J Vineyards Cuvee 20 Brut NV, Russian River Valley, CA, $28 (S) – Rating 90
This affordable sparkling wine from J Vineyards is another reason why bubbles should be an every day affair. A crisp nose of lemon, tropicals and yeasty brioche. Bright acidity with a plush mouth-feel gives way to notes of Meyer lemon, tropicals, citrus, pear and flaky croissant. Elegant minerality in the long finish. Buy This Wine



Think cold winter’s day, a blanket and a fireplace. This is the perfect big wine to share. Be patient however as this Petite Sirah take at least an hour to open to full potential. A robust nose of smokey cherry, blueberry and spice. A palate full of black cherry, blackberry, ripe raspberry, oaky vanilla, dark chocolate and brown spice. As one should expect from a Petite, it offers a full mouth-feel with big tannins and bright acidity. Dark cherry and peppery spice on the finish.