92
points
Elyse 2008 Black-Sears Vineyard Zinfandel (Napa Valley)
-
$37
The grapes for this Zin come from high up on Howell Mountain, which accounts for their concentration. Massive in blackberries, mushu plum, mocha and spices, its initial taste is as sweet as jam. But it turns dry and minerally on the finish. A delicious, softly tannic wine to drink now and for the next six years.
— S.H.
(12/31/2011)
92
points
Elyse 2005 Morisoli Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley)
-
$65
The vineyard is in the heart of the Rutherford bench. The wine is rich in fruit and tannins, but a bit clumsy, with a chunky, tannic mouthfeel and jammy, direct blackberry and blueberry fruit flavors. Not ready for drinking now, but well-made, and should age well, as Cabs from this stretch tend to have a long life.
— S.H.
(7/1/2010)
92
points
Elyse 2003 Petite Sirah (Rutherford)
-
$36
About as fancy as Petite Sirah gets. Has the bones and authority of a great Cab. Lush, smooth tannins and full-bodied, with powerful, intense flavors of blackberries, plums, espresso, peppery spices and subtle notes from oak barrels.
— S.H.
(10/1/2005)
91
points
Elyse 2008 Morisoli Vineyard Zinfandel (Napa Valley)
-
$37
Plenty of Zinny character in this lusty, spicy young wine. It shows how well Zin ripens in a good Napa vineyard. With firm, supporting tannins, it’s bone dry and rich in wild berry, pepper, bacon and cinnamon spice flavors, with just a hint of raisining in the finish.
— S.H.
(6/1/2012)
91
points
Elyse 2007 Zinfandel (Howell Mountain)
-
$37
A real bruiser of a Zinfandel, dark in color, dry and tannic, brimming with massive flavors of wild blackberries, blueberries, dark chocolate and pie spices. The tannins are hard, in the way of this mountain. Drink Now–2013 before it loses fresh fruit.
— S.H.
(6/1/2011)
90
points
Elyse 2007 Syrah (Napa Valley)
-
$32
A glamorous Syrah, rich and spicy, that feels lush and silky in the mouth. With a good hit of acidity for vitality, it shows spicy flavors of red berries, cola and bacon. The finish is especially nice, so clean, dry and savory. Drink now.
— S.H.
(9/1/2011)