by Ray Johnson | Dec 3, 2008 | France, Rhône, Viognier, White Dessert
M. Chapoutier, Vin de Table de France, Doux, Les Coufis de Paille de l’Ardeche 2001 This wine is deeply golden, picking up hues of amber and a touch of khaki. The nose is a complex mix of orange and spice, reminiscent of flaming oranges studded with cloves at a...
by Ray Johnson | Oct 28, 2008 | Chateauneuf-du-Pape, France, Grenache, Mourvedre, Rhône
Andre Brunel, Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Les Cailloux 2005 The nose sports smoke and a healthy but appropriate dose of brett for this wine, accentuating a meatiness. The earthiness repeats in the mouth with an explosion of red fruits. The structure provides the frame around...
by Ray Johnson | Sep 10, 2008 | France, Muscat Beaumes de Venise, Rhône, White Dessert
Domaine des Bernardins, Muscat de Beaumes-de-Venise 2006 A complex mix of fresh peaches, flowers and alcohol, in check for the style. The RS is on the low side so it would be better to look to fresh fruit as a pairing partner rather than a sweet baked dessert. 100%...
by Ray Johnson | Jul 15, 2008 | California, Carignane, Chateauneuf-du-Pape, France, Grenache, Mendocino County, Mourvedre, Napa Valley, Oak Knoll District, Rhône, Rhone Blend, Santa Barbara County, Syrah
Monticello, Napa Valley, Oak Knoll District, Estate Grown, Syrah 2005 Lush and graced by black fruits and a bit of black pepper. P&B in Napa 14.5% $ at the winery Monticello Trinafour, Mendocino County, Niemi Vineyard, Carignane 2006 There’s ample acidity to...
by Ray Johnson | Feb 28, 2008 | California, Crozes-Hermitage, France, Rhône, Rhone Blend, Santa Ynez Valley, Syrah
Le Clos du Caillou Cotes du Rhone Vielles Vignes Cuvee Unique 2005 This is a solid wine, balanced in medium weight with ripe fruits and structure. The ripeness is such that there are liquer-like black fruits. The alcohol is showing a bit in this chewy wine. Sourced...
by Ray Johnson | Nov 29, 2007 | France, Muscat, Muscat Beaumes de Venise, Rhône
Domaine des Bernardins Muscat de Beaumes-de-Venise 2005 Quite complex with apparent alcohol. 100% Muscat Blanc a Petits Grains. Mis par Cave Castaud in Beaumes-de-Venise 15% $12.99 (375ml) at Bottle Barn
