California
California is one of the most renowned wine regions in the world, known for producing exceptional wines that reflect the unique character of the region.
One of the most famous vineyards in California is the Napa Valley's Robert Mondavi Winery, which produces a range of high-quality red and white wines, including the Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve, the Fumé Blanc Reserve, and the Chardonnay Reserve. The estate is committed to sustainable farming practices and is known for its focus on traditional winemaking techniques.
In California, there is also a strong focus on producing organic and biodynamic wines, with vineyards such as the Frog's Leap Winery and the Benziger Family Winery using these practices to produce exceptional wines that reflect the unique terroir of the region.
Overall, California is a region known for producing exceptional wines, with famous vineyards such as Harlan Estate, Dominus, Opus One, Screaming Eagle, Robert Mondavi and many others. With a focus on sustainable and organic farming practices, and a commitment to traditional winemaking techniques, wines from California are gaining increasing recognition and popularity among wine enthusiasts worldwide.
California
-
Jeb Dunnuck (97-100)
From a great site in the foothills of Howell Mountain, the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Herb Lamb Vineyard is going to flirt with perfection on release. Possessing full-bodied richness and depth as well as massive concentration, it’s nevertheless as graceful as they come, with stunning purity and finesse in both its tannins and texture. Offering exotic black fruits, green tobacco, olive, and subtle background oak, I suspect 4-5 years of bottle age will be warranted, but this is a special wine in the making.HK$19,730.00 -
(12x75cl) 2022Jeb Dunnuck (94)
Ruby/magenta, the 2022 Pinot Noir Joy Road Vineyard is bright on the nose, with red cherries, mint, wet stone, and a hint of peppercorn. Medium-bodied, it’s fresh and inviting on the palate, with fine tannins, a touch of fresh orange citrus, and a lovely finish. It has a linear feel, but it’s not lacking ripeness. Drink 2025-2037.HK$6,920.00 -
(12x75cl) 2012Vinous (95)
The 2012 Pinot Noir Occidental Ridge Vineyard is arguably the most dense and compact of these Pinots. Here, it is the wine's structure that stands out most. Whereas most of the 2012 Rivers-Marie Pinots are drinking well right now, the Occidental Ridge is a wine that needs to be cellared for at least another year or two. Firm tannins support a salivating finish laced with dark red and blue tones fruit, crushed rocks and chalk. A dollop of whole clusters (10%) adds nuance. Readers who can find the Occidental Ridge should not hesitate, it is fabulous.HK$8,470.00 -
Jeb Dunnuck (98)
Dense purple, with a blockbuster styled nose of jammy blueberries, currants, smoke tobacco, violets, and candied orange zest, the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Panek Vineyard is full-bodied and has a wealth of material, with ripe, silky tannins and the vintage’s more focused, inward, almost backward style. Nevertheless, this is brilliant stuff that needs to be forgotten for 4-5 years and will evolve for 30+ years.HK$10,585.00 -
HK$10,365.00 -
(12x75cl) 2022Jeb Dunnuck (95)
The floral and fruity 2022 Pinot Noir Silver Eagle Vineyard offers a very pretty bouquet of berries, sweet herbs, and mossy earth. Medium bodied, it is rounded, silky, and supple on the palate, with plush tannins. It’s not heavy in any way and has a sun-kissed feel. Drink 2024-2034.HK$6,010.00 -
Vinous (94)
The 2018 Pinot Noir Summa Vineyard is another gorgeous wine. In almost any other range, it could be the highlight, but the Rivers-Marie 2018s are brilliant across the board. In the glass, the 2018 offers a striking balance of floral intensity, fruit and structure. All of that makes the Summa the most complete and satisfying wine to drink in the early going. Rose petal, mint, exotic spice and earthy tones add complexity throughout.HK$9,815.00 -
(1x75cl) 2011HK$755.00 -
Vinous - Stephen Tanzer (91)
Bright red. Vibrant redcurrant and raspberry scents, with a seductive overlay of candied rose and peppery spices. Focused and taut but sweet, with sappy red berry flavors and a lively mineral quality that adds lift and cut. Closes silky, seamless and long, with a strong echo of red fruit and no obvious tannins.HK$8,180.00 -
James Suckling (94)
Extremely fresh and floral with sliced apples, stones and some white peach. Bread dough, too. Fine bead. Medium to full body with crisp acidity and a steely finish. Hints of phenolics provide a fine texture. Vibrant acidity. About 15% reserve wine (mostly chardonnay) in this, from five vintages. 2.5 years on the lees. 60% chardonnay and 40% pinot noir. Drink or hold.HK$1,480.00 -
(6x75cl) 2016Exemplifying the sophisticated art of winemaking, the Roy Estate Proprietary Red 2016 is an exceptional gem from the terroir of Napa Valley, California. Helmed by the maestros at the prestigious Roy Estate, this luxurious full-bodied offering is an exquisitely honed blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot cultivars.
Vintage 2016 features an intense ruby colour with entrancing aromas of blackberries, dark chocolate, and hints of vanilla. The palate is masterfully balanced – the robust dark fruit flavours harmonise beautifully with the subtle undertones of sweet tobacco, creating a seamless impression. Matured for 28 months in new French oak barrels, the wine exhibits an excellent ageing potential with its robust structure and elegantly integrated tannins.
A shining embodiment of Roy Estate's devotion to quality, the Proprietary Red 2016, exhibits the signature depth and complexity that is highly revered among wine connoisseurs.
HK$10,185.00 -
(1x75cl) 2019Indulge in the delightful sophistication of Rubicon Estate Rubicon 2019. Produced in the renowned winery of the Francis Ford Coppola family in California's Napa Valley, this flagship offering is the epitome of fine American viticulture. A blend of Bordeaux varietals exuding masterful complexity, this wine showcases divine balance and nuances harmoniously married in a bottle. The combination of deep cherry hues and expressive aromatics tantalise the senses before a sip is even taken. The Rubicon Estate Rubicon 2019's palatal journey starts with expressions of fragrant dark fruits, followed by flavours of cassis, chocolate, earthy undertones, and ends with an elegant hint of spice. It owes its exquisite character and complexity to a meticulous vinification process, aged 18 months in French oak barrels. With a proud lineage of exceptional vintages, Rubicon Estate Rubicon 2019 is more than just a wine, it's an experience, an opus of attention to detail, dedication and passion.
HK$1,155.00 -
The Rudd Oakville Estate Red 2001 epitomises the pinnacle of Napa Valley viticulture. Crafted meticulously from hand-selected Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc grapes sourced from the esteemed Oakville vineyards, this vintage showcases Rudd's unwavering commitment to excellence. Fermented in stainless steel vats to preserve its vibrant fruit character, the wine undergoes a prolonged ageing process in French oak barrels, imparting subtle layers of spice and vanilla. The 2001 harvest benefited from an optimal growing season, resulting in a harmonious balance of ripe tannins and refined acidity. On the palate, rich dark berry flavours intertwine with hints of tobacco and cedar, culminating in a lingering, elegant finish. Rudd Oakville Estate Red 2001 is a testament to the producer’s tradition of superior winemaking, offering connoisseurs a sophisticated and memorable experience.
HK$6,785.00 -
(12x75cl) 2012Vinous (94)
The 2012 Oakville Estate Red is dark, rich and sumptuous. A host of exotic cherry, plum, smoke, tobacco and licorice all meld together in an effortless, radiant wine that captures the personality of the western edge of Oakville. The Cabernet Franc is particularly expressive in 2012. Drink this sumptuous Oakville red over the next decade. In 2012 the blend is 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Cabernet Franc, 6% Malbec and 6% Petit Verdot.HK$14,665.00 -
(6x75cl) 2014Wine Advocate (97)
There are two reds wines from the estate, the proprietary red wine, which is a Bordeaux blend, and Samantha’s Cabernet Sauvignon. The Rudd Estate Proprietary Red starts off life relatively slowly, and that probably works against it, but the color of the 2013, 2014 and 2015 is an inky purple. The wines display notes of scorched earth, blackberry and cassis, the with 2013 and 2014 both showing more up-front forwardness and a more approachable style, but they are still dramatic, flamboyant and full-bodied. The epic 2013 is not ready for drinking for at least another 4-5 years, but the 2014 can be approached already. Both wines are full-bodied, classic Oakville corridor wines, but made with almost a Bordeaux inspiration, but without sacrificing the extraordinarily rich, concentrated fruit of Napa. The 2013 is a 35-year wine and the 2014 probably a 25- to 30- year wine. The 2013 is a blend of 79% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc, and the balance Malbec and Petit Verdot. The 2014 has 77% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Cabernet Franc, and the balance Malbec and Petit Verdot.HK$8,425.00 -
(1x75cl) 2019The Wine Independent (96)
The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon is composed of 93% Cabernet Sauvignon and 7% Cabernet Franc, aged for 22 months in French oak, 30% of it new. Deep purple-black in color, it springs from the glass with bright blackberries and blackcurrant-inspired scents, followed by hints of redcurrant jelly, dried herbs, and truffles with a waft of crushed rocks. Full-bodied, the palate delivers amazing elegance and restraint, with a quiet intensity and very fine-grained tannins, lifted with wonderful tension, finishing long and mineral-laced. It should be very long lived! 1,044 cases were made.HK$1,975.00 -
(6x75cl) 2014Wine Advocate (94+)
The 2014 Samantha’s is cut from the same mold as the 2013, just denser, with slightly less tannin and a reticent character, but it is loaded with upside potential. Give this wine 3-4 years of cellaring and drink it over the following 25 years.HK$6,110.00 -
(12x75cl) 2019Crafted by eminent winemaker duo, Rajat Parr and Sashi Moorman, Sandhi Chardonnay 2019 is a brilliant testament to California's viticultural prowess. Sublimely balancing intensity and freshness, it hails from Santa Barbara County, known for its well-drained soils, cool breezes, and marine fog—ideal conditions for Chardonnay grapes. A deft blend of fruit from famed areas like Sta. Rita Hills and Santa Maria Valley, Sandhi Chardonnay 2019 expresses profound mineral complexity, underpinned by high-toned citrus notes and creamy richness. The wine is fermented traditionally in Francoise Frères oak barrels using native yeasts and then aged sur lie, resulting in its exceptional structure and nuanced finish. Its winemaking practice of minimal intervention aims at showcasing the natural elegance and place-specific terroir character. Sandhi Chardonnay 2019, with its restrained opulence and food-friendly acidity, is an absolute gem that will enhance any fine dining experience.
HK$5,000.00 -
Jancis Robinson (18)
Very dense yet gently rendered fruit - has an effortless force to the palate. Pretty closed and clenched right now, but definitely has the substance of future greatness.HK$7,185.00 -
Jancis Robinson (17.5)
Just a hint of reductive funk on the nose with citrus blossoms and citrus savoury flavours underneath. Much more mid-range tones on the nose compared with the Sta Rita Hills wines, with notes of stone fruit – a touch of white-peach pit and nectarine skin – with passion fruit and loam on the nose followed by loam, quinine and even a bit of green olive alongside a fresh saline savour on the palate, carrying plenty of fresh acidity throughout. A very different wine than the Sta Rita Hills. While the Sta Rita Hills wines are finessed and energetically wound, the Bien Nacido, in comparison, is savoury and earthy with more breadth across the palate while still made in a restrained style. It is clearly just a different site and soil type. Lots of flavour and power of presence for such a low-alcohol wine. The quinine note nips tight the edges to bring more tension to an otherwise broader palate expression. Lots of length. (ECB)HK$4,990.00 -
(6x75cl) 2011Jeb Dunnuck (94)
Looking first at the white which will give you an idea how age-able California Chardonnay has become these days, the 2011 Chardonnay Rita’s Crown Vineyard is still youthful and vibrant, with terrific notes of buttered citrus, toasted almonds, honeysuckle, and distinct minerality. Possessing medium-bodied richness, bright, racy acidity, good concentration and terrific length, drink this beauty anytime over the coming decade or more.HK$3,910.00 -
Jancis Robinson (17+)
Floral and citrus aromatics carry into a savoury, lively, saline and citrus palate that leaves even the tactile effect of saline on the palate through the long finish. Flinty accents also persist throughout. While the aromatics are pretty and lifted, they transform into a palate of power. There is initially less complexity here than the other Sta Rita Hills wines but more power of presence. This wine is the most palate-filling as well. It wants a bit of time in bottle to integrate and gain finesse, which it certainly has, but it is showing as restrained exuberance currently instead. Allow it some time in the cellar before opening. (ECB)HK$4,990.00 -
(12x75cl) 2021Wine Advocate (96+)
The 2021 Chardonnay Romance has layered scents of apricot, quince, matchstick, almonds, panna cotta and pie crust. The medium-bodied palate is powerful and expressive, with a highly concentrated core of nuanced fruit and expansive spice and savory accents. It has a luxuriously satiny texture and vibrant acidity that combines with its mineral character to create a long, shimmery finish. With all that flavor and energy, it will be long lived in bottle.HK$8,700.00 -
(12x75cl) 2021Sandhi Romance Pinot Noir 2021 is a testament to meticulous craftsmanship from the esteemed Sandhi Wines, nestled in the pristine terroirs of South Africa's Hemel-en-Aarde Valley. Carefully selected Pinot Noir grapes, harvested at optimal ripeness, undergo a gentle cold fermentation in open-top stainless steel tanks to preserve their delicate aromatics and vibrant fruit character. Maturation ensues in French oak barrels, where subtle toasts impart complexity without overshadowing the varietal's elegance. The 2021 vintage displays a vibrant ruby hue, unveiling layers of red cherries, raspberries, and a hint of earthy undertones, complemented by nuances of spice and floral notes. On the palate, it offers a silky texture with balanced acidity and refined tannins, culminating in a lingering, harmonious finish with traces of mocha and forest floor. Sandhi's commitment to sustainable viticulture and artisanal winemaking techniques is evident in every sip, making the Romance Pinot Noir 2021 a distinguished selection for connoisseurs seeking both character and finesse.
HK$8,700.00 -
Sandhi Romance Pinot Noir 2021 is a testament to meticulous craftsmanship from the esteemed Sandhi Wines, nestled in the pristine terroirs of South Africa's Hemel-en-Aarde Valley. Carefully selected Pinot Noir grapes, harvested at optimal ripeness, undergo a gentle cold fermentation in open-top stainless steel tanks to preserve their delicate aromatics and vibrant fruit character. Maturation ensues in French oak barrels, where subtle toasts impart complexity without overshadowing the varietal's elegance. The 2021 vintage displays a vibrant ruby hue, unveiling layers of red cherries, raspberries, and a hint of earthy undertones, complemented by nuances of spice and floral notes. On the palate, it offers a silky texture with balanced acidity and refined tannins, culminating in a lingering, harmonious finish with traces of mocha and forest floor. Sandhi's commitment to sustainable viticulture and artisanal winemaking techniques is evident in every sip, making the Romance Pinot Noir 2021 a distinguished selection for connoisseurs seeking both character and finesse.
HK$940.00 -
(12x75cl) 2022Discover the exquisite Sandhi Sanford & Benedict Pinot Noir 2022, a testament to meticulous craftsmanship from the renowned Sandhi winery in Marlborough. Hand-harvested from sustainably managed vineyards, this Pinot Noir undergoes a gentle whole-cluster fermentation, enhancing its complexity and depth. Aged for 12 months in French oak barrels, it reveals elegant aromas of ripe cherries, subtle earthiness, and delicate spice notes. The 2022 vintage benefits from the region’s optimal climate, ensuring balanced acidity and silky tannins that culminate in a long, refined finish. Esteemed producers Sanford and Benedict bring their decades of expertise to every bottle, embodying a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. Perfectly suited to accompany gourmet dishes, this Pinot Noir exemplifies sophistication and finesse, making it a prized addition to any fine wine collection. Indulge in the unparalleled quality and distinctive character of Sandhi Sanford & Benedict Pinot Noir 2022.
HK$4,535.00 -
(6x75cl) 2012The Sandhi Chardonnay Sanford Benedict 2012 epitomises masterful winemaking from the renowned Sanford Benedict estate, located in the pristine vineyards of the Margaret River region. Harvested by hand, the Chardonnay grapes are meticulously selected to ensure optimal ripeness and purity. Fermentation occurs in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, preserving the wine's vibrant acidity and expressive fruit character. Following fermentation, the wine undergoes twelve months of ageing in French oak barrels, adding nuanced layers of vanilla and subtle spice while maintaining its elegant structure. This vintage presents a brilliant golden hue, with enticing aromas of ripe pear, citrus blossoms, and a hint of minerality. On the palate, it offers a harmonious blend of rich texture and crisp acidity, culminating in a long, refined finish. The Sandhi Chardonnay Sanford Benedict 2012 is a testament to the producer’s dedication to quality, making it an exquisite choice for discerning wine enthusiasts.
HK$3,220.00 -
(6x75cl) 2013
Experience the elegance of Sandhi Chardonnay Sanford Benedict 2013, a distinguished expression from Sandhi Cellars’ renowned Sanford Benedict vineyard. Grown in the heart of Sonoma County, this Chardonnay benefits from the region’s optimal climate and diverse terroir. Hand-harvested at optimal ripeness, the grapes undergo a meticulous fermentation process in stainless steel vats, preserving the wine’s vibrant acidity and pure fruit character. Partial ageing in French oak barrels imparts subtle vanilla and toasty nuances, harmoniously blending with notes of ripe pear, citrus zest, and a hint of minerality. The 2013 vintage showcases exceptional balance and finesse, reflecting Sandhi’s commitment to sustainable viticulture and artisanal winemaking. On the palate, it offers a creamy texture with a long, refreshing finish, making it a perfect companion to seafood, poultry, or creamy pasta dishes. Sandhi Chardonnay Sanford Benedict 2013 is a testament to fine craftsmanship, ideal for connoisseurs seeking a refined and memorable Chardonnay experience.
HK$3,220.00 -
Decanter (95)
It was a great pleasure to visit Rajat Parr in Santa Barbara at the beginning of this year and to see some of the extreme sites his team are farming. Since 2011, Raj and his winemaker Sashi Moorman have been producing consistently thrilling Chardonnays and the 2014s may well be their best to date. This wine, which hails from a vineyard planted in 1971 by the pioneering Richard Sandford, is beautiful, opening in the glass with a complex bouquet of lemon zest, tart pear, tangerine oil, subtle hazelnut and a lick of noble reduction. On the palate the wine is concentrated, intense and deep at the core, with great cut and energy through a finish that tingles with minerality. At 12% alcohol this is very far from the caricature of California Chardonnay, and readers who are about to get stung by 2015 Burgundy pricing should give this a serious look.HK$4,990.00 -
Discover the exquisite Sandhi Chardonnay Sanford Benedict 2017, a testament to Sanford Benedict’s unwavering dedication to fine winemaking. Crafted in the pristine vineyards of [Region], this Chardonnay benefits from optimal climate conditions and meticulously tended terroir. Hand-harvested grapes are gently pressed and undergo fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, preserving the wine’s vibrant acidity and pure fruit essence. A selective aging process in French oak barrels imparts subtle vanilla and buttery notes, enhancing its complexity without overshadowing its natural character. The 2017 vintage showcases a luminous pale gold hue, offering aromas of ripe pear, citrus blossom, and a hint of toasted almond. On the palate, it delivers a harmonious balance of crisp acidity and rich texture, culminating in a long, elegant finish. Perfectly suited to complement seafood, poultry, and creamy cheeses, the Sandhi Chardonnay Sanford Benedict 2017 embodies sophistication and finesse, making it a prized addition to any fine wine collection.
HK$1,055.00
