by Ray Johnson | Mar 28, 2013 | Albariño, Alsace, Alto Adige, Andalucia, Barbera, Barbera d'Asti, Barolo, Bordeaux, California, Chardonnay, Cinsault, Dealcoholized, Fortified dessert, France, Gewurztraminer, Graves, Italy, Jerez, Madeira, Malmsey, Malvasia, Marlborough, Merlot, Napa County, Napa Valley, Nebbiolo, New Zealand, Palomino, Pessac-Leognan, Piemonte, Pinot Noir, Port, Portugal, Provence, Rosé, Russian River Valley, Sancerre, Sauternes, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Sherry, Sonoma County, South Africa, Spain, Tawny Port, Var, Vinho Verde, Western Cape
Staying ahead of flaws in the cellar and quantifying perceptual differences and consumer preferences are critical to a winery’s bottom line. Following our return from New Zealand, Sonoma State’s Wine Business Institute will partner with VESTA to again offer this...
by Ray Johnson | Jan 21, 2010 | Marlborough, New Zealand, Sauvignon Blanc
Saint Clair, Marlborough, Vicar’s Choice, Sauvignon Blanc 2008 In the nose you’ll find apricot and green pepper spiced up with floral notes. In the mouth the acidity is vibrant and the body light with a bit of petillance – a nice refresher....
by Ray Johnson | Aug 29, 2009 | Marlborough, New Zealand, Sauvignon Blanc
Sauvignon Republic, Marlborough, Sauvignon Blanc 2008 The current vintage shows plenty gooseberry and freshly cut grass. In the mouth, it is racy as ever, with added depth of flavor and a sense of citrus peel – very nice. Notes on the ’07: This wine pulls...
by Ray Johnson | May 12, 2009 | Marlborough, New Zealand, Sauvignon Blanc
Oyster Bay, Marlborough, Sauvignon Blanc 2008 Like the ’07, This is in-your-face Sauvignon with bell pepper and lots of acid. All stainless with some lees contact. 13% $10.49 at Bottle Barn Oyster Bay
by Ray Johnson | Jan 29, 2009 | Central Otago, New Zealand, Pinot Noir
Mt. Difficulty, Central Otago, Roaring Meg, Pinot Noir 2006 The red fruit smells blend with a bit of compost in the nose. The mouth is tart and a little tannic and lasts a long time. P&B in Bannockburn 14.5% $17.99 at Bottle Barn Mt. Difficulty Rippon, Central...
by Ray Johnson | Jan 29, 2009 | Marlborough, New Zealand, Pinot Noir
Cloudy Bay, Marlborough, Pinot Noir 2006 In the nose there are fresh and lightly stewed cherries. This wine demonstrates the tart character that Pinot can display and how refreshing and food-friendly that can be. The mouthfeel is creamy as well, with a sense of the...
