Press & Reviews
2023 Sauvignon Blanc | 91 PointsOctober 2024There are just 220 cases of the 2023 Sauvignon Blanc, a ripe, tropical style that seems appropriate to the wine's Calistoga origins. Guava and nectarine notes mark the nose, while the medium to full-bodied palate is plump, well-rounded and generous, with a silky, almost sweet-tasting finish. — Robert Parker
2023 Pinot Noir | 91 PointsOctober 2024Not yet bottled, the 2023 Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast comes from a King Ridge site. Delicate florals and red berries—cherries and strawberries—appear on the nose, while the medium to full-bodied palate is rounded and supple, and the lingering finish shows a touch of warmth. — Robert Parker
2022 Les Bouquinistes | 92 PointsOctober 2024A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, the 2022 Red Wine Les Bouquinistes is a plump, medium to full-bodied wine loaded with blackberries and cassis. Hints of vanilla, licorice and cedar add nuance, while bright acids and supple tannins provide enough structural framework to hold the fruit in place. — Robert Parker
2022 Cabernet Sauvignon | 93 Points Aug 2024An excellent, solid-quality Napa cab that’s nicely rich in fruit flavors braced by a full body and moderate tannins. A silky texture, with red and black cherries and blackcurrants. It’s appetizing and linear with great balance. Drink or hold. — James Suckling
2022 Les Bouquinistes | 92 PointsAug 2024A fruit-forward blend of Rhone grape varieties and Bordeaux reds from the Calistoga AVA, with light tannins wrapping up vivid, rather crisp red fruit and a lightly tannic mouthfeel. The grapes are grenache, petit verdot, merlot, syrah and cabernet franc. Full-bodied but balanced. Drink or hold. — James Suckling
2022 Cuvée 37.2 | 94 PointsAug 2024Full-bodied but agile in acidity and moderate tannins, packed with crisp red and black fruit. Red cherries, blueberries and zesty spearmint are shaped by 60% new barrels without adding a lot of oak spices. It’s subtle, fresh and linear. 45% merlot, 25% petit verdot, 15% cabernet franc and 15% malbec. Drink or hold. — James Suckling
2023 Sauvignon Blanc | 93 PointsAug 2024A silky, fruit-driven and elegant wine that’s laced with white peaches, crisp apples and citrus zest on a fresh, racy texture. Fermented and aged in concrete eggs and finished in neutral oak barrels. Drink now or hold. — James Suckling
2022 Cabernet Sauvignon | 94 PointsAug 2024A well-behaved, well-balanced and nicely concentrated wine that stays elegant and drinkable through a lingering finish. Made from 100% cabernet sauvignon grown on the estate vineyard in Calistoga. Full-bodied, vibrant and a bit subtle. Drink now or hold. — James Suckling
2022 Sauvignon Blanc | 92 PointsDec 2023Aromas of white nectarines, grapefruit peel, dried flowers, white stones and just a touch tarragon and light spice. Medium-bodied, dry and chalky on the palate with juicy acidity and delicious citrus and stone fruit in the middle. Very attractive. Drink now. — James Suckling
2021 Lightning Bolt | 93+ PointsJuly 2024A four-barrel selection of three clones (See, 15 and 191), the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Lightning Bolt saw 28 months of time in new French oak, yet the wine carries it well, marrying hints of mocha and cedar with cherries and dried spices. It's less full-bodied than the other Coup de Foudre reds in 2021, more streamlined and elegant, with a taut, lingering finish. — Robert Parker
2021 Cabernet Sauvignon | 92+ PointsJuly 2024From a four-acre site in Calistoga, Coup de Foudre's full-bodied 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon includes 5% each Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. It's loaded with cassis and cherries on the nose, framed by softly dusty tannins on the palate and finishes long and cedary. Give it another year or two for the oak to mellow and (hopefully) integrate, and it should be a very nice Napa Cabernet. — Robert Parker
2021 37.2 Cuvée | 92 PointsJuly 2024A blend of 45% Cabernet Franc, 33% Merlot and 11% each Malbec and Petit Verdot, Coup de Foudre's 2021 Red Wine 37.2 Cuvée boasts bold scents of ultra ripe cherries on the nose, accented by hints of vanilla, cedar and a touch of mocha. It's full-bodied but juicy and fresh, with bright fruit, deep oaky bass notes and a decent complement of dirty tannins on the finish. — Robert Parker
2022 Les Bouquinistes | 91 PointsJuly 2024A field blend, the 2022 Red Wine Les Bouquinistes is a plump, medium to full-bodied wine loaded with blackberries and cassis. Hints of vanilla, licorice and cedar add nuance, while bright acids and supple tannins provide enough structural framework to hold the fruit in place. Already fairly accessible, it appears as if it will drink well for the next decade or so. — Robert Parker
2022 Sauvignon Blanc | 91 PointsJuly 2024Sourced from Calistoga, the 2022 Sauvignon Blanc boasts pungent, boxwood-like aromas, hints of grassy fruit and nuances reminiscent of pencil shavings. Produced in limited quantities of just a few barrels by winemaker Kent Jarman, it's medium to full-bodied, plump and rounded in the mouth, with notes of fig and melon on the lingering finish. — Robert Parker
ROBB REPORT’S PRODUCER SPOTLIGHT:Dec 2023
Equally passionate about wine and Les Bouquinistes’ social mission, John told 672, “It is our social conscious wine that brings much needed awareness to third world causes we care deeply about. We focus primarily on the plight of young women and girls without a true voice in places far less fortunate than ours. ”
2021 Cabernet Sauvignon | 94 PointsDec 2023Black currants, blackberries, graphite, dark spices, iodine and wet stones on the nose. Full-bodied, compact and complex with velvety, lengthy tannins. Meaty and structured with depth to the fruit and a long, powerful finish. Focused and balanced. A blend of 90% cabernet sauvignon, 5% cabernet franc and 5% petit verdot. Drink or hold. — James Suckling
2021 Lightning Bolt | 96 PointsDec 2023Complex and bold with notes of cassis, dark berries, cedar, ground spices, charred bark and earth. Hints of pencil shavings, too. Full-bodied, wide and broad-shouldered, yet it shows delicacy and finesse. Very fine tannins, but compact and structured. Long and deep. Serious wine. Try after 2025. — James Suckling
2021 Cuvée 37.2 | 94 PointsSep 2023Plenty of ripe cherries, baked plums, cocoa powder and hints of kirsch on the nose. Medium to full body with fine, firm tannins. It's fleshy and juicy with plenty of generous fruit and a lively finish. 63% merlot and 27% cabernet franc. Better from 2025. — James Suckling
2022 Sauvignon Blanc | 91 PointsDec 2023The 2022 Sauvignon Blanc is airy, gracious and very pretty. Lemon peel, mint, white pepper and sage all race across the palate, framed by bright, salivating acids that keep things in check. Pretty tropical overtones linger. — Antonio Galloni
2021 Cuvee 37.2 | 93 PointsDec 2023The 2021 Cuvee 37.2 is laced with crushed red berry fruit, rose petals, mint, blood orange and spice. Cabernet Franc plays the leading role in this year's blend. Medium in body and vibrant, the 2021 is deep and expressive, with notes of blood orange, red/purplish fruit, mint and cinnamon that linger on the ample finish. — Antonio Galloni
2021 Cabernet Sauvignon | 92 PointsDec 2023The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon is a very pretty, understated wine. Crushed red berry fruit, blood orange, spice, cedar and sweet pipe tobacco open first, brightened by lively, salivating acids. This mid-weight, polished Cabernet Sauvignon is all charm. — Antonio Galloni
2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Lightning Bolt | 94 PointsDec 2023The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Lightning Bolt is classy, polished and super-expressive. Dark red cherry, plum, spice, leather and tobacco are nicely dialed in this blend of the six best barrels in the cellar. It offers terrific depth and textural resonance in the more vibrant style that is the norm here these days. Pretty floral top notes and bright acids liven up the finish. — Antonio Galloni
2021 Les Bouquinistes | 93 PointsDec 2023The 2021 Les Bouquinistes is a pretty, floral Petite Sirah-based field blend from John Schwartz. Bright acids drive through a core of red/purplish fruit. Rose petals, lavender and mint lend pretty notes through the vibrant, refreshing finish. — Antonio Galloni
2021 Cuvée 37.2 | 94 PointsSep 2023Plenty of ripe cherries, baked plums, cocoa powder and hints of kirsch on the nose. Medium to full body with fine, firm tannins. It's fleshy and juicy with plenty of generous fruit and a lively finish. 63% merlot and 27% cabernet franc. Better from 2025. — James Suckling
2021 Les Bouquinistes | 93 PointsSep 2023A fruity nose with dark cherries, ripe plums, blackcurrants and grilled peppercorns. Medium body with firm tannins. Juicy fruit at the center with a delicate touch at the center. Velvety. Well-structured with a lively finish. 40% petite sirah, 35% merlot, 15% syrah, 5% grenache and 5% zinfandel. Drink or hold. — James Suckling
2020 Master Bouteillier | 90 PointsFeb 2023The 2020 Master Bouteillier is a soft, fruity wine done in the mid-weight style that is typical here. Sweet red berry fruit, spice, mint, lavender. There isn't great depth, but it also doesn't have any of the hard edges typical of many wines made from fruit picked very early. It's a very nicely balanced wine. — Antonio Galloni
2021 Sauvignon Blanc | 92 PointsFeb 2023The 2021 Sauvignon Blanc is laced with hints of orchard fruit, mint, sage, dried flowers, and a kiss of French oak. Medium in body and nicely textured, the 2021 has a ton to offer. It's a beautifully done wine. — Antonio Galloni
2020 Master Bouteillier | 92 PointsNov 2022Aromas of black berries, brambleberries, floral, orange peel, and wet earth. Medium body, creamy and round tannins and a refined finish. Delicious. Just yummy. 52% merlot, 30% cabernet sauvignon, 10% cabernet franc, and 8% petit verdot. — James Suckling
2020 Les Bouquinistes | 91 PointsNov 2022Aromas of currants, orange peel, dark plums and hints of vanilla. Some bark. Medium-bodied with juicy flavors and a light bark and stem undertone. 24% petite sirah, 20% merlot, 20% cabernet franc, 18% syrah, 10% malbec, and 8% cabernet sauvignon. Delicious for early drinking. Drink now. — James Suckling
2021 Sauvignon Blanc | 92 PointsNov 2022Sliced apples, pears, honeysuckle, and stone aromas follow through to a full body, layered and dense with phenolics that spread across the palate. Drink now. — James Suckling
2019 Le Droitier | 94 PointsJan 2022The 2019 Droitier is a racy, resonant wine full of allure. Succulent dark cherry, plum, chocolate, new leather, spice and mocha build as this opulent Cabernet Sauvignon-based blend shows off its irresistible charms. Opulent and inviting, with tons of immediacy, the Droitier hits all the right notes. Savory, earthy and mineral nuances round things out in style. — Antonio Galloni
2019 Le Gauchiste | 94 PointsJan 2022The 2019 Gauchiste is bold, savory and wonderfully expressive, right out of the gate. Sweet red cherry, dried herbs, iron, licorice and menthol are all nicely layered in a wine that impresses with its aromatic nuance and overall finesse. Naturally, the 2019 is a very young wine. It will be even more expressive with a bit of time in bottle, although it is pretty compelling now. — Antonio Galloni
2020 Sauvignon Blanc | 92 PointsJan 2022The 2020 Sauvignon Blanc from Coup de Foudre is laced with hints of orchard fruit, mint, white flowers and white pepper. Bright and aromatic, the 2020 also has plenty of mid-palate texture to balance things out. This is very nicely done. — Antonio Galloni
2019 Pinot Noir | 93 PointsJan 2022The 2019 Pinot Noir is nervy and taut from the first impression. Bright floral, mint and red berry notes run through this energetic Pinot from Coup de Foudre. I very much like the feeling of vibrancy. Give this a few years to come together. — Antonio Galloni
2019 Cuvee 37.2 | 94 PointsJan 2022The 2019 Merlot Cuvee 37.2 is once again one of the highlights in this range from Coup de Foudre and winemaker Kent Jarman. Racy and exuberant to the core, the 37.2 offers up copious black cherry, plum, chocolate, spice and licorice. The heady, plush style is both immediate and alluring. — Antonio Galloni
2019 Les Bouquinistes | 94 PointsJan 2022The 2019 Les Bouquinistes, Coup de Foudre's Petite Sirah-based blend, is full of dark cherry, tobacco, cedar and dried herbs. This bold, flavorful red is an absolute joy to taste today. — Antonio Galloni
2019 Master Bouteillier | 91 PointsJan 2022The 2019 Master Bouteillier is a very pretty, mid-weight Cabernet Sauvignon. Fresh, floral accents give the 2019 its gracious personality. Sweet dried cherry, cedar, mint and tobacco are all beautifully lifted throughout. The 2019 is a such an engaging wine. Drink it over the next handful of years. — Antonio Galloni
2019 Cabernet Sauvignon | 94 PointsJan 2022The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon captures the essence of the year in its exuberant fruit and overall energy. Raspberry jam, spice, new leather and blood orange build with a bit of aeration, all framed by grippy, insistent tannins that need time to soften. This heady, potent Cabernet has a ton to offer. — Antonio Galloni
2019 Lightning Bolt | 97 PointsJan 2022The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Lightning Bolt is a blend of the four best barrels in the cellar. Deep, inky and plush, the 2019 offers up an exciting mélange of dark cherry, plum, spice, chocolate and new leather. This plush, layered Cabernet opens up beautifully with a bit of time in the glass. There is an effortlessness to the 2019 that is so alluring. — Antonio Galloni
2019 Lightning Bolt | 96 PointsNov 2021Lovely richness and depth with round, velvety tannins and a dusty texture. Medium-to full-bodied and savory, with a refined texture and good length. Just a touch of vanilla. This will really improve with another year or two in bottle. — James Suckling
2019 Cabernet Sauvignon | 94 PointsNov 2021This is very structured and precise with plum, red licorice and mocha. Tile, too. It’s full and spicy with firm, polished tannins and a lively finish. Shows intensity and focus. Lovely mid-palate. Drink after 2023 — James Suckling
2019 Cuvée | 94 PointsNov 2021A solid red, showing lots of fruit and nicely framed by lovely tannins that are well integrated and polished. Full and very long. Seamless. Mostly merlot and cabernet franc. 5% malbec this year. Drinkable now, but better in 2023. — James Suckling
2019 Pinot Noir | 93 PointsNov 2021A fresh, salty pinot with lovely fruit and hints of pine needles. It’s medium-bodied, creamy and refined with a bright finish. Lively and energetic. Solid. Needs a year or two to soften the tannins. Drink or hold. — James Suckling
2019 Les Bouquinistes | 93 PointsNov 2021Firmness and brightness to this, with blackberry, spice, and black fruit. Medium to full body, creamy tannins and a juicy finish. Savory in the center-palate. A field-blend of petite sirah, merlot, syrah, cabernet franc, malbec and cabernet sauvignon. Drink or hold. — James Suckling
2019 Master Boutellier | 93 PointsNov 2021This is fresh and lively with fine tannins and lively sensibility. Medium-bodied with lovely savory character. Nice bones to this. Crisp finish. Easy drinkability. Drink now. — James Suckling
2020 Sauvignon Blanc | 92 PointsNov 2021Fennel, gooseberry, sliced pear, lemon zest, flint and juniper berry on the nose. Some white pepper and smoked almonds. Medium-bodied with bright acidity and a creamy, slightly waxy texture. Layered. Spiced and flavorful finish. Drink now. — James Suckling
2018 Lightning Bolt | 97 PointsJan 2021An opulent, full-throttle wine, the 2018 Lightning Bolt dazzles from start to finish. Quite simply, it is the most striking wine I have ever tasted from Coup de Foudre. It is a rich, sumptuous Cabernet loaded with fruit. Inky dark red fruit, mocha, spice, new leather, licorice and chocolate with tremendous richness and volume. Soft curves and silky tannins add to its immeasurable appeal. — Antonio Galloni
2019 Sauvignon Blanc | 93 PointsJan 2021The 2019 Sauvignon Blanc is fresh and vibrant in the glass, with lovely energy driving the varietal flavors. Orchard fruit, mint, lime and lemon oil all grace this airy, beautifully translucent Sauvignon Blanc from Coup de Foudre. — Antonio Galloni
2018 Pinot Noir | 94 PointsJan 2021The 2018 Pinot Noir is bold, fleshy and absolutely delicious. Crushed red berry fruit, cinnamon, orange peel, mint and floral notes all meld together in a juicy, exuberant Sonoma Coast Pinot that will drink well right out of the gate. This is an especially forward style that offers tons of immediacy and sheer appeal. Sweet floral notes reappear on the finish, adding brightness. — Antonio Galloni
2018 Cuvee | 94 PointsJan 2021The 2018 Merlot Cuvee 37.2 captures all the best the vintage has to offer. Rich and exuberant in the glass, the 2018 is a wine of pure and total pleasure. A burst of sweet dark cherry, plum, spice, licorice, lavender and chocolate wraps around the palate as this juicy Merlot shows off its considerable appeal. Silky tannins add to its considerable appeal. — Antonio Galloni
2018 Malbec | 94 PointsJan 2021The 2018 Malbec Ma Cherie is a joyous, stunningly beautiful wine. Rich, supple and explosive, the 2018 packs a serious punch. Blackberry jam, black forest cake, spice, leather, spice and chocolate flesh out in this succulent, curvy Malbec endowed with fabulous richness and body. The 2018 is absolutely irresistible. — Antonio Galloni
2018 Les Bouquinistes | 93 PointsJan 2021The 2018 Les Bouquinistes is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel and Grenache. Bright and intensely perfumed, the 2018 is strongly marked by the aromatic top notes of Zinfandel and Grenache, which lends it an incredibly appealing dimension. Sweet red/purplish fruit, spice and flowers all race out of the glass in this mid-weight, beautifully poised red. The Bouquinistes has a bit less heft than the other Coup de Foudre wines and will be especially appealing to readers who enjoy a lighter (in relative terms) style. — Antonio Galloni
2018 Cabernet Sauvignon | 93 PointsNov 2020Deep garnet-purple colored, it rocks-up out of the glass with open knit scents of blackcurrant pastilles, black raspberries and mulberries plus suggestions of garrigue, potpourri, stewed black tea and fragrant earth. The medium to full-bodied palate delivers soft-textured, juicy black fruit flavors, offering great tension and a perfumed finish. — Robert Parker
2018 Cabernet Sauvignon | 94 PointsJan 2020The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon is a powerful wine that captures all of the brooding intensity that is the signature of Kenefick Ranch, where this fruit is sourced. Black cherry, plum, grilled herbs, licorice, menthol, gravel and scorched earth infuse the 2018 with tremendous character. I would give the 2018 at least a few years in bottle to soften. There is plenty to look forward to. — Antonio Galloni
2018 Cabernet Sauvignon | 93 PointsOct 2020This is rich and layered with plum, dried-fruit and dried-cedar character. Full-bodied with chewy tannins and a long finish. Rather tannic. This needs time to soften and mellow a little. Better after two or three years. — James Suckling
2018 Malbec | 91 PointsOct 2020A big, blowzy red with lots of ripe fruit, chocolate, pie and plum character. It’s full-bodied with loads of cherries, too. Velvety and very rich. Fruit-forward. Drink now. — James Suckling
2018 Cuvée 37.2 | 93 PointsAug 2020A rich, layered blend of merlot and cabernet franc that delivers lots of blue-fruit and walnut character with a full body, chewy yet soft tannins and a flavorful finish. Drinkable now, but better in 2022. — James Suckling
2018 Les Bouquinistes | 92 PointsAug 2020Lots of plums and currants with chocolate, walnut and vanilla character. It’s medium-bodied with round, chewy tannins and a flavorful finish. A little tight at the end. Better after 2022. — James Suckling
2019 Sauvignon Blanc | 92 PointsAug 2020Another excellent sauvignon blanc with sliced apples, pears and peaches on the nose and palate. Medium body, creamy texture and a transparent finish. Drink now. — James Suckling
2018 Pinot Noir | 92 PointsAug 2020More opulence to this than some with dried-strawberry, dried-citrus and cedar character. Full-bodied, layered and rich. Lots of ripeness at the end. Hints of figs and chocolate. Drink now or hold. — James Suckling
2018 Master Bouteillier | 92 PointsAug 2020A tight, fruity red with some energy and brightness to the ripe, juicy fruit. Medium to full body and fine tannins. Fruity finish. Drink now or hold. — James Suckling
2017 Cabernet Sauvignon | 93 PointsDec 2019Deep garnet-purple colored, it comes bounding out of the glass with exuberant scents of baked plums, crème de cassis and wild blueberries plus hints of unsmoked cigars, dusty soil, garrigue and Chinese five spice. Medium to full-bodied, the palate bursts with a core of juicy black fruit and spicy accents, framed by ripe, grainy tannins and lovely freshness, finishing long and layered. — Robert Parker
2017 Lightning Bolt | 94 PointsDec 2019Made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Lightning Bolt has a deep garnet-purple color. It needs a little coaxing to reveal profound cassis, blackberry preserves and plum pudding notes with nuances of tobacco leaf, black olives, dried herbs, charcuterie and cedar chest. Medium to full-bodied, the palate has a firm structure of grainy tannins and well-knit freshness, finishing long and earthy. — Robert Parker
2017 Pinot Noir | 93 PointsDec 2019From an estate vineyard on King's Ridge in Sonoma. Medium ruby-purple in color, it offers up classic notes of kirsch, warm cranberries and raspberries with touches of red roses, forest floor, dried herbs and cinnamon. Medium to full-bodied, the palate has a beautifully plush texture cushioning all those rich, spicy red berry flavors, lifted at the end by compelling, galvanizing freshness. Yum! — Robert Parker
2018 Cabernet Sauvignon | 93 PointsJan 2020The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon is redolent of blueberry jam, spice, mint, lavender and black cherry, all with terrific energy and superb balance. Vivid and sumptuous, the 2018 is shaping up to be a real beauty. — Antonio Galloni
2017 Lightning Bolt | 94 PointsJan 2020Coup de Foudre's flagship Cabernet Sauvignon Lightning Bolt is impressive in 2017. Dark, plush and beautifully textured, the 2017 has so much to offer. Blackberry jam, chocolate, mocha, espresso and licorice all run through this gorgeous four-barrel cuvée. Silky, polished and sensual, the 2017 is going to be impossible to resist, even upon release. — Antonio Galloni
2017 Cuvée 37.2 | 93 PointsJan 2020The 2017 Merlot Cuvée 37.2 has really turned out beautifully. Racy and opulent to the core, with terrific persistence, the Merlot has so much to offer. Black cherry, plum, chocolate, mocha and licorice all build in a super-expressive, inviting wine that will drink well right out of the gate. The blend is based on a core of Merlot from Kenefick Ranch and Cabernet Franc from Rutherford. — Antonio Galloni
2017 Malbec | 93 PointsJan 2020The 2017 Malbec is bold, juicy and totally expressive. Sweet red cherry, pomegranate, blood orange and mint are laced together in this wonderfully inviting Malbec. Plump and open-knit, the 2018 will drink nicely right out of the gate. — Antonio Galloni
2018 Sauvignon Blanc | 92 PointsJan 2020The 2018 Sauvignon Blanc is soft, open-knit and caressing. Lemon confit, white flowers, mint and light tropical overtones are all finely-knit. Delicate and understated, the 2018 is all class. — Antonio Galloni
2017 Pinot Noir | 93 PointsJan 2020The 2017 Pinot Noir is bold, juicy and expressive. Succulent dark cherry, tobacco, cedar, mint and licorice all run through this racy, boisterous Pinot Noir. As always, the Coup de Foudre Pinot is quite generous in feel. This soft, open-knit and sensual wine offers tremendous near- and medium-term appeal. — Antonio Galloni
2017 Les Bouquinistes | 94 PointsJan 2020The 2017 Les Bouquinistes, a field blend of Petit Sirah, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Zinfandel, is one of the most intriguing wines in this range from Coup de Foudre. Sweet floral notes, red cherry fruit, pomegranate and mint all race through a wine that is racy and exuberant, and yet retains a terrific sense of energy. The 2017 is such a gorgeous wine. — Antonio Galloni
2017 Le Droitier | 94 PointsJan 2020The 2017 Le Droitier, Coup de Foudre's Merlot-based red, is a powerful, heady wine. Black cherry, tobacco, espresso, smoke, licorice, graphite and menthol build as this Right Bank-inspired wine starts to open up. The 2017 needs time in bottle, but it is clearly one of the successes of the vintage. — Antonio Galloni
2017 Le Gauchiste | 95 PointsJan 2020The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Le Gauchiste is a ripe, exotic beauty. Inky, deep and exquisitely layered, this sumptuous Cabernet Sauvignon has so much going on. Chocolate, licorice, menthol and sweet spice add layers of dimension to this dark, unctuous Cabernet-base wine from Coup de Foudre. A wine of superb balance and total class, the Gauchiste is absolutely compelling today. — Antonio Galloni
2017 Pinot Noir | 93 PointsNovember 2019Concentrated and pure-tasting flavors of red currant, pomegranate and dark cherry are flanked by notes of exotic spice and forest floor in this lithe, powerful style. The finish echoes with minerality and dried savory accents. Drink now through 2025. — K.M.
2016 Cuvée 37.2 | 95 PointsSept 2019A blend of 65% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot, this Pomerol-inspired, estate-grown cuvée called 37.2 for the temperature in degrees Celsius at which the body starts to become feverish and is more likely to fall in love. Full-bodied, with ripe raspberry and blackcurrant aromas, a touch of.
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2016 Cabernet Sauvignon | 94 PointsSept 2019Offering dark plum, cassis and blackberry flavours with opulent texture, expressive tannins and a background harmony of cinnamon and cardamom spice mixed with the heady notes of fresh-cut herbs give this Calistoga Cab (with a 10% blend of Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc) a firm frame and long, focused finish.
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2016 Lightning Bolt Cabernet | 94 PointsSept 2019Only produced in the very best vintages, this estate-grown 100% Cabernet Sauvignon represents the crème de la crème from Coup de Foudre. Showcasing an evocative nose of black fruit and mocha nuances.
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2017 Sauvignon Blanc | 93 PointsSept 2019Unmistakable citrus-driven aromas of fresh grapefruit and lemon zest give way to a focused minerality and lively acidity on the palate, creating an ongoing synergy that culminates in a vibrant, expressive.
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2016 Pinot Noir | 93 PointsSept 2019Pure and concentrated, this 2016 Pinot Noir from a high-elevation vineyard off King’s Ridge Road in Sonoma offers fragrant black cherry and dried strawberry notes evenly supported by well-woven tannins and bright acidity. With 14 months' ageing in 40% new oak.
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2017 Sauvignon Blanc | 90 PointsDec 2018Coup de Foudre's 2017 Sauvignon Blanc is green, grassy and full of varietal character. Stone fruit, wild flowers and chamomile are nicely layered throughout in a bright, delineated Sauvignon that will drink nicely for a handful of years. — Antonio Galloni
2015 Le Gauchiste | 97 PointsDec 2018The 2015 Le Gauchiste is a stunning wine. Soaring, intense and beautifully, layered in the glass, the 2015 is a drop-dead gorgeous beauty. Dark cherry jam, cocoa and plum fruit are lifted by Cabernet Franc aromatics. The 2015 is spectacularly ripe and unctuous, but also absolutely impeccable in its balance. It is one of the most impressive wines I have ever tasted from Coup de Foudre. Wow! — Antonio Galloni
2016 Malbec | 92 PointsDec 2018The 2016 Malbec is rich, explosive and deep on the palate, with a striking combination of expressive varietal fruit and Calistoga muscle. Hints of scorched earth, savory herbs, tobacco, licorice and menthol add striking aromatic nuance to a core of super-ripe red cherry and plum fruit. This is an especially ripe style, but it works nicely. — Antonio Galloni
2016 Cuvée 37.2 | 94 PointsDec 2018The 2016 Merlot Cuvée 37.2 is just as good from bottle as it was from barrel. Deeply layered and yet also super-polished, the 2016 has much to recommend it. A rush of dark cherry, plum, leather, smoke, licorice, grilled herb and earthy notes abound in this beautifully resonant and expressive Merlot-based blend. Even with all of its intensity, the 2016 has terrific freshness. — Antonio Galloni
2016 Cabernet Sauvignon | 94 PointsDec 2018Coup de Foudre's 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon is vibrant, powerful and structured to the core. Black cherry, bittersweet chocolate, new leather, scorched earth and savory herbs add layers of complexity. The 2016 is dense and ample, with all of the muscle that is such a signature of Calistoga Cabernets. — Antonio Galloni
2016 Lightning Bolt | 94 PointsDec 2018The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Lightning Bolt is racy, perfumed and silky. Super-ripe red cherry, raspberry jam, blood orange and floral notes confer freshness to this mid-weight, silky Cabernet Sauvignon. Most of the other wines in the range emphasize power and overtness, but the Lightning Bolt plays much more in a realm of finesse. — Antonio Galloni
2016 Cabernet Sauvignon | 94 PointsOctober 2018The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon is deep garnet-purple in color and gives up super exuberant, ripe, expressive black and blue fruit with tons of Indian spices, earth and garrigue. The palate is full-bodied, rich and spicy with great vibrancy and grainy tannins, finishing long. — Robert Parker
2016 Cuvée 37.2 | 94 PointsOctober 2018A blend of 65% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot, the 2016 Proprietary Red Cuvée 37.2 is deep garnet-purple in color with a nose of crushed blackberries, red currants and black cherries with wafts of cedar chest, yeast extract and black olives plus sage hints. The palate is full-bodied, rich and concentrated with grainy tannins and quite earthy in mouth, finishing long. — Robert Parker
2016 Pinot Noir | 92 PointsOctober 2018Pale to medium ruby-purple colored, the 2016 Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast gives up vibrant red cherries, black raspberries and warm cranberries scents with rhubarb, earth, cinnamon stick and red roses. Medium to full-bodied with a firm frame of plush tannins and oodles of freshness, it finishes long and perfumed. — Robert Parker
2014 Le Gauchiste | 94 PointsOctober 2018Tasted from magnum, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Le Gauchiste is deep garnet-purple colored with a nose of crème de cassis, chocolate box, earth, dried herbs, violets and coffee. The medium to full-bodied palate is elegant, fresh and energetic with firm, grainy tannins, finishing long. — Robert Parker
2014 Le Droitier | 94 PointsOctober 2018The 2014 Merlot Coup De Foudre Le Droitier is medium garnet-purple colored with a gorgeous open-knit and flamboyant nose of warm plums, baked cherries, mulberries and baking spices with touches of cardamom, smoked meats and roses. The palate is full-bodied, concentrated and vibrant with tons of juicy fruit and firm, grainy tannins, finishing long and perfumed. — Robert Parker
2017 Sauvignon Blanc | 91 PointsNovember 2018Succulent mango and peach flavors are expresive and supple, with vibrant acidity and accents of peach blossom. Shows terrific focus on vthe finish, where candied ginger notes grab hold. Drink now. 250 cases made. — M.W.
2015 Le Droitier | 94 PointsJuly 2018Coup de Foudre's 2015 Le Droitier is gorgeous. Rich, dense and super-expressive, the 2015 hits all the right notes while also retaining the mid-weight structure that is such a signature of these wines. A rush of dark cherry, plum, mocha, new leather, licorice and espresso build as this silky, polished blend shows off its racy personality. What a beautiful wine this is. — Antonio Galloni
2016 Pinot Noir | 92 PointsMay 23, 2018Aromas of dried berries and hints of chocolate with some fresh herbs such as basil. Medium body, juicy fruit and flavorful finish. Turns fresh and bright. Drink Now. — James Suckling
2016 Les Bouquinistes | 93 PointsMay 23, 2018A juicy and delicious red with dark berries and hints of spices and dried mushrooms. Full body and round, soft tannins. Cool field blend of petit verdot, syrah, merlot, zinfandel and malbec. So drinkable now. — James Suckling
2017 Sauvignon Blanc | 92 PointsMay 23, 2018Very aromatic and bright with sliced apples, pineapples and dried lemon rind. Medium body, a nice phenolic texture and a flavorful finish. Just a hint of bitter citrus at the end. Dense structure. Drink now. — James Suckling
2015 Cuvée 37.2 | 93-94 PointsJanuary 2018The 2015 Merlot Cuvée 37.2 is gorgeous. Ripe, supple and inviting, with plenty of Merlot pushed forward, the 2015 Cuvée 37.2 is a winner. Succulent red cherry, plum, and rose petal are juicy in the glass, but it is the wine's freshness and overall vivacity – both hard to achieve in 2015 – make the wine totally irresistible. In 2015, the Cuvée 37.2 is absolutely delicious. Drink it over the next handful of years. — Antonio Galloni
2015 Cabernet Sauvignon | 93 PointsJanuary 2018Coup de Foudre's 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon is plump, juicy and voluptuous. Grilled herb and floral notes add aromatic lift to the plush, textured fruit. This is another 2015 that has retained gorgeous freshness and vibrancy. Red cherry, pomegranate, wild flowers and sweet spices infuse this super-expressive Cabernet Sauvignon. Dollops of Merlot and Cabernet Franc round out the blend. — Antonio Galloni
2016 Cuvée 37.2 | 94 PointsJanuary 2018The 2016 Merlot Cuvée 37.2 may turn out to be even better than 2015. Dark and sumptuous in the glass, the 2016 exudes richness in all of its dimensions. The tannin needs to soften a bit more, but otherwise, the 2016 is shaping up to be fabulous. — Antonio Galloni
2016 Cabernet Sauvignon | 94 PointsJanuary 2018The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon needs time to come together, but its concentration, density and character all suggest it has plenty of potential. In 2016, the Cabernet Sauvignon is dark, tannic and brooding in its personality. I can't wait to taste it from bottle. — Antonio Galloni
2015 Pinot Noir | 93 PointsJanuary 3, 2018A little closed now but this shows delicious blackcurrant essence, strawberries, herbs and resin. Structured with fresh acidity, chewy tannins and a long finish. Needs time. Drink in 2020. — James Suckling
2016 Malbec | 93+ PointsDecember 2017Very deep garnet-purple colored, the 2016 Malbec (barrel sample) has a nose of blackberries, plum preserves and spice cake with hints of potpourri, chocolate box and cardamom, Big, rich, voluptuous and full-bodied in the mouth, with concentrated berry preserves and spicy layers plus velvety tannins to support. It finishes long and perfumed. — Robert Parker
2015 Le Gauchiste | 93 PointsDecember 21, 2017Aromas of blackberry, blackcurrant and bramble berry. Perfumed. Full body, tight and chewy with beautiful fruit and depth. Needs two or three years to open. Try in 2019. — James Suckling
2015 Cabernet Sauvignon | 93 PointsDecember 21, 2017A supple and juicy cabernet sauvignon with currant, berry and chocolate character. Full body, round tannins and a flavorful finish. Delicious now but better in 2020. — James Suckling
2016 Sauvignon Blanc | 92 PointsNovember 29, 2017A steely Napa sauvignon blanc with grapefruit, lemon rind, pomelo and herbs. Linear and precise with razor-sharp acidity but good weight and a minerally finish. — James Suckling
2016 Sauvignon Blanc | 91 PointsDecember 2017Strikes the right balance between rich and smooth toasted herb, coconut water, citrus and marmalade notes, with vibrant mouthwatering acidity. Spice and dried honeysuckle accents linger on finish. — M.W.
2014 Cabernet Sauvignon | 92 PointsJuly 2017Extracted and supple, offering ripe currant, loamy earth, savory herb and cedary oak flavors that fall comfortably into place. Ends with a long, graceful finish. Best from 2018 through 2030, 900 cases made. — J.L.
2014 Lightning Bolt | 92-94 PointsThe 2014 Lightning Bolt is powerful, but also has a delicate side to it, something that is quite common in this vintage. Dark stone fruit, menthol and licorice are all nicely delineated in the glass. Beams of tannin give the wine its youthful grip and overall feel. — Antonio Galloni
2014 Le Gauchiste | 93 PointsThe 2014 Gauchiste offers lovely tension and energy in a slightly more finessed style than the 2013 tasted alongside it. Savory herb, smoke, leather and red cherry inform this powerful, incisive wine. Just bottled, the 2014 clearly needs time to come together, but it packs plenty of intensity in a deceptively medium-bodied style. Scents of lavender, menthol, savory herbs, smoke and tobacco give the 2014 its distinctive aromatic profile. — Antonio Galloni
2014 Le Droitier | 94 PointsThe 2014 Droitier is a Merlot-based barrel selection and essentially a counterpoint to the Gauchiste in the Coup de Foudre range. Black cherry, plum and mocha are front and center in this bold, racy wine. Even with all of its intensity, the Droitier remains mid-weight and gracious, especially for a Calistoga wine. This is an especially sensual red from Coup de Foudre. — Antonio Galloni
2014 Cuvée 37.2 | 95 PointsDecember 12, 2016A very fine red with currants, berries and walnuts that follow through to a full body that's tight and focused, not to mention beautifully polished. 65% merlot, 30% cabernet franc and 5% petit verdot. Better in 2018. — James Suckling
2013 Lightning Bolt | 95 PointsDecember 12, 2016A very pretty wine with blueberries, blackberries, licorice and spices. Full to medium body, super tight tannins and a focused finish. Needs two or three years to come together. — James Suckling
2015 Sauvignon Blanc | 95 PointsDecember 12, 2016This is dense and oily with lots of dried fruit and sliced grapefruit and ripe peaches. A full bodied white that shows the full Burgundy work with bagttonage and intense decadence. 100% sauvignon. Exciting and rich style. Only four barrels made. Drink now. — James Suckling
2014 Lightning Bolt | 94-95 PointsDecember 12, 2016What a delicious red already with blackberries, chocolate and spices. Medium body, a fine texure and a gorgeous finish. — James Suckling
2013 Le Gauchiste | 94 PointsDecember 12, 2016This is a tight wine with blueberry and mineral character. Firm and silky tannins. A medium body and beautiful polish. Extremely long and polished. Drink or hold. — James Suckling
2014 Les Bouquinistes | 92 PointsDecember 12, 2016A rich and fruity wine with blueberries, light fruit and hints of chocolate. Medium body, light tannins and a flavorful finish. Drink now. All here and delicious. 20% syrah, 20% carmenere, 20% petit verdot, 15% petit syrah, 8% malbec and 17% zinfandel. — James Suckling
2014 Pinot Noir | 92 PointsDecember 12, 2016A very pretty red with plums and hints of toasted oak and chocolate. Medium body, medium, velvety tannins and a juicy finish. Drink now. — James Suckling
2015 Sauvignon Blanc | 91 PointsNovember 2016Lemon meringue, dried mango and pineapple flavors are rich and creamy, with a touch of vanilla bean and toast lingering on the finish alongside a juicy note. Drink now. — M.W.
2013 Cabernet Sauvignon | 92 PointsAugust 2016Aromatically pure and inviting, with floral-scented plum and wild berry notes. The entry is pleasantly supple and mildly gripping, while the flavors offer the kind of complelling depth and persistence one seeks in fine Cabernet. Drink now through 2026. 625 cases made. — J.L.
2014 Cabernet Sauvignon | 92+ PointsJanuary 2016I tasted three barrel samples of 2014s. The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, an identical blend to the 2013 shows soft tannins in a front end-loaded, sexy style of wine with loads of fruit and a medium to full body. It should drink beautifully for the first 10-15 years of life. — Robert Parker
2014 Sauvignon Blanc | 90-92 PointsJanuary 2016The 2014 Sauvignon Blanc from Coup de Foudre is expensive, but it is absolutely delicious. A beautiful Sauvignon with plenty of honeysuckle, caramelized citrus and melons, it is relatively full for a Sauvignon (14.2%), and has gorgeous fruit, texture and length. Drink it over the next year. — Robert Parker
2014 37.2 Cuvée | 90 PointsJanuary 2016The 2014 Proprietary Red Cuvée 37.2, a slightly different blend at 65% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot. This is round, juicy, ripe and should turn out to be impressive. It should drink well for 8-10 years. — Robert Parker
2013 Cabernet Sauvignon | 93 PointsJanuary 2016Impressive, dense ruby/purple, loads of creme de cassis, licorice and cedar wood. This wine shows well. Its full-bodied and ripe. It can be drunk now or cellared for another 10-15 years. — Robert Parker
2013 Cuvée 37.2 | 94-95 PointsJanuary 2016Pure seductiveness—dense purple in color, plenty of chocolate, espresso, black cherry and blackcurrant and Asian plum in a full-boided, lush, heady, totally irresistible style. This may be the most successful Proprietary Red Cuvée 37.2 I've ever tasted from Coup de Foudre and it's a big time winner. Drink over the next 7-10 years. — Robert Parker
2013 Le Gauchiste | 94 PointsOctober 2015A rich, unctuous wine, the 2013 La Gauchiste offers up a compelling concoction of blueberry jam, spices, mint, licorice, lavender and crème de cassis. The 2013 is unabashedly opulent and forward. It should drink well with minimal cellaring. — Antonio Galloni
2013 Lightning Bolt | 93 PointsOctober 2015The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Lightning Bolt is deep, powerful and intense to the core. Dark stone fruit, mint, spices, lavender and white flowers are all nicely delineated throughout. The 2013 does a nice job of balancing opulence and structure. — Antonio Galloni
2012 Cabernet Sauvignon | 92 PointsOctober 2015The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon shows all the radiance it had as a barrel sample. Open-knit, supple and generous, the 2012 offers up plenty of sweet cherry, pomegranate, mint and cinnamon nuances, all with the soft contours that make this vintage so appealing to drink today. — Antonio Galloni
2012 Lightning Bolt | 93 PointsOctober 2015The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Lightning Bolt is round, supple and silky, with good depth and plenty of near term appeal. Crushed flowers, kirsch, tobacco, sweet red berries, plums and cinnamon are front and center in a juicy, voluptuous wine endowed with plenty of near and medium term appeal. — Antonio Galloni
2012 37.2 Cuvée | Top Score 93 PointsOctober 2015Complex and beautifully focused, with floral blackberry and spicy dark chocolate aromas, featuring rich yet densely structured flavors of currant, licorice and black olive. The tannins are big but fleshy. Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Best from 2017 to 2023. 350 cases made. — T.F.
The Airlines With the Best Wine ListsSeptember 21, 2015Emirates’ wine list is very focused, well-balanced, and really goes after quality in the bottle versus the marketing factor. The 2011 Coup de Foudre Cabernet Sauvignon is a great wine that’s perfect with red meat dishes... — Alex Berlingeri, the beverage director at New York’s Sant Ambroeus, Casa Lever, Felice, and Regency Bar & Grill. Top pick: 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon
2011 37.2 CuvéeMarch 2015If you like high-end Napa wines, you’re going to be thrilled by the Coup de Foudre—oak-aged, velvety Cabernet at its best. Bordeaux wishes it could do something like this (or not). — MR, Wine Buyer
2012 37.2 Cuvée | 93 PointsLuscious, rich plum, intense black raspberry and notes of mocha, espresso and spice; racy and lifted with soft, sweet oak and a long finish. 85% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot.
2013 Sauvignon Blanc | 92 PointsDecember 2014White flowers, pear, melon and peach all meld together in the 2012 Sauvignon Blanc, a wine that brings together expressive, varietal aromatics with lovely texture in its fruit. The 2012 is soft and understated on the palate, but there is plenty going on in the glass. — Antonio Galloni
2012 Cabernet Sauvignon | 93 PointsDecember 2014The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon is long on class and nuance. Here it is the wine's texture and overall depth that stand out above all else. At the same time, there is more than enough underlying structure to back up the dark, voluptuous fruit. I imagine the 2012 will drink nicely pretty much upon release, as it has plenty of vintage 2012 radiance. — Antonio Galloni
2012 Pinot Noir | 90+ PointsDecember 2014The 2012 Pinot Noir captures the energy of the Sonoma Coast along with the friendly, open personality of the year. Bright red cherries, mint, plums and spices all come to life in an expressive, approachable Pinot to drink now and over the next few years. — Antonio Galloni
2012 Lightning Bolt | 93 PointsDecember 2014The 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon Lightning Bolt is Coup de Foudre's top selection. An explosive, powerful wine, the 2012 races out of the glass with supple fruit and plenty of resonance, but in the laid back style that is typical here. Dark red cherry, cedar, leather, smoke and tobacco add nuance over time. The 2012 should continue to drink well for another 10-15 years. — Antonio Galloni
2010 Cabernet Sauvignon | 93 PointsA great vintage for Coup de Foudre. The wine has structure as well as masses of dark berry fruit with savoury herbs. Well made, complex wine with potential to age for 10-plus years. Ready to drink : 2016+
2012 37.2 Cuvée | 94 PointsThe 2012 Proprietary Red Blend Cuvée 37.2 (85% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Petit Verdot) is a gorgeous example of a Merlot-dominated wine. Abundant aromas of chocolate, mocha, espresso roast and black fruits jump from the glass of this dense purple-colored wine. It cuts a broad, full-bodied swath across the palate with no hard edges. The tannin is melted, and the wine is sexy, full-throttle, and beautifully pure and long. Drink now-2030. — Robert Parker
2012 Cabernet Sauvignon | 92 PointsThe deep purple-hued 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon is made in a more linear style with lots of straightforward crème de cassis. It does not reveal the nuances and complexity of its sibling, the Cuvée 37.2, but if you love Cabernet Sauvignon, this wine delivers it in spades. Rich, ripe, medium to full-bodied and pure, it should drink well for 12-15+ years. — Robert Parker
2013 Sauvignon Blanc2014 Host Guide Report-Best WinesHarvested from a mountain vineyard near Calistoga, Calif., in the Napa Valley, this 100 percent Sauvignon Blanc from winemaker Kent Jarman delivers lively panache and elegance in a single stroke. One’s nose tingles with hints of menthol and river-stone minerality, while vibrant citrus fruit—tangelo peel and grapefruit—engulf the palate. Sample this alongside a plate of raw Rome Point oysters with mignonette.
2011 Cabernet Sauvignon | 93 PointsAugust 2014Intense and richly flavored, with a deep, persistent mix of black berry, mocha, black licorice, espresso and cedar flavors. Tightly focused and graceful, this ends with a long, lingering finish that keeps reverberating with lively flavors. Drink now through 2024. 550 cases made. — J.L.
2011 37.2 Cuvée | 90 PointsJuly 28, 2014Sleek and soft, with red currant and coffee bean aromas and layered flavors of cherry, spice and semisweet chocolate. Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2019. 350 cases made. — Tim Fish
2013 Sauvignon Blanc | 90 PointsJuly 7, 2014Features snappy acidity to the succulent nectarine, lemon and melon flavors, with lime and grapefruit zest accents. The white floral notes gain momentum on the finish. Drink now. 200 cases made. — M.W.
2011 Cabernet Sauvignon | 90+ PointsBright medium ruby. Much fresher on the nose than the 2011 32.7 red blend, offering aromas of black cherry, leather, flowers, cedary oak and pepper. At once sweet and savory, boasting very good tangy intensity to the flavors of bitter cherry, chocolatey oak and black pepper. Finishes with serious, broad tannins and a building oakiness that makes me want to drink this wine on the early side. — Stephen Tanzer
Reese Witherspoon at CDF tasting room
2010 Cabernet Sauvignon | 92 PointsLush, dense and concentrated with deep plum and cassis; deep and ripe with a firm structure of juicy acidity; long, complex and balanced.
2010 Cabernet Sauvignon LB | 93 PointsMarch 31, 2014Packed with Rich, dense flavors, this offers strong cedar-scented oak notes, with strong, rich blackberry and dark berry fruit that's raw, intense and tannic-balanced. The woodsy flavors dominate the finish. Best from 2015 to 2026.
Best Wines of 2013December 22, 2013The 2009 Coup de Foudre's several fairly prominent features are tied together seamlessly; you know there is so much on your tongue, but it's whispering through. — Bill St. John
Cabernet Sauvignon | 98 PointsCoup De Foudre really is a stunning Cabernet, soft and complex, rich in blackberry and chocolate fruit, and irresistibly delicious. Somehow they have made a wine that’s powerful and opulent and impossibly rich, yet maintains and almost weightless elegance. — Steve Heimoff
2010 37.2 Cuvée | 94 PointsBalances power and finesse, offering aromas of currant and violet that open to rich yet densely packed flavors of blackberry, olive and loam. The tight finish of tannins suggest a long life. Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Best from 2015 through 2021. From California. — T.F.
2009 Cabernet Sauvignon | 94 PointsDark, dense and ripe with lovely sweet plum, blackberry and cassis; rich and concentrated but neatly balanced by a core of firm acidity; supple and showing notes of toasty oak, chocolate and coffee, long intense and harmonious. — Anthony Dias Blue
2008 Cabernet Sauvignon | 94 PointsThe obsession with all things French continues with the 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon (90% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Cabernet Franc). Revealing a similar dark ruby/purple color, it possesses lots of camphor, cassis, black cherry and licorice aromas as well as a full-bodied, impressively endowed, concentrated style with abundant texture. These are both serious wines to drink over the next 10-15 years. — Robert Parker
2004 Cabernet Sauvignon | 92 PointsBlended with 'select amounts of Syrah,' this skillfully crafted Cabernet delivers deep flavors and impressive richness and concentration but still comes off as suave and very well integrated, thanks to excellent balance between the fruit and the structural elements lent by oak and tannin. — Michael Franz
2004 Cabernet SauvignonCoup De Foudre’s remarkable range of textures and flavors work their effect gradually, like courses of an elegant and ample meal. First, luscious, rich, dark berry and chocolate caress the nose, then coat the palate in a silky soft blanket of chocolate and smoke, before the final course—a rich and unique finish of coffee and cream. — Brett Anderson
