The nose is a treat in itself, aromas of fresh-ground medium-roast coffee and black cherries, tinted around the edges with fresh sage. The same coffee-cherry theme shows on the attack, the initial taste, adding hints of cola, milk chocolate and licorice on the mid-palate. Tannins are mild and silky, with
One very interesting aspect of the wine tasting profession is the notion of a regional palate. The difference is clear to those who judge at competitions that use tasters from all over the world, or even just from different parts of North America, from east to west coast. There is
At 143 years of age, the Original Grandpere Vineyard in the Sierra Foothills is the oldest documented Zinfandel vineyard in California, and it still produces wines of high quality. Its history is closely linked with that of California wine, and with United States wine consumption in general. The identity of
Five clones of estate-grown syrah are blended together to produce a wine full of nice, tarry fruit. Balanced by good acidity, this wine is hearty from nose through palate to finish. Yet it has a touch of florals throughout as well, which add both a hint of delicacy and another
In 2011, winemaker Paul Hobbs oversaw the release of his new Cahors collaboration as well as the expansion of one of his American labels, CrossBarn Wines by Paul Hobbs. His schedule is brutal, but the chance to work in Cahors, the traditional region for French Malbec was too exciting for
This opens with very nice dark fruit aromas on the nose. Blackberry, with hints of cedar and eucalyptus, lead on the palate, turning to jammy fruit with black pepper on the mid-palate. Complexity is interesting, acid zippy. There is an underlying mocha throughout, showing most on the finish. It is
This opens with blackcurrant and cherry, showing both black and red fruits from the blend of Bordeaux varietals. It moves toward blueberry on the mid-palate. Tannins are a little light, allowing it to be paired with less hefty meats like pork. Drink with stuffed pork chops. Recommended. DH WHO: Yorkville
Sweet and fruity is the feel of this wine. Very fruity, with caramelized fruit in aroma and flavors and finish. On the palate, there’s also some unripe plum along with its light woody tannins. Fairly uncomplicated and easy to drink as an aperitif. Serve cool. Recommended with reservations. BSE WHO: