The Wines of June 2026

I am a day os so behind - my daughter Natalie got married on the 27th and it threw me off schedule.

On to the wines:

2021 Ariabal Verdejo, Rueda, Spain (Bodegas Pandora)

Fragrances of pineapple, passion fruit and crumbled sage waft from the glass. Honeydew melon, nectarine, cocoa-butter and orange-blossom flavors skate into a refreshing finish.  89 Pts WE

Crystal clear, straw yellow color with green reflection. Strong aromatic nose with hints of citrus, pineapple, passion fruit and a typical, fine touch of boxwood. One thing immediately stands out in the mouth ... What a balance! Fats and acids are perfectly adjusted to each other and leave a wonderful structure and mouthfeel. A wine with body and an impressive final that will not let you go.

Delicious and refreshing aperitif but also delicious with cheeses, dried fruit, seafood, fish dishes from the oven, white meat and grilled octopus.

This is a wonderful white wine – excellent by itself or with a light entrée. Great balance with tropical fruits that are not overwhelming/ Priced at about $12, a steal for summertime quaffing.

 

2021 Balletto Zinfandel, Russian River Valley, Sonoma, California

The 2021 Balletto Russian River Valley Zinfandel is a delightful choice. Crafted by Balletto Vineyards in the Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California, this Zinfandel offers a profile of cherry and berry flavors, presenting a rounded structure with a touch of richness. It’s sustainably farmed and boasts an alcohol content of 14.5%.

“Each year, Balletto produces a distinctly bright and aromatic Zinfandel. It’s part oral, part mixed blackberry and part earth and savory spices. It expresses the lively and bright side of Zin that was grown in a cool and foggy climate and made with the fine touch associated with Pinot Noir producers. While light, the wine still shows a richness through an integrated mid-palate weight that’s balanced with crisp acidity on the front and fine, cocoa-like tannins on the finish. The resulting wine is complete and full with the vibrant aromatic prole melding nicely with the flavors and texture of the wine.” 

I love zinfandel, but this Russian River Valley wine is below average to me. The fruit is downplayed and it isn’t really balanced to offset that.  Priced around $29, I expect a lot more than this.

 

2017 Pocas Reserva Red wine, Douro, Portugal

The red wine Poças Reserva, vintage 2017 from the winery Poças has been rated in 2019 by Peter Moser with 89 Falstaff points. It is a wine made from the grape varieties Touriga Franca, Tinta Barocca, Tempranillo, Touriga Nacional from the region Douro in Portugal.

Tasting Notes   

Dark ruby, purple reflections, subtle brightening on the rim. Delicate notes of sour cherries and black forest berries, a hint of fresh orange zest, floral notes. Slender, a touch of coconut, fresh structure, red berry aftertaste, an uncomplicated food wine.

A fun little wine from Portugal – priced around $20, it has a great balance in acidity, fruits and weight.  I really enjoyed this wine, probably not much around anymore, but well worth the price.

 

2020 Calcareo Cabernet Franc, Valle de Uco, Mendoza, Argentina

93+ points Luis Gutiérrez (Wine Advocate): "They lost access to the grapes they used for the Calcáreo Cabernet Franc from Gualtallary, so starting in 2019 they began producing one from Altamira. The second vintage produced from Altamira, the 2020 Calcáreo Coluvio de Altamira Cabernet Franc is from the same vineyard where they source the Malbec (and the other SuperUco wines from Altamira). There are notes of herbs and spices, and it's peppery and ripe at the same time, with 14.6% alcohol and a round palate with chalky, fine-grained tannins. This fermented and matured in 500-liter barrels, so it's slightly different from the rest of the Calcáreo range. 4,000 bottles were filled in January 2021. Drink: 2022-2027. (11/30/22)"

This is an old style Cab Franc that needs to be opened and decanted to bring out the best of the wine.  Enjoyable when it opens, feels tight when not fully opened. Palate opens up and has some backbone (acid/tannin) that keeps it balanced for grilled foods. Around $20, actually nice, but need proper handling

 

2018 Cerro Anon Gran Reserva, Rioja, Spain

This wine shows a shiny dark garnet colour. To the nose, at the time of release, blackberry and strawberry aromas unfold wrapped up with spice and cedarwood notes. Over time, bouquet has developed aromas of prunes and smokiness. Elegance is the first term that comes to mind when considering mouthfeel, with a pleasantly long finish. Tempranillo 85%, Mazuelo and Graciano 15%

Aromas of Mission fig, mocha and aniseed waft from the glass. Dark berry and baking spice flavors mingle on the palate alongside well-balanced acidity, robust tannins and notes violet and coffee bean. The energetic finish is marked with a touch of orange zest.     93 Pts WE

A reat drinking Rioja – wonderful palate of baking spices and red fruit flavors. Moderate finish with good mouthfeel – a very good Reserva. Priced around $25 – 30, worth the money.

 

NV Monte Vople Primo Rosso Lot 17, Mendocino, Callifornia

This creative blend produces a wine of extraordinary balance. This wine has a dark purple-garnet color, with fruity aromas and flavors of plums, blackberry jam, spice and earth with hints of toasty oak. Rich full flavors, ample tannins and balanced acidity seamlessly carry through to a long, complex finish.

Enjoy this wine with grilled steaks, pasta with forest mushroom sauce and lamb chops with rosemary and garlic sauce. Primo Rosso also make a great companion to hard well aged cheeses.

This is a rich, opulent variation of unique lots aged in American and French oak barrels. The Italian grape varieties in Lot 17 have the aromas of Black currant confiture, baked plum, dried violets, sarsaparilla, and molasses on the nose. The flavors on the palate are cooked Bing cherries, candied grapefruit, black pepper, and supple tannins to finish. Pair with grilled pork chop with apple chutney. 91 Pts WE

This is a multi-vintage wine that has several years of the grapes and wine involved.  Talked with Greg Graziano about this wine and he indicated he takes older wines and mixes them to create a fun, tasty wine. This is great at just under $15 – not a long term keeper, but great everyday sipper.

 

2023 Barossa Valley Estate GSM, Barossa Valley, Australia

This fruity GSM opens with aromas of blackberry jam underscored by a funkier undergrowth character and a hint of florals. The palate is more tempered on the fruit front. Tannins are dry and raspy, and while dark luscious fruit still dominates, the tannins and acidity never quite gel, leaving a feeling of chunkiness rather than one of harmony or ease.                                86 Pts WE

Just average Aussie GSM – has some fruitiness and a few undertones of spice but nothing to really go nuts over. Price around $15, just OK for a school night wine.

 

2023 L’Ecole no. 41 Old Vines Chenin Blanc, Yakima Valley, Washington

Winemaker Notes

With distinctive aromatics of white peach, Granny Smith apples, honeysuckle, and flint, this dry Chenin is vivid and lively. On the palate, an explosion of flavors unfolds, showcasing stone fruit, magnolia, jasmine, and tangerine, offset by a remarkable note of salinity. The wine is snappy and interesting, carrying through to a flavorful and vibrant mouthwatering finish.

91  Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

The 2023 Chenin Blanc Old Vines comes from vines more than 45 years old. Brought up in stainless steel, it has pretty scents of peach, lemongrass, toast and honey. The medium-bodied palate is concentrated and mouth-coating with gently honeyed fruit. Its generosity is foiled by vibrant acidity, and it has a long, flavorful finish.

A personal favorite of mine – I’m an old Chenin Blanc fan. This wine has the nice fruit with the touch of minerality and a nice finish. Good with lighter fare and all by itself. Priced at about $20 – great bottle.

 

2023 Parducci Cellars Merlot, Mendocino, California

The nose offers aromas of fresh and lush dark plum, cassis, tangerine, and dried Sage. The flavors on the palate offer raspberry coulis, cranberry-pomegranate, crackled black pepper, chocolate shavings, and supple tannins to finish. 89 Pts WE

Tasting Notes: Sweet summer strawberry aromas with hints of chocolate and herbs lead to rich flavors of dark cherry, raspberry fruit leather, and toasted cedar. Structure from tannins balances the wine’s velvety texture, which finishes in a nutty sweetness that lingers on the finish.

Pairings Tomato based pasta sauces, charcuterie, grilled veggies, braised short ribs and roast duck

Sustainability Certified Sustainable, Vegan

My notes read that it is a decent Merlot with red fruits and a moderate finish.  It is a $15 Merlot that you get what you pay for. Not great, not bad…

 

2022 Hearst Ranch ‘Pico Creek’ Merlot, Paso Robles, California

Elegant, earthy notes of wet clay, baking spices and raspberries hint at this wine’s elegance. Medium-bodied on the palate, flavors of wild strawberries, raspberries and rich oak meld to create a wine with excellent balance and finely textured tannins.

While this wine’s garnet hue charms the eye, the nose engages our senses with aromas of lingonberries, raspberries, and rose petals. The wine’s palate is elegant and refined, reminiscent of a strawberry–cranberry tart. Lovely as an aperitif, this wine will drink well over the next 5 years.

This is a tasty Merlot from Paso Robles. There are raspberries and red fruit with some baking spices on the nose ad palate. Moderate finish but good balance and a very food friendly wine. Priced under $25, worth a try.

 

2021 Revelry Vintners Merlot, Columbia Valley, Washington

The Merlot grape is responsible for establishing Washington State as one of the preeminent growing regions for Bordeaux varieties the world over.  It was also the initial and most influential variety in the founding of Revelry Vintners. We source our Merlot across the Columbia Valley, finding sweet spots for the grape on consistent soft grades, with moderate heat and good air drainage.  Our Merlot is built to be a crowd pleaser with soft dark red and blue fruit flavors, an undercurrent of sweet toasted vanilla and caramel, with dusty cocoa tannin backbone. Enjoy.

The first red wine to do anything for me was a Washington State Merlot. This reminds me of that type of wine – nice red fruits with a nice acidity and light tannins; balanced with those bold fruits. Good with a meal and alone, this is a good example of Merlot from Washington. Priced in the $20 range, very nice.

 

2022 Van Loggerenberg ‘Break a leg’ Merlot, Stellenbosch, South Africa

Lush aromas of ripe black cherries and subtle hints of cocoa mingle with a touch of herbal undertones, creating an inviting bouquet. On the palate, this Merlot reveals a velvety texture with flavors of dark plum and a whisper of spice, leading to a lingering finish that balances fruit and oak. This wine pairs beautifully with grilled lamb chops, creamy mushroom risotto, or aged cheddar.

My notes read “Interesting”.  The palate just didn’t hit me right – red and black fruits just didn’t balance up and the overall taste was just OK. Little better with a meal but not something I really enjoyed. Priced in the mid-20’s, can’t really recommend.

 

Another month –hope all is well. Keep popping those corks and I’ll meet you out behind the grape vines.

 The Wines of May 2026

    Another month has rolled by - getting set for the summer months. I also got another year older. Here are the wines I got to taste and enjoy.

2020 Rebellious Red Blend, California

Aromas of cherry preserves, dark chocolate and cola with spicy notes of licorice, cardamom, cracked pepper and sandalwood. The bright and vibrant entry accentuates flavors of Bing cherry, fresh blueberries and allspice that linger into a creamy, rich mid-palate and ends with a luxurious finish. Pair with grilled foods, such as saucy baby back ribs, grilled vegetables or a juicy burger with cheddar.

Blend: 45% Zinfandel, 32% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Merlot, 8% Syrah, 3% Petite Sirah, 1% Chardonnay

Tasting Panel  92

Dense, vibrant, and well structured, this blend is balanced and sure-footed. Graceful tannins underpin a lithe mouthfeel with notes of tobacco as well as juicy cranberry and ripe cherry, giving way to a pleasing persistent finish.

Decent little red blend, costs around $13. Fine for an every day, school nite wine.

 

2024 Rebellious Sauvignon Blanc, California

This crisp and refreshing Sauvignon Blanc features notes of tropical fruit, melon, citrus and green apple. Vibrant acidity and beautiful minerality complete the wine profile, making an exceptionally balanced wine with a rich, long mouthfeel.

Average American style Sauv Blanc – decent with food, fair as a sipper. Same price range as the red - $13.

 

2020 Le Fonti di Panzano Merlot, Greve, Italy

The 2020 vintage is known for its elegant, fruit-forward profile. Nose: Ripe blackberries, plums, dark cherries, accompanied by spicy oak, tobacco, and mineral notes. Palate: Full-bodied with soft, silky, and velvety tannins. It balances dark fruit flavors with a fresh acidity and a long, polished finish.

I enjoyed this Italian Merlot with its dark fruit and tobacco otes. Some tannins, but they blend nicely. Enough acidity to make a match with red meats. Very Nice – runs about $30.

 

2024 Pieropan Soave Classico, Italy

James Suckling  95

Perfumed wine with citrus and minerality, forthright, intense and focused. Medium-bodied, vibrant and savory, it displays super-cool freshness and weight, with a polished finish. One of the top Italian whites for quality-per-price ratio. Drink now.  Blend: Garganega 85%, Trebbiano di Soave 15%

I think this wine need food – especially seafood to shine brightly. Decent mouthfeel, but the finish has some weirdness to me. Priced around $22.

 

2020 Akutain Cosecha  Rioja, Spain

The Akutain Crianza is comprised of mostly Tempranillo with Garnacha, is fermented in fiberglass vats with native yeasts, and then raised for 1 year and 9 months in used American oak barrels, with an additional year in the bottle before release - far exceeding the Rioja D.O.’s aging requirements for Crianza wines. A very good value in traditional Grower Rioja.

Nicely done Tempranillo, it shows the grapes flavors with a touch of oakiness. Pretty good, priced about $20.

 

2023 Geyser Peak Cabernet Sauvignon, California

Deep ruby-red in color, this wine is fruit forward with nuanced tannins. Concentrated aromas of blackcurrant, ripe cherry, cola, eucalyptus, mocha and tilled earth carry over into a balanced palate. Smooth midpalate tannins support the fruit through a pleasing finish.

Nice school nite wine with very little tannins, but dark fruit and herbs. Goes with pizza, spaghetti and other quick style meals. Priced around $13.

 

2022 Geyser Peak Chardonnay, California

This Chard (with 9% Pinot Gris in the mix) is floral on the nose, with aromas of white orchids, lilies, peonies and baby's breath gently wafting out of the glass. The palate shows a soft mouthfeel and opens to fruitier tones of just-ripe apricots, white nectarines and lychees.   88 Pts WE

Nice chard with very little oak influence. Tropical fruits with a short finish. Also only $13, nice to have on a hot summer afternoon.

 

2023 Portlandia Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley, Washington

This bold Cabernet begins with aromas of blackberry, vanilla, and coffee, followed by layered flavors of black cherry, dark plum and sweet spices. Structured by fine, firm tannins and well-integrated acidity, we love to pair this food friendly wine with grilled beef or portabella mushroom dishes.

A decent moderate priced Cab from Washington – mostly dark fruit with some nuances of spices. Low tannins and moderate acidity to go with food. Priced about $17, worth a try.

 

2020 Intuition Cotes du Rhone Celler de Terres Blanches, France

"This excellent Cotes-du-Rhone is packed with delicate red-fruit and baking-spice aromas, but there are also some lovely summer-flower notes. On the generous but lively palate, some licorice and warm dry-earth character completes this very attractive picture of the South. I love the gently dry tannins and animating acidity at the clean and elegant finish. Drink now." —James Suckling   92 Pts

I didn’t expect a lot from a under $15 CDR but I must say it hits the spot very well. The fruits are bright with the red black notes and the earth and herbs back them up. Good sipper and a very good food wine. A winner for sure.

2022 Barbazzale Catarrato, Sicily, Italy

This exquisite Sicilian white wine is a refreshing blend of Catarratto and Viognier grapes, offering a delightful fusion of floral and citrus aromas. On the palate, enjoy crisp notes of green apple, white peach, and a hint of zesty lemon, balanced with a clean minerality that is characteristic of the volcanic soils of Mount Etna. Perfect for pairing with seafood and light pastas, its lively acidity and elegant finish make it an ideal choice for any occasion.

There is only 3% viognier but it really adds to the body of this Italian white. White peach and hints of lemon on a very balanced palate and a nice finish. Priced under $20, this is a go to for Italian whites – would do well with lighter fare and seafood.

 

2022 Stolpman Uni Blanc, Ballard Canyon, California

The color of summertime California hills of golden brush. Straw and honeysuckle ride over a pineapple core. A taut focus drives through the center of the mouth while concentrated fruit richness spreads out and surrounds. With only a few swirls a rich, dense world of fruit arrives with green apple and stone fruit joining the waft of pineapple. A voluptuous wine with mouth filling texture but with a classic, firmly built structure to carry it

A nice crisp blend of roussanne and chardonnay; very crisp with a weighty mid-palate. Good food wine, though a bit pricey – runs over $23 most places.

 

2024 Paul Joboulet Aine ‘Parallele 45’ Cotes du rhone, France

Deep garnet-red colour. The nose is expressive and rich with aromas of ripe red fruit (strawberry, raspberry) combined with floral and spicy notes.

On the palate, this Côtes du Rhône has a fresh, delicious attack with good balance and supple tannins. Notes of red fruit carry through to the finish.

I have had a number of vintages of this Cotes du Rhone. Always good, with bright red fruits, good balance and acidity, with a decent finish. Can be found around $15, always a good bottle to have o hand.

 

2021 Noble Hill ‘Field Atlas’ Red blend, Simonsberg, South Africa

Field Atlas reflects our deep connection with the soils of the Simonsberg. We co-ferment whole bunches from selected vineyards to balance lightness & structure. Floral, black pepper, & olive purée aromas underlined by umami and earth.

Field Atlas is a unique blend that begins in our estate vineyards. We field blend and co-ferment Syrah, Mourvèdre, Grenache Noir, & Viognier. Each vineyard is carefully selected for compatibility. Each vineyard’s unique elevation, aspect, and soil gives us flexibility in creating a harmonious, cohesive, and delicate wine. 12.5% ABV

A little unusual, but a not bad Syrah blend. Just a little different; somewhat light and more of a sipper then a food wine. Interesting – available under $20.

2021 Neleman Bobal Robusta, Utiel, Spain

The wine opens with an aromatic nose of unsweetened cocoa powder, raspberry tart, sweet baking spices and boysenberry. The palate reveals dried tobacco flavors and worn leather with grippy tannins that soften towards the finish. Bison burgers, New York strip and Gouchauchang-topped Bibimbap would all pair stunningly. 93 Pts WE

This is a big robust wine, sort of an almost Cabernet style wine. Red and black fruits dominate with some herbs and spices underneath. Good enough structure for a red meat dinner and only around $15. Try some of this one.

 

2023 5x30 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, California

Named for the dimensions of Napa Valley – 5 miles wide by 30 miles long – 5 x 30 captures the essence of a place small in size but vast in character. Every bottle reflects the diversity and intensity of this legendary region, where ideal microclimates and soils converge to create world-class wines. From this narrow valley comes a bold yet refined expression of Cabernet Sauvignon – rooted in tradition, elevated by passion, and unmistakably Napa.

This Cabernet Sauvignon, with the extra oomph of Petit Verdot, showcases dark fruits, sweet ripe blackberries, spices, and resinous forest notes followed by a savory finish. Tannins are abundant while sheathed in a fine polish. Even so, this wine will benefit from decanting, a meal, or further time in cellar. Enjoy in two years and for another two decades.    93 Pts WE

You can find more Napa valley sourced wines at decent prices – the result of too many grapes and not enough sales in the mid and upper ranges of products. Dark black fruits with some earthiness; Tannins do not overwhelm this wine but leave good structure. A great wine for a small price – around $20. Buy some and stash some for a couple years.

I hope all is well with you. Remember to keep popping those corks and I'll meet you out behind the grapevines.

 The Wines of April 2026

Hope April was kind to you; the weather was topsy-turvy in the MidWest. The more it changes, the more it seems normal. Anywho, here are the wines I tried in April.

NV Sofia Brescia Veneto Frizzante (Mary Taylor), Italy

Frizzante is a classification for wines with a delicate carbonation, distinct from more richly sparkling wines such as Champagne, in that their fizziness is tempered and light. Sofia Brescia offers a soft and uplifting effervescence that elevates notes of apple, lemon zest, and slate. 90 Pts WE

IGT: Veneto

Soil Type: Volcanic and Limestone            Varieties: 60% Glera, 40% Garganega

Age of Vines: 25 years   Farming: Sustainable      Alcohol: 11%

Aging Details: Stainless steel       Residual Sugar: 13 g/l

A fun little wine to sip alone or with light bites. Hints of lemon, green apple makes this a perfect gathering wine. Priced around $12, great bottle.

 

2022 Domaine des Deax Valles Savennieres, Loire, France

No picture - I forgot to snap and the internet doesn't have 'uploadable' pics.

“The Holy Grail for Chenin lovers from the fabulous terroirs of Savennières  - Notes of white fruit, candied yellow fruit, and citrus; intensity, balance, body, and structure: this is an impressive and exceptionally well-crafted Savennières, displaying both maturity and finesse.”

I’m a sucker for Chenin Blanc and this is a great wine. Fruits with that bracing salinity – a wine for sipping or lighter fare. The vineyard is located near the Joly property, but this is only about $27. Awesome.

 

2022 Trefethen Cabernet Sauvignon Oak Knoll of Napa Valley, California

93 points - "A medium-bodied, well-balanced and slightly restrained red that bucks the Napa norm and offers more fresh acidity and bright fruits than richness and chocolate. So appetizing, well-balanced and food-friendly, offering aromas of raspberries, black cherries, bay leaves and some black olives on nicely supportive tannins and good fruit acidity."             -James Suckling, 2025

Aromas of California bay leaf, dark plum, and cherry mingle with subtle hints of molasses and clove. On the palate, bright acidity brings energy to notes of raspberry and plum skin, supported by moderate tannins and a lively, balanced finish.

This wine pairs well with fatty dishes, which will highlight its fine grained tannins and herbal notes. Winery Chef Chris Kennedy recommends fire roasted dishes and grilled or braised red meats.

Got to initially try this with a lineup of Napa Valley wines. Despite being among th lowest priced, it stood out for the body and redolent fruits. Nice finish, some refined tannins, a great Napa wine. Priced around $70, a real banger

 

2020 Torrebruna Sangiovese, Toscana, Italy

Colour: Opaque with a red berry rim.

Bouquet: Aromas of cherry, dark fruits and vanilla.

Taste: Silky tannins frame flavors of dried strawberries, plums, violet and red cherries. Robust and balanced.

Opaque with a red berry rim. Aromas of cherry, dark fruits and vanilla. Silky tannins frame flavors of dried strawberries, plums, violet and red cherries. Robust and balanced.

Delicious with Pasta dishes and grilled red meats.

Nicely made Sangiovese, plenty of fruit with a nice acidic frame. Tannins are integrated, not over the top, and the wine goes well with a meal. Nice price, under $20.

 

2023 Tagua Tagua Carmenere, Central Valley, Chile

Couldn't get the correct label in a pic - forgot to snap it at work or home. My bad

This Carmenere is herbaceous and fresh, with notes of juicy red fruit and a subtle hint of earth. A delicate acidity is beautifully balanced by firm, well-integrated tannins making for an incredibly versatile and super food friendly wine.

Food Ideas: Beef empanadas, lamb gyros, peppery duck breasts with a red wine sauce, bulgogi bi bim bap, grilled veggie skewers

A tasty Carmenere – not something to cellar, but drink and enjoy now. Red fruits with a decent acidity makes it a wine that matches hearty fare. Priced under $10, would make a great ‘House Wine’.

 

2022 Wild Things Old Vine Zinfandel, Mendocino, California (Carol Shelton)

Aromas of black cherry, ripe plum and raspberry fruit combine with a hint of cigar box, and vanilla-oak baking spice loveliness. Smoothly textured in mouth, and the palate is very creamy and round, with a finish that is long with lush jammy fruit.

76% Old Vine Zinfandel, 14% Old Vine Carignane, 10% Petite Sirah ***Sustainably Farmed and Organically Grown ***THIS IS THE 4th VINTAGE WITH ORGANIC GRAPES ON THE BACK LABEL!

92           Wine Spectator

A Zin with pizzaz and an easygoing personality, this serves up lively cherry, cranberry, grilled sage and black pepper flavors that end on a perky note.

Another Carol Shelton beauty – good zin with those red fruits and under tones of spice. Good finish, overall a great example of Zinfandel. Priced under $20 (17 at Auburn), buy several to pull out for grilled anything.

 

2024 The Dude Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, California

The 2024 Canepa Koch 'The Dude' Pinot Noir offers a vibrant Russian River Valley profile with rich red and black fruit, earthy undertones, and smooth, balanced tannins, making it a perfect pairing with a variety of dishes.

Tasting notes: This Pinot Noir possesses deep aromas of wild strawberries and ripe raspberries accentuated with exotic notes of sandalwood and rose petal. Rich and luscious palate it is focused with layers of ripe red fruits, fresh forest floor and fine-grained tannins that linger through the finish.

Notes: The Dude Russian River Pinot Noir is sourced from 2 vineyard sources within the Russian River Valley of Sonoma County, southwest of the city of Sebastopol, in an area known as the Sebastopol Hills. The Pinot Noir grapes were harvested at night, hand sorted and gently de-stemmed to small open-top fermenters. After a 7 day “cold soak” to extract maximum fruit character, and gentle maceration through fermentation, the wine was drained without pressing and aged in 35% new French oak barrels for 16 months.

A new wine from my friend Mark at Marquee, this Pinot is a classic Russian River style light red; red fruits dominate while there are nuances of wood and spices. Very enjoyable – priced around $25 – a nice price for a Pinot from this area.

 

2023 Vinzant ‘Whits End’ Cabernet Sauvignon, Georges Vineyard, Sonoma, California

Whit’s End is made from George Vineyards mountainside grown cabernet sauvignon, where an abundance of volcanic stone permeates the soil, and a strong ocean influence creates cold nights and fog entrenched mornings that interchange daily with brilliant and long afternoon mountain sunlight. The result is a true expression of the Sonoma Valley. Whit’s End in vintage 2023 is rich, dense, and pure  cabernet. Color is red ruby to purple. A silky texture provides structure and balance while notes from volcanic stone softly yet resolutely reveal themselves throughout a symphony of wild strawberry, red fruit, and blackberry.

There is a Kansas connection (Maybe KC?) with the Vinzant family. This is a nice Sonoma Cab that could use another year in the bottle to line out the flavors. There is good dark fruits and some stone in the palate. Moderate finish – priced at around $25, worth trying. I also tried the red blend and it was a little more settled.

 

2023 Kyslea Pere et Fils Picpoul de Pinet, France (Les Costieres de Pomerols)

The color is a superb pale yellow with bright hues. The nose is elegant, with aromas of fresh fruit and citrus fruit especially grapefruit. Well-balanced with typical focusing and zesty acidity.

A pure expression of the grape varietal, the wine shows how good Picpoul can be when grown on its favorite terroir. Our best value, this wine impresses novices and hardened geeks equally.

Picpoul is one of those weird French grapes. This wine is very god with a citrus nose and a full palate. Nice acidity makes it match different lighter fare, and allows it to be sipped by itself. Priced around $12, a steal for a summertime wine.

 

2022 Method Cabernet Sauvignon, California

Aromatics of deep, regal, dark fruits, with hints of baking and savory spices, leap out of the glass. The palate promises rich, dense blackberry, Olallieberry, cardamom, tobacco, chocolate cocoa nibs, and a lip-smacking finish. Decant and Enjoy. Pair with grilled bone-in rib-eye, rosemary herbed butter, creamer potatoes.             94 Pts WE

This wine is one of the best under $20 cabernet I have had in a long time. It’s rich, full of dark berries with nuances of spice and coffee.  A somm and a winemaker got together to produce this wine – Suckling gave it 90 pts. Could age for a few years, but not long-term. At the price, just drink it.

 

Another month, hope all is well. Keep popping those corks and I’ll meet you out behind the grapevines.

 

 The Wines of March 2026

    We actually had days in the upper 90's during the month. Broke records and everything. Wild weather, but no so with the wines. Here they are:

2020 Chateau L’Ermite D’auzan St Cecile red Costiere de Nims, France

In the glass, a core of sour dark cherry, tomato, brown mushrooms, black peppercorn, and a touch of earthy funk meld into an intriguing bouquet. The palate is focused, with spiced plums and a hint of clove, while vibrant acidity balances youthful, clinging tannins. Drink now, ideally paired with pan-roasted wild game with a heap of fresh herbs.           90 Pts WE

A blend of 35% Mourvedre, 35% Syrah, and the 30% Grenache, this honestly comes off like an opulent Chateauneuf meets a spicy and savory Bandol Rouge. It really is that good! Gorgeous notes of dark fruits, peppery spice, leather, truffle, anise, and garrigue are all offered up on a full-bodied and supple palate.

This is a heavy weight wine, made to go with a heavy type meal. Not many tannins, but the flavors fill your senses with red and black fruits with undertones of spices. Moderate finish – running about $16, this is a steal.

 

2021 Anysbos Tesame, Botrivier, South Africa

Grapes: 47% Grenache Noir - 45% Syrah - 8% Cinsault

Vineyard: Anysbos Estate vineyards (Botrivier)

Vine Age: 9-11-years-old (Grenache Noir) - 8 and 9-years-old (Syrah) - 8-years old (Cinsault)

Soil Type: Bokkeveld shale and clay

Viticulture: Conventional - dry-farmed

Fermentation: Native — open top fermenters (partially de-stemmed)

Skin Contact: 3 weeks    Aging: 20 months in older French oak barrels (225L)

Alcohol: 12.5%

The 2021 Anysbos Tesame is a highly-rated, Grenache-driven red blend from Botrivier, South Africa, crafted by winemaker Marelise Niemann. Featuring Grenache Noir, Syrah, and Cinsault, this cool-climate wine offers a savoury, elegant profile with notes of red berries, fynbos, and spice. It is prized for its high quality and balanced, delicate structure.

A lighter weight wine, but good fruits and decent acidity. Enjoyable without food, has enough body for lighter meals, like pork and pasta.  Good South African wine – originally $30, available for about $25.

 

2023 Aviary Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, California

You will find generous blackberry and blueberry fruit on the nose with a touch of baking spice. The mid-pallet continues with dark fruit expressions of black plums and cassis, some red fruit in the form of subtle strawberry preserves, and just a hint of bright menthol or eucalyptus. The French and American oak program adds notes of caramel, cigar box, and a romantic, dusty leather and cedar quality that gives the wine depth and layers. Balanced acidity and soft but structured tannins give this wine a gorgeous texture.

This wine pairs exceptionally well with your favorite steak or roast but will also shine. This wine is a beautiful example of the rich, smooth, and elegant style that Aviary has become so well known for.

Another moderate priced Napa Valley wine, this has good body with ample red and black fruit. Light tannins, decent structure to go with a meal. Moderate finish, good buy at only $30, could hold for a few years in the cellar. From the folks at Folktale winery.

 

2021 Domaine Colin Coteaux du Vendomois, France

The 2021 Domaine Patrice Colin Coteaux du Vendômois is a certified organic/biodynamic Loire Valley wine, often featuring the rare Pineau d'Aunis grape. Known for "Gris" (pale rosé) and red styles, these wines are typically fresh, peppery, and light-to-medium bodied, showcasing flinty, limestone-driven mineral characteristics from the Vendômois region.

I wish I could say I liked this wine, but…The Pinot related grape did not do anything for me. Priced under $20, it still is not one I can recommend. Tasted like a worn out Pinot with little to no spice.

 

2022 Col des Vents Corbieres Cuvee Special, France

"Col des Vents" means "Windy Mountain Pass" as it is quite windy and located at the foothills of the Pyrenees mountains.  Originally, the label was a replicate of a Max Savy's painting.

Brambly berry, cherry and raspberry, spices, black pepper ... all are present in this authentic French country wine. There are also some aromas of Garrigue (Rosemary, thyme and lavender) giving a minty, herbal notes, that are quite refreshing as well.

"Black cherries, leather, scorched earth, and fresh black pepper all define the 2022 Col des Vents Corbières, a fabulously balanced, medium-bodied, supple red that has so much charm and character. Based on 50% Carignan, 30% Grenache, and the rest Syrah, fermented with a touch of whole clusters(Carignan) and aged in tank, drink bottles over the coming 4-6 years. This is well worth your time and money."                Jed Dunnick  91 Pts

How about a French wine for only $12 that drinks like a $30 bottle. Wonderful bottle with red fruits and nuances of spice and earth. Not tannic, but a fresh with nice body.  A good bottle to buy and drink over and over.

 

2023 Frog’s Leap Flycatcher, Napa Valley, California

A love letter to California, Flycatcher is our newest wine that celebrates the wonderful and diverse terroirs of our home state — from Lodi to Los Carneros. An ambitious prospect we know, capturing the whole of California in a bottle, but we’ve been guided by some seriously inspiring growers and treasured vineyards that fitted together in a way that felt, and tasted, just right.

Blend    36% Zinfandel, 15% Cinsault, 13% Petite Sirah, 13% Carignane, 10% Tempranillo, 9% Merlot, 4% Syrah

Generous but up-tempo fruitiness from the Zinfandel meets some serious backbone and savory depth from the Tempranillo, Merlot and Petite Sirah. The soft, friendly drinkability of Cinsault provides lift, keeping the strong personalities in balance, and spicy, floral Syrah shuts down the party. Layered but eminently drinkable, the ‘23 is best served at a cool cellar temperature, around 55F.

A lighter red wine, this blend just isn’t very cohesive. The layering doesn’t really do it for me. Even with the Ribbit and little fly on the cork, the wine falls short. Priced around $30, available at $25. Sorry, Leap.

 

2017 Hall Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, California

Effusive aromas of blackberry, black cherry, freshly turned earth and subtly warm toasty oak notes. The palate is dense and richly concentrated with fine grained tannin and good length. Flavors of dark chocolate, dark berry compote, and hints of dried thyme and leather are abundant. Blend: 99% Cabernet Sauvignon, 1% Merlot

90pts     Wine Spectator

Fresh up front, with a beam of cassis and cherry preserve flavors leading the way, while sweet spice, singed vanilla and licorice root notes start to chime in on the back end. The finish is just a bit on the firm side. Best from 2021 through 2027.

Bought this special to have with my brother, but his trip was cancelled. I decided to drink something nice out of my cellar. This was the bomb. Enough body and tannin to last several more years, the dark black fruits with nuances of spice sang in the glass. Held up great to beef, just a great bottle. This is the lower tier of Hall, so it was only $60 something on the shelf (Thank god for my discount). Just a great bottle.

 

2018 Three wine Company Petite Sirah, Contra Costa County, California

Three Wine Company Petite Sirah vineyard has vine rows running east to west with a high of about 20’ elevation on the east side to about sea level on the west end. Due to the soil type and moderate growing conditions, the vineyard produces low yielding small berry clusters with intense color, structure and fruit flavors. Explosive aromas of blueberry preserves and sweet herbs and packed with blueberry flavors and firm tannins, accentuate this ultraconcentrated Petite Sirah.

Met Matt Cline the winemaker a few years ago on his trip through Wichita. They make great wines and that includes this one. Drinking this in 226 might seem risky, but it is not. The body is weighty, no real tannins but extensive black fruit and hints of spices. Probably near its peak, this is a killer wine. Priced at $20 on our shelf, it is a steal. Worth the $40 for the new releases they have.

 

2023 Matanzas Creek Sauvignon Blanc, Santa Rosa, California

97.5% Sauvignon Blanc and 2.5% Semillon from 9 different vineyards in Sonoma County, California including Knights Valley, Alexander Valley and Dry Creek Valley. 17% of the wine was fermented and aged in neutral French oak for 4 months with the other 83% in stainless steel. The wine has just 0.6 g/L of residual sugar.

The Matanzas Creek Sonoma Sauvignon Blanc opens with an inviting aroma of melon, tropical fruit, a bit of a dill-like herbal note and a touch of a honeysuckle. It’s a nice, complex aroma.

Taking a sip reveals a rich, delicious and balanced wine with a smooth mouthfeel and good acidity. It features similar flavors to the nose with the tropical fruit dominating in the mouth.

It ends crisp, dry and very long on the lip-smacking finish. This is succulent stuff.

I’ll say it again, Savvy B is not my favorite wine. Don’t hate it, but I find others more to my liking. This is a nice Cali style wine, some lime and tropical fruit, decent acidity. Priced at $23, little more than I like to pay for a wine of this type

 

2022 Luli ‘Lemoravo’ Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands, CA

Rugged smoked meat, pencil shaving and graphite aromas give lots of depth to the dark fruit on the nose of this bottling. The palate's strawberry and cherry flavors are wrapped in oaky spices. 91 Pts WE

This is the return of the incredible team effort between Master Sommelier Sara Floyd and the famous winegrowing Pisoni family. We are constantly asked by our clients if there are any great Pinots Under $50, this bottle of beautiful Pinot Noir came right under our noses years ago and we flipped.

Very nice red fruit nose on this wine, good mouthfeel of red fruits and herbs. Pretty long aftertaste, a nice Pinot from Cali. Priced around $40, it’s nice for the price

 

2022 Dashe ‘Vineyard Select’ Zinfandel, California

This wine is vibrant, with aromas of baked plum, dark cherry, Red Vines candy, vanilla and dried herbs on the nose. The flavors on the palate are Bing cherry, dark plum, blackberry and spice, colliding with white grapefruit zest, vanilla cream, chocolate and a dry, spicy finish. Pair with jerk chicken. 92 Pts WE

From a very old vineyard in the center of Dry Creek, a wine with great depth of flavor, layered complexity, and solid structure. The black raspberry fruit is overwhelming, then blending with chocolate and spice.

I have had the big brother of this wine, the junior is pretty good. Pretty nice black and red fruit, though not a fruit bomb. Modest finish, it didn’t do as well with food as I hoped. Priced at $22, not bad.

 

2022 Wente ‘Wetmore Livermore’ Cabernet Sauvignon, Livermore Valley, CA

The 2022 Livermore Valley Wetmore Cabernet Sauvignon opens with aromas of black currant and cassis, complemented by a hint of "Livermore Dust." Creamy oak notes bring roasted cocoa nibs and hardwood complexity. On the palate, the wine offers layers of ripe black cherry and plum, leading to a long, satisfying finish. While initially supple, it transitions into a deep, rich profile with a firm tannin structure that will support its aging potential.

The wine is concentrated and opulent, with aromas of blackberry, boysenberry and dried herbs intertwined with dried tobacco leaf, cinnamon and sweet vanilla cream. Layers of dry tannins and a silky finish evolve on the midpalate. Aerate and enjoy with grilled pork chop. Hidden Gem.  92 Pts WE

I always think of white wines with Wente, but they make some good reds, as well.  This gem had a great fruit nose, followed by black and red fruits with a touch of gravel. Nice long finish, moderate tannins, the body did well with food. Very nice for a $30 Cabernet.

 

2023 Bezel Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles, CA

“We source our Paso Robles Cabernet from two sites at opposite ends of the appellation, so we can combine the best of both: great tannin structure and acidity, as well as plush, generous fruit with a classic herbal edge.”         — JANE DUNKLEY, WINEMAKER

Each sip reveals layers of blackberry, boysenberry jam, bay leaf, and dark chocolate, balanced beautifully by smooth tannins and a touch of oak. The wine opens with inviting aromas of dark fruits and spice, leading to a full-bodied palate that’s both silky and structured. A lingering finish with notes of cocoa and toasted vanilla makes this Cabernet a standout for every occasion.

Nice fruit nose, with red and blackberries on the palate. Moderate aftertaste with decent body. Not as much body and layering of flavors as other Paso Cabs I’ve had. Runs just over $25, not bad, but not my favorite.

Hope all is well – keep popping those corks and I’ll meet you out behind the grapevines!