A nice expression of coastal Pinot Noir, with crisp acidity framing dry flavors of cherries, pomegranates, cola, mocha and oak-inspired vanilla spice. The silky texture is especially inviting. Drink this elegant wine before 2011.
— S.H.
(6/1/2009)
Tasted at the age of 2-plus years, this Cab was tough in gritty tannins, and offered direct flavors of cassis, plums and mocha. Considering its Howell Mountain origins, it could be an ager. But it could fall apart. Best bet is to open through 2012 and decant.
— S.H.
(6/1/2009)
Soft, oaky and ripe, this Cab has lush flavors of black currants, chocolate and cedar, with a note of sweaty leather that’s sometimes called Burgundian. Seems at its best now.
— S.H.
(6/1/2009)
Here’s a good but rather generic California Chardonnay. It shows well-ripened flavors of pineapple jam and pears, balanced with firm coastal acidity and rich layers of smoky, caramelized oak. Drink now.
— S.H.
(6/1/2009)
This Syrah is a fruit bomb. It erupts with blackberry, cherry, currant, mocha, licorice and pepper flavors, yet doesn’t have the structure to support all that richness.
— S.H.
(6/1/2009)