Feb 032015
 
Alpha Omega Proprietary Red 2011, Napa Valley, CA, $94(S) – Rating 92

Alpha Omega Proprietary Red 2011 The cool summer of 2011 made for a challenging growing season but this blend of Cabernet 72%, Cabernet Franc 20%, Petit Verdot 5% and Merlot 3% shows that with quality winemaking, one can rise to the challenge, to create an excellent wine in the toughest of vintages. A rich nose of plum, black cherry and blackberry pie with whiffs of tobacco, vanilla and baking spice. Robust on the palate with balanced acidity and defined tannins. Full flavors of black cherry, oaky vanilla, plum with a hint of raspberry and black pepper. Very dark chocolate on the finish. Buy This Wine

Feb 032015
 
Romililly Chardonnay Russian River Valley 2012, Russian River Valley, CA, $32 (S) – Rating 90

Romililly Chardonnay Russian River Valley 2012For those who enjoy the flavors “traditional” California Chardonnay in a crisper style, this one is a winner. Bouquet of caramel apple, creme and baking spice. Lush and creamy on the palate balanced acidity. Interesting flavor transition from red apple on the front palate to green apple on the back palate in addition to notes of pineapple, pear, oaky vanilla and caramel with a touch of pie crust. Buy This Wine

 

Jan 262015
 
Giordano Vespero Toscana Rosso IGT 2013, Tuscany, Italy, $8 (S) – Rating 90

Giordano Vespero Toscana Rosso IGT 2013This Sangiovese has been a consistent medal winner vintage after vintage. Aromas of bright cherry, plum and hints of raspberry. A soft mouth-feel with supple tannins and mild acidity makes this an easy-sipper. Flavors of cherry, plum, red berries and black fruits. Subtle notes of smoke and chocolate compliment this hints of espresso in the long finish. Buy This Wine

Jan 262015
 
Giordano Prosecco doc 2013, Veneto, Italy, $15 (S) – Rating 89

Giordano Prosecco doc 2013A very fun and jubilant dry sparkling wine. Floral notes and citrus dance on the nose. Very crisp with intriguing notes of minerality and citrus. Enjoy these bubbles on their own or pair with lighter fare including soft white cheese. Buy This Wine

 

Dec 172014
 
Giordano Piemonte Cortese d.o.c. 2012, Piemonte, Italy, $12 (S) – Rating 91

Giordano Piemonte Cortese d.o.c. 2012A lovely example of this crisp white wine from the Cortese grape, otherwise know as Gavi Di Gavi. The nose offers soft aromas of white peach, pineapple and baking spice. Dances on the palate with juicy acidity. Balanced flavors include ripe pineapple, peach, pear and spice. The long finish is highlighted by notes of pineapple and minerality. Buy This Wine