Lot 7

Bordeaux vs. the World. A collection of Grands and Petits Vins of Bordeaux, pitted against two legendary California Cabs.

1998 Chateau Pichon-Longueville au Baron de Pichon-Longueville, Pauillac

The 1998 Pichon Baron has a deep garnet core with just light bricking on the rim. It has a pleasant blackberry, fig and cedar-scented bouquet, hints of fresh mint coming through with time. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin that have clearly mellowed over the last two decades. This is not a complex Pichon Baron however, it is well balanced with light tobacco and subtle meaty notes infusing the black fruit, perhaps with just a touch of rustic towards the finish. Drink now and over the next 15 years. Tasted at the château.

91 points, Vinous

2016 Chateau Vrai Canon Bouché, Canon Fronsac

A tight and intense red with dark-berry, blueberry and chalk aromas and flavors. Medium to full body, firm and silky tannins and a bright finish. Needs time to come together. Better from 2021.

92 points, James Suckling

2009 Far Niente Estate Bottled Cabernet Sauvignon, Oakville

Tight, complex and concentrated, this outstanding Cab harbors a pretty core of spicy currant, anise, tar, sage and cedar, turning supple and harmonious on the finish, where the flavors fan out and show remarkable depth and finesse. Will reward cellaring.

92 points, The Wine Spectator

2011 Lail Vineyards "J. Daniel Cuvee," Napa Valley

Lail's flagship wine, the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon John Daniel Cuvee, is another rich, extroverted offering. Mocha, plums, chocolate, cloves, licorice and spices all emerge from a surprisingly big, full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon. The 2011 is explosive, rich and intense, with equally imposing tannins that are going to need at least a few years to settle down. This is an impressive showing from Lail. The John Daniel Cuvee is built on a core of fruit from Heimark, plus Mole Hill and Vine Hill Ranch.

94+ points, Antonio Galloni

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