A fruit forward Pinot with a full mouth-feel and balanced acidity. Aromas of red cherry, rhubarb and a hint of cola. The palate is rewarded with a kaleidoscope of bright red cherry, strawberry, raspberry, brown spice and just a touch of white pepper. Subtle notes of cherry pie on the finish. Give this wine at least 30 minutes to open to full potential. Buy This Wine
Napa is not known as a Pinot growing region but this Pinot works. A nose of cherry, blackberry offering hints of cola and smoke. A soft mouth-feel with silky tannins and mild acidity. Full fruit with flavors of cherry, blackberry, blueberry, raspberry, dusty dark chocolate combine with a a complex earthiness. Just a hint of smokiness in the finish. Buy This Wine
J Vineyards Pinot Noir 2012, Estate Grown, Russian River Valley, CA, $37 (S) – Rating 92A richer style of Pinot Noir showing off a nose of cherry and raspberry with notes of mocha and smoke. Subtle tannins and combined with bright acidity and a lush mouth-feel. On the palate, blueberry, raspberry and pomegranate. A pleasant hint of espresso in the finish. Buy This Wine
Wine Guerrilla Zinfandel Forchini Vineyards 2012, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, CA, $91 (S) – Rating 91100% Zinfandel from 100 year old vines, very small production of 100 cases. Aromas of blueberry, blackberry, black cherry and peppery spice. A round mouth-feel with defined tannins and balanced acidity. Robust flavors of blueberry, blackberry pie combined with an exciting rustic briariness. Notes of red licorice in the finish. Pair with spice rubbed brisket or ribs (no sauce) Buy This Wine
Jordan Winery Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, Alexander Valley, CA, $53 (S) – Rating 92A vibrant wine from a cooler growing season. Like the vintages before, Jordan Cabernet is approachable as soon as the bottle opens but still benefits from at least 30 minutes of decanting. Blended from 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Merlot, 7% Petit Verdot and 1% Malbec. Vivid aromas of blueberry, blackberry pie spice and tobacco box. A lush mouth-feel with balanced acidity and supple tannins. Flavors of blackberry, blueberry, black cherry, mocha, dark spice with hints of oaky vanilla and espresso in the long finish. Buy This Wine
