Published in April 2002

Wines, Spirits and Beers published in the April 2002 issue of Wine Enthusiast Magazine.

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René Barbier NV Mediterranean Red (Penedès)

Price $6

Cherry, fleshy red fruit flavors and a light, dilute mouthfeel are prefaced by earthy, resiny notes on the nose. Juicy cranberry and plum flavors, plus some wood, round out the short finish. Tasted twice. — D.T. (4/1/2002)

points

Baron Herzog 1999 Sauvignon Blanc

Price $13

There’s a touch of field greens on the nose, but beyond that there is little else to latch on to in this insipid white. Some citrus rind and a touch of sugar give the palate what personality it has. This will be at its most refreshing if served well chilled, because it’s quite heavy on the finish. ––M.S. — M.S. (4/1/2002)

points

Baron Herzog 1999 Chardonnay

Price $13

If you want to know what artificial oak smells and tastes like, it’s on full display here. Sawdust aromas come before a creamy, oaky palate. It’s not cloying or overly heavy, and the acidity is strong enough to keep things lively, but it still lacks a clean fruit character, and the forced oak flavor is not appealing. —M.S. — M.S. (4/1/2002)

points

Bridgeview 1999 Black Beauty Merlot

Price $15

This is definitely a subpar effort from this usually reliable budget producer. Dark and muddy in appearance, it tastes of burnt sugar, tired fruit and stemmy earth. The finish is dry and chalky, with ashy tannins. —P.G. — P.G. (4/1/2002)

2010 Westerly

Give this brisk, young Pinot 5–6 years in the cellar to mellow. It’s…

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