Tasting Notes for “Top Shelf” Tasting, 12/13/13

NORTH COUNTY WINE COMPANY “TOP SHELF” TASTING, 12/13/13

DON MELCHOR CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2009
94 points Wine Spectator. This iconic, muscular Chilean red packs a mélange of roasted plum, cassis and macerated wild berry on a full-bodied frame. There’s plenty of fresh acidity and tannic structure, as the long finish unwinds with layers of maduro tobacco and humus, with a grace note of wild flowers.” $99.97

MCPRICE MYERS BEAUTIFUL EARTH 2011
94 points Wine Advocate. A blend of Syrah, Grenache and Mourvedre from Paso Robles, this is “gorgeously pure, fresh and focused, with knockout purity. It dishes out layers of blackberry, chocolate, smoke and floral undertones to go with a full-bodied and impeccably balanced profile on the palate. Impressive any way you look at it.” $37.97

MOLLYDOOKER BLUE EYED BOY 2011
92 points Wine Spectator. This Aussie classic from McClaren Vale is “dark and rich, supple and silky, brimming with blackberry and black cherry flavors that show a hint of pomegranate as the finish wraps gently around the fruit. This has a wonderful open texture to let the flavors sing.” $49.97

JUSTIN ISOSCELES 2010
95 points Tasting Panel. From Paso Robles, this is a blend of 85% Cabernet, 8% Cabernet Franc, and 7% Merlot. “Fragrant purple flowers hold up a reservoir of grape and blueberry. This is juicy to its very core; ripe, sweet and toasted cinnamon sprinkled with a flash of cranberry. Earthy, gripping tannins are held in check, nestled in a soft cloth. Sturdy but palate-stroking.” $64.97

MICHEL ROLLAND CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2010
95 points Wine Advocate. “There are only 250 cases and it comes from what appears to be the finest vintage of Napa Cabernet Sauvignon between 2007 and 2012. It boasts a deep ruby/purple color along with notes of charcoal, white chocolate and creme de cassis, a full-bodied opulence, impeccable purity, decent acidity and ripe tannin that nicely frames the wine. This serious, rich Cabernet Sauvignon is as exceptional as one would expect from this winemaking genius.” $129.97