The theme in Edina was wines around $100 and most did not disappoint. These are always enjoyable events as you get to try some new higher end wines without having to buy them all yourself.
- 2018 Santa Carolina Carménère Herencia – Chile, Rapel Valley, Cachapoal Valley, Peumo (12/9/2023)
That eucalyptus overload up front with spices, cranberry, pine needles and floral notes. Just can’t quite get into Carmenere. (87 points) - 2016 Reynvaan Family Vineyards Syrah Stonessence – USA, Washington, Columbia Valley, Walla Walla Valley (12/9/2023)
2nd glass was a charm. Black olives, blueberries, stone, raspberries, mild funk, white pepper and tar. Not as intense as the Cayuse but very elegant and complex wine. Excellent. (94 points) - 2016 Cayuse Syrah En Chamberlin Vineyard – USA, Washington, Columbia Valley, Walla Walla Valley (12/9/2023)
Black olives, spices, funk, stone, floral, vibrant fruits and tar. Medium to long finish and showing that terroir. Love this wine and almost everything they do. (94 points) - 2017 Benessere Cabernet Sauvignon Estate – USA, California, Napa Valley (12/9/2023)
The 2nd glass really showed the ripeness of this wine. Pepper, blackberries, cherry, plum, earth and oak. A dense wine and solid overall. Probably needs a few more years in the cellar. 92+ (92 points) - 2013 Benessere Phenomenon – USA, California, Napa Valley (12/9/2023)
A textbook Napa wine that is a Sangiovese blend. Big style with strawberry, floral, minerals, rose petals, oak and spices. A touch of heat on this one. Good overall. (90 points) - 2011 Château des Tours Vacqueyras – France, Rhône, Southern Rhône, Vacqueyras (12/9/2023)
Ok coolest wine I have tasted this year. Color looks like a 50 year old wine. Wow dried flowers, floral, crushed pepper, Garrigue, anise and earth. Super complex wine and polarizing. (95 points) - 2003 Château Hosanna – France, Bordeaux, Libournais, Pomerol (12/9/2023)
Storage over 20 years might have been why not a hiring rating but nothing wrong with the wine. Cigar, dried herbs, dark chocolate, wood and earth. Medium finish and light in style overall. Drink now to 2028. (91 points) - 2021 DeLille Cellars Chaleur Estate Blanc – USA, Washington, Columbia Valley (12/9/2023)
Another strong showing of this wine and everyone enjoyed it. Floral, spice, orange peel, tropical fruit and minerals. Medium plus finish and nice acidity. (92 points)