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Wine Scores
Below is a listing of the wine review scores we frequently reference in our notes. While these sources remain an excellent source of information, we always recommend that you trust your own palate. Scores in these publications often represent the personal taste of an individual critic, which may not always coincide with your own. We have a huge team of excellent wine professionals that can match wines you've had in the past with new arrivals that meet your flavor profile.
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Staff Favorites - Chiara Shannon
Chiara Shannon
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Chiara moved north from her hometown of La Canada Flintridge in the foothills of Los Angeles to attend college at UC Berkeley. Not knowing what to do with her Bachelor’s degree in English and Spanish literature, Chiara pursued several careers, from education to marketing to fashion, before she realized her destiny lay in the wine business. She started out as a marketing assistant at Schramsberg Vineyards. After a year in wine country, she relocated to Los Angeles to try out the retail side of wine at a specialized wine shop near her family’s home, Mission Wines. Working under the tutelage of a seasoned veteran sommelier-turned-retailer, Chiara was inducted into the world of fine wine. She has since returned to the Bay Area joined the team at K&L, received her WSET Advanced certification, now manages the K&L Personal Sommelier Service. In her free time, Chiara is passionate about dance and travel, loves her husband and their life of food, wine, and music in San Francisco, practices yoga and reads in her leisure time, and is eternally grateful to her friends and family.
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Reviews
2007 Poggiarellino Rosso di Montalcino
Review Date: 11-9-2009
This wine grows on you, and it keeps getting better and better. It is classic, tighly wound, earthy, tannic red-fruited Sangiovese out of the shoot, but it softens with air into the most gorgeous, velvety, blackberry and cherry deliciousness, with such length! It is a food wine, but I can't resist the temptation to sip it solo (maybe with a little cheese to soften the tannins in the mouth) and be transported to the Tuscany of my imagination. Hey, it's cheaper than a flight, right?
Top Value!
2002 Bruno Michel Cuvee Millesimee
Review Date: 11-6-2009
When tasting this enchanting Champagne at our last staff tasting, the conclusions were, "definitely a 'geek' wine." In wine-land, this is a high compliment. It means that the wine possesses qualities that are uniquely and fascinatingly its own, and that you will be hard-pressed to find something similar. I love the tangy nose of yeast and fennel, the crisp, focused palate, and the finish full of surprises - mandarin orange? lemon zest? Encountering wines like this - that enhance one's taste experience, are the reason why I love this business (and this Champagne).
Price: $59.99
1999 Claude Cazals Clos Cazals Brut Champagne
Review Date: 11-6-2009
Wow. I am a fan of all three wines we carry from Claude Cazals, and 1999, being the oldest, is incredibly complex and rich, with a nose that reminds me (fondly) of toasted egg bagels and cream cheese - a slighty nutty, yeasty, yet sweetened, toasty flavor - underscored by raw vanilla and honey notes. The palate is rich a layered, with a full, soft mousse. Medium+ acidity keeps everything fresh and lifted, and there is tremendous length on the finish. Worth every penny of $100.
Price: $99.00
2006 Domaine Belle "Cuvée Louis Belle" Crozes-Hermitage (was $40.)
Review Date: 11-6-2009
If you like dark, smokey, herbal, gamey Syrah, then the 2006 Cuvee Louis Belle from Domaine Belle is for you. Dense, with lovely lavender perfume, a deep core of black fruit, and firm tannins that will soften with time, this full-bodied red is seriously good stuff. Decant and enjoy now with something hearty and savory that comes from a big pot, from the traditional pot roasts and braised meats, to the more exotic efforts, like Peruvian lomo saltado, Spanish Paella, North Indian beef curry, and my dad's famous venison chili.
Price: $29.99
2003 Marguet Pere et Fils Rosé Champagne
Review Date: 11-6-2009
I love the 2003 Marguet Rose because it fills that important gap between racy, austere Champagne and the rich, toasty, heavy sparklers of the new world. From a very ripe vintage, this rose Champagne is well-endowed with fruit, showing aromas of strawberry, fig, and dried fruits. The palate is textured, with balanced medium+ acidity, a broad mouthfilling mousse, and a long, crisp, spciey/savory finish. This is a Champagne to have with a meal, as it is textured enough to stand up to poultry, pork, and heavier fishes like Salmon, flavorful enough to hold conversation with spices and savory seasonings, and the acidity and bubbles offer a refreshing cleanse of the palate between bites. It's slso great with chocolate!
Price: $44.99
Noah's Mill Bourbon 750ml
Review Date: 11-6-2009
This Bourbon is distilled to proof, which means that no water is added to bring the proof down after distillation. The benefit (and joy) of this is that when you drink it on the rocks, it changes dramatically with each sip as layers of flavor are unleashed by the melting ice. It starts out with intense, earthy aromas of peppercorn and chocolate, which are echoed in the mouth at first sip. What struck me about tasting this Bourbon for the first time was how the flavors exploded with intensity in the mouth without the sensation being hot or burning, as can happen with such a high proof spirit. Each sip thereafter was a surprise, as chocolate and vanilla became toffee, became hazelnut, became sweet soy and even some stone fruits made an appearance. What fun!
Price: $54.99
2008 Raptor Ridge Willamette Valley Pinot Gris
Review Date: 10-29-2009
The Redwood City store hosted a series of four very fun and engaging tastings with producers visiting from Oregon and Washington this fall. Thankfully I took the opportunity to taste when Raptor Ridge was here, because I discovered this delightful Pinot Gris. To me, the nose was nice and minerally upfront, supported by ripe tropical fruit aromas. I typically get banana from Pinot Gris, but this one was less banana and more in the direction of pineapple, to my preference. Tangy, concentrated fruit on the palate, and a long finish punctuated by a note of lemon zest. A refreshing and delightful Oregon Pinot Gris.
Price: $15.99
2007 Ridge "Pagani Ranch" Sonoma Valley Zinfandel
Review Date: 10-21-2009
We recently hosted a tasting of Ridge current releases in our Redwood City tasting bar, and this was my favorite of the four Zins that evening. It strikes an irresistable balance between fruit and earth. The upfront aromas of rich blue and red fruit are supported by a deeper core of savory herbs and subtle minerality; the palate is at once lush and structured, and the finish lingers. A sweet spot of a wine if you ask me: pleasurable now, but with the stamina for the cellar.
Price: $31.99
2008 Rippon Osteiner "Hotere White" Central Otago New Zealand (Biodynamic)
Review Date: 10-21-2009
A fun white showing ripe pear and stone fruit aromas, which are echoed on the palate along with additional green fruit, honey flavors, and a nice leesey minerality. Unctuous and easy to drink.
Price: $14.99
2006 Marchesi Frescobaldi Giramonte Toscana
Review Date: 10-16-2009
Bordeaux in Tuscany? In our recent staff tasting, Clyde seemed especially fond of this. Pomerol-like, with rich aromas of black and blueberry compote, vanilla cream, and toffee. In the mouth this wine is incredibly smooth and lush, with fine, smooth tannins, subtle minerality, and a long finish. A lot of wine here, it will age beautifully over the next decade.
Price: $89.99
2008 Pra Soave Classico Superiore
Review Date: 10-16-2009
The 2008 shows clean citrus fruit, a touch of leesey richness, and chalky notes. It is a light-med bodied white with weight on the mid-palate, clean acidity, and a long minerally finish. A wine of great class and breeding, the Pra Soave is a go-to for pairing with a salad or vegetable course, where the bitter, vegetal flavors combined with sweeter, richer flavors of a dressing can wreak havoc on light whites and reds alike.
Price: $13.99
2007 Alain Corcia "Hervé" Châteauneuf-du-Pape
Review Date: 10-14-2009
This is the most savory and structured out of the three 2007 cuvees from Corcia and my favorite. Lavender and garrigue on the nose, supported by juicy berry fruit and lots of gamey, smokey, and earthy flavors. I decanted this when I served it last and it opened up beautifully, pairing perfectly with herbed pork chops and roasted root vegetables. I am excited to see how it evolves in bottle. A great value for now and later.
Price: $34.99
2004 Amici Napa Cabernet Sauvignon
Review Date: 10-13-2009
Whether you are looking for an outstanding Napa Cabernet to give as a gift to a connoisseur friend, to share with someone whom you know loves good red wine, to give to yourself as a treat to have with dinner, or to just set aside in the cellar for later rewards, look no further than the 2004 Amici. It is amazing how much depth and complexity there is to this humbly priced Napa Cab - deep core of black fruit, firm yet well-integrated tannins, long, lifted finish...it begs for steak now and will be even better later. Cheers.
2007 Cave de Rasteau "Dame Victoria" Côtes du Rhône-Villages Rasteau
Review Date: 10-13-2009
There are many wonderful options from the 2007 vintage from the Southern Rhone in stock right now. The secret is to find the best values, and this blend of 70% Grenache, 20% Syrah, and 10% Mourvedre from the village of Rasteau in the Rhone is one not to miss. It is full of red fruit, spice, and a touch of smokey, earthiness. The palate is rich, with a deep core of ripe fruit flavor. The long finish and balanced acidity shows off its special origins. I like to serve it from carafes at large dinner parties. It is a food-friendly, delicious table red that, well, will help keep you out of the red come party time.
Price: $13.99
2007 Beckmen "Cuvée Le Bec" Santa Ynez Valley Rhône Blend
Review Date: 9-23-2009
The Cuvee Le Bec blend is consistently a great value. The 2007 is a full-bodied, characterful red that will outshow more expensive alternatives in any blind tasting. The nose is full of red and blue fruit, spice, a touch of smokey-gamey notes. In the mouth the texture is very silken, a pleasure to drink. The flavors of fruit and spice echo the nose, with darker fruit and savory herb notes coming forward. Medium tannins and a smooth, flavorful finish make for a wine that is full enough to stand up to hearty meat dishes, but restrained where it matters so as to not be over the top. A stellar buy at $18.99.
Price: $18.99
2005 Conn Creek "Limited Release" Napa Cabernet Sauvignon
Review Date: 9-23-2009
If you are more of a Bordeax-lover, but incredibly impatient and looking for something that is ready to drink and a good value, this wine is worth a try. It is medium+ bodied, with a core of currant and red berry fruit, minerality, dusty tannins, integrated oak, and a long finish made in a more "old world" style - showing very nicely now!
Price: $16.99
2007 Heron Lake "The Olivia Brion" Wild Horse Valley Pinot Noir
Review Date: 9-23-2009
This Pinot is a fruity, forward style that has lots of ripe blackberry fruit and exotic spice notes - nutmeg? - on the nose, with juicy sweet berry flavors on the palate and just a touch of something savory. Tasty and appealing, with a fruit-driven finish, I see this working beautifully with the complex flavors of Thanksgiving dinner (or some other harvest feast). It certainly has crowd appeal!
Price: $34.99
2007 Homefire "Homecoming" Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel
Review Date: 9-23-2009
I admit, I was surprised how much I liked this at our last staff tasting. It is juicy, fun Zinfandel - not too sweet, nice acidity, perfect for a party. Black fruit on the nose, with creamy, chocolatey aromas balanced by subtle spice notes. The palate is pretty broad, but satin-like in the mouth, and though full-bodied the acidity on the finish adds brightness and lift. I'll have another, thanks.
Price: $15.99
2008 Luli Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
Review Date: 9-23-2009
This wine shows remarkable balance and breeding. Though a richer style, with deep concentration of color, more intense aromatics of ripe red fruit, cedar, and a touch of oak spice, acidity keeps everything in check and the overall effect is lifted, not heavy. Dusty tannins add texture to a substantial core of fruit. Pretty serious stuff for under $20!
Price: $17.99
2008 Penner-Ash Wilamette Valley Viognier
Review Date: 9-23-2009
If you love Viognier for all the right reasons, then the 2008 Penner Ash Wilamette is not to be missed. The nose is very floral, with peach and pear aromas and undertones of honey and almond. Though medium-bodied, the sufficient amount of acidity creates balance and makes for a clean, refreshing sensation in the mouth. Pear and stone fruit flavors echo the nose, and the finish is long and quenching. Delightful cool-climate Viognier.
Price: $28.99
2007 Toulouse Vineyards "Estate" Anderson Valley Pinot Noir
Review Date: 9-23-2009
Lots of buzz around this Pinot at our last staff tasting. Cassis and black fruit leap from the glass, followed by savory herbs, a little smoke, and earthy notes. The palate is more ripe and red-fruited, with nice concentration, medium+ body and supporting acidity. This wine has substance and richness without being too big or overblown. Well-made and accessible, this could evolve in bottle for a few years. But don't worry if you can't wait - it is delicious now.
Price: $37.99
West County Cider "Redfield" Cider, Massachusetts 750ml
Review Date: 9-23-2009
YUM! This pink-colored cider is made from an heirloom vareity of apples that actually have red flesh. The flavor is like a cross between Bugey Cerdon (a sparkling wine from the Savoie that is fresh, grapey, and a little sweet - one of my all-time favorite light bubblies) and green apples, and the overall effect is dry and refreshing. Since I can't drink beer, I am constantly on the look-out for dry, fresh and distinctive ciders - I LOVE IT!!!!
Price: $14.99
2008 Birichino Monterey Malvasia Bianca
Review Date: 9-22-2009
An interesting, incredibly floral and fruity wine reminiscent of the Argentine Torrontes, only more expressive and intense. The nose is all citrus and blossoms, with pear and white peach fruit flavors contributing to the fruity palate. Though dry, this wine has nice viscosity, and acidity is present but not too pronounced, making the overall experience a trip for the senses.
Price: $13.99
2008 Drew Anderson Valley Albariño
Review Date: 9-22-2009
Bright lime and citrus notes on the nose, backed by peachy aromas and a touch of saltwater (in a good way). A pretty solid effort for domestic Albarino! The palate is vibrant, with medium+ acidity balancing riper fruit flavors that echo the profile of the nose, leesey richness, and mouthwatering finish. Throw this in as a ringer at your next white tasting or, order up some grilled octopus and shrimp ceviche and keep it to yourself. Either way, you'll have lots of fun!
Price: $19.99
2006 Kirwan, Margaux (was $49.99)
Review Date: 9-22-2009
This wine showed wonderfully at our recent Bordeaux tasting - a big nose of red and black fruit, with creamy notes and toast, followed by a very smooth, velvety palate with a deep core of fruit, well integrated tannins, and balanced acidity. Minerals and smokey notes accent the long finish. If you drink a lot of California Cabernet but are seeking to branch out a little and explore the wines of Bordeaux, the 06 Kirwan is an excellent place to start.
Price: $29.99
2007 Domaine des Ballandors Quincy
Review Date: 9-18-2009
I love crisp, refreshing, mineral driven Sauvignon Blanc from the Loire Valley. Though more fine-boned than Sancerre, what the Domaine des Balladors Quincy lacks in austerity and nerves, she makes up for in nuance and finesse. Sweeter stone fruit notes and a floral quality, supported by a mineral core and broad palate, make this white a charming and versatile dining companion
2005 l'Avocat Rouge, Graves
Review Date: 9-18-2009
This wine showed very well at our recent staff tasting. The nose is all currant and herbs - very earthy and Graves-ey, with black fruit and soil on the palate, grippy tannins and a dry, mineral-driven finish. Decant and enjoy now or lay away for short-term rewards.
Price: $17.99
Blason Isonzo Rosso 3L "Bag in Box" (cannot ship)
Review Date: 9-11-2009
This is a dream-come-true. Delicious, food-friendly, relatively complex red wine in a box from Blason. A must to have on-hand in the kitchen. I am double-fisting now, with the Blason Bianco-in-a-box in the fridge and the rosso on the counter. Vibrant, fresh red fruit flavors, medium-body, tangy fruit on the palate with subtle earth tones and juicy tannins...this wine is an honest, straighforward red and a real crowd-pleaser that can handle any extravaganza. It improves in the glass, too!
Price: $19.99
2007 Chehalem "Reserve" Willamette Valley Pinot Gris
Review Date: 9-10-2009
I really like the complexity of this wine. Intense creamy, lemon merengue aromas in the nose are followed by a surprising whiff of herbs and hay. There is a lot going on on the palate too- the richness of flavor and weighty texture are bound well by minerality and good acid structure. The long, clean, mineral-driven finish makes for a wine that is well-suited to rich, creamy dishes.
Price: $21.99
2007 Corvidae by Owen Roe "Rook" Columbia Valley Red Blend
Review Date: 9-10-2009
Talk about big wine in a small package! Very lush and dense, with a nose full of juicy black berries and gamey, smokey notes. There is lots of fruit on the palate, too, along with earth spice and smokey accents. This wine opens up with air, so pop the cork and let it do its thang at your next bbq. It would be ideal with a big juicy steak or bbq ribs!
Price: $12.99
2006 Gramercy Cellars Walla Walla Syrah
Review Date: 9-10-2009
When you feel like treating yourself to an intoxicating Syrah expeirence, look no further than this exceptional Syrah from Gramercy Cellars. Lavender floats over intense berry and dark fruit aromas that are supported by distinctive Syrah gaminess - so very northern-Rhone like. The palate is full, silky, and deep. Well-made, memorable Syrah. Enjoy now with decanting or let it evole in the cellar short-term.
Price: $39.99
2007 Hamacher "H Wines" Wilamette Valley Pinot Noir
Review Date: 9-10-2009
I was really impressed with this wine at our last staff tasting. It shows remarkable concentration and depth, with a nose of ripe red berries and smokey, earthy notes. Medium-bodied, with medium acidity and smooth tannins, this Pinot is accessible and very, very satisfying.
Price: $23.99
2008 Kung Fu Girl Columbia Valley Riesling
Review Date: 9-10-2009
This single vineyard Riesling surprised me. The nose is clean and full of fresh lime aromas - very mouth-watering. Just barely off-dry, with light and fresh lime and citrus flavors, crisp acidity, and a long finish, it is a wine of distinction for a very affordable price. I'd pair it with sushi rolls, or other flavorful Asian dishes that feature a little heat.
Price: $12.99
2008 Owen Roe "Sharecropper's" Pinot Noir
Review Date: 9-10-2009
I am a fan of the Owen Roe wines in general, and this Pinot it no exception. It is more softer in style than what I expected, with red fruit on the nose and hints of wheat biscuit. The palate is round and juicy, with lots of ripe berry flavors. It is easy to drink, medium-bodied, has properly balanced acidity and smooth tannins on the finish. A tasty Pinot for a great price!
Price: $23.99
2007 Frédéric Mabileau "Racines" Bourgueil
Review Date: 8-27-2009
This is a lively and versatile 100% organic Cabernet Franc with a come-hither nose of blackberry and earth that is underscored by a faint whiff of patchouli, in a good way. I recently paired it with a beef and broccoli stir-fry and it was excellent - the sweetness of the fruit complemented the sauce, while the tannin structure and mineral notes held up to the beef. The herbal and mineral notes really did wonders for the broccoli. Lots of staying power, too. I sampled over the course of 3 days and was never disappointed!
Price: $19.99
2006 Stolpman Vineyards Estate Santa Ynez Syrah (Was $27)
Review Date: 8-27-2009
This is an outstanding wine. If it were twice the price, it would still be outstanding. Composed of 80% Syrah and 15% Grenache and 5% Viognier, this wine is a deep ruby color and has an impressive, very Syrah nose of blackberries, wood spice, savory herbs, and smokey, gamey notes with a faint lavender perfume. The palate is full-bodied, with flavors of juicy red and black berries and meaty, herbal undertones. Though full and lush, balance is maintined, there is still lively acidity, nice tannin structure, and a long, dry finish. This is not a simple wine; it begs for contemplation and a warm cozy chair by the fireplace.
Price: $16.99
2006 Stolpman Vineyards "L'Avion" Estate Santa Ynez White
Review Date: 8-27-2009
The Roussanne and Viognier grapes are picked late, and thus you get this incredible intensity of flavor due to ripeness. This is a very unique Roussanne-based white that has an intense nose of wildflower, pineapple, wood, and something faintly talcum. The palate is broad and ripe, with tropical fruit flavors underscored by a little nutty/earthiness and a white pepper lift at the finish, which is quite long. This would make a great alternative to barrel-fermented Chardonnay if you are looking for something a little more on the wild side that maintains acidity and balance.
Price: $31.99
Tarlant Brut Zero Champagne
Review Date: 8-27-2009
From one of my favorite producers that we import directly, the Brut Zero is bone dry and clocks in at a slender 12% abv. Clean, pure, and deep, this elegant sparkler is intense and mineral driven, buttressed by citrus and creamy notes, and is a wonder alongside like fresh sashimi.
Price: $34.99
2007 Bolognani Moscato Giallo (Dry Muscat)
Review Date: 8-25-2009
A wildly aromatic nose of honeysuckle, lime, and sweet basil. The palate is full and fruity, with lime and meyer lemon flavors, and that same exotic basil note. A luscious, silky texture, medium acidity, and nice, dry finish make this muscat definitely worth a try. I'd pair it with Vietnamese or Thai food.
Price: $16.99
2007 Sella Coste della Sesia "Orbello"
Review Date: 8-25-2009
This wine has a lovely perfume of cherries, berries, and exotic, earthy spice with licorice and floral accents. The palate is medium + bodied, with lots of fresh, tangy red fruit. A smooth texture, medium tannins, and long, tangy finish make for a wine that shows well on its own but will also complement a variety of savory, herbed dishes.
Price: $19.99
2007 Villa Pillo Toscana Borgoforte
Review Date: 8-25-2009
This wine shows a nice balance of black fruit, currant, cedar notes, and earthiness on the nose. It is full-bodied and textured, with a good dose of earthy minerality on the palate and ripe black fruit underscored by graphite. Medium+ tannins, medium acid and a long, drying finish. Substantial wine for the price.
Price: $11.99
Domaine De La Taille Aux Loops (Jacky Blot) "Triple Zero" Montlouis Pétillant
Review Date: 8-18-2009
100% Chenin Blanc is the reason behind this honeyed, leesey, subtle citrusy nose. The palate shows lots of richness, with flavors of creme fraiche just ripe stone fruit and limes, as well as something unexpected...mint? A beautiful, intriguing sparkler that can stand on its own but would also be a nice complement to spiced Indian or Vietnamese dishes where the go-to beverage of choice would be beer.
Price: $19.99
2008 Hippolyte Reverdy Sancerre
Review Date: 8-18-2009
The Hippolyte Reverdy Sancerre was my introduction to serious Sancerre several years ago. The nose is intense and fresh, showing cut grass, minerals, and green citrus. The palate has lots of depth, structured acidity, and a strong mineral core, with more delicate fruit flavors knit in between. A very long finish, too - and I love the label.
Price: $23.99
2007 Josef Leitz "Magic Mountain" Riesling Trocken (Dry)
Review Date: 8-18-2009
Wow. Impressive depth and richness to this wine. The nose is intense, with classic lime, petrol and stone fruit aromas. Palate is concentrated and pure, showing ripe citrus fruit flavors and mouth-watering acidity. The richness on the palate belies the ultimately dry, long and persistent finish.
Price: $34.99
2008 Pascal Janvier Jasnières
Review Date: 8-18-2009
Less bracing and austere that I was expecting from a Jasnieres, this wine is by contrast inviting, with a nose of ripe apples and an understated minerality. This palate is quite broad and rich, with well-knit stone fruit, honey, and mineral flavors, medium + acidity and a very silky mouthfeel. The finish is long and mineral-driven, with just a touch of sweetness. I would enjoy this as a counterpoint to chicken or fish served with a rich, creamy sauce, pates, or cheeses.
Price: $16.99
Raumland Sparkling White Grape Juice (Organic)
Review Date: 8-18-2009
I happen to be that age right now when all my friends are getting pregnant. Ladies, this sparkling grape juice in non-alcoholic, drier than what you would expect, very fresh, and utterly drinkable. Enjoy in a flute and toast yourself.
Price: $15.99
Tessier Cremant de Loire
Review Date: 8-18-2009
I love the combination of leesey minerality and toasted, creamy, nutty flavors on the nose of this sparkler - it's got one foot in Champagne and the other in a bowl of buttered popcorn (which, by the way, is an excellent combo in real life - Champagne and popcorn). The palate sings with tangy lemon and green apple fruit flavors, with a long mineral-driven finish. A top-notch sparkler.
Price: $15.99
2007 Excelsior Cabernet Sauvignon
Review Date: 8-14-2009
In a blind tasting, this wine would trump competitors in the perceived quality vs price challenge. It is the most satisfying and complex red wine in the store at this price. Black fruit and Christmas cake on the nose, with a little smoky earthiness underneath. The palate shows lots of ripe black fruit, baking spice, and has sweet but firm tannins. Overall this wine shows remarkable structure and has a very up-front Old Worldliness that is quite unexpected. A great buy.
Price: $7.99
2008 Hecht & Bannier Syrah Vin de Pays du Côtes de Thau Rosé (was $9.99)
Review Date: 8-14-2009
Great for barbecues! The bright strawberry fruit flavors and punchiness of this rosé make a delicious choice for summer drinking. Pair with a burger and fries or grilled sausages and you're good to go!
Price: $7.99
2008 Porcupine Ridge Syrah
Review Date: 8-14-2009
Where am I? Am I in the Northern Rhône? Or California? Or both? Hard to tell with the nose of this wine, which is a dead-ringer for Syrah from the Rhône - all blackberries, smoked meats and garrigue. The palate is more New World, full of ripe fruit with medium tannins, speaking to California. Yet despite the apparent contrast, this wine shows remarkable balance and the two "worlds" are knit together perfectly. It is a fine example of South African Syrah and a must-try for any Syrah lover - New or Old World.
Price: $9.99
2007 Pyramid Valley Vineyard "Kerner Estate" Pinot Blanc Marlborough (Biodynamic)
Review Date: 8-14-2009
A seductive nose of tropical banana and cream, with notes of caramel and spice, lead to a richly textured palate echoing the nose and a very long, creamy finish that makes this Pinot Blanc really stand out. Additionally, it is 100% biodynamic and made using indigenous yeasts. I suspect time on the lees is what accounts for the distinctive flavors and texture. A sophisticated alternative to Chardonnay.
Price: $23.99
2007 Pyramid Valley Vineyard "Orton Vineyard" Gewurztraminer Hawkes Bay (Biodynamic)
Review Date: 8-14-2009
It doesn't get more gewürz than this. If you love gewürztraminer, or are interested in trying a good one, look no further. As to be expected from varietally-correct gewuürz, this wine is highly aromatic - orange blossoms, honeysuckle and floral perfume explode from the glass - with exotic lime fruit undertones. The palate is broad and waxen, with spiced notes of ginger and white pepper. The finish is dry. I would enjoy this with Indian or Vietnamese food. It is also a great selection for a blind or comparative tasting.
Price: $22.99
2005 Adega Algueira "Algueira" Ribera Sacra
Review Date: 8-4-2009
This traditional red from Ribera Sacra, in my favorite region in Spain, Gallicia, is simply delicious. The perfumed nose offers an intriguing medley of dark fruits, meaty aromas, gingersnap and mollasses. The palate shows more red fruits and plum, with ripeness of fruit balanced by earth spice and moderately fine tannins and a mineral flavors on the long finish. I can't wait to try this alongside duck or salmon as a Pinot Noir alternative.
Price: $29.99
2008 Aresti Estate Sauvignon Blanc Curicó Valley
Review Date: 8-4-2009
The 2008 Aresti is a young, crisp Sauvignon Blanc that shows green apple and tart citrus aromas, with more tropical citrus fleshing out on the palate. It is a light, refreshing white wine with strutured acidity and a thirst-quenching quality that makes it ideal as an apertif or paired with seafood ceviche.
Price: $10.99
2008 Crucillon Garnacha Campo de Borja
Review Date: 8-4-2009
This little wine packs a big punch for $7.99. 100% Grenache, the 2008 Crucillon has a nose of ripe dark fruit and bread dough. It is medium-bodied, bright, and has a little earthiness on the finish. A crowd-pleasing, food-friendly style that is not heavy and overripe as some Grenache can be, and exhibits more restraint in the oak category. This wine is a great choice for entertaining, especially if food is involved. I see it going with just about anything that mixes a little savory and sweet, from traditional Spanish cured meats and cheeses, to pizza and wings.
Price: $7.99
2008 Fefiñanes Albariño Rias Baixas
Review Date: 8-4-2009
Wow. What a chiseled, elegant Albariño. Minerals and lemon aromas, with subtle tropical fruits layered underneath, and a fleeting whisper of floral perfume make for an intriguing nose. Lemon and lime flavors on the palate are matched by a fresh, yeasty minerality and subtle earthiness. A very long, mineral-driven finish drives the experience home. The purity and depth to this wine make it well-worth the price.
Price: $24.99
2007 Viñedos de Ithaca "Akyles" Priorat
Review Date: 8-4-2009
Priorats can be quite extracted and intense, and overwhelming to the palate. Which is why I appreciate a wine like the Akyles, which offers a different, more easy-going interpretation of Priorat. It is as though its saying, "yeah, I could have been one of those guys, but I'm not. I'm better because you can actually drink me." Full-bodied and concentrated on the palate, showing baked black and blue fruit flavors and a little oak spice, with sturdy tannins and acidity, this wine remains balanced and accessible and can be enjoyed now.
Price: $21.99
2006 Domaine Bernard Millot Bourgogne Blanc
Review Date: 7-28-2009
There is something at once familiar and exotic about this wine that makes it so charming. Classic lemon curd and leesey, mineral aromas are intensified by subtle nuances of wood and apple fruit undertones that are clearly Burgundian. But there is an air of something more dreamy - quince, orange blossom, home-made marshmallows? - that add intrigue to the nose. The palate is round and full, balanced by fine acidity and strengthened by layers of spice. A long, mineral-driven finish teased with salt-water taffy complete the story. But this wine is no fairy tale - at under $20, it is a real bargain Burgundy!
Price: $17.99
2007 Domaine des Niales, Rhedon-Marin Mâcon-Villages Vieilles Vignes
Review Date: 7-28-2009
If you like clean, vibrant Chardonnay with pronounced acidity, tangy lemon and apple flavors and a long, minerally finish, this is the bottle for you. No caramel, no vanilla, no oaky splinters - just pure, delicious fruit. A wonderful bargain from the Macon.
Price: $12.99
Ginga Shizuku "Divine Droplets" Junmai Daiginjo Sake 720ml
Review Date: 7-28-2009
A very elegant sake, driven by delicate aromas of almond, sweet cream and lychee fruit. The palate is tangy, and shows more of a white pear flavor. Overall, this is a dry sake with mineral structure and acidity, that hints at saltwater taffy on the long, dry finish, and would be ideal with sashimi.
Price: $64.99
Tozai "Snow Maiden" Tokubetso Junmai Nigori Sake 720ml (Unfiltered)
Review Date: 7-28-2009
This unfiltered sake is a beautiful, porcelain color and smells of sweet oatmeal and almonds. Passion fruit and lychee are the dominant flavors. Though this sake appears creamy, it is actually more fruit-driven on the palate and finishes drier than expected. A thicker texture make this enjoyable sipping on its own or with nigiri sushi.
Price: $15.99
2008 Domaine de Guillemarine Picpoul de Pinet
Review Date: 7-22-2009
Light, fresh, delicious! Juicy green apple fruit flavors, zippy acidity, and a nice tangy finish makes this summer white a perfect accompaniment to just about anything. Buy in bulk and party!
Price: $8.99
2005 Keenan Napa Cabernet Sauvignon Spring Mountain District
Review Date: 7-22-2009
Complex and concentrated, with dark fruit, earth and a mineral edge, the 2005 is a gorgeous Cabernet. Varietally correct, with the oak well-balanced, there are few comparisons coming out of Napa for this price.
Price: $29.99
2007 Viña Reboreda Ribeiro
Review Date: 7-20-2009
A delightful, fresh, mineral-driven white from one of my favorite parts of the world, Gallicia, Spain. Served as an apertif or alongside seafood tapas, fresh or fried, and any shellfish, this clean light white will be sure to please.
Price: $11.99
2007 Amity Willamette Valley Pinot Blanc
Review Date: 7-15-2009
Surprisingly crisp and light for Pinot Blanc. Great acidity and freshness. Bright, tropical fruit aromas and flavors - not too rich or fat on the palate. A long mineral-laced finish. Very nice. I would enjoy this as an apertif or with seafood dishes.
Price: $15.99
2006 Joseph Swan "Cuvée de Trois" Russian River Pinot Noir
Review Date: 7-15-2009
There's just something about the way this wines smells that makes perfect Pinot sense to me. A nose of delicate red fruit and earth spice notes on top, supported by a core of sweeter fruit and a more serious earthiness underneath...the palate continues to unfold with darker, gamier notes; the fruit takes on a cherry edge, and black pepper applauds. The finish is tangy, showing acid structure that will permit this wine to evolve in bottle. This is not a big, sappy Pinot, but a more restrained, elegant effort.
Price: $26.99
2002 Joseph Swan "Lone Redwood Ranch" Russian River Valley Zinfandel (Was $25 elsewhere)
Review Date: 7-15-2009
I like being reminded of the ageing power of good CA Zinfandel. It is so easy to forget about Zin because it is so, well, Californian in the big world of wine, where the tendency is to seek out the unfamiliar, but the 2002 Joseph Swan "Lonewood Ranch" RR zin is as classy and old-world as any rival for the price. With the perfect amount of bottle age, the wine shows a lovely bouquet of earth, cherry and blackberry fruits, cinnamon spice and hints of root beer. The palate is still full and flavorful but balanced, marked by earthy notes and a suprisingly piquant finish. What a treat for $15.99!
Price: $15.99
2007 Morgan "Twelve Clones" Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir
Review Date: 7-15-2009
The 2007 Morgan "Twleve Clones" shows a lot of richness and depth without being overblown or sweet. Blueberry and hints of tropical fruit marked by oak spice are matched by smokey, gamey flavors. Medium + body and medium tannins make the overall wine come off very well-balanced and smooth. I see this wine pairing well with Asian-inspired cuisine, particularly dishes involving duck and/or soy sauces.
Price: $26.99
2005 Mount Eden "Saratoga Cuvée " Santa Cruz Cabernet Sauvignon
Review Date: 7-15-2009
Another stand-out in our recent domestic staff tasting, the 2005 Mount Eden Saratoga Cuvee Cab has all my favorite markers: black fruit, earth, smokiness, minerality on the nose; riper flavors of currant matched by gamey notes and the slightest touch of barrel spice. This is a full-bodied wine with structured tannins and a long finish. Accessible now with decanting, this wine could also do well in the cellar short-term.
Price: $24.99
2007 Palmina Santa Barbara County Barbera
Review Date: 7-15-2009
The 2007 Barbera by Palmina was one of my favorite wines in our recent domestic staff tastings. I took it home, in fact, and finished it later that night. Precise blue fruit with black fruit undertones. The flavors are ripe but not sappy or sweet, tighly wrapped around a mineral core. Bright acidity and long finish make this a wine that gets better with time. Accessible now, I also think this Barbera can go into the cellar short term 2-5 years. Bravo.
Price: $18.99
2008 Palmina Santa Barbara County Pinot Grigio
Review Date: 7-15-2009
Palmina is one of the best new world producers working with Italian varietals. This Pinot Grigio is a dead ringer for its northern Italian cousins, with lemon and minerals on the nose, snappy acidity and an unctuous, tangy finish. A perfect refreshment year round, but especially nice on a hot summer day.
Price: $14.99
Urbanite Cellars "Redart" California Red Table Wine
Review Date: 7-15-2009
One of the the things I love about Luis Moya is that he gives all the wines in his portfolio 100 points - after all, unless you believe 100% in a wine, how do you justify selling it to others? And I am so happy he has taken his passion and applied it to a locally grown and produced red table wine under the Unrbanite Cellars label that has 100 points in my book. A well-made everyday drinker with loads of personality for under $10 is hard to find. Cabernet Sauvignon provides structure and a core of black fruit, the Syrah adds smokiness and a touch of gamey mystique, and the Zin lends spice, brightness, and punch. This is an ideal party wine, and would work very well as a wedding or large dinner reception red option because it is very food friendly and sure to please a crowd.
Price: $9.99
2008 Alamos Chardonnay Mendoza
Review Date: 7-1-2009
One of the better deals in new-world style Chardonnay for sure. The fruit expression of lemon and fresh green apple is balanced by yeasty notes and a touch or cream, as well as nice acidity and light minerality. A restrained, tasty alternative to overblown, oaky Chardonnays, and a wonderful choice for a party.
Price: $10.99
2007 La Casaccia Grignolino del Monferrato
Review Date: 6-30-2009
I love white wine, but sometimes I want something with the freshness and acidity of a white but a bit more tannin and skin, but not fruit to go with my salumi. This is just the perfect summer red - practically a rose in its pale ruby hue - serve with a slight chill and enjoy the snappy acidity, light cranberry fruit, and subtle herb nuances.
Price: $15.99
2006 Ruggeri Corsini Nebbiolo d'Alba
Review Date: 6-30-2009
Wow- super intense nose of anise and dried plums. Full, lush earth and black cherry/berry palate with stong, dusty tannins and a long finish. Definitely decant and enjoy now through the next 5 years. Would be killer with sausage and mushroom rissoto.
Price: $17.99
2007 Valdicava Rosso di Montalcino
Review Date: 6-30-2009
Lovely perfume of dried roses and crushed rocks over spicey, intense red to black fruit. The palate is full and lush, with pronounced, velvety tannins and a very long finish. Lots of pleasure in this bottle. In general, the 2007 Rossos we are bringing in are a force to be reckoned with. Drink now (decant) through the next 5+ years.
Price: $29.99
2006 Château Viranel "Tradition" Saint Chinian Rouge
Review Date: 6-25-2009
Medium-bodied with lively acidity and nice red/blackberry fruit. Meaty, smokey leather notes add complexity. Food-friendly and versatile, good party red.
Price: $12.99
2006 Domaine Duclaux "La Germine" Côte Rôtie
Review Date: 6-25-2009
Intriguing perfume of bitter orange and a red/black fruit and clove spice potpourri over cola notes. These aromas must be from the small amount of Viognier with which the Syrah fruit is co-fermented. The palate shows black fruit and gamey notes. This is a full-bodied, concentrated wine, but elegantly balanced. Accessible now but will improved with bottle age.
Price: $49.99
2005 Jean-Louis Denois Chardonnay "Sainte Marie" Vin de Pays d'Oc
Review Date: 6-25-2009
I really like the balance of creaminess and light toast with minerality and the sweet-tart lemon flavors of this Burgundian-styled Chardonnay from the South of France. An elegant wine that offers great value and drinking satisfaction for the price.
Price: $19.99
2007 Jean-Louis Denois Syrah "Saint Louis" Vin de Pays d'Oc
Review Date: 6-25-2009
Ripe red fruit and whiffs of cinnamon and spice lure you into this super-drinkable Syrah. Just a touch of oak adds chocalate nuances. The palate is balanced, with red and black fruit and smokey flavors balanced by nice acidity. A refreshing alternative to the super-ripe, jammy syrahs of the new world, and not as dark and brooding (or expensive) as many syrahs from the Northern Rhone. Drink and enjoy.
Price: $14.99
2006 Les Clos Perdus "Prioundo" Corbières
Review Date: 6-25-2009
Nice bright red berry fruit and lively acidity. mediu-bodied and very quaffable. Wonderful summer bbq/picnic wine.
Price: $15.99
1993 Chateau Pajzos Tokaji Aszú 5 Puttonyos 500ml
Review Date: 6-22-2009
I love Tokaji Aszu. It is one of my favorite dessert wines and, in general, offers great value for the price by comparison to other top dessert-style wines like Sauternes. This bottling from Chateau Pajzos is full-bodied and concentrated, and though very high in residual sugar, is perceptibly less sweet due to remarkably high acidity - it finishes fresh. Glazed peach and honey overflow from the nose, conterbalanced by lovely earthy nuances. Serve chilled and sip slowly.
Price: $59.99
2006 Chateau Soucherie "Clos des Perrieres" Savennieres (was$28)
Review Date: 6-22-2009
Pronounced minerality and earthy/mushroominess (white truffles) on the nose, with a lift of honey. The palate is rich, with banana and tropical fruit flavors. High acidity and a long, dry saline finish makes this very tasty Savennieres.
Price: $19.99
2006 Philippe Alliet "l'Huisserie" Chinon (was $38)
Review Date: 6-22-2009
A robust nose of dark fruits, earth, and gamey/savory notes. Medium-bodied, with flavors echoing the nose and more mineral character coming forth. Fine, chewy tannins and a long savory finish. Great Cab Franc for the cellar, or decant and enjoy today.
Price: $27.99
2008 d'Arenberg "Stump Jump" Verdelho McLaren Vale South Australia
Review Date: 6-4-2009
A really pleasing, aromatic white from d'Arenberg. Lots of orange blossom, peach, citrus, and honeysuckle in the nose, and a round, fruity palate with medium acidity. Clean and fresh; a great white to enjoy sipping this summer.
Price: $9.99
2008 Ken Forrester "Petit" Chenin Blanc Stellenbosch
Review Date: 6-4-2009
The Petit Chenin from Ken Forrester is consistently a a solid offering. This vintage is fresh and lively. Green apple explodes from the glass, backed by lots of lime and citrus. The palate is weighty - lots of unctuous fruit - but also quite mineral-driven. Long finish, too! I recommend this on the deck at Tahoe - or in the backyard by the pool, wherever you are. There's something so cool and cocktail about it.
Price: $8.99
2007 Te Awa Sauvignon Blanc Hawkes Bay
Review Date: 6-4-2009
I was struck by how "un-grassy" this Sauvignon Blanc from Hawkes Bay NZ is. The nose is very floral and shows a lot more of the passion fruit and citrus character, rather than heavy high-tone green flavors, that makes NZ Sauvignon Blanc so utterly drinkable. Time on the lees contributes a richness to the wine that makes it drink more like a Bordeaux blanc. Well-liked overall by our staff at the last tasting. Try it with some strong cheese and savor the moment.
Price: $14.99
2005 Chateau Laubarit "Vieilles Vignes" Rouge, Bordeaux
Review Date: 6-2-2009
This Bordeaux provides a nice tease of rusticity without falling off the deep end of funkiness. You get some earth and soil, maybe a little barnyard (but hey, I like a little of that), but there is so much ripe red raspberry fruit and the mid-palate is so upfront and juicy, that the whole package is balanced and delicious. Full-bodied, with firm tannins and a long fininsh. An affordable, satisfying Bordeaux that you can decant and enjoy today.
2006 Reserve de Léoville-Barton, St-Julien
Review Date: 6-2-2009
Léoville-Barton's second wine, the Reserve is more fruity and plush, but still shows the classic markers of a fine Saint-Julien: ripe black fruit with a core of current, notes of graphite and tar, grainy tannins, and a long finish. There is oak on the palate, but it is well-integrated, making the overall wine more approachable and something to enjoy now without losing the character of the house. A great value.
Price: $29.99
2008 Wildhurst "Reserve" Lake County Sauvignon Blanc
Review Date: 6-2-2009
This is one of our best-kept domestic Sauvignon Blanc secrets. If you love crisp, Loire Valley-/Sancerre- style Sauvignon Blanc, you will love the fresh, citrus fruit and minerality of this light-bodied white. And you will love it even more when you recall the under $10 price tag. A great "cocktail" wine, this is a go-to wine for wedding receptions and large parties.
Drink from
2009
to
2010
Price: $8.99
2004 Adega Cartuxa "Évora" Alentejo
Review Date: 5-19-2009
I was seriously seduced by this Portuguse beauty from the up-and-coming Aletejo region in Portugal, at our last Portugese wine tasting. Aromas of cranberry, earth, tar and spice made for a compelling nose that I couldn't get enough of. The palate showed such an elegant balance of mineral, fruit, acidity, and tannin; though the wine is packed with flavor and earthy spice it is not "big" or overripe at all, but quite restrained, has nice, grippy tannins, and evolves in the glass with air. I suggest trying one now and saving a few for later.
Drink from
2009
to
2016
Price: $19.99
2005 Gundlach Bundschu "Rheinfarm Vineyard" Mountain Cuvee
Review Date: 5-19-2009
Gundlach Bundschu has a little of a cult following, but its with good reason. It caught the attention of many of us at our recent staff tasting. Starting off with an intriguing bouquet of green herb, pomelo, and blueberries, this wine delivers with a full body of ripe blue and black fruit with a disitinctive earthy flavor. Medium-plus tannin, medium acidity, long dry finish. This red is nicely balanced and fun to drink! I would have it with a nicely seasoned steak and potatoes sort of dish, like Argentine beef with chimichurri sauce and garlic fries, or Peruvian lomo saltado.
Drink from
2009
to
2015
Price: $19.99
2007 Lioco "Indica" Mendocino Red Wine
Review Date: 5-19-2009
Yet another charming wine from Lioco. Predominantly old-vine Carignan (78%) with the rest made up by petite sirah (10%), mourvedre (9%), and grenache (3%), this wine is an exceptionally tasty value for the table. Made with the same standard of care and quality one expects from the Lioco team, the 2007 is punchy, smelling of ripe berry fruit flavors and a hint of smoke and baking spice. From a cool-climate, northerly site (actually Redwood Valley is the northernmost planting of Carignan in California), the acidity and freshness is preserved and balance of flavor and texture maintained. Medium tannins and a long smooth, eathy finish make it enjoyable with anything grilled or savory; it can even handle the spicier fare of Central America. We're not the only ones in the know, however - I've caught this wine featured on a range of wine lists at reputed San Francisco dining establishments, from Jardiniere to Nopalito. Either we're all crazy, or you are if you don't snap up a couple of these before they disappear!
Drink from
2009
to
2012
Price: $16.99
Sorelle Bronca Prosecco
Review Date: 5-19-2009
I am impressed by this prosecco's delicate, fresh mousse, lively minerality, and mouth-watering green apple flavors. Can you smell sunshine? It's in there too. Perfect bubbles for summer. Or in the middle of winter, when you want to be transported to summer. Makes a wonderful, lighter alternative to Champagne, too.
Drink from
2007
to
2011
Price: $16.99
2005 Tenute di Sella "Bramaterra"
Review Date: 5-19-2009
This wine is imported by Olier McCrum, an importer who specializes in the undiscovered gems of Italy and an all-around nice guy. I tasted this wine along with others from his portfolio at a recent Friday Night Tasting here in Redwood City. It opens with intoxicating aromas of smoke, tar, and anise, with underlying tart cherry fruit. Medium-bodied, with medium + tannin and vibrant acidity. Leather and tar flavors unfold on the palate, entwined with red cherry fruit echoing the nose and an earthy minerality. The long finish is focused and minerally. Very compelling and satisfying. I'm taking this to my next Italian Wine Geeks tasting where it will surely turn heads.
Drink from
2009
to
2020
Price: $34.99
J. Laurens Brut Cremant de Limoux
Review Date: 4-10-2009
Cremant de Limoux, the AOC for budget-friendly Champagne-esque sparkling wines, is in itself cause for a toast. The NV Cremant de Limoux, J. Laurens Brut is one of our most popular party bubblies. It looks like Champagne with sparkly light gold and a lovely bead. Creamy mousse and delightful yeasty/toasty flavors on the palate. Bone dry, and at only 12% abv,this is a no-brainer for a big event, but can make Monday night special too!
Drink from
2009
to
2011
Price: $12.99
1989 Georges Brunet "Vieilles Vigne" Vouvray Demi-Sec
Review Date: 3-7-2009
Really compelling, off-dry, aged Chenin Blanc showing remarkable balance and acidity now. If you are seeking to try something totally new and different, or are simply a fan of good, old Vouvray, this wine is the one to pick up. It offers a complex bouquet of (okay, here's where I get geeky): tire, white mushroom, orange marmalade, cinnamon and honey. The palate is rich and full, with more minerality, but echoing the nose with citrus marmalade flavors and mushroomy notes. The acidity is key here: still vibrant and fresh, supporting the residual sugar, making the finish peceptibly less sweet than you expect. Classic.
Drink from
2009
to
2014
Price: $37.99
2006 Hedges "Three Vineyards" Red Mountain, Washington
Review Date: 2-25-2009
I am not afraid to spend a lot of money on a wine that delivers. However, I am infinitely more excited when I find a wine that is cheap and delivers. Aren't we all? And this Washington number from Hedges, a Bordeaux-styled blend of mainly Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, with a little Cabernet Franc and Syrah added for good measure, from all estate vineyards, is a knockout. Medium-boiedy with dark currant and cranberry flavors, black pepper, and layers of smoke and earth, this wine is so, so good with barbecued or slow-cooked, savory meats. My husband does prime rib slowly braised in a reduction sauce involving dark coffee and ancho chiles...the dark berry fruit and smokey flavors of the wine complement the flavors of dish perfectly. More importantly, however, is that this wine has adaquate tannin and acidity to balance the weight and richness of the dish, but not too much to conflict with the heat and spice. Great wine for a great price.
Drink from
2009
to
2015
Price: $17.99
Schramsberg "Mirabelle" North Coast Rosé
Review Date: 2-15-2009
Schramsberg has a special place in my heart as it was the place where I started my career in the wine business. If you haven't visited Schramsberg, I strongly recommend you do - tucked up in the hills just south of Calistoga, it is a historical landmark with some of the oldest caves in the Napa Valley, and it is one of the only places where you can see the traditional (and highly labor-intensive) methode champenoise process of making sparkling wine without going all the way to Champagne. Mirabelle is Schramsberg's non-vintage label. Composed of 64% Chardonnay and 34% Pinot Noir, this June '08 release of the rosé might be the best yet: clean and crisp, it exhibits a nose of fresh strawberries and very very subtle vanilla notes. The palate is vibrant, amplified by a fine mousse and delicate flavors of red berries and sweet-cream that I want to describe as...flirty? Try one and see for yourself.
Drink from
2009
to
2011
Price: $19.99
Kalinda Riesling Sekt Dry
Review Date: 1-15-2009
When this Riesling Sekt (sparkling, from Germany) arrived, it was shy. We were a little apprehensive about the turn it would take once it got its land legs. Fortunately, it gets better every day, moving up in the ranks to be featured in the LA Times NYE sparkling wines review, as well my own personal list of must-have inexpensive sparkling wines. It is crisp and refreshing, showing a lot of lime flavors and minerality. It is dry, but has a lot of fruit on the palate, making it ideal for food, particularly spicy Asian food or sushi. I always keep a few around the house for my own drinking pleasure.
Drink from
2009
to
2015
Caveau du Mont July Bugey Cerdon Rosé
Review Date: 12-9-2008
I really love this wine! I can't drink beer (it is very sad, I know - allergies) but this Bugey Cerdon makes up for it by being a wonderful, low alcohol, just off-dry, refreshing, food-friendly, frothy sparkler. Yes, it has it all. Lower in alocohol, it is perfect for brunch or luncheons, as well as complicated mid-day meals like Thanksgiving or Christmas, where it simply works with everything. You will be the hit of the potluck if you bring this baby, but (as I learned the hard way) bring more than one...it disappears very fast.
Drink from
2008
to
2010
Price: $15.99
2007 Jean-Francois Merieau Touraine Sauvignon Blanc
Review Date: 12-9-2008
This 100% Sauvignon Blanc from the Loire valley is a star. I love the crisp, invigorating Sancerre-like aromas of citrus and grass, floral notes, and the distinctly crisp, minerally palate. It is a great all-purpose white option for a party or event, as it is food-friendly, balanced, and has enough weight to satisfy most people. AND it is 100% organic and sustainably farmed, made with care by a small producer.
Drink from
2008
to
2010
Price: $13.99
2007 Château Suzeau Côtes du Rhône
Review Date: 10-27-2008
80% Grenache, 20% Syrah. This is my current house red. It is aromatic, offering red fruit and darker notes of earth and spice - of the crushed black pepper vein - the kind I like. The palate is layered and expressive and there is a suprising amount of complexity and depth to the wine considering the price. That must be because Cecile Chassagne, acclamied Chateauneuf-du-Pape producer is behind the project. If you are looking for a food-friendly, no-brainer party red wine for this fall/winter, this is it.
Drink from
2008
to
2013
Price: $8.99
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2003 Domaine Lignier-Michelot Gevrey-Chambertin (was $50 elsewhere) ($29.95)
2007 Au Bon Climat Santa Barbara Pinot Noir ($19.99)
2005 Benjamin de Sansonnet, St-Emilion ($26.99)
2007 Brewer-Clifton Santa Rita Hills Pinot Noir ($39.99)
2006 Cos d'Estournel, St-Estèphe ($89.99)
2007 Domaine de Cristia Châteauneuf-du-Pape ($31.99)
2007 Domaine des Nembrets Denis Barraud Pouilly-Fuissé "Les Chataigniers", ($19.99)
2006 Domaine Serene "Evenstad Reserve" Willamette Valley Pinot Noir ($54.99)
2008 Josef Leitz Rüdesheimer Drachenstein "Dragonstone" Riesling Qba ($15.99)
2006 Kathryn Kennedy "Lateral" Bordeaux Blend ($24.99)
2007 Melville "Estate-Verna's" Santa Barbara Chardonnay ($18.99)
2008 Melville "Estate-Verna's" Santa Barbara Pinot Noir ($19.99)
2007 Owen Roe "Ex-Umbris" Columbia Valley Syrah ($19.99)
2005 Schloss Schönborn Pinot Noir ($18.99)
2007 Schloss Schönborn Riesling Halbtrocken ($13.99)
2006 Varner "Spring Ridge" Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir ($19.99)
2004 Verdignan Rouge, Haut-Médoc ($12.99)
Bruno Michel Rosé "les Rose" Champagne ($49.99)
2006 Buehler Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon ($21.99)
Claude Cazals Carte Blanche Brut Champagne ($39.99)
2000 Claude Cazals Vintage Brut Champagne ($44.99)
2006 Domaine Duclaux "Maison Rouge" Côte Rôtie ($59.99)
2007 Eyrie Dundee Hills Pinot Gris ($14.99)
2006 Eyrie "Reserve" Dundee Hills Pinot Noir ($54.99)
2007 Gainey Santa Rita Hills Chardonnay ($17.99)
2005 Domaine Beaurenard Châteauneuf-du-Pape (Was $44 Elsewhere) ($29.99)
2005 Katnook Estate "Founder's Block" Cabernet Sauvignon Coonawarra South Australia ($13.99)
2008 Fairhall Downs Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough New Zealand ($14.99)
2006 Quartz Reef Pinot Noir Central Otago New Zealand (Elsewhere $27.99) ($19.99)
2007 Rippon Pinot Noir Central Otago New Zealand (Biodynamic) ($49.99)
2006 Ridge "Monte Bello" Santa Cruz Mountains Cabernet Sauvignon ($114.99)
2007 La Massa Panzano IGT ($23.95)
2007 Passopisciaro Passopisciaro Sicily IGT ($29.99)
2007 Roccapia Chianti ($9.99)
2006 Schinosa Nero di Troia ($13.99)
2001 Abadal Reserva Pla de Bages ($19.99)
2006 Audelssa Sonoma Valley Cabernet Sauvignon ($29.99)
2006 Beronia Tempranillo Rioja ($12.99)
2007 Château de Montfaucon "Baron Louis" Côtes du Rhône ($17.99)
2007 Château Paradis "Terre des Anges" Côteaux d'Aix en Provence ($24.99)
2007 Dashe Dry Creek Zinfandel ($19.99)
2008 Domaine des Nembrets Denis Barraud Mâcon "Source de Plaisirs" ($12.99)
2008 Domaine Gueneau "Les Clos Chartier" Sancerre ($18.99)
2006 Ferrero Rosso di Montalcino ($19.99)
2006 Gazin, Pomerol ($59.99)
2008 Lioco Sonoma Chardonnay ($19.99)
2006 Moulin de la Gardette "Tradition" Gigondas ($29.99)
2007 Robert Weil Estate Riesling Trocken (Dry) ($27 Elsewhere) ($17.99)
2007 Substance Washington Cabernet Sauvignon ($19.99)
2007 Tablas Creek "Côtes de Tablas" Paso Robles Red Rhône Blend ($21.99)
2007 Tablas Creek "Esprit de Beaucastel" Blanc Paso Robles ($29.99)
2008 Vidal Soblechero "Viña Clavidor" Verdejo Rueda ($12.99)
Chardonnay, Plaisir des Princes ($8.99)
2006 Deux Montille Pernand-Vergelesses Blanc 1er Cru "Sous Frétille" (Was $46 Elsewhere) ($29.99)
2007 Domaine des Chezeaux Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru "Lavaux St. Jacques" ($39.95)
2006 Domaine Ruet Brouilly Cru Beaujolais Vieilles Vignes ($16.99)
2005 Emile Chandesais Mercurey 1er Cru "Clos du Roy" (Was $30 Elsewhere) ($23.99)
2006 Maison Nicolas Potel Vosne-Romanée Vieilles Vignes (Was $60 Elsewhere) ($42.99)
2006 Moillard Bourgogne Hautes Côte de Nuits Rouge ($16.99)
2008 R Wines "Permutations" Pinot Noir Victoria ($13.99)
2007 Calera Central Coast Pinot Noir ($19.99)
2008 Elk Cove Willamette Valley Pinot Gris ($15.99)
2005 Freemark Abbey Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon ($26.99)
2003 Joseph Swan "Mancini Ranch" Zinfandel (was $25.00 elsewhere) ($17.99)
2008 Calera Central Coast Chardonnay ($13.99)
2006 Chateau Ducla Experience XIV Blanc, Bordeaux ($14.99)
2007 Chateau Montelena Napa Chardonnay ($44.99)
2005 d' Arche, Haut-Medoc ($24.99)
2008 La Gatte Blanc, Bordeaux ($10.99)
2006 Langoa-Barton, St-Julien (was $69.99) ($49.99)
1997 Malartic-Lagravière, Pessac-Léognan ($34.99)
2005 Plain Point, Fronsac ($19.99)
2007 Ridge Vineyards "Estate" Santa Cruz Mountains Chardonnay ($35.99)
2005 Saint Jacques de Siran, Bordeaux Superior ($14.99)
2008 Smith-Madrone Napa Riesling ($24.99)
2008 Barber Cellars "Kitten with a Whip" Dry Creek Valley Rosé ($8.99)
Casal Garcia Vinho Verde Rosé ($8.99)
2008 Contesa Vino Sfuso Rosso ($6.99)
2008 Etude Carneros Pinot Noir Rosé ($16.99)
2008 Fontanafredda Barbera Piemonte "Briccotondo" ($10.99)
2008 Groom "Bush Block" Zinfandel Barossa Valley South Australia ($24.99)
2005 Kumeu River Chardonnay ($31.99)
2006 Tulbagh Mountain Syrah Swartland ($18.99)
2006 Weingut Allram Blauer Zweigelt 1L ($11.99)
2009 Groom Sauvignon Blanc Adelaide Hills South Australia ($16.99)
2008 Mulderbosch Chenin Blanc Stellenbosch ($12.99)
2009 Mulderbosch Rosé ($10.99)
2007 Pyramid Valley Vineyards "Eaton" Pinot Noir Marlborough (Biodynamic) ($35.99)
2007 Domaine Gilles Morat Pouilly-Fuissé ($19.99)
2006 Domaine Jean-Paul/Stephane Magnien Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru ($69.95)
2005 Emile Chandesais Givry (Was $19.99 Elsewhere) ($14.99)
2007 Château Pesquié "Terrasses" Côtes du Ventoux ($12.99)
2007 Coudoulet de Beaucastel Côtes du Rhône Blanc ($38.99)
2003 Domaine Beaurenard Rasteau Vin Doux Naturel (500ml) ($29.99)
2007 Domaine de Fondrèche "Persia" Côtes du Ventoux ($26.99)
2006 Copain "L'Hiver" Mendocino County Syrah ($12.99)
2007 La Fenêtre À Côté Santa Barbara Syrah ($21.99)
2007 Lang & Reed North Coast Cabernet Franc ($19.99)
2007 Maysara Willamette Valley Pinot Gris ($15.99)
2008 Seven Hills Columbia Valley Riesling ($11.99)
2006 Tamarack Cellars Columbia Valley Merlot ($23.99)
2008 Vina Robles "Jardine Vineyard" Paso Robles Sauvignon Blanc ($9.99)
2007 Anna Maria Abbona Dolcetto di Dogliani, Sori dij But ($16.99)
2008 Convento Muri-Gries Pinot Grigio ($14.99)
2008 Rocca di Montegrossi Rosato ($14.99)
2006 Ruggeri Corsini Barbera d'Alba "Armujan" ($22.99)
2007 Ruggeri Corsini Dolcetto d'Alba ($12.99)
2004 Cave de Rasteau Vin Doux Naturel (500ml) ($17.99)
2005 Domaine Belle "Cuvée Louis Belle" Crozes-Hermitage ($29.99)
2005 Domaine Costeplane "Plan de Savoulous" Vin de Pays d'Oc ($13.99)
2007 Domaine Hauts Chassis "Esquisses" Crozes-Hermitage ($19.99)
2007 Domaine Hauts Chassis "Les Chassis" Crozes-Hermitage ($29.99)
2007 Undone Pinot Noir ($10.99)
2005 Les Clos Perdus "Mire la Mer" Corbières ($24.99)
2005 Lanessan, Haut-Médoc ($24.99)
2007 Au Bon Climat Santa Barbara Pinot Noir ($19.99)
2005 Benjamin de Sansonnet, St-Emilion ($26.99)
2007 Brewer-Clifton Santa Rita Hills Pinot Noir ($39.99)
2006 Cos d'Estournel, St-Estèphe ($89.99)
2007 Domaine de Cristia Châteauneuf-du-Pape ($31.99)
2007 Domaine des Nembrets Denis Barraud Pouilly-Fuissé "Les Chataigniers", ($19.99)
2006 Domaine Serene "Evenstad Reserve" Willamette Valley Pinot Noir ($54.99)
2008 Josef Leitz Rüdesheimer Drachenstein "Dragonstone" Riesling Qba ($15.99)
2006 Kathryn Kennedy "Lateral" Bordeaux Blend ($24.99)
2007 Melville "Estate-Verna's" Santa Barbara Chardonnay ($18.99)
2008 Melville "Estate-Verna's" Santa Barbara Pinot Noir ($19.99)
2007 Owen Roe "Ex-Umbris" Columbia Valley Syrah ($19.99)
2005 Schloss Schönborn Pinot Noir ($18.99)
2007 Schloss Schönborn Riesling Halbtrocken ($13.99)
2006 Varner "Spring Ridge" Santa Cruz Mountains Pinot Noir ($19.99)
2004 Verdignan Rouge, Haut-Médoc ($12.99)
Bruno Michel Rosé "les Rose" Champagne ($49.99)
2006 Buehler Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon ($21.99)
Claude Cazals Carte Blanche Brut Champagne ($39.99)
2000 Claude Cazals Vintage Brut Champagne ($44.99)
2006 Domaine Duclaux "Maison Rouge" Côte Rôtie ($59.99)
2007 Eyrie Dundee Hills Pinot Gris ($14.99)
2006 Eyrie "Reserve" Dundee Hills Pinot Noir ($54.99)
2007 Gainey Santa Rita Hills Chardonnay ($17.99)
2005 Domaine Beaurenard Châteauneuf-du-Pape (Was $44 Elsewhere) ($29.99)
2005 Katnook Estate "Founder's Block" Cabernet Sauvignon Coonawarra South Australia ($13.99)
2008 Fairhall Downs Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough New Zealand ($14.99)
2006 Quartz Reef Pinot Noir Central Otago New Zealand (Elsewhere $27.99) ($19.99)
2007 Rippon Pinot Noir Central Otago New Zealand (Biodynamic) ($49.99)
2006 Ridge "Monte Bello" Santa Cruz Mountains Cabernet Sauvignon ($114.99)
2007 La Massa Panzano IGT ($23.95)
2007 Passopisciaro Passopisciaro Sicily IGT ($29.99)
2007 Roccapia Chianti ($9.99)
2006 Schinosa Nero di Troia ($13.99)
2001 Abadal Reserva Pla de Bages ($19.99)
2006 Audelssa Sonoma Valley Cabernet Sauvignon ($29.99)
2006 Beronia Tempranillo Rioja ($12.99)
2007 Château de Montfaucon "Baron Louis" Côtes du Rhône ($17.99)
2007 Château Paradis "Terre des Anges" Côteaux d'Aix en Provence ($24.99)
2007 Dashe Dry Creek Zinfandel ($19.99)
2008 Domaine des Nembrets Denis Barraud Mâcon "Source de Plaisirs" ($12.99)
2008 Domaine Gueneau "Les Clos Chartier" Sancerre ($18.99)
2006 Ferrero Rosso di Montalcino ($19.99)
2006 Gazin, Pomerol ($59.99)
2008 Lioco Sonoma Chardonnay ($19.99)
2006 Moulin de la Gardette "Tradition" Gigondas ($29.99)
2007 Robert Weil Estate Riesling Trocken (Dry) ($27 Elsewhere) ($17.99)
2007 Substance Washington Cabernet Sauvignon ($19.99)
2007 Tablas Creek "Côtes de Tablas" Paso Robles Red Rhône Blend ($21.99)
2007 Tablas Creek "Esprit de Beaucastel" Blanc Paso Robles ($29.99)
2008 Vidal Soblechero "Viña Clavidor" Verdejo Rueda ($12.99)
Chardonnay, Plaisir des Princes ($8.99)
2006 Deux Montille Pernand-Vergelesses Blanc 1er Cru "Sous Frétille" (Was $46 Elsewhere) ($29.99)
2007 Domaine des Chezeaux Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru "Lavaux St. Jacques" ($39.95)
2006 Domaine Ruet Brouilly Cru Beaujolais Vieilles Vignes ($16.99)
2005 Emile Chandesais Mercurey 1er Cru "Clos du Roy" (Was $30 Elsewhere) ($23.99)
2006 Maison Nicolas Potel Vosne-Romanée Vieilles Vignes (Was $60 Elsewhere) ($42.99)
2006 Moillard Bourgogne Hautes Côte de Nuits Rouge ($16.99)
2008 R Wines "Permutations" Pinot Noir Victoria ($13.99)
2007 Calera Central Coast Pinot Noir ($19.99)
2008 Elk Cove Willamette Valley Pinot Gris ($15.99)
2005 Freemark Abbey Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon ($26.99)
2003 Joseph Swan "Mancini Ranch" Zinfandel (was $25.00 elsewhere) ($17.99)
2008 Calera Central Coast Chardonnay ($13.99)
2006 Chateau Ducla Experience XIV Blanc, Bordeaux ($14.99)
2007 Chateau Montelena Napa Chardonnay ($44.99)
2005 d' Arche, Haut-Medoc ($24.99)
2008 La Gatte Blanc, Bordeaux ($10.99)
2006 Langoa-Barton, St-Julien (was $69.99) ($49.99)
1997 Malartic-Lagravière, Pessac-Léognan ($34.99)
2005 Plain Point, Fronsac ($19.99)
2007 Ridge Vineyards "Estate" Santa Cruz Mountains Chardonnay ($35.99)
2005 Saint Jacques de Siran, Bordeaux Superior ($14.99)
2008 Smith-Madrone Napa Riesling ($24.99)
2008 Barber Cellars "Kitten with a Whip" Dry Creek Valley Rosé ($8.99)
Casal Garcia Vinho Verde Rosé ($8.99)
2008 Contesa Vino Sfuso Rosso ($6.99)
2008 Etude Carneros Pinot Noir Rosé ($16.99)
2008 Fontanafredda Barbera Piemonte "Briccotondo" ($10.99)
2008 Groom "Bush Block" Zinfandel Barossa Valley South Australia ($24.99)
2005 Kumeu River Chardonnay ($31.99)
2006 Tulbagh Mountain Syrah Swartland ($18.99)
2006 Weingut Allram Blauer Zweigelt 1L ($11.99)
2009 Groom Sauvignon Blanc Adelaide Hills South Australia ($16.99)
2008 Mulderbosch Chenin Blanc Stellenbosch ($12.99)
2009 Mulderbosch Rosé ($10.99)
2007 Pyramid Valley Vineyards "Eaton" Pinot Noir Marlborough (Biodynamic) ($35.99)
2007 Domaine Gilles Morat Pouilly-Fuissé ($19.99)
2006 Domaine Jean-Paul/Stephane Magnien Charmes-Chambertin Grand Cru ($69.95)
2005 Emile Chandesais Givry (Was $19.99 Elsewhere) ($14.99)
2007 Château Pesquié "Terrasses" Côtes du Ventoux ($12.99)
2007 Coudoulet de Beaucastel Côtes du Rhône Blanc ($38.99)
2003 Domaine Beaurenard Rasteau Vin Doux Naturel (500ml) ($29.99)
2007 Domaine de Fondrèche "Persia" Côtes du Ventoux ($26.99)
2006 Copain "L'Hiver" Mendocino County Syrah ($12.99)
2007 La Fenêtre À Côté Santa Barbara Syrah ($21.99)
2007 Lang & Reed North Coast Cabernet Franc ($19.99)
2007 Maysara Willamette Valley Pinot Gris ($15.99)
2008 Seven Hills Columbia Valley Riesling ($11.99)
2006 Tamarack Cellars Columbia Valley Merlot ($23.99)
2008 Vina Robles "Jardine Vineyard" Paso Robles Sauvignon Blanc ($9.99)
2007 Anna Maria Abbona Dolcetto di Dogliani, Sori dij But ($16.99)
2008 Convento Muri-Gries Pinot Grigio ($14.99)
2008 Rocca di Montegrossi Rosato ($14.99)
2006 Ruggeri Corsini Barbera d'Alba "Armujan" ($22.99)
2007 Ruggeri Corsini Dolcetto d'Alba ($12.99)
2004 Cave de Rasteau Vin Doux Naturel (500ml) ($17.99)
2005 Domaine Belle "Cuvée Louis Belle" Crozes-Hermitage ($29.99)
2005 Domaine Costeplane "Plan de Savoulous" Vin de Pays d'Oc ($13.99)
2007 Domaine Hauts Chassis "Esquisses" Crozes-Hermitage ($19.99)
2007 Domaine Hauts Chassis "Les Chassis" Crozes-Hermitage ($29.99)
2007 Undone Pinot Noir ($10.99)
2005 Les Clos Perdus "Mire la Mer" Corbières ($24.99)
2005 Lanessan, Haut-Médoc ($24.99)
