2015 Carlisle The Derivative Blanc....$29.99
The 128-year-old Semillon was partially barrel fermented in neutral oak while the remainder was done in stainless steel. Tasting Note: An inviting fresh and spicy nose, exhibiting key lime, balsa, honeysuckle and macaroon scents. More lithe and harmonious on the palate than previous vintages, with less oak influence. The acidity is in check, while the Semillon provides a slightly oily character, married with the green apple, melon, preserved lemon and white grapefruit influences. A touch of toast and gingerbread on the finish. This wine is a lovely sipper and should complement cheese plates, seafood, and light pasta dishes in particular. A singular and distinctive white. Drink 2017 – 2020
2012 Carlisle The Derivative White...$29.99
54% Semillon, Monte Rosso Vineyard
30% Muscadelle, Pagani Ranch
16% Palomino, Saitone RanchOnly 316 cases made
This unusual blend combines old-vine Sémillon from the Monte Rosso Vineyard with Muscadelle and Palomino. Voluptuous on the nose, the wine is restrained on the palate, with inviting layers of licorice, beeswax and stone fruit. Exotic and long lasting, it’s an intriguing wine.
Rated 95/100 The Wine Enthusiast
2014 Carlisle Zinfandel Bedrock Vineyard....$47.99
The 2014 Zinfandel Bedrock Vineyard emerges from one of the warmer sites Carlisle works with. All of that intensity comes through in a big, dramatic wine endowed with serious presence, intensity and tannic heft. Black cherries, menthol, tar, licorice and smoke hit the palate in a big wine that shows the virile side of Zinfandel. The Bedrock is not especially polished, subtle or refined, but it sure is distinctive.
Rated 92-94/100 Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
Rated 91-93/100 Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate
2014 Carlisle Zinfandel Papera Ranch...$47.99
I’ll just briefly summarize the 2014s....The production levels were relatively abundant for Mike Officer and the wines fruit-forward, although softer and less reserved than some of the 2013s. While not quite as opaque in color, they are loaded with fruit, supple and luscious. The other wines all stood out and will, no doubt, merit outstanding ratings across the board for their intensity, richness, and full-bodied power. If you already know what Mike Officer does, and the style of his wines, you won’t be disappointed in his 2014s. You may even like them as much as any vintage, given the fact that this year shows a lot of up-front fruit and charm.
Rated 91-93/100 Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate
2014 Carlisle Zinfandel Carlisle Vineyard...$47.99
The 2014 Zinfandel Carlisle Vineyard is wonderfully complete. Deep, dark and layered, the 2014 exudes pedigree from the very first taste. Seamless and polished, with striking depth, the Carilsle is a terrific example of Zinfandel from the Piner-Olivet district of the Russian River Valley. As always, the Carlisle is most accurately described as a field blend, given that there are approximately 39 other varieties interspersed among the Zinfandel.
Rated 93-95/100 Antonia Galloni Vinous Media
Rated 92-94/100 Robert Parker, The Wine Advocate
Rated 92+/100 Antonio Galloni, Vinous Media
2014 Carlisle Russian River Valley Two Acres...$45.99
"A powerful nose of Christmas spices, burnt caramel, charcuterie and plum. Truly inviting. The palate provides a deep, round plummy note that speaks profoundly of Mourvèdre before the mixed black varieties introduce themselves with a richness and velvety texture on the tongue, adding dimension and depth. Elements to the finish include tar, Asian 5 Spice, citrus pith and cinnamon stick. Luxuriously textured. A lovely wine, especially for those who harbor an appreciation for the greatness of Mourvèdre. Drink or hold – you won’t regret the decision. Drink 2018 – 2030" -- winery
Rated 89-91/100 The Wine Advocate