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
A big-boy Pinot with rich fruit and well-structured tannins made by Pinot Noir specialist James MacPhail . A beautifully complex wine with flavors of dark cherry, plum, raspberries that finish with a touch of oaky caramel. Give this wine your full attention and you’ll be well rewarded.
An excellent value Chardonnay that should cost more. Patianna’s certified organic estate vineyards produce a rich wine with a ton of flavor and acidity. Sur lie ageing and a bit of oak create a round lush mouth-feel without adding a stick of butter. Crisp flavors of apple, pear, peach, tropical fruit and vanilla.
This Cab from Cinnabar Winery grabed my attention from the start. Note the wine was held back longer than most, which adds to the maturity. Very well structured. Rich with solid fruit and soft tannins. Lovely flavors of black cherries, rasberries and black tea with hints of leather, smoke and oak. 100 % Cabernet Sauvignon
A thoroughly enjoyable Chardonnay that you’d expect to cost more. A creamy wine with flavors of vanilla, ripe peaches, red apples with only a hint of oak. Very well balanced lushness and acidity creates a smooth mouth-feel.
How about I just start with “AWSOME!” This is a big rich chewy Pinot that grabs your attention with a complex richness. Great flavors of black cherry, dark fruits and spice in addition to hints of dark coffee and cola. As big as this wine is, it paired beautifully with grilled duck. MacPhail Family Wines
