by Ray Johnson | Apr 21, 2009 | Port, Portugal
Taylor Fladgate, Porto, Late Bottled Vintage 2003 The new release is available to us and it shows the characteristic pruny and stewed fruits in the nose. In the mouth there is a sense of the alcohol as well as chocolate and cherry flavors. The price has really moved...
by Ray Johnson | Apr 21, 2009 | Chenin Blanc, South Africa, Western Cape
Mulderbosch, Western Cape, Chenin Blanc, Steen op Hout 2008 The wet stones are dancing out of the glass with a touch of herbaceousness and citrus. The mouth sports plenty of acidity yet not without the extract to keep up with it – always a favourite. The...
by Ray Johnson | Apr 17, 2009 | California, Howell Mountain, Merlot, Napa Valley
Fleury Estate Winery, Howell Mountain, Napa Valley, Merlot 2006 This wine reminds us that Merlot need not be flacid. Acidity enhances the plumminess of Merlot and makes it all the more food-friendly. At the same time, the fruitiness and plush texture makes this wine...
by Ray Johnson | Apr 17, 2009 | Alexander Valley, California, Sonoma County, Syrah
Palmeri, Alexander Valley, Van Ness Vineyard, Syrah 2004 This Syrah features meaty, gamey notes in the nose. In the mouth it’s a big wine, with plenty of structure and extract. Many Syrah have moved into a candy-like, no structure direction while this one shows...
by Ray Johnson | Apr 17, 2009 | California, Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast, Sonoma County
Flowers, Sonoma Coast, Pinot Noir 2007 The cherries combine with forest floor and a touch of rubber in the nose. In the mouth, the cherries are enhanced by the acidity but there is also an uncharacteristic sense of astringency. P&B in Cazadero 13.4% $51.99 at...
