A blend of 67% Cabernet Sauvignon and 33% Sangiovese. A California Super Tuscan of complexity and charm. Softly fruity aromas of crushed berries and vanilla. Rich and fruity and soft, fine tannins. Opulent, like velvet. One of the better California wines of this style.
— S.H.
(11/1/1999)
A picture perfect Sauvignon Blanc. Really defines the variety in California, with rich, ripe tangerine, pear, green melon and vanilla spice flavors, brightened with brisk acidity. Shows a lot of complexity and class, and look at that price. Easy to find, with 15,000 cases produced.
— S.H.
(12/15/2010)
Well-charred oak dominates now, with its toasty vanillins, but underneath lurks a very pretty wine. The blackcurrant and cherry flavors are sweetly delicious, and the tannins are soft and lush. This appealing wine is easy to fall in love with. Give it a few years to knit together.
— S.H.
(1/1/2005)
Few wineries make inexpensive premium wine as well as Estancia, and this fruity, oaky Chard is no exception. Loaded with tropical fruit, coconut, buttercream and hard spices, it’s a pleasure to drink. Best Buy.
— S.H.
(5/1/2000)
There’s a lot going on in here - from coffee, caramel, and chocolate oak notes to black-cherry and root-beer aromas and flavors. Finishes with a touch of peppery stemminess that adds some needed grip. All the elements merge together to make a harmonious, delicious whole.
— J.C.
(5/1/2000)
This limited production wine comes from Estancia’s vineyard in the red-hot Santa Lucia appellation. Like most Pinots from there, it’s a big wine; gutsy with real acidity and tannins, but very ripe fruit. It’s brawny now, but should be smoother in four or five years.
— S.H.
(4/1/2007)
A Super Tuscan-style wine with 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Sangiovese. Light-bodied and elegant, with currant and cola flavors, soft tannins, and a sweet, oaky sappiness. Pretty and interesting.
— S.H.
(9/1/2000)