An opening of dried leaves, spice and berry fruit is pretty good and authentic, while the palate feel seems right given the wine’s price and structure. Flavors of cherry, raspberry and plum are roasted and mildly herbal but come with proper feel and follow through. Good for under $10.
— M.S.
(9/1/2010)
Chunky on the bouquet, with soft apple and melony aromas. Feels fleshy, round and a bit chunky, with white pepper, fresh-picked asparagus and melony flavors. Feels just tangy enough on the finish. Well made for under $10.
— M.S.
(2/1/2012)
Earth, leather and roasted berry fruit are exactly what a wine of this base grape and price should smell like. The palate is medium in intensity, with herbal flavors, dark berry fruit notes and leather. Call it basic but comfortable, with varietal correctness.
— M.S.
(12/1/2010)
Generic tropical fruit and melon aromas are basic but still largely fresh. The palate brings a zesty, acid-driven approach and flavors of lemon and sour orange. Finishes crisp but short on flavor; adequate but not offering a lot. Typical Central Valley SB.
— M.S.
(12/1/2010)
Early aromas of apple and pear show no oak, but with time more pungent notes of juniper and herbs enter the fray. Juicy in the mouth, with no weight issues, but modest in its delivery of true Chardonnay character. Clean white wine but it doesn’t taste like much.
— M.S.
(12/1/2010)
Old-style Carmenère with green bean, mocha and muddy berry aromas. Tight and more acidic than expected, with generic red berry, chocolate and mocha flavors along with a palpable wave of green. Finishes quick and crisp.
— M.S.
(12/31/2011)
Largely neutral from front to back, with citrus and apple on the nose. Easygoing and basic in the mouth, with green melon and apple flavors in front of an inoffensive, slightly bitter and pithy finish.
— M.S.
(12/31/2011)
Opens with charred, toasted, leathery aromas. The feel, however, is mild, with herb flavors that incorporate berry and lots of burnt oak. Finishes toasty, with notes of bitter chocolate, clove and a touch of greenness.
— M.S.
(6/1/2012)