After three decades of making Grange, he left to embark on a new venture, John Duval Wines. He started with one wine- Plexus adding Entity in 2004, Eligo, a reserve Shiraz in 2005, then Plexus White, Annexus Grenache in 2013 and Annexus Mataro in 2016 and Integro.
I had an incredible opportunity to attend both a masterclass & lunch hosted by esteemed winemaker John Duval who has played a significant role in shaping Penfold’s grange legacy.
As you can see by the photo, typical October day in Chicago. Some of the wines we tasted include:
2020 Plexus Marsanne, Roussanne, Viognier.
2022 Concilio Grenache.
2021 Compono Cabernet Sauvignon.
2010 Plexus Shiraz, Grenache, Mourvèdre.
2012 Plexus SGM.
2020 Plexus SGM.
2008 Entity Shiraz.
2010 Entity Shiraz.
2021 Entity Shiraz.
2019 Annexus Grenache.
2016 Annexus Mataro.
2021 Annexus Mataro.
2008 Eligo Shiraz.
2013 Eligo Shiraz.
2018 Eligo Shiraz.
As you can imagine, an awesome time was had by all. Thank you, John Duval.
This is a blend of 61% Cabernet, 18% Merlot, 11% Malbec, 8% Petit Verdot, and 2% Cab Franc, all sourced from their own Dry Creek Vineyards in Northern Sonoma.
The Mariner had its initial launch in 2007 with the release of its 2004 vintage and was well received with a conservative 93 pt rating from Wine Enthusiast. To read a little more about the name go to: The Story of “The Mariner” – Dry Creek Vineyard
Established in 1972, and still family owned and run, their ‘no compromise’ attitude stands even stronger today. Their goal of remaining one of the last family-owned, iconic wineries that consistently produce 90+ point wines has been achieved and remains firm. All 185 acres are certified sustainably farmed vineyards.
This is a big, rich lush wine that coats the mouth from start to finish, and succeeds at putting a smile on your face from the first sip- always a good sign in my book.
Rich ripe aromas of dark fruits with a hint of mocha and spices, envelope your senses and promises much.
The palate delivers on the promise with intertwined layers of ripe blackberries, dark cherries, mocha coffee, and dark chocolate with secondary notes of black currant, and plum, with some spices wrapped in an earthy savory note from the mid palate to a long finish. It has all the elegance, balance, and power one would expect from this blend and region. A delight to drink.
I have several earlier vintages in my cellar and it never disappoints, and this is no exception.
I would expect this to cellar out to 2033 without a problem- your patience will be rewarded.
Pairings should include Lamb T Bone chops with fresh tomatoes and basil, NY Strips, Prime Ribs and Filet Mignon, Beef Lasagna, and pepperoni pizza. Pork will also work well if you have an earlier vintage.
These wines could just be the most value-driven wines you drink all year.
Parducci Wines’s journey started back in 1912 with a 16-year-old stowaway from Italy. Early efforts were tough going, constructing the winery with no electricity or tractors- everything was done by hand. Their early ‘bottling plant’ consisted of hoses and corks pounded in with mallets. The winery (then called Parducci Cellars) was founded in 1932 and is the longest-running winery in Mendocino County.
The family’s commitment to tradition and sustainability is first and foremost on their minds every single day of the year. A legacy was born, which continues today with their True Grit Reserve wines.
I should tell you that all their wines spend time in 100+-year-old redwood wine tanks and display an elegance about them that defies their price point.
I could carry on about how John Parducci sold grapes at 14 years old during probation or how he was inducted into the C.I.A.- The Culinary Institute of America, or the Vintner’s Hall of Fame in 2012- all interesting stuff, but, seriously, let us get to the wines.
Small Lot Pinot Noir- Mendocino County 2022
Loads of red fruits on the nose with raspberries, dark cherries, and plums dominating.
The palate is smooth and inviting, soft tannins frame layers of cherries, pomegranate, and plum with secondary notes of strawberries and just a hint of citrus. Impressive balance and nice length on the finish.
Should cellar out to 2028 with signs of improvement.
I would pair it with Salmon, lighter chicken dishes, Chicken Salad with a raspberry or strawberry dressing, and Vegetarian Pizzas. Turkey dishes should not be ruled out, it would be an ideal Thanksgiving wine.
Small Lot Petite Sirah- Mendocino County 2021
This was originally a French grape varietal called Durif- it is the product of crossing Syrah and Peloursin, a local French varietal.
The nose is dominated by ripe blackberries, plums, and spices not unlike Shiraz, just softer and more approachable for those just beginning their wine journey.
The palate is soft, approachable, and sumptuous in its mouthfeel. Loads of blackberries and blueberries with hints of
plum, dark chocolate, pepper, and spices, tobacco (think of Nth Barossa Shiraz), and cigar box.
Should cellar out to 2028 with signs of improvement.
Pairings should include your favorite red meat dishes, Lasagna, and Pepperoni Pizza.
Small Lot Cabernet- Mendocino County 2022
Delightful notes of fresh dark cherries and dark raspberries are balanced by stewed rhubarb and spices. Makes for an enticing invitation.
Bright ripe cherries dominate the palate with generous side servings of raspberries, plums, and spices with just a hint of dark chocolate, cigar box, and vanilla to round things out.
This Cabernet is on the lighter side making it more ‘pairable’ with a diverse range of dishes with a plush mouthfeel and soft tannins.
Drink in the next 3 – 5 years.
Pairings are wide open due to the character of the wine. Pick something you love and open a bottle.
Rancho Las Hermanas is a north-facing ranch covering almost 600 acres, with just over 200 acres of grapevines planted, and 40 acres of avocado trees along the upper ridgelines. The ranch is steeped in history being part of the original Mexican Land Grant in 1837 called Rancho San Julian.
It was converted from a cattle ranch to vineyards in the 1990s by Fess Parker, changing hands again in 2010 when Bill Foley took over. It is hard to say exactly what attracted Bill to the site, but I think the well-draining sandy-loam soils, with a fine top layer of Tierra series, a fine black silty loam had a lot to do with it. It truly is a unique site with the potential to produce exceptional Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.
Chardonnay 2021- Santa Rita Hills.
Lovely fresh aromas of freshly cut Lemons, apples with subtle hints of peach, and your powdery vanilla and musk, reminiscent of your grandmother’s talcum powder- which dissipates shortly after opening.
The palate is rich but restrained with an impressive mouthfeel and texture. Complex layers of green apples, lemons, and orange peel, with secondary notes of white peach, and pineapple, with a surprising note of honey melon on the finish.
This wine was 100% barrel-fermented and stirred every two weeks, then aged for 18 months which accounts for the creamy mouthfeel. Displays excellent balance and acidity.
Cellar out to 2030 with confidence.
Pairings should include Shellfish, your favorite seafood with a rich sauce- lemon butter, and chicken, or Creamy Lemon and Garlic, Ginger Scallion Sauce, Honey Garlic Sauce, Pineapple Teriyaki Sauce, Bearnaise, or Key Lime BBQ Sauce.
Pinot Noir 2021 – Santa Rita Hills.
Ripe aromas of red raspberries, cherries, and herbs entice you to venture further.
One sip and you will be convinced that this is something special reflecting the uniqueness of the vineyard site. Delightful layers of red raspberries, and cherries, with secondary notes of tea, herbs, and just a hint of thyme and black pepper. Impressive balance with depth and complexity, framed with excellent structure and elegance.
All this contributes to an enjoyable Pinot that is an absolute delight to drink.
Cellar out to 2030 with confidence.
Pairings should include Salmon, German triple cream Brie with Wild Mushroom (Trader Joe’s)-see photo, Asparagus wrapped in bacon, red pepper hummus and pita, Veggie Pizza with Mushrooms, Lamb shanks, and Pork.
If you check out their website www.rlhwines.com you will see just how enticing this winery, and the region is to visit. Enjoy the drive, and the spectacular views on the way there. Then treat yourself to a glass or two of great wines.
As a wine-growing region, Red Mountain was ‘discovered’ in 1972 but the essentials such as roads, power, and water did not make their appearance until 1975, and after much effort, the first 10 acres of vineyards were planted by John Williams and Jim Holmes.
Fast forward to 1980 when the first winery was bonded- Kiona Winery rose from the dust. Several other wineries followed with AVA status being achieved in 2001.
Today, 54 vineyards covering 2,300 acres produce some of the best wine out of the Northeast, and some might argue, the best.
Red Mountain is located east of the Cascades, the volcanic mountain range that divides the state, with totally opposite growing conditions. Annual rainfall is only 5 inches, compared to the western side- think of Seattle’s reputation for raining all the time. This lack of rain severely stresses the vines, a necessary condition for producing world-class wines.
Despite producing some exceptional wines, the AVA is still largely unknown.
Chasing Rain Cabernet 2019
No need for an explanation of what inspired the name. This is an excellent wine that defines the term overdeliver. This is predominately Cabernet- 95% with a splash of Malbec and Petit Verdot and barrel aged for 19 months before release.
The nose is an intoxicating blend of blackberries, cassis, chocolate, and wildflowers.
The palate delivers hefty quantities of blackberries, cassis, and dark cherries with secondary notes of chocolate, vanilla, and herbs with leather and oak rounding things out. The palate is smooth and concise with a surprising richness. Balance is evident with nice depth and complexity and a long finish to savor, whilst considering another glass.
Needs some decanting time- an hour or two should do it, but you will be rewarded.
I can see this improving over the next 6 to 8 years- 2030 and beyond.
Food pairings should include steak, lamb chops, burgers on the grill, beef pasta, or a Pepperoni Pizza for a casual evening at home.
Another great Winery located in Red Mountain is …
Klipsun Vineyard Red Blend 2020
If you are familiar with Red Mountain, one whiff of the nose will tell you this is Red Mountain wine- they all have that unique, distinct collaboration of fruit plus, not unlike ‘Rutherford Dirt’ so evident in wines from the Napa AVA.
The aromas are both enticing and impressive right out of the gate. Complex aromas of cranberries, blueberries, black currants, and dark cherries entice you to sip.
The palate is smooth and inviting with great balance, depth, and complexity on full display. Intertwined layers of Cranberries, blueberries, and cherries with blackberries, blackcurrant, cooking herbs, oak, and tobacco are mentioned on the backend. Tannins are evident with a grippy finish. An absolute delight to drink. 1 – 2 hours of decant time is recommended.
Cellar out to 2035 with your patience rewarded.
Pairings should include any of your favorite meat dishes. Will do well with Prime Rib, Fillet Mignon, NY Strips, Pepperoni Pizza, as well as Chicken dishes with a tomato-based sauce.
ALSO, keep an eye out for other articles and reviews in the future of Wineries located in Red Mountain. These might just be included. Hedges Family Estate, Kiona Vineyards, and Col Solare Winery. This is definitely not an AVA to overlook.
Grown in high altitude granitic soil dominated soils- 1007 meters in the Sierra de Gredos, west of Madrid, in the Castilla Y Leon region. 12 months in Concrete tanks before bottling accentuates the freshness and purity of the fruit.
The name, The Bululú refers to an actor skilled in mimicry who performed in traveling theater troupes in the Golden Age of Spanish theater.
Grenache is the most widely planted grape in the world with the oldest vines owned by Cirillo Estate Wines, in Barossa Valley in Australia. In Europe, it is often considered to be the Pinot Noir of the south.
This medium-bodied red displays enticing aromas of Raspberries and Strawberries. The palate has on full display, Raspberries, Strawberries, and Cherries, with a hint of black pepper, and blackberries. Silky smooth mouthfeel, great balance, and impressive length on the finish. If this were a relationship, I would say ‘This is a keeper’.
You should see improvements with cellaring over the next 5 years.
Food Pairings should include roasted vegetables, prime rib, rack of lamb, and Beef Bourguignon, as well as an assortment of Tapas.
The Ja! Tempranillo is produced by a family-owned winery in the La Marcha region with a focus on respecting and maintaining the ecosystem, and yes, the wine is Organic.
Aromas of Cherries, Raspberries, and Red Currents escape from the glass.
The palate is soft, approachable, and inviting, and is great to drink now. I can see this doing well in the backyard cookout or by an open pit fire as the weather warms a little. Layers of Cherries, Raspberries, and Red Current are accompanied by earthy gamey notes with a hint of vanilla and spices. No jagged edges and ripe red fruits make this way too easy to drink- only criticism.
Pairings should include Tapas as a first option with Beef, Lamb, Game- think Turkey and Thanksgiving, and Chicken being included,
You should see some improvement over the next 3 – 4 years. Although I would drink this now, there is another vintage around the corner.
Last year I was asked if I would like to be involved in the Ronald McDonald House Auction Dinner, I of course said yes- after all, it is a great cause.
So, we put together a wine tasting to be auctioned off, selected the wines, and a long story short it went very well on the night and raised a generous amount of money for a great cause.
We held the event last Friday night and a great night was had by all. The successful bidder and his party of 7 loved the wine-tasting experience and cannot wait to do it again.
Here are some photos from the event and the wine selection.
This was sourced from Anderson Valley, California, and is a blend of 52% Chardonnay and 48% Pinot Noir. Asian Pear, Baked Green Apple with lovely shortbread notes, spices, and a creamy palate.
Kutjevo Traminac 2021
This is sourced from Northern Croatia from over 100-year-old Alsace Gewurztraminer rootstock. The Queen’s favorite.
Bibi Graetz Testamatta 2020 – 95 Pt, RP.
A ‘Super Tuscan’ made from some of the best Sangiovese in Tuscany. Dark cherries, orange peel, cooking herbs, and pencil shavings.
Known as a ‘Baby Grange’ this is big, bold, beautiful, and quintessentially Australian. 51% Cabernet and 49% Shiraz. Happy Australia Day.
Taub Family Beckstoffer Georges III Cabernet 2017 – 94 Pt. WE.
Sourced from Blocks A and F- some of the best Cabernet in Napa. Seamless layers of blackberries, dark cherries, red currant, perfumed floral notes, tea leaves, cedar, and clove spice- exceptional drinking.
Inniskillin Ice Wine 2017 – 96 Pt, Decanter.
Peach, apricot, and candied pineapple dominate with exceptional balance, depth, and complexity. A must for any dinner- dressed to impress.
Their new releases of wines dubbed 1 CRU DI BERTANI are exceptional wines reflecting both their attitude to winemaking and the unique vineyards the grapes are sourced from. Two important labels have birthed out of this new project and their desire to produce wines that are extraordinary drinking wines that reflect the classic Valpolicella style. The Ognisanti Valpolicella Classico Superiore is one of them, and reviewed below, showcases their approach and attitude perfectly.
These two wines unquestionably raise the standard of Valpolicella’s
I have been a fan of Bertani wines for a couple of decades now, these guys produce such consistently impressive wines and have been perfecting their artistry since 1857. Whilst researching this winery I discovered the following statement, which is in line with my history of experience and perception …
“Being consistent with our most authentic identity is fundamental for us here at Bertani. Having an identity means staying faithful to authenticity and transparency; it means acting responsibly and making constant progress without betraying our own identity or vision.”
Orgnisanti Di Novare Valpolicella Classico Superiore 2020
This is predominately Corvina Veronese- 95% with just a splash of Rondinella sourced from the Ognisanti vineyard, located in the historic Tenuta Novare Estate in Arbizzano di Negrar. The vineyard gained its name from the nearby Ognisanti Church. Enticing aromas of cherries, vanilla, raspberries, and subtle spices dominate, begging you to take a sip. The palate is silky smooth with an almost Pinot texture, but it is all Corvina and Rondinella.
Cherries dominate with secondary notes of red currents, plums, raspberries, and cooking spices- white pepper. There is just a hint of sweetness that shines through the impressive elegance and balance, great length on the finish leaving you with the desire to pour yourself another glass. Everything is where it should be with this wine, with exceptional versatility and appeal. Tannins and acidity are evident but kept in check.
Cellar out to 2030 and beyond with confidence.
Pairings should include pizza, antipasti, bruschetta, and any lighter dish with a red pasta sauce including Chicken Cacciatore. I tasted this with an extra sharp cheddar with a Rosemary cracker and it was a great pairing- albeit a little out of the ordinary.
Decanting for an hour or so will be beneficial. Despite being a lighter-bodied wine, I would drink from a large bowled red wine glass to focus the aromas- see photo.
I always look forward to tasting Ripasso’s and this is no exception. They have the reputation of being a baby Amarone, without the price tag.
This is a blend of 70% Corvina Veronese, 20% Corvinone, and 10% Rondinella and carries the designation of Valpolicella Ripasso Classico Superiore.
Delicate aromas of cherries, raspberries, cranberries, and white pepper are presented for your satisfaction.
The palate confirms the nose and much more. Tightly woven layers of cherries, cranberries, raspberries, and raisins, with secondary notes of vanilla, white pepper, and red currents tie a neat bow completing the package. Excellent balance with all the elegance and complexity you would expect from a Classico Superiore.
Did I mention the subtle raisin sweetness? Not as brash as other Ripasso’s I have tasted, presented with restraint. These two wines are quality all around and an absolute delight to drink.
Cellar out to 2033 without a worry.
Pairings should include pizza, antipasti, bruschetta, and any lighter dish with a red pasta sauce including Chicken Cacciatore, as well as Roasted Chicken, Ham, and of course any pasta with red meat.
Decanting for an hour or so will be beneficial. Despite being a lighter-bodied wine, I would drink from a large bowled red wine glass to focus the aromas- see photo.
This is an impressive blend of 64% Cabernet, 31% Petit Verdot, 3% Cab Franc, and 2% Merlot with all the elegance and restraint you come to expect from some of the best vineyards in Napa.
Grapes were sourced from the following Vineyards: Rutherford: Morisoli Borges, Beckstoffer George III, Hudson; Carneros: Truchard; Atlas Peak: Stagecoach.
Allow me to break the bad news first. Cain Winery was wiped off the map, vineyards, and all in the devastating 2020 Glass Fire. Their neighbors, Philip Togni Vineyard were lucky, escaping with little damage. A tragedy that I would argue would rival anything else in the Valley’s history. The entire 2019 vintage in barrels and 2020 in tanks was destroyed, and half of their library of wines, going back to the mid-1980s gone. Not to mention 90% of the vineyards. Luckily, about half of the library wines were stored off-site.
The vineyards have been replanted and the winery is getting built again and their resilience shines through, but it will take a while. Spring Mountain will not be the same.
Enticing aromas of dark fruits, violets, blueberries, raspberries, and cherries highlight the quality of what is to come. So much going on with this wine. Do not rush it, savor the moment.
The palate is outstanding with big bold regal fruits on display in seamless layers of black and blue berries dominating with secondary layers of cherries, raspberries, plum, dark chocolate, and tobacco with just a hint of spices. All this is delivered on a silky-smooth mouthfeel, impressive balance, and texture all the way through on a long finish.
Every great wine should tell a story, and this one is a good story!
Cellar out to 2035 with confidence.
Pairings should include your favorite beef, lamb, and game dishes.
Their new releases of wines dubbed 1 CRU DI BERTANI are exceptional wines reflecting both their attitude to wine making and the unique vineyards the grapes are sourced from. Two important labels have birthed out of this new project and their desire to produce wines that are extraordinary drinking wines that reflect the classic Valpolicella style. The Ognisanti Valpolicella Classico Superiore is one of them, and reviewed below, showcase their approach and attitude perfectly.
These two wines unquestionably raise the standard on Valpolicella’s
I have been a fan of Bertani wines for a couple of decades now, these guys produce such consistently impressive wines and have been perfecting their artistry since 1857. Whilst researching this winery I discovered the following statement, which is in-line with my history of experience and perception …
“Being consistent with our most authentic identity is fundamental for us here at Bertani. Having an identity means staying faithful to authenticity and transparency; it means acting responsibly and making constant progress without betraying our own identity or vision” Source: www.Bertani.net
Orgnisanti Di Novare Valpolicella Classico Superiore 2020
This is predominately Corvina Veronese- 95% with just a splash of Rondinella sourced from the Ognisanti vineyard, located in the historic Tenuta Novare Estate in Arbizzano di Negrar. The vineyard gained its name from the nearby Ognisanti Church.
Enticing aromas of cherries, vanilla, raspberries, and subtle spices dominate, begging you to take a sip. The palate is silky smooth with an almost Pinot texture, but it is all Corvina and Rondinella. Cherries dominate with secondary notes of red currents, plums, raspberries, and cooking spices- white pepper. There is just a hint of sweetness that shines through the impressive elegance and balance, great length on the finish leaving you with the desire to pour yourself another glass. Everything is where it should be with this wine, with exceptional versatility and appeal. Tannins and acidity are evident but kept in check.
Cellar out to 2030 and beyond with confidence.
Pairings should include pizza, antipasti, bruschetta, and any lighter dish with a red pasta sauce including Chicken Cacciatore. I tasted this with an extra sharp cheddar with a Rosemary cracker and it was a great pairing- albeit a little out of the ordinary.
I always look forward to tasting Ripasso’s and this is no exception. They have the reputation of being a baby Amarone, without the price tag.
This is a blend of 70% Corvina Veronese, 20% Corvinone, and 10% Rondinella and carries the designation of Valpolicella Ripasso Classico Superiore.
Delicate aromas of cherries, raspberries, cranberries, and white pepper are presented for your satisfaction.
The palate confirms the nose and much more. Tightly woven layers of cherries, cranberries, raspberries, and raisins, with secondary notes of vanilla, white pepper and red currents tie a neat bow completing the package. Excellent balance with all the elegance and complexity you would expect from a Classico Superiore.
Did I mention the subtle raisin sweetness? Definitely not as brash as other Ripasso’s I’ve tasted, presented with restraint. These two wines are quality all round and an absolute delight to drink.
Cellar out to 2033 without a worry.
Pairings should include pizza, antipasti, bruschetta, and any lighter dish with a red pasta sauce including Chicken Cacciatore, as well as Roasted Chicken, Ham, and of course any pasta with red meat.
Decanting for an hour or so will be beneficial. Despite being a lighter bodied wine, I would drink from a large bowled red wine glass to focus the aromas- see photo.
Vine to Table 