The intense purple-black hue is an attention-getter. This astounding red is silky, but manages to eek out teeth-grabbing, dusty, black tea tannins. Graphite, and a host of flavors, including black raspberry, violets, and Worcestershire sends a message of intensity. Earth and soil notes are apparent, with a mineral component within its deep core.
The George Menini Estate is within the Sebastopol Hills neighborhood in the southwestern side of the Russian River Valley. Cool breezes and morning fog are synonymous with this site. This Chardonnay is measured and balanced, with lemon sorbet, green apple, and a flinty mid-point. Crisp summer pear and candied ginger light up in the glass, sanctioned by its fine acidity.
Glossy mouthfeel, with sweet and tart cranberry, dried rose petals, and red beets. A brilliant acidity lifts notes of wild strawberry, Rooibos tea, and cinnamon hots. A juicy, spiced finish lingers with a penny royale minerality on the finish.
High-toned notes of cherry cola, pomegranate, and salted cherries. This electric red possesses a refreshing and zesty exuberance.
A rush of sugared beets, pomegranate, vanilla-soaked raspberries, and a touch of salinity get busy on first pass. A treasured soil component shows its sensitivity to its super-cool climate terroir. Power and elegance exist cooperatively in this red, the finish of graphite, peony, basil, and exotic incense.
Grapefruit-lime notes are bright and sea-breezy. Clean and refreshing with fragrant white floral tones throughout.
Black-purple, inky hue with notes of char and ripe boysenberry. A coating of star anise is anchored by wet earth, black olive, and Italian herbs. A rustic finish, with lingering ripe fruit.
The palate instantly absorbs a resplendent array of plum jam, bramble, lavender, and graphite. Mid-palate notes of licorice coat the tongue. Old world acidity and a dot of white pepper add to the tension on the finish.