Archive for the 'California' Category



2014 St. Francis Merlot

st-francis-merlotOur founder Joe Martin was the first grower to plant Merlot in Sonoma Valley. Merlot thrives in this picturesque valley where warm days are cooled by evening breezes and fog from the Pacific Ocean. The grapes in our Sonoma Valley Merlot come from our Certified Sustainable Estate Behler and Wild Oak vineyards, as well as from top growers throughout the area. Each carefully selected vineyard contributes distinctive and individual qualities to the finished wine.

From the Wine Maker – “This polished Merlot shows off layered aromas and flavors of espresso, red cherry and chocolate that finish with a touch of savory spices. Medium-to-full bodied with good structure and a long, lingering finish.”

This medium-bodied wine is a perfect companion to oven-roasted turkey, Italian sausage, braised short ribs and mild to medium hard cheeses like Port Salut, Edam and Gouda.

Rating:

This wine was given a 90 point rating by Wine Spectator.

 

2016 B Side Cabernet Sauvignon

Side-B-Cabernet-SauvignonB Side wines tell the story of the flip-side of Napa Valley. Nestled in rural areas and rolling hills along the eastern edge of the valley, these vineyards are just a few miles from the glamorous, high-priced wineries featured along Highway 29. The eastern side of Napa Valley includes areas such as Pope Valley, Chiles Valley, Wooden Valley, Stags Leap District and lower Calistoga. Vines in these areas are grown in thin volcanic soils, which yield smaller, more concentrated fruit.

From the winemaker – “The B Side Cabernet Sauvignon is a deeply concentrated, inky color in the glass. Vibrant aromas of blackberry compote, mocha, vanilla, sweet leather and lavender are pronounced on the nose. The fleshy, fruit-forward palate is packed with flavor including juicy fruit, cassis, melted chocolate and hints of Blackstrap molasses. The deep, dark fruit note is a solid line throughout and comes from the beginning all the way to the end of the wine. The tasty French oak frames the wine with ripe, round tannins underpinning the overall structure. The wine is aged for 14 months with 40% of the blend in new French oak barrels (Francois Frere & Radoux) while the remaining balance is in seasoned French oak. This wine is deep and brooding with layers of aromas and flavors, well-structured with smooth tannins and a noticeably, lengthy finish.”

Enjoy on its own or pair with slow-roasted beef brisket, blackened swordfish atop herbed couscous, or a wild mushroom tart with chevre topping.

Rating:

This wine was previously given a 81 point rating by Wine Spectator.

 

2015 Stags Leap Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc

Stags-Leap-Napa-Valley-Sauvignon-BlancStag’s Leap Wine Cellars began making Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc in the early 1980s. We combine estate-grown grapes with those purchased from a handful of skilled, fastidious farmers to create a wine that is complex, yet crisp and refreshing, and versatile with a wide range of dishes and occasions – from patio aperitif to elegant dinner party.

From the winemaker – “Inviting aromas of orange blossom, tangerine and a hint of grass. On the palate, the wine has bright citrus flavors with lingering fruit on the finish. The wine is refreshing with a nice weight and texture and the crisp acidity makes it a perfect food wine.”

Grilled oysters with mignonette sauce, grilled prosciutto-wrapped shrimp, fresh fish ceviche with cilantro

Rating:

This wine was given a 92 point rating by Wine Enthusiast.

 

2016 Charles Krug St. Helena Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc

charles-krug-st-helena-napa-valley-sauvignon-blancFrom the winemaker – “Delightful aromas of white peach and honeydew melon commingle with citrus and white grapefruit flavors that burst forth in this refreshing, crisp and balanced wine. To achieve the crisp minerality and bright acidity in the wine, we harvest at night for optimal fruit freshness that ensures our signature Sauvignon Blanc style.

The 2016 growing season started off two weeks late compliments of a cool spring coupled with late rains followed by a an even cooler summer. Brief and inconsequential heat spikes resulted in late ripening reds. Early winter rains threatened a few lingering blocks of cabernet in late October. Once the fruit started to come in, half of the harvest was picked in less than a two-week period. Overall the crop was lighter by 25% in some cases. In spite of the challenges, the harvest provided quality, concentrated fruit that will translate into some memorable wines.”

Rating:

This wine was given a 88 point rating by Wine Spectator.

 

2015 Bogle Essential Red

From the Wine Maker – “Bogle winemakers have brought together four distinct varietals to create something memorable and delicious…the 2015 Essential Red. This compelling blend of Old Vine Zinfandel, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petite Sirah has created a ripe and mouthfilling wine.  Richly textured fruit of dark berries and black plums is nuanced by the flavors of juniper and dried herbs. The juicy, jammy fruit is framed with spicy cedar and hints of pipe tobacco and cocoa as the American oak lingers through the aging of 12 long months.  Luscious from start to finish, this wine is easy to drink, but impossible to forget.  Share it with your friends tonight.”

Best served with a Barbecue Burger, Blue Cheese and Dark Chocolate Macarons.

Rating:

This wine has not been rated.

 

2016 Line 39 Sauvignon Blanc

Line-39-Sauvignon-BlancLine 39 offers consumers a selection of varietals from California. Line 39 refers to the latitude where many of the great wine growing regions of the world are found. California continues to impress critics with ideal growing conditions and soil compositions that allow for excellent Sauvignon Blanc. Line 39 wines are versatile and sophisticated, providing a wonderful complement to a variety of foods.

From the winemaker – “Our Sauvignon Blanc opens with vibrant aromas of grapefruit and lemon with subtle grassy characters and a crisp clean finish. This wine is a fine accompaniment to shellfish or on its own after a long day.

Rating:

This wine was previously given a 84 point rating by Wine Spectator.

 

2015 Apothic Red Winemaker’s Blend

apothic-redApothic is a true original. Named for a mysterious place, Apotheca, where vintners stored their most coveted concoctions in 13th century Europe, Apothic blends fuse Old World intrigue with modern sophistication. Winemaker Boyd Morrison lets the character and flavor of each varietal guide the shape of his wines. Apothic offers a portfolio of enchanting blends that are bold in style and taste.

From the winemaker – “In 2015, Apothic Red was crafted from a blend of primarily Zinfandel, Syrah, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. These varieties come together seamlessly for a fruit-driven wine with fresh dark fruit flavors and jammy red fruit notes. The Zinfandel offers bold dark fruit flavors and spicy notes, complemented by the soft mouthfeel of Merlot. The Syrah adds layers of smooth blueberry, while the Cabernet Sauvignon delivers ripe fruit flavors and a firm structure. This decadent blend is framed by hints of oak, vanilla, and mocha.

This bold vintage should be served with wild game meats like; squab, pigeon, dove, pheasant, venison (deer), buffalo, boar and ostrich. Hard, savory cheeses like Parmigiano, Romano and Cheddar.

Rating:

This wine has not been rated.

 

2017 Angeline Sonoma County Sauvignon Blanc

angeline-sonoma-county-sauvignon-blancAlthough Sonoma County appears as just a small puzzle piece in the northern reaches of the state, its unique geography, from its coastal mountain ranges and gaps, to its inland valleys makes for an incredibly diverse and dynamic growing region. Rooted in the Russian River Valley, but with sources as far north as the warm, sunny slopes of the Dry Creek Valley, this Sauvignon Blanc pays due homage to its unique home.

From the Wine Maker – “With graceful aromas of white peach and nectarine, crisp green apple, and tart lemon, this wine is balanced by a subtle minerality, and fresh green notes. An easy drinker with a crisp, clean palate, and a lingering ripened fruit finish.”

This vintage is best served with salmon, tomato, green bean and potato salad.

Rating:

This wine was given a 90 point rating by Wine Enthusiast.

 

2015 Sterling Vintner’s Collection Meritage

sterling-vintners-collection-meritageFrom the winemaker – “A ‘whole greater than the sum of its parts,’ the Meritage is the result of the special synergy that is formed when everything comes together perfectly – in this case: Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot. Layers of dark fruit, cassis, leather and rich earth weave together to create a complex and juicy wine. Ripe tannins and oak aging lend depth and texture, highlighted by vanilla and mocha spice.”

Balanced flavors and a long, lifted finish make this a perfect wine to enjoy with food. Pair with anything from herb-roasted chicken to grilled steaks and hearty pastas.

Rating:

This wine was given a 90 point rating by Wine Spectator.

 

2016 Rodney Strong Charlotte’s Home Sauvignon Blanc

Rod Strong established our heritage Sauvignon Blanc vineyard in 1971, naming it Charlotte’s Home in honor of his wife. Today, that vineyard remains the core of our Charlotte’s Home Sauvignon Blanc, along with other select estate vineyards in the Alexander Valley as well as the Russian River Valley and Dry Creek Valley.

From the Wine Maker – “Fresh, bright and crisp, this Sauvignon Blanc is a wine of balance, richness and aromatic complexity. The Alexander Valley fruit provides the backbone to this Sauvignon Blanc, while the ocean cooled Russian River Valley fruit offers zesty citrus notes of grapefruit, lime blossoms and lemongrass. The warmer Dry Creek Valley fruit gives the wine a wonderful honeydew melon and tropical character.”

Together, the three valleys make a classic Sonoma County Sauvignon Blanc that pairs wonderfully with soft cheeses such as goat cheese, vegetable quiche and a variety of seafood dishes.

Rating:
This wine was given a 90 point rating by Wine Spectator.


Quick Links
        
Join Our E-Mail List!
     Receive updates on reviewed
wines and weekly coupons.

Weekly Circular

Click here for our weekly circular

Good 08/28/2018 - 09/11/2018

Archive Tags

2002 Vintage 2005 Vintage 2006 Vintage 2007 Vintage 2008 Vintage 2009 Vintage 2010 Vintage 2011 Vintage 2012 Vintage 2013 Vintage 2014 Vintage 2015 Vintage 2016 Vintage 2017 Vintage Acidic Albarino Almond Andres Restaurant Anise Antinori Apple Apricot Argentina Australia Barbara Barolo Beaujolais Blackberry Black Cherries Blackcurrant Black Currant Black Fruits Black Licorice Black Pepper Black Raspberry Blueberry Bordeaux Boysenberries Bright Bright Tannins Brown Spice Brown Sugar Brut Butterscotch Buttery Cabernet Franc Cabernet Sauvignon California Cantaloupe Caramel Cedar Champagne Chardonnay Cherry Chianti Chocolate Chocolate Wine Cinnamon Citrus Citrus Flavors Clove Cocoa Cranberry Creamy Crisp Crème Brûlée Currant Cutrer Côtes Du Rhône Dark Fruits Dessert Dill Dried Oats Dry Edna Ranch Exotic Fruits Fig Floral French French Vanilla Fresh Acidity Fruit Full-bodied Fumé Blanc Garnacha Gavi Gewürztraminer Ginger Gooseberries Grapefruit Green Apple Hazelnuts Honey Honeysuckle Italian Jasmine Kiwi Leather Lemon Lemongrass Lichee Nuts Licorice Light Lime Malbec Mango Medium-bodied Melon Mendoza Meritage Merlot Mint Mocha Moscato Napa Valley New Zealand No-Oak Nutmeg Oak On Sale Oregon Organic Passion Fruit Peach Pear Pepper Peppercorn Petite Sirah Pineapple Pinot Grigio Pinot Noir Plum Plums Pouilly Fuissé Prosecco Raisins Raspberries Red Cherries Red Currant Red Fruits Red Wine Riesling Rioja Rosé Sage Sancerre Sangiovese Sangria Sauvignon Blanc Shiraz Smoky Soft Sonoma Coast South Africa Spain Sparkling Sparkling Wine Spicy Strawberry Subtle Oak Sweet Sweet Honey Sweet Nuts Sweet Spice Sweet Wine Syrah Sémillon Tangerine Tobacco Toffee Torrontés Toscana Tropical Fruits Truffle Vanilla Velvety Viognier Vouvray Walnuts White Peach White Wine White Zinfandel Wine Wine & Food Paring Zinfandel