Interesting and elusive nose, first mango, then apple, then a melange of tropical fruit, all with butter in the background. The palate is all tropical fruits, mango and fried plantain, baked pineapple and butter. Mouth-feel is smooth, round, with just a hint of zingy freshness. Drink with a Cobb Salad.
In a roomful of powerhouse producers, in a region full of icons, it's always nice to find a hidden gem - and a great story more than 40 years in the making. I first met Mario Bazán at Premier Napa Valley last February. The annual event, which takes place at
The nose is filled with very dark aromas, blackberry, raisin, and powdered espresso, with a touch of tobacco leaf. The palate is even deeper, with blackberry jam, raisins, unsweetened chocolate and Cuban coffee. A few red fruit notes come out on the mid-palate, primary red cherry, with just a tiny
Palate Press has selected our favorite stories from 2013 and will publish Redux articles over the holidays featuring Palate Press Columnists. The editorial board hopes you enjoy these highlights as we look forward to bringing you the best stories for your palate in 2014. ••• Robert was a visitor to the Napa Valley who
This is a velvet blanket of a wine. Blackcurrant, black cherries, and pepper waft up from the glass. Mulberry pairs with cranberry to offer the alpha and omega of Cabernet Sauvignon, rich black fruits for depth and fresh red fruits for tart brightness. Pepper, eucalyptus, and mint come through on
This interesting blend puts all the varietals in all the right places. Blackcurrant and blackberry on the nose come from the Bordeaux varietals, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. They lead on the palate, too, with blackcurrant and black cherry in the lead and cocoa on the mid-palate. The Syrah comes on
The nose shows blackcurrant, blackberries, unsweetened cocoa, and tobacco leaf. Blackcurrant and plums dominate on the palate, but are balanced out with the addition of red fruit, cherries, from the Merlot. A touch of mocha comes through on the mid-palate and lingers with the darker fruits on the finish. Tannins
The nose has plum, cherry cola, and black tea. Black cherry, black tea, and cola lead on the palate. There is a real earthy umami that comes out on the mid-palate, a soy-sauce richness that lingers with cigar-box spices. Moderate tannins match moderate acids. Drink with anything made with lentils.