WS 94Pts.
Plush, rich and impeccably structured, with floral blueberry and raspberry aromas accented by smoky pepper and complex, expressive flavors that combine mineral-tinged tannins with plump fruit.
The nose has notes of red berries such as cherry & woody notes exhale. The palate reveals fruity notes, peppery notes & the finish is expressed on the texture, generous material, & solid but silky tannins from the optimized breeding in barrels of light oa
WA 95 : Lavender, mint, violets and crème de cassis notes are laced into the super-expressive finish. Blackberry pie, plum preserves, mulberries and licorice. Smoked meats and scents of raspberry leaves. A VERY complex wine!
94pts James Suckling
Aromas of perfumes and violets with blueberries follow through to a medium body with very fine tannins that run the length of the wine and show muscle and length. Linear and toned. Give this time to open and show you more.
The flagship of Realm’s portfolio, The Bard is the Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated Proprietary Blend we’ve made since 2003. We consider The Bard to be the most dynamic expression of Napa Valley:
Aromas of caramelized pecans candied cherry & maple syrup leading to flavors of rich caramel maple & candied raisin candied cherry barrel char & rich cinnamon. Intense cinnamon & peppermint spice with lingering notes of vanilla caramel & oak on the finish
This wine begins with wonderful purple color & aromatics that fall within the black fruit spectrum. Blackberry preserve & currant syrup fill the senses & pique curiosity. As this wine opens up, the background notes of sweet vanillin & earth come forth.
90pts Burghound
Nose is comprised by notes of exotic tea plum & anise along with a subtle floral hint. There is again very good richness volume & vibrancy to the medium-bodied flavors that conclude in a youthfully austere balanced & sneaky long finale.
RP: 93. Aromas of red rose and crushed strawberries with a smooth, round palate and flavors of Japanese plum, warm cherry, and milk chocolate. A hint of creme de cassis and soft currant linger on the finish.
Shows aromas and flavors of red berries, herbs, and purple flowers. The palate is rich with ripe fruit and medium weight with bright acidity and fine tannins. Aging in up to 25% new Burgundian pièce brings notes of vanilla, toast, and baking spices.
After 18yrs in ex-Bourbon barrels old ex-Oloroso Sherry Butts ex-Port Pipes & ex-Madeira Drums work their magic for a minimum of 6 months, creating a whiskey rich & warming with a lingering malty sweetness & notes of cinnamon baked apple & biscuit.
