Wine Reviews

Plush and dramatic, blackberry jam fills the mouth, followed by violets, Luxardo cherry, and Devil’s Food cake. Surprisingly low abv of 13.5 percent preserves a balance within its distinctive, hedonistic persona.

This trio blend of 70% Shiraz, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 15% Merlot had us doing the cha cha cha to a beat of black-peppered espresso, tobacco, and generous, juicy purple plum. A palate exciter, twisting, swaying, and spinning with supple tannins.

Pale color, bright fruit notes, nectarine, citrus zest, melon, a bit tropical, lifted aromatics, medium full bodied, round, creamy, good presence on the palate, appealing underlying vanilla oak element lends complexity and range to the wine, good length with a soft, smooth, round finish.

A delectable contender: Petit Verdot at its rich, floral peak of elegance. Lavender on tip toes balance on a mocha-coffee foundation. Brilliant tones of plum, cassis and herbaceous notes further enhance its appeal.

Buttered popcorn and a foundation of wet stone create a formidable combination for a complex white. Lemon blossom, apricot, and an inner brightness seal the finish.

Sage and dried violets, toasted oak, and coffee bean are savory and rich. The mouthfeel is luscious with a serious tannic structure. Blackberry and purple plum are surrounded by a coating of mocha, finishing with an intense, floral finish.

Focused and elegant, with notes of Luxardo cherry, cinnamon-cedar, and heather. High-toned mulberry and vanilla enter mid-way, amped by a keen acidity. Approachable in its youth, and can be invited to join the table as a fine accompaniment to most dishes.

Chocolate delivers a welcoming aroma and leads to a melting effect on the palate, with bright, tart cherry shining through. Sweet tobacco, red beets, and red tea add to the vivid finish, buoyed by terrific acidity.