During my recent trip to Napa, I had the privilege of attending an exclusive wine tasting event hosted by Mr. Isaac Pirolo.
The tasting showcased a meticulously curated selection of nine exceptional wines, seven of which were from the esteemed Myriad Cellars and two from the prestigious Perchance Estates. Both wineries are the product of Mr. Mike Smith’s unparalleled expertise and unwavering passion for the art of winemaking.
Myriad Cellars is a boutique vineyard renowned for its limited production of premium-quality wines, while Perchance Estates specializes in crafting wines from Napa’s most sought-after vineyards.
The tasting took place at the picturesque Tamber Bay Vineyards, amidst the serene surroundings of horses, stables, and breathtaking views of Mount St. Helena.
The focus of the tasting was predominantly on Cabernet Sauvignon, with a few other noteworthy varietals also showcased. The Cabernet Sauvignons exhibited a consistent flavor profile characterized by hints of blue and black fruit, earthy tones, chocolate, and spice. Despite their similarities, each wine possessed its own unique nuances, balance, finish, and body.
My review and tasting notes of the 9 wines we tried are below…
2022 Myriad Sangiacomo Green Acres Vineyard ‘Wente Clone’ Chardonnay
-Tasting Notes: Citrus, tropical fruit, pineapple, green apple, oak, vanilla, brioche
-Characteristics: Golden yellow in color, smooth, crisp, summer sippin’
-My Rating: 4.2 /92
2022 Myriad Cellars Las Madres Syrah (100% Whole Cluster)
-Tasting Notes: Black fruit, licorice, smoke, blue fruit, red fruit, oak, vanilla, chocolate
-Characteristics: Bold, Medium plus acidity, tannic and dry
-My Rating: 3.8 / 88
2022 Myriad Cellars Beckstoffer Las Amigas Merlot
-Tasting Notes: Black fruit, smoke, earth, leather, cherry, oak and plum
-Characteristics: Round and balanced, smooth and rich
-My Rating: 4.3 / 93
2022 Myriad Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
-Tasting Notes: Black fruit, blue fruit, dark cherry, brown sugar, baking spice, oak, vanilla and mocha
-Characteristics: Bold, concentrated, fruit forward, young, dry, tight and would benefit from decanting
-My Rating: 4.1 / 91
2022 Myriad Cellars Beckstoffer Georges III Cabernet Sauvignon
-Tasting Notes: Black fruit, espresso, leather, licorice, floral, red fruit,
-Characteristics: Smooth and balanced yet highly tannic, could benefit from decanting
-My Rating: 4.3 / 93
2022 Myriad Cellars Beckstoffer Georges III ‘Empyrean’ Reserve
-Tasting Notes: Black fruit, blue fruit, brown sugar, leather, mocha and baking spice
-Characteristics: Balanced and smooth, tannins could benefit from decanting
-My Rating: 4.3 / 93
2022 Myriad Cellars ‘Rarefied Air’ Cabernet Sauvignon
-Tasting Notes: Lavender, floral, blackberry, boysenberry, blue fruit, oak, earthy, leather and baking spice
-Characteristics: Smooth, balanced, tannic, medium plus acid, light, elegant and expressive with a lovely finish
-My Rating: 4.4 / 94
2020 Perchance Cabernet Sauvignon GIII
-Tasting Notes: Blackberry, black fruit, cassis, baking spice and chocolate
-Characteristics: Balanced yet dry with medium plus acidity, long silky finish
-My Rating: 4.4 / 94
2021 Perchance Cabernet Sauvignon GIII
-Tasting Notes: Floral, spice, licorice, red, blue, and black fruit
-Characteristics: Clean, rich, bold, layered, full bodied, young but drinking beautifully now and has a velvety long finish
-My Rating: 4.5 / 95
While I have a personal preference for the 2021 Perchance and 2022 Beckstoffer Georges III Cabernet Sauvignon, I recognize that everyone has their own unique palate and preferences. I would highly recommend trying a variety of wines to discover your own favorites, whether it be for your own enjoyment or to share with great friends.