Red Wine

Mar 192012
 
2009 Roadhouse Winery Zinfandel, Dry Creek, CA, $29 – Rating 91

Known more for their Pinot Noir, this Zinfandel from Roadhouse Winery rocks it. A bit of extra zip comes from the Petite Sirah and Carignane in the blend. Rich and jammy flavors of black cherry, blackberry, ripe plum, currant, bramble and dark spice. Supple tannins add a bit of backbone.

Mar 192012
 
2009 MacPhail Family Wines Wildcat Vineyard Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast, CA, $49 (S) – Rating 93

James MacPhail is a master of big, rich Pinot Noir and this beauty from MacPhail Family Wines is no exception. Ripe and round flavors of cherry, raspberry, red berries are complimented with hints of oak, spice and minerality with just a touch of fruit sweetness. I shared this wine with a friend who said “I just don’t get Pinots”…he does now!

Mar 162012
 
2008 Patland Vineyards Proprietary Red Wine, Napa Valley, CA, $48 (S) – Rating 90

A lush blend of Cabernet, Syrah and Malbec. The characteristics of each still shine through in this well-integrated wine from Patland Vineyards. Rich flavors of dark cherry, red berries, rhubarb, tobacco and oaky vanilla. The backbone of soft yet discernible tannins add complexity make this wine very approachable and versatile.