Bacchus & Beery Wine Blog

Mar 252014
 
Macauley Chardonnay 2012 – Dutton Ranch, Russian River Valley, CA, $48  – Rating 91

Limited production of only 180 cases. Fermented sur lie in equal parts concrete, stainless steel and neutral oak barrels. In the glass, a rich golden hue with aromas of red apple, citrus and baking spice. A balanced mouth-feel offering enough crisp acidity to food pair or enjoy solo. Flavors of red apple, pear and tropicals with just a hint of lime, spice and minerality. Pleasant notes of grilled pineapple and citrus on the long finish. Buy This Wine

Mar 242014
 
Giordano Italian WineGiordano Montepulciano d’Abruzzo d.o.c. 2011, Progetto Collection, Abruzzo, Italy, $12 (S) – Rating 89

This a a hearty red wine that needs some time to open. Patience will be rewarded. The nose entices with rustic and briary scents combined with aromas of forest floor. A soft mouth-feel with soft tannins. Round flavors of plum, blueberry, ripe cherry, oaky vanilla and a hint of peppery spice. Pleasant notes of espresso and chocolate on the finish. Buy This Wine

Mar 242014
 
C donatiello wineC. Donatiello Pinot Noir 2012, Bucher Vineyard, Russian River Valley, CA, $55 – Rating 93

Another excellent Pinot Noir from this outstanding Russian River Valley vineyard. Aromas abound of cherry, blueberry, red fruit and earthy spices. A soft and round mouth-feel but in a leaner style with balanced acidity. Integrated flavors of red cherry and chocolate with notes of strawberry, raspberry and spice. Interesting hints of espresso in the long finish. Great as a food accompaniment or just to enjoy for its own sake. Buy This Wine

Mar 172014
 
Broman Cellars Sauvignon Blanc 2012, Napa Valley, CA, $20 (S) – Rating 90

Sourced from two Napa vineyards. 100%Sauvignon Blanc fermented and aged in stainless steel with no malolactic fermentation. Crisp and vibrant with a nose lemon creme, pineapple and citrus.  A touch of creaminess on the palate with balanced acidity giving way to flavors of pineapple, citrus and minerality with a hint of lime zest in the finish. Buy This Wine

Mar 172014
 
Emeritus Pinot Noir 2011, Hallberg Ranch, Russian River Valley, CA, $42 – Rating 94

It seems that each year Emeritus Pinot Noir gets just a little bit better and the 2011 is no exception. This is a very balanced Pinot with enough richness to be interesting yet not overpowering or jammy. The nose is robust offering aromas of strawberry, raspberry, spice and leather. A soft mouth-feel with juicy acidity and balanced tannins. Well integrated flavors of cherry, ripe raspberry, ripe strawberry and a bit of blackberry and spice. A distinct minerality in the long finish. Buy This Wine