Published in November 2003

Wines, Spirits and Beers published in the November 2003 issue of Wine Enthusiast Magazine.

Sort By:

Cockburn's NV Fine Tawny Red (Port)

Price $12

Murky, earthy aromas make a mediocre first impression that’s partly countered by raucous red berries and mellower caramel notes on the palate. — J.C. (11/15/2003)

points

Georges Duboeuf 2001 Chateau de Nervers Gamay (Brouilly)

Price $12

This wine’s better days are behind it. Earth and leather on the nose, plum and prune on the palate, still tannic on the finish. — J.C. (11/15/2003)

points

Sogno 2001 Reserve Cabernet Franc (El Dorado County)

Price $22

This harshly tannic wine tastes dried out and stemmy. It numbs the mouth and the most fruity flavor in it is of blackberries that are still half green. — S.H. (11/15/2003)

points

Cedar Mountain 1999 Blanches Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon (Livermore Valley)

Price $22

An awkward Cabernet whose Port-like elements make it disagreeable. It opens with aromas of raisins and vinyl, and turns fiery on the tongue. This is perhaps not surprising from a winery whose specialty is Port. — S.H. (11/15/2003)

points

Citra 2002 Montepulciano (Montepulciano d'Abruzzo)

Price $5

The nose is green and fiery; it lacks pure fruit. The palate is sharp, with pie cherry and rhubarb flavors along with citric edges. Tangy and loaded with lean berry extract. — M.S. (11/15/2003)

points

Sausal 2001 Zinfandel (Alexander Valley)

Price $14

This one’s a bit muted. There are hints of plum and cherry, but the flavors are hiding behind the dried-out tannins. A smoky edge adds interest, but it’s short on the finish. — W.E. (11/1/2003)

points

Robert Mondavi 2001 Private Selection Zinfandel

Price $11

Oaky and bright, with a modest core of cherry and spice. Modest on the finish too. — W.E. (11/1/2003)

points

Black Sheep 2001 Clockspring Vineyard Zinfandel (Amador County)

Price $16

An oak-dominated style that covers up otherwise pretty cherry, blackberry and spice flavors. Tannic and a bit harsh on the finish. — W.E. (11/1/2003)

2010 Pence Ranch Westslope

This is sourced from the winery's steepest and most wind-exposed blocks…

(Sponsored)