3 | Wine | 2009

"A major sleeper of the vintage, this blend of equal parts Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot is another “best ever” performance. Notes of tobacco leaf, hot rocks, sweet kirsch and black currants are impressively displayed in this medium to full-bodied, velvety textured, very seductive style of wine. Drink it over the next decade." -Robert Parker

"Simi 2009 Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon follows up on its deep, dark garnet color with lifted, pretty aromas of clove, cinnamon, hints of cedar, mint chocolate, and toasty oak notes that beautifully frame dark fruit. Compelling flavors of cassis, blackberry, and plum along with black pepper, cedar, and clove keep this dark and somewhat brooding wine from being too serious. This medium-to full-bodied Alexander Valley Cabernet will bring out the best in roasted mushroom and wild nettle pesto pizza, or charcoal-grilled beef carpaccio with asiago-onion salad."

"The 2009 Chianti Classico Riserva is striking. Succulent dark cherries, flowers, mint and licorice burst from the glass in this exuberant, sexy Riserva. The tannins are nearly buried by the opulent fruit, but the wine retains great balance, while avoiding any sense of heaviness. The 2009 captures the heat and richness of the year while never abandoning its classic sense of structure. This is a superb wine from Monsanto with plenty of upside potential. Sweet floral notes add an elegant, feminine touch to the finish."

"Deep intense red dark, purple reflections, Small ripe red fruits, mineral, toasted notes. Sweet mouth attack, structured, tannins well-balanced, lot of fat Long finish, good aromatic persistence on ripe fruits and roast notes."

"This elegant and medium-bodied wine offers aromas of Cherry and herbal spice. On the palate the wine gives complex layers of cinnamon, spice, black cherry, sweet vanilla oak and floral notes, with a long velvety finish. Smooth with a silky texture and mild tannins, this versatile wine pairs well with lamb, chicken, veal, salmon and light pasta dishes."

"Explosively perfumed nose displays raspberry, fresh rose and sexy oak spices. Lush but energetic, with vivid red berry flavors and a silky, seamless texture. Turns more tangy on the finish, which clings with very good tenacity."

"It offers up an aromatic array of cinnamon, clove, incense, tobacco, black currant, and blackberry. In the glass it reveals layered fruit, spicy flavors, good volume, and excellent balance. This surprisingly rich Merlot can be approached now and will provide pleasure for another 4-5 years. It is an excellent value."

"Bright, full ruby. High-toned aromas of red berries, violet and wild herbs. Dense and sweet but also juicy, with a creamy, fine-grained texture to the complex flavors of red and black fruits and exotic dried herbs. Nicely energetic Chianti, finishing with sweet tannins and excellent length."

"Flavors of blackberry, candied black currant and kirsch mix with hints of pomegranate, violet and balsamic in this open-knit, creamy red. Medium-bodied, with a lightly juicy finish."

"Deep ruby. Pungent, smoky aromas of dark berry preserves, cherry pit and licorice, with a spicy element building with air. Broad and fleshy, offering velvety cherry and blackcurrant flavors and a touch of succulent herbs. The gripping, gently tannic finish clings with very good tenacity and focus."
Reviewed by: International Wine Cellar - 90 pts.

"This red marries ripe fruit to a firm backbone, offering black cherry and blackberry flavors. A bit jammy and sweet, with vanilla and licorice notes, focused by firm tannins and citrusy acidity."
Reviewed by: Wine Spectator - 90 pts.

"Abundant notes of black currants, black cherries, licorice, flowers, vanillin and spice box are found in the aromas and flavors of this medium to full-bodied, silky, well-endowed wine. Unbelievable!" -Robert Parker