Mercy Vineyards Chardonnay Riverbed 2012, Arroyo Seco, CA, $24 (S) – Rating 91
A beautifully balanced chardonnay with a delicate nose of red apple, citrus and hints of wet stone. Barrel fermented and aged in French Oak (20% new) creating just enough acidity in the round mouth-feel. On the palate, flavors of red apple, pear, Meyer lemon, vanilla and pie spice. A super-long finish offering notes of nutty caramel and brioche. 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. 

