A very nice Chardonnay marked by crisp dryness and fine structure, which highlights the pleasant varietal flavors. Offers a nice array of pineapples, peaches, apricots and green apples, accented by the smoky vanilla of oak and grounded in minerals.
— S.H.
(4/1/2010)
A broody and juicy warm-climate Syrah that’s nicely in balance, clean and tastes like fruit, all at a very attractive $16. Syrah is blended with 8% Cabernet Sauvignon.
— V.B.
(12/31/2011)
A blend of 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Petit Verdot and 6% Syrah that’s perfectly serviceable and incredibly herbaceous with green pepper and olive tapenade against soft oak.
— V.B.
(2/1/2012)
A perfectly serviceable Syrah with 9% Cabernet Sauvignon blended in, almost black in color with savory meat and red berries on the nose and palate and soft edges all around. A good price for a good wine from a part of California’s Sacramento Valley that is known for its mild, Mediterranean climate, made by the Giguieres, who once owned the region’s largest winery…
— V.B.
(4/1/2011)
Muted at first, this 30,000-case production Chardonnay slowly develops tart, tropical aromas, then bits of apricot, vanilla and oak. It’s aged in “Old Heads” (barrels from past vintages) and is a good-enough value for the price.
— V.B.
(9/1/2011)
This Syrah isn’t the richest red wine, but it is very dry and balanced and, in its own way, quite elegant. With some scoury tannins, good acidity and pepper-infused cherry and tobacco flavors, it has enough complexity to accompany fine foods.
— S.H.
(11/15/2008)
A little rough around the edges in tannins, with minty cherry flavors, but the wine is dry and shows some complexity in its own way. You have to give Matchbook credit for experimenting with this finicky variety. A reserve bottling would be welcome.
— S.H.
(11/15/2008)
A light, dry, and yummy wine made from Tempranillo, Syrah and Malbec. It has berry and watermelon flavors—even a hint of mint—with a balance of acidity and richness on the finish.
— V.B.
(10/1/2012)