I stumbled upon Hart's Desire at the Waterfront Tasting Room (53 Front Street, Healdsburg, CA) during Taste Alexander Valley, 2012. John Hart and his daughter, Shea, were working the room. They were both marvelous, their knowledge and enthusiasm for the wines filling the room with excitement. A small but adventurous winery,
In a half-bottle, this wine is a no-brainer for a two-person barbecue. It has notes of strawberry and a very light touch of pepper in the aroma, both of which continue on the palate. The body is somewhat light for a zinfandel, but there are some tannins to balance the
This wine is fermented in stainless steel, then aged in neutral French oak for four months. The nose offers a grassy aromas under fresh fruits, grapefruits with sweeter tropical notes. The palate is softer and more tropical than the nose, with tangelos and hints of mango, along with Ruby Red
The nose shows loads of dark fruit with a surprising kick of fresh mint. The palate is sweet and nutty, blackberry jam and toasted hazelnuts. Mint shows again on the mid-palate. Drink with strong cheeses and toasted nuts. Recommended. DH WHO: Hart's Desire WHAT: 95% Syrah Noir, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon
This is very young, aggressive, mint and black currant over black cherry. Tannins are aggressive, acids high. This shows great promise, but it is very young. Hide it in the cellar for at least five years. If you can't wait, pair it with a very well marbled ribeye. Highly Recommended
The nose offers up soft peaches and pears. On the palate, mouth feel is full, slightly viscous. The flavors are more tart than the nose, primarily pears, just not hugely ripe. There is an interesting touch of salinity on the finish. Drink with dry-rubbed chicken. Recommended. DH WHO: Bluenose Wines
This wine is fermented in stainless steel, then aged in neutral French oak for four months. The nose offers a grassy aromas under fresh fruits, grapefruits with sweeter tropical notes. The palate is softer and more tropical than the nose, with tangelos and hints of mango, along with Ruby Red
The nose offers a blend of red and blue fruit and a hit of coconut. The fruits show on the palate as black cherry and elderberry. Tannins are dusty and full, acids well in balance. Drink with a filet. Recommended. DH WHO: Quaking Hills Winery WHAT: Merlot WHEN: 2007 WHERE: