Beschreibung:

A PRODIGIOUS RANGE OF CLASSIC CALIFORNIANS Behind this exceptional collection is the story of an impassioned collector, driven by the thrilling event of the birth-date of his son coinciding with one of California's greatest, recent vintages for Cabernet and Merlot. He had collected fine wines in a small way before, but assembling this outstanding range of 1994s was pure serendipity. Careful research in the writings of leading commentators (Wine Advocate, Wine Spectator, Steven Tanzer) and discussions with suppliers allowed him to draw up his target wines. He then pursued them speedily, aggressively - and regularly, at our Christie's wine auctions, paying top dollars, when necessary. He was determined to secure the greatest wines as soon after their release as possible, so there would be no question about their provenance and the perfect conditions under which they had been stored. For his own part, he installed temperature and humidity control in an immaculate storage room. We have rarely seen such care being taken over ensuring perfect maturation. Why this disposal? The realisation that he had not only achieved his objective, he had gone slightly overboard in his enthusiasm! He is keeping plenty, for his son's celebrations, and it may now be time to broaden the wine selection with new purchases. This is a roll-call of sensational wineries. Of fabled 1994s, there is Bryant Family and Colgin, there is Grace Family and Harlan, and of course there is Dalle Valle Maya. Amongst California classics, there are 4 vineyards from Diamond Creek, with Ridge Monte Bello, Robert Mondavi Reserve, Stags Leap Cask 23, Chateau Montelena, Opus One and Dominus - and 6 bottles of Screaming Eagle. In addition, those looking for wines to serve on homely drinking occasions will find superb discoveries and values, with the keynote guarantee of this collection - immaculate storage. As they have aged, some wines have been hugely concentrated, tannic and often closed. Today, nearly ten years since their release, many are reaching their peaks, with great futures ahead. This is a truly exceptional opportunity to buy back into this vintage. Every collector of California greats should check: If you have any gaps in your range, you can almost certainly fill them here, with the assurance of perfect provenance and condition. Anthony Hanson, MW Christie's London 3 March 2005 1994 Vintage Put into context, the 1994 vintage was the first exceptional buying opportunity since 1987 for great California wine. Yes, 1991 had its glory, but success was not across the board; and let us be realistic: much has changed since 1987. New vineyard management techniques, put in place after the last string of great California vintages in the mid 80s, were bearing consistent quality fruit, new post-phylloxera vineyards came into production bearing healthy berries, investments in winery equipment coupled with newly available technology and research done by UC Davis; all equaled a new phase of California greatness. Several grape varieties benefited from the ideal growing conditions of '94; but undoubtedly the most auspicious, that continues to endure today, was Cabernet Sauvignon. An even bud-break, followed by spring rains and a mild summer yielded exceptionally ripe fruit. The warming growing season allowed for further development, yet moderate temperatures retained the acid component and flavor complexity development as integral to the finished wines. DVR Abreu Madrona Ranch, Cabernet Sauvignon--Vintage 1994 Napa Valley 1 dozen bottles per lot