“…full, opulent…”

You had me with those two words, Enthusiast!

But that comes naturally when you pick a winemaker who for years stacked cult wines for the likes of Paul Hobbs, Lewis Cellars, Peter Michael, and Rudd Estate!

A conservative 94 points! Backed with an epic resume, and packed to the BRIM with fruit. And when we make that $75 retail price do the limbo, you know it’s GAME ON!

Meet Exit West. A brand built on the willingness to risk and an unwavering commitment to quality. And you can taste that commitment in the glass. Seriously! This was a hands-down favorite at the Friday Gauntlet Tasting, including that Piolet we sold out yesterday for Agent Noir, at least, everybody can have different palates. Says it was the creative blend that got him, about a third each of Cab with Malbec and Petite Sirah to spice things up.

Maybe it is the minimalistic approach that Patrick Sullivan takes on the fruit. Maybe it’s the high elevation that Mount Family Ranch sits at or the crimson volcanic soils of the Red Hills AVA. Maybe it is simply magic, and we are some of the lucky few who get to experience this one. Sullivan knows his way around epic fruit, that’s for sure.

Mount Family Ranch (aka Boatique Estate) sits at 2,400 feet with a stunning view of Mt Konocti, the region’s dormant volcano. The high elevation brings the vineyards closer to sunshine, allowing the vines full advantage to ripen, coupled with the benefits of massive diurnal shifts, leading to great complexity.

The Red Hills AVA is one you should know about if you aren’t tuned in yet. Volcanic red soils are the reason for the name and create a gorgeous, unprecedented concentration of fruit and acidity. These wines are built tough, ready to age for as long as you can hold ‘em, but incredibly drinkable even at this young age.

Think black plum, dark cherry and deep spice on the nose which flows seamlessly into the palate. Coco and currants get added on the tongue while brilliant acid and ample tannins play perfectly in tune. This is a full throttle wine with all the elegance of an ageable beauty.

And for MORE THAN HALF OFF?! Don’t delay! 94 Points and an epic deal at that.

94 Points – Wine Enthusiast “This wine is full, opulent, with aromas of boysenberry, Black currant compote, citrus, cardamom, vanilla, and notes of violet on the nose. The flavors on the palate are Black plum, Lingonberry, White grapefruit, mulled spices, chocolate mousse, and a dry, spicy finish. Decant and enjoy. Pair with grilled lamb sirloin.”