A group (usually about 10-12) of Sonoma County winemakers (long-time professionals) get together each December (after harvest) to evaluate (consume) a dozen Champagnes from France and actually score them double-blind. And they do it in a tradition… Want to read more? If you’re already a subscriber, welcome back – you may login here. If you aren’t a … Continue reading “Champagne”
Volume XXII – Issue 4
Tasting Notes
Exceptional 2015 Robert James Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, “Pinnacle” ($60): Generous fruit and spice notes mark the up-front freshness of this delightful new entry into the PN sweepstakes. The wine’s makeup is softer than I typically like, (… Want to read more? If you’re already a subscriber, welcome back – you may login here. If you … Continue reading “Tasting Notes”
Wine of The Week
Wine of the week is for subscribers only.
Ancient PN
We had a strange experience two weeks ago that was not only rewarding but mystifying. I was poking around the cellar looking a dinner wine for that evening, and since we we’re doing main dish that called for a lighter-weight red, I went to the Pin… Want to read more? If you’re already a subscriber, welcome … Continue reading “Ancient PN”
Bargain of the Week
Bargain of the week is for subscribers only.
Tip of the Week
Grocery Outlet stores continue to offer some remarkable deals, and some stores are even having a 20% off sale starting in early November. However, even without a sale, some of the wines cry out for purchase now. Glen Fiona is a Washington state… Want to read more? If you’re already a subscriber, welcome back – you … Continue reading “Tip of the Week”
The Best Pinot Maker in America?
Since I don’t use scores to evaluate wine, for so many reasons it’s hard to recount them, I can only reflect on the absolute consistency of some of America’s greatest Pinot Noir producers. For such an iconic wine, this is not and easy task. There … Want to read more? If you’re already a subscriber, welcome … Continue reading “The Best Pinot Maker in America?”
Notes on Pinot Noir
In much the same way Pinot Noir is difficult to make, so it is difficult to deal with once you get it home from the package store. Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the most forgiving of wines, so it can be beaten up and maltreated, and still deliver s… Want to read more? If you’re … Continue reading “Notes on Pinot Noir”
Tasting Notes
Exceptional 2014 Dutton Goldfield Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, Freestone Hill Vineyard ($72): Audacious and as impudent as it ever is, the wild spice components, the traces of cranberry amid the lush raspberry and wild strawberry notes, the p… Want to read more? If you’re already a subscriber, welcome back – you may login here. If you … Continue reading “Tasting Notes”