Published in July 2009

Wines, Spirits and Beers published in the July 2009 issue of Wine Enthusiast Magazine.

Sort By:

Martin Ray 2008 Dry Rosé (Alexander Valley)

Online Exclusive

Price $20

An interesting and useful blush wine, made from Cabernet, Syrah, Merlot and Grenache. As you’d expect from the blend, it’s full-bodied for a rosé, and very fruity, with red and blue berry, vanilla and spice flavors finished with peppery spice. Much improved over the 2007. — S.H. (7/1/2009)

points

Château d’Esclans 2007 Les Clans Rosé (Côtes de Provence)

Price $80

Dominated by toasty, coconutty aromas, with just hints of peach and hazelnut. Hold six months and see what emerges; right now, this wine is defined more by technique (barrel-fermentation and aging) than terroir. — J.C. (7/1/2009)

points

La Tordera NV Cuveé di Gabry Rosé

Price $19

Here’s a rosé sparkler (made with Merlot and Incrocio Manzoni) with a healthy, floral bouquet of rose, raspberry and pomegranate. The wine has berry sweetness in the mouth and a generous, smooth texture. — M.L. (7/1/2009)

points

Ferghettina 2003 Rosé Sparkling (Franciacorta)

Online Exclusive

Here is a simple but genuine sparkling rosé with yeasty aromas of freshly baked bread backed by cranberries and raspberries. It has a very pretty nose and a streamlined, tonic mouthfeel to match. — M.L. (7/1/2009)

points

Mas Carlot 2008 Tradition Rosé (Costières de Nîmes)

Best Buy
Online Exclusive

Price $11

— J.C. (7/1/2009)

points

Bellavista NV Cuvee Brut Sparkling (Franciacorta)

Price $48

Bellavista’s Cuvée Brut is a wine that delivers consistent and delicious results year after year. It’s a sure bet because of its delicately toasted notes that are enhanced by plenty of ripe fruit and citrus. It also shows extreme finesse and elegance, with a bright and cheerful personality. — M.L. (12/31/2011)

points

Guenoc 2006 Petite Sirah (Lake County)

Price $18

This is a fine young Petite Sirah, with the accent on young. You could drink it now for the lush, dry berry, cherry, currant, chocolate and spice flavors, but it’s pretty tannic, and has that immature primary fruit taste that strongly suggests cellaring. After all, it is a Petite Sirah. Better after 2009. — S.H. (7/1/2009)

points

42°S 2006 Unwooded Chardonnay

Online Exclusive

Price $15

Shows the strengths of unwooded Chardonnay to full advantage, offering mild, food-friendly notes of melon and citrus, medium body and a long, zesty finish. — J.C. (7/1/2009)

2009 Russian River Vineyards Estate Grown

Rich flavors of cherries, persimmons, cola, anise and oak flood the…

(Sponsored)