Ratings Explained
84 & Below – Not Posted ‘cause we won’t drink it
85 + A good wine. Buy if the price is right
90 + A very good wine, in our humble opinion
95 + An awe inspiring wine – Possibly life altering
All wine reviews are based solely on the personal tastes of the authors.
Disclosure: Samples are designated by an “S” beside the wine reviewed.
We’re still objective. Robert Parker doesn’t buy his wines either
Each year Brice Jones at Emeritus steps it up just a bit more. A beautiful medium-bodied Pinot with well integrated rich flavors and enough gentle tannin to add structure. Usually only available in restaurants/bars, it is an excellent foodie wine. The balance makes Emeritus immediately approachable when served. A great go-to restaurant wine that is sure to impress.
A truly satisfying Santa Cruz Cabernet from Cooper-Garrod. Round and full flavors of back cherry, blackberry, ripe plum, dark spice with notes of saddle leather and cedar. Enough supple tannins to add a good backbone. Decanting for about 30 minutes helped the wine to reach full potential.
A year ago I had the chance to chat with Dolores Cakebread (wife of founder Jack Cakebread). She asked if I’d had her Sauvignon Blanc because it was “one of the best.” I finally had some a year later and Dolores was right. Cakebread Cellars offers a lovely example of Napa Sauvignon Blanc with crisp yet rich flavors of soft red apple, citrus, honeydew melon, fig and vanilla. Aging in neutral oak barrels and blending with 4% Sauvignon Musque and 5% Semillon adds just enough richness and texture.
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.
William and Chris Vineyards continues to prove why they are among the best in Texas. This blend of Tempranillo, Mourvedre, Cab Franc, Merlot from Lost Draw Vineyards in Brownfield, TX is a light to medium bodied red with flavors of dark cherry, plum, soft leather and a touch of smoke. An easy drinker, the flavors and complexity are enhanced by the supple tannins.
