by Ray Johnson | Feb 3, 2009 | California, Chasselas Dore, Sonoma County, Sonoma Valley
Berthoud, Sonoma Valley, Pagani Ranch, Chasselas Dore 2007 There’s a flinty character in the nose and the mouth is austere. The fruit is sourced from 100 year-old vines grown in the vineyard known for its very old Zinfandel. P&B in Sonoma 12% $19.99 at...
by Ray Johnson | Feb 2, 2009 | Chambourcin, New Jersey
Alba, New Jersey, Chambourcin 2006 The nose is smoky and toasty. In the mouth the oak lights up again and rides a nicely acidic frame. The tannins are ripe and there’s a tart black fruit flavor as well. The acidity would make this very nice to pair with roast...
by Ray Johnson | Jan 29, 2009 | California, Late Harvest White, Riesling, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, White Dessert
S3x, Russian River Valley, Late Harvest, Riesling 2006 Tasted back in early ’08 this wine was a show-stopper. Now in early ’09 the dried apricots are still shining with essence of honey in the nose. What makes this wine so special is the acidity which...
by Ray Johnson | Jan 29, 2009 | Bordeaux, France, Late Harvest White, Sauternes, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, White Dessert
Chateau Guiraud, Sauternes 2005 Minerality, honey and tropical fruits mark the nose. The mouth is all caramel with hints of that minerality – destined to be drunk with creme caramel. 85 hectares are planted to 65% Semillon and 35% Sauvignon Blanc; the vines...
by Ray Johnson | Jan 29, 2009 | California, Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast, Sonoma County
James Family, Sonoma Coast, Stony Point Vineyard, Pinot Noir 2007 The nose features sweet fruit, earthiness and a little warmth while the mouth is a delicious combination of red fruits, earthiness and brown spices. P&B by the James Family in Sebastopol from the...
