Brett Vanderbrook

8.7

Not sure of the blend here, but almost certainly dominated by Cab. Has those hallmarks. Heavy use of oak. Has some sweet and spicy notes. Definitely on the heavier side. A lot of leather and cedar. Long vanilla finish. Very much a “steakhouse” red. Punches above its weight in terms of price. — 2 months ago

Brett Vanderbrook

9.5

Sitting on the precipice of primary and tertiary. Still has bright fruit notes with high acidity and just enough tannins that it would still pair well with food. But it also has forest floor, mossy stone, leather, cigar box. It will probably age longer knowing Mussar, but this wine has definitely hit its stride and is absolutely singing right now. — 3 months ago

with Raina and Michael

Brett Vanderbrook

8.8

Stolpman is one of the jewels of Santa Barbara. I don’t think I’ve had a bad wine from them. This is fresh and saline on the nose with some minerality. I can’t remember if this sees a barrel, but I maybe detect a hint of vanilla? It has some weight on the palate, but enough acidity to keep it in balance. Definitely some stone fruit. Overall a lighter, fresher interpretation of the varietal. Paired well with homemade chicken paillard. — 6 months ago

with Raina

Brett Vanderbrook

8.8

Crisp and light with notes of honey and lemon and something savory and herbaceous. Great food pairing wine that scrubs your palate and stands up strong flavors. — 3 months ago

with Raina

Brett Vanderbrook

8.8

A lot of classic California hallmarks. Cassis, graphite, bell pepper, cocoa powder. Easy drinking, virtually no tannins to speak of. Nothing necessarily that stands out amongst other solid Cabs, but drinks well at the price point. — 3 months ago

Brett Vanderbrook

9.0

Brett had this 6 months ago

with Raina

Brett Vanderbrook

8.8

Unmistakably Italian. Black pepper, cherry, leather. Maybe a little petrol. Bit of a shorter finish. Decent dinner wine. — 6 months ago

Brett Vanderbrook

9.5

Brett had this 3 months ago

with Raina

Brett Vanderbrook

9.2

Definitely doesn’t feel 14 years old. Still very primary with black cherry and baking spice and cedar. Very good, high quality Willamette Pinot. I could (and have) drink a lot of this. — 3 months ago

with Michael and Raina

Brett Vanderbrook

8.3

Brett had this 4 months ago

with Raina