by Ray Johnson | Apr 16, 2010 | Aperitif, France
I was delighted to find this aperitif during our recent trip to Bordeaux. While in a little grocery store buying some essentials for the apartment, I had to check out the wine section and low and behold, St. Raphael. St. Raphael, Rougue, nv There is a strong sense of...
by Ray Johnson | Apr 15, 2010 | Bordeaux, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, France, Graves, Merlot, Pessac-Leognan
Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte, Pessac-Leognan 2006 The smells in the nose include raspberries, cherries, leather and the sweetness and toastiness of oak. In the mouth it is earthy and smoky, exhibiting complexity and a supple texture – very approachable. The grapes...
by Ray Johnson | Apr 14, 2010 | California, Gewurztraminer, Mendocino County, Muscat, Pinot Gris and Grigio, Riesling
Navarro Vineyards, Mendocino Table Wine, Edelzwicker 2008 The flowers are vibrant when you smell this wine – really delightful. In the mouth the fruit combines nicely with the sweetness. You’ll also pick up a sense of the Gewurz and its traditional...
by Ray Johnson | Apr 14, 2010 | Barbaresco, Barolo, Italy, Nebbiolo, Piemonte
Moccagatta, Barbaresco, Basarin 2004 The nose features plenty of black licorice and a blush of vanilla. In the mouth this young Barbaresco is approachable, with ripe yet present tannins – another winner from Moccagatta with great length. The grapes are by...
by Ray Johnson | Apr 14, 2010 | Alexander Valley, Barbera, California, Sonoma County
Seghesio, Alexander Valley, Barbera 2008 The nose screams fresh fruit galore. It’s pretty in the way the black fruit melds with floral notes. In the mouth it is supple and rich, with a viscosity not often seen in Barbera. This has been a consistently ripe crowd...
