Freddy R. Troya

9.5

Absolution Cellars, V2021 Syrah - Reserve.
This is a phenomenal 100% Syrah produced out of ultra-rare Hermitage-clones grown in the Michaud Vineyard in Chalone AVA, which combines the best characteristics of both cool and warm climate to attain a perfect Syrah profile.

Extremely complex from the nose with inviting aromas of black ripen cherry, baking spices, anise and mint. On the palate, it kicks your sensing tasting with hint of caramelized maple leaves, roasted coffee beans, a touch of cinnamon, grounded cocoa nibs, vanilla ice-cream.

The overall mouthfeel is a multi-layered nuances from toasted brown sugar to a dusty earthy-styled mixed with cloves, it really keeps you busy trying to deciphering it, very progressive to the very end, super silky tannins and a delicate nutty finish, thanks to the extra 6 months the wine was held to complete a total of 40 months in ONLY barrel as total production. A truly micro-production that I was lucky to taste it.

It is also deemed as a worthy successor to the 96-Point/Double Gold-winning 2020. Remarkably delicious! — 3 days ago

Alec Jeffery

9.2

Creamy and lichee notes with a little funk also sweetness, powerful yet soft tannins and really good mouth feel. Lovely fruit, lichee present but subtle, good length too. — 4 years ago

Chris McNeal

9.2

Slightly earthy, sweet and complex. Goes well with absolution and eating tempura with a fork. — 10 years ago

Freddy R. Troya

9.4

The Balance V.2023 is a compelling white blend of Marsanne & Roussane, from Chalone AVA, Monterey County, California Central Coast, made out of vines of Hermitage AOC clone in the Northern Rhone, France.

The enticing aromas of lychee, white flowers, lime peel with a rounded minerality hit your nose gracefully. The palate is welcomed peachy, and baked pear flavors with some degree of creaminess. It has an unforgettable long finish with some hints of toasted almonds.

An ultra limited production (6 barrels only), and 100% hand-crafted from its single-vineyard. If you lucky to find it, I vouch for it that you will love it, cheers! — 3 days ago

Megan Ryan-Wright

9.8

This medium bodied, dry wine has hints of berry and vanilla. Too expensive to share so enjoy on your own! — 3 years ago

Josh Grove

9.1

The Pope of Arbois is giving us all absolution. — 9 years ago

Freddy R. Troya

9.0

This is 100% Grenache from the Colburn Vineyard located in the Adelaida District of Paso Robles AVA, made in extremely low quantities (only 4 barrels made). The burst of cranberry, baked strawberry, and cherry pie aromas will make you pause twice before tasting, it’s crazy aromatic!.

On the palate, rounded flavors of dark cherry cola, stewed ripen strawberry, plum, chocolate pudding interlaced with moderate acidity and layered tannins created a very balanced mouthfeel. Approachable and definitely a crowd-pleaser. It can be mildly-chilled, just a perfect spring season companion!
Cheers! — 3 days ago

Marita G

9.2

Thanksgiving 2024
2020 vintage — 5 months ago

Jaz

9.0

Crunchy chenin — 6 years ago

Davis Smith

Sommelier Acquerello

9.3

I missed Michigan beer. — 11 years ago