Wine Advocate
byJeb Dunnuckthe8/1/2013
Moving onto the 2012 Barrels, which across the board are superb, the 2012 Optimus should certainly match or exceed the incredible 2011. Full-bodied, seamless and downright sexy, with classy berry fruit, licorice, violets and spring flowers, it should be approachable on release and have a decade of longevity. Drink 2014-2022. I was blown away by these wines. Easily the most impressive lineup I’ve tasted from proprietor Stephan Asseo, these 2011s show the purity and focus of the vintage, yet balance it with incredible richness and texture that never seems cumbersome or heavy. The 2012s are no less rich, yet have impeccable purity and texture, as well as brilliant overall focus and structure that will allow them to evolve gracefully. Make no mistake about it though, these are all big, ripe wines; I find them utterly compelling and hard to resist.(93-95+)Drink: 2014 - 2022