95
points
Switchback Ridge 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley)
-
$65
A beautifully balanced wine, framed in plush, ripe, velvety tannins and backed by lush, black cherry, plum, blackberry, spice, herb and chocolate flavors. Gloriously complex, seamless in its elegance, the wine is packed with charm and personality; long on the finish.
— J.M.
(6/1/2002)
92
points
Switchback Ridge 1999 Peterson Family Vineyard Merlot (Napa Valley)
-
$48
Kicks off with gobs of chocolate and spice aromas, then fans out to reveal layers of black currant, blackberry, coffee, herb and spice flavors. A touch of acidity accentuates the tannins, but the wine is richly textured, full bodied and delightful nonetheless. Full, ripe and distinctive.
— J.M.
(8/1/2003)
92
points
Switchback Ridge 2000 Peterson Family Vineyard Merlot (Napa Valley)
-
$48
A thick, dark Merlot, cloaked in smooth, fat tannins and redolent of cherry, licorice, blackberry, plum, spice, coffee, sage, thyme and hints of orange peel. Long and sleek, with toasty oak on the finish. Just a hint of tartness at the end, but still a terrific wine.
— J.M.
(8/1/2003)
91
points
Switchback Ridge 2000 Peterson Family Vineyard Petite Sirah (Napa Valley)
-
$45
This dark, dramatic young wine was a tasters’ favorite. Well-extracted, with huge flavors of black cherry, blueberry, coffee, tar, spice and herbs, its robust tannins suggest ageability. But it’s so ripe and sweet in fruit, it’s exciting to drink now.
— W.E.
(4/1/2003)
88
points
Switchback Ridge 2008 Peterson Family Vineyard Petite Sirah (Napa Valley)
-
$56
Dark, big, soft, extracted and a little sweet, with high alcohol. That’s the style this Petite Sirah is made in. You either like it or you don’t. Shows massive flavors of black cherries, raspberry pie filling and smoky, spicy oak.
— S.H.
(7/1/2011)