90 + Very Good Wine

Jul 102012
 
2008 Sawyer Cellars Bradford Meritage, Red Wine, Rutherford, Napa Valley, CA, $46 (S) – Rating 91

A rich blend of 67% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot, this wine calls out for a warm fireplace and a cold night. A spicy nose of  dark cherry, tobacco and blueberry gives way to a full palate of dark berry, black cherry, leather and smoke with fairly soft tannins yet good acidity. Paired wonderfully with chorizo topped steak.

Jul 102012
 
2008 Schramsberg Blanc de Noir North Coast, CA, $38 (S) – Rating 93

This wine never fails to impress. With 91% Pinot Noir and 9% crisp Chardonnay this robust sparkler offers a full round mouth-feel with subtle flavors of raspberry, orange peel, yeast and red fruit. Perfectly balanced acidity creates endless food pairing opportunities. Don’t wait for a celebration… Drink today! Buy This Wine

Jul 082012
 
2010 Franciscan Cuvee Sauvage Chardonnay, Carneros, Napa Valley, CA, $36 (S) – Rating 91

An enticing nose of apple, pear and Creme Fraiche with notes of citrus and honeycomb. A lush mouth-feel filled with flavors of apple, pear, ripe pineapple and baking spice with hints of oaky vanilla and buttery cream. Well balanced enough to avoid the butter-bomb label.

Jul 082012
 
2010 Freeman Vineyard & Winery Keefer Ranch Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, CA, $42(S) – Rating 93

A beautifully rich and complex Pinot with a full nose of cherry and forest floor. The palate is caressed with jammy flavors of strawberry, raspberry and red berries with hints of ripe plum and saddle leather. The long finish is enhanced by mouthwatering acidity. Best laid down for a while but if you drink it now…decant for maximum pleasure.