May 192014
 
Castello di Amorosa Gewurztraminer 2012Castello di Amorosa Gewurztraminer 2012. Anderson Valley, CA, $25 (S) – Rating 91

Think of pairing with grilled scallops, sushi, spicy Thai and even lemon peppered chicken. This “Dry” Gewurztraminer has just a kiss of sweetness that rounds out the flavor profile. Aromas of Meyer lemon, honeysuckle, graham cracker and floral notes. A round and slightly viscous mouth-feel with soft acidity. Flavors of pear, Meyer lemon, tropicals, minerality and spice with honeycomb on the finish. Buy This Wine

 

May 192014
 
Castello di Amorosa Chardonnay 2011Castello di Amorosa Chardonnay 2011, Napa Valley, CA, $28 (S) – Rating 90

For those who enjoy traditional California Chardonnay with oaky creaminess in the right proportions, this Chardonnay delivers. A nose of red apples and baking spice with hints of pie crust. Balanced acidity with a soft mouth-feel give way to flavors of red apple, pear and spice with subtle notes of toasty vanilla and caramel. Buy This Wine

 

May 122014
 
Alpha Omega Chardonnay 2011Alpha Omega Chardonnay 2011, Napa Valley, CA, $65 (S) – Rating 92

A sophisticated and balanced style of Chardonnay with all the flavors and aromas enjoyed by those who love oaked Chardonnay without getting overblown. The nose is a bouquet of red apple, pear, Meyer lemon and tropicals highlighted with notes of oaky vanilla. A lush and creamy mouth-feel with balanced acidity offering flavors of red apple, caramel, citrus, minerality, toasty brioche and vanilla. Subtle hints of toffee on the finish. Buy This Wine

 

May 112014
 
Wine Guerrilla Zinfandel 2012 Forchini VineyardWine Guerrilla Zinfandel 2012 Forchini Vineyard, Dry Creek Valley, CA, $40 (S) – Rating 93

A field blend with about 95% Zinfandel with some Carignane, Petite Sirah, and Alicante Bouchet from 100+ year old vines; creating an awesome zinfandel. Winemaker Bruce Patch let’s this old vineyard have a true voice. A robust nose with aromas of red cherry, ripe strawberry, cacao and tobacco leaf. Not overtly jammy with supple tannins and round acidity. The palate will be treated to integrated flavors of blueberry, blackberry, black cherry and brown spice. Cherry and dark chocolate in the long finish. Only 200 cases produced. Buy This Wine

May 062014
 
Estate 1856 Cabernet Sauvignon 2010Estate 1856 Cabernet Sauvignon 2010, Sonoma County, CA, $30 (S) – Rating 91

Very small boutique producer, this lot was only 75 cases. A blend of 97% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3% Petit Verdot. Rich bouquet of dark fruit and spice with subtle hints of soy sauce. A soft mouth-feel featuring supple tannins and balanced acidity. On the palate rest flavors of dark chocolate, dark cherry, plum, caramel and spice with mocha in the long finish. Buy This Wine