Look out, Hermitage, this has the grip, the earthiness, the herbs and spice, and above all the massive, ripe, complex fruit to compete. The layers of this wine just keep unfolding; the longer it breathes, the more it gives you. Crushed rock, lead pencil, Asian spice, blackberry, coffee and caramel…it never stops. What a superb achievement.
— P.G.
(4/1/2009)
This late-harvest Viognier is so dense, so lush with aromas, that it defies description. Flowers, candied fruits, caramel, vanilla, English breakfast tea, even a bit of tobacco—this is one of those wines that just keeps on going. Fascinating, rich, yet vibrant with excellent acidity, this is a wine that any dessert wine lover should experience.
— P.G.
(10/1/2010)
Quady North’s Flagship is what the owners consider the best lot of wine of the year, and this year they’ve chosen this superb Syrah. Whiffs of earth and bud, roasted meat and licorice fill the nose, with flavors following. The fruit is like brandy-soaked cherries, wrapped in all the roasted, earthy, organic layers. Tasted even better after being open for 24 hours.
— P.G.
(12/15/2009)
This small, family-owned, biodynamically farmed vineyard and winery is quickly becoming a southern Oregon cult producer. Certainly one of the finest Viogniers produced anywhere in the Northwest, this extraordinarily aromatic wine showers the palate with luscious and tangy lemon, pineapple, Satsuma orange and pear fruit flavors. Then the spices pile on, lending an…
— P.G.
(3/1/2011)
Viognier is clearly a strong suit at Cowhorn, a biodynamic vineyard and winery in the Applegate Valley of southern Oregon. The aromatic nose is wreathed in seductive scents of flower and fruit. Flavors are a mix of citrus and stone fruits, with a taste of honey that brings added depth, but not sweetness.
— P.G.
(3/1/2013)
Complex and honeyed, with apricot, melon, peach, herb and spice flavors. Silky-smooth and lush on the palate; sleek and refined. Delicious.
— J.M.
(12/1/2002)
Brandborg really knocks it out of the park with this Gewürztraminer, the strongest in a very solid lineup of white wines. It perfectly captures the oily, floral essence of the grape, in a dense, focused wine loaded with citrus oil, Key lime, and tropical fruits. Great length and balance, as with all the Brandborg white wines.
— P.G.
(4/1/2009)
Cab Franc from Southern Oregon may not be on your radar, but this bottle suggests it should be. Violets and leather perfume the nose, introducing soft, round purple fruits highlighted with cinnamon and licorice. Maybe not technically perfect, but what a mouthful of delicious flavors.
— P.G.
(12/15/2009)