by Ray Johnson | May 6, 2009 | Cabernet Sauvignon, California, Napa Valley
Crossbarn, Napa Valley, Cabernet Sauvignon 2004 The fruit is lovingly on display in this wine – think cassis with a hint of tobacco for complexity. In the mouth it is a delight, ripe yet with a polished structure. This label is the second wine from Hobbs....
by Ray Johnson | Apr 22, 2009 | California, Napa Valley, Rutherford, Zinfandel
Elyse, Napa Valley, Morisoli Vineyard, Zinfandel 2006 Brown spices jump out in the nose while the mouth is supple and densely fruity. The grapes are sourced from Morisoli in Rutherford, west of Highway 29 at the base of Mount St. John. Cellared and bottled in Oakville...
by Ray Johnson | Apr 17, 2009 | California, Howell Mountain, Merlot, Napa Valley
Fleury Estate Winery, Howell Mountain, Napa Valley, Merlot 2006 This wine reminds us that Merlot need not be flacid. Acidity enhances the plumminess of Merlot and makes it all the more food-friendly. At the same time, the fruitiness and plush texture makes this wine...
by Ray Johnson | Mar 18, 2009 | Cabernet Sauvignon, California, Napa Valley, Oakville
Carter, Napa Valley, Oakville, Beckstoffer Vineyards, Cabernet Sauvignon 20009 Almost 9 years on this wine is hitting its stride. The nose shows the bottle bouquet development of exotic spices like sandelwood. There’s a healthy mix of dried fruits and herbs,...
by Ray Johnson | Jan 20, 2009 | California, Chardonnay, Napa Valley
Grgich Hills, Napa Valley, Estate Grown, Chardonnay 2006 January notes: In the nose there is citrus and toasty notes. The mouth is quite crisp, as it traditionally is. In July the toasty character and nuttiness have increased, adding complexity. The mouth is...
by Ray Johnson | Jan 15, 2009 | California, Napa Valley, Port
Heitz Cellar, Napa Valley, Ink Grade Vineyard, Port nv Prunes mixed with chocolate and a sense of the fortifying spirit. The grapes behind this wine are the traditional Portuguese suspects of Touriga National, Sauzao, Tinta Cao, Tinta Amarells, Tinta Madeira and...
