White Wine

Jan 242012
 
2010 Smith-Madrone Riesling , Spring Mountain District, Napa Valley, CA, $27 (S) – Rating 92

A magnificent dry Riesling from the land of Cabernet.  This estate grown wine by Smith-Madrone offers up flavors of  stone fruit, green apple, and citrus with an underpinning of minerality. Fresh acidity adds to the complexity.

Jan 242012
 
2009 J Vineyards Chardonnay, Russian River Valley, CA, $28 (S) – Rating 91

An expressive nose of pineapple cream pie is followed by a rich and round mouth-feel full of  butterscotch, peach, vanilla crème brûlée, Meyer lemon and ripe pineapple with hints of lighter spice. A bit of zippy acidity add to the experience to create a Chardonnay that stand beautifully on its own yet will pair well with lighter fare.

Jan 242012
 
2010 Malibu Rocky Oaks Estate Vineyards Chardonnay, Los Angeles County, CA, $24 (S) – Rating 88

Upon opening the bottle the aromas start with a nostalgic creamy cinnamon roll but as it opens, notes of tropical and pineapple come through. A medium-bodied Chardonnay, this offering from Malibu Rocky Oaks offers up flavors of red apple, tropicals, ripe pineapple, oaky vanilla, creme brulee and soft spice. A touch of acidity adds depth.

Dec 282011
 
2007 Caymus Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, CA, $75 (S) – Rating 95

A very expressive Cabernet that needs at least 2 hours to fully open. Patience will be rewarded with rich fleshy fruit and flavors of dark cherry, blackberries, dark fruit, ripe plum, spice with espresso and cocoa on the finish. Well-integrated, yet sturdy, tannins add to the complexity.

Dec 282011
 
2009 Lava Cap Reserve Viognier. El Dorado, CA, $30 (S) – Rating 90

An excellent example of California Viognier from Lava Cap Winery and a wonderful Chardonnay alternative. Rich flavors of ripe pineapple, honeysuckle, vanilla and peach enhanced by a touch of crême brulée and minerality. A bit of zippy acidity adds complexity and makes for better food pairing.