Wine Reviews

Excellent depth of color, nearly opaque core with only the slightest fade at the edge of the glass. Pronounced aromas of dark plum, vanilla and smoky oak. Ample weight, the fruit is ripe and dense, with fine precision on the palate, full, round, maintaining a firm structure that softens within an hour of aeration. The tannins are evident and ripe. Primarily made from Merlot, with Cabernet Franc and a bit of Malbec. Sixteen months in French oak, 50% new. A wine with superb aging potential, eight to ten years from the vintage.

This Cru Beaujolais, made from 100% old vine Gamay, was named after Julius Caesar. From its dark berry aromas to its dry, dusty mouthfeel, the in-between portion of this elegant red is noteworthy. Cherry pith and plum skin leave a dusty trail, with black pepper and dried heather savoriness. Fresh and vibrant, with gentle tannins and fine acidity.

This well-made Prosecco shows subtle floral aromas that are appropriate for the grape variety, followed by essentially dry but still juicy flavors recalling white peaches and Golden apples. The effervescence is energetic but soft in texture, offering a cloud-like ride through the faintly off-dry but still clean finish.

Enticing aromas and flavors of hibiscus, jasmine, and other exotic flora. White pepper and sweet basil season mulberry and orange peel. Mouth-filling, with root beer and umami salty-savory notes. Complex and big boned.

A blend of 81% Cabernet Sauvignon with small portions of Cab Franc, Mabec, and Petit Verdot, aged 22 months in 80% new French oak. Silky and sensual, with woodsy, animale notes that unfold to reveal tobacco, Worcestershire, anise, and molasses. The liquid coats the tongue with a black-peppered, boysenberry ganache wrapped in streamlined tannins.

From the prestigious Oak Knoll District, this “killer” Cab spent 20 months in (44% new) French oak and comes in at 14.9% abv. Streamlined tannins streak across the palate, sleekly on a glossy track. Luxurious mouthfeel, powerfully elegant, royalty in a glass. Boysenberry-vanilla lathers the mouth along with a level of raspberry compote that’s simply sumptuous.

Organically farmed grapes from the winery’s Valle Di Sotto Estates Vineyard in the Oak Knoll District. Key lime perfumes the glass. On the palate, tarragon-seasoned lime and salty toffee are standout flavors. Crisp and bright, with herbal, grassy notes that awaken the senses.

Aged in 100% stainless steel barrels for four months, this organically farmed Chardonnay rides in with honeyed lemon drop and rosemary-scented lime sorbet. Although acidity is taut, the juice glides along the palate with a sublime mouthfeel. Its crisp finish delivers a stony kiss.