by Ray Johnson | Aug 28, 2009 | California, Lodi, Zinfandel
Michael & David, Lodi, 7 Deadly Zins, Old Vine Zinfandel 2007 This wine has been a consistent oak bomb on the soft and plush side. The current vintage is particularly on the mark, soft, light-bodied and very oaky – a sure crowd pleaser! The vines that...
by Ray Johnson | Aug 10, 2009 | Albariño, California, Lodi
Harney Lane, Lodi Albarino 2008 This is spectacularly ripe and fresh Albarino, showing full fruit development. In the nose, the tropical notes are alight while in the mouth there is fresh citrus to complement the tropicals. In the mouth there is textbook acidity yet...
by Ray Johnson | Jul 18, 2009 | California, Clarksburg, Lodi, Petite Sirah
Bogle Vineyards, California, Petite Sirah 2007 With notes back to 2001 this wine is still a favorite for showing a sense of tannin in an affordable package. The price has been steady as well.The fruit is sourced from Clarksburg and Lodi. V&B in Graton. 13.5% $8.99...
by Ray Johnson | Nov 6, 2008 | California, Late Harvest White, Lodi, Viognier, White Dessert
Rosenblum Cellars, Lodi, Ripkin Ranch, Late Harvest Viognier, Lot 34 This is peaches in a glass with a thick mouthfeel, a little heat and the low acidity that often marks Viognier. The fruit was botritised and harvested at 36 brix. The final RS is 10%. P&B in...
by Ray Johnson | Aug 30, 2008 | Anderson Valley, California, Chardonnay, Gewurztraminer, Hunter Valley, Lodi, Mendocino County, Mendocino Ridge, New South Wales, Pinot Meunier, Pinot Noir, Semillon, Sonoma Coast, Sonoma County, Sonoma Mountain, Sonoma Valley, Zinfandel
When Vacu-Dry ceased operations in Sebastopol, California, many bemoaned the continuing decline of the apple industry in Sonoma’s West County region. Yet from those ashes many a high-flying phoenix has taken flight. The large and rather dingy industrial complex...
by Ray Johnson | Jun 23, 2008 | Alexander Valley, Cabernet Sauvignon, California, Lodi, Petite Sirah, Pinot Noir, Santa Barbara County, Sonoma County
Like white wine, red wine comes in many shapes and sizes, from the silky, flowing ribbons to brawny, square-jawed brawlers. Here are 3 takes on red wine style. Lincourt Santa Barbara County Pinot Noir 2004 Easy drinking cherries in a glass. This wine is a compilation...