November 19 Wines

Wines of November 2019

I hope you are not too stuffed from Thanksgiving - here are some wines I've enjoyed.

2015 Feixa Negra, Priorat, Spain

Tasting Notes:  This is 50% Garnacha and 50% Carineña, and thus a classic Priorat blend.  It sees six months in oak barrels.  The color is a dark, ruby red and transparent.  Red and black fruits on the nose, with hints of oak, vanilla and caramel.  On the palate the wine has brisk tannins and good balance.  It is medium+ in body.  Nice structure frames a long finish.  This is a quality wine, and is just short of the big, bold Priorats that would also cost much more.  Here you get all the pieces, albeit in a slightly tamed version.  Still, it is an excellent wine and shows you what Priorat can bring.

A very good wine that I got for about $10. Still had a little tannin so not close to over the hill. Bright fruits, a broad palate and a good finish. Really nice bottle of wine from Priorat that was affordable.

2014 Gravel Bar Alluvial Red Blend, Columbia Valley, Washington

This is a full-bodied red with vibrant flavors of dried cherries, plum, toffee, chocolate and vanilla. The structure is rich, with bold tannins extending the finish.

Pairs well with lamb burgers, beef stew and baked penne with pork ragu.

Blend: 35% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc, 10% Malbec, 10% Petit Verdot

VINEYARD NOTES:

For more than twenty centuries, torrential floodwaters from melting ice-age glaciers sculpted eastern

Washington's Columbia Valley, leaving in their wake deep deposits of sandy, rocky, alluvial soils. Today, framing the Columbia River, broad plains of ancient sediment constitutes one of the world's finest wine grape growing regions.

This wine is at its peak about now. Pleasant blend with a broad palate of red fruits. Tannins are mostly gone but a nice moderate finish. I got it for about $10, but worth the $15-18.

2016 Walking Dead Cabernet Sauvignon, California

The Wine:

Don’t let this wine catch you unaware, The Walking Dead Cabernet Sauvignon opens with notes of blackberry with nutmeg and mocha spices. This full-bodied wine reveals flavors of dark cherries and currants which pool on the palate, giving way to notes of mocha and spice. Fine, chocolaty tannins hold the long smooth finish.

Winemaking:

To achieve the rich varietal expression and approachable fruit profile in our Cabernet Sauvignon, we harvested our fruit at the peak of ripeness, followed by frequent pump-overs throughout fermentation. This constant contact between the skins and juice enables maximum flavor extraction from the fruit. We then aged the wine for approximately 11 months in a combination of American and French oak barrels to lend sweet, toasty vanilla tones and build structure.

OK, I got this for under $10 (7.99 maybe). Not the worst wine I’ve had, but it didn’t do a lot for me. Nose was just average, the mouthfeel was a little hollow in the middle palate. Finish was relative short, not much tannin. Drink at your own risk…

2017 Gonzalo de Berceo Tempranillo Blanco, Rioja, Spain

Bright and clear, this wine projects a pale, lemon yellow color and really shines in the glass. Great, expressive aromas of peach, pear & tropical fruits, with nuances of fresh grass, cream & white pepper. This complex nose leads to a fresh, crisp palate, that is suprisingly round as well, with reminiscent ripe & tropical fruits. A gem of a wine.

An elegant, yet lifted aroma of ripe fruits and a touch of organic earth rise from the glass. A touch of spices, cream & vanilla from the oak aging is present as well. The flavor matches, with an elegant, mellow yet fresh and ripe palate. Velvety tannins close out this wine, and enough acidity to provide a well balanced wine.

White Tempranillo was discovered in 1988 – in the mid 2000’s, it was finally approved as a white version of the Spanish red Tempanillo. Only grows in Rioja and often used as blending grape with other white grapes, this is an excellent white wine. Nice acidity for food, good fruits, pear and tropical and nuances of spices. Little pricey, but worth a try at around $26.

2017 Malpie Listan Negro, Canary Islands, Spain

Among the young wine selections, a young and pleasant red. Cherry red with violet tones of great intensity, clean and bright. Aromas of minerals and wild red fruits, balsamic. Great body and volume. The palate is powerful, enveloping, fresh while intense, ripe tannins and long pass.

This is an unusual but very nice wine from the Canary Islands (part of Spain, even though they lie off the coast of Africa). Not a lot of tannin, but nice bright red fruits, acidity for food and a modest yet pleasing finish. Flavor I described as silky yet a hint dusty, like volcanic ash. Runs around $23 – worth a try to say you have had it!

2011 Finca San Blas Labor del Almadeque, Utiel-Requena, Spain

Grape varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon 50% and Tempranillo 50%.

Vineyard: Tempranillo comes from the plot called «Viña Norte» (5 ha) and Cabernet Sauvignon, from the one named «El Duende» (4 ha). Planting pattern 2800 vines per ha. High density and leaf surface treillis. Clayey-chalky soil.

Winemaking: each grape variety is fermented separately. Maceration for three weeks. Malolactic fermentation in new French oak barrels from the center of France, fine-grained and slightly toasted.

Aging: 16 months in new French oak barrels (fine-grained) from Allier forests (Cabernet Sauvignon) and second-use American oak barrels (Tempranillo).

Tasting notes: opaque cherry red colour. Intense and highly concentrated aromas, ripe black fruit with hints of jam and marmalade, smoky oak, spicy hints of clove and pepper. Strong end, especially liquorice and fennel. The palate is tasty, fleshy, with ripe and very rounded tannins. Nice hints of very well integrated oak, with sweety notes and a spicy and mineral background. Long aftertaste.

I noted this a a big broad shoulder wine – and this is the current release (2011). The tannins are still holding in this wine, with deep dark fruits, a good palate filling flavor and a lengthy finish.  Really good blend that would hold up for several years of aging. Priced at around $23, very nice bottle of wine.

2015 Demencia Taruquin Tinto, Ribera del Duero, Spain

*RATING: 91 Points - The Wine Advocate* More arrogant, independent, very elegant and deep, it is a great expression of an area and an old vineyard that we work organically. With a nose that mixes mint and chalk sensations, the 2015 Taruguin feels quite different from the 2014. The fruit is ripe without excess, the oak is neatly integrated and there is better balance and less rusticity on the palate. There are abundant tannins that are going to require some time in bottle to be rendered invisible. A powerful Tempranillo! Pairs well with the classic, grilled meat dishes of the region. Lamb or beef lead the way, but can also be had with many game dishes, as well as hearty stews and the like. Ribera del Duero D.O.

This wines nose was a little subdues, but the flavors burst on the palate. There are tannins, this wine will age for a number of years. I called it a real big-boy type of wine, approachable but better in a few years. Needs a slab of red meat to go with it! Priced at about $24, well worth the price to stash away.

2013 Finca San Blas Vino Dulce, Utiel-Requena, Spain

Grapes varieties: Merseguera 50 % and Chardonnay 50%.

Harvest: by hand in small crates of 10 kg in the first two weeks of December 2013.

Climatology of 2013: this summer was stormy and not very hot. September was cool and rainy, with frequent fogs on the selected plots. Development of abundant botrytis cinerea during October. Natural drying of some grains.

Winemaking and aging: soft pressing for more than 12 h. Natural fermentation, without added yeast or sulfurous, at room temperature (12ºC), in second year oak barrels until the end of September 2014 (= almost 1 year fermenting), until it stops spontaneously. Aging with its own yeast in the oak barrels where it fermented, for 15 more months.

Total production: 800 bottles.

Tasting note of the prestigious British magazine Decanter: “beautifully honeyed and ripe Sauternes-like nose of peach, grape seed, pineapple, passion fruit, saffron, marzipan and tangy marmalade notes. The brilliant jab of wonderfully fresh acidity on the palate cuts through the honey and spice, butterscotch, mango and toffee and leads to a great length.”

Alcohol: 10.5% vol.

A very nice version of a dessert wine – or a “sticky” as the Aussies would say. Sweet, but with well developed flavors and a good finish. Pricey, but most decent dessert wines tend to be - $41 per 500ml.

2017 Domaine-Thevenot-lebrun  Bourgogne Haute Cotes de Nuits, Burgundy, France

It can be aged from 5 to 10 years but can be consumed from now to keep the fruity side.

Les Renardes is a 2.5 ha parcel in Marey les Fussey in the heart of the Hautes Cotes de Nuits region. The slope is steep with a south-west south orientation. The top-soil is very thin what forces the vines roots to get deep in the soil to find water. The vines were planted in 1983.

The fermentation is made by natural yeasts with a maceration of 15 to 20 days. The maturing is made in 1 to 3 years barrels during 12 months.

This wine comes from their Les Renardes vineyard, a 6 acre parcel in the heart of the Hautes Cotes de Nuits region. The slope is steep with a south-west, south orientation. The top-soil is very thin so the mature vines, planted in 1983, have very deep roots. The grapes are fermented with natural yeasts and macerated 15-20 days. It's aged in oak for 12 months.

Tasting Notes

The nose is complex with a mix of fruity, spicy and floral notes. In mouth the first feeling is on the roundness and then the tannins appear to end on a very nice length.

2017 was a very fine vintage that many growers are comparing the outstanding 2002 and this single vineyard Pinot Noir, although leaner and racier than the wines from lower down on the slope, it still shows beautiful cherry and strawberry with herbal hints on the nose and a lovely roundness on the palate with caressing tannins and ripe fruit to balance the mouthwatering acidity.

Until the prices start to catch up to the quality, this is your best opportunity to enjoy red Burgundy with distinct character and complexity that's completely affordable!

A nice affordable bottle of Burgundy – this wine had a nice nose and red fruit in a full mouthfeel. Decent acidity to make a good match with a holiday meal; good sipper as well. Finish was modest, not a lot of  tannin, so drink over the next two years. Gift, but estimated around $20’ish.  A nice Pinot from France.

Well, another month has flown by and Christmas is pressing upon us. Enjoy and be careful - keep popping those corks and I'll meet you out behind the grapevines!

Wines of October 2019

Scary Good wines for October

First up - your question of the month.

Which of the following Appellations is not in Sonoma County? (In honor of the awful fire that raged through the county this last month)

A. Russian River Valley

B. Anderson Valley

C. Dry Creek Valley

D. Knights Valley

Answer at the Bottom

2017 Bodega Ponce Depaula Monastrell, Castilla, Spain

Wine Advocate 93

“This is very elegant, floral, fresh and mineral, a lot more serious than the price suggests. It’s harmonious, with very fine, chalky tannins and feels very much like a $40 bottle of red. Grab it!”

Depaula is fresh and mineral, with profound aromas, ripe red fruit, toasty notes, caramel and sweetish touches, as well as hints of gunpowder. Once poured into the glass it's lusciously sweet on the nose, and reveals the Monastrell's energetic character on swirling it around. On the palate it gives the feeling of a complete wine, with chewy fruit, and it has that rustic element typical of the variety, yet still very polished. Remarkably complex for a wine at this price, a rounded wine that leaves a most pleasant sensation at the end, a merit justly attributed to its producer of course.

Don't be misled by its price, as you can decant it! This is a wine with plenty of vitality and sinew, especially when it's young, and it will benefit from a good decanting.

Colour: Picota cherry red / violet rim / quite opaque / bright / clean

Bouquet: Highly aromatic / fruit aromas / red fruit / aniseed aromas / spicy notes / vegetal notes / toasted bread / candy sweets / toffee / floral scents

Palate: Flavoursome / good entry / fresh / good acidity / voluminous / fruit notes / herbaceous notes / toffee / marked tannins / long finish

This was a good full-bodied wine, with dark fruit flavors and some spice in the taste. Moderate length of finish, some tannin, but not too much. Available for under $15, buy several bottles of this one.

2017 Lang & Reed Chenin Blanc, Mendocino, California

92 Points Wine Enthusiast

This medium-bodied wine offers depth and complexity that are unusual for the varietal in California. It has lightly earthy, mineral, figgy aromas, a palate-coating texture and layers of flavor that unfold from apple to almond to fig, giving it the substance to be a main-course wine, not just a pre-dinner beverage.

I’m a fan of good Chenin Blanc and this one qualifies. Good depth of flavor with good minerality – acidity and body to hold up well with a meal. Available for around $15 on close-out, you should try this wine. There are not many vines left of this grape, so enjoy the good ones.

2014 Leeuwin Estate Cabernet Sauvignon Prelude Vineyard, Margaret River, Australia

92 Points Wine Enthusiast

Leeuwin's characteristic elegance and approachability, combined with ageability, are in full force here. Trademark pencil lead, eucalyptus and red currant characters mingle with dried flowers, herbs and furniture polish. The tannins are dusty and tight-grained, with an herbaceous currant flavor continuing throughout. Drink now–2032.

92 points James Halliday

 This is very good Cabernet, medium-bodied and extracted with a judicious feel for varietal personality: currant and a verdant lift, underlain with black olive and bay leaf skirting across cabernet’s tannic fiber. This is massaged to the tune of mid-term drinkability, without sacrificing the wine’s structural mettle.  

Very nice Aussie Cab – not too much of a fruit bomb – with integrated red fruit, pencil, cigar box and light tannins woven into the flavor and finish. Runs about $30 – I got it for $15 on close out. Should have bought several more and drank over the next 4 years.

2017 Milbrandt Estates Viognier, Wahluke Slope, WA

Aromas of creamsicle, ripe peach, crayon and flower lead to quite ripe, full-bodied stone fruit flavors. It runs warm.

Blend: 85.9% Viognier, 6.9% Chardonnay, 5% Grenache Blanc, 1.4% Piquepoul, 0.8% Clairette

Expressing pure, nearly textbook flavors of white lily, orange blossom, and apricot, this wine is lush in body with concentrated notes of jasmine and white peach. A minerality reminiscent of wet stone balances the floral bouquet, finishing quite clean.

This wine has a higher alcohol content than most of this grape. Nice body with that minerality edge to it. Short finish, but a pretty good sipping wine.  Usually about $26, can be found around $20-22.

2017 CasaSmith “Cervo” Barbera, Wahluke Slope, WA

93 points Jeb Dunnuck: "[$25 list] One of the best expressions of this variety outside of Italy must be the 2017 Barbera Cervo from Charles Smith. Its vibrant purple/ruby color is followed by a fresh, complex bouquet of blue and black fruits, leafy herbs, vanilla, and spice. It’s terrific on the palate as well, offering medium to full body, tons of fruit, and remarkable purity. Drink it any time over the coming 4-5 years. (4/11/19)"

Producer notes: "100% Barbera. Fresh, round and subtle. Raspberry, stone, tobacco and a true sense of place are my first thoughts. Expansive palate with ever-expanding complexities. Fill a glass and let the secrets unfold."

I will admit, I am not a big Barbera fan, even from Italy. For me, the flavors always seem s little flat. Red fruits with some herbs- nicely made wine but not my choice. Runs $24 but can be had for under $20.

2016 Voix de la Vigne Cabernet Franc, Red Mountain, WA

100% Bel’ Villa Vineyard                                100% Cabernet Franc

Aged for 20 months in 2 year old French oak barrels Alcohol 13.9 pH, 4.08 TA

Nice dark, late summer strawberry, cocoa, dried thyme and basil, with a touch of graphite. There is a colorful mix of dried, savory herbs in this wine that pairs beautifully with the fruit. Undertones of cocoa, just a hint of coffee and earthiness really create a lovely blend of aromatics in the classic, yet somewhat bold Cabernet Franc. The bright entry mixes well with the slightly creamy berry mid-palate. The finish is lengthy with fine tannin and flavors of thyme, mocha and just a touch of spice and earth. I love this Cabernet Franc because it shows respect and restraint. It’s a classic, with a bit of a new world twist.

This is a well made Cabernet Franc – the flavors do have a lot of undertones – cocoa, coffee, dried fruit to go with the Red berry flavors. Keeps expanding as it opens up. Very good with a meal – runs about $40, but can be found for $30. Could age several years…

2015 Avennia Gravura Red Wine, Columbia Valley, WA

RP 93      Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

The entry-level Bordeaux blend is the 2015 Gravura, and in 2015 it’s a rough mix of 46% Cabernet Sauvignon, 47% Merlot and the balance Cabernet Franc. It’s a terrific wine, as well as a year in year out great value. The 2015 offers classic notes of blackcurrants, tobacco leaf and violets in a rich, pure, charming and classy style. It has ripe tannin and outstanding purity, and I’m sure it will drink nicely right out of the gate.

The 2015 Gravura is the most hedonistic yet, with aromas of black cherry coulis, red currants, chocolate truffle, violets, and a hint of leather. Rich and palate-coating mouthfeel with dark red and black berries, mocha, and toasted hazelnuts. There is a nice streak of acidity on palate to lift the large-scaled fruit and structure. This wine is tasting great already, but will age 5-8 years at least.

Blend: 13% Bacchus Vineyard Cab, 15% Dionysus Vineyard Cab,18% Red Willow Cab, 21% Red Willow Merlot, 12% Boushey Merlot, 15% Klipsun Merlot, 3% Bacchus Cab Franc, 4% Champoux Cab Franc

This is an excellent blend – a full nose of fruits and flavors of red and black fruits with some pencil shavings, mocha and herbs. A moderate finish with polished tannins – this was great with a meal. Priced around $40, can probably be gotten around $30. This is age-worthy – 5 years easy.

2016 Requiem Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley, WA

Grapes were harvested in the later half of September at between 24 and 27 brix, depending on elevation. The grapes were gently pressed into a combination of open top wood and stainless steel fermenters, ranging from 2 to 5 tons in capacity. After a 3 day cold soak, native yeasts were allowed to begin fermentation, which lasted for 18 to 32 days depending on the tank. Once dry, all the wine was racked in to 225L barrels from Taransaud (15%), François Frères (30%), Darnajou (25%) and Saury (30%) for 24 months - 40% new oak.

This very distinguished, super stylish Cabernet Sauvignon was grown biodynamically in Washington's Columbia Valley. Densely layered and quite substantial in the mouth, this bottling delivers generous blackberry and black currant fruit, wrapped around a vibrant core of acidity which keeps the wine pert and lively on the palate. The fruit for this bottling was sourced from 4 vineyard sites in Walla Walla and Horse Heaven Hills.

Very pleasant wine with typical Cabernet Sauvignon fruits, if not a little understated. Flavors come off a little “dusty” but still is a good bottle of juice. Went well with a meal. Priced around $25 – available around $20. Could age a few years

Question answer:

B. Anderson Valley is in Mendocino County, North of Sonoma.

Another month - hope you are all keeping safe from the goblins. Keep popping those corks and I'll meet you out behind the grapevines.

Wines of September 2019

Another month of wines

Just a few wines to look at this month. But first, a wine question.

Which of the following important rivers run through the Rioja Region of Spain?

a. The Duero River

b. The Rio Oja

c. The Ebro River

d. The Guadalquivir River

Answer at the bottom of the post.

2016 Castello Trebbio Chianti Superiore, Tuscany,Italy

89 Points Wine Enthusiast

This opens with nutmeg, ripe berry and earthy underbrush aromas. The savory, accessible palate offers dried black cherry and white pepper flavors alongside polished tannins. Drink through 2021.

Imported to the U.S. by Sonoma’s Cline family, Castello Trebbio is the center of a 350-hectare, organic winemaking operation that includes this Chianti Superiore. Soft for Chianti, the wine offers a significant graphite note, atop a dark but quite dry cherry base. Slightly tart, with notes of black pepper and some vague, dried spice notes, it’s a perfectly approachable table wine for pizza night.

85% sangiovese and 15% a blend of canaiolo and cliegiolo.

A special from Matt – around $10, this Chianti was good with a number of dishes. Modest nose, somewhat soft but decent fruit carried through to a modest finish. Great “School-nite” wine.

2016 Patton Valley Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, Oregon

2016 was a warm and steady year, with even and predictable ripening. The growing season started early without any hiccoughs and skipped along to the finish line like a champ. The third of three warm and easy vintages in a row, expect balanced wines with finesse at a young age. A small amount of the wine was allowed to ferment whole cluster to balance the wine with a degree of wildness and structure.

Bright and lively on the nose, the wine has a driving, broad, and pleasant structure with red fruit for days such as Rainier cherry, strawberry, and goji berry. Spice and tannin are understated but present throughout, and the wine has a dynamic, lush, and inviting mouth feel.

A close out available for around $15, this is a nice smooth Pinot, perfect for fall weather.  Nice red fruit nose with cherry and red fruit overtones. Full mouthfeel with  a modest finish; tannins are very light. Great for a lot of dishes, worth this price.

2018 Fulcrum Dry Rose, Napa Valley, California

Vineyard Notes                                Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot from St. Helena

Production Notes            Stainless steel and neutral oak aging

Deep pink color.  Aromas of strawberry jam, melon, honeysuckle, and stone fruit.  Rich flavors of ripe watermelon, strawberries and cream.  Complemented by a silky texture.

This is priced around $15 – a slightly deeper Rose with a strawberry nose and a berry, melon mouthfeel. Nicely textured, modest finish – this reminds me of a pink wine for red wine folks.  Pretty good…

2013 Anatomy No. 1 (Hesparian) Caberenet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, Ca

Since purchasing a vineyard on Atlas Peak in 2010 I can now farm the vineyard entirely to my discretion which means that I farm for quality and not for quantity. Anatomy No 1 stared because I wanted to make a more affordable Napa Cabernet Sauvignon so that more people could taste the good wines we make.

Aging: French oak barrels M+ and Medium long toast 15 months in barrel. Unfined but sterile filtered.

Varietal Blend: 89% cabernet Sauvignon + 7% Merlot + 4% Syrah

Sub AVAs: 44% Rutherford, 21% Coombsville, 11% Atlas Peak, 8.6% Sonoma county, 7.1% Yountville, 4.1% Sonoma Mountain, 4.2% Saint Helena

French winemaker Philippe Langner brings a touch of Bordeaux to Napa for a more restrained though still very engaging style of Cabernet. The nose opens with nicely ripe black fruits – think blackcurrant, blackberry, and black cherry – plus a subtly oaky nose of smoke, black pepper, and cloves. Bright, refreshing acidity on the palate adds to the overall approachability. Great everyday drinking Napa Cab.

This cab can be gotten for around $20 to $25  – this winery suffered some damage from the Napa fires. Normally, they sell for almost double. I noted the wine was fairlysoft for a Napa Cab – had some tannins and modest red and black fruit. The finish was medium length; a wine worth drinking at this price.

2015 Ashes & Diamonds Cabernet Franc No. 2, Napa Valley, Ca

Founded by Kashy Khaledi, Ashes & Diamond is a project build on collaboration, highlighting the region’s most influential voices. This savory and balanced Cabernet Franc was made by Steve Matthiasson, with fruit sourced from select growing sites in the southern part of Napa Valley. Powerful yet sophisticated, the wine shows flavors of juicy plums, blackberries, and red fruit marked by graphite and mocha undertones. Aged 20 months in oak.

Kashy Khaledi is the son of the owner of Darioush Winery- he set off to make a Milliniels paradise. This wine is a very good example of Cabernet Franc with a dark berry nose, dark fruit and hints of floral followed by pencil lead and cigar box undertones. Had a very long finish with integrated tannins. Very nice wine, but it sells for $75, a bit out of my normal price range. Buy it if you get a good deal…

2014 Blackbird Vineyards Arise Red, Napa Valley, Ca

92 points Wine Enthusiast

  This blends 38% Merlot with 32% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Cabernet Franc. Together these find a healthy companionship of wood, cedar, currant and dried herb, allowing the two Cabernets to speak loudest. Lightly spicy nutmeg and clove linger around well-defined layers of cherry and vanilla. (VB)   (3/2017)

91 points James Suckling

  Aromas of plums, earth and spices follow through to a full body and tight and firm tannins. Structured and powerful. Needs a few years to soften. Better in 2020.   (1/2017)

38% Merlot, 32% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Cabernet Franc. Winemaker's Notes: "The 2014 Arise entices with aromas of black currant, freshly-picked summer blackberries, cedar stick, and roasted clove. With flavors of licorice, pipe tobacco, Bing cherry, and nutty fig, this wine has a richly layered mid-palate that is complimented by soft texture, good density, and a long, lingering finish. Each wine in the portfolio is a true example of Blackbird’s ongoing commitment to quality by partnering with a selection of Napa Valley’s most prestigious vineyards. Fruit comes from: Blackbird Vineyard, Hudson Vineyard, Stagecoach Vineyard and Crocker & Starr Vineyard."

A really nice blendwith a nose of dark fruits and spices. Red fruits come out on the palate, along with spices and dried herbs, tobacco and mocha. This wine still has a fairly tannic grip, but is drinkable now. The finish as long and stays with you – a really well made wine. Normally found for $50 – look around and you might find it for $40. Great wine.

That’s all this month – I spent a weekend in Napa that I will tell you about later. Until next time, keep popping those corks and I’ll meet you out behind the grapevines.

Answer to Question: c. The Ebro river - Rioja spreads out for 75 miles along this river in northeastern Spain.

August 2019 Wines

Wines in August 2019

Another month has gone by - here's some vino I enjoyed!

2014 Vega Moragona La Duna Tempranillo, Ribera del Jucar, Spain

This is a fruit driven and complex Tempranillo from the Ribera del Jucar appellation. The best quality grapes from a single vineyard go into this wine. After fermentation the wine rests for three months in new oak barrels. It is ruby red in the glass with aromas of red fruit, toast and spice. The palate is broad with flavours of ripe fruit and sweet baking spice. Enjoy this with grilled meat and cool weather dishes.

This is a nice Spanish wine – still holds up but is not one to keep for too long. Should be able to get it for around $10 – well worth a try

2016 Granite Hill Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon, Lodi, CA

Aromas of dark cherries and toasted vanilla oak, followed up with flavors of black currants, blueberries, sweet raspberry and slight hint of tobacco and spice. The finish is lingering and flavorful with red currants and oak.

PAIRING

Delicious with grilled meats, especially tri-tip and ribeye or enjoy with wild game, such as venison, duck confit or a decadent dark chocolate dessert.

About: Granite Hill Cellars is a newly released brand by the Kautz Family of Lodi, California. The name comes from the rocky and “granite” terroir the family’s vineyards grow on. The soft rolling hills, in conjunction with the Pacific Ocean Delta breezes make these vineyards ideal for grapes of distinction. Practicing “sustainability” for over 30 years, the family is committed to the longevity of their land and the environment around them.

Price is supposed to be around $15 – but can be found around $10. Not a bad Cabernet, no real tannins to age it very long, but the fruit is fairly upfront and has a little aftertaste. One of those “school-nite wines”.

2017 Los Vascos Rose, Colchagua, Chile

90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Syrah. This Rose has an attractive, bright pale pink color. The nose is packed with aromas of strawberries, raspberries, cherries and pomegranates underscored by white chocolate. The palate is fresh, balanced and persistent.

Los Vascos’ rosé is made from grapes which are pressed immediately after harvesting. This preserves the freshness, the fruity aromas and the bright colour brought of the juice straight from the vineyard. It is best to drink this wine young to fully enjoy its lively character and finesse.

A very nice, dry Rose to have in the summertime, or anytime. Drink the latest bottling for the freshness of the fruit; excellent with lighter fare. Only around $8 to 10 a bottle.

2016 Clos des Fous ‘PMG’ Pinot Noir, Itata, Chile

Vintage:2016Varietal:Pinot Noir 88%, Cinsault 12%

Winemaker:Francois MassocÉlevage:

Concrete VatLees Contact:12 months

Filtration Method:Light Cartridge 

FiltartionMaceration / Fermentation:10 day cold soak

Pour Ma Gueule (PMG) – a French term literally meaning ‘for my mouth’ used for the wines winemakers stow away for family and friends – is a blend from Chile’s southern soul-filled vineyards. Its grapes are harvested from dry-farmed, old-vines in the red granite, coastal hills of the historic Itata Valley.

Beautiful dark ruby-red color with violet highlights. Outstanding fruit with aromas of red berry, black cherry, black pepper, and a hint of violet. These elements come through on the palate with fresh black and red fruit, revealing a full bodied wine. This wine opens generously to become silky and lush. It is round and velvety with very fine tannins and excellent acidity that enhances its liveliness and balance. (from the Importer)

A very unusual Pinot, with added cinsault; a touch of Chilean “funk” but it blows off quickly. Aged in concrete, it stays light yet has cherry flavor and light finish. Not my style of Pinot, but worth a try at around$12.

2014 Clos des Fous ‘Grillos Cantores’ Cabernet  Sauvignon, Itata, Chile

Beautiful ruby red colour, with a characteristic nose of red fruits and black cherries. Hints of spice, black pepper and green tea develop in the glass. On the palate, the wine is silky, generous and broad, with soft tannins. Its excellent acidity is supported by subtle minerality and an elegant finish.

Clos des Fous 2014 Grillos Cantores Cabernet Sauvignon (Cachapoal Valley)

92 POINTS           Editors’ Choice  Wine enthusiast

Aromas of cool earth, fall leaves and mossy plum and red-berry fruits lead to a palate with grip and flush tannins. Flavors of mocha and chocolate are mild and don't overcrowd the wine's primary berry character. This is excellent Cabernet for the price; drink through 2022. ($20)

Pleasant Cab with light tannins and a very modest aftertaste. Modest fruit flavors, think a Lodi style Cab but without any bell pepper. Priced at $20, but available for around $15. Good every day type Cabernet.

2014 Vina Tarapaca Gran Reserva Cabernet  Sauvignon, Maipo, Chile

"Our Cabernet Sauvignon is a blend sourced from diverse blocks within Maipo Valley, which represent the different features that are present in it. This wine was aged in French and American oak barrels for 12 months; it displays a violet red color, tobacco leaves aromas, mushrooms and dry berries, along with a delicate mentholated hint. In the mouth it is rich, full of black fruit flavors together with herbal hints, liquorice notes and spices; firm tannins and a balanced acidity." —winemaker

Critical Acclaim

WS91     Wine Spectator

"A firm and pure-tasting red, with graphite and slate notes to the dried plum and cherry tart flavors. Licorice snap and bittersweet chocolate details show on the finish. Drink now through 2021. 24,500 cases made." —Kim Marcus, Wine Spectator

JS 91      James Suckling

A red with stone, spice and fresh tobacco character. Full body, dark fruit with stone undertones and a juicy finish. Bright and fresh. Drink now or hold.

Winemaker Notes

This beautiful wine has aromas of ripe fruit with fresh and spicy notes. The tannins are soft and round with a mineral component due to the mediterranean macroclimate. This full-flavored, fruit-forward and semi tannic goes well with grilled, roasted or braised red meats such as beef, duck, lamb, etc and some veggies such as mushrooms and squash.

This is a good Cabernet – upfront red and black fruits. Moderate aftertaste with mild tannins; lingers and gives you good flavors. Better than an everyday wine, acidity to hold up to heavier fare. Nice- around $22, although this vintage could be available closer to $15. Good buy!

2016 Heredis Nebbiolo Langhe, Italy

Elegant, harmonious, and soft on the palate. It is lingering and with firm grippy tannins, that reveal themselves along with sweet fruity notes that characterize this wine. Wine is stored and refined 6 months in oak, then in stainless steel tanks.

Heredis Description

"Nebbiolo is among the grapes with the longest roots, which can go as deep as 7 meters underground: that's why this grape can capture the unique characteristics of its soil. Heredis is the best expression of the distinctive character of the Langhe. Its ruby red color tends to garnet as it ages, its aroma is gently fruity with spicy notes and its delicate, slightly tannic flavor is soft and velvety on the palate."  Winemaker's Notes

Lightly colored but not very tannic; Nebbiolo can be very tannic and almost bitter. This wine is a lighter style that drinks well with lighter fare, like chicken, burgers and pasta. Good everyday type of vino – under $15 – I got mine under $10. Nice to try.

Well, another month – hope all is well in your world. Until next time, keep popping those corks and I’ll meet you out behind the grapevines.

July 2019 Wines

Wines of July 2019

2017 La Croisade Reserve Cabernet/Syrah, Vin de Pays, France

This is an Old World wine with a new world taste from France. Full bodied, with plums and wild raspberries on the nose. Toffee, strawberries, a touch of oak, black tea and tart cherries make this so drinkable! Serve this with baked chicken cutlets in a marinara sauce, pork schnitzel or back on wrapped figs

This wine is always very tasty. Nothing to cellar, but a tasty school night wine that ever one can enjoy.  Good fruit, decent acidity for food, a nice buy under $10.

2011 Chilcas Syrah Reserve, Maule, Chile

Cherry notes are less juicy and succulent than Carignan, but still make for a simple and pleasant afternoon sipper.

This was a decent syrah – a little long in the tooth, but not quite over the hill. Pleasant red fruits, tannin gone but a little acidity to make it pleasurable as a school night wine. Buy a newer vintage (under $10).

2015 Natale Verga Governo Rosso Toscano, Tuscany, Italy

Super Tuscan wines always have a degree of complexity to them. This wine manages to balance the rustic and robust nature of Italian wines with the friendly welcoming flavours of the new world. Initially we taste tart cherries, raspberries and some red currants. There is a tea influence here, reflective of the herbal and leafy flavours. The tannins are present but gentle. This wine is young, so decanting always helps to coax out the flavours.

"A blend of Sangiovese, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. "Governo all'uso Toscano" dates back to the most ancient traditions of Tuscan farmers. Part of the grapes planted before harvest are added to wine during fermentation, so as to give it more softness and to enhance its bouquet. Intense red color, fruity notes and round aromas are the distinctive characteristics of this wine. It is fresh, harmonic and savory on the palate." Winemaker's Notes

A less expensive “Super-Tuscan” this wine started with a little green olive in the middle palate, but smoothed out with being open for a while. Not bad for the price (around$11), can’t say it would age more than a year or two. Another School night wine.

2015-17 Ruggeri Guistino B. Prosecco, Valdobbiane, Italy

The Prosecco Giustino B is a Prosecco just perfect, from all points of view. If you do not like Giustino B, you do not like the Prosecco. A thought shared by us and that is reflected in the maximum guide national and international wines. They are, in fact, the greatest guide of Italy and has not decant the praises of this Prosecco perfect and refined: the Gambero Rosso guide defines it as the "Prosecco reference"; in the Slow Wine guide you recognize able to "express the characteristics of the type at the highest levels of quality and intensity"; the leadership of the Touring Club Good Wines of Italy, where Justin B. won the Crown, the highest recognition of the guide, calls it "a masterpiece, which represents the pure pleasure of drinking in keeping with the typical"; Finally, the magazine Wine Enthusiast defines it as the "Prosecco qualitative reference in the panorama of Italian sparkling wine." In short, only judgments more than positive for this Prosecco, which owes its name to Giustino Bisol, founder of the winery in 1950.

Colour   Bright golden yellow

Scent     Notes of white flowers and lavender, with fruity hints of peach, apple and pear

Taste     Fresh and lively, clean and very pleasant

Although this is a blend of years and made in the Charmat method – this is one of the best Proseccos I have had. Wonderful flavors – peach and exotic fruits. Soft in the mouth but finishing with a nice acidic balance. Really good prosecco – priced around $30.

NV Chapillon Secret Reserva Brut Nature, Cava, Spain

Dusty, briny citrus and apple aromas lead to a palate that's calm and only mildly bubbly and active. Lightly pickled lime and tangerine flavors finish dry, slightly bitter and briny, with a coarse but crisp feel of seltzer. 88 Points Wine Enthusiast

A blend of 75 percent chardonnay and 25 percent macabeo aged 16 months in the bottle, this is classic Cava, from the nutty scent to the almond flavor. It feels broad and rich yet clean, defined by its crisp acidity.

A very nice cava that is as dry as a bone. No added sugar (Brut Nature) assures you this is a tingling, dry bubbly that has broad flavor but very crisp acidity. Would be great with seafood – only around $20. Worth a try…

2016 El Jamon Garnacha Carinena, Spain

Medium-bodied. Fine, soft tannins. Well-balanced acidity. Violets in the opening aromas with concentration of ripe cherries. Fruit flavors of blackberries and candied cherries are abundant. Lovely spice nuance leads to the velvety and lingering finish.

Always a nice, pleasant fruity wine with little tannins but dark fruit flavors and a decent acidity to match various foods. A wine around $9, worth the price…

Another month and so little time for wine. Keep popping those corks and I’ll meet you out behind the grapevines.

The wines of June 2019

Another month of "wine-ing"

Let's so what I poured this last month:

2015 Natale Verga Love Rosso Veneto, Italy

Natale Verga Love Rosso hails from the Veneto Region of Italy. On the nose you’ll get aromas of cherry, currants, and notes of sage. On the palate, the cherry and currants continue as flavors of anise and licorice develop into a dry, full-bodied finish. Pair Natale Verga Love Rosso with your favorite classic Italian dish. Corvina Blend

Moderate color, fruity nose with a touch of earthiness on the backend. I found it OK, not something I would recommend. Under $10, an average week-night wine.

2018 Ocaso Malbec, Mendoza, Argentina

Black violet color. Aromas of huckleberry tart, sweet tomato, elderflower, blueberry, sandalwood, and suede with a satiny, vibrant, dry-yet-fruity medium-to-full body and a polished, amusing, medium-length toasted pine nuts, cocoa nib, and pomegranate relish finish with well-integrated tannins and moderate oak flavor. A delicious, nuanced Malbec that will be a hit.

While Malbec is historically known as a red Bordeaux variety, it is Argentina that has given this grape its new found popularity. Bright purple in color with ripe plum and black cherry fruit with moderate acidity, Malbec from Argentina has become the people’s choice among moderately priced red wines ($12-$16 a bottle in domestic markets).

Decent color, mild nose – some fruit although the finish is short. A young Malbec that is just OK, not an aging wine. For under $10, pretty average.

2012 Torres Coronas Tempranillo, Catalunya, Spain

Natalie's Score: 87/100 (Natalie McClean)

Incredible texture and mouth-feel on this luscious Spanish red wine. That's what the Tempranillo grape delivers consistently. Aromas of dark red fruit and some dark spice. Perfect for grilled or blackened chicken.

Tempranillo food pairings: red meats, creamy cheeses, traditional paellas.

Since I  drink a lot of Spanish wines, this one was pretty nice for the price. Under $10, it had good fruit, hints of leather on the palate and a modest finish. At about the end of its life, wouldn’t hold much longer. Worth a try, find a newer vintage.

2017 Viejo Feo Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve Maule, Chile

The Cabernet Sauvignon vines are 25 years old that yield only five tons per hectare.

After crushing, the juice undertakes a cold maceration at 5 C for one week. After fermentation, the wine is further macerated for 15 days before pressing. 50% of the wine is then aged for 12 months in French oak barrels. The rest is kept in stainless steel tanks before the final blending. Alcohol by Volume 15.0%

TASTING NOTES: This is Tinajas del Maule’s flagship wine. The crimson wine is concentrated and built to last. Its complex aromas of blackcurrant and black cherries are complemented by generous aromas of vanilla and black pepper. The wine has a firm structure and gritty tannins. A bright acidic backbone pulls it together while it opens beautifully in the glass. Decant this wine and enjoy at 18°C.

PAIRING: This wine will pair well with rich cuts of beef. Braised meat and charcoal grilled asados. The flavorful wine will taste its best with fatty duck magret and beef wellington.

I don’t know that this is “Reserve” but the label said it was. Usually, you have to let the Chilean funk blow off the nose of the wine. This was an exception – the nose was pretty nice from the get-go. Nice red and black fruit with some tannin to provide a little backbone. Pretty nice for a $10 bottle – I’d drink it again.

2011 Chilcas Carmenere Reserva, Valla Del Maule, Chile

TASTING NOTES:

The 2011 Reserva Merlot displays a bright, intense cherry-red color. Aromas of blackberry,

and cherry are accompanied by spicy notes of black pepper and bay leaf. Barrel aging lends

notes of vanilla and subtle toasty oak. The big-bodied palate shows good concentration of

fruit with velvety, well-rounded tannins and a persistent finish

Carmenere, a very underestimated varietal. Originally planted in Medoc region of Bordeaux, France where it was mostly used for blending and considered one of the original 6 grapes of Bordeaux. Now rarely found in France, the largest production and producing region is Chile!

CHILCAS Carmenere Reserva is a full bodied, complex yet pretty wine that is rich, silky, smooth, very approachable and easy to drink... It shows ripe dark fruit (blackberry and plum) with vanilla, cinammon and notes of black pepper, intertwined with roasted coffee and tobacco.

Tannins, supple and silky and the palate presents good volume, with silky elegant tannins. Yummie!

I love the easy-ness of this wine. It makes me smile :) (Natalie McClean)

This wine is getting a little old, but it still holds up very well. Fruit on the nose, a broad palate of black and dark red fruit. Still has a backbone, not much tannin. Drink soon, but worth the $10 price.

2015 Pali Wine Co Summit Pinot Noir, Sta Rita Hills, Ca

92 POINTS           Editors’ Choice  Wine Enthusiast

One of the better wines on the market in the $30 range, this bottling from winemaker Aaron Walker shows beet, rhubarb, raspberry and dried mint aromas. The flavorful red fruit on the palate is lively and boisterous, its acidity and peppery spice combining for a very memorable sipping experience.

A very nice bottling of Pinot from the southern end of California.  Using 35% new oak, the flavors are not overwhelmed, showing bright red fruits and a nice acidity to match foods. A good sipper and dinner wine – available for around $25 right now, well worth the splurge.

2016 Cuvee Paul and Remy Tempranillo, Calatayud, Spain

1OO% Tempranillo          OAK. 6 Month   Region: Aragon (Calatayud)

TASTING NOTE

Fun, fresh and fruity . Christophe Chapillon produces this wine 100 % Tempranillo to take and enjoy at any time without complicate your life.

Intense / fruity aromas / black fruit / spicy / toasty notes

FOOD PAIRING

Perfect with red meats, white meat cheeses, pasta, ham, salads

In 2006, Christophe Chapillon decides to follow the family adventure (his uncle was oenologue in the Loire) of wine making but not in the Loire Valley but in Spain and specifically in Aragon where he lives since 1986 with the help of Cesar Langa. Through this collaboration with the oldest Calatayud (More than 150 years of history) familiar Bodega, launches its brand CHAPILLON that becomes the backbone of their new business project.

Christophe creates a line of wine with their familial name: CHAPILLON. A line of modern and wines, very different wines from the area.

A special buy of a newer producer/importer to our area brought this little gem of a Spanish Tempranillo. My notes indicate good, fruit and structure, and a nice moderate aftertaste. Very enjoyable, priced from $16 to $20, well worth trying.

2016 Qupe Syrah, Central Coast, Ca

FLAVOR PROFILE

In the glass, the wine pours a deep purple with aromas of black currant, blackberry, coffee and a bit of vanilla dust. The palate is fresh and effortless. It's an incredibly easy-drinking wine that will go well with or without food. Perfect with grilled meats. Great value.

WINEMAKING

This wine is 90% Syrah, with the remaining a composite of Grenache, Mourvedre and Tempranillo from a number of vineyards in both Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo Counties. All of the lots were fermented separately in a combination of small open top fermentesrs using manual punch-down, and larger closed top tanks using pump over. Againg was in a small French oak barrels (mostly neutral) for about 16 months. This is a pretty rich and forward version of this wine, but still balance and under 14% alcohol. It is bottled under Stelvin screw caps, so I recommend drinking it and not putting it in the cellar. If you do decide to age it, keep the bottle standing up, give it 10 years and let me know how it's doing!

This wine packs a punch for a syrah – not an over the head fruit bomb, but a wonderfully nuanced berry with a trace of dust. Nice body with a moderate aftertaste, this wine is great. Available for about $20, this is a heck of a bottle – go try some. This is their basic bottling, the others cost more but would probably be good, too.

Time for goodbyes – remember to keep popping those corks and I’ll meet you out behind the grapevines.