A Glimpse of Suisun Valley’s Diversity

For my 40th birthday I took a much-needed get away to Napa. We visited my friend Jeff Miller and his wife Beryl. Jeff lives in Napa and grows and makes wines in the Suisun Valley AVA under several labels: Seven Artisans, Sly Dog Cellars, and Red Côte.

2006 Twomey Cellars Soda Canyon Ranch Merlot

Merlot sometimes gets a very bad rap, but more examples like this would redeem it. Blended with Cabernet Franc, this one reminded me of a good Right Bank Bordeaux. Deep, bright ruby colored, with aromas of blackberry, vanilla and blueberry that carry over onto the palate along with a hint of rhubarb, this is a merlot with some muscle that also highlights this subtle grape. Read more at Another Wine Blog.

2005 St. Supéry Napa Valley Dollarhide Limited Edition Estate Cabernet Sauvignon

The dense, dark garnet color was enlivened in the nose by fresh garden herbs, forest leaves and a black and red fruit complexity, complemented by the more savory loam, anise and truffle notes. The palate is where the complexity of this wine truly shined, with deep layers of the fruit medley from the nose and wonderful balance of the full, smooth mouthfeel, with the hint of oak underneath and ripe, round tannins with good acidity. It is a phenomenal combination of outstanding fruit and nuanced winemaking.

2005 Swanson Vineyards Alexis Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley

The Sylvia Platt of California Cabernet, lots of brooding dark fruit on the nose. Slightly gamey and brash. Lots of self-loathing.

2005 Buehler Vineyards Napa Valley Estate Cabernet Sauvignon

Like the long kiss goodnight. It’s sleek, sexy and deep. Big spice and cola with just enough toasty oak on the nose to remind you who it is. It’s huge in the mouth. Smoke and anise. All the good things. The finish leaves you wanting more…so much more. Will she call the next day? Did she like my cologne?

Olson Ogden Syrah 2007

A smoky, full-bodied wine leading with dusty red fruit, followed by tar and tannins that still seem rather tight. This is sure to benefit from time in the cellar or a well-marbled steak.

This Crush For Rent: Options for Aspiring Winemakers

Since before Prohibition and certainly during, wine drinkers have made their own wine. We look at two custom crush facilities that provide the fruit-to-bottle experience without the heavy investment in costly equipment.

Wine Tourism Goes Local!

California wineries have thrown open their doors this harvest season. Make that wide open. Wineries are getting creative. They are offering new attractions such as wine education, a behind-the-scenes access to the winemaking process and the kind of TLC normally reserved for relatives and rock stars.