Tor Kenward Family TOR Durell Chardonnay 2009
From the acclaimed Durell Vineyard, the 2009 TOR Chardonnay is all from the Wente Clone fruit, grown in a mix of Goulding clay loam and diatomaceous earth, the effect of which is startling. This is a big, brooding Chardonnay, with complex aromas of hazelnuts, vanilla, coffee bean, chocolate liquor, and praline. Silky on entry, quite […]
Jolie-Laide Trousseau Gris Fanucchi-Wood Road 2014
The Jolie-Laide Trousseau Gris Fanucchi-Wood Road 2014 has the most beguiling, sparkly salmon robe—something not at all apparent from the packaging. I think that makes pouring it a lovely and surprising experience. While the nose is not overtly expressive, I adore the texture of this orange wine, thanks in part to skin contact during a […]
Red Car Sonoma Coast Rosé Of Pinot Noir 2014
Aside from the fact that the graphic designer in me is a sucker for Red Car’s packaging, the Sonoma Coast Rosé Of Pinot Noir 2014 definitely exceeded expectations. Composed of 100% cool-climate Pinot Noir, harvested at low brix and whole cluster fermented, it’s a great value given the care and quality in production. Fabulous notes […]
Peay Sonoma Coast Estate Viognier 2013
Viognier can be a devilish grape to work with—sugar levels have a tendency to soar during warm summer months, while phenolic maturity can lag woefully behind. This is why I’m impressed when I find domestic examples, such as this one that are balanced and lovely. Generous aromas of lush pear, white peach, musk and smoke. […]
Forlorn Hope Another Rare Creature The Faufreluches Gewürztraminer 2012
Forlorn Hope is a producer that has received great press of late, the last couple of bottles I tried, I felt vaguely disappointed, given the reviews. Here at last, is a spot-on dry Gewurztraminer from the Russian River Valley, that is exceptionally floral and deliciously concentrated. Orange blossom, jasmine tea, Cox Pippins. Fermented on skins […]
Soliste Cellars Lune Et Soleil Sauvignon Blanc 2013
The surprise wine of the night, this lovely Sonoma County Sauvignon Blanc weighs in at a lithe 12.2% ABV and paired beautifully with clam linguine. Steely, stony and austere with gorgeous notes of star fruit, pear and lemongrass…and perhaps a dash of fresh lemon thyme. Lots of acidic verve and a coursing, mineral, lime zest […]