85 + Good Wine

Nov 102011
 
2010 Lander Jenkins Vineyards Chardonnay, Spirit Hawk, CA $15 (S) – Rating 88

An excellent value Chardonnay. We have seen it priced as low as $10 and that’s one heck a a deal for a Chardonnay of this character. The experience begins with a nose of ripe red apples followed by a rich and round mouth-feel full of pear, apple, honeycomb, spice, soft vanilla oak and buttery creme.

Oct 252011
 
2008 Concannon Conservancy Petite Sirah, Livermore Valley, CA $15 (S) – Rating 88

A bit leaner and softer than many chewy-spicy Petite Sirahs. That said, the flavors of ripe blackberries, black fruit, ripe plums with mocha overtones and a touch of spicebox are enticing. Balanced tannins add to the structure.

Oct 252011
 
2010 Predator Old Vine Zinfandel, Lodi Appellation, CA, $22 (S) – Rating 88

Are you ready for some BBQ? Predator Old Vine Zin may be just the wine to compliment your grill. Big flavors of blackberry, dark cherry, plum, dark spice, tobacco and oaky vanilla complimented by a touch of tannin body and a very long finish.  None of the cherry cola flavors often found in Lodi Zin…that’s a good thing!

Oct 072011
 
2007 Wyndham Estate Bin 444 Cabernet Sauvignon, South Eastern Australia, $9 (S) – Rating 88

Looking for a well priced go-to Cabernet? This offering from Wyndham Estate is full of the Cabernet flavors we love like dark cherry, black currant, chocolate oaky smoke. Soft tannins compliment the rich fruit. Sure to be a crowd pleaser  at your next gathering.