Red Blends

What once was the least pricey “fine” wine in California, the former red Burgundy of old (1970s), today has come full circle. And at ludicrously high prices for wines that typically aren’t worth a fraction of what we’re being asked to pay. Over the last five years or so, the amorphous, usually overripe red blends … Continue reading “Red Blends”

Tasting Notes

Exceptional 2013 Engracia Syrah, Sonoma Valley, Deerfield Ranch ($35): It’s extremely difficult to get wine makers to find cooler regions and then courageously harvest fruit intentionally to make a cool-climate wine such as this one. Mike Faulck i… Want to read more? If you’re already a subscriber, welcome back – you may login here. If you aren’t … Continue reading “Tasting Notes”

Labor Shortage

One untold story of the California wine industry as this 2016 harvest comes to a close relates to the labor shortage that has impacted smaller producers in difficult way. One small Mendocino County wine maker related to me last week that it was on… Want to read more? If you’re already a subscriber, welcome back – … Continue reading “Labor Shortage”

Róse Hits New Heights

It is now possible to find sensational dry rosés from almost every region in the world, and many of them with such amazing character that you’ll be amazed by the quality of fruit, precision of wine-making skill, and structural balance you’re getting … Want to read more? If you’re already a subscriber, welcome back – you … Continue reading “Róse Hits New Heights”

Tasting Notes

2010 Vigna Traverso Schioppettino, Friuli Colli Orientali DOC ($30): This is a star red wine for Don Chigazola, and one that no serious wine lover should miss! The cold-climate aroma of black pepper and violets expands with air to show off dried blac… Want to read more? If you’re already a subscriber, welcome back – you … Continue reading “Tasting Notes”