I didn’t have expectations when I opened this bottle, but Earthquake Cabernet Sauvignon proved to be a nice discovery. This 2021 Lodi cab delivers beyond its modest price point, opening with an assertive nose that hints at the intensity to come.
The first taste reveals bold, concentrated dark fruit that dominates the palate—ripe blackberry takes center stage, supported by layers of black cherry that add depth and complexity. There’s a jammy richness here that speaks to Lodi’s warm climate and the wine’s full ripeness at harvest. What genuinely surprised me was the balance. Despite the fruit-forward intensity, there’s nothing cloying or one-dimensional about this Cabernet.
The oak integration is particularly well-handled, providing a smooth, vanilla-tinged backdrop that rounds out the wine’s edges without overwhelming the fruit. The finish lingers pleasantly, carrying those dark berry notes through with a silky texture that makes this remarkably easy to drink.
Rating: recommend for every day drinking  — a month ago
Always a good one. Not sure I could distinguish from the ‘19 I had several weeks back - same voluptuous fruit, slightly wooden finish - could definitely use a few more years - this young it’s a little too fruit forward/unsubtle — 4 days ago
Pale lemon color with aromas of citrus, stone fruits and herb notes. On the palate flavors of apple, peach and lemon citrus with notes of honey and spice. Medium+ finish, vivid acidity, nice balance ending with lemon citrus and mineral character. Good now! — a month ago
Deep ruby, medium opacity, nice tannins and red fruit including tart cherries and flowers, great morgon gamay — a month ago

2012 post inventory- perfect — a month ago
Jay Kline

It’s been a couple of years since I last encountered the 2001 vintage of Chave’s Hermitage. That bottle was a library release from the domaine and so is this example. Splash decanted directly before service. The 2001 pours a garnet color with a translucent core; medium viscosity with significant staining of the tears. On the nose, the wine is vinous and a total umami bomb: Koji beef broth, dried and baked brambles, dried purple flowers, black pepper, Kalamata olive, organic and inorganic earth along with fine warm spices. On the palate, the wine is dry with medium+ tannin and medium+ acid. Confirming the notes from the nose. The finish is long. Looking back on my notes from 2024, there’s a common theme: the 2001 is all about dat bass. Drink now with some patience and through 2041. — 3 days ago