by Ray Johnson | Dec 22, 2008 | California, Merlot
Mirassou, California, Merlot 2006 The smells are of sweet, jammy black fruits. In the mouth this wine is quite supple and slightly sweet, melting a sense of vanilla into the black fruits. A bit of Zinfandel and Syrah augments the Merlot. V&B in Modesto, 13.95% $12...
by Ray Johnson | Dec 18, 2008 | Cabernet Sauvignon, California
Dancing Bull, California, Winemaker’s Reserve, Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 The nose reminds one of a dusty road with sweet flowers and fruit in the background. In the mouth, this Cabernet is a supple, easy drink, mildly sweet and easy. Besides the Cabernet there is...
by Ray Johnson | Dec 12, 2008 | Amador County, California, Port
Quady Winery, Amador County, Starboard 1996 The raisins are in full force, chocolate and lots of sweet smells melded with a hint of the fortifying spirit. The mouth sports chocolate and caramel with a strong but appropriate sense of the brandy that was added. The...
by Ray Johnson | Dec 12, 2008 | California, Pinot Noir, Sonoma County, Sonoma Mountain
Siduri, Sonoma Mountain, Van der Kamp Vineyard, Pinot Noir 2006 The nose combines fresh and dried fruits along with the forest floor. The mouth is warm and silky. P&B in Santa Rosa 14.1% $36.99 at Bottle Barn Siduri
by Ray Johnson | Dec 12, 2008 | Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, Pinot Noir, South Africa
Hamilton Russell Vineyards, Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, Pinot Noir 2007 Like the previous vintage, this wine is a rustic style of Pinot. I’d like to try another bottle before passing judgment. Grown, made, matured and bottled on the estate in, Hermanus 13.5% $39.99...
