2010 Two Hands Shiraz Gnarly Dudes

2008 Stefania Cabernet Sauvignon Santa Cruz Mountains

2011 Uccelliera Rosso di Montalcino

De Margerie Champagne Grand Cru Brut Rosé

2008 Lillian Winery Syrah

2013 Hook & Ladder Station 10

 

 

 

2010 Two Hands Shiraz Gnarly Dudes – $19.02

This was another steal from Last Bottle. see below for info on joining their e-mail list.

 

Gnarly Dudes is made with fruit sourced from mature vineyards from the Barossa’s western ranges.

 

The lots making up this wine were crushed into and fermented in 3, 5, 7 and 10 ton open top vessels.  Three daily pumpovers were performed during the peak of fermentation to extract flavor, color and tannins.  The batches were drained and pressed to tank, then racked to barrel for oak maturation where malolactic fermentation occurred.  All batches were kept separate and blended just prior to bottling.  The wine was aged 14 months in hogsheads, 11% new French oak with the balance in 1 to 4 year old French oak

 

My Tasting Note

The wine is a dark, inky, purple color.  The burly nose has blackberries, smoke, dark chocolate, plums, meat juices, black pepper, Asian spices, minerals, melted licorice, charcoal and fresh wild flowers.  The wine has full body with solid, ripe tannins and good acidity.  The palate is loaded with ripe berries, plums, spices, smokiness, meat juices and dark chocolate.  The finish is long, juicy and flavorful.  A seamless, balanced, full flavored Shiraz with no rough edges.  Enjoyable now and for the next five years.  This wine has 14.8% alcohol and the bottle is sealed with a twist off cap.  (92 pts)

 

2008 Stefania Cabernet Sauvignon Santa Cruz Mountains – $40.00

The grapes for this wine come from the Harvest Moon, Elandrich and Chaine d’Or vineyards.  These vineyards are all located on the Eastern side of the Santa Cruz Mountains.  The vineyards were fermented separately with native yeast.  This Cabernet Sauvignon based wine also includes 17% Merlot and 1% Cabernet Franc.  The wine was aged in a mix of new and old French oak barrels.  The total production was a miniscule 94 cases.

 

The wine is a deep garnet to purple color.  The intoxicating nose has cassis, cedar, minerals, dried herbs, warm baking spices, white pepper, eucalyptus, plums, vanilla bean and a touch of wood smoke.  This has medium body with moderate to solid tannins and very good acidity.  On the palate spices and minerals join rich cassis upfront with toasty oak and vanilla coming in on the back end.  The finish has good length with dried herbs, eucalyptus and white pepper adding nice savory layers.  This still tastes young side comes around nicely with some air.  This still has plenty of upside potential.  This wine has 13.5% alcohol and the bottle is sealed with a natural cork.  (93 pts)

 

 

2011 Uccelliera Rosso di Montalcino – $18.99

This 100% Sangiovese comes from vineyards in Castelnuovo dell’Abate, at elevations of 150-350 metres on well-exposed hillslopes south-east of Montalcino.  The wine was aged in a mix of Slavonian and French oak barrels for a minimum of 8 months followed by a minimum of 3 months of bottle aging before it is released.

 

This wine has 14.0% alcohol by volume and the bottle is sealed with a natural cork.

 

The wine is a light ruby red color.  The intriguing nose has cherries, dusty minerals, dried thyme, baking spices, raspberry, leather and a touch of underbrush.  This is barely medium body with soft to moderate tannins and very good acidity.  Cherries, minerals and spice initially take hold on the palate with dried thyme and leather coming in on the back end.  The finish has good length with just a touch of earthiness entering the picture.  This is on the young side but already showing very nicely.  (91 pts)

 

 

De Margerie Champagne Grand Cru Brut Rosé – $39.94

I couldn’t find a lot of information on this wine on the internet including the percentages of the grapes used in its production.  This is a staple at my local Total Wines so I usually have a couple bottles in the cellar.

 

The wine is a bright salmon pink color with several streams of pinpoint sized bubbles.  The bright and refreshing nose has cherries, fresh baked yeasty bread, crushed stone minerals, orange blossoms and a hint of nuttiness.  This is crisp and dry on the palate with great effervescence.  On the palate tart cherries, minerals and orange blossoms take over quickly on the front end with yeasty bread coming in later.  The finish has great length with a burst of lemon zest leading you to grab another sip.  This is a perfect holiday or celebration bubbly to get a special occasion off to a great start.  This has 12% alcohol and the bottle is sealed with a standard Champagne cork.  (91 pts)

 

 

2008 Lillian Winery Syrah – $62.00

I’ve been on the Lillian mailing list for a few years but I just can’t seem to buy enough.  These wines are not early drinking wines, they need some time in your cellar.

 

The wine is a deep, inky purple color.  The incredible nose is full of blackberries, blueberries, dark chocolate, dark roasted espresso beans, spicy cedar, vanilla beans, roasted meat, crushed stone minerals, black peppercorns and warm baking spices.  This full bodied wine has solid, ripe tannins and very good acidity.  This is rich and powerful on the palate with an overload of berries, minerals, dark chocolate, baking spices quickly grabbing your attention on the front end with espresso beans, meat juices, black pepper, cedar and vanilla coming through on the back end.  The finish is long and lingering, full of fruit and spice.  Even though this has a few years of cellar time already under its’ belt, it could use another year or two.  If you only have one bottle of this wine either leave it in the cellar or give it plenty of air.  This has 15.3% alcohol and the bottle is sealed with a natural cork.  (95 pts)

 

 

2013 Hook & Ladder Station 10 – $14.90

Another Last Bottle purchase.  More info on the site and a link to join their e-mail list (with a nice credit) is below.

 

This Russian River Valley Red is a blend of 59% Zinfandel, 18% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Petite Sirah, 4% Carignane and 1% Alicante Bouschet.

 

The wine is a deep garnet color.  The inviting nose has blackberries, licorice, crushed stone minerals, dark chocolate, dry underbrush, black cherries, dried wild flowers, black peppercorns, baking spices and a touch of cedar.  This has medium to full body with moderate tannins and good acidity.  On the palate blackberries, baking spices, minerals and dark chocolate take control early with black cherries and dry earth coming in later.  The finish has good length with black peppercorns and a dried floral note providing nice depth.  This is an easy drinking, much more civilized version of The Prisoner.  This has 14.5% alcohol and the bottle is sealed with an agglomerated cork.  (90 pts)

 

 

 

 

I am a big fan of the “Flash Wine Sale” site Last Bottle.  Four of the wines in this post were purchased from the site, Mastro Scheidt Sangiovese, Casey Flat Ranch Open Range, Robert Hunter Pinot Noir Reserve Hunter Farms and Jaffe Estate Cabernet Sauvignon Metamorphosis.  All of these wines were purchased at a big discount.  I highly recommend getting on their e-mail list.  Like most of the flash sale sites, they offer one wine per day until it sells out.  They also have a couple two-day marathons during the year.  Last Bottle is a great site to buy special wines at prices low enough to open any day of the week.

 

If you sign up using this link you will get a $10 credit that can be used on your first purchase.  I will also get a credit if you make a purchase.

 

Other than getting a credit as explained above, I have no financial interest in the site.  After you are on the list, you can also get the same credit by introducing friends to Last Bottle.

 

 

 

Connect with me

You can follow me on Twitter for more wine info, potential food pairings, and an occasional recipe or two.  Be warned, I’m also a sports fan and there are occasional Pittsburgh Penguins, Steelers, and Pirates tweets.  I attended the University of South Carolina, so during football season, there will also be some Gamecock posts.

 

I post a lot more pictures and pairing suggestions on my Instagram account, consider joining me at https://www.instagram.com/cbbrown3/

 

If you like this post, consider joining Cliffs Wine Picks Wine Blog on Facebook and giving me a Like.

 

Cheers!

 

 

This is original to CliffsWinePicks.com.  Copyright 2016 Cliff’s Wine Picks.

All rights reserved.

 

 

 

***** Shameless Self Promotion *****

 

Here is a link to a YouTube video of me getting “coal” from Santa for being named the “Nicest Person in Social Media” in 2012.

 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UOvQTeGR3-c

 

 

 

Breaking news from Klout:

 

 

Cliff’s Wine Picks mentions or other posts

Here are posts, newsletters, blogs or other articles that either mention this site or that I have written:

 

Click here or on the “Cliff’s Wine Picks On Other Sites” link in the top right corner to see links to other sites that either have my reviews, my thoughts or other posts I have written.

 

 

 

Remember to support your local wine store!

 

 

 

* * * * * * * * * * * * *

 

Notes – I use the “official” Cellar Tracker name for the wines.  I use Cellar Tracker to help manage and organize my cellar.  I highly recommend checking it out at www.cellartracker.com.  Loading you existing cellar is a lot less intimidating than it would first appear.  There is a good chance 99% of your wine is already in the system, so you generally only need to enter part of the wine’s name and the system will find it for you.

 

 

Prices noted are the prices I paid at the time of purchase.  I don’t shop around to find the best prices, but always check out the sale and close out items when in a store.  Wines purchased direct from a winery do not include any shipping charges.  None of the prices include the sales tax.

 

 

All wines that were sent to me free of charge to sample will be noted and I will show suggested prices when available.

 

 

 

Cheers!

 

2010 Herman Story Syrah Nuts and Bolts

2013 Quivira Grenache Wine Creek Ranch

2010 Carlisle Zinfandel Rossi Ranch

Bernard Remy Champagne Grand Cru

2009 Lewis Cellars Alec’s Blend

 

 

 

2010 Herman Story Syrah Nuts and Bolts – $33.60

A friend of mine belonged to the Herman Story mailing list and I’m thankful he shared his allocation with me.  I love these wine made by Russell P. From.

 

This wine is 100% Syrah and comes from Les Galets, Shadow Canyon, Luna Matta, Terra Bella, White Hawk and Larner Vineyards.  The finished wine was aged in 55% new and 45% neutral French oak barrels.  There were 792 cases produced in this vintage.

 

 

The wine is a dark, inky purple color.  The nose is stunning and full of blackberries, black currant, smoke, meat juices, warm baking spices, blueberries, earthy underbrush and cedar.  This full bodied wine has moderate to solid ripe tannins and good acidity.  This is thick and luscious on the palate with a mouthful of berries and spice grudgingly allowing some spicy oak, earthiness and dark chocolate to enter the picture.  The finish has very nice length with the spicy oak and berries carrying the load.  Not a lot of subtlety but the 16.1% alcohol is kept under wraps.  This has 16.1% alcohol by volume and the bottle is closed with a natural cork and a wax seal.  (93 pts)

 

 

2013 Quivira Grenache Wine Creek Ranch – $20.00

This was another purchase from Last Bottle.  I love the wines and especially the prices the site offers.  More information on joining their e-mail list is below.

 

This is 100% hand harvested Grenache from Sonoma’s Dry Creek Valley.  About 15% whole clusters were used to heighten the aromatics and to moderate the extractions.  Only native yeasts were used for fermentation.  Each lot was produced with varying methods, including cold soaking for between 3 and 7 days and the skin contact varied between 10 and 16 days.  Fermentation was completed in small, neutral oak barrels before being blended and aged in large 600 and 900 gallon French oak foudres.

 

The wine is a nice ruby red color.  The enticing nose has strawberries, crushed stone minerals, white pepper, cherries, roasted leafy herbs, wild flowers and dried earth.  This has medium body with moderate ripe tannins and good acidity.  Bright red fruit, minerals and white pepper jump out on the front end with roasted herbs and dry earth coming in later.  The lingering finish adds a pleasing floral note.  This isn’t one to stash away in the back of the cellar, open this easy to enjoy wine over the next couple of years.  This has nice balance and will pair nicely with a variety of foods.  I like this one.  This has 14.7% alcohol and the bottle is sealed with a natural cork.  (90 pts)

 

 

2010 Carlisle Zinfandel Rossi Ranch – $34.00

I’ve been on the Carlisle mailing list since its’ inception several years ago.  They produce some of the best old vine Zinfandel and Syrah wines coming out of California.

 

This was a comeback year for this wine.  Due to late ripening fruit and early October rains this wasn’t produced in 2009.  There was 9% Rossi Ranch Petite Sirah included in this wine to enhance the texture and to lengthen the finish.  There were only 151 cases of this wine produced.

 

The wine is a deep purple color.  The trance inducing nose is full of brambly berries, dried sage, black pepper, dried violets, vanilla bean, dry underbrush, chalky minerals, plums and baking spices.  This has a full body with moderate ripe tannins and nice acidity.  This is rich and lush on the palate with loads of brambly berries, spice, black pepper and dry sage on the front end with underbrush and minerals coming in on the back end.  The long finish has a nice dried floral note and vanilla.  A touch of alcohol is poking through at times but at this time it is barely noticeable.  I’d drink this one over the next couple of years before the alcohol pops through and takes away from the overall wine.  This has 16.0% alcohol and the bottle is sealed with a natural cork.  (90 pts)

 

 

Bernard Remy Champagne Grand Cru – $28.57

This is another Last Bottle purchase.  See below for info on the site and a link to join their e-mail list and an instant credit for your first purchase.

 

This 100% Chardonnay was aged for 5 years on its lees.

 

The wine is a light golden yellow color with several steady steams of pinpoint sized bubbles.  The alluring nose has apples, yeasty bread, lemon zest, dusty minerals, roasted nuts and spring flowers.  This has light to medium body with great acidity.  On the palate tart apples, lemon zest and minerals quickly grab control with yeasty bread and a touch of nuttiness coming in later.  The lingering finish adds a nice floral note.  The citrusy crispness in this bubbly will keep you reaching for another sip.  A very good bargain.  This has 12.0% alcohol.  (92 pts)

 

 

2009 Lewis Cellars Alec’s Blend – $49.87

This wine is a blend of 80% Syrah, 17% Merlot and 3% Cabernet Sauvignon.  There were 1000 cases of this wine produced.

 

The wine is a deep, dark, inky purple color.  The big, bold, and rich nose is full of crushed blackberries, blueberries, smoke, charred meat, black pepper, dark bittersweet chocolate, vanilla, cedar, fresh ground coffee and scorched earth.  This has a full body with fairly solid tannins and decent acidity.  On the palate the spicy berries, pepper, and meaty elements hit first followed by vanilla, dark chocolate, and some earthiness.  The finish is fairly long and is highlighted by dark chocolate, vanilla, and berries with spicy cedar also making an appearance.  This is a big and ripe wine made in a take no prisoners style.  This wine has 15.5% alcohol and the bottle is sealed with a natural cork.  (92 pts)

 

 

 

 

I am a big fan of the “Flash Wine Sale” site Last Bottle.  Two of the wines in this post were purchased from the site, Quivira Grenache and Bernard Remy Champagne.  Both of these wines were purchased at a big discount.  I highly recommend getting on their e-mail list.  Like most of the flash sale sites, they offer one wine per day until it sells out.  They also have a couple two-day marathons during the year that always have tons of wines at fantastic prices.  Last Bottle is a great site to buy special wines at prices low enough to open any day of the week.

 

If you sign up using this link you will get a $10 credit that can be used on your first purchase.  I will also get a credit if you make a purchase.

 

Other than getting a credit as explained above, I have no financial interest in the site.  After you are on the list, you can also get the same credit by introducing friends to Last Bottle.

 

 

 

Connect with me

You can follow me on Twitter for more wine info, potential food pairings, and an occasional recipe or two.  Be warned, I’m also a sports fan and there are occasional Pittsburgh Penguins, Steelers, and Pirates tweets.  I attended the University of South Carolina, so during football season, there will also be some Gamecock posts.

 

I post a lot more pictures and pairing suggestions on my Instagram account, consider joining me at https://www.instagram.com/cbbrown3/

 

If you like this post, consider joining Cliffs Wine Picks Wine Blog on Facebook and giving me a Like.

 

Cheers!

 

 

This is original to CliffsWinePicks.com.  Copyright 2016 Cliff’s Wine Picks.

All rights reserved.

 

 

 

***** Shameless Self Promotion *****

 

Here is a link to a YouTube video of me getting “coal” from Santa for being named the “Nicest Person in Social Media” in 2012.

 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UOvQTeGR3-c

 

 

 

Breaking news from Klout:

 

 

Cliff’s Wine Picks mentions or other posts

Here are posts, newsletters, blogs or other articles that either mention this site or that I have written:

 

Click here or on the “Cliff’s Wine Picks On Other Sites” link in the top right corner to see links to other sites that either have my reviews, my thoughts or other posts I have written.

 

 

 

Remember to support your local wine store!

 

 

 

* * * * * * * * * * * * *

 

Notes – I use the “official” Cellar Tracker name for the wines.  I use Cellar Tracker to help manage and organize my cellar.  I highly recommend checking it out at www.cellartracker.com.  Loading you existing cellar is a lot less intimidating than it would first appear.  There is a good chance 99% of your wine is already in the system, so you generally only need to enter part of the wine’s name and the system will find it for you.

 

 

Prices noted are the prices I paid at the time of purchase.  I don’t shop around to find the best prices, but always check out the sale and close out items when in a store.  Wines purchased direct from a winery do not include any shipping charges.  None of the prices include the sales tax.

 

 

All wines that were sent to me free of charge to sample will be noted and I will show suggested prices when available.

 

 

 

Cheers!

 

 

2006 Copain Syrah Thompson Vineyard

2009 Henry’s Drive Shiraz Dead Letter Office

2012 Michel Gassier Syrah Les Piliers

2008 Stefania Syrah Eaglepoint Ranch

2006 Copain Syrah Madder Lake

2007 Novy Family Wines Syrah Garys’ Vineyard

2010 Ledge Syrah Adams Ranch Vineyard

2007 Copain Syrah Brosseau Vineyard

 

 

 

2006 Copain Syrah Thompson Vineyard – $40.00

It would be hard for me to pick a favorite vineyard source for Copain Syrahs, but Thompson would be in my top three.

 

The wine is a deep dark purple color.  The very open and giving nose has blackberries, dying wood embers, smoked meat, vanilla, dried herbs, black olives and earthy underbrush.  This has medium to full body, moderate to solid tannins and good acidity.  On the palate the wine is a bit brighter than the nose lead me to expect with cherries and dark chocolate joining the blackberries, meat and vanilla.  The finish has good length with some dried herbs and earthiness coming into the picture.  This is in its prime and will probably start the long downhill journey in the next couple of years.  This has 14.7% alcohol by volume and the bottle is sealed with a natural cork.  (92 pts)

 

 

2009 Henry’s Drive Shiraz Dead Letter Office – $16.14

This is another wine I was able to buy as an e-mail offer from the local wine store at a great price.  The suggested retail price for the wine is $27, so I was able to grab my bottles for close to half off.  Like I always say, it pays to support your local wine stores, besides great advice on wines you may not know, they can be the source for great values when an importer or distributor is overstocked and looks to unload some inventory.

 

This wine uses fruit from Padthaway and McLaren Vale.

 

The wine is a deep ruby to maroon color.  The very open and inviting nose has plums, currants, freshly ground espresso beans, vanilla, dark bittersweet chocolate, road tar, dried sage, crushed stones and dried wildflowers.  This has medium to full body with moderate tannins and good acidity.  On the palate, fruit and espresso jump out first with vanilla, sage and minerals coming in later.  The finish has nice length with some dark chocolate adds nice depth.  This seems to be on the young side and would benefit from some time in the cellar.  This wine has an ABV of 14.5% and the bottle is sealed with a twist off cap.  (91 pts)

 

 

2012 Michel Gassier Syrah Les Piliers – $12.74

This wine includes 3% Viognier blended in with the 97% Syrah.  The yields in this vintage was a very low 2 tons per acre.  After fermentation was completed, the wine was aged for 9 months in French oak.

 

The wine is a deep garnet color.  The enticing nose is full of crushed berries, charred wood, black peppercorns, freshly ground espresso beans, cherries, violets and crushed stones.  This has medium to full body with moderate tannins and nice acidity.  On the palate a load of crushed berries, black peppercorns and espresso immediately take control, slowly allowing cherries and crushed stones to slip in.  The finish has nice length with charred wood and violets adding depth.  The was an incredible value.  This wine has 13.5% alcohol and the bottle is sealed with a fake spongy foam stopper.  (89 pts)

 

 

2008 Stefania Syrah Eaglepoint Ranch – $33.00

The winery gets their grapes from a small portion of the vineyard.  In this vintage severe weather would limit the harvest to 19 rows and a little under 1 ton of grapes.  There were only 63 cases of this wine produced.

 

The wine is a deep garnet color.  The sophisticated nose has blackberries, cherries, metal shavings,  green olives, dusty minerals, wood smoke, roasted leafy herbs, freshly ground coffee beans and a touch of dark chocolate.  This has medium body with moderate tannins and good acidity.  On the palate berries, cherries and metal shavings quickly jump out with green olives and dusty minerals coming in later.  The finish has nice length with roasted herbs and dark chocolate adding great depth.  This is in a real nice place but should hold for a few more years.  This has 14.5% alcohol and the bottle is sealed with a natural cork.  (92 pts)

 

 

2006 Copain Syrah Madder Lake – $25.00

This was always a slightly disappointing wine.  I originally bought 6 bottles and this was my last bottle.  The wine always seemed to have “something” buried behind the upfront fruit and spicy oak, but it never seemed to materialize.  It was always tasty but to me, it never reached “the next level”.

 

The wine is a fairly dark ruby red color.  The appealing nose has blackberries, white pepper, baking spices, licorice, peach pit, violets and a hint of road tar.  This has medium to full body with moderate tannins and nice acidity.  On the palate blackberries, pepper and baking spices take control early with violets coming in on the back end.  The finish has nice length with some subtle underbrush entering the picture.  This lacks some complexity but is tasty.  I’d advise consuming this one over the next year or two.  (89 pts)

 

 

2007 Novy Family Wines Syrah Garys’ Vineyard – $29.99

This wine has always been one of my favorite California Syrahs.

 

The wine is a deep, dark ruby to purple color.  The very enticing nose has blackberries, licorice, smoked meat, pepper, baking spices, blueberry, dried herbs, minerals and dark chocolate.  This has medium to full body with solid tannins and very nice acidity.  Spicy fruit with a nice meaty presence grabs hold of your palate with pepper and some earthiness coming in later.  This has a nice lingering finish which again highlights the meaty elements with chocolate and fruit in the background providing nice sweetness.  This is very nice with impressive balance.  This wine has 14.2% alcohol by volume and the bottle is sealed with a natural cork.  (93 pts)

 

 

2010 Ledge Syrah Adams Ranch Vineyard – $55.00

Ledge Vineyards is the winery owned by the One Time Spaceman, Mark Adams.  I was lucky enough to secure a sample of the 2009 vintage of this wine from Mark.  After two sips of the wine, I immediately joined the mailing list.  After securing my spot on the list, I started telling everyone who would listen to get on the list.

 

The wine is a deep purple color.  The very inviting nose has blackberries, crushed stone minerals, smoke, raspberries, eucalyptus, black pepper, violets, roasted herbs, cedar and a touch of dark bittersweet chocolate.  This has medium to full body, moderate ripe tannins and good acidity.  On the palate this is rich and plush with nice layers of fruit, spice and minerals.  The finish is very long with rich fruit, spice, minerals and a floral note seeming to hand on forever.  This is on the young side but already a stunning wine.  This will be a nice one to follow over the next decade, maybe even longer.  This wine has 14.5% abv and is sealed with a natural cork and wax coating.  (94 pts)

 

 

2007 Copain Syrah Brosseau Vineyard – $45.00

This wine was one of the more rugged styles produced by Copain.  It had a bit more tannin, acidity and oomph than its’ counterparts.

 

The wine is a dark ruby red color.  The intriguing nose has blackberries, mint, black peppercorns, dusty minerals, dark roast coffee beans, licorice and dried violets.  This has medium to full body with moderate tannins and good acidity.  On the palate the berries, minerals and dark roast coffee immediately take control, slowly allowing black pepper and a minty note to slip through on the back end.  The finish has very nice length with a dried floral note providing depth.  This is drinking very nicely today and should hold for at least another couple of years.  This has 13.5% alcohol and the bottle is sealed with a natural cork.  (92 pts)

 

 

 

 

I am a big fan of the “Flash Wine Sale” site Last Bottle.  I highly recommend getting on their e-mail list.  Like most of the flash sale sites, they offer one wine per day until it sells out.  They also have a couple two-day marathons during the year.  Last Bottle is a great site to buy special wines at prices low enough to open any day of the week.

 

If you sign up using this link you will get a $10 credit that can be used on your first purchase.  I will also get a credit if you make a purchase.

 

Other than getting a credit as explained above, I have no financial interest in the site.  After you are on the list, you can also get the same credit by introducing friends to Last Bottle.

 

 

 

Connect with me

You can follow me on Twitter for more wine info, potential food pairings, and an occasional recipe or two.  Be warned, I’m also a sports fan and there are occasional Pittsburgh Penguins, Steelers, and Pirates tweets.  I attended the University of South Carolina, so during football season, there will also be some Gamecock posts.

 

I post a lot more pictures and pairing suggestions on my Instagram account, consider joining me at https://www.instagram.com/cbbrown3/

 

If you like this post, consider joining Cliffs Wine Picks Wine Blog on Facebook and giving me a Like.

 

Cheers!

 

 

This is original to CliffsWinePicks.com.  Copyright 2016 Cliff’s Wine Picks.

All rights reserved.

 

 

 

***** Shameless Self Promotion *****

 

Here is a link to a YouTube video of me getting “coal” from Santa for being named the “Nicest Person in Social Media” in 2012.

 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UOvQTeGR3-c

 

 

 

Breaking news from Klout:

 

 

Cliff’s Wine Picks mentions or other posts

Here are posts, newsletters, blogs or other articles that either mention this site or that I have written:

 

Click here or on the “Cliff’s Wine Picks On Other Sites” link in the top right corner to see links to other sites that either have my reviews, my thoughts or other posts I have written.

 

 

 

Remember to support your local wine store!

 

 

 

* * * * * * * * * * * * *

 

Notes – I use the “official” Cellar Tracker name for the wines.  I use Cellar Tracker to help manage and organize my cellar.  I highly recommend checking it out at www.cellartracker.com.  Loading you existing cellar is a lot less intimidating than it would first appear.  There is a good chance 99% of your wine is already in the system, so you generally only need to enter part of the wine’s name and the system will find it for you.

 

 

Prices noted are the prices I paid at the time of purchase.  I don’t shop around to find the best prices, but always check out the sale and close out items when in a store.  Wines purchased direct from a winery do not include any shipping charges.  None of the prices include the sales tax.

 

 

All wines that were sent to me free of charge to sample will be noted and I will show suggested prices when available.

 

 

 

Cheers!

 

 

2013 Loring Wine Company Pinot Noir Santa Barbara County

2009 World’s End Wavelength Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard

2012 Sojourn Pinot Noir Sangiacomo Vineyard

2012 Efeste Syrah Ceidleigh

2008 Vieux Château Mazerat

 

 

 

2013 Loring Wine Company Pinot Noir Santa Barbara County – $16.50

To me, the Loring AVA wines are some of the biggest bargains out there when it comes to Pinot Noir.  These are high quality wines that sell for well under $20 a bottle.  I highly recommend checking them out and getting on their mailing list by visiting their site.

 

This 100% Pinot Noir uses grapes mostly from Rancho La Viña with a few barrels from Clos Pepe, Cargasacchi and Aubaine Vineyards.  The wine was aged 10 months in French oak, 20% new.  There were 1000 cases produced.

 

The wine is a light ruby red color.  The slightly shy nose has cherries, plums, dry earth, wild flowers and dusty minerals.  This has medium body with moderate tannins and very nice acidity.  This is bright and lively on the palate with tart cherries, minerals and wild flowers.  The finish has nice length with dry earth adding nice depth.  Not a typical big and bold Loring Pinot, this is much more civilized.  This is a very tasty Pinot, especially for well under $20.  This has 14.3% alcohol and the bottle is sealed with a twist off closure.  (89 pts)

 

 

2009 World’s End Wavelength Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard – $28.69

This is another wine I purchased from Last Bottle.  See more information on them below including a $10 sign up credit.

 

This wine is an unusual blend of 65% Syrah and 35% Cabernet Franc.

 

The wine is a deep ruby red color.  The enticing nose has plums, blackberries, cherries, cedar, dark chocolate, scorched earth, crushed stone minerals, warm baking spices, dried leafy herbs and violets.  This has a full body with moderate to full tannins and very good acidity.  Nice fruit, spice, cedar and minerals take control on the front end of the palate with dark chocolate and dried herbs coming in later.  The lingering finish adds dry earth and a nice floral note.  This is drinking very nicely right now with some air but there is no rush on this one, it will last in the cellar for several years.  A great bottle of wine.  This has 14.7% alcohol and the bottle is sealed with a natural cork.  (93 pts)

 

 

2012 Sojourn Pinot Noir Sangiacomo Vineyard – $28.17

This 100% Pinot Noir comes from a vineyard at the western base of Sonoma Mountain.  The coastal location provides cool ocean breezes and Petaluma Gap fog helps keep the heat in check.  The wine was aged in French oak, 50% new.  1,150 cases of this wine was produced.

 

The wine is a ruby red color.  The sensuous nose has black cherries, Asian spice, plums, crushed stone minerals, white pepper, strawberries, licorice, dry underbrush and dried wild flowers.  This has medium body with moderate to solid tannins and very nice acidity.  On the palate cherries, Asian spice and stony minerals take control quickly with white pepper, strawberries and plums coming in later.  The finish has very good length with underbrush and a dried floral note adding great depth.  This is drinking very nicely right now but there is absolutely no hurry on this one, it will easily last through the end of the decade.  This has 14.5% alcohol and the bottle is sealed with a natural cork.  (92 pts)

 

 

2012 Efeste Syrah Ceidleigh – $18.03

This is another Last Bottle purchase.  See additional information on this “flash sale” site below.

 

The 100% syrah uses grapes from Klipsun (53%), Ciel du Cheval (27%) and EFESTE estate’s Angela’s Vineyard (20%).  The wine was aged for 14 months in French oak barrels, 27% new.  There were 764 cases produced.

 

The wine is a deep garnet color.  The intriguing nose has blackberries, crushed stone minerals, roasted leafy herbs, scorched earth, plums, meat juices, eucalyptus, licorice, baking spices, hot asphalt, blueberries and wild flowers.  This has a full body with moderate to solid tannins and very good acidity.  On the palate tart dark fruit, minerals and baking spice grab hold quickly slowly allowing roasted herbs and dried earth to slip in on the back end.  The long, layered finish adds meat juices and a nice floral note.  This improved tremendously with air so give it a lot or even better let it sleep for another year or two.  This will last for another decade in a decent cellar.  How was this wine available on a “flash sale” site?  This has 14.5% alcohol and the bottle is sealed with a natural cork.  (94 pts)

 

 

2008 Vieux Château Mazerat – $39.39

I may have to do a post of only wines purchased from Last Bottle since I bought this bottle from them like a couple above.  More info on Last Bottle and a link go join the list with a $10 credit is below.

 

This wine, as well as the World’s End Wavelength above are from JCP Maltus.  More information on the numerous Estates in Jonathan’s control is available via this link.

 

This wine is a blend of 65% Merlot and 35% Cabernet Franc from the Saint Emilion region in Bordeaux.  The wine is a deep maroon color.  The sophisticated and inviting nose has black cherries, dusty minerals, plums, roasted leafy herbs, dry underbrush, charred wood and violets. This has medium to full body with moderate tannins and good acidity.  On the palate dark fruit, minerals and dried leafy herbs jump out quickly on the front end with charred wood and underbrush coming in later.  The finish has great length with a nice floral note entering the picture.  This is rich and silky and a pleasure to have with a nice meal.  This is drinking nicely now and will last for another decade or more.  Great job!  This has 13.5% alcohol and the bottle is sealed with a natural cork.  (93 pts)

 

 

 

I am a big fan of the “Flash Wine Sale” site Last Bottle.  Three of the wines in this post were purchased from the site, World’s End Wavelength, Efeste Syrah and Chateau Mazerat.  All of these wines were purchased at a big discount.  I highly recommend getting on their e-mail list.  Like most of the flash sale sites, they offer one wine per day until it sells out.  They also have a couple two-day marathons during the year.  Last Bottle is a great site to buy special wines at prices low enough to open any day of the week.

 

If you sign up using this link you will get a $10 credit that can be used on your first purchase.  I will also get a credit if you make a purchase.

 

Other than getting a credit as explained above, I have no financial interest in the site.  After you are on the list, you can also get the same credit by introducing friends to Last Bottle.

 

 

 

Connect with me

You can follow me on Twitter for more wine info, potential food pairings, and an occasional recipe or two.  Be warned, I’m also a sports fan and there are occasional Pittsburgh Penguins, Steelers, and Pirates tweets.  I attended the University of South Carolina, so during football season, there will also be some Gamecock posts.

 

I post a lot more pictures and pairing suggestions on my Instagram account, consider joining me at https://www.instagram.com/cbbrown3/

 

If you like this post, consider joining Cliffs Wine Picks Wine Blog on Facebook and giving me a Like.

 

Cheers!

 

 

This is original to CliffsWinePicks.com.  Copyright 2016 Cliff’s Wine Picks.

All rights reserved.

 

 

 

***** Shameless Self Promotion *****

 

Here is a link to a YouTube video of me getting “coal” from Santa for being named the “Nicest Person in Social Media” in 2012.

 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UOvQTeGR3-c

 

 

 

Breaking news from Klout:

 

 

Cliff’s Wine Picks mentions or other posts

Here are posts, newsletters, blogs or other articles that either mention this site or that I have written:

 

Click here or on the “Cliff’s Wine Picks On Other Sites” link in the top right corner to see links to other sites that either have my reviews, my thoughts or other posts I have written.

 

 

 

Remember to support your local wine store!

 

 

 

* * * * * * * * * * * * *

 

Notes – I use the “official” Cellar Tracker name for the wines.  I use Cellar Tracker to help manage and organize my cellar.  I highly recommend checking it out at www.cellartracker.com.  Loading you existing cellar is a lot less intimidating than it would first appear.  There is a good chance 99% of your wine is already in the system, so you generally only need to enter part of the wine’s name and the system will find it for you.

 

 

Prices noted are the prices I paid at the time of purchase.  I don’t shop around to find the best prices, but always check out the sale and close out items when in a store.  Wines purchased direct from a winery do not include any shipping charges.  None of the prices include the sales tax.

 

 

All wines that were sent to me free of charge to sample will be noted and I will show suggested prices when available.

 

 

 

Cheers!

 

 

2013 Borra Vineyards Old Vine Barbera

2010 Reininger Syrah Walla Walla Valley

2014 Macchia Sangiovese Amorous Lodi

2007 Long Shadows Wineries Cabernet Sauvignon Feather

2012 Miner Family Napa Valley Red Wine

 

 

 

2013 Borra Vineyards Old Vine Barbera – $22.50

I was able to attend a tasting at the winery’s Gill Creek Ranch in late September and loved the “alternative” wines they served.  Their white wines were crisp, light and mineral driven.  I was able to sample this specific wine at a large Barbera tasting with several wineries participating.  This was one of the standouts (for me) at the event.

 

This is 100% Barbera from over 40 year old vines from the vineyard planted around their tasting room in Lodi’s Mokelumne River AVA.  The winemaker, Markus Niggli (Swiss born) uses native fermentation of only free-run juice.  After fermentation, the wine is aged for 22 months in 35% new French oak.  Total production was a minuscule 120 cases.

 

If you ever make it to Lodi, a stop at Borra Vineyards is a must.  If you’re lucky enough to meet Markus, you’ll be impressed with his forward vision and old-school approach to wine making.  Much more information about the winery, people and wine is available on their website.

 

The wine is a nice garnet color.  The seductive nose has black cherries, crushed stone minerals, baking spices, cola, scorched earth, and dried wild flowers.  This has medium to full body with moderate tannins and very nice acidity.  On the palate black cherries, minerals and spice quickly jump out with cola and dry earth coming in on the back end.  The lingering finish adds a nice dried floral note.  This won’t be mistaken for an Italian Barbera, but that isn’t necessarily a bad thing.  I liked this wine…a lot.  This has 15.2% alcohol and the bottle is sealed with a twist-off cap.  (92 pts)

 

 

2010 Reininger Syrah Walla Walla Valley – $22.96

Even though I had heard of the winery for a few years, I hadn’t tried any of their wines.  A couple years ago the local wine store offered this wine in an e-mail only offer at an exceptional price, so I had to grab a six pack.

 

This has 15.0% alcohol and is sealed with a natural cork.

 

The Winery

From 1997 through 2004, REININGER Winery was located in a small but functional facility located at the historic Walla Walla Regional Airport.  The “shack-teau,” as Chuck and Tracy fondly nicknamed it, was originally designated as a WWII Army Air Corp runway “crash house” and “base theater” where old time crooners and classic films entertained troops.

 

In 2003, REININGER Winery purchased seven acres of land, located six miles west of Walla Walla, adjacent to Highway 12, and began renovating two pre-existing potato sheds into a remodeled 15,000 square foot winery, complete with production facility, administrative offices, and a spacious new tasting room.  “We worked closely with architect Jon Campbell to create a modern production facility incorporating rustic design elements,” said Chuck Reininger.  “This resulted in a unique atmosphere for events and entertaining.”

 

In that same year, Chuck and Tracy partnered with Tracy’s brothers, Jay and Cyndi Tucker, and Kelly and Ann Tucker, as well as her parents, Terry and Ronnie Tucker.  Today, Kelly Tucker serves as general manager and oversees sales and marketing.  Jay Tucker functions as tasting room director, plant manager, and grower relations contact.  Terry and Ronnie Tucker, who’ve been actively involved in both vineyard and winery projects since the 1980’s, bring an abundance of guidance and support to the organization.

 

Much more information can be found on the winery’s website.

 

My Tasting Note

The wine is a dark, inky purple color.  The outstanding nose has blackberries, minerals, white pepper, dried herbs, warm baking spices, blueberries and a touch of cedar.  On the palate the velvety berries and minerals provide a mountain of flavor with white pepper and dried herbs creeping in on the back end.  The finish has very nice length with baking spices joining the party in your mouth.  This is still on the young side but it is already outstanding.  (93 pts)

 

 

2014 Macchia Sangiovese Amorous Lodi – $21.99

This is another wine from Lodi I picked up at Total Wine in Columbia after returning from my trip to Lodi.  I loved my visit to Macchia and highly recommend trying any you may see on a shelf.

 

A stop at the “man cave” tasting area at Macchia should be on your short list of places to visit in Lodi.  Additional information about the winery is available on their website.

 

This wine is a fairly deep ruby color.  The sexy nose has cherries, warm baking spices, raspberries, dry earthy underbrush, violets, dusty minerals and a touch of licorice.  This has a full body with moderate ripe tannins and nice acidity.  On the palate this wine is full of rich fruit, spices and earthiness on the front end with minerals and a nice floral note on the back end.  The long, lingering finish closes with a hint of orange zest.  This is nothing like an Italian Sangiovese but the wine world would be a boring place if every wine made from a specific grape tasted the same no matter where it was grown.  This demands a hearty meal, think pasta with a meat sauce or a pizza with plenty of pepperoni and sausage.  This has 16.0% alcohol and the bottle is sealed with a natural cork.  (92 pts)

 

 

2007 Long Shadows Wineries Cabernet Sauvignon Feather – $42.74

This wine is from various Columbia Valley vineyards in Washington, and legendary winemaker Randy Dunn.  The wine is a deep ruby red color.  The mesmerizing nose has cassis, crushed stone minerals, white pepper, licorice, violets, sun baked earth, dried herbs, red raspberries, cedar, baking spices, and a hint of dark bittersweet chocolate.  This has medium body, solid tannins and very good acidity.  On the palate nice fruit, minerals, white pepper and cedar quickly take control with dried herbs, spices and subtle dried earth coming in on the back end.  The finish is long and lingering with nice fruit joined by dried herbs, dark chocolate and a touch of spicy oak.  This is a very classy wine that would cost twice this price if it had a Napa Valley appellation in its name.  This still seems young but tastes great none the less.  This has 14.2% alcohol and the bottle is sealed with a natural cork.  Enjoy this now with some air or enjoy it over the next several years.  (94 pts)

 

 

2012 Miner Family Napa Valley Red Wine – $18.89

This wine was purchased from Last Bottle.  See below for information on them with a link to join the site (with a $10 credit).

 

I was not able to find the grapes or blend used to produce this wine.

 

The wine is a deep ruby red color.  The intoxicating nose has cassis, cherries, dusty minerals, white pepper, violets, licorice, dry earth and licorice.  This has a medium body with soft to moderate tannins and good acidity.  On the palate upfront fruit, minerals and white pepper jump out first with dry earth coming in on the back end.  The finish has decent length with a floral note coming in.  This isn’t one to stash away in your cellar, enjoy this over the next couple of years.  This has nice balance and is very food friendly.  This has 14.2% alcohol and the bottle is sealed with a natural cork.  (88 pts)

 

 

 

I am a big fan of the “Flash Wine Sale” site Last Bottle.  One of the wines in this post, the Miner, was purchased from the site.  This wine was purchased at a big discount.  I highly recommend getting on their e-mail list.  Like most of the flash sale sites, they offer one wine per day until it sells out.  They also have a couple two-day marathons during the year.  Last Bottle is a great site to buy special wines at prices low enough to open any day of the week.

 

If you sign up using this link you will get a $10 credit that can be used on your first purchase.  I will also get a credit if you make a purchase.

 

Other than getting a credit as explained above, I have no financial interest in the site.  After you are on the list, you can also get the same credit by introducing friends to Last Bottle.

 

 

 

Connect with me

You can follow me on Twitter for more wine info, potential food pairings, and an occasional recipe or two.  Be warned, I’m also a sports fan and there are occasional Pittsburgh Penguins, Steelers, and Pirates tweets.  I attended the University of South Carolina, so during football season, there will also be some Gamecock posts.

 

I post a lot more pictures and pairing suggestions on my Instagram account, consider joining me at https://www.instagram.com/cbbrown3/

 

If you like this post, consider joining Cliffs Wine Picks Wine Blog on Facebook and giving me a Like.

 

Cheers!

 

 

This is original to CliffsWinePicks.com.  Copyright 2016 Cliff’s Wine Picks.

All rights reserved.

 

 

 

***** Shameless Self Promotion *****

 

Here is a link to a YouTube video of me getting “coal” from Santa for being named the “Nicest Person in Social Media” in 2012.

 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UOvQTeGR3-c

 

 

 

Breaking news from Klout:

 

 

Cliff’s Wine Picks mentions or other posts

Here are posts, newsletters, blogs or other articles that either mention this site or that I have written:

 

Click here or on the “Cliff’s Wine Picks On Other Sites” link in the top right corner to see links to other sites that either have my reviews, my thoughts or other posts I have written.

 

 

 

Remember to support your local wine store!

 

 

 

* * * * * * * * * * * * *

 

Notes – I use the “official” Cellar Tracker name for the wines.  I use Cellar Tracker to help manage and organize my cellar.  I highly recommend checking it out at www.cellartracker.com.  Loading you existing cellar is a lot less intimidating than it would first appear.  There is a good chance 99% of your wine is already in the system, so you generally only need to enter part of the wine’s name and the system will find it for you.

 

 

Prices noted are the prices I paid at the time of purchase.  I don’t shop around to find the best prices, but always check out the sale and close out items when in a store.  Wines purchased direct from a winery do not include any shipping charges.  None of the prices include the sales tax.

 

 

All wines that were sent to me free of charge to sample will be noted and I will show suggested prices when available.

 

 

 

Cheers!

 

 

2011 Casey Flat Ranch Open Range

2008 Cosa Obra Proprietor’s Blend

2011 Helioterra Pinot Noir Vintner’s Select

2014 Christian Salmon Sancerre Rose Cuvee Vieilles Vignes

2007 Villa Creek High Road James Berry Vineyard

 

 

 

2011 Casey Flat Ranch Open Range – $8.70

Purchased from Last Bottle see info below on joining this wonderful site.

 

This wine is a blend of 68% Syrah, 14% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Petite Sirah, 6% Mourvedre and 1% Merlot.  The grapes for this wine was bought from various North Coast growers combined with some from the estate vineyards.  A total of 2,954 cases were produced.

 

The wine is a deep purple color.  The inviting nose has blackberries, crushed stones, white pepper, cherries, cocoa powder and roasted leafy herbs.  This has medium to full body with soft to moderate tannins and nice acidity.  This is rich and velvety on the palate with crushed berries, cherries, white pepper and crushed stones hitting first followed by dark chocolate.  The finish has decent length with some roasted herbs coming into play.  This isn’t very complex and isn’t made to age but it is very tasty.  This is an easy drinker to enjoy with a week day meal of by itself with friends.  This has a twist off cap and has 14.8% alcohol.  (88 pts)

 

 

2008 Cosa Obra Proprietor’s Blend – $28.80

This is the initial release from this winery.  This wine is a blend of 90% Syrah and 10% Grenache and it is from Sonoma County.  This was aged for 20 months in 50% new French oak.

 

This wine has 15.2% alcohol and the bottle is sealed with a natural cork.

 

Winery’s Story

We celebrate the artistic nature of winemaking by focusing on small vineyard parcels and blending these lots to create wines of seduction, power and grace.

 

The name Cosa Obra is comprised of two words, the word Cosa meaning “thing” and the word Obra “a hand-crafted body of work”.  This is our thing, this is what we do, this is our hand-crafted body of work.

 

Wine is a living thing.  It evolves and changes through time.  In this way, nature tells the story through the soil, weather and time.  High quality boutique wines require and hand-crafted approach and a team of artisans with a vision.  Owner Gregory Hayes, and Consulting Winemaker Kent Humphrey have come together to form a team with over two decades of experience in the wine industry and a passion for unique and outstanding wines.  Our winemaking goal is very simple; make a small amount of exceptional wine from carefully selected artisan vineyards from Sonoma County and share them at a reasonable price.

 

Through these efforts Cosa Obra produces a Proprietary Red Blend and a Sauvignon Blanc crafted from grapes purchased from small growers in the Russian River Valley, Dry Creek Valley and Bennett Valley.  Our limited production wines are released when they are ready to share and enjoy with friends & family.

 

The wine is a deep, dark, maroon color.  This smells like a fall day with blackberries, charcoal, smoked meat, hot asphalt, minerals, licorice, toasty oak, vanilla, white pepper, and a bit of cherry.  This is fairly full bodied with solid, ripe tannins and very nice acidity.  Big, bold, and ripe on the palate but everything holds together in perfect balance.  Nice meaty, spicy, fruit kick in immediately on the palate with just a touch of earthiness in the background.  A fairly long finish completes the package showcasing the fruit and savory elements with a bit of oak peeking in.  A touch of alcohol is present on the nose and the finish but not enough to downgrade the wine.   (93 pts)

 

 

2011 Helioterra Pinot Noir Vintner’s Select – $25.00

This wine has 12.4% alcohol and the bottle is sealed with a natural cork.

 

The wine is a light, bright ruby color.  The enjoyable nose has cherries, white pepper, crushed stones, dry underbrush and wildflowers.  This has a medium body with soft to moderate tannins and very nice acidity.  Cherries, crushed stones and white pepper jump out immediately on the palate with some dried earthy elements coming in on the back end.  The finish has nice length with more minerals and a floral note providing nice depth.  This is a keeper.  (90 pts)

 

 

2014 Christian Salmon Sancerre Rose Cuvee Vieilles Vignes – $17.47

The wine is a bright salmon pink color.  The refreshing nose has cherries, dusty minerals, watermelon, orange blossoms and lime zest.  This is barely medium body with crisp acidity and just a hint of lingering sweetness.  On the palate bright cherries, watermelon and minerals quickly jump out with orange blossoms coming in on the back end.  The finish has good length with mouthwatering lime zest entering the picture.  This is a very nice bottle to accompany a light meal or to sip on its own.  (89 pts)

 

 

2007 Villa Creek High Road James Berry Vineyard – $42.50

This wine is a blend of 45% Syrah, 35% Grenache and 20% Mourvedre.  The wine has 15.1% alcohol and the bottle is sealed with a Stelvin twist off cap.

 

The wine is a deep purple color.  The enticing nose has raspberries, cherry, chalky minerals, charred meat, violets, dark bittersweet chocolate and dried underbrush.  This has a full body with moderate tannins and good acidity.  On the palate the fruit and chalky minerals take control early with dark chocolate and charred meat coming in on the back end.  The finish has great length with dried earth providing additional depth.  This is drinking very nicely right now but it should hold for at least a few more years.  (93 pts)

 

 

I am a big fan of the “Flash Wine Sale” site Last Bottle.  One of the wines in this post was purchased from the site, Casey Flat Ranch Open Range.  This wine was purchased at a big discount.  I highly recommend getting on their e-mail list.  Like most of the flash sale sites, they offer one wine per day until it sells out.  They also have a couple two-day marathons during the year that must be seen to believe.  Last Bottle is a great site to buy special wines at prices low enough to open any day of the week.

 

If you sign up using this link you will get a $10 credit that can be used on your first purchase.  I will also get a credit if you make a purchase.

 

Other than getting a credit as explained above, I have no financial interest in the site.  After you are on the list, you can also get the same credit by introducing friends to Last Bottle.

 

 

 

Connect with me

You can follow me on Twitter for more wine info, potential food pairings, and an occasional recipe or two.  Be warned, I’m also a sports fan and there are occasional Pittsburgh Penguins, Steelers, and Pirates tweets.  I attended the University of South Carolina, so during football season, there will also be some Gamecock posts.

 

If you like this post, consider joining Cliffs Wine Picks Wine Blog on Facebook and giving me a Like.

 

Cheers!

 

 

This is original to CliffsWinePicks.com.  Copyright 2016 Cliff’s Wine Picks.

All rights reserved.

 

 

 

***** Shameless Self Promotion *****

 

Here is a link to a YouTube video of me getting “coal” from Santa for being named the “Nicest Person in Social Media” in 2012.

 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UOvQTeGR3-c

 

 

 

Breaking news from Klout:

 

 

Cliff’s Wine Picks mentions or other posts

Here are posts, newsletters, blogs or other articles that either mention this site or that I have written:

 

Click here or on the “Cliff’s Wine Picks On Other Sites” link in the top right corner to see links to other sites that either have my reviews, my thoughts or other posts I have written.

 

 

 

Remember to support your local wine store!

 

 

 

* * * * * * * * * * * * *

 

Notes – I use the “official” Cellar Tracker name for the wines.  I use Cellar Tracker to help manage and organize my cellar.  I highly recommend checking it out at www.cellartracker.com.  Loading you existing cellar is a lot less intimidating than it would first appear.  There is a good chance 99% of your wine is already in the system, so you generally only need to enter part of the wine’s name and the system will find it for you.

 

 

Prices noted are the prices I paid at the time of purchase.  I don’t shop around to find the best prices, but always check out the sale and close out items when in a store.  Wines purchased direct from a winery do not include any shipping charges.  None of the prices include the sales tax.

 

 

All wines that were sent to me free of charge to sample will be noted and I will show suggested prices when available.

 

 

 

Cheers!

 

 

2015 Bieler Père et Fils Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence Rosé Sabine

2011 Elyse Zinfandel Morisoli Vineyard

2014 St. Amant Winery Zinfandel Old Vines Mohr-Fry Ranch Vineyard

2013 Michael-David Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Freakshow

2013 Klinker Brick Zinfandel Old Vine

2008 Ridge Lytton Springs

 

 

 

2015 Bieler Père et Fils Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence Rosé Sabine – $11.04

I received several bottle of Provence Rosé wines to sample from Wines of Provence, so to get my palate ready, I pulled one from my cellar.  I think Provence produces some of the best Rosé wines in the world.

 

This wine is a blend of 40% Grenache, 25% Syrah, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cinsault and 3% Rolle.  The wine is a light salmon pink color.  The clean and fresh nose has strawberries, cherries, dusty minerals, orange zest and white flowers.  This dry wine has medium body and crist acidity.  On the palate tart strawberries, minerals and cherries quickly provide ice up front flavor with mouth watering orange zest coming in on the back end.  The nice finish adds a pleasing floral note.  This is perfect on a sunny day.  This has 13.0% alcohol and the bottle is sealed with a twist off cap.  (91 pts)

 

 

2011 Elyse Zinfandel Morisoli Vineyard – $16.01

This was another “steal” from Last Bottle wines, my favorite “flash” wine site.  If you use the provided link and sign up, you get an immediate credit and I get a credit if/when you make a purchase.  Check them out, they have awesome deals and their Marathons are always something special.

 

This wine has 14.4% alcohol and the bottle is sealed with a natural cork.

 

The wine is a deep maroon color.  The captivating nose has brambly berries, black peppercorns, dusty minerals, scorched earth, baking spices, dark chocolate, cherries, violets and just a hint of roasted leafy herbs.  This has medium body with moderate tannins and very nice acidity.  On the palate brambly berries, baking spices and dusty minerals immediately jump out with spicy oak, black pepper and cherries coming in later.  The finish has nice length with some subtle earthiness joining a floral note and dark chocolate to add solid depth.  This is a well balanced, food friendly Zinfandel to enjoy over the remainder of the decade.  (91 pts)

 

 

2014 St. Amant Winery Zinfandel Old Vines Mohr-Fry Ranch Vineyard – $16.71

I’ve been a fan of St Amant Winery zinfandels for several years.  It was great visiting with the Stuart Spencer, the winemaker for St Amant as well as Jerry Fry, the owner/grower at this vineyard during a recent trip to Lodi.  Even though I’ve loved past vintages of this wine, I think this is their best effort to date.

 

The wine is a bright ruby red color.  The very appealing nose has brambly berries, dusty minerals, licorice, black pepper, cherries, charred underbrush, violets and a hint of mint.  This has medium to full body with moderate tannins and very nice acidity.  On the palate brambly berries, minerals and black pepper quickly take control with underbrush and cherries slipping through on the back end.  The finish has very good length with a nice floral note and just a hint of mint adding good depth.  This is drinking very nicely now with some air but some cellar time will be rewarded.  This has great balance and is easy to enjoy.  A great effort.  This has 15.5% alcohol, which was a gigantic surprise to me, not a trace shows through any where.  The bottle is sealed with a natural cork.  (93 pts)

 

 

2013 Michael-David Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Freakshow – $15.99

This is another winery I visited during my recent Lodi trip.  This is a first class operation and their wines deserve a try, especially their mid to upper end wines.

 

The wine is a deep maroon color.  The intoxicating nose has cassis, vanilla, eucalyptus, tobacco, wild flowers, dark chocolate and baking spices.  This has a full body with soft to moderate ripe tannins and decent acidity.  On the palate cassis, vanilla and baking spices jump out on the front end with wild flowers and dark chocolate coming in on the back end.  The finish has nice length with a hint of eucalyptus coming through.  Not a lot of complexity or subtlety but very tasty.  This has 14.5% alcohol and the bottle is sealed with a natural cork.  (88 pts)

 

 

2013 Klinker Brick Zinfandel Old Vine – $13.78

We didn’t get the opportunity to visit Klinker Brick on the Lodi trip, but their full throttle zins have always been welcomed in my house.

 

The wine is a deep purple color.  The big and bold nose has brambly berries, dark chocolate, black peppercorns, dry earth, wild flowers and baking spices.  This has a full body with soft to moderate ripe tannins and decent acidity.  Crushed berries, baking spices and dark chocolate take control of the palate on the front end with dry earth and black pepper coming in later.  The finish has nice length with berries, pepper and spice carrying the load.  This has 15.8% alcohol and the bottle is sealed with a natural cork.  (89 pts)

 

 

2008 Ridge Lytton Springs – $29.99

Ridge is one of the torch-bearers for consistently good wines every vintage.  My favorites are their two blends, this one and Geyserville.  The two seem to alternate which is my favorite every vintage.  Either one would be a welcome addition to my dinner table.

 

This wine is a blend of 74% Zinfandel, 21% Petite Sirah and 5% Carignane.  The wine is a deep garnet color.  The incredible nose is full of brambly berries, minerals, vanilla, black peppercorns, cherries, plums, dry earth, underbrush, dead wood embers and violets.  This has medium to full body with moderate tannins and nice acidity.  On the plush palate the brambly berries, black peppercorns and minerals take control early with vanilla, cherries and plums coming in later.  The finish has great length with wood embers, subtle earthiness and a nice floral note seeming to linger forever.  This tastes fabulous now and should hold nicely for at least a few more years.  This wine has greatly improved over the last couple of years.  The wine has 14.4% alcohol and the bottle is sealed with a natural cork.  (94 pts)

 

 

 

I am a big fan of the “Flash Wine Sale” site Last Bottle.  One of the wines in this post was purchased from the site, the Elyse Morisoli Zinfandel.  This wine was purchased at a big discount.  I highly recommend getting on their e-mail list.  Like most of the flash sale sites, they offer one wine per day until it sells out.  They also have a couple two-day marathons during the year that can’t be missed.  Last Bottle is a great site to buy special wines at prices low enough to open any day of the week.

 

If you sign up using this link you will get a $10 credit that can be used on your first purchase.  I will also get a credit if/when you make a purchase.

 

Other than getting a credit as explained above, I have no financial interest in the site.  After you are on the list, you can also get the same credit by introducing friends to Last Bottle.

 

 

 

Connect with me

You can follow me on Twitter for more wine info, potential food pairings, and an occasional recipe or two.  Be warned, I’m also a sports fan and there are occasional Pittsburgh Penguins, Steelers, and Pirates tweets.  I attended the University of South Carolina, so during football season, there will also be some Gamecock posts.

 

If you like this post, consider joining Cliffs Wine Picks Wine Blog on Facebook and giving me a Like.

 

Cheers!

 

 

This is original to CliffsWinePicks.com.  Copyright 2016 Cliff’s Wine Picks.

All rights reserved.

 

 

 

***** Shameless Self Promotion *****

 

Here is a link to a YouTube video of me getting “coal” from Santa for being named the “Nicest Person in Social Media” in 2012.

 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UOvQTeGR3-c

 

 

 

Breaking news from Klout:

 

 

Cliff’s Wine Picks mentions or other posts

Here are posts, newsletters, blogs or other articles that either mention this site or that I have written:

 

Click here or on the “Cliff’s Wine Picks On Other Sites” link in the top right corner to see links to other sites that either have my reviews, my thoughts or other posts I have written.

 

 

 

Remember to support your local wine store!

 

 

 

* * * * * * * * * * * * *

 

Notes – I use the “official” Cellar Tracker name for the wines.  I use Cellar Tracker to help manage and organize my cellar.  I highly recommend checking it out at www.cellartracker.com.  Loading you existing cellar is a lot less intimidating than it would first appear.  There is a good chance 99% of your wine is already in the system, so you generally only need to enter part of the wine’s name and the system will find it for you.

 

 

Prices noted are the prices I paid at the time of purchase.  I don’t shop around to find the best prices, but always check out the sale and close out items when in a store.  Wines purchased direct from a winery do not include any shipping charges.  None of the prices include the sales tax.

 

 

All wines that were sent to me free of charge to sample will be noted and I will show suggested prices when available.

 

 

 

Cheers!

 

 

 

2012 Louis Latour Chassagne-Montrachet Rouge

2014 Château Martinat Blanc Côtes de Bourg

2013 Michael-David Vineyards Syrah 6th Sense

2012 Murrieta’s Well The Spur

2009 Anthill Farms Syrah Peters Vineyard

2012 Sandler Wine Company Pinot Noir Keefer Ranch

 

 

 

2012 Louis Latour Chassagne-Montrachet Rouge – $41.99

This wine comes from vines with an average age of 30 years planted in chalk and clay soil.  The hand-picked grapes are fermented in traditional open vats and aged 10 to 12 months in French oak barrels, 35% new.

 

The wine is a light to medium ruby red color.  The inviting nose has black cherries, baking spices, earthy underbrush, dusty minerals and dried wildflowers.  This has medium body with soft to moderate tannins and very nice acidity.  On the palate cherries, minerals and baking spices come through on the front end with earthy underbrush coming in later.  The finish has good length with a nice dried floral note entering the picture.  This is drinking very nicely with a bit of air and should last in the cellar for several years.  This has 13.5% alcohol and the bottle is sealed with a natural cork.  (92 pts)

 

 

2014 Château Martinat Blanc Côtes de Bourg – $19.80

This is a blend of 80% Sauvignon Blanc and 20% Sauvignon Gris from the commune of Teuillac.  The vines have an average age of 20 years.  The total production was a meager 5,000 bottles.

 

The wine is a very light yellow color with a slight green tint.  The fresh and appealing nose has apples, lemon zest, a spritz of grapefruit, crushed stones and white flowers.  This is barely medium body with great acidity and seems to be totally dry.  Tart apples, lemon zest and crushed stones greet the palate on the front end with grapefruit coming in on the backend.  The long finish leaves your mouth watering for another sip.  A superb bottle of wine.  (92 pts)  This has 13.5% alcohol and the bottle is sealed with a natural cork.

 

 

2013 Michael-David Vineyards Syrah 6th Sense – $12.99

This wine is mostly Syrah with a touch of Petite Sirah.  The winery likes to add a bit of Petite Sirah to most of their wines.  I was jokingly told they would add it to their Chardonnay if they could.  This wine was aged 12 months in French oak barrels.

 

From the winery:

The Phillips brothers planted one of the first Syrah vineyards in California in 1982. With Michael’s son Kevin continuing the Phillips grape growing tradition into the 6th generation, this Syrah vineyard was one of the first he tended to as our Vineyard Manager. If you turn the bottle around you will see Kevin’s eye looking out from the inside of the bottle, making sure the wine is being enjoyed!

 

The wine is a deep purple color.  The intoxicating nose has blackberries, blueberries, asphalt, dark chocolate, fresh ground espresso beans, dry underbrush, licorice, violets and black pepper.  This has a full body with moderate ripe tannins and nice acidity.  This has massive berries and ground espresso beans on the front end with underbrush, dark chocolate and a big floral note coming in on the back end.  The finish is long and lingering with black pepper coming into play.  Not a lot of subtlety here but the big fruit and nice structure makes for a worthy companion for something hot off the grill.  This has 15.0% alcohol and the bottle is sealed with a natural cork.  This is a steal for the price.  (89 pts)

 

 

2012 Murrieta’s Well The Spur – $16.99

For this wine, each varietal was fermented separately in upright stainless steel tanks with twice a day pump over.  Each varietal is then aged for 14 months in a mix of American, French, Eastern European and neutral barrels before being blended into the final product.

 

This is a blend of 33% Petite Sirah, 31% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Petit Verdot, 4% Malbec and 3% Merlot from the Livermore Valley.  The wine is a medium ruby color.  The inviting nose has blackberries, cherries, baking spices, forest floor, dark roast coffee, violets and vanilla.  This has medium to full body with moderate tannins and nice acidity.  On the palate berries, cherries and baking spices jump out on the front end with nice earthiness and dark roast coffee coming in later.  The finish has nice length with a nice floral note entering the picture.  This has 13.5% alcohol and the bottle is sealed with a twist off cap.  (89 pts)

 

 

2009 Anthill Farms Syrah Peters Vineyard – $28.00

From the winery:

Randy Peters and his father-in-law, Tom Mukaida, farm this vineyard outside of Sebastopol in western Sonoma County. The southern slopes of these hills form the northern edge of the Petaluma Gap, which rushes cool, marine air from the Pacific Ocean inland. These Syrah and Viognier vines, which Randy planted for us just a few years ago, occupy less than an acre at the lowest edge of this cool, foggy vineyard.

 

Even though Anthill Farms is more well known for their Pinot Noir wines, I love their cool-climate Syrahs.

 

The wine is a deep, dark maroon color.  The stimulating nose has blackberries, blueberries, white pepper, scorched earth, violets, roasted meat and crushed stone minerals.  This has medium body with moderate to solid tannins and very good acidity.  On the palate nice fruit, white pepper and minerals quickly jump out with scorched earth, meat and violets coming through on the back end.  The finish has very good length with fruit, minerals, dry earth and white pepper seeming to hang on forever.  This still tastes very young, additional cellar time will be rewarded.  This wouldn’t be too out of place in a tasting of higher end Northern Rhone wines.  This has 13.5% alcohol and the bottle is sealed with a natural cork.  (93 pts)

 

 

2012 Sandler Wine Company Pinot Noir Keefer Ranch – $25.00

This wine is 100% destemmed Pinot Noir that was aged 11 months in used French oak.

 

The wine is a nice ruby red color.  The sexy nose has cherries, earthy underbrush, warm baking spices, raspberries, dusty minerals, dried herbs and cocoa powder.  This has medium body with soft to moderate tanins and very good acidity.  On the palate nice fruit, spice and earthiness jump out on the front end with minerals coming in later.  The finish has good length with a hint of dried herbs providing depth.  This is a well balanced Pinot that is in a nice drinking window.  This will provide drinking pleasure for at least a few more years.  Very tasty stuff!  This has 14.4% alcohol and the bottle is sealed with an agglomerated cork.  (92 pts)

 

 

I am a big fan of the “Flash Wine Sale” site Last Bottle.  I highly recommend getting on their e-mail list.  Like most of the flash sale sites, they offer one wine per day until it sells out.  They also have a couple two-day marathons during the year.  Last Bottle is a great site to buy special wines at prices low enough to open any day of the week.

 

If you sign up using this link you will get a $10 credit that can be used on your first purchase.  I will also get a credit if you make a purchase.

 

Other than getting a credit as explained above, I have no financial interest in the site.  After you are on the list, you can also get the same credit by introducing friends to Last Bottle.

 

 

 

Connect with me

You can follow me on Twitter for more wine info, potential food pairings, and an occasional recipe or two.  Be warned, I’m also a sports fan and there are occasional Pittsburgh Penguins, Steelers, and Pirates tweets.  I attended the University of South Carolina, so during football season, there will also be some Gamecock posts.

 

If you like this post, consider joining Cliffs Wine Picks Wine Blog on Facebook and giving me a Like.

 

I post a lot more pictures and pairing suggestions on my Instagram account, consider joining me at https://www.instagram.com/cbbrown3/

 

Cheers!

 

 

This is original to CliffsWinePicks.com.  Copyright 2016 Cliff’s Wine Picks.

All rights reserved.

 

 

 

***** Shameless Self Promotion *****

 

Here is a link to a YouTube video of me getting “coal” from Santa for being named the “Nicest Person in Social Media” in 2012.

 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UOvQTeGR3-c

 

 

 

Breaking news from Klout:

 

 

Cliff’s Wine Picks mentions or other posts

Here are posts, newsletters, blogs or other articles that either mention this site or that I have written:

 

Click here or on the “Cliff’s Wine Picks On Other Sites” link in the top right corner to see links to other sites that either have my reviews, my thoughts or other posts I have written.

 

 

 

Remember to support your local wine store!

 

 

 

* * * * * * * * * * * * *

 

Notes – I use the “official” Cellar Tracker name for the wines.  I use Cellar Tracker to help manage and organize my cellar.  I highly recommend checking it out at www.cellartracker.com.  Loading you existing cellar is a lot less intimidating than it would first appear.  There is a good chance 99% of your wine is already in the system, so you generally only need to enter part of the wine’s name and the system will find it for you.

 

 

Prices noted are the prices I paid at the time of purchase.  I don’t shop around to find the best prices, but always check out the sale and close out items when in a store.  Wines purchased direct from a winery do not include any shipping charges.  None of the prices include the sales tax.

 

 

All wines that were sent to me free of charge to sample will be noted and I will show suggested prices when available.

 

 

 

Cheers!

 

 

 

Bella Grace Brut Sparkling Wine

2013 Bella Grace Montagñaro

2012 BellaGrace Vineyards Grenache

2012 Bella Grace Petite Sirah Reserve

2013 Bella Grace Zinfandel

 

 

 

 

 

This post highlights a few wines from Bella Grace Vineyards from California’s Amador County.  I am noting the Suggested Retail Price of the wines even though only the Montagñaro was a sample, the other bottles were purchased by me.  Some of the vintages I reviewed may no longer be available.

 

The winery was named for the owner’s two grandmother’s, Bella and Grace.

 

Much more information on the winery is available on their website by clicking here.

 

 

Bella Grace Brut Sparkling Wine – SRP $24

This wine is from Mendocino County and was bottled at Roederrer Estates.  It is a blend of 73% Chardonnay and 27% Pinot Noir.  This wine has 12.5% alcohol.

 

The wine is a light golden straw color with abundant pinpoint sized bubbles.  The fresh smelling nose has apples, light toast, lemon curd, lime zest, chalky minerals and white flowers.  This is light and crisp on the palate with tart lemon, creamy apples, minerals and closing lime zest.  The finish has nice length with mouthwatering citrus prompting you to reach for another sip.  (90 pts)

 

 

2013 Bella Grace Montagñaro – SRP $23

This unique Amador County wine is a blend of 50% Zinfandel and 50% Barbera.  This wine has 14.5% alcohol.  This wine was a “sample” added to a case I purchased from the winery.

 

The wine is a medium garnet color.  The exotic nose has blackberries, scorched earth, black cherries, dusty minerals, licorice, white pepper, dried violets and a hint of eucalyptus.  This has medium body with moderate tannins and good acidity.  On the palate dusty, earthy fruit and spice jump out quickly with white pepper and dried flowers coming in on the back end.  The finish has nice length with the savory elements in the front with fruit supplying nice background sweetness.  This intriguing blend has very nice balance.  (91 pts)

 

 

2012 Bella Grace Vineyards Grenache – SRP $30

The wine is a light garnet red color.  The inviting nose has cherries, white pepper, dusty minerals, licorice, baking spices, scorched earth and dried herbs.  This has medium body with moderate to solid tannins and very nice acidity.  On the palate mineral laden cherries, white pepper and baking spices grab hold immediately with scorched earth coming in on the back end.  The finish has decent length with dried herbs, white pepper and minerals pushing the fruit into the background…in a good way.  I think this will improve with a bit of cellar time but it’s a worthy companion today with something hot and juicy off the grill.  (90 pts)

 

 

2012 Bella Grace Petite Sirah Reserve – $33.00

This wine uses grapes from the estate’s BellaGrace Vineyard in Amador County.  The wine has 13.8% alcohol.

The wine is a deep maroon color.  The exuberant nose has blackberries, dusty minerals, cocoa powder, iron shavings, black pepper, scorched earth, dried leafy herbs, road tar, warm baking spices and dried violets.  This has medium body with solid tannins and very nice acidity.  On the palate blackberries, dusty minerals, cocoa powder and black pepper grab hold on the front end, slowly allowing scorched earth and dried herbs to slip through.  The finish has good length with iron shavings and baking spices entering the picture adding nice complexity and depth.  This is young, I’ll hold off a few years before opening another bottle.  The additional cellar time will be rewarded.  (91 pts)

 

 

2013 Bella Grace Zinfandel – $20.00

This wine has 14.3% alcohol and the bottle is sealed with a twist off cap.

 

The wine is a deep garnet color.  The inviting nose has brambly berries, plums, stony minerals, scorched earth, baking spices, white pepper, cherries and dried flowers.  This has medium body with moderate tannins and good acidity.  Berries, plums and minerals coat the palate on the front end with white pepper and scorched earth coming in on the back end.  The finish has nice length with a dried floral note and a touch of dark chocolate adding nice depth.  This is on the young side but very tasty and easy to enjoy.  This is a winery that deserves some attention.  (90 pts)

 

 

Conclusion

I have never been disappointed by a Bella Grace wine.  They have been consistently balanced and very tasty.  I highly recommend checking them out, I’m glad I did.

 

 

Connect with me

You can follow me on Twitter for more wine info, potential food pairings, and an occasional recipe or two.  Be warned, I’m also a sports fan and there are occasional Pittsburgh Penguins, Steelers, and Pirates tweets.  I attended the University of South Carolina, so during football season, there will also be some Gamecock posts.

 

If you like this post, consider joining Cliffs Wine Picks Wine Blog on Facebook and giving me a Like.

 

Cheers!

 

 

This is original to CliffsWinePicks.com.  Copyright 2016 Cliff’s Wine Picks.

All rights reserved.

 

 

 

***** Shameless Self Promotion *****

 

Here is a link to a YouTube video of me getting “coal” from Santa for being named the “Nicest Person in Social Media” in 2012.

 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UOvQTeGR3-c

 

 

 

Breaking news from Klout:

 

 

Cliff’s Wine Picks mentions or other posts

Here are posts, newsletters, blogs or other articles that either mention this site or that I have written:

 

Click here or on the “Cliff’s Wine Picks On Other Sites” link in the top right corner to see links to other sites that either have my reviews, my thoughts or other posts I have written.

 

 

 

Remember to support your local wine store!

 

 

 

* * * * * * * * * * * * *

 

Notes – I use the “official” Cellar Tracker name for the wines.  I use Cellar Tracker to help manage and organize my cellar.  I highly recommend checking it out at www.cellartracker.com.  Loading you existing cellar is a lot less intimidating than it would first appear.  There is a good chance 99% of your wine is already in the system, so you generally only need to enter part of the wine’s name and the system will find it for you.

 

 

Prices noted are the prices I paid at the time of purchase.  I don’t shop around to find the best prices, but always check out the sale and close out items when in a store.  Wines purchased direct from a winery do not include any shipping charges.  None of the prices include the sales tax.

 

 

All wines that were sent to me free of charge to sample will be noted and I will show suggested prices when available.

 

 

 

Cheers!

 

 

 

 

2014 Mastro Scheidt Sangiovese

2011 Loring Wine Company Pinot Noir Santa Lucia Highlands

2012 Casey Flat Ranch Open Range

2013 Charles Krug Winery (Peter Mondavi Family) Cabernet Sauvignon

2012 Robert Hunter Pinot Noir Reserve Hunter Farms

2010 Jaffe Estate Cabernet Sauvignon Metamorphosis

2013 Turley Zinfandel Juvenile

2013 Bogle Vineyards Phantom

2010 Carlisle The Derivative White

2009 Soter Pinot Noir Mineral Springs

 

 

 

2014 Mastro Scheidt Sangiovese – $14.71

This wine was purchased from Last Bottle at a big discount so the price listed is not a usual price.  Information on Last Bottle is at the end of this post.

 

This wine was aged 10 months in 30% new American oak and 70% neutral French oak.

 

According to the winery:

2013 was a drought year in all of Sonoma County and California, with warm, consistent sunshine and zero precipitation for nearly the entire growing season.  Yields looked good, similar to 2012 … until August arrived. The consistently dry weather began to stress the vines a bit too much,  specially in the dry farmed vineyards, resulting in lower yields in many vineyards. Meticulous pre-sorting in each and every vineyard was crucial in 2013. We harvested Sangiovese in the Lake Block Vineyard on September 23. Overall, 2013 yielded rich concentration of flavor, color and vineyard source.

 

This is from Sonoma County’s Dry Creek Valley.  The wine is a bright ruby red color.  The appealing nose has cherries, raspberries, dry underbrush, dusty minerals, dried violets, baking spices and a hint of cedar.  This has medium body with good acidity and soft tannins.  On the palate bright cherries, raspberries and minerals grab hold on the front end with underbrush and baking spices coming in later.  The finish has very good length with a dried floral note and a touch of cedar providing depth.  This is a very tasty, food friendly alternative to a Chianti Riserva for pizza or pasta.  This has 13.9% alcohol and the bottle is sealed with a natural cork.

 

 

2011 Loring Wine Company Pinot Noir Santa Lucia Highlands – $24.92

The Loring appellation Pinots are our “go to” wines on week nights.  The wines offer outstanding quality for the price.

 

The wine is a medium to deep ruby color.  The inviting nose has black cherries, scorched earth, dusty minerals, wild flowers, blackberries, vanilla, roasted leafy herbs and warm baking spices.  This has medium to full body with soft to moderate ripe tannins and very nice acidity.  This is much lighter on the palate then the nose would lead you to expect.  Nice bright fruit and dried earth quickly take control on the palate with spices, minerals and vanilla coming in on the back end.  The long finish showcases tart cherries, vanilla and wild flower.  This is a bargain at the mailing list price of under $25.  The wine has 14.7% alcohol and the bottle is sealed with a twist off cap.  (90 pts)

 

 

2012 Casey Flat Ranch Open Range – $9.74

This wine was purchased from Last Bottle at a big discount so the price listed is not a usual price.  Information on Last Bottle is at the end of this post.

 

This is a house favorite when we want “something different”.

 

This is a blend of 52% Syrah, 33% Petite Sirah, 8% Merlot, 5% Mourvedre and 2% Cabernet Franc.  The wine is a dark ruby to maroon color.  The appealing nose has crushed berries, licorice, black peppercorns, dried wild flowers, dusty minerals, fresh ground espresso beans and dry earth.  This has medium to full body with moderate tannins and good acidity.  On the palate berries, black pepper and minerals pop out first with dry earth and a nice dried floral note coming in on the back end.  The finish has nice length with espresso beans providing depth.  This is a nice, easy drinking everyday wine, especially at the price.  I’d enjoy this one over the next 5 or 6 years.  (89 pts)  This has 14.8% alcohol and the bottle is sealed with a twist off cap.

 

 

2013 Charles Krug Winery (Peter Mondavi Family) Cabernet Sauvignon – $17.99

This Napa Valley wine icon celebrated their 150th anniversary a few years ago.  To me, the quality of their wines have greatly improved over the last few years.

 

This wine is a blend of 84% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Merlot, 6% Petit Verdot and 2% Cabernet Franc that was aged 17 months in French and American oak.  The wine is a deep violet color.  The inviting nose has cassis, dried herbs, tobacco, cedar, baking spices, scorched earth and wild flowers.  This has medium to full body with moderate tannins and good acidity.  Cassis, dried herbs and cedar take control of the palate on the front end with baking spices and dried earth coming in later.  The finish has nice length with a nice floral note providing depth.  This is drinking very nicely now with some air but some cellar time will be rewarded.  (91 pts)  This has 14.7% alcohol and the bottle is sealed with a natural cork.

 

 

2012 Robert Hunter Pinot Noir Reserve Hunter Farms – $14.75

This wine was purchased from Last Bottle at a big discount so the price listed is not a usual price.  Information on Last Bottle is at the end of this post.

 

This wine is a medium ruby red color.  The sexy nose has cherries, warm baking spices, damp earth, roasted leafy herbs, dusty minerals and dried wild flowers.  This has medium body with soft tannins and good acidity.  On the palate tart cherries, baking spices and damp earth jump out on the front end with roasted herbs and minerals coming in on the back end.  The finish has nice length with a nice dried floral note adding some depth.  This is a tasty wine to drink over the next couple of years.  (90 pts)  This has 13.7% alcohol and the bottle is sealed with a natural cork.

 

 

2010 Jaffe Estate Cabernet Sauvignon Metamorphosis – $40.82

This wine was purchased from Last Bottle at a big discount so the price listed is not a usual price.  Information on Last Bottle is at the end of this post.

 

I’ve been a big fan of Jaffe Estate for a few years.  I had not heard of the winery until they sent me a couple samples a couple years ago.  I like the wines enough that I now keep multiple vintages of their wines in my cellar.

 

The wine is a violet red color.  The appealing nose has cassis, roasted leafy herbs, baking spices, tobacco, dusty minerals, dark chocolate, vanilla and violets.  This has medium to full body with moderate tannins and nice acidity.  On the palate cassis, tart cherries, roasted herbs and dusty minerals quickly take control with dark chocolate coming in later.  The finish has nice length with vanilla and a floral note as well as a slight green herbal note.  This tastes very nice with a piece of hot and juicy meat.  I’m not sure about the aging potential for this wine, I’d probably advise drinking this one over the next few years.  (90 pts)  This has 14.9% alcohol and the bottle is sealed with a natural cork.

 

 

2013 Turley Zinfandel Juvenile – $20.00

To me, this is one of the biggest bargains out there.  Other than Lodi, where can you get a consistently top quality Zinfandel for $20?

 

The wine is a deep maroon color.  The inviting nose has brambly berries, dark chocolate, black peppercorns, baking spices and black cherries.  This has a full body with moderate ripe tannins and nice acidity.  On the palate waves of berries and black cherries with baking spices take over immediately with black pepper coming in later.  The finish has great length with some dark chocolate providing extra depth.  This is a big and rich style of zin with enough structure to hold everything together.  I wouldn’t sit on this one for more than a couple of years.  This is a QPR superstar for $20.  This has 15.5% alcohol and the bottle is sealed with a natural cork.  (92 pts)

 

 

2013 Bogle Vineyards Phantom – $16.99

This is another “red blend” that is a palate-pleaser when you want to try “something different”.

 

This is a blend of 39% Zinfandel, 38% Petite Sirah and 23% Cabernet Sauvignon from vineyards in Lodi, Clarksburg and Amador.  The wine is a dark ruby color.  The outgoing nose has crushed berries, mint, cherries, baking spices, white pepper, toasty oak and dried violets.  This has a full body with moderate ripe tannins and decent acidity.  Waves of fruit and spice immediately grabs your attention on the palate with white pepper and a touch of mint coming in later.  The finish has nice length with the fruit and spice joined by toasty oak.  This is a take no prisoner style of wine loaded with flavor.  (88 pts) This has 14.5% alcohol and the bottle is sealed with a natural cork.

 

 

2010 Carlisle The Derivative White – $24.50

I love the Zinfandels, Syrahs and red blends that Mike Officer has produced over the last several years.  When this white wine was offered, I had to grab a few bottles.

 

This is a blend of 76% Semillon and 24% Muscadelle from vines planted between 1886 and 1920.  The wine is a bright golden yellow color.  The intriguing nose has pears, mint, crushed stone minerals, toast, lemon zest, orange blossoms and a touch of baking spice.  This has medium body with crisp acidity and seems to be totally dry.  On the palate juicy pears, minerals and orange blossoms quickly grab hold slowly allowing mint and lemon zest to grab hold on the back end.  The finish has good length with nice fruit and spice slowly giving way to mouthwatering lemon zest.  I’d be hard pressed to give a drinking window since Semillon can improve with extended aging.  If it was me, I’d probably open this one over the next couple of years and err on the side of caution..  (91 pts)  This has 13.8% alcohol and the bottle is sealed with a natural cork.

 

 

2009 Soter Pinot Noir Mineral Springs – $45.00

One of my go-to Oregon Pinot Noirs for a nice, special occasion, dinner.

 

The wine is a touch lighter than medium ruby red.  The sexy nose has plums, blackberries, warm baking spices, chalky minerals, roasted leafy herbs, wild flowers, dry underbrush and a touch of white pepper.  This has medium body with soft to moderate ripe tannins and very nice acidity.  On the palate nice fruit, baking spices and minerals grab your attention on the front end with underbrush and wild flowers coming in later.  The finish has great length with roasted herbs providing extra depth and interest.  This is drinking very nicely right now but it will last in your cellar for a few more years.  A great effort.  (94 pts) This has 14.1% alcohol and the bottle is sealed with a natural cork.

 

 

 

I am a big fan of the “Flash Wine Sale” site Last Bottle.  Four of the wines in this post were purchased from the site, Mastro Scheidt Sangiovese, Casey Flat Ranch Open Range, Robert Hunter Pinot Noir Reserve Hunter Farms and Jaffe Estate Cabernet Sauvignon Metamorphosis.  All of these wines were purchased at a big discount.  I highly recommend getting on their e-mail list.  Like most of the flash sale sites, they offer one wine per day until it sells out.  They also have a couple two-day marathons during the year.  Last Bottle is a great site to buy special wines at prices low enough to open any day of the week.

 

If you sign up using this link you will get a $10 credit that can be used on your first purchase.  I will also get a credit if you make a purchase.

 

Other than getting a credit as explained above, I have no financial interest in the site.  After you are on the list, you can also get the same credit by introducing friends to Last Bottle.

 

 

 

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You can follow me on Twitter for more wine info, potential food pairings, and an occasional recipe or two.  Be warned, I’m also a sports fan and there are occasional Pittsburgh Penguins, Steelers, and Pirates tweets.  I attended the University of South Carolina, so during football season, there will also be some Gamecock posts.

 

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Cheers!

 

 

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http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UOvQTeGR3-c

 

 

 

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Notes – I use the “official” Cellar Tracker name for the wines.  I use Cellar Tracker to help manage and organize my cellar.  I highly recommend checking it out at www.cellartracker.com.  Loading you existing cellar is a lot less intimidating than it would first appear.  There is a good chance 99% of your wine is already in the system, so you generally only need to enter part of the wine’s name and the system will find it for you.

 

 

Prices noted are the prices I paid at the time of purchase.  I don’t shop around to find the best prices, but always check out the sale and close out items when in a store.  Wines purchased direct from a winery do not include any shipping charges.  None of the prices include the sales tax.

 

 

All wines that were sent to me free of charge to sample will be noted and I will show suggested prices when available.

 

 

 

Cheers!