During our recent visit to Napa, we had an exceptional tasting experience at AXR, where we were graciously hosted by their esteemed Brand Ambassador, Alex Bellows. The tasting was conducted in a charming farmhouse-style house from the 1800s, which was tastefully decorated and exuded a warm ambiance. In addition to the tasting, we were given a comprehensive tour of the property, during which we gained valuable insights into the history of the estate and the AxR Foundation.
The Fab 4 wine, a signature offering from AXR, is a meticulously crafted blend of the finest grapes from each season. It derives its name from the four remarkable individuals who established the AxR Foundation: Kelly Trevethan, Mark Schratz, Dan Van Laeken, and Winemaker Jean Hoefliger.
Among the wineries we visited during our Napa trip, AXR undoubtedly stood out as one of the most impressive. The picturesque setting, coupled with the exceptional tasting experience, left a lasting impression on us. We eagerly anticipate the arrival of our wine shipment, which will serve as a delightful reminder of our memorable visit.
My tasting notes and reviews for the wines we tasted are as follows…
axr Sauvignon Blanc 2023
Tasting notes: Lemon, grapefruit, green apple, peach, mineral, hay, peach, oak, and vanilla
Characteristics: Crisp, clean, bright, beautiful
My Rating: 4.6 / 96 points
axr Chardonnay 2021
Tasting notes: Lemon, grapefruit, tropical, mineral, hay, oak, pear, vanilla, honey, and brioche
Characteristics: Crisp, clean, creamy, elegant and sultry texture
My Rating: 4.7 / 97 points
axr Fab 4 2021
Tasting notes: Blackberry, black currant, blueberry, rose, licorice, honey, vanilla, tobacco, and earthy
Characteristics: Beautifully smooth and balanced with a clean finish
My Rating: 4.7 / 97 points
axr Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2021
Tasting notes: Blackberry, black currant, plum, pomegranate, oak, and baking spices
Characteristics: Layered and smooth. Masculine with an elegant feminine finesse
My Rating: 4.6 / 96 points
axr V Madrone Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2015
Tasting notes: Dark fruit, licorice, boysenberry, spice, and herbs
Characteristics: Smooth, beautiful acidity, romantically elegant
My Rating: 4.8 / 98 points
axr V Madrone Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2021
Tasting notes: Blue fruit, black fruit, black currant, vanilla, brown sugar, leather, tobacco, cassis, and cranberry
Characteristics: Bold, medium plus acid and tannic, dry, delicate, and smooth
My Rating: 4.6 / 96 points
axr Ganzin Red 2021
Tasting notes: Blackberry, blueberry, red fruit, cedar, vegetal, tobacco, vanilla, chocolate, and pepper
Characteristics: Great texture, dry, smooth and full bodied Bordeaux Style with a long finish
My Rating: 4.5 / 95 points
AxR1 2018
Tasting notes: Red, black and blue fruit, oak, licorice,, and roses
Characteristics: High in tannins and acid could rest for a while.
My Rating: 4.5 / 95 points
axr Ritchie Vineyard Chardonnay 2021
Tasting notes: Citrus, lemon and grapefruit, mineral, oak, peach, tropical, vanilla and floral notes
Characteristics: Smooth, sexy, elegant, intense, bright and acidic, layered with a slightly oaky and lingering finish
