Red Wine

Oct 142012
 
2009 V. Sattui Winery Gilsson Vineyard Zinfandel, Russian River Valley, CA, $37 (S) – Rating 91

Sometimes yummy is the right descriptor and this Zin is yummy. A rich nose of cherry and strawberry jam is the first act followed by jammy flavors of blackberry, dark cherry and baking spice. Notes of espresso and soft tannins add a delicious finishing touch. Buy This Wine

Oct 142012
 
2009 Kunde Family Estate Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma Valley, CA, $45 (S) – Rating 90

Expressive aromas of cheery pie and rich smoke are enticing. The palate offers up flavors of blackberry, dark cherry and plum with hints of cedar, espresso and caramel. Give it a bit of time in the decanter to open up and fully appreciate the balanced tannins and acidity. Buy This Wine

Oct 142012
 
2009 V. Sattui Winery Petite Sirah, Napa Valley, CA, $35 (S) – Rating 92

Petite Sirah, in my opinion, never seems to get its due. This wine is a great example of Napa Valley Petite Sirah. A rich nose of blackberry pie with notes of smoke and leather. Jammy spicy flavors of cherry, blackberry and ripe plum along with hints of black pepper, smoke and minerality. The tannins are softer than many Petite Sirahs making it all the more approachable. Only 150 cases…Get it while you can. Buy This Wine

Oct 102012
 
2009   Dry Creek Vineyard Old Vine Zinfandel, Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma County, CA, $30 (S)  – Rating 91

A lighter body than many super jammy Zins with an enticing nose of spicy cherry, blackberry and smoke.  A blend of 86% Zinfandel and 14% Petite Sirah from vines that average over 90 years old. The palate offers well integrated flavors of cherry, blueberry, leather, dark spice and tobacco box with notes of espresso and cocoa in the long finish. There is a definite undertone of earthiness that adds complexity. Buy This Wine

Oct 102012
 
2009 Youngberg Hill Estate Pinot Noir, Williamette Valley, OR, $25 (S) – Rating 3.9

A unique artisan Pinot Noir with a lovely nose of cherry, raspberry, spice and notes of smoke. Medium body with lively flavors of tart cherry, and raspberry with dark spice and zippy acidity are balanced with approachable tannins. The acidity adds to this wine’s food pairing capacity. Buy This Wine