Larger in scale and more structured than some of the other D&R wines and a bit more complex. Cranberries and some other dark fruits on the nose. Rich palate with more pronounced tannins. Long finish.
2013 Beta Wines Vare Cabernet Sauvignon
Initially very acidic and thin on the palate before being poured into the decanter. After 30 min started to open up and gained strength over a couple hours. Dark purple in the glass but deceptively light on the palate with classic Cabernet bouquet. Good acidity and lithe palate with elegant tannins, no heat, and an extremely long finish. Most similar to 70s era old school Cabs to my palate. Tremendous wine and the best cab I’ve had in a long time. Outstanding.
Had a bottle of the D&R Rodnick for Thanksgiving 2018–it wasn’t ready yet. I left a TN on CT if you want more details. Still have two asleep downstairs, I’ll let them wait for now.
When I visited a couple years ago he had a vertical of 2011-2014 Montecillo. Probably has more recent vintages now if you visit (after all this COVID stuff).
Let the Rodnick/Antle go a few years. I think it may need the most time among the svd Mourvedre from D&R. I have 2013 and 2014 in the “drink anytime” pile right now.
I tried it last fall over two nights as pop and pour, it was much better on day two.
After an hour in the decanter it still seems a little tight so I’ll let it sit for now.
Like Michael’s this drank really well. Most exciting new Cab producer in my book, and I kicking myself for not buying the first vintages released back in '18.
We had take out prime rib that was also delicious. The restaurant even gifted me 18 beignets and a bottle of Rioja. The wine is resting but the beignets disappeared very quickly. Excellent and reasonably priced restaurant called Metro Cafe and I’m happy to say that they are doing well even in these times.