bestdamncab

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• soyhead says:

  3/5/2024 8:36:00 PM - yes Paul see you at Yans

• essenceofreal says:

  1/25/2024 3:45:00 PM - Nice pic of Christian M!! I had dinner w him at a K&L tasting in the city a few years ago. Was a very special experience. I'm in Napa now with my wife for the next couple of months and interested to get together w other wine geeks (!) in the area for tastings. I lean towards old world but do have some favorite new worlds. Thanks ))

• Mark1npt says:

  9/16/2022 11:24:00 AM - Hey BDC! Glad you liked that Turley note....take care!

• aChave says:

  1/5/2022 9:41:00 AM - You certainly welcomed the New Year right…!

• aChave says:

  1/3/2022 1:57:00 PM - A Happy New Year to you! Your comment on buying older wines these days is a good observation and policy, I think. Many people are always seeking out the latest thing, but we can be happy finding those older treasures on the auction block…

• Vinomazing says:

  12/8/2021 8:12:00 PM - Happy Holidays, wishing you and yours joy and good health into the New Year!!

• cookiefiend says:

  12/2/2021 6:48:00 AM - I did not know that about Roederer! Thank you for your kind words regarding the cellar - it has been a labor of love!

• cookiefiend says:

  11/30/2021 6:38:00 PM - Thank you for your kind words - I think I’m the worst at writing tasting notes… but I keep on going!

• srh says:

  11/21/2021 10:24:00 AM - YVW re the Ridge 2015 Geyserville, & wishing YOU a GREAT Thanksgiving as well! :)

• bestdamncab says:

  10/28/2021 9:15:00 PM - not just Spaniards but any enophile.

• Harley1199 says:

  10/28/2021 9:27:00 AM - Wanna quotes? Then ... Beati Hispani quibus bibere vivere est' J. Cæsar

• Harley1199 says:

  10/28/2021 9:25:00 AM - Hi you there, Glad to see we share similar points of view, including a serious repect for Clive Coates. Since my beginnings in this world his tasting notes have been a truly inspiration. Sincerely speaking I am not a big fan of wine critics but if there's an exception that is CC. I also love to travel to wine regions in spite these are not the most beautiful times to do it. Anyway wine is culture in every aspect so my intimate conexión with terroir (land, vine and man) will be alive until the end. Cheers my friend,

• Winowhyno says:

  12/3/2020 6:50:00 PM - Love the Martini Napa..not so much on the Sonoma. Not a Ramey fan, but I will try the Antica, Thanks Cheers

• GRH80 says:

  10/8/2020 9:22:00 PM - Hello. It was the curing process that changed. The curing changed to forced warm air. To your point, it was around 2012-2014. This sort of presaged the tobacco. I'm being told one of the best years for Cuban tobacco was 2019 but the quality control plummeted. I age almost all of my cigars. I find Fuentes age phenomenally. I especially love aged Don Carlos. I have some DC #4s, Belicosos and Presidentes from the late 90s and early 2000s. Opus age just as well. That pepper becomes more subtle. Switching back to Cubans, Partagas are great aged too. I have a few 98 coronas from a cab left. The trick is to not let them go past their peak, like wine. Thanks for reaching out.

• bestdamncab says:

  10/3/2020 2:23:00 AM - Mark1npt Christmas is a special time in Napa-I would even open a Benedetto for you to enjoy at Silver Oak Oakville.

• Mark1npt says:

  10/2/2020 10:24:00 AM - BDC...was hoping to be out there for a short trip in Nov/Dec but now not so sure. Appreciate the offer!

• Lady Chatelaine says:

  9/18/2020 2:38:00 PM - Regarding Larmandier-Bernier and your suggestion :Gosset Rosé. Yes, I've tried the Gosset Rosé, a good reference. But..they are different: Gosset is pinky, made of a blend 50% Chard.and red still wine from Bouzy, with a 8g/lit of dosage. Larm.-Bern. is a 90% Pinot Noir(and 10% Pinot Blanc) a year on lees and 3g/lit of dosage. It's an Extra-Brut. Ready to drink both again !!

• Lady Chatelaine says:

  9/18/2020 2:29:00 PM - About L'Arrosée/Quintus..Sorry for my (very late) reaction on your last comments I've been away from the CT app. for a while. Now back again! Indeed, since 2013, l'Arrosée is part of Quintus -thus part of the Dillon empire-. L'Arrosée was awarded with a GCC "B" grade which is now lost for Quintus (and it might be hard for Quintus to be already recognized at the occasion of the next 2022 classification)

• Night Train says:

  8/3/2020 2:25:00 PM - Thanks for your comment on my Venge cabernet notes. I didn't note any cork taint, but it did seem cooked. However, I bought it direct from Venge, and it was delivered in November, so... Hoping it was just an off bottle. I have three more, and I plan to try another pretty soon. Film at eleven.

• Night Train says:

  8/3/2020 2:19:00 PM - Thanks for your note on the Keenan. I have had the Mernet, but not in recent years. I'll keep an eye out for it.

• bestdamncab says:

  7/9/2020 9:48:00 PM - I disagree as the P2 is fabulous but the 2009 is great, try the 2008

• Mark1npt says:

  7/9/2020 6:59:00 PM - BDC.....I had a bottle a couple of years ago for a BD celebration but drank so much I never got to post a note on it. I will say to this day, it was the greatest champagne I have ever had. Kicks Dom Ps ass IMO. I have 2 left and really look forward to enjoying them for special occasions over the next few years!

• bestdamncab says:

  7/9/2020 4:06:00 AM - I am 45 minutes to Silver Oak and Caymus. I am 75 minutes to Healdsburg and the Russian River.

• I'd Rather Be Drinking Wine says:

  7/8/2020 5:19:00 PM - Thank you for the wine suggestions! I have had the 76 Yquem....it's delicious! Have also had the 86 Mouton, and hyhave heard raves from others about it....I found it exceptional, but not to the extent of some of the reviews....could be bottle variation, could finally be getting old, or could just be my palate! Would love to try the 82 Lafite to compare....maybe someday! Let me know I you ever come to the Twin Cities...would be happy to share a bottle with you! BTW...Love your goals!

• bestdamncab says:

  2/18/2020 6:23:00 PM - 3 Faiveley tasting notes, 2013, 2018, 2019-enjoy the read.

• Rick 4 Wine says:

  2/18/2020 11:57:00 AM - Hello there! Thanks for the note on my Board. You reminded me that my profile was probably six or seven years old! I’ve updated. I look forward to seeing your note on the ‘99 Faively Mercurey!!

• BuzzzzOff says:

  1/21/2020 1:56:00 AM - I keep 30 magnums and 7 double magnums in the cellar back to 1979 Bollinger RD. Magnums are always better!!! Thanks for the TN. > Oooweebaby, we want to party with you Cowboy!!!

• bestdamncab says:

  12/27/2019 8:28:00 AM - Sounds great!!

• Vinomazing says:

  12/26/2019 3:37:00 PM - Happy Holidays BDC!! Bring that P2 when we get together next!

• LiteItOnFire says:

  11/26/2019 2:19:00 PM - LOVE the recent story you posted. Sounds amazing!!! Have an amazing Thanksgiving!

• bestdamncab says:

  11/20/2019 3:55:00 AM - Champagne is a weekly choice for me and the opportunity to explore Grower Champagnes and NV Champagnes both paired with Wild Sockeye Smoked Salmon are frequently the high point of my week. As Lily Bollinger said: “I drink it when I’m happy and when I’m sad. Sometimes I drink it when I’m alone. When I have company I consider it obligatory. I trifle with it if I’m not hungry and drink it when I am. Otherwise, I never touch it—unless I’m thirsty.”

• oldwines says:

  11/20/2019 3:46:00 AM - That event almost 30 years ago now really set you up on Champagne...and it certainly has stayed with you. I only drink it occasionally, I love the good stuff but the prices have gone crazy lately like everything else at the "top" of the wine world. Wish I had bought more DRC Burg's and Mascarello Barolo in the 80's!

• Vinomazing says:

  11/19/2019 7:30:00 PM - Thank you for your recent help in the Champagne area my friend. If you visit East coast some amazing wine is on me!

• bestdamncab says:

  10/14/2019 11:28:00 PM - 10/20 is the K&L event, I have tasted 75 Champagnes in the last 2 weeks. Lots to post. The 2008 is a great vintage and pol /roger produces high quality vintage Champagne.

• apatel17 says:

  10/14/2019 9:08:00 AM - Thank you! I went ahead and purchased the 2008 Pol Roger. Hope to see you at a future K&L Champagne event.

• bestdamncab says:

  10/11/2019 4:36:00 PM - The 2008 Pol Roger would be the better choice as it is from a great vintage and great wine. The Ariston is sharper, more focused, more acidic and not the best choice.

• apatel17 says:

  10/11/2019 12:53:00 PM - First off, I just wanted to say thanks for your detailed notes on your wine tastings. They are extremely helpful. I am currently deciding between 2 champagne bottles to offer at my wedding, and would love to get your thoughts between the 2008 Pol Roger Vintage Brut Champagne and Ariston Aspasie "Cépages d'Antan" Brut Champagne. The crowd as a whole has probably just had stuff from the big 3-4 producers, and my goal is to expose them to another side of champagne. With that in mind, would you recommend one of these over the other?

• Bin707LoversDetroit says:

  9/27/2019 9:29:00 AM - Hello BDC, nice to see you on our board again. The Franklin Cider Mill is one of our favorite places! Been going there for decades. However, the Northville Cider Mill sells wines from Paw Paw Michigan, some decent reds indeed. One had honey in its blend. Interesting and tasty. We were in Turlock last year (and Indio this) but next time we're in Cali (close to the Bay Area), we hope to connect! Take good care, and best to you & yours!

• bestdamncab says:

  9/7/2019 8:42:00 AM - She has better vision but eye surgery does slow us down some. Thanks for your thoughtful words.

• Be.Lee says:

  9/4/2019 11:00:00 AM - Sorry to hear your wife had 2 operations. Hope her anesthesia team gave her appropriate intra-operative and post-operative pain control :) . Looking forward to your coming TNs...

• Be.Lee says:

  8/28/2019 9:25:00 AM - Thank you very much for your thoughtful explanation on your perspective on ideal drinking dates. May i ask your reasoning for why Cask 23 would require much longer maturation time than a typical napa cabs?

• Otaku Oenophile says:

  7/20/2019 11:07:00 AM - I haven't had that much Champagne experience but the 06 SWC has been the best one I've had so far. I probably want to explore other vintages if possible.

• Otaku Oenophile says:

  7/20/2019 3:16:00 AM - I was searching some of your tasting notes and didn't notice any from Verite. If you can get your hands on some of their older cabs like the 99 and 02 they're quite a bit more reasonable in price than their newer releases and more ready as well. I thank you for introducing me to Aubert Chards though, Eastside is wonderful! Limited experience but I think the Kistler Silver Belt Pinots are wonderful as well!

• Gustavo Brambila says:

  6/26/2019 9:11:00 AM - The duties we pay for wine are extremely high. An example would be a $50btl would have a $26.83 duty applied to the price. Then a PST tax of 7% then a GST tax of 5%. Our Canadian dollar is currently at $0.76 of the U.S. So to make it easy, let's say add another 25% to the cost. Here is a duty calculator http://www.canadiandutycalculator.ca/index.php I purchased a release from Turley once, beautiful wines. The cost was another story.

• Gustavo Brambila says:

  6/25/2019 9:06:00 PM - No, I live in Canada and the wine auctions are few and fare. Cheers

• Diane (LI) says:

  4/18/2019 4:44:00 AM - Your notes are well written with excellent detail. I'm a big fan of Bordeaux, but I do enjoy variety with a leaning towards old world, but when we visit our son, formerly of Berkeley, in Sebastabol, we mostly drink local wines.

• Vinomazing says:

  3/17/2019 1:55:00 AM - That is wonderful, thanks for sharing, took a deep dive into your tasting!

• Cailles says:

  3/15/2019 8:58:00 AM - Hi there! Thx for your post. Will certainly do. Always great to meet fellow wine lovers. Message me CTcailles@gmail.com when in Switzerland (just a stone's throw away from your next trip to France).

• sean7711 says:

  1/23/2019 7:44:00 PM - Hi BDC, thank you for the post. I just got on Aubert for the release last week after waiting a year or two. Carlisle is another favorite of mine. I will need to research Martinelli as I see that a lot locally here in PA stores. Cheers!

• Vinomazing says:

  12/26/2018 5:03:00 PM - Merry Christmas and Happy New Year BDC!

• Vinomazing says:

  10/12/2018 9:51:00 PM - BDC...how goes the West Coast my man? Hello from lands far far away!

• Paulzzz says:

  8/30/2018 11:11:00 AM - Hi Bestdamncab, thanks for Posting. I've been tasting with earnest for about 15 years now. Another winery you may wish to try is Castoro Cellars in Paso Robles - I don't think you'll find a 95 point wine there but generally affordable and get to try lots of different grapes (their Wednesday Specials for Club Members). I really like the Mazzocco wines, tend to Cellar them for a few years, especially the Reserves. Cheers!

• charlie190 says:

  7/17/2018 8:09:00 PM - Thanks for posting on my message board, I’m new to wine and eager to learn. I belong to Burgess and Cliff Lede, and I absolutely adore their Cabs. I’ll be sure to check out your ‘81 Burgess review...got any other gems for me to check out?

• JEP007 says:

  7/1/2018 8:07:00 PM - Saw your review of the 1986 Caymus as I'm thinking of sourcing one. For over 7500 TNs, I'm intrigued that only a few reviews received a perfect scoring. I'm curious on your thoughts about Napa's recent vintages. 2013 was the first vintage I went deep on, and I'm wondering if you think the great wines today will last as long as Robert Parker declares? I've tried a few 1970s and 80s Napa cabs recently and have loved them. Do you think a vintage like 2013 will hold up in 30-40 years as well as the great Napa wines of the 70s and 80s? Noticing you've been to many release events, I'm curious on your thoughts based on tastings of recent vintages.

• BillsWine says:

  6/23/2018 7:44:00 PM - Haven't yet met Nils, nor even Kirk for that matter. Perhaps I''ll meet them at the August pre-Harvest celebration.

• bestdamncab says:

  1/15/2018 8:42:00 AM - I have bought $150k since they openedd and they have helped me out several times. Suggest you let them know about it. Since I am 45 minutes to Winebid, maybe that's an advantage. My rule is that a bottle over 18 years of age probably has a bad/decomposing cork. So, the ullage is critical and I buy nothing less than top shoulder fill. My TN shows I open about 2 bottles of 1973 a year-married in 1973-to celebrate our anniversary and they have been very good. Almost all my 1973 vintage is from Winebid for many years now. 1969 and 1971 Burgundy from there have been fine although the ullage usually looks terrible. Try wine-searcher for NJ and NY locations. Good luck.

• TashNYC says:

  1/15/2018 8:22:00 AM - Hi and thanks for the messages. I have had all those “dream wines” in my profile, and others. I buy quite a bit at WineBid (less at Brentwood) - including a case last night - but all the old, aged and premium Bordeaux I’ve bought there has been off, with bad storage. (The 10-15 Year old Bordeaux has been fine). I find Sotheby’s in nyc a better source. I used to consult for Prudential, too :)

• bestdamncab says:

  1/2/2018 6:25:00 PM - Maybe its time for a 1975 Caymus or 1975 Phelps Eisele for you.

• For the Love of Wine says:

  1/2/2018 5:45:00 PM - Hopefully, we all buy what we like! Or at least like what we buy! Silver Oak and Caymus were must stops for me when I went to Napa....I read through your notes, and your experience differs slightly from mine. In my experience, Napa drinks better older and younger, while Alexander drinks better in between (when the oak makes way for the fruit). I have found that Napa's outlive Alexander, as I have had several Alexanders where the fruit had faded. At least for my palate! Of course, it is difficult for me to hold either one for too long!

• bestdamncab says:

  1/2/2018 3:46:00 PM - That is Christian Mouiex-met him 26 years ago In Libourne at Che Mouiex. I about 75 minutes from Silver Oak so visit 10 times per year. I have never been to Mn. I taste wine to imrove my wine buying and buy what I like.

• For the Love of Wine says:

  1/2/2018 12:47:00 PM - I envy you! Nice pic - I assume that is Christian Moueix in the picture with you. You spend a lot of time on wine...are you in the business? I have only been to Bordeaux once and Napa once. I am a fan of Silver Oak (especially Napa) and Caymus Special Selection, as well as Bordeaux. If you are ever in MN, let me know! Cheers!

• michigan dogs says:

  9/7/2017 2:04:00 PM - bestdamncab, I appreciate your offer to join you in opening a good bottle. We may be in Napa this fall, but no plans yet. The biggest obstacle I have is that my wife doesn't drink wine so it is hard for me to make drinking plans, but I will remember your offer and surely contact you when I'm next in Napa. Michigan Dogs, go blue

• Bin707LoversDetroit says:

  9/5/2017 5:58:00 PM - Thanks, BestDamnCab, for your message to us, we're new to this site and describing wine in text, but long time wine lovers... It's tough for us to separate our tasting "stories" from a bottle's tasting "notes" because the story around enjoying a bottle is so much a part of the taste for us! So please, if get a minute, let us know what you think of our three posted tasting notes (and maybe we're too generous with points), as you're so obviously more well versed in writing such things. Thanks!

• michigan dogs says:

  4/11/2017 11:37:00 AM - bestdamcab, even though I don't like donuts I can't resist a Franklin cider mill donut. Sinful indulgence!

• michigan dogs says:

  4/8/2017 10:49:00 AM - thanks for the message. Interesting that we both have 60%+ California but almost no overlap ( just a few Carlisle) Let me know if you are in Michigan as I always need an excuse to open a good bottle, I also was born in Detroit in 1947

• oldwines says:

  3/26/2017 10:37:00 PM - I lived in Summit at that time and often drove through Green Village!

• aChave says:

  3/18/2017 9:09:00 PM - Russian River & NZ -- quite a variety of experience. Much more fun than taxes for sure. I'll look forward to the notes. I just attended a tasting of 2015 Walter Scott wines (PN & Chardonnay from Oregon Eola/Amity), a follow-up to the barrel-tasting from last November. These are superb...seek them out, especially the Chardonnays. Terroir-driven reds and very Burgundian Chardonnays with an Oregon influence.

• BigJ says:

  3/17/2017 9:28:00 PM - HI Bestdamncab, nice to link up. I look forward to those notes, hope it was a good tasting! Cheers.

• robertdtwo says:

  1/27/2017 11:48:00 AM - bdc...thanks for speedy reply and offer to relay Howell Mtn info. As you must have seen in my profile, my wife & I fell in love with those mountain berries on our first Napa trip in 2010, and love the producers we've found to date. My promised year-off of buying wine is over, so any great news may be expensive, but I'll thank you for it after the credit card bills are paid! Cheers! bobdonnellyjr@me.com

• aChave says:

  1/19/2017 9:18:00 PM - Thanks for the note and comment. I like your appreciation of older wines... something that too few are able to experience? I have relatives in Crockett so am down in your area periodically. Maybe we'll connect some day. Cheers!

• wondersofwine says:

  1/15/2017 11:22:00 AM - I was led to your notes on a 2012 Bordeaux tasting at K & L from a note on the 2009 Pavie Macquin which is also in my wine collection. It was interesting to see all your notes on that tasting of the 2009 vintage to see how you rated the wines relative to each other and some characteristics of the vintage.

• wineotim says:

  12/22/2016 8:58:00 AM - FYI, I bought a '14 Torial Cab, you might want to consider putting this on your radar....it's a Wagner wine.

• wineotim says:

  12/1/2016 4:31:00 PM - You had some great Thanksgiving wines too...I would have loved to have had a glass of the Aubert Pinot!

• bestdamncab says:

  11/24/2016 9:17:00 AM - I posted my reply to your Message board this morning and hope it helps.

• zack.wygant says:

  11/23/2016 5:05:00 PM - Take a look at my cellar and pick a few wines for me for Thanksgiving dinner!

• esw423 says:

  10/28/2016 1:08:00 PM - Glad to hear you share my love for Caymus Special Selection. You have an incredible vertical! Thanks for your great Tasting Notes!

• BigGDaddy says:

  10/3/2016 8:47:00 AM - Good point, I adjusted...I will look into your suggestions. Thanks for taking the time.

• Tim Heaton says:

  9/14/2016 9:21:00 AM - Yeah, not sure how the fan button got pressed, because as you say we dwell in different worlds, but it happened for a reason, so I'm good with that. The world works in mysterious ways, who am I to question that? Nice to know you, and I hope you enjoy your wines in good health!

• Bulldog Classic says:

  9/13/2016 9:02:00 AM - Much appreciated. Will do!

• SummitStormer says:

  9/6/2016 10:30:00 AM - Awesome to meet you bestdamncab! My wife and I sincerely appreciate your input and recommendation at Miner Winery, looking forward to seeing more of your reviews!

• HowellTime says:

  9/5/2016 9:41:00 AM - Hello bestdamncab, thank you for the info I love Howell mountain wines and as Dennis Johns always states it's all about the fruit. My wife and I just recently attended the Taste of Howell Mountain this past June and had the pleasure of meeting some of the best vintners. I look forward to seeing more of your notes from this region.

• bestdamncab says:

  8/8/2016 8:31:00 AM - Let me know and I will pull a bottle to share with you in Napa.

• strno says:

  8/8/2016 7:10:00 AM - Hello bestdamncab. I appreciate your notes and palate. I do get to Napa and Sonoma occasionally. And small world--my parents met at a Michigan football game-- believe 1944 when your dad was in the band.

• BuzzzzOff says:

  8/7/2016 6:33:00 AM - By the way, bestdamncab, it is only a 13+ hour fight from SF to our home. Open invitation to work through our cellar ;-)

• bestdamncab says:

  8/5/2016 8:56:00 AM - the book is Chateau Latour by Michel Dovaz in 1998 in English. It is a great story about a First Growth.

• wineotim says:

  8/5/2016 4:22:00 AM - Hi bestdamncab, I am not familiar with the Chateau Latour book...but will check it out.

• chatters says:

  6/11/2016 5:10:00 AM - thanks, much appreciated! I'll give it just one more year...actually, I can tap it with my Coravin...that's a Sunday plan, cheers chatters

• csimm says:

  3/26/2016 7:57:00 AM - Very impressive resume of wine experiences and tasting notes! We're both very fortunate to live in a region filled with great wine and food!

• Rupert says:

  10/10/2015 10:26:00 AM - Thank you for your kind words. I'll ask Eric if the mislabelled Mondavi notes can be transferred to the correct place.

• RandyAboutWine says:

  9/23/2015 10:06:00 AM - Thanks for your note last night. While I've been a vinophile for many years, I am only beginning to express my views to others. It was rewarding to have a kind remark sent my way after one of my first public ratings. I'd like to chat with you about your generous offer, but so far I only see public messaging. Most forums have Private Messages, which I don't see here. If you could guide me to a way we can exchange notes privately, it turns out that I am in your neighborhood about once a week. Hope to hear more from you, now and over the years.

• Baron Slick says:

  9/21/2015 2:19:00 PM - Wow, those are monster wines. Nice of him to invite. From everything I've read he's a good guy. His wife passed away in early August of this year. They were together over 60 years and did everything together. Poor chap. A wanker he is not.

• Baron Slick says:

  9/21/2015 11:03:00 AM - Thanks for the response. If the tasting he recommended was free or amongst elite company, awesome. If the tasting was nothing more than an industry-type tasting, then what a wanker.

• Baron Slick says:

  9/20/2015 3:39:00 PM - Enjoy reading your notes. I'm intrigued by some of the names you've tasted with, especially Michael Broadbent. Not to pry but was he as friendly and witty as he comes across in his writing?

• ljmacdonald says:

  7/30/2015 10:06:00 AM - Hi there! Per your inquiry, my husband and I opened the 2010 Noemi upon returning from a 2-week vacation, with great expectations. It smelled gorgeous and had the right balance of fruit and oak, but we were both disappointed on the finish, which seemed a little "hot," if that makes sense. I'd decanted for an hour and served just below room temp - have one more bottle that I'll hold off on until next year.

• bestdamncab says:

  7/15/2015 9:20:00 PM - Thank you for accepting my friend invitation. Your website, travels, and restaurant adventures are way beyond me!!! I have been and tasted at all the First Growths-twice. Been to Burgundy only once and Champagne region twice. I love old Burgundy. I live for Napa and Sonoma. Most wine regions and countries I do not enjoy, tried them all but that is only my opinion and taste buds.

• BuzzzzOff says:

  7/15/2015 6:14:00 PM - Hey bestdamcab! Wow, 1967? We did not start until 1998. We also love the various regions of France. We had lunch with Jean-Philippe Delmas of Haut-Brion and dinner with Philippe E Casteja of Batailley at the Chateaux. Too cool for school!!! Have you ever visited Champagne, Burgundy and/or Cahor regions? Your goal is admirable...we only have visited Napa a few times. We really loved the Central Coast, Paso Robles, Santa Barbara wines as well. We also have enjoyed long sipping 'n snacking trips in Spain, Portugal, Italy and even England (some good stuff coming from there, but sadly not reds). Also, we have visited wineries in Thailand and China. Too many wines, not enough time ;-). By the way, Silver Oak does not suck :-)

• bestdamncab says:

  7/13/2015 8:20:00 AM - Congratulations on your marriage, we just celebrated 42 years together, I have 1973 cabernets as well as 1985, 1986, 1987. Unfortunately, Silver Oak Release is Saturday, August 1, 2015 but it is easy for me to arrange to taste there with you.

• HowardTheDuck says:

  7/12/2015 7:45:00 PM - I arrive August 7th, getting married at the end of the month, will probably stay at my home in Napa and commute every so often to my fiance's house in SF, check out my cellar, maybe we could plan something or you could bring me to a Silver Oak Release Party :)

• HowardTheDuck says:

  7/12/2015 5:39:00 PM - Live in Brooklyn, moving to Oakland in a year or two, have a home in Napa. : )

• HowardTheDuck says:

  7/12/2015 12:17:00 PM - Thx. My father in law has made me become impassioned about wine and I going all in. As an ex-saucier at a gourmet restaurant, I love the passion and flavors behind each planned tasting/serving. I look forward to beginning to add my notes and take part in the CT community. (Should prob pay my dues). I am torn on the subject of decanting. Said father in law decants almost everything (major Bordeaux drinking 70s, 80s, 90s all first growth). I think it comes down to luck and condition of the wine. I am also noticing that Burgundy drinkers never decant and a lot of Bordeaux drinkers live to decant. I am a Cali Cab man thats why I reached out to you and started following you. I have a nice Napa 1985 horizontal tasting lot I'm doing and I'll reach out to you in the future for your thoughts on service. Thanks again for your message! Talk soon.

• JonnyG says:

  5/21/2015 7:51:00 AM - Thank you for the kind note, which also nudged me to update my dream wines as I accomplished one dream last month: https://www.cellartracker.com/list.asp?Table=Notes&szSearch=Ch%E2teau+La+Mission+Haut%2DBrion#selected%3DW15079_1_K4407aba088d6b276cf0bbe08a358c255

• Sinegal Estate says:

  5/20/2015 1:35:00 PM - We just realized you were likely not alerted when we responded to you on our message board. You mentioned you visit Napa 20+ times a year. Feel free to reach us at info@sinegalestate.com and we can taste together. Take care.

• bestdamncab says:

  3/9/2015 10:35:00 PM - I will call and confirm with them the 17th-do you think morning or afternoon??

• jviz says:

  3/9/2015 8:03:00 PM - how kind! -- I'll plan to check out Baldacci on Tuesday the 17th. please let me know if any special information is needed. johnvizuete@gmail.com Thank you for the generous offer!

• jviz says:

  3/8/2015 9:22:00 PM - really enjoy your notes -- my wife and I are heading to napa next week; can you recommend 1 producer not to miss?

• bestdamncab says:

  1/14/2015 5:18:00 PM - Walnut Creek is 50 minutes from Napa and 70 minutes from Sonoma. Its so cold at 50 degrees, I have to wear a coat. I worked at 10500 Barkley-good to hear it is growing.

• kcsteve says:

  1/14/2015 12:24:00 PM - I don't know how long ago you lived in Overland Park but it is huge now. Stretches all the way to Stanley KS and growing out towards Lawrence KS. Have many clients out that way. How do you like Walnut Creek?

• mmills says:

  11/20/2014 9:14:00 AM - Haven't seen you up in the Valley lately... planning any visits prior to the holidays?

• bestdamncab says:

  6/8/2014 7:01:00 PM - Please email me if you wish to taste in Napa-would enjoy the opportunity to have a glass of cabernet with you.

• oldwines says:

  6/8/2014 6:31:00 PM - Thanks, we saw the date but were unable to get there that weekend and instead may be out 2 weeks later...we will be trying for the next one in February, I think.

• bestdamncab says:

  6/8/2014 4:48:00 PM - Glad you liked it. I think the 2009 Ruppert is drinking very well right now and the 2010 black Label is one you should buy and cellar for 3 years.

• TastesGoodToMe says:

  6/8/2014 4:18:00 PM - Finally opened one of the Baldacci Brenda's last night. You were spot on with recommending this one. Killer cab. Thanks for the tip!

• bestdamncab says:

  2/8/2014 10:45:00 AM - No worries-hope you enjoy the wine as much as I do.

• TastesGoodToMe says:

  2/7/2014 7:36:00 AM - Love Howell Mtn cabs and sorry I cannot make Taste of HM this year. O'Shaughnessy is one of my favorites for delivering consistetly good wines. But also a huge fan of Outpost, Lamborn, Aloft and new one I found - Spence. I saw your notes below on Saunter - have not had yet. Also, I did just buy some of the Baldacci Brenda's '09 based on your recommendation (pressure's on now for you!). Thanks for your comments. Cheers!

• VinoHunter says:

  1/7/2014 7:44:00 PM - As a teacher, Screaming Eagle is way out of my price range as well :)

• VinoHunter says:

  1/6/2014 8:28:00 PM - Thanks! The picture was taken in Volpaia Tuscany. Of course the vino was excellent! Cheers!

• ageverett says:

  1/2/2014 10:59:00 AM - bestdamncab, thanks for the note. I will have to try the Baldacci Family Cabernet Sauvignon Brenda's Vineyard. Hope you enjoy the Saunter. And I'm looking forward to trying one of their single-vineyard wines. I haven't popped a 2010 yet, but likely will in the next few months.

• wineheadGA says:

  12/12/2013 5:06:00 PM - Thanks for the post & cheers! I agree with your statement, I'm just trying to soak up all of the experiences as I go. It just keeps getting better and better!

• bestdamncab says:

  9/22/2013 8:37:00 AM - The 2010 is available is you use Wine-Searcher. The 2011 will be listed there shortly as it arrives in stores. For $80, I would urge you to taste it before you buy unless loved the past vintages. I do not collect it or search for it.

• farinas says:

  9/22/2013 7:26:00 AM - Any insight on the 2011 Blankiet Prince of Hearts? Do you think it a good value at $60?

• khunchris says:

  9/13/2013 8:04:00 AM - Thanks for the note Bestdamncacb. I have been drinking wine a long time, just began collecting. Favorites include Napa cab, love the rutherford bench style, Italien wines - Brunellos and Supertuscans in particular, niche Pinots from Cali, and Reisling from the mosel. Will try to post more informative reviews in the future. Cheers!

• Wine_lvr says:

  9/12/2013 8:58:00 AM - Note of the Larmandie Bernier is up. It is also one of my favorite roses respectively Champagne producers... but in general tough wines to understand. Thanks

• farinas says:

  9/6/2013 8:55:00 PM - Mr. Best, just had a Pappy Van Winkle Rye 13 yrs, blew my mind. I've never drunk anything like it. Thanks for recommending it.

• bestdamncab says:

  6/21/2013 6:08:00 AM - Silver Oak has increased production the last 15 years from 40,000 cases to 100,000 cases. The rating of Silver Oak Napa Valley and Silver Oak Alexander Valley during the last 15 years was lower. Starting in 2005 both wines reverted to their old style. Favorites are 2005, 2007, 2008. While waiting for them to peak, I suggest the 2001 or 2003. The Napa drinks better younger and the Alexander drinks better with age in my opinion. do you ever visit the Napa Valley?

• bacchus says:

  6/21/2013 2:59:00 AM - kind of a small world. i was a brooklyn boy. my memories go back to the flatbush avenue trolley. what do you think of comments from others that silver oak has a been a bit erratic in recent vintages? what would you think is the best drinking vintage right now from the past 10 or 15? great getting to know about you as an individual.

• SonnyChiba says:

  6/19/2013 1:38:00 AM - Yes, very close. I go back and forth a bit, currently in more of a Napa/Cali phase, but also picked up some nice Bordeaux and Italian wines recently.

• bestdamncab says:

  6/15/2013 10:45:00 PM - I drink California 60% of the time and the rest French-especially champagne, Bordeaux, Sauterne, and Burgundy. Hope you can say something similar. thank you for contacting me.

• SonnyChiba says:

  6/15/2013 12:55:00 AM - Nice to meet you...Sounds like a nice trip to Napa recently. I think we like a lot the same stuff.

• bestdamncab says:

  5/28/2013 6:41:00 AM - The 2009 Alexander Valley will be released August 3, 2013 and is doing nicely. Should be fairly delicious by then.

• oldwines says:

  5/26/2013 11:37:00 AM - I'm not currently planning on it but I do need to come to CA in August, so may consider it.

• bestdamncab says:

  4/8/2013 10:45:00 PM - I would be honored if you were my guest at Silver Oak, I once poured d14 double magnums at a party I threw there. I attended 44 release day parties, please join me for the one on August 3, 2013. I would love to share some wine with you. Its a great day where 3500 people party at Silver Oak.

• oldwines says:

  4/8/2013 2:31:00 PM - I don't think I have any double mags left. You, for sure, are more versed in it than I, as I have only visited a couple times. I'll have to get some more.

• oldwines says:

  4/7/2013 12:31:00 PM - You seem to have a nice collection too...looks we have a couple hundred in common.

• bestdamncab says:

  4/6/2013 10:21:00 PM - The 1977 is a much better wine in my opinion. The greatest Silver Oak in a rainy year or any other year. But if I had my choice I would prefer the 1983 in 6 liter as it drinks great these days. I recently found myself with only 15 magnums of Alexander Valley so I am buying more at auction. Did you buy the special 40th anniversary bottle in magnum or double magnum? I am luck as I visit Silver Oak 30 times per year. Enjoy yours tonite.

• oldwines says:

  4/6/2013 11:03:00 AM - As a Silver Oak drinker/collector I couldn't help commenting that I wholly agree with the comment that the Alexander bottling ages better than the Napa. The 1978 Alexander is amazing wine. The nose gives you goosebumps.

• thesternowl says:

  3/31/2013 3:56:00 PM - Sounds like it was another great tasting. Indeed, alcohol is forbidden here in the Kingdom. My modest cellar remains in Omaha and I'm living vicariously through others for the time being. That being said, I'm headed to Dubai next week and we plan on raiding Dubai Duty Free which, believe it or not, has an outstanding selection of wines.

• bestdamncab says:

  3/28/2013 6:16:00 AM - The bottle was disgorged many years ago. Christian Roger said that the neighbors brought their grapes to him before and during the Nazi occupation. They were paid back when the war ended. It tasted like lovely still wine combined with a soft sauterne with a few hints of effervesence and oxidation.

• thesternowl says:

  3/28/2013 2:40:00 AM - Wow...1918?! I can't imagine what an experience that must have been. Had it been recently disgorged? Curious to hear about its condition as there seems to be a lot of opinion on how well Champagne ages.

• bestdamncab says:

  2/9/2013 4:27:00 AM - I currently cellar Silver Oak 750ml-96bottles, 1.5 liter-47 bottles, 3.0 liter-17 bottles and one 12 liter. I usually visit Silver Oak thirty times per year as I like the people and open French wine for them to enjoy out of my cellar. I throw two parties a year in Napa where friends from five wineries enjoy wine from my cellar. I am embarassed as I have not tasted any Cask 23 since the 1997 vintage. I drink only one bottle of Cask 23 per year, usually a 1984 or 1986 or 1997. It is a great wine but not my favorite. I prefer Dunn, Caymus, Older Mondavi Reserves, and Duckhorn to it. Suggest you try wine-searcher.com to find it, the hyphen is critical to get the correct website, urge you to buy the professional version like I do so you have little difficulty finding results for each search. The comments you made about Alexander Valley are spot on. New or not your enthusiasm shows!!

• cabTan says:

  2/8/2013 11:54:00 PM - Thank bestdamncab (BCD). WOW! silver oak ...back to 1984, very impressive! Yea, I noticed your comment for on the 2008 Silver Oak Napa Cab. So you know "people" at Silver Oak? ...is that how you got hooked up? What do you think of the 2008 Cask 23?? From all the vintage you tried, how would you rank the 2008 (between the vintage)? I was able to find two bottles near where I am. The 2008 Cask 23s are so hard to find these days, especially online. Most online sites are out of stock. Might stock up on some of the 2009 cask 23 before they go out of stock. You mentioned that you prefer the Alexanger Silver Oak for aging... is it because of the tannins? I remember the Alexander valley being more tannic, relative to the Napa Valley. Do you agree that assessment? HAhaha ...I still pretty new at this.