As we move toward the end of 2013, Mark looks back on a year of intensive tasting and selects the outstanding wines he sampled over the past twelve months. He singles out four wines—two whites and two reds—as being the most exceptional bottles of the year. The selection process was both personal and subjective, but the reasons for each specific award are compelling. At the end of the show, he singles out one wine estate for exceptional achievement.

Here are the winners:

Robert Mondavi Reserve Fumé Blanc, To-Kalon Vineyard, Napa, 2011 ($45) Beaune, Clos des Mouches, Joseph Drouhin, 2010 ($100) Northstar Merlot, Columbia Valley, Washington, 2009 ($35) Black Chicken Zinfandel, Robert Biale, Napa, 2011 ($42)

And the winner of the Quench! Award for outstanding achievement by a wine
estate:

Littorai Winery, Sonoma (Ted and Heidi Lemon, proprietors)

Next week: The Quench! Spirits Awards!

LINKS:
Binny’s Beverage Depot—Link to: http://www.binnys.com

Iconic Spirits: An Intoxicating History—Link to:http://www.iconicspirits.net