by Ray Johnson | Jan 1, 2011 | Champagne, France, Rosé, Sparkling Dry
Laurent-Perrier, Champagne, Brut, Cuvee Rose nv I’ve always admired the expression of fruit in this rose, making it one of my favorites from Champagne. The latest bottling does not disappoint, featuring a medley of cherries, strawberries and a nice thread of...
by Ray Johnson | Dec 23, 2010 | California, Dry Creek Valley, Sauvignon Blanc, Sonoma County
Quivira, Dry Creek Valley, Fig Tree Vineyard, Sauvignon Blanc 2009 This is a vivacious Sauvignon, a lively expression of citrus, crisp and refreshing. The vineyard takes its name from the 130-year old Mission fig tree on the property, near the confluence of Dry Creek...
by Ray Johnson | Dec 22, 2010 | California, Chardonnay
Redwood Creek, California, Chardonnay 2009 This is an easy drinking quaffer, melding California fruit and a viscous mouthfeel. While the concentration is on the lighter side, I have to say that I prefer drinking this to several of the very heavy-handed, outrageously...
by Ray Johnson | Dec 18, 2010 | Alexander Valley, California, Sauvignon Blanc, Sonoma County
Reynoso Family Vineyards, Alexander Valley, Estate Grown, Sauvignon Blanc 2009 The fruit character of this wine speaks of citrus with riper, tropical notes as well. In the mouth, the acidity has a softer profile than many Sauvignon and the fruit is freshly expressed....
by Ray Johnson | Dec 18, 2010 | Italy, Prosecco, Sparkling Dry, Treviso, Veneto
Villa Sandi, Treviso, Prosecco, Il Fresco, Brut, nv This bubbly is redolent of fresh pears, making for a fruit-driven Prosecco. While labeled brut, this wine is not austere, with a soft approach and moderate acidity – nice. As in a technique used at Sorelle...