Origins- Croatia. Primitivo originally comes from an indigenous Croatian grape called crljenak kaštelansk (Kjell-nak Cas-tell-lansky)- try and pronounce that after your second glass. Before emerging as a single varietal, it was mainly used as a blending grape to increase the overall alcohol content. It’s not uncommon to be up around 16% from both Italy andContinue reading “Is it Primitivo or is it Zinfandel (or Zin as it’s come to be known as)?”
Tag Archives: California
Dry Creek Vineyard Sea Quelle 2021- exceptional drinking.
David Stare, the winery founder’s passion for wine, fueled by living in Germany for a spell and a 2-week trip to Bordeaux and the Loire Valley. Upon returning to the US in 1970, he read a Wall Street Journal article about California’s bright future for making excellent wines. That was enough for him to packContinue reading “Dry Creek Vineyard Sea Quelle 2021- exceptional drinking.”
Cambria Estate ‘Julia’s Vineyard’ 2018 – Infinitely drinkable!
First impression from the nose is loads of cherries, cola, dark raspberries, and an earthy leather note to round things out. One sip and I am convinced this is one of the best Pinots on the market that sits around $25. This is classic cool climate, coastal elegance sourced from a single vineyard in SantaContinue reading “Cambria Estate ‘Julia’s Vineyard’ 2018 – Infinitely drinkable!”
Groth Estate Chardonnay 2022- new world with an old-world soul.
All the grapes were sourced from the Hillview Vineyard which was acquired in 1982. This 44-acre Vineyard was acquired for its Merlot but almost half was replanted with Clone 4 (Wente) and Clone 76 (Dijon) after realizing its potential for world-class Chardonnay. Ted Henry, their winemaker, came on board in 2021 as Director of Winegrowing,Continue reading “Groth Estate Chardonnay 2022- new world with an old-world soul.”
Copain Daybreak White Wine 2023- Aromatic, delicious, mouthwatering, food friendly- perfect for summer.
Quick word about the winery … Copain was established in 1999 by winemaker Wells Guthrie and Kevin McQuown and quickly became known for Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Syrah. The Jackson Family purchased the winery in 2016 and maintained the emphasis on varietal wines, whilst bring to the table a commitment to sustainability and climate action.Continue reading “Copain Daybreak White Wine 2023- Aromatic, delicious, mouthwatering, food friendly- perfect for summer.”
Taub Family Rutherford Cabernet 2018- Celebrate Christmas in style.
Taub Family Rutherford Cabernet 2018 The Taub Family wines continue to fly under the radar and produce impressive wines year in and year out. All this while staying the course and not giving in to what style is popular this year. This wine draws you in with enticing aromas of blackberries, dark cherries, and blackContinue reading “Taub Family Rutherford Cabernet 2018- Celebrate Christmas in style.”
Wirra Wirra RSW Shiraz 2013 – from the cellar.
Though it was about time I pulled a 2013 RSW Shiraz from the cellar, it has been a few years since I checked in on this stunning wine and I was more than curious to see how this wine has evolved. The wine was named after Robert Strangways Wigley, a noted South Australian eccentric andContinue reading “Wirra Wirra RSW Shiraz 2013 – from the cellar.”
Heitz Cellar Cabernet 2017
This is old school Cabernet, knows its lane and does not disappoint, not even for a second. An excellent expression of Napa and all that it offers. Family owned since its beginnings in 1961 with pioneering vintner Joe Heitz cutting his teeth in Napa in the 1950’s. He is credited in ushering in a newContinue reading “Heitz Cellar Cabernet 2017”
Burgess ‘Contadina’ Cabernet 2018 – Screams Napa Quality.
Established by Tom Bergess in 1972, this Howell Mountain Winery had a reputation for making elegant Cabernets, was sold to the owners of Heitz Cellars in 2020. I can see exciting times are ahead for this winery. This is mostly Cabernet- 90% with 6% Petit Verdot and 4% Malbec. Aged for 22months in 15% newContinue reading “Burgess ‘Contadina’ Cabernet 2018 – Screams Napa Quality.”
Xanadu Cabernet Sauvignon 2019- One of the best value Cabernets you will ever drink.
Those of you who know me, know that I am a huge fan of the Margaret River region. Medium-bodied, elegant, restrained, and unique pretty much sums it up. This is a totally enjoyable wine that over-delivers and could just be the best-value Cabernet you drink all year. Established in 1977, a decade after Vasse FelixContinue reading “Xanadu Cabernet Sauvignon 2019- One of the best value Cabernets you will ever drink.”
Vine to Table 