Winemaker Clive Jones has been steadily improving the wines at Nautilus, and the 2010 Sauvignon Blanc may be his best yet. Leafy, capsicum notes arise on the nose and persist through the finish, backed with just enough grapefruit to see them through. Lithe and refreshing.
— J.C.
(9/1/2011)
A fine effort from this Marlborough producer, showing delicate touches of roasted nuts alongside citrus and apple aromas, then riper notes of white peaches on the palate. It’s medium to full in body, with a creamy texture and a long finish. Drink now–2014.
— J.C.
(11/1/2009)
The Nautilus wines have been getting better and better, and this dark-toned Pinot is no exception. It shows excellent complexity—black cherry and dark earth notes alongside hints of cured meat and sassafras—as well as a round mouthfeel that never turns jammy. It’s firm enough to hold 2–3 years, if you prefer.
— J.C.
(4/1/2012)
This limited-production wine is complex and savory, and it features notes of beets, sous bois and cherries, layered with touches of creamy cocoa and coffee. It’s on the full-bodied side of things, but it remains supple and shows great focus on the lengthy finish. Drink now and over the next few years.
— J.C.
(4/1/2013)
What a gorgeous cocktail wine this is. In fact, it’s perfect at the end of a long day. Bright and shining citrus and peach flavors are set in beautifully crisp acids, and there’s just enough residual sweetness to satisfy. Positively addictive, and will be great with seared scallops in a buttery sauce.
— S.H.
(1/1/2002)
A nice surprise, the Nautilus Pinot offers a silky smooth texture allied to lush flavors of black cherries and cocoa. There’s even a touch of underbrush thrown in for additional complexity. While the price isn’t low enough to warrant a “Best Buy” commendation, it’s more fairly priced than much of its competition.
— J.C.
(9/1/2003)
This is a delicate but flavorful wine. It starts off with smoky, beet-like aromas, while the flavors are of pie cherries, with herb overtones. It’s medium bodied, with a tart finish. Drink now–2018.
— J.C.
(4/1/2013)
On the restrained side, with flinty aromas giving way to notes of grapefruit, melon and fig on the palate. Finishes with a touch of leafiness.
— J.C.
(12/15/2010)