Three Great White Wines to Match the Perfect Weather.

I don’t know if any of you have noticed but over the past 5 or so years the standard of Sauvignon Blanc’s coming out of California, and Napa have been impressive, to say the least. Full-bodied wines with wonderful mouthfeels, and exceptional balance that will age out 5 plus years.  I recently shared a bottle of Heritance (Napa) 2018 with friends and it was loved by all present.

I will make this comment, the land is expensive in Napa, hence many varietals are being pulled up and replaced with Cabernet Sauvignon which fetches much higher prices per ton. The result will see increased pricing on Sauvignon Blanc’s but they will be worth it.

The Capture Sauvignon Blanc is currently hovering around $55 and is one of the best I have tasted. period.

Here are two recent examples that are great examples, one from Sonoma, and one from Rutherford in the heart of Napa. Both are 2022 and are an excellent vintage.

Matanzas Creek Winery Sauvignon Blanc 2022- Sonoma.

Situated in the beautiful Bennett Valley, the Winery, from the beginning, has been focused on Sauvignon Blanc and Merlot- planting 90 acres of a Petrus Merlot clone in their Jackson Park Vineyard in 1984. Chardonnay and Pinot Noir and some ‘Bordeaux style reds’ have also been added. Did I mention they were Sustainable?

Sandra MacIver established Matanzas Creek Winery with Merry Edwards (yes, that Mary Edwards) as the founding winemaker in 1977 producing the first Sauvignon Blanc in 1980. Since then, Dave Ramsey took over as winemaker in 1989 and Marcia Torres-Forno took the reins in 2011.

This Sauvignon Blanc has a splash of Semillon- 2.5% and was sourced from several vineyards including 39% Alexander Valley, 16% Russian River Valley, 15% North Coast, 14% Dry Creek Valley, 11% Knights Valley, and 5% Bennett Valley.

Enticing notes of Jasmine, pineapple, guava, and citrus dominate the nose with hints of tropical fruits filling in the gaps. The palate is inviting, with a nice round mouthfeel with beautiful balance and acidity. Refreshing without being aggressive. Layers of honeydew melon, guava, white peach, citrus-grapefruit, and orange peel dominate with restraint and finesse.

Delicate without being thin. Great length on the finish that makes you want to take another sip. So much going on and a delight to drink.

Drinking beautifully now but could be cellared out to 2027.

Pairings should include Oysters, clams, lobster, crab, prawns, scallops, Sushi, white fish with light-cooking herbs, Salmon, Pesto Pasta, Thai Green Curry, a traditional Greek salad, and Rosemary Chicken.

Round Pond Estate Sauvignon Blanc 2022- Rutherford, Napa.

The Rutherford Farm was established by the McDonald Family in 1978 with a modest holding with 270 acres added in 1986 and another 100 acres in 2001 with vineyards and land added when they became available. 2007 saw Thomas Rivers Brown join the team as Consulting Winemaker with John Wilson coming on board in 2019. The winery has grown over the years in both size, quality wines, and reputation but the focus has always been on its Mission; “Rooted in People, Place, and Purpose”

First fell in love with their Reds about a decade ago from their Kith and Kin Cabernet up to the Louis Bovet Reserve Cabernet. I’ve tried several vintages of the Sav Blanc before and have always enjoyed them, so I was excited to taste the current vintage.

Lovely aromas of floral notes, white peach, and citrus, with subtly spices that will entice you to take a sip. Take a minute and enjoy the aromas before jumping in the deep end.

The palate showcases lively acidity and great balance wrapped in layers of white peach, pink grapefruit, lychee, and cooking herbs. My immediate thought was Pad Thai Chicken with a squeeze of lime, as a pairing. There is a cleanness and focus about this wine that makes me want a second glass. An absolute delight to drink.

Drinking beautifully now but will cellar out till 2027 without a problem.

Pairing should include Oysters, clams, lobster, crab, prawns, scallops, Sushi, white fish with light-cooking herbs, Salmon, Pesto Pasta, Thai Green Curry, a traditional Greek salad, and Rosemary Chicken, and of course Pad Thai Chicken. Similar to the Matanzas Creek Sav Blanc.  

Pewsey Vale 1961 Block Riesling 2020- with elegance and finesse!

This is a single vineyard release sourced from their 1961 Block, and, you guessed it, planted in 1961. This block is home to the oldest vines the winery owns, and I suspect the oldest Riesling vines in Clare Valley, given the valley was the site of Riesling plantings 100 years earlier. First released in 2017 this is an impressive wine.

Delightful enticing aromas of freshly squeezed limes and Myer Lemons with just a hint of Orange Blossom.

The palate has a smooth inviting mouthfeel, especially impressive given the level of acidity. Almost seamless layers of limes, Myer lemons, pear, and orange peel with just a hint of honeysuckle and a wet stone quality finishes things out. There is a pristine focus showcasing the exceptional balance, depth, and complexity this wine has to offer.

There is an added dimension to this wine, a change of direction, if you will, from the range of incredible Rieslings Pewsey Vale releases. Watch out for this release in the future, this wine has big potential in the future.

Cellar out to 2035 without a concern.

Pairings recommended by the winery include kingfish sashimi and lime jelly or vegetable spring rolls with Vietnamese herbs.

This Weeks Pick of the Bunch- World Class Riesling and Malbec.

Pewsey Vale 1961 Block Riesling 2020- with elegance and finesse!

This is a single vineyard release sourced from their 1961 Block, and, you guessed it, planted in 1961. This block is home to the oldest vines the winery owns, and I suspect the oldest Riesling vines in Clare Valley, given the valley was the site of Riesling plantings 100 years earlier. First released in 2017 this is an impressive wine.

Delightful enticing aromas of freshly squeezed limes and Myer Lemons with just a hint of Orange Blossom.

The palate has a smooth inviting mouthfeel, especially impressive given the level of acidity. Almost seamless layers of limes, Myer lemons, pear, and orange peel with just a hint of honeysuckle and a wet stone quality finishes things out. There is a pristine focus showcasing the exceptional balance, depth, and complexity this wine has to offer.

There is an added dimension to this wine, a change of direction, if you will, from the range of incredible Rieslings Pewsey Vale releases. Watch out for this release in the future, this wine has big potential in the future.

Cellar out to 2035 without a concern.

Pairings recommended by the winery include kingfish sashimi and lime jelly or vegetable spring rolls with Vietnamese herbs.

Mayacaba Malbec 2017 – refined elegance!

There has been some movement in the wine Industry recently in the most unexpected (by most) areas. One is the substantial increase in the quality of Sauvignon Blanc from Napa, and the second is the noticeable increase in the quality and recognition of Malbec from Argentina. This is a great example of just how good they can be, noting this is a 2017 vintage.

The nose is polished and refined with aromas of red fruits, vanilla, and spices. The palate is focused and complex delivered with a soft velvet-smooth mouthfeel. Almost seamless layers of red currents, cherries, and cranberries, with secondary layers of vanilla, raspberries, and ripe plums. Impressive elegance and restraint with great structure and balance served up with generous appeal and great length on the finish.

Cellar until 2030 without concern, and I suspect this will continue to improve out to 2035.

This elegant versatile wine should include the following pairings: Classic Argentine Steak with Chimichurri Sauce, Lomo de Llama (you read that correctly), Asado Beef Ribs, Beef-filled Empanadas, Chorizo Sandwich, Flank Steak, Stuffed Pork Loin, Pasta with Meat Sauce, Roast Duck Breast, Arroz con Pato (Rice with Duck), Coq au Vin, Turkey with Gravy, Rotisserie Chicken, Italian Beef au jus and Salami, Jamon, Prosciutto and other cured meats with firm cheeses. Nothing like options, right?

Paso Does It Again, and Something special from Italy.

41 Highlands Black Granite Red Blend 2020

This was Wine Enthusiast #1 Top 100 Best Buys and I have to agree, it’s great drinking and exceptional value- rare these days!!

This is a blend of 45% Zinfandel, 20% Petite Sirah, 15% Malbec, 10% Syrah, 10% Merlot and reflects in the glass. This is what I use to call an MTW Wine- something you bought to drink on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday but it is equally at home around the BBQ this summer. This is so approachable and easy to drink, you should just buy a case and stash it away for any good excuse and the price will allow you to do that.

The nose is ripe raspberry and plum enticing you to want to take a sip immediately.

The palate is lively red and dark fruits dominated by raspberry, blackberry, and plum, with a touch of vanilla, spices, and ripe sweetness, without being jammy, on a long smooth finish.

Will pair well with any red meat from the grill, especially with BBQ sauce, and rich Chicken dishes including a Chicken Burger with BBQ Sauce.

Cellar out to 2027 with confidence, although I suspect it will go longer.

San Simeon ‘Stormwatch’ Estate Reserve Red Blend 2019  

At San Simeon, sustainability is a top priority. Vineyards are certified sustainable by the CSWA with 100% of their power coming from Solar Panels, and wastewater recycled.  

This is a blend of 42% Cabernet, 19% Petit Verdot, 15% Merlot, 13% Cab Franc and 11% Malbec. One might be forgiven for mistaking this for a Bordeaux. It’s just more fruit-forward California version.

Anthony Riboli, 4th Generation Winemaker attributes the incredible uniqueness of the vineyards and the terroir that gives their wines their distinct flavor profile. One sip and I think you will agree, they have something special.

The first thing that hits you is the power in the nose, loads of ripe blackberries and red fruits, and a hint of coffee, intertwined with vanilla and oak. The palate is where its grandeur is on full display. A smooth, welcoming mouthfeel gives way to layers of blackberries, black currant, plum, and dark cherries, with secondary notes of vanilla, sweet tobacco, and a distinct earthy attitude. Tannins are evident as well as great structure. Nice long finish.

Cellar out to 2030 and beyond.

Pairings should include grilled ribeye steaks with blue cheese butter, roast leg of lamb with rosemary and garlic, and tagliatelle with beef ragu- winemaker suggestions.

Masseria Altemura Sasseo Primitivo 2020.

“Sasseo is the embodiment of the wish to create a Primitivo with a strong personality. Today, it is one of the most internationally successful wines from Puglia.”

http://www.masseriaaltemura.it

The Winery is situated in the heart of Salento, halfway between the Ionian and Adriatic Seas- about the center of the heel of Italy. Planted in white calcareous stones and the red soil with sea breezes from both sides- think Rioja and how good their wines are.

Next thing I lay on the table, for those that do not know, Primitivo is Zinfandel. Its origins are from Croatia, gaining the name from the Italian word meaning ‘to flower first’. The name Sasseo refers to the abundance of limestone in the region.

The nose is all plums and red jam. The palate is bold and rich and is dominated by ripe black jam, and dark plums, with secondary notes of dark chocolate, vanilla, sweet tobacco, and spices. Appealing mouthfeel with a long finish. You could be forgiven for thinking this is Californian, especially with a few hours of decanting.

Will pair well with big meats from the grill, Pasta with meatballs, Meat Lasagna, and of course Veggie Lasagna, Mushroom & Parmigiana Cheese Pizza, and a rich Chicken Cacciatore.  

Cellar out to 2030 with confidence.

Two Excellent Offerings from Jim Barry and one from Xanadu.

Assyrtiko 2019- Clare Valley, South Australia- Spectacular!

Yes, you read correctly, Assyrtiko, the classic Greek varietal is being grown in Australia, since August 2012 no less. When you think about it, the climate in Clare Valley and surrounding wine regions is most definitely Mediterranean so it makes sense that it was bound to appear at some point. In the past decade, Australian winemakers have been planting and experimenting with 100’s of different varietals you would not expect to see with some excellent results. This is a classic example.

Delicate aromas of citrus, pear, apple, and saline are impressively showcased.

The palate is where things happen. Lively and refreshing with a sensational mouthfeel that frames layers of citrus- lemon and orange peel, green apple, wet stone, and a hint of saline. Not unlike the dry Rieslings, that Jim Barry and Clare Valley are known for, just more like a half-brother with an interesting past. Just a hint of sweetness on the rather long finish. Absolutely delicious and a must for spring and summer parties.

I am inclined to drink this young and enjoy the lively freshness.

Pair with Shellfish, Scallops, grilled fish, oysters, and salads. If that is not enough, check out what the Greeks pair with it. The adage ‘what grows together, goes together’ applies. I paired grilled fish and chicken with lemon and octopus when I was in Mykonos last summer. 

Xanadu -Circa 77- Sauvignon Blanc / Semillon 2022- Margaret River.

If you have known me for any length of time, you will know my admiration for Margaret River as a region and my love of the wines that come out of that region. About 10 years after Vasse Felix opened their doors Dr. John Lagan established Xanadu Winery and carried the flag until 2005.

The Rathbone Family purchased the winery, and with the help of winemaker Glenn Goodall, substantial improvements were made in virtually every area of the winery.

The Steven Road Vineyard was added in 2008 seeing further growth in both quality and increased exports and expansion into most major markets.

This 61% Sauvignon Blanc and 39% Semillon blend is classic Margaret River and is impressive drinking. The nose showcases aromas of lemon, orange peel, and tropical fruits but it is the palate that is a clean, mouthwatering experience. Tangy juicy mouthfeel with layers of freshly squeezed citrus dominating, with a veritable fruit salad of tropical fruits fighting it out for secondary roles. Great balance, crisp acidity, and flavor intensity on a long refreshing finish. Way too easy to drink!

This is not a wine for cellaring, it’s made to enjoy in its youth.

Pairings should include Seafood, Shellfish, Scallops, and lighter chicken dishes. I can imagine this pairing well with freshly baked Spanakopita with a squeeze of lemon or lime juice.

The Benbournie Cabernet 2014

Clare Valley isn’t known for its Cabernet but I think that is about to change, after tasting this Cabernet. Not like any Cabernet, I have tasted from Australia, don’t get me wrong, it’s all Cabernet, just a divergence, super interesting, and a delight to drink.

The nose is all red fruits with a smattering of dark fruits, dried cooking herbs, and mint.

The palate is all raspberries, red currant, black currant, and cassis with secondary notes of mocha, and dark chocolate all delivered with boldness, elegance, and beautiful balance.

There is a subtle tension there that adds to the complexity and makes the finish worth waiting for. Tannins are still evident, despite being 9 years old. I would suggest 2-3 hours of decant time to get the best out of this. Another 6 to 8 years in the cellar would only benefit this excellent wine- 2030 and beyond. 

Pairing: Any rich red meat dish will work with this, just make sure it is worthy.

Hartford Court Winery- one of Sonoma’s Best- shines again.

Four Hearts Vineyards Russian River Valley Chardonnay 2020

This Chardonnay is a cuvée, which really means it’s a blend of, in this case, 4 different field selections, which are fermented separately with only the best barrels selected for final blending to produce this impressive Chardonnay.

This is a big rich Chardonnay without being overly-oaked, or buttery but the well-integrated aromas of apple, honeysuckle, and tangerine will give that away.

The palate confirms the depth and richness of the mouthfeel showcasing crisp apple, honeysuckle, and orange peel with secondary notes of Meyer lemon/ lemon marmalade, ginger, and spices to complete the package.

I have to mention that this opened up considerably over a 24-hour period (cork in, no air removed) revealing the layers of flavors above, which were not evident on initial tasting.

I would suggest 3 plus years of cellaring would develop this wine even further.

Pairings: include Crab, Lobster, Chicken Pasta with rich creamy sauce, Stir Fry Chicken Pad Thai, and Shrimp Bang Bang.

Russian River Chardonnay 2021

This is a cuvée sourced from 9 different vineyard sites in Sonoma, 4 Estate owned, and 5 neighboring vineyards, each contributing the individual characteristics of all 9 sites, to produce an impressive Chardonnay that doesn’t break the bank.

The nose is all jasmine, apple, and pear. The palate delivers kiwi, citrus, apple, pear, and a hint of ginger wrapped in some nice depth and complexity and impressive texture thru the mid-palate. Its nice lingering finish leaves you with a desire to pour another glass.

Cellar out to 2027 without a problem.

Pairings: same as the Four Hearts Vineyard Chardonnay.

Land’s Edge Vineyards Pinot Noir 2021

This is a single vineyard Pinot sourced from one of their Estate Vineyards located on the Sonoma Coast, hence the ‘Lands Edge’ name and the maritime influence. Balanced acidity, impressive depth, and complexity with a smooth texture and mouthfeel make this a wine worth adding to the cellar. Add an enticing nose of dark cherries, raspberries, and rose petals and a palate reflecting the aromas with some plum and spices thrown in for good measure and you have a wine you’ll want to drink over and over again. Tannins are evident but I would suggest some decanting time if you are not patient enough to cellar this wine for the next 8 – 10 years.

Pairings: Salmon with Soy/honey/sweet chili/ginger/garlic marinade, Duck with Plum sauce, Duck and Fig, Quail, Glazed Ham, and Turkey.

Russian River Pinot Noir 2021

A cuvée sourced from 7 Estate owned vineyards and 4 neighboring vineyards, again contributing individual characteristics from each vineyard. It should be noted that the 7 Estate owned pinots have rated 94 and above most years. 

The nose is almost overwhelming with layers of dark cherries, blueberries, and spices, and enticing, to say the least.

The palate is silky smooth with a hint of fruit sweetness from the layers of ripe cherries, black currant, raspberries, blueberries, and spices. A delight to drink.

Cellar out to 2027.

Pairings: will always be Salmon with Pinot Noir, but I enjoy it with Caviar, Shellfish, Veggie Pizza with mushrooms, and charcuterie with peppery salamis and stinky cheeses.

‘Outer Limits’ Vineyard Syrah 2015. – Impressive California Syrah!

Imagine a vineyard surrounded by redwood forest on a wind sweep mountain ridge just 4 miles from the ocean at an elevation of 900 ft planted on rare but almost perfect soil. Planted on Goldridge soils – a rare, fine-grained sandy loam, known for its excellent drainage sitting on top of a volcanic base, is a rare combination indeed and is considered to have the Midas touch when it comes to vines.

What all this means is that it’s a unique site capable of producing exceptional, unique wines. One sip of this Syrah and you’ll be convinced. 

The nose consists of integrated layers of blackberries, blueberries, plums, and sweet cooking herbs.

The palate is restrained exhibiting finesse while you unwrap an inviting mouthfeel that coats every corner of your mouth with blackberries and blueberries leaving little room for the secondary notes of plums, dark cherries, cooking spices, and white pepper. This will show further improvements over the next 5 – 7 years. An absolute delight to drink so be selective when pairing food.

Pairings: Anything from the grill, or any of your favorite red meat dishes. 

Old Vine Zinfandel 2021

Let’s establish something up front. There are no legal guidelines or regulations regarding what exactly constitutes an “old vine” but the consensus is 50 years or older to be called Old Vine. This most definitely falls into that category with some as old as 115. This is a blend of old vine dry farmed low yielding vines from the Russian River Valley.

Second thing, this isn’t your typical ripe juicy Lodi Zin so don’t expect it from the start.

This fog-laden, cool-climate wine is characterized by elegance and restraint with aromas of blackberries, dark cherries, and plums with a hint of spices enticing you to venture further.

The wine unfolds across your palate revealing layers of rich blackberries, raspberries and plums with subtle white pepper, and spices exhibiting beautiful balance, depth, and complexity. Everything is where it should be with this wine. A delight to drink.

Cellar time: 5 to 7 years without a problem.

Pairing: Anything from the grill, a smoked Brisket, Italian Roasted Vegetable Pizza, and Black Bean/Vegetable Chili with mushrooms.

Ashes and Diamonds- is aimed squarely at Millennials and the young at heart.

Ashes and Diamonds is the creation of Kashy Khaledi, his background is in the music business – Capitol Records, and is the son of Darioush Khaledi -Darioush Winery.

He brought together Dan Petroski -Larkmead (until the 2015 harvest) when Diana Snowden-Seysses- Domaine Dujac in Burgundy, and Snowden Vineyards took over, and Steve Matthiasson- Stag’s Leap and Winemaker of the Year from both Food & Wine and the San Francisco Chronicle. Their musical tastes are as diverse as their backgrounds ranging from Punk to 90’s Hip Hop.

 
“The common thread of Kashy’s work has been to bring brilliant personalities from eclectic backgrounds together to collaborate on new and exciting cultural experiences, be it in advertising, editorial, and now, wines”.

 Source: www.ashesdiamonds.com

The Winery was designed by Barbara Bestor, an LA-based architect, and is both impressive and unconventional in every sense. Entering the tasting room is like arriving home at the end of a work day and you just want to sit and relax and have a glass of wine. It’s most definitely aimed at the younger crowd.

If you’re wondering where the name came from, it came from a Polish Cult Classic movie released in 1958 based on the 1948 novel by Polish writer Jerzy Andrzejewski.

I was lucky enough to visit and taste some wines in early October of 2019 and sat at a table on the back porch ‘under the eves’ overlooking the vineyards- an amazing experience. The photo of me on my blog was taken on that very visit.

Blanc No 4 2018- a blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon.

This 50% / 50% blend is selected from three carefully chosen vineyards in Napa Valley’s Oak Knoll District and Yountville.  

Interesting aromas of cooking (Olive) oil, herbs, and spices with a hint of lemon and pear.

The palate is fresh and lively with a mix of lemon pie, apple, and grapefruit, with a hint of herbs. Nice balance and restraint with a serving of depth and complexity.  

Cellar time: still has a few years but drink now.

Pairing: This has a broad appeal so I would be tempted to throw out the rule book and suggest drinking it with your favorite dishes.

Cabernet Franc No 4 – 2017

The nose is all red raspberries, cherries, blueberries, violets, and a note of earthiness.

Six years in the bottle has softened the tannins and created a very appealing mouthfeel, packed with layers of red raspberries and cherries overshadowing layers of blueberries, tobacco, olives, and a subtle note of earthy, forest floor.

Tannins are evident, medium-bodied, with impressive balance on a nice lengthy finish.

Food Pairings should include Beef, Pork, Turkey, and Chicken

Cellar out to 2030.

Something French and Something Australian- for your drinking pleasure.

Shatter Grenache 2021

Joel Gott teamed up with Charles Bieler to bring you ‘Shatter’ sourced from the hillside vineyards around the town of Maury, in Roussillon, not far from the Spanish border. It is a blend of 96% Grenache and 4% Syrah and co-fermented. The vines were planted over 60 years ago on pure black schist, as seen on the wine label.

For those technically minded schist is “a metamorphic crystalline rock that has a closely foliated structure and can be split along approximately parallel planes technical: a type of rock that can be broken into thin, flat pieces” Source: www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary

Combine this with strong ocean winds, and summer heat and you get stressed grapes that split or ‘shatter’ thinning out the bunches of grapes and resulting in rich generous wines.

The alluring nose is dominated by black currant, plum, coffee, and spices. The palate drinks more red fruits with red currants, cherries, and dark raspberries winning over secondary notes of herbs, chocolate, an almost fruit cake-like quality, and white pepper. The wine displays depth and finesse with tannins in play- this may look and feel like New World but it is most definitely French. This needs 3 – 4 hours of decanting- which did indeed soften the tannins. Nice length on the finish.

Pairings should include Beef, Pork, Turkey, and Chicken dishes.

Cellar: 6-8 years.

Penfolds Bin 389 Shiraz / Cabernet 2020

So much has been written about this wine, including yours truly. Considered a ‘poor mans Grange’ or ‘baby Grange’ because of the time it spends maturing in Grange barrels drawing down additional depth, and complexity. However, you approach this, it has been a consistent winner for Penfolds and wine drinkers alike, with consistently high scores, and celebrity-style praises.

This is the atypical blend of 51% Cabernet and 49% Shiraz sourced from vineyards in McLaren Vale, Barossa Valley, and Padthway. This is a quintessentially Australian blend, that is unapologetically big, bold, rich, and an absolute delight to drink.

The prestigious Langton Wine Auction House in Australia (www.langtons.com.au) has four Classifications for Australian Wines: Exceptional, Outstanding, Excellent, and Distinguished showcasing 123 wines only. Bin 389 falls into the Outstanding category.

Bury your nose deep into the glass and you can’t help but smile with the immediate depth and generosity. Seductive aromas of black fruits and vanilla hint at what is to come.

The palate showcases an inviting mouthfeel, texture, and tension between the harmonious components of cabernet and shiraz. The signature creamy mid-palate is evident and both anticipated and pleasing to anyone familiar with this wine. Seamless layers of black currents, black raspberries, black cherries, and vanilla, with secondary notes of ripe black plums, black pepper, and raspberries.

Pairings should include Moroccan lamb backstraps on eggplant relish or any of your favorite red meat dishes. Just make sure it’s worthy of this exceptional wine.

Cellar: decades, if not longer- 2045 plus.

A Red Wine for All Seasons- a Beckstoffer, a Rutherford and a Blackbird Arises.

Blackbird Vineyards ‘Arise’ Red Blend 2018

Named in dedication to the Paul McCartney/Beatles song.

Unmistakable Napa on the nose with rich dark fruits and floral notes rising from the glass. A delightful richness on the palate will assuredly put a smile on your face. There is an abundance of black fruits and chocolate with secondary notes of red currents, mint, and spices to round things out. The flavor profile draws down on the contributing blend varietals of 37% Cabernet Sauvignon, 27% Merlot, 26% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Syrah and Petit Verdot. This ticks all the boxes and is a pleasure to drink without being overripe or jammy.

Cellar out to 2030 without a problem.

Pair with Prime Rib, Most meat dishes, especially from the grill.

Taub Rutherford Cabernet 2017

Over the past 10 years, Taub has always been a favorite topic of mine. Great vineyard sites, great wines, and their Rutherford Cabernet releases have never disappointed me.

Does this make me biased, maybe a little, but one sip and I am sure you will agree with me. Such concentration, body, structure, and minerality.

This is a classic example of why I love Rutherford wines so much.

Enticing, seductive notes of dark cherries, plums, blackberries, blueberries, mint, and of course some mandatory Rutherford Dust thrown in for good measure.  The palate is smooth and inviting and has so much going on- excellent depth and complexity.

Almost seamless layers of Blueberries, blackcurrant, dark cherries, dark chocolate, and coffee, with secondary notes of vanilla, dried herbs, and of course Rutherford dust. Great on the initial tasting but so much better after it’s been open for some time. I recorked it and tasted it the second day and it absolutely rocked, so much better- give it 3 – 4 hours in a decanter and you will thank me for the suggestion.

Cellar time: I would give this another 6 – 8 years,

Food pairing should include your favorite red-meat dish, Rib Eye Steak in particular, Meat-based Pizza, and Pasta, Chicken with Mushrooms and, tomato-based sauces.

Only 250 cases were made.

And now for ‘Big Brother’ …

Taub Beckstoffer Georges III Cabernet 2017

This is one of my all-time favorite wines out of Napa. When you see Beckstoffer on any label it guarantees a quality wine. When you add into the mix Tom Hinde and Darren, Taub’s two resident winemakers, all the boxes get ticked.

I have been fortunate to taste the last 6 vintages and it has never disappointed me, given 2017 vintage was questioned by some, it has an amazing track record. 2017 defied logic, the driest season on record that produced wines of immense size, depth, and complexity with impressive responses from the industry and wine drinkers alike.  

The nose is impressive from the start with blueberries, cherries, and black raspberries dominating with just a hint of dark chocolate and Rutherford Dust.

The palate is silky smooth, generous, and inviting, delivering all the aromas with additional layers of plums, dark chocolate, and just a hint of spices. Impressive balance, with elegance and restraint on full display. Nice long finish with tannins in check.

Cellar out to 2030 and beyond will bring rewards.

Pairings should include Ribeye Steak, any meat dish with rosemary, roasted vegetables including potatoes with rosemary, roasted duck, and for dessert, anything with dark chocolate.

Australian Pinot Noir- Part 2

You have heard me speak passionately about Australian Pinot Noir, especially from Yarra Valley in Victoria, Mornington Peninsula in Victoria, and of course Tasmania.

See an article I posted on December 19th  

“The Best Pinot’s in the World”.

   This clip dropped into my email box today entitled ’15 minutes on Pinot Noir’ talking about some of the regions I mentioned and a specific winemaker and wine, enjoy!  

Two Delights from the South of France- Domaine Paul Buisse.

Domaine Paul Buisse.  

Cruising down the Cher River, an offshoot of the Loire River you could be forgiven for not noticing the numerous Chateau and Castles that have made this beautiful and historic region home. The repetitive rows of vineyards can be distracting. It is in this region (Touraine) that Domaine Paul Buisse has several vineyards including 50 acres of Sauvignon Blanc, overlooking the river, where our first wine is sourced from.

If you have ever traveled there, one sip of either of these wines will take you back. There are hundreds of wineries producing wonderful wines from this region and sadly many of them don’t make it to the US. This one did make it and is definitively Loire and a delight to drink. Perfect for sharing on a hot summer’s day.

Touraine Sauvignon Blanc 2021

Pale green in color with delicate aromas of white peach, crisp apples, and a hint of citrus and green pepper. The palate is strikingly refreshing with layers of apples, white peaches, and green peppers leaving you with a clean fresh mouthfeel and nice length on the finish.

I would pair this with fresh grilled seafood and a tossed green salad.

Chinon Cabernet Franc 2020

Sourced from some of the best vineyards in Chinon, which is arguably one of Loire Valleys’ best wine-growing regions.  

As you pour this wine into your glass you cannot help but notice the soft ruby color that glistens and entices you to take a sip. The bright raspberry and quintessential violet notes will clinch the deal.  One sip and you’ll be impressed with the depth and generosity of this medium-bodied wine. Great mouthfeel with silky tannins framing loads of dark fruits, raspberries, and spices on some nice length on the finish.

Impressive balance and acidity make this an excellent pairing with grilled red meat from the grill, game, and softer cheeses.