by Ray Johnson | Dec 7, 2009 | Aperitif, France
Lillet, Red nv This aperitif reminds me of dunking a slice of orange into a slightly sweet red wine, with a little shot of added for punch. Serve it over a few ice cubes. P&B in Podensac in the Gironde, about 20 miles south of Bordeaux 17% $15.99 Lillet
by Ray Johnson | Dec 7, 2009 | Andalucia, Aperitif, Fino, Jerez, Palomino, Sherry, Spain
Lustau, Jerez DO, Solera Reserva, Puerto Fino, nv This Fino is nutty and spiritous with a light sense of the classic bruised apples. This Palomino-based wine is matured in El Puerto de Santa Maria, Bottling code: 7185 15.5% $15.99 at BB in December ‘09...
by Ray Johnson | Dec 6, 2009 | California, Napa Valley, Sauvignon Blanc
This fall we visited Robert Mondavi with our Napa Valley class. We regained a sense of the historical significance of this winery and its founder while tasting some beautiful wines. Here is a look at their trademark Fumes from the ’07 vintage. Robert Mondavi,...
by Ray Johnson | Dec 5, 2009 | California, Chalone, Chenin Blanc, Monterey County
Chalone Vineyard, Chalone, Estate Grown, Chenin Blanc 2006 I’m a huge fan of Chenin so I come at this review in a bit of a quandary. We visited the winery last week and had an opportunity to see the vines that produce this wine. They are truly old soldiers,...
by Ray Johnson | Dec 4, 2009 | Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
Swanson, Napa Valley, Estate, Alexis 1999 There’s a great chocolate character in the nose yet the fruit is starting to dry out on the palate. Though past the crest of the hill it still is a pleasure and would work well paired with a thick slab of beef. The...
