by Ray Johnson | Oct 23, 2008 | California, Napa Valley, Sangiovese
Benessere, Napa Valley, Estate, Sangiovese 2005 You can smell sweet, candied cherries and vanilla in the glass while the mouth is a supple showcase of the same with Sangiovese’s textbook acidity. The house style is one of polished wines. 12 different clones of...
by Ray Johnson | Oct 23, 2008 | Italy, Tuscany, Vernaccia
Casa Alle Vacche, Vernaccia di San Gimignano DOCG, I Macchioni, 2007 There is a New World ripe expression of fruit in the nose, along with perfume, green herbs and some minerality. In the mouth there is ample acidity with some thick, fleshy fruit as well to fill it...
by Ray Johnson | Oct 23, 2008 | Champagne, Chardonnay, France, Pinot Noir
I had the opportunity to meet with two respected growers from Champagne at the WineWise and Terry Theise tasting today in San Francisco. Both are producers as well, crafting dynamite sparklers, each with their own house style. If forced to make a choice, I would take...
by Ray Johnson | Oct 21, 2008 | Chianti Classico, Italy, Langhe, Nebbiolo, Piemonte, Sangiovese, Tuscany
Vietti, Langhe DOC, Nebbiolo, Perbacco 2005 Spot on with black licorice and a wallop of tannin. Estate Bottled in Castiglione Falletto 13.5% $26.99 at Traverso’s Vietti Badia a Coltibuono, Chianti Classico DOCG 2005 There is a pleasant combo of earth, cherries...
by Ray Johnson | Oct 18, 2008 | California, Dry Creek Valley, Late harvest red, Late Harvest White, Port, Russian River Valley, Sauvignon Blanc, Zinfandel
Paradise Ridge Winery, Russian River Valley, Ode to Joy, Late Harvest Sauvignon Blanc 2007 Lots of complexity in this wine, with honey galore – very reminiscent of Sauternes. This dessert wine was crafted to honor the memory of Marijke Byck-Hoenselaars. 44...
