Ray Johnson’s Wine Blog

Dessert stars

Posted in October 18th, 2008

by Ray in California, Dry Creek Valley, Late Harvest White, Late harvest red, Port, Russian River Valley, Sauvignon Blanc, Zinfandel

Paradise Ridge Winery, Russian River Valley, Ode to Joy, Late Harvest Sauvignon Blanc 2007
Lots of complexity in this wine, with honey galore - very reminiscent of Sauternes. This dessert wine was crafted to honor the memory of Marijke Byck-Hoenselaars. 44 degrees brix at harvest. Winemaker Dan Barwick. P&B in Santa Rosa. 13.2% $28.99 for a [...]

Sweet Treats

Posted in March 4th, 2008

by Ray in California, Hungary, Late Harvest White, Late harvest red, Russian River Valley, Sauvignon Blanc, Tokaji, Zinfandel

Paradise Ridge Winery Russian River Valley Ode to Joy Late Harvest Sauvignon Blanc 2005
Lots of complexity in this wine, with honey galore. This dessert wine was crafted to honor the memory of Marijke Byck-Hoenselaars. 330 g/l sugar at harvest. Winemaker Dan Barwick. P&B in Santa Rosa. 14.3% $29.95 for a 375ml at Traverso’s.
The Royal Tokaji [...]

Hopping into the Easter Basket

Posted in September 2nd, 2007

by Ray in Late harvest red

Rosenblum Cellars California Rosie Rabbit Late Harvest Zinfandel 2004
Sweet and brimming with nutty raspberry fruit, a very soft and low-acid style of dessert wine. Formerly sourced from the Rosie Rabbit vineyard in the Russian River Valley the name now encompasses a wider source of fruit. Avg harvest brix 32.6, RS 14.5%, alcohol is just 13% [...]