Joel Lara

9.4

This is a textbook, full-bodied Ravera with strong mineral backbone, vibrant acidity, and sturdy tannins. Beautiful tar, white pepper, cherry and mineral aromatics follow through onto the palate, where they provide intense, concentrated depth that’s complemented by notes of cocoa, balsamic, and anise. The finish is tasty, with mostly the anise and iron/saline mineral notes coming through. The tannins add astringency to the finish, but this is overall a splendid Barolo that’s robust in style. It was delicious with ribeyes and balsamic, honey-glazed butternut squash.

— 15 days ago

Tom Casagrande

9.2

Pop n pour. Given that it’s 70% Mourvèdre, the color is surprisingly light. (There’s 25% Grenache and 5% Syrah too.) Medium color saturation. Inviting nose of a melange of ripe berries and a smoky embers note. Crushed rock behind that. Soft and intensely flavored in the mouth, with the berries less prominent, jousting with dark earthy and pleasantly vegetal notes. Soft but balanced acids and tannins almost silky. Really nice. Terrific value at $25 from WTSO. — 4 months ago

Freddy R. Troya

9.5

Krupp Brothers – Cabernet Sauvignon “Veraison” 2009
Stagecoach Vineyard, Napa Valley – USA 🇺🇸

Overview:
From the famed Stagecoach Vineyard, this 2009 Napa Cabernet Sauvignon shows why Krupp Brothers has earned a reputation for power and finesse. At nearly 15 years, it’s still on the ascent, with structure and depth that promise more evolution ahead.

Aromas & Flavors:
Layers of dark cassis, blackberry compote, and black cherry mingle with graphite, cedar, and espresso. Hints of dried violets and cocoa powder emerge with air, weaving a bouquet that is both bold and nuanced.

Mouthfeel:
Full-bodied and dense, yet polished. Firm tannins and vibrant acidity still hold the core tightly, making it feel youthful despite its age. The finish is long, savory, and mineral-driven, echoing dark fruit and spice.

Food Pairings:
A classic match for dry-aged ribeye, braised short ribs, or wild mushroom risotto.

Verdict:
An outstanding wine, multi-layered, complex, and still climbing toward its peak. A bottle to savor now with decanting, but also a treasure for collectors willing to wait.

🍷 Personal Pick Highlight:
This vintage remains one of the standout expressions of Stagecoach Vineyard fruit, alongside 2010, it is a benchmark release. Collectors take note: the 2009 is still gaining complexity and shows remarkable staying power. — 6 months ago

Henry Luiker

9.5

Far, far better (now) than the 2017, or 2020. Comparable to the Ravera. Big rose hit as soon as it opens. A bargain at $100 from Winestar. Only one, sadly. At home with Curly. — 9 days ago

Henry Luiker

9.3

Only a touch less panoramic perhaps than the recent 2010 of this. A little browning, probably still at its peak. Seems to respond better to gradual airing in the bottle or glass than being poured into decanter. $190 from Winestar. — 2 months ago

Richard Portes

9.1

Still looks young, high acidity keeps it fresh. So different from an Hermitage! — 5 months ago

Henry Luiker

9.3

Very similar to the recent 2013, but with more roses. Again, much softer, less powerful than the Ravera and the Vigana Elena. $225 from WA. At home with Curly. — 10 days ago

Mark Rosse

9.3

Fabulous white Lange from Novello — a month ago

Henry Fuseler

9.0

11/2025. A solid can. Good fruit and boldness. — 5 months ago

Adrienne Rapacki

9.1

Rating for the rest at Linebaugh’s — 7 months ago

with Kim, Phil and 1 other