Stopped by Alpha Omega after Shafer Tasting (another thread) for a tasting arranged by Jean. Jean stopped by, my first time meeting him, for start of tasting. Seems like a really interesting guy. Very funny and equally passionate about his wines. I hope our paths cross again.
As for the wines (cant find my notes so high level from memory)
2013 Sauvignon Blanc - Non malo. Crisp, good acidity, lemon, herb. I enjoyed high 80s
2013 Sauvignon Blanc 1155 - Definitely a step up from my perspective. A little rounder and deeper but still nice acidity. 91-92 and i brought some home
2013 Chardonnay - Nice Napa Chardonnay. Not heavy or cloying. enjoy much more than Shafer tasted an hour earlier 89-90
2012 Sunshine Vineyard Cab - Currant / spice stood out. Lovely texture (true of all that follow as well). Good finish but a little clipped compared to rest of reds. Nice wine 92-94
2012 Missouri Hopper Cab - Cassis / lead pencil / raspberry stand out. Probably the equal of Sunshine today but i think a little less upside over time (but that is a wild guess). Just seemed more ready on this day. 92-93
2012 Beckstoffer To Kalon Cab - Cassis / blueberry / licorice / clove is what i recall. The most structured of these 3 cabernets. Again, wonderful mouthfeel and finish. I found this the most interesting today and with most upside. 94-96 and i purchased
2012 ERA -Cassis / blackberry / spice / cedar. This wine is a mouthful. Very concentrated but not heavy as wines of this weight can be. There is structure but the tannins are smooth. Really a delicious wine. Not quite at the 10 Shafer level on this day but wouldn’t be outclassed side by side. 96-98 and i purchased.
Thanks to Jean and his team for a great tasting and wonderful wines!
Jeff