B-21 Top Recommendation Read More
"John Alban is a pioneer through and through, having spearheaded the Rhône Ranger movement and set into motion what would become some of the Central Coast's most sought-after bottlings."-Wine Advocate
Fans of cult-calber California Rhône wines need no introduction to this iconic estate, as Alban has long been the standard bearer for the pinnacle of what these varietals can achieve in California's Central Coast. A glowing critical track record a mile long points to some of the Golden State's most inimitable bottlings, and John Alban's style is the benchmark by which many other producers judge their own work. As Jeb Dunnuck remarks, "I don’t think anyone is doing Rhône varieties better."
Typically tightly allocated and somewhat elusive in the market, the Alban wines are always a hot ticket when they pop up on our radar. Leading off this trio of recent releases in limited quantity, the estate's flagship 2021 Patrina is "a terrific introduction to the wines of this incredible estate" thanks to its "a classic, seamless, incredibly impressive style" according to Dunnuck. Showcasing the estate's world-class single-vineyard Syrahs, the double 98-point 2019 Reva is a showpiece of jaw-dropping class, "breathtaking in youth but certain to develop further complexity," as described by Decanter.Finally, Alban's Midas touch with Viognier is on full display in a 93-point 2023 Central Coast bottling that offers the best of both worlds in its enchanting varietal complexity and expertly crafted balance.
Fans of the estate will once again be over the moon for the latest renditions, but anyone who's a fan of the very best offerings from California should jump at the chance to experience these singular expressions, especially at our razor-sharp, market-leading pricing. |