Andre Vatan Sancerre 2009
Domaine André Vatan, Sancerre, Les Charmes 2009 This has been a consistent, value-priced Sancerre that I have often reached for since a visit with Andre in '98. As in previous vintages, the nose features grass, lemon, minerality and perfume. In the...
Reynoso Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
Reynoso Family Vineyards, Alexander Valley, Estate Grown, Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 This is another immediately accessible Cabernet from the Reynoso family. They get texture right in the expression of suppleness that is at the same time balanced by...
Honig Sauvignon Blanc 2009
Honig, Napa Valley, Sauvignon Blanc 2009 Over the years this has been my go-to Sauvignon for events with groups visiting California. The wine speaks of citrus with refreshing acidity while at the same time not having the overwhelming austerity of...
Napa Valley Wine Cruise
Join me on a seven day Alaska Wine Cruise departing June 11, 2011 There will be lots of wine from the Napa Valley and in particular Cabs and Bordeaux blends from Rutherford: Three Wines each night with dinner from our featured wineries Five...
Dan McCoog
Today we learned of the passing of Dan McCoog, one of the most genteel experts in the world of wine. He served a plethora of consumers in the restaurants for which he purchased wine and consulted on wine selection. At the same time he influenced...
The wines of South Coast Winery
South Coast Winery, Temecula Valley, Pinot Grigio, Sparkling Wine nv The nose is quite aromatic, assertive in its fruity and floral characters. I was reminded of the vibrant aromas that I associate with top-notch Prosecco from the Veneto. It is...
Joseph Drouhin Saint-Veran 2008
Joseph Drouhin, Saint-Veran 2008 This Chardonnay combines the acidity you think of in fresh green apples with the slipperiness of a light pat of butter - nice, light-bodied Burgundy. Maturation is solely in stainless steel. Mis en bouteille par...
Turning Leaf Pinot Grigio 2009
Turning Leaf, California, Pinot Grigio 2009 The nose sports citrus which follows through on the palate. The acidity of a lemon adds zippiness that is tempered by a touch of creaminess in this light-bodied Grigio. This bottle is a media sample with...
ZAP Super Tasting on Saturday in San Francisco
Peg Melnik of the Press Democrat has posted some recommendations and a question on her blog about the upcoming Zinfandel tasting at Fort Mason in San Francisco. Let her know why you're going and what you plan to taste:...
Keuka Lake Vignoles 2008
Keuka Lake Vineyards, Finger Lakes, Gently Dry, Vignoles 2008 If you like bracing wine, this is a great choice. There is a bevy of green apple and lime, intense acidity and a roundness achieved with a bit of residual sugar - very refreshing. The...