelized meats, candle way, and assorted red and black fruits. With full-bodied richness, ultra-fine tannins, and an incredible elegance, it changed every time I came back to the glass and is a multi-dimensional, riveting red wine from California. A blend of 90% Syrah and the balance Viognier, Petite Sirah, and Grenache, partially destemmed and aged 38 months in 94% new French oak, give this beauty 2-3 years of bottle age, count yourself lucky, and enjoy bottles over the following 10-15 years.
Sine Qua Non Grenache Testa Dei Cherubini 2014 1x75cl - 3 bottles in the case
99 points | Jeb Dunnuck
As with the extended aged Syrah release, the 2014 Grenache Testa Dei Cherubini (80% Grenache, 15.5% Syrah, and the rest Petite Sirah and Viognier) comes all from the estate Eleven Confessions Vineyard in the Sta. Rita Hills and spent just under 38 months in 25% new French oak, with the balance in neutral barrels (varying sizes). Layers of black raspberry, cassis, white chocolate, white flowers, and Asian spices flow to a full-bodied, supple, powerful Grenache that has silky, silky tannins, a seamless texture, no hard edges, and a finish that won’t quit. It’s already approachable, yet in my experience, this extended élevage results in a very stable wine, and I suspect this beauty will have another two decades of longevity.In Bond£2,106.00 -
(2x150cl) 2006
Wine Advocate (100)
In The Crosshairs (Grenache) - 100 pts 2006 In the Cross Hairs 11 Confessions Vineyard: This is Sine Qua Non’s extended barrel-aged Grenache (meaning that in most vintages since 2003, Krankl has produced two cuvees of Grenache, one aged 18-22 months before bottling, and the other one with extended barrel-aging, in this case 32 months in wood). A blend of 84% Grenache, 12% Syrah and 4% Viognier, all from the 11 Confessions Vineyard in the Santa Rita Hills, this is one of the most extraordinarily elegant Grenaches Krankl has produced. It is an intellectual wine, yet it doesn’t wimp out by any means. It is full-bodied and voluptuously textured, with notes of spice box, licorice and Provencal herbs, copious quantities of black currant and kirsch liqueur, stunning richness and a finish lasting close to a minute. This amazing effort confirms Krankl’s meticulous and nearly obsessively detailed work in both the vineyard and the winery.(31 Aug 2011) Drinking Window: 2011 - 2022 A Shot In The Dark (Syrah) - 100 pts The soon-to-be-released 2006 A Shot in the Dark is composed of 96.5% Syrah and 3.5% Viognier from the 11 Confessions Vineyard in the cool Santa Rita Hills. Performing better from bottle than it did from barrel, this prodigious red exhibits incredibly velvety tannins, a seamless style, and no noticeable oak (which is remarkable given the fact it spent 32 months in barrel). Dense purple to the rim with an extraordinary perfume of blueberry pie, blackberries, soy, Asian spices, and hints of forest floor and charcoal, this is a complex, rich, seamless, well-balanced tour de force in winemaking. A full-bodied, exuberant, unabashedly California Syrah, it will offer stunning drinking over the next 10-15+ years. (31 Aug 2010) Drinking Window: 2010 - 2025In Bond£5,532.00 -
Wine Advocate (100)
In The Crosshairs (Grenache) - 100 pts 2006 In the Cross Hairs 11 Confessions Vineyard: This is Sine Qua Non’s extended barrel-aged Grenache (meaning that in most vintages since 2003, Krankl has produced two cuvees of Grenache, one aged 18-22 months before bottling, and the other one with extended barrel-aging, in this case 32 months in wood). A blend of 84% Grenache, 12% Syrah and 4% Viognier, all from the 11 Confessions Vineyard in the Santa Rita Hills, this is one of the most extraordinarily elegant Grenaches Krankl has produced. It is an intellectual wine, yet it doesn’t wimp out by any means. It is full-bodied and voluptuously textured, with notes of spice box, licorice and Provencal herbs, copious quantities of black currant and kirsch liqueur, stunning richness and a finish lasting close to a minute. This amazing effort confirms Krankl’s meticulous and nearly obsessively detailed work in both the vineyard and the winery.(31 Aug 2011) Drinking Window: 2011 - 2022 A Shot In The Dark (Syrah) - 100 pts The soon-to-be-released 2006 A Shot in the Dark is composed of 96.5% Syrah and 3.5% Viognier from the 11 Confessions Vineyard in the cool Santa Rita Hills. Performing better from bottle than it did from barrel, this prodigious red exhibits incredibly velvety tannins, a seamless style, and no noticeable oak (which is remarkable given the fact it spent 32 months in barrel). Dense purple to the rim with an extraordinary perfume of blueberry pie, blackberries, soy, Asian spices, and hints of forest floor and charcoal, this is a complex, rich, seamless, well-balanced tour de force in winemaking. A full-bodied, exuberant, unabashedly California Syrah, it will offer stunning drinking over the next 10-15+ years. (31 Aug 2010) Drinking Window: 2010 - 2025In Bond£6,262.00 -
(1x75cl) 2005In Bond£619.00
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(1x75cl) 2005In Bond£619.00
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(1x75cl) 2005In Bond£619.00
