by Ray Johnson | May 6, 2008 | Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, South Africa, Stellenbosch, Western Cape
This flight features two wines from a personal favorite winery, Mulderbosch. Neither of these wines is shy in the acid department and the Sauvignon is particularly herbaceous – yummmm! Mulderbosch, Stellenbosch, Chenin Blanc, Steen op Hout 2007 P&B in...
by Ray Johnson | May 2, 2008 | Alexander Valley, California, Dry Creek Valley, Primitivo, Sonoma County, Zinfandel
Collier Falls Dry Creek Valley Primitivo 2005 This is lovingly slathered in oak. P&B in Geyserville 15.2% $32 at the winery Collier Falls Bella Alexander Valley Big River Ranch Zinfandel 2005 A very balanced Zin with tannic structure and dense fruit. Sourced from...
by Ray Johnson | May 2, 2008 | Italy, Montalcino, Montepulciano, Sangiovese, Tuscany
Poliziano Rosso di Montepulciano DOC 2005 This has been a stalwart good value in a modern style, though the price has crept to the border of $20. The ’05 vintage is light-bodied, accessible and subtly laced with a bit of tannin. Estate bottled by Federico...
by Ray Johnson | May 2, 2008 | Amador County, California, Sangiovese, Sierra Foothills
Isole e Olena Chianti Classico DOCG 2004 The previous vintage showed some herbaceousness and tannic grip, as well as cherry, fresh and evolving with complexing earthiness. Here again with the 2004 there is a rusticity and astringency. 85% Sangiovese, 10% Canaiolo and...
by Ray Johnson | May 2, 2008 | France, Sauternes, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon
Chateau Raymond-Lafon Sauternes 2003 Amazing balance for such a lusciously sweet wine with creme caramel flavors. Going back to the 2002, my notes again emphasize the complexity, concentration and appropriate VA levels. A class favorite, very rich and thick, very...