by Ray Johnson | Jul 10, 2010 | California
Allegrini, Veronese IGT, Palazzo Della Torre 2006 The nose features fruit of a New World character with the complexity of fresh berries and those of a more raisined nature. In the mouth this wine is supple, featuring ripe tannins and zippy acidity. There’s also...
by Ray Johnson | Jul 10, 2010 | Alsace, California, France, Gewurztraminer
This flight features two very different incarnations of this grape; both well-done yet very different. Domaine Zind Humbrecht, Alsace, Gewurztraminer 2008 The nose features roses galore, a spicy floral production with honey and tropical fruit in the mix as well. In...
by Ray Johnson | Jul 7, 2010 | Burgundy, California, Marsannay, Rosé, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County
Domaine Charles Audoin, Marsannay Rose 2009 The nose features stone fruits and minerality, with a bit of earthiness and a whiff of a dairy note. In the mouth there is an austerity and a bit of warmth and grip. Drink this up during the summer. Recolte et mis en...
by Ray Johnson | Jun 29, 2010 | Cabernet Sauvignon, California, Napa Valley
Cynthus, Napa Valley, Stagecoach Vineyard, Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 The nose features Cassis, bay leaves and the sweetness of oak, expressed as vanilla and caramel. Give this some time to open up; with 30 minutes more black fruits emerge. On the palate the oak adds...
by Ray Johnson | Jun 27, 2010 | California, Merlot, Napa Valley
Luna, Napa Valley, Merlot 2006 The nose features sweet oaky notes and black fruit. In the mouth the black fruits come through with cherries too. The suppleness of Merlot that most consumers seek is on full display in a light-bodied expression that is immediately...
by Ray Johnson | Jun 26, 2010 | California, Russian River Valley, Sauvignon Blanc, Sonoma County
Foppiano, Russian River Valley, Estate Bottled, Sauvignon Blanc 2009 The nose is clean and expresses ripe citrus, as in fresh oranges. Add to that an accent of tropical fruit, a whiff of bananas and floral notes, of the sweet and spicy variety. In the mouth the fresh...