Published in Early December 2001

Wines, Spirits and Beers published in the Early December 2001 issue of Wine Enthusiast Magazine.

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Merryvale 1998 Profile Red (Napa Valley)

Cellar Selection

Price $90

Sleek, smooth and elegant, with fine tannins that frame a wine that’s flush with plum, cassis, anise, herb and chocolate flavors. Plush and velvety on the palate, it’s got a finish that doesn’t quit. Cabernet doesn’t get much better, anytime or anywhere. — J.M. (12/1/2001)

points

Robert Young 1999 Chardonnay (Alexander Valley)

Editors' Choice

Price $35

This long-anticipated wine from a longtime grower-turned-vintner swings for the fences. Begins with fascinating, complex aromas—highlighted by lees, pineapple, cinnamon, smoke and white chocolate—and dazzles with its sheer opulence. Everything comes together in pinpointed harmony, right down to the mind-bogglingly beautiful finish. — S.H. (12/1/2001)

points

Krug 1988 Clos du Mesnil Blanc de Blancs Brut Chardonnay

Cellar Selection

Price $370

Profound, finely nuanced single vineyard Champagne that weaves disparate elements into a stunning, seamless whole. A full range of caramel, floral, citrus, forest floor, mustard greens and dried cherry aromas and flavors work in great harmony. The mouthfeel displays a positive, brilliant tension: it's full-yet light, bright and zingy-but even, smooth, yet to some… — W.E. (12/15/2001)

points

Taittinger 1993 Comtes de Champagne Brut Rosé Sparkling

Price $206

This is an explosion of chocolate and cherries, lifted gloriously on an ocean of tiny bubbles. Copper colored and Pinot-scented, its rich fruit tastes like ripe cherries rolled in milk chocolate, decadent and elegant at the same time. Exceptional length and depth of flavor. — P.G. (12/15/2001)

points

Robert Mondavi 1998 Marjorie's Sunrise Cabernet Sauvignon (Oakville)

Price $85

A limited- production wine (185 cases), it captures the quintessence of central Napa Valley Cabernet, and even in this less than successful vintage, testifies to the great terroir. It’s plush, elegant, harmonious, delicate, powerful, graceful and frankly delicious. — S.H. (12/1/2001)

points

Bruno Paillard 1990 N.P.U. Sparkling

Price $185

A touch oxidized and mushroomy, but still fairly regal and full of vanilla and baked apple. Those same components carry onto the palate, where cinnamon enters the fray. Finishes lemony, with some tart apple along with sweeter caramel. Imported by Vintus LLC. — M.S. (12/31/2005)

points

Laurent-Perrier NV Grand Siècle La Cuvée Brut Sparkling

Price $90

Mature, with a touch of scrambled egg and burnt sulfur on the dry bouquet. This one runs lean and crisp, with green apple and a hint of lemon on the palate. That said, there’s still laudable depth of flavor and complexity. Overall the impression is largely of citrus. Imported by Laurent-Perrier. — M.S. (12/15/2005)

points

Clos du Val 1998 Vineyard Georges III Cabernet Sauvignon (Rutherford)

Price $55

This is a lovely, supple 100% Rutherford Cabernet, made in a controlled style. It's stylish, with great flavors and class. The oak is plush. Balance and harmony characterize it all the way, from the brilliant aromas to the clean, thoroughbred aftertaste. — S.H. (12/1/2001)

2009 Monte Pinadillo Ciranza

Black fruit, raisin and minerally aromas combine to create a formidable…

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