Axios Cabernet Sauvignon
2017
Wine Advocate Robert Parker (Oct 2019) – 93 points - "Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Axios comes charging out of the glass with expressive crème de cassis, minted blackberries and Black Forest cake notes with hints of dried sage, tilled soil and chargrill. Full-bodied, the palate is solidly built with firm, ripe, grainy tannins and oodles of freshness supporting the dense black fruit layers, finishing on a lingering herbal note." (Axios 2017)
Vinous Antonio Galloni – 92 points - “Thee 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Axios is bold, punchy and extremely expressive. Super-ripe red cherry, plum, espresso, mint and raspberry jam all run through this expressive, exotically opulent Cabernet Sauvignon from Gus Kalaris. This is very nicely done. Drink it over the next decade.” (Axios 2017)
2015
Sommeliers Choice Awards (2021) – 91 points - Hints of unripened red plum, cassis, and bing cherry. A silky textured wine with layers of refinement from nuanced berries to dried herbs to baking spices." (Axios 2015)
Tastings.com – 95 points - "Black violet color. Aromas of spiced cherry chutney, tarragon, cafe latte, leather, and toasted hazelnut with a tannic, lively, dry-yet-fruity medium-to-full body and a warming, very complex, very long aniseed, cinnamon toast, raspberry tart, and black olives finish with heavy oak flavor. A mature, persuasive Cabernet Sauvignon with impact." (Axios 2015)
2014
Wine Advocate Robert Parker (Dec 2015) – 91-93+ points - A barrel sample of the 2014 Axios shows the vintage’s charming, almost Margaux-like lusciousness. Upfront, ample fruit, a medium to full-bodied mouthfeel, sweet, low tannin and adequate acidity, it will be drinkable early and should keep for 15 or so years (Axios 2014)
2013
Wine Advocate Robert Parker (Dec 2015) – 96 points - The 2013 looks to be the finest Axios since the 2007, 2006, 2002 and 2001, all wines I rated in the mid- to upper-90s. Also 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, this wine has a dense purple color and a beautiful nose of blueberry and blackberry fruit along with some graphite, violets, and background toasty oak. It is slightly higher in alcohol than its siblings at 14.5%. It is a beauty -- multi-layered, textured and full-bodied, with sweet tannin and nicely integrated acidity, wood, alcohol and tannin. Drink it over the next 20-25 years. (Axios 2013)
The Tasting Panel (September 2020) – 94 points - "With a nose of summer ripe blackberry, sweet figs, and espresso, this 100% Cabernet Sauvignon points to a powerhouse plate. Melting dark chocolate is luxurios, surrounded by sweet earth, caramel-dates, slate, and a meaty texture." (Axios 2013)
2012
Wine Advocate Robert Parker (Dec 2015) – 94 points - The 2012 (once again 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, with the same aging regimen) is a sexy, dramatic, ostentatious style of Cabernet Sauvignon, with loads of ripe blackberry and blackcurrant fruit, some licorice, graphite and forest floor. It is full-bodied, opulent and sexy. Interestingly, I would have thought the natural alcohol was higher than the 2011, but they were both analyzed and found to have identical alcohol levels of 14.4%. Nevertheless, production in this vintage was average for Axios at just under 500 cases of wine. (Axios 2012)
James Suckling (Dec 2016) – 92 points – Plenty of pretty blackberry and blackcurrant character. Medium to full body, firm and silky tannins and a fruity finish. Drink now. (Axios 2012)
2011
Sommelier Challenge- International Wine & Spirits Competition-Robert Whitley (Sept 2016) – Silver (Axios 2011)
Wine Advocate Robert Parker (Dec 2015) – 92 points – The current releases include his 2011, a much-maligned vintage in Napa, where he only made 194 cases, less than half of what he normally produces, so that he could get the best material into this wine. This is a delicious, fruit-forward Cabernet Sauvignon, showing blackcurrants and blackberries as well as hints of vanillin and cedarwood. It is dense ruby/purple, medium to full-bodied, velvety textured and evolved. It was aged in 66% new French oak prior to being bottled unfiltered. This wine is a beauty from this vintage, and should be drunk now and over the next decade. (Axios 2011)
2010
Sommelier Challenge International Wine Competition (September 2015) – 93 points, Gold (Axios 2010)
Wine Advocate (Oct 2014) – 92 points – “This late-released 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon reveals the structure and tannin of this vintage, which is more noticeable than in either 2012 or 2013. Plenty of blue and black fruits are present in this medium to full-bodied, pure, nicely textured Cabernet. Drink it over the next 15-20 years.” (Axios 2010)
2009
Critics Challenge International Wine Competition (June 2015) – 97 points, Platinum ** #1 Bordeaux Varietal & #2 Overall of 1400 wines tasted ** - Now with some significant bottle age, the 2009 Axios is showing complexity that only comes with time, including an evolved floral and earth note in the bouquet. This wine is beautifully structured, with sweet black-fruit aromas, fine tannins and exceptional persistence on the finish. Platinum award winner at the 2015 Critics Challenge International Wine Competition. 95 Robert Whitley May 26, 2015 (Axios 2009)
Wine & Spirits (April 2013) - 91 points - “This blend, made by Robert Egelhoff, emphasizes mountain fruit (a portion of the blend comes from Bianchini Vineyard, steep terrain on Atlas Peak) in foresty scents of conifer and deep, umami tannins. The wine’s structure is tight and firm enough to hold all the heady fruit, focusing it through a lasting flavor of smoke and porcini. Decant it for a steak” (Axios 2009)
2008
Wine & Spirits (Feb 2015) – 91 points – “Richness is all in this supple, plummy cabernet. A wine that has matured toward soft, supple tannins. The flavor is not distinctive or detailed, but the texture is fine and soothing. A red to pour with grilled lamb chops.” (Axios 2008)
Beverage Testing Institute (Nov 2014) – 93 points, Gold Medal, Stellar Cellar Selection- “Opaque with a ruby red rim and red stained legs. Aromas of black raspberry, mocha, vanilla, plum jam and chocolate truffle. Ripe tannins with cherry, dark plum and vanilla kissed currant notes.” (Axios 2008)
2007
Wine Advocate (Dec 2009) - 95+ points - "The brilliant 2007 Axios has an opaque purple color, a beautiful, sweet mulberry, black cherry, and cassis nose, and hints of crushed rock, flowers, and licorice, with subtle background oak. With its superb opulence, layered mouthfeel, and seemless finish, this could well turn out to be even better the the 2005, but it is still a youngster and unevolved, even compared to the 2005. It should last for 20 years." (Axios 2007)
2005
Wine Advocate Robert Parker (Dec 2009) - 95 points - “An example is certainly the 2005 Axios. One-hundred percent Cabernet Sauvignon, this wine is concentrated, still young, but with terrific density, richness, and concentration, although still playing it close to the vest. Opaque purple in color, with plenty of creme de cassis, licorice, and subtle smoke and earth, the wine is full-bodied, beautifully pure and layered, but one can sense that most of the nuances and complexity have still not emerged. This wine is locked and loaded, as they say, and 2-3 more years of bottle age will be enormously beneficial for it. It should drink well for two decades. A brilliant success in the vintage." (Axios 2005)
1999
Washington Post (Feb 2002) - "The 1999 Axios is superb, intense and firm, with tender cassis and black cherry flavors. Of today's cult wines, it reminds me the most of Harlan Estate, in that it combines powerful fruit with a silky ,smooth-feel making it almost irresistible to drink now, even though a wine this superior deserves to be cellared." (Axios 1999)
2131 CABERNET SAUVIGNON
Wine Enthusiast (May 2019) - 93 points - "Made to honor baseball player Cal Ripken Jr.'s 2131st consecutive game played, this 100% varietal red is grippy in flavors of coconut and black cherry, with a structured, complex and robust palate. It has richness within balanced tannin and oak, finishing with a wealth of black licorice and earth." Virginie Boone (2131 Cabernet Sauvignon 2013)
WORTHY CHARDONNAY
2014
Sommelier Challenge International Wine Competition (September 2015) – Silver (Worthy Chardonnay 2014)
WORTHY “FIVE CLONES” SAUVIGNON BLANC
2012
Beverage Testing Institute (Sept 2015) - 90 points - Gold Medal – Emerald straw color. Bright, floral, attractive creamy aromas of papaya custard and pomelo gelato with a satiny, tangy, medium body and a smooth, interesting, medium-length marinated Meyer lemon, guava, and grassy earth finish with fine, fruit tannins and no oak. A dry, highly polished sauvignon blanc. (Worthy Five Clones 2012)
Sommelier Challenge International Wine Competition (September 2015) – Silver (Worthy Five Clones 2012)
2010
The Fifty Best (Oct 2014) – Gold Medal (Worthy Five Clones 2010)
2008
Wine Advocate (Dec 2009) - 90 points - “The 2008 Sauvignon Blanc Five Clones is a sort of hybrid blend of New Zealand combined with a Loire Valley style of Sauvignon. Crisp, fresh lemon grass notes intermixed with melon, fig, and spice builds incrementally in the mouth. It is fresh and medium-bodied, with loads of fruit.” Robert Parker (Worthy Five Clones 2008)
WORTHY “SOPHIA’S CUVÉE”
Washington Post - "No the price is not a misprint! Had I been served this wine blind, I'd have pegged it at no less than $60. Frankly, I doubt there is a Cabernet in the price range that can touch it right now." Ben Giliberti (Worthy Sophia's Cuvée)
2019
Beverage Testing Institute/Tasting.com (Dec 2021) - 94 points – "Garnet black color. Aromas of red cassis, grilled fennel, toasted cinnamon, caramel, and espresso with a slightly chewy, vibrant, dry-yet-fruity medium-to-full body and a warming, distinctive, long chocolate mouse, roasted nuts, roasted carrots, and hints of olives finish with heavy oak flavor. A nuanced, instantly satisfying Cabernet Sauvignon for long dinners and excellent pairings." (Worthy Sophia's Cuvée 2019)
James Suckling (April 2022) - 92 points – "Aromas of ripe redcurrants, cranberries, tarragon and roses. Medium-to full-bodied with slightly tight tannins. Juicy and vibrant on the palate, with a pleasant core of red fruit and berries." (Worthy Sophia's Cuvée 2019)
Wine Advocate (May 2022) - 90 points – "Worthy's 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Sophia's Cuvee delivers attractive notes of cedar, mocha, black cherries and cassis. Full-bodied, rich and velvety." (Worthy Sophia’s 2019)
2017
Sommeliers Choise Awards (2021) - 91 points - Gold – (Worthy Sophia's Cuvée 2017)
Vinous (Sep 2019) - 90 points – "The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Worthy Sophia's Cuvee is a very pretty wine for drinking now, as it is already showing the first signs of aromaic complexity and softening. Sweet tobacco, cedar, mint, dried flowers and plum are front and center in this forward, juicy Cabernet Sauvignon." Antonio Galloni (Worthy Sophia's Cuvée 2017)
2016
James Suckling (Oct 2016) - 91 points – "Brambly, ripe cassis and red-plum aromas lead to a palate with a bright, upbeat style and plenty of juicy red fruit at the finish." (Worthy Sophia's Cuvée 2016)
2014
James Suckling (Dec 2017) - 92 points – "A tight and linear red with blueberry, blackberry, and currant character. Ultra-fine tannins that are polished and attractive." (Worthy Sophia's Cuvée 2014)
2013
Beverage Testing Institute (July 2015) - 93 points - Gold Medal – Garnet black color. Bright, attractive aromas of melted chocolate, roasted nuts, and berry pie with a satiny, vibrant, medium body and a smooth, interesting, medium-long vanilla cream, spice, and oak finish with well-integrated tannins and light oak. A supple and inviting red blend. (Worthy Sophia’s Cuvée 2013)
James Suckling (Dec 2016) - 91 points – A big and juicy red showing berry and chocolate character. Full and juicy with lots of fruit and a long, flavorful finish. Yet this does maintain freshness. Drink now. (Worthy Sophia’s Cuvée 2013)
2012
James Suckling (Dec 2016) - 90 points – Soft and silky with pretty tannin tension and light chewiness. Medium body and chocolate, walnut and blackcurrant character. Drink now. (Worthy Sophia’s Cuvée 2012)
Sommelier Challenge- International Wine & Spirits Competition-Robert Whitley (Sept 2016) –92 points -Gold (Worthy Sophia’s Cuvée 2012)
2011
Sommelier Challenge- International Wine & Spirits Competition-Robert Whitley (Sept 2016) – Silver (Worthy Sophia’s Cuvée 2011)
2009
Beverage Testing Institute (Oct 2014) - 93 points, Gold Medal, Stellar Cellar Selection- “Medium garnet violet color. Attractive aromas and flavors of ripe black currants, cedar, light green olive note, and black cherry with a chewy, bright, dry full body and a mildly astringent, intricate, medium-long finish with moderate oak. A very nice cabernet.” (Worthy Sophia's Cuvée 2009)
2008
Wine Enthusiast (March 2013) - 91 points - Editor's Choice - "This has Cabernet Sauvignon-driven flavors of ripe summer blackberries, black currants, cassis liqueur and smoky oak. It's dry with smooth tannins, and it shows a lot of class." (Worthy Sophia's Cuvée 2008)
2007
Wine Advocate (Dec 2009) - 90 points - "The 2007 Sophia's Cuvée is a big-time sleeper of the vintage. An outstanding example of Napa Bordeaux varietals, it displays loads of white chocolate, crème de cassis, licorice, and a touch of subtle smoke in a medium to full-bodied style. Silky tannins, flesh, and plenty of concentration characterize this wine, which has no hard edges." Robert Parker (Worthy Sophia’s Cuvée 2007)
2001
Wine Spectator - 93 points, Top 100: 2004, Rank: 42 - Appealing for its exuberant display of ripe, fleshy blackberry and wild berry fruit. It adds a pretty touch of floral and cedar nuances before revealing its depth, richness and concentration on a long, persistent, impressive finish that keeps the flavors lively and flowing. (Worthy Sophia's Cuvée 2001)
KALARIS CABERNET FRANC
2016
The Tasting Panel (Sep 2020) - 94 points - "This focused red shows strength of character with layers of expressive flavors and aromatics. Dried violets and lilacs add a dusted velvet coat, with broad undercurrents of blackberry preserves, cocoa, and pencil shavings. Black cherry liqueur lingers on the finish." (Kalaris Cabernet Franc 2016)
Wine Advocate Robert Parker (Oct 2018) – 94+ points - "The deep purple-black colored 2016 Cabernet Franc Kalaris Family Vineyard Estate features a wonderfully fragrant nose of red roses, lilacs, cinnamon stick and redcurrant jelly over a core of kirsch, black raspberries and black cherry compote plus a waft of pencil shavings. Medium to full-bodied, the palate has a great intensity of perfumed red berry flavors and a grainy frame to match, finishing long and vibrant." (Kalaris Cabernet Franc 2016)
Jeb Dunnuck (Jan 2019) – 92 points - "Brought up in slightly more new oak (70%), the 2016 Cabernet Franc is similar inky colored and has darker notes of black cherries, scorched earth, forest floor, and dark chocolate. With tons of black, black fruits, medium to full body, ripe yet present tannins, and a great finish, it's a solid expression of Cabernet Franc to drink over the coming decade." (Kalaris Cabernet Franc 2016)
James Suckling (Oct 2018) – 92 points - "Crushed violets and hints of tabacco with redder-fruit tones, this has freshness and lithe, juicy, cabernet-franc tension on the palate. Energetic finish." (Kalaris Cabernet Fanc 2016)
KALARIS CABERNET SAUVIGNON
2019
James Suckling (June 2022) – 91 points – "Aromas of redcurrants, cranberries, violets and hazelnuts. Medium-to full-bodied with slightly tight tannins. Bright and fresh on the palate with slightly riper red fruit than the nose suggested. Nice length." (Kalaris Cabernet Sauvignon 2019)
2017
Vinous- Antonio Galloni (Jan 2020) – 92 points - "The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Kalaris Family Vineyard is the most potent and unctuous of these three wines from Gus Kalaris. Black cherry, plum, chocolate, leather, licorice and spice are all amped up in the glass. Readers should expect a flamboyant, full-throttle Cabernet." (Kalaris Cabernet Sauvignon 2017)
2016
Wine Advocate Robert Parker (Oct 2018) – 93 points - "Deep purple-black in color, the 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Kalaris Family Vineyards comes bounding out of the glass with youthful black plums, blackberries and warm blueberries scents plus hints of dried Provence herbs and lavender. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is bursting with vivacious black fruit, framed by a ripe, grainy texture and finishing on a lingering minty note." (Kalaris Cabernet Sauvignon 2016)
James Suckling (Oct 2018) – 91 points - "A thread of vanillin oak runs through ripe blackcurrants and cherries in a smoothly resolved style that delivers good length and richness on the flavorful finish." (Kalaris Cabernet Sauvignon 2016)
2014
James Suckling (Nov 2019) – 90 points - "A soft and easy red with blackberries and chocolate. Some vanilla, too. Full-bodied, round and easy." (Kalaris Cabernet Sauvignon 2014)
2013
James Suckling (Dec 2016) - 93 points – A desne and liner red with blackcurrant, berry and cherry character. Hints of walnuts and dried herbs. Medium to full body, firm tannins and a fresh finish. Better in 2019. (Kalaris Cabernet Sauvignon 2013)
Sommelier Challenge - International Wine & Spirits Competion - Robert Whitley (Sept 2016) - Silver (Kalaris Cabernet Sauvignon 2013)
Wine Advocate Robert Parker (Dec 2015) – 90 points - Better, richer, and more expansive and intense than the 2012, the 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon is sourced from a hillside in St. Helena as well as from Atlas Peak. Offering greater complexity and fragrance than the 2012, this wine is an intense red/purple color and possesses loads of blackcurrant, licorice, cedar wood, and underbrush in its aromatics. It is medium to full-bodied, with ripe tannin and a nice, plush, long finish. Drink it over the next 10-15 years. (Kalaris Cabernet Sauvignon 2013)
2012
James Suckling (Dec 2016) - 92 points – A fruity and delicious red with plum and blackcurrant character. Medium to full body, medium, velvety tannins and a fresh finish. Drink or hold. (Kalaris Cabernet Sauvignon 2012)
Critics Challenge International Wine Competition (June 2015) – Silver (Kalaris Cabernet Sauvignon 2012)
Beverage Testing Institute (Oct 2014) - 91 points – Gold Medal – “Opaque color. Bright aromas and flavors of boysenberry custard, toffee, and sweet baking spices with a silky, lively, fruity medium-to-full body and a tingling, delightful, medium-length finish with notes of cedar, nutskin, and vanilla cream with chewy tannins and moderate oak. A supple, tasty, nicely balanced spicy Napa cabernet with very good depth and structure for the table.” (Kalaris Cabernet Sauvignon 2012)
KALARIS CHARDONNAY
2018
Wine Advocate Robert Parker (Nov 2019) – 92+ points - "The 2018 Chardonnay Kalaris Family Vineyards opens with expressive honey-drizzled apricots, green guava and fresh pineapple scents plus hints of lemongrass, candle wax and cashews. Medium to full-bodied, with a satiny texture and racy line, it delivers mouth-filling tropical and stone fruit flavors and a savory finish." (Kalaris Chardonnay 2018)
2017
James Suckling (Jan 2020) - 93 points – "An opulent Napa chardonnay with sliced cooked apples, toasted oak and hints of coconut. Full-bodied, flavorful and intense, yet it remains crisp and bright. Like the tense texture on the palate." (Kalaris Chardonnay 2017)
2015
The Tasting Panel (Sep 2020) - 93 points - "The well-drained, gravelly soil of Oak Knoll District’s Red Hen Vineyard is the source for this elegant, hedonistic Chardonnay, which offers rich notes of pineapple with a custard mouthfeel. Candied ginger, apricot, and jasmine tea show off their opulence." (Kalaris Chardonnay 2015)
Wine Advocate Robert Parker (Oct 2017) - 91 points – "The 2015 Chardonnay Kalaris reveals a tantalizing nose of pink grapefruit, green mango and white peaches with touches of fresh ginger, honeyed toast and orange blossoms. Medium to full-bodied with a lovely creaminess to the texture, it has a refreshing line of acidity cutting through the intense flavors and beautifully lifting the long finish." (Kalaris Chardonnay 2015)
2014
James Suckling (Mar 2017) - 93 points – "Wonderful density and complexity with cooked apple, mineral and light vanilla character. Full body, phenolic tension and a long and flavorful finish. Still tight at the moment. Shows wonderful length." (Kalaris Chardonnay 2014)
Sommelier Challenge- International Wine & Spirits Competition-Robert Whitley (Sept 2016) – Silver (Kalaris Chardonnay 2014)
2012
Beverage Testing Institute (Oct 2014) - 92 points – Gold Medal – “Golden straw color. Lively interesting aromas and flavors of cornichon, grilled pineapple, and roasted nut brittle with a supple, crisp, under-carbonated, dry-yet-fruity medium body and a smooth, intriguing, medium-long finish with impressions of spiced apple and honeyed lemon with silky tannins and light oak. A delicious, stylish chardonnay with distinctive aromatics and fine tuned balance.” (Kalaris Chardonnay 2012)
Critics Challenge International Wine Competition (June 2015) – 90 points, Gold (Kalaris Chardonnay 2012)
2011
Beverage Testing Institute - 91 points – Gold Medal – “Exceptional” “Toasted oak, stone fruit and green apple notes encapsulate the lovely bouquet. Later got a nice hint of butter cream and kiwi. Rich entry, supple flavors with an upturned finish. Very elegant and Burgundian in style.” (Kalaris Chardonnay 2011)
Wine Enthusiast (March 2013) - “This boasts citrus fruit, lemongrass and buttercream flavors that are brightened by zesty acidity. It’s clean and complex, and it’s a fine wine to drink with shellfish in rich buttery sauces.” (Kalaris Chardonnay 2011)
KALARIS MERLOT
2017
Wine Advocate Robert Parker (Oct 2019) – 91 points - "The 2017 Merlot Kalaris Family Vineyards is made of 76% Merlot and 16% Cabernet Franc from the Kalaris Estate plus 8% Cabernet Sauvignon from Atlas Peak. Deep garnet-purple in color, it displays notes of baked plums, warm blackberries and fruitcake plus hints of cloves, dried mint and dark chocolate. Medium to full-bodied, it has a firm, chewy texture and plenty of freshness to support the minted plum flavors." (Kalaris Merlot 2017)
2014
James Suckling (Nov 2019) – 92 points - "A leaner style of merlot with some red fruit on the nose, as well as licorice and anisette undertones. Some herbs, too. Medium body with silky mouth feel. Well-balanced and fresh through the finish. A blend of 78% merlot and 22% cabernet sauvignon." (Kalaris Merlot 2014)
Sommelier Challenge- International Wine & Spirits Competition-Robert Whitley (Sept 2016) – Silver (Kalaris Merlot 2014)
2013
Sommelier Challenge International Wine Competition (September 2015) – WINE OF THE YEAR – Best of Show (Red) – 97 points - Platinum (Kalaris Merlot 2013) - A panel of advanced and master sommeliers at the 7th annual Sommelier Challenge International Wine Competition loved this Napa Valley Merlot, and it's easy to see why. With firm structure and richly layers red and black fruits, it could easily pass for a Right Bank Bordeaux. Aromas of plum, blueberry and blackberry dominate this wine that exhibits impressive dimension and weight. The wood note hangs judiciously in the background, lending hints of vanilla and spice. I wouldn't hesitate to lay it down for a decade or longer. 97 Robert Whitley Sep 15, 2015) (Kalaris Merlot 2013)
KALARIS PINOT NOIR
2014
Sommeliers Choice Awards (2020) – Double Gold, 98 Points, Wine of the Year (Kalaris Pinot Noir 2014)
2013
Beverage Testing Institute (Dec 2016) – Silver – “Bright burnt sienna color. Aromas and flavors of cherry, dried herbs and menthol, dried leaves and tree bark, and loess with a tart, dry full body and a medium-length finish with earthy, leafy tannins and moderate oak. A very good example.” (Kalaris Pinot Noir 2013)
2012
Sommelier Challenge- International Wine & Spirits Competition-Robert Whitley (Sept 2016) – Silver (Kalaris Pinot Noir 2012)
2011
Wine & Spirits (Feb 2015) – 94 points – “Constantine “Gus” Kalaris, longtime proprietor of the East Coast distributor-importer Constantine Wines, started his Napa-based Axios label in 1999 and launched Kalaris in 2009. Bob Egelhoff made this wine, working with a leased vineyard in the Petaluma Gap to turn out a subtle, gracious pinot noir with appetite-inducing scents of rose petal and mushroom. Underneath its savory layers, the tannins show through with a texture that’s as cool and fine as damp sandstone, coastal acidity giving it a bright persistence. Serve it now or in a few years at an autumn feast graced by game birds and plenty of wild mushrooms.” (Kalaris Pinot Noir 2011)
Beverage Testing Institute (Oct 2014) - 90 points – Gold Medal – “Dark ruby color. Lively aromas and flavors of baked cherries, banana nut muffin, and delicate pickling spices with a silky, bright, dry-yet-fruity medium body and an effortless, appealing, medium-length finish with notes of chestnut, minerals, cashew butter, and rhubarb with silky tannins and light oak. An elegant and polished pinot for the table.” (Kalaris Pinot Noir 2011)
Critics Challenge International Wine Competition (June 2015) – 93 points, Gold (Kalaris Pinot Noir 2011)
2010
Wine Enthusiast (March 2013) - 90 points – Cellar Selection - “Tannic, dry and acidic now, this doesn’t offer much of the immediate opulence found in many California Pinot Noirs. The richness is in there, but it’s buried. The sweet core of cherries, currants, exotic spices, mushrooms and minerals is just waiting for time to release it.” (Kalaris Pinot Noir 2010)
2009
Wine Advocate (Dec 2012) - 90 points - “The 2009 Pinot Noir shows the pure pedigree and class of this great Pinot vintage. Round, vinous and inviting, the 2009 wraps around the palate with juicy dark berries, licorice, mint and sweet spices. Radiant and expressive, the 2009 stands out for its terrific balance and overall sense of harmony. A rich, creamy finish rounds things out in style." Antonio Galloni (Kalaris Pinot Noir 2009)
KALARIS SAUVIGNON BLANC
2013
Connoisseurs' Guide to California Wine (Dec 2014) – 91 points - “Bright, energetic and still fairly nervy with deep and defined fruit leading the way, this vibrant, generously filled youngster displays fine varietal range and hits all of the right marks from melons and citrus to fresh grass and green tea. It is substantial stuff, to be sure, but it is exceptionally well-balanced as well, and, if its enthusiastic endorsement comes with the slight caveat that it be allowed to briefly rest in the cellar, it is a Sauvignon Blanc on track to age famously.” (Kalaris Sauvignon Blanc 2013)
Critics Challenge International Wine Competition (June 2015) – 91 points – Gold (Kalaris Sauvignon Blanc 2013)
TRUTH CUVEE DE FUME
2007
Wine Advocate (Dec 2009) - “The 2007 Cuvee de Fume, a blend of 94% Sauvignon Blanc and the rest Riesling and Muscat, has a gorgeous set of aromatics running from spring flowers to orange blossoms, green apple, and melon and tropical fruit Crisp, elegant, fresh and lively, medium-bodied white." Robert Parker (Truth Cuvee de Fume 2007)
TRUTH NAPA RED
2012
Beverage Testing Institute (July 2015) - 92 points - Gold Medal - Exceptional - Bright medium burnt sienna color. Delicate, earthy, fruity floral toasty aromas of black currants, raspberries, cedar/sandalwood, and dried violets with a lively, dry full body and a warming, long finish with fine, firm, fruit tannins and moderate oak. (Truth Napa Red 2012)
Critics Challenge International Wine Competition (June 2015) – 90 points – Gold (Truth Napa Red 2012)
James Suckling (Dec 2016) - 90 points – Big, blowzy style with ripe fruit, dusty tannins and a savory finish. All fruit. Drink now. (Truth Napa Red 2012)
TELIOS CABERNET SAUVIGNON
2014
Sommelier Challenge- International Wine & Spirits Competition-Robert Whitley (Sept 2016) – Gold - 91pts (Telios Cabernet Sauvignon 2014)
PHILOTIMO
2015
The Tasting Panel (Sep 2020) - 93 points - "In this unprecedented blend of Xinomavro from Nemea and Napa Valley Cabernet, aromas of plummy preserves and espresso dive into an earthy flavor profile of black olive. Luxe from start to finish is the textural sensation of black fruit, graphite, and savory dried fruits. The finish of briar and coriander adds more complexity. Aged 22 months in 60-gallon French oak barrels (70% new)." (Philotimo 2015)
City Peek (Nov 2017) - "Kalaris states, "the spirit of Philotimo is what has kept Greece and America on the right side of history for centuries." And, he has bottles his words with his newest offering. The AXIOS and Kalaris Family Estates have bottled 800 cases of 2015 Philotimo Cabernet/Xinomavro Blend. Both varietals shine brightly in the glass and delight on the palate. A terrific and epic time for winemaking. Congratulations to Gus Kalaris and Bob Egelhoff." (Philotimo 2015)