O 2 2010} VOLUME 23 N { PAGE 01 SAUVIGNON BLANC 2008, Gamble Family ...... 6 02 SAUVIGNON BLANC 2009, Merry Edwards Winery ...... 7 03 SAUVIGNON BLANC 2009, Heitz Cellar ...... 8

CHARDONNAY 04 2007, Château Montelena ...... 9 05 CHARDONNAY RUSSIAN RIVER SELECTION 2007, Gary Farrell Winery ...... 10 06 CHARDONNAY 2006, Chalk Hill ...... 11

PINOT NOIR 07 PINOT NOIR DIERBERG 2006, Dierberg Estate ...... 12 08 PINOT NOIR RUSSIAN RIVER SELECTION 2007, Gary Farrell Winery ...... 13 09 PINOT NOIR JCB No. 7 2006, Boisset Family Estates...... 14 10 PINOT NOIR MIGRATION 2007, Duckhorn Wine Company...... 15

SYRAH AND PETITE SIRAH 11 PETITE SIRAH CUPA GRANDIS 2005, Eos Estate Winery ...... 16 12 PETITE SIRAH 2006, Outpost Winery ...... 17 13 SYRAH HUDSON VINEYARD 2007, Arnot-Roberts Winery ...... 18

ZINFANDEL 14 OLD VINE 2007, Seghesio Family Vineyards ...... 19 15 ZINFANDEL BRAZIN OLD VINE 2007, Brazin Cellars ...... 20 16 ZINFANDEL DE LOACH 2008, Boisset Family Estates ...... 21 17 ZINFANDEL 2006, Heitz Cellar ...... 22

{ Table of contents }

PAGE AND 18 MERLOT CANDOR, Hope Family ...... 23 19 CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005, Grgich Hills Estate ...... 24 20 CABERNET SAUVIGNON FAY 2006, Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars ...... 25 21 CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2006, Sequoia Grove Vineyards...... 26 22 CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005, Silverado Vineyards ...... 27 23 CABERNET SAUVIGNON BARRELLI CREEK 2006, Gallo Family ...... 28 24 CABERNET SAUVIGNON TANBARK HILL 2007, Philip Togni Vineyard ...... 29 25 CABERNET SAUVIGNON THE TABLE 2007, Once Wines...... 30 26 PROPRIETARY 2006, Roy Estate ...... 31 27 CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005, Peter Franus...... 32 28 CABERNET SAUVIGNON CAMIANA 2005, Blue Hall Vineyard ...... 33 29 CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005, Paradigm Winery ...... 34

BLENDS 30 ÉLU 2005, St. Supéry Vineyards & Winery...... 35 31 CÔTE DE LUNE ROUGE 2006, Arrowood Winery...... 36 32 SIGNATURE 2006, Vina Robles...... 37 33 DEEP SEA 2008, Conway Family Wines ...... 38 34 PARADUXX 2006, Duckhorn Wine Company ...... 39 35 ORACLE 2005, Miner Family ...... 40 36 AIA 2007, Miner Family...... 41 { Legend }

Le Courrier vinicole has put together this guide as a suggestion only. All wines can be consumed immediately, but as this guide indicates, some can be kept for years to come. It simply depends on your personal preference and taste. Note that the suggestions presented assume favourable storage conditions.

Quantity of 0000 bottles available JH Jessica Harnois Red wine Drink now WA Wine Advocate Drink now or store Excellent value—a White wine WS Wine Spectator product worth Store discovering Dear enthusiasts,

This year, the SAQ Signature team is innovating by offering a new addition to the Courrier vinicole family: the Courrier vinicole Express, an exclusive online edition dedicated to New World products. For the fi rst issue, we are offering California wines as a tribute to last April’s vineyard tour, one of the many activities organized by Les Services SAQ Signature, when we toured the beautiful vineyards of Napa and Sonoma discovering remarkable wines. The Courrier vinicole Express is our way of sharing these discoveries with you, with a selection of wines from acclaimed estates including Arrowood, Duckhorn and Heitz. Only 36 products, exclusive to our online edition, are available for purchase by ordering at saq.com/courriervinicole/en. You have until mid-July to place an order. The Express edition is available in addition to the three regular Courrier vinicole catalogues you receive by mail over the course of the year, allocated as usual by random draw. With the Courrier vinicole Express, products will be distributed on a fi rst come, fi rst served basis. Finally, to cap it all off, we would like to invite you to meet some of the California vintners when they come to Montréal on October 14. Les Services SAQ Signature has organized an exclusive event in association with the Napa Valley Vintners Association—an event not to be missed! Make the most of your summer by sampling the magnifi cent selection of wines from sunny California. We hope you enjoy your new discoveries!

Jessica Harnois, Sommelier {01} SAUVIGNON BLANC 2008, Gamble Family Vineyards YOUNTVILLE, NAPA VALLEY

History: The vines grow on a 12-acre site located in the geographical centre of the Napa Valley, in the northern zone of the Yountville appellation. The site is nestled between mountains to the east and west, and bordered by two rivers. Sauvignon Blanc thrives in this hot climate that helps reveal its full fl avour, with the cooler breezes providing good balance and sharpness. Nose and palate: A surprising wine, fresh and inviting, that treats the nose to hints of apricot, honeysuckle, Granny Smith apple and melon. Wine enthusiasts will fall in love with its balanced notes of honey, passion fruit, mango and orange. The fi nish is clean and intense, with a delicious, lemony taste.

WS 88 JH 89 $2299 900 {02} SAUVIGNON BLANC 2009, Merry Edwards Winery RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY, SONOMA

History: Merry Edwards, the high priestess of Pinot Noir, is a legend in California. Armed with several university degrees, she has worked as a consultant and advisor to many wineries. When she’s on a quest, nothing can stop her. In 1997, she experienced a turning point. She acquired 24 hectares of hillside land in the Russian River Valley. The area is cool and bathed in briny ocean air. Vintage after vintage, her wines exhibit steadfast personality traits and never compromise on quality. She is passionate about Pinot Noir but has a defi nite predilection for Sauvignon Blanc. The wine is removed from its barrels and mixed in the spring, after the harvest, then barrelled once again and bottled just prior to the following harvest. This is a serious approach to winemaking that results in frank and rich wines. Nose and palate: This delectable Sauvignon Blanc initially exhibits a complex mix of Golden Delicious apple, sweet crême brûlée and Meyer lemon zest before fresh mineral notes rise to the surface along with aromas of lychee, ripe pineapple and white peach. On the palate, an appetizing combination of richness, balance and freshness.

JH 90 $4455 600 {03} SAUVIGNON BLANC 2009, Heitz Cellar NAPA VALLEY

History: The Heitz family founded its estate in 1921 at a time when there were fewer than 20 wineries in the Napa Valley. Heitz Cellar, a recognized pioneer in the revitalization of American wine, consists of a thousand acres of vineyards that produce some of the most prestigious wines in the Napa Valley. The vines from which this wine is made were planted in 2000 and are now yielding their full potential. The wine is produced with organically grown at the estate’s Valley Oak Vineyard, located in St. Helena, in the heart of the Napa Valley. Nose and palate: Rich golden colour with an entrancing green shimmer. An aromatic medley of citrus, melon and apricot. On the palate, crisp and pure fruit fl avour, sustained from initial sip to pleasing fi nish. Intense and surprising.

JH 91 $2299 900 {04} CHARDONNAY 2007, Château Montelena NAPA VALLEY

History: Established in the late 19th century, Château Montelena owes its renown to its 1973 Chardonnay, which beat out the best Burgundies in a comparison tasting. The estate has since achieved worldwide recognition. Château Montelena’s rich history began with Alfred L. Tubbs in 1882, and came to an end with prohibition. A new chapter began with Yort and Jeanie Frank. The couple was inspired by the site, and they excavated a lake with grounds landscaped in the style of Chinese gardens. Today, Jade Lake is considered one of the Napa Valley’s most beautiful sanctuaries, home to a variety of fi sh and wildlife. Another chapter began with James Barrett. Under his leadership, the vineyard was cleared and replanted, and the Château outfi tted with modern winemaking equipment. It is known for regularly producing some of the world’s fi nest wines. Nose and palate: The wine displays an outstanding and lovely golden straw colour. The bouquet is a complex blend of orange blossom, citrus rind and stone fruits of white peach and apricot. The attack ushers in layers of tropical pineapple that give way to toasted hazelnuts and a touch of smoke, while the depths of the nose reveal a pleasant minerality. Then follows a marriage of white melon, green apple and citrus, while subtle notes of oak and vanilla linger at the end of the exceptionally long fi nish. Balance is this wine’s distinguishing feature. It seems to tell a timeless and entrancing story, to be enjoyed eyes shut in reverie.

WA 90 JH 91 $5599 240 {05} CHARDONNAY RUSSIAN RIVER SELECTION 2007, Gary Farrell Winery RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY, SONOMA

History: Founded in 1982, Gary Farrell Vineyards and Winery stretches across the summit of a mountain overlooking the Russian River Valley in Sonoma. Nestled in a beautiful setting, it is also a place of great expertise where winemaker Susan Reed creates her wines with an almost overzealous attention to detail and precision. Each stage of the winemaking process refl ects the owners’ strict requirements and is designed to highlight the characteristics of each . Nose and palate: Fresh citrus and caramel aroma, soon followed by nutmeg, baked apple, hazelnut, creamy vanilla and tropical fruit. This spirited and already pleasing wine will nonetheless benefi t from a little cellaring. Made entirely from Chardonnay, the wine has good body and agreeably balanced acidity.

WS 88 JH 90 $3399 900 {06} CHARDONNAY 2006, Chalk Hill RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY, SONOMA

History: Perched on the summit of the Russian River, Chalk Hill is a family business managed by its owner, Fred Furth. Located among the wild hills forming the estate, less than several hundred acres form a mosaic of vineyards spread out across rocky and sandy soils. Fred Furth is passionate about making superior-quality wine, while maintaining deep respect for the land. His wines have earned high marks around the world. Nose and palate: This 2006 is creamy and refi ned. Expressive, it reveals complex aromas and fl avours. Barrelled-fermented with natural yeasts and daily batonnage. Bottled unfi ltered. It releases aromas of honeysuckle, ginger and white peach. The palate marries Asian pears and jasmine fl owers, resulting in a creamy fi nish.

WA 90 JH 90 $3399 900 {07} PINOT NOIR DIERBERG 2006, Dierberg Estate Vineyard SANTA MARIA VALLEY, CENTRALE VALLEY

History: A lawyer and banker by training, Jim Dierberg attributes his interest in wine to his mother who had French ancestors. He owns a 20,000-acre ranch located above the south bank of the Santa Maria River which fl ows to the ocean through a fl at strait that offers no resistance to the power of the Pacifi c. Briny ocean air travels deep into the interior, contributing to weather conditions conducive to growing excellent Pinot Noir. The grapes are hand-harvested by soil type. They are de- stemmed but not crushed, allowing this Pinot Noir to fully express its power and fi nesse. Nose and palate: This medium-bodied wine initially exhibits notes of wild sage in a rounded frame, then delicate aromas of tea leaf and raspberry come to the fore. This is a fi rm wine, at once classy, lithe and elegant. It is, as Jim Dierberg admits, more Audrey Hepburn than Brigitte Bardot in style. Enjoy this sumptuous wine now or let it age for as long as 10 years.

JH 89 $4499 600 {08} PINOT NOIR RUSSIAN RIVER SELECTION 2007, Gary Farrell Winery RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY, SONOMA

History: A true visionary in the Russian River wine region, Gary Farrell produced the fi rst batch of his Pinot Noir in 1982, to the great enthusiasm of wine lovers and the admiration of critics. For more than 25 years, Gary Farrell Vineyards & Winery has been making limited batches of wine gems, following artisanal processes that bring out the best of what the region’s vines have to offer. Nose and palate: The 2007 Russian River Selection shows tremendous concentration and power from this blockbuster vintage. Intense aromas of dark fruits, particularly cherries and plums, are matched with warm spices and a leathery earthiness. The palate shows great depth, weight and acidity with a seductive texture that leads to a balanced fi nish that confi rms the nose.

JH 89 $4499 900 {09} PINOT NOIR JCB No. 7 2006, Boisset Family Estates SONOMA COAST

History: JCB is Jean-Charles Boisset’s haute couture line—on American soil. The unique vision of JCB took root in the Sonoma region, but also in the heart of the Boisset family’s historical heritage and Burgundy tradition. A dedicated man who understands the land. A seductive and charismatic man. A style that transcends the limits of fashion. A classic collection of rare, numbered bottles (No. 7, No. 8, No. 11, No. 22, No. 69) draw their inspiration from the elegance, refi nement and fi nesse of the best Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays. Each vintage corresponds to a unique state of mind. A seductive enigma! To taste these wines is to discover what happens when rich soil, talent and vision fuse together. Nose and palate: What a treat to taste this No. 7 made exclusively from Pinot Noir. Wisps of cherry, cherry stone and spice with buttery and cane sugar undertones. An explosion of strawberry and raspberry aromas, with balanced acidity. Complex and full-bodied, with tight tannins. A future success story.

JH 92 $5599 600 {10} PINOT NOIR MIGRATION 2007, Duckhorn Wine Company ANDERSON VALLEY, NAPA VALLEY

History: Duckhorn Vineyards was co-founded by Dan and Margaret Duckhorn. Since 1976, these two wine lovers have produced premier wines from Bordeaux grape , grown on various select Napa Valley properties. Since its premiere vintage in 2001, Migration has earned acclaim with its signature style and seamless fi nesse. Made from among the best Pinot Noir in the Anderson Valley, Migration embodies the refreshing elegance of temperate-climate wine-growing. It is a sleek wine with an airy quality, as suggested by the label designed by renowned wildlife artist David Maass. Nose and palate: In 2007, the Napa Valley experienced dry winter weather followed by a cool summer—ideal conditions for Pinot Noir, which fl ourished in what was a standout growing season. This aptly named wine is 100% Pinot Noir. It was aged 10 months in French oak barrels before taking fl ight. Migration is sleek and silky. The nose displays fl owering blackberry and jasmine tea with undertones of freshly picked chanterelles. On the palate, a wealth of fl avours—huckleberry, licorice, plum, white chocolate, orange blossom—and a long fi nish.

JH 91 $3344 1200 {11} PETITE SIRAH CUPA GRANDIS 2005, Eos Estate Winery PASO ROBLES

History: As Eos, the winged goddess of dawn, ushers in the fi rst glimmer of daybreak, the harvest begins as grapes, heavy with sleep and glistening with freshness, are plucked from the vine. The name of this winery pays tribute to those, like the goddess, whose labours greet the early morn. Cupa Grandis is the emblematic wine produced at this estate, the fi rst to have converted to solar energy in 2008. Petite Sirah, a varietal that requires patience for the fruit to shine through, is aged for about 30 months in new French oak barrels, giving this vintage its lush aromas and fl avours. Nose and palate: Solid structure and potent tannins. Blackberry, molasses, violet and rose petal notes are noticeable on the nose. The rich tannin textures and the weight of dark berry fruit grip the palate. A complex fi nish of toasted oak, coffee and chocolate.

JH 90 $5544 900 {12} PETITE SIRAH 2006, Outpost Winery HOWELL MOUNTAIN, NAPA VALLEY

History: Perched 700 metres at the summit of Howell Mountain in Napa Valley, Outpost Vineyard is bathed in an enchanting atmosphere where nebulous fog rolls in—and this domain’s wines clearly breathe in the magic of the setting. Sustainable farming practices are used to grow varietals such as Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache and Petite Sirah on 42 acres belonging to the domain. Outpost’s philosophy is to produce classically elegant wines that exude the area’s personality. To succeed, science is blended with art, mixed with passion and seasoned with love. Nose and palate: This wine is 100% Petite Sirah, grown right on the estate’s vineyards and aged in French oak. It is a fi ne and supple amalgamation of contrasting qualities and reveals fl avours of white pepper and clove that come into their own on the fi nish.

WA 90+ JH 93 $4499 600 {13} SYRAH HUDSON VINEYARD 2007, Arnot-Roberts Winery NAPA VALLEY

History: A childhood friendship can lead to great things—even to the founding of a new winery! That’s precisely how the Arnot-Roberts Estate, founded in 2001 by Duncan Arnot Meyers and Nathan Lee Roberts, came to be. The two winemakers, who are as passionate as they are talented, focus on small lots and high quality. Their wines are made from the best Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah grapes in California. Nose and palate: The Syrah grapes are lovingly grown on the stony volcanic soil on the northern half of the Hudson Vineyard in the Napa Valley’s Carneros District. Here, with great care and know-how, Lee Hudson produces grapes of superior power, elegance and quality. The Hudson Vineyard is one of the region’s oldest Syrah plantings and one of its most illustrious.

WA 89+ JH 91 $5555 600 {14} ZINFANDEL OLD VINE 2007, Seghesio Family Vineyards SONOMA COUNTY

History: After arriving from Piedmonte in 1895, Edoardo Seghesio planted his fi rst Zinfandel vines in the Alexander Valley region. For several years he made good wines, nothing more. But it all changed in 1994. With surprising zeal and no effort spared, Ted Seghesio reached the goal he had set for himself: to be among the top-fi ve wine producers of Zinfandel. Since the 1995 vintage, each year Old Vine has obtained a score of 90 or higher from the Wine Spectator and Wine Advocate. Nose and palate: Old Vine is a deep purple colour, almost black. On the nose, a very complex bouquet of dark ripe cherries and sweet raspberries, licorice, menthol and sage. An elegant woodiness accompanies notes of cocoa, vanilla, smoke and blond tobacco. The palate reveals mature tannins, giving the fruit full expression. A very mature, velvety wine, highly concentrated. 100% hand-picked. Vat rotation is used for 25% of the harvest to optimize colour and aromas. The remaining 75% benefi ts from 10 days of fermentation, with frequent pumping over. Barrel-aged 15 months in 75% French and 25% American oak. Ready to drink now or cellar for 10 years or so.

WA 90+ WS 89 JH 92 $45 1200 {15} ZINFANDEL BRAZIN OLD VINE 2007, Brazin Cellars LODI

History: Located east of San Francisco, Lodi, one of California’s oldest vineyards, is true Zinfandel country. The grapes ripen under a Mediterranean climate blessed with well- irrigated, sandy Sierra soil. Brazin Old Vine Zinfandel comes from vineyards whose vines are 35 to 80 years old. The unique combination of climate, soil and old vines stimulates the growth of compact fruit that gives this wine its deep, inky colour and complex fl avours. Nose and palate: California was blessed with a classic wine-growing season in 2007. During the day, the grapes soaked up the sun, while in the evening they cooled off from the breeze wafting in from the Pacifi c through the Strait of Carquinez. These conditions enabled the grapes to ripen slowly and fully. The chilly period in the middle of the harvest season helped to concentrate aromas. The wine’s deep colour resembles that of black ink. Bold aromas of spice and mocha. Intense plum and chocolate fl avours with rich tannins and notes of vanilla. The wine has a long, lingering fi nish.

JH 91 $2222 1500 {16} ZINFANDEL DE LOACH 2008, Boisset Family Estates RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY, SONOMA

History: Grown in the heart of the Russian River Valley, this De Loach Zinfandel was produced from vines more than a hundred years old. This is what lends it its unique terroir fl avour profi le. Julia Vasquez and Brian Maloney adopt traditional methods to express the personality of the Zinfandel and its unique taste so characteristic to this region. After aging the wine in oak barrels, they choose a selection from the best wines for their assemblage. Nose and palate: Aromas of cherry and raspberry, followed by notes of spice and undergrowth. The wine is aged in American, French and Hungarian oak barrels for 13 months. Medium-bodied and fresh, this wine perfectly balances acidity and generous tannins, and ends on a long fi nish. Bold and expressive, the wine will continue to show its complexity for years to come.

JH 89 $2211 1200 {17} ZINFANDEL 2006, Heitz Cellar NAPA VALLEY

History: Heitz Wine Cellars prides itself on growing grapes in perfect harmony with the soil and nature. The winery’s three basic values—quality, integrity, innovation—dictate the choice of adhering to organic practices. The estate was one of the fi rst in the wine industry to participate in green programs. The vines are planted on more than 375 acres of vineyards in prime locations throughout the Napa Valley. The vines from which this 100% Zinfandel is sourced were planted in the 1970s, giving this wine superb depth. Nose and palate: This wine’s rich ruby hue reminds one of bright berry colours, such as raspberry and cherry, accompanied by fl oral and spice accents. This medium-bodied wine’s tannins are fi rm and rounded and provide a lively fi nish.

JH 92 $3355 1200 {18} MERLOT CANDOR, Hope Family PASO ROBLES

History: As a third-generation member of a wine-growing family, Austin Hope’s destiny was decided at an early age. His father and grandfather before him built the wine region of Paso Robles. Liberty School wines are a product of their expertise. When Austin Hope graduated from Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo, he apprenticed under Chuck Wagner, the renowned founder of Caymus Vineyards. Austin has been Treana’s winemaker since 1998, and now oversees all of its operations. He works closely with growers in Lodi, Paso Robles and Santa Barbara to obtain the best grapes from each vineyard. His philosophy is based on Old and New World practices, and he tends his crops with meticulous care and respect in his pursuit of balance and elegance in his wines. Nose and palate: This Merlot seduces as much as it pleases. It shows classic plummy, dark stone fruit, spice and a hint of smoke, giving it a fi ne, balanced fi nish. Full-bodied and generous. A long, silky fi nish. During the harvest in mid-October, the grapes are crushed, stemmed and placed in stainless-steel fermenting vats. The wine is aged in a combination of French and American oak barrels, 20% new. May be cellared for 5 to 7 years. A promising future.

JH 88 $2200 2400 {19} CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005, Grgich Hills Estate NAPA VALLEY

History: The grapes used to produce this wine come from top-quality vineyards stretching from the hot region of Calistoga, located north of the Napa Valley, to the cooler region of Carneros, found at the southern extremity. Taking advantage of the specifi c and complementary characteristics of these microclimates and assembling Cabernet Sauvignon (87%), Merlot (10%) and Cabernet Franc (3%) results in a rich, complex and very seductive wine. Nose and palate: A particularly elegant wine that reveals aromas of dark berry and licorice, with a hint of black pepper. A tasteful balance of acidity is the result of temperate regions, red berries and tannins all coming together to shape a delightful wine.

JH 90 $8855 300 {20} CABERNET SAUVIGNON FAY 2006, Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars STAGS LEAP, NAPA VALLEY

History: Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars is located in the Stags Leap wine region of Napa Valley. It was founded in 1972 by Warren Winiarski, who won international notoriety just four years later at the Jugement de Paris, when his Cabernet Sauvignon won top place in a blind tasting of 10 French and Californian wines. This fi rst prize was the prelude to many others. As a testament to its importance in America’s wine history, a bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon 1973 can be found at the National Museum of American History in Washington, DC. Nose and palate: This wine opens with the scent of sweet spices, followed by licorice and allspice, framed around red cherry aromas. Made with elegance and pride, this 2006 is fi rm and straightforward, dense and generous.

JH 92 $6655 150 {21} CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2006, Sequoia Grove Vineyards, NAPA VALLEY

History: Sequoia Grove Vineyard is spread out over 22 acres nestled in the Rutherford region, in the heart of the Napa Valley. The mineral-rich alluvial soil is often blanketed in fog that arrives from the bay and pierced by the hot sun: the perfect climate to grow Cabernet Sauvignon. Mother Nature let loose early in 2006, fl ooding homes and vineyards in the Napa Valley. Temperatures climbed in July and during the grape-ripening period, right up to the harvest in November. These conditions have given rise to an opulent, full-bodied wine that will provide a real treat if cellared a few years. Nose and palate: The wine’s colour is a deep red, with intense notes of blackberry and traces of cinnamon, cedar and black pepper. It is particularly well-balanced, with strong fl avours, delicate tannins, and a long fi nish that holds on to its dark berry fl avours.

WA 87 JH 89 $4499 600 {22} CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005, Silverado Vineyards NAPA VALLEY

History: Since 1981, Silverado Vineyards, a family-owned business in the Napa Valley, has been producing superior wines that display distinctive richness and elegance. Grapes for this wine are sourced from various vineyards, selected on the basis of soil conditions, sun exposure levels, microclimate and, of course, varietals. The result is conclusive: an expertly balanced wine, made with love and savvy. Nose and palate: In addition to Cabernet Sauvignon (87%), the varietal composition includes Merlot, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. On the nose, a blend of plum, cedar, earth and dried herbs. On the palate, the hint of plum remains and fruity notes of cherry emerge. A crisp acid edge leads to a long and fruity fi nish. This well-structured wine with assertive tannins will improve with cellaring and become a classic Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon.

WA 89 JH 90 $5555 900 {23} CABERNET SAUVIGNON BARRELLI CREEK 2006, Gallo Family, ALEXANDER VALLEY, SONOMA

History: A century ago, Italian immigrants lined the slopes of the Alexander Valley with grape vines where the soil is a mixture of silt, clay, sand and pebble. In this deep rich earth, Cabernet Sauvignon vines feel right at home. The grapes soak up the sun, yielding wines of intense fl avour and great depth. Winter 2006 was wet. Later, there was mild summer weather until mid-July, at which point the sun burst onto the scene and shone intensely for a few weeks. As a result, the grapes ripened under ideal conditions, turning out one of the best harvests in recent years. Nose and palate: This intense Cabernet Sauvignon (95%) includes Petite Sirah (4%) and a dash of Cabernet Franc (1%) for balance. Maturation in oak vats has enhanced its complexity. Blackberries take pride of place in this spicy blend with pleasing notes of tea and licorice. An opulent and generous wine with fi ne and supple tannins that hold together on a long fi nish. Potent yet balanced.

WA 91 JH 90 $3399 1176 {24} CABERNET SAUVIGNON TANBARK Hill 2007 Philip Togni Vineyard, NAPA VALLEY

History: Tanbark Hill sits on a steep ridge at an altitude of 2,000 feet on Spring Mountain, on Napa’s western side. To our great delight, this Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 bears the signature of Philip Togni. Everyone remembers that he signed the 1956 Château Lascombes and the 1999 Chappellet. This is something shrewd wine connoisseurs will certainly appreciate. Nose and palate: Philip Togni produces a wine with a high concentration of Cabernet Sauvignon (82%), rounded off by Merlot (15%), Cabernet Franc (2%) and Petit Verdot (1%). The Petit Verdot imparts a delicious violet aroma to the wine. The wine was aged for 20 months in French oak casks from Nevers. This 2007 vintage has all the characteristics of the typical varietals of the Margaux commune. Straightforward, with a surprisingly tannic framework that makes it well suited to many years in the cellar.

WA 89 JH 90 $5555 900 {25} CABERNET SAUVIGNON THE TABLE 2007, Once Wines NAPA VALLEY

History: Once is known for producing exclusive wines for some of the fi nest restaurants in the United States, including Gotham, Daniel, Jean Georges, Thomas Keller and The Modern. Sommeliers put in special requests and recommendations; in response, the estate’s wine growers develop superbly transparent wines, with grape varieties offering their best and fruit nuances taking centre stage. Nose and palate: The dry season in 2007 resulted in an extraordinarily concentrated grape of singular intensity. The Table is made primarily from Cabernet Sauvignon (78%) and rounded off with Cabernet Franc (18%) and Petit Verdot (4%). With its rich and complex structure, it offers a multifaceted palate.

JH 89 $2255 1200 {26} PROPRIETARY 2006, Roy Estate NAPA VALLEY

History: Philippe Melka is recognized as one of the most brilliant winemakers to hail from California. Among his admirers is none other than Robert Parker, who has pointed out Melka’s great respect for the vine, minimalist approach, and conviction that a bottle’s contents must refl ect the absolute purity of the fruit. Melka practises his art in the foothills of the Vaca Mountains, in the shadows of Peak Mountain, just south of the Stags Leap District. Given the beauty of the site, it is not surprising that the Wappo Indians settled here. Nose and palate: This wine reveals a particularly rich and concentrated palate, accentuated by fl avours of dried herbs, coffee beans, chocolate, currants, black cherry and blackberries, all coming together in a substantial and complex structure. An elegant and strong wine, seductive and intense, yet supple and vibrant. Round tannins mix with fruity fl avours. An excellent wine that can be cellared twenty years.

WA 92 WS 89/91 JH 92 $9955 300 {27} CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005, Peter Franus Red Wine NAPA VALLEY

History: With a degree in journalism from the University of California at Berkeley and a degree in oenology from Cal State Fresno, Peter Franus produced his fi rst wine, a Zinfandel, following stints with eminent producers. Good wine begins with good vines: that’s Peter Franus’s motto. A perfectionist, his wines are very expressive and ardently elegant. His style is appreciated by lovers of concentrated wines. This wine’s “DNA” is sourced from Cabernet Sauvignon (80%), Cabernet Franc (10%) and Merlot (10%). Following vinifi cation, the wine is aged for 18 months in 100% French oak casks. Nose and palate: Following bloom-delaying late spring rains, warm summer months helped balance nature’s whims and set the scene for almost perfect wine-growing conditions. The wine is dark ruby in colour. Its scent greets the nose with hints of currant, black cherry and oak. There is something reminiscent of Bordeaux in its acidity and tannins. This is a sensual, rich and full-bodied wine. Superbly distinguished, it will take you into a world of sensory pleasure.

WS 90 JH 91 $49 600 {28} CABERNET SAUVIGNON CAMIANA 2005, Blue Hall Vineyard HOWELL MOUNTAIN, NAPA VALLEY

History: Camiana is made with 100% Cabernet Sauvignon at the Blue Hall Vineyard. The setting is so inspiring that Robert Louis Stevenson, author of Treasure Island, described it as the “blue hall of Heaven.” The vines that give rise to Camiana were planted in 2000 on a volcanic slope that rises to an altitude of 1,700 feet. The vineyard is located on a broad saddle near the top of Howell Mountain. Ted Osborne has an envious track record and has made wine on four continents, but calls Napa home and the place where he can give his unique style free rein. The yields are ridiculously low; as a result, the concentration of fl avours in his wines is truly jawdropping. Nose and palate: Harvested by hand and vinifi ed in stainless steel vats. The wine is then aged for two years in French oak barrels, where its fruit and spice fl avours happily blend with the barrel’s vanilla essence. Well-balanced tannins, full-bodied depth and blackcurrant, pepper and spice notes. Complex, rich, balanced and sophisticated.

JH 92 $6655 600 {29} CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2005, Paradigm Winery OAKVILLE, NAPA VALLEY

History: For Ren and Marylin Harris, the adventure began in 1975 with the purchase of a 55-acre vineyard. They began by selling the grapes. Then in 1991 things took another turn when they began production of their fi rst vintage from the new estate called Paradigm. The task was assigned to renowned winemaker Heidi Peterson Barrett, responsible for some of the best labels in the Napa Valley. Nose and palate: The aromas are rich and strong, leaning towards chocolate and black cherry. The generous, inviting fruit on the palate mix with spice and burnt oak. The result of one of the best Cabernet Sauvignons produced by the estate, this is a marvellously complex and full-bodied wine, with pronounced fl avour. May be kept for about 15 years.

JH 90 $8855 300 {30} ÉLU 2005, St. Supéry Vineyards & Winery NAPA VALLEY

History: Businessman, shrewd investor and French wine connoisseur Robert Skalli chose the Napa Valley as the location for his vineyard, convinced that this wine region had exceptional potential. He was not mistaken. The Skalli family purchased Dollarhide Ranch in 1982, planted with Cabernet and Sauvignon Blanc that would soon establish the vineyard’s reputation. Élu is made with Cabernet Sauvignon (75%), Merlot (19%), Petit Verdot (3%) and Cabernet Franc (3%). The resulting wine is a dazzling success that has won accolades from critics. A wine that certainly lives up to its name. Nose and palate: It exudes aromas of plum and blackberries, revealing warm hints of vanilla and whispers of tobacco in the mouth that persist on a long and powerful fi nish. Ready to drink now, it can also be cellared until 2016.

JH 89 $5555 450 {31} CÔTE DE LUNE ROUGE 2006, Arrowood Winery SONOMA VALLEY

History: After starting his career in 1965 and spending a few years at Château St. Jean, Richard Arrowood and his wife Alis (raised in and around Montréal) realized their dreams by launching their Arrowood Estate. Like elite athletes, they aim for the highest spot on the podium by making exceptional wines without compromise. At the beginning, it was Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon; later, their passionate curiosity led them to unusual varietals. There are few winemakers as demanding and accomplished as Richard Arrowood. His work represents a pinnacle of great winemaking. Year after year, the wines are increasingly refi ned, balanced and mature. Nose and palate: This Côte de Lune draws its inspiration from certain Côtes du Rhône wines. Its name refers to writer Jack London’s description of the Sonoma Valley as the “Valley of the Moon.” For the 2006 vintage, Richard Arrowood selected three varietals: Grenache Noir (40%) for silkiness; Mourvèdre for depth and luminosity; and Syrah for aromas of smoke and spice and solid tannins. This is a lavish wine with a deep, dense colour and a mature and potent nose with fragrances of plum, black cherry and mild spice. Secondary notes of cherry and vanilla, followed by a long and elegant fi nish.

WA 85 JH 90 $3344 450 {32} SIGNATURE 2006, Vina Robles PASO ROBLES

History: Inspired by Europe, with a Californian character: an apt description of a vineyard that elegantly marries the New World with the Old by focussing on the natural aromas of one and the fi nesse of the other. Owner Hans Nef and wine grower Matthias Gubler transplanted their Swiss expertise to the varied soils and microclimates of Paso Robles. The estate, which specializes in varietals that do best in the region’s complex and refi ned terroir, does not hesitate to explore new avenues to create atypical wines that proudly display their distinct character and personality. Nose and palate: This is a muscular wine, complex and concentrated, but equally very supple. Garnet-red to the eye, it reveals primary fl avours of intense dark berry and spice. The rich palate is dominated by blueberry and blackberry, with hints of tobacco.

JH 92 $3355 1200 {33} DEEP SEA 2008, Conway Family Wines CENTRAL COAST

History: When the Conway family sets out to accomplish something, they go all out. That’s why, when Chris and Ann decided to begin their winemaking adventure, their fi ve children joined them wholeheartedly. The venture was launched in 2007. With the founding of Conway Family Wines, the new wine growers were realizing a dream: making their passion their career. The vineyard on California’s Central Coast meanders across 230 acres. The sea is not far away, and has a strong infl uence on the soil and vines. No wonder then, when it came time to baptize their latest wine, they asked the waters to the west for inspiration. The answer came in as the fog rolled off the waves: “Deep Sea.” Nose and palate: Deep Sea presents an intense purplish colour. Seductive floral (violet) and black pepper aromas echo the typicity of Syrah, one of the varietals used in this uncommon blend (Syrah, Petite Sirah, Lagrein, Merlot and Mourvèdre). The mouth features a dense substance redolent of jammy black fruits (blackberry, plum, cassis), leather and grilled red meat. This is a sublime wine, well worth the discovery. Make sure to decant it quickly before serving, as the aerating will allow it to open and reveal its full potential.

JH 94 $29 1200 {34} PARADUXX 2006, Duckhorn Wine Company NAPA VALLEY

History: Paraduxx is the result of a true commitment to innovation. Duckhorn Vineyards gave their winemakers carte blanche to explore new styles, without renouncing the vineyard’s tradition of specializing in winemaking in the Bordeaux style. The Zinfandel varietal was chosen, sourced from hundred-year-old vines from Napa’s Korte Vineyard, and mixed with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petite Sirah to create in 1994 what would become a top-quality label. The summer of 2006 was mild until mid-July, when the sun blazed down upon the soil to speed up the ripening process. The result is a complex, intense wine with particularly robust aromas. Nose and palate: The colour is dense and shimmering with red cherry shades. The aroma speaks of plum, chocolate, cherry, but also clove, cinnamon and vanilla. The palate offers generous fl avours of raspberries and strawberries, embellished with hints of blueberries, mocha and molasses. The full, round structure of the wine releases soft, integrated tannins. At the fi nish, the palate further reveals black pepper, nutmeg and currant.

WS 89 JH 90 $4455 600 {35} ORACLE 2005, Miner Family NAPA VALLEY

History: This emblematic Miner family wine marks yet another great success for the estate. The mythological name refers to a divine source of wise or prophetic counsel, and it’s tempting to believe that this wine, too, has a divine source. Its grapes—Cabernet Sauvignon (56%) complemented by Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Malbec and Petit Verdot—are grown at the famed Stagecoach Vineyard. Nose and palate: This Oracle is a rich and varied combination of fl avours that include black cherry, caramel, spicy plum, blackberry, cedar and coffee, backed by a fi nely balanced acidity and supple, generous tannins. The 2005 vintage is noteworthy for its ideal ripening conditions, which have given rise to extraordinary complexity and a beautiful, shimmering colour. Barrel-aged 21 months in French oak, Oracle is a delight to discover.

JH 90 $6699 450 {36} AIA 2007, Miner Family NAPA VALLEY

History: For the Miners, wine-growing has always been a family affair. Dave Miner, his wife Emily, and his parents Ed and Norma are passionately committed to their art. Since 1998, they have been marketing superior wines made from grapes grown in the Napa Valley and other carefully selected regions of California. They have entrusted the production process to winemaker Gary Brookman. Combining traditional practices and state-of-the- art techniques, Brookman makes elegant and expressive wines that explore the unique personality of each terroir. Nose and palate: With its complex blend of Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah, Malbec, and Cabernet Franc, Aia immediately impresses with its rich colour, magnifi cent fl oral aromas and great fi nesse. On the palate, plummy fruit and well-integrated tannins that herald a silky smooth fi nish.

JH 93 $3388 900