Philip Staley, a founding partner of Alderbrook Winery, has found a hillside site above the Russian River which shows tremendous promise for Mediterranean varietals like this terrific Mourvèdre. A full-bodied wine with upfront spice and cherry fruit, just touched by chocolate and a hint of tobacco on the finish.
— L.W.
(6/1/1999)
This Rhône specialist makes his wines in the warmest part of the appellation, and the grapes get plush and polished. Here, you’ll find distinctive black cherry flavors with a peppery edge. The wine is very dry, with good tannins, and seems designed for food.
— S.H.
(12/1/2002)
Staley is a Rhône guy but shows a firm hand with this blend of Sémillon and Sauvignon Blanc. It’s dry, with flavors of lemons and figs, and a rich streak of smoky oak. Crisp acids make it shine.
— S.H.
(12/15/2002)
Another solid hit for this wine, one of the best Sémillon and Sauvignon Blanc combos in the state. Very dry and crisp, it has a beautiful structure, and aloof, regal flavors of citrus, mineral and lime zest. Elegant, beautifully balanced and versatile with food.
— S.H.
(8/1/2004)
Why don’t we drink Grenache all the time? Mind you, it isn’t considered a great wine, but it tastes good. There are hints of mint and black pepper with layers of black cherry/blackberry fruit that just keep on coming.
— L.W.
(6/1/1999)
Normally used as a blending grape in California, sometimes Grenache is good enough to stand on its own. This one is, with its black-cherry, spice and tobacco aromas and flavors and dry, lacy tannins. It’s a soft, young wine, with plenty of jammy character.
— S.H.
(7/1/2002)
Connoisseurs are taking a fresh look at this variety despite its reputation as a common wine. Let’s get one thing straight: It will never possess the refined personality of, say, Cabernet. But sometimes this rough-edged, drily tannic wine fits the bill perfectly. I’m thinking game, or bruschetta with peppers and onions.
— S.H.
(12/1/2002)
A Rhône-style blend of Syrah, Grenache, Carignan, Mourvèdre and Petite Sirah, and it’s really quite stylish and even complex, despite the modest price. Exceedingly dry, with flavors of dried cherries and all sorts of herbs, and a peppery edge.
— S.H.
(8/1/2004)