Red Wine

Dec 022011
 
2009 Trinchero Zinfandel Zinfatuation, Amador County, CA, $9 – Rating 89

A wonderful value Zinfandel with rich easy drinking flavors of blackberry, black cherry, black fruit, vanilla and spice are gracefully integrated with soft tannins. A superb go-to wine for that backyard BBQ or chilly night by the fire. No one will guess you only paid $9.

Dec 022011
 
Clif Family Winery Kit’s Killer Cab 2008, Napa Valley, CA, $38 (S) – Rating 92

An exciting blend of Cabernet (78%), Merlot (8%) Malbec (8%) and Cab Franc (6%) creates flavors black cherry, blackberry, ripe plum, saddle leather, oaky vanilla, spice and cherry cola. Well balanced with soft and supple tannins, this is an easy drinking Cabernet blend that pairs well with red meats. Clif Family Winery

Nov 102011
 
2008 Tres Sabores Por que No?, California Red Wine, $22 (S) – Rating 88

Por que No? “Why not?”  from Tres Sabores Winery is a balanced blend of Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Cabernet, and Petit Verdot that is an easy drinking party or BBQ wine. Sure to be a crowd pleaser. The nose is rich with dark berries and spice while the palate is full of dark cherry, ripe plum, toasty oak and soft tannins.

Oct 252011
 
2008 Concannon Conservancy Petite Sirah, Livermore Valley, CA $15 (S) – Rating 88

A bit leaner and softer than many chewy-spicy Petite Sirahs. That said, the flavors of ripe blackberries, black fruit, ripe plums with mocha overtones and a touch of spicebox are enticing. Balanced tannins add to the structure.

Oct 252011
 
2008 Domaine Carneros Pinot Noir, Napa Valley, CA, $29 – Rating 90

A lovely still Pinot Noir offering by this sparkling wine house. The nose is filled with aromas of cherry, ripe plum, saddle leather and spice. The aromas carry over to the glass and are complimented by smooth, well integrated tannins and a touch of white pepper spice to create a satisfying Pinot experience.