9/26/2014 - mswen Likes this wine:

As good a California Merlot as I have ever had. Beautifully balanced. Tertiary notes of spice box and sandalwood. Core of red fruits have moved to the background. A great pleasure to drink.

3/13/2014 - mswen wrote:

A medium weight Zin that is drinking great. Beautiful brambly fruit, good concentration and I have to add, a terrific bargain for this quality. Did not find it heavy or alcoholic but rather refined. Nice job Mike!

4/10/2011 - mswen wrote:

OK so the oak is primary now and will need some time to integrate. I would say hands off for a few years. Tempting to drink since they are being sold at such a good price point. Underneath the oak you can tell the fruit is there and it will merit a higher score in years to come. A winery that has made much improvements as of late.

7/24/2005 - mswen wrote:

I've been on the list there since the 1998 vintage (bad timing since 2 of first three vintages were not stellar). Just received my invoice for the '02 so I decided to open the '99 to gove me a taste of what awaits me in the future. Decanted 4 hours prior. Immediate primary nose of raspberry after opening the wax seal and cork. The bottle is in pristine condition and this really speaks well for sourcing wines direct from the producer.

Wine is not heavy although it is thick in the glass. Nose of black cherry with hints of spice box. On the palate there is excellent balance before the wall of tannins hits. The tannins are not harsh but still very apparent at this stage. Still very primary. Needs 5 years minimum to resolve the tannins I would guess. Wine was exciting enough to continue to purchase future vintages.