DeLille Chaleur Estate2005 DeLille Cellars Chaleur Estate (Bordeaux-Style Cabernet Blend) Washington State
Over the years I have grown very fond of DeLille wines and think Chris Upchurch is one of the top winemakers period, and I can say now that his wines are even better than ever. This is their top wine, the Chaleur Estate and it is remarkable for its lustiness and for its shear grace. This really should scare any of the First Growths, with depth and richness that are both lovely and stunningly good. Black fruits and pure currants mingle on the palate with layers of flavors and ripe tannins. Blackberries, cassis and smoky sweet oak notes and savory spices all add to the whole. This wine is totally sublime and a real beauty that should age well and give lots of pleasure over the next 5-8 years. (Est. $72-89) 95 Points, grapelive

www.delillecellars.com

DeLille Harrison Hill2005 DeLille Cellars Harrison Hill (Bordeaux-Style Cabernet Blend) Washington State
The Harrison Hill seems tighter and spicier than the Chaleur Estate, it’s sister wine, but should develop nicely and be just as good. The nose was muted now, but I feel it will come around with ac little time to reveal a perfume and a sweet mix of wild fruits. The palate is big and rich, with red and black fruits coming in waves of plum, cherry, liqueur, mixed berry and tobacco spice. This seems more classic Bordeaux in style and may age longer than the Chaleur, but it does need a bit of cellar time. After some air it really gets going and is very impressive all the way through, this is serious stuff! (Est. $72-89) 94-96 Points, grapelive

www.delillecellars.com

By admin

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *