A high-end Rosé that’s priced accordingly, this is made from 85% Grenache and 15% Syrah. Light in pigmentation, it speaks softly but has a lot to say. Subtle aromas of red fruits echo in flavors recalling cranberries as well as slightly sweeter watermelon and strawberry, with citrus-like acidity and saline mineral notes more commonly found in fine white wines.
Luscious white peach seduces the palate on first sip. Vanilla cream laced with lemon chiffon is exquisite. Acidity is bright and the wine’s freshness stretches across the finish with nectarine blossom goodness.
Black-peppered blueberry and Devil’s food Cake may seem to come off as blockbuster notes, but this well-balanced Zinfandel reins in the power to impart a juicy, savory profile. Tobacco, soy sauce, jalapeño, and bacon fat maintains this class act.
Clean and bright, with chamomile and candle wax up front. Fresh croissant lathered with lemon marmalade is also seasoned with thyme and rosemary.
A dramatic rendition of Chenin Blanc, this is impressively rich with excellent depth of flavor, featuring opulent fruit notes recalling ripe figs and apricots and an undertone of wild honey. Yet the wine avoids coming off as excessively ripe or sweet thanks to vibrant acidity and a notable streak of minerality in the finish.
Fruit is planted on steep vineyards with gravel and sandy loam volcanic clay soils. Aged 11-1/2 months in (35% new) French oak, it exudes personality. Cherry tomato, red beets, and pomegranate seamlessly cross the palate. Spiced rose petals offer a tang, while elegantly appointed notes of red tea leaves meld with a high-toned acidity.
With good structure thanks to fine-grained tannins that aren’t astringent at all, it shows a meatier overall profile with layered character to its blackberry fruit.
This is a serious contender in the category of relatively affordable Malbecs, with medium-plus body and ripe red berry fruit, with a less prominent dark fruit tone riding alongside. A notably saline note in the finish lends some complexity and distinctiveness without proving distracting or discordant.