Wine Reviews

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

Dec 032013
 
2011 Giordano Collection Nebbiolo d’Alba cod Maestri Italiani, Langhe, Piedmont, Italy, $ (S) – Rating 89

Looking for a real crowd pleaser red wine? This Nebbiolo will fit the bill. Only 13.5% alcohol, light to medium bodied, perfect for BBQ, hot wings or pizza. A very subtle and soft nose with cherry and floral notes. Soft on the palate and easy-drinking offering a mouth-full of cherry, strawberry and red berry flavors. Buy This Wine

Dec 032013
 
2010 Giordano Chianti docg Riserva , Tuscany, Italy, $ (S) – Rating 90

A superb go-to red wine blend of 90% Sangovese and 10% Canaiolo that will pair with anything from pizza to tomato sauces and lighter meats. A full nose offering aromas of dark cherry, camp smoke and spice. The wine has a soft and juicy mouth-feel with plenty of fruit. Lower in alcohol at 13%, give it at least 30 to decant for full enjoyment. Well integrated tannins with flavors of cherry, plum and oaky vanilla. Buy This Wine

Dec 032013
 
2009 Giordano Collection Aglianico Rinforzato Puglia IGT, Apulia, Italy, $ (S) – Rating 89

A rich and enticing nose of smoky dark cherry with lots of spice and notes of balsamic. Give this wine an hour or more to open. The tannins soften nicely over time. Flavors of cherry, plum and dark spice are complimented with hints of strawberry and ripe raspberry on the finish. Good food pairing acidity for that juicy steak. Buy This Wine

Dec 022013
 
2011 Cartograph Wines  – Anderson Valley Pinot Noir, CA, $38 – Rating 91

Very small production of only 55 cases from Roma’s Vineyard near Boonesville, CA. Medium-bodied with balanced acidity and a soft mouth-feel. Aromas of cherry, ripe strawberry puree and baking spice. Flavors of cherry, raspberry and cranberry come together with hints of cola in the long finish. Buy This Wine

Dec 022013
 
2011 Amista Vineyards Saini Farms The Hill Block Zinfandel, Dry Creek Valley, CA, $34  – Rating 90

As a Dry Creek Zinfandel should be. A rich nose of cherry, plum and dark spice with hints of espresso. A leaner style than some with balanced tannins and food-pairing acidity. Flavors of red fruit, dark fruit, raspberry, blackberry and ripe strawberry with notes of espresso in the long finish. Buy This Wine