Jul 082014
 
Alpha Omega Chardonnay Reserve 2011, Napa Valley, CA, $92 (S) – Rating 92

Alpha Omega Chardonnay Reserve 20112011 was one of the coolest growing seasons in recent Napa history allowing for a leaner and more elegant style. This Chardonnay is no exception. A lovely bouquet of red apple, wet stone and a little pear. The wine has a lush round texture with balanced acidity offering flavors of red apple, pear, Meyer Lemon, wet stone and spice with hints of caramel and vanilla. Tropical notes in the finish. Buy this Wine

Jul 072014
 
Corkscrew Winery Luma-Rouge 2011, California Red Wine, Sonoma Coast, CA, $35 (S) – Rating 91

Corkscrew Winery Luma-Rouge 2011A red blend of co-fermented 95% Syrah and 5% Viognier aged in oak barrels. The nose offers rich aromas of black cherry, blueberry and brown spice. Medium bodied with soft tannins and balanced acidity. On the palate, a slight earthiness with flavors of cherry, blueberry, plenty of spice and a hint of leather. A touch of cacao in the long finish. A wonderful pizza or pasta with red sauce wine. Buy This Wine

Jul 072014
 
Van Duzer Pinot Gris 2013, Williamette Valley, OR, $18 (S) – Rating 91

Van Duzer Pinot Gris 2013Stainless steel fermented and sur lie aged creates a round mouth-feel complimented by juicy acidity and a hint of creaminess. A touch of sweetness balances the acidity. A bouquet of citrus, tropicals and a hint of pie crust. Flavors of citrus, tropicals,white peach and honeycomb. White peach, minerality and spice in the long finish. Perfect with lighter summer fare or simply enjoy with a view. Buy This Wine

 

Jul 072014
 
Mercy Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc Zabala Vineyard 2013, Arroyo Seco, $20 (S) – Rating 91

Mercy Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc Zabala Vineyard 2013Created solely from the rich and intriguing Musque clone of Sauvignon Blanc; fermented and aged in stainless steel barrels. Aromas of ripe pineapple, spice and honeycomb. A soft mouth-feel with juicy acidity. Complex yet integrated flavors of green apple, pineapple, Asian pear, spice and minerality, honeydew melon and citrus with tropical notes on finish. A real patio pleaser! Buy This Wine

 

Jul 042014
 
Caymus 40th Anniversary Cabernet Sauvignon 2012, Napa Valley, CA, $60 (S) – Rating 94

Caymus 40th Anniversary Cabernet Sauvignon 2012A very impressive wine from an equally impressive vintage. Quite young but opens with an hour or so of decanting. A complex nose of blue and black fruit with hints of baking spice and minerality. A soft mouth-feel with silky tannins and balanced acidity. Big flavors of blueberry, blackberry, black cherry, dark chocolate, oaky vanilla and brown spice with hints of black pepper and leather on finish. As good as it is now, this wine will only get better with time. Truly a special wine in celebration of the Caymus 40th anniversary. Buy This Wine