This yellow-gold wine rings the “old-style Cali” bell in all the right ways. A nose of apricots, mangoes and apples is helped along with the smell of buttered popcorn. Oak treats the palate as well, draping over the tropical fruit like a sunshade. The acidity is zesty, yet the mouthfeel tends toward creaminess due to the wine sitting on the lees for five months. The oak is a definite part of the wine, but the effect is softened enough so that it's a pleasure, not a pain. — 5 years ago
Grand Tasting — 9 years ago
A lovely blend. Nice tannins, light black pepper, full bodied, nice finish — 3 years ago
Lovely! Dark and rich. A terrific bottle of wine. — 9 years ago
Drank too soon but demonstrative of classic Brunello! — 10 years ago
Another last of its kind wine as the San Mateo moved to Alesia label after this vintage. This young blend is really singing right now with bright red fruit and cedar spice and well balanced acidity. A candidate for short term aging, but the freshness of the fruit really shines now. — 5 years ago
Full body with a peppery after taste — 8 years ago
Paired well with a lamb, eggplant purée, fava beans, piquolo pepper. Would also pair with a medium rare magret duck or other game. — 9 years ago
Kevin Blix
Wine pairing at olive and oak - compared to less oaky rombauer — 2 years ago