Ray Johnson’s Wine Blog

Throwing strikes on the hill

Posted in May 25th, 2008

by Ray in Alexander Valley, Cabernet Sauvignon, California, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Sonoma County

Styker Sonoma sits on a little hill with a broad view of the Alexander Valley. We recently visited with Jen Berman on the winemaking team and the Bordeaux varietals were top-notch. I thoroughly enjoyed the chocolaty Merlot and the supple and vanilla spiced Petit. As I’ve written before, Petit can have tannins that are tough [...]

Bordeaux Grapes in the New World

Posted in December 7th, 2007

by Ray in Australia, Cabernet Sauvignon, California, Margaret River, Merlot, New Zealand, Petit Verdot, South Australia, Western Australia

Wynns Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon 2004
Mild green elements add a nice complexity to the cherry fruit. This is a light-bodied Cabernet with a complementary level of acidity. All Cabernet aged in new and used French and US oak. Winemaker Sue Hodder 13.5% $12.99 at K&L Wynns
Pirramimma McLaren Vale Petit Verdot 2003
This wine is quite refined, showing [...]