Published in September 2003

Wines, Spirits and Beers published in the September 2003 issue of Wine Enthusiast Magazine.

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Shafer 2000 Firebreak Sangiovese (Napa Valley)

Editors' Choice

Price $33

This is brutally good, as it has been for the past several vintages, although the concentration is off a notch. Only 6% Cabernet Sauvignon from estate vineyards, but it dominates, with massive flavors of blackcurrants. What the 94% Sangiovese brings is notes of cherry, tobacco and earth, and a streak of clean acidity. Defines style and grace in a gigantic wine… — S.H. (9/1/2003)

points

Galleano 2000 Old Vines Zinfandel Port (Cucamonga Valley)

Editors' Choice

Price $20

From one of the pioneering families of this endangered appellation in greater L.A., a true old-style California Port. Smells rich and inviting, with true Port character, and drinks full, lush and rich in the mouth. Hard to exaggerrate how delicious and fine this sweet wine is. Enjoy with your best chocolate dessert, or on its own. Editors’ Choice. — S.H. (9/1/2003)

points

M. Chapoutier 2000 Le Pavillon Syrah (Hermitage)

Price $315

One of the Northern Rhône’s most prestigious wines is complete, dense and lush, with tons of spice and sweet oak. It’s not too heavy but it is definitely forward, and the fruit is pure, plummy and accented by amplified toast and coffee notes. Picks up character with every minute it’s open, which means it should cellar well for several years. — M.S. (9/1/2003)

points

M. Chapoutier 2000 La Mordoree Syrah (Côte Rôtie)

Price $210

Big and spicy, with overt cinnamon and later coconut aromas to the fully oaked bouquet. The palate features can’t-miss cherry and blackberry, and also some licorice. A smooth and lengthy chocolate-tinged finish is the final act. Tight, firm and well oaked, with drying tannins. It’s the real deal and maybe more. — M.S. (9/1/2003)

points

Leonetti Cellar 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon (Walla Walla Valley (WA))

Price $65

Bursting with fragrant, powerful berries and spice, this wine still shows the edges of youth, with the new oak a bit jagged and the tannins slightly green and chalky. But all it needs is time (or air!) and there is no denying that this is a jammy, juicy, just plain delicious mouthful of wine with a masterful hand at the wheel. — P.G. (9/1/2003)

points

Tres Sabores 2000 Ken Bernards Zinfandel (Napa Valley)

Editors' Choice

Price $30

Plush, ripe, rich and packed with black cherry, chocolate, spice, tar, cinnamon, blackberry and herb flavors. The wine is silky smooth yet sports the kind of balance and structure of a great wine. Firm and profound. Great Zinfandel. Editors’ Choice. — J.M. (9/1/2003)

points

Cain 2001 Ventana Vineyard Musque Sauvignon Blanc (Arroyo Seco)

Online Exclusive

Price $23

From this distinct varietal clone, a remarkably New Zealand-like wine. ItÕs tart and rich in citrus, gooseberry and fir aromas and flavors, and so dry and acidic, it practically burns the palate. Which makes it a great aperitif wine to stimulate the palate. This is one of the best California Sauvignon Blancs in years. — S.H. (9/1/2003)

points

Mer Soleil 2000 Late Harvest White Wine (Santa Lucia Highlands)

Online Exclusive

Price $36

— J.M. (9/1/2003)

2008 PerryMoore Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Vineyard

This is a lush, heady wine that’s full bodied and dry, with massive…

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