This was packed with caramel and pepper but its vague fruit and soft structure made it seem a bit syrupy and possibly heat damaged. The green notes made it very awkward. WHO: Shale Peak WHAT: Barbera WHERE: Suisun Valley, Solano-read more-
Nose of blackberry, cocoa, cinnamon, and even a bit of oil (but that is perhaps because I have BP on the brain). Immediately approachable with soft, not chewy, tannins – beef tenderloin as opposed to beef jerky – and plummy-read more-
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-read more-
If you are tired of over-the-top Cabernet and are looking for something with less tannin, you will appreciate this release. Red fruit of blackberry, blackcurrant, plum clove, and berry on the nose. Soft mouth feel, excellent balance, and a pleasant-read more-
The Palate Press Wine of the Week, July 12 - 16, is:
This is just absurdly good for the price. Blackberry, mulberry, and black cherry all float above a cloud of cigar smoke and tar. There is also a tremendous mineral streak of molten rock. Tannins are taught but smooth. Drink with-read more-
This Pinot Grigio is a pale gold green. Sweet fruit and a hint of herbs in the aroma. Light body, lightly sweet and lively, with a hint of tangerine and plenty of lime in both flavor and finish. It’s an-read more-
If you are tired of over-the-top Cabernet and are looking for something with less tannin, you will appreciate this release. Red fruit of blackberry, blackcurrant, plum clove, and berry on the nose. Soft mouth feel, excellent balance, and a pleasant-read more-