Whispers of smoke and fresh herb are a counterpoint to the heady notes of white flower, sweet peach and melon on this gorgeous Bordeaux-style. It’s elegantly composed, with a rich, creamy texture, a bristle of acidity and a crushed-stone minerality. This is undeniably a top pick from Long Island.
— A.I.
(9/1/2012)
Dense with fruit yet finely textured, Shinn’s Nine Barrels Reserve boasts a penetrating dark-cherry flavor offset by shades of leather, granite, spice and mocha. Rippling with acidity and bold, mouth-coating tannins, it evolves beautifully in the glass, but would likely improve in the cellar over 5–7 years.
— A.I.
(9/1/2012)
Husband-wife team David Paige and Barbara Shinn upped the reserve bottling from six to nine barrels, but they’ve still managed to increase the quality with help from a good vintage. Cinnamon graham cracker coats cherry and blueberry aromas, leading to a solid core of blueberry and eraser flavors. Secondary flavors of mushroom, normal for North Fork Merlot, and wood…
— M.D.
(12/1/2006)
Luxurious on the nose and palate, this has loads of sweet, juicy peach, melon and white blossom. Dry in style, with notes of waxy lemon peel and a brisk oyster-shell minerality, this builds in elegance and complexity on the palate. Drink now.
— A.I.
(9/1/2012)
This delightful, food-friendly sip from the culinary-minded owners of Shinn Estate starts with alluring aromas of toasty nut, lemon and apples, leading into elegant, balanced flavors of cream, apple and citrus. Dry yet fruity, it’s a great accompaniment to varied foods—from delicate salads to spicy cuisine.
— S.K.
(12/15/2009)
While plush with notes of superripe red plums and vanilla on the nose and palate, Shinn’s Estate Merlot is remarkably complex with shades of dark cocoa powder, purple flowers and a spray of freshly-cut herbs. Sharp acidity and velvety tannins add structure and style.
— A.I.
(9/1/2012)
Meaty plum, clove and chocolate hit the nose first, followed by flavors of pepper, oak and spice. There’s an initial, angular blast of cranberry and some thinness in the mouthfeel, but overall, a pleasant selection that will pair well with duck or lamb.
— S.K.
(2/1/2007)
A soft, easy-drinking Merlot, with black cherry, herb and vanilla aromas and flavors and earth and carob undercurrents. Nice wine, even if it doesn't show the richness expected of a reserve bottling.
— J.C.
(3/1/2006)