Two Hands Angels’ Share Shiraz 2012 – from the cellar.

This wine is all about bold, rich flavours, sitting on broad shoulders of structure, depth, complexity, and balance- the 15.8% doesn’t show up. It still shows all the hallmarks of a McLaren Vale wine- elegant and restrained. The drinking window was 2016 – 2020. One sip and you’ll be convinced this has only gotten betterContinue reading “Two Hands Angels’ Share Shiraz 2012 – from the cellar.”

My Favorite Neighbor Blanc 2020- Inspiring Cali Chardonnay.

The winery was inspired by two close friends who wanted to make truly quality wines to share with friends. Winery founder Eric Jensen (who also owns Booker Vineyard) and his original “favorite neighbor,” Stephan Asseo of L’Aventure Winery, combined the passion of two winemakers in the heart of Paso Robles to create wines of distinction,Continue reading “My Favorite Neighbor Blanc 2020- Inspiring Cali Chardonnay.”

Tenuta Sant’Antonio Amarone Della Valpolicella 2019

The winery began in 1989, with the purchase of a property in the Garbi Mountains, between the noble territories of Soave and Valpolicella; see the map for the exact location. The vineyards sit at 300 meters and take advantage of the sandy, silty soils with a lot of white skeletal limestone. Here, Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella,Continue reading “Tenuta Sant’Antonio Amarone Della Valpolicella 2019”

Ink Grade Andosol Zinfandel 2018

When Gaylor Lawrence purchased Heitz Cellars in 2018, the deal included 425 acres of vineyards spread over Napa, including the Ink Vineyard. The Ink Vineyard was originally planted in 1873 by Theron Ink, and has always been considered a ‘special site’ in the valley. The vineyard is situated on the eastern slopes of Howell Mountain,Continue reading “Ink Grade Andosol Zinfandel 2018”

Etude Grace Benoist Ranch Pinot Noir 2016- from the cellar.

This has always been one of my favorite Pinots, and I have to say, 10 years of aging and patience have been rewarded.   The grapes were sourced from the Grace Benoist Ranch, which sits in the northwest corner of Carneros, on volcanic‑influenced, rocky and well‑drained soils. A far cry from the normal clay-heavy soilsContinue reading “Etude Grace Benoist Ranch Pinot Noir 2016- from the cellar.”

Dominus 2023- a 100 pt stunner!

I was fortunate to get to taste the 2023 vintage of Dominus- Napa Valley. This world-renowned wine is a blend of 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Cabernet Franc, and 4% Petit Verdot, with 40% using new French oak. It scored a 100 Pt rating and several 98 – 99 Pt ratings, and  the 2023 vintage isContinue reading “Dominus 2023- a 100 pt stunner!”

Famille Perrin Châteauneuf-Du-Pape Les Sinards 2010 – from the cellar!

After the region went through several name changes, Châteauneuf-du-Pape was settled upon during the ‘Papal Era’ in the 14th century, when, in 1309, Pope Clement V and his successors began developing the surrounding vineyards. Pope John XXII built a fortified summer residence on the hill above the village—this “new castle” is the origin of theContinue reading “Famille Perrin Châteauneuf-Du-Pape Les Sinards 2010 – from the cellar!”

Olianas Perdixi Bovale 2020

Brought to you from Olianas, a winery considered to be the benchmark in Sardinian Wineries. This blend of 85% Bovale and 15% Carignano showcases why Sardinia is considered one of the most unique wine growing regions in the world, producing wines of depth, complexity and charm. The Bovale is sourced from the Anfiteatro vineyard whichContinue reading “Olianas Perdixi Bovale 2020”

Stéphane Aviron Beaujolais Villages 2022

Stéphane has taken a radical step back to the old traditions of making wine. Beaujolais has long been considered a ‘poor man’s Burgundy.’ But thanks to a handful of winemakers, the quality has been getting better by the vintage. Will they be as good as Burgundy someday? Only time will tell. In the meantime, thisContinue reading “Stéphane Aviron Beaujolais Villages 2022”