Cinnamon, clove, earth and blackberry flavors, plus a chalky-gravel mouthfeel, are what you’ll get on the palate; the long finish shows plenty more blackberry, plus toasty, vanilla oak. Deep cherry, nutmeg and earth aromas. Kosher for Passover.
— W.E.
(11/1/2001)
Here’s a rich, complex Chardonnay, made in the full-blown Burgundian way. The fruit itself gives layers of tropical guava, pineapple and nectarine flavors, while finely toasted oak adds caramel, buttered toast and spice flavors. With a creamy texture, it’s a delicious wine all the way.
— S.H.
(5/1/2007)
Hagafen has not been known for Pinot Noir, but someone over there is getting serious about it, to judge from this small production wine. It’s a dry, ripe Pinot, with jammy kirsch and cassis flavors and a rich coating of oak. Finishes a little heavy, but it’s a wine to watch.
— S.H.
(5/1/2007)
Fairly dense and viscous. The wine serves up smoky, black cherry, toast, herb and chocolate flavors couched in supple tannins. Moderate on the finish. —J.M.
— J.M.
(9/1/2002)
A nice, user-friendly California Cabernet, with bold cassis, blackberry and vanilla aromas and similar flavors, underscored by a dose of tobacco. Supple tannins shine on the finish, which features a heavy dose of vanilla.
— J.C.
(4/1/2005)
Opens with a great big burst of freshly sliced grapefruit sprinkled with cinnamon and nutmeg, and tastes just as crisply refreshing. The citrusy fruit and bright acidity clean the palate, preparing it for food.
— S.H.
(10/1/2005)
This is a Cabernet-like Zin, meaning it has the elegance and balance of a fine red wine. It also means it does not have that overly hot, alcoholic, superripe Portiness that Zin can have, especially in a hot vintage like ’04. Nice and dry, with spicy berry flavors, it’s a good wine for game.
— S.H.
(5/1/2007)