Call it what you want—big-boned, broad-chested, varón—but this is a manly, sizeable wine, and laudable because it doesn't have some of the cloying, messy richness that big Cabs can sometimes have. Smells of black pepper, and cola or root beer. There's mixed plum fruit, lively acids and gripping tannins on the palate and the finish. Does let up with air, but still…
— D.T.
(12/31/2004)
Both 2001 Chais Claredons are excellent this vintage. This Shiraz's fluffy, soft tannins make it feel approachable but it's still a substantial wine. Juciy black cherry and plum fruit wears a dusty, chalky jacket. With air, toffee notes start coming on. Finishes with bold beefy, meaty flavors. Drink now and over the next three years.
— D.T.
(12/31/2004)
This is one good Cabernet with all its pieces in place: fruit-sweet and nutty on the nose, with a juicy blackberry and black cherry core and a gravelly, minerally texture. It’s not as mouthfilling and plush as it has been in recent vintages, but it’s still an enjoyable wine. Imported by Xanadu Normans Wine Group.
— D.T.
(10/1/2005)
Vanilla and pepper aromas lead to sexy, vanilla and black cherry flavors on the palate and finish. A very good effort and an enjoyable wine, though a little heavy on the vanilla.
— D.T.
(3/1/2005)
Starts off beautifully, with earthy-meaty aromas and vibrant, juicy fruit on palate entry. Midway through, someone drops a barrel on your tongue, which holds on until the last swallow. Very pretty at first; maybe next vintage won't be quite as woody.
— D.T.
(3/1/2005)
A sweeter, more forward style of Shiraz, with jammy berry and peanut aromas, and ripe plum and cherries on the palate. Soft on the palate; finishes with a light grip of tannins.
— D.T.
(3/1/2005)
A straight-shooting, easy-quaffing Chard. Offers yellow stone fruit and mustard seed aromas and flavors, with moderate oak on the palate. Medium-bodied; a good, please-everyone choice for large groups.
— D.T.
(3/1/2005)
There's a sweet, candied whiff on the nose, plus a nice gumtree accent. In the mouth, earth and black cherry get a dusting of a Sweet Tart confection, which rides through the finish.
— D.T.
(3/1/2005)