California time again! I’m really excited about a lot of the wines in this report.

J McClelland wows with a Napa Malbec and Petit Verdo...

2013 J. McClelland Petit Verdot- California, Napa Valley
SRP: $45
Inky purple color. On the nose, waves of juicy dark plums, blackberry, black currants, along with violets, pepper, cardamom, chestnuts. Full-bodied, bold grip to the tannins, medium acidity keeps it lively. Black cherry, cassis and blueberry, dark and punchy fruit, laced with pepper, violets, cedar, coffee and iron. Lots of depth, cellar-worthy for 5-8 easily, but gorgeous now, especially with air or time in the decanter. Includes 10% Malbec, aged 26 months in French oak. (91 points)

2013 J. McClelland Malbec- California, Napa Valley, Oak Knoll
SRP: $45
Bold purple color. Bold purple color. Rich, intoxicating aromas of blueberry, blackberry, summer plums, violets, chestnut, cocoa, graphite, vanilla – complex, evolving aromas that will pop with cellar time. Structured well but velvety, yet vibrant acidity. Tart black cherries, currants, the fruit is rich but tangy. Complex elements of tobacco, pencil lead, sage, paved road, with some earthy/rocky soil elements. Long time ahead, but this is a stunner of a Napa Malbec already. 100% Malbec. (91 points)