Fewer than 1,000 acres of this varietal are planted in California, but it’s Spain’s best native red grape. This version is so dry, it makes the tongue stick to the palate, and has some notable tannins. But the blackberry flavors are rich and long. The dense, glyceriney wine will age effortlessly and could gain interest.
— S.H.
(12/1/2002)
There’s just a ton of flowery fruit in this dry wine, including the ripest peaches, savory pineapple and nectarines, not to mention smoky vanilla. Ripe, balanced and crisp.
— S.H.
(6/1/2004)
On nose, a core of ripe berry and black cherry fruit provides plenty of aroma and flavor. It struggles, though, with the heavy toast regime that ultimately holds it down. Good juice with herb shadings and plenty of grip, that regrettably closes woody and a bit drying.
— W.E.
(10/1/2001)
Nothing shy about this fruity in-your-face wine. It’s bold in rich mango, peach and vanilla flavors. May have a little residual sugar, but it’s crisp and clean enough to quality as dryish.
— S.H.
(8/1/2005)
This winery has been tinkering with Rhône varietals in this San Francisco Delta region and has yet to make a convincing case that this is the magic spot. It’s a rugged wine, with notable tannins and earthy flavors, and very dry.
— S.H.
(12/1/2002)
An awkward wine despite its flavorsome profile. Tastes like cotton candy, with sugary strawberry notes, and has a thick texture, like cream, but insufficient acidity to support it.
— S.H.
(12/15/2002)