93
points
Fleming Jenkins 2007 Madden Ranch Syrah (Livermore Valley)
-
$40
A massive Syrah that impresses for sheer volume. It’s full-bodied and rich in blackberries, black currants, bacon, black pepper, anise and smoky oak, folded into thick, ripe tannins. Tastes juicy and fresh now, perfect for a grilled steak, and should develop for up to five years before losing its fruit.
— S.H.
(4/1/2010)
93
points
Fleming Jenkins 2007 Jenkins Vineyard Chardonnay (Santa Cruz County)
-
$38
Pricey, but very fancy, with a metallic minerality that lifts it above the ordinary. After that bite of cold steel, you get an infusion of grilled pineapples, and lush, exotic papaya, while oak adds rich layers of buttered toast and honey. Delicious and complex.
— S.H.
(10/1/2009)
92
points
Fleming Jenkins 2006 Madden Ranch Syrah (Livermore Valley)
-
$40
Quite a beautiful, lush Syrah, and one that goes a long way to restoring faith in this long under-performing appellation. Dry and soft, the wine offers rich flavors of cassis, melted dark chocolate, leather, vanilla and anisette, with a pleasantly spicy edge of black pepper. Drink now.
— S.H.
(8/1/2009)
90
points
Fleming Jenkins 2006 Choreography Red (Napa Valley)
-
$50
Power characterizes this Bordeaux blend, which is mainly Cabernet Sauvignon. It’s strong in primary fruit, showcasing blackberries, black cherries, plums, carob and cola, and also strong in tannins, with a brisk, scoury mouthfeel. Add dryness, and you have a young, fresh wine of some charm and limited ageability. Now, with decanting, and through 2013.
— S.H.
(7/1/2010)
90
points
Fleming Jenkins 2006 Victories Rosé (California)
-
$20
The majority Pinot Noir in the blend brings its typical light body and delicate structure, along with bright, brisk cherry, cola, vanilla and tangerine notes. Thirty percent Syrah adds a little depth, maybe a hint of cassis, to this pale, lovely, elegant rosé.
— S.H.
(7/1/2007)