by Ray Johnson | Jun 30, 2008 | California, Carneros, Napa Valley, Sonoma County, Sparkling Dry
Mumm Napa Napa Valley Devaux Ranch Methode Traditionnelle 2002 There’s lots of citrus with a hint of the zest and a touch of alcohol. The grapes are Chardonnay and Pinot Noir and the wine was aged 3 years on the lees. P&B in Rutherford 12.5% $30 at the...
by Ray Johnson | Jun 30, 2008 | California, Chardonnay, Green Valley, Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, Sparkling Dry
Domaine Chandon, Sonoma County 62%, Napa County 38%, etoile, Rose nv The house style is one of forward fruit and a soft profile. Likewise with this wine in a copper color and an added zip of acidity. The fruit source for this wine is 62% from Sonoma and 38% from Napa....
by Ray Johnson | Jun 27, 2008 | Barbera, Cabernet Sauvignon, Italy, Merlot, Nebbiolo, Piemonte, Pinot Noir
Traditional appellation wine versus a modern blend from Piemonte. Vietti, Barolo DOCG, Castiglione 2004 In June of ’08 I noted brown spices and licorice on a very tannic frame that is balanced by acidity and extract. In April of ’09, this wine is...
by Ray Johnson | Jun 27, 2008 | Fortified dessert, Madeira, Malvasia, Portugal
Cossart Gordon Madeira 5 Years Old Malmsey nv This is a rich style of Madeira from the Malvasia grape, known as Malmsey. The nose features toffee and caramel with a healthy dose of toasted nuts. In the mouth, you taste all of that in a framework of acidity....
by Ray Johnson | Jun 27, 2008 | Alsace, Alto Adige, California, France, Gewurztraminer, Italy, Riesling
Though often talked about in the same breath, these two grapes are quite dissimiliar. Esterlina Cole Ranch Dry Riesling 2006 Concentrated stone fruit wrapped in acidity – long, great, delicious. P&B in Healdsburg 13.8% $14.99 at Bottle Barn Esterlina Elena...
