Daily Archives: October 23, 2008

On the ridge

Posted on October 23, 2008 by RJ

Ridge, California, Pagani Ranch, Sonoma Valley, Zinfandel, 2006 There’s a wealth of liquer-like fruit in the nose – very pretty with floral tones as well. The fruit carries through in the mouth with moderate structure like last year. Notes on … Continue reading →

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Down the boot

Posted on October 23, 2008 by RJ

Botromagno, Puglia IGT, Primitivo 2006 The nose shows drying and oxidized fruit while the mouth is extremely tannic. The astringency dominates; it was a mistake to take a chance on this wine. Bottled in Gravina 13.5% $14.99 at Traverso’s

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Well well

Posted on October 23, 2008 by RJ

Benessere, Napa Valley, Estate, Sangiovese 2005 You can smell sweet, candied cherries and vanilla in the glass while the mouth is a supple showcase of the same with Sangiovese’s textbook acidity. The house style is one of polished wines. 12 … Continue reading →

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V for Vernaccia

Posted on October 23, 2008 by RJ

Casa Alle Vacche, Vernaccia di San Gimignano DOCG, I Macchioni, 2007 There is a New World ripe expression of fruit in the nose, along with perfume, green herbs and some minerality. In the mouth there is ample acidity with some … Continue reading →

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Dazzling Champagne

Posted on October 23, 2008 by RJ

I had the opportunity to meet with two respected growers from Champagne at the WineWise and Terry Theise tasting today in San Francisco. Both are producers as well, crafting dynamite sparklers, each with their own house style. If forced to … Continue reading →

Posted in Champagne, Chardonnay, France, Pinot Noir | Leave a comment