An interesting Cab that may well reward time in the cellar. It shows the ripe flavors of blackberries, currants and chocolate and relatively high alcohol that mark most modern, late-picked Napa Cabs. But it also has a firmly tannic structure, with good acids. Nice now, and could develop through 2012.
— S.H.
(6/1/2009)
Does a great job at providing identity to this variety that can often seem a bit muddled. With the structure of a fine Cabernet Sauvignon, it’s softer, with more of a red fruit and red currant taste. Feels elegant and distinguished from beginning to end. Drink now.
— S.H.
(7/1/2009)
Very ripe and Burgundian in the wealth of flamboyant pineapples, guavas, minerals, buttered toast, crème brûlée and vanilla, wrapped into a creamy, leesy texture. A bit unfocused now, and should be best by the Fall of 2009.
— S.H.
(7/1/2009)
The alcohol is pretty high, but the wine is decadently rich and forward in pie-filling flavors of cherries, raspberries, currants and chocolate, seasoned with anise, cinnamon and pepper. Firm tannins give much-needed structure to this deliciously dry Cab Franc.
— S.H.
(7/1/2009)
Lush and luscious, this Pinot Grigio brims with rich flavors of pineapples, wildflowers and tangy orange zest, with highlights of dusty spices and spearmint. It has the weight of a Chardonnay.
— S.H.
(7/1/2009)
Quite an attractive white wine, for its dryness, acidity and overall balance. Fills a real niche in giving us a citrusy, mineral-fresh wine with crisp acidity that will support, not compete with, foods ranging from grilled veggies and goat cheese to firm-fleshed white fish and poultry.
— S.H.
(8/1/2009)
Made like an old-fashioned Barbera, this one is truculent in tannins, with a full-bodied mouthfeel housing flavors of blackberries, currants, leather, anise and pepper. It will probably live for two decades, gradually sweetening as it throws sediment, but always remaining rustic.
— S.H.
(8/1/2009)
Ultra-soft and a bit hot from high alcohol, this red wine is made in the modern cult style. It tastes of melted milk chocolate, blackberry jam, cassis and smoky new oak, with a hint of Port.
— S.H.
(8/1/2009)