PlumpJack Winery Napa Valley, Oakville, Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 1997

PlumpJack Winery Napa Valley, Oakville, Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 1997

This was the third vintage of this wine - 100% Estate Cabernet Sauvignon made entirely from grapes grown in the vineyards adjacent to the PlumpJack Winery located on Oakville Cross Road in the Oakville AVA in Napa Valley. We tasted and purchased this wine during winery visits in 1998 and 1999, the first tasting being prior to release from the barrel. We hosted then associate winemaker Mary Pisor at a gala dinner at Meadowood Resort at the base of Howell Mountain in Napa (pictured below). The release notes called for this  wine to age up to fifteen years. Indeed in its fourteenth year it's starting to show its age and is beginning the final stage of its drinking profile. It is still holding its own and is very presentable - not yet diminished in decline, however.

We served this wine at a gala family dinner at home with grilled beef tenderloin and salmon dinner with L, sis Dr Pat, Lauren, Erin & Johnny. Chosen from the cellar commemorating one of the favorite Napa wineries of L, Erin and Johnnie, we gathered on the eve of the mother-daughter 5K run at Montrose Harbor on Chicago's lakefront in which we had four generations represented - Evelyn, Linda, Erin and Lucy, and three generations with Pat, Lauren and Teo. 

Firm, medium to full bodied, the black cherry fruit is a bit subdued overtaken by anise, a layer of spicy oak with hints of nutmeg, dark chocolate, vanilla and a tone of cedar and toasted oak on the finish. RM 89 points.
 

 

Pictured above, wine flght from our 1999 Meadowood Resort PlumpJack Wine Producer dinner - Napa Valley Oakville Cabernet Sauvignons - Venge Vineyards Penny Lane Reserve 1995, PlumpJack Reserve 1995 (pre-release hand labeled bottle), and PlumpJack Estate 1997, served with top-flight of 1995 Bordeaux - Chateau Pichon Lalande 1995, Chateau Lafite Rothschild 1995, and Chateau Cos d' Estournel 1995. Our wine group with Mary Pisor pictured below.

During our Napa Wine Experience visits of 1997 through 2000 we hosted gala tasting dinners with the 'Undisccovered Dozen' emerging new wine producers to watch, featured in an article in Wine Spectator Magazine. Many of these producers released their inaugural vintage releases in or about the 1994 vintage. Those producers and winery visits included Plumpjack, David Arthur, Clark-Claudon, Robert Craig, Del Dotto, Elan,  Paradigm, Pride Vineyards, Snowden, Nils Venge and White Cottage and are featured on my winesite http://www.unwindwine.com. An complete index of my tasting notes of these wines over the years is on the site at this link to California Producers Index. These producers make up a foundation of our wine cellar collection even today. In many of these wines, we still have vertical selections of these wines, some dating back to those early release vintages. I'm missing one which will come to me at some point - I don't remember what I don't remember!

Moffett Vineyards Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve 2006 & Ladera Napa Valley Malbec 2006

Moffett Vineyards  Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve 2006

First tasting of this or any other wine from this producer. Sourced from two Napa Valley vineyards: one high up on Howell Mountain and the other in St. Helena it strikes a beautiful balance in the blend composed of 94% cabernet sauvignon and 6% cabernet franc. Dark inky purple color - full bodied - polished and smooth flavors of blackberries, that Howell Mountain appellation character of ripe plum and currants - highlighted by a layer of sweet milk chocolate and a slight touch of spice - the wine shows great balance of toasted oak and acidity. RM 93 points. 



 Ladera Napa Valley Malbec 2006 

We discovered this wine and purchased it following our visit to the winery during our Napa Valley Howell Mountain Wine Experience 2008.   Malbec is one of the "big five" grape varieties in Bordeaux included in the "Cabernet family" of grapes. It serves as one of the blending wines to round out and add complexity to the primary varietals of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc or Merlot used for its deep, dark purple color, its fragrant aromas, ranging from black cherry to black pepper, and its texture which is lush and juicy in the mid palette and very soft on the finish. Primarily a blended complement to the tannic, brooding Cabernet Sauvignon, it produces an interesting and nice stand alone wine, as well.

The 2006 Ladera Malbec is a blend of fruit from two mountain vineyards - 50% from Howell Mountain and the other 50% from Lone Canyon - two unique terroirs. The rolling hills and volcanic soils of Howell Mountain vineyard lend to the bold dark fruit characters while the steep slopes and gravely soils of Lone Canyon contribute intense phenolic structure and complexity to the wine.

This wine holds true to its varietal characteristics with its dark inky color, rich aromatics and bold masculine structure. The wine exhibits forward fruits flavors of black cherry and black berry with violets, red licorice, hints of vanilla, white pepper and smoky fig.A bit flabby on opening but overcame the funkiness to reveal black berry and cherry fruit flavors, a layer of spice, hints of leather and a touch of cedar on a long finish. RM 90 points.

Tasted with L, Mark & Shirley at Angeli's Italian Restaurant - our favorite local trattoria. The wines were perfect complements to the spectacular veal margherita and mushroom and ricotta ravioli yet provided an interesting contrast in the varietals with common core pedigree Howell Mountain appellation characteristics. The girls preferred the Malbec with its more forward and deeper intensity flavors while the guys preferred the more complex and polished but more subtle flavored Cabernet.

 
Rick & Linda at the picturesque Ladera Howell Mountain winery - formerly the historic Chateau Woltner. 

Venge Vineyards Napa Valley, Oakville Family Reserve Penny Lane Sangiovese 1997 & 2000

Venge Vineyards Napa Valley, Oakville Family Reserve Penny Lane Sangiovese 1997 & 2000

We first met Nils Venge during our Napa Wine Experience visits in the late nineties when he was consulting winemaker to Del Dotto Vineyards and others. He then was a featured producer during our Napa Wine Experience in 2003 (left w/ Nils and AJ) when we first tasted and acquired some of these wines.

Nils Venge is a bit of a legend in Napa Valley. In addition to having been consulting winemaker to many top producers including Del Dotto and Plumpjack, he has his Venge and Saddleback family labels, and with son Kirk is coming out with wines from their property Rossini Ranch. He and Kirk worked with Dwayne and Susan Hoff at Fantesca in their early releases.

Venge earned a degree in Viticulture from the University of California at Davis, with a minor in Enology, after a tour of duty with the U.S. Navy.  He began his career in the wine industry as vineyard manager for the Charles Krug Winery, moving to Sterling Vineyards in the early 1970s.Soon thereafter, Venge made the leap into professional winemaking when he took a position as the first winemaker and general manager for Villa Mt. Eden in Oakville, California (now the site of PlumpJack Winery). An outstanding run of exquisite Cabernets from 1975-1979 not only put the winery on the map, but also established Venge as one of the industry's new stars.

Another milestone year occurred for Venge in 1982. Not only did he become a minority partner with Dennis Groth in the newly-formed Groth Vineyards & Winery, but also established his own winery, Saddleback Cellars. It was at Groth that his 1985 Reserve Cabernet earned a 100-point rating from Robert Parker Jr.-the only perfect score ever awarded to an American winery. In 1994, Venge split with Groth to pursue his own endeavors at Saddleback and to act as a consultant to other wineries in the area.

For this evening's tasting, it was only fitting we pulled from the cellar two Sangiovese varietal wines from a favorite, familiar and known producer. Venge has been one of the pioneers in Napa Valley Sangiovese, having also worked with Del Dotto during their early releases - a varietal still trying to find its stride in the new world. Tonight, we tried a new restaurant - Lucia's in Chicago's Wicker Park/Bucktown - a family run neighborhood restaurant featuring authentic Italian Mediterranean style home cooking. Lucia's is a BYOB establishment.The wines proved to be a perfect complement to the pasta, veal and beef dishes.

A contrast in vintages, the '97 considered a vintage with top potential for Cabernet Sauvignon but needing extended aging to reveal its capabilities, and more challenging for Sangiovese, vs the 2k vintage which was less acclaimed but provides this more complete, more forward and appealing release.


The '97 was more complex but more subdued in fruit and flavor. It showed slightly dull with a darkening color and subdued fruit, a bit earthy and leathery with hints of cedar aroma and taste gives way to black cherry with hint of and spicy cherry with a touch of anise.

The 2000 showed brighter purple garnet color that revealed its more vibrant fruit - black cherry, hint of blackberry, and spicy cherry; a layer of anise emerged later on the lingering finish.

1997 - RM 87 points; 2000 - RM 90 points. 

http://www.vengevineyards.com 

Barnett Vineyards Sleepy Hollow Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir 2002

Barnett Vineyards Sleepy Hollow Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir 2002

Opaque garnet colored - medium bodied - dusty rose, earthy black cherry, spicy tannins on a moderate firm lingering tannin finish.

RM 89 points. 

Marquis Philips 'S2' McLaren Vale Cabernet Sauvignon 2002 & 2007

Marquis Philips 'S2' South Australian McLaren Vale Cabernet Sauvignon 2002 & 2007

From the partnership of Australian winemaker Chris Ringland and US Importer Dan Philips - hence the creative Austal-American 'Roogle' part (kanga) roo-part eagle character logo.

The vintages have similar profiles and characteristtics. The 2002 exhibited medium - full bodied - dark garnet color - full forward black and blue berry fruit flavors, a layer of anise and hint of mocha, cedar and black cherry on a full lingering flavorful finish. A bit hot with alcohol on opening but soon gave way to the full forward fruit.

Second South Australian 2002 vintage Cabernet Sauvignon in a row, clearly showing a trend of full flavorful well balanced fruits - still vibrant after nine years. See the Flemings Langhorne Creek 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon review from earlier in the week.

Thursday, June 30, 2011

 

The 2007 shows initial tartness upon opening but soon gives way to full bodied forward fruit of black currant, blackberry, layer of cedar and tones of oak and mocha on a lingering finish.

I rated both RM 90 points.

Flemings Langhorne Creek Cabernet Sauvignon 2002

Flemings Langhorne Creek Cabernet Sauvignon 2002

Medium to full bodied, dark garnet colored - from the Langhorne Creek area of South Australia, this Cabernet Sauvignon is vibrant and expressive bursting with dark and red berry fruit flavors accented by a layer of vanilla, with hints of chocolate rounded with soft oak on a lingering moderate tannin finish.

RM 92 points.

I usually have very good records on the provenance and source of each bottle of wine in my cellar but I admit I had no record of this one and no recollection of when or where I bought it! Its the only one I have regretably and I must go find more. What a pleasant suprise, and even more so when I researched the price of this wine and found it to be languishing in a couple east coast wine shops for $18 for the 2000 vintage. When I research further I find the label was short lived as later vintages are branded '3 Dragons' Langhorne Creek Cabernet Sauvignon representing the three partners in the venture. Indeed, this bottle features the '3 Dragons' logo graphic.

On the Flemings Wine website, they claim they aim to provide premium quality wines that provide good value for the money and their legacy of this wine are sure testament to that achievement. I look forward to finding and drinking more wines from this producer in the future. Accordingly, they present on their website Flemings '8 Barrels' Barossa Valley Shiraz as well - also aged in American Oak barrriques (large barrels). By the  way, no relation to the popular Flemings Steak Houses which are notable for a respectable wine list and large selection of wines by the glass. Look for Flemings Wine and let me know of your experience! Cheers.

Edgewood Estate St. Helena Triangle Malbec 2002

Edgewood Estate St. Helena Triangle Malbec 2002  

Full bodied - dark inky purple color. Huge forward fruit flavors - blackberry, black raspberry and ripe plum, accented by a layer of dark chocolate and spice, hints of smoke, creosote and cassis on the late palate - a bit hot from the 15.7% alcohol content but the flavors are big enough to overcome. Smooth velvety tannins on a long supple finish.

RM 91 points. 

One of the traditional “Bordeaux varietals”, Malbec has characteristics that fall somewhere between Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, used to add deep color and tannin based structure, backbone and complexity to the blend. These characteristics make for a delicious savoury and hearty wine that goes well with hearty cheeses and beef.

This is a one of a kind - one time special selection Lot 54, from the 2002 vintage bottled for the 2004 Napa Valley Vintners annual Premiere wine tasting and auction. Its an eye opener to be on the lookout and pay attention to Napa Valley Malbec as a robust tasty food friendly wine.

IRONY Monterey County Pinot Noir 2009

IRONY Monterey County Pinot Noir 2009 

The producers say the irony of this wine is that "with its beautifully balanced fruit with vibrant acidity and concentrated flavor that it is so affordable". Indeed, its easy to find a flavorful easy drinking American Pinot Noir for $35, harder at $25, and difficult at best under $15. Irony Monterey County Pinot Noir is such a find. 

Garnet colored, medium-light bodied, the winemaker's notes sum up this wine well. Irony 2009 Monterey County Pinot Noir opens with red cherry, ripe strawberry and vanilla aromas, heightened by an earthy undercurrent of clove and sage. Bright red cherry avors are layered with strawberry jam and accents of rhubarb and red licorice. Lush, supple tannins found in this medium-bodied Pinot Noir are beautifully balanced with fresh, crisp acidity.

The Irony Pinot Noir is from the Monterey, California Appellation, sourced from the Arroyo Seco and San Bernabe viticultural areas: The blend is 89% Pinot Noir, 5% Petite Sirah, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 1% Other.

RM 87 points.

This pleasant surprise wine-find for easy drinking affordable Pinot Noir should be easy to find with 35,000 cases produced.

Rubissow Mt Veeder Merlot 2006

Rubissow Mt Veeder Merlot 2006 

Another wine obtained during our Mt Veeder Appellation tour producer visit.
 

Full bodied, firm but smooth, elegant and polished. Black berry, black raspberry, ripe plum, layer of tobacco, layer of mocha and coffee bean.
RM 91 points.

http://unwindwine.blogspot.com/2011/03/mt-veeder-appellation-trail-rubissow-mt.html 

Yates Family Vineyards Cheval Mt. Veeder Cabernet Franc 2007

Yates Family Vineyards 'Cheval' Mt. Veeder Cabernet Franc 2007

Wine obtained at the Yates Family property during our Mt Veeder Appellation visit. 

Full bodied - forward black berry, black raspberry and spicy clove with a hint of cassis and dark chocolate with a lingering tannin flavorful finish. 

Winemaker Tasting Notes - A deep, dark ruby appearance with hints of graphite and toast on the nose that finish with dry rocks and cigar tobacco. Strong flavors of espresso with small splashes of clove and cardamom. Dark chocolate covered cherries with cassis. Intense mountain fruit lingers on the palate and finished with supple tannins. 

RM 91 points. 

Watch for more reviews as we enjoy the selection of Yates Family Wines procured during our recent producer visit. 

75 (Seventy Five) Wine Company Amber Knolls Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2004

75 (Seventy Five) Wine Company Amber Knolls Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2004 

Reasonable value in a moderately priced California cab. Dark garnet purple color - medium-full bodied - not overly complex but pleasant full flavored easy drinking - good complement to grilled steak, grill-charred veggies and crescent rolls - flavors of black cherry and blackberry fruits with a hint of smoke, cassis and leather on a moderate tannin finish. From Beckstoffer's Amber Knolls vineyard up over the Napa Howell Mountain ridge-line in Red Hills, Lake County. Also recently picked up some Schrader Double Diamond cabernet sauvignon with fruit sourced from the same vineyard from same era. Should be interesting comparison - stay tuned.
RM 88 points.

http://cellartracker.com/w?358922

Schrader Double Diamond Mayacamas Range Estate Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2002

Schrader Double Diamond Mayacamas Range Estate Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2002

Medium bodied - dark berry fruits, blackberry, black raspberry and currant with hints of mocha and cassis with a subdued spicy, moderate tannin lingering finish.
RM 88 points.

Horizontal Tasting - 2004 Bordeaux Alongside Silver Oak Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

Horizontal Tasting - 2004 Bordeaux Alongside Silver Oak Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon


Comparison tasting of 2004 'horizontal' - wines from the same vintage - Bordeaux and Silver Oak Alexander Valley reveals a study in terroir, styles and aging profiles. Wines tasted are below, shown in tasting order based on anticipated weight and complexity which proved to be appropriate:

• Chateau Giscours Grand Cru Classe Marqaux 2004
• Chateau Leoville Barton St Julien 2004
• Chateau Clerc Milon Pauillac 2004
• d'Armailhac Grand cru Classe Pauillac 2004 
• Silver Oak Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2004

The Giscours, Leoville Barton, and Silver Oak were poured from magnums and decanted three to fours hours earlier. 

The highlights of the evening for me were the Leoville Barton and the Silver Oak which were both bright, complex, smooth, polished and flavorful indicating peak readiness to drink in their seventh year despite very different styles and tasting profiles. Not surprising, contrasting the Leoville Barton was the Clerc Milon which while balanced and full was still a bit closed and tight revealing a longer aging profile needing more time to open and fully reveal itself. The Giscours was next in my rankings followed by the d'Armailhac.

Chateau Leoville Barton Cru Classe St Julien Bordeaux 2004

Consistent producer of high quality good value ageworthy Bordeaux.

Bright floral notes, nicely balanced layers of black raspberry, black cherry, hints of leather and touch of smoke. Full bodied intense flavors yet delicate, polished and a silky fine tannin finish.  
RM 91 points. 

Silver Oak Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2004 

Surprisingly complex but refined and polished with layers of black berry fruits accented by cola, almond, nutmeg, sweet soft oak with layers of spice and vanilla on a long aromatic silky tannnin finish.
RM 90 points.

Chateau Clerc Milon Pauillac 2004

Second label of revered first growth Chateau Mouton Rothschild. Complex, firm with rather subdued black fruit flavors of blackberry, black cherry, black currant with hint of cassis, touch of leather and earth. Still a bit closed suggesting need for more time to open and reveal itself.
RM 89 points.  

Chateau Giscours Grand Cru Classe Marqaux 2004

Medium-full bodied, complex, dark berry and black cherry fruits with tone of slightly tart cherry and hint of raspberry, cassis, spice, tones of leather and pencil lead on the medium finish.
RM 88 points.

d'Armailhac Grand Cru Classe Pauillac 2004 

Third label of esteemed Chateau Mouton Rothschild, behind second label Clerc Milon. Medium-full bodied, less complex and lacking the polish and integration of the others, a bit flabby but forward black berry and black cherry fruit flavors with a layer of  mocha, cedar, and hint of camphor on a slightly firm spicy and acidic finish.
RM 87 points. 


Tasted with medley of artisan cheeses and over dinner of mixed green salad, beef tenderloin, twice baked potatoes and green beans. Dinner hosted at Bill and Beth C's with Dan & Linda, Bob & Gloria, and L. Chocolate cake and berries to finish commemorating my birthday!


Terroir - from Wikipedia - Terroir comes from the word terre "land". It was originally a French term used to denote the special characteristics that the geography, geology and climate of a certain place bestowed upon particular varieties. Agricultural sites in the same region share similar soil, weather conditions, and farming techniques, which all contribute to the unique qualities of the crop. It can be very loosely translated as "a sense of place," which is embodied in certain characteristic qualities, the sum of the effects that the local environment has had on the production of the product. Terroir is often italicized in English writing to show that it is a French loanword. The concept of terroir is at the base of the French wine Appellation d'origine contrôlée (AOC) system that has been the model for appellation and wine laws across the globe. At its core is the assumption that the land from which the grapes are grown imparts a unique quality that is specific to that region.

Elizabeth Spencer Napa Valley Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon Special Cuvée 2007

 Elizabeth Spencer Napa Valley Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon Special Cuvée 2007

Hot - high alcohol taste - almost as if fortified w/ cognac - overpowering the black cherry fruits, with layer of mocha and spice. Tasted by the glass at 'fyve' (ala five as in Pentagon) at Ritz Carlton Pentagon City, Arlington - perhaps open too long? Or kept too warm?

RM 87 Points. 

Château Larmande St. Émilion Grand Cru Classe Bordeaux 2005

Château Larmande St. Émilion Grand Cru Classe Bordeaux 2005



A reliable producer that provides consistent value year after year - especially so in the highly rated 2005 vintage. My best of tasting pick from an earlier Bordeaux flight tasting. Medium bodied, floral perfume, flavorful red berry, plum fruits, subtle spice, cherry-cranberry, nice texture and an appealing moderately firm grip of tannin in the finish.  
RM 91 points. 

Rosemount Estate McLaren Vale Balmoral Syrah 2002

Rosemount Estate McLaren Vale Balmoral Syrah 2002

Tasting Journal Update - Dark inky purple color, medium-full bodied, ripe raisin flavored smokey blueberry, sweet black currant, tobacco and earthy leather on the firm tannin laced black cherry finish.

RM 89 Points.

http://www.cellartracker.com/wine.asp?iWine=317099

Grand Tour Chicago - Wine Tasting Extravaganza

Grand Tour Chicago - Wine Tasting Extravaganza

One of the ultimate wine tasting experiences besides actually visiting wine country is Wine Spectator's annual/bi-annual* Grand Tour - a wine tasting extravaganza of over two hundred producers. While its not a substitute for visiting wine country, it is an opportunity to meet the winemakers or producer representative directly, rather than their local distributors, which is the case is most tasting events.

There is something for everyone from standard bearer First Growths to breakout producers and new vintage releases, some revealing the artwork of new winemakers. A highlight is discovering new emerging labels or established labels entering new markets. Such was the case with the 2011 Grand Tour bi-annual visit to Chicago. Again this year it was held at Navy Pier's Grand Ballroom.

* Most cities including Chicago host Grand Tour every other year. 

Grand Tour in the Navy Pier Grand Ballroom

Such a broad and diverse offering can be daunting. One can approach the challenge of so many choices several ways - look for new discoveries, focus on known producers' new releases, wander serendipitously or randomly, or some combination thereof. We develop a detailed plan of what producers we want to visit and then determine tasting based on what they are serving - avoiding lackluster features and offerings we've already experienced. Our tasting route follows countries and regions that we know and collect - no room for experimentation in our plan.

Tasting so many wines in one evening quickly overwhelms the palate so we taste wines with which we have previous experience or familiarity. Lack of or diminished palate discrimination hinders wandering into new realms.We also focus on the more complex sophisticated wines early and move to the bigger, 'narrower' wines from there. You probably figured out by now - we taste reds and don't spend time on whites at such an event - the sole exception being Inniskillin Niagara Peninsula Riesling Icewine 2007 which was according to plan.

 We tend to focus on our selections and not be tempted to venture off plan otherwise one will never get through their preference list. We've been very diligent in keeping to our plan over the years although we deviated moreso this year than previously due to the size of our group.

Rick with Dan Kosta of Kosta Brown

Our preference list was only fifteen  percent of those available which is still thirty wines. I hit all but the most of the last half dozen which were ports as I ventured off and did explore some discoveries in chosen categories, such as the Aussie Shiraz's mentioned below, for example.

In the Pinot Noirs, we tasted perennial favorites Kosta Browne Russian River Valley 2009, Domaine Serene Evensted Reserve 2007, and Freestone Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir 2007, as all were pouring as yet untasted new releases.

The first growth Bordeaux features were Chateau Mouton Rothschild serving the spectacular 2005 vintage and Chateau Margaux pouring their 2004. We started with these as the chance to taste First Growth Bordeaux wines is a special occasion and valued experience. A Pauillac comparison was available with the Lynch Bages 2005, and the Pontet Canet 2008. Margaux was best represented of the Bordeaux appellations with Chateau Margaux, Chateau Palmer 2004, Brane-Cantenac 2003, Du Tertre 2005, and Giscours 2005. St Estpehe was represented by long favorite Cos d'Estournel. Standouts from the Bordeaux' besides the Mouton were Lynch Bages, Brane-Cantenac and  the Cos d'Estournel. Conspicuously modest and subdued was the Chateau Margaux '04 - perhaps too young to reveal itself.

Consensus highlight of the 'Big Cab' offerings was the Joseph Phelps Insignia 2006 with its rich chewy forward fruit and complexity. Notable entries were Niebaum-Coppola Rubicon '06, Beaulieu Vineyards Georges De Latour '07, Cliff Lede Poetry '07, and Beringer Private Reserve 2007 Cabernet Sauvignons. We passed on the Robert Mondavi Reserve Cabernet, Chateau St Jean Cinq Cepages and Etude. A new release offering that showed well was Gemstone Vineyards Yountville Ten (10th Anniversary Release) 2006 which is now made by Phillip Melka. The consensus underachievement was the Caymus Special Select 2008 as I was alone in our group to give it high marks.

We overlooked and missed the 2007 HALL "Exzellenz" Sacrashe Vineyard Red Wine ($165) not recognizing yet another new label, which was unfortunate given her recent spectacular releases of her Kathyrn Hall label. We skipped the Provenance having just recently enjoyed their 2007 Cabernet (perhaps their best to date). 

The Australian Shiraz category featured several new discoveries including Two Hands 'Zippy's Block' Single Vineyard Ronnefeldt Road Marananga Barossa Valley Shiraz 2007, D'Arenberg poured their highly rated 2006 vintage Dead Arm, Penfolds their RWT (we skipped both having already tasted), and Mollydooker poured their top shelf Velvet Glove Shiraz 2009. Two other Australian Shiraz discoveries of the evening were the Chateau Tanunda very limited release 2008 'The Château' - '100 YEAR OLD VINE' Shiraz and Hentley Farm 'Clos Otto' Barossa Valley Greenock Creek Shiraz 2008. Pictured at left is Chateau Tanunda's Dagmar O'Neill pouring 100 Year Vines Shiraz for Bill C.




The Grand Tour remains a highlight of our tasting experiences each year. At $200 it is not for the every day casual wine drinker or those content/satisfied to drink modest wines. For those looking to test their palate discrimination, to explore a wide variety or broad selection of wines, then the tour offers just that. of course there are many wine tasting opportunities out there that are less extravagant. With so many selections, care must be taken to pace, spit, and cleanse - not drink/taste too much too fast, spit rather than drink (swallow) if you're looking to taste more than you would normally drink, and rinse and cleanse your palate with the furnished water, bread, or crackers regularly to maintain any sense of discrimination. 

This year,  based on lessons learned in years past, we ate just before arriving which reduced the distraction of the institutional buffet food., and time taken from the wines. As we're not getting younger and some have bad knees, next year we'll absolutely have to pre-arrange for transportation back to the hotel - and as such we got hotel rooms in the city to simplify getting home at the end of the long evening. All that said, we're 'All-In', looking forward to the next Grand Tour, which regretably but also thankfully is at least a year away!

The folks from Hentley Farm (above)  and their
'Clos Otto' Barossa Valley Greenock Creek Shiraz 2008

The jury - Rick, Ernie, Bill, Dan, Eric and Lyle.

California Cabernet New Release Discoveries - Rodney Strong Brothers Ridge & Hoopes Estate Discovered

California Cabernet Spring '10 Release Tasting - Rodney Strong Brothers Ridge & Hoopes Estate Discovered

Tasting of recent California Cabernet Sauvignon releases uncovers some new discoveries - Rodney Strong Brothers Ridge and Hoopes Estate Cabernet Sauvignons. Malloy's Finest Wine and Spirits in Lisle, Illinois hosted their annual gala spring tasting of 120 wines. I focused on six California Cabernets - four known and two new discoveries uncovering some some nice surprises.

Wines tasted:

Rodney Strong Brothers Ridge Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2006
Rodney Strong Symmetry Meritage Red Wine 2007
Hoopes Estate Oakville Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2007
Beringer Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2007
Faust Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2007
Arrowood Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon 2007

We've long known Rodney Strong Cabernets and Symmetry Meritage wines and especially enjoyed their recent vintages of Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon. It was a pleasant surprise to discover their new single vineyard designated Brothers Ridge Cabernet Sauvignon, 2006, from a 140 acre property in the hills near Cloverdale, Sonoma County Alexander Valley. I deemed this best in class of this tasting.

This wine is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, barrell aged 22 months in French Oak with 40% new barrels. Deep dark purple in color, firm but very approachable, full bodied with rich extracted black and blue berry fruits, ripe plum, hints of vanilla, dark chocolate and touch of spice. this wine exhibited complexity, depth and polish with a well balanced acidity on a long finish. RM 93 points. 

The Rodney Strong Symmetry Meritage Red Wine 2007 was also impressive. This Bordeaux blend consisting of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Malbec, 3% Merlot, 1% Cabernet Franc, 1% Petit Verdot was aged 26 months in French oak barrels. Dark inky purple color, medium to full bodied with flavors of blackberry and plum fruits,  layers of cassis, dark chocolate and a hint of spice on a smooth soft lingering finish that belays its 15.1% content.  RM 91 points.

Another new discovery of the tasting was Hoopes Family Estate Napa Valley Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon 2007. Dark color, full bodied, firm, intense and complex blackberry, black cherry and black raspberry fruits with a layer of spice, leather and tobacco box on a firm tannin lingering finish. This would be a great accompaniement to hearty cheese or grilled steak. RM 92 points.

A good benchmark to measure these wines against was the Beringer Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2007.  Dark ink color, full bodied, complex and sophisticated dark berry fruit with hint of  cassis, licorice, touch of smoke and mocha on the long lingering finish. RM 92 points.

Robert Parker gave the Beringer 95 points, revealing his more sophisticated palet that likely apprecated the complex sophistication of this wine, while I tended to favor the more forward perhaps narrower but deeper cabs above.

Arrowood Sonoma County Cabernet Sauvignon 2007. This wine was more subdued and almost delicate compared against the 'big'hitter's' above.

From vineyards near the lower Sonoma Valley hillside winery, this 100% Cabernet Sauvignon exhibits predominant black berry and black cherry fruits, a hint of cassis, toasty oak and a touch of mocha on the soft finish. RM 89 points.

Rounding out the tasting was  Faust Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 
Dark color, medium-full bodied, black cherry fruits with hint of earth and cassis framed by balanced acidity and tannins. RM 89 points.

Kudos and thanks to Malloy's Finest Wine and Spirits in Lisle for hosting this quality event.

Steve Hoff Barossa Valley Shiraz 2006

 Steve Hoff Barossa Valley Shiraz 2006 

This is as good as their higher priced select shiraz at a fraction of the price. Great compliment to hearty meats, cheeses, dark chocolate - Deep dark purple color - full-bodied, ripe and rich layers of deep blackberry, plum and anise, hints of blueberry and black cherry with a long lingering fine-grained tannin finish. RM 90 points.

Other reviews - 

92 pts Robert Parker Jr.'s The Wine Advocate (JM) - It is opaque purple-colored with an enticing perfume of smoke, meat, bacon, and blueberry. This leads to a full-bodied, plush, ripe, layered wine with gobs of savory fruit, well concealed tannin, and superior length. This in-your-face Shiraz will drink well for a decade.

91 pts Wine Spectator
Ripe and rich, with deep blackberry, plum and licorice flavors mingling for effect as the finish rolls on, finishing with fine-grained tannins. 

90 pts Stephen Tanzer International Wine Cellar (JR)
Ruby-red. Powerfully scented bouquet of cherry and blueberry preserves, smoked meat and dried flowers. Fleshy dark fruit flavors are weighty and velvety, with fully absorbed tannins and a late-arriving spicy quality. This is all about fruit and is already delicious, but it has the concentration and balance to reward cellaring for a few years.

Darioush Napa Valley Signature Cabernet Sauvignon 2007

Darioush Napa Valley Signature Cabernet Sauvignon 2007

From Darioush Estate vineyards on Mt Veeder, at Oak Knoll and Napa Valley, a Bordeaux style blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc, and 3% Malbec.
Dark inky purple color - full bodied - full forward complex integrated black berry, black raspberry and plum fruits accented by layer of cassis and hint of cedar and touch of mocha with a lingering silky tannin finish.
RM 91 points.

http://cellartracker.com/w?727918

Napa Valley Oakville & Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon Tasting

Napa Valley Oakville & Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon Tasting

First dinner outside on the deck of the year featuring three Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignons, artisan cheeses, grilled steaks, sauteed green beans and twice baked potatos  - served at Bill & Beth C's.


Provenance Napa Valley Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 -  Surprising depth and fullness - deep purple color - full bodied - black berry and black currant fruits, hints of spice and cedar and dark chocolate.
RM 91 points.

Barbour Napa Valley Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon 2001 -  
Medium bodied leather, hints of earth and smoke with subtle black cherry and black berry fruits on a moderate tannin finish. RM 88 points.

Del Dotto Napa Valley Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon 2001 -
A bit of a cross between the top two wines above - medium - full bodied, black berry fruit, leather, hints of earth, cedar, spice and a soft smoky tannin finish. RM 90 points.

Easter Brunch Festive Dining with Fine Wines

Easter Brunch Festive Dining with Fine Wines

Easter weekend featured festive dining with family with home cooked preparations matched with fine wines. Easter eve featured Mayacamas Napa Valley Mt Veeder Merlot 2006 and Chardonnay 2009 served with lasagna and baked chicken respectively. We tasted and just received these wines from our recent Napa Valley Mt Veeder Appellation Trail Wine Experience visit to the winery. We featured these for sister Jan visiting from Cal accompanied us on the trip but left early and missed the Mayacamas visit and tasting.

 Easter brunch at home after church featured Eggs Benedict with lobster medallions, with hollandaise and asparagus spears. Also featured was a remarkable blueberry french toast bake. The wine accompaniment was Dr. Heidemanns-Bergweiler Bernkasteler Badstube Riesling Spatlese 2006.

Easter evening we tasted Elan Napa Valley Atlas Peak Cabernet Sauvignon 1994 with artisan cheeses and medallions of beef filet with carmelized onions. The Elan tasted remarkably like a vintage Bordeaux with huge floral scents, earthy leather, black fruits, smoke and black cherry with hints of anise and cedar. This wine originally tasted at the winery with producer Richard Elliott-Smith and his lovely wife Linda back during our 1998 Napa Wine Experience (see picture and caption below).

It was true to Richard's Bordeaux roots in flavor, character and apparent age-worthiness as this seventeen year old is not only holding well but is revealing itself more profoundly than earlier tastings. Tasted with artisan cheeses and medallions of beef filet with carmelized onions it went well with the hearty blue cheese and aged cheddar. RM 90 points. 

Linda & Rick, Richard & Linda, Phil W. and AJ
tasting Elan Cabernet Sauvignon at Monticello Winery in 1998.

Rosemount Estate McLaren Vale Balmoral Syrah 2000

Rosemount Estate McLaren Vale Balmoral Syrah 2000

Label from 1999 vintage.

Some say Shiraz, they say Syrah!

Tasting Note - Dark inky purple color. Medium-full bodied. Aromatic, leather, slightly earthy aroma that gives way to complex flavorful blue fruit and ripe black raspberry, raisin, black cherry, cassis, tar, and tobacco that turns to an aftertaste of smoke, currant and a hint of plum. Over the course of the evening, the wine seemed to age as the berry fruits gave way to the more fig raisin aged feel while the deep aromatics lingered. While I gave it a 92 initially on opening, by the end of the night I gave it a 90. RM 90 points.

The wine went well with smoked almonds and heady blue or gorgonzola cheeses with sliced pear. It would go well with beef or lamb.

We have a horizontal of this wine from 1992 through 2004. Thankfully this wine has avoided that mineral and slight metallic note that some Syrahs take on. It is less extracted and fruit forward than some of the almost over-powering fruit bombs from the region.

During those early years the wine was priced in the $33-36 range, then escalated to $50. After the 2000 vintage the price was fortunately and wisely rolled back to under $30 where it remains. I have seen the 2004 vintage at this price - a good value for this quality wine. I have not seen vintages later than 2004 of this wine in the market.

Yates Family Vineyards Alden Perry Reserve Napa Valley Mt. Veeder Napa Redwoods Estate 2006 Red Wine

 Yates Family Vineyards Alden Perry Reserve Napa Valley Mt. Veeder Napa Redwoods Estate 2006 Red Wine

This wine was one of the discoveries and highlights of our Mt. Veeder Appellation trip and Yates Family Vineyards producer visit last month. The wine is a Bordeaux style blend with 50% Merlot, 42% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 8% Cabernet Franc. The wine is named after Alden Yates, proprietor Michael Yate’s father and Perry Yates, his grandfather, who first purchased the Mt Veeder vineyard property in 1950. Yates produce Bordeaux varietal fruit that is mostly sold to other producers. We've likely had their fruit in wines we get from name producers. They produce small quantities of one to two hundred cases of their Bordeaux varietal wines and of this blend.


We tasted the wine at the winery and purchased a case which just arrived. We opened and drank this with artisan cheeses and filet of beef. The wine was a perfectly complement to the blue cheese and went well with the grilled steak.

Tasting notes -
A bit of acid heat initially that soon wears off to a pleasant smooth drinking wine. Deep garnet color - full bodied bursting with complex layers of rich forward blackberry, ripe sweet black raspberry fruits, tones of cinnamon spice, anise and hints of floral, sweet oak, white pepper and tobacco leaf, finishing with moderate smooth tannins on a rich full finish.
RM 92 points.

http://www.cellartracker.com/wine.asp?iWine=1012016