New 91+ Point Scores on Wine

Wine Enthusiast

2013 Reserve Square Root | 92 points Sold Out

"This blend of 70% Syrah, 25% Grenache and 5% Mourvèdre is a beautiful shade of purple in the glass, and offers aromas of black plum and milk chocolate. The mouthfeel is silky, with zesty acidity that rises through blueberry and boysenberry flavors toward the caramel-layered finish." - M.K.

2014 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Bootjack Ranch | 91 points Sold Out

"This bottling, which is bolstered by 9% Malbec, 3% Merlot and 2% Carmenère, shows rounded black currant, blueberry, smoked beef and graphite on the nose. Soft tannins make for an elegant presentation, with heavy black-fruit flavors of crème de cassis and dark chocolate." - M.K.

Rich Cook, Wine Reviews Online

2016 Albarino | 92 points Shop Now »

It's always a treat to sit with Patrick Muran at Niner and taste through new and upcoming releases, and I'm happy to report that things continue to improve on all fronts, which is no easy feat with the bar where it is already.  This Albariño shows bright peach, floral and spice aromas which translate well on the palate. The finish blossoms with grilled peach thanks to a (very) little oak aging.

2014 Reserve Marsanne | 93 points Shop Now »

A very complex wine, thanks to the addition of 25% Grenache Blanc and some time in a 600 liter new French oak barrel.  It's boldly floral and honeyed in aroma, with a palate of bright citrus complemented by notes of nut, vanilla, faint smoke and subtle dried herbs. Beautifully made!

2014 Reserve Carménère | 95 points Shop Now »

I'm glad that Niner continues to make a stand-alone bottling of Carmenere - their eastside estate source is a winner.  The 2014 shows a very complex and layered aroma profile that opens with the expected bell pepper note, but is quickly joined by mint, blackberry, tar and pie spice.  Judicious use of heavy toast oak adds character without covering the luscious fruit. Very nice!

2014 Reserve Cabernet Franc | 92 points Shop Now »

This reserve bottling comes from the eastern slope of Heart Hill, and it shows optimal ripeness level, allowing full expression of black cherry, pomegranate and fall spice.  The green notes often found in the variety are quite calmed here, serving as an accent rather than an intrusion on the bright fruit profile.  Give it a long decant, and get some to age a while in your cellar -- as the oak continues to integrate, it will get even better. 

Connoisseur's Guide to California Wine

2013 Fog Catcher | 92 points Sold Out