by Ray Johnson | Jun 24, 2008 | Alexander Valley, Cabernet Sauvignon, California, Carneros, Napa Valley, Petite Sirah, Pinot Noir, Sonoma County
Here we take another look at variations on the taste and feel of dry red wine. ZD Carneros Pinot Noir 2006 Lots of sweet cherries and palpable acidity make this a refreshing Pinot. This wine originates with Pinot grown in certified organic vineyards. The wine is then...
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...
by Ray Johnson | Dec 3, 2007 | Australia, Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale, Petite Sirah, Rhone Blend, South Australia
Spinifex Barossa Valley Esprit 2004 There is sweet black fruit and tar in the nose. The mouth shows a soft structure that is lush. The in-mouth flavors are very fruity in a candied way. This GSM blend is 36% Grenache, 34% Shiraz, 20% Mourvedre and 10% Cinsault,...
by Ray Johnson | Oct 12, 2007 | California, Lodi, Petite Sirah, Zinfandel
This flight features 2 wines from an area that has distinguished itself for its long-established vineyards and good values. Gnarly Head Lodi Old Vine Zinfandel 2005 Jammy liquer-like fruit and sweet vanilla in the nose. The wine is light-bodied, sweet appearing and...
by Ray Johnson | Oct 11, 2007 | California, Dry Creek Valley, Petite Sirah, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, Syrah
Stark Russian River Valley Cuvee Julian Syrah 2004 This is Syrah that is not afraid to be tannic with lots of alcohol showing in the nose and the mouth. There’s 2% Viognier in the final blend and the fruit is sourced 63% from Bill and Betsy’s Alegria...
by Ray Johnson | Aug 24, 2007 | Petite Sirah
McManis California Petite Sirah 2005 An approachable Petite with lots of berry fruit and a taming of the tannins. 13.5% P&B Ripon, winemakers Jeff Runquist and Mike Robustelli, $9.99 at BevMo www.mcmanisfamilyvineyards.com Victor Hugo Paso Robles Petite Sirah 2003...
