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
An excellent value Napa Valley Cabernet at $48. Truly small production and hand-crafted. Scents of blackberry, smoky oak, spice and black cherry. A rich set of complex flavors including, black cherry, blackberry, cedar, cinnamon and dark spice. Silky and supple tannins with juicy acidity add complexity and structure. Notes of ripe raspberry and cinnamon on the finish. Buy This Wine
Truly an extraordinary wine, the kind only a few select winegrowers can produce, even from the best Napa Valley fruit. The nose is robust with aromas of dark cherry pie with hints of campfire smoke and mocha. For full effect this big boy needs an hour or more to decant. A soft and luxurious mouth-feel, full-bodied with balanced tannins and enough acidity for pairing with a juicy porterhouse, but this wine, in my opinion, should be enjoyed all on it’s own. Bold flavors abound of black cherry, blueberry and chocolate/cacao with notes of black pepper and smoke. A bit of espresso in the long finish. Buy This Wine
A rewarding blend of Dijon clones 115(73%), 777(18%), and 113(9%) from third generation winemakers, Ben and Jake Fetzer. The nose is full-bodied with aromas of plum and strawberry pie with notes of ripe raspberry. Balanced with a very dark crimson color and juicy food pairing acidity. On the palate, flavors of dark cherry, raspberry tartness, oaky toast and strawberry with subtle notes of black pepper on the finish followed by hints of cinnamon. Buy This Wine
A blend of Pinot Noir from six esteemed Russian River Valley vineyards, in some cases using whole berry fermentation. The nose entices with aromas of blueberry jam and a hint of campfire smoke. Medium-bodied with balanced acidity, this wine responds to a bit of decanting. Flavors of blueberry, cherry, cola and spice with subtle earthy notes. A touch of cinnamon and leather in the long finish. Buy This Wine
A well made zinfandel with a bit of complexity. Aromas of blueberry and black cherry with subtle notes of leather. Medium-bodied with a soft mouth-feel and a touch of acidity. Rich Zinfandel flavors of blackberry, black cherry, blueberry and cacao with hints of cinnamon spice and caramel. 15.1% alcohol yet well balalnce. Buy This Wine
