A vibrant, fresh, violet petal and orange oil streak cuts through the overall heavy character of this wine. Brimming with black cherry, plum skin and blueberry fruit aromas and flavors, the palate is big and gripping with an earthy black tea leaf- and spicy-bark flavored finish that lingers nicely. Drink now–2015.
— L.B.
(3/1/2012)
Clean, expressive, elegant—everything comes together superbly in this beautiful blend from Radford Dale. Exhibiting the perfect balance of restrained minerality, meaty, smoky spice and full, delicious fruit, the wine ends with studied finesse. Pure class throughout.
— S.K.
(9/1/2008)
Hints of flint and softly charred cedar grace the ripe peach and pear fruit core of this balanced Chard. The mouth is round and lush, with a good cut to keep things clean and lifted on the wood-spice-infused finish. Should pair nicely with wood-plank grilled salmon.
— L.B.
(3/1/2012)
Alex Dale’s Burgundian sensibilities keep the Radford Dale line poised and pretty, and this blend of Cabernet, Merlot, Shiraz and Viognier is no exception. On the nose, smoked sausage, fennel, rich red berries and spice; on the palate, the wine offers ample fruit but is backed by a clean minerality that weaves it all together in a neat package.
— S.K.
(12/31/2009)
This wine has an amazing mouthfeel, finely balanced and silky smooth, with just enough tannins to stand up to the medium-full body. Coffee aromas lead to a sweet entry of dark plum and cassis flavors. The only caution: There are notes of barnyard, which may develop more with time.
— M.D.
(12/31/2006)
Open and seductive, this has upfront notes of oak backed by moderate red apple, pear and faint herb accents. Medium weight, with a flinty streak, the palate is bright and mouthwatering, closing on a toasty, orange rind flavor.
— L.B.
(7/1/2012)
A firm, spicy backbone gives this Shiraz heft, but it’s balanced by juicy red fruit and soft floral notes that keep it from becoming too austere. Complex but not complicated, it’s a great example of the restrained but flavorful elegance for which South African Shiraz is known. A touch of smoke adds character.
— S.K.
(3/1/2008)
An exuberant fruit nose leads this classic Chardonnay from Radford. The wine offers buttery and smooth flavors of toast and fruit on the palate and will please fans of bigger Chardonnays. A lingering finish adds to the depth. Pair with opulent dishes like lobster or steak.
— S.K.
(11/15/2008)